The match served as preparation for both sides, with the Bafana Bafana fine-tuning ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, while Ghana assessed their readiness for the 2026 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers.

Ghana, under coach Kasim Mingle, produced a disciplined and energetic first-half performance, keeping the hosts at bay and ending the opening 45 minutes goalless.

South Africa increased their intensity after the break, and in the 56th minute, Sipho Mbule calmly slotted home to give the hosts the lead.

The Black Galaxies responded with determination, creating several clear-cut chances and striking the woodwork twice. The South African goalkeeper also made a crucial save to deny a goal-bound effort.

Despite sustained pressure in the closing stages, Ghana could not find an equaliser, leaving the match 1-0 in favour of South Africa.

The result provides a confidence boost for the hosts ahead of AFCON, while Ghana can draw lessons and encouragement from their performance as they prepare for upcoming competitive fixtures.

The Porcupine Warriors discovered their next opponents at Tuesday’s draw, having booked their place in the last 32 with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Future Stars in the Round of 64. King Faisal, meanwhile, advanced after overcoming Police National to secure their spot.

Elsewhere, two-time winners Medeama SC face a stern test against Bibiani Gold Stars, while Nations FC will host FC AshantiGold 04 in what promises to be a keenly contested tie.

Additional fixtures see Tamale City locking horns with Karela United at the Aliu Mahama Stadium, as Heart of Lions take on Na God FC in another mouth-watering encounter.

A compelling clash is also set for Kukurantumi, where Division One League Zone Three sides Port City will square off against last season’s semi-finalists, Attram De Visser Academy.

The Round of 32 fixtures are scheduled to be played between Tuesday, December 30, 2025, and Thursday, January 1, 2026.

Fixtures below:

The project, expected to be completed within three months, aims to address the school’s long-standing challenges with access to potable water and reliable electricity. The ceremony brought together school officials, community members, and traditional leaders, who all expressed appreciation to the bank for the timely intervention.

In an interview with Adom News, Republic Bank Managing Director Benjamin Dzoboku explained that the initiative forms part of the bank’s corporate social responsibility efforts. “We remain committed to supporting education and improving living and learning conditions in communities where we operate,” he said.

Mr. Dzoboku highlighted that access to clean water and sustainable energy is critical to effective teaching and learning, particularly in boarding schools such as Taviefe SHS. He added that the solar-powered system would ensure a reliable water supply while promoting environmental sustainability.

Headmaster Sadrack Abiwu expressed gratitude to Republic Bank for responding to the school’s needs, describing the project as a major boost to both academic and domestic activities on campus. He noted that the borehole would significantly ease the burden on students, especially during the dry season.

Traditional leaders commended the bank for its development-focused support and pledged the community’s commitment to safeguarding and maintaining the facility upon completion.

Students, visibly excited, said the project would improve their comfort and concentration, ultimately enhancing academic performance.

The solar-powered mechanised borehole and electricity project is expected to be completed and commissioned within three months, marking a major step forward in improving infrastructure at Taviefe SHS and benefiting the surrounding community.

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The call came during parliamentary proceedings on Tuesday, sparked by the absence of Ministers required to answer urgent questions on the floor.

Mr. Annoh-Dompreh expressed frustration over a long-standing question advertised for the Minister for Public Sector Reform, which has remained unanswered on the order paper.

“We have to take this question because we’ll be rising on Friday. Otherwise, it’s going to be a problem,” he stated.

The situation was compounded by a notification from the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, informing the House of his inability to appear.

While the Whip spoke kindly of the Minister, “Eric [Opoku] has been a very dutiful person. I won’t begrudge him,” he insisted that parliamentary protocol and duty demanded a replacement.

“His deputy must be here,” Mr Annoh-Dompreh asserted.

The MP for Nsawam-Adoagyiri turned his critique into a direct message to the Presidency.

“The President must be watching. The first reshuffle must happen,” he said.

He suggested that ministers who are “not ready to do public business” should be replaced.

The legislator further pointed out that “Honourable Vanderpuye, for instance, is waiting. He has been lacing his shoe for a very long time.”

Atiwa East DCE must resign or be sacked – Senyo Hosi

He said the apex court’s injunction was justified and prevents a potential waste of state resources.

The lecturer said this on JoyNews on Tuesday, December 16.

“It’s surprising, but it is a very fair decision of the Supreme Court. I think it is just right that they took this particular decision, and I say this on the basis that a certiorari application, if granted, would literally wipe out the entire judgment of the High Court.”

The rerun was suspended pending the determination of a certiorari application seeking to quash the initial court order that mandated the fresh election.

The lecturer affirmed that the court’s intervention, while unexpected given the advanced preparations for the rerun, was ultimately the correct course of action.

“Spending money, time in rerunning an election which could potentially be wiped out by a grant of a social application would not serve any use for the persons, for anyone.”

The lecturer was also particular about the protocol drama over inadequate preparation, which would have been caused in Parliament, provided the suspension was not granted.

“Indeed, it would also mean that whoever even emerges the winner of the election to be run on the 30th, assuming everything was to go on, would also have to leave parliament in a day or two right after he became a member of parliament. And then the old or former member of parliament returned to Parliament. That whole drama would not serve anyone’s interest. In fact, it becomes a useless exercise of judicial resources, and if you like public resources,” he explained.

Justice Abdullai believes the pause creates an opportunity for a more robust process.

“I think the Supreme Court, on this particular occasion, got it absolutely right, thought through all the options, and came out with arguably one of the best decisions that favors both parties. It’s a balancing decision that each party never goes home dry.”

The Supreme Court’s injunction has put the Kpandai rerun on hold with political parties and the Electoral Commission awaiting the court’s final ruling on the pending application.

Petition for removal of Justice Yoni Kulendi dismissed

Kpandai re-run suspension in the interest of justice – Fati Abubakar 

The couple sealed their union with a traditional engagement on Saturday, 22 November 2025, followed by a church wedding on Saturday, 29 November 2025, at the Nazareth Methodist Church, Mamprobi.

The ceremonies brought together family, friends and loved ones to witness what many described as a beautiful celebration of love, faith and commitment.

The joyous occasion was graced by high-profile guests, including Her Excellency Ambassador Erieka Bennett, Founder and Head of Mission of the Diaspora Africa Forum; Hon Barbara Asher Ayisi, former Deputy Minister of Education and Works and Housing; and Brandina Djagba, Wear Ghana and Culture Ambassador with the National Commission on Culture.

Other prominent personalities in attendance were Akumaa Mama Zimbi, Daddy Bosco, South Africa’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Kobby Kyei, Edem Mensah-Tsotorme and Chef Faila, as well as Nana Afia Sarpong, a tourism consultant, adding colour and prestige to the celebration.

Also present were Alisa Osei Asamoah, Immediate Past President of the Tour Operators Union of Ghana, and the President of the Chefs Association of Ghana, Mr Michael Quainoo, who was accompanied by members of the association.

The event was further attended by the Chief Executive Officer of Afrik Gardens and Fizzles Night Club, Mr T, and the Marketing Manager of Alisa Hotel, Mrs Esperanza Adjei. Staff of the Ghana Tourism Authority and the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital turned out in large numbers to support their colleagues, while members of the wider tourism and hospitality fraternity also joined the celebration.

The wedding marked a memorable milestone for the couple, attracting warm congratulations and goodwill messages as guests wished them a lifetime of happiness, companionship and shared purpose.

The visit aimed to congratulate the CDS on his appointment, brief him on the upcoming 2026 World Assemblies of God Congress, and highlight the rich history and activities of the church.

Delegation

Accompanying Rev. Wengam were Rev. Dr. Ernest Birikorang, General Secretary; Rev. Dr. Simon Abu Baba, General Treasurer; Rev. Michael Ayesu, Regional Superintendent of Greater Accra West; Rev. Dr. Albert Anane, Regional Superintendent of Eastern Region “A”; and retired Senior Pastor of Ringway Gospel Centre, Rev. Ernest Agyei.

Centenary

Speaking on the visit, Rev. Wengam noted that as the Assemblies of God, Ghana, prepares to celebrate its centenary, the support of the Ghana Armed Forces would be invaluable, particularly in ensuring the safety and hospitality of international delegates.

He also extended sympathies to the CDS over the recent stampede at El Wak Stadium and praised ongoing efforts to improve safety screening measures.

