As Ghana approaches the 2024 general elections, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has announced that the party will not be signing any peace declarations, expressing doubts about their effectiveness in preventing electoral violence. Speaking on an Accra-based television, Asiedu Nketia criticized the symbolic nature of such agreements, arguing that past experiences have shown they do little to address the root causes of unrest. “Signing a peace declaration doesn’t mean anything to the party, as previous pacts have not yielded any real results,” Asiedu Nketia stated emphatically. He stressed that true prevention of violence requires proactive measures, not just symbolic gestures. “If you allow violence to brew, it will happen whether you sign a declaration or not. That’s why, more than a year ago, I started talking about the need to remove the building blocks for a violent election,” he explained, highlighting the need for early intervention to prevent tensions from escalating into violence. Asiedu Nketia further criticized the practice of signing peace agreements after tensions have already escalated, urging authorities to address the underlying issues that could lead to violence. “At any stage when something is happening, I call on those who, in the future, will call us to sign a declaration to speak up and stop it from happening. Otherwise, if you let these issues build up and then say, ‘Let’s play a peace football match, sign a declaration, and hope for a peaceful election,’ it won’t work. We did all this and more in 2020,” he noted, referencing the violence that marred the previous election. Known widely as “General Mosquito,” Asiedu Nketia pointed out that despite the involvement of respected bodies like the Council of State and the Peace Council in previous peace declarations, the 2020 elections were still plagued by violence. He insisted that the focus should be on addressing the fundamental causes of unrest, rather than relying on peace declarations that he believes have proven ineffective. “Signing or not signing is not the issue. What we need to address are the building blocks that lead to violence,” he insisted. Asiedu Nketia also raised concerns about the illegal recruitment of approximately 10,000 individuals into the security services, warning that this could be a potential source of unrest in the upcoming elections. “It’s brewing now,” he added ominously, suggesting that the situation could escalate if not addressed. The NDC has been vocal about its grievances from the 2020 elections, where the party contested the results, labeling them as “flawed” and alleging that state security forces were used to intimidate voters in their strongholds. The National Election Security Taskforce (NESTF) reported that eight lives were lost during the 2020 general elections, with 61 recorded cases of electoral and post-electoral violence across the country, including six incidents involving gunshots. As the 2024 elections draw nearer, Asiedu Nketia’s statements underscore the NDC’s cautious approach, prioritizing the prevention of violence through addressing systemic issues rather than relying on symbolic peace agreements. His remarks serve as a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead as Ghana prepares for what is expected to be a highly contested and closely watched election. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Greater Accra Regional office of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has teamed up with the Ga Mantse to celebrate the Homowo festival with a health-focused initiative, offering free National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) registration and renewal, alongside health screening and educational sessions. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to improving community health and raising awareness about the benefits of preventive healthcare. In a statement underscoring the initiative's significance, Mr. Bernard Brown, Director of Operations for the Coastal Belt at NHIA, highlighted the strategic shift from curative to preventive care. "As part of our social responsibility, this partnership aims to encourage the public to prioritize their health by leveraging the resources available through the NHIS. We want to educate people on the importance of maintaining good health and the benefits of being proactive rather than reactive when it comes to healthcare,” Mr. Brown said. One of the key objectives of the initiative is to register 20,000 new NHIS members during the Homowo festival, focusing particularly on the Ga State and Ga Adangbe communities. Elliot Asante Apreku, Corporate Social Responsibility emphasized the importance of this new collaboration with traditional authorities. He noted that such partnerships are vital in promoting health awareness and expanding access to healthcare services within local communities. “By partnering with the Ga State during the Homowo festival, we are reaching out directly to the people, making it easier for them to access essential health services and understand the importance of health insurance,” Mr. Asante stated. The health services provided during the festival will include: Free NHIS Registration and Renewal: The NHIA aims to make it as convenient as possible for individuals to register for or renew their health insurance, ensuring more people are covered under the scheme. Comprehensive Health Screening: Attendees will have access to free health checks, including blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, and Body Mass Index (BMI) assessments. These screenings are designed to help identify potential health issues early and encourage timely intervention. -Health Education Talks: Experts will deliver talks on crucial health topics such as nutrition, disease prevention, and the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle. These sessions aim to empower individuals with the knowledge needed to make informed health decisions. The Homowo festival, a significant cultural event for the Ga people, celebrates the beginning of the harvest season and is a time for community gathering and reflection. By aligning with this cultural celebration, the NHIA aims to enhance its outreach and impact, reinforcing the message that health should be a priority in every community. Mr. Asante reiterated the importance of regular health check-ups and preventive care, urging all Ghanaians to take advantage of the services offered during the festival. "Your health is your wealth, and we are here to help you protect it,” he said. This partnership is a testament to the NHIA’s ongoing commitment to increasing health insurance coverage and promoting preventive care across the nation. By working closely with traditional authorities like the Ga State, the NHIA continues to demonstrate its dedication to enhancing community health and ensuring that every Ghanaian has access to the healthcare they need. The initiative during the Homowo festival marks a significant step forward in the NHIA’s efforts to build a healthier, more informed society, where preventive care and early intervention are the norms rather than the exception. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a significant step towards enhancing transparency and efficiency in public procurement, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has taken a proactive stance by organizing a specialized training program for its suppliers on the Ghana Electronic Procurement System (GHANEPS) platform . The one-day training session, which took place at EOCO’s Head Office in Accra, was attended by key stakeholders and marked an important milestone in aligning government procurement practices with digital solutions. The Executive Director of EOCO, COP Maame Yaa Tiwa Addo Danquah, opened the session with a compelling welcome address. She emphasized the critical importance of the training, noting that it was designed to equip suppliers with the requisite knowledge to navigate and utilize the GHANEPS platform effectively. This initiative is in direct response to directives from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA), which has mandated the use of the e-procurement system for all public procurement activities. COP Addo Danquah highlighted that the GHANEPS platform represents a dynamic shift in procurement processes, one that requires continuous learning and adaptation. She urged participants to actively engage with the platform and provide feedback on any gaps or challenges they encounter. Such feedback, she noted, would be crucial for the PPA in refining and improving the system to better serve the needs of both suppliers and the state. Echoing her sentiments, Mr. Abdulai Bashiru Dapilah, Deputy Executive Director in charge of Operations at EOCO, underscored the broader implications of the GHANEPS platform in his address. He pointed out that the digitalization of procurement processes through GHANEPS would significantly bolster EOCO’s ability to track and investigate financial crimes related to government spending. This capability is in line with EOCO’s mandate to combat economic and organized crime, ensuring that any irregularities or illegal activities that undermine government revenue are swiftly addressed. The training session was further enriched by contributions from other notable EOCO officials. Deputy Executive Director of EOCO for Intelligence and Monitoring, Madam Jacqueline Aba Opoku, was present, alongside Mr. Franklin Nyarko, the Head of the Procurement Unit. The session was facilitated by Mr. Frederick Frimpong, a seasoned expert from the PPA, who provided in-depth guidance on the functionalities and benefits of the GHANEPS platform. Participants were given a thorough overview of the platform’s features, including how to register, submit bids, and manage contracts online. They were also shown how the system enhances transparency, reduces corruption risks, and ensures that procurement processes are more competitive and efficient. The training marks a significant step in EOCO’s ongoing efforts to modernize its operations and collaborate with other state institutions in the fight against economic and organized crime. By empowering suppliers with the tools and knowledge to use GHANEPS effectively, EOCO is not only ensuring compliance with procurement regulations but also reinforcing its commitment to transparency and accountability in government spending. The session concluded with a call to action from EOCO’s leadership, encouraging all suppliers to fully embrace the GHANEPS platform as a key component of their operations. As Ghana continues to advance in its digital transformation agenda, such initiatives are vital in fostering a more accountable and efficient public sector. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The State Interest and Governance Authority (SIGA) has responded to recent calls by Mr. Franklin Cudjoe, Founding President of IMANI Africa, for its dissolution, emphasizing the critical role it plays in the governance of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) in Ghana. In a press release issued by the Corporate Affairs Division of SIGA, the Authority expressed disappointment in Mr. Cudjoe's position, suggesting that it might have been different had he sought clarifications on the numerous initiatives and activities currently being pursued to enhance performance and compliance among Specified Entities (SEs). Across the globe, SOEs have been established as essential pillars of national economic development strategies. Despite their crucial economic role, historical evidence from the 1970s and 1980s indicates that SOEs often underperformed compared to private firms, largely due to mismanagement and fragmented oversight. To combat these challenges, many countries, including Singapore, China, France, India, and South Korea, adopted centralized oversight models to ensure that SOEs were managed efficiently, transparently, and in alignment with national economic goals. In Ghana, a 2015 diagnostic study by the World Bank highlighted significant challenges in the governance, management, and financial performance of the country’s SOEs. The study revealed that oversight was dispersed across various government actors, leading to overlapping responsibilities and a lack of comprehensive financial information, which severely hampered effective state oversight, strategic planning, and decision-making. These findings underscored the need for a more structured and centralized approach to SOE oversight, leading to the establishment of SIGA through the SIGA Act (Act 990) in 2019. SIGA is mandated to oversee and administer the State’s interests in Specified Entities, which include SOEs, Joint Venture Companies (JVCs), and Other State Enterprises (OSEs). In addition, SIGA is responsible for developing a code of corporate governance guidelines to promote sound governance and introduce private sector practices to drive efficiency, sustainability, and profitability within the institutions it oversees. SIGA’s strategic intent is centered on three critical results: Organizational Excellence, Operational Excellence, and Financial Sustainability. These results drive the Authority’s goals of achieving SEs' contribution to Ghana's GDