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GACL, GCAA funding airport projects from their own balance sheets – Mahama

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President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that the new GCAA control tower, refurbishment of Terminal 2, the transfer concourse between Terminals 2 and 3, and the new parking and commercial development are being funded entirely from the balance sheets of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GACL) and Ghana Airports Company Limited (GCAA).

Mahama commended the Minister of Transport and other stakeholders involved in the project for securing funding through the balance sheets of the relevant institutions instead of relying on government funding.

He further urged his appointees to take responsibility in developing Ghana by finding innovative ways to fund projects rather than relying solely on government allocations.

According to John Mahama, institutions must drive national development without asking Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson for funding.

The project is expected to feature a seven-storey car park with over 2,000 parking bays, two hotels, a pedestrian connector linking directly to the terminal, a shopping mall with a food court, retail and office spaces, as well as a sky lounge and an observation deck offering views of aircraft landings and take-offs.

Speaking during the sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of a Multi-Tiered, Multi-Purpose Car Park and Airport Hotels Complex at the Accra International Airport, President Mahama stated, “I wish to commend the Minister of Transport and all those associated with this project. This is what we want to see. Develop our country, but don’t go to Ato Forson and ask for money”.

“Let me state for the record that all these airport projects, the Ghana Civil Aviation’s new control tower, the refurbishment of Terminal 2, the transfer concourse between Terminal 2 and 3, and currently the airport’s parking lots, entertainment and hotel space, are being funded entirely on the balance sheets of the Ghana Civil Aviation Limited, that’s for the control tower, and for all these other projects on the balance sheet of the Ghana Airport Company Limited,” he said.

Also, President John Dramani Mahama backed measures by the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and other airport agencies to stop workers from soliciting or begging visitors for tips.

According to Mahama, the practice creates a negative impression of Ghana among international visitors.

He called on airport workers to uphold professionalism, discipline and hospitality.

President Mahama highlighted that every interaction between visitors and workers at the airport contributes to the country’s image, from immigration and baggage handling to traffic management and other services.

President Mahama stated, “I’m happy that the Ghana Airports Company Limited and the Civil Aviation Authority and other institutions working at the airport are taking a tough stance against soliciting and begging visitors for tips. It reflects very badly on our country”.

“Every institution and every worker at this airport contributes to Ghana’s image,” he said, adding that the welcome at immigration, efficiency in baggage handling, cleanliness and courtesy of service providers all shape visitors’ first and last impressions of the country.

It will be recalled that the GACL has already dismissed two car park workers over alleged involvement in soliciting tips from passengers as part of the broader crackdown.

Watch the video below:

@ghbrain_ LIVE | “Develop our country, but don’t go to Ato Forson for money.” — President John Dramani Mahama. President Mahama has commended the Ghana Airports Company Limited for its ability to fully fund major airport development projects from its own resources, including the construction of the Multi-Purpose, Multi-Tiered Car Park and Airport Hotels Complex. – #ghbrain ♬ original sound – GHBRAIN
@ghnow_ President Mahama cuts sod to officially break ground for new airport car park and hotel complex #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Deputy Transport Minister departs after the sod-cutting ceremony for the new airport complex. #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ

‘My job is to turn this Minority into Majority’ – Afenyo-Markin tells new Majority leader Agalga

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Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has sent a direct message to the new Majority Leader, James Agalga, but says he will miss the chamber relationship he had with Mahama Ayariga.

Afenyo-Markin assured James Agalga of his support in Parliament, but says his ultimate objective is to transform the Minority Caucus into the Majority.

According to Afenyo-Markin, he would not obstruct his counterpart but would instead provide an alternative perspective on government business.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, August 27, after Agalga formally assumed the Majority Leader position, Afenyo-Markin stated, “I am saying that you can find in me a friend. My job is not to obstruct you. My job is to offer a different lens to things you may not see”.

“I can promise you a well-researched dossier for all my debates. That I can promise you,” he added.

“My job really, my job really is to turn this Minority into Majority. That really is my job,” he stressed.

The Minority leader also cautioned Agalga against attempts to weaken or infiltrate the Minority Caucus as he begins his tenure as Majority Leader.

The development follows James Agalga officially assuming the position of Majority Leader following a communication from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin announcing changes.

Earlier, Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, had said President John Dramani Mahama’s announcement of Builsa North MP James Agalga as the new Majority Leader was not in accordance with parliamentary procedure.

Speaker Bagbin highlighted that the President does not have the authority to formally communicate a change in the leadership of a parliamentary caucus to the Speaker.

According to Speaker Bagbin, under Parliament’s Standing Orders, any change in the leadership of the Majority or Minority Caucus must be formally communicated to the Speaker by the General Secretary of the political party.

Speaking on Monday, August 24, 2026, Speaker Bagbin made the clarification, saying, “The communication says acting because the President has no authority to communicate the change of the leadership of the House to the Speaker. And so it was actually done in error. This matter has come before the House a number of times. As a result, even in our current Standing Orders, we had to define the two terms, Majority Leader and Minority Leader.

“And clearly our Standing Orders say Majority Leader means a Member of Parliament designated by the Majority Caucus as their leader in the House. And as you know, the practice is that the party, under the hand of the General Secretary, communicates that decision of the party to the Speaker,” he said.

Alban Bagbin also revealed that Agalga could only assume the position after the appropriate communication is received from the governing party.

“So the procedure today may look different. That is why you still see that the Majority Leader is still in his seat, because he’s still the Majority Leader, until otherwise communicated by the party and then decided by the caucus and the information passed on,” he added.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Safety and Security remains non negotiable – President John Mahama #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ President Mahama cuts sod to officially break ground for new airport car park and hotel complex #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

I’m happy there is a crackdown on airport workers begging visitors for tips – Mahama

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President John Dramani Mahama has backed measures by the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and other airport agencies to stop workers from soliciting or begging visitors for tips.

According to Mahama, the practice creates a negative impression of Ghana among international visitors.

He called on airport workers to uphold professionalism, discipline and hospitality.

President Mahama highlighted that every interaction between visitors and workers at the airport contributes to the country’s image, from immigration and baggage handling to traffic management and other services.

Speaking on Thursday, August 27, at the sod-cutting ceremony for the Multi-Tiered, Multi-Purpose Car Park and Airport Hotels Complex at the Accra International Airport, President Mahama stated, “I’m happy that the Ghana Airports Company Limited and the Civil Aviation Authority and other institutions working at the airport are taking a tough stance against soliciting and begging visitors for tips. It reflects very badly on our country”.

“Every institution and every worker at this airport contributes to Ghana’s image,” he said, adding that the welcome at immigration, efficiency in baggage handling, cleanliness and courtesy of service providers all shape visitors’ first and last impressions of the country.

It will be recalled that the GACL has already dismissed two car park workers over alleged involvement in soliciting tips from passengers as part of the broader crackdown.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has today August, 27, 2026, cut sod for the construction of a seven-storey multi-purpose car park and commercial complex at Terminal 3 of the Accra International Airport.

 President Mahama at the sod-cutting ceremony disclosed that government’s strategy is not merely to attract more passengers but to position Ghana as a preferred destination, transit point, and competitive aviation hub in Africa.

According to John Mahama, passenger traffic at the airport had increased from 1.8 million in 2022 to 2.5 million in 2025, emphasising the need for expanded infrastructure.

Mahama further detailed that the airport projects, including the new GCAA control tower, refurbishment of Terminal 2, the transfer concourse between Terminals 2 and 3, and the new parking and commercial development, are being funded entirely from the balance sheets of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and Ghana Airports Company Limited.

He further reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening aviation infrastructure and connectivity.

The project is expected to feature a seven-storey car park with over 2,000 parking bays, two hotels, a pedestrian connector linking directly to the terminal, a shopping mall with a food court, retail and office spaces, as well as a sky lounge and an observation deck offering views of aircraft landings and take-offs.

@ghnow_ President Mahama departs after the sod-cutting ceremony for the new airport complex. ✈️🇬🇭 #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ
@ghnow_ “The new airport complex can accommodate over 2,000 cars” — Transport Minister #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

We will take advantage of NDC’s complacency in 2028 – Miracles Aboagye 

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Dennis Miracles Aboagye, an aspiring National Communications Officer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has said if elected as the party’s Director of Communications, he will exploit the complacency within the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2028 elections.

Speaking after filing his nomination to contest the position, Miracles Aboagye pledged to strengthen the NPP’s communications machinery and position the party for the 2028 general elections.

According to Miracles Aboagye, the NDC’s confidence in its electoral prospects could create an opening for the NPP to regain ground.

“That complacency is what we need. We are going to take advantage of it,” he said.

“We are going to command the narratives,” he said.

Miracles Aboagye further disclosed that his experience serving the NPP for about 23 years will be an asset to the party’s communications efforts.

“For 23 years of my very young age, all I have done is to serve this party,” he said.

He disclosed that his approach would combine confidence, respect and passion, rather than unnecessary confrontation.

“We are going to do it with a lot of respect. We are going to do it with confidence,” he said.

“Most importantly, we are going to do what we are going to do to command every space,” he said.

In related news, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, a former President of Ghana, has urged the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to win the 2028 elections.

According to Akufo-Addo, the NPP must grab the opportunity the 2028 election presents to bring the party back to power in 2028.

Speaking with Dennis Miracles Aboagye when he visited him at his office, Akufo-Addo stated, “2028, come what may, we have to win this election. The opportunity is 2028; let’s grab it and make sure we bring an NPP government back into office”.

He further highlighted that after the internal elections, there will be a need for the party to bring everyone on board to help fight for power in 2028.

Also, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has said the party’s primary objective is to regain political power in the 2028 elections.

According to Dr Bawumia, the August 15 regional elections should not be viewed as the end of the party’s internal activities but rather as part of a broader process aimed at creating a stronger and more effective political organisation capable of winning back power in the 2028 election.

He also reminded the executives that their election should be viewed as a responsibility rather than merely a political achievement.

Dr Bawumia stated, “The goal for all of us is to win the 2028 election. This is just a stepping stone towards winning 2028. As a party, we have been engaged in an exercise of reorganisation. We have had our polling station elections, our electoral area elections, we have had our constituency elections, and we have now had our regional elections.

“We will culminate that process on October 10 with the national elections and therefore, at the end of that, the party will be in a good position to have that vehicle that drives us to victory in 2028. So there is a lot of work ahead of us.”

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Watch the ultramodern Features of the new airport complex #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ President Mahama departs after the sod-cutting ceremony for the new airport complex. ✈️🇬🇭 #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ

Young women and men stay in Ghana to work, don’t run away – Kwame Pianim

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Kwame Pianim, a Renowned economist, has urged young Ghanaian women and men to remain in the country and contribute to its economic development.

According to Kwame Pianim, Ghana should create jobs and invest in productive sectors to prevent the growing youth population from becoming a burden on the economy.

The Renowned economist urged Ghanaian youths to stay and build Ghana instead of running to other countries.

Speaking during a panel discussion at the Fidelity Bank Debt Capital Markets Conference 2026, Kwame Pianim stated, “Now that the weather is changing in Europe, they will give us free visas to go there while they come and stay here. So you and I, let’s do the right thing and be strong, and I think we will maintain this macroeconomic stability and move it forward. Otherwise, in 10 years’ time, I am gone. You and your children are here.

Make sure that this place we have called Ghana is made safe and productive for us. Our young women and men, stay here to work instead of running away, walking to other countries to add value to our raw materials in countries where nobody wants them,” he said.

Kwame Pianim also stressed the need to create jobs for the young people entering the labour market.

“You either create jobs for them so they become forces for development, or you leave them and they become destroyers,” Kwame Pianim said.

“They will be bandits, they will be armed robbers. They will not be contributing to growth,” he added.

He further issued a warning about illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, saying, “If the galamsey continues, there is nothing you do, you won’t have water. You are not rich enough to import avian water to drink, and the genetic make-up of our women is being destroyed. So let’s focus on that. Clean it up. The next war will be fought over water, where the water is and when the West moves in, they will push us to the arid areas,” he emphasised.

However, Ghanaian media personality Nana Aba Anamoah has sparked a debate on social media, calling on her follow, country men and women to seize any opportunity to relocate abroad legally for work.

According to Nana Aba Anamoah, should a Ghanaian get the opportunity to leave this country legally and work legally, they should take it without looking back.

In a post on X, Nana Aba Anamoah on July 30, 3036 wrote, “If you get the chance to leave this country legally and work legally, take it.  Don’t look back”.

The veteran journalist’s post has since ignited debates on social media, with many X users sharing their opinions, saying, “I wonder why people know the truth and still doubt it. We have friends who left the country earlier, and now they’re all rich men.

Those of us who haven’t got the chance to move outside are struggling here; the Lady is right”.

Another X user added, “Any politician never thinks about the best welfare for its citizens.

They perceive having your best welfare in mind when in opposition and never think about that when they gain power.

Looting upon looting”.

“I won’t fault her because it’s captured in the conditions of service of the majority of our top public institutions like president, veep, judges, etc to go abroad for their leave. Ei, they can’t do their leave here but abroad.

That’s where I realised we were sold a fake dream”, an X user added.

A netizen added, “Very true. She’s not wrong at all. Relying on “hope” and “it will get better” year after year while basic systems fail every single day gets exhausting.

If a clear, legal path opens up to build a stable life elsewhere, grab it with both hands.

Survival shouldn’t be a daily struggle”.

A netizen added, “I think our leaders are taking us for granted.

Some political appointees don’t even have any idea of what their position or scope of work entails. They just appoint people based on their influence and charisma. Mtchew”.

“If we all stay and aim to better our country by ending corruption &other criminal junks that kill the system, then there will be no need to go overseas to labour& pay heavy taxes that are conditioned on foreigners.  ” It’s just that our currency is weak; otherwise, there is less money”, a netizen added.

@ghnow_ Safety and Security remains non negotiable – President John Mahama #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Watch the ultramodern Features of the new airport complex #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

2027 deadline for ban on ‘takeaway’ packs must be maintained – Dr Zanetor

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Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the Minister-designate for Environment, Science and Technology, has urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to maintain the January 1, 2027 deadline for the ban on Styrofoam or takeaway packs.

According to Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, environmental dangers associated with the widespread use and disposal of polystyrene products are too significant to be overlooked.

She highlighted that the proposed ban on polystyrene foam products is necessary to address Ghana’s growing waste management challenges.

Speaking on Thursday, August 27, 2026, when she appeared before Parliament’s Appointments Committee for her vetting as Minister-designate for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings stated, “I believe that the EPA, just a couple of days ago, was actually in Kumasi raising awareness on the impending ban on styrofoam. I believe that the dangers around the use of polystyrene cannot be glossed over, and it has to be done.

“Not to belittle the issue, but I remember as children, when you wanted to go for Auntie Naa’s rice, you took your own pot to go and buy the rice, and I am not sure at which point putting plastic within plastic became the norm, and I think it comes down to a change in behaviour.

“Obviously, behaviour change is something that can take time, but it can be incentivised, or you can put penalties in place. It comes down to how we enforce the ban and the seriousness with which we seek to address this. I stand by the fact that the ban timeline has to be maintained.”

Also, Dr Zanetor proposed CSIR funding for plant-based alternatives to plastics.

“What I believe can be done in addition to this is to channel some funding towards the CSIR,  so that they can actually look into biological alternatives, for example hemp, for example cassava,” she said.

“We have a lot of plant produce that can be used to make plastic alternatives which can break down and don’t actually persist in the environment.”

“I believe that once again with regards to the issue around plastic waste, it’s an all-of-government, all-of-society approach,” she said.

Meanwhile, the  Ghana Plastic Manufacturers Association urges the government to delay the planned 2027 Styrofoam ban until 2030.

According to the Ghana Plastic Manufacturers Association, the ban on  Styrofoam products must be in a phased transition.

In a GHOne news card, the Ghana Plastic Manufacturers Association stated, “Ghana Plastic Manufacturers Association urge government to delay planned 2027 Styrofoam ban until 2030, calls for phased transition”.

The development follows the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) announcing the ban on all polystyrene foam products, popularly known as “Styrofoam” or “Takeaway Packs,” in Ghana, effective 1st January 2027.

According to the EPA, the ban covers all forms of expanded polystyrene foam products used for human and commercial activities.

This includes “food packaging containers and takeaway packs, disposable cups and plates, foam packs used by restaurants, chop bars and food vendors, ceiling and insulation materials, foam mattresses and bedding materials, and packaging and cushioning materials”.

The EPA, however, exclude EPS products specifically intended for medical, scientific, laboratory, and diagnostic purposes, subject to applicable regulations.

@ghnow_ President Mahama departs after the sod-cutting ceremony for the new airport complex. ✈️🇬🇭 #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ
@ghnow_ Safety and Security remains non negotiable – President John Mahama #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

‘2028 come what may NPP have to win this election’ – Akufo-Addo

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Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, a former President of Ghana, has urged the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to win the 2028 elections.

According to Akufo-Addo, the NPP must grab the opportunity the 2028 election presents to bring the party back to power in 2028.

Speaking with Dennis Miracles Aboagye when he visited him at his office, Akufo-Addo stated, “2028, come what may, we have to win this election. The opportunity is 2028; let’s grab it and make sure we bring an NPP government back into office”.

He further highlighted that after the internal elections, there will be a need for the party to bring everyone on board to help fight for power in 2028.

In related news, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has said the party’s primary objective is to regain political power in the 2028 elections.

According to Dr Bawumia, the August 15 regional elections should not be viewed as the end of the party’s internal activities but rather as part of a broader process aimed at creating a stronger and more effective political organisation capable of winning back power in the 2028 election.

He also reminded the executives that their election should be viewed as a responsibility rather than merely a political achievement.

Dr Bawumia stated, “The goal for all of us is to win the 2028 election. This is just a stepping stone towards winning 2028. As a party, we have been engaged in an exercise of reorganisation. We have had our polling station elections, our electoral area elections, we have had our constituency elections, and we have now had our regional elections.

“We will culminate that process on October 10 with the national elections and therefore, at the end of that, the party will be in a good position to have that vehicle that drives us to victory in 2028. So there is a lot of work ahead of us.”

Also, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), the New Patriotic Party (NPP) 2024 running mate, has said if the party do not win the 2028 general election, they cannot win the 2032 election.

According to NAPO, if the NPP do not fight for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to become running mate, no one will come after him.

Speaking to some NPP members in a viral video shared on social media, NAPO stated, “If the NPP do not fight for Dr Bawumia to come, no one will come after him. If you think I am telling lies, don’t do it. If we do not win the 2028 we cannot win the 2023 election.

So if somebody comes to tell you that someone wants to lead in 2032, shame them”.

Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh further disclosed that he could have picked up forms to contest in the NPP presidential primaries, but he will never stand unless Dr Mahamudu Bawumia become president.

NAPO added, “I have said it on the radio: I can pick forms in the NPP, but if I have not helped Dr Bawumia to become President, I will never stand”.

@ghnow_ Safety and Security remains non negotiable – President John Mahama #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ President Mahama departs after the sod-cutting ceremony for the new airport complex. ✈️🇬🇭 #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ

Mahama cuts sod for new multi-storey airport car park and commercial complex

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President John Dramani Mahama has today August, 27, 2026, cut sod for the construction of a seven-storey multi-purpose car park and commercial complex at Terminal 3 of the Accra International Airport.

 President Mahama at the sod-cutting ceremony disclosed that government’s strategy is not merely to attract more passengers but to position Ghana as a preferred destination, transit point, and competitive aviation hub in Africa.

According to John Mahama, passenger traffic at the airport had increased from 1.8 million in 2022 to 2.5 million in 2025, emphasising the need for expanded infrastructure.

Mahama further detailed that the airport projects, including the new GCAA control tower, refurbishment of Terminal 2, the transfer concourse between Terminals 2 and 3, and the new parking and commercial development, are being funded entirely from the balance sheets of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and Ghana Airports Company Limited.

He further reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening aviation infrastructure and connectivity.

The project is expected to feature a seven-storey car park with over 2,000 parking bays, two hotels, a pedestrian connector linking directly to the terminal, a shopping mall with a food court, retail and office spaces, as well as a sky lounge and an observation deck offering views of aircraft landings and take-offs.

In a post on X, Felix Kwakye Ofosu detailed, saying, “President Mahama is famed for his investments in mega, world-class infrastructure.

He delivered Terminal 3 at the Accra International Airport, the massive MPS Terminal at the Tema Harbour, and found $ 400 million for the Tema to Mpakadan Rail Project, among others.

He returns to the Accra International Airport on Thursday, 27th August, to cut sod for this new Multi-Tiered, Multi-Purpose Carpark and Airport Hotels Complex with the following features.

* 7 Storey Carpark

* 2 Hotels

* A pedestrian connector to the terminal

* 2000+ Carpark bays

* A Shopping Mall with food court, retail spaces and office spaces for rental

* A sky lounge for entertainment

* A sky observatory for Aircraft viewings – landings and take-offs”.

@ghnow_ Safety and Security remains non negotiable – President John Mahama #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Watch the ultramodern Features of the new airport complex #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Revealed – Mahama Ayariga married to Sunyani West MP, Millicent Amankwah Yeboah

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Mahama Ayariga, the Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs and outgoing Majority Leader of Parliament, has confirmed he is married to another legislator, the MP for Sunyani West, Millicent Amankwah Yeboah.

Appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee for his vetting as part of the process leading to his possible approval as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

The appearance of Millicent Yeboah at the vetting of Mahama Ayariga, particularly her sitting position, ignited rumours of her being involved with the Majority Leader.

Mahama Ayariga, during his vetting, confirmed that Millicent Yeboah was his wife.

During his vetting, when asked who he trusted the most by Minority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, Ayariga said, “With my recent marriage, my wife,” pointing at the Sunyani East MP.

Also, the Chairman of the Appointment Committee of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, at the end of the vetting, introduced Millicent Yeboah as the wife of the Majority Leader.

Reports indicate that even though the marriage might be recent, the couple have been together for a long time, as they are reported to have two children.

Meanwhile, Mahama Ayariga, has pledged to mobilise funds for the construction of the abandoned National Cathedral if the project receives the backing of the Christian community and President John Dramani Mahama.

Mahama Ayariga stated, “I believe that Ghanaians are deeply religious even though constitutionally, we are regarded as a secular state. I believe that having cathedrals, church buildings, mosques and other worshipping centres are great and exciting things that enable the practice of religions.

“And so in my opinion, I don’t think there is anything wrong with having a national cathedral for the Christians of the country. And if you are talking about the National Cathedral that Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo initiated when he was president, I don’t see anything wrong with it. I think it was a good idea that was badly executed. I personally had issues with the location.”

“I want to assure this House that if I am approved, I will engage the leadership of the Christian Community and if they want to still have it, I will engage with the President and if it is his wish, I will mobilise funds [for] its construction,” he said.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ President Mahama cuts sod to officially break ground for new airport car park and hotel complex #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

“You’re a troublesome boy” – Mahama Ayariga hilariously tells Afenyo-Markin

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Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga has hilariously described Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin as his “troublesome” reflecting on their often heated but cordial exchanges in Parliament.

The outgoing Majority leader, Ayariga, made the remarks when Mr Afenyo-Markin asked him to describe him during his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27, 2026.

Mahama Ayariga, describing Afenyo-Markin as a “troublesome boy!” burst the whole gathering into laughter, including Archbishop Duncan-Williams, who was seated behind him.

He, however, later described the Minority Leader as a person of integrity and honesty and thanked him for the forthrightness with which he dealt with him.

“I’ve come to know you as a person of integrity and honesty. And I want to thank you for the forthrightness with which you have dealt with me as the Majority Leader,” Mr Ayariga said.

“I honestly, honestly enjoy your friendship. I enjoyed your friendship, and I do appreciate that,” he said.

“You never give up. Even when you are lying down, you’ll be shouting, ‘When I get up, you will see me,’” he said.

He further expressed hope that his successor as Majority Leader would develop a similar working relationship with Mr Afenyo-Markin.

“I hope that you and my successor will find common ground the same way,” he said.

During the vetting, Mahama Ayariga also confirmed he is married to another legislator, the MP for Sunyani West, Millicent Amankwah Yeboah.

Appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee for his vetting as part of the process leading to his possible approval as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

The appearance of Millicent Yeboah at the vetting of Mahama Ayariga, particularly her sitting position, ignited rumours of her being involved with the Majority Leader.

Mahama Ayariga, during his vetting, confirmed that Millicent Yeboah was his wife.

During his vetting, when asked who he trusted the most by Minority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, Ayariga said, “With my recent marriage, my wife,” pointing at the Sunyani East MP.

Also, the Chairman of the Appointment Committee of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, at the end of the vetting, introduced Millicent Yeboah as the wife of the Majority Leader.

Reports indicate that even though the marriage might be recent, the couple have been together for a long time, as they are reported to have two children.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ President Mahama cuts sod to officially break ground for new airport car park and hotel complex #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ
@ghnow_ President Mahama cuts sod to officially break ground for new airport car park and hotel complex #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

BREAKING – More woes for Wontumi as GH¢30m EXIM Bank case heads to trial

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The Accra High Court has ordered the prosecution to file disclosures within 14 days after plea bargain negotiations in Chairman Wontumi’s alleged GH¢30 million EXIM Bank fraud case ended without an agreement.

Reports disclosed that the negotiations ended after the State rejected a proposal put forward by Wontumi’s legal team.

Following the failure to reach an agreement, the Accra High Court ordered the prosecution to file its disclosures within 14 days.

The disclosure process requires the prosecution to provide the defence with the evidence and documents it intends to rely on at trial.

Wontumi’s alleged GH¢30 million EXIM Bank fraud case will now move forward, with the prosecution expected to file its disclosures within 14 days.

Earlier,  Dr Justice Srem Sai, the Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice, revealed that the Bernard Antwi Boasiako, commonly known as Chairman Wontumi, EXIM Bank trial will continue despite ongoing settlement negotiations.

According to the Deputy AG, negotiations have not been abandoned, but the government has decided not to suspend the trial.

Speaking in an interview on Morning Starr, Dr Srem Sai stated, “We, as prosecutors, have decided to proceed with the trial while we continue negotiations on the side”.

He disclosed that the decision was communicated to Wontumi’s lawyers after two meetings between the parties, adding that ongoing negotiations had not produced an agreement acceptable to the state.

The Deputy Attorney General also revealed that a GH¢12 million settlement proposal falls significantly below what the bank expects to recover.

According to Srem Sai, accepting an amount substantially below the alleged losses would not be prudent, particularly after assessing the evidence and circumstances surrounding the case.

He disclosed that the government does not believe it would be appropriate to accept less than half of the losses allegedly caused simply to allow the accused to walk free.

“The 12 million you mentioned, if indeed he said that, then 12 million is far below what even the bank expects to get,” he said.

“They know what to do if they want that situation to change. We have told them what to do if they want that situation to change,” he said.

It will be recalled that Chairman Wontumi was slapped with fresh charges over a GH¢30m Exim Bank loan case.

He was slapped with fresh charges, including fraud by false pretence.

Wontumi, Thomas Antwi-Boasiako (at large) and Wontumi Farms Limited are facing four counts of charges per the charge sheet filed on Friday, May 15, 2026.

The charge sheet filed on Friday, May 15, 2026, signed by Deputy Attorney General Dr Justice Srem-Sai, detailed that “Chairman Wontumi is personally facing three of the four counts of the charge of defrauding by false pretence, contrary to Section 131 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29); uttering of a forged document, contrary to Section 169 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29); and money laundering, contrary to Section 1(2)(c) of the Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2020 (Act 1044)”.

“Together with Thomas Antwi-Boasiako and Wontumi Farms Limited, they are facing the charge of intentionally causing financial loss to a public body, contrary to Section 179A(2) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29)”, Starr FM stated.

@ghnow_ Live: President Mahama cut swod for ultramodern airport complex #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ
@ghnow_ UTV and Asempa Narrative to sack NLA CEO stems from him giving the draw rights to GTV #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Abu Trica waives speedy trial right in $8 million romance fraud case

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Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica, a Ghanaian socialite and influencer, has reportedly waived his right to a speedy trial in the United States in the alleged US$8 million romance fraud case against him.

According to American journalist and Investigative reporter Larry Miller, Abu Trica appeared before Judge John Adams on August 25, 2026, alongside prosecutors and his new defence lawyer, with the hearing lasting about 10 minutes.

Larry Miller also disclosed that the judge classified the case as a complex case, meaning the evidence and legal issues involved require more time for both sides to prepare.

The American journalist and Investigative reporter also disclosed that Abu Trica waived his right to a speedy trial, giving his defence team and the prosecution more time to prepare the case.

He explained that Abu Trica’s waiver means given up his right to have the case heard within the normal timeframe required under the US speedy trial rules.

He further disclosed that no plea deadline or trial date was set during the latest hearing, with the dates expected to be determined at a later stage.

Meanwhile, the next court hearing has been scheduled for November 3, 2026, at 11:30 am.

In related news,  Abu Trica is facing up to 20 years in prison if convicted of alleged $8 million romance scam and money laundering charges in the United States.

The United States prosecutors have alleged that Abu Trica defrauded over 80 elderly victims of more than $8m in a romance scam.

According to a statement issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio following Kumi’s extradition from Ghana to the United States to face charges, Abu Trica used artificial intelligence-driven technology and fake online identities to orchestrate a romance scam.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office revealed that luxury vehicles and properties allegedly acquired by Abu Trica, revealed that his mansion and other assets have been seized by US authorities.

They disclosed that Abu Trica, who has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy, faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Parts of the report stated“…After being misled by false stories of gold or diamond inheritances, the victims sent money via wire transfer to financial accounts controlled by conspiracy members. Portions of the funds were further provided to co-conspirators in Ghana and elsewhere. Kumi and other co-conspirators used money mules based in Ghana and contacts in the Ghanaian immigrant community in the U.S. to launder millions of dollars through fake businesses and bank accounts.

“Kumi allegedly used his ill-gotten gains to acquire luxury vehicles and other items of value. Assets seized by international law enforcement partners included a mansion in Ghana, a Lamborghini, a Tesla Cybertruck, a Mercedes-Benz, and a BMW”, the report stated.

“Kumi has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy. Additionally, his ill-gotten gains are subject to forfeiture. Kumi faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment.

If convicted, each defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after a review of factors unique to the case, including each defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, his role in the offence, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentences will not exceed the statutory maximum, and in most cases, they will be less than the maximum”, it added.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ President Mahama cuts sod to officially break ground for new airport car park and hotel complex #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ President Mahama cuts sod to officially break ground for new airport car park and hotel complex #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ

‘I will mobilise funds for the construction of the National Cathedral if…” – Mahama Ayariga

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Mahama Ayariga, the Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, has pledged to mobilise funds for the construction of the abandoned National Cathedral if the project receives the backing of the Christian community and President John Dramani Mahama.

According to Mahama Ayariga, the National Cathedral was a good idea, but badly executed.

Appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee for his vetting as part of the process leading to his possible approval as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, he stated, “I believe that Ghanaians are deeply religious even though constitutionally, we are regarded as a secular state. I believe that having cathedrals, church buildings, mosques and other worshipping centres are great and exciting things that enable the practice of religions.

“And so in my opinion, I don’t think there is anything wrong with having a national cathedral for the Christians of the country. And if you are talking about the National Cathedral that Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo initiated when he was president, I don’t see anything wrong with it. I think it was a good idea that was badly executed. I personally had issues with the location.”

“I want to assure this House that if I am approved, I will engage the leadership of the Christian Community and if they want to still have it, I will engage with the President and if it is his wish, I will mobilise funds [for] its construction,” he said.

In the meantime, the long-awaited forensic audit report into the National Cathedral project has been completed and submitted to the Attorney General for review.

Dr Dominic Ayine, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, has said the John Mahama government should complete Agenda 111 rather than spend money on the National Cathedral.

According to the Attorney General, the Akufo-Addo government could have used funds committed to the National Cathedral to complete some Agenda 111 hospital projects.

Speaking during the district launch of the Free Primary Health Care programme in the Bolga East Constituency in the Upper East Region on Thursday, August 13, 2026, Dr Ayinr stated, “…I have been on the neck of my colleague, the Health Minister, to ensure that it is completed. Today, I have to compel him by the powers vested in me as Attorney General of the Republic to disclose to me the list of districts that have been included in the Agenda 111 completion project programme, and when he asked his people to pull it up there, Bolga East, Zuarungu was listed on it”.

“Mr President, it is better to complete Agenda 111 than to spend money on a National Cathedral,” he said.

He further disclosed that he has a report prepared by audit and consulting firm PwC on the National Cathedral, adding that the findings had reinforced his concerns about the resources committed to the project.

Dr Ayine questioned the manner in which the National Cathedral project was undertaken, arguing that the construction of a religious facility should have taken a different approach.

“The PwC report on the National Cathedral was presented to me last Friday. The monies spent on the National Cathedral from that report could have been used to complete some Agenda 111 Hospitals.

“You don’t build a house of God in the manner in which they went about it,” he said.

@ghnow_ President Mahama cuts sod to officially break ground for new airport car park and hotel complex #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ President Mahama cuts sod to officially break ground for new airport car park and hotel complex #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ

“$1.7bn ‘loss’ merely a book accounting issue, not a significant loss to the nation” – IEA

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Professor Alexander Bilson Darku, the Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), has rejected the attribution of a GH¢1.7 billion loss under the Bank of Ghana’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme to the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod).

According to the IEA, the GH¢1.7 billion represents revenue and foreign-exchange valuation differences rather than an actual loss to the institution.

He disclosed that the reported amount comprised service fees, assaying fees and foreign-exchange valuation differences arising from the GoldBod’s purchasing and export operations.

Professor Alexander Bilson Darku argued that the figure included service fees, assaying fees and foreign exchange valuation differences, adding that the Bank of Ghana paid GoldBod service and assaying fees for work done on behalf of the Central Bank, making those payments revenue for GoldBod.

He disclosed that about  90% of the reported GH¢1.7 billion was mainly linked to exchange-rate valuation differences.

The IEA explained that changes between the exchange rate used to buy gold and the rate used to value the proceeds could appear as a loss in the Bank of Ghana’s accounts.

Speaking at the IEA’s assessment of the 2026 mid-year budget review on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, Professor Alexander Bilson Darku stated, “I don’t understand why somebody would call revenue a loss. It is merely a book accounting issue, and not a significant loss to the nation”.

“For the GoldBod, those two components of the loss are from a revenue perspective; it is a cost to the Central Bank who paid them”.

“To the Government, its monetary authority, which is the Central Bank, has made that loss. To the Government, its Gold Board has made that gain,” he said.

The IEA further commended the Government for achieving significant macroeconomic stabilisation, saying, “The IEA thinks that the Government has done well to achieve some reasonable macroeconomic stability, and most of the macro-indicators have moved in the right direction within a relatively short period of time”.

“The question is whether we have the courage to consolidate those gains into lasting economic transformation that includes the lives of every Ghanaian.”

“To achieve this, he called for stronger agricultural investment, employment-led growth, increased local processing of natural resources, reforms to the natural-resource regime, and the transformation of GoldBod from a gold trader into a strategic asset manager.”

Meanwhile, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, a former Sekondi MP, has fumed at what he describes as double standards in Ghanaian politics in the ongoing debate over $1.7 billion losses incurred by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) linked to the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod).

According to Andrew Egyapa Mercer, it is unfair for political actors to condemn BoG losses under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration while defending similar losses under the NDC government.

He recounted that under the Akufo-Addo administration, the BoG had been criticised for incurring losses while supporting the economy during the domestic debt exchange programme (DDEP), yet similar actions to support the currency were now being defended.

Speaking on Asempa FM, Andrew Egyapa Mercer stated, “The kind of politics we do in this country gets really disgusting sometimes. So it’s okay today for the Bank of Ghana to make a loss to prop up or stabilise our currency, right? But only three or four years [ago], it was terrible for the Bank of Ghana to incur losses during the domestic debt exchange programme to save the economy of Ghana.”

“Let’s not bastardise it to the point we do when we want power. Because, ultimately, when the shoes get on the other foot, and you become the victim, huge [damaging] press conferences will be the response. Let’s be led by truth”.

Also, Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, has revealed that the House will scrutinise the reported US$1.7 billion loss, equivalent to about GH¢22 billion, recorded under the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP).

According to Speaker Bagbin, the scrutiny will help determine whether the reported US$1.7 billion represents an actual financial loss or a policy cost.

Speaker Bagbin revealed that a motion received by his office on August 21, 2026, and would be admitted for consideration.

Speaking in parliament, Alban Bagbin stated, “With the motion they have filed, which was received in my office on the 21st of August, 2026, just three days ago, I have gone through the motion myself and I intend to admit the motion because we have to at least have an end to litigation as to whether it’s a loss or it’s a cost”.

“This House will have the opportunity to go through it. And please, Ghanaians are very intelligent people. They will listen, they will read in between the lines and they will make their decisions,” he added.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Live: President Mahama arrives for the sod-cutting ceremony of the ultramodern airport complex ✈️🇬🇭 #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ President Mahama cuts sod to officially break ground for new airport car park and hotel complex #GHNow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ

“Asanteman suffers the most whenever NDC comes to power” – Chairman COKA

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Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, popularly known as COKA, the newly elected Ashanti Regional Chairman of Ghana’s opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), has said the people of Asanteman suffer the most when the National Democratic Congress (NDC) are in power.

Chairman COKA raised concerns over the rising cost of living and high tariffs, which he says are making life increasingly difficult for residents, particularly in the Ashanti Region.

He noted that the people in the region often suffer when the NDC is in power and called on traders to remain steadfast and support the NPP as the party works to regain power.

Speaking in a viral video, Chairman COKA stated, “Asanteman suffers the most whenever the NDC comes to power. I can see the sadness on your faces; they don’t buy your goods. Everything has become expensive”.

Some Ghanaians reacting to Chairman COKA’s claims stated, “Does it mean when they were in power for 8yrs they made sure they bought everything the Asanteman sold ?. What did you do for Asanteman when you were in power? What will you do if, by mistake, we elect you someday? Should be what you discuss. Ei NPP is power obsessed paa oo”.

One X user added, “But the same Asanteman decided to vote for the NDC. Shall we question why? Is it because the former NPP Ashanti regional minister couldn’t mention a single project by the NPP for 8 years? Is it because he only mentioned ‘Auntie Rebecca baby and mother unit’? lol Next joke please”.

A netizen added, “Ooh Boss, I thought you were bringing something new to the table, not knowing you’re such a moron.

How does NPP being in power improve the selling of goods?

Good governance: everyone wears fine ready-made fabrics, not second-hand goods. People can afford better and not depend on near-expiry products sold in Kumasi; individuals could travel to China to buy goods. Tell your people to optimise and modernize their goods because the old system of goods and services is outdated.

Don’t forget people shop daily on TikTok 😂😂😂

Learn ooo learn NPP”.

One last X user added, “And this is supposed to be the largest, finest opposition party ooo, I will not be surprised if a third force overtakes them in the near future cus with this kind of nonsense “entitlement ” mentality is this, this is really pathetic and funny at the same time…”.

“I thought he was the only credible person left in NPP, not knowing that he’s Wontumi reincarnated. Common market your party couldn’t complete for 8yrs in power, yet you have the effrontery to make such a statement”, a netizen added.

In other news, Paul Afoko, an aspiring National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has said the party will return to power and remain in government for more than eight years.

According to Paul Afoko, the NPP must be united, calling on party members not to be divided based on the candidates they supported.

He disclosed that the NPP must strengthen its structures at the constituency and polling station to recapture power and stay in power to not only break the eight but also the twelve.

Speaking to NPP supporters after filing nomination to contest NPP National Chairmanship, Paul Afoko stated, “We have to re-organise and strengthen the party and the foundation, which is the constituencies, the polling stations, because that is where power lies, and then we will recapture power, and we will stay in power, and we will not only break the 8; we will break the 12”.

“There cannot be one NPP for those who supported candidate A and another NPP for another candidate. There cannot be an NPP of the powerful and another NPP for the forgotten grassroots. There is only one NPP ethic, and everybody must have a place in it,” he noted.

“If you elect me as chairman of the party, I will come into office with no enemies. There is nobody that I want to punish,” he stated.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Hon. Hawa Koomson has filed her nomination to contest the NPP National Women’s organizer #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Live: President Mahama cut swod for ultramodern airport complex #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ

“BoG doesn’t respond to incompetence” – Isaac Adongo tells Minority

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Chairman of Parliament’s Finance Committee, Isaac Adongo and a board member of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) have replied to the NPP minority in parliament over their calls for the Central Bank to speak to $1.7 billion DGPP losses.

According to Isaac Adongo, the Bank of Ghana does not respond to incompetence from the Minority.

Speaking in an interview with GHOne TV, Isaac Adongo stated, “Bank of Ghana doesn’t respond to incompetence; you have no analytical conversation; all you are discussing is fighting for your survival because the Central Bank is delivering value.

Let me tell you, today, we are paying our external debts without borrowing to build reserves? Do you know that we are paying our IPPs without borrowing to build reserves? Do you know that importers are getting access to critical foreign currency without borrowing to build reserves? So why should the Central Bank be responding to an incompetent conversation? We have a lot of work to do”.

Meanwhile, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, a former Sekondi MP, has fumed at what he describes as double standards in Ghanaian politics in the ongoing debate over $1.7 billion losses incurred by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) linked to the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod).

According to Andrew Egyapa Mercer, it is unfair for political actors to condemn BoG losses under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration while defending similar losses under the NDC government.

He recounted that under the Akufo-Addo administration, the BoG had been criticised for incurring losses while supporting the economy during the domestic debt exchange programme (DDEP), yet similar actions to support the currency were now being defended.

Speaking on Asempa FM, Andrew Egyapa Mercer stated, “The kind of politics we do in this country gets really disgusting sometimes. So it’s okay today for the Bank of Ghana to make a loss to prop up or stabilise our currency, right? But only three or four years [ago], it was terrible for the Bank of Ghana to incur losses during the domestic debt exchange programme to save the economy of Ghana.”

“Let’s not bastardise it to the point we do when we want power. Because, ultimately, when the shoes get on the other foot, and you become the victim, huge [damaging] press conferences will be the response. Let’s be led by truth”.

Also, Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, has revealed that the House will scrutinise the reported US$1.7 billion loss, equivalent to about GH¢22 billion, recorded under the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP).

According to Speaker Bagbin, the scrutiny will help determine whether the reported US$1.7 billion represents an actual financial loss or a policy cost.

Speaker Bagbin revealed that a motion received by his office on August 21, 2026, and would be admitted for consideration.

Speaking in parliament, Alban Bagbin stated, “With the motion they have filed, which was received in my office on the 21st of August, 2026, just three days ago, I have gone through the motion myself and I intend to admit the motion because we have to at least have an end to litigation as to whether it’s a loss or it’s a cost”.

“This House will have the opportunity to go through it. And please, Ghanaians are very intelligent people. They will listen, they will read in between the lines and they will make their decisions,” he added.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Hon. A.K Thompson appeals to Ghanaians to bring back Dr Bawumia to transform Ghana #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Hon. Hawa Koomson has filed her nomination to contest the NPP National Women’s organizer #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

You owe Minority Leader an apology – Jerry Ahmed Shaib reminds JOYNEWS

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Jerry Ahmed Shaib, the Member of Parliament(MP) for Weija-Gbawe and Deputy Minority Chief Whip, has reminded JOYNEWS that they owe the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin.

Speaking on the Asaase Breakfast Show, Jerry Ahmed Shaib raised wider concerns about media standards and accountability in Ghana following a disputed JoyNews report.

Jerry Ahmed Shaib stated, “When there is also the belief or the perception that people are being paid, it becomes more worrying that people have become demigods. They are becoming untouchable”.

According to Jerry Ahmed Shaib, JoyNews must not only remove the report but also apologise to the Minority leader.

“They don’t just need to pull it down. They need to apologise,” he said.

His comment comes on the back of Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who called out Multimedia group JOYNEWS, accusing them of publishing misinformation while ordering the media house to pull down their publication.

According to Afenyo-Markin, reports that he has been summoned by his colleagues on the NPP minority caucus are untrue.

 The Minority leader disclosed that he was the one who summoned his colleagues for their Caucus meeting, as is routinely done ahead of every Meeting of Parliament, to strategise and coordinate our parliamentary business.

He further ordered the multimedia group to “pull down the misinformation on your website and correct the record”.

In a post on X in reaction to JOYNEWS publication, Afenyo-Markin stated, “myjoyonline.com,

Stop the misinformation!

Stop the misinformation!

Stop the misinformation!

Your report that I have been summoned is untrue.

On the contrary, ahead of the reconvening of Parliament, I have summoned my colleagues for our Caucus meeting, as is routinely done ahead of every Meeting of Parliament, to strategise and coordinate our parliamentary business.

This is a regular practice of the Caucus and should not be misrepresented as anything else.

Joy FM, pull down the misinformation on your website and correct the record”.

JOYNEWS had earlier reported that the NPP caucus had summoned him to answer questions concerning Sammy Gyamfi’s extortion allegation against him.

The report alleged that the NPP minority considered the allegations serious and is demanding answers from their leader.

According to reports, pressure from some members led to the meeting being scheduled for this morning, ahead of Parliament’s sitting later in the afternoon.

Afenyo-Markin, during the meeting, will be allowed to respond to questions from his colleagues and clarify the circumstances surrounding the allegations.

Reports suggest the main agenda of the meeting centred on the business of parliament prior to the recall, but the caucus had considered the allegations against their leader and would most likely raise them at the meeting as “other matters.”

@ghnow_ Live: President Mahama cut swod for ultramodern airport complex #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ
@ghnow_ Hon. A.K Thompson appeals to Ghanaians to bring back Dr Bawumia to transform Ghana #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

“My own party opposed my Abossey Okai relocation plan over election fear” – Henry Quartey

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Henry Quartey, the former Greater Accra Regional Minister, has revealed how his own party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), rejected his plan to relocate spare parts dealers at Abossey Okai in his bid to transform the area into a modern West Africa Automobile Hub.

According to Henry Quartey, he travelled to Dubai, where he studied how the city had developed its automobile spare parts market.

Henry Quartey noted that Dubai also has a commercial hub similar to Abossey Okai, but unlike Ghana’s spare parts hub, Dubai’s spare parts hub was clean and well organised.

He disclosed that after he visited Dubai, he engaged the chiefs, traditional leaders and some shop owners at Abossey Okai about relocating the spare parts dealers and transforming the area into a modern automobile hub.

According to him, the traditional leaders and some of the stakeholders welcomed the idea and were happy about the proposed development, adding that his own party, the NPP, opposed his vision over fears of losing the election in the area.

Speaking in an interview on Neat FM, Henry Quartey stated, “I travelled to Dubai, and I went there to do a good study of what they have. Dubai also has a place like ‘Abossey Okai’, but you would not see even a drop of engine oil on the floor. They have shelves made of metal where they place engines and other second-hand spare parts. So, when you get there, the place is very neat”.

“I wanted to develop the place into a modern hub where the shop owners could have proper planning, because as the place is now, shop owners don’t even have washrooms there. I spoke to the traditional leaders, and they thought it was a beautiful idea. But then my own party went and said that if we touched Abossey Okai, we would lose the election. Didn’t we lose Ablekuma South? We lost,” he stated.

Some Ghanaians reacting to his comments stated, “Politics has destroyed everything in this country, and it’s sad! This was a very brilliant idea, and our own people stood against it”.

A TikToker added, “This man wanted to bring sanity, but dem no allow am”.

One last netizen added, “Politicians have the solutions to all the problems we are facing in this country, but they will simply NOT do it because of the selfish interest of one or two people! It’s very sad”

In other news, Henry Quartey has called for the removal of tricycles from Accra’s roads.

According to Henry Quartey, the rapidly increasing numbers of tricycles could soon overwhelm the city’s streets if urgent action is not taken.

The former Greater Accra Regional Minister warned that the proliferation risks turning the capital into a congested city like Mumbai, India, within five years.

Speaking in an interview with Neat FM on August 25, 2026, Henry Quartey stated, “I remember an NDC member who is now a minister questioning me over the use of aboboyaa on our roads.

Tell me the impact we have gained from using these tricycles. Why do we have to allow these tricycles on our streets? Mark these words down. If we don’t stop the use of these tricycles, give me five years, Accra will be like Mumbai.”

He continued, “Just yesterday, I was using the Adjoriganor road and right in front of the road to former President Rawlings’ house, there were over 40 parked tricycles there, and it kept me wondering.”

Watch the video below:

@swaytv2 I relocated the onion sellers from Agbogbloshie to Adjen Kotoku, but I couldn’t continue with the exercise because some people within the party opposed it. They believed the relocation would make the affected people vote against the party.” — Hon. Henry Quartey, Former Greater Accra Regional Minister #SwayTV #foryoupage #viralvideo #trendingvideo #NeatFM ♬ original sound – SWAY TV
@ghnow_ Hon. A.K Thompson appeals to Ghanaians to bring back Dr Bawumia to transform Ghana #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Live: President Mahama cut swod for ultramodern airport complex #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ

NDC will collapse if we allow an open election to choose a presidential candidate – Mustapha Gbande

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Mustapha Gbande, a Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has said the party could potentially collapse if they allow an open election to choose a presidential candidate for the 2028 general election.

According to Mustapha Gbande, allowing an open internal election to select the party’s presidential candidate for the 2028 election could potentially create divisions within the NDC and eventually lead to its collapse.

He argued that the NDC should consider allowing its Council of Elders to select a candidate and honour the person they believe deserves the opportunity to lead the party into the 2028 general election.

Speaking to media personality Roselyn Feli, Mustapha Gbande argued,  “I am against voting in the next election. Choosing the presidency. I’ll tell you, if the NDC jokes and allows us to open for freeway election as the NPP does, by the time we come back our party will collapse. Take it from me. I’m talking out of what I know”.

“I’m cautioning and pleading with our people that at certain times, it is not about rights, it’s about wisdom, and that everybody’s time will come…I’m saying that NDC must be an organisation whose story is that we honour the ones that deserve to be honoured. And so when it is your time, it should be your time,” he stated.

He further recounted how Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang was honoured by rising through the ranks to become a minister and later the country’s first female vice president.

“Look, Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman, before 2012, she was an IEA moderator. He said on air that I am not a member of the NDC. Fast forward, as destiny has it, she became a minister of education and performed very well. She became the first female vice president. That is honouring her,” he stated.

Mustapha Gbande, when asked whether he aspired to become president one day, stated, “If I become a president, it will be a very difficult thing, because a lot of the things that I see, I won’t allow it, and it will be like every minister will go for six-month military training.

Every DCE will be trained. You see, when you have security training, your brain functionality is very hard, and it tames and filters you from a very lazy attitude and lazy thinking,” he said.

He further stated: “And that is one of the things affecting us as a country. And so if I become president, you don’t have a room to place yourself first. You can’t. So I don’t aspire to be a president.”

In other news, a new poll conducted ahead of the 2028 general elections has revealed that the former Vice President and Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, currently leads all potential National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidates.

The survey was conducted by Africa Policy Lens from July 27 to August 7, 2026, and interviewed 16,963 voters across all 276 constituencies, testing Dr Bawumia in seven assumed one-on-one contests.

The Africa Policy Lens disclosed that across all the matchups, Dr Bawumia secured between 45.7 per cent and 49.9 per cent of national voter support.

Dr Bawumia led Johnson Asiedu Nketia, 45.8 per cent to 42.4 per cent; Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, 45.7 per cent to 42.8 per cent; and Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, 45.9 per cent to 41.5 per cent.

They further disclosed that the NPP flagbearer margins were wider against Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, whom he led 47.4 per cent to 40.2 per cent, and Dr Julius Debrah, 48.4 per cent to 37.9 per cent.

Also, Dr Bawumia’s largest leads were recorded against Hon. Eric Opoku, 49.8 per cent to 33.9 per cent, and Prof. Joshua Alabi, 49.9 per cent to 34.4 per cent.

According to the Africa Policy Lens, undecided voters ranged from 7.2 per cent to 9.3 per cent across the different matchups.

They further disclosed that the survey revealed Dr Bawumia won between nine and eleven of Ghana’s sixteen regions in every matchup tested.

However, Africa Policy Lens stressed that the survey should not be viewed as a prediction of the outcome of the 2028 election.

According to them, the survey is a reflection of public opinion at the time the survey was conducted.

The report stated, “Although the findings should be interpreted as a reflection of public opinion at a particular point in time rather than as a prediction of future electoral outcomes, the consistency of Dr Bawumia’s advantage across all hypothetical contests constitutes a noteworthy pattern”.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Live: President Mahama cut swod for ultramodern airport complex #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ
@ghnow_ Hon. A.K Thompson appeals to Ghanaians to bring back Dr Bawumia to transform Ghana #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

“Hand over to Bawumia if you can’t run the gov’t” – Minority tells Mahama

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The Minority in Parliament has told President John Dramani Mahama to hand over power to the NPP flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to lead the country if he cannot run the government.

According to the Minority, the Speaker of Parliament and the Majority are wasting valuable parliamentary time despite the Speaker’s emergency recall of the House.

The Minority said the Speaker rudely recalled them for recess, wasting three out of the five days for the emergency meeting of Parliament as key businesses for the recall stall.

Dr Mahama Tiah Abdul Kabiru, the Member of Parliament for Walewale, speaking on behalf of the Minority, called on the government to show greater seriousness and commitment in conducting its business in Parliament.

He further urged the Mahama government to hand over to Dr Bawumia if there is no direction or leadership in their government.

Speaking to journalists after the House adjourned, Dr Mahama Tiah Abdul Kabiru stated, “If there is no direction or leadership in this government, they should better hand over to Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to lead us so that we can get government business ongoing”.

Dr Mahama Tiah Abdul Kabiru added, “The Speaker ‘rudely’ recalled us from our recess where we were engaging with our constituents as part of our civic and parliamentary responsibility to the people of Ghana.

Even though we in the Minority had other businesses of equal importance, i.e. a motion filed by the Minority to investigate the losses that have been occasioned by GoldBod, the Speaker was very clear on Monday that he wanted to limit the business of the House to those matters that necessitated the recall of Parliament.

We reluctantly agreed. But you have seen that today is the third day of the five days we were recalled to sit. Effectively, we have wasted about 75% of the time,” he said.

He added, “I am seeing a situation where the government want us to rush through a single day of everything. That has been very characteristic of this government. That is not democracy.

Even when they were going to address you, they didn’t have numbers to come stand and explain why they are adjourning the house. The minority we are here in our numbers to support them to do the government business; yet still the government is at large”.

Also, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, the Minority Chief Whip, challenged the Majority Caucus to explain its failure to execute government business despite the emergency recall.

However, First Deputy Majority Whip Comfort Doyoe has blamed the delay on ministerial vetting by the Appointments Committee.

She disclosed that concerns raised by the Minority over the short notice had affected the schedule.