Response, acknowledgement

In response, Lt. Gen. Agyapong assured the delegation of the military’s support and collaboration, pledging to facilitate the success of the congress. He also acknowledged the El Wak incident as unfortunate, but emphasised that lessons had been learned and corrective measures implemented.

The meeting concluded with prayers and an exchange of presentations, underscoring the continued partnership between the Assemblies of God, Ghana, and the Ghana Armed Forces.

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The call follows a Koforidua High Court 2 ruling that fined Mr Ntim GH₵12,000 for contempt of court in an ongoing illegal mining (galamsey) case.

Speaking in an interview with JoyNews’ Kenneth Gyasi, Mr Hosi said allowing the matter to “slide” would send a dangerous signal that abuse of power carries no consequences.

“If this is allowed to slide, it will amount to impunity and political corruption. We expect strong leadership from His Excellency the President in this matter,” he stated.

According to Mr Hosi, the DCE would be doing himself a favour by stepping aside to allow for a proper probe into the allegations.

He further criticised what he described as attempts by the DCE to cling to office despite allegations of intimidation.

“He should recuse himself, clear his name, and return. He is a politician. Doing that will show that he truly means well as far as governance is concerned,” Mr Hosi added.

He also lamented a growing erosion of accountability in governance, stressing that power ultimately belongs to the people.

“We are also not adequately resourcing the NCCE to educate citizens that power resides with the people. Article 1 of the Constitution is very categorical on this,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mr Ntim has rejected the ruling, describing it as unjust, and confirmed that his lawyers have filed an appeal. He continues to deny any involvement in illegal mining.

Speaking in Parliament, Michael Baafi, Ranking Member of the Trade and Industry Committee and MP for New Juaben, said local industry players are suffering due to the current export practices.

He cited the Ghana Rubber Estate, which previously employed over 4,000 workers but now has about 3,000 employees, as an example of how the sector is shrinking. Baafi added that the negative impact of unrestricted exports extends beyond companies to farmers and other players along the value chain.

The MP criticized the Tree Crops Development Authority, suggesting that it seems to support exporters by allowing them to purchase rubber directly from farm gates, depriving local manufacturers of supply.

He warned that if this trend continues, it could significantly shrink the industry and harm the state’s economic interests. Baafi called on the Finance, Agriculture, and Trade Ministries to intervene and ensure the Tree Crops Development Authority protects local industry.

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The arrests on Monday, December 15, are part of an ongoing intensified campaign to curb the growing menace of drug abuse and trafficking in the Northern Region.

The operation, which spanned several strategic locations, including markets and taxi ranks in Tamale, began with routine patrols in Kalpohini, a populous suburb in the regional capital.

The first breakthrough came when the team encountered Aisha, who was operating a provision shop in Kalpohini as a front for her illicit activities.

Upon searching Aisha, officers found her in possession of a significant quantity of opioid medication: six sachets of tramadol tablets.

Additionally, an unregistered motorbike, suspected to be used for drug distribution, was impounded.

During the immediate arrest, Aisha’s alleged accomplice, Asia, was also taken into custody at the shop.

Following the initial arrests, a targeted search of Aisha’s private residence was conducted.

This search yielded further incriminating evidence, leading to the discovery of quantities of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp (cannabis), suggesting the operation involved multiple classes of prohibited substances.

The investigation quickly extended to the supply chain after Aisha disclosed the identity of the alleged intermediary: Hawabu, who reportedly acted as the crucial link between Aisha and the main supplier of the drugs.

Hawabu was subsequently tracked down and apprehended by the team.

All three suspects—Aisha, Asia, and Hawabu—have been taken to the Sakasaka Police Station, where they are currently being held pending further investigation.

The seized evidence, including the tramadol, dried cannabis, and the unregistered motorbike, has been officially handed over to the investigation team at the station.

The successful execution of the arrests underscores the professionalism and dedication of the IGP’s elite team, particularly in combating the rampant abuse of pharmaceutical opioids, which has become a major public health concern in Northern Ghana.

ASP Bawah Abdul Jalil, a spokesperson for the IGP Special Operations Team, affirmed the significance of the operation:

“The successful conduct of this operation demonstrates the commitment, vigilance, and professionalism of the IGP Special Operations Team,” he said.

ASP Bawah added that the operation has reinforced public confidence in law enforcement, showcasing the team’s dedication to combating drug peddling and promoting a safer community.

ASP Bawah added that the team would continue to ensure the region is clear of criminals.

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Under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, the President referred the petition to the Chief Justice for an initial assessment to determine whether the allegations warranted further constitutional action.

Following a review, the Chief Justice advised the President that the issues raised did not meet the threshold of a prima facie case. The President has since informed the petitioner of this determination, effectively closing the matter.

Government Spokesperson and Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, confirmed the development on X formerly twitter.

In the matter of a petition brought against Justice Yonny Kulendi, the following facts suffice.

1) The President forwarded the petition to the Chief Justice to determine wether or not there was a prima facie case in accordance with Article 146 of the Constitution.

2) The Chief…

— Felix Kwakye Ofosu (@FelixKwakyeOfo1) December 16, 2025

In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 16, EOCO clarified that the Office never engaged or communicated with Abu Trica, whose real name is Frederick Kumi, also known as Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng, before his arrest.

The clarification follows media speculations suggesting that EOCO had been in contact with the suspect weeks prior to his apprehension. Abu Trica was arrested through a collaborative operation involving EOCO and other law enforcement agencies in connection with an alleged $8 million romance scam.

“The Office did not on any occasion contact ‘Abu Trica’ before the arrest as is being speculated,” the statement stressed.

EOCO reaffirmed its commitment to fighting economic and organised crime and urged the public to support efforts by reporting suspected criminal activities.

The statement was signed by the Head of Public Affairs on behalf of the Executive Director of EOCO.

Speaking after court proceedings on Thursday, Osofo Appiah said that prior to the hearing, Agradaa had reached out through respected religious elders and other influential figures to apologise for her actions.

“She asked her fellow elders, prominent pastors, and influential people to apologise on her behalf. As a Christian, I chose to forgive, because who am I not to? I wasn’t supposed to let go easily because she sent thugs on eight motorbikes to assault me brutally. Looking at that alone, I shouldn’t have accepted the bargain, but I am Christ-like, so I accepted,” he said.

Osofo Appiah added that his acceptance of her apology led Agradaa to agree to a plea bargain, officially closing the case.

An Accra Circuit Court subsequently fined Nana Agradaa GH¢12,000 and ordered her to pay GH¢50,000 in compensation to Pastor Appiah Biblical over the non-consensual broadcast of intimate images on her now-defunct Thunder TV station. The court imposed no default clause, with assurances that the amounts would be paid immediately.

However, Osofo Appiah clarified that he did not pursue the case for financial gain, noting that the payment was strictly a court-ordered directive.

Meanwhile, one of Agradaa’s alleged accomplices initially challenged the court’s ruling, leading to a separate case. That challenge has since been withdrawn, and the matter is scheduled for further proceedings on December 19.

The ruling effectively resolves the case against Nana Agradaa, while the separate case involving her alleged accomplice remains before the court.

The ruling stems from the unlawful broadcast of intimate images on Agradaa’s now-defunct Thunder TV station during her period as a self-styled fetish priestess.

The Attorney-General, acting on behalf of the state, negotiated the settlement with Agradaa, which the court subsequently approved. Under the agreement, Agradaa pleaded to four counts, each attracting 1,000 penalty units, totaling the GH¢12,000 fine, with an additional 25 penalty units ordered to run concurrently.

The court placed no default clause on the sentence, and the defence confirmed that all amounts would be paid in full immediately, bringing the matter to a close.

The case was initiated three years ago by Osofo Appiah, who accused Agradaa of unlawfully broadcasting a video showing him engaged in a sexual act with a married woman. He argued that the broadcast caused reputational damage and public ridicule.

With the court’s approval of the settlement and imposition of fines and compensation, the case has been officially resolved.

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Speaking at the high-level meeting, he described the Fund as a critical financing instrument for reducing vulnerability and accelerating development across Africa.

“The African Development Fund remains a strategic instrument of the Bank Group to reduce vulnerability on the continent,” Mr. Amprem said, urging donors and member countries to “do more” to ensure the Fund is adequately resourced to meet Africa’s growing development needs.

