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“Jesus was not born in Ghana” – Editor questions the tourism logic behind National Cathedral project

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“Jesus was not born in Ghana” – Editor questions the tourism logic behind National Cathedral project

Elvis Darko, the Editor of the Newscenta Newspaper, has questioned the rationale for constructing the National Cathedral following the renewed debates surrounding the project.

According to Elvis Darko, the religious tourism logic alone does not provide a meaningful basis for the construction of the National Cathedral.

He challenged the claims that the National Cathedral could make Ghana become a major international destination for religious tourism, arguing that Ghana lacks historical artefacts or direct religious connections that could make the facility a significant global attraction.

Elvis Darko also noted that the National Cathedral was conceived primarily as a religious facility, highlighting that Ghana already has numerous large and well-equipped churches.

Speaking on the Breakfast Daily programme on Channel One TV on Monday, September 14, Darko stated, “Across Ghana, the Seventh-day Adventist Church has so many chapels. Action Chapel, Church of Pentecost—when you’re talking about real estate in terms of church buildings, I think the Church of Pentecost leads in this country. Almost everywhere you go, you see them having big, big facilities”.

“This is not where Jesus was born. The original scrolls of the Bible, you can’t find them to come and put in your museum here. So, there’s nothing meaningful about religious tourism if that is the purpose of building the cathedral,” he added.

His comment follows President John Dramani Mahama has finally stated his position on the continuation of the National Cathedral project he inherited from the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration.

According to President Mahama, even though he had made a commitment to continue projects left behind by the previous administration, the National Cathedral project was different.

Mahama explained that his commitment was to continue all national projects the previous government left behind, but the National Cathedral project was a personal pledge to God made by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and not a national project.

Speaking during his Resetting Ghana Tour of the Upper West Region on Saturday, September 12, President Mahama stated, “I made a promise that every policy I inherited, I would continue it as long as it’s in the interest of the people. The National Cathedral… was not a national policy. It was a personal pledge by the former President”.

“I made a promise that every policy and every project that I inherit, I will continue it as long as it’s in the interest of the people, and I have largely done that. Almost all the projects and policies we inherited, we have continued.

“The only one is the National Cathedral, but that was not a national policy. It was a personal pledge by the former President. It was a personal pledge by the former President to God. So that one, it wasn’t national policy,” he added.

Mahama further added, “I am a Christian myself. I have nothing against having a national cathedral”.

“My second problem was that we shouldn’t use taxpayers’ money. I mean, how many Christians are in this country? If we all pay 1,000 cedis each, we should be able to construct a national cathedral,” he added.

“My principle has always been that the location has been a problem,” he said.

“So normally during ceremonies, you have the stadium not far, and that’s the way we used to go to Black Star Square. So if you go and put this major thing there again, it will constrict that whole area,” he said.

“My problem was also that the amount of destruction we had to cause to clear the area; broke 10 judges’ residences.

“We broke the Malian Ambassador’s residence. Up to now, we’ve not replaced it. And several other properties, the old passport office, all of them were demolished to make way for a national cathedral,” he said.

He further revealed that the forensic audit into the National Cathedral project had been completed and was currently with the Attorney General, disclosing that a copy would be made available to the Christian Council to enable it to examine how almost $90 million was spent on the project.

“The forensic audit is ready; it’s with the Attorney General, and I’ll make a copy of it available to the Christian Council so that they can look at the processes of what went into the expenditure of the 90 million dollars, so that if there’s any corrective action, we can take it together,” he said.

@ghnow_ The national launch of the Presidential Initiative on Maternal Health Emergency Response, aimed at improving emergency care and reducing maternal deaths across Ghana. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – Fanfairwrld
@ghnow_ Representatives of the Ga Mantse address guests at the national launch of the Presidential Initiative on Maternal Health Emergency Response. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Quality, timeliness non-negotiable – Agbodza warn contractors ahead of Accra-Kumasi Expressway construction

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Quality, timeliness non-negotiable – Agbodza warn contractors ahead of Accra-Kumasi Expressway construction

Governs Kwame Agbodza, the Minister for Roads and Highways, has issued a stern warning to contractors and stakeholders involved in the Accra-Kumasi Expressway project.

The Road Minister warned that quality, value for money and timely delivery will not be compromised.

He further revealed that the contractor selection process was being pursued through international competitive pre-qualification to attract firms with the technical and financial capacity to execute the project.

Speaking at the handover of the 175.6-kilometre cleared right-of-way on Monday, September 14, Agbodza stated, “For decades, the Accra-Kumasi corridor has carried the disproportionate share of the national traffic. Growth in population, freight and commercial activity has placed increasing pressure on the existing N6”.

“The process must be competitive, transparent and rigorous. Ghana must obtain quality, value for money and timely delivery. These principles are non-negotiable,” he stated.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that the proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway will significantly reduce travel time between the two cities.

According to John Mahama, the Accra-Kumasi Expressway will cut travel time to 2 hours when the project is completed.

President Mahama disclosed that the recommended speed on the Accra-Kumasi Expressway will be 120km per hour.

Speaking on Monday, September 14, at Kwaso in the Ashanti Region, during the official handover of the 175.6-kilometre right-of-way by the Ghana Armed Forces, Mahama stated, “When completed, as you were told, the recommended speed on the Expressway will be 120km per hour. You can drive at 120km per hour”.

“Even if he is travelling at 100km an hour, it means that the journey will take him two hours, instead of the five to six hours that we currently use on the old Accra-Kumasi highway,” President Mahama said.

Mahama emphasised that the reduced travel time would make it possible for people to commute between the two cities for business and return home the same day.

“And so Nana, when this Expressway is finished, you can leave Kumasi at 6am and you’ll be in Accra by 8am,” he stated.

Mahama also announced that $2 billion has been set aside to finance the construction of the Accra-Kumasi Expressway,

Mahama assured Ghanaians that funding will not be a challenge once work begins.

According to John Mahama, the money, which is taxpayers’ funds, has been placed in a special account at the Bank of Ghana to ensure prompt payment to the contractor throughout the project.

President Mahama also disclosed that all certificates presented by the contractor will be paid promptly to prevent construction delays.

Mahama also directed the Minister for Roads and Highways to incorporate the Ghana Armed Forces Engineers Regiment as a major subcontractor to the main contractor for the expressway.

He stated, “And let me also announce that this is our own money. We have not gone to borrow money from anywhere. This money is the taxpayers’ money”.

@ghnow_ Representatives of the Ga Mantse address guests at the national launch of the Presidential Initiative on Maternal Health Emergency Response. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ The Vice President departs the launch of the Presidential Initiative on Maternal Health Emergency Response (PRIMER) at Alisa Hotel. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

First tranche of compensation paid to 469 farmers – GAF on Accra-Kumasi Expressway clearance

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First tranche of compensation paid to 469 farmers – GAF on Accra-Kumasi Expressway clearance

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has disclosed that a first tranche of compensation payments has been disbursed to over 450 farmers affected by the Accra-Kumasi Expressway project.

The development follows the soldiers who cleared approximately 175.6 kilometres of land, wading through arable agricultural lands and forest cover from Greater Accra through the Eastern Region to finally the Ashanti Region.

Brigadier General Jonas Wiafe disclosed that the compensations have been made to more than half of the affected farmers.

Speaking at the handing over ceremony of the right-of-way cleared to the President, Director of Engineering Services at GAF, Brigadier General Jonas Wiafe stated, “As of today, the first tranche of compensation payment has been released to 469 farmers, and the process is ongoing”.

He further disclosed that the farmers were paid between GH₵ 350,000 and GH₵1,500 cedis based on the valuation data of properties destroyed during the clearance as released by the Ministry of Roads and Highways.

He further assured that 800 affected farmers are expected to be compensated by the end of the disbursement.

Brigadier General Jonas Wiafe also revealed that no physical property, including buildings such as mud houses or sandcrete structures, whether completed or not, was destroyed along the stretch during the clearing operation.

“This valuation and payment process, I must state, will obviously be recorded as one of the shortest turnaround periods in the construction industry,” he noted.

He further assured farmers yet to be compensated that the payment process will soon reach them as funds are readily available to make all those commitments.

In related news, President John Dramani Mahama has announced that $2 billion has been set aside to finance the construction of the Accra-Kumasi Expressway,

Mahama assured Ghanaians that funding will not be a challenge once work begins.

According to John Mahama, the money, which is taxpayers’ funds, has been placed in a special account at the Bank of Ghana to ensure prompt payment to the contractor throughout the project.

President Mahama also disclosed that all certificates presented by the contractor will be paid promptly to prevent construction delays.

Mahama also directed the Minister for Roads and Highways to incorporate the Ghana Armed Forces Engineers Regiment as a major subcontractor to the main contractor for the expressway.

Speaking at the handover ceremony of a 175.6-kilometre right-of-way cleared by the Ghana Armed Forces on Monday, September 14, “And let me also announce that this is our own money. We have not gone to borrow money from anywhere. This money is the taxpayers’ money”.

Also, Mahama disclosed that the proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway will significantly reduce travel time between the two cities.

He revealed that the Accra-Kumasi Expressway to cut travel time to 2 hours when the project is completed.

Mahama stated, “When completed, as you were told, the recommended speed on the Expressway will be 120km per hour. You can drive at 120km per hour”.

“Even if he is travelling at 100km an hour, it means that the journey will take him two hours, instead of the five to six hours that we currently use on the old Accra-Kumasi highway,” President Mahama said.

Mahama emphasised that the reduced travel time would make it possible for people to commute between the two cities for business and return home the same day.

“And so Nana, when this Expressway is finished, you can leave Kumasi at 6am and you’ll be in Accra by 8am,” he stated.

@ghnow_ Ghana Customs has intercepted over 1,545 Apple products allegedly imported from Dubai through Togo into Ghana to evade applicable import duties and taxes. #GHNow #fyp ♬ Big News – DM Production
@ghnow_ An individual has raised concerns over a minivan, GR-2222-10, reportedly driving on a pedestrian walkway to avoid traffic congestion.#GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

The threshold for the removal of former CJ Torkornoo was low – Sophia Akuffo

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The threshold for the removal of former CJ Torkornoo was low – Sophia Akuffo

Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has disclosed that she filed a disagreeing opinion on the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

According to Sophia Akuffo, there was a Shallowness, Ephemeral Nature in Torkornoo’s removal, stating that she disagreed with the grounds because the threshold was rather low.

Speaking in a review interview on TV3, the former Chief Justice asserted that there were insufficient grounds for the removal of Justice Torkornoo.

She indicated that the removal of her former colleague, the Chief Justice, was ‘shallow’ and unjustified.

“What I am critiquing is the shallowness and the ephemeral nature of the grounds on which a Chief Justice and a justice of the superior court can be removed.

The former Chief Justice asserted that there were insufficient grounds for the removal of Justice Torkornoo.

The former Chief Justice further argued that the Council of State was not qualified to determine a prima facie case in a judicial matter because of the technicalities involved.

Speaking in a review interview on TV3,  Sophia Akuffo stated, “What I am critiquing is the shallowness and the ephemeral nature of the grounds on which a Chief Justice and a justice of the superior court can be removed.

I disagree with the grounds for her removal because the threshold that was being applied was rather low. Once again, I cannot go too much into that because the proceedings were all within confidentiality,” she said.

She further revealed that she opposed the removal of Torkornoo following the determination of a prima facie case against her by the Council of State, which was part of the proceedings before her resignation.

According to Sophia Akuffo she filed a dissenting view on the determination of a prima facie case against Torkornoo by the Council.

“I actually filed a dissenting opinion. I found my opinion… That’s as far as I want to go. I think that ethically, that’s as far as I can go.

“But one day, when the records of the Council of State are made public for that period, yes, my dissenting opinion will be there in the records because I wrote it myself and sent it in myself,” she added.

Meanwhile, in 2025 following the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo Sophia Akuffo who was then a member of the Council of State condemned the proceedings that led to President John Dramani Mahama removing the Chief Justice.

 According to Sophia Akuffo,  Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo was not given a fair hearing.

Sophia Akuffo described the proceedings as a “rigmarole” that set a dangerous precedent for Ghana’s judiciary.

She expressed her dismay at how the matter was handled.

In an interview with TV3 today, September 2, Sophia Akuffo stated, “She did not get a fair trial,” Akuffo said. “Even though it is not a trial strictly speaking, it was handled as though it were a treason trial”.

“They lack the gravity that will lead to a grave outcome such as the removal of the head of an institution of justice”.

The former Chief Justice’s remarks echo the same feelings Torkonoo herself had earlier labelled as cruel and unconstitutional.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Representatives of the Ga Mantse address guests at the national launch of the Presidential Initiative on Maternal Health Emergency Response. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ The national launch of the Presidential Initiative on Maternal Health Emergency Response, aimed at improving emergency care and reducing maternal deaths across Ghana. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – Fanfairwrld

‘Beasts of No Nation’ star Strika sentenced to 7 years in prison

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‘Beasts of No Nation’ star Strika sentenced to 7 years in prison

Emmanuel Nii Adom Quaye, popularly known as Strika, a Ghanaian actor who starred in the 2015 Netflix film Beasts of No Nation, has reportedly been sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment.

Reports disclosed Strika was sentenced following his appearance before an Accra court over the vandalism and theft of parts of the Kwashieman pedestrian bridge.

 The development follows Strika, who was busted while attempting to steal metal railings at the Kwashieman footbridge in Accra.

According to reports, Strika was caught by some residents of Kwashieman cutting metal parts from a footbridge, reportedly intending to sell them as scrap.

In a viral video shared on social media on Saturday, August 29, 2026, Strika was captured being confronted by a group of residents.

Strika was widely known for his role as a child soldier in Beasts of No Nation, where he starred alongside acclaimed British actor Idris Elba.

Reports suggest Strika was paid $30,000 for Beasts of No Nation, the same amount as Abraham Attah, as 1% of profits.

Mawuko Kuadzi, the casting director, confirmed this repeatedly, revealing that the money was held in a Barclays trust due to his age and situation.

Reports suggest Strika later accessed the funds, including GHC 40k in 2019. His later struggles stem from other factors, not non-payment.

The development has triggered a mixture of disappointment and debate online, particularly because of Strika’s outstanding rise to fame at a young age.

“It supposed to be 7 months or 3 months why even our politicians are walking freely after their corrupt govern”, a netizen stated.

One X user added, “Meanwhile politicians are walking freely after stealing millions from the public purse”.

“If he comes back he fit do more than this so like them for give ham like 3 to 5 months maximum; erh 7 years is too much”, an X user added.

An X user added, “Our justice system is crazy. You’re sending him to prison for 7yrs to be hardened, come out and start to kuun people during robbery because he doesn’t want to leave witnesses and doesn’t want to go back to prison. Are we serious in this country at all?!  Wontumi koraa got 20yrs”.

One more Ghanaian added, “While I condemn stealing, for this guy, it is survival. He needs support not jail. Politicians like Gifty Oware, Agyemang Kingsley etc are roaming around with millions of tax payers money. They are meant for jail”.

One last netizen added, “While the jail term might be too much, the moment some of you start comparing him to politicians and other offenders not receiving such punishment is where you go off. You can ask for mercy for don’t justify wrong doing with this kind of mentality. It’s annoying”.

See the post below:

@ghnow_ An individual has raised concerns over a minivan, GR-2222-10, reportedly driving on a pedestrian walkway to avoid traffic congestion.#GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

8 interchanges, 11 overpasses, 55 bridges: Inside Ghana’s Accra-Kumasi Expressway project

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8 interchanges, 11 overpasses, 55 bridges: Inside Ghana’s Accra-Kumasi Expressway project

The Managing Director of the Accra-Kumasi Expressway Limited, Engineer Francisco, has disclosed that the project will feature 8 grade-separated interchanges, 11 vehicle overpasses and 55 mainline bridges.

He disclosed that the project will cover approximately 198.7 kilometres between Ablekuma in the Greater Accra Region and Sewua in the Ashanti Region.

He added that 176 kilometres will be of a newly constructed expressway and about 23 kilometres upgraded connector roads at the Accra and Kumasi ends.

Engineer Francisco disclosed that the mainline will be a Class A highway with a three-lane dual carriageway on a 36-metre standard roadbed and a design speed of 120 kilometres per hour, while the connector roads will be Class B roads with a speed limit of 60 kilometres per hour.

He highlighted that the expressway will also include nine at-grade intersections, about 200 reinforced concrete box culverts and four service areas for motorists to rest, eat or attend to their vehicles.

Also, the project will further have eight tolling locations, one operating centre and two monitoring centres to enable authorities to monitor traffic.

Engineer Francisco further disclosed that the expressway will include a fire service and ambulance station, three maintenance depots, road safety systems and electromechanical works.

“When completed, this road will provide safer and more reliable transport and reduce the pressure on the N6,” Engineer Francisco stated.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that the proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway will significantly reduce travel time between the two cities.

According to John Mahama, the Accra-Kumasi Expressway will cut travel time to 2 hours when the project is completed.

President Mahama disclosed that the recommended speed on the Accra-Kumasi Expressway will be 120km per hour.

Speaking on Monday, September 14, at Kwaso in the Ashanti Region, during the official handover of the 175.6-kilometre right-of-way by the Ghana Armed Forces, Mahama stated, “When completed, as you were told, the recommended speed on the Expressway will be 120km per hour. You can drive at 120km per hour”.

“Even if he is travelling at 100km an hour, it means that the journey will take him two hours, instead of the five to six hours that we currently use on the old Accra-Kumasi highway,” President Mahama said.

Mahama emphasised that the reduced travel time would make it possible for people to commute between the two cities for business and return home the same day.

“And so Nana, when this Expressway is finished, you can leave Kumasi at 6am and you’ll be in Accra by 8am,” he stated.

Mahama also announced that $2 billion has been set aside to finance the construction of the Accra-Kumasi Expressway,

Mahama assured Ghanaians that funding will not be a challenge once work begins.

According to John Mahama, the money, which is taxpayers’ funds, has been placed in a special account at the Bank of Ghana to ensure prompt payment to the contractor throughout the project.

President Mahama also disclosed that all certificates presented by the contractor will be paid promptly to prevent construction delays.

Mahama also directed the Minister for Roads and Highways to incorporate the Ghana Armed Forces Engineers Regiment as a major subcontractor to the main contractor for the expressway.

He stated, “And let me also announce that this is our own money. We have not gone to borrow money from anywhere. This money is the taxpayers’ money”.

@ghnow_ Ghana Customs has intercepted over 1,545 Apple products allegedly imported from Dubai through Togo into Ghana to evade applicable import duties and taxes. #GHNow #fyp ♬ Big News – DM Production
@ghnow_ The national launch of the Presidential Initiative on Maternal Health Emergency Response, aimed at improving emergency care and reducing maternal deaths across Ghana. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – Fanfairwrld

Recommended speed on Accra-Kumasi Expressway will be 120km per hour – Mahama

Makay
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Recommended speed on Accra-Kumasi Expressway will be 120km per hour – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that the proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway will significantly reduce travel time between the two cities.

According to John Mahama, the Accra-Kumasi Expressway will cut travel time to 2 hours when the project is completed.

President Mahama disclosed that the recommended speed on the Accra-Kumasi Expressway will be 120km per hour.

Speaking on Monday, September 14, at Kwaso in the Ashanti Region, during the official handover of the 175.6-kilometre right-of-way by the Ghana Armed Forces, Mahama stated, “When completed, as you were told, the recommended speed on the Expressway will be 120km per hour. You can drive at 120km per hour”.

“Even if he is travelling at 100km an hour, it means that the journey will take him two hours, instead of the five to six hours that we currently use on the old Accra-Kumasi highway,” President Mahama said.

Mahama emphasised that the reduced travel time would make it possible for people to commute between the two cities for business and return home the same day.

“And so Nana, when this Expressway is finished, you can leave Kumasi at 6am and you’ll be in Accra by 8am,” he stated.

Mahama also announced that $2 billion has been set aside to finance the construction of the Accra-Kumasi Expressway,

Mahama assured Ghanaians that funding will not be a challenge once work begins.

According to John Mahama, the money, which is taxpayers’ funds, has been placed in a special account at the Bank of Ghana to ensure prompt payment to the contractor throughout the project.