Comfort Doyoe stated, “We called the house to come and sit and work, and we are working, so why are they complaining? There are a series of committee meetings and other things concerning the vetting of the two ministers and the judges.

If we don’t recall this house and they vet the ministers, there will be nobody to approve them to go back to their sector ministries to work on their budgets. So that’s the main reason why we are here.

If not because the Minority was complaining too much, they would have started the vetting yesterday, we approved them today, then tomorrow we do two or three businesses. Friday, we adjourn early to join Speaker at the Kumasi Sports Stadium,” she said.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ NDC will not be fooled by calls from NPP to sack NLA Boss – Joshua Sika Nartey, Central Regional PRO, NLA #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ UTV and Asempa Narrative to sack NLA CEO stems from him giving the draw rights to GTV #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

‘Gov’t can crush galamsey; but we are not angry enough’ – Presby Moderator

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Rt. Rev. Dr Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, has said the government can crush illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, if they want to.

According to the Presby Moderator, the government must demonstrate the political will needed to end galamsey.

He argued that the government has the authority and capacity to tackle Ghana’s galamsey menace, calling for decisive action to be taken.

Speaking in an interview with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV’s The Point of View on Wednesday, August 26, Rt. Rev. Dr Kwakye stated, “All of us are aware that this nation is in a direction that is not going to help us. The communities where mining is taking place are getting destroyed. And our waters are polluted. And we spend huge amounts of money to treat water”.

“I think that government has the political power. It also has the might to crush galamsey. If government wants to crush galamsey, government is able to.”

“I pray that this nation will rise up together. It looks like we are not angry enough to deal with it. Whatever the problems, let’s deal with galamsey because it affects me. It affects you,” he said.

“We sit in Accra; there’s no galamsey going on here, but we are all reaping from what is happening in these places,” he said.

The Presbyterian Moderator further called for a bipartisan approach to tackling illegal mining.

“We are not partisan. We are looking at the welfare and development of our nation,” he said.

“What we are seeking is for this nation to do what is right. And for this nation to be united. And that is why we are asking for a bipartisan approach. It’s important that we save ourselves,” he said.

“The water that is polluted does not ask whether your lips are NDC or New Patriotic Party. They don’t seek your partisan colours,” he said.

‘I want results, not just a state of emergency’

He, however, expressed reservations about calls for the declaration of a state of emergency to deal with illegal mining, saying, “I think it’s getting worse when people say they want a state of emergency. I personally, I do not know what they mean. A state of emergency might be declared, and it may not yield fruit”.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has said his government will not give up in the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Mahama argued that Ghana is making progress in the fight against illegal mining.

According to John Mahama, the government will intensify efforts to reclaim forest reserves and other environmentally sensitive areas affected by illegal mining activities.

He highlighted that the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has played a key role in the ongoing efforts.

Speaking during his Resetting Ghana Tour of the Upper East Region, Mahama stated, “NAIMOS is working very hard. We have seized excavators, we have seized Changfang machines, and we have driven illegal miners out of this area, and we are making progress. Out of the almost 49 forest reserves that were invaded [by illegal miners], we have been able to clear as many of them as possible of illegal miners.

“What we initially did was that we handed the places to the Forestry Commission after clearing them, but the illegal miners don’t fear the forest guards, and so we now put a military detachment after we clear a forest reserve.

“That means we will have to spend more money to feed the soldiers and provide logistics for them to continue to stay in the forest, but we will not give up the fight.”

The president, however, admitted that additional resources are required to sustain security deployments in reclaimed forest reserves, adding that the government would remain committed to preventing illegal miners from returning to areas already cleared.

@ghnow_ UTV and Asempa Narrative to sack NLA CEO stems from him giving the draw rights to GTV #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ NDC will not be fooled by calls from NPP to sack NLA Boss – Joshua Sika Nartey, Central Regional PRO, NLA #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Heartbreaking: Ghanaian lady dies in China two days after arriving to pursue master’s

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A former Vice President of the Association of Students of English (ASSENS) at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) in 2024, Mercy Yaaba Bredu, has died in China.

Reports suggest Mercy Yaaba Bredu died shortly after collapsing at the airport after arriving from Ghana.

Mercy Yaaba Bredu, a first-class student, travelled to China with plans to further her education and explore opportunities in the country.

According to reports, she left Ghana on Monday, August 24, 2026 and was seen off by friends and family members at the Accra International Airport before her departure, with her flight reportedly departing at about 1:30 p.m.

The information gathered suggest during the journey, Mercy reportedly complained of heart pain.

However, shortly after arriving in China, she suddenly collapsed at the airport while receiving a bouquet of flowers.

Reports suggest she was subsequently rushed to a hospital for medical attention.

Nonetheless, despite efforts to save her, she died on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, just two days after leaving Ghana.

Mercy Yaaba Bredu’s sudden death has left her family, friends, former colleagues and members of the ASSENS community in shock and grief.

In other news, months ago, A Ghanaian graduate student, identified as Samuel, reportedly died in a car crash south of Centerville, South Dakota.

According to reports, Samuel was pursuing a Master’s degree in English Language and Literature Studies at the University of South Dakota.

Reports suggest the tragic accident occurred on Friday, January 16, when he was travelling southbound in a Subaru sedan on Highway 19.

The news shared by the social media account EBHUB read, “A Ghanaian graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree in English Language and Literature Studies at the University of South Dakota, US has reportedly died in a car crash south of Centerville, South Dakota.

The deceased, identified as Samuel, was travelling southbound in a Subaru sedan on Highway 19 on Friday, January 16, when he entered an intersection and was struck by a Ram pickup truck”.

Some Ghanaians reacting to the tragic news stated, “Wow… after all the hard work and dedication, this tragic incident happened. May his soul rest in peace.

I pray for the safety of all our loved ones abroad as they go out and return home”.

“You can be the best driver in the world, and you’ll be on the same road with idiots ah”, a netizen added.

“Really sad. Imagine your mum telling the whole community that my son is abroad.

Only for this thing to happen”, one more Ghanaian added.

@ghnow_ Hon. A.K Thompson has filed his normination form to contest for NPP National Treasurer position #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – kwame983
@ghnow_ UTV and Asempa Narrative to sack NLA CEO stems from him giving the draw rights to GTV #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

‘It’s okay today for BoG to make losses, but under Akufo-Addo it was terrible’ – Egyapa Mercer fumes

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Andrew Egyapa Mercer, a former Sekondi MP, has fumed at what he describes as double standards in Ghanaian politics in the ongoing debate over $1.7 billion losses incurred by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) linked to the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod).

According to Andrew Egyapa Mercer, it is unfair for political actors to condemn BoG losses under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration while defending similar losses under the NDC government.

He recounted that under the Akufo-Addo administration, the BoG had been criticised for incurring losses while supporting the economy during the domestic debt exchange programme (DDEP), yet similar actions to support the currency were now being defended.

Speaking on Asempa FM, Andrew Egyapa Mercer stated, “The kind of politics we do in this country gets really disgusting sometimes. So it’s okay today for the Bank of Ghana to make a loss to prop up or stabilise our currency, right? But only three or four years [ago], it was terrible for the Bank of Ghana to incur losses during the domestic debt exchange programme to save the economy of Ghana.”

“Let’s not bastardise it to the point we do when we want power. Because, ultimately, when the shoes get on the other foot, and you become the victim, huge [damaging] press conferences will be the response. Let’s be led by truth”.

Meanwhile, Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, has revealed that the House will scrutinise the reported US$1.7 billion loss, equivalent to about GH¢22 billion, recorded under the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP).

According to Speaker Bagbin, the scrutiny will help determine whether the reported US$1.7 billion represents an actual financial loss or a policy cost.

Speaker Bagbin revealed that a motion received by his office on August 21, 2026, and would be admitted for consideration.

Speaking in parliament, Alban Bagbin stated, “With the motion they have filed, which was received in my office on the 21st of August, 2026, just three days ago, I have gone through the motion myself and I intend to admit the motion because we have to at least have an end to litigation as to whether it’s a loss or it’s a cost”.

“This House will have the opportunity to go through it. And please, Ghanaians are very intelligent people. They will listen, they will read in between the lines and they will make their decisions,” he added.

The development follows Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has announced that the Minority in Parliament has filed a second motion seeking the establishment of an ad hoc committee to investigate the alleged GH¢22 billion loss linked to gold trade transactions involving the GoldBod and the Bank of Ghana.

According to Afenyo-Markin, the motion also seeks to summon the Chief Executive Officer of GoldBod, Sammy Gyamfi, to appear before the committee if Parliament approves the request.

The Minority leader disclosed that the motion was filed and signed by several of its MPs, including Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Tweneboah Koduah, Jerry Shaib Ahmed, Vincent Asafuah, Dr Kyei Asamoah and the Minority’s Ranking Member on the Finance Committee, Dr Mohammed Amin Adam.

Speaking on Good Evening Ghana on August 20, 2026, the Minority Leader stated, “We have filed the necessary processes. We don’t just blow hot air. My colleagues have filed the motion. We have today at 12 noon filed a motion signed by respected Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Tweneboah Koduah, Jerry Shaib Ahmed, Vincent Asafuah, Dr Kyei Asamoah, and our ranking on finance, Dr Mohamed Amin Adam”.

“We have filed and put forward our argument. All the documents are tied there too for Speaker, who has the power of admissibility to determine admissibility,” he said.

“This is not different from the earlier one that we filed, and the same was voted on. First of all, they delayed the motion for a long time. Each time we’re going to take the motion, they will say they were not prepared. Eventually, after taking the motion, they whipped their numbers to vote against it.

“Since the chief executive has offered to come, I believe his party has heard him. We pray that the 189 majority will not stampede us,” he added.

He further called for the proceedings to be broadcast live due to the public interest and the size of the alleged loss.

“Gold Board must bring all its books. I mean, because they said they are ready. BOG must come. We would invite those we have to invite and have a live coverage because 22 billion is huge sum,” he indicated.

@ghnow_ Hon. A.K Thompson has filed his normination form to contest for NPP National Treasurer position #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – kwame983
@ghnow_ Happening Live at the NPP headquarters #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

KT Hammond blasts OSP after naming Kwabena Donkor as person of interest in AKSA scandal

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KT Hammond, former Adansi Asokwa Member of Parliament and legal representative for former Power Minister Dr Kwabena Donkor, has fired shots at the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) over its decision to publicly name his client as a person of interest linked to the AKSA bribery Scandal.

According to KT Hammond, the Special Prosecutor’s approach is completely unprofessional.

He slammed the Special Prosecutor over his press conference, where he publicly announced names instead of directly inviting individuals they wish to question.

KT Hammond disclosed that neither he nor his client had received any communication from the OSP concerning the investigation.

He argued that should investigators require information from his client, they should formally invite him to assist with their inquiries.

The former MP disclosed that his client would make himself available for questioning but disagreed with the argument that the public interest warranted the naming of the individuals.

Speaking on Citi FM on August 26, 2026, KT Hammond stated, “What I deprecate is this habit of announcements on the radio and the press conferences. It’s completely unprofessional. I, the lawyer, haven’t been contacted. I’m not sure my client has been contacted”.

His comment follows, Kissi Agyebeng, the Special Prosecutor, who named former Power Minister Kwabena Donkor and four other Ghanaian officials as persons of interest in the AKSA bribery scandal.

The Special Prosecutor identified former Power Minister Kwabena Donkor; Francis Walkson Kwasi Dzafa, a former Technical Adviser to the Minister of Power; Solomon Adjetey Sowah, a Deputy Director; Lyndon Nii Mettle, Director of Tricorp Group Limited; and Baffour Ankomah Brobbey, an employee of Tricorp Group Limited, as persons of interest.

According to Kissi Agyebeng, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) had been investigating the Ghana dimension of the case despite its public silence on the matter.

 Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, Kissi Agyebeng stated, “As I stated earlier, we have been carefully investigating the Ghana dimension, and our public silence has not meant inaction. Our involvement with the case and the evidence so far enable us to identify the following as the main persons of interest in this case”.

“Kwabena Donkor, who was at all times the Minister of Power; Francis Rockson Kwasi Dzata, who was at all times the Technical Advisor to the Minister of Power; Solomon Adjetey Sowah, who was at all times the Deputy Director at the Ministry of Power; George Nii Mettle, who was at all times the Director at Tricorp Group Limited; and Baffour Ankomah Brobbey, who was an employee at Tricorp Group Limited,” he mentioned.

“Other persons of interest include some present and former employees of Volta River Authority, Ghana Grid Company Limited, Electricity Company of Ghana, Public Utilities and Regulatory Commission, and some staff of the entity formerly known as the Ministry of Power,” he said.

Kissi Agyebeng further stressed that being identified as a person of interest or a suspect does not amount to a finding of guilt.

“Please bear in mind that the person of interest is not necessarily a suspect. The two categories of person of interest and suspect are distinct in investigative classifications and should not be treated as interchangeable,” he explained.

“Identification in either category does not constitute criminal culpability or conviction until guilt is proved beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a court of competent jurisdiction,” Agyebeng said.

In related news, Communications Director of the Unity Party, Solomon Owusu, has said the convicted former Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), Asante Berko and his associate made over $42 million from the AKSA power deal.

According to Solomon Owusu, the over $1 million bribe given to public officials was not the main reason for Asante Berko’s conviction.

He argued that the main argument should be how people looted taxpayers in the government’s quest to find a solution to Ghana’s dumsor challenges at that time.

Solomon Owusu disclosed that Ghana was overcharged in the AKSA deal, with Asante Berko and his associates allegedly making millions of dollars from the deal.

@ghnow_ Hon. A.K Thompson appeals to Ghanaians to bring back Dr Bawumia to transform Ghana #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Happening Live at the NPP headquarters #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

“The Speaker ‘rudely’ recalled us; 75% of the time wasted” – Minority fumes

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The Minority in Parliament has accused the Speaker of Parliament and the Majority of wasting valuable parliamentary time despite the Speaker’s emergency recall of the House.

According to the Minority, the Speaker rudely recalled them for recess, wasting three out of the five days for the emergency meeting of Parliament as key businesses for the recall stall.

Dr Mahama Tiah Abdul Kabiru, the Member of Parliament for Walewale, speaking on behalf of the Minority, called on the government to show greater seriousness and commitment in conducting its business in Parliament.

Speaking to journalists after the House adjourned, Dr Mahama Tiah Abdul Kabiru stated, “The Speaker ‘rudely’ recalled us from our recess where we were engaging with our constituents as part of our civic and parliamentary responsibility to the people of Ghana.

Even though we in the Minority had other businesses of equal importance, i.e. a motion filed by the Minority to investigate the losses that have been occasioned by GoldBod, the Speaker was very clear on Monday that he wanted to limit the business of the House to those matters that necessitated the recall of Parliament.

We reluctantly agreed. But you have seen that today is the third day of the five days we were recalled to sit. Effectively, we have wasted about 75% of the time,” he said.

He added, “I am seeing a situation where the government want us to rush through a single day of everything. That has been very characteristic of this government. That is not democracy.

Even when they were going to address you, they didn’t have numbers to come stand and explain why they are adjourning the house. The minority we are here in our numbers to support them to do the government business; yet still the government is at large”.

He further urged the Mahama government to hand over to Dr Bawumia if there is no direction or leadership in their government.

“If there is no direction or leadership in this government, they should better hand over to Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to lead us so that we can get government business ongoing”, he stated.

Also, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, the Minority Chief Whip, challenged the Majority Caucus to explain its failure to execute government business despite the emergency recall.

However, First Deputy Majority Whip Comfort Doyoe has blamed the delay on ministerial vetting by the Appointments Committee.

She disclosed that concerns raised by the Minority over the short notice had affected the schedule.

Comfort Doyoe stated, “We called the house to come and sit and work, and we are working, so why are they complaining? There are a series of committee meetings and other things concerning the vetting of the two ministers and the judges.

If we don’t recall this house and they vet the ministers, there will be nobody to approve them to go back to their sector ministries to work on their budgets. So that’s the main reason why we are here.

If not because the Minority was complaining too much, they would have started the vetting yesterday, we approved them today, then tomorrow we do two or three businesses. Friday, we adjourn early to join Speaker at the Kumasi Sports Stadium,” she said.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Hon. Hawa Koomson has filed her nomination to contest the NPP National Women’s organizer #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ NDC will not be fooled by calls from NPP to sack NLA Boss – Joshua Sika Nartey, Central Regional PRO, NLA #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Afenyo-Markin is finished if the court rules against him – Kwesi Pratt

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Kwesi Pratt Jnr, a Veteran journalist and Managing Editor of the Insight newspaper, has described Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s defamation writ against GoldBod Chief Executive Officer Sammy Gyamfi and two media organisations as “very strange”.

According to Kwesi Pratt, if the court rules against Alexander Afenyo-Markin in his defamation suit, his reputation is finished.

Speaking on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana programme on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, Kwesi Pratt stated, “You’ve taken somebody to court for defamation who you claim was defending your image and saying that the allegations against you have not been proven. Master, I don’t understand. It’s difficult.

“But I think I’d better stop here before I get into trouble. I don’t want to get into trouble. So I will stop here. But it’s very strange. Very strange writ,” he stated.

Kwesi Pratt further added, “So what I’ll say at this moment is that the move initiated by the Minority Leader can cut both ways. If the courts hold that he has been defamed and take measures to repair the damage done to him, maybe it will be positive.

“On the other hand, if the court does not rule for him, he’s finished. He’s destroyed forever. And he may not even be in a position to continue functioning as Minority Leader. His credibility would have been shattered completely,” Pratt stated.

The veteran journalist added that Afenyo-Markin, himself a lawyer, was fully aware of the risks when he initiated the action, saying, “But be that as it may, he knew the risk he was taking when he went to court. You know, and he’s a lawyer. I’m not the one to tell him whether he should have taken that risk or not.

“I note, on the other hand, that his accuser is very firm and confident. I’ve heard him in several discussions, and he says, ‘I dare him to go to court.’ What does he have that you don’t know and I don’t even want to know? It’s for the court to know,” he added.

“I’ve read the petition before the courts… And there’s something which is most instructive. The Minority Leader goes to court and says, ‘I’m not just suing Sammy Gyamfi. I’m also suing Joy and Peace FM.’

“And then, in his own writ, he says that the Joy presenter actually challenged Sammy and disassociated the station from the statement that Sammy Gyamfi was making,” Pratt asserted.

“So why sue Joy? What is the trick? I don’t know. It’s maybe my illiteracy in law, which is killing me. But I can’t understand.”

Meanwhile, more details have emerged on the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, lawsuit against the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), Eric Adjei, Multimedia Group and Peace FM.

Afenyo-Markin, in a separate lawsuit, sued Sammy Gyamfi and Multimedia Group at the Accra High Court.

The Minority leader also sued Eric Adjei and Peace FM at the Achimota Circuit Court.

Speaking when Parliament reconvened on Monday, August 24, 2026, the Minority leader revealed he has initiated legal proceedings against Mr Gyamfi and media organisations that published or broadcast the statements in question.

Afenyo-Markin stated, “I have accordingly caused writs to be filed in Suit Number GT/1029/2026, titled Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin versus Samuel Adu Gyamfi and Multimedia Group Limited at the Accra High Court, and Suit Number GR/ACH/CC/C5/02/2026, titled Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin versus Eric Adjei and Peace FM at the Achimota Circuit Court”.

“I have every confidence that in the fullness of time the court will make the appropriate determination,” he added.

The legal action follows weeks of public exchanges between the Minority Leader and the GoldBod CEO over the financial performance of the DGPP, while Afenyo-Markin had appeared to have softened his earlier threat to pursue legal action over allegations made by Sammy Gyamfi.

The court cited details that the reliefs being sought by Afenyo-Markin including a retraction of the alleged defamatory statements.

“The reliefs are listed below:

a. General damages for libel;

b. Aggravated damages;

c. Exemplary damages;

d. An order directing the defendants to publish a full, unconditional and unequivocal retraction of the defamatory statements;

e. An order directing the defendants to publish a full, unconditional and unequivocal public apology to the plaintiff; and

f. An order directing that the retraction and apology be published and/or broadcast with substantially the same prominence and reach as the original publication.

g. An order directing the Defendants to cause the retraction and apology to be broadcast on JoyNews and published on the relevant electronic and social media platforms through which the defamatory publication was disseminated

h. An order of perpetual injunction restraining the Defendants, their servants, agents, assigns and/or any persons acting under their authority from further publishing the defamatory words or any words to the same or substantially similar effect concerning the Plaintiff

i. Costs of Fifteen million Ghana cedis (GH¢15,000,000.00) as compensation thereof

j. Costs, including legal costs; and

k. Any further or other reliefs as this Honourable Court may deem fit”.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Hon. Hawa Koomson has filed her nomination to contest the NPP National Women’s organizer #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Hon. Hawa Koomson has filed her nomination to contest the NPP National Women’s organizer #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

OSP names Kwabena Donkor, four others as persons of interest in AKSA bribery scandal

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Kissi Agyebeng, the Special Prosecutor, has named former Power Minister Kwabena Donkor and four other Ghanaian officials as persons of interest in the AKSA bribery scandal.

The Special Prosecutor identified former Power Minister Kwabena Donkor; Francis Walkson Kwasi Dzafa, a former Technical Adviser to the Minister of Power; Solomon Adjetey Sowah, a Deputy Director; Lyndon Nii Mettle, Director of Tricorp Group Limited; and Baffour Ankomah Brobbey, an employee of Tricorp Group Limited as persons of interest.

According to Kissi Agyebeng, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) had been investigating the Ghana dimension of the case despite its public silence on the matter.

 Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, Kissi Agyebeng stated, “As I stated earlier, we have been carefully investigating the Ghana dimension, and our public silence has not meant inaction. Our involvement with the case and the evidence so far enable us to identify the following as the main persons of interest in this case”.

“Kwabena Donkor, who was at all times the Minister of Power; Francis Rockson Kwasi Dzata, who was at all times the Technical Advisor to the Minister of Power; Solomon Adjetey Sowah, who was at all times the Deputy Director at the Ministry of Power; George Nii Mettle, who was at all times the Director at Tricorp Group Limited; and Baffour Ankomah Brobbey, who was an employee at Tricorp Group Limited,” he mentioned.

“Other persons of interest include some present and former employees of Volta River Authority, Ghana Grid Company Limited, Electricity Company of Ghana, Public Utilities and Regulatory Commission, and some staff of the entity formerly known as the Ministry of Power,” he said.

Kissi Agyebeng further stressed that being identified as a person of interest or a suspect does not amount to a finding of guilt.

“Please bear in mind that the person of interest is not necessarily a suspect. The two categories of person of interest and suspect are distinct in investigative classifications and should not be treated as interchangeable,” he explained.

“Identification in either category does not constitute criminal culpability or conviction until guilt is proved beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a court of competent jurisdiction,” Agyebeng said.

In related news, Communications Director of the Unity Party, Solomon Owusu, has said the convicted former Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), Asante Berko and his associate made over $42 million from the AKSA power deal.

According to Solomon Owusu, the over $1 million bribe given to public officials was not the main reason for Asante Berko’s conviction.

He argued that the main argument should be how people looted taxpayers in the government’s quest to find a solution to Ghana’s dumsor challenges at that time.

Solomon Owusu disclosed that Ghana was overcharged in the AKSA deal, with Asante Berko and his associates allegedly making millions of dollars from the deal.

Speaking on a recent discussion on Angel FM/TV, Solomon Owusu stated, “The $1 million bribe is not even the issue. If you look at the court document beyond this (the bribe), Berko and a Turkish guy demanded that they would be given a share in all businesses if they were able to secure the contract (the AKSA deal).

“So, the agreement was that the money they were going to earn depended on the price per kilowatt they were selling the power to the government of Ghana. Initially, they were supposed to get $25 million a year, but the Turkish company said it would go against them. So, they went to meet in London and agreed that the deal should not be dependent on the price per kilowatt,” he said.

He added, “So, Berko and his associates charged $42 million. This is where the issue is and not the $1 million bribe – $1 million is chicken change; the court document captures $42 million. As Ghanaians are suffering, Berko and his associates were enjoying.”

He further called on the Mahama government to fight, as companies involved in the deal, the US financial market, and Asante Berko benefited from the deal at the expense of Ghana.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Salam Mustapha has filed his normination for the National Youth Organizer position for the NPP #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Hon. Hawa Koomson has filed her nomination to contest the NPP National Women’s organizer #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

“Put me on the front lines in 2028, and I shall spit pure fire at the NDC” – Mustapha Abdul-Hamid

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Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, an aspiring First Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has said he is ready to be placed on the front lines of the party’s campaign ahead of the 2028 general election.

According to Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, he wants to be placed on the front lines of the 2028 election in order for him to be able to spit pure fire at the ruling NDC.

Speaking while filing his nomination on August 26, 2026, Mustapha Abdul-Hamid stated, “I want this party to put me on the front lines in 2028, and I shall spit pure fire at the NDC. That’s what I represent, Mr Chairman; that is what I represent,” he said.

“I carry everything that this party wants for 2028. I carry settler communities, I carry Zongo communities, I carry media people, I carry the intellectual class, I carry the youth of this country,” he stated.

Mustapha Abdul-Hamid further added, “I am going to be your universal First Vice Chairman. Mr Chairman, if I were a footballer, I would be called a utility player. Wherever you put me, I am going to play”.

In other news, Mustapha Hamid has dismissed claims that there is an agenda to Islamise Ghana by Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

According to Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia wants to serve, not promote an Islamic agenda.

Speaking at the Danquah Institute’s 2026 Liberty Lecture on Tuesday, August 25, Mr Hamid said, “When we see Bawumia, we should see a patriotic Ghanaian seeking an opportunity to serve, not an Islamic project.

If you allow yourself to cross the boundaries of people’s faith, you will find the humanity in people and the common humanity that binds all of us. There will undoubtedly be people willing to spend money and manufacture fear by claiming that a Bawumia presidency would turn Ghana into an Islamic state.

“…That suggestion is not merely false; it is an insult to our constitution, our history, and the good sense of Ghanaians.”

Mustapha Hamid also detailed that the voting patterns of Muslims in the 2024 general election demonstrate the country’s strong commitment to religious tolerance.

He detailed that if there were an agenda to turn Ghana into an Islamic state, the 2024 presidential candidacy of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia would have provided an opportunity for Muslims to rally behind him on religious grounds.

Mustapha Hamid highlighted that the failure of Muslims to vote tremendously for Dr Bawumia, despite being the first Muslim presidential candidate of a major political party, was evidence that religion did not determine their political choices.

He further added, “So, Mr Chairman, I want to ask, is there an agenda to Islamise Ghana? For me, it does not seem that from the political choices of Muslims in Ghana that there’s an agenda to Islamise Ghana”.

“If such an agenda existed, Mr Chairman, the candidacy of Mahamudu Bawumia would have been the catalyst, and his candidature would have been the opportunity for Muslims to rally around such an agenda, but they didn’t,” he said.

He further cited voting patterns in several Muslim-dominated constituencies as evidence that religious identity did not translate into political support.

“Choosing a presidential candidate who happened to be a Muslim in 2024 did not in any way turn the majority of Muslims in Ghana from voting for the NDC. In fact, the polling station near the Kumasi Central Mosque at Asawase did not vote for the NPP, even after Dr Bawumia refurbished the mosque and commissioned it in 2023”, he stated.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Hon. Hawa Koomson has filed her nomination to contest the NPP National Women’s organizer #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Salam Mustapha has filed his normination for the National Youth Organizer position for the NPP #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

BREAKING – Veteran Ghanaian actress Grace Nortey dead

Grace Nortey, a Celebrated Ghanaian veteran actress, has reportedly passed away at the age of 89.

Reports disclosed that Grace Nortey, who was commonly known as ‘Maame Gyata’ died on August 26, 2026, at the UGMC in the early hours of Wednesday.

Reports disclosed that Grace Nortey, who was commonly known as ‘Maame Gyata’ died on August 26, 2026 at the UGMC in the early hours Wednesday.

Grace Nortey was a prominent figure in Ghanaian theatre, television and film for more than five decades, featuring in Ghana’s golden era of television and theatre.

She featured in Obra, Osofo Dadzie, Key Soap Concert Party, Cantata and Thursday Theatre.

The late Grace Nortey also featured in several notable films, like Nana Akoto, Matters of the Heart, Ties That Bind, Sinking Sands, Amakye and Dede, as well as ‘Beasts of No Nation’.

In April 2025, Grace Nortey was among veteran actors honoured at AshantiFest for their contribution to the development of the Ghanaian film industry.

Also, on February 1, 2026, Grace Nortey celebrated her 89th birthday, making a rare public appearance during the occasion.

Grace Nortey’s death marks another major loss to Ghana’s entertainment industry, following her long career that spanned generations.

She is survived by five children, including actress Sheila Nortey, who followed her mother’s footsteps into acting.

See the post below:


@ghnow_ Hon Ewurabena Aubynn interact with constituents at the Ablekuma North Town Hall meeting #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – Scott_lyrics

BREAKING – President Mahama announces second major reshuffle

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President John Dramani Mahama has announced a second major reshuffle to his government, after the changes he made on August 7, 2026.

In his second reshuffle, Mahama reassigned Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo from the Ministry of Labour and Employment and Job Creation to the Ministry of State for Special Initiatives.

President Mahama also appointed Emmanuel Kwadwo Agyekum, the Member of Parliament for Nkoranza South, as the new Minister for Labour, Employment and Job Creation.

Deputy Minister for Defence, Ernest Brogy Genfi, was also reassigned to be a Presidential Adviser on National Resilience and Emergency Preparedness.

Meanwhile, this is the second ministerial reshuffle President Mahama has made after the first was announced on August 7, 2026.

President John Dramani Mahama in his first ministerial reshuffle nominated Bawku Central MP Mahama Ayariga as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, while reassigning two other ministers to new portfolios.

Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, the former Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, has been reassigned as the Minister for Defence as part of a ministerial reshuffle.

Ahmed Ibrahim has also been reassigned from the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs to the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources.

Also, Klottey Korle Member of Parliament, Dr Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings, has been named the Minister for Environment, Science and Technology.

In related news, President John Dramani Mahama has hinted at a ministerial reshuffle in his government as his administration continues to operate with a lean structure.

According to John Mahama, there will be reshuffles and reshuffles and reshuffles under his administration.

Mahama disclosed that his administration reduced the size of government to curb public expenditure.

Speaking during the Reset Tour and citizens’ engagement in the Volta Region on Friday, July 17, President Mahama stated, “There’ll be reshuffles and reshuffles and reshuffles, so just stand in readiness. Who knows, your turn will come and you’ll be invited to serve”.

“We’ve kept it lean and mean, and that is how we’re able to cut down some of the waste,” he said.

See the statement below:

@ghnow_ Mustapha Salam in high spirits after filing his normination forms to contest for the NPP National Youth Organizer #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Hon Ewurabena Aubynn interact with constituents at the Ablekuma North Town Hall meeting #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – Scott_lyrics

“Bawumia wants to serve, not promote an Islamic agenda” — Mustapha Hamid

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Mustapha Hamid, an aspiring First National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has dismissed claims that there is an agenda to Islamise Ghana by Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

According to Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia wants to serve, not promote an Islamic agenda.

Speaking at the Danquah Institute’s 2026 Liberty Lecture on Tuesday, August 25, Mr Hamid said, “When we see Bawumia, we should see a patriotic Ghanaian seeking an opportunity to serve, not an Islamic project.

If you allow yourself to cross the boundaries of people’s faith, you will find the humanity in people and the common humanity that binds all of us. There will undoubtedly be people willing to spend money and manufacture fear by claiming that a Bawumia presidency would turn Ghana into an Islamic state.

“…That suggestion is not merely false; it is an insult to our constitution, our history, and the good sense of Ghanaians.”

Mustapha Hamid also detailed that the voting patterns of Muslims in the 2024 general election demonstrate the country’s strong commitment to religious tolerance.

He detailed that if there were an agenda to turn Ghana into an Islamic state, the 2024 presidential candidacy of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia would have provided an opportunity for Muslims to rally behind him on religious grounds.

Mustapha Hamid highlighted that the failure of Muslims to vote tremendously for Dr Bawumia, despite being the first Muslim presidential candidate of a major political party, was evidence that religion did not determine their political choices.

He further added, “So, Mr Chairman, I want to ask, is there an agenda to Islamise Ghana? For me, it does not seem that from the political choices of Muslims in Ghana that there’s an agenda to Islamise Ghana”.

“If such an agenda existed, Mr Chairman, the candidacy of Mahamudu Bawumia would have been the catalyst, and his candidature would have been the opportunity for Muslims to rally around such an agenda, but they didn’t,” he said.

He further cited voting patterns in several Muslim-dominated constituencies as evidence that religious identity did not translate into political support.

“Choosing a presidential candidate who happened to be a Muslim in 2024 did not in any way turn the majority of Muslims in Ghana from voting for the NDC. In fact, the polling station near the Kumasi Central Mosque at Asawase did not vote for the NPP, even after Dr Bawumia refurbished the mosque and commissioned it in 2023”, he stated.

Mustapha Hamid further added that constituencies including Ayawaso East, Ayawaso North, Asawase, Ejura, Tamale North, Tamale Central, Tamale South and Sagnarigu voted significantly for President John Dramani Mahama, a Christian, over Dr Bawumia.

“Muslim-dominated constituencies like Ayawaso East, Ayawaso North, Asawase, Ejura, Tamale North, Tamale Central, Tamale South, Sagnarigu, all voted massively for the Christian John Dramani Mahama against the Muslim Mahamudu Bawumia,” he said.

“So that means that, consciously, in the Ghanaian psyche, our religious differences do not spill over into our political consideration,” Mr Hamid said.

Mustapha Hamid further acknowledged Ghana’s longstanding tradition of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence among Christians, Muslims and other faith groups.

The aspiring First National Vice Chairman of the NPP’s comments come amid public concerns over a possible Islamisation of Ghana, over discussions about the proposed introduction of Arabic as an optional language at the basic school level.

He argued that these developments had been used to fuel claims of an agenda to Islamise the country, maintaining that Ghana’s political history did not support such assertions.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ NPP delegate breaks down in tears as he narate how Mustapha Salam helped him during his arrest #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Mustapha Salam in high spirits after filing his normination forms to contest for the NPP National Youth Organizer #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

President Mahama signs 10 Bills into law, including Tribunals Act, Community Service Act

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President John Dramani Mahama has assented to 10 Bills, including the Tribunals Act passed by Parliament during the Second Meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament.

Mahama’s assent to the bill gives it legal effect to a series of legislative reforms covering taxation, revenue mobilisation, justice administration, national defence, maritime regulation and the cocoa sector.

The ten bills assented to formally transform them into laws and clear the way for the relevant institutions and agencies to begin implementing the provisions contained in the new legislation.

The newly enacted laws are as follows,  “Customs Act, 2026; Community Service Act, 2026; Tribunals Act, 2026; Maritime and Related Offences Act, 2026; National Defence University, Ghana Act, 2026; Income Tax (Amendment) Act, 2026; Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2026; Ghana Cocoa Board Act, 2026; Value Added Tax (Amendment) Act, 2026; and Excise Act, 2026”.

The ten new laws cover a broad range of sectors and are expected to have implications for government revenue, taxation, trade, justice delivery, national security and the regulation of key economic activities.

Meanwhile, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), had earlier made a direct appeal to President John Dramani Mahama not to assent to the recently passed Tribunals Bill by Parliament.

According to Dr Bawumia, the legislation with such far-reaching consequences should first be subjected to extensive national consultation.

Dr Bawumia stressed that the Tribunal Bill should not become law until key stakeholders have had the opportunity to deliberate on its implications, adding that reforms affecting Ghana’s justice system should be built on broad public consensus rather than a parliamentary majority.

The NPP flagbearer highlighted that the judiciary remains one of the country’s most important democratic institutions, noting that any changes to its structure should be approached with transparency, inclusiveness and careful consideration.

Dr Bawumia further urged him to delay assent and instead open the door for nationwide dialogue.

Speaking to the nation on Sunday, July 19, 2026, the former vice president stated, “The bill will soon be transmitted to the president for his assent, and I have one respectful request of President Mahama. Mr President, do not assent to this bill. Pause and let the nation ponder and deliberate on this very important matter.

“This is not a partisan request. The Trades Union Congress and the voice of millions of Ghanaian workers have called for the bill to be withdrawn, warning that in its current form, it could become a potent tool for weaponising justice delivery.

“Those are the words of Ghanaian workers, not of any political party. Consider also the government’s own process. The president established the Constitution Review Committee, and it recommended removing regional tribunals from the constitution because the High Court has long carried their case loads.”

“My call is simple and constructive: withhold your assent. Convene genuine national engagement. Invite the Ghana Bar Association and other lawyer groups, Organised Labour, CSOs and the political parties, including my own, and we will come in good faith and consult the judiciary itself.

“Justice belongs to no government and no party; it belongs to the Ghanaian people, and a law that reshapes the architecture of justice should rest on national consensus and not a headcount”.

“Mr President, the pen is in your hand; use it not to assent to this bill but to write an invitation to the nation.”

@ghnow_ Mustapha Salam in high spirits after filing his normination forms to contest for the NPP National Youth Organizer #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ NPP delegate breaks down in tears as he narate how Mustapha Salam helped him during his arrest #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Ayitey Powers remanded to Police custody for one week

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Michael Ayitey Okai, popularly known as Ayitey Powers, a former Ghanaian boxer, has been remanded into police custody for one week.

Ayitey Powers was remanded by the Dansoman Circuit Court after he appeared before the court on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.

The former boxer was remanded over an alleged death threat against the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah.

Ayitey Powers is expected to reappear before the court on September 2, 2026, as police investigations into the matter continue.

The development follows the Ghana Police Service, which some days ago announced the arrest of 46-year-old former Ghanaian professional boxer Michael Ayitey Okai, popularly known as “Ayitey Powers”.

Ayitey Powers was arrested over an alleged death threat against National Sports Authority Director-General Yaw Ampofo on August 24, 2026.

The arrest follows a video circulating on social media in which he allegedly issued the threat.

He is currently in police custody assisting with investigations as authorities work to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged threat and determine appropriate legal action.

In a statement issued by the Police read, “1. The Accra Regional Police Command has arrested Michael Ayitey Okai, alias “Ayitey Powers,” a 46-year-old former professional boxer, in connection with an alleged threat of death made against Mr Yaw Ampofo, Director-General of the National Sports Authority, on 24th August 2026.

2. The arrest follows a video circulating on social media in which the suspect is alleged to have issued the threat.

3. The suspect, Michael Ayitey Okai, is currently in Police custody assisting with investigations

4. The Accra Regional Police Command wishes to assure the public that investigations are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged threat and to take appropriate action in accordance with the law.

5. The Command further urges the public to refrain from spreading unverified information concerning the matter while investigations are ongoing”.

@ghnow_ Hon Ewurabena Aubynn interact with constituents at the Ablekuma North Town Hall meeting #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – thousand.
@ghnow_ Mustapha Salam in high spirits after filing his normination forms to contest for the NPP National Youth Organizer #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Gov’t rejects MTN’s GH¢20m support offer to Ghanaians returning from South Africa

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The Foreign Affairs Ministry has announced that the government of Ghana has turned down MTN Ghana’s GH¢20 million offer to support Ghanaians affected by xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

According to the Foreign Affairs Ministry, funds have already been secured for their evacuation and reintegration.

The Ministry disclosed that the Government of Ghana had earlier been directly conveyed to the Board Chair and CEO of MTN when they called on the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP) on August 14, 2026.

In a press statement issued on August, 26, 2026 read, “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has become aware of media reports suggesting that MTN Ghana is preparing to donate GHS20million for Ghanaian victims of the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

The media publications seem to attribute the announcement of this intended GHS20million donation to an interview granted by the highly regarded MTN Board Chairman, Dr Ishmael Yamson.

The Government of Ghana commends MTN for the offer; however, we respectfully decline,

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirms that the Mahama Administration has made adequate provision for ongoing evacuations and reintegration of Ghanaians and is therefore unable to accept this offer.

This position of the Government of Ghana had earlier been directly conveyed to the Board Chair and CEO of MTN when they called on the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP) on August 14, 2026.

Meanwhile, the Government of Ghana remains fully committed to current humanitarian evacuations and reintegration financial support for every Ghanaian brought back from harm’s way.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assures that it will present to the general public a comprehensive account of the total cost of evacuations as soon as the exercise is concluded, in the interest of transparency and accountability.

Government will continue to create the best business ecosystem for all international brands operating in Ghana to succeed, irrespective of which country their businesses originated from.

The welfare of all Ghanaians remains our utmost priority”.

The development follows, Dr Ishmael Yamson, an Economist and Board Chairman of MTN Ghana, has disclosed that the company has committed GH¢20 million to support Ghanaians returning from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks.

According to Dr Ishmael Yamson, the intervention is intended to help the returnees rebuild their lives and livelihoods rather than provide only short-term relief.

He disclosed that MTN Ghana initially set aside GH¢10 million to welcome the returnees but doubled the amount after realising that immediate assistance would not be adequate.

Dr Ishmael Yamson disclosed that the GH¢10 million will be combined with the initial allocation to establish a fund to help the returnees restart their lives.

Speaking to Joy News on Thursday, August 20, Dr Ishmael Yamson made this known.

He, however, admitted that MTN Ghana should have engaged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs earlier and expressed regret over the delay in rolling out the support.

Dr Ishmael Yamson stressed that the delay should not be interpreted as a lack of concern for the affected Ghanaians.

He stated, “When the issue broke, I can tell you, the board immediately decided that we will set aside ¢10 million to welcome for as a welcome back.”

“What we then began to decide is that, and many of them, some I understand they were allowed only two suitcases when they are on their return. So how do we create a fund that we will use to help these people to start life all over again?”

He disclosed that the company plans to add another GH¢10 million to create a fund to support the returnees in rebuilding their lives.

“I think the mistake that we made was not to have engaged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs immediately about this.”

“Sometimes when you are big, your internal bureaucracy can also delay a few things. But we have not forgotten. We will do it.” “We’ll do it in a big way. We’ll do it in a way that will make more meaning.”

“For those who did it, Telecel and the others, I really congratulate them. Pentecost Church, I congratulate them.”

See the statement below:

@ghnow_ Hon Ewurabena Aubynn interact with constituents at the Ablekuma North Town Hall meeting #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – thousand.

Powder Man arrested over alleged $30,000 visa fraud granted GH¢400,000 bail

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The Accra Circuit Court has granted Kailani Ibrahim Kpa, popularly known as the “Powder Man,” bail of GH¢400,000.

 He was granted GH¢400,000 bail with three sureties by the Accra Circuit Court 9 after being charged with visa and travel fraud.

Reports suggest he was arrested on Monday, August 24, 2026, at East Legon in Accra.

The Accra Circuit Court 9 has since adjourned the case to September 28, 2026.

Powder Man is alleged to have collected more than US$30,000 from over 13 people after promising to arrange travel to Canada, Nicaragua, and the United States, but reportedly went into hiding when the trips failed to materialise.

In a viral video shared on social media, Ibrahim was brought to the court premises under police escort. He was wearing a nose mask and a green hoodie.

Also, viral videos have surfaced of victims who allegedly paid popular Black Stars supporter Kailani Ibrahim, popularly known as “Powder Man,” for visa and travel arrangements have disclosed the amounts they paid.

The victims claim they paid various sums for promised trips to countries including Canada, Nicaragua and the United States, but the arrangements allegedly failed to materialise.

Also, another claimed he paid $9000 but the Powder Man wants to take him to Bolivia.

In other news, a group of Ghanaian businesswomen who are victims of an alleged GH¢13m import scam have publicly urged President Mahama, the Attorney General, and the Inspector-General of Police to intervene after a court dismissed their fraud complaint.

According to the businesswomen, the court dismissed their fraud complaint involving over GH¢13 million allegedly lost to a man promising to import goods.

One of the complainants disclosed that the suspect was arrested in March 2024 and later granted bail, with the case proceeding to court until it was dismissed on Wednesday, prompting the victims to seek intervention from the authorities.

Speaking in a viral video, the victims outside Dansoman Circuit Court in Accra, where one woman in sunglasses passionately voiced their frustration, stated, “This is a public appeal to the IGP, His Excellency the President, and the Attorney General. We are women; we worked in Ghana, and some came to us that he was selling some goods we gathered our money and also other people’s money and gave the money to him to import the goods for us.

He presented himself as an agent, over GH¢13million, that is over 130 billion old cedis. We are standing at the Dansoman court; the man was arrested on 18 March 2024 and was granted bail. Since then, every time we come to court, the case is adjourned, and today, August 6, the case has been dismissed”.

“People have died, people’s marriages have also ended, and their businesses have been ruined; some have also gone into hiding because of this issue. Over 130 billion old cedis, and he is still in Ghana walking free. Since 2024, they have been conducting an investigation. Are we going to allow this person to go scot-free? We understand the wheel of justice is slow, but this one has stopped; they are acquitting the person.

Please help us so that our issue will get to the President and other leaders. We reported the case at the Central Police Station in Accra, and he was arrested and is now walking free while we are struggling to pay our debts”.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Construction works continue to solve the drainage problem at Darkuman Junction #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ
@ghnow_ Hon Ewurabena Aubynn interact with constituents at the Ablekuma North Town Hall meeting #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – thousand.

Popular Black Stars supporter “Powder Man” arrested over alleged $30,000 visa fraud

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Kailani Ibrahim Kpa, the Ghanaian who went viral as the “Powder Man” during the Ghana Black Stars 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, has been arrested by the Ghana Police Service’s Documentation and Visa Fraud Unit.

Powder Man is alleged to have collected more than US$30,000 from over 13 people after promising to arrange travel to Canada, Nicaragua, and the United States, but reportedly went into hiding when the trips failed to materialise.

Ibrahim has since appeared before the Accra Circuit Court over the alleged visa and travel fraud charges, as the case continues.

In a viral video shared on social media, Ibrahim was brought to the court premises under police escort. He was wearing a nose mask and a green hoodie.

Reports suggest he was arrested on Monday, August 24, 2026, at East Legon in Accra.

Meanwhile, the Accra Circuit Court 9 has granted Kailani Ibrahim Kpa bail of GH¢400,000 with three sureties after being charged with visa and travel fraud.

The court has adjourned the case to September 28, 2026.

Also, viral videos have surfaced of victims who allegedly paid popular Black Stars supporter Kailani Ibrahim, popularly known as “Powder Man,” for visa and travel arrangements have disclosed the amounts they paid.

The victims claim they paid various sums for promised trips to countries including Canada, Nicaragua and the United States, but the arrangements allegedly failed to materialise.

Also, another claimed he paid $9000 but the Powder Man wants to take him to Bolivia.

In other news, John Awuah, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Bankers Association, has said that when it comes to fraud, nobody is safe.

The CEO of the Banks Association, during a forum, revealed that he was scammed right after a live studio lecture on fraud.

He disclosed that he lost GH₵67 through the fraudulent act.

According to him, anyone can become a victim of a scam regardless of their knowledge or position.

Speaking in a video shared by JoyNews, John Awuah made the revelation at the Digital Economy Forum, saying, “To be honest, now when I’m saying that, I even get scared because there was a day I was at Joy FM studio to give public education on cyber fraud and just after the studio, when I sat in the car, I got defrauded of GH₵67”.

He explained that fraudsters target people from all backgrounds, adding that no one should assume they are protected because they are educated or experienced.

“I think when I left [the studio after the show], they said, let’s try this guy. It tells you when it comes to fraud, nobody is safe. Nobody,” he added.

John Awuah warned that some people underestimate the risk of fraud because they believe their level of education makes them less likely to be targeted.

“So, the danger we are having in this country is that there are people who believe they are immune. It’s like their level of education kind of takes them out of the fraud,” he added.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Hon Ewurabena Aubynn interact with constituents at the Ablekuma North Town Hall meeting #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – thousand.
@ghnow_ Construction works continue to solve the drainage problem at Darkuman Junction #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ

“Sammy Gyamfi is a known liar” – Akosua Manu

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Akosua Manu, a former New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for Adentan, has labelled the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, as a “known liar”.

She accused the GoldBod CEO of using personal attacks to deflect attention from questions about the Board’s reported $1.7 billion loss associated with the domestic gold purchase programme.

Akosua Manu argued that the Ghanaians deserve answers about the circumstances that led to the reported loss and the individuals responsible for decisions concerning the programme.

The former NPP parliamentary candidate cited previous allegations attributed to Sammy Gyamfi, comprising claims concerning the ownership of Hubtel, which proved to be false.

Akosua Manu, however, insisted that the focus of the debate should be on the reported $1.7 billion loss associated with the domestic gold purchase programme rather than the personal exchanges between Sammy Gyamfi and Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin.

Speaking on a panel discussion on Metro TV on August 24, 2026, Akosua Manu stated, “Sammy Gyamfi is a known liar; if a liar tells you to go to court, he knows the judge; he is a known liar”.

“It’s established a pattern. Anybody who questions GoldBod or BoG, so long as GoldBod is in the conversation, you are going to face personal attacks and insults. But those personal attacks and insults should not distract us.”

“The voter does not care about the personal relationship or whatever has transpired between Sammy Gyamfi and Afenyo-Markin. The voter is concerned because $1.7 billion is about 1.5 per cent of our GDP,” she stated.

Meanwhile, Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, has revealed that the House will scrutinise the reported US$1.7 billion loss, equivalent to about GH¢22 billion, recorded under the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP).

According to Speaker Bagbin, the scrutiny will help determine whether the reported US$1.7 billion represents an actual financial loss or a policy cost.

Speaker Bagbin revealed that a motion received by his office on August 21, 2026, and would be admitted for consideration.

Speaking in parliament, Alban Bagbin stated, “With the motion they have filed, which was received in my office on the 21st of August, 2026, just three days ago, I have gone through the motion myself and I intend to admit the motion because we have to at least have an end to litigation as to whether it’s a loss or it’s a cost”.

“This House will have the opportunity to go through it. And please, Ghanaians are very intelligent people. They will listen, they will read in between the lines and they will make their decisions,” he added.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Hon Ewurabena Aubynn interact with constituents at the Ablekuma North Town Hall meeting #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ Hon Ewurabena Aubynn interact with constituents at the Ablekuma North Town Hall meeting #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – thousand.

Jollof, fried rice, potato chips increase stroke risk – Physician Specialist warns

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Dr Thomas Agbemaple, a Senior Physician Specialist at the 37 Military Hospital, has warned that excessive consumption of foods high in unhealthy fats like Jollof, fried rice, and potato chips increases stroke risk.  

The Physician Specialist urged Ghanaians to adopt healthier diets and lifestyles to reduce the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.

According to Dr Thomas Agbemaple, excessive consumption of foods high in unhealthy fats, coupled with high blood pressure, significantly contributes to cholesterol buildup in the arteries, which increases the risk of stroke and heart attacks.

Dr Thomas Agbemaple stressed that prevention should be prioritised over treatment, particularly as stroke cases continue to rise among men in particular.

He disclosed that reducing the buildup of cholesterol in the walls of the arteries by  improving one’s eating habits significantly lowers the likelihood of suffering a stroke

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Wednesday, August 26, Dr Agbemaple stated, ““Changing our diet, by de-emphasising fried foods, you know, jollof here, fried rice, potato chips, and the typical Western diet, we will be making a lot of headway in reducing the incidence of cholesterol deposition in the walls of our arteries and, therefore, making it very, very unlikely that one will become a victim of stroke”.

Also, Dr Thomas Agbemaple disclosed that a significant proportion of stroke cases reported at health facilities are linked to lifestyle choices, particularly dietary habits.

He revealed that eight out of every ten people who suffer a stroke experience the ischaemic form of the condition when a blood vessel supplying the brain becomes blocked.

He stated, “There are two types of stroke. There is a stroke resulting from a blood vessel rupturing called Hemorrhagic Stroke, and there is a stroke resulting from a blood vessel being blocked called Ischemic stroke. Now, 8 out of 10 people who have a stroke will have an ischaemic stroke, that is, blood clogging in the vessels.

“Ischaemic stroke is cholesterol deposition in the walls of the blood vessels, and this is a lifestyle problem. The cholesterol comes from oils and fats in your diet, so to the point that our diets these days have been increasingly westernised with high oil and fat content, the incidence of cholesterol deposition in the walls of the blood vessels is now increasing at alarming rates. People’s diets are now heavily laden with fats and oils. We eat a lot of fried foods.”

In related news, President John Dramani Mahama, at the launched cautioned Ghanaians against eating heavy meals late at night, using humour to encourage healthier lifestyles.

Speaking at the launch, President Mahama drew laughter from the audience, saying, “Stop eating banku at night”.

He further went on to advise Ghanaians that the ideal time for dinner should be taken earlier in the evening, saying, “If you are the kind of person who likes eating heavy foods, you are not physically active, you are sitting at one place, and yet when they give you your fufu or banku, you say it’s too small. You want a big bowl of fufu, and you want to eat it every day.

Sometimes you eat it at night before you go to sleep. Please, by 7 PM, eat your dinner and don’t eat again. If you are hungry, just pick a cup of tea or something. Don’t eat any heavy food. You come from work in the evening, your wife is tired, but you force her to come and get you banku at 10 PM, why?” he quizzed.

He further added, “Our fathers used to eat banku and co in the night, but they were physically active; they used to go to the farm, and they expended energy. Now we don’t do any physical activity. You wake up in the morning, eat breakfast, drive to work, sit behind the desk from 8 am to 5 pm, drive back home, and when you come home, you ask for your banku. What physical activity did you do to deserve banku?” he jokingly questioned.

@ghnow_ Construction works continue to solve the drainage problem at Darkuman Junction #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ
@ghnow_ Hon Ewurabena Aubynn interact with constituents at the Ablekuma North Town Hall meeting #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

‘I have done enough; help us help you’ – Rent control commissioner tells Tertiary students

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Acting Rent Control Commissioner, Frederick Opoku, has urged Ghanaian Tertiary students to file formal applications for hostel fee assessments to trigger Rent Control Department action.

According to the Rent Control Commissioner, he has done enough in going across the country to ensure that hostel fees are reduced, adding that he will no longer personally visit facilities.

He explained that students must formally apply to the Rent Control Department for an assessment of their hostel fees, adding that the department has waived the application fee for students.

Frederick Opoku also notes frustration with students who only send direct messages complaining instead of following the legal process, stating that this does not help him assist them because he must work within the confines of the law.

He further revealed that the department plans to shift focus to commercial rental properties as part of broader efforts to regulate the rental space.

Speaking in a video shared on X, the acting Rent Commissioner stated, “You cannot sit in your homes and hostels and ask the Rent Commissioner to ensure that hostel fees are reduced. You have a duty to contribute to the enforcement process.

I have done enough, and I am not moving to any hostel again. I cannot go around from hostel to hostel asking hostel owners to reduce their fees. Make an application for me to act on, or shut up and go and pay your hostel fees”.

In related news, Bishop Akwasi Owusu-Bi, the President of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Hostel Owners Association, has told the Acting Rent Control Commissioner, Frederick Opoku, to go to East Legon to control rent prices.

Frederick Opoku has recently been touring some hostels and raising questions about what he describes as exorbitant charges.

According to Frederick Opoku, he recommends price regulation to protect students from what he considers excessive hostel fees.

However, Bishop Akwasi Owusu-Bi, speaking in an interview, argued that controlling prices is not the best solution to the problem.

According to him, if the government wants to control prices, it should start from East Legon where prices are quoted in dollars.

The President, KNUST Hostel Owners stated, “I remember in 1988, the government embarked on the Structural Adjustment Programme. It came out clearly that controlling prices wasn’t the best for the system. It rather made items run short because nobody wanted to go by the government prices”.

“So, then they hit all the items and you had to go through the back door to get them. So, when the programme realised that this was the effect of it, they scrapped controlling prices in Ghana,” he stated.

“So, when all of a sudden we heard that rent control was coming up, I was like, so what are we doing? When did we begin to control prices in Ghana?” he asked.

He added, “If you want to control prices in Ghana, where do we start from? If we are starting from the Ministry of Works and Housing, that’s the housing rent, why don’t you start from East Legon? Why don’t you start from Nhyiaeso and all those places?”

“They should begin from East Legon, where prices are quoted in dollars and not in cedis. That’s where they should begin from”.

“And not when a group of people have come together to put up accommodation for students whom the students cannot be accommodated on campus, and you think you want to defend such students.

“If we withdraw our services, what do you do?” he asked.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Hon Ewurabena Aubynn interact with constituents at the Ablekuma North Town Hall meeting #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – thousand.
@ghnow_ Construction works continue to solve the drainage problem at Darkuman Junction #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ

“NPP will not only break the 8, but we will break the 12” – Paul Afoko vows

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Paul Afoko, an aspiring National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has said the party will return to power and remain in government for more than eight years.

According to Paul Afoko, the NPP must be united, calling on party members not to be divided based on the candidates they supported.

He disclosed that the NPP must strengthen its structures at the constituency and polling station to recapture power and stay in power to not only break the eight but also the twelve.

Speaking to NPP supporters after filing nomination to contest NPP National Chairmanship, Paul Afoko stated, “We have to re-organise and strengthen the party and the foundation, which is the constituencies, the polling stations, because that is where power lies, and then we will recapture power, and we will stay in power, and we will not only break the 8; we will break the 12”.

“There cannot be one NPP for those who supported candidate A and another NPP for another candidate. There cannot be an NPP of the powerful and another NPP for the forgotten grassroots. There is only one NPP ethic, and everybody must have a place in it,” he noted.

“If you elect me as chairman of the party, I will come into office with no enemies. There is nobody that I want to punish,” he stated.

In related news, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), the New Patriotic Party (NPP) 2024 running mate, has said if the party do not win the 2028 general election, they cannot win the 2032 election.

According to NAPO, if the NPP do not fight for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to become running mate, no one will come after him.

Speaking to some NPP members in a viral video shared on social media, NAPO stated, “If the NPP do not fight for Dr Bawumia to come, no one will come after him. If you think I am telling lies, don’t do it. If we do not win the 2028 we cannot win the 2023 election.

So if somebody comes to tell you that someone wants to lead in 2032, shame them”.

Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh further disclosed that he could have picked up forms to contest in the NPP presidential primaries, but he will never stand unless Dr Mahamudu Bawumia become president.

NAPO added, “I have said it on the radio: I can pick forms in the NPP, but if I have not helped Dr Bawumia to become President, I will never stand”.

Meanwhile, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has said the party’s primary objective is to regain political power in the 2028 elections.

According to Dr Bawumia, the August 15 regional elections should not be viewed as the end of the party’s internal activities but rather as part of a broader process aimed at creating a stronger and more effective political organisation capable of winning back power in the 2028 election.

He also reminded the executives that their election should be viewed as a responsibility rather than merely a political achievement.

Dr Bawumia stated, “The goal for all of us is to win the 2028 election. This is just a stepping stone towards winning 2028. As a party, we have been engaged in an exercise of reorganisation. We have had our polling station elections, our electoral area elections, we have had our constituency elections, and we have now had our regional elections.

“We will culminate that process on October 10 with the national elections and therefore, at the end of that, the party will be in a good position to have that vehicle that drives us to victory in 2028. So there is a lot of work ahead of us.”

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ Construction works continue to solve the drainage problem at Darkuman Junction #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ
@ghnow_ Hon Ewurabena Aubynn interact with constituents at the Ablekuma North Town Hall meeting #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – thousand.

“If NPP do not win the 2028 election, we cannot win 2032″– NAPO

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Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), the New Patriotic Party (NPP) 2024 running mate, has said if the party do not win the 2028 general election, they cannot win the 2032 election.

According to NAPO, if the NPP do not fight for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to become running mate, no one will come after him.

Speaking to some NPP members in a viral video shared on social media, NAPO stated, “If the NPP do not fight for Dr Bawumia to come, no one will come after him. If you think I am telling lies, don’t do it. If we do not win the 2028 we cannot win the 2023 election.

So if somebody comes to tell you that someone wants to lead in 2032, shame them”.

Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh further disclosed that he could have picked up forms to contest in the NPP presidential primaries, but he will never stand unless Dr Mahamudu Bawumia become president.

NAPO added, “I have said it on the radio, I can pick forms in the NPP, but if I have not helped Dr Bawumia to become President, I will never stand”.

In related news, a new poll conducted ahead of the 2028 general elections has revealed that the former Vice President and Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, currently leads all potential National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidates.

The survey was conducted by Africa Policy Lens from July 27 to August 7, 2026, and interviewed 16,963 voters across all 276 constituencies, testing Dr Bawumia in seven assumed one-on-one contests.

The Africa Policy Lens disclosed that across all the matchups, Dr Bawumia secured between 45.7 per cent and 49.9 per cent of national voter support.

Dr Bawumia led Johnson Asiedu Nketia, 45.8 per cent to 42.4 per cent; Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, 45.7 per cent to 42.8 per cent; and Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, 45.9 per cent to 41.5 per cent.

They further disclosed that the NPP flagbearer margins were wider against Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, whom he led 47.4 per cent to 40.2 per cent, and Dr Julius Debrah, 48.4 per cent to 37.9 per cent.

Also, Dr Bawumia’s largest leads were recorded against Hon. Eric Opoku, 49.8 per cent to 33.9 per cent, and Prof. Joshua Alabi, 49.9 per cent to 34.4 per cent.

According to the Africa Policy Lens, undecided voters ranged from 7.2 per cent to 9.3 per cent across the different matchups.

They further disclosed that the survey revealed Dr Bawumia won between nine and eleven of Ghana’s sixteen regions in every matchup tested.

However, Africa Policy Lens stressed that the survey should not be viewed as a prediction of the outcome of the 2028 election.

According to them, the survey is a reflection of public opinion at the time the survey was conducted.

The report stated, “Although the findings should be interpreted as a reflection of public opinion at a particular point in time rather than as a prediction of future electoral outcomes, the consistency of Dr Bawumia’s advantage across all hypothetical contests constitutes a noteworthy pattern”.

In other news, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has said the party’s primary objective is to regain political power in the 2028 elections.

According to Dr Bawumia, the August 15 regional elections should not be viewed as the end of the party’s internal activities but rather as part of a broader process aimed at creating a stronger and more effective political organisation capable of winning back power in the 2028 election.

He also reminded the executives that their election should be viewed as a responsibility rather than merely a political achievement.

Watch the video below:

From what I know, gov’t should have arraigned Afenyo-Markin before court – Mustapha Gbande

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Mustapha Gbande, the Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has said the only crime the John Mahama-led NDC government has committed is not putting Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin before court.

According to Mustapha Gbande, based on what he knows about Alexander Afenyo-Markin, he should have been arraigned before court.

Speaking to media personality Roselyn Feli, Mustapha Gbande stated, “The only crime that our government has committed is that we haven’t put Afenyo-Markins in court. From what I know of him, and I have stated… I have stated before, and I don’t blame him too much, our colleagues who create comfort for him are the problem of this government”.

Mustapha Gbande, when pushed by the host on what he knows about the Minority Leader, answered, “So much.”

However, the host pushed for Mustapha Gbande to mention what he knows, but he refused to give any details.

He further claimed that Afenyo-Markin, as the Minority Leader, is enjoying more than all his colleagues in opposition.

“I’m saying that the last time I said that, no opposition member, and I repeat, no opposition member enjoys more than Afenyo-Markin under this government. And I blame our colleagues who create those leverages, you see. And such a person should not be out there accusing anybody,” he said.

Mustapha Gbande further disclosed that when former President Nana Akufo-Addo was in power, they investigated his government, asserting that he knows what he is talking about regarding the Minority Leader.

“You see, when President Akufo-Addo was in government, we investigated his government. So, I know what I’m talking about…I’m saying that if Afenyo-Markins force us, we will go into the realities,” he noted.

Gbande further added, “So, his threats will not let anybody sacrifice Sammy Gyamfi. So far, in his imperfect nature as a young man, he’s demonstrated an impeccable discharge of responsibility that the NPP couldn’t do. Put the NPP and their cabinet together for eight years, couldn’t do”.

“In any case, which wise opposition leader threatens others? Which wise opposition leader does that? I’m learning from his politics, but it is a learning of what not to do than what to do,” he added.

Meanwhile, More details have emerged on the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, lawsuit against the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), Eric Adjei, Multimedia Group and Peace FM.

Afenyo-Markin, in a separate lawsuit, sued Sammy Gyamfi and Multimedia Group at the Accra High Court.

The Minority leader also sued Eric Adjei and Peace FM at the Achimota Circuit Court.

Speaking when Parliament reconvened on Monday, August 24, 2026, the Minority leader revealed he has initiated legal proceedings against Mr Gyamfi and media organisations that published or broadcast the statements in question.

Afenyo-Markin stated, “I have accordingly caused writs to be filed in Suit Number GT/1029/2026, titled Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin versus Samuel Adu Gyamfi and Multimedia Group Limited at the Accra High Court, and Suit Number GR/ACH/CC/C5/02/2026, titled Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin versus Eric Adjei and Peace FM at the Achimota Circuit Court”.

“I have every confidence that in the fullness of time the court will make the appropriate determination,” he added.

The legal action follows weeks of public exchanges between the Minority Leader and the GoldBod CEO over the financial performance of the DGPP, while Afenyo-Markin had appeared to have softened his earlier threat to pursue legal action over allegations made by Sammy Gyamfi.

The court cited details that the reliefs being sought by Afenyo-Markin including a retraction of the alleged defamatory statements.

“The reliefs are listed below:

a. General damages for libel;

b. Aggravated damages;

c. Exemplary damages;

d. An order directing the defendants to publish a full, unconditional and unequivocal retraction of the defamatory statements;

e. An order directing the defendants to publish a full, unconditional and unequivocal public apology to the plaintiff; and

f. An order directing that the retraction and apology be published and/or broadcast with substantially the same prominence and reach as the original publication.

g. An order directing the Defendants to cause the retraction and apology to be broadcast on JoyNews and published on the relevant electronic and social media platforms through which the defamatory publication was disseminated

h. An order of perpetual injunction restraining the Defendants, their servants, agents, assigns and/or any persons acting under their authority from further publishing the defamatory words or any words to the same or substantially similar effect concerning the Plaintiff

i. Costs of Fifteen million Ghana cedis (GH¢15,000,000.00) as compensation thereof

j. Costs, including legal costs; and

k. Any further or other reliefs as this Honourable Court may deem fit”.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ The Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources has officially welcomed Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim following his reassignment to the ministry by President John Dramani Mahama. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – ℳЯ. ℬℛℐ𝒢ℋ𝒯 ✞

GoldBod not fuelling galamsey, NPP members behind illegal mining – Majority

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The Majority in Parliament has rejected claims by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) activities are contributing to the worsening of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

According to the Majority Caucus, the NPP has not provided concrete evidence to support its claim that GoldBod’s operations are fuelling illegal mining.

The Majority rejected the allegation and maintained that the government has taken significant steps to strengthen the fight against galamsey

The Member of Parliament for Keta, Kwami Dzudzorli Gakpey, speaking to Citi News, stated, “The government is clamping down on galamsey heavily. Look at the water guards; they have been trained, look at the military and NAIMOS being deployed. But the fight is not easy because this fight boils down to livelihoods. People are making a lot of money from this, and we have to try to find alternatives for people and be moving them there gradually.

“So recently, even the Cocoa Bill that we passed, it incorporated that if you want to mine close to water bodies, it should be 500 metres away, even cocoa farms. So these are some of the areas we are tightening the law. It is NPP people who are doing the galamsey. Chairman Wontumi was sent to prison on galamsey charges.”

His comments come on the back of  Henry Nana Boakye, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), saying the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) is now responsible for the galamsey menace causing havoc on the environment.

According to the NPP, GoldBod is unable to adequately distinguish between gold sourced from licensed mining operations and gold produced through illegal mining.

He argued that GoldBod’s gold purchasing system has created loopholes which have allowed gold produced through illegal mining activities to enter the formal gold trading chain.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye stated, “GoldBod, I can tell you now, is the cause of the environmental destruction we are seeing. They are now responsible for galamsey”.

“If GoldBod is not buying galamsey gold, then who is?” he questioned, insisting that the authorities must provide clear answers on how gold purchased by the state-owned institution is sourced and verified.

Nana Boakye further criticised what he described as repeated assurances that systems were being developed to address the problem of gold traceability.

In related news, Dr Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, has revealed that at least 23 people, including 11 children, have died after falling into abandoned illegal mining (galamsey)  pits.

According to Dr Frank Amoakohene, 19 bodies have so far been retrieved from the abandoned galamsey pits, with four still trapped underground.

He disclosed that most of the victims were residents who fell into uncovered mining pits while using routes leading to their farms.

Dr Frank Amoakohene expressed concern over the deaths of children, saying 11 of the victims were minors whose lives had been cut short.

Speaking on Monday, August 24, 2026, during the commissioning of the new ultramodern office complex of the Minerals Commission in Kumasi, the Ashanti Region Minister stated, “Twenty-three lives have been lost only because they were on their way to their farms and fell into pits that were left uncovered by miners within the various areas. Only 19 have been recovered from the pits; the remaining four we have not been able to recover”.

“Eleven of them are children whose future has been cut short because someone, in his quest for money, left a pit uncovered within some of these areas that led to farmlands,” he added.

Also, the Regional Minister disclosed that with support from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the region has begun reclaiming and covering abandoned illegal mining pits across affected communities.

@ghnow_ 🇬🇭 Black Stars and Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo looking sharp tonight. He is one of the players that could be named in the PFA Team of the Year. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ The Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources has officially welcomed Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim following his reassignment to the ministry by President John Dramani Mahama. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – ℳЯ. ℬℛℐ𝒢ℋ𝒯 ✞

“No opposition member enjoying more than Afenyo-Markin under NDC gov’t” – Mustapha Gbande

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Mustapha Gbande, the Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has said Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin is enjoying more than all his colleagues in opposition.

According to Mustapha Gbande, Afenyo-Markin is enjoying more than any opposition member because some of his colleagues in the NDC have created the leverage for the Minority Leader.

Mustapha Gbande further blamed his own NDC members for creating comfort for Afenyo-Markin.

Speaking to media personality Roselyn Feli, Mustapha Gbande stated, “I’m saying that the last time I said that, no opposition member, and I repeat, no opposition member enjoys more than Afenyo-Markin under this government. And I blame our colleagues who create those leverages, you see. And such a person should not be out there accusing anybody”.

Mustapha Gbande noted that the only crime the John Mahama-led NDC government has committed is not putting Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin before court.

According to Mustapha Gbande, based on what he knows about Alexander Afenyo-Markin, he should have been arraigned before court.

 “The only crime that our government has committed is that we haven’t put Afenyo-Markins in court. From what I know of him, and I have stated… I have stated before, and I don’t blame him too much, our colleagues who create comfort for him are the problem of this government,” he said.

Mustapha Gbande, when pushed by the host on what he knows about the Minority Leader, answered, “So much.”

However, the host pushed for Mustapha Gbande to mention what he knows, but he refused to give any details.

He further claimed that Afenyo-Markin, as the Minority Leader, is enjoying more than all his colleagues in opposition.

Mustapha Gbande further disclosed that when former President Nana Akufo-Addo was in power, they investigated his government, asserting that he knows what he is talking about regarding the Minority Leader.

“You see, when President Akufo-Addo was in government, we investigated his government. So, I know what I’m talking about…I’m saying that if Afenyo-Markins force us, we will go into the realities,” he noted.

Gbande further added, “So, his threats will not let anybody sacrifice Sammy Gyamfi. So far, in his imperfect nature as a young man, he’s demonstrated an impeccable discharge of responsibility that the NPP couldn’t do. Put the NPP and their cabinet together for eight years, couldn’t do”.

“In any case, which wise opposition leader threatens others? Which wise opposition leader does that? I’m learning from his politics, but it is a learning of what not to do than what to do,” he added.

Meanwhile, the National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, has said the entire party leadership stands fully with the Minority leader, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin.

Nana B dismissed any assertions of disagreement within the party over the Minority Caucus’ scrutiny of the GoldBod losses.

According to Nana Boakye, there is no confusion within the party, as its leadership, including Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, fully supports the Minority leader.

Speaking during a press conference held by the party on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, Nana Boakye stated, “Let me say this boldly and plainly that the entire leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), including the presidential candidate, are fully behind the Minority. There is no confusion anywhere.

“We are fully behind the Mighty Minority. The NPP stands fully, completely, and unreservedly behind our Mighty Minority caucus in Parliament led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin. We wholeheartedly support each member in this struggle.”

“We back their questions, scrutiny, and demands for a full, transparent account of how a state institution charged with buying and protecting Ghana’s gold ended up presiding over such huge losses of this magnitude. This is not partisan politics but a national duty,” he noted.

“We are not backing off now, not tomorrow, not until every question is answered in full and in public and under proper scrutiny,” he added.

“We also say this to the Minority Leader and every member of the caucus: use every relevant law in the books, every question on the floor of Parliament, every committee hearing, every request for documents, every order paper, every point of order; utilise every relevant tool provided by the Standing Orders in our parliament with confidence,” he urged.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ The Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources has officially welcomed Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim following his reassignment to the ministry by President John Dramani Mahama. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – ℳЯ. ℬℛℐ𝒢ℋ𝒯 ✞
@ghnow_ 🇬🇭 Black Stars and Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo looking sharp tonight. He is one of the players that could be named in the PFA Team of the Year. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

“Without Bawumia and Boakye-Agyarko, NPP is headed into Odaw gutter” – Fadi Daboussi

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Fadi Daboussi, a staunch New Patriotic Party (NPP) member, has said NPP flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and aspiring National Chairman, Boakye-Agyarko, are the only capable figures to help the party overcome its challenges.

According to Fadi Daboussi, if the NPP do not engage Dr Bawumia and Boakye-Agyarko, the party is headed into the Odaw gutter.

He further criticised some NPP members over their recent comments and their positions on illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

In a self-recorded video shared on TikTok, Fadi Daboussi stated, “Who engaged in galamsey more than the former NPP administration under Samuel Abu Jinapor?”

“Galamsey was at its peak under the former government. At a point, former COCOBOD CEO Joseph Aidoo was getting threats for opposing the cutting of cocoa trees for galamsey. All these happened under the NPP, but now Abena has the effrontery to go on an anti-galamsey demo. It is annoying,” he said.

He added, “If you don’t engage Bawumia and Boakye-Agyarko, the party is headed into the Odaw gutter”.

In other news, Boakye Agyarko, the former Energy Minister and aspiring National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has made a bold pledge to supporters of the party after a group of NPP constituency chairpersons picked, paid for and presented nomination forms to him to contest the party’s National Chairperson position.

According to Boakye Agyarko, under his leadership, the NPP will rise again and return to power in the 2028 general elections under his leadership.

Addressing the media after receiving the forms, Mr Agyarko stated, “I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to Constituency Chairmen who purchased and picked this form for me and those who accompanied them. I’m truly humbled by this gesture. Chairmen, I’m truly grateful”.

“To the rest of the NPP fraternity, let me assure you that this party shall rise again. This party may have gone down, but we’re not out. With dedication and commitment…we will rise again,” he added.

“My task as a chairman is to lead in the rebuilding and rebranding of the party into a solid electoral machine upon which our flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, will stand firmly and win the 2028 election with ease,” he said.

Also, a new poll conducted ahead of the 2028 general elections has revealed that the former Vice President and Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, currently leads all potential National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidates.

The survey was conducted by Africa Policy Lens from July 27 to August 7, 2026, and interviewed 16,963 voters across all 276 constituencies, testing Dr Bawumia in seven assumed one-on-one contests.

The Africa Policy Lens disclosed that across all the matchups, Dr Bawumia secured between 45.7 per cent and 49.9 per cent of national voter support.

Dr Bawumia led Johnson Asiedu Nketia, 45.8 per cent to 42.4 per cent; Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, 45.7 per cent to 42.8 per cent; and Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, 45.9 per cent to 41.5 per cent.

They further disclosed that the NPP flagbearer margins were wider against Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, whom he led 47.4 per cent to 40.2 per cent, and Dr Julius Debrah, 48.4 per cent to 37.9 per cent.

Also, Dr Bawumia’s largest leads were recorded against Hon. Eric Opoku, 49.8 per cent to 33.9 per cent, and Prof. Joshua Alabi, 49.9 per cent to 34.4 per cent.

Watch the video below:

@kwadwo.fedi

♬ original sound – kwadwo fedi
@ghnow_ 🇬🇭 Black Stars and Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo looking sharp tonight. He is one of the players that could be named in the PFA Team of the Year. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ The Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources has officially welcomed Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim following his reassignment to the ministry by President John Dramani Mahama. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – ℳЯ. ℬℛℐ𝒢ℋ𝒯 ✞

Gov’t to regulate EV charging stations amid transformer failures – Energy Minister

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Dr John Abdulai Jinapor, the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, has announced that the government plans to regulate electric vehicle (EV) charging stations due to the rapid growth.

According to the Energy Minister, EV charging stations are putting pressure on electricity infrastructure in parts of the country, which leads to transformer failures.

Dr Jinapor announced at the 2026 Future of Energy Conference that new legislation is before Parliament, which will mandate Energy Commission approval for EV charging stations to be set up in a move to manage grid strain from rapid EV growth and fast-charging tech overloading transformers.

Speaking at the 2026 Future of Energy Conference in Accra on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, Dr Jinapor stated, “While Nigeria is investing in solar systems, particularly for homes, in Ghana we are importing a lot of EV vehicles. Ghana currently has the highest number of electric vehicles in Africa.

Research shows that when you use EV vehicles, you save about 40% on the cost of fuel alone. So naturally, Ghanaians are opting for EV vehicles.

But that provides us with a challenge: how do you provide reliable energy to power industrialisation, in light of EV vehicles being deployed in the country?”.

He further disclosed that legislation currently before Parliament seeks to regulate EV usage and charging stations so that the growth can be managed properly without putting pressure on the power supply for homes, businesses, and industries.

Dr Jinapor added, “We observe a certain trend. People seeing that opportunity have started setting up EV charging stations. With new technology, in 5 to 10 minutes you are able to charge your EV.

But that will consume a lot of electricity. What we witness is that people set up EV charging stations and immediately the transformer gets blown. So what we are saying is that you’d need permission to set up those EV charging stations from the Energy Commission.

That gives us the opportunity to reinforce the grid, to install more transformers so that by the time you are ready, we can accommodate your charging station. Other than that, it will keep collapsing the transformers in that vicinity”.

Some netizens reacting to the development stated, “Heavy industrial areas plus those running cold stores who even run illegal connections don’t even put pressure on transformers na EV stations. Just find a way to take tax to fund your absurd lifestyles”.

One X user added, “Data centres need more electricity for cooling and storage. Residential homes, Commercial and Industrial services rely on the same power as EVs. We do not generate that much to provide electricity to all these collective entities”.

A netizen added, “Your govt just imported 10K electric bikes, did you also think charging stations for the bikes will put pressure on your transformers??”.

One last X user added, “This is in fact admission to successive govt failure to improve infrastructure to catch up with technological trends. This legislation will only be an obstacle to innovation, since bureaucrats are going to turn it into a corruption process. It’s only going to get worse. I would rather encourage, through govt policy, solar panel subsidy for roofing to free up more energy to accommodate this new wave of industrial demand”.

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ The Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources has officially welcomed Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim following his reassignment to the ministry by President John Dramani Mahama. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – ℳЯ. ℬℛℐ𝒢ℋ𝒯 ✞
@ghnow_ The outgoing Minister of Works, Housing and Water Resources has arrived at the handing-over ceremony to formally transfer the ministry to the newly appointed minister, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – LYRICS MON-STAR ✍︎

“Without the support of our spiritualists, we would never have a peaceful capital” – Ga Mantse

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King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse and President of the Ga Traditional Council, has said Ghana’s capital Accra would never have peace without the support of the Ga State spiritualists.

The Ga Mantse defended the spiritual traditions of the Ga people, arguing that their role in protecting Accra and maintaining peace in the capital must be respected and recognised.

The Ga Mantse cited the annual ban on drumming and noise-making, which is often misunderstood, noting that some people perceive the traditional practice as a form of fetishism.

According to the Ga Mantse, without the traditional spiritual authorities, including the Naya Wollong, Sakumo Wollong, Kaule Wollong and Gbogu Wollong, among others, Accra will not know peace.

 Speaking on August 26, 2026, while addressing the media on his Sacred Crown Awards scheme, the Ga Mantse stated, “We put a ban on drumming and noise-making, and people feel that we are being fetishised and would refuse to accord us the needed respect and honour.”

“We know what we do as spiritualists that keeps this city and this capital safe, without the Naya Sakumonowulomo, without the Korlewulomo… and all the Wulomo’s that support this spiritual system, we would never have a peaceful capital, because we understand the metaphysical dynamics of the Ga State. That is why we have to call in order to recognise our spirituality, our African heritage and wellness,” he said.

The Ga Mantse further added, “We have realised that there are a number of award systems in Ghana and all over the world that this aspect of what deals with our Africanist and its heritage, our history, it norm, heritage has never been recognised. Our spirituality has never been recognised”.

In other news, the Ga Mantse has announced plans to arrest the parents of children found at the seashore during school hours.

According to the Ga Mantse, a child found at the seashore during school hours will be taken home by authorities, and their parents will be arrested.

He further revealed plans to criminalise child fishing activities, adding that parents who allow their ward to fish once the by-law is passed will be prosecuted.

The Ga Mantse made this known while speaking at the 2026 Kinka Blonya, an annual New Year children’s celebration on Thursday, January 1, 2026.

Ga Mantse stated, “All the traditional authorities in the Ga State have come together to actively promote education. A time is nearing when fishing by children at the expense of education would be criminalised”.

“We are at a point where prioritising education in the Ga state is non-negotiable. We are providing over 1000 scholarships; therefore, parents have no excuse to enrol their kids in schools. Let’s all come together and raise the Ga Children for the future” he added.

Watch the video below:

@thekdn_ We put a ban on drumming and noise making and people think we’re being fetish and refuse to accord us with the needed respect — King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse. Follow KDN for more exclusive updates. – #KDN ♬ original sound – KDN
@ghnow_ Construction continues on the drainage system at Darkunman junction #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ
@ghnow_ 🇬🇭 Black Stars and Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo looking sharp tonight. He is one of the players that could be named in the PFA Team of the Year. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

We import fish; our guests refuse local fish over galamsey menace – Ghana Hotels Association

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The Second Vice President of the Association, Benjamin Afunya, has revealed that several members of the Ghana Hotels Association (GHA) now import fish to prepare meals for their guests.

According to the Ghana Hotels Association,  many of their guests, particularly expatriates, refuse to consume locally caught fish due to health concerns over Ghana’s galamsey menace.

He disclosed that the destructive impact of illegal mining on local water bodies has severely affected the hospitality sector, adding that hotel managers often have to reassure guests that the fish served in their establishments is imported.

Speaking in an interview on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, the Second Vice President of the Association, Benjamin Afunya, stated, “We import fish from abroad, and that is costing us a lot. The reason is that the guests who book our facilities don’t want to eat fish from Ghana.

So we have to convince them that the fish we give them is imported. Even with the stabilisation of the cedi against the dollar, importing these items is expensive,” he stated.

He further added that the majority of vegetables used by these high-end hotels are also imported.

“Are you aware that the vegetables we use in our hotels are imported from abroad? The Ghanaian market is unable to meet our demand, and so we are forced to import the vegetables from abroad. We had even thought the government would have included us when it launched the Planting for Food and Jobs, but that did not happen. We are not able to produce the size or type of vegetables we need,” he added.

In related news, President John Dramani Mahama has said his government will not give up in the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Mahama argued that Ghana is making progress in the fight against illegal mining.

According to John Mahama, the government will intensify efforts to reclaim forest reserves and other environmentally sensitive areas affected by illegal mining activities.

He highlighted that the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has played a key role in the ongoing efforts.

Speaking during his Resetting Ghana Tour of the Upper East Region, Mahama stated, “NAIMOS is working very hard. We have seized excavators, we have seized Changfang machines, and we have driven illegal miners out of this area, and we are making progress. Out of the almost 49 forest reserves that were invaded [by illegal miners], we have been able to clear as many of them as possible of illegal miners.

“What we initially did was that we handed the places to the Forestry Commission after clearing them, but the illegal miners don’t fear the forest guards, and so we now put a military detachment after we clear a forest reserve.

“That means we will have to spend more money to feed the soldiers and provide logistics for them to continue to stay in the forest, but we will not give up the fight.”

The president, however, admitted that additional resources are required to sustain security deployments in reclaimed forest reserves, adding that the government would remain committed to preventing illegal miners from returning to areas already cleared.

@ghnow_ Construction continues on the drainage system at Darkunman junction #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – NDCMUSICHQ
@ghnow_ 🇬🇭 Black Stars and Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo looking sharp tonight. He is one of the players that could be named in the PFA Team of the Year. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

Galamsey pit claims 23 lives, including 11 children, in the Ashanti Region

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Dr Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, has revealed that at least 23 people, including 11 children, have died after falling into abandoned illegal mining (galamsey) pits.

According to Dr Frank Amoakohene, 19 bodies have so far been retrieved from the abandoned galamsey pits, with four still trapped underground.

He disclosed that most of the victims were residents who fell into uncovered mining pits while using routes leading to their farms.

Dr Frank Amoakohene expressed concern over the deaths of children, saying 11 of the victims were minors whose lives had been cut short.

Speaking on Monday, August 24, 2026, during the commissioning of the new ultramodern office complex of the Minerals Commission in Kumasi, the Ashanti Region Minister stated, “Twenty-three lives have been lost only because they were on their way to their farms and fell into pits that were left uncovered by miners within the various areas. Only 19 have been recovered from the pits; the remaining four we have not been able to recover”.

“Eleven of them are children whose future has been cut short because someone, in his quest for money, left a pit uncovered within some of these areas that led to farmlands,” he added.

Also, the Regional Minister disclosed that with support from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the region has begun reclaiming and covering abandoned illegal mining pits across affected communities.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has said his government will not give up in the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Mahama argued that Ghana is making progress in the fight against illegal mining.

According to John Mahama, the government will intensify efforts to reclaim forest reserves and other environmentally sensitive areas affected by illegal mining activities.

He highlighted that the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has played a key role in the ongoing efforts.

Speaking during his Resetting Ghana Tour of the Upper East Region, Mahama stated, “NAIMOS is working very hard. We have seized excavators, we have seized Changfang machines, and we have driven illegal miners out of this area, and we are making progress. Out of the almost 49 forest reserves that were invaded [by illegal miners], we have been able to clear as many of them as possible of illegal miners.

“What we initially did was that we handed the places to the Forestry Commission after clearing them, but the illegal miners don’t fear the forest guards, and so we now put a military detachment after we clear a forest reserve.

“That means we will have to spend more money to feed the soldiers and provide logistics for them to continue to stay in the forest, but we will not give up the fight.”

The president, however, admitted that additional resources are required to sustain security deployments in reclaimed forest reserves, adding that the government would remain committed to preventing illegal miners from returning to areas already cleared.

In related news, the Second Vice President of the Association, Benjamin Afunya, has revealed that several members of the Ghana Hotels Association (GHA) now import fish to prepare meals for their guests.

According to the Ghana Hotels Association,  many of their guests, particularly expatriates, refuse to consume locally caught fish due to health concerns over Ghana’s galamsey menace.

He disclosed that the destructive impact of illegal mining on local water bodies has severely affected the hospitality sector, adding that hotel managers often have to reassure guests that the fish served in their establishments is imported.

Speaking in an interview on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, the Second Vice President of the Association, Benjamin Afunya, stated, “We import fish from abroad, and that is costing us a lot. The reason is that the guests who book our facilities don’t want to eat fish from Ghana.

So we have to convince them that the fish we give them is imported. Even with the stabilisation of the cedi against the dollar, importing these items is expensive,” he stated.

He further added that the majority of vegetables used by these high-end hotels are also imported.

“Are you aware that the vegetables we use in our hotels are imported from abroad? The Ghanaian market is unable to meet our demand, and so we are forced to import the vegetables from abroad. We had even thought the government would have included us when it launched the Planting for Food and Jobs, but that did not happen. We are not able to produce the size or type of vegetables we need,” he added.

@ghnow_ The Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources has officially welcomed Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim following his reassignment to the ministry by President John Dramani Mahama. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – ℳЯ. ℬℛℐ𝒢ℋ𝒯 ✞
@ghnow_ 🇬🇭 Black Stars and Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo looking sharp tonight. He is one of the players that could be named in the PFA Team of the Year. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow

“If anyone attempts to mess with any NPP person or ballot boxes they will meet God” – Adenta Kumi  

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Alfred Ababio Kumi, commonly known as Adenta Kumi, an aspiring National Youth Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has issued yet another threat ahead of the 2028 general election.

According to Adenta Kumi, anyone, particularly persons from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), who attempts to mess with NPP members or ballot boxes during the 2028 general election will “meet their God.”

Adenta Kumi stressed that the NPP of 2024 will not be the same party in the 2028 general election.

He warned the current government that the NPP will meet them “shoulder to shoulder” if they attempt to repeat acts of misconduct during the 2024 elections.

Speaking in a viral video shared on X, Adenta Kumi stated, “This new NPP is a new party altogether. The NPP of 2024 is not the NPP of 2028. We are sending a warning to the NDC: we will meet them shoulder to shoulder. What happened the last time, when they misbehaved and took ballot boxes and beat some of our candidates, under my watch, that would not happen”.

“I am saying this without fear. If anybody attempts to mess around with any NPP person or the ballot box on that day, they will meet God. As to how they will meet God, we don’t know. I am not afraid of anybody. I served in Manhyia, and we are not afraid of anybody. By the grace of God, I held Otumfuo’s gun. We are not afraid of anybody,” he stated.

“We are only here to serve Ghana, so if they don’t want peace, we will show them what power is. I have personally promised my heart that we will do whatever it will take to make Dr Bawumia become President. Whatever we will do to win seats to become the majority in Parliament, we will do it,” he noted.

“I’m not going to be a National Youth Organiser who will sit in Accra and work. I am going to be a National Youth Organiser who will stay in every constituency for at least two nights because we need to be able to feel the problems of the people down there,” he added.

Earlier, Adenta Kumi has said the party will stop at nothing to win the 2028 general election.

According to Adenta Kumi, if the NDC takes 100 of our girls, we will take 500 of theirs.

He declared that the NPP is ready to do whatever it takes to win the 2028 election; even if they have to go to hell to campaign.

Speaking in a viral video, Adenta Kumi stated, “If the NDC takes 100 of our girls, we will take 500 of their girls. Whatever we have to do to win the 2028 general election, we will do; even if we have to go to hell to campaign, we will go there, and campaign, and we will not let anybody silence us.

You know what the NDC is doing; they are trying to keep us mute, so that at the time of election they can do what they want, but I have told them you can kill the messenger, but yoy can never kill the message. You can never kill the message of change because Ghanaians themselves are saying that they tasted water and tasted alcohol, and they do not know which one is good for life”.  

Watch the video below:

@ghnow_ 🇬🇭 Black Stars and Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo looking sharp tonight. He is one of the players that could be named in the PFA Team of the Year. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – GHnow
@ghnow_ The Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources has officially welcomed Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim following his reassignment to the ministry by President John Dramani Mahama. #GHnow #fyp ♬ original sound – ℳЯ. ℬℛℐ𝒢ℋ𝒯 ✞