He emphasised that concessional financing remains vital for countries facing fiscal constraints and limited access to international capital markets.

The London meeting has been marked by an unprecedented surge in commitments from African countries. The President of the African Development Bank Group, Sidi Ould Tah, noted a more than threefold increase in the number and volume of African contributions.

“They send a clear signal: Africa is not only a beneficiary of the ADF; it is a co-investor in its own future,” Dr. Ould Tah said, describing the development as unprecedented.

Participating in his first ADF replenishment cycle as President of the Bank Group, Dr. Ould Tah highlighted the Fund’s investment value, noting its ability to mobilise additional resources.

“This replenishment is not about aid. It is about investment with measurable returns. Each dollar invested in the African Development Fund unlocks more than $2.50 in co-financing and private capital,” he stated, adding that ADF-17 aligns with his “Four Cardinal Points” agenda on access to capital, financial sovereignty, demographic opportunity, and resilient infrastructure.

The meeting, co-hosted by the United Kingdom and Ghana at the headquarters of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), also drew strong backing from key partners. UK Minister of State for International Development, Baroness Jenny Chapman, pledged her country’s continued support, while the President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), Abdullah Almusalbeeh, announced plans to commence co-financing cooperation with the ADF.

Established in 1972, the African Development Fund finances projects in infrastructure, agriculture, energy, water, health, and education through three-year replenishment cycles.

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The facility was officially inaugurated at a brief ceremony attended by traditional leaders, officials of NADeF and Newmont, representatives of the Asutifi North District Assembly, as well as management and students of the college.

Addressing the gathering, the Paramount Chief of Ntotroso, Barima Twereko Ampem III, said the joint efforts of the Traditional Council and NADeF have significantly enhanced infrastructure at the institution, improving the learning environment for students.

He added that the Traditional Council is keen on seeing the college upgraded to offer degree programmes in the near future and assured that steps are being taken to achieve this goal. He also urged students who will occupy the hostel to take good care of the facility to ensure it serves its intended purpose.

Speaking on behalf of Newmont, Natalia Poku-Boansi, Team Lead for Social Performance and Communities at Newmont Ahafo South Mines, said the hostel comprises 24 dormitories, six study rooms, modern washrooms, and a serene courtyard, with the capacity to accommodate 240 students.

She reiterated Newmont’s commitment to supporting the growth of the college, adding that the investment will improve teaching and learning and contribute to the training of quality health professionals for the country.

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The beneficiary schools include Goaso Islamic Basic School, Nana Bosomprah M/A Basic School, Mim Zion Basic School, Ayomso R/C Basic School, Nkaseim D/A Basic School, and Woramumuso D/A Basic School.

Speaking to Adom News after the presentation, Chief Executive Officer of Clean Heart Entertainment, Muniru Salifu, said the gesture was prompted by the challenges faced by pupils who lack basic learning materials due to their parents’ financial constraints.

“Some pupils struggle to access essential school items, which negatively affects academic work. We felt it was necessary to step in and provide support to enhance their studies,” he explained.

Meanwhile, the Headteacher of Woramumuso D/A Basic School, Salifu Awuni, expressed gratitude to Clean Heart Entertainment, noting that many pupils in the area come from deprived communities where parents struggle to provide exercise books, pens, and other essentials.

He added that teachers often use their own resources to support needy pupils and said the donation has come at a crucial time for both students and teachers.

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In a statement dated 16th December 2025, the Office described a publication by the Herald Newspaper and subsequent media reports on the matter as “utterly false” and a “total fabrication.”

The statement clarified that Nana Akufo-Addo has neither contemplated nor made any request or representation to President Mahama, his agents, or assigns regarding Ofori-Atta’s return.

The Office emphasized the former President’s commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law, noting that while he is concerned about the welfare of Ofori-Atta—who is also his cousin and served as Finance Minister under his government—this concern does not extend to interfering with legal processes.

The statement further demanded that media outlets publish the retraction in accordance with the former President’s rights, aiming to set the record straight on the matter.

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Ghana will make their fifth appearance at the tournament next summer, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, having topped their qualifying group with 25 points.

Reports indicate that both Nketiah and Hudson-Odoi, who have represented England at various levels, are willing to commit to the Black Stars.

While some have suggested leaving out players who did not feature in the qualifiers, Vanderpuye stressed the importance of tapping into the talent pool of Ghanaian-origin players, particularly with Ghana drawn in the same group as England.

“The good thing is that we are going to play against England,” the former Member of Parliament for Odododiodio Constituency said on Onua TV. “It will rather give us a psychological advantage over them. They won’t have that overconfidence.

“Imagine having Jordan [Ayew], [Antoine] Semenyo, Eddie Nketiah, and Hudson-Odoi in attack! It makes us stronger,” he added.

Ghana has been placed in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia. Their campaign opens against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, followed by a clash with England in Boston on June 23, and concludes with a match against Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.

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According to Fancy Gadam, the amount does not reflect the sleepless nights, studio expenses, promotions, and long-term investment that go into building a music career. He described the payment alert as more than just a notification, calling it “a loud question mark on how our music is valued and how creatives are treated.”

Despite the frustration, the musician says passion keeps him going. “We keep creating because we love the art. But love alone shouldn’t be the payment,” he added.

His complaint adds to ongoing discussions within Ghana’s creative industry about royalty distribution, transparency, and fair compensation for artistes. Several musicians have previously expressed dissatisfaction with GHAMRO’s payouts, arguing that the system does not adequately reward their contributions.

While GHAMRO maintains that royalties are distributed based on collections and usage data, creatives insist that the figures often fail to reflect the real impact of their work.

The decision follows a successful application by the former New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament, Matthew Nyindam, who is contesting the earlier annulment of the 2024 election.

The court has adjourned the substantive case to January 13, 2026, confirming that the electoral process will be placed on hold until the legal issues surrounding the seat are fully resolved.

Speaking to the media after the court proceedings on Tuesday, December 16, private legal practitioner and former Information Minister Fati Abubakar, who is working with the applicant’s legal team, welcomed the suspension as a necessary step to uphold the integrity of the judicial process.

Ms. Abubakar emphasised that the motion for the suspension was specifically requested by the applicant to prevent any premature electoral activities while the core legal challenge remains outstanding.

“The applicant actually prayed for suspension of the process first one to the hearing of the substantive matter, and that is contained in the supplementary affidavit that was served on the honourable court. So we are most grateful to the court.”

She stressed that allowing the rerun to proceed before a final ruling on the legitimacy of the annulment would potentially prejudice the court’s decision.

“It’s in the interest of justice that where a legal issue is persistent, and we have not reached the finality of it, we do not proceed to take any such decisions that will force the hand of the court or render the decision of the court negatory.”

In a key procedural development, the court granted the applicant’s request for substituted service to formally notify the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate, who is named as the first interested party in the case.

The service will be carried out through multiple channels to ensure effective notification:

Via WhatsApp of the NDC parliamentary candidate.
On the notice board at the Supreme Court building.
Posted at the NDC candidate’s residence in Kpandai.
Ms. Abubakar expressed the legal team’s gratitude for the court’s cooperation, confirming they are prepared to argue their case when proceedings resume early next year.

The suspension of the Kpandai rerun ensures that the seat will remain vacant until the new year, when the courts will deliver a final verdict on whether the original election should be upheld or whether a new contest must indeed take place.

Background

Nyindam, the disputed MP, had asked the Supreme Court to review and quash the High Court’s judgement for a re-run, arguing that the High Court wrongly assumed jurisdiction in the election petition.

The petition at the High Court was filed by the NDC’s parliamentary candidate, Daniel Nsala Wakpal, who challenged the outcome of the 2024 polls.

According to Nyindam, the election petition was invalid from the onset and all proceedings arising from it ought to be set aside.

He contends that the High Court acted outside its legal mandate and committed fundamental errors that justify the intervention of the Supreme Court through judicial review.

Following the High Court’s ruling annulling the election, the NPP applied for a stay of execution, seeking to halt any steps by the Electoral Commission and the NDC to enforce the decision, including the conduct of a rerun, pending the determination of the case by the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court’s decision to suspend the rerun preserves the status quo while it considers the substantive issues raised in the application.

