The Ministry of Education has initiated an urgent investigation into claims by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, regarding the distribution of expired food to Senior High Schools (SHSs) across Ghana. Ablakwa alleged that 22,000 bags of expired and repackaged rice were supplied to SHSs in February 2024. He accused the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) and Lamens Investments Africa Limited of conspiring to repackage expired rice imported from India. According to him, the rice, which had an expiry date of December 2023, was rebranded with local sacks labeled “ECOWAS” and “Made in Ghana rice,” but notably omitted any expiry date. The MP claimed the repackaging occurred at NAFCO's storage facility in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, compromising the health and safety of students nationwide. In a statement issued Thursday evening, Kwasi Kwarteng, spokesperson for the Ministry of Education, confirmed that the allegations are being taken seriously. He expressed gratitude to Ablakwa for drawing attention to the matter and highlighted the Ministry’s dedication to ensuring the safety of students. “As a matter of urgency, we have commenced a full investigation. The Ministry has engaged NAFCO and the Ghana Commodity Exchange (GCX), the entities responsible for food supply to senior high schools, to conduct a thorough inquiry into these allegations,” Kwarteng stated. He assured parents, students, and the public of the Ministry's commitment to safeguarding the well-being of students, promising transparency and regular updates as the investigation progresses. This development follows ongoing concerns about food quality in schools, adding urgency to calls for improved oversight in the procurement and distribution processes. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Major General Richard Addo Gyane, Commandant of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), has called for a renewed global commitment to the Geneva Conventions as they mark their 75th anniversary. Speaking at a commemorative event hosted by the KAIPTC, Maj. Gen. Gyane emphasized the enduring significance of the Conventions, which have served as the foundation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) since their adoption in 1949. "The Geneva Conventions have been a cornerstone in promoting humanity and compassion, even amidst conflict. For 75 years, they have safeguarded millions of lives and provided dignity to soldiers, women, children, and vulnerable groups impacted by war," Maj. Gen. Gyane stated, acknowledging the contributions of Henry Dunant, whose vision of humane treatment during war inspired the Conventions. Reflecting on the challenges facing IHL today, he highlighted the evolving nature of conflicts, especially with the rise of non-state actors and the use of asymmetrical warfare, which has increasingly endangered civilians. "The changing dynamics of conflict, including the alarming increase in attacks on civilian populations, forced displacements, and environmental issues, require us to question how the Geneva Conventions can adapt to contemporary conflicts," he said. Maj. Gen. Gyane underscored the critical need for countries to uphold the tenets of the Geneva Conventions, pointing out that failure to do so could diminish their moral authority. Citing U.S. Senator Charles Schumer’s concerns, he asked, "If we say the Geneva Convention is obsolete, then what do others who have our soldiers say?" He urged continued respect for IHL to maintain the dignity of soldiers and civilians alike. He also addressed obstacles in enforcing compliance with IHL, such as accountability and international cooperation challenges. "Strengthening international collaboration is crucial to enhance compliance and ensure accountability for violations," Maj. Gen. Gyane remarked. He affirmed KAIPTC’s dedication to fostering peace and security through training and capacity-building, equipping peacekeepers to respect IHL principles in even the most challenging situations. As the world faces increasingly complex conflicts, Maj. Gen. Gyane advocated for strengthening humanitarian protections and respecting the rights of all parties involved in conflict. "We must aim for a world where, in all conflict situations, civilians are shielded from harm, and dignity prevails, even amidst the worst provocations," he said. He also expressed gratitude to the Swiss Government for supporting KAIPTC’s commemoration of this milestone and honored the courage of peacekeepers, humanitarian workers, and others who work to protect lives in conflict zones. The Commandant reaffirmed KAIPTC’s commitment to promoting global peace, stating, "Let us strive for a future where the Geneva Conventions are not just a legacy but a living testament to our shared humanity." Taking her turn, Swiss Ambassador to Ghana, Simone Giger emphasized the pressing need for global adherence to international humanitarian principles. The symposium, co-organized by the Swiss Embassy and the Peace Training Center, focused on the challenges in implementing international humanitarian law (IHL) amidst escalating conflicts worldwide. Ambassador Giger underscored the troubling rise in conflict-related fatalities, referencing data from the Stockholm International Peace Institute. She noted that conflict-related deaths surged from 153,000 in 2022 to over 170,000 in 2023, with high-intensity conflicts like those in