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“My faith in the system will shake if my petition against OSP is thrown out” – Martin Kpebu

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“My faith in the system will shake if my petition against OSP is thrown out” – Martin Kpebu

Martin Kpebu, a private legal practitioner, has said his faith in the system will be shaken if his petition against the Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng is thrown out like the recent petition against the EC and OSP.

According to Lawyer Kpebu, his petition against the Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng is yet to be looked at by the Chief Justice.

Lawyer Kpebu is quoted by TV3 as saying, “If my petition for the OSP to be removed gets thrown out like these three, it will shake my faith in the system”.

His comments come on the heels of Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Government Communications Minister, who has announced that the Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, found no prima facie determination on petitions against the Electoral Commissioner Jean Mensa, her deputies, and the Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng.

A statement issued by the Presidency on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, read, “Following the receipt of seven (7) petitions from various individuals and groups for the removal of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission and her Deputies, and three (3) petitions for the removal of the Special Prosecutor, President John Dramani Mahama, in accordance with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 15 of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959), referred same to His Lordship, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, Chief Justice, on 25 November 2025, to determine whether the petitions disclosed a prima facie case.

By a letter dated 26 January 2026, the Chief Justice informed His Excellency the President that no prima facie case had been established by the petitions to warrant any further investigations for the removal of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Deputy Commissioners and the Special Prosecutor.”This determination means no committee will be formed, and no further proceedings for removal will take place based on those petitions”.

It will be recalled that Martin Kpebu has echoed his resolve to petition President John Dramani Mahama for the removal of Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng from Office.

Martin Kpebu revealed he has fifteen allegations against Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng.

 Speaking to TV3 shortly after his release, Lawyer Kpebu stated, “I know I have not done anything wrong, so I knew I would be released”.

He revealed that his arrest stemmed from a verbal confrontation with a military officer stationed at the OSP.

Mr Kpebu recounted, “Then the next thing, the soldier said I am stupid, so I also turned and said he is also stupid, and so we exchanged words”.

“I know I have not done anything wrong, so I knew I would be released,” he stated.

“Then a colleague of his, another soldier, shouted that next time I do that, I will see. In Ghanaian English, ‘you will see’ means he will cause me some harm, or there will be consequences, even if not physical.

So I turned and gave the same answer; he had no right. I’m not a suspect, and even if I was, could he do that? So I said he had no right”.

“Then the next thing I knew, he said I’m stupid. That’s what the soldier said. So I turned back and told him he is also stupid. We exchanged a few words, and then one of my lawyers pulled me so we could go in,” he added, stating he would never attack any officer who had done nothing to him.

He added that his arrest confirms that Kissi Agyebeng is incompetent.

“I will petition for his removal. I have 15 allegations against him,” he once again revealed.

See the post below:

Ekow Assafuah petitions OSP to probe COCOBOD’s alleged conflict of interest

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Ekow Assafuah petitions OSP to probe COCOBOD’s alleged conflict of interest

Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, has petitioned the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to probe an alleged conflict of interest at the  Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).

The Old Tafo MP’s petition stems from his alleged claim against Ato Boateng, Acting Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Finance and Administration at COCOBOD and his dealings with Atlas Commodities Limited.

Ekow Assafuah called on the OSP to launch a full criminal and corruption-risk investigation into alleged conflict-of-interest and potential abuse of office, as Ato Boateng, as a Deputy Chief Executive, is also the CEO of Atlas Commodities Limited, which he argued constitutes a conflict of interest amounting to abuse of office.

The Old Tafo MP is also asking the OSP to determine whether Mr Boateng fully declared his prior relationship with the company upon assuming public office.

“I respectfully request the Office of the Special Prosecutor to investigate: Whether Mr Ato Boateng’s prior executive leadership of Atlas Commodities Limited, combined with his present role at COCOBOD, constitutes a conflict of interest amounting to abuse of office. Whether his prior relationship with Atlas Commodities was fully declared upon assumption of public office,” Part of the petition stated.

He also called on the OSP to investigate whether Atlas Commodities Limited received preferential treatment, regulatory accommodation, operational advantages, or institutional protection within COCOBOD.

Earlier, in a Facebook post shared by Vincent Ekow Assafuah, he wrote, “BIG SCANDAL LOOMING AT COCOBOD.

One of the reasons cocoa farmers continue to endure hardship under the current COCOBOD administration is what appears to be blatant insensitivity and possible abuse of office.

Serious concerns have emerged regarding the leadership of COCOBOD under Randy Abbey and his deputy, Mr. Ato Boateng, Acting Deputy Chief Executive (Finance & Administration), whose established professional association with Atlas Commodities Limited is confirmed by records at the Registrar-General’s Department and further corroborated by publicly available information, including a simple Google or AI search, which shows that he is the company’s Chief Executive Officer since 2018.

Attached is a waybill issued in the name of Atlas Commodities Limited indicating the movement of cocoa from Kedjebi within the 2025/2026 crop season. The document references 800 bags of Grade One Cocoa, raising legitimate questions about the operational role of this private company within the cocoa purchasing chain.

It is alleged that funds meant for Licensed Buying Companies, including PBCs, to purchase cocoa were instead redirected to this private entity, with cocoa allegedly hoarded in anticipation of future price increases.

These alleged activities are said to be taking place in parts of the Central and Eastern Regions, raising concerns about the scale of the operation.

COCOBOD is the regulator of all Licensed Buying Companies. Therefore, how can the regulator of the industry be seen to also operate, directly or indirectly, as a buying company within the same system it supervises? If true, this would represent a serious conflict of interest and a breach of regulatory integrity.

Further claims suggest that Atlas Commodities Limited does not operate its own warehouses but may be relying on existing PBC warehouse facilities.

Most concerning is the allegation that Atlas Commodities may be operating within warehouses registered under PBC. COCOBOD regulations require that every warehouse be registered under a specific Licensed Buying Company. If a warehouse is registered under PBC, it should not be used for the storage, grading, sealing, or processing of cocoa belonging to another company.

If proven, such an arrangement would constitute a serious regulatory breach and raise critical questions for the district Quality Control officers responsible for oversight.

Additionally, it is being alleged that the Chief Executive has sat on a task force report related to these matters, preventing the public from knowing the full extent of its findings.

These are grave concerns that demand urgent and independent investigation. The matter has reportedly been brought to the attention of the Jasikan and Hohoe Police Stations.

Cocoa farmers deserve transparency, accountability, and protection from any actions that undermine their livelihoods”, his post concluded.

See the post below:

NACOC intensifies K9 Operations at Kotoka Airport to curb drug trafficking

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NACOC intensifies K9 Operations at Kotoka Airport to curb drug trafficking

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has intensified the Canine (K9) Unit at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA).

According to reports, NACOC, in collaboration with its Enforcement Unit stationed at Kotoka, has intensified behavioural detection operations.

NACOC moved is aimed at enforcing Ghana’s commitment to combating narcotics trafficking through its primary international gateway.

The K9 Operations at Kotoka International Airport will focus on identifying inbound and outbound passengers who display behavioural indicators commonly associated with drug trafficking.

NACOC Officers will deploy trained sniffer dogs, advanced scanning equipment, and profiling techniques to support the exercise to closely monitor passenger movements while ensuring minimal disruption to airport activities.

Reports suggest that although the exercise focused on selected airlines, individuals identified as persons of interest will also be subjected to further investigation regardless of the airline or flight.

In related news, reports suggest the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has intercepted a major cocaine haul at Kotoka International Airport.

According to the reports, NACOC intercepted the major cocaine haul concealed in gari packaging.

The news was shared by a GHOne news flyer, which stated, “NACOC intercepts major cocaine haul concealed in gari packaging at Kotoka”.

The news comes on the heels of the Deputy Director General of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Alexander Twum-Barimah, who has clarified media reports which suggested they have arrested a manager of a food manufacturing company in a cocaine bust.

Alexander Twum-Barimah clarified that NACOC has not arrested any senior manager of a manufacturing company.

According to the Deputy NACOC Director General, the individuals arrested are not employees or members of management of any of the brands whose products were used to conceal the drugs, adding that the companies themselves are not responsible for the acts of these individuals.

Speaking in an interview on TV3’s Ghana Tonight on February 11, 2026, Twum-Barimah explained, “The persons arrested are not managers or staff of any popular food manufacturing company. From where our investigations have reached, they are not linked to these companies in any way”.

The Deputy Director General of NACOC detailed that they encountered about four different food products used in similar attempts at different times, explaining that the first incident involved about 250kg of cocaine, which was intercepted in the Netherlands after being shipped from Ghana and concealed among branded food products.

“The second incident occurred in 2025 at the cargo section of Kotoka International Airport, where cocaine was again mixed with food products. When we intercepted it, no individual was present, so we seized the items and began investigations. That particular batch contained about 3kg of cocaine, which we sent to the Ghana Standards Authority for testing. It was confirmed to be cocaine.”

Alexander Twum-Barimah further detailed, “So we decided to investigate deeper. Through CCTV footage and further work, we were able to arrest a suspect when he attempted to repeat the act for the third time, this time using yet another product.

That batch contained 1.05kg of cocaine. We also arrested a female suspect and discovered that they had machines they were using for these activities.”

“No. Three different brands were involved. The fourth case was not really tied to any brand. In the 250kg case in the Netherlands, a particular company’s food product was used to conceal the cocaine in the container.

The arrangement had the food products at the outer layers and the cocaine hidden within. The same pattern was used in the Kotoka case, where food products from various companies were used as part of the concealment.”

See the post below:

“You are an evil person if you refuse to provide care for sick or injured people brought to your hospital” – Bernard Avle to Doctors, Nurses

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“You are an evil person if you refuse to provide care for sick or injured people brought to your hospital” – Bernard Avle to Doctors, Nurses

Seasoned journalist and host of the Citi Breakfast Show, Bernard Avle, has poured his outrage at Ghana’s medical system after the death of a hit-and-run victim who was turned away by three hospitals in Accra.

Bernard Avle stressed that a medical professional who refuses to provide care for sick or injured people brought to the hospital are evil person.

According to Bernard Avle, who recounted a similar event of a 70-year-old man in 2018 who went to seven hospitals before passing away in his car, highlighting that it been eight years but there have been no serious shifts in the operational policy.

He stressed that Doctors and nurses need to have empathy, but in Ghana, many people are in the medical field just because of money.

Speaking on Citi FM, an irate Benard Avle stated, “How can a society sit down for such a thing to happen and not put in place any systems? You covered a 70-year-old man who went to seven hospitals in 2018. From 2018 to 2026 is eight years, have there been any serious shifts in the operational policy of hospitals to show that we value life? We don’t most people who enter this profession are just looking for money, that is what we do.

Shame on you, shame on you, Pastors Sunday preach about these things, Preach about it that if you are a nurse and somebody is brought to your hospital and you don’t care about the person and the person dies, you are an evil person.

If you are a Doctor who does not care about someone’s death because you claim… You don’t know anything; your training is incomplete. Empathy is part of your training”.

Benard Avle further added, “I was even told that the first step towards doing a certain kind of thinking is empathy, because before you can solve someone’s problem, you must know how they are feeling. There is no empathy, the society collectively has lost the plot, we do not value human live what we value is to be seen to be good people”.

Seasoned journalist and host further bemoan how Ghana’s system, be it the Hospital, Court, or Police are structured to frustrate a person with no money.

“There is a lot of hypocrisy in the society, because there are society that are less religious than us, who preserve human lives and organise their systems to make sure that nobody dies a stupid death and whether you go to court, you go to the police, you to the hospital, the whole system is structured to frustrate you if you do not have money”, he added.

Bernard Avle’s outburst follows the news that a victim of a hit-and-run incident at Nkrumah Circle Overpass in Accra was refused emergency care by three major hospitals in Accra due to no vacant beds.

According to reports, for close to three hours on February 6, 2026, the victim was denied treatment by Ridge, Police, and Korle Bu hospitals before passing away.

He was later identified as 29-year-old Charles Amissah, an engineer working at Promasidor Ghana Limited, producers of Cowbell milk and other food products.

Watch the video below:

 “In Ghana, we do not value human lives” – Bernard Avle on hit-and-run victim turned away by 3 Hospitals

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 “In Ghana, we do not value human lives” – Bernard Avle on hit-and-run victim turned away by 3 Hospitals

Seasoned journalist and host of the Citi Breakfast Show, Bernard Avle, has said that in Ghana, human lives are not valued; all Ghanaians value is being seen as a good person.

According to Bernard Avle, there is a lot of hypocrisy in the Ghanaian society, noting that there are societies where their people are less religious than in Ghana, but they preserve human lives and organise their systems to make sure that nobody dies a stupid death.

The seasoned journalist and host further bemoans how Ghana’s system, be it the Hospital, Court, or Police are structured to frustrate a person with no money.

Speaking on Citi FM, an irate Benard Avle stated, “There is a lot of hypocrisy in the society, because there are society that are less religious than us, who preserve human lives and organise their systems to make sure that nobody dies a stupid death and whether you go to court, you go to the police, you to the hospital, the whole system is structured to frustrate you if you do not have money”.

Bernard Avle further poured his outburst on Ghana’s medical system after the death of a hit-and-run victim who was turned away by three hospitals.

Bernard Avle stressed that a medical professional who refuses to provide care for sick or injured people brought to the hospital are evil person.

According to Bernard Avle, who recounted a similar event of a 70-year-old man in 2018 who went to seven hospitals before passing away in his car, highlighting that it been eight years but there have been no serious shifts in the operational policy.

He stressed that Doctors and nurses need to have empathy, but in Ghana, many people are in the medical field just because of money.

He added stated, “How can a society sit down for such a thing to happen and not put in place any systems? You covered a 70-year-old man who went to seven hospitals in 2018. From 2018 to 2026 is eight years, have there been any serious shifts in the operational policy of hospitals to show that we value life? We don’t most people who enter this profession are just looking for money, that is what we do.

Shame on you, shame on you, Pastors Sunday preach about these things, Preach about it that if you are a nurse and somebody is brought to your hospital and you don’t care about the person and the person dies, you are an evil person.

If you are a Doctor who does not care about someone’s death because you claim… You don’t know anything; your training is incomplete. Empathy is part of your training”.

Benard Avle further added, “I was even told that the first step towards doing a certain kind of thinking is empathy, because before you can solve someone’s problem, you must know how they are feeling. There is no empathy, the society collectively has lost the plot, we do not value human live what we value is to be seen to be good people”.

Bernard Avle’s outburst follows the news that a victim of a hit-and-run incident at Nkrumah Circle Overpass in Accra was refused emergency care by three major hospitals in Accra due to no vacant beds available.

According to reports, for close to three hours on February 6, 2026, the victim was denied treatment by Ridge, Police, and Korle Bu hospitals before passing away.

He was later identified as 29-year-old Charles Amissah, an engineer working at Promasidor Ghana Limited producers of Cowbell milk and other food products.

Some Ghanaians reacting to Bernard Avle’s remarks stated, “At first, whoever enters a profession really wanted to be in that field. Only a few are forced into what they don’t want. But now, just to get a job that will fetch u money, people find themselves in a profession they never liked. Where is the passion ?”.

“This selective outrage is why we are where we are. The healthcare system is functioning exactly as it is designed to. Maybe if we channel this  same energy towards those who created the system, we could get better outcomes”, one more netizen added.

One more Ghanaian wrote, “Most of the people in the medical profession, infact govt institutions are not there cause they love the role or have passion, they are there cause it was they thought it was a stable job, they are there just for the paycheck”.

Watch the video below:

60-year-old ammunition and drug dealer busted by NACOC

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60-year-old ammunition and drug dealer busted by NACOC

Abass Seidu, a 60-year-old ammunition and drug dealer, has been arrested by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC).

Reports suggest that Abass Seidu was arrested by the Upper West Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission at Kundugu in the Wa East District.

A Facebook post by NACOC on Thursday, February 19, detailed that the suspect was arrested following a series of surveillance operations on January 29, 2026.

NACOC further disclosed that their operatives recovered three cartons of ammunition and tramadol concealed within assorted pharmaceutical drugs.

Following a search of Seidu’s stash house at the Wa-Kejetia lorry station, seven additional cartons and 362 individual pieces of ammunition, assorted foreign cigarettes and 2,626 cartridges of ammunition were seized.

The ammunition and drug dealer is said to be supplying both local clients and individuals from neighbouring Burkina Faso.

He has since been handed over to the Wa Municipal Police for further investigations and prosecution in court.

Also, the Upper West Regional Command has cautioned the public against engaging in activities that could lead to criminal liability. They further urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies.

In related news, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has intensified the Canine (K9) Unit at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA).

According to reports, NACOC, in collaboration with its Enforcement Unit stationed at Kotoka, has intensified behavioural detection operations.

NACOC moved is aimed at enforcing Ghana’s commitment to combating narcotics trafficking through its primary international gateway.

The K9 Operations at Kotoka International Airport will focus on identifying inbound and outbound passengers who display behavioural indicators commonly associated with drug trafficking.

NACOC Officers will deploy trained sniffer dogs, advanced scanning equipment, and profiling techniques to support the exercise to closely monitor passenger movements while ensuring minimal disruption to airport activities.

Reports suggest that although the exercise focused on selected airlines, individuals identified as persons of interest will also be subjected to further investigation regardless of the airline or flight.

Meanwhile, reports suggest the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has intercepted a major cocaine haul at Kotoka International Airport.

According to the reports, NACOC intercepted the major cocaine haul concealed in gari packaging.

The news was shared by a GHOne news flyer, which stated, “NACOC intercepts major cocaine haul concealed in gari packaging at Kotoka”.

The news comes on the heels of the Deputy Director General of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Alexander Twum-Barimah, who has clarified media reports which suggested they have arrested a manager of a food manufacturing company in a cocaine bust.

Photos – Fire ravages Ibrahim Mahama’s heritage train

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Photos – Fire ravages Ibrahim Mahama’s heritage train

Ghanaian creative artist and author Ibrahim Mahama’s heritage train in the Northern Region has been ravaged by fire.

Reports suggest the devastating incident occurred on Wednesday, February 18.

Ibrahim Mahama, confirming the incident in a Facebook post on Thursday, February 19, described the development as a “tragic misfortune”.

He detailed that the fire occurred following ongoing repair works on the train due to the extensive rust it had accumulated over the years.

The train was part of Ghana’s oldest railway, which is no longer in operation.

According to him, the train secured nearly two years ago was the most difficult piece to acquire.

Ibrahim Mahama, in his post, wrote, “Yesterday [February 18], we had a tragic misfortune of losing one of our trains to fire due to sparks from ongoing repairs. Certainly, I am sure if a lot more care had been taken, this could have been prevented”.

“No one was injured, thankfully. Our hearts may be broken, but our spirits are as high as ever,” he stated.

He further expressed gratitude to the Ghana National Fire Service for their response.

In related news, some weeks ago, a devastating fire swept through the Anwona Market near Afful Nkwanta, destroying several shops and their contents.

Reports suggest the fire incident happened on Monday night at about 10:00 pm.

The Anwona Market fire comes barely 24 hours after a devastating fire outbreak at Sofoline Magazine.

Ghana National Fire Service personnel were deployed to the scene and worked to contain the fire. The firefighters prevented the spread of the fire to the adjoining structures and nearby properties.

Eyewitnesses revealed the blaze is believed to have started from a section of the market housing a footwear factory.

However, the official cause of the fire is yet to be confirmed.

Traders at the Anwona Market are said to have suffered significant losses as goods and equipment were reduced to ashes; no casualties have been reported so far.

16-year-old girl who went missing on Val’s Day lifeless body found naked

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16-year-old girl who went missing on Val’s Day lifeless body found naked

A 16-year-old girl identified as Deborah Dede Ama’s lifeless body has been found naked at a stream after being reported missing on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2026.

Deborah Dede Ama was tragically found dead in Tinkong, Eastern Region, days after she was reported missing.

Her disappearance sparked concern across the community, which led to a search with community members and local authorities joining efforts to locate her.

According to reports, Deborah Dede Ama’s lifeless body was found under circumstances that are still being investigated.

Reports suggest the lifeless body of Deborah Ama Dede was discovered on Tuesday in a stream near their house.

According to Kofi Sammy, a family member, the body was found naked and already decomposing, with marks suggesting possible foul play.

Also, residents suspect the teenager may have been sexually assaulted before being killed by unknown attackers.

Meanwhile, the Police at Adawso have retrieved the body from the scene and conveyed it to the mortuary for preservation and autopsy as investigations commence.

A GHOne News flyer sharing the news stated, “16-year-old Deborah Dede Ama found dead at Tinkong, Eastern Region after being reported missing on Valentine’s Day”.

Some Ghanaians reacting to the tragic news stated, “Insecurity is at an all-time high. What is the work of national security? Every day, someone is missing; the next time you see the missing person is dead. When the interior minister is sleeping on the job, this is what happens”.

One X user added, “The insecurity in the country is ridiculous”.

A netizen added, “Insecurity is at an all-time high. What is the work of national security? Every day, someone is missing; the next time you see the missing person is dead. When the interior minister is sleeping on his job, this is what happens”.

One more Ghanaian added, “Are they not sure that (maybe) she visited her boyfriend, and this happened??”.

A Ghanaian netizen stated, “What at all do they want in life, as for a child 16 years of age, why won’t you sleep with your parents? What she’s looking for, she has finally found it”.

“She went to valentine vacation, and she was quarantined, but valentine26 virus caught up with her. I know that place very well, that’s what the young boys and the girls have been doing”, a netizen added.

In related news, the family of 10-year-old Janet Ntiamoah Owusu are demanding Justice following their daughter’s sudden disappearance and later found dead.

The slain 10-year-old Janet Ntiamoah Owusu’s family is seeking justice and urging authorities to expedite investigations after the tragic loss of their daughter.

The State News in a post on X stated, “Janet was last seen on September 6, 2025, at Gbetsile near Pawpaw House in the Greater Accra Region. She was reported missing shortly afterwards.

Recently, her body was found, sparking public concern and renewed calls for a thorough inquiry.

The heartbreaking development has left her community, friends, and schoolmates in deep shock as security agencies work to determine what happened and ensure those responsible are held accountable”.

See the post below:

Ken Ofori-Atta’s bail hearing set for today, February 19

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Ken Ofori-Atta’s bail hearing set for today, February 19

Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s bond hearing what is known as a bail hearing in Ghana, is set to take place today, February 19, 2026.

The federal judge is said to know whether Ghanaian authorities have filed proper proof of an extradition request.

It will be recalled that Ken Ofori-Atta appeared before a United States immigration court in Virginia on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. He was spotted wearing a dark shirt and a face mask during the hearing

His case was heard at the Annandale Immigration Court before Immigration Judge David Gardey.

The former finance minister was represented by his legal team, including Christopher Chaisson of Whiteford Taylor & Preston and Kwao Amagashi.

Ken Ofori-Atta is currently being held at the Caroline Detention Centre.

The hearing was a bond redetermination proceeding addressing his immigration status, following the revocation of his visa and related overstay/loss of lawful status issues.

It was initially set up as virtual (via Webex), attracting significant public interest with many attempting to join.

Due to the high public attention, Ofori-Atta’s legal team, led by U.S. counsel Christopher Chaisson, successfully requested that the proceedings be held in camera (private and closed to the public), and Immigration Judge David Gardey granted the request.

The court adjourned the case to April 27, 2026, with a direction for the U.S. government to provide evidence of any extradition application by February 19, 2026.

Meanwhile, in related development, Ken Ofori-Atta name has been permanently deleted from the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) Red Notice following a review.

On Friday, February 13, 2026, Ken Ofori-Atta’s Lawyers in a statement revealed that the Control of INTERPOL’s Files (CCF) had communicated its decision to expunge the alert from the organisation’s database.

According to the lawyers, the CCF concluded that the request for Ken Ofori-Atta’s arrest appeared to be primarily political in nature and did not meet INTERPOL’s neutrality requirements.

The statement signed by his lead counsel, Justice Kusi-Minkah Premo of the law firm Minkah-Premo, Osei-Bonsu, Bruce-Cathline & Partners, read, “We are pleased to announce that, today, February 13, 2026, the Commission for The Control of INTERPOL’s Files (CCF) has notified Kenneth Ofori-Atta that on February 4, 2026 during its 135th Session, it determined that the Red Notice issued against Ofori-Atta “appears of a predominantly political character” and is non- compliant with INTERPOL’s rules, and shall be deleted from INTERPOL’s files permanently.

“Specifically, CCF stated that: “After a thorough examination of the elements before it, the commission found that the challenged data registered by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) of Ghana were not compliant with INTERPOL’s rules and decided that they should be deleted from the INTERPOL information system,” part of the letter read.

See the post below:

“We are suffering! Restore Cocoa prices now” – Western North Cocoa Farmers protest

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“We are suffering! Restore Cocoa prices now” – Western North Cocoa Farmers protest

Cocoa farmers in the Western North Region are protesting the John Mahama government’s decision to reduce the price of a 64kg cocoa bag from GHS 3,625 to GHS 2,587 for the remainder of the 2025/2026 season.

It will be recalled that Ato Forson, the Finance Minister, announced the decision, noting that it came after the Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC), under his chairmanship, convened earlier in the day to assess the challenges facing the Cocoa sector.

Farmgate prices of cocoa have also been cut from GHC58,000 to GHC41,392 per tonne.

Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, February 12, Dr Forson disclosed, “The PPRC has recommended that the farmer be paid 90% of the achieved gross fob of USD 4,200 per tonne”.

He added that the committee set the new producer price at GH₵41,392 per tonne, equivalent to GH₵2,587 per bag, effective immediately.

“As a result of that, the PPRC thereby announces that effective today, Thursday, 12th February, 2026, the new producer price for the remainder of the 2025, 2026 crop season will now be GH 41, 392 per tonne and 2,587 per bag,” he noted.

“This measure is necessary to enable the expedited payment of farmers and to guarantee the sustainability of our cocoa industry,” he said.

However, the Cocoa farmers in Western North are having none of that, protesting against the new price.

According to them,, they are suffering and want the old price restored.

In a video shared by UTV, the Western North cocoa farmers were spotted dressed in red, holding placards saying, “Mahama is dangerous than Ebola”, “Farmers lives matter”

Speaking during the Western North Farmers protest, one of the farmers stated, “As I am standing here, I look after my children’s school, and I use my cocoa to look after my children now that you have reduced the price of cocoa…, My child is going to the university, I have to pay 5000 cedis, now that the price have been reduced where will I get the money from to look after my children. Even what to eat has become very difficult for us”.

Another protester added, “The Government did not respect us at all, now they have reduced the price of cocoa, and we have already done our budget. Now that they have reduced the price, how are we going to get money? What the government did is not good; they should look for something better to tell us.  

Meanwhile, Reports by Reuters suggest the Ivory Coast is considering reducing its guaranteed farm gate price paid to its cocoa farmers.

According to the reports, the Ivory Coast plans to reduce its farm gate price to align with Ghana’s 28.6% price cut.

Ghana and the Ivory Coast, the world’s two largest cocoa producers, are grappling with a deepening crisis in the sector.

The information gathered suggests that senior Ivorian officials are considering whether to follow Ghana’s recent decision to cut its producer price by 28.6% for the remainder of the 2025/2026 season.

A senior Ivorian official told Reuters, “We have put all options on the table, and discussions are progressing well. Courageous and realistic decisions will be taken soon. We must think about the survival of the cocoa sector in the Ivory Coast. We need to act; changes are underway,”

Executive Secretary of ICCIG, Alex Assanvo, asserted that both countries are adapting to the sudden market downturn by taking measures to prevent long-term damage to the sector.

Also, exporters and buyers expect the Ivory Coast to announce a price cut soon, noting that it is just a matter of time.

Alex Assanvo stated, “The organisation remains mobilised to coordinate policies in both countries”

“The country is resisting, but for how long? I don’t see Ivory Coast doing something different from Ghana,” the head of an Abidjan-based export company stated.

The report added that the inter-ministerial committee has reportedly met to assess the situation, with a decision expected to be announced soon.

Watch the video below:

“Let move from strategy to implementation” – Mahama says after signing 24-hour economy authority bill into law

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“Let move from strategy to implementation” – Mahama says after signing 24-hour economy authority bill into law

President John Dramani Mahama has officially signed the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill into law.

The signing paves the way for the full implementation of the Mahama government’s flagship economic policy.

According to John Mahama, 24-hour economy authority will now have to move from strategy to implementation following his signing of the bill into law.

Speaking after he signed the bill into law, President Mahama stated, “Cabinet colleagues, I just appended my signature to give assent to the 24-hour Authority Bill. This Bill, which Ghanaians have been waiting for, was one of our flagship strategies for economic transformation.”

“Now we must move from strategy to implementation. The business sector is waiting, Ghanaian investors are waiting, foreign investors are waiting”, President Mahama added.

He added, “They want to see the package of incentives that we can afford, so that they can invest more and expand productivity and also create more employment for our young people, and so it’s my pleasure to assent to this Bill today.”

It will be recalled that Parliament officially passed the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill, 2025, on Friday, February 6, after extensive debate between the Majority and Minority caucuses.

The newly enacted law establishes a 24-Hour Economy Authority to implement the government’s 24-Hour Economy and to serve as the central coordinating body for the nationwide rollout of the policy.

In related news, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has told critics that the government’s flagship 24-Hour Economy promise cannot happen overnight.

The NDC General Secretary detailed that the 24-Hour Economy initiative is a long-term structural programme.

According to Fifi Kwetey, the 24-Hour Economy initiative was a key campaign promise for the NDC, and steps are being taken for its implementation.

He revealed that Goosie Tanoh, the 24-Hour Economy secretariat, has completed important preparatory work with a proposal submitted to parliament for consideration.

Speaking in an interview on TV3, Fifi Kwetey explained, “The process has been on. Goosie Tanoh, who is in charge of that [the 24-Hour Economy Secretariat], who is a member of the cabinet, has presented what you call the step that needs to be taken.

And at the moment, as you know, the bill is in parliament. It came through the cabinet. It is now in Parliament. Parliament will look at it. Then, after that, the implementation can begin”.

He added, “Other things that need to be put in place regarding especially tax exemptions. That’s very important because all the people who need to come along need to have guarantees, especially about taxes.

“So it is not something that you can simply just do overnight. You need to make sure the foundations are in place in order to be able to bring all the people who need to come on board and do it properly.”

Fifi Kwetey further highlighted that the success of the 24-Hour Economy initiative goes beyond the legislative process before the Parliament, adding that economic incentives, particularly tax-related guarantees, are needed to encourage the private sector to get on board.

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“I do not hate Ken Agyapong, my remarks were comparative, not personal” – Atta Akyea

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“I do not hate Ken Agyapong, my remarks were comparative, not personal” – Atta Akyea

Samuel Atta Akyea, the former Member of Parliament for Akim Abuakwa South, has said he does not hate the former Assin Central member of parliament, Ken Agyapong.

According to Atta Akyea, his remarks during the NPP flagbearer race were not personal attacks but strictly comparative.

Speaking on AsaasePa FM, Atta Akyea stated, “Let me be clear, I do not hate Ken Agyapong. My remarks dring flagnearer race were strictly comparative, not personal”.

It will be recalled that, ahead of the NPP presidential primaries, Atta Akyea fired several shots at Ken Agyapong.

Atta Akyea’s earlier comment he made, cautioning the New Patriotic Party (NPP) delegates not to gamble and elect a leader who will go to the UN and insult World leaders.

Atta Akyea warned NPP delegates not to vote for Kennedy Agyapong, who will go and embarrass the country on the International stage during the United Nations Assembly.

He boldly told the NPP delegate not to vote for someone who would insult world leaders when he travels.

Speaking at a gathering of party faithful at Mpraeso in the Eastern region, Atta Akyea stated, “Someone just reminded me, if you gamble and vote for this man (Kennedy Agyapong) and he goes to the United Nations, you will hear motherfucker, Ghanaians will hear motherfucker, Ghanaians will hear a President saying motherfucker.

Have you heard Dr Bawumia ever say motherfucker before? I beg of you, don’t go and gamble”.

Later, Atta Akyea, in an interview on UTV, told Ken Agyapong that a president is someone who has shock absorbers.

According to Atta Akyea, he is scared of Kennedy Agyapong’s temperament, adding that he could beat someone in Cabinet as President.

Speaking on UTV, Atta Akyea stated, “In God’s name, I will not say I have a problem with Kennedy Agyapong, I don’t even have one problem with him, but to be a president it demands a lot of things.

I am scared of Kennedy Agyapong’s temperament; I am afraid that if God is not merciful to us, he could beat someone in the Cabinet as President. He does not have a heart. I know him like the back of my palm.

There is no way you can tell Ken to calm down, in public is where he show of his temperament, things that should not be in public he does not know how to do them”.

Atta Akyea further highlighted that as president, one must have shock absorbers, which Ken Agyapong does not have.

He stressed that when competence, temperament, intellectual prowess, and vision are combined, Bawumia is ahead of Ken Agyapong.

Atta Akyea stated, “The temperament of a president is someone who has shock absorbers; it is not someone who wants to fight people if they have an issue. He is my classmate. I would have followed him so that he would appoint me as Chief of Staff. Hostile language, insulting behaviours, from a leader of the nation.

We can open doors for him as a businessman to run a big business, but if we combine competence, temperament, intellectual prowess, and vision, Bawumia is ahead. When he has gotten to how do we tame his temperament, it cannot be done, even what you are telling him is offensive to him. Those following him today are even afraid to talk to him”.

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COCOBOD announces plans to audit over 10,000 staff on its payroll

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COCOBOD announces plans to audit over 10,000 staff on its payroll

Jerome Kwaku Sam, the Head of Public Affairs at the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), has revealed plans to undertake an internal audit of the cocoa regulator’s over 10,000 staff on its payroll.

According to him, the internal audit is to determine the exact number of employees on its payroll and to assess if their roles are assigned to their portfolios.

He detailed that at the end of the internal audit, if it revealed that COCOBOD can function effectively with 5,000, 1,000 or even 500, so be it.

Speaking in an interview on Citi Business News, Jerome Sam stated, “It is not even about the numbers. If we unearth that the over 10,000 staff are each productive and efficient in what they are doing, that is fine”.

“But if, upon a forensic or Human Resource audit, it is revealed that we can operate effectively with 5,000, 1,000 or even 500 people, and that will ensure the sustenance of the industry, then so be it”.

He added, “The HR audit will ascertain whether we indeed have over 10,000 permanent staff, as the Chief Executive was presented with. Beyond that, it will determine whether all these staff members warrant the portfolios they currently occupy. This is important, and it will be done”.

COCOBOD’s planned audit comes on the heels of the CEO implementing economic measures in response to liquidity challenges within the cocoa sector.

The announcement comes on the heels of heightened strain in the cocoa industry, with some key persons questioning COCBOD’s commitments.

Also, Sam Jerome has revealed that COCOBOD salary reductions affecting over 5,000 senior staff will generate GH¢5 million monthly.

According to Sam Jerome, the COCOBOD salary cut will total GH¢40 million over eight months to defray supplier debts.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Tuesday, February 17, Sam Jerome detailed, “But the most important thing is that, at least, the leadership under Dr Randy Abbey has taken a step. And the step is that we have reduced the salaries of executive management as well as senior staff by 20% and 10%, respectively.

“From where I sit, tentatively at least some 5 million cedis can be saved on a monthly basis. So, if you have about eight months to go, you are talking about no less than 40 million Ghana cedis, which can be used to defray some of the debt that sits on the books of COCOBOD,” he said.

Sam Jerome details follows, the CEO of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr Randy Abbey, in a press statement, has announced that the Executive Management and Senior Staff will take a pay cut following the challenges within the cocoa sector.

According to the press release, the pay cuts take immediate effect and will remain in place for the remainder of the 2025/2026 crop year.

The press release detailed that Executive Management will take a 20 per cent reduction in salaries, while Senior Staff will also be hit with a 10 per cent cut.

The pay cuts are seen as a broader cost-containment measure to align with revenue.

Also, the CEO statement indicated that additional steps, including procurement reforms and a staff rationalisation exercise, were to be taken to stabilise COCOBOD finances.

In a press release dated Monday, February 16, 2026, COCOBOD announced that the pay cuts, which read, “The Executive Management and the Senior Staff of COCOBOD have effective today. Monday, February 16, 2026, reduced their salaries for the remainder of the 2025/26 crop year in recognition of the current liquidity challenges in the cocoa industry.

The Executive Management has taken a twenty (20) per cent cut, while the Senior Staff have taken a ten (10) per cent reduction in their respective salaries.

This decision and other cost-cutting measures in procurement and a staff rationalisation exercise are aimed at reducing the overall expenditure of COCOBOD and aligning costs with revenue”.

Meanwhile, Jerome Kwaku Sam has revealed that GHC237 million has been paid to cocoa farmers.

He announced that the GHC237 million has been paid for the 50,000 metric tonnes of cocoa after several months of delays in payments.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, February 18, Jerome Kwaku Sam wrote, “I’m happy to report COCOBOD has started payment of the 50,000 metric tonnes. An amount of GHC237 million has been paid.”

“For me, Ghana need a third force” – Speaker Bagbin

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“For me, Ghana need a third force” – Speaker Bagbin

Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, has said that, in his opinion, he thinks Ghana needs a strong third force political party.

Speaker Bagbin argued that the country’s democracy would be strengthened by broader political competition with the emergence of a third strong political force in Ghana.

According to Speaker Bagbin, he is concerned about Ghana’s political space, which has increasingly narrowed to two dominant parties.

Alban Bagbin recounted Ghana’s political journey since the beginning of the Fourth Republic, recalling the NDC’s first congress in Cape Coast, adding that he even attended the congresses of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) upon invitation.

Speaking at a Political Inclusion and Consensus Building Forum organised by the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA) on Wednesday, February 18, Speaker Bagbin stated, “Now, we seem to have only two strong, vibrant, surviving parties,” he said. “For me, I think we need a third force.”

Also, at the event, Alban Bagbin expressed dissatisfaction that none of the political parties contesting the upcoming Ayawaso East by-election has fielded a female candidate.

He asserted that female representation must begin at the party level before it reflects in Parliament.

Speaker Bagbin added, “Political parties are the gateways to representation. Parliament is the arena where representation becomes decision-making. Therefore, inclusion must begin in parties and mature in Parliament”.

“I was waiting for any party to have fielded a female candidate in the Ayawaso East by-election. I will personally support the candidate because we need more of our women in Parliament. Unfortunately, the parties have disappointed me,” he stated.

In related news, the spokesperson for the defeated New Patriotic Party (NPP), presidential hopeful Ken Agyapong, Kwasi Kwarteng, has debunked reports claiming his boss has broken away from the party.

According to Kwasi Kwarteng, Ken Agyapong has not and will not break away from the NPP.

In a post shared on social media, Kwasi Kwarteng wrote, “ Hon Ken Ohene Agyapong has not and will not break away from the New Patriotic Party (NPP: Development in freedom)”.

His post follows an alleged post by Lawson TV, which claimed Ken Agyapong has decided to break away from the NPP to contest in the 2028 election.

Lawson TV post shared on social media stated, “Hon Kennedy Agyapong breaks away from the NPP and set to contest in 2028 elections”.

Additionally, Kwasi Kwarteng detailed that Ken Agyapong’s commitment to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is unshaken, unbroken.

According to Kwasi Kwarteng, the NPP members and the general public should allow Ken Agyapong some time to reflect following the party’s recent presidential primary.

He noted that Ken is also a human and, for a whole year, was accused of having orchestrated the party’s 2024 defeat with his comments.

Speaking to Citi News, Kwasi Kwarteng explained, “He is still a member of the NPP. He has not and will not break away from the NPP. In relation to his absence yesterday at the event, he was out of town. His commitment to the party remains unshaken, unbroken, unresolved and will still remain high”.

“I think out of respect, we should give people moments to also reflect. I mean, it can’t be said that for a whole one year, one person is accused of having orchestrated the party’s 2024 defeat and that his comments are so sour and that he has been insulting women and all manner of accusations”.

“He is a human being, he has his low moments and his high moments. I think after such a tense contest like this with accusations, we should give people at least some room to reflect,” Kwasi Kwarteng added.

Adeiso Presbyterian Secondary male student arrested for allegedly raping a female student

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Adeiso Presbyterian Secondary male student arrested for allegedly raping a female student

A male student of the Adeiso Presbyterian Secondary School has been arrested for allegedly raping a female student.

Reports detailed that the alleged rape occurred during evening “prep” studies.

According to Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Prince Collins Bening, the student have been identified as a Form 2 student and was busted following a complaint.

The information gathered detailed that the victim was standing when the suspect approached her and began touching her improperly, with the victim asking him to stop.

The suspect is said to have allegedly pushed her down and sexually assaulted her.

The victim, following the incident, reported the matter to school management, with the school subsequently filing a formal police report.

Later, a medical form was issued to the victim, and a follow-up examination at the hospital confirmed that sexual abuse occurred.

Reports suggest that the suspect’s parents reportedly visited the school in an attempt to appeal to the victim’s family to drop the case, but the victim’s family refused the plea, demanding justice through the legal system.

In related news, Dr Clement Apaak, the Deputy Minister for Education, has revealed that two students have been arrested in connection with the gang rape of a student of Osino Senior High School.

According to Dr Apaak, the arrests were part of a firm response by the Ministry of Education.

Speaking to JoyNews on Thursday, February 12, Dr Apaak stated, “I was the one directed by the minister to take it up, and through the Ghana Education Service I can inform the good people of Ghana that two culprits have since been arrested as being part of the perpetrators of the heinous act of rape and they are assisting the police in investigation”.

“The young lady herself is receiving counselling, and we are doing our best to ensure that she’s properly rehabilitated,” he noted.

He added, “Let me be clear, to both students and particularly to parents, students should be informed, and they should know that we will not tolerate any acts of lawlessness and misconduct”.

“Parents have a duty to ensure that their wards conduct themselves properly within the context of being in an academic environment. If they do not caution their wards and look the other way or they don’t pay attention to the conduct of their wards in school and the wards engage in acts of lawlessness or misconduct, they should expect the most severe sanctions to be meted out to them.”

“We need a disciplined society. We cannot build the Ghana we want, we cannot improve our conditions, we cannot think about a better future if our future leaders are allowed to become indisciplined citizens acting lawlessly and misconducting themselves. So it is for our collective good to ensure that our students at all levels are disciplined and they act within the context of lawfulness.”

Dr Apaak also spoke on the Kade Senior High School case saying, “In terms of the Kade case, that was a typical example of the current approach as far as the ministry and government are concerned in our aversion to acts of lawlessness and misconduct”.

“One popular incident was when a number of students, past and present from Kade Senior High School, assaulted one of their teachers because he prevented them from cheating during the last WASSCE examination,” Dr Apaak said.

“Although the teacher had made peace with the students through the intervention of their families, we still insisted that the law ought to take its course,” he explained.

“Subsequently, the students were arrested, and they were taken to court, and they were found guilty, but I hear that part of the sanction was for them to pay some fines.”

“Let me put on record that the Ministry of Education under the leadership of Haruna Iddrisu and the direction of His Excellency the President would no longer tolerate acts of lawlessness and misconduct,” he said.

Cocoa crisis – Ivory Coast considering price cut following Ghana’s price slash

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Cocoa crisis – Ivory Coast considering price cut following Ghana’s price slash

Reports by Reuters suggest the Ivory Coast is considering reducing its guaranteed farm gate price paid to its cocoa farmers.

According to the reports, the Ivory Coast plans to reduce its farm gate price to align with Ghana’s 28.6% price cut.

Ghana and the Ivory Coast, the world’s two largest cocoa producers, are grappling with a deepening crisis in the sector.

The information gathered suggests that senior Ivorian officials are considering whether to follow Ghana’s recent decision to cut its producer price by 28.6% for the remainder of the 2025/2026 season.

A senior Ivorian official told Reuters, “We have put all options on the table, and discussions are progressing well. Courageous and realistic decisions will be taken soon. We must think about the survival of the cocoa sector in the Ivory Coast. We need to act; changes are underway,”

Executive Secretary of ICCIG, Alex Assanvo, asserted that both countries are adapting to the sudden market downturn by taking measures to prevent long-term damage to the sector.

Also, exporters and buyers expect the Ivory Coast to announce a price cut soon, noting that it is just a matter of time.

Alex Assanvo stated, “The organisation remains mobilised to coordinate policies in both countries”

“The country is resisting, but for how long? I don’t see Ivory Coast doing something different from Ghana,” the head of an Abidjan-based export company stated.

The report added that the inter-ministerial committee has reportedly met to assess the situation, with a decision expected to be announced soon.

The news comes following Ghana’s Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has announced a revised cocoa price of 64kg cocoa bag from GHS 3,625 to GHS 2,587 for the remainder of the 2025/2026 season.

According to Ato Forson, the decision comes after the Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC), under his chairmanship, convened earlier in the day to assess the challenges facing the Cocoa sector.

Farmgate prices of cocoa has also been cut from GHC58,000 to GHC41,392 per tonne.

Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, February 12, Dr Forson disclosed, “The PPRC has recommended that the farmer be paid 90% of the achieved gross fob of USD 4,200 per tonne”.

He added that the committee set the new producer price at GH₵41,392 per tonne, equivalent to GH₵2,587 per bag, effective immediately.

“As a result of that, the PPRC thereby announces that effective today, Thursday, 12th February, 2026, the new producer price for the remainder of the 2025, 2026 crop season will now be GH 41, 392 per tonne and 2,587 per bag,” he noted.

“This measure is necessary to enable the expedited payment of farmers and to guarantee the sustainability of our cocoa industry,” he said.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has revealed he is a cocoa farmer, and his government’s decision to cut cocoa prices affects him too.

According to John Mahama, he directly understands the economic pressures facing cocoa farmers following the recent volatility in global cocoa prices.

Speaking at the maiden Ghana Tree Crops Investment Summit and Exhibition on Tuesday, February 17, President Mahama stated, “Nana Kwebu Ewusi gave me 50 acres of land, and I planted cocoa on the 50 acres, so I am a cocoa farmer. So when the price is reduced by the government, it affects me too”.

“I want to be able to empathise with farmers so that when we take any policy decision, we know that it has an effect on farmers and we feel it ourselves. If there is no fertiliser or the price of fertiliser is expensive I feel it myself because I also buy fertiliser”.

“This is even good” – Prof Agyeman-Duah reacts to CJ decision to retain EC Chair

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“This is even good” – Prof Agyeman-Duah reacts to CJ decision to retain EC Chair

The Chief Executive Officer of John Agyekum Kufuor Foundation, Professor Baffour Agyeman-Duah, has said the decision by the Chief Justice to reject calls for the removal of Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson Jean Mensa is good.

According to Professor Baffour Agyeman-Duah, the CJ’s decision is good, knowing that the process went through all the procedural processes in line with Ghana’s democracy.

He highlighted that the decision will strengthen Ghana’s democracy and restore public trust in the electoral process.

Professor Baffour Agyeman-Duah further commended the Chief Justice for his decision, describing it as apt for Ghana’s democracy, adding that the decision will discourage the public from pursuing cheap political agendas.

Speaking on OTEC FM’s Dwabrem show, Professor Baffour Agyeman-Duah stated, “This is even good knowing very well the process passed through all procedural processes in line with the country’s democracy”.

Also, President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has reacted to news of the Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, finding no prima facie determination on petitions against the Electoral Commissioner, her deputies, and the Special Prosecutor.

According to Franklin Cudjoe, Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s ruling marks a historic break from past practices.

He stressed that Ghana’s Judiciary is now truly unshackled, as such independence would have been impossible under the New Patriotic Party.

Reacting on a Facebook page on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, he stated, “The Judiciary is now truly unshackled. This would never have happened under the previous scariest alternative. Thank you, CJ. Thank you, President John Dramani Callistus Mahama”.

Their remarks follow, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Government Communications Minister, who has announced that the Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, found no prima facie determination on petitions against the Electoral Commissioner, her deputies, and the Special Prosecutor.

A statement issued by the Presidency on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, read, “Following the receipt of seven (7) petitions from various individuals and groups for the removal of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission and her Deputies, and three (3) petitions for the removal of the Special Prosecutor, President John Dramani Mahama, in accordance with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 15 of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959), referred same to His Lordship, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, Chief Justice, on 25 November 2025, to determine whether the petitions disclosed a prima facie case.

By a letter dated 26 January 2026, the Chief Justice informed His Excellency the President that no prima facie case had been established by the petitions to warrant any further investigations for the removal of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Deputy Commissioners and the Special Prosecutor.”This determination means no committee will be formed, and no further proceedings for removal will take place based on those petitions”.

It will be recalled that President Mahama referred seven petitions calling for the removal of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Jean Mensa and her Deputies and Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, to the Chief Justice for a determination on November 25, 2025.

The referral was made in accordance with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 15 of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959), to ascertain whether the petitions disclosed a prima facie case.

Also, last year, Felix Kwakye Ofosu revealed that the petition to remove the Electoral Commission Chairperson, Jean Mensa, her deputies and the Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng now rests with the Chief Justice.

According to Kwakye Ofosu, the process has left the hands of President John Dramani Mahama, adding that he believes Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie will act in accordance with Ghanaian law.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu is quoted by Joy News to have said, “Every process that is needed to be done has been undertaken. The process for doing so is quite clear. At this stage, the process has left the hands of the president beyond conveying the petitions to the Chief Justice.

There’s little else that the president does in this particular instance. Everything now rests with the Chief Justice, who, I believe, will act in accordance with Ghanaian law”.

Mahama gov’t stance toward Captain Ibrahim Traoré caused tomato traders’ attack – Dominic Nitiwul

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Mahama gov’t stance toward Captain Ibrahim Traoré caused tomato traders’ attack – Dominic Nitiwul

Dominic Nitiwul, the former Defence Minister, has said the John Mahama government’s stance toward Burkina Faso’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, caused the tomato traders’ attack.

The former Defence Minister quizzed why Ibrahim Traoré was invited to President John Dramani Mahama’s swearing-in ceremony, noting very well that he was fighting terrorism on our border.

According to Dominic Nitiwul, even at the peak of terrorist activities from 2018 to 2021 in Burkina Faso, Ghanaians were largely spared such attacks.

Dominic Nitiwul further urged the government to rethink its relationship with other countries.

Speaking in an interview with Citi News, Dominic Nitiwul explained, “The attackers knew these were Ghanaians, so why did they go ahead to attack them? They knew this was a Ghanaian-registered vehicle; they knew they were speaking English.

“During the period of 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, this was the time that terrorism was high in Burkina Faso, and Ghanaians were going there, but they never attacked them. In fact, when they saw that you are a Ghanaian, they allowed you to pass. Why are they attacking Ghanaians now?

“I think we are beginning to create enemies for ourselves. Why did we invite Captain Traoré for the swearing-in when he was a coup maker? The man is fighting terrorism on our border. He is fighting people who could target us. What was the use? Why were we cheering him?” he questioned.

Also, John Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, has said that if politicians are protected to travel to Burkina Faso, traders ought to be offered that same protection.

According to Ntim Fordjour, the same level of escort provided to politicians, ministers, Deputy Minister or the CEO when they travel to Burkina Faso should be extended to Ghanaian traders travelling.

Speaking in an interview on TV3 on February 17, 2026, Ntim Fordjour detailed, “When it comes to trans-border trips for traders, the Ministry of Defence should undertake a proper risk assessment if that has not already been done. As Ranking Member on the Defence Committee, I can say that we have not been apprised of any such risk assessment regarding Burkina Faso”.

“If such a report becomes available, it should clearly advise travellers to Burkina Faso about identified hotspots and areas that are considered no-go zones. It should also outline the relatively safer areas where traders can operate,” he noted.

He added, “Beyond that, there must be an additional layer of protection. Even in designated safe areas, there should be arrangements for security escorts to ensure that traders who must, by necessity, travel to Burkina Faso for business are adequately protected.

“When a politician, Minister, Deputy Minister or CEO travels to Burkina Faso, they receive full protection from the relevant security agencies to guarantee their safety. If political office holders are protected to travel and return safely, then traders deserve that same level of protection, especially given the security challenges in the sub-region and within our neighbouring countries,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued new travel guidelines requiring Ghanaians intending to travel to high-risk areas to first contact the Ministry or Ghanaian embassies for guidance, following the deadly terrorist attack in Burkina Faso that killed eight traders.

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Tragic – Assin Tetre-Nkwanta Chief killed by a motorbike

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Tragic – Assin Tetre-Nkwanta Chief killed by a motorbike

The Chief of Assin Tetre-Nkwanta Nana Kweku Opare II has been crushed to death by a motorbike.

Reports suggest the 70-year-old Chief lost his life in an accident at Assin Praso on the Cape Coast-Kumasi Highway.

The tragic incident is said to have occurred on Sunday, February 15, around 20:00 hours.

According to eyewitnesses account, he had just returned from a funeral in his hometown and was heading home with some of his sub chiefs.

He attempted to cross the road to the other side when a speeding motorbike with no headlight knocked him down, killing him instantly.

Ebenezer Tettey, 24 years old, has been identified as the motorbike rider and is said to have seriously injured himself and is receiving treatment at the Assin Praso Presbyterian Hospital.

A GNA news report stated, “Eyewitnesses told the Ghana News Agency that the deceased, who resided at Assin Praso, had just returned from a funeral in his hometown and was heading home with some of his sub chiefs when the unfortunate incident happened.

While attempting to cross the road to the other side, a speeding motorbike with no headlight knocked him down, killing him instantly”.

“The impact was severe that it left the Chief with multiple fractures on his arms and legs.

Later, the Police were called to the scene and with the assistance of bystanders, the injured Chief was rushed to the Assin Praso Presbyterian Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The motorbike rider, identified as Ebenezer Tettey, 24 years old, was seriously injured and is receiving treatment at the same Hospital”, the report further added.

In related news, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, is said to have escaped unhurt and is in stable condition after being involved in a road accident.