President Mahama also disclosed that all certificates presented by the contractor will be paid promptly to prevent construction delays.

Mahama also directed the Minister for Roads and Highways to incorporate the Ghana Armed Forces Engineers Regiment as a major subcontractor to the main contractor for the expressway.

He stated, “And let me also announce that this is our own money. We have not gone to borrow money from anywhere. This money is the taxpayers’ money”.

Meanwhile, Managing Director of the Accra-Kumasi Expressway Limited, Engineer Francisco has disclosed that the Accra-Kumasi Expressway will feature 8 grade-separated interchanges, 11 vehicle overpasses and 55 mainline bridges.

He disclosed that the project will cover approximately 198.7 kilometres between Ablekuma in the Greater Accra Region and Sewua in the Ashanti Region.

He disclosed that 176 kilometres will be of a newly constructed expressway and about 23 kilometres upgraded connector roads at the Accra and Kumasi ends.

Engineer Francisco disclosed that the mainline will be a Class A highway with a three-lane dual carriageway on a 36-metre standard roadbed and a design speed of 120 kilometres per hour, while the connector roads will be Class B roads with a speed limit of 60 kilometres per hour.

He highlighted that the expressway will also include nine at-grade intersections, about 200 reinforced concrete box culverts and four service areas for motorists to rest, eat or attend to their vehicles.

Also, the project will further have eight tolling locations, one operating centre and two monitoring centres to enable authorities to monitor traffic.

Engineer Francisco further disclosed that the expressway will include a fire service and ambulance station, three maintenance depots, road safety systems and electromechanical works.

“When completed, this road will provide safer and more reliable transport and reduce the pressure on the N6,” Engineer Francisco stated.

@ghnow_ An individual has raised concerns over a minivan, GR-2222-10, reportedly driving on a pedestrian walkway to avoid traffic congestion.#GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Ghana Customs has intercepted over 1,545 Apple products allegedly imported from Dubai through Togo into Ghana to evade applicable import duties and taxes. #GHNow #fyp ♬ Big News – DM Production

3 arrested in connection to French cocaine seizure linked to Dutch drug trafficker – NACOC

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3 arrested in connection to French cocaine seizure linked to Dutch drug trafficker – NACOC

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has revealed that three suspects arrested in connection to the French cocaine seizure are allegedly linked to activities of Dutch fugitive drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers, popularly known as “Bolle Jos”, in Ghana.

NACOC said in a statement signed by PNCO Francis Opoku Amoah, acting Director of Public Affairs and International Relations disclosed that the three suspects’ arrests follow the seizure of a major cocaine shipment by French customs.

According to NACOC, the three suspects are currently in its custody and are assisting investigators to establish their alleged roles in the trafficking operation.

NACOC disclosed that the arrests form part of efforts to disrupt international drug-trafficking networks operating in or through Ghana.

The Commission said in a statement read, “NACOC remains resolute that Ghana will not be a safe haven, transit point or operational base for international drug-trafficking organisations”.

They added that the Commission would continue to work with domestic and international law-enforcement partners to disrupt the people, finances and infrastructure sustaining the illicit drug trade.

NACOC further disclosed that the rights and legal protections of all persons under investigation would be respected.

The developement follows French customs officials having intercepted nearly 3.9 metric tonnes of cocaine, worth about $261 million, in a shipment from Ghana.

According to Reuters news, the shipment was confiscated at the northern French port of Dunkirk on Thursday, September 10, 2026.

The cocaine was concealed in 167 packages inside a container carrying plastic waste from Ghana and destined for Antwerp, Belgium.

The  3.9 metric tonnes of cocaine is allegedly linked to the criminal organisation of fugitive Dutch drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers.

Reports suggest the drugs have since been destroyed, with French prosecutors opening an investigation into the seizure.

According to French authorities, the seizure followed a targeted operation by the judicial police against a criminal network suspected of being behind the shipment, with the investigation focused on offences including the organised importation of narcotics and participation in a criminal association.

The seizure is expected to form part of the broader investigation into the movement of the cocaine from Ghana to France and the criminal network alleged to have organised the shipment.

Meanwhile, Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina, has called for a probe into the seizure of cocaine worth over $260 million by French authorities in a shipment from Ghana.

According to the Madina MP, Ghana’s hard-earned reputation must not be dented by the actions of a few self-serving individuals who may seek to illegally enrich themselves at the expense of the State.

He argued that the Mahama government’s failure to find the people behind the bust would mean the government would be putting its “international reputation”, which is a national asset, on the line.

Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu commended President Mahama and the Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for their efforts to project Ghana positively on the international stage, warning that Ghana’s democratic credentials and diplomatic standing must not be undermined by criminal activity.

In a post shared on Facebook on September 14, 2026, Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu wrote, “His Excellency John Dramani Mahama and the NDC Government have done commendably well in positioning Ghana 🇬🇭 as a respected global leader in diplomacy. The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has equally worked tirelessly to project Ghana 🇬🇭 onto the international stage as a country of integrity and a leader in democracy in Africa.

This hard-earned reputation must not be dented by the actions of a few self-serving individuals who may seek to illegally enrich themselves at the expense of the State. Accordingly, I believe the reported seizure by French authorities of a cocaine consignment valued at approximately $260 million must be thoroughly investigated, and any persons found culpable must be brought to book,” he wrote.

The Madina legislator added, “Ghana’s international reputation is a national asset. It must be protected through transparency, accountability and the uncompromising enforcement of the law.”

See the statement below:

@ghnow_ The national launch of the Presidential Initiative on Maternal Health Emergency Response, aimed at improving emergency care and reducing maternal deaths across Ghana. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – Fanfairwrld
@ghnow_ An individual has raised concerns over a minivan, GR-2222-10, reportedly driving on a pedestrian walkway to avoid traffic congestion.#GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

$2bn already set aside to commence Accra-Kumasi Expressway – Mahama

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$2bn already set aside to commence Accra-Kumasi Expressway – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that $2 billion has been set aside to finance the construction of the Accra-Kumasi Expressway.

Mahama assured Ghanaians that funding will not be a challenge once work begins.

According to John Mahama, the money, which is taxpayers’ funds, has been placed in a special account at the Bank of Ghana to ensure prompt payment to the contractor throughout the project.

President Mahama also disclosed that all certificates presented by the contractor will be paid promptly to prevent construction delays.

Mahama also directed the Minister for Roads and Highways to incorporate the Ghana Armed Forces Engineers Regiment as a major subcontractor to the main contractor for the expressway.

Speaking at the handover ceremony of a 175.6-kilometre right-of-way cleared by the Ghana Armed Forces on Monday, September 14, “And let me also announce that this is our own money. We have not gone to borrow money from anywhere. This money is the taxpayers’ money”.

Also, Mahama disclosed that the proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway will significantly reduce travel time between the two cities.

He revealed that the Accra-Kumasi Expressway to cut travel time to 2 hours when the project is completed.

Mahama stated, “When completed, as you were told, the recommended speed on the Expressway will be 120km per hour. You can drive at 120km per hour”.

“Even if he is travelling at 100km an hour, it means that the journey will take him two hours, instead of the five to six hours that we currently use on the old Accra-Kumasi highway,” President Mahama said.

Mahama emphasised that the reduced travel time would make it possible for people to commute between the two cities for business and return home the same day.

“And so Nana, when this Expressway is finished, you can leave Kumasi at 6am and you’ll be in Accra by 8am,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Managing Director of the Accra-Kumasi Expressway Limited, Engineer Francisco, has disclosed that the Accra-Kumasi Expressway will feature 8 grade-separated interchanges, 11 vehicle overpasses and 55 mainline bridges.

He disclosed that the project will cover approximately 198.7 kilometres between Ablekuma in the Greater Accra Region and Sewua in the Ashanti Region.

He disclosed that 176 kilometres will be of a newly constructed expressway and about 23 kilometres upgraded connector roads at the Accra and Kumasi ends.

Engineer Francisco disclosed that the mainline will be a Class A highway with a three-lane dual carriageway on a 36-metre standard roadbed and a design speed of 120 kilometres per hour, while the connector roads will be Class B roads with a speed limit of 60 kilometres per hour.

He highlighted that the expressway will also include nine at-grade intersections, about 200 reinforced concrete box culverts and four service areas for motorists to rest, eat or attend to their vehicles.

Also, the project will further have eight tolling locations, one operating centre and two monitoring centres to enable authorities to monitor traffic.

Engineer Francisco further disclosed that the expressway will include a fire service and ambulance station, three maintenance depots, road safety systems and electromechanical works.

“When completed, this road will provide safer and more reliable transport and reduce the pressure on the N6,” Engineer Francisco stated.

@ghnow_ Ghana Customs has intercepted over 1,545 Apple products allegedly imported from Dubai through Togo into Ghana to evade applicable import duties and taxes. #GHNow #fyp ♬ Big News – DM Production
@ghnow_ An individual has raised concerns over a minivan, GR-2222-10, reportedly driving on a pedestrian walkway to avoid traffic congestion.#GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

State cannot wash its hands off National Cathedral – Christian Council tells Mahama

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State cannot wash its hands off National Cathedral – Christian Council tells Mahama

The Christian Council of Ghana has told President John Dramani Mahama the State cannot wash its hands off the National Cathedral.

According to the  Christian Council, the State must maintain an interest in the completion of the National Cathedral, as significant public funds have already been committed to the project.

Speaking to Citi News, Coordinator for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations at the Christian Council of Ghana, Rev. Jehoiada Godwin Amuzu, stated, “I believe that Christians have the capacity to do the project, but when we say we have capacity doesn’t mean the money will come from point A or from point B, but the Christian leadership have the capacity to pull ideas together, to develop a financial model, whether locally or internationally, to ensure that the cathedral project bounces back”.

“You know that a lot of money has been spent already. So whether the Cathedral project continues or not, it does not negate the fact that State money has already been spent on the project,” he said.

“And so the continuation should be a national issue, because national resources have been spent already,” Rev. Amuzu added.

The Christian Council’s position follows President John Dramani Mahama’s recent comments that the National Cathedral should not be funded with taxpayers’ money.

Mahama argued that taxpayers’ money should not be used to fund the construction of a National Cathedral, disclosing that if Christians across the country contributed GH¢1,000 each towards the project, they could raise sufficient resources to construct the facility.

Speaking at a citizens’ engagement during his tour of the Upper West Region, President Mahama stated, “I made a promise that every policy and every project that I inherit, I will continue it as long as it’s in the interest of the people, and I have largely done that. Almost all the projects and policies we inherited, we have continued.

“The only one is the National Cathedral, but that was not a national policy. It was a personal pledge by the former President. It was a personal pledge by the former President to God. So that one, it wasn’t national policy,” he added.

Mahama further added, “I am a Christian myself. I have nothing against having a national cathedral”.

“My second problem was that we shouldn’t use taxpayers’ money. I mean, how many Christians are in this country? If we all pay 1,000 cedis each, we should be able to construct a national cathedral,” he added.

“My principle has always been that the location has been a problem,” he said.

“So normally during ceremonies, you have the stadium not far, and that’s the way we used to go to Black Star Square. So if you go and put this major thing there again, it will constrict that whole area,” he said.

“My problem was also that the amount of destruction we had to cause to clear the area; broke 10 judges’ residences.

“We broke the Malian Ambassador’s residence. Up to now, we’ve not replaced it. And several other properties, the old passport office, all of them were demolished to make way for a national cathedral,” he said.

He further revealed that the forensic audit into the National Cathedral project had been completed and was currently with the Attorney General, disclosing that a copy would be made available to the Christian Council to enable it to examine how almost $90 million was spent on the project.

“The forensic audit is ready; it’s with the Attorney General, and I’ll make a copy of it available to the Christian Council so that they can look at the processes of what went into the expenditure of the 90 million dollars, so that if there’s any corrective action, we can take it together,” he said.

@ghnow_ Hon. Alan Kyeremanten spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Businessman Ibrahim Mahama arrives at the funeral of the late Mrs. Alice Serwaa Manu to pay his respects. #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Torkornoo’s removal was embedded in shallowness and an ephemeral nature – Sophia Akuffo

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Torkornoo’s removal was embedded in shallowness and an ephemeral nature – Sophia Akuffo

Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has disclosed that the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo was embedded in shallowness and an ephemeral nature.

According to Sophia Akuffo, there was a Shallowness, Ephemeral Nature in Torkornoo’s removal, stating that she disagreed with the grounds because the threshold was rather low.

Speaking in a review interview on TV3, the former Chief Justice asserted that there were insufficient grounds for the removal of Justice Torkornoo.

She indicated that the removal of her former colleague, the Chief Justice, was ‘shallow’ and unjustified.

“What I am critiquing is the shallowness and the ephemeral nature of the grounds on which a Chief Justice and a justice of the superior court can be removed.

the former Chief Justice asserted that there were insufficient grounds for the removal of Justice Torkornoo.

The former Chief Justice further argued that the Council of State was not qualified to determine a prima facie case in a judicial matter because of the technicalities involved.

Speaking in a review interview on TV3,  Sophia Akuffo stated, “What I am critiquing is the shallowness and the ephemeral nature of the grounds on which a Chief Justice and a justice of the superior court can be removed.

I disagree with the grounds for her removal because the threshold that was being applied was rather low. Once again, I cannot go too much into that because the proceedings were all within confidentiality,” she said.

She further revealed that she opposed the removal of Torkornoo following the determination of a prima facie case against her by the Council of State, which was part of the proceedings before her resignation.

According to Sophia Akuffo she filed a dissenting view on the determination of a prima facie case against Torkornoo by the Council.

“I actually filed a dissenting opinion. I found my opinion… That’s as far as I want to go. I think that ethically, that’s as far as I can go.

“But one day, when the records of the Council of State are made public for that period, yes, my dissenting opinion will be there in the records because I wrote it myself and sent it in myself,” she added.

Meanwhile, in 2025 following the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo Sophia Akuffo who was then a member of the Council of State condemned the proceedings that led to President John Dramani Mahama removing the Chief Justice.

 According to Sophia Akuffo,  Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo was not given a fair hearing.

Sophia Akuffo described the proceedings as a “rigmarole” that set a dangerous precedent for Ghana’s judiciary.

She expressed her dismay at how the matter was handled.

In an interview with TV3 today, September 2, Sophia Akuffo stated, “She did not get a fair trial,” Akuffo said. “Even though it is not a trial strictly speaking, it was handled as though it were a treason trial”.

“They lack the gravity that will lead to a grave outcome such as the removal of the head of an institution of justice”.

The former Chief Justice’s remarks echo the same feelings Torkonoo herself had earlier labelled as cruel and unconstitutional.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Nana Akuffo Addo arrives at the Burial Rite of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Hon. Alan Kyeremanten spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Deputy Chief of Staff orders ecological restoration of Kpeshie Lagoon following demolition

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Deputy Chief of Staff orders ecological restoration of Kpeshie Lagoon following demolition

Stan Xoese Dogbe the Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations, has directed the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC) to commence the ecological restoration of reclaimed sections of the Kpeshie Lagoon following the removal of illegal structures within the wetland’s protected buffer zone.

According to the Deputy Chief of Staff, the restoration will involve the Forestry Commission and the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

He further revealed plans to plant coconut and other suitable trees while providing the environmental safeguards needed to restore the fragile ecosystem.

The directive was issued at Laboma following a demolition exercise by the Post Flood Mitigation Task Force as part of ongoing measures to restore flood-control infrastructure and protect critical water retention areas across Greater Accra.

Stan Dogbe highlighted that the objective is not simply to clear the area, but to return the reclaimed sections to their natural state, strengthen the lagoon’s capacity to retain floodwaters and prevent future encroachment.

The Kpeshie Lagoon is among Accra’s critical flood intervention points, with years of reclamation, sand filling and development having reduced its natural water-holding capacity.

With the clearance now underway, authorities will move towards debris removal, vegetation restoration and sustained environmental protection to strengthen the wetland’s resilience against future flooding.

In a Facebook post, Stan Dogbe stated, “I have directed the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC) to prepare to begin the ecological restoration of the reclaimed sections of the Kpeshie Lagoon following the removal of illegal structures within the wetland’s protected buffer zone.

The restoration will involve the Forestry Commission, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), and the Military. 

We will clear the debris, dredge the area and plant coconut and other suitable trees to restore the reclaimed sections to their natural state, strengthen the lagoon’s capacity to retain floodwaters and prevent future encroachment”.

Meanwhile, Stan Dogbe, the Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations and Chairman of the National Flood Mitigation Taskforce, has said the demolition exercise at the Laboma beach enclave was not a blanket demolition of businesses in the area.

He disclosed that the exercise targeted specifically marked structures that had to be removed to allow for the dredging of silted areas within the Kpeshie Lagoon’s water-retention basin.

Stan Dogbe explained that the basin, which historically held water flowing downstream into the sea, has been affected by the destruction of vegetation.

He added that the developments have affected the flow of water from upstream towards the sea and reduced the basin’s capacity to retain floodwaters.

In a Facebook post, he wrote, “Sunday morning’s exercise by the Post Flood Mitigation Task Force and the REGSEC was not a demolition of Laboma”.

“It is these structures that the owners were alerted more than a month ago, by the REGSEC, that were pulled down on Sunday morning. Other structures and businesses have not been touched because that is not within the work scope and mandate of the Task Force,” he said.

His comment follows the demolition exercise at the Laboma enclave that began in the early hours of Sunday, September 13, 2026, in the La Dade-Kotopon Municipality, with several other structures located within the protected area also affected.

According to authorities, the affected developments fall within designated buffer zones of the Kpeshie Lagoon and are therefore not permitted to remain in the area.

Reports suggest the exercise follows a directive issued on August 7, 2026, ordering the removal of structures encroaching on waterways and their buffer zones as part of broader measures to tackle flooding.

The demolition exercise affected the popular Pink Flamingo Lounge at Laboma Beach and other structures on Sunday, September 13, as the Post Flood Mitigation Taskforce intensified efforts to reclaim areas identified as falling within the protected buffer zone.

See the post below:

@ghnow_ Scenes from ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ Breaking News – DM Production
@ghnow_ Ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – ADAAMAINA

BREAKING – NACOC bust 3 suspects in connection to French cocaine seizure worth $261m

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BREAKING – NACOC bust 3 suspects in connection to French cocaine seizure worth $261m

Three person have been busted by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) for allegedly representing and facilitating the activities of Dutch fugitive drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers, popularly known as “Bolle Jos”, in Ghana.

The three suspect arrests follow the seizure of a major cocaine shipment by French customs.

According to NACOC, the three suspects are currently in its custody and are assisting investigators to established their alleged roles in the trafficking operation.

NACOC disclosed that the arrests form part of efforts to disrupt international drug-trafficking networks operating in or through Ghana.

The Commission said in a statement stated, “NACOC remains resolute that Ghana will not be a safe haven, transit point or operational base for international drug-trafficking organisations”.

They added that the Commission would continue to work with domestic and international law-enforcement partners to disrupt the people, finances and infrastructure sustaining the illicit drug trade.

NACOC further disclosed that the rights and legal protections of all persons under investigation would be respected.

The developement follows French customs officials having intercepted nearly 3.9 metric tonnes of cocaine, worth about $261 million, in a shipment from Ghana.

According to Reuters news, the shipment was confiscated at the northern French port of Dunkirk on Thursday, September 10, 2026.

The cocaine was concealed in 167 packages inside a container carrying plastic waste from Ghana and destined for Antwerp, Belgium.

The  3.9 metric tonnes of cocaine is allegedly linked to the criminal organisation of fugitive Dutch drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers.

Reports suggest the drugs have since been destroyed, with French prosecutors opening an investigation into the seizure.

According to French authorities, the seizure followed a targeted operation by the judicial police against a criminal network suspected of being behind the shipment, with the investigation focused on offences including the organised importation of narcotics and participation in a criminal association.

The seizure is expected to form part of the broader investigation into the movement of the cocaine from Ghana to France and the criminal network alleged to have organised the shipment.

Meanwhile, Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina, has called for a probe into the seizure of cocaine worth over $260 million by French authorities in a shipment from Ghana.

According to the Madina MP, Ghana’s hard-earned reputation must not be dented by the actions of a few self-serving individuals who may seek to illegally enrich themselves at the expense of the State.

He argued that the Mahama government’s failure to find the people behind the bust would mean the government would be putting its “international reputation”, which is a national asset, on the line.

Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu commended President Mahama and the Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for their efforts to project Ghana positively on the international stage, warning that Ghana’s democratic credentials and diplomatic standing must not be undermined by criminal activity.

In a post shared on Facebook on September 14, 2026, Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu wrote, “His Excellency John Dramani Mahama and the NDC Government have done commendably well in positioning Ghana 🇬🇭 as a respected global leader in diplomacy. The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has equally worked tirelessly to project Ghana 🇬🇭 onto the international stage as a country of integrity and a leader in democracy in Africa.

This hard-earned reputation must not be dented by the actions of a few self-serving individuals who may seek to illegally enrich themselves at the expense of the State. Accordingly, I believe the reported seizure by French authorities of a cocaine consignment valued at approximately $260 million must be thoroughly investigated, and any persons found culpable must be brought to book,” he wrote.

The Madina legislator added, “Ghana’s international reputation is a national asset. It must be protected through transparency, accountability and the uncompromising enforcement of the law.”

See the statement below:

@ghnow_ The departure of Nana Akufo Addo from the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – Sarkodie
@ghnow_ Scenes from ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ Breaking News – DM Production

3 major international drug busts linked to Ghana under the Mahama gov’t

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3 major international drug busts linked to Ghana under the Mahama gov’t

Ghana is facing renewed scrutiny over a series of major international narcotics seizures in which the country has featured as a source, transit point or point of origin.

With the NPP Minority in Parliament has raised concerns over drug consignments valued at more than $1 billion seized in Ghana and abroad in less than two years under the John Mahama administration.

 As questions mount over the scale and frequency of these cases, here are three major international drug busts linked to Ghana that have attracted significant attention.

  1. $296m Australian meth bust linked to Ghana

The Australian Federal Police in July 2026 intercepted about 320kg of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $296 million, which it says was imported into the country from Ghana.

Parts of the statement, which was shared on Facebook on July 18, 2026, read, “The AFP launched an investigation after Australian Border Force (ABF) officers at Sydney’s Port Botany detected anomalies in two shipping containers from Ghana.

“The consignment, which was purported to be bags of charcoal, was subsequently X-rayed, with ABF officers locating a white crystallised substance. Forensic testing established the consignment contained about 320kg of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $296 million”.

“The drugs were removed, and the consignment was delivered to a storage facility in Girraween, where the UK national allegedly supervised a number of men unpacking the shipping container. A number of bags were loaded into a vehicle and driven to a house in Blacktown. Shortly after, AFP investigators executed a search warrant at the Blacktown house and arrested the UK woman.

“Further inquiries resulted in an additional search warrant at a house in Oakden, South Australia, where the Adelaide couple were arrested,” the police added.

Later, Emaa Hussen, a 34-year-old British actress, was arrested and charged in Sydney, Australia, after she was fingered in the alleged involvement in US$208 million of meth traced to Ghana.

Emaa Hussen has been charged with attempting to import a commercial quantity of methamphetamine into Australia by the authorities.

Investigators allege that the shipment was later taken to a storage facility in Girraween, western Sydney, where she helped in unpacking the concealed drugs.

Australian  Police further disclosed that she transported the drugs to a residence in Blacktown, where she was arrested.

She has since been denied bail and remains in custody and charged alongside a South Australian couple who are also accused of helping coordinate the alleged operation.

Also, Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak, the Interior Minister, has revealed that preliminary investigations into the meth shipment from Ghana intercepted in Australia have implicated some government officials suspected.

The Interior Minister disclosed that a number of government officials are suspected of facilitating the concealment of the illicit drugs.

According to the Interior Minister, investigations are ongoing, with several officials being questioned.

He further disclosed that, with the investigation and interrogating people, a lot of things are not adding up.

  • 4,500kg of cocaine from Ghana linked to fugitive Leijdekkers seized by Dutch authorities

It will be recalled in November 2025, Dutch authorities intercepted more than 4,500kg of cocaine at the Port of Amsterdam in a shipment reportedly originating from Ghana and concealed in wood products.

A report by Ghana Business News said the shipment was destined for Germany and was allegedly linked to Jos Leijdekkers, a Dutch national described as one of Europe’s most wanted drug traffickers.

Reports suggest the seizure was one of the largest cocaine haul ever intercepted at the Port of Amsterdam.

The Dutch Public Prosecution Service disclosed that three men were arrested in connection with the shipment. They were aged 72, 69 and 42.

The 72-year-old man from Chaam, Noord-Brabant, was allegedly used as a front, with his name used to register the importing company.

Following his arrest on October 5 Investigators reportedly traced the 69-year-old Amsterdam resident through information found on the phone of the 72-year-old alleged frontman.

The 69-year-old remains in custody, while the 72-year-old was released after questioning.

Authorities also arrested a 42-year-old man from Amsterdam earlier in connection with the case. He has since been released.

  • French Customs seize cocaine worth $261m in shipment from Ghana

Lastly, some days ago news broke of French customs officials intercepting nearly 3.9 metric tonnes of cocaine, worth about $261 million, in a shipment from Ghana.

According to Reuters news, the shipment was confiscated at the northern French port of Dunkirk on Thursday, September 10, 2026.

The cocaine was concealed in 167 packages inside a container carrying plastic waste from Ghana and destined for Antwerp, Belgium.

The  3.9 metric tonnes of cocaine is allegedly linked to the criminal organisation of fugitive Dutch drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers.

Reports suggest the drugs have since been destroyed, with French prosecutors opening an investigation into the seizure.

According to French authorities, the seizure followed a targeted operation by the judicial police against a criminal network suspected of being behind the shipment, with the investigation focused on offences including the organised importation of narcotics and participation in a criminal association.

The seizure is expected to form part of the broader investigation into the movement of the cocaine from Ghana to France and the criminal network alleged to have organised the shipment.

Meanwhile, Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina, has called for a probe into the seizure of cocaine worth over $260 million by French authorities in a shipment from Ghana.

According to the Madina MP, Ghana’s hard-earned reputation must not be dented by the actions of a few self-serving individuals who may seek to illegally enrich themselves at the expense of the State.

He argued that the Mahama government’s failure to find the people behind the bust would mean the government would be putting its “international reputation”, which is a national asset, on the line.

Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu commended President Mahama and the Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for their efforts to project Ghana positively on the international stage, warning that Ghana’s democratic credentials and diplomatic standing must not be undermined by criminal activity.

In a post shared on Facebook on September 14, 2026, Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu wrote, “His Excellency John Dramani Mahama and the NDC Government have done commendably well in positioning Ghana 🇬🇭 as a respected global leader in diplomacy. The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has equally worked tirelessly to project Ghana 🇬🇭 onto the international stage as a country of integrity and a leader in democracy in Africa.

This hard-earned reputation must not be dented by the actions of a few self-serving individuals who may seek to illegally enrich themselves at the expense of the State. Accordingly, I believe the reported seizure by French authorities of a cocaine consignment valued at approximately $260 million must be thoroughly investigated, and any persons found culpable must be brought to book,” he wrote.

@ghnow_ Chief Justice spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ The departure of Nana Akufo Addo from the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – Sarkodie

‘We can survive without a market’ – Political analyst slams Mahama over 24-hour market initiative

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‘We can survive without a market’ – Political analyst slams Mahama over 24-hour market initiative

Political analyst Charles Owusu has told President John Dramani Mahama to prioritise healthcare and indispensable social infrastructure over his government’s 24-hour market initiative.

According to Charles Owusu, hospitals, schools, and water facilities are more critical to survival than markets.

Charles Owusu admitted that although the initiative may be part of the government’s broader policy agenda he insisted that district hospitals should take precedence over markets.

Speaking on a panel discussion on Peace FM’s morning show ‘Kokrokoo’, Charles Owusu stated, “Because of interest, we keep quiet when we know what the government is doing is wrong and won’t help us. You can’t survive without facilities like water, hospitals, schools, but you can survive without a market.

How can we have construction of markets as a priority? We’ve left construction of hospitals and we’re constructing 24-hour economy markets”.

“It’s okay even if it is a policy of government, but government should prioritise district hospitals over markets. We plead with the President to seek life first,” he added.

Also, a chief in Asebu, Central Region has questioned the essence of a 24-Hour Economy market, arguing that residents in the Abura/Asebu/Kwamankese District are predominantly farmers.

According to the Chief, the Abura/Asebu/Kwamankese District is predominantly farmers, arguing that a 24-Hour Economy Market is not something they need in their district.

He further argued that none of his people will wake up at midnight just to buy koobi.

Speaking during a durbar aired by Mfantseman Radio shared on social media, the Chief stated, “A 24-Hour Economy Market is not something we need in our district. Abura/Asebu/Kwamankese District are predominantly agriculture district; we grow cassava, maize, and oranges. I don’t even know where they are taking the market. I don’t think anyone would wake up at midnight to buy koobi”.

Some Ghanaians reacting to the Chief’s comments stated, “I think Mahama should gather the chiefs and send them on an excursion to other countries with similar ideas to see how these policies work. Most of these chiefs have never been outside of their community”.

One X user added, “If I speak my mind now Ghana police might come for me because how can you say this in 21st century, it’s difficult to help people who do not even know what help is, bad mental attitude, preliminary thinkers, it’s sad man”.

A netizen added, “This man needs education about what the 24 Hour Market Concept is about. I won’t blame him because maybe he doesn’t understand the 24hr economy concept as a whole. The NPP went behind market women to fight against the Kejetia market project in 2016. It’s now the biggest in Ghana”.

“I used to have hope in Ghana developing, but with the mindset of people like this and politics, we will never develop; we will even become worse than Nigeria and South Africa”, a netizen added.

One X user added, “Oh but nobody said the 24-Hour Economy means everyone must shop at midnight. The question is whether farmers, processors, transporters and businesses should have more opportunities to operate beyond the normal 8–5. In a farming district, that can actually be where the policy makes the most sense in my opinion”.

“Same kind of old folks that said Tema motorway is not needed because by the. residents in Tema were so few

Others said we don’t need Akosombo dam … This chief is dangerous to his peoples development..”, a netizen added.

Meanwhile, the 24-Hour Markets initiative forms part of the broader 24-Hour Economy agenda, aims to establish modern markets across all districts to expand economic opportunities, boost productivity, and create jobs.

President Mahama has labeled the policy as a key intervention to stimulate commerce and provide decent trading spaces nationwide.

“Markets are the lifeblood of trading and economic activity and so every district should have a decent place where people can come and do business. Farmers can bring their produce to come and sell,” Mahama stated.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Hon. Patrick Boamah spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Chief Justice spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Curfew violation can never justify beating a person to death – CETAG demands probe into lecturer’s death

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Curfew violation can never justify beating a person to death – CETAG demands probe into lecturer’s death

The Colleges of Education Teachers’ Association of Ghana (CETAG) has called for an immediate, probe into the death of a lecturer at the Gbewa College of Education, who reportedly died after being alledely beaten by military personnel during curfew hours.

CETAG in a statement issued on Monday, September 14 argued that curfew violation can never justify beating a person to death.

They disclosed that information available to them suggests that the alleged assault resulted in Abdulai Issaka’s death, describing the circumstances as deeply disturbing.

“Being outside during curfew hours, irrespective of the circumstances, can never justify the beating of a person to death,” the Association said.

They further condemned the use of excessive and lethal force and called for a thorough investigation to establish what happened before, during and after the alleged incident.

CETAG also called on the Government, the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana Police Service, the CHRAJ and other relevant state institutions to ensure that the matter is investigated without intimidation.

“No person irrespective of position, uniform, or authority should be above the law,” CETAG said.

The Association further appealed for calm at the Gbewa College of Education, urging management, staff and students to exercise restraint.

CETAG also extended its condolences to Issaka’s family, colleagues and friends while describing his death as a painful loss.

The development follows, Military personnel deployed to the Bawku area have allegedly beaten a lecturer at Gbewaa College of Education in Pusiga in the Upper East Region to death.

The deceased has been identified as Issaka Abdulai, who was a lecturer with the college’s Science Department.

His death was confirmed by the management of the institution in a statement issued on September 12, 2026, saying he died after an alleged incident involving military personnel on the night of Friday, September 11.

The Gbewaa College of Education, nevertheless, did not provide details about what led to the alleged assault or the circumstances surrounding Abdulai’s death.

However, Citi News reported that the lecturer was allegedly arrested while riding a motorbike during curfew hours.

Issaka Abdulai’s subsequent death triggered protests in Pusiga on Saturday morning, with residents taking to the streets to express their anger.

According to reports, some protesters blocked roads and set tyres on fire as they demanded answers over the lecturer’s death and the conduct of security personnel operating in the area.

Meanwhile, the incident has renewed concerns among residents about the treatment of civilians amid ongoing security operations in the Bawku area.

Also, the management of Gbewaa College of Education has expressed concern over the death of its staff member.

In the meantime, no official information has been released on any investigation into the alleged assault or the circumstances that led to Abdulai’s death.

@ghnow_ The leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is present at the burial rites of the late Mrs. Alice Serwaa Manu. #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Hon. Patrick Boamah spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow ♬ original sound – GHnow

Over $1bn in drug seizures linked to Ghana under Mahama gov’t in 18 months – Minority raises alarm

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Over $1bn in drug seizures linked to Ghana under Mahama gov’t in 18 months – Minority raises alarm

The NPP Minority in Parliament has raised an alarm disclosing that over $1 billion in drug seizures have been linked to Ghana in less than two years under the John Mahama government.

The Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, in a statement signed on September 13, raised alarm about the frequency and scale of major narcotics trafficking cases in which Ghana has featured in the last 18 months under the Mahama government.

The Minority cited the recent seizure of cocaine, valued at over $260 million, concealed in a container of plastic waste by French authorities.

The NPP minority disclosed that both seizures made within the country and drug consignments intercepted by foreign authorities after being traced to Ghana amount to over $1 billion in less than two years.

Parts of the Minority statement read, “The Minority in Parliament has watched with grave alarm as, over the past eighteen months, Ghana has repeatedly featured in major narcotics trafficking cases both at home and abroad. We set out below the chronology of these incidents, beginning with the seizures made on our own soil.

Local seizure: On 4th March 2025, the National Intelligence Bureau intercepted a tipper truck at Pedu Junction in Cape Coast carrying over 3.3 tonnes of cocaine concealed beneath sand, en route from Takoradi to Accra, with an estimated street value exceeding US$350 million. Within the same period, a second consignment of an estimated 120 slabs of cocaine, valued at approximately US$150 million, was intercepted along the Takoradi–Cape Coast highway. On 5th August 2026, the Tema Regional Police Command seized 866 parcels of suspected cocaine concealed in sacks of gari at a warehouse within the Tema Harbour enclave, valued at US$6.9 million.

Alongside these seizures, two troubling incidents remain unresolved: the landing at Kotoka International Airport, on or around 20th March 2025, of aircraft alleged to be carrying narcotics and undeclared US currency from Gran Canaria; and the MV Sankofa affair of July 2025, in which a vessel found sailing under a forged flag and liable to a fine of almost GH¢12 million was released by the Ghana Maritime Authority after payment of only a fraction of that sum, without full inspection of its cargo, only to be arrested days later in Senegal carrying narcotics.

They further detailed Foreign seizures linked to Ghana. “On 18th June 2026, Australian customs authorities seized 320kg of methamphetamine, valued at a further US$261 million, concealed in a charcoal consignment traced to Ghana. On 10th September 2026, Reuters reported that French customs officers at the port of Dunkirk seized nearly 3.9 metric tonnes of cocaine, valued at over US$260 million, concealed in a container of plastic waste that had departed our shores.

Taken together, high-profile seizures linked to Ghana under this NDC administration now stand at well over US$1 billion in under two years.

International drug enforcement agencies have long estimated that only around one in every ten consignments of trafficked narcotics is ever intercepted. Ghanaians must be allowed to draw their own conclusions about what that widely cited detection rate means for the volume of narcotics that may be moving through our ports, airports, and waters undetected.

Equally troubling is what has happened to the local cases after the cameras leave. In the Pedu Junction matter, more than a year after the seizure, it is only the driver, a housemaid, and a small handful of peripheral suspects who have been arraigned and remain on bail, while the actual financiers and high-profile dealers behind a US$350 million cocaine shipment remain unidentified and unpunished. This pattern — in which couriers, drivers, mates, and freight-forwarding agents are paraded before the courts while the true owners of these consignments walk free — raises serious questions about the seriousness, independence, and reach of investigations under this Government.

The frequency and scale with which narcotics-related incidents are happening under the watch of the Mahama-led NDC Government, and the silence of the very agencies mandated to stop it should be of grave concern to all well-meaning Ghanaians.

The Minority also raised concerns about the effectiveness of measures being implemented to prevent international drug cartels from exploiting Ghana’s ports, airports, highways and territorial waters, expressing concern about what it described as the silence of state agencies responsible for preventing and investigating narcotics trafficking.

Meanwhile, Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina, has called for a probe into the seizure of cocaine worth over $260 million by French authorities in a shipment from Ghana.

According to the Madina MP, Ghana’s hard-earned reputation must not be dented by the actions of a few self-serving individuals who may seek to illegally enrich themselves at the expense of the State.

He argued that the Mahama government’s failure to find the people behind the bust would mean the government would be putting its “international reputation”, which is a national asset, on the line.

Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu commended President Mahama and the Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for their efforts to project Ghana positively on the international stage, warning that Ghana’s democratic credentials and diplomatic standing must not be undermined by criminal activity.

In a post shared on Facebook on September 14, 2026, Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu wrote, “His Excellency John Dramani Mahama and the NDC Government have done commendably well in positioning Ghana 🇬🇭 as a respected global leader in diplomacy. The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has equally worked tirelessly to project Ghana 🇬🇭 onto the international stage as a country of integrity and a leader in democracy in Africa.

This hard-earned reputation must not be dented by the actions of a few self-serving individuals who may seek to illegally enrich themselves at the expense of the State. Accordingly, I believe the reported seizure by French authorities of a cocaine consignment valued at approximately $260 million must be thoroughly investigated, and any persons found culpable must be brought to book,” he wrote.

See the statement below:

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@ghnow_ Hon. Alan Kyeremanten spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Former President Nana Akufo-Addo and his wife, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, arrive at the funeral to pay their respects to the late Mrs. Alice Serwaa Manu. #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Fuel prices to rise again from Wednesday; petrol to hit GH¢16.26, diesel GH¢19.07 – COPEC

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Fuel prices to rise again from Wednesday; petrol to hit GH¢16.26, diesel GH¢19.07 – COPEC

The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has announced that fuel prices are expected to rise, with petrol rising to an average of GH¢16.26 per litre, while diesel could sell at GH¢19.07 per litre from Wednesday, September 16.

COPEC, in a statement, projected a 4.24% increase in petrol prices from the current average of GH¢15.60 per litre.

They further disclosed that Diesel is expected to record a steeper 10.23% increase, rising from an average of GH¢17.30 to GH¢19.07 per litre.

COPEC, in a statement, stated, “PETROL TO GO UP BY 4.24%, DIESEL BY 10.23% AND LPG TO SELL AT 15.32/KG IN THE SECOND WINDOW OF SEPTEMBER 2026.

Petroleum prices beginning Wednesday, the 16th of September 2026 are expected

to see some significant increments across the pumps.

Analysis of Projection;

Global Crude price went up significantly from $89.30/barrel to $103.07/barrel

whilst the Cedi witnessed a marginal appreciation against the US dollar to close

trading from an average interbank rate of $1:GHS11.5166 at the start of the

current window to $1:GHS11.4830(0.29%) as of the close of window.

Below are the detailed descriptions.

1. PETROL

FOB price of petrol increased from $1136.50/MT to $1251.07/MT (10.08%). With a

currency appreciation of about 0.29%, the retail price of petrol works up to Ghc16.26/L

representing 4.24% increase of the current mean price of Ghc15.60/L.

Thus, the retail price of Petrol is expected to be selling between GHS15.44/L and

GHS17.08/L, within a ±5% range of COPEC’s projection.

2. DIESEL

The FOB price of diesel moved up significantly from $1250.50//MT to $1404.730

(12.33%) and the cedi’s appreciation of 0.29%, the projected retail pump price for diesel

in the next window shall work up to Ghc19.07, representing a 10.23% increase of the

current mean price of Ghc17.30/L. Thus, diesel is expected to sell within a range of

3. LPG

With the international FOB price of LPG increasing significantly from $611.75/MT to

$712.43/MT (16.45%) and the cedi’s appreciation of about 0.29%, the projected retail

price of LPG is expected to increase significantly and be sold at Ghs15.32/kg. Thus, within

±5% error, LPG is expected to be selling between GHS14.55/kg minimum and

GHS16.08/kg maximum.

In conclusion, COPEC would like to appeal to the government to extend its subsidy

intervention beyond the first window of September by giving consumers of petrol a

Ghc1/L relief while continuing with the Ghc2/L on diesel until global benchmarks return

to normalcy.

Most importantly, government should speedily facilitate the expansion works at the

Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) to move from the current 45,000 barrels per day refining

capacity to 100,000 barrels per day. We believe this will go a long way in reducing our

reliance on imported finished petroleum products.

Again, it is the expectation of COPEC that OMCs will shelve some of their margins in

order not to overburden consumers in the face of these expected steep prices”.

2nd-Window-SeptemberDownload
@ghnow_ Hon. Alan Kyeremanten spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Former President Nana Akufo-Addo and his wife, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, arrive at the funeral to pay their respects to the late Mrs. Alice Serwaa Manu. #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ

Laboma beach demolition targeted, not a blanket demolition of businesses – Stan Dogbe

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Laboma beach demolition targeted, not a blanket demolition of businesses – Stan Dogbe

Stan Dogbe, the Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations and Chairman of the National Flood Mitigation Taskforce, has said the demolition exercise at the Laboma beach enclave was not a blanket demolition of businesses in the area.

He disclosed that the exercise targeted specifically marked structures that had to be removed to allow for the dredging of silted areas within the Kpeshie Lagoon’s water-retention basin.

Stan Dogbe explained that the basin, which historically held water flowing downstream into the sea, has been affected by the destruction of vegetation.

He added that the developments have affected the flow of water from upstream towards the sea and reduced the basin’s capacity to retain floodwaters.

In a Facebook post, he wrote, “Sunday morning’s exercise by the Post Flood Mitigation Task Force and the REGSEC was not a demolition of Laboma”.

“It is these structures that the owners were alerted more than a month ago, by the REGSEC, that were pulled down on Sunday morning. Other structures and businesses have not been touched because that is not within the work scope and mandate of the Task Force,” he said.

His comment follows the demolition exercise at the Laboma enclave that began in the early hours of Sunday, September 13, 2026, in the La Dade-Kotopon Municipality, with several other structures located within the protected area also affected.

According to authorities, the affected developments fall within designated buffer zones of the Kpeshie Lagoon and are therefore not permitted to remain in the area.

Reports suggest the exercise follows a directive issued on August 7, 2026, ordering the removal of structures encroaching on waterways and their buffer zones as part of broader measures to tackle flooding.

The demolition exercise affected the popular Pink Flamingo Lounge at Laboma Beach and other structures on Sunday, September 13, as the Post Flood Mitigation Taskforce intensified efforts to reclaim areas identified as falling within the protected buffer zone.

Meanwhile, Daniel M.K. Okpoti, the Board Director of Laboma Beach, has cried out that the ongoing demolition of structures at Laboma could affect the livelihoods of more than 3,000 people employed by businesses operating in the area.

He disclosed that the affected businesses provide a source of income for thousands of workers who now face uncertainty following the demolition exercise.

Mr Okpoti stressed that although authorities have a responsibility to address flooding concerns, the demolition must take into consideration its economic impact on businesses and their workers.

He further appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to intervene and halt the demolition.

The Board Director of Laboma Beach argued that alternative measures could be considered if infrastructure such as the bridge needs to be upgraded.

He stated, “We are humans, and we have created employment for people. We have employed over 3,000 people who depend on this place for their source of income. We are very disappointed with what is happening”.

“The President must intervene and call the authorities to order. They know where the water passes. If the bridge needs to be upgraded, they should do that, but the water does not flow through this area,” he said.

@ghnow_ Scenes from ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ Breaking News – DM Production
@ghnow_ Ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government’s plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – ADAAMAINA

See photos of cleared Accra-Kumasi Expressway right-of-way ahead of GAF’s handover to Mahama

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See photos of cleared Accra-Kumasi Expressway right-of-way ahead of GAF’s handover to Mahama

Photos of the 175.6km right-of-way cleared by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) for the Accra-Kumasi Expressway have been shared on social media as the military prepares to hand over the project to President John Dramani Mahama today, Monday, September 14.

According to Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, President John Dramani Mahama is expected to formally receive a 175.6-kilometre cleared right-of-way for the Accra-Kumasi Expressway today.

The handover ceremony will take place at Kwaso near Ejisu at 11: 00 am.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu announced the development in a X post, saying, “Experts define Right-of-way in road construction as  “the total width of land legally acquired and reserved for the construction, operation, maintenance, and future expansion of a road or highway.”

Tomorrow, President Mahama will preside over the formal handover of the 175.6km  Right-of-way clearance by Engineers of the Ghana Armed Forces to the Government of Ghana at Kwaso, near Ejisu, paving the way for the construction of a 198.7km Accra-Kumasi Expressway – the single largest capital investment by any Government in the history of Ghana.”

In related news, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, the Finance Minister, has announced that the Accra-Kumasi Expressway will create 30,000 jobs. 

According to Ato Forson, the Accra-Kumasi Expressway will create 30,000 direct and indirect jobs, providing work for Ghanaians.

The Finance Minister further explained that the Mahama government is investing in roads because better connections should mean better livelihoods for our people.

In a social media post on X, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson shared a flyer and wrote, “The Accra-Kumasi Expressway will create 30,000 direct and indirect jobs, providing work for Ghanaians!

We are investing in roads because better connections should mean better livelihoods for our people”.

Also, Dr Theo Acheampong, a Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Finance, has said the projected 30,000 jobs under the Accra-Kumasi Expressway is not an exaggeration.

According to Dr Theo Acheampong, the figure is a conservative estimate and should not be measured only by workers directly engaged on construction sites but also by jobs across quarrying, cement production, haulage and other services.

In a social media post, Dr Theo Acheampong wrote, “𝗖𝗔𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗔𝗖𝗖𝗥𝗔-𝗞𝗨𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗜 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗦𝗪𝗔𝗬 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗬 𝗖𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗘 𝟯𝟬,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝗝𝗢𝗕𝗦?

————————————–

1. The short answer is yes, and if anything, the figure is conservative. Let me show the math using a standard employment-content calculation.

2. First, some fundamentals. Infrastructure jobs are measured in job-years: one full-time position for 12 months. A labourer engaged for 6 months counts as half a job-year. This is how the ILO, the World Bank and every serious infrastructure agency counts construction employment.

3. Second, the DIRECT JOBS. Roughly a tenth of an expressway budget goes to on-site labour: labourers, plant operators, artisans, engineers and supervisors. For a project of this size, that is in the region of US$400 to 500 million [based on comparable projects]. Divide by the blended cost of employing one person for a year, including accommodation, transport and safety kit (about US$10,000), and you get roughly 38,000 to 48,000 direct job-years during construction. I use the lower figure of 38,000 below.

4. Third, the INDIRECT JOBS. Every truckload of aggregate from a quarry, every bag of cement, every haulage contract and every caterer is a job created by project spending. Domestic purchases of even US$1.2 to 1.5 billion support roughly 12,000 to 14,000 further job-years in QUARRYING, CEMENT, HAULAGE AND SERVICES, once the suppliers’ own suppliers are counted. Note: this excludes imported bitumen, steel and equipment, which create no Ghanaian jobs beyond port handling.

5. That gives a combined figure of about 50,000 job-years, within a plausible range of 38,000 to 70,000 depending on labour share, wage levels and import content. Averaged over a 30-month build, that is about 20,000 people employed at any one time, and because road labour turns over quickly, well over 50,000 individuals will likely earn a wage from the project before it opens.

6. So 30,000 is not an exaggeration: it is the floor [a conservative estimate].

7. The lasting employment effect will come from the logistics hubs, industrial parks and market access the corridor enables, and that is a separate calculation. Also, the indirect number depends heavily on how much is sourced locally. By my estimate, every ten percentage points of project spending shifted from imports to Ghanaian suppliers adds roughly 4,000 job-years.

8. From a policy angle, we are working on local labour and sourcing requirements in the construction contracts, apprenticeship places linked to our TVET institutions, and payroll-verified reporting of at least the direct jobs figures for auditing purposes”.

See the photos below:

@ghnow_ Scenes from ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ Breaking News – DM Production
@ghnow_ Scenes from ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ Breaking News – DM Production

‘Ghana’s hard-earned reputation must not be dented’ – MP demands probe into $260m cocaine seized in France

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‘Ghana’s hard-earned reputation must not be dented’ – MP demands probe into $260m cocaine seized in France

Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina, has called for a probe into the seizure of cocaine worth over $260 million by French authorities in a shipment from Ghana.

According to the Madina MP, Ghana’s hard-earned reputation must not be dented by the actions of a few self-serving individuals who may seek to illegally enrich themselves at the expense of the State.

He argued that the Mahama government’s failure to find the people behind the bust would mean the government would be putting its “international reputation”, which is a national asset, on the line.

Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu commended President Mahama and the Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for their efforts to project Ghana positively on the international stage, warning that Ghana’s democratic credentials and diplomatic standing must not be undermined by criminal activity.

In a post shared on Facebook on September 14, 2026, Dr Francis-Xavier Sosu wrote, “His Excellency John Dramani Mahama and the NDC Government have done commendably well in positioning Ghana 🇬🇭 as a respected global leader in diplomacy. The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has equally worked tirelessly to project Ghana 🇬🇭 onto the international stage as a country of integrity and a leader in democracy in Africa.

This hard-earned reputation must not be dented by the actions of a few self-serving individuals who may seek to illegally enrich themselves at the expense of the State. Accordingly, I believe the reported seizure by French authorities of a cocaine consignment valued at approximately $260 million must be thoroughly investigated, and any persons found culpable must be brought to book,” he wrote.

The Madina legislator added, “Ghana’s international reputation is a national asset. It must be protected through transparency, accountability and the uncompromising enforcement of the law.”

Also, Rev John Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee,  has expressed concern over a series of major international drug seizures linked to Ghana.

According to Ntim Fordjour, the international drug seizures linked to Ghana are becoming one too many.

Ntim Fordjour warned that Ghana’s reputation is being damaged with continuous international drug seizures linked to Ghana.

He argued that the latest seizure was part of a worrying pattern of large-scale drug consignments linked to Ghana.

The MP further warned that repeated seizures were damaging the country’s international reputation and reinforcing perceptions of Ghana as “a cocaine coast” and a territory tolerant of drug trafficking.

 Speaking in an interview on Channel One News on Friday, September 11. Rev. Ntim Fordjour stated, “It is becoming one too many. Our image is sinking,”

He questioned why major drug seizures linked to Ghana had not been followed by high-profile arrests and prosecutions of those responsible, referring to previous drug seizures, including a large methamphetamine shipment intercepted by Australian authorities in April 2025.

“The least of our worries are the small quantities that NACOC puts out there,” he said.

Their comment follows French customs officials having intercepted nearly 3.9 metric tonnes of cocaine, worth about $261 million, in a shipment from Ghana.

According to Reuters news, the shipment was confiscated at the northern French port of Dunkirk on Thursday, September 10, 2026.

The cocaine was concealed in 167 packages inside a container carrying plastic waste from Ghana and destined for Antwerp, Belgium.

The  3.9 metric tonnes of cocaine is allegedly linked to the criminal organisation of fugitive Dutch drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers.

Reports suggest the drugs have since been destroyed, with French prosecutors opening an investigation into the seizure.

According to French authorities, the seizure followed a targeted operation by the judicial police against a criminal network suspected of being behind the shipment, with the investigation focused on offences including the organised importation of narcotics and participation in a criminal association.

The seizure is expected to form part of the broader investigation into the movement of the cocaine from Ghana to France and the criminal network alleged to have organised the shipment.

@ghnow_ Ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government’s plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – ADAAMAINA
@ghnow_ Scenes from ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ Breaking News – DM Production

 “I am suffering, help me” – 12-year-old who lost both legs in Ofankor-Pokuase road crash appeals for support

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 “I am suffering, help me” – 12-year-old who lost both legs in Ofankor-Pokuase road crash appeals for support

A twelve-year-old identified as Angelina Stickings, who lost both legs and her father in the Ofankor-Pokuase road crash, is appealing for support.

The twelve-year-old is appealing for help to recover, regain mobility and return to school.

According to Angelina Stickings, she is suffering at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital.

In an emotional appeal, the 12-year-old called for help as she continues to endure pain at the hospital.

“I need you guys to help me. Right now my stomach is paining me… I am suffering in this hospital. You guys need to help us.”

John Stickings, the brother of the 12-year-old, also revealed that the family has been overwhelmed by the cost of her treatment.

He disclosed that about GH¢200 million has been spent on Angelina’s medical care, adding that the family is now raising funds for prosthetic limbs to help her walk again.

“We are preparing to do the leg, because sometimes she complains that she wants to go to school again. We need the government to support us. Any support to make my sister walk again.”

Meanwhile, Felix Owusu, the National Road Safety Authority’s Senior Planning Manager at the Greater Accra Office, has disclosed that the police investigations into the crash are still ongoing.

According to Felix Owusu, the driver of the tipper truck believed to have caused the crash initially fled the scene but has since been arrested and is assisting with investigations.

In related news, the GNFS has updated the numbers, revealing that eleven people died in the crash, while thirteen people have been injured and are receiving care at hospitals.

Earlier, reports suggested ten people were feared dead, with about seven unconscious after a tipper truck collided with a Sprinter bus at the Ofankor Barrier on the Accra–Kumasi Highway.

According to reports, the tragic accident happened in the early hours of Thursday, August 13, 2026.

Reports suggest the Sprinter bus was badly mangled, trapping several passengers inside and triggering a major rescue operation at the scene.

ADO1 Alex King Nartey of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), speaking on TV3 New Day, disclosed that ten bodies were found dead, with about seven unconscious.

The seriousness of the crash has required extensive rescue efforts, with emergency responders working to evacuate injured victims for medical attention.

Reports suggest one female victim, whose legs were reportedly severed in the crash, was transported from the scene by ambulance.

The GNFS described the situation as volatile as its officers worked to bring the rescue operation under control and safely extricate victims from the wreckage.

The accident has since disrupted traffic on the stretch of the highway, with the main road temporarily curtailed to allow emergency responders to operate.

Also, the GNFS has urged motorists travelling from Pokuase and Amasaman towards Ofankor and Accra to use the outer lane and exercise extreme caution when approaching the area.

@ghnow_ Scenes from ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ Breaking News – DM Production
@ghnow_ Scenes from ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ Breaking News – DM Production

See videos and photos of the demolished illegal structures along Laboma Beach

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See videos and photos of the demolished illegal structures along Laboma Beach

Aerial photos of the demolition exercise at the Laboma Beach, which began in the early hours of Sunday, September 13, 2026, in the La Dade-Kotopon Municipality have surfaced, with several structures located within the protected area also affected.

According to authorities, the affected developments fall within designated buffer zones of the Kpeshie Lagoon and are therefore not permitted to remain in the area.

Reports suggest the exercise follows a directive issued on August 7, 2026, ordering the removal of structures encroaching on waterways and their buffer zones as part of broader measures to tackle flooding.

The demolition exercise affected the popular Pink Flamingo Lounge at Laboma Beach and other structures on Sunday, September 13, as the Post Flood Mitigation Taskforce intensified efforts to reclaim areas identified as falling within the protected buffer zone.

Meanwhile, Stan Dogbe, the Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations and Chairman of the National Flood Mitigation Taskforce, has said the exercise at the Laboma enclave was not a blanket demolition of businesses in the area.

He disclosed that the exercise targeted specifically marked structures that had to be removed to allow for the dredging of silted areas within the Kpeshie Lagoon’s water-retention basin.

Stan Dogbe explained that the basin, which historically held water flowing downstream into the sea, has been affected by the destruction of vegetation.

He added that the developments have affected the flow of water from upstream towards the sea and reduced the basin’s capacity to retain floodwaters.

In a Facebook post, he wrote, “Sunday morning’s exercise by the Post Flood Mitigation Task Force and the REGSEC was not a demolition of Laboma”.

“It is these structures that the owners were alerted more than a month ago, by the REGSEC, that were pulled down on Sunday morning. Other structures and businesses have not been touched because that is not within the work scope and mandate of the Task Force,” he said.

Meanwhile, Daniel M.K. Okpoti, the Board Director of Laboma Beach, has cried out that the ongoing demolition of structures at Laboma could affect the livelihoods of more than 3,000 people employed by businesses operating in the area.

He disclosed that the affected businesses provide a source of income for thousands of workers who now face uncertainty following the demolition exercise.

Mr Okpoti stressed that although authorities have a responsibility to address flooding concerns, the demolition must take into consideration its economic impact on businesses and their workers.

He further appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to intervene and halt the demolition.

The Board Director of Laboma Beach argued that alternative measures could be considered if infrastructure such as the bridge needs to be upgraded.

He stated, “We are humans, and we have created employment for people. We have employed over 3,000 people who depend on this place for their source of income. We are very disappointed with what is happening”.

“The President must intervene and call the authorities to order. They know where the water passes. If the bridge needs to be upgraded, they should do that, but the water does not flow through this area,” he said.

@ghnow_ Scenes from ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ Breaking News – DM Production
@ghnow_ Ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – ADAAMAINA

See the photos below:

Over 3,000 livelihoods will be affected in Laboma beach demolition – Board Director cries out

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Over 3,000 livelihoods will be affected in Laboma beach demolition – Board Director cries out

Daniel M.K. Okpoti, the Board Director of Laboma Beach, has cried out that the ongoing demolition of structures at Laboma could affect the livelihoods of more than 3,000 people employed by businesses operating in the area.

He disclosed that the affected businesses provide a source of income for thousands of workers who now face uncertainty following the demolition exercise.

Mr Okpoti stressed that although authorities have a responsibility to address flooding concerns, the demolition must take into consideration its economic impact on businesses and their workers.

He further appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to intervene and halt the demolition.

The Board Director of Laboma Beach argued that alternative measures could be considered if infrastructure such as the bridge needs to be upgraded.

He stated, “We are humans, and we have created employment for people. We have employed over 3,000 people who depend on this place for their source of income. We are very disappointed with what is happening”.

“The President must intervene and call the authorities to order. They know where the water passes. If the bridge needs to be upgraded, they should do that, but the water does not flow through this area,” he said.

His comment follows the demolition exercise at the Laboma enclave that began in the early hours of Sunday, September 13, 2026, in the La Dade-Kotopon Municipality, with several other structures located within the protected area also affected.

According to authorities, the affected developments fall within designated buffer zones of the Kpeshie Lagoon and are therefore not permitted to remain in the area.

Reports suggest the exercise follows a directive issued on August 7, 2026, ordering the removal of structures encroaching on waterways and their buffer zones as part of broader measures to tackle flooding.

The demolition exercise affected the popular Pink Flamingo Lounge at Laboma Beach and other structures on Sunday, September 13, as the Post Flood Mitigation Taskforce intensified efforts to reclaim areas identified as falling within the protected buffer zone.

Meanwhile, Stan Dogbe, the Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations and Chairman of the National Flood Mitigation Taskforce, has said the exercise at the Laboma enclave was not a blanket demolition of businesses in the area.

He disclosed that the exercise targeted specifically marked structures that had to be removed to allow for the dredging of silted areas within the Kpeshie Lagoon’s water-retention basin.

Stan Dogbe explained that the basin, which historically held water flowing downstream into the sea, has been affected by the destruction of vegetation.

He added that the developments have affected the flow of water from upstream towards the sea and reduced the basin’s capacity to retain floodwaters.

In a Facebook post, he wrote, “Sunday morning’s exercise by the Post Flood Mitigation Task Force and the REGSEC was not a demolition of Laboma”.

“It is these structures that the owners were alerted more than a month ago, by the REGSEC, that were pulled down on Sunday morning. Other structures and businesses have not been touched because that is not within the work scope and mandate of the Task Force,” he said.

@ghnow_ Scenes from ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ Breaking News – DM Production
@ghnow_ Ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – ADAAMAINA

2026 SHS placement exercise extended by one week – Education Ministry

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2026 SHS placement exercise extended by one week – Education Ministry

The Education Ministry has extended the 2026 Senior High School (SHS) placement exercise by at least one week.

The one-week extension is to give students with outstanding placement issues more time to secure schools before the reopening date.

According to the Education Ministry, the extension will allow students undertaking self-placement or seeking changes to their residential status to complete the process ahead of the September 18 reopening.

They disclosed that the resolution centres across the country will remain open from Monday to Friday.

The Education Ministry noted that significant progress had already been made in resolving the challenges.

The Education Minister, press secretary Hashmin Mohammed, speaking to JoyNews, stated, “Out of the 53,887 category of self-placement students, we have had 33,726 who have been able to self-place themselves into various schools and out of 9,948 reported cases at the resolution centres throughout the country, the CSSPS Secretariat has been able to resolve 4,531 so far”.

“The resolution centres will remain active from Monday till Friday, and we are hoping that by Friday, the numbers should be able to go down because on September 18, they will report to school,” he added.

Meanwhile, Haruna Iddrisu, the Education Minister, has admitted that he is struggling with the 2026 Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS). 

The Education Minister admitted that the Education Ministry and the CSSPS secretariat have come under overwhelming pressure to respond and be responsive to the needs of Ghanaian students and parents.

He made this known while hitting back at the Minority Leader of Parliament, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, over his recent claims of a crisis in the education sector.

According to Haruna Iddrisu, the Minority Leader is exaggerating the situation for political benefits, quizzing him whether Ghana’s Educational crisis started just one and a half years ago.

He argued that the current challenges, especially the placement into SHS (Senior High Schools), are nothing new and have been happening over the last eight years when the NPP was in government.

Speaking in an interview on TV3 on Friday, September 11, 2026, Haruna Iddrisu stated, “And the crisis only happened one and a half years ago. That’s interesting. You know, for a Minority Leader, sometimes I reach out to them, and sometimes I give advice. I have always said that compromise is not a weakness, particularly in a democracy. You must give and take, and it’s important that we preserve the democratic ethos of our country.

“… The office of the Minority Leader is a very important office. So when you are not sure, don’t speak. Have you ever seen me retracting my words? No. When I speak, then I’m certain because the truth must rest with the Minority Leader,” he said.

He added, “In government, you may fumble; you may struggle because your government is inadequate. For instance, I’m struggling with placement… I would accept that we have come under overwhelming pressure to respond and be responsive to the needs of Ghanaian students and parents, justified, but it does not mean we should exaggerate it as a crisis.”

“So when the Honourable Afenyo-Markin says crisis, did that crisis start one and a half years ago? He should provide answers for that,” he added.

His comments follow Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament, raising concerns about Ghana’s education, calling for a critical national conversation to address the challenges confronting Ghana’s education system.

According to Afenyo-Markin, the latest WAEC results must concern every Ghanaian, adding that the results show that the future of our children is under serious threat.

The minority leader argued that 183,233 young people completed secondary school without obtaining a credit pass in Core Mathematics, while the credit pass rate in English Language fell to 62.40%, its lowest level in four years.

He further noted concerns over BECE candidates’ placement, where 54,985 candidates were initially denied automatic placement into senior high schools.

Afenyo-Markin argued that more than 200,000 young Ghanaians are at risk of being left behind at both ends of the secondary-school system, calling on the government to stop reacting only when problems become public.

 The minority leader urged the Mahama government to treat this as a major national crisis requiring immediate action and lasting solutions, saying,  “When our children’s education is in crisis, Ghana’s future is in danger. The time to act is now”.

@ghnow_ Nana Akuffo Addo arrives at the Burial Rite of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Scenes from ongoing demolition at Laboma beach in Accra as part of government's plans to curb flooding in Accra #GHnow #fyp ♬ Breaking News – DM Production

“Kwame Nkrumah committed some blunders; that’s why Ghana is suffering” – Retired PWD staff says

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“Kwame Nkrumah committed some blunders; that’s why Ghana is suffering” – Retired PWD staff says

A retired Public Works Department staff member, identified as Lawrence Frederick Asiamah Tenkorang, has said Ghana is suffering because of the blunders Kwame Nkrumah committed.

He argued that Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, made significant mistakes in the administration of the country after Ghana gained independence in 1957.

Lawrence Frederick Asiamah Tenkorang cited Nkrumah’s decision to retire the Western administrators who, he argued, had accumulated valuable experience in running the country after ruling for 113 years from 1844 to 1957.

Speaking in an interview with media personality Kafui Dey, where he was asked whether he liked Kwame Nkrumah, Lawrence Frederick Asiamah Tenkorang stated, “He committed some blunders, and that’s why Ghana is suffering now”.

“Administration. The Western people had administered the country for 113 years, from 1844 to 1957. So, they had 113 years of administrative experience. How they were administering the country, it was alright, fine. That’s how I saw it. The country was being administered beautifully, and they handed over power to him, Kwame Nkrumah,” he said.

He further argued that Nkrumah’s decision to retire the Western administrators who had been involved in running the country negatively affected Ghana’s administrative system.

The retired PWD explained that Nkrumah was initially the Leader of Government Business before the country adopted the presidential system, adding that after independence, Nkrumah questioned why he should continue working with the Western administrators and subsequently retired them.

“Kwame Nkrumah was the Leader of Government Business; presidency hadn’t come yet. Then, one day, he announced that he had gotten independence, so why should he be seeing the whites? He retired them all. He collapsed the administration. There were 113 years of administration, and everything was going on smoothly,” he stated.

He claimed Nkrumah’s decision to remove the experienced Western administrators amounted to a collapse of the administrative system that had been built over the 113-year period.

Lawrence Frederick Asiamah Tenkorang claimed the disruption to the system had long-term consequences for the country and remains one of the reasons Ghana continues to face difficulties today.

He also raised concerns about Nkrumah’s political activities and ideology, saying, “Kwame Nkrumah formed the CPP underground, and the Big Six didn’t know about it. Later on, I got to know Kwame Nkrumah was a Communist. He got his training from Russia, and that’s why everything he did was contrary to what Western people were practising”.

In related news, Paul Adom-Otchere, a renowned broadcaster, has boldly stated that Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, was a tyrant and terrible for Ghana.

The renowned broadcaster made these claims while commenting on the Kotoka International Airport name change debate as political score-settling.

Paul Adom-Otchere revisited Ghana’s history to justify why Kotoka was honoured, arguing that he played a heroic role at a time, he says, when Kwame Nkrumah had become a despot.

According to  Paul Adom Otchere, Kotoka was a ‘rescuer’ for overthrowing Nkrumah’s despotism. 

Paul Adom Otchere further claimed that plans to remove Lieutenant Kotoka’s name from the airport form part of a plan to restore Nkrumah’s image 100% before the 60th anniversary of his coup, which is on February 24, 2026.

Speaking on JoyNews’ NewsFile, Paul Adom-Otchere stated, “This Kotoka’s name on an important edifice like the airport is the remaining last leg of the nemesis of Nkrumah that must be taken away because they have been able to establish Nkrumah as the hero and the 100% hero since the BBC issue.

“Now, what we have been pointing out is that they started by arguing that Kotoka is a coup maker, and then that argument appears to be shifting. If you listen to Ambassador Kwesi Pratt, he was concerned that Mahama Ayariga (the Majority Leader) is turning this whole thing into a tribal matter… It’s not about a tribal matter. It is about removing the image of some coup maker,” he said.

He further highlighted that Ghanaians must know that the first president did some very bad things, which forced Kotoka to overthrow him.

Adom-Otchere added, “What we would like Ghanaians to see. And at the end of the day, the government will make its decision, and then we will have to decide whether it’s a political decision that we vote on the next time, or whatever we do.

“But we cannot ignore history. We have to make obeisance to history. The history is that from 1960 up to the time Nkrumah was overthrown in 1966, he was a despot. He was not good for Ghana. He was terrible for Ghana,” he said.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Nana Addo Danquah Akufo Addo and John Agyeman Kuffuor live at the burial rite of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ It Is Finished – Kofi Kinaata
@ghnow_ Nana Akuffo Addo arrives at the Burial Rite of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Ghana spending too much on SHS education – Haruna Iddrisu

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Ghana spending too much on SHS education – Haruna Iddrisu

Haruna Iddrisu, the Education Minister, has said Ghana is spending too much money on Senior high School education (SHS).

According to Haruna Iddrisu, Ghana must redirect greater attention and resources towards foundational learning at the basic education level.

He argued that the excessive expenditure on secondary education was one of the major setbacks left by the Akufo-Addo administration in Ghana’s education system.

The Education Minister argued that education investment should begin with the foundation, with literacy and numeracy skills necessary for their subsequent academic development.

Haruna Iddrisu argued that ensuring that children develop strong literacy skills at an early stage significantly improves their prospects of succeeding later in their education.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, September 12, Haruna Iddrisu stated, “We are spending too much on secondary education. That is major damage the previous administration did to Ghana’s education system”.

“Everywhere in the world, focus, resources, and investment must be aligned to foundational learning, basic education,” he said.

“If a child gets literacy right, that child is more likely to succeed than in any other situation,” he added.

He noted that GH¢3.4 billion is being spent on the school feeding programme, linking the expenditure to the government’s broader investment in education under the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy.

In other news, the Minister of Education has announced a new target of 2029 for the government to end the double-track system in Ghana’s senior high schools (SHSs).

Speaking at the press briefing dubbed “Government Accountability Series”, Haruna Iddrisu disclosed that Cabinet has approved a STAR-J infrastructure programme valued at 331 million.

He revealed that the programme would cover 210 senior high schools, senior high technical schools and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions across the country.

The Education Minister disclosed that the programme includes the rehabilitation of 112 senior high schools and 38 TVET institutions, the upgrading of 30 Category C schools to Category B and the conversion of 20 Category B schools to Category A.

Haruna Iddrisu stated, “That’s why we’re introducing the STAR-J initiative. By 2029, we should be done with double track with this intervention. Some of the double-track schools, it’s just furniture.

They are not asking for money. Director General of GES is here. I hear about a hundred schools. If we give them adequate furniture, they are out of double track. So it’s to coordinate the things we are doing”.

The development contradicts what President John Dramani Mahama said the government had planned to end the double-track system in senior high schools (SHSs) by 2027.

Earlier, President John Dramani Mahama reiterated his government’s commitment to ending the SHS double-track system.

According to President John Mahama, a hundred SHS schools have already reverted to single-track.

Mahama highlighted that his government is firmly committed to abolishing the double-track system entirely through a focused two-year intervention, which will be implemented this year and next year, and will eventually end the double-track system.

Speaking at the 54th National Delegates Conference of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) in Accra on Monday, January 5, President Mahama stated, “In 2025 alone, the Free SHS program received 3.5 billion Ghana cedis under the GETFund. This has been the highest allocation since its inception, and this has strengthened logistics, feeding, and learning conditions in our secondary schools”.

He added, “I’m pleased to announce that about 100 double-track schools have already reverted to single-track. And the government remains firmly committed to abolishing the double-track system entirely through a focused two-year intervention, which we call the Ghana Secondary Learning Improvement Project — GSLIP.

This project will improve access and quality and restore full-time schooling for all students. So this year, next year are implementation. By the time we finish implementing, there’ll be no secondary school implementing double-track in this country.”

See the post below:

@ghnow_ Chief Justice spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Nana Addo Danquah Akufo Addo and John Agyeman Kuffuor live at the burial rite of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ It Is Finished – Kofi Kinaata

“It is really troubling and unacceptable” – Dr Bawumia on farmers’ inability to sell produce

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“It is really troubling and unacceptable” – Dr Bawumia on farmers’ inability to sell produce

Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer for the 2028 elections, has broken his silence on the difficulties confronting Ghanaian farmers who are unable to sell their produce after harvesting.

The NPP flagbearer described the situation as really troubling and unacceptable.

According to Dr Bawumia, farmers who invest significant resources into production should not be left with unsold produce.

Dr Bawumia made the remarks on Friday, September 11, 2026, when he met the leadership of the National Seed Trade Association of Ghana (NASTAG) in Accra as part of his stakeholder policy consultations.

He stated, “It is really troubling and unacceptable that we have a situation where farmers cannot sell their produce after investing and putting in so much effort. This is not only a disincentive to farmers, but it also negatively impacts agriculture”.

The association further raised concerns about regulatory gaps in the National Seed Policy; they alleged hijacking of public seed procurement by what it described as “political seed merchants”, as well as infrastructure challenges affecting the sector.

They further raised concerns over the massive importation of food commodities including maize, rice and soybeans which has flooded the local market.

Dr Bawumia pledged that his administration would introduce sweeping reforms aimed at protecting local farmers and strengthening Ghana’s food sovereignty.

“I am very committed to agriculture. It is the key to our development, and we must put in the resources to help grow the sector. We have to benefit from what is happening in other countries, learn what research has worked in our environment, and be prepared to invest in it,” he stated.

Meanwhile, President John Mahama has revealed plans to establish a maize processing plant in the Sissala area of the Upper West Region to help address the persistent glut affecting maize farmers.

Mahama noted that the facility would provide a ready market for farmers while processing maize for domestic consumption and export.

Speaking on Saturday, September 12, during a citizens’ engagement at the University of Business and Integrated Development Studies in the Upper West Region as part of his Resetting Ghana Tour, Mahama stated, “We are going to set up a maize processing plant in the Sissala area. The plant will not only buy the maize, but it will also process the maize for the market and for export, and so I believe that this glut will become a thing of the past.”

He also announced plans to increase funding for the National Food Buffer Stock Company to allow it to purchase more surplus maize from farmers.

“Aside from that, we are increasing the amount of money that we are giving to Buffer Stock to off-take the excess maize. The problem that the Buffer Stock has had is that they don’t have enough storage, so when they buy some maize, their warehouses are all full, and they have nowhere to keep the excess maize, and so we are building silos for them in all their storage centres”, he stated.

@ghnow_ Former President Nana Akufo-Addo and his wife, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, arrive at the funeral to pay their respects to the late Mrs. Alice Serwaa Manu. #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ
@ghnow_ Chief Justice spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Video – SHS students allegedly catch teacher in suspected sexual misconduct incident

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Video – SHS students allegedly catch teacher in suspected sexual misconduct incident

A video has surfaced of some students at a senior high school (SHS) reportedly confronting a teacher identified as Sir Rey Ray over a suspected sexual misconduct incident involving a female student.

Reports suggest the student confronted the teacher after students allegedly discovered the teacher and the female student inside the laboratory at night.

In the viral video, the teacher appears shocked after being confronted by the students and was seen pleading for mercy.

The female student, meanwhile, is reportedly heard crying following the incident.

However, details surrounding the alleged incident, including the name of the school and the circumstances that led to the students discovering the pair, remain unclear.

A netizen on X sharing the videos stated, “Moment SHS students allegedly caught their teacher engaging in sexual misconduct with a female student at night in the science laboratory.

The teacher appeared shocked and was seen pleading for mercy, while the female student was crying after being caught”.

In a similar incident, some months ago the   Ministry of Education has urged the Ghana Police Service to intensify efforts to locate, arrest and prosecute the interdicted Bole Senior High School teacher.

The Education Ministry noted that the Bole SHS teacher remains at large weeks after a nationwide manhunt was launched.

On Tuesday, July 14, in a statement issued and signed by the Deputy Minister for Education, Dr Clement Abas Apaak, expressed concern over the suspect’s continued evasion of arrest.

Parts of the statement read, “The Ministry of Education urges the Ghana Police Service to, as a matter of urgency, locate and arrest the interdicted Bole Senior High School teacher, who remains at large weeks after a nationwide manhunt was announced”.

The Education Ministry cited the recent interview in which the Bole SHS Teacher called on the Ghana Education Service to transfer him to a village rather than dismiss him, adding that the interview should provide investigators with useful leads.

“We believe that with intensified efforts, including digital tracking and contacting the source which reported his flimsy excuse, the Police could successfully locate him”, the Ministry stated.

They further disclosed that the teacher’s conduct was deliberate rather than accidental.

“Information available to us indicates that contrary to what he claimed in his recent interview, his unprofessional conduct was deliberate and intentional”, it said.

The Education Ministry further alleged additional videos have been unearthed showing the teacher engaging in similar inappropriate conduct with other female students.

“Based on what we know so far, we believe that the now disgraced and interdicted teacher used his privileged position as a teacher to exploit vulnerable female students,” the statement added.

The Education Ministry statement comes on the heels of the Bole SHS teacher appealing to the Ghana Education Service (GES) and government to transfer him to a village school as punishment.

See the post below:

@ghnow_ Former President Kufuor Arrives at Mrs. Alice Serwaa Manu’s Funeral #GHNow #fyp ♬ Shadows of Suspense – Adauto Assis
@ghnow_ Hon. Alan Kyeremanten spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

‘Ghana’s economy used to stand on broomsticks; today it is standing on concrete pillars’ – Mahama brags

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‘Ghana’s economy used to stand on broomsticks; today it is standing on concrete pillars’ – Mahama brags

President John Dramani Mahama has said Ghana’s economy is resilient and capable of withstanding external shocks.

According to John Mahama, Ghana’s economy used to stand on broomsticks; but today it is standing on concrete pillars.

Mahama noted that in the past Ghana’s economy was vulnerable to developments in the global economic environment, but argued that today the economy is stabilised despite international challenges.

Speaking during his accountability engagement in Wa at the weekend as part of his #ResettingGhana Tour of the Upper West Region, Mahama stated, “In the past, Ghana’s economy used to stand on broomsticks. As soon as something happens in the world, it comes crashing down. Today Ghana’s economy is standing on concrete pillars, so even when there’s an earthquake, the country is still standing.

“This Iran-Israel-US war, if it had happened some years back, by now the economy would have come crashing down, but happily it’s been well managed,” the President explained.

Mahama, however, noted that while the economy remained stable, external developments had slowed the pace of progress expected by the Government.

According to John Mahama, his government planned to invest GH¢2.5 billion annually in five key sectors of the economy under its proposed “new economy” initiative aimed at creating jobs and opportunities for young people.

President Mahama disclosed that the Minister of Finance would unveil the initiative in the 2027 Budget Statement, with investments targeted at sectors including pharmaceuticals, agriculture and agro-processing, tourism, and power generation.

“These are not going to be government businesses. Government is not going to set up state-owned enterprises with GH₵2.5 billion a year. It is going to go to the private sector to set up the businesses,” President Mahama indicated.

Mahama further urged entrepreneurs and private sector operators to take advantage of the opportunities to expand businesses and create employment for the youth.

Meanwhile, the latest Monthly Indicator of Economic Growth (MIEG) from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has disclosed that Ghana’s economy grew by 5.1% in May 2026.

According to the stats, the pace of expansion slowed compared with the same period last year.

Part of a news article filed by Citi News stated, “The May growth rate compares with 6.6% recorded in May 2025, representing a 1.5 percentage-point slowdown.

The GSS, however, says the slower growth should not be interpreted as a contraction. It means the economy is still expanding and is larger than it was a year earlier, but at a more moderate pace.

The services sector continued to lead economic expansion, growing by 7.2% in May 2026, slightly below the 7.5% recorded a year earlier.

The sector’s performance was driven largely by information and communication, underscoring the growing contribution of digital and communications-related activities to the economy.

Agriculture grew by 3.6%, down significantly from 9.8% in May 2025”.

Also, Policy Analyst Alfred Appiah in a post stated, “Latest data from @StatsGhana shows Ghana’s economy expanded by 5.1% in May 2026, down from 6.6% in May 2025. Growth is still led by services, up 7.2%.

The monthly indicator of economic growth is an early read on the direction of quarterly GDP. Average growth in the first two months of Q2 is 4.9%, against 7% in the same period last year.

Over January to May, growth averaged 5.8% compared with 6.5% last year. The slowdown is not broad: industry actually picked up, from 3.6% to 5.8%. It is services, from 9.0% to 6.9%, and agriculture, from 4.6% to 3.4%, that have come off. The economy’s main engine is losing momentum”.

Reports suggest a sharp slowdown is significant as agriculture remains an important source of jobs and livelihoods.

@ghnow_ Former President Kufuor Arrives at Mrs. Alice Serwaa Manu’s Funeral #GHNow #fyp ♬ Shadows of Suspense – Adauto Assis
@ghnow_ Nana Addo Danquah Akufo Addo and John Agyeman Kuffuor live at the burial rite of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ It Is Finished – Kofi Kinaata

Military personnel in Bawku allegedly beat lecturer to death

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Military personnel in Bawku allegedly beat lecturer to death

Military personnel deployed to the Bawku area have allegedly beaten a lecturer at Gbewaa College of Education in Pusiga in the Upper East Region to death.

The deceased has been identified as Issaka Abdulai, who was a lecturer with the college’s Science Department.

His death was confirmed by the management of the institution in a statement issued on September 12, 2026, saying he died after an alleged incident involving military personnel on the night of Friday, September 11.

The Gbewaa College of Education, nevertheless, did not provide details about what led to the alleged assault or the circumstances surrounding Abdulai’s death.

However, Citi News reported that the lecturer was allegedly arrested while riding a motorbike during curfew hours.

Issaka Abdulai’s subsequent death triggered protests in Pusiga on Saturday morning, with residents taking to the streets to express their anger.

According to reports, some protesters blocked roads and set tyres on fire as they demanded answers over the lecturer’s death and the conduct of security personnel operating in the area.

Meanwhile, the incident has renewed concerns among residents about the treatment of civilians amid ongoing security operations in the Bawku area.

Also, the management of Gbewaa College of Education has expressed concern over the death of its staff member.

In the meantime, no official information has been released on any investigation into the alleged assault or the circumstances that led to Abdulai’s death.

In other news, some months ago, a man who brutally assaulted a Midwife at the Tema Community 22 Polyclinic has been convicted.

The convict has been identified as Desmond Bosomtwe after he physically assaulted a nurse at the Tema Community 22 Polyclinic.

Reports suggest the court sentenced Desmond Bosomtwe to a fine of 100 penalty units or 12 months’ imprisonment in default.

He has also been ordered to enter into a 12-month bond of good behaviour, pay GH¢5,000 compensation to the victim, and be barred from visiting any patient at the facility for the next 12 months.

It will be recalled that the Greater Accra Regional Health Directorate announced that the Ghana Police Service has arrested a man who brutally assaulted a Midwife at Tema Community 22 Polyclinic.

According to a statement issued by the Greater Accra Regional Health Directorate, the incident happened on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.

The Regional Health Directorate described the attack as unprovoked, adding that the midwife was carrying out her official duties.

They further disclosed that the suspect is expected to be arraigned before the court on Monday, June 8, 2026.

In a statement issued on Friday, June 5, the Greater Accra Regional Health Directorate stated, “The Greater Accra Regional Health Directorate strongly condemns the assault and battery on one of our staff at the Tema Community 22 Polyclinic, as captured in a video currently circulating on social media. The staff member, a midwife, was attacked by a patient’s family member on Tuesday, 2 June 2026, while enforcing the facility’s visiting hours policy. The attack was unprovoked.

We stand firmly behind the affected midwife and every member of staff across our facilities. They come to work to serve the public, and they must be able to do so without fear of physical harm.

We commend the Ghana Police Service for their swift response, which restored calm to the facility and led to the arrest of the individual alleged to have carried out the attack.

The accused is scheduled to be arraigned before the court on Monday, 8 June 2026. Violence against health workers will not be tolerated.

Per the directive of the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, all grievances must be channelled to the Client Service Desk, which is present in every Ghana Health Service facility. The Client Service Desk will escalate concerns to the appropriate level where the need arises. Assault is not a channel for redress, and it will not be treated as one.

We remain committed to delivering quality health services to the people of the Greater Accra Region and urge all clients to use the appropriate channels and to treat our staff with the same respect with which they are received”.

@ghnow_ Hon. Alan Kyeremanten spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Former President Kufuor Arrives at Mrs. Alice Serwaa Manu’s Funeral #GHNow #fyp ♬ Shadows of Suspense – Adauto Assis

Police officer interdicted over death of Central University Law student

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Police officer interdicted over death of Central University Law student

The Ghana Police Service has announced they have identified and interdicted General Corporal Robert Koranteng over the death of 23-year-old Central University Law student Ivan Baidoo on the Tema Motorway.

General Corporal Robert Koranteng’s interdiction follows preliminary investigations launched after a video relating to the incident went viral on social media on August 27, 2026.

The CID Homicide Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death, while the Police Professional Standards Bureau has been tasked with examining the officer’s conduct.

In a statement on Saturday, September 12, the Ghana Police Service stated, “POLICE INTERDICT OFFICER OVER DEATH OF 23-YEAR-OLD IVAN BAIDOO.

The Ghana Police Service has identified, arrested and interdicted General Corporal Robert Koranteng in connection with the death of 23-year-old Ivan Baidoo, following initial investigations into a viral video concerning the incident, which occurred on the Tema Motorway on 27th August 2026.

The Homicide Unit of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) is intensifying efforts to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident, while the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) has been tasked with investigating the conduct of the officer, who is currently in custody.

The Ghana Police Service assures the public that the matter is being thoroughly investigated and that appropriate action will be taken based on the outcome of the investigations”.

In related news, the family of Ivan Baidoo, a Level 200 law student at Central University, who died following an alleged hit-and-run accident on the Tema Motorway, is appealing to the public for information.

Reports suggest Ivan was knocked down by a vehicle on August 27, 2026, with the driver allegedly leaving the scene after the incident.

Following his death, his family has launched a public appeal for information that could help identify the driver involved and bring the person responsible to justice.

The family has placed a GH¢50,000 reward for credible information leading to the arrest and successful prosecution of the alleged culprit or culprits.

Also, the family is urging anyone who witnessed the accident or has information about the circumstances surrounding the incident to come forward.

According to the notice, information can be provided through +233 20 250 4411, with the family assuring informants that all information will be treated with strict confidentiality.

The late Ivan was pursuing his law degree at Central University.

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@ghnow_ Hon. Alan Kyeremanten spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

‘I will continue inherited policies, but not Akufo-Addo’s personal Cathedral pledge’ – Mahama

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‘I will continue inherited policies, but not Akufo-Addo’s personal Cathedral pledge’ – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has finally stated his position on the continuation of the National Cathedral project he inherited from the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration.

According to President Mahama, even though he had made a commitment to continue projects left behind by the previous administration, the National Cathedral project was different.

Mahama explained that his commitment was to continue all national projects the previous government left behind, but the National Cathedral project was a personal pledge to God made by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and not a national project.

Speaking during his Resetting Ghana Tour of the Upper West Region on Saturday, September 12, President Mahama stated, “I made a promise that every policy I inherited, I would continue it as long as it’s in the interest of the people. The National Cathedral… was not a national policy. It was a personal pledge by the former President”.

“I made a promise that every policy and every project that I inherit, I will continue it as long as it’s in the interest of the people, and I have largely done that. Almost all the projects and policies we inherited, we have continued.

“The only one is the National Cathedral, but that was not a national policy. It was a personal pledge by the former President. It was a personal pledge by the former President to God. So that one, it wasn’t national policy,” he added.

Mahama further added, “I am a Christian myself. I have nothing against having a national cathedral”.

“My second problem was that we shouldn’t use taxpayers’ money. I mean, how many Christians are in this country? If we all pay 1,000 cedis each, we should be able to construct a national cathedral,” he added.

“My principle has always been that the location has been a problem,” he said.

“So normally during ceremonies, you have the stadium not far, and that’s the way we used to go to Black Star Square. So if you go and put this major thing there again, it will constrict that whole area,” he said.

“My problem was also that the amount of destruction we had to cause to clear the area; broke 10 judges’ residences.

“We broke the Malian Ambassador’s residence. Up to now, we’ve not replaced it. And several other properties, the old passport office, all of them were demolished to make way for a national cathedral,” he said.

He further revealed that the forensic audit into the National Cathedral project had been completed and was currently with the Attorney General, disclosing that a copy would be made available to the Christian Council to enable it to examine how almost $90 million was spent on the project.

“The forensic audit is ready; it’s with the Attorney General, and I’ll make a copy of it available to the Christian Council so that they can look at the processes of what went into the expenditure of the 90 million dollars, so that if there’s any corrective action, we can take it together,” he said.

Mahama’s comment follows the  Christian Council of Ghana has announced the establishment of a technical committee to examine the future of the stalled National Cathedral project and recommend a way forward.

According to the Chairman of the Christian Council, Rev Enoch Nii Narh Thompson, the committee is expected to complete its work within a month and submit its recommendations to the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga.

Reports suggest the committee will bring together representatives from councils representing various Christian groupings, which will focus on some of the key outstanding issues, particularly the project’s funding and location.

Rev Thompson further disclosed that the Minister will study the committee’s findings before forwarding them to President John Dramani Mahama for the necessary decisions on the project.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ NAPO Arrives at Mrs. Alice Serwaa Manu’s Funeral #GHNow #fyp ♬ It Is Finished – Kofi Kinaata
@ghnow_ Hon. Alan Kyeremanten spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

“There’s absolutely no policy to introduce Arabic and Chinese” — Mahama contradict Education Ministry

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“There’s absolutely no policy to introduce Arabic and Chinese” — Mahama contradict Education Ministry

President John Dramani Mahama has rejected claims that his government has approved a policy to introduce Arabic and Chinese as subjects in Ghana’s public schools.

According to John Mahama, no such policy had been approved by Cabinet and urged the public to disregard reports suggesting that the two languages were being introduced nationwide.

Mahama’s clarifications, however, contradict the Education Ministry position who had earlier clarified that the government’s language of instruction policy for basic schools does not intend to make Arabic and Chinese languages compulsory.

On August 2, 2026, in a statement issued by Hashmin Mohammed, Press Secretary to the Minister, disclosed that in the revised basic school curriculum, Ghanaian languages will be the primary medium from Kindergarten (KG) to Primary Three and used alongside English from P4 to P6.

The Education  Ministry clarified that foreign languages such as French, Arabic, and Chinese will not be compulsory subjects but will instead be offered as optional courses for pupils who wish to acquire additional language skills, subject to the availability of qualified teachers and resources in their schools.

However, President Mahama on Saturday, September 12, during a citizens’ engagement at the University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (UBIDS) in the Upper West Region, as part of his Resetting Ghana Tour, boldly stated that,  “No such policy has been approved by the cabinet that I chair. So let’s put that matter to rest once and for all”.

Mahama further questioned the rationale for introducing Chinese at a time when Ghana was already struggling to provide enough teachers to effectively teach French.

According to Mahama, French remains particularly important because of Ghana’s proximity to several Francophone countries.

“We’re not even getting a handle on the teaching of French. Why would we go and introduce Chinese?” he asked.

Mahama further clarified that Arabic being taught in some schools is not the result of a new policy to introduce the language across all public schools.

He explained, “There is training of Arabic teachers because, in Rawlings’ time, we noticed that the Muslim communities were not sending their children to school.

They were not sending their children to school because they were afraid that their children would be converted to some other religion. So, Rawlings introduced English-Arabic schools. They allowed Arabic to be taught in those schools”.

“But there’s no new policy to introduce Arabic and Chinese in all public schools in Ghana,” he said.

Read the Education Ministry ealier statement below:

“MINISTRY OF EDUCATION CLARIFIES LANGUAGE OF INSTRUCTION POLICY FOR BASIC SCHOOLS

1. The Ministry of Education wishes to clarify the Government’s language of instruction policy for basic schools following public discussions and misconceptions regarding the use of Ghanaian and foreign languages in the country’s education system.

2. In the proposed revised curriculum, Ghanaian languages will serve as the primary medium of instruction from Kindergarten (KG) to Primary Three. This policy is intended to strengthen children’s foundational literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and overall cognitive development by enabling them to learn in a language they understand best during their formative years.

3. From Primary Four to Primary Six, both Ghanaian languages and English will be used as the medium of instruction. This bilingual approach is designed to support a smooth transition to higher levels of education, where English assumes a greater role, while preserving learners’ competence in Ghanaian languages.

4. The Ministry further clarifies that foreign languages such as French, Arabic, and Chinese, among others, are not compulsory subjects. They will be offered as optional languages for pupils who wish to acquire additional language skills, subject to the availability of qualified teachers and learning resources in their respective schools.

5. The language policy is informed by internationally accepted educational practices, which recognise that children learn best when they begin their education in a familiar language before gradually transitioning to additional languages. It also aligns with Ghana’s commitment to improving literacy outcomes, promoting multilingualism, and preserving the nation’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage.

6. The Ministry urges parents, teachers, school authorities, media organisations, and the general public to disregard misinformation suggesting that foreign languages have been made compulsory in the proposed revised curriculum.

7. The Ministry remains committed to implementing evidence-based education policies that improve learning outcomes and equip every Ghanaian child with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Signed;

Hashmin Mohammed

Press Secretary to the Hon. Minister”

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Hon. Alan Kyeremanten spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ NAPO Arrives at Mrs. Alice Serwaa Manu’s Funeral #GHNow #fyp ♬ It Is Finished – Kofi Kinaata

What Ghanaians said NPP did wrong, NDC are doing worse – Sam Pyne

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What Ghanaians said NPP did wrong, NDC are doing worse – Sam Pyne

Sam Pyne, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) First Vice Chairman aspirant, has said the problems Ghanaians criticised the NPP administration for, the NDC government is doing worse.

According to Sam Pyne, concerns over cronyism, alleged corruption, rising prices and other governance challenges raised against the NPP have worsened under the current Mahama administration.

Sam Pyne also compared criticisms of corruption under the previous NPP administration with the current situation.

He argued that the NDC had no basis to claim that the NPP’s record should prevent Ghanaians from considering the party again, noting that economic pressures, including rising prices of goods and services, are also affecting Ghanaians under the current government.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Friday, September 11, 2026, Sam Pyne stated, “What Ghanaians said that the NPP did, which was wrong, we’re having it worse now”.

“They accused the NPP of cronyism and family and friends, and it was a topical issue. I remember you had a panel here, and for weeks the running story was about President Akufo-Addo having a cabinet of his own people. What do we see now?” he asked.

“Now goods and services are skyrocketing, but they use propaganda to suppress it, and the Ghanaians are feeling the heat,” he said.

Sam Pyne further acknowledged its shortcomings and asked Ghanaians for forgiveness for areas where it fell short.

“After all, forgiveness is divine. We’ve told the world that yes, there are certain things we did not do right, and therefore we plead for forgiveness,” he added.

Meanwhile, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, an aspiring NPP communications director, has boldly stated no politician can beat the party flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the 2028 general election.

According to Miracles Aboagye, if Ghanaian voters focus on the issues affecting their lives, no politician can beat Bawumia in the 2028 elections.

He argued that the most important question for voters in 2028 would be which candidate had credible solutions to the challenges facing the country.

Speaking in an interview with Accra-based Starr FM, Dennis Miracles Aboagye stated, “When people are going to vote, they vote for the roads they don’t have. They vote for the schools they don’t have. The teacher is going to cast his vote based on what he thinks will benefit him.

The nurse, the architect, the trotro driver, the taxi driver, all these people, they are going to get up in the morning to go and cast their vote, not because of the colours.

That is why I am of the opinion, and I’m very convinced in that opinion, that in 2028, it’s not about what you did right or what you did wrong,” Mr Aboagye said.

Miracles Aboagye added, “It’s about who are the people coming to us to ask us for our votes. Now, amongst all the people asking for our vote, who amongst them is proposing solutions that address the challenges we face as of 2028?”

He further argued that the Ghanaian electorate in the 2028 election would not necessarily vote for a candidate solely based on the performance of the political party that candidate represented.

“They are going to put Dr Mahamudu Bawumia here, and put any other person also vying for president, and see who is telling us the things that will give us relief,” he said.

“And that, for me, is why we should not allow any politician, especially those in government, to create a facade and continuously distract us from paying attention to the issues,” he said.

Miracles Aboagye boldly stated that Dr Bawumia would emerge victorious if voters concentrated on the issues rather than distractions.

“I can tell you, if the Ghanaian voter should focus on the issues and pay attention, no politician can beat Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the 2028 elections,” he added.

@ghnow_ Chief Justice spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Former President Nana Akufo-Addo and his wife, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, arrive at the funeral to pay their respects to the late Mrs. Alice Serwaa Manu. #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Contribute GH¢1,000 each to build the National Cathedral – Mahama tells Christians

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Contribute GH¢1,000 each to build the National Cathedral – Mahama tells Christians

President John Mahama has said the Christian community in Ghana has the capacity to finance the construction of a National Cathedral without relying on taxpayers’ money.

Mahama argued that taxpayers’ money should not be used to fund the construction of a National Cathedral, disclosing that if Christians across the country contributed GH¢1,000 each towards the project, they could raise sufficient resources to construct the facility.

Speaking at a citizens’ engagement during his tour of the Upper West Region, President Mahama stated, “I made a promise that every policy and every project that I inherit, I will continue it as long as it’s in the interest of the people, and I have largely done that. Almost all the projects and policies we inherited, we have continued.

“The only one is the National Cathedral, but that was not a national policy. It was a personal pledge by the former President. It was a personal pledge by the former President to God. So that one, it wasn’t national policy,” he added.

Mahama further added, “I am a Christian myself. I have nothing against having a national cathedral”.

“My second problem was that we shouldn’t use taxpayers’ money. I mean, how many Christians are in this country? If we all pay 1,000 cedis each, we should be able to construct a national cathedral,” he added.

“My principle has always been that the location has been a problem,” he said.

“So normally during ceremonies, you have the stadium not far, and that’s the way we used to go to Black Star Square. So if you go and put this major thing there again, it will constrict that whole area,” he said.

“My problem was also that the amount of destruction we had to cause to clear the area; broke 10 judges’ residences.

“We broke the Malian Ambassador’s residence. Up to now, we’ve not replaced it. And several other properties, the old passport office, all of them were demolished to make way for a national cathedral,” he said.

He further revealed that the forensic audit into the National Cathedral project had been completed and was currently with the Attorney General, disclosing that a copy would be made available to the Christian Council to enable it to examine how almost $90 million was spent on the project.

“The forensic audit is ready; it’s with the Attorney General, and I’ll make a copy of it available to the Christian Council so that they can look at the processes of what went into the expenditure of the 90 million dollars, so that if there’s any corrective action, we can take it together,” he said.

Mahama’s comment follows the  Christian Council of Ghana has announced the establishment of a technical committee to examine the future of the stalled National Cathedral project and recommend a way forward.

According to the Chairman of the Christian Council, Rev Enoch Nii Narh Thompson, the committee is expected to complete its work within a month and submit its recommendations to the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga.

Reports suggest the committee will bring together representatives from councils representing various Christian groupings, which will focus on some of the key outstanding issues, particularly the project’s funding and location.

Rev Thompson further disclosed that the Minister will study the committee’s findings before forwarding them to President John Dramani Mahama for the necessary decisions on the project.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Nana Akuffo Addo arrives at the Burial Rite of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Chief Justice spotted at the funeral of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

“I’m happy and proud we’re seeing our children’s true results” – Mahama on WASSCE 2026

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“I’m happy and proud we’re seeing our children’s true results” – Mahama on WASSCE 2026

 President John Dramani Mahama has said the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results are a more accurate reflection of students’ academic performance.

According to John Mahama, he is happy and proud that Ghanaians are seeing the true results of our children now that examination malpractice has been significant reduce.

Mahama noted that the improved invigilation had helped curb the mass cheating that previously allowed some candidates to receive undue assistance during examinations.

President Mahama highlighted that performance had improved in several subjects, including Mathematics and Social Studies, adding that the improved examination controls were now exposing students’ actual level of preparedness.

Speaking on Saturday, September 12, during a citizens’ engagement at the University of Business and Integrated Development Studies in the Upper West Region as part of his Resetting Ghana Tour, Mahama stated, “One thing that I’m happy and proud of is that we’re seeing our children’s true results”.

He further alleged that some headteachers and other officials had previously connived to assist candidates during examinations, which led to students obtaining grades that did not reflect their actual abilities.

“And so today we’re seeing the real results of our children because invigilation has improved and the mass cheating in exams, you know, has been curtailed,” he said.

Meanwhile, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has released the provisional results of the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for School Candidates.

In the 2026 exams, a total of 512,862 candidates from 1,022 schools entered the examination, comprising 225,270 males and 287,592 females.

The results release saw Social Studies recorded the strongest performance among the four core subjects, with 78.04 per cent of candidates obtaining grades between A1 and C6.

Mathematics (Core) also recorded a significant recovery after a sharp decline in 2025.

The proportion of candidates obtaining A1-C6 in Mathematics increased from 48.73 per cent in 2025 to 60.75 per cent in 2026.

Also, Integrated Science performance improved, rising from 57.74 per cent in 2025 to 62.08 per cent in 2026.

However, English Language records declined, with the proportion of candidates obtaining A1-C6 in English Language falling from 69.00 per cent in 2025 to 62.40 per cent in 2026.

WAEC disclosed that its four-year performance data showed that English Language was the only one of the four core subjects to record a progressive decline during the period.

Also, the Head of Public Affairs at West African Examinations Council (WAEC), John Kapi, has said the decline in candidates’ performance in English Language in the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) was due to persistent weaknesses in grammar and poor reading habits.

According to John Kapi, the Chief Examiner’s report identified poor control of grammar, weak expression, concord errors and spelling mistakes among the major challenges of the decline in the pass rate in English Language fell from 69% in 2025 to 62.40% in 2026.

Speaking on the Joy FM Super Morning Show on Monday, September, John Kapi stated, “When you look at the Chief Examiner’s report, it talks about the candidates’ poor control of grammar. They also have an issue with expression. The concord is always a problem, and their spelling- simple spelling errors occur in a lot of their writing,” he added.

“I think then also the texts that they are supposed to read and analyse, most of them do not have a grasp of the texts and so they are unable to do a proper analysis of the text that they are supposed to have read,” he said.

“There’s also this lack of reading culture. See, reading is one of the major areas where you can pick up language, whether you like it or not,” Mr Kapi said.

He added, “We build our vocabulary, we build our sentence structure, we’re able to even gather a lot more information, knowledge that we add to whatever we know”.

@ghnow_ Nana Addo Danquah Akufo Addo and John Agyeman Kuffuor live at the burial rite of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ It Is Finished – Kofi Kinaata
@ghnow_ Nana Akuffo Addo arrives at the Burial Rite of Mrs Alice Serwaa Manu #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

BREAKING: Gospel musician Bernice Offei is dead

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BREAKING: Gospel musician Bernice Offei is dead

Bernice Offei, a Veteran Ghanaian gospel musician, has died at the age of 63.

According to reports, Bernice Offei died on Saturday morning, September 12, 2026.

Bernice Offei was a respected figure in Ghana’s gospel music industry, with a career spanning several years.

The cause of her death is yet to be confirmed.

The tragic news follows the late Bernice Offei, who was found safe after she was reported missing on September 1 in Agbogba, Accra.

A new update shared online confirms Bernice Offei has been located.

Also, appreciation was extended to everyone who shared the missing-person notice and supported the search.

Earlier,  Bernice Offei was reported missing after she was last seen in Accra on Tuesday, 1st September 2026.

According to a missing person notice cited the Sixty-three-year-old Bernice Offei is said to have been last seen at Nyaho-Tamakloe Street, Agbogba, in Accra.

Her family is appealing to the public for information that could help locate her and ensure her safe return home.

According to the notice, anyone with information about Bernice Offei’s whereabouts is urged to contact 024 878 1971 or 024 755 3431.

The public may also report any information to the nearest police station.

The late legendary Ghanaian Gospel musician was widely known for songs including “Hold On, Life Is Short, Kaashe Gbeyi, Odo A Wodo Mi Nti, Nyame Kokroko, N’adom Ara Kwa, Don Bi Rebo and Nyame Aye Bi Ama Yen”.

@ghnow_ Nana Kwadwo Safo Jr. joins the Kantanka Band to entertain Kristo Asafo members during the one-year anniversary celebration of his late father, Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka. 🎶🕊️ #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ A sister of the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka recalls her close bond with him, saying, “I breastfed Kwadwo Akofena.” 🕊️ #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

You will lose massive goodwill if you try to backpedal – Bright Simons warns Mahama gov’t

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You will lose massive goodwill if you try to backpedal – Bright Simons warns Mahama gov’t

Bright Simons, the Vice President of Policy Think Tank IMANI Africa, has warned the John Mahama government that it will lose massive goodwill if you try to backpedal on their earlier position on the National Cathedral.

In a social media post on X, Bright Simons warned the ruling NDC government not to underestimate the scale of disappointment if it tries to backpedal on the position that tax money cannot be used for a new “national cathedral”.

He warned the NDC government it will lose massive goodwill from a significant number of middle-class voters should it backpedal on their earlier position.

Bright Simons, in a post, stated, “This whole thing is becoming ridiculous!

The Ruling Party should not underestimate the scale of disappointment if it tries to backpedal on the position that tax money cannot be used for a new “national cathedral”.

It will lose massive goodwill from a significant number of middle-class voters.

Unfortunately, it will not gain the equivalent number of votes from supporters of the national cathedral.

 Those supporters have loyalties to those who initiated the program and will not be appeased by a cynical turnaround.

So, any backpedalling is NET NEGATIVE for the ruling party. It will bleed substantial goodwill.

The total lack of decisiveness comes across as serious disorganisation at the highest levels of the ruling party.

The government has had almost two years to translate a clear policy stance it took ahead of a major election into action:

a) no tax money, &

b) The Christian Community should raise their own money and build their own cathedral and bible museum.

The government should simply DECIDE whether the same land as before will be handed over to the Christian leadership or a new plot of land will be allocated.

Why should such a decision take nearly two years?

The decision of not funding the cathedral with taxmoney is sound.

 The Christian churches are rich enough to fund it.

And since the supporters of the Cathedral claim that the building will generate returns to pay for itself, they should not have any difficulty raising funds to build it.

Regarding the $97m or so of public money spent already, why has the government refused to publish the forensic audit?

Very problematic optics all around”.

His comment follows, Mustapha Gbande, the Deputy General Secretary of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), has said the party must apologise to the Akufo-Addo government if its allegations over the financing and management of the National Cathedral project are found to be wrong.

According to Gbande, the NDC has a responsibility to establish the truth behind claims it made while in opposition before supporting any move to rebuild the stalled National Cathedral project.

In a Facebook post, Gbande wrote, “If we were wrong, we must first collectively apologise to the NPP and the previous government”.

Mustapha Gbande added that he would welcome a monument built in Ghana “to the glory of God”; he, however, insisted that the NDC must uphold accountability and avoid double standards.

His post added, “I so much believe the NDC as a party will stay completely from this conversation of a national cathedral … without a complete and proper investigation”.

“At this point, the investigation is more important to the people of Ghana, angels from heaven and God himself than reconstruction and committees,” he said.

“Politics without boundaries, limits and principles is a dangerous arena,” he said.

See the post below:

@ghnow_ Shatta Wale: I Charged the Minister of Youth and Sports $250,000 to Perform #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Nana Kwadwo Safo Jr. joins the Kantanka Band to entertain Kristo Asafo members during the one-year anniversary celebration of his late father, Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka. 🎶🕊️ #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Give placement authority back to headteachers; CSSPS has failed – Former GES Director-General

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Give placement authority back to headteachers; CSSPS has failed – Former GES Director-General

Charles Aheto Tsegah, a former Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), has said the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) has failed to deliver on the fundamental challenges that have historically characterised the SHS placement.

The former Director-General of the Ghana Education Service called for placement authority to be given back to headteachers as the CSSPS has failed to deliver.

He recounted that the CSSPS was introduced largely to address concerns surrounding the manual placement system, which included allegations of corruption, favouritism and undue influence.

According to Aheto Tsegah, the computerised system has not delivered on its objectives for which it was established.

The former GES Director-General explained that before the introduction of the CSSPS, there was widespread suspicion surrounding the role of headteachers.

He recalled that headteachers were accused of corruption and other forms of manipulation, which influenced the decision to move away from the traditional system.

Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, September 12, Aheto Tsegah stated, “If you look at what informed the change to the CSSPS system, there was deep suspicion of the efforts of the headteachers. People impugned corruption and so many things and took the power away from the headteachers, and then we were thinking that we were going to use the CSSPS system with all of its algorithms to correct protocol and the whole lot of the side issues that were connected with the placement situation.

“Unfortunately, we have failed. I had the opportunity to call one of the people who led the transition and said we have failed in this whole thing because if we cannot address the key challenge that inspired us to set off to bring in the CSSPS, we have failed and we better go back and give it to the headteachers.”

Meanwhile, Haruna Iddrisu, the Education Minister, has admitted that he is struggling with the 2026 Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS).  

The Education Minister admitted that the Education Ministry and the CSSPS secretariat have come under overwhelming pressure to respond and be responsive to the needs of Ghanaian students and parents.

He made this known while hitting back at the Minority Leader of Parliament, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, over his recent claims of a crisis in the education sector.

According to Haruna Iddrisu, the Minority Leader is exaggerating the situation for political benefits, quizzing him whether Ghana’s Educational crisis started just one and a half years ago.

He argued that the current challenges, especially the placement into SHS (Senior High Schools), are nothing new and have been happening over the last eight years when the NPP was in government.

Speaking in an interview on TV3 on Friday, September 11, 2026, Haruna Iddrisu stated, “And the crisis only happened one and a half years ago. That’s interesting. You know, for a Minority Leader, sometimes I reach out to them, and sometimes I give advice. I have always said that compromise is not a weakness, particularly in a democracy. You must give and take, and it’s important that we preserve the democratic ethos of our country.

“… The office of the Minority Leader is a very important office. So when you are not sure, don’t speak. Have you ever seen me retracting my words? No. When I speak, then I’m certain because the truth must rest with the Minority Leader,” he said.

He added, “In government, you may fumble; you may struggle because your government is inadequate. For instance, I’m struggling with placement… I would accept that we have come under overwhelming pressure to respond and be responsive to the needs of Ghanaian students and parents, justified, but it does not mean we should exaggerate it as a crisis.”

“So when the Honourable Afenyo-Markin says crisis, did that crisis start one and a half years ago? He should provide answers for that,” he added.

@ghnow_ A sister of the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka recalls her close bond with him, saying, “I breastfed Kwadwo Akofena.” 🕊️ #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Shatta Wale: I Charged the Minister of Youth and Sports $250,000 to Perform #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

‘Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe now aligned with NDC; he is no longer a member of NPP’ – Nana B

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‘Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe now aligned with NDC; he is no longer a member of NPP’ – Nana B

Henry Nana Boakye, commonly known as Nana B, a First Vice National Chairman aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has said Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe, a statesman and founding member of the party, is no longer a member of the NPP.

Nana B highlighted that Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe has now aligned himself with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) following the re-election of John Dramani Mahama as President.

According to Nana B, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe is now frequently used by members of the NDC, adding that in his view, the former NPP stalwart’s public comments have consistently been critical of the party.

He argued that Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe should therefore not be considered an NPP representative whenever he speaks publicly, as his comments are critical of the NPP party.

Speaking on UTV’s morning show on September 11, 2026, Henry Nana Boakye stated, “He is not a party member. Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe is no longer an NPP member. When John Mahama became President, he came out to say that he was related to the Mahama family-wise and that he now associates with him. He said that now that Mahama is President, he is now aligned with the NDC”.

“When he speaks, he should not be considered an NPP person. It is mostly NDC people who use him. All his comments are anti-NPP. He has never commended the party for anything,” he said.

He further revealed that the NPP has formally communicated its position to Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe, informing him that he was no longer considered a member of the party.

Nana B described the situation as a forfeiture of party membership, stressing that Dr Nyaho Tamakloe was aware of the party’s position.

“We have written to him. He knows. It is forfeiture of membership; he is not a party member,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Dr Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe has said the current leadership of the party is leading the party into destruction.

According to Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe, the NPP’s failure to rebuild from the grassroots following the miserable 2024 electoral defeat undermines its core values.

Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe explained that any political party that suffers a major electoral defeat like the NPP did ought to return to the grassroots to assess what went wrong.

He stressed that the NPP should have rebuilt its structures from the bottom up, adding that it is the only path to sustainable success.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Friday, January 30, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe explained, “If we truly want to win back the soul of the party, then we must do things democratically”.

“The proper way is to organise from the grassroots to the top. That has always been the tradition of the party, but unfortunately, it did not happen.”

“A party that has been badly damaged in a general election cannot proceed the way the NPP is going now. You must go back to the grassroots, listen to them, let them tell you exactly how they feel, and allow even the broader population to understand why you failed,” he stated.

“I won’t say the party is doomed, but the leadership at the moment is leading the party into destruction,” he said.

He further cried out that the rise of “monocracy” within the party, arguing that there is no internal democracy and fair play within the party.

Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe noted that there is manipulation and imposition of candidates, arguing that such practices weaken political parties and erode public trust.

Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe added, “There are no internal democracy and no fair play. This is very dangerous,”

“There are clearly factions in the party, and whoever wins will struggle to bring the party together. We have seen this before, and it completely destroyed the party in the past,” he noted.

“If they do not know the history of the party, they should study it,” he cautioned. “We have been here before. We must be careful.”

Watch the video below:

@officialutvghana

Dr. Nyaho Tamakloe is no longer a member of the NPP. We have formally written to him, and he is now aligned with the NDC. – Nana B #UTVGhana

♬ original sound – UTV Ghana
@ghnow_ I breastfed Kwadwo Akofena because her mother used to come home late #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ A sister of the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka recalls her close bond with him, saying, “I breastfed Kwadwo Akofena.” 🕊️ #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Why has gov’t refused to publish the forensic audit on the National Cathedral? – Bright Simons

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Why has gov’t refused to publish the forensic audit on the National Cathedral? – Bright Simons

Bright Simons, the Vice President of Policy Think Tank IMANI Africa, has questioned why the John Mahama government has refused to publish the forensic audit regarding the National Cathedral.

In a social media post on X, Bright Simons warned the ruling NDC government not to underestimate the scale of disappointment if it tries to backpedal on the position that tax money cannot be used for a new “national cathedral”.

He warned the NDC government it will lose massive goodwill from a significant number of middle-class voters should it backpedal on their earlier position.

Bright Simons, in a post, stated, “This whole thing is becoming ridiculous!

The Ruling Party should not underestimate the scale of disappointment if it tries to backpedal on the position that tax money cannot be used for a new “national cathedral”.

It will lose massive goodwill from a significant number of middle-class voters.

Unfortunately, it will not gain the equivalent number of votes from supporters of the national cathedral.

 Those supporters have loyalties to those who initiated the program and will not be appeased by a cynical turnaround.

So, any backpedalling is NET NEGATIVE for the ruling party. It will bleed substantial goodwill.

The total lack of decisiveness comes across as serious disorganisation at the highest levels of the ruling party.

The government has had almost two years to translate a clear policy stance it took ahead of a major election into action:

a) no tax money, &

b) The Christian Community should raise their own money and build their own cathedral and bible museum.

The government should simply DECIDE whether the same land as before will be handed over to the Christian leadership or a new plot of land will be allocated.

Why should such a decision take nearly two years?

The decision of not funding the cathedral with taxmoney is sound.

 The Christian churches are rich enough to fund it.

And since the supporters of the Cathedral claim that the building will generate returns to pay for itself, they should not have any difficulty raising funds to build it.

Regarding the $97m or so of public money spent already, why has the government refused to publish the forensic audit?

Very problematic optics all around”.

His comment follows that of Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of State for Government Communications, who some weeks ago announced that the forensic audit report into the National Cathedral is ready.

According to Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Attorney General received the forensic audit report into the National Cathedral last Friday and is currently studying its findings to determine the appropriate next steps.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu stressed that no individual would be shielded if the forensic audit establishes wrongdoing.

He further revealed that he had not personally seen the report and would not comment on its specific findings.

Speaking on Adom TV’s Badwam, Kwakye Ofosu stated, “Deloitte and Touche audited the financial reports of the National Cathedral, which revealed financial irregularities, but it didn’t tell all the issues”.

“So we had to go further and do the forensic audit to know the people who were responsible for those irregularities and whether it was lawful or not,” he said.

“The Attorney General received the forensic audit report last Friday and is going through it to determine the next line of action,” he stated.

“I haven’t seen the report myself, and even if I have, I won’t speak to the issues because it is not time,” he said.

“But the initial report revealed that something went wrong, so the forensic will prove those responsible,” he said.

“So if anyone is indicted, I won’t be the one to say who should face the law or not. Based on the report, the Attorney General will take the necessary steps,” he stated.

See the post below:

@ghnow_ Shatta Wale has called on Stonebwoy to apologize to Sarkodie. #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Shatta Wale has taken a swipe at Stonebwoy, describing him as a “very foolish small boy.” #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

NDC owe NPP an apology if… – Mustapha Gbande on National Cathedral

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NDC owe NPP an apology if… – Mustapha Gbande on National Cathedral

Mustapha Gbande, the Deputy General Secretary of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), has said the party must apologise to the Akufo-Addo government if its allegations over the financing and management of the National Cathedral project are found to be wrong.

According to Gbande, the NDC has a responsibility to establish the truth behind claims it made while in opposition before supporting any move to rebuild the stalled National Cathedral project.

In a Facebook post, Gbande wrote, “If we were wrong, we must first collectively apologise to the NPP and the previous government”.

Mustapha Gbande added that he would welcome a monument built in Ghana “to the glory of God”; he, however, insisted that the NDC must uphold accountability and avoid double standards.

His post added, “I so much believe the NDC as a party will stay completely from this conversation of a national cathedral … without a complete and proper investigation”.

“At this point, the investigation is more important to the people of Ghana, angels from heaven and God himself than reconstruction and committees,” he said.

“Politics without boundaries, limits and principles is a dangerous arena,” he said.

Mustapha Gbande was reacting to the Christian Council of Ghana’s decision to establish a technical committee to examine the future of the National Cathedral.

According to the Chairman of the Christian Council, Rev Enoch Nii Narh Thompson, the committee is expected to complete its work within a month and submit its recommendations to the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga.

Reports suggest the committee will bring together representatives from councils representing various Christian groupings, which will focus on some of the key outstanding issues, particularly the project’s funding and location.

Rev Thompson further disclosed that the Minister will study the committee’s findings before forwarding them to President John Dramani Mahama for the necessary decisions on the project.

Speaking to journalists after a closed-door meeting with the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Reverend Enoch Nii Narh Thompson stated, “We have concluded that a technical committee will be composed by all the councils representing the various Christian groupings and that this council will, within a month, discuss all the issues regarding the practical dimensions of funding and location and any other things pertinent to the National Cathedral Project”.

“We will, within a month, present to the Honourable Minister the findings or the recommendations of this technical committee for his study and then onward forwarding to the President of the Republic for the necessary decisions to be taken,” he said.

“We are hopeful and trusting that these things will help to bring a conclusion to this matter that has lingered for a while over our national polity as a people,” Rev. Thompson said.

Earlier, the Christian Council of Ghana had told the John Mahama government to set aside political differences over the National Cathedral and revive the stalled project.

Rev. Dr Cyril Fayose, the Christian Council of Ghana General Secretary, revealed that Christians in Ghana, as well as international organisations and donor partners, remained willing to support the cathedral project.

According to Rev. Dr Cyril Fayose, government backing would be crucial to getting the project back on track.

@ghnow_ Shatta Wale has called on Stonebwoy to apologize to Sarkodie. #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Shatta Wale has called on Stonebwoy to apologize to Sarkodie. #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

IMF completely out of order – Majority Chief Whip

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IMF completely out of order – Majority Chief Whip

Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, the Majority Chief Whip, has once again called out the International Monetary Fund (IMF), accusing them of interfering in Ghana’s internal politics.

According to the Majority Chief Whip, the IMF is completely out of order and must be called to order.  

Dafeamekpor accused the IMF of exceeding its mandate with its commentary on Ghana’s governance arrangements and also holding meetings with the opposition NPP.

He further urged the IMF to respect Ghana’s constitutional and legal frameworks governing the appointment and composition of SOE boards.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Friday, September 11,  Dafeamekpor stated, “The IMF has been out against the NDC for some time, and I think that it is time we call them to order. They are completely out of order,” he said.

“They are beginning to meddle in our internal politics, and I don’t think that, as the supranational organisation, that is what they’ve been brought here to do. In a lot of jurisdictions.

I would have demanded that the Country Director be removed or transferred because we have lost trust in him. And we know the meetings he is holding with the opposition. We know the discussions they’ve been holding; we know,” he disclosed.

Earlier in a post on X, Dafeamekpor called out the International Monetary Fund (IMF), questioning them about what exactly they want from the NDC government.

Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor accused the IMF of showing political bias against the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government over their latest assessment of governance in Ghana’s state-owned enterprises (SOEs).

In a post on X, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor wrote, “1. So what exactly do these IMF Country Directors want from the NDC anytime we are in Govt?

2. I have observed rather disconcertingly, the alacrity with which the IMF criticises an NDC-Govt in respect of matters that they’ll actually facilitate for an NPP-Govt to implement.

3. Two quick major examples will suffice: Messrs Peter Mac Manu and Hackman Owusu Agyemang were Board Chairs of GPHA and Cocobod respectively under the Nana Akufo-Addo regime.

3. Obviously, the IMF didn’t know this and, of course, didn’t also the political colouration or rank of these men who led GPHA & Cocobod Boards at the time.

4. I wish to assure the IMF-Ghana Country officers that I can produce a full list of NPP Snr Ranks & MPs who served on every Board of every SOE within 2017 and 2024. I can also do so from 2001 to 2008.

5. Mr IMF Country Director, by your tainted GoldBod report a couple of weeks prior and your present report in question, tells me without doubt that you have descended into the local political arena of conflict and taken sides opposite to me.

6. You must never be trusted again as an independent and neutral supra-national financial institution.

7. As for our gold, ‘forgerrit’.  We will no longer sell it to you. You can continue to fabricate & skew our country reports with a huge anti Ndc slant.

GoldBod ad vitam !!!!”.

Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor’s post comes on the heels of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) raising a red flag over political appointments to Ghana’s State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) boards, citing specifically the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) chairman Asiedu Nketia.

According to the IMF, the politicisation of board and executive appointments at State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) could weaken corporate governance, accountability and effective oversight of the entities.

The IMF raised this concern in their report, titled “Advancing SOE Fiscal Risks Management, Financial Oversight, Governance, and Investment Implementation”, published in July 2026

@ghnow_ Shatta Wale: I Charged the Minister of Youth and Sports $250,000 to Perform #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Shatta Wale has called on Stonebwoy to apologize to Sarkodie. #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

If Ghanaians could give Mahama a second chance, Bawumia deserves one too – MP

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If Ghanaians could give Mahama a second chance, Bawumia deserves one too – MP

Kennedy Osei Nyarko, the Member of Parliament for Akim Swedru, has said Dr Mahamudu Bawumia deserves an opportunity to lead Ghana, just as President John Dramani Mahama was given another chance by voters to lead Ghana again.

The MP argued that Ghanaian voters must apply the same principle when they gave President Mahama another chance to allow Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to also contribute to the country’s development.

Kennedy Osei Nyarko noted that Dr Bawumia has not yet had the opportunity to be elected president by the Ghanaian people, contrasting it with Mahama, who previously served as president before making a political comeback and winning another mandate.

In a post on Facebook, Kennedy Osei Nyarko stated, “If Ghanaians could give President Mahama, who happens to be a former president of this country, another chance to lead this country once again, then Dr Alhaji Mahmoud Bawumia equally deserves the same chance and the opportunity to lead this country”.

“Dr Alhaji Mahmoud Bawumia is yet to be voted for by the Ghanaian people as the president of this country, unlike President Mahama who graciously served this country as a President before his recent comeback,” the MP stated.

“Every Ghanaian deserves an equal chance to contribute their quota in building this country,” he said.

In related news, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, an aspiring NPP communications director, has boldly stated no politician can beat the party flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the 2028 general election.

According to Miracles Aboagye, if Ghanaian voters focus on the issues affecting their lives, no politician can beat Bawumia in the 2028 elections.

He argued that the most important question for voters in 2028 would be which candidate had credible solutions to the challenges facing the country.

Speaking in an interview with Accra-based Starr FM, Dennis Miracles Aboagye stated, “When people are going to vote, they vote for the roads they don’t have. They vote for the schools they don’t have. The teacher is going to cast his vote based on what he thinks will benefit him.

The nurse, the architect, the trotro driver, the taxi driver, all these people, they are going to get up in the morning to go and cast their vote, not because of the colours.

That is why I am of the opinion, and I’m very convinced in that opinion, that in 2028, it’s not about what you did right or what you did wrong,” Mr Aboagye said.

Miracles Aboagye added, “It’s about who are the people coming to us to ask us for our votes. Now, amongst all the people asking for our vote, who amongst them is proposing solutions that address the challenges we face as of 2028?”

He further argued that the Ghanaian electorate in the 2028 election would not necessarily vote for a candidate solely based on the performance of the political party that candidate represented.

“They are going to put Dr Mahamudu Bawumia here, and put any other person also vying for president, and see who is telling us the things that will give us relief,” he said.

“And that, for me, is why we should not allow any politician, especially those in government, to create a facade and continuously distract us from paying attention to the issues,” he said.

Miracles Aboagye boldly stated that Dr Bawumia would emerge victorious if voters concentrated on the issues rather than distractions.

“I can tell you, if the Ghanaian voter should focus on the issues and pay attention, no politician can beat Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the 2028 elections,” he added.

@ghnow_ Shatta Wale has taken a swipe at Stonebwoy, describing him as a “very foolish small boy.” #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Shatta Wale: I Charged the Minister of Youth and Sports $250,000 to Perform #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

“I’ve never met him before” – Salma Mumin dismisses claims of dating Julius Debrah

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“I’ve never met him before” – Salma Mumin dismisses claims of dating Julius Debrah

Salma Mumin, a Ghanaian actress and filmmaker, has dismissed claims that she was in a romantic relationship with Chief of Staff Julius Debrah.

According to Salma Mumin, the allegations are completely false, disclosing that she has never seen or met Chief of Staff Julius Debrah before.

The actress explained that such an allegation could have had serious consequences if she had been in a committed relationship with another person.

She disclosed she previously preferred to remain silent whenever she faced allegations or criticism, believing that refusing to engage was the best way to handle such situations, adding that her willingness to now speak about the matter reflects a change in her confidence.

Speaking on Joy Prime on September 11, 2026, during an interview with Nikki Samonas, Salma Mumin stated, “Recently, Afia Schwarzenegger came out mentioning the name of Julius Debrah as my boyfriend. I’ve never seen the man before, I’ve never met him before, I’ve never run into him anywhere in my entire life, but I’m being tagged that I’m dating him”.

“Back then, I wouldn’t sit here to talk about it, but look at me talking about it, and that’s how confident I have been. I still believe silence is not golden. I’ve debunked it; I’m not dating Julius Debrah. I’ve never seen him before,” Salma noted.

She, however, acknowledged that her denial may not convince everyone, noting that some people could still choose to believe the allegations against her.

Salma Mumin also urged people facing similar claims to speak up and defend themselves, regardless of whether others ultimately accept their side of the story.

Her comments follow allegations by Afia Schwarzenegger on social media in 2025 alleging that Salma was dating Julius Debrah.

Afia Schwarzenegger also directed strong criticism at Julius Debrah while discussing the matter.

Her remarks consequently ignited a wider conversation, with the alleged relationship becoming part of a broader political debate on social media.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ “You’re a graduate but you slept with Abena Korkor”__ Shatta to Stonebwoy. #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Shatta Wale has taken a swipe at Stonebwoy, describing him as a “very foolish small boy.” #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

List of 41 countries Ghanaian passport holders can visit without a visa

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List of 41 countries Ghanaian passport holders can visit without a visa

The Media Relations Officer of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Fred Duhoe, in a Facebook post, has shared a list of 41 countries Ghanaian holders of ordinary passports can travel to without obtaining a visa in advance.

The list shared comprises 28 non-ECOWAS countries and the 14 other member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)

According to the list shared, most of the countries allow Ghanaian ordinary passport holders to stay for up to 90 days.

However, Grenada, Maldives and Zambia allow stays of up to 30 days.

In his Facebook post, he wrote, “GHANA HAS 60 VISA WAIVER AGREEMENTS FOR ALL PASSPORT CATEGORIES, BUT HERE ARE COUNTRIES SPECIFICALLY FOR ORDINARY PASSPORT HOLDERS

Non-ECOWAS COUNTRIES

1. Antigua and Barbuda – 90 days

2. Barbados – 90 days

3. Bahamas – 90 days

4. Dominica – 90 days

5. Kingdom of Eswatini – 90 days

6. Grenada – 30 days

7. Guyana – 90 days

8. Jamaica – 90 days

9. Kenya – 90 days

10. St. Kitts and Nevis – 90 days

11. Lesotho – 90 days

12. Mozambique – 90 days

13. Kingdom of Morocco – 90 days (Ghanaian citizens must obtain a free ETA online)

14. Maldives – 30 days

15. Mauritius – 90 days

16. Malawi – 90 days

17. Rwanda – 90 days

18. Republic of Seychelles – 90 days

19. Republic of South Africa – 90 days

20. Singapore – 90 days

21. Sao Tome and Principe – 90 days

22. Tanzania – 90 days

23. Trinidad and Tobago – 90 days

24. Uganda – 90 days

25. United Arab Emirates – 90 days (Ghanaians get visa issued at the UAE Embassy in Accra upon fee payment)

26. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – 90 days

27. Zimbabwe – 90 days

28. Zambia – 30 days

ECOWAS MEMBER STATES

29. Benin – 90 days

30. Burkina Faso – 90 days

31. Cote d’Ivoire – 90 days

32. Cape Verde – 90. Gambia – 90 days

33. Guinea – 90 days

34. Guinea-Bissau – 90 days

35. Liberia – 90 days

36. Mali – 90 days

37. Niger – 90 days

38. Nigeria – 90 days

39. Senegal – 90 days

40. Sierra Leone – 90 days

41. Togo – 90 days

See the post below:

@ghnow_ A sister of the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka recalls her close bond with him, saying, “I breastfed Kwadwo Akofena.” 🕊️ #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ “You’re a graduate but you slept with Abena Korkor”__ Shatta to Stonebwoy. #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

“I’m struggling with placement” – Education Minister admits

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“I’m struggling with placement” – Education Minister admits

Haruna Iddrisu, the Education Minister, has admitted that he is struggling with the 2026 Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS).  

The Education Minister admitted that the Education Ministry and the CSSPS secretariat have come under overwhelming pressure to respond and be responsive to the needs of Ghanaian students and parents.

He made this known while hitting back at the Minority Leader of Parliament, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, over his recent claims of a crisis in the education sector.

According to Haruna Iddrisu, the Minority Leader is exaggerating the situation for political benefits, quizzing him whether Ghana’s Educational crisis started just one and a half years ago.

He argued that the current challenges, especially the placement into SHS (Senior High Schools), are nothing new and have been happening over the last eight years when the NPP was in government.

Speaking in an interview on TV3 on Friday, September 11, 2026, Haruna Iddrisu stated, “And the crisis only happened one and a half years ago. That’s interesting. You know, for a Minority Leader, sometimes I reach out to them, and sometimes I give advice. I have always said that compromise is not a weakness, particularly in a democracy. You must give and take, and it’s important that we preserve the democratic ethos of our country.

“… The office of the Minority Leader is a very important office. So when you are not sure, don’t speak. Have you ever seen me retracting my words? No. When I speak, then I’m certain because the truth must rest with the Minority Leader,” he said.

He added, “In government, you may fumble; you may struggle because your government is inadequate. For instance, I’m struggling with placement… I would accept that we have come under overwhelming pressure to respond and be responsive to the needs of Ghanaian students and parents, justified, but it does not mean we should exaggerate it as a crisis.”

“So when the Honourable Afenyo-Markin says crisis, did that crisis start one and a half years ago? He should provide answers for that,” he added.

His comments follow Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament, raising concerns about Ghana’s education, calling for a critical national conversation to address the challenges confronting Ghana’s education system.

According to Afenyo-Markin, the latest WAEC results must concern every Ghanaian, adding that the results show that the future of our children is under serious threat.

The minority leader argued that 183,233 young people completed secondary school without obtaining a credit pass in Core Mathematics, while the credit pass rate in English Language fell to 62.40%, its lowest level in four years.

He further noted concerns over BECE candidates’ placement, where 54,985 candidates were initially denied automatic placement into senior high schools.

Afenyo-Markin argued that more than 200,000 young Ghanaians are at risk of being left behind at both ends of the secondary-school system, calling on the government to stop reacting only when problems become public.

 The minority leader urged the Mahama government to treat this as a major national crisis requiring immediate action and lasting solutions, saying,  “When our children’s education is in crisis, Ghana’s future is in danger. The time to act is now”.

In a Facebook post, Afenyo-Markin wrote, “WE NEED A CRITICAL NATIONAL CONVERSATION ON EDUCATION.

The latest WAEC results must concern every Ghanaian. They show that the future of our children is under serious threat.

Some 183,233 young people completed secondary school without a credit in Core Mathematics, while the credit pass rate in English Language fell to 62.40%, its lowest level in four years. Performance in both subjects remains below the levels recorded in 2024.

At the same time, nearly 55,000 BECE candidates were initially denied automatic placement. We are hearing reports of children wrongly placed in special schools and others arriving at their assigned schools only to find no space. Yet government’s own figures show 859,828 vacancies for 623,072 candidates, while 85 private schools participating in Free SHS also have capacity. A self-placement portal is not a school place; every child needs an actual seat in a functioning classroom.

More than 200,000 young Ghanaians are therefore at risk of being left behind at both ends of the secondary-school system.

Government must stop reacting only when problems become public. It must publish the final placement outcomes, explain the rules and pass marks applied, properly fund teaching and remedial programmes, and provide clear pathways into TVET, apprenticeships and skills training for those who did not obtain the required WASSCE credits.

Mahama government is expected to treat this as a major national crisis requiring immediate action and lasting solutions.

Ghana urgently needs an honest national conversation about educational funding, teaching quality, contact hours, teacher motivation, learning materials, infrastructure and supervision. This must rise above partisan excuses because the future of an entire generation is at stake.

The NPP expanded access through Free SHS and created Free TVET, apprenticeship and skills-development opportunities because we believe no Ghanaian child should be denied a future by poverty or one set of examination results.

The 54,985 BECE candidates need real school places; the 183,233 WASSCE graduates need a second chance.

Mr President, parents are worried, children are anxious, and teachers are under pressure.

When our children’s education is in crisis, Ghana’s future is in danger. The time to act is now”.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ A parent has expressed frustration after their son, who had Grade 9, was reportedly placed in his third-choice school. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ A sister has raised concerns after their son was placed in a school that was not among the eight schools he selected. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Ghana becoming ‘a cocaine coast’ – Ntim Fordjour

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Ghana becoming ‘a cocaine coast’ – Ntim Fordjour

Rev John Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, has expressed concern over a series of major international drug seizures linked to Ghana.

The MP stressed that the series of major international drug seizures linked to Ghana is damaging the country’s international reputation and reinforcing perceptions of Ghana as “a cocaine coast” and a territory tolerant of drug trafficking.

According to Ntim Fordjour, the international drug seizures linked to Ghana are becoming one too many.

Ntim Fordjour warned that Ghana’s reputation is being damaged with continuous international drug seizures linked to Ghana.

He argued that the latest seizure was part of a worrying pattern of large-scale drug consignments linked to Ghana.

 Speaking in an interview on Channel One News on Friday, September 11. Rev. Ntim Fordjour stated, “It is becoming one too many. Our image is sinking.”

He questioned why major drug seizures linked to Ghana had not been followed by high-profile arrests and prosecutions of those responsible, referring to previous drug seizures, including a large methamphetamine shipment intercepted by Australian authorities in April 2025.

“The least of our worries are the small quantities that NACOC puts out there,” he said.

His comment follows French customs officials having intercepted nearly 3.9 metric tonnes of cocaine, worth about $261 million, in a shipment from Ghana.

According to Reuters news, the shipment was confiscated at the northern French port of Dunkirk on Thursday, September 10, 2026.

The cocaine was concealed in 167 packages inside a container carrying plastic waste from Ghana and destined for Antwerp, Belgium.

The  3.9 metric tonnes of cocaine is allegedly linked to the criminal organisation of fugitive Dutch drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers.

Reports suggest the drugs have since been destroyed, with French prosecutors opening an investigation into the seizure.

According to French authorities, the seizure followed a targeted operation by the judicial police against a criminal network suspected of being behind the shipment, with the investigation focused on offences including the organised importation of narcotics and participation in a criminal association.

The seizure is expected to form part of the broader investigation into the movement of the cocaine from Ghana to France and the criminal network alleged to have organised the shipment.

@ghnow_ Adwoa Sarfo paid your school fees – Nana Aba Koduah to Akofena #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Nana Yaw Safo Kantanka Arrives at His Late Father’s One-Year Anniversary #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Christian Council constitutes committee to determine the future of National Cathedral

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Christian Council constitutes committee to determine the future of National Cathedral

The Christian Council of Ghana has announced the establishment of a technical committee to examine the future of the stalled National Cathedral project and recommend a way forward.

According to the Chairman of the Christian Council, Rev Enoch Nii Narh Thompson, the committee is expected to complete its work within a month and submit its recommendations to the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga.

Reports suggest the committee will bring together representatives from councils representing various Christian groupings, which will focus on some of the key outstanding issues, particularly the project’s funding and location.

Rev Thompson further disclosed that the Minister will study the committee’s findings before forwarding them to President John Dramani Mahama for the necessary decisions on the project.

Speaking to journalists after a closed-door meeting with the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Reverend Enoch Nii Narh Thompson stated, “We have concluded that a technical committee will be composed by all the councils representing the various Christian groupings and that this council will, within a month, discuss all the issues regarding the practical dimensions of funding and location and any other things pertinent to the National Cathedral Project”.

“We will, within a month, present to the Honourable Minister the findings or the recommendations of this technical committee for his study and then onward forwarding to the President of the Republic for the necessary decisions to be taken,” he said.

“We are hopeful and trusting that these things will help to bring a conclusion to this matter that has lingered for a while over our national polity as a people,” Rev. Thompson said.

Earlier, the Christian Council of Ghana has told the John Mahama government to set aside political differences over the National Cathedral and revive the stalled project.

Rev. Dr Cyril Fayose, the Christian Council of Ghana General Secretary, revealed that Christians in Ghana, as well as international organisations and donor partners, remained willing to support the cathedral project.

According to Rev. Dr Cyril Fayose, government backing would be crucial to getting the project back on track.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the newly sworn-in Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, the Christian Council of Ghana General Secretary stated, “I have mentioned in other places that the Christians in Ghana are willing to support the building of the National Cathedral, as you rightly pointed out, and we also know of international organizations and donor partners who are willing to support building it.

“What we need is the blessing of the state. We take away all the politics surrounding the building of the National Cathedral. I think it can be done by the grace of God. We have a song that says that the work is the law, so it cannot fail.

“So because it’s the law, we are going to build it. So as you come to the seat, we pray that what you said at the altar you make it come to pass,” he said.

However, Mahama Ayariga also revealed that President John Dramani Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have no objection to the National Cathedral.

According to Mahama Ayariga, the NDC government wants a consensus on the location and funding of the National Cathedral project.

Mahama Ayariga called on Christian denominations to deliberate on the project and agree on a common position before engaging President Mahama.

The Local Government Minister proposed bringing together leaders of the Catholic Church, Protestant denominations and other Christian organisations for a dispassionate discussion on the National Cathedral.

@ghnow_ Shatta Wale: I Charged the Minister of Youth and Sports $250,000 to Perform #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ A woman carrying her child on her back dances as she pays tribute to the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka during his one-year anniversary. 🕊️ #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
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