Myanmar, Sudan, Israel-Palestine, and Ukraine contributing significantly to the toll. Sub-Saharan Africa, she said, remains the region with the most conflicts, though fatalities have declined in some areas, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria. However, Sudan and Burkina Faso have seen significant increases in violence, affecting civilian populations, especially women and children. “The Geneva Conventions represent a universal commitment to a measure of humanity even amidst war,” Madam Giger stated, reflecting on Switzerland's unique role in humanitarian diplomacy as the custodian of these international treaties since 1949. "The Conventions protect those not engaged in hostilities—civilians, medical personnel, and humanitarian workers—as well as the wounded and prisoners of war." In response to a United Nations General Assembly resolution in September, Switzerland has agreed to host a Conference of High Contracting Parties to the Fourth Geneva Convention in March 2025. The conference will specifically address the protection of civilians in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and will focus on upholding IHL in these conflict zones. Madam Giger stressed that the conference aims to produce a unified declaration reaffirming IHL's core principles and committing parties to concrete actions that bolster the Convention’s enforcement. She emphasized the importance of IHL in limiting wartime suffering and facilitating peace. “Respect for IHL is ultimately in everyone’s interest,” she asserted, adding that any violation of these rules not only endangers civilians but also undermines post-conflict reconciliation. The Swiss ambassador concluded by calling for a renewed, global commitment to uphold the Geneva Conventions as a safeguard for “our common humanity,” inviting the audience to engage in discussions with representatives from the International Committee of the Red Cross and other humanitarian stakeholders on the role of IHL in today’s complex conflicts. The symposium highlighted that, even after 75 years, the Geneva Conventions remain a critical framework for preserving human dignity in the face of war. Others speakers took turns to share their views on the evolution of International Humanitarian Law, how far so far; challenges and lessons learnt from the Israeli-Palestinian context, contemporary dilemmas and challenges of ICRC as custodians of IHL as well as upholding IHL in peacekeeping theatres. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Together with the Government of Ghana, Africa Oil Week (“AOW”) and the Africa Prosperity Network are thrilled to announce that the 2025 event will be held in Accra from September 15th to 18th at the prestigious Kempinski Hotel. This momentous relocation from South Africa to Ghana highlights Ghana’s central role in the global energy arena as it prepares to host one of the largest platforms for advancing energy development and investment across Africa. His Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, expressed his pride in welcoming AOW to Accra, calling it a defining moment for both Ghana and the continent. “I am therefore personally delighted to endorse Africa Oil Week and to welcome its move from Cape Town to Accra. My gratitude extends to Sankofa Events for entrusting Ghana as the new host of such a significant gathering, led by Mr. Paul Sinclair, a fellow Ghanaian whose dedication to advancing Africa’s energy sector is truly inspiring.” AOW’s move to Ghana marks a new era in which Africa can champion its own energy narrative and pursue a unified strategy for oil, gas, and broader energy development. With a focus on driving investment, M&A, and deal flow in the regional energy sector, Paul Sinclair, CEO of Sankofa Events and owner of AOW, emphasized Africa’s unique opportunity to shape its future. “Africa Oil Week is about Africa charting its own course for natural resource development and finding the right partners who share a vision of equitable growth in the sector. Our goal is to secure energy access for our people and to establish a prominent role for Africa in the global energy landscape.” The organizers conveyed a strong and unified message, now is the time to develop a cohesive and progressive strategy for the continent’s oil and gas potential, ensuring Africa plays a central role in the global energy mix. Mr. Sinclair stated, “It is not simply a choice between fossil fuels and renewables; oil and gas will play a vital role in meeting energy demand for years to come, and we must embrace sustainable, low-carbon strategies that prioritize regional and international needs. Hosting this event in Accra moves us forward in ensuring Africa’s full potential drives economic development and contributes to our future success.” Across the course of the press conference Ghanaian leadership also contributed to echoing the sentiments of President Nana Akufo-Addo. Hon. Minister Herbert Krapa added to the Press Conference by stating "We are fully committed to ensuring that all Ministries, National Oil Companies, and Regulators across Africa are represented at the 2025 Africa Oil Week Summit in Accra. Our goal is to make it the premier energy dialogue on the continent, setting the stage for transformative discussions and partnerships that will propel Africa’s energy future.", whilst Mr. Egbert Faibille Junior, CEO of the Petroleum Commission also contributed by stating "The arrival of Africa Oil Week in Ghana is a