According to reports, the Ga Mantse was in an early morning road accident on Wednesday, which occurred at about 2:00 am at Pai-Katanga in the Oti Region.

The Ga Mantse was returning to Accra from Tamale after he travelled to the Northern Region on a private visit at the invitation of the Yaa Naa.

His visit is described as cordial and significant, and formed part of ongoing engagements between traditional authorities and was aimed at strengthening bonds of unity and mutual respect.

On his return journey to Accra, the Ga Mantse’s vehicle was involved in an accident. Sources close to the palace say that although the Ga Mantse was unharmed and remains in good spirits.

Unfortunately, the Ga Mantse driver sustained critical injuries and was rushed to the hospital for treatment.

Reports suggest personnel of the Ghana Police Service responded swiftly and timely to the accident scene when they received the call.

Tomato traders warn of shortages and price surge following Burkina Faso terrorist attacks

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Tomato traders warn of shortages and price surge following Burkina Faso terrorist attacks

Tomato traders and importers in Accra have warned of a possible shortage and price surge following Burkina Faso terrorist attacks.

 The traders called on the government to invest in local irrigation infrastructure to boost domestic production, arguing that investment would reduce Ghana’s dependence on imports.

According to Esther Owusu Ansah, a tomato importer for over 30 years, traders may soon stop travelling to Burkina Faso if adequate security is not guaranteed.

Speaking to Citi Business News, Esther Owusu Ansah stated, “If the government and security agencies do not provide us with adequate protection, we will not bother travelling to Burkina Faso anymore. Our drivers have families, and they cannot risk their lives just to transport tomatoes”.

She further detailed that they receive escorts often arranged up to Paga; however, the journey beyond remains uncertain.

“Our Chairman usually arranges security escort up to Paga, but beyond that point, we do not know what may happen. Because of these risks, we are even beginning to reconsider importing tomatoes altogether. Many of the tomatoes we get are usually rotten.”

Queenmother of the CMB Underbridge branch in Accra, identified as Otumfuo Charity, warned that some traders from Togo may attempt to exploit the disruption.

“Some of these traders use routes through northern Togo under the pretext of selling to their counterparts, but they end up selling the tomatoes directly to Ghanaian traders. We want to make it clear that we will not accept this, and we will issue a warning against such practices”, Otumfuo Charity explained.

Also, Kwame Siaw, a driver, stated, “Now, we may be compelled to find other alternative sources of livelihood… but that kind of work is not sustainable.”

“With fewer tomatoes on the market, prices will become more expensive. Since the main trucks that transport tomatoes from Burkina Faso are no longer coming, we will be left sitting here idle. How then will we take care of our families?”, he said.

Meanwhile, Deputy Agriculture Minister John Dumelo has announced that Ghana is on course to achieve large-scale domestic tomato production by the end of 2026.

According to John Dumelo, trials are underway at irrigation schemes to reduce reliance on imports from Burkina Faso.

The Deputy Minister further stressed that the Mahama government has a long-term plan to cut Ghana’s dependency on tomatoes from Burkina Faso by between 20 and 30 per cent beginning next year.

John Dumelo is quoted by a TV3 news flyer shared on social to have said, “Ghana on track for full-scale tomato production by year-end 2026”.

The Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, speaking on JOYFM The Pulse on Tuesday, 17 February, further detailed efforts to stabilise tomato supply and reduce Ghana’s reliance on imports.

John Dumelo stated, “I just came back from the Bono East region, but I’ll be going back to be able to interact with the traders and see how best we can help them to solve our problems, our tomato demand in Ghana.”

“When you look at some of our irrigation schemes, especially the ones in the north — when you go to Tono Dam, around the Navrongo area — currently most of the farmers are farming tomatoes, but it’s on a much smaller scale. It’s more or less like a trial stage where we want to scale it up before the year ends or next year.”

“If you also go to our irrigation schemes, there are some tomato-growing farmers there, as we speak, that would have their tomatoes maybe in about two or three months’ time. All these schemes are the ones that we want to scale up, hopefully by next year.”

He added, “We’ve distributed some solar — or we’re about to distribute some solar water pumps to vegetable farmers across the country. And then the water pumps that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources seized from galamsey operators — we distributed some last year, over a thousand of them, to small-scale vegetable farmers across the country.”

“Hopefully, when all these come on board, we’ll be able to mitigate our production of tomatoes and other vegetables across the country.”

“I’m very hopeful that next year, by this time, most of the trips that are going to Burkina Faso will reduce. When all these programmes come on board, hopefully we’ll be able to reduce our traders from going to Burkina Faso to get tomatoes.”

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Ga Mantse escapes unhurt after Oti Region road accident

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Ga Mantse escapes unhurt after Oti Region road accident

King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, is reported to have escaped unhurt and is in stable condition after being involved in a road accident.

According to reports, the Ga Mantse was in an early morning road accident which occurred at about 2:00 am at Pai-Katanga in the Oti Region.

The Ga Mantse was returning to Accra from Tamale after he travelled to the Northern Region on a private visit at the invitation of the Yaa Naa.

His visit is described as cordial and significant, and formed part of ongoing engagements between traditional authorities and was aimed at strengthening bonds of unity and mutual respect.

On his return journey to Accra, the Ga Mantse’s vehicle was involved in an accident. Sources close to the palace say that although the Ga Mantse was unharmed and remains in good spirits.

Unfortunately, the Ga Mantse driver sustained critical injuries and was rushed to the hospital for treatment.

Reports suggest personnel of the Ghana Police Service responded swiftly and timely to the accident scene when they received the call.

In related news, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, has called for a new master for the Greater Accra Region.

The Ga Mantse stressed that the current state of Accra is choked with congestion in planned settlements.

According to the Ga Mantse, modern capital is not inherited, they are deliberately built and designed.

Speaking at the 3rd Ghana Construction Industry Excellence, on December 18, 2025, the traditional ruler stated, “It’s choked with congestion on planned settlements, strained sanitation systems, inadequate drainage, and uncondemnated infrastructure. To confess, the modern capital is not inherited. It is designed. It is planned. It is deliberately built.”

“I therefore urge government and the private sector partners to form a strong, well-coordinated coalition to revise the current master plan of Accra,” he said. “That is very, very important. Accra must have a new master plan, and it must cover everywhere, especially the central business district,” he noted.

“We must redevelop and modernise the Greater Accra Region, implement a sustainable decongestion strategy, revitalise the inner-city communities, invest in green areas, waste systems and efficient transport corridors, and create new planned urban centres to support population growth,” he said. “The capital city should reflect the aspirations of its people.”

“Ghana deserves a city that is clean, that is efficient, livable and globally competitive,” he stated.

The Ga Mantse further highlighted that Ghana is facing a housing deficit of over 1.8 million units.

He added, “Ghana is facing a housing deficit of over 1.8 million units. The lower and middle income groups, which are the backbone of our economy, struggle daily to find decent accommodation.”

“Government must partner with private developers in genuine public-private housing initiatives that are affordable, that are sustainable, well-located and built to modern standards,” the Ga Mantse said.

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Your case will not be trial in a Kangaroo court, return to Ghana – Atta Akyea tells Ken Ofori-Atta

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Your case will not be trial in a Kangaroo court, return to Ghana – Atta Akyea tells Ken Ofori-Atta

Samuel Atta Akyea, a former Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, has told the former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to return to Ghana.

According to Samuel Atta Akyea, Ken Ofori-Atta’s case will not be trial in a Kangaroo court but in an open court where journalists will also be reporting.

He detailed that, if he were counsel to Ken Ofori-Atta, he would strongly advise him to return to Ghana to avoid his absence being exploited to disgrace him.

Speaking on AsaasePa FM, Samuel Atta Akyea stated, “Ken Ofori-Atta is not a child, and a lot of people are around him; they should take a decision that would help him, especially with his name. If he can take some decisions to redeem his name, it would help him a lot. Because of how things are going”,

“If I were his lawyer, and if it is not illness that is keeping him away, I would ask him to come to Ghana, because what will happen?. I will advise him to come back so that they will not exploit his absence to disgrace him; that is my view”.

He added, “His absence, there is always a court of public opinion, with everyone saying why is he not coming back to Ghana, if you are innoncent what are you doing abroad? Why won’t you come and face your charges?

What will they do? We are all Ghanaians, so the things the court will do, a journalist can even pick it up; the court is open, it will not be a kangaroo court”.

Meanwhile, Frank Davies, a member of the former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s legal team, has told the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) they goofed in the handling of the case involving his client.

Speaking on an AM show, lawyer Frank Davies boldly stated that the Office of the Special Prosecutor got it wrong and must be apologetic and tell Ghanaians the truth.

According to Frank Davies, due process and the rule of law are not mere slogans warning the OSP against condemning suspects in the court of public opinion before cases are properly tested in court.

Ken Ofori-Atta’s lawyer stated, “So yes, they got it wrong this time. They goofed. I think they should be apologetic and tell Ghanaians the truth. My candid advice to them is that the rule of law and due process are not a term of art. It evolves from established practices and processes”.

Frank Davis added, “It is not always right to punish people’s reputation when there is no basis for it”.

“This is why due process matters. You cannot destroy someone’s reputation before the facts are properly established,” he said.

The lawyer’s remarks follow the INTERPOL permanently deleting Ken Ofori-Atta’s name from their Red Notice must pause for a moment.

However, the OSP has broken its silence following the International Criminal Police Organisation’s (INTERPOL) deletion of former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta’s Red Notice.

According to the OSP, INTERPOL cited political neutrality and notice processing, adding that the polarised political statements from members of current and former administrations about the conduct of the investigation form part of its decision to expunge his name.

Also. OSP further detailed that recent developments with Ken Ofori-Atta, already in custody, made the notice unnecessary.

However, the OSP notes that criminal charges remain active, with summons currently being served in the United States to secure the former Finance Minister’s appearance in court.

The OSP in a press release dated February 13, 2026, stated, “The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has received the decision of the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL’s Files concerning the Red Notice issued at Ghana’s request for Mr Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta.

The Commission directed the deletion of the notice under INTERPOL’s rules on political neutrality and notice processing, citing contextual factors at the time of issuance, including “polarized political statements from members of current and former administrations about the conduct of the investigation,” as well as public controversy surrounding prosecutorial and extradition processes, including public acknowledgment by senior officials at the Ministry of Justice of an inability, at the time, to pursue extradition due to the early procedural stage of the case.

It further observed that subsequent developments made the notice unnecessary, as Mr Ofori-Atta’s location was known, cooperation with U.S. authorities was ongoing and extradition processes had already been initiated following his arrest in the United States on 6 January 2026.

Summons issued by the Criminal Division of the High Court in Accra have been transmitted for service in the United States, requiring him to answer multiple criminal charges. Efforts to secure his appearance continue through established legal and diplomatic channels.

The OSP reiterates that it remains guided solely by law and evidence and is committed to due process and the fair, lawful, and impartial prosecution of corruption and corruption-related offences”.

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Ghanaians missing Akufo-Addo and Bawumia’s good governance – Wontumi claims

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Ghanaians missing Akufo-Addo and Bawumia’s good governance – Wontumi claims

The Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has claimed that Ghanaians are missing the governance of Akufo-Addo and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

According to Chairman Wontumi, everyone in Ghana is calling for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and the NPP to come and rescue them.

Speaking to the media in an interview shared on social media, Wontumi stated, “Ghanaians are calling for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and they have also missed the good governance of former President Nana Akufo-Addo and Dr Bawumia”.

“So at the moment, cocoa farmers are calling NPP to come, everybody, all the sectors, so are the importers, everybody is calling for the NPP to come, so we hope we will have the favour from God and men to vote for NPP and Bawumia and the majority of the NPP MPs”.  

In related news, the flagbearer of the NPP, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has endorsed Chairman Wontumi as the next party National Chairman.

In a viral video, Chairman Wontumi was arriving at a Bawumia’s residence where he exchanged greetings with some members of the NPP around.

Wontumi later walked inside Dr Bawumia’s residence, saying, “Your excellency, the president”.

Dr Bawumia stated, “INCOMING, how are you?”.

Wontumi responded, “Very well, my boss”.

The former vice president, referring to Wontumi as the incoming clear, shows his endorsement of the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP as the next National Chairman.

Recall, Wontumi, who has officially declared his intention to contest for the NPP National Chairman position.

According to Wontumi, having consulted his Maker and sought the counsel of party elders, he has declared his intention to serve as National Chairman of the NPP.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, February 4, the Ashanti Regional Chairman stated, “Our party has faced challenges and learned hard lessons along the way. At this critical moment he NPP demands leadership that is steady, principled, and committed to unity.

A leader who is grassroots personified, who values every member from our elders to the youthfu allies, and who is willing to make the ultimate sacrifices for the party

Bernard Antwi-Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi), having consulted my Maker and sought the counsel of party elders, hereby declare my intention to serve as National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party. I do so not for personal ambition, but to strengthen, rebuild, and unify our great part.

The road ahead will demand vision, courage, and unwavering determination. Leadership at this moment requires bravery—the courage to stand firm, make difficult decisions, and be willing to lose everything if necessary for the NPP.

We are ready. We are organised. We are built for the battle ahead.

Together, we will restore confidence, empower our grassroots, and position the NPP to win decisively in 2028. This is our moment to rise, to lead, and to deliver for the NPP”.

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“You are to ask a supplementary question, not to tell a story” – Bernard Ahiafor clashes with Afenyo-Markin

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“You are to ask a supplementary question, not to tell a story” – Bernard Ahiafor clashes with Afenyo-Markin

Bernard Ahiafor, the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Member of Parliament for Akatsi South, has once again clashed with the Minority Leader of Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, during proceedings yesterday, February 17, 2026.

In a viral video shared on TikTok, the chash emitted after Afenyo-Markin was allowed to ask a supplementary question during the discussions about trade industries and the government-funded factories.

Afenyo-Markin making a submission in parliament, stated, “Are we going to manage publicly funded factories that have already shown experience, or are they completely new start-ups? From the explanation, it appears to me that the government is funding new ventures…”

The minority leader, before he could complete his remarks, was interjected by the Deputy Speaker, who was presiding over the matter in the house.

Bernard Ahiafor stated, “Please, Minority Leader, you are to ask a supplementary question, not to tell a story”.

Afenyo-Markin then responded, “Mr Speaker, with respect, you always want us to extend courtesy to you, but your words are harsh”.

“Mr Speaker, you don’t use such words on your leader. Let me return back that respect to you. Please, please… but the language from the chair might be such that we can all cooperate. I beg you.”

Afenyo-Markin eventually asked his question following the clash.

In related news, the Minority Leader in Parliament has said his focus is to hold the John Mahama-led government’s feet to the fire.

The minority leader stressed that he will hold the government accountable but will ensure he does not obstruct parliamentary business.

According to Afenyo-Markin, he carefully balanced his role between rigorous scrutiny and respect for parliamentary procedures.

He further stressed that what people described as being controversial in the chamber is due to his active engagements are guided by principle rather than personal interest.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Monday, February 16, 2026, “My focus has been to hold the government’s feet to the fire, at the same time not being obstructive. When you are in opposition, you must have it on the back of your mind that you have a day in government tomorrow.

“So I’m equally mindful not to push too much and personalise matters. Else if you come back in 2029, they will also make life difficult for you. You gauge the mood of the house, but you don’t deviate from your core duty of scrutinising,” he said.

Additionally, the minority leader speaking to GraphicOnline clarified the heated exchanges witnessed in Parliament.

According to Afenyo-Markin, the heated exchanges should not be mistaken for anger but rather are a way the MPs express their disagreements as part of the democratic process.

Speaking in a video shared by GraphicOnline on X on Thursday, January 1, 2026, he explained, “Don’t think that we are fighting. It is only our way of expressing disagreement. We are not at war in Parliament; we are only expressing our disagreements”.

“That’s why when there’s chaos, you see calmness the next day in Parliament. So, if you go and fight, you are fighting your own trouble, so don’t fight,” he emphasised.

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@io_news #creatorsearchinsights #fy #fyp #ghanatiktok🇬🇭 #fypシ ♬ original sound – io_News

Cocoa alone can no longer shoulder Ghana’s economic ambitions – Asantehene

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Cocoa alone can no longer shoulder Ghana’s economic ambitions – Asantehene

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has said Cocoa alone can no longer shoulder Ghana’s economic ambitions.

The Asantehene asserted that cocoa has long been the backbone of Ghana’s economy, symbolising discipline, sacrifice, and resilience.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II also warned that cocoa faces growing threats, including pollution from illegal mining, and climate change, altering rainfall patterns.

He further commended the government’s efforts to diversify the tree crop sector, emphasising cashew, coconut, oil palm, rubber, mango, and shea as potential drivers of growth.

The Asantehene highlighted that if cocoa currently generates approximately two billion dollars annually, the other six major tree crops could collectively generate 12 billion dollars or more for Ghana in the future.

The Asantehene, in a speech read on his behalf by the Nkoranza Manhene, Nana Kwame Baffoe IV, at the 2026 Ghana Tree Crops Investment Summit and Exhibition, stated, “It has educated our children, built our communities, sustained rural livelihoods, and earned Ghana global recognition as a dependable agricultural producer”.

“This vision is not speculative. It is firmly grounded in economic logic, ecological necessity and global market demand. As such, it deserves sustained attention and full national support and investment,” the Asantehene said.

He added, “The combined strength of Ghana’s diverse tree crops can become a powerful engine of sustainable growth. This journey will, however, require patience, long-term capital, discipline and effective coordination. Tree crops are far more than commercial commodities”.

“So, I therefore issue a clarion call to all traditional authorities across Ghana. Let us deliberately make land available for large-scale, responsible tree crop development,” he urged.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama Speaking at the Accra Reset Addis Reckoning event in Addis Ababa on Saturday, February 14, President Mahama explained Ghana’s cocoa challenges, “There are issues, and I’ll just give one example from Ghana. Just before I left, we had a crisis in our cocoa sector. We set the producer price for the farmer. By the time we set the price, the cocoa on the international market was $7,200.

And we have a policy where we gave 70% of the world market price to the farmers. The other 30% is used by the administration to supply fertilisers to the farmers, provide scholarships for their children, and all that kind of thing”.

“The cedi’s value was 11.5 cedis to $1. After we set the producer price, the world market price has declined to $4,200. The cedi has appreciated in value by 10.7 to the dollar. So suddenly it means that for every ton you buy at the producer price, you have a gap, and so we’ll be losing. And so we held a crisis meeting”.

John Mahama further explained government’s decision to stop relying on foreign funding arrangements for cocoa purchases saying, “We took decisions that one of the major problems is that to buy cocoa from our own farmers, we rely on funding from outside. You know what the collateral for funding is? Our cocoa beans. So you have to collateralise the beans. The financier buys the beans, just ships them [out]. They pay you the international market price.

So one of the key decisions we’ve taken is that we’re going to stop foreign funding for the purchase of our cocoa. We are going to raise domestic bonds. We have enough cedis in Ghana to pay for our cocoa. We’re going to raise domestic bonds and buy our own cocoa. We don’t need to collateralise the beans. And you know the interesting part?

We have the capacity to process 400,000 tons of those beans. But because the beans are collateralised, we cannot allocate [them] to local processors. We have to ship all the beans outside.

Now, if we buy them ourselves, take 400,000 tons out of the beans and give it to our local processors to add value, that is what Accra Reset is about”.

Sam George releases passport of Russian man behind viral explicit videos

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Sam George releases passport of Russian man behind viral explicit videos

Minister for Communication, Sam Nartey George, has publicly released the of the passport of the Russian suspect fingered in the sharing of intimate videos without the consent of Ghanaian women.

According to Sam George, the man behind the videos has been identified as Vladislav Luilkov and is a Russian national who is alleged to have engaged in non-consensual recording of ladies.

Sam George further revealed that the government, working with the Ghana Police CID, has activated international legal action through INTERPOL.

He detailed that the international legal action will ensure that once the individual sets foot outside Russia, he will be arrested.

Sam George, in a post shared on X, wrote, “This morning, together with my Honourable Colleague, Naa Momo Lartey, 𝐏𝐡𝐃, Minister for Gender, Children & Social Protection, we engaged the Russian Ambassador to Ghana.

We had very fruitful deliberations where we presented information available to us with relation to Vladislav Luilkov – the Russian national who is alleged to have engaged in non-consensual recording of ladies.

My colleague and I reiterate our commitment to using all legal means at our disposal to ensure that s.67 of the Cyber Security Act, 2020 (Act 1038), is upheld and the protections of Ghanaian citizens are enforced at all times.

Working with the Ghana Police CID, we have activated international legal action through INTERPOL to ensure that once the individual sets foot outside Russia, we have a legal route to make him answer for his actions within Ghana”.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, February 18, Sam George stated, “This is a serious violation of our laws and the dignity of our citizens. We will not allow anyone to exploit Ghanaian women and hide behind borders”.

“Checks conducted through his passport have confirmed that he is a Russian national, contrary to earlier rumours circulating on social media,” he noted.

He further warned members of the public against sharing or circulating the explicit content.

“Anyone who downloads, forwards, or monetises these materials is equally breaking the law and will be dealt with,” he added.

Meanwhile, Patrick Yaw Boamah, the Member of Parliament for Okaikwei Central, has said the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, attempts to extradite a Russian man over leaked intimate videos is a lost cause.

The MP argued that the Communications Minister lacks the legal position to initiate such an extradition process.

According to Patrick Boamah, who serves on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Ghana does not currently have an extradition treaty with Russia, which makes the process legally challenging.

Speaking to Channel One News on Monday, February 16, Patrick Boamah explained, “The Attorney General hasn’t made any application for extradition, which I think no court will grant, with the greatest of respect, because we don’t have that treaty with the Russians.

“Russia is not a state party to the Budapest Convention, which criminalises some of these things that the minister was talking about, including the additional protocols. And also, the amendment to the Cybersecurity Bill is not properly before Parliament. So those are issues that the government has to deal with,” he said.

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“Some persons selling appointments” – NDC’s Anita Desoso blows alarm  

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“Some persons selling appointments” – NDC’s Anita Desoso blows alarm  

Anita Desoso, a National Democratic Congress (NDC) stalwart, has blownan alarm, alleging that some persons within the party are selling appointments.

According to her, certain elements are selling positions in the government even to members of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) who insulted the NDC.

She alleged that the positions are not being sold by the NDC executives, adding that persons who are unknown to the party are receiving appointments while NDC grassroots members have been abandoned.

Anita Desoso urged the leadership of the party to take the grassroots of the party seriously.

Speaking on Atinka TV, Anita Desoso stated, “A lot of our people are lamenting about employment and other issues. The second point is that many NPP people who insulted us have been given appointments.

But this is not the fault of the party leaders… people are selling positions. It is surprising that people we didn’t know and others who were with the NPP during the election have gotten appointments.

“So, a lot of people are angry. My ears are even hurting as people come to my house complaining, and I ask them to be patient. I explain to them that you need your opponents for certain things sometimes, and I also tell them that the NDC and NPP are not enemies, and it is possible that indirectly they contributed to the party’s victory,” she said in the Twi dialect.

Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has told disgruntled party members that President John Mahama cannot appoint everyone.

According to Asiedu Nketia, appointments under the current Mahama administration are limited; however urged party supporters who are yet to receive appointments to remain calm and exercise patience.

The NDC National Chairman further stressed that it is practically impossible to appoint all deserving members at the same time, citing the constitutional restrictions placed on the president’s appointment.

Asiedu Nketia further urged party members to avoid resorting to anger or public criticism and to use internal channels to seek redress for their grievances.

Speaking during his Thank You Tour at Winneba in the Effutu Constituency on Thursday, February 12, Asiedu Nketia, stated, “I am aware that some of you are unhappy because you did not get to be appointed to any position upon our return to power. This is understandable. It is the reason why I am embarking on this ‘Thank You Tour’, to explain issues for your understanding.

“The challenge is that, given the number of appointments that the constitution permits President Mahama to make, not all members of the NDC can be taken care of. So be patient. There is no need to be angry with the party.”

“You have elected a good president who is doing a good job. Everyone acknowledges this fact, including some members of the opposition. So, I urge you to be patient with the government. If you have any concerns that have not been addressed yet. There is time for everything. Your concerns will be addressed. All you need to do is to channel them through the right quarters and it will be resolved,” he assured.

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Cocoa farmers paid GHC237m by COCOBOD – Jerome Kwaku Sam

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Cocoa farmers paid GHC237m by COCOBOD – Jerome Kwaku Sam

Jerome Kwaku Sam, the Head of Public Affairs at the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), has revealed that GHC237 million has been paid to cocoa farmers.

He announced that the GHC237 million has been paid for the 50,000 metric tonnes of cocoa after several months of delays in payments.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, February 18, Jerome Kwaku Sam wrote, “I’m happy to report COCOBOD has started payment of the 50,000 metric tonnes. An amount of GHC237 million has been paid.”

The payment follows, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, who has announced a revised cocoa price of 64kg cocoa bag from GHS 3,625 to GHS 2,587 for the remainder of the 2025/2026 season.

According to Ato Forson, the decision comes after the Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC), under his chairmanship, convened earlier in the day to assess the challenges facing the Cocoa sector.

Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, February 12, Dr Forson disclosed, “The PPRC has recommended that the farmer be paid 90% of the achieved gross fob of USD 4,200 per tonne”.

He added that the committee set the new producer price at GH₵41,392 per tonne, equivalent to GH₵2,587 per bag, effective immediately.

Meanwhile, Sam Jerome has revealed that COCOBOD salary reductions affecting over 5,000 senior staff will generate GH¢5 million monthly.

According to Sam Jerome, the COCOBOD salary cut will total GH¢40 million over eight months to defray supplier debts.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Tuesday, February 17, Sam Jerome detailed, “But the most important thing is that, at least, the leadership under Dr Randy Abbey has taken a step. And the step is that we have reduced the salaries of executive management as well as senior staff by 20% and 10%, respectively.

“From where I sit, tentatively at least some 5 million cedis can be saved on a monthly basis. So, if you have about eight months to go, you are talking about no less than 40 million Ghana cedis, which can be used to defray some of the debt that sits on the books of COCOBOD,” he said.

Sam Jerome details follows, the CEO of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr Randy Abbey, in a press statement, has announced that the Executive Management and Senior Staff will take a pay cut following the challenges within the cocoa sector.

According to the press release, the pay cuts take immediate effect and will remain in place for the remainder of the 2025/2026 crop year.

The press release detailed that Executive Management will take a 20 per cent reduction in salaries, while Senior Staff will also be hit with a 10 per cent cut.

The pay cuts are seen as a broader cost-containment measure to align with revenue.

Also, the CEO statement indicated that additional steps, including procurement reforms and a staff rationalisation exercise, were to be taken to stabilise COCOBOD finances.

In a press release dated Monday, February 16, 2026, COCOBOD announced that the pay cuts, which read, “The Executive Management and the Senior Staff of COCOBOD have effective today. Monday, February 16, 2026, reduced their salaries for the remainder of the 2025/26 crop year in recognition of the current liquidity challenges in the cocoa industry.

The Executive Management has taken a twenty (20) per cent cut, while the Senior Staff have taken a ten (10) per cent reduction in their respective salaries.

This decision and other cost-cutting measures in procurement and a staff rationalisation exercise are aimed at reducing the overall expenditure of COCOBOD and aligning costs with revenue”.

The announcement comes on the heels of heightened strain in the cocoa industry, with some key persons questioning COCBOD’s commitments.

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“I am not a tree, nor do ladies look like trees” – Rev Fr. Codjoe speaks on human desire and temptation

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“I am not a tree, nor do ladies look like trees” – Rev Fr. Codjoe speaks on human desire and temptation

Reverend Fr. Emmanuel Obeng Codjoe, a Roman Catholic priest, has shared his candid opinion on human desire and temptation.

According to Rev Fr. Codjoe, he is not a tree, nor do ladies look like trees when he sees them, noting that even Catholic priests are struggling with human desire and temptation but are trying their best by the grace of God.

He highlighted that holiness begins with honest self-reflection and deliberate change.

Speaking to his parishioners when delivering his homily, Reverend Fr. Emmanuel Obeng Codjoe detailed, “Someone will say, ‘Father Codjoe, when you see ladies, do you have feelings?’ Sit there and say whatever you want. I am not a tree, neither do [ladies] look like trees,” he said, drawing laughter from the congregation.

“We are all struggling. We are all trying our best by the grace of God that we shall be pleasing to [God]. Be there, you think it is easy? They are all included. So, let us change,” he stated.

He further highlighted that in this Lenten season, parishioners should commit to practical acts of goodness and self-discipline.

Rev Fr. Codjoe, “This Lent, tell yourself, it is possible, it is not NPP is possible. Anger, lust, and worldly pleasures have consumed you… that national service person in your office, hey, let that child go. For once, be good”.

“Let that guy, let that lady say that ‘Oh, there was a good man in my office. He helped me. There was a good lady in my office, she helped me.’”

“Let us try this. Go beyond the law because Christ tells us, even if you watch, you fantasise, you have committed sin, if your right eye cuts it out, that does not mean that next week, that is what abstinence means, sometimes some argued lent is not always about abstaining from food, food is part. The human senses are also used by the devil for sin”.

Some Ghanaians reacting to the viral video stated, “They are specifically trained and have taken the vow of celibacy. They are not the same as any ordinary man”.

“Father Teresa Codjoe. That’s my man, he says it’s the way it’s supposed to be said, no sugarcoating”, one X user added.

One more X user added, “Unfortunately, the rest of the homily (preaching) that was important isn’t headline but only the beginning”.

Watch the video below:

“The Judiciary now truly unshackled” – Franklin Cudjoe on CJ’s ruling on petitions seeking the removal of EC boss and SP

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“The Judiciary now truly unshackled” – Franklin Cudjoe on CJ’s ruling on petitions seeking the removal of EC boss and SP

President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has reacted to news of the Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, finding no prima facie determination on petitions against the Electoral Commissioner, her deputies, and the Special Prosecutor.

According to Franklin Cudjoe, Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s ruling marks a historic break from past practices.

He stressed that Ghana’s Judiciary is now truly unshackled as such independence would have been impossible under the New Patriotic Party.

Reacting on a Facebook page on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, he stated, “The Judiciary is now truly unshackled. This would never have happened under the previous scariest alternative. Thank you, CJ. Thank you, President John Dramani Callistus Mahama”.

His remarks follows, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Government Communications Minister, who has announced that the Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, found no prima facie determination on petitions against the Electoral Commissioner, her deputies, and the Special Prosecutor.

It will be recalled that President Mahama referred seven petitions calling for the removal of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Jean Mensa and her Deputies and Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, to the Chief Justice for a determination on November 25, 2025.

The referral was made in accordance with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 15 of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959), to ascertain whether the petitions disclosed a prima facie case.

A statement issued by the Presidency on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, read, “Following the receipt of seven (7) petitions from various individuals and groups for the removal of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission and her Deputies, and three (3) petitions for the removal of the Special Prosecutor, President John Dramani Mahama, in accordance with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 15 of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959), referred same to His Lordship, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, Chief Justice, on 25 November 2025, to determine whether the petitions disclosed a prima facie case.

By a letter dated 26 January 2026, the Chief Justice informed His Excellency the President that no prima facie case had been established by the petitions to warrant any further investigations for the removal of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Deputy Commissioners and the Special Prosecutor.”This determination means no committee will be formed, and no further proceedings for removal will take place based on those petitions”.

Also, last year, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Government Communications Minister, revealed that the petition to remove the Electoral Commission Chairperson, Jean Mensa, her deputies and the Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng now rests with the Chief Justice.

According to Kwakye Ofosu, the process has left the hands of President John Dramani Mahama, adding that he believes Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie will act in accordance with Ghanaian law.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu is quoted by Joy News to have said, “Every process that is needed to be done has been undertaken. The process for doing so is quite clear. At this stage, the process has left the hands of the president beyond conveying the petitions to the Chief Justice.

There’s little else that the president does in this particular instance. Everything now rests with the Chief Justice, who, I believe, will act in accordance with Ghanaian law”.

Additionally, Felix Kwakye Ofosu has debunked claims that the Presidency engineered the ten petitions seeking the removal of Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson Jean Mensa and her deputies.

Kwakye Ofosu challenged critics who are suggesting the Mahama government in the involvement in the petitions to produce evidence.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu noted that neither the content nor the initiation of the petitions originated from the presidency.

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“The baby is ours, but I want a DNA test done to confirm” – Uncle of recovered baby demands

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“The baby is ours, but I want a DNA test done to confirm” – Uncle of recovered baby demands

The Uncle of the baby who was stolen and later recovered at the Mamprobi Polyclinic has called for a DNA test to confirm the child’s identity.

According to the Uncle identified as Frank Banks, they are demanding that a DNA test be conducted to ascertain the bloodlines of his nephew.

Speaking to the media, Frank Banks stated, “As of this moment, the baby is ours, but I want a DNA test done to confirm that the child being given to us is truly ours”.

“You can’t just bring any child and tell us you found the baby and we should take the child home,” he stated.

He added, “What if, in the next 10 years, we want to travel with the child, and things do not match? We need a DNA test to prove the child is ours.”

Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service has arrested a woman for allegedly stealing a newborn baby at the Mamprobi Polyclinic.

Reports suggest the baby was later rescued and reunited with the mother at the Dansoman Police Station today.

In a viral video shared by EDHUB, the woman was seen in custody at the Police station, and some irate residents were also seen at the Police station.

In a separate video, a resident at the Dansoman Police Station has revealed that the suspect was tracked down through her own sister.

Sources alleged that the suspect called her sister, claiming she had given birth and invited her over.

However, the sister, aware of reports about a missing baby, recognised the infant as the one allegedly stolen from the Mamprobi Polyclinic and alerted authorities, leading to the suspect’s arrest.

The arrest follows news of irate residents storming the Mamprobi Polyclinic over an alleged baby theft.

The information gathered suggests there was an uneasy tension yesterday afternoon, February 17, 2026, at the Mamprobi Polyclinic in the Greater Accra Region, following reports of an alleged baby theft.

Reports suggest a newborn was taken from the facility by a woman dressed as a nurse.

According to reports, the baby was stolen after the mother delivered the child through a cesarean section.

In a viral video circulating on social media Concerned relatives and community members demanded swift action as authorities intensified investigations.

The Concerned relatives and community members further accused the workers of being accomplices in the incident while recording the confrontation.

In the video, one angry woman was heard shouting, saying, “Someone gave birth through an operation, and you have stolen the child to go and sell it. All of you will suffer. Someone’s child, and this hot afternoon, you have stolen the child,”

Another voice stated, “All of them are aware and accomplices. Do you know how she has suffered?”

Watch the video below:

Mamprobi Polyclinic baby thief BUSTED by Ghana Police

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Mamprobi Polyclinic baby thief BUSTED by Ghana Police

The Ghana Police Service has arrested a woman for allegedly stealing a newborn baby at the Mamprobi Polyclinic.

Reports suggest the baby was later rescued and reunited with the mother at the Dansoman Police Station today February, 18, 2026.

In a viral video shared by EDHUB, the woman was seen in custody at the Police station, and some irate residents were also seen at the Police station.

In a separate video, a resident at the Dansoman Police Station has revealed that the suspect was tracked down through her own sister.

Sources alleged that the suspect called her sister, claiming she had given birth and invited her over.

However, the sister, aware of reports about a missing baby, recognised the infant as the one allegedly stolen from the Mamprobi Polyclinic and alerted authorities, leading to the suspect’s arrest.

The arrest follows news of irate residents storming the Mamprobi Polyclinic over an alleged baby theft.

The Police have confirmed that the baby thief is in custody and assisting with investigations.

The information gathered suggests there was an uneasy tension yesterday afternoon, February 17, 2026, at the Mamprobi Polyclinic in the Greater Accra Region, following reports of an alleged baby theft.

Reports suggest a newborn was taken from the facility by a woman dressed as a nurse.

According to reports, the baby was stolen after the mother delivered the child through a cesarean section.

In a viral video circulating on social media Concerned relatives and community members demanded swift action as authorities intensified investigations.

The Concerned relatives and community members further accused the workers of being accomplices in the incident while recording the confrontation.

In the video, one angry woman was heard shouting, saying, “Someone gave birth through an operation, and you have stolen the child to go and sell it. All of you will suffer. Someone’s child, and this hot afternoon, you have stolen the child,”

Another voice stated, “All of them are aware and accomplices. Do you know how she has suffered?”

Meanwhile, Ghanaians reacting to the latest development stated, “There must be forensic investigations into this. All those on duty must be called to answer questions: the nurses, security, PA, doctors, etc. They must all be questioned. If not for the CCTV, this woman would have escaped. She must pay for this”.

“Stealing a baby? In broad daylight? What’s this world coming to? There are so many kids at the orphanages, even newborns. Why not go and adopt one if you desperately need a kid?

That brings another question… Why does she even need a newborn?”, one X user added.

One more Ghanaian added, “I am happy for the mother and everything, but if it were me, I’d still sue the hospital. Losing a newborn baby is unacceptable. Proper security protocols need to be put in place. No one even knows what the kidnapper did with the baby during the time they were together. It’s a problem”.

“The thief looks so ashamed. I just do not know what drove her to this point. Maybe she can’t have children of her own, or maybe she needed the baby for money rituals. I hope the police get to the bottom of this because I doubt this woman was working alone. Thieves hardly do”, a netizen added.

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“If politicians are protected to travel, traders ought to be offered that same protection” – Ntim Fordjour 

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“If politicians are protected to travel, traders ought to be offered that same protection” – Ntim Fordjour 

John Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, has said that if politicians are protected to travel to Burkina Faso, traders ought to be offered that same protection.

According to Ntim Fordjour, the same level of escort provided to politicians, ministers, Deputy Minister or the CEO when they travel to Burkina Faso should be extended to Ghanaian traders travelling.

Speaking in an interview on TV3 on February 17, 2026, Ntim Fordjour detailed, “When it comes to trans-border trips for traders, the Ministry of Defence should undertake a proper risk assessment if that has not already been done. As Ranking Member on the Defence Committee, I can say that we have not been apprised of any such risk assessment regarding Burkina Faso”.

“If such a report becomes available, it should clearly advise travellers to Burkina Faso about identified hotspots and areas that are considered no-go zones. It should also outline the relatively safer areas where traders can operate,” he noted.

He added, “Beyond that, there must be an additional layer of protection. Even in designated safe areas, there should be arrangements for security escorts to ensure that traders who must, by necessity, travel to Burkina Faso for business are adequately protected.

“When a politician, Minister, Deputy Minister or CEO travels to Burkina Faso, they receive full protection from the relevant security agencies to guarantee their safety. If political office holders are protected to travel and return safely, then traders deserve that same level of protection, especially given the security challenges in the sub-region and within our neighbouring countries,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued new travel guidelines requiring Ghanaians intending to travel to high-risk areas to first contact the Ministry or Ghanaian embassies for guidance, following the deadly terrorist attack in Burkina Faso that killed eight traders.

Also, Deputy Agriculture Minister John Dumelo has asserted that Ghana cannot stop cross-border trade but must protect its traders.

Speaking on JOYFM The Pulse on Tuesday, 17 February, the Deputy Minister stated, “It has to be re-looked at, it has to be re-evaluated and see, you know, our shortcomings or the shortcomings of other authorities. The truth of the matter is that we cannot stop cross-border trade. Of course, we do encourage a lot of cross-border trade.”

“All in all, we value some of these security measures that have been in place and see how best we can protect our traders. I don’t personally want to bring up those two issues, but they are perishable assets.”

“In the next couple of days, we’ll definitely announce some of the measures that we’ve taken to protect these traders who go to Burkina Faso and other countries that are a little bit unstable. In the coming days, we’ll be announcing some of the measures.”

Watch the video below:

BREAKING – Jean Mensa, Special Prosecutor, SAVE as CJ finds no prima facie case against them  

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BREAKING – Jean Mensa, Special Prosecutor, SAVE as CJ finds no prima facie case against them  

Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Government Communications Minister, has announced that the Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, found no prima facie determination on petitions against the Electoral Commissioner Jean Mensa, her deputies, and the Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng.

It will be recalled that President Mahama referred seven petitions calling for the removal of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Jean Mensa and her Deputies and Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, to the Chief Justice for a determination on November 25, 2025.

The referral was made in accordance with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 15 of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959), to ascertain whether the petitions disclosed a prima facie case.

However, a statement issued by the Presidency on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, read, “Following the receipt of seven (7) petitions from various individuals and groups for the removal of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission and her Deputies, and three (3) petitions for the removal of the Special Prosecutor, President John Dramani Mahama, in accordance with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 15 of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959), referred same to His Lordship, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, Chief Justice, on 25 November 2025, to determine whether the petitions disclosed a prima facie case.

By a letter dated 26 January 2026, the Chief Justice informed His Excellency the President that no prima facie case had been established by the petitions to warrant any further investigations for the removal of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Deputy Commissioners and the Special Prosecutor.”This determination means no committee will be formed, and no further proceedings for removal will take place based on those petitions”.

Also, last year, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Government Communications Minister, revealed that the petition to remove the Electoral Commission Chairperson, Jean Mensa, her deputies and the Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng now rests with the Chief Justice.

According to Kwakye Ofosu, the process has left the hands of President John Dramani Mahama, adding that he believes Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie will act in accordance with Ghanaian law.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu is quoted by Joy News to have said, “Every process that is needed to be done has been undertaken. The process for doing so is quite clear. At this stage, the process has left the hands of the president beyond conveying the petitions to the Chief Justice.

There’s little else that the president does in this particular instance. Everything now rests with the Chief Justice, who, I believe, will act in accordance with Ghanaian law”.

Additionally, Felix Kwakye Ofosu has debunked claims that the Presidency engineered the ten petitions seeking the removal of Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson Jean Mensa and her deputies.

Kwakye Ofosu challenged critics who are suggesting the Mahama government in the involvement in the petitions to produce evidence.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu noted that neither the content nor the initiation of the petitions originated from the presidency.

Speaking on Eyewitness News with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Monday, 1 December 2025, he stated, “The critics would have to show evidence of the cooking and the eating [fabrication], wouldn’t they?”

“There’s no basis for manipulation, there’s no room for manoeuvring or any form of manipulation from the executive whatsoever. The committee will be formed by the Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, and not the President [John Dramani Mahama],” he said.

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“Randy Abbey can’t do the job, COCOBOD is bigger than him” – Captain Smart 

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“Randy Abbey can’t do the job, COCOBOD is bigger than him” – Captain Smart 

Godsbrain Smart Nkansah, popularly known as Captain Smart, has boldly stated that the CEO of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr Randy Abbey, cannot handle the cocoa-buying state-owned company.

According to Captain Smart, the COCOBOD is bigger than Dr Randy Abbey.

The veteran broadcaster asserted that Randy is his brother, and it hurts him to say these things, adding that the COCOBOD CEO could have done things better.

Speaking on Onua TV Maakye show, Captain Smart boldly stated, “The truth of the matter is Randy Abbey is my brother, but he cannot do the job.. COCOBOD is bigger than him. It hurts me to say this”.

“I wanted to say this some time ago, but it was hard for me because Randy cannot do they Job. He could have done things better”.

Also, Paul Adom-Otchere, a renowned broadcaster and Host of Good Evening Ghana, has said the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is not a ‘common sense’ job.

According to Adom-Otchere, the COCOBOD position requires appointees who possess the necessary technical expertise.

He stressed that the ongoing challenges at COCOBOD highlight the dangers of placing politically connected individuals in technically demanding roles.

Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, February 14, 2026, he explained, “The issue at COCOBOD is bringing to the fore the conversation that politicians must understand that when a new government takes over, and they are distributing political positions, some of these positions are purely technical. You can take your person there, but make sure that such a person is technically competent.”

“From what we are seeing from COCOBOD, if you want to put someone who is a seasoned treasury banker over there, that will be fine. Or even a seasoned lawyer, who will also work. It is simply not a ‘common sense’ job,” he added.

He further added, “The good thing for politicians is that most of the jobs are common sense, and so many of them can do it. But those that are not, we must fit those places with competent people”.

Meanwhile, Head of Public Affairs Sam Jerome at COCOBOD has revealed that salary reductions affecting over 5,000 senior staff will generate GH¢5 million monthly.

According to Sam Jerome, the COCOBOD salary cut will total GH¢40 million over eight months to defray supplier debts.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Tuesday, February 17, Sam Jerome detailed, “But the most important thing is that, at least, the leadership under Dr Randy Abbey has taken a step. And the step is that we have reduced the salaries of executive management as well as senior staff by 20% and 10%, respectively.

“From where I sit, tentatively at least some 5 million cedis can be saved on a monthly basis. So, if you have about eight months to go, you are talking about no less than 40 million Ghana cedis, which can be used to defray some of the debt that sits on the books of COCOBOD,” he said.

Sam Jerome details follows, the CEO of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr Randy Abbey, in a press statement, has announced that the Executive Management and Senior Staff will take a pay cut following the challenges within the cocoa sector.

According to the press release, the pay cuts take immediate effect and will remain in place for the remainder of the 2025/2026 crop year.

The press release detailed that Executive Management will take a 20 per cent reduction in salaries, while Senior Staff will also be hit with a 10 per cent cut.

The pay cuts are seen as a broader cost-containment measure to align with revenue.

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Ghana on track for a full-scale tomato production by the end of 2026 – John Dumelo

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Ghana on track for a full-scale tomato production by the end of 2026 – John Dumelo

Deputy Agriculture Minister John Dumelo has announced that Ghana is on course to achieve large-scale domestic tomato production by the end of 2026.

According to John Dumelo, trials are underway at irrigation schemes to reduce reliance on imports from Burkina Faso.

The Deputy Minister further stressed that the Mahama government has a long-term plan to cut Ghana’s dependency on tomatoes from Burkina Faso by between 20 and 30 per cent beginning next year.

John Dumelo is quoted by a TV3 news flyer shared on social to have said, “Ghana on track for full-scale tomato production by year-end 2026”.

The Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, speaking on JOYFM The Pulse on Tuesday, 17 February, further detailed efforts to stabilise tomato supply and reduce Ghana’s reliance on imports.

John Dumelo stated, “I just came back from the Bono East region, but I’ll be going back to be able to interact with the traders and see how best we can help them to solve our problems, our tomato demand in Ghana.”

“When you look at some of our irrigation schemes, especially the ones in the north — when you go to Tono Dam, around the Navrongo area — currently most of the farmers are farming tomatoes, but it’s on a much smaller scale. It’s more or less like a trial stage where we want to scale it up before the year ends or next year.”

“If you also go to our irrigation schemes, there are some tomato-growing farmers there, as we speak, that would have their tomatoes maybe in about two or three months’ time. All these schemes are the ones that we want to scale up, hopefully by next year.”

He added, “We’ve distributed some solar — or we’re about to distribute some solar water pumps to vegetable farmers across the country. And then the water pumps that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources seized from galamsey operators — we distributed some last year, over a thousand of them, to small-scale vegetable farmers across the country.”

“Hopefully, when all these come on board, we’ll be able to mitigate our production of tomatoes and other vegetables across the country.”

“I’m very hopeful that next year, by this time, most of the trips that are going to Burkina Faso will reduce. When all these programmes come on board, hopefully we’ll be able to reduce our traders from going to Burkina Faso to get tomatoes.”

Also, John Dumelo asserted that Ghana cannot stop cross-border trade but must protect its traders.

The Deputy Minister added, “It has to be re-looked at, it has to be re-evaluated and see, you know, our shortcomings or the shortcomings of other authorities. The truth of the matter is that we cannot stop cross-border trade. Of course, we do encourage a lot of cross-border trade.”

“All in all, we value some of these security measures that have been in place and see how best we can protect our traders. I don’t personally want to bring up those two issues, but they are perishable assets.”

“In the next couple of days, we’ll definitely announce some of the measures that we’ve taken to protect these traders who go to Burkina Faso and other countries that are a little bit unstable. In the coming days, we’ll be announcing some of the measures.”

John Dumelo’s revelations follow the February 14, 2026, terrorist attack in Burkina Faso, which claimed the lives of 8 Ghanaian tomato traders.

Ghanaians reacting to the news stated, “The government can partner with grocery shops in different parts of the country to sell the excess produce to the citizens through them @johndumelo. My humble opinion”.

“As we should, eat what you grow. Aaba, the inferiority complex is too much. Everyday Ghana rice this, Ghana tomato that. Meanwhile of you see some of the rice people eat elsewhere that Ghanaians won’t eat, you’ll be shocked. Exhibit A, the U.S”, a netizen added.

“This should be done with ease. Pwalugu, Bolgatanga and Navrongo can supply the entire country; all they need is constant irrigation to be active throughout the year. The construction of a dam solves this problem, but here we are, people, dying because they are about their biz, one X user added.

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See a clearer photo of the alleged baby thief at Mamprobi Polyclinic

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See a clearer photo of the alleged baby thief at Mamprobi Polyclinic

Ghanaian social media users have circulated footage of a clearer photo of a suspected baby thief, alleged to be behind the missing baby at the Mamprobi Polyclinic in Accra.

In the viral clearer photo shared, a woman is seen carrying a white bag and carrying something under a cloth, purported to be the baby, while bolting away from the hospital premises.

The information gathered suggests there was an uneasy tension yesterday afternoon, February 17, 2026, at the Mamprobi Polyclinic in the Greater Accra Region, following reports of an alleged baby theft.

Reports suggest a newborn was taken from the facility by a woman dressed as a nurse.

According to reports, the baby was stolen after the mother delivered the child through a cesarean section.

In a viral video circulating on social media Concerned relatives and community members demanded swift action as authorities intensified investigations.

The Concerned relatives and community members further accused the workers of being accomplices in the incident while recording the confrontation.

In the video, one angry woman was heard shouting, saying, “Someone gave birth through an operation, and you have stolen the child to go and sell it. All of you will suffer. Someone’s child, and this hot afternoon, you have stolen the child,”

Another voice stated, “All of them are aware and accomplices. Do you know how she has suffered?”

Meanwhile, Ghanaians on X have been reacting to news saying, “How can someone go to Ward and steal a baby when there are security cameras? There are security cameras with no security?? Make this make sense bro”.

“You see the nonchalance in our hospitals? How person go walk straight in and steal a whole baby and walk out without anyone noticing? Sue them!”, a netizen added.

“This is just small job for the Ghana Police. Them go arrest the woman within 2days if only e be true”, one X user added.

“Apparently, the woman was able to just walk in and steal the baby without any resistance whatsoever. Where was the security?”, a netizen added.

“So this woman randomly walks into the hospital, headed to where the baby is and stole the baby without a single soul seeing her?  I don’t understand this”, one more Ghanaian added.

A netizen added, “When it comes to public institutions where people can easily commit crimes, hospitals are included . Only a few hospitals actually have tight security”.

One X user added, “The baby and the baby thief are not missing. All the staff at the Mamprobi Polyclinic know that whoever came for the baby, everyone on duty at the time should be arrested and caged in different cells by now, including the medical doctors on duty at the time”

“All staff members on duty should be suspended immediately without pay. If such decisive action were taken, the baby would be found in no time, and this kind of negligence would never happen again. But this is Ghana fa ma Nyame”, a netizen added.

Addionally one more Ghanaian sharing the news stated, “The woman captured by the CCTV camera in the second frame allegedly stole a baby shortly after the mother delivered at Mamprobi Polyclinic yesterday.

Kindly report to the nearest police station if you see her or have any information about her whereabouts”.

See the post below:

Irate residents storm Mamprobi Polyclinic over an alleged baby theft

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Irate residents storm Mamprobi Polyclinic over an alleged baby theft

The information gathered suggests there was an uneasy tension yesterday afternoon, February 17, 2026, at the Mamprobi Polyclinic in the Greater Accra Region, following reports of an alleged baby theft.

Reports suggest a newborn was taken from the facility by a woman dressed as a nurse.

According to reports, the baby was stolen after the mother delivered the child through a cesarean section.

In a viral video circulating on social media Concerned relatives and community members demanded swift action as authorities intensified investigations.

The Concerned relatives and community members further accused the workers of being accomplices in the incident while recording the confrontation.

In the video, one angry woman was heard shouting, saying, “Someone gave birth through an operation, and you have stolen the child to go and sell it. All of you will suffer. Someone’s child, and this hot afternoon, you have stolen the child,”

Another voice stated, “All of them are aware and accomplices. Do you know how she has suffered?”

Meanwhile, Ghanaians on X have been reacting to news saying, “How can someone go to Ward and steal a baby when there are security cameras? There are security cameras with no security?? Make this make sense bro”.

“You see the nonchalance in our hospitals? How person go walk straight in and steal a whole baby and walk out without anyone noticing? Sue them!”, a netizen added.

“This is just small job for the Ghana Police. Them go arrest the woman within 2days if only e be true”, one X user added.

“Apparently, the woman was able to just walk in and steal the baby without any resistance whatsoever. Where was the security?”, a netizen added.

“So this woman randomly walks into the hospital, headed to where the baby is and stole the baby without a single soul seeing her?  I don’t understand this”, one more Ghanaian added.

A netizen added, “When it comes to public institutions where people can easily commit crimes, hospitals are included . Only a few hospitals actually have tight security”.

One X user added, “The baby and the baby thief are not missing. All the staff at the Mamprobi Polyclinic know that whoever came for the baby, everyone on duty at the time should be arrested and caged in different cells by now, including the medical doctors on duty at the time”

“All staff members on duty should be suspended immediately without pay. If such decisive action were taken, the baby would be found in no time, and this kind of negligence would never happen again. But this is Ghana fa ma Nyame”, a netizen added.

Addionally one more Ghanaian sharing the news stated, “The woman captured by the CCTV camera in the second frame allegedly stole a baby shortly after the mother delivered at Mamprobi Polyclinic yesterday.

Kindly report to the nearest police station if you see her or have any information about her whereabouts”.

See the post below:

Edem Agbana to petition GES to recall copies of Aki-Ola JHS textbook over colonisation content

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Edem Agbana to petition GES to recall copies of Aki-Ola JHS textbook over colonisation content

Eric Edem Agbana, the member of parliament for Ketu North, has revealed he will petition the Ghana Education Service (GES) to immediately review and recall copies of the Aki-Ola Junior High School Social Studies textbook.

According to Edem Agbana, his petition stems from the Aki-Ola Social Studies textbook for JHS, which highlights the “benefits Ghana has derived from colonisation.”

In a statement dated February 17, 2026, the MP who doubles as a member of Parliament’s select committee on Education described the text as “false and dehumanising content”.

Edem Agbana condemned the notion of colonisation as beneficial to Ghana, emphasising the need for accurate historical narratives in education, especially amidst ongoing reparations efforts.

In a statement issued on X, Edem Agbana wrote, “I have noted images from pages of the Aki-Ola Series Social Studies Textbook for Junior High School Students that contain disturbing content that is not only false but also dehumanising. This content, among other things, sought to outline “Benefits Ghana has derived from colonisation”,

I unequivocally condemn the said content, being its attempt to portray colonisation as of any benefit to Ghanaians and the Ghanaian society at large.

At a time when President John Dramani Mahama is championing continental efforts toward reparations, it is deeply irresponsible to sanitise or glorify a painful chapter of our history. Colonisation was inhuman”.

The MP statement added, “It was a systematic violation of human rights, dignity, and identity. Its effects have left troubling scars on the identities of Africans and Ghanaians. We cannot allow distorted narratives to shape our children’s minds, to whom we owe an uncompromisable duty to ensure they are educated in a way that advances not only the progress of their society but also their own worth and dignity.

“To reconcile the President’s international and regional efforts in ensuring that slavery and colonisation are characterised properly for the negative and inhumane effects they had on the lives of the African, I will formally petition the Ghana Education Service to immediately review and recall these books and ensure that such harmful perspectives are removed from our curriculum.

Our education system must reflect truth, justice, and historical integrity. Not only that, but our education must also sustain a perspective of history that does not deny the past of the Ghanaian, misstate the present, and undermine the hopeful future of the Ghanaian child”.

Some Ghanaians reacting to the development stated, “But colonialism wasn’t mainly about slavery, Honourable. Nkrumah, John Mensah Sarbah, Kwegyir Aggrey etc through colonialism were educated to be very prominent people in the Gold Coast. Let’s not just focus mainly on slavery”.

One more X user added, “The main purpose of colonialism was to benefit Britain, not Ghana, but it had mixed effects. For example, while colonialism exploited Ghana, it also introduced formal education, railways and roads, and modern administrative systems. Teaching this helps students see the full historical picture”.

“You all sometimes take issues too far. Yes, colonisation was bad, but is it the cause of all your problems as a country? No

Is it colonisation that embezzles government funds, and you politicians amassing wealth anyhow? Why do you people go for treatment abroad? Blame games,”, a netizen added.

One more X user added, “Many say everything about Ghana’s colonisation was entirely bad. While it brought exploitation and hardship, not every aspect was negative. Some institutions introduced under British and European rule still shape Ghana today. History is complex, we shouldn’t paint it all black”.

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Government pays GH¢10 billion DDEP interest – Finance Ministry announces

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Government pays GH¢10 billion DDEP interest – Finance Ministry announces

The Ministry of Finance has announced that the John Mahama government has settled GH¢10 billion in interest obligations under the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).

According to the Ministry of Finance, the payment marks the sixth coupon settlement under the programme and represents the second full cash payment without any Payment-In-Kind component.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the Ministry of Finance detailed that the settlement covers cedi-denominated DDEP coupon obligations in line with the restructuring memorandum and the government’s broader debt management.

The statement stressed that the payment reflects the strengthened fiscal capacity and solvency.

The Ministry of Finance statement shared by the Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, read, “GOVERNMENT PAYS GH¢10 BILLION DDEP INTEREST

The Government of Ghana has paid GH¢10 billion in interest obligations under the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).

This payment marks the sixth coupon settlement under the programme and represents the second full cash payment without any Payment-In-Kind component, reflecting strengthened fiscal capacity and solvency.

The settlement covers cedi-denominated DDEP coupon obligations in line with the restructuring memorandum and Government’s broader debt management and fiscal consolidation strategy”.

The statement further added, “The timely payment sends a strong positive signal to domestic and international investors, reinforces market confidence, and is expected to support Ghana’s credit outlook while enhancing stability within the financial sector, including banks and pension funds.

Government remains fully committed to meeting future DDEP obligations, supported by strong buffers, improving macroeconomic fundamentals, declining inflation, lower interest rates, and a stable Cedi”.

Some Ghanaians reacting to the news stated, “Ghana’s own Lannister. Calmly paying off debts that he knows nothing about”.

Another X user added, “Every government pays debts accrued by its predecessors. When we say this is noise, den dem bore”.

One more netizen added, “Imagine if NPP were in power.  They know nothing about fiscal discipline, and they would have mismanaged this economy and led us into more debt. But here we are, NDC led by Ato is calmly paying off the debt, and I know it will be paid in time for everyone to enjoy..!!”

“Thank you, NDC govt for being sensitive. This payment of GH¢10 billion in DDEP interest demonstrates a commitment to financial responsibility and stability. May blessings be showered upon you, Sir, as you work to address the debts incurred by the previous fake and corrupted NPP”, a Ghanaian added.

“Infact NDC government is suffering paaa trying to settle the mess created by NPP hmmmm okitiwo kode moko firfir fii adwir”, one more X user added.

Another Ghanaian added, “This means the government is committed to managing Ghana’s debt and honouring its promises to investors. They now have enough money to make payments on time, which helps build trust. When investors feel confident, it can bring more investment, leading to job creation and better..”

Additionally, a netizen added, “Well done, Hon. @Cassielforson!  GH¢10 billion paid in full cash, no PIK, no excuses. This is what real fiscal discipline and recovery look like. Timely coupon payments are restoring trust for banks, pension funds, and everyday investors. The improving macros, falling inflation, and stable cedi didn’t happen by chance; strong leadership is delivering.

Ghana is clearly on the right path. Keep it up, Minister!”

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COCOBOD salary cut to save Ghana GH¢5m monthly; GH¢40m over 8 months

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COCOBOD salary cut to save Ghana GH¢5m monthly; GH¢40m over 8 months

Head of Public Affairs Sam Jerome at COCOBOD has revealed that salary reductions affecting over 5,000 senior staff will generate GH¢5 million monthly.

According to Sam Jerome, the COCOBOD salary cut will total GH¢40 million over eight months to defray supplier debts.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Tuesday, February 17, Sam Jerome detailed, “But the most important thing is that, at least, the leadership under Dr Randy Abbey has taken a step. And the step is that we have reduced the salaries of executive management as well as senior staff by 20% and 10%, respectively.

“From where I sit, tentatively at least some 5 million cedis can be saved on a monthly basis. So, if you have about eight months to go, you are talking about no less than 40 million Ghana cedis, which can be used to defray some of the debt that sits on the books of COCOBOD,” he said.

Sam Jerome details follows, the CEO of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr Randy Abbey, in a press statement, has announced that the Executive Management and Senior Staff will take a pay cut following the challenges within the cocoa sector.

According to the press release, the pay cuts take immediate effect and will remain in place for the remainder of the 2025/2026 crop year.

The press release detailed that Executive Management will take a 20 per cent reduction in salaries, while Senior Staff will also be hit with a 10 per cent cut.

The pay cuts are seen as a broader cost-containment measure to align with revenue.

Also, the CEO statement indicated that additional steps, including procurement reforms and a staff rationalisation exercise, were to be taken to stabilise COCOBOD finances.

In a press release dated Monday, February 16, 2026, COCOBOD announced that the pay cuts, which read, “The Executive Management and the Senior Staff of COCOBOD have effective today. Monday, February 16, 2026, reduced their salaries for the remainder of the 2025/26 crop year in recognition of the current liquidity challenges in the cocoa industry.

The Executive Management has taken a twenty (20) per cent cut, while the Senior Staff have taken a ten (10) per cent reduction in their respective salaries.

This decision and other cost-cutting measures in procurement and a staff rationalisation exercise are aimed at reducing the overall expenditure of COCOBOD and aligning costs with revenue”.

The announcement comes on the heels of heightened strain in the cocoa industry, with some key persons questioning COCBOD’s commitments.

Nana Aduna II, the spokesperson of the Ghana Farmers Association, has questioned the fairness of the cocoa price reduction.

Speaking on JoyNews AM Show, Nana Aduna II quizzed why only cocoa farmers are taking the hit and not COCOBOD staff salaries too.

According to Nana Aduna II, if COCOBOD staff are also taking a hit on their salaries, too, it would create a fairer system and a level playing field for farmers.

Nana Aduna II  on the show stated, “The question we would like to ask is, why are only farmers taking the hit? When you look at the trajectory of our cocoa system, there’s the farmer, the haulage system, licensed buying companies, and COCOBOD. That’s before the beans are even exported. So why is the farmer alone taking the hit?”

“The first step should have been to reduce the salaries of staff and the margins that the government makes by the same amount,” he stated.

“If COCOBOD staff were also affected, it would create a fairer system and a level playing field for farmers.

“Farmer groups have been made poor and weakened over time. There is very limited collective bargaining. So how do we fight back? What tools do we have? Do we just put our hands behind our backs?” he asked.

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The mitigating factor in my reshuffle is that you must own a farm – Mahama jokingly tells his appointees 

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The mitigating factor in my reshuffle is that you must own a farm – Mahama jokingly tells his appointees 

President John Dramani Mahama has jokingly told his appointees to try to own farms and engage in agriculture, as the mitigating factor of his reshuffle will be based on appointees owning a farm.

Speaking at the maiden Ghana Tree Crops Investment Summit and Exhibition on Tuesday, February 17, President Mahama stated, “When I am going to do a reshuffle, the mitigating factor will be that you must have a farm. So, public servants, ministers, priests, clergymen, traditional rulers, everybody, try and do some agriculture.”

President Mahama made this known while revealing he is a cocoa farmer, and his government’s decision to cut cocoa prices affects him too.

According to John Mahama, he directly understands the economic pressures facing cocoa farmers following the recent volatility in global cocoa prices.

He added, “Nana Kwebu Ewusi gave me 50 acres of land, and I planted cocoa on the 50 acres, so I am a cocoa farmer. So when the price is reduced by the government, it affects me too”.

“I want to be able to empathise with farmers so that when we take any policy decision, we know that it has an effect on farmers and we feel it ourselves. If there is no fertiliser or the price of fertiliser is expensive I feel it myself because I also buy fertiliser”.

President Mahama further revealed that he has acquired another 100 acres of land for oil palm.

“I recently acquired another 100 acres of land, and this time I have dedicated it to oil palm, so we have planted the oil palm”, he added.

Some Ghanaians reacting to Mahama’s jokes stated, “I swear this guy spends more time writing speeches than thinking about fixing our country. This week and last week alone, he has made about 10 speeches. Ei, Ghana, are we serious at all?”

Another X user added, “Mahama dey shake politics with this! If your hands dirty for farm, you go clean Ghana proper. NPP, take notes”.

One more X use wrote, “If nomination comes and God willing, my party is able to nominate me again and I am able to win. Sit in a small car to supervise the areas to send a report to the assembly”.

Meanwhile, Fifi Kwetey, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) General Secretary, has revealed that there will be a ministerial reshuffle of ministers in the John Mahama administration.

According to the NDC General Secretary, from what he is picking up in the corridors of power, there will be a ministerial reshuffle, but he cannot say how soon. 

Speaking on TV3 Hot Issues, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey expalined, “It is always important that despite the fact that things have gone on very well in the first year, the president, who is the leader, will always want to see where things can still be done better”.

“A reshuffle is normally done within that context, where you want to see in this particular sector, even though things are okay, it can still do better if I move somebody else to that place or in this place, maybe this one is not too effective in this sector”.

“So I think a reshuffle will be a possibility, and what I pick up from the corridors, yes, we definitely are going to have a reshuffle. I wouldn’t be able to say how soon, but definitely”.

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Purported name circulating a vulgar expression, not a Russian name – Russian Ambassador tells Ablakwa 

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Purported name circulating a vulgar expression, not a Russian name – Russian Ambassador tells Ablakwa 

The Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Ghana, His Excellency Sergei Berdnikov, has told the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that the purported name circulating in the media is not a recognised Russian name.

According to him, the nationality of the individual in question has not been confirmed, as the name being circulated in the media is a rather represented “an inappropriate or vulgar expression in the Russian language.”

He acknowledged the violation of the victims’ privacy and the broader cybercrime implications and expressed the willingness of the Russian authorities to cooperate.

Ambassador Berdnikov also indicated that similar acts by the individual are under investigation in other countries and pledged that the Russian Embassy in Ghana would share information to aid Ghana’s efforts in apprehending the suspect, despite the absence of an extradition treaty.

In a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs read, “ACCRA, 17th  FEBRUARY, 2026 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirms that the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Ghana, His Excellency Sergei Berdnikov, was summoned today, Tuesday, 17th  February, 2026, on the instruction of the Honourable Minister for Foreign Affairs over the conduct of a supposed Russian national in unlawfully publishing sexually explicit images of Ghanaian women without their consent.

The objective of the summons was to formally express the strong displeasure of the Goverment o Ghana at the atrocious conduct of the supposed Russian, which clearly violates Ghanaian law, and to seek the cooperation of Russia in pursuing justice.

Ambassador Sergei Berdnikov acknowledged the violation of the privacy and dignity of the victims in the larger cybercrime dimensions, while expressing the willingness of the Russian Federation to cooperate with the Republic of Ghana on the matter at issue”.

The press release added, “The Russian Ambassador, however, indicated that he is unable to confirm the Russian nationality of the individual at the centre of the intimate viral videos, and further disclosed that the purported name making the rounds in the media is not a known Russian name and rather represents an inappropriate or vulgar expression in the Russian language.

The Ambassador highlighted similar activities of the said individual in other countries, which had come to the attention of Russian authorities and were being investigated by Russian experts.

Ambassador Sergei Berdnikov has pledged that the Embassy in Ghana is willing to share information on the matter to facilitate Ghana’s ongoing efforts aimed at apprehending the individual and bringing him to justice, within the context of our longstanding bilateral relations, despite the absence of a legally binding extradition treaty.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to assure the general public of its commitment to leverage the cordial bilateral relations between Ghana and Russia, and to explore all international tools and remedies to ensure that justice is secured”.

Meanwhile, Patrick Yaw Boamah, the Member of Parliament for Okaikwei Central, has said the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, attempts to extradite a Russian man over leaked intimate videos is a lost cause.

The MP argued that the Communications Minister lacks the legal position to initiate such an extradition process.

According to Patrick Boamah, who serves on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Ghana does not currently have an extradition treaty with Russia, which makes the process legally challenging.

Speaking to Channel One News on Monday, February 16, Patrick Boamah explained, “The Attorney General hasn’t made any application for extradition, which I think no court will grant, with the greatest of respect, because we don’t have that treaty with the Russians.

“Russia is not a state party to the Budapest Convention, which criminalises some of these things that the minister was talking about, including the additional protocols. And also, the amendment to the Cybersecurity Bill is not properly before Parliament. So those are issues that the government has to deal with,” he said

See the post below:

Alleged Russian in viral sex scandal being investigated by experts – Russian Ambassador

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Alleged Russian in viral sex scandal being investigated by experts – Russian Ambassador

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Ghana, His Excellency Sergei Berdnikov, was summoned on 17 February 2026 over the conduct of a supposed Russian national accused of unlawfully publishing sexually explicit images of Ghanaian women without their consent.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs press release, Ambassador Berdnikov acknowledged the violation of the victims’ privacy and the broader cybercrime implications.

He expressed the willingness of the Russian authorities to cooperate but noted that the nationality of the individual in question has not been confirmed and that the purported name circulating in the media is not a recognised Russian name.

He also indicated that similar acts by the individual are under investigation by Russian experts.

Ambassador Berdnikov detailed that the Russian Embassy in Ghana would share information to aid Ghana’s efforts in apprehending the suspect, despite the absence of an extradition treaty.

In a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs read, “ACCRA, 17th  FEBRUARY, 2026 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirms that the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Ghana, His Excellency Sergei Berdnikov, was summoned today, Tuesday, 17th  February, 2026, on the instruction of the Honourable Minister for Foreign Affairs over the conduct of a supposed Russian national in unlawfully publishing sexually explicit images of Ghanaian women without their consent.

The objective of the summons was to formally express the strong displeasure of the Goverment o Ghana at the atrocious conduct of the supposed Russian, which clearly violates Ghanaian law, and to seek the cooperation of Russia in pursuing justice.

Ambassador Sergei Berdnikov acknowledged the violation of the privacy and dignity of the victims in the larger cybercrime dimensions, while expressing the willingness of the Russian Federation to cooperate with the Republic of Ghana on the matter at issue”.

The press release added, “The Russian Ambassador, however, indicated that he is unable to confirm the Russian nationality of the individual at the centre of the intimate viral videos, and further disclosed that the purported name making the rounds in the media is not a known Russian name and rather represents an inappropriate or vulgar expression in the Russian language.

The Ambassador highlighted similar activities of the said individual in other countries, which had come to the attention of Russian authorities and were being investigated by Russian experts.

Ambassador Sergei Berdnikov has pledged that the Embassy in Ghana is willing to share information on the matter to facilitate Ghana’s ongoing efforts aimed at apprehending the individual and bringing him to justice, within the context of our longstanding bilateral relations, despite the absence of a legally binding extradition treaty.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to assure the general public of its commitment to leverage the cordial bilateral relations between Ghana and Russia, and to explore all international tools and remedies to ensure that justice is secured”.

Meanwhile, Patrick Yaw Boamah, the Member of Parliament for Okaikwei Central, has said the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, attempts to extradite a Russian man over leaked intimate videos is a lost cause.

The MP argued that the Communications Minister lacks the legal position to initiate such an extradition process.

According to Patrick Boamah, who serves on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Ghana does not currently have an extradition treaty with Russia, which makes the process legally challenging.

Speaking to Channel One News on Monday, February 16, Patrick Boamah explained, “The Attorney General hasn’t made any application for extradition, which I think no court will grant, with the greatest of respect, because we don’t have that treaty with the Russians.

“Russia is not a state party to the Budapest Convention, which criminalises some of these things that the minister was talking about, including the additional protocols. And also, the amendment to the Cybersecurity Bill is not properly before Parliament. So those are issues that the government has to deal with,” he said

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7 tomato traders who survived Burkina Faso Terrorist attack back in Ghana

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7 tomato traders who survived Burkina Faso Terrorist attack back in Ghana

Seven Ghanaian tomato traders who survived the February 14, 2026, terrorist attack in Burkina Faso have been received back home by the Upper East Regional Security Council.

They were escorted by Burkinabe security officials to the border town of Paga.

Two other victims who sustained critical injuries have been flown to Accra to continue receiving medical treatment.

However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the death toll of Ghanaians killed in the February 14, 2026, attack has risen to eight.

According to the Ministry, the attack is believed to have been carried out by suspected jihadist militants, which claimed the lives of eight members of the Ghana National Tomatoes Traders and Transporters Association conducting legitimate business.

In a social media post on X, Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa revealed that the Government of Ghana has also issued travel guidelines for Ghanaian travellers.

He wrote, “Government provides further update and new travel guidelines in the aftermath of the terror attack in Burkina Faso, which claimed Ghanaian lives:

8 Ghanaians have now died;

Ghana strongly condemns and denounces terrorism and all forms of violent extremism;

On President Mahama’s instruction, all injured Ghanaians are to be evacuated by medevac today.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs outlines new travel guidelines for Ghanaian travellers.

Our embassies and high commissions in high-risk jurisdictions are on high consular alert.

We extend our deepest condolences to all bereaved families and loved ones”.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has finally broken his silence following the killing of seven Ghanaian tomato traders in a terrorist attack in Burkina Faso on Saturday, February 14.

John Mahama expressed his deep regret over the killing of Ghanaian tomato traders, noting the rising insecurity in the subregion.

According to Mahama, GAF is arranging a medical evacuation for Ghanaians injured in Burkina Faso so that they can continue to receive treatment in Ghana.

President Mahama, on behalf of the government and the Ghanaian people, sent his condolences to the families of those who were either killed or injured.

Speaking at the Ghana Tree Crop Investment Summit in Accra on Tuesday, February 17, President Mahama stated, “And unfortunately, we lost a number of our compatriots. Thankfully, there are a few survivors. The Ghana Army is arranging to medevac them from Burkina Faso so that those who are injured can continue to receive treatment here in Ghana.

“On behalf of the government and the people, we express our condolences to the families of those who were either killed or injured,” he said, extending sympathy and support to the affected families.

President Mahama further stressed the dangers faced by cross-border traders and the broader threats that regional instability poses to economic and social integration.

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“Dr Bawumia will be no match if …” – Fifi Kwetey

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“Dr Bawumia will be no match if …” – Fifi Kwetey

Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has said the NPP flagbearer for the 2028 elections, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, will be no match if the Mahama government continue to deliver to the people of Ghana.

According to Fifi Kwetey,  in an election, the opposition doesn’t win an election, but the government loses an election.

He further cited polls at the end of 2025, which showed Dr Bawumia losing to any NDC presidential candidate.

Speaking on TV3 Hot issues, Fifi Kwetey stated, “NPP will always remain a strong party, let’s not play about it, because they will still have a core base of people through thick and thin who will follow them, it’s not a political party we are going to take for granted.

We believe that what matters is us being connected to the people of Ghana to the extent that we continue working hard and justifying…, making the people feel that we are doing a good job, Bawumia will be no match to any individual”.

Fifi Fiavi Kwetey further added, “Some of the studies have already established match up between Bawumia and any of the names that are floating in the NDC. Bawumia was losing to every single one of them. That should tell you the real difference is always the party; once the party is strong and delivering whatever the NPP does. Listen, election, the opposition doesn’t really win an election, but the government loses an election”.

“So, when the government is doing well, opposition to your task is off, when the government is delivery your chances are very weak. So the NDC has to focus on making sure we deliver”.

The NDC General Secretary further sent a message to persons within the NDC nursing presidential ambitions.

According to him, they must back off for now and focus on the NDC and government to deliver, which will make things easy for the party in the 2028 elections.

“My message to any individual who is having an aspiration is to back off, make sure we support this party and this government to deliver. Let that be the focus between now and all the way until the party says it is time to start looking at who will be the next leader, then we can have that conversation”, he added.

 Meanwhile, the Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has told members of the party their victory in 2028 will not be gifted to them.

Dr Bawumia stressed that the NPP victory in 2028 must be earned, constituency by constituency, household by household, with humility and purpose.

According to Dr Bawumia, the road ahead for the NPP is demanding discipline, sacrifice, and hard work.

Speaking at the National Thanksgiving Service at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) on Sunday, February 15, 2026, Dr Bawumia stated, “The road ahead will demand discipline, sacrifice, and hard work. Victory in 2028 will not be gifted to us. It must be earned, constituency by constituency, household by household, with humility and purpose”.

“While at that, the re-organisation of our party structures will continue in earnest to give us the stronger and well-motivated machinery required for election 2028,” he added.

Dr Bawumia further called on NPP members to put behind personal grudges, internal suspicions and factional lines that arose during the NPP presidential primaries.

According to Dr Bawumia, party faithful should put aside hurt caused by heated campaign exchanges as the party reorganises for the future.

The NPP flagbearer added, “Let us put behind us personal grudges, internal suspicions and factional lines, let us rebuild trust among ourselves, let us return to the values that build this party service competence and respect for institution and believe in the Ghanaian people.

This is the beginning of our journey to win back the trust and love of the Ghanaian people; our nation requires the best effort that each of us can put into it, which requires that we all give the best of our ideas, our sweat, and our sacrifice to build the nation ourforebearers envisioned”.

Dr Bawumia highlighted that reunion remains vital as the NPP prepares for the next political cycle.

Dr Bawumia added, “On this day as we celebrate and give thanks together, I want to ask all of us, from the bottom of my heart, that we forgive each other for some of the unpalatable things we may have said during the campaign”.

“I have been encouraged by the efforts many of you have made to reach out to your brothers and sisters after the elections. Though I know the exercise of healing is not yet completed, I believe we have started well, and I commend all patriots for the steps taken so far,” he added.

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“Absence of a substantive Defence Minister for over 7 months a major defence leadership failure”- Ntim Fordjour

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“Absence of a substantive Defence Minister for over 7 months a major defence leadership failure”- Ntim Fordjour

John Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member of the Defence committee in parliament, has labelled the absence of a substantive Defence Minister for over seven months as a major defence leadership failure.

According to John Ntim Fordjour, it is a major defence leadership for Ghana not to have a substantive Defence Minister for over seven months.

He also criticizes government for having the Interior Minister lead the response to the Burkina Faso attack.

Ntim Fordjour argued that the Interior Minister is not responsible for what happens outside the country.

Rev Ntim Fordjour is quoted by TV3 News flyer to have said, “This is a major defence leadership failure. For seven months, we haven’t had a substantive Minister for Defence”.

In another flyer, he stated, “It was wrong at the beginning for the Interior Minister to lead this conversation. He’s not responsible for what happens outside the country”.

The MP stressed that the Foreign Affairs Minister and the Defence Minister should be the ones to lead the response to the Burkina Faso attack.

Ntim Fordjours comments come in the wake of the Burkina Faso terrorist attack that killed seven Ghanaians.

It will be recalled that Dr Omane Boamah and seven others lost their lives in a helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.

In the aftermath, Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson was appointed to act as caretaker for the Defence Ministry.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has boldly told Ghanaians speculating about him appointing a Defence, Environment Minister to go and enjoy the Christmas holiday.

According to John Mahama, he will appoint a Defence and Environment Minister next year after the Christmas holiday.

President Mahama, speaking during a meeting at the Jubilee House, stated, “They say Allah gives and Allah takes. He took two of our comrades, and we haven’t filled those positions yet. I can see people speculating that he is going to appoint a new Defence minister, a new Environment minister.

We are not in a hurry. We will do those appointments next year. After the holiday, the Christmas holiday, we will fill those positions,” he said.

“So those speculating about somebody going to be appointed tomorrow and all that, just take your time, go and enjoy Christmas and after Christmas we will fill those ones,” he added.

However, Rev John Ntim Fordjour slammed President John Mahama over his decision to appoint a Defence Minister in 2026.

According to Rev Ntim Fordjour, Mahama’s delay in his appointment of a new Defence Minister is reckless, dangerous and puts Ghana’s national security at risk.

Speaking on Joy FM on November 25, 2025, Ntim Fordjour said, “It is very unfortunate on the part of President Mahama. Deferring the appointment of a substantive Defence Minister indefinitely to 2026 is reckless, it is dangerous, and it puts national security at risk”.

“In the midst of the sub-regional geopolitics and the threats we face, and in the midst of the heightened insecurity we face currently, I don’t know what else the President is waiting for before he prioritises our security,” he stated.

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“My focus is to hold Mahama gov’t’s feet to the fire” – Afenyo-Markin

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“My focus is to hold Mahama gov’t’s feet to the fire” – Afenyo-Markin

Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament, has said his focus is to hold the John Mahama-led government’s feet to the fire.

The minority leader stressed that he will hold the government accountable but will ensure he does not obstruct parliamentary business.

According to Afenyo-Markin, he carefully balanced his role between rigorous scrutiny and respect for parliamentary procedures.

He further stressed that what people described as being controversial in the chamber is due to his active engagements are guided by principle rather than personal interest.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Monday, February 16, 2026, “My focus has been to hold the government’s feet to the fire, at the same time not being obstructive. When you are in opposition, you must have it on the back of your mind that you have a day in government tomorrow.

“So I’m equally mindful not to push too much and personalise matters. Else if you come back in 2029, they will also make life difficult for you. You gauge the mood of the house, but you don’t deviate from your core duty of scrutinising,” he said.

Additionally, the minority leader speaking to GraphicOnline clarified the heated exchanges witnessed in Parliament.

According to Afenyo-Markin, the heated exchanges should not be mistaken for anger but rather are a way the MPs express their disagreements as part of the democratic process.

Speaking in a video shared by GraphicOnline on X on Thursday, January 1, 2026, he explained, “Don’t think that we are fighting. It is only our way of expressing disagreement. We are not at war in Parliament; we are only expressing our disagreements”.

“That’s why when there’s chaos, you see calmness the next day in Parliament. So, if you go and fight, you are fighting your own trouble, so don’t fight,” he emphasised.

Also, Alexander Afenyo-Markin has predicted that by mid 2026, President John Mahama will become a lame-duck president. 

Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader of Parliament, has predicted that by mid 2026, President John Mahama will become a lame-duck president. 

According to Afenyo-Markin, the NDC is divided; he alleged that the party has its candidate while the presidency is also fielding its own candidate for the elections.

Afenyo-Markin alleged that Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has chosen Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, as her running mate.

The minority leader alleged that President Mahama will become a lame-duck president because the NDC will be fighting over who succeeds him.

Speaking at a press conference on January 26, 2026, Afenyo-Markin stated, “The NDC also have a leadership contest ahead of them, which is very messy.

The NDC is divided because of power. Today, Asiedu Nketiah says he is going on a ‘thank you’ tour; what we have seen is that the government has its own preferred candidate for the flagbearer and the party also have their own choice of flagbearer”.

Afenyo-Markin further added, “ By mid-year, President Mahama will become a lame-duck president because everyone is fighting for power. The Vice President also wants to become president. Recently, we heard that she has chosen Haruna Iddrisu as her running mate”.

“We have also heard that the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, is going to contest, and his running mate is Fifii Kwetey, the NDC General Secretary. The majority leader and Ablakwa are also doing their personal permutation. Also, the finance minister is preparing his running mate”.

Interior Minister not responsible for what happens outside Ghana – Ntim Fordjour’s schools’ Mahama gov’t

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Interior Minister not responsible for what happens outside Ghana – Ntim Fordjour’s schools’ Mahama gov’t

John Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member of the Defence committee in parliament, has criticize government for having the Interior Minister lead the response to the Burkina Faso attack.

According to Ntim Fordjour, the Interior Minister is not responsible for what happens outside the country.

He argued that the Foreign Affairs Minister and the Defence Minister should be the ones to lead the response to the Burkina Faso attack.

Also, John Ntim Fordjour labelled the absence of a substantive Defence Minister for over seven months as a major defence leadership failure.

According to John Ntim Fordjour, it is a major defence leadership for Ghana not to have a substantive Defence Minister for over seven months.

Rev Ntim Fordjour is quoted by TV3 News flyer to have said, “This is a major defence leadership failure. For seven months, we haven’t had a substantive Minister for Defence”.

In another flyer, he stated, “It was wrong at the beginning for the Interior Minister to lead this conversation. He’s not responsible for what happens outside the country”.

Ntim Fordjours comments come in the wake of the Burkina Faso terrorist attack that killed seven Ghanaians.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has finally broken his silence following the killing of seven Ghanaian tomato traders in a terrorist attack in Burkina Faso on Saturday, February 14.

John Mahama expressed his deep regret over the killing of Ghanaian tomato traders, noting the rising insecurity in the subregion.

According to Mahama, GAF is arranging a medical evacuation for Ghanaians injured in Burkina Faso so that they can continue to receive treatment in Ghana.

President Mahama, on behalf of the government and the Ghanaian people, sent his condolences to the families of those who were either killed or injured.

Speaking at the Ghana Tree Crop Investment Summit in Accra on Tuesday, February 17, President Mahama stated, “And unfortunately, we lost a number of our compatriots. Thankfully, there are a few survivors. The Ghana Army is arranging to medevac them from Burkina Faso so that those who are injured can continue to receive treatment here in Ghana.

“On behalf of the government and the people, we express our condolences to the families of those who were either killed or injured,” he said, extending sympathy and support to the affected families.

President Mahama further stressed the dangers faced by cross-border traders and the broader threats that regional instability poses to economic and social integration.

Also, the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, has disclosed that the seven Ghanaian Tomato traders killed in a terrorist attack in Titao, northern Burkina Faso, have been laid to rest.

According to the Minister, the bodies of the deceased were burnt beyond recognition and had begun decomposing, which forced authorities to proceed with burial arrangements in Burkina Faso.

Speaking in an interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, February 16, Muntaka Mubarak stated, “The seven bodies have been burnt beyond recognition. As at yesterday, we agreed they had begun decomposing and had to be buried”.

“So the Burkina Faso authorities told us [Ghanaians] that they would bury them at 10 a.m today. But our women who are not really injured can go and witness and take as many pictures as possible,” he added.

He added, “And the sad thing is that we lost seven of our men. Three of them got injured. One woman was critically injured, and others were not badly injured”.

See the post below:

3 miners killed in Tarkwa mining accident

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3 miners killed in Tarkwa mining accident

Three miners have lost their lives in a reported accident at Tarkwa, a mining community near Gbane in the Tongo District of the Upper East Region.

According to the Police in Bolgatanga, a loose slab of rock fell on three young men who were working underground, resulting in the death.

Tii Musah, the owner of the mining pit, identified the deceased as his workers: Subil Nmabil, aged about 30; Musah Zipati, aged about 40; and Onyin Udasaa, aged about 35.

The Police detail that careful examination of the bodies revealed a deep cut on the left rib of deceased Subil Nmabil.

Also, multiple head injuries on Musah Zipati, and a smashed right hand on Onyin Udasaa.

A press statement dated February 17 indicated, “Upon receipt of the information, the police proceeded to the scene at Tarkwa. On arrival, it was observed that some young men had entered the mining pit and retrieved three lifeless bodies, which were being kept in sacks”.

“The bodies were removed from the sacks, and the mining pit owner, Tii Musah, identified the deceased to the police as his workers, namely: Subil Nmabil, aged about 30 years; Musah Zipati, aged about 40 years; and Onyin Udasaa, aged about 35 years.”

The bodies of the deceased have been conveyed to the Regional Hospital, Bolgatanga, for clinical examination and were pronounced dead by the Medical Officer on duty, with their bodies subsequently deposited at the hospital morgue.

In related news, the Rapid Response team of the Forestry Commission has also arrested 28 Chinese nationals and three Ghanaians.

The Forestry Commission foils attempts by the galamseyers to mine illegally in the Apamprama Forest Reserve in the Ashanti Region.

According to the Forestry Commission, the miners were found to have pitched camp, pretending to be granted a permit to reclaim the land.

The illegal miners were arrested in Compartment 17 of the Apamprama Forest Reserve near the Obeng ne Obeng community, where four erected structures were immobilised.

One pickup truck, one Foton mini truck, and one generator were seized from the operation.

In a related operation by the Forestry Commission, eleven Chinese nationals and ten Ghanaians have been arrested by the Forestry Commission over illegal mining activities in the Yakombo Forest Reserve in the Buipe Forest District of the Savannah Region.

Reports reveal that the 21 arrested follow an intelligence-driven raid which occurred on Tuesday, December 2, by a 51-member team made up of forest guards.

The suspects were arrested in Ghana’s largest forest reserve.

The suspects arrested are namely:” Tang Shao Qi (28), He Peng (40), Zhou Qin Sar (25), Wu Xu (39), He Chuang Ye (45), Cheng Lin (40), Long Xi (32), Yang Gesheng (51), Zhang Honzhaojie (34), Zhou Peng (39), and Wu Yujie (24).

The Ghanaians suspected are Alhassan Yakubu, Daniel Mba (33), Pious Kwabena (20), Emmanuel Amankra (40), Seidu Suleman (44), Sampson Akawuni (22), Thadeus Gideon (27), Mohammed Salim (21), Mohammed Kanamu (25), and Saaka Yakubu (22)”.

The Forestry Commission operation also led to the seizure of one Toyota Hilux, two Great Wall pick-up trucks, three Howo tipper trucks, and one Man Diesel low-bed truck carrying an excavator.

The 21 suspects have since been transferred to the Damongo Regional Police Command for investigations and possible prosecution.

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