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He made the assurance in an interview with Adom News following an appeal by the school’s Headmaster, Mr Sadrack Abiwu, during the sod-cutting ceremony for a mechanized borehole project donated by Republic Bank Ghana.

According to Mr Kpotosu, resolving the furniture challenge at the school is a top priority, and practical steps are being taken to ensure students have access to adequate desks and furniture to support teaching and learning.

“No student should be forced to study under uncomfortable conditions. The concerns raised by the school authorities are legitimate, and I want to assure the management, students, and parents that very soon, the furniture deficit at Taviefe SHS will be resolved,” the MP stated.

He also commended Republic Bank Ghana for its corporate social responsibility initiative, describing the mechanized borehole project as timely and essential in providing potable water to students and staff.

The Headmaster, Mr Sadrack Abiwu, expressed gratitude to the bank for the intervention and highlighted the school’s ongoing challenges, particularly the shortage of furniture, which affects academic work.

The sod-cutting ceremony brought together school authorities, traditional leaders, Republic Bank officials, and community members, who praised the collaboration between the private sector and government in supporting education.

With the MP’s assurance, students and staff of Taviefe SHS remain hopeful that their learning environment will soon improve, reflecting the government’s commitment to quality education in the Ho Municipality.

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The exercise will be led by the GNFS Fire Safety Compliance Taskforce in collaboration with the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) and the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service.

According to the GNFS, the taskforce will conduct on-the-spot fire safety checks, issue certification tags for approved fire extinguishers, and provide technical guidance in line with the Ghana National Fire Service Act, 1997 (Act 537).

As part of the operation, the Service will engage transport unions and associations nationwide to educate drivers and vehicle owners on the importance of carrying at least one serviceable, GNFS-certified fire extinguisher, ensuring proper installation and accessibility, and training drivers in its safe use.

Drivers are also being encouraged to keep other safety items, such as warning triangles and first-aid kits, in their vehicles.

The GNFS stressed that having a certified fire extinguisher within reach can prevent minor vehicle fires from escalating into major disasters, reaffirming its commitment to road safety through public education and strict enforcement measures.

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Ghana, drawn in Group L, will face Panama, England, and Croatia in next year’s tournament, jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

In an interview with Graphic Sports, Waris, who previously featured for FC Porto and Nantes, stressed that the team must prioritise collective success over individual ambitions to thrive on the world stage.

“Football has changed a lot. At first, it was about individual skills, but now it’s more about the team’s skills,” Waris said.

“Football is all about preparation, getting ready for what is ahead of you, and you can win any game. So I think we have to prepare mentally, physically, and spiritually because this is the biggest competition in the world and everybody is going to be watching them.

“They must know that they are not going just to play a football match; they are going to represent the whole of Ghana, and everybody will be cheering them on,” added Waris, who played at the 2014 World Cup.

Ghana will open their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, face England in Boston on June 23, and conclude the group stage against Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.

The 2026 tournament will mark Ghana’s fifth World Cup appearance, following campaigns in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022. Their deepest run came in 2010 in South Africa, when the Black Stars reached the quarter-finals.

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In a statement, the organizers expressed gratitude to patrons, traders, farmers, as well as the Chiefs and people of Okuapeman for their continuous support. Special recognition was also given to the Chief and Elders of Amanokrom for their guidance and unwavering backing throughout the year.

According to the organizers, the strong support from stakeholders has given meaning to the vision behind Ofie Market and inspired efforts to consistently enhance the market experience.

The Christmas edition is expected to create a vibrant and festive atmosphere, offering a wide variety of locally produced goods for families and friends to enjoy as they prepare for the holidays. The market remains committed to promoting fresh local produce while supporting community livelihoods.

The organizers have invited the public to join the end-of-year celebration and thanked all stakeholders for their dedication since the market’s maiden edition, expressing anticipation for a memorable Christmas market on December 20, 2025.

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The woman, identified as Victoria, was reportedly out fetching pieces of charcoal with her two sons when the lightning struck.

An eyewitness said the lightning killed Victoria and her younger son instantly.

Her seven-year-old son, who was with them at the time, survived the strike but sustained injuries. Despite his condition, the boy was able to explain what had happened and led rescuers to the exact location where his mother and brother had collapsed.

The injured child was rushed to a nearby health facility, where he is currently responding to treatment.

The bodies of the deceased mother and child have been deposited at the morgue for preservation and further procedures.

Residents of the community described the incident as devastating, noting that it occurred during a routine activity made more dangerous by the sudden storm.

The event, held on December 5, 2025, from Ayi-Mensah to Peduase, was under the theme: “Building the Public Services Commission with Healthy Steps: Providing Better Service through an Effective Workforce.”

Speaking in an interview, PSCSA Chairman David Kwaku Etsey said the initiative was motivated by the growing need to place staff wellbeing at the centre of public service delivery.

“A healthy workforce is the foundation of efficiency and excellence in the public sector. When staff are physically and mentally fit, service delivery automatically improves,” Mr Etsey stated.

He explained that the health walk also served as a reminder to public servants to take personal responsibility for their health. “This activity is a wake-up call for all public servants to prioritise regular exercise and healthy lifestyles, not only for themselves but for the institutions they serve,” he added.

Mr Etsey noted that the walk aligns with the broader mandate of the Public Services Commission to build a professional, fair, and productive public service.

He called on public service organisations, unions, and associations to intensify efforts toward improving working conditions and safeguarding the welfare of workers.

According to him, sustained collaboration between staff associations and management remains key to building a resilient and effective public service for national development.

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According to the Union, these benefits are contractual and statutory entitlements guaranteed under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, individual employment contracts, and the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), and are not discretionary.

The Union said that despite the expiration of the workers’ contracts and their disengagement over ten months ago, BCM Ghana Limited has yet to settle the outstanding benefits, a situation it described as unacceptable and in breach of the law.

It noted that the prolonged delay has caused severe financial hardship for the affected workers and their families, many of whom depend on the benefits to transition into alternative livelihoods.

The Ghana Mineworkers’ Union added that several attempts to engage the company’s management through correspondence and meetings have not yielded positive results, leaving the workers with no choice but to protest.

The Union has therefore demanded full payment of all outstanding End-of-Contract Benefits on or before Friday, December 19, 2025, warning that failure to comply will prompt stronger lawful and industrial actions.

Some protesters, speaking to the news team, shared how the delay in payment has negatively affected their lives and livelihoods.

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Writing under the headline “Double-tongued Minister for Finance,” the Tano North MP accused the government of contradicting itself by praising currency appreciation when debt levels decline, while blaming the same factor when debt figures rise.

“They were bragging that the stronger cedi helped to reduce the debt stock, so why this contradiction?” he asked.

According to him, the assertion that currency appreciation directly drives up debt lacks economic justification.

He maintained that while exchange rate movements can have indirect effects, they do not logically explain a sharp rise in the debt stock.

“I am still struggling to understand how appreciation causes debt to go up,” he stated.

Dr Boako noted that the foreign-denominated debt stock at the end of 2024 was calculated using an exchange rate of GH¢14.3 to the dollar, compared to the current rate of roughly GH¢11.4.

Despite the cedi’s relative strength, he said the debt stock has increased, raising serious questions about the Finance Ministry’s explanation.

He stressed that the depreciation recorded over the last three months alone cannot account for an increase of more than GH¢71 billion in debt.

“This clearly shows a complete lack of understanding of the debt dynamics,” he said, calling on the Finance Minister to return with a more accurate and transparent account of the figures.

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Atiwa East DCE fined GH₵12,000 for contempt in galamsey case

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, Mr Ansah, who filed the court case against the DCE, claimed that Mr Ntim has financially benefited from galamsey operations since assuming office.

“I swear on my life that the DCE is into galamsey. In just eight months as DCE, he has built a two-storey building and bought about 30 cars. Where did he get all the money? I should die if I am lying,” he alleged.

Mr Ansah further accused the DCE of using his position to control illegal mining activities in the area.

However, Atiwa East DCE Ernest Ntim has denied the allegations, describing them as false and malicious.

He maintained that the contempt case brought against him in an ongoing galamsey-related court matter was orchestrated to tarnish his image.

Mr Ntim reiterated that he remains committed to fighting illegal mining and believes the accusations are a backlash against his efforts to clamp down on galamsey activities in the district.

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In a press release dated December 16, 2025, the Police identified the affected officers as G/Sgt. Samuel Agbemanyale, G/Cpl. Isaac Mpere, G/Cpl. Samuel Agbo, G/Cpl. Charles Oduro, and PW/Const. Elizabeth Dicka Korkor.

According to the statement, the officers have been referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau for further investigation and the application of necessary disciplinary measures.

The Police Service reiterated its commitment to upholding professionalism and discipline within its ranks, particularly regarding the proper use of official uniforms and conduct on social media platforms.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, Mr Ntim said he has been at the forefront of the fight against illegal mining since assuming office and believes some individuals are targeting him because of his anti-galamsey stance.

He explained that the land at the centre of the dispute had been in court even before his appointment as DCE, rejecting claims that he owns the land or engages in illegal mining activities.

“If you come to Atiwa, we have a significant issue with illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. Since I took office, I have been actively working to end this practice. I have officially petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP) regarding this matter. The land they are claiming is mine has been the subject of a court case even before I became District Chief Executive. Someone is trying to tarnish my reputation. It is absolutely untrue that I am involved in galamsey,” he stated.

Mr Ntim revealed that the Koforidua High Court 2 fined him GH¢12,000 for contempt of court in a case filed in May 2025 by a miner involved in a land dispute with him.

The applicant had alleged that the DCE entered the disputed land despite a court order restraining both parties. According to Mr Ntim, the allegations were intended to tarnish his image.

He reiterated his commitment to ending illegal mining in the district through stricter supervision and collaboration with assembly members.

“The court case concerns land they allege belongs to me, and I believe it has been orchestrated against me. This individual even told me he would take action against me when I assumed the role of DCE. I am committed to fighting against galamsey, and I have tasked the Assembly members to identify and document all lands engaged in such activities. I believe the mining sector lacks proper supervision. People are plotting against me because of my efforts to combat galamsey. I was fined 12,000, but I remain dedicated to this fight,” he said.

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Out of this number, 1,840 individuals have been temporarily suspended as investigations by relevant security and investigative agencies continue.

Addressing a press briefing on Monday, December 15, the Director-General of the Authority, Ruth Dela Seddoh, disclosed that the anomalies were traced to discrepancies involving three tertiary institutions — the University of Development Studies (UDS), Ghana Communications Technology University, and Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development.

According to her, the irregularities were detected after the Authority cross-checked the number of officially graduated students against the lists submitted by the institutions for national service deployment.

“The number of students who have officially graduated from the schools is compared with the number of students they submitted to us. When you do that, you realise that some schools are complicit in this whole thing, and I must emphasise that it is a huge cartel,” she said.

Mrs Seddoh described the findings as disturbing, noting that they point to a coordinated scheme involving multiple actors.

“Due to the outcome of a very detailed, thorough and comprehensive investigation, we made shocking discoveries that resulted in the flagging of 8,105 individuals in the system. Let me repeat, 8,105 individuals were flagged, and 1,840 individuals have been completely suspended pending the conclusion of further investigations by the security agencies,” she stated.

She added that the investigations uncovered serious misconduct at the three institutions involved.

“The investigations revealed a number of serious irregularities being perpetrated in three tertiary institutions — University of Development Studies, Ghana Communications Technology University, and Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development. As a result, 10 members of staff from the various institutions have been arrested and are currently under investigation by the security agencies,” she said.

Responding to concerns about the closure of the national service portal after two extensions, six weeks after it was opened, the Director-General explained that the decision was deliberate and necessary for the validation process.

“This timeline was not arbitrary. For those who think it was just arbitrary on our part to shut the portal, that was not the intention,” she clarified.

She stressed that the shutdown was required to allow for reposting, proper validation, and verification of the physical presence of service personnel at their assigned institutions.

“There were many critical steps that had to follow this phase. It was a carefully structured process, and enforcing the deadline was essential to ensure accurate deployment records, confirm the physical presence of personnel at their stations, eliminate ghost or fraudulent registrations, and facilitate the timely payment of allowances to only verified personnel,” she explained.

The order was issued on Tuesday after the apex court heard an application filed by Mr Nyindam, who is challenging the decision of the Tamale High Court that annulled the December 7, 2024, parliamentary election in the constituency.

The court has adjourned the case to January 13, 2026, for further hearing.

Mr Nyindam, the disputed Member of Parliament, is asking the Supreme Court to review and quash the High Court’s judgment, arguing that the court wrongly assumed jurisdiction in the election petition.

He maintains that the petition, filed by the NDC parliamentary candidate, Daniel Nsala Wakpal, was invalid from the outset and that all proceedings arising from it should be set aside.

According to Mr Nyindam, the High Court acted outside its legal mandate and committed fundamental errors, making judicial intervention by the Supreme Court necessary.

Following the High Court’s ruling, the NPP filed an application for a stay of execution to restrain the Electoral Commission and the NDC from taking steps to enforce the judgment, including conducting a rerun of the election.

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In an interview with Adom News, the MP said the engagement formed part of his responsibility as a legislator to educate constituents, particularly kandu riders, on the content and implications of laws passed by Parliament.

He explained that the interaction was intended to ensure the riders fully understand the new legal framework and how it will affect their day-to-day activities.

Mr Kpotosu also urged the riders to strictly comply with road traffic regulations and safety guidelines, stressing that adherence to the law will help safeguard lives and promote order on roads within the Ho Central Municipality.

Some of the riders, in response, expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and Members of Parliament for passing the bill, describing it as a significant step towards addressing long-standing challenges in the sector. They said the law gives them renewed hope for improved regulation and recognition of their work.

Others, however, used the opportunity to raise concerns about challenges they previously faced with the Ho Central Municipal Assembly, including enforcement practices and operational restrictions. They expressed optimism that such issues would be resolved under the new legislative framework.

The engagement ended with a call for sustained dialogue among the MP, municipal authorities and kandu riders to ensure smooth implementation of the law and harmonious coexistence within the municipality.

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His comments follow the government’s decision to withdraw the revised lithium agreement from Parliament on December 10 to allow for further consultations with key stakeholders.

The withdrawal came after the Majority in Parliament opposed the revised terms, arguing that the 10 per cent royalty rate negotiated under the Akufo-Addo administration contravenes the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2010, which caps mineral royalties at 5 per cent.

However, speaking in an interview on Channel One TV, Prof. Oquaye said the national debate should not be reduced to whether the royalty rate is 10 per cent or 5 per cent.

He argued that the long-standing royalty cap itself has worked against Ghana’s interests, particularly in the exploitation of high-value natural resources.

According to him, it is troubling that Ghana continues to operate under a framework that limits royalties to a maximum of 5 per cent, even for minerals of significant global value such as lithium, gold, diamonds, and bauxite.

Prof. Oquaye called for a fundamental rethink of Ghana’s mineral royalty regime, urging the country to negotiate higher minimum royalty rates to secure fairer returns from resource extraction.

“The present withdrawal is quite interesting, because some people have viewed it in the context of the royalty percentage, from 10 per cent to 5 per cent. But this 5 per cent has existed for some time,” he said.

“It’s very painful to envisage that we have something that has got value, and then we say when you take this commodity, which has got value, don’t give me more than 5 per cent. That is what the cap means. Honestly, we have not been fair to our nation at all in terms of these gold, diamond and bauxite matters. You can say I want at least 20 per cent.”

The lithium agreement, initially laid before Parliament by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, relates to the mining of lithium and other minerals at Mankessim in the Central Region.

The deal was later revised after Barari DV Ghana Limited requested amendments to the lease terms, citing a sharp decline in global lithium prices that had affected the project’s commercial viability.

In an interview on Channel One TV, Prof. Oquaye said many Members of Parliament from governing parties now prioritise personal ambition over their constitutional duties, thereby undermining Parliament’s ability to check executive power.

According to him, the lure of ministerial appointments has shifted MPs’ focus away from legislative scrutiny and toward efforts to please the President.

“No wonder Parliament cannot be a check on the Executive. The Member of Parliament whose party is in power is more anxious to catch the eye of the President to become a Minister than to catch the eye of the Speaker,” he stated.

Prof. Oquaye noted that this distorted incentive structure has weakened parliamentary engagement, contributing to poor attendance and ineffective oversight.

“No wonder most of the time Parliament is virtually empty, because the system has no countervailing mechanisms,” he added.

He further explained that the overconcentration of power at the Presidency has redirected lawmakers’ attention away from Parliament and towards the Executive.

“And you find everybody looking towards the one and only source, that is the Jubilee House,” he said.

The former Speaker cautioned that unless deliberate structural reforms are introduced to strengthen Parliament’s independence, the imbalance between the Legislature and the Executive will persist, further weakening democratic accountability.

His remarks have reignited calls for constitutional and institutional reforms aimed at insulating Parliament from executive dominance and restoring its role as an effective watchdog over government power.

In an interview with Andreas Poke, the former AC Milan and Barcelona forward pointed to jealousy, differing career trajectories, and contrasting personalities as the root causes of their rift.

Kevin-Prince explained that their tension dates back to childhood, when their competitive natures and opposite temperaments made it difficult to form a close bond.

“We never had a good relationship because we were very opposite, like he was very competitive over me. Then I saw him become a superstar, and I always felt that he didn’t deserve it,” Prince Boateng said.

He also reflected on the stark differences in their professional paths. While Jerome collected major honours with Bayern Munich and Germany, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Kevin-Prince described his own career as more turbulent.

“Because I was the one taking bad steps, he could follow me and avoid the bad steps, so I made the pathway for him, so I felt he didn’t deserve it,” he added.

Despite the lingering tension, Kevin-Prince revealed he has tried to make amends.

“Anyways, I went to ask him for forgiveness as well, that if I was ever jealous or if I didn’t want him to deserve it, I asked him for forgiveness, but we still don’t have a connection.”

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Lawyers for PSG and Mbappé argued last month before the Conseil de prud’hommes de Paris, with each side demanding hundreds of millions of euros from the other regarding the end of the player’s contract before his move to Real Madrid in the summer of 2024.

Amid accusations of betrayal and harassment surrounding the breakdown of their relationship, Mbappé’s lawyers claimed PSG owes him more than 260 million euros ($305 million).

They argued his fixed-term contract should be reclassified as a permanent one, triggering compensation for unfair dismissal and unpaid wages. They have also alleged moral harassment and undeclared work.

PSG, meanwhile, sought 440 million euros from Mbappé, citing damages and a “loss of opportunity” after he left on a free transfer.

Tuesday’s decision can be appealed and is unlikely to end the dispute.

The ruling may have broader consequences for player contracts and labour law in French soccer, even as PSG maintains that Mbappé’s request to reclassify his contract as a permanent one is without legal basis.

The club argues that professional players’ contracts are a special form of fixed-term agreements regulated by the sports code and validated by the French professional league, in accordance with both French and European Union law.

Mbappé’s legal team disagrees, saying the reclassification of a fixed-term contract into a permanent contract is a standard procedure when legal conditions for a fixed-term deal are not fulfilled.

The relationship between the 2018 World Cup winner and the reigning European champion turned bitter when Mbappé decided in 2023 not to extend his contract, which was set to expire in summer 2024.

This deprived the club of a juicy transfer fee despite having offered him the most lucrative contract in club history when he signed a new deal in 2022.

He was sidelined from a preseason tour and forced to train with fringe players.

He missed the opening league game but returned to the lineup for a final season after discussions with the club – talks that are central to the dispute.

The club accused Mbappé of backing out of an August 2023 agreement that allegedly included a pay reduction should he leave on a free transfer, an arrangement PSG said was meant to protect its financial stability.

PSG claimed Mbappé hid his decision not to extend his contract for nearly 11 months, from July 2022 to June 2023, preventing the club from arranging a transfer and causing major financial harm. It accused him of violating contractual obligations and the principles of good faith and loyalty.

Mbappé’s camp insisted PSG has never produced evidence that the striker agreed to forego any payment. His lawyers claimed the club failed to pay wages and bonuses for April, May, and June 2024. They are also seeking reclassification of his fixed-term contract into a permanent one, which would trigger compensation.

Mbappé also accused PSG of moral harassment, citing his treatment when sidelined.

PSG rejected all accusations of harassment, highlighting that Mbappé took part in over 94% of matches in 2023–24 and always worked under conditions compliant with the Professional Football Charter.

The sanction stems from the Super Clash played in November at the Accra Sports Stadium, where Hearts of Oak suffered a 1-0 defeat.

In the aftermath of the match, supporters of the Phobians were accused of inappropriate conduct, including throwing objects onto the pitch.

Following weeks of investigations, the Disciplinary Committee upheld the charges and imposed the fine, accompanied by a stern warning. Hearts of Oak have been given 14 days to settle the amount.

In a statement issued on Monday, December 15, the GFA confirmed the decision, noting that the club was punished for the actions of its supporters after the final whistle.

Meanwhile, Hearts of Oak midfielder Mohammed Hussein has been handed a three-match suspension for misconduct in the same fixture.

The Disciplinary Committee found the player guilty of unsporting behaviour directed at match officials during the encounter.

Ghana take on the Bafana Bafana later today at the Dobsonville Stadium in an international friendly, with both teams using the encounter as part of their preparations for upcoming competitions.

While South Africa are fine-tuning plans ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Black Galaxies will draw valuable lessons as they gear up for the 2026 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers.

Speaking to the media ahead of the game, Ocansey described the fixture as a meaningful test for his players but insisted there is no pressure on his side.

“This game is an opportunity for the Black Galaxies to prove that they are a very good side,” the former Bechem United and Nations FC coach said.

“I’m happy to have this friend, but my team is not under any pressure. We believe in building, and that is exactly what I am doing,” Ocansey added.

The match kicks off at 14:00 GMT.

The Portugal international, 31, rejected the move to the Saudi Pro League in order to stay at Old Trafford, despite Al-Hilal reportedly being open to paying a fee of about £100m and wages of up to £700,000 a week.

Fernandes has a contract that runs to 2027, with the option of an additional year.

He said in October, before his 300th United appearance, that he will not discuss his future with anyone until after next year’s World Cup.

Looking back on the Al-Hilal interest in a new interview, he said of United’s stance: “From the club I felt it was, ‘If you go it’s not so bad for us’. It hurts me a bit.”

Fernandes made the claims to Canal 11, a channel owned by the Portuguese Football Federation.

“More than hurting me, it makes me sad,” Fernandes said. “I’m a player that no-one can criticise, I’m always available, I always give my best.

“I could have left in this transfer window, I would have earned much more money.

“I would have won many trophies this season, but I decided not to go, not only for family reasons but because I genuinely love the club.”

Fernandes joined United in January 2020 for £47m from Portuguese side Sporting and has made 307 appearances for the club, scoring 103 goals and providing 93 assists.

This season, he has five goals and seven assists in the Premier League, including a brilliant free-kick strike and an assist in Monday’s 4-4 draw with Bournemouth.

In June, Fernandes said one of the reasons he did not join Al-Hilal was because he wanted to continue to “play at the highest level”, and it was United boss Ruben Amorim who urged him to stay at Old Trafford.

However, Fernandes told Canal 11: “The club wanted me to leave. I told the directors that, I think they didn’t have the courage to make that decision because the manager wanted me.

“But if I said I wanted to leave, even with the manager wanting me to stay, the club would let me.”

Sources told BBC Sport that Manchester United have no desire to sell Fernandes or for him to leave and he continues to be central to the club’s long-term planning.

Ghana will take on the Bafana Bafana at the Dobsonville Stadium in a test Simpson believes offers the Galaxies a timely chance to make a strong impression.

The Nations FC defender, who is also a key figure in Ghana’s CHAN setup, insists the squad is approaching the encounter with focus and confidence.

“We are approaching the game against Bafana Bafana with full seriousness and confidence in our abilities,” he said.

“My teammates have shown great eagerness and readiness for the challenge,” Simpson said.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 14:00 GMT.

The friendly forms part of South Africa’s build-up to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, while the Black Galaxies will use the fixture to sharpen their preparations ahead of the 2026 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers.

The Cheetahs made their finals debut in 2004 but recent years have been challenging, with the team missing out on qualification for both the 2021 and 2023 editions.

After coming close to reaching the Fifa World Cup for the very first time, assistant coach and head scout Tunde Adelakun hopes to draw inspiration from their best-ever Afcon performance in 2019, when Benin reached the quarter-finals.

“I want my team to play good football, and let the clubs know that it was worth it to release [the players] at a very difficult time of the season,” Adelakun told BBC Sport Africa.

“I’d love to win the tournament. The journey will be tough [but] what I’ve got at the moment is seven Afcon finals to navigate.”

Head coach Gernot Rohr has named a squad largely made up of players who impressed during qualifying for 2026 World Cup, with captain Steve Mounie leading the team.

That campaign saw Benin come agonisingly close to securing a historic first-ever spot at the World Cup, only to suffer late heartbreak on the final matchday against Nigeria, ultimately losing out to group winners South Africa.

The West Africans now arrive in Morocco, where they will face Senegal, DR Congo and Botswana in Group D, eager to turn disappointment into a memorable Afcon outing.

“Losing out [on] qualification for the World Cup was a bitter pill we found really hard to swallow,” Adelakun said.

“We’ve put it behind us, there’s no regrets [and] we’re proud of what we did. It’s time to get onto the African stage and prove to the world what we are made of.”

A group full of ‘quality’

Image source: BBC Sport Africa

Image caption: Tunde Adelakun says he is “proud” of what Gernot Rohr has done with the Benin team since his appointment in February 2023

Benin hold a unique place in Afcon history as the first team to advance to the knockout stage of the tournament without recording a single victory.

At the 2019 edition, the Cheetahs drew all three of their group stage matches, doing just enough to progress as one of the four best third-placed teams.

The West Africans upset Morocco in the round of 16, holding them to a 1–1 draw after extra time before claiming a memorable 4–1 victory in the penalty shootout.

Benin’s run then came to an end in the last eight, where they were edged out 1-0 by eventual runners-up Senegal.

Adelakun is under no illusions about the task this time around in North Africa.

“We know what we are up against,” he said.

“We played Senegal about a year and a half ago in a friendly and we gave it as good as it got.

“These boys are fired up. They know that this is their showcase.”

Benin will begin their campaign on Tuesday, 23 December against DR Congo, a team which defeated heavyweights Cameroon and Nigeria in the continental play-offs for next year’s World Cup in North America.

“They (DR Congo) have got a huge pedigree,” Adelakun admitted.

“This is a team that has quality all over every department of the pitch.

“We’ve done our work. We know what they’re capable of doing, and we [are] prepared for them.”

The Nigerian DNA

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Benin’s Junior Olaitan is one of few players in the squad with Nigerian origin

Players of Nigerian descent, including Junior Olaitan and Tosin Aiyegun, have grown into influential figures within the Benin national team, playing pivotal roles in the squad’s recent progress.

Adelakun, himself Nigerian and a former member of Rohr’s backroom staff during the Franco-German’s time in charge of the Super Eagles, described the players as “competitive” and having a “desire” to win.

“These are players who have got the DNA of Nigeria,” Adelakun revealed.

“They are playing in a team that has what it takes to actually go out there and make impressions.”

While acknowledging it is a great “privilege” to have players of Nigerian origin in the squad, Adelakun was quick to highlight the strong similarities between those players and their Beninois team-mates, stressing the shared mentality, commitment, and unity within the team.

“We cut the same physical attributes, physical DNA [and] same mentality,” Adelakun explained.

“It’s a good mix between the original core Beninois and [players of] Nigerian origin.

“That is bringing out what you’re seeing in Benin football.”

Jordan Mainoo-Hames wore a ‘free Kobbie Mainoo’ T-shirt during the match, a move that risks making a delicate situation even more fraught.

Mainoo’s United future is the subject of huge debate, with head coach Ruben Amorim yet to hand him a single Premier League start this season.

Amorim has defended himself on numerous occasions against allegations he does not rate Mainoo and that he has no trust in United’s academy.

The 20-year-old was keen to join Napoli in the summer but United refused to sanction the move.

Mainoo was introduced to rapturous applause with just under 30 minutes left of Monday’s game against Bournemouth. It was his third-longest runout in a Premier League match this season, taking his minutes for the campaign to 302.

It is understood that Napoli are still keen to sign the England international – as are a large number of other clubs.

But United know if they were to let Mainoo leave for the remainder of the campaign to improve his chances of making England’s World Cup squad, they would have to spend significantly more to bring in a replacement because he is on relatively low wages.

Amorim was not asked about the T-shirt post-match, but spoke about Mainoo last Friday.

He refused to say if he would sanction a January move but he would welcome Mainoo seeking him out for a chat.

“I had some conversations with him, especially last year, and with other players, but about that subject, no, I didn’t speak with him,” said Amorim.

“I will be really pleased if Kobbie comes to talk to me about that. I just want my players happy.

“I understand every individual has their goals and the frustration doesn’t help anybody.

“I’m not going to say what I would say but I would talk to him.

“I am completely open, that is clear. I have my ideas and that is also clear. I will not change if I don’t believe it but I’m open to speak with any player. I love that.”

Amorim has not just upset Mainoo recently.

Before the Bournemouth game, he claimed 18-year-old defender Harry Amass was “struggling in the Championship” with Sheffield Wednesday, even though he is the club’s player of the month. In addition, he said 18-year-old forward Chido Obi was “not always a starter in the Under-21s”.

The comments are understood to have gone down badly with both player representatives and senior academy staff.

Both 18-year-olds posted on social media highlighting their achievements before later deleting their posts.

Amass posted a photo holding Sheffield Wednesday’s player of the month award for November with a smiling emoji, while Obi also posted an Instagram story showing him celebrating a goal for the Under-21s against Manchester City in August.

On Monday, thousands of fans gathered in a Delhi stadium to get a glimpse of the Argentina and Inter Miami forward.

As Messi, accompanied by Inter Miami team-mates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, strolled on the pitch – kicking balls into the stands, passing with a group of children and signing autographs – the crowd chanted his name.

His flight from Mumbai had been delayed due to fog, local media reported, and his itinerary had to be trimmed. On Saturdayangry fans vandalised a Kolkata stadium because they didn’t get to see him during his appearance there.

Getty Images

A fan holds a jersey of Messi at the event in Delhi

AFP via Getty Image

Messi played football with children at a stadium in Delhi

Messi had a packed schedule in India, attending a string of promotional events in Kolkata, Hyderabad and Mumbai since arriving in the early hours of Saturday.

Before heading to Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium later that day, he virtually unveiled a 70ft (21m) statue of himself, assembled over 27 days by a 45-strong crew in the eastern city.

The tour, however, got off to a disastrous start after angry fans ripped up seats and threw items towards the pitch at the stadium.

Football is hugely popular in West Bengal state – of which Kolkata is the capital – and thousands of adoring supporters had paid up to 12,000 rupees (£100; $133) to attend the event.

However, most of them didn’t even get to see him as he was surrounded by officials and celebrities on his brief walk around the stadium and then quickly whisked away as the situation turned hostile.

Kolkata’s The Telegraph newspaper said in an editorial that “poor management of a hyped-up event, lack of co-ordination” and security lapses turned the stadium into a “battlefield”, as fans – denied even a glimpse of Messi – “vented their anger by indulging in violence”.

The ruckus, which made international headlines, cast a shadow over Messi’s first visit to India since 2011 for what has been called a ‘GOAT [greatest of all time] tour’.

The event organiser in Kolkata has been arrested, police said, and a city court has remanded Satadru Dutta to 14 days in police custody.

Messi’s visits to Hyderabad and Mumbai passed off smoothly, with fans sharing their delight at seeing the global icon online and in media interviews.

Anadolu via Getty Images

Messi virtually unveiled a 70ft statue of himself in Kolkata

Getty Images

Messi met Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar in Mumbai

Messi also met several politicians and celebrities – Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan in Kolkata (at his hotel before the stadium fiasco), opposition leader Rahul Gandhi in Hyderabad, and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar in Mumbai.

In between these interactions, Messi could be seen waving to large fan gatherings in stadiums and dribbling the ball with groups of children.

There were reports earlier that Messi would meet Narendra Modi in Delhi, but the Indian prime minister left the country on Monday morning on a scheduled visit to Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman.

Messi’s popularity stems not just from his long international career and wide TV coverage of European football – he’s record scorer for Barcelona, the team he used to play for – but also the emotional connection that millions of Indians have with what is often called the beautiful game.

In a news conference on Monday, Maresca was evasive when asked to elaborate on the remarks that followed Saturday’s 2-0 victory at Stamford Bridge.

It is understood that Maresca’s gripe, which he is unwilling to explain, remains unresolved.

So what is happening behind the scenes that has rankled with the Italian to the point he felt it necessary to go public?

Situation overshadows important cup trip

Maresca repeatedly said he had “nothing to add” on Monday when questioned about his weekend claim that “many people didn’t support us”.

That factor was one that Maresca felt contributed to making the build-up to the Everton game so challenging.

Maresca appeared frustrated when pressed on whether he was referring to the club’s hierarchy, replying several times: “It’s Cardiff tomorrow, please.”

Yet the situation overshadows Tuesday’s Carabao Cup quarter-final in the Welsh capital, where Chelsea face the League One leaders and are expected to win.

Chelsea sit fourth in the Premier League, but their form has dipped of late. Before beating Everton, they had only taken two points from the previous nine available in the domestic league, while also suffering defeat at Atalanta in the Champions League.

In an extraordinary outburst on Saturday, the 45-year-old Maresca suggested that he and his team had lacked backing. But he refused to clarify who his comments were directed at, and there was no sign of him being willing to expand on the accusation before the Cardiff game.

Why is Maresca upset in ‘fantastic’ season?

Maresca eventually said “Yes, absolutely” when asked if he was happy at Chelsea.

He also described the season as “fantastic” when asked about whether he was enjoying his role.

Much, however, seemed to be deliberately left unsaid.

When asked about his relationship with Chelsea’s owners, he said: “I love the Chelsea supporters. They deserve the best, and again, I don’t have anything to add.”

It is understood the former Leicester City boss is proud of qualifying for the Champions League last season and winning both the Club World Cup and Conference League.

Against that backdrop, Maresca is believed to have wanted more protection from figures within Chelsea against criticism of his team selection and rotation during their recent four-game winless run.

He is encouraged to rotate heavily to develop young players, and for much of the season he has had to cope without star forward Cole Palmer because of injury, while key midfielder Moises Caicedo is serving a three-match suspension and managing an ongoing knee issue.

Defender Levi Colwill, who shone at the Club World Cup, is out for most of the season with an anterior cruciate knee ligament injury, and Maresca’s request for a replacement fell on deaf ears.

Appointed in July 2024, Maresca feels he has outperformed other managers who have faced a rebuilding job when joining a major Premier League force, such as Mikel Arteta at Arsenal, Jurgen Klopp previously at Liverpool, and even Ruben Amorim at Manchester United.

Amorim has had strong public backing despite his struggles.

The initial comments from Maresca came while hands-on owner Behdad Eghbali was overseas, with sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart stepping in to lead in his absence alongside other key staff.

Chelsea’s aim this season is to qualify for the Champions League and challenge in cup competitions, while they are still not entirely out of the Premier League title race.

When Maresca joined Chelsea, he was told he would be assessed at the end of his second year. Predecessor Mauricio Pochettino did not pass such a review following his first, after not agreeing with the future direction at the American-owned club.

In the case of Maresca, Chelsea privately accept emotional outbursts can happen after tense matches.

It has also been explained that he is speaking his third or fourth language, as an Italian who speaks Spanish at home with his family.

All sides accept the current situation is not ideal but expect to work through it. From Chelsea’s perspective, disagreements are normal in football, but making them public is not.

The accused include Godfred Mishiame, a motor rider, and three others: Zion Sam Kish, Prince Sefa Boakye, and Dennis Smith, who are currently at large. 

They have been charged with conspiracy to commit crime and importation of narcotic drugs without a licence issued by the Minister of Health. 

Mishiame is additionally facing four counts of possession of narcotic drugs for trafficking without lawful authority. 

He is alleged to have had in his possession a quantity of cocaine when his residence was searched. 

Mishiame has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. 

The court admitted him to bail in the sum of GH¢100,000, with three sureties, two of whom are to be justified.  

One of the sureties, the court ordered, should be a public servant earning at least GH¢30,000. 

It directed the prosecution to file its disclosures on or before January 12, 2026, while Mishiame is also to file the names of his witnesses by the same date. 

The prosecution said on August 4, 2025, officers of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) stationed at the Ghana Post Office in Accra intercepted a parcel during a routine inspection of inbound EMS parcels, on suspicion that it concealed narcotic drugs. 

The parcel, which was described as containing “varied clothing”, was flagged for further investigations. 

On August 5, NACOC officers, acting on intelligence, arrested Joshua Mills, a clearing agent, who was found in possession of the parcel’s tracking number and authority note. 

Mills told investigators that he had been instructed to clear the parcel.  

The parcel was opened in his presence and found to contain five vacuum-sealed plant-like substances. 

A field test conducted on the substances tested positive for Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a narcotic drug. 

Further investigations revealed that Mills had been contracted by Zion Sam Kish, the second accused person, to clear the parcel and forward it to Esther Naa Dede Armah at a hostel in Haatso. 

Mills, however, denied knowledge of the parcel’s contents and assisted with the investigation. 

The court heard that, during interrogation, Esther said Kish had instructed her to receive the parcel, which was to be collected later by a delivery person.  

She also denied knowledge of the parcel’s contents and assisted investigators. 

Later the same day, Mishiame arrived on a motorbike to collect the parcel. He was arrested after opening it and confirming its contents. 

During his arrest, Mishiame allegedly sent a message to Kish, alerting him to the presence of the police. 

On August 7, a search conducted at Mishiame’s residence led to the discovery of 11 branded packets of plant material suspected to be cannabis, 30 wraps of plant-like material, and one packet of whitish substance suspected to be cocaine. 

The others were 42 empty bottles of Benylin containing codeine-based syrup, a weighing scale, packaging materials, and other drug paraphernalia. 

A Royal motorbike and GH¢864 in cash were also seized. 

Mishiame has denied ownership of the seized narcotics. 

The alleged drugs were forwarded to the Ghana Standards Authority for analytical examination.  

The plant materials tested positive for cannabis sativa, with a total net weight of 1,218.29 grammes, while the whitish substance tested positive for cocaine, with a net weight of 0.52 grammes. 

Nigeria is Africa’s biggest oil producer, but relies heavily on imports, and Dangote’s refinery was meant to change that.

Dangote said if imports continue unchecked, they will threaten jobs, investment and energy security.

Speaking at his 650,000-barrel-per-day oil refinery in Lagos, Dangote said imports were being used “to checkmate domestic potential”, creating jobs abroad while Nigeria struggles to industrialise.

“You don’t use imports to checkmate domestic potential,” he told reporters.

Dangote called for an official inquiry into Farouk Ahmed, head of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, citing concerns over his management of the sector and allegations of private expenditures exceeding legitimate earnings.

Ahmed did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but he has previously said Dangote refinery wants a monopoly on petroleum products sales, but the refinery’s output can not meet local demand.

Last month, the regulator urged the president to drop plans to ban imports of refined petroleum products because local output cannot meet the national demand of 55 million litres daily.

Dangote disputes this, saying the regulator was distorting the refinery’s actual capacity by reporting offtake statistics instead of the true production data.

The refinery, designed to end Nigeria’s reliance on imported fuel and save billions in foreign exchange, says it has been unable to secure all the required crude it needs because the regulator has failed to implement a rule that guarantees crude supply to local refiners before exports

Dangote said the refinery imports 100 million barrels of crude oil annually — a figure expected to double after expansion of the refinery and limited domestic supply.

Despite these hurdles, Dangote vowed to continue with expansion plans for the facility and safeguard his investment, which he said is “too big to fail”.

He also reiterated plans to list the company on the local stock market and pay dividends in U.S. dollars so “every Nigerian can own a piece of the economy.”

Nigeria, Africa’s top oil producer, has long depended on imports due to mothballed state refineries.

He spoke at the last Asanteman Council meeting of the year 2025 at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.

The Asantehene said the Bono Regional Minister, as a lawyer, has an interest in the Sampa chieftaincy issues and therefore he, as Asantehene will not allow him to use his political position to meddle in the chieftaincy affairs.

Otumfuo chastises Bono Regional Minister for using his political position to meddle in Sampa chieftaincy affairs https://t.co/8OwKK4NSLS pic.twitter.com/C8FoNtmIFX

— DailyGraphic GraphicOnline (@Graphicgh) December 16, 2025

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