landmark occasion for the continent, aligning perfectly with our vision at the Petroleum Commission to strengthen Ghana’s upstream potential and develop new frameworks that will make the national upstream more competitive. "We will also be working with our counterparts to ensure all regional regulators are present to ensure AOW maintains a Pan African focus. We thank Sankofa Events and Paul Sinclair for partnering with the Government of Ghana to make this possible.” With a steadfast commitment to Africa’s prosperity, AOW is also dedicated to supporting African service providers in international projects, empowering them to access tenders and secure their place in Africa’s energy sector. This vision is shared by Africa Prosperity Network, AOW’s strategic partner, as both organizations work tirelessly to establish African companies as leading suppliers in the region’s energy industry. A spokesperson for Africa Prosperity Network underscored the significance of this partnership: “Hosting a world-class event like AOW in Accra is a proud moment for Ghana and Africa’s oil and gas sector. Over five days, the global energy community will focus on Accra, exploring new projects, frontier markets, and deal-making opportunities within the African upstream. This is Ghana’s opportunity to shine and showcase Africa’s vast energy potential.” Both AOW and Africa Prosperity Network remain deeply committed to Africa’s sustainable oil and gas development. Together, they believe that Africa must lead its own energy journey, using its natural resources to drive socio-economic growth and secure a vital position in the global energy market. AOW, along with its partners, eagerly anticipates hosting a gold-standard, world-class event in Accra from September 15th to 18th, 2025, with leading international energy companies, setting the stage for Ghana to become a pivotal hub for energy dialogue, investment, and innovation across Africa. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has touted its 2024 Manifesto as a comprehensive plan to revitalize Ghana’s economy and propel the nation towards sustained growth. Speaking at a press conference at the NPP Headquarters in Accra on Wednesday, the party’s Director of Communication, Richard Ahiagbah, emphasized the NPP’s superior economic proposals, which he said would stabilize and grow the economy while leveraging digital advancements. “The NPP’s 2024 Manifesto offers Bold Solutions for jobs and business. Its ideas are forward-looking, aiming to stabilize and grow the economy, leveraging the digital revolution to make Ghana competitive,” Ahiagbah stated. He noted that the NPP’s economic strategies are designed to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, asserting that they would drive long-term national development. Proposals According to Mr Ahiagbah, the NPP’s policy proposals have been extensively analyzed and endorsed by economic experts, who find them “relevant, workable, and effective” for ensuring economic stability in the immediate term. He underscored the importance of these solutions, which he believes are crucial to sustaining Ghana’s economic recovery and laying the foundation for widespread prosperity. “Dr Bawumia and the NPP’s Bold Solutions for the economy have been widely discussed and found by experts to be relevant, workable, and effective in sustaining the economic recovery and delivering a stable economy for Ghanaians in the immediate term,” he added, stressing the credibility and feasibility of the NPP’s proposals. Mr Ahiagbah also urged Ghanaians to support the NPP and its presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, in the upcoming December 7 elections. He emphasized that the economy should be the primary focus of voters, as the NPP presents the best policy options to drive growth and improve living standards. “We should vote for Dr Bawumia and the NPP to implement these widely accepted policy ideas to stabilize and grow the economy. The economy is everything to vote for on December 7, and Dr Bawumia and the NPP offer the right policy solutions to boost growth and prosperity for Ghanaians,” Ahiagbah remarked. The NPP’s vision, he explained, is grounded in leveraging digital technologies to enhance economic competitiveness and create sustainable employment opportunities. The party remains confident that its comprehensive approach will position Ghana as a formidable player in the global economic landscape. Commendation He indicated: “We want to commend the NPP Parliamentary party, led by Hon. Alexander Afenyo Markin, for their spirited defense of the 1992 Constitution. We commend the Supreme Court for its service to the nation. I want to echo the words of the Majority Leader, Hon. Alexander Afenyo Markin: this is not a victory for one side and defeat for another, but rather, a triumph for our democracy and the rule of law. Now, let’s get back to work” He indicated that NDC campaign has consisted mainly of insults led by its flagbearer, H.E. John Mahama, and an outright refusal to debate the economy to help Ghanaians make an informed decision on December “As things stand, with 24 days or so to the elections, Ghanaians are confused about the NDC’s plan to grow Ghana’s economy. They propose a catchy phrase, 24-hour economy, but they cannot explain it. The NDC is running an empty slogan campaign. We return later to the 24-hour economy proposal,” he said. He stressed that Dr Bawumia and the NPP’s Bold Solutions for the economy have been widely discussed and found by experts to be relevant, workable, and effective in sustaining the economic recovery and delivering a stable economy for Ghanaians in the immediate term. The NPP Director of Communication explained that Dr. Bawumia’s bold economic solutions focus on several key areas: sustaining and expanding Ghana’s recovering economy, creating jobs, implementing comprehensive tax reforms, building Ghana into a world-class digital economy, reducing the cost of living, and enhancing public infrastructure. He said, these initiatives, address the urgent challenges of economic growth and jobs for the youth of Ghana. *Bawumia’s Bold Solutions* He stated that the economy has rebounded strongly since we turned the corner in 2023. “The average growth of the first two quarters of 2024 is 5.8 percent, 4.8 percent, and 6.9 percent, respectively. The IMF projects a 4 percent real GDP growth for 2024, but at this rate, the economy will likely expand beyond the projected 4 percent. Ghana is on track to outperform the IMF’s 3.6 percent growth projection for the Sub-Saharan region”. Mr. Ahiagbah mentioned that Dr Bawumia proposes to accelerate the growth and expansion of the economy over the next four years. “Under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, we increased the size of the Ghanaian economy by US$20 billion since 2016, from US$56 billion to US$76 billion by the end of December 2023. Dr. Bawumia’s Bold Solutions would likely double the size of Ghana’s economy as President”. He added that Bawumia aims to “achieve and sustain an average growth of 6% by expanding agriculture, mining (including establishing a Minerals Development Bank), the 1D1F initiative, emerging industries, digital hubs and services, sports, tourism, and the creative arts”. “Enhance public-private partnerships (PPPs) as a primary funding model for public infrastructure projects. Establish an independent Fiscal Responsibility Council to oversee fiscal policy. Amend the Fiscal Responsibility Act to add a new fiscal rule requiring that expenditure in any year not exceed 105% of the previous year’s tax revenue,” he outlined. Broad tax reforms Mr Ahiagbah said Bawumia will offer a one-time tax amnesty to all Ghanaians and corporate entities through tax amnesty from the payment of taxes from the previous years. He indicated that the waiving of interest and penalties for failure to file taxes in previous years will enable everyone to start their tax journey afresh. It will “wipe the slate clean” for all taxpayers in Ghana. He added that Bawumia will introduce a flat rate tax system in Ghana, like Estonia. This he said, will simplify the tax administration by giving taxpayers visibility into their tax obligations, making it easier to file and pay their taxes; reform the Value Added Tax regime by merging all levies into a single line-item levy and treating the merged levy as part of input and output VAT to eliminate the cascading effect in the current regime. The policy he said will also help to reduce withholding Tax (WHT) for small-scale gold exports to 1% to discourage smuggling; abolish the Betting Tax; incentivize Ghanaian start-ups in selected strategic sectors with Investment Tax Credits (ITC) for the first of their operations; digitize all aspects of tax administration to reduce leakages and improve efficiency and ease of filing; complement a Flat Rate for all importers, bringing predictability and stability of imported goods; harmonize port charges to align with charges in competing regional ports, particularly Togo. He added that duties at our ports will be the same or lower, and broaden the tax base by leveraging digitalization to capture more eligible taxpayers to reduce the pressure on the few. Story by: Political News Desk

President Akufo-Addo of Ghana has called on world leaders to abandon empty rhetoric and commit to decisive actions in addressing the urgent climate crisis, urging that this year’s COP29 summit must signal a shift from dialogue to real action. Addressing the World Climate Leaders Summit on Wednesday, November 13, President Akufo-Addo stressed the need for concrete steps to protect vulnerable communities and ecosystems facing increasingly severe threats from climate change. “We gather here not only as individuals or policymakers but as people bound by a love for our land and environment. Our children’s futures hinge on our decisions, so COP29 must be a shift from dialogue to action,” he declared. Highlighting the urgency of the climate crisis, Akufo-Addo noted that time is running out to implement solutions capable of safeguarding both lives and ecosystems. He pressed for the COP29 discussions to prioritize actionable measures rather than superficial conversations. Climate financing was also a central point in President Akufo-Addo’s remarks. He called on developed nations to fulfill their financial commitments, which are essential to support green energy transitions globally. This funding, he argued, is vital for less wealthy nations to meet climate goals and help avert the worst effects of climate change. The Ghanaian leader’s comments echo a growing sentiment among global leaders and activists that tangible action, particularly from wealthier nations, is needed now more than ever if the international community is to effectively combat climate change. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Odododiodioo MP, Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has criticized the Supreme Court’s ruling regarding the vacant seats case in Parliament, describing it as “unfortunate” and arguing that the decision has not resonated well with many Ghanaians. In a 5-2 decision, the Supreme Court upheld a suit filed by Alexander Afenyo-Markin challenging Speaker Alban Bagbin's declaration of four seats as vacant. This decision, announced yesterday, November 12, is expected to be elaborated upon with a full judgment today, Wednesday, November 13. The lawsuit initiated by Afenyo-Markin created a power struggle within Parliament, with NDC MPs assuming the majority position following Bagbin’s ruling, while New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs protested by boycotting parliamentary proceedings. With the Supreme Court’s recent decision, Parliament is expected to revert the NDC MPs to their original Minority status. However, Vanderpuye voiced strong opposition to the ruling during an interview on an Accra-based television station, stating, “I do not care about the Supreme Court ruling that the declaration of four seats vacant by Speaker Alban Bagbin was unconstitutional.” He criticized the court for intervening in what he argued was a straightforward constitutional issue. "Any class 6 pupil can read this article and understand this. But they decided to give an interpretation. Many Ghanaians will tell you they are not happy about the ruling," he added. Vanderpuye further argued that this ruling had compromised the image of the Supreme Court, referencing a recent report by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation. “One would have thought that the Supreme Court would use this to restore some image to itself. But they further pushed their image and integrity into the barn, so I am not worried,” he said. In light of the decision, Vanderpuye stated that the NDC MPs would not comply with a recall to Parliament to reinstate the original status quo. “If the Supreme Court says they have the authority to change the status quo in Parliament, then they should arrogate to themselves the power to order Parliament to sit tomorrow" "No MP from our side will respond to any call to leave the field and come to the House. We are not robots to be pushed here and there,” he declared. When asked if this response reflected the position of the entire NDC caucus, Vanderpuye confirmed that “about 99% of our members on our platform have said that we will not respond to any recall of Parliament.” However, he clarified that the NDC would still respond to a recall initiated directly by Speaker Bagbin, stressing the importance of evaluating the timing and necessity of any such summons. This dispute stems from Bagbin's October 17, 2024, decision to declare four NDC seats vacant due to alleged constitutional violations by certain MPs. Alexander Afenyo-Markin subsequently filed a motion with the Supreme Court, leading to yesterday's verdict, which now adds a new chapter to the ongoing political tensions in Ghana’s Parliament. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Dramani Mahama has pledged to overhaul Ghana’s healthcare system and expand support for girls’ education, addressing key issues that have long impacted underserved communities. Following the commissioning of a new maternity and children’s ward in Bodom, Nkoranza North, on November 12, Mahama, accompanied by his wife, Lordina, highlighted the challenges many Ghanaians face with rising healthcare costs and limited access to essential medical services. “Accessible and affordable healthcare should be a right, not a privilege,” Mahama stated, emphasizing that free primary healthcare for all citizens would be a priority under his leadership. He noted that many Ghanaians are unable to access necessary care, not due to the absence of facilities, but because of the prohibitive costs. “Many Ghanaians cannot access the medical care they need, sometimes not because healthcare facilities don’t exist, but because the costs are often beyond their reach" "For this reason, among others, the next NDC government, which God willing I will lead, will prioritise critical social interventions designed to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for every Ghanaian, regardless of their socioeconomic background,” Mahama said. Outlining additional plans, Mahama committed to launching a nationwide free sanitary pads initiative aimed at improving school attendance among young girls, particularly those from low-income households who often miss school due to lack of hygienic resources. “This initiative will directly impact the health and attendance of young girls and ensure that they can continue their education,” he added. “We intend to establish a free sanitary pad programme for all our girls in secondary schools who are having to skip school because they cannot afford to have hygienic pads to be able to protect themselves. And so this is another programme that we will introduce for school girls.” As the December elections approach, Mahama’s proposals emphasize the NDC’s focus on tackling social inequities, with healthcare and education reforms at the forefront of his campaign agenda. The NDC leader assured Ghanaians that, if elected, his administration would prioritize these critical interventions to support and uplift marginalized communities across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, held discussions with the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference on Tuesday, November 12, at the Pope John Paul Formation Centre in Ofoase Kokoben, Ashanti Region. The meeting was led by the President of the Conference, Most Rev. Dr. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, where both parties engaged in what Dr. Bawumia described as “open, frank, and insightful discussions on important national issues.” Following the meeting, Dr. Bawumia expressed gratitude for the conversation, which touched on key matters, including the upcoming December 7 polls and the moral direction of the nation. “I am particularly grateful for the fatherly advice. May God bless us all,” Dr. Bawumia posted on his Facebook page after the interaction. The NPP candidate has been actively campaigning in the Ashanti Region, visiting several constituencies on Monday, November 11, including Bekwai, Bosomtwe, Ejisu, and Asokwa. Reflecting on his experiences, he shared appreciation for the enthusiastic support from the region, saying, “I am grateful for the ecstatic welcome accorded me, and I continue to be fortified in my belief that my policies and programmes are the best fit for moving Ghana to the next level of her holistic development.” Encouraging supporters to rally friends and family, Dr. Bawumia urged citizens to back “new ideas and bold solutions” in the upcoming election, confident that “together, we can make it possible.” Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, announced his resignation Tuesday, following an independent review that criticized his response to allegations against John Smyth, a man believed to be "the most prolific serial abuser linked to the Church of England." The review, published last Thursday, revealed that Welby failed to take adequate steps to report, investigate, and prevent abuses committed by Smyth, a lawyer and evangelical Christian leader. Smyth, who died in 2018, allegedly abused over 100 boys and young men across Britain, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, subjecting them to brutal physical, sexual, and psychological trauma under the guise of religious discipline. In his resignation statement, Welby acknowledged the church's prolonged "conspiracy of silence" surrounding the abuse. "It is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for the retraumatizing period between 2013 and 2024," he stated, adding that he regretted not ensuring the abuse claims were "energetically investigated" after he was informed of them in 2013. Smyth’s abusive practices date back to the 1970s and 1980s, when he allegedly targeted young boys he encountered at summer camps, universities, and private schools. At one such institution, Winchester College, an internal investigation by the Iwerne Trust in the early 1980s uncovered his conduct but stopped short of notifying law enforcement. Smyth then moved to Zimbabwe and later South Africa, where the report indicates he continued abusing young boys until his death. Welby, who first issued a public apology in 2017 after a documentary by Channel 4 exposed Smyth’s crimes, issued another apology last week in response to mounting pressure. Victims, church leaders, and over 14,000 petitioners from the General Synod urged Welby to step down, which he initially resisted. Welby, 68, has served as a major faith leader and influential figure in both religious and state events, including the coronation of King Charles III and the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. He was scheduled to retire in 2026. "With this resignation, I hope to demonstrate the Church’s commitment to creating a safer, more accountable space for all," Welby said, expressing solidarity with abuse survivors. His resignation opens the door to a lengthy process for selecting a successor, who will be formally nominated by the British monarch with advice from a Church of England commission. Story by: News Desk Report

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has held a wreath-laying ceremony in remembrance of its late founder, Late Jerry John Rawlings. The wreath-laying ceremony was held at the party’s headquarters in Accra to commemorating the fourth anniversary of his passing. Speaking at the event, Dr. Zanetor Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle and daughter of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, emphasized the true essence of leadership. She highlighted that "leadership is not about lording it over the people." Reflecting on the legacy of her father, who was known for his principles of justice and service, Dr. Rawlings urged current and aspiring leaders to embody integrity and humility. "If we can show love and respect to one another, if we can show care for the environment, and if we can understand that leadership is not about taking what’s not yours but rather serving the people, we can build a stronger, more united nation," she stated. She stressed that the expectations placed on leaders extend beyond their personal ambitions, underscoring that "leadership is a form of service." Dr. Rawlings called on leaders to remember that positions of power come with heightened responsibilities for integrity and corporate stewardship. "Leadership with integrity does matter," she concluded, urging all leaders to hold fast to values that prioritize the welfare of the people over personal gain. Hon. Fritz Baffour, former NDC Member of Parliament for Ablekuma South, paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Jerry John Rawlings, describing him as a guiding light and beacon of hope whose legacy endures. He reflected on the inspiration Rawlings brought to countless Ghanaians and urged the nation to carry forward his values. "Jerry John Rawlings was a good man and a profound loss to the country," Mr. Baffour stated. "The light he brought has not dimmed. Even in these difficult times, his memory lives on as a symbol of hope and aspiration for the victory to come." Hon. Baffour encouraged Ghanaians to uphold the principles Rawlings championed, such as integrity, humility, and respect. "If we act with honesty, if we help one another, and push our capable ones toward success, this country will progress," he remarked. "Ghana is a wonderful country, and by staying true to these values, we can overcome the trials and tribulations we face today." On her part, Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Barbara Serwaa Asamoah reflected on the lasting influence of Jerry John Rawlings’ humility and honesty. Madam Asamoah shared her personal memories of Rawlings, recalling how his warmth and humility left a profound impact on those around him. "What I remember most about him is how he could come down to everyone’s level, no matter who they were," Asamoah stated. "He always had a conversation for everyone, and he made you feel seen. Despite being the head of state, his humility was remarkable." Madam Asamoah revealed that Rawlings had been a mentor since 1992, encouraging her to work for the party and fostering her rise within the NDC. "Many wonder how I reached the position of Deputy General Secretary at my age, but it’s because he saw potential in me early on and encouraged me," she explained. "He used to call me 'that strong girl' and said my strength lay in my ability to be genuine and unafraid in his presence." Reflecting on the values Late Rawlings instilled in the party, Madam Asamoah emphasized the importance of carrying forward his legacy of integrity and humility. "There’s a noticeable difference in those who worked closely with Jerry Rawlings — values like honesty and respect were his hallmark, and we strive to pass on these qualities to others." Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced its decision to continue with the printing of the presidential ballot without any alterations, following the disqualification of the Ghana Freedom Party’s (GFP) Presidential Candidate. EC Chairperson, Jean Mensa, addressed representatives of the political parties in Accra, confirming that nearly 90% of the printing for the presidential ballot papers is complete, and that the Commission has decided to proceed without any changes to avoid additional costs. "Following the passing of Madam Ekwe Adonko, we had initially requested the Printing Houses to cease operations until the legal process was observed" "Now that the presidential candidate or the nominee has been disqualified, the Commission would like to inform you that the printing will proceed with the current ballot design," Madam Mensa explained. She noted that maintaining the existing ballot format would save the nation millions of cedis and avoid delays in the electoral process. "We are not here to change positions or re-ballot. We are here to inform you that the Commission intends to notify our Printing Houses to proceed with the Presidential Ballot as it stands," she added. The ballot paper will still include the name, image, and symbol of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP) and its disqualified candidate, Madam Akua Donkor. Madam Mensa assured that ample public awareness would be raised to inform citizens of this development and discourage votes for the disqualified candidate. In her closing remarks, Madam Mensa expressed her gratitude to the party representatives for their understanding and cooperation in this matter. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) will hold a wreath-laying ceremony on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, to commemorate the fourth anniversary of the passing of its founder and former President of Ghana, H.E. Jerry John Rawlings. The solemn event, which will take place at the NDC Party Headquarters in Adabraka, Accra, is set to begin promptly at 10:00 am. In a statement attributed to Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the General Secretary of the NDC, the party has instructed all campaign teams and executives across the country to honor the day by observing a two-minute silence at exactly 10:00 am in memory of the late founder. This directive extends to all National, Regional, and Constituency Campaign teams, who have been active in the ongoing Resetting Ghana Campaign nationwide. "As we commemorate the legacy and contributions of our beloved founder, we ask all members of the NDC family to pause and pay tribute to a man who devoted his life to Ghana's progress and the ideals of our party," Mr. Kwetey stated. H.E. Jerry John Rawlings, a towering figure in Ghana's political history, led the country from 1981 until 2001 and is remembered for his dedication to social justice and empowerment for all Ghanaians. His legacy remains a guiding force for the NDC and its current leadership. "May the gentle soul of our great leader continue to rest in power and in perfect peace," Mr. Kwetey added. The NDC encourages all supporters and members of the public to join in remembering President Rawlings and his unwavering service to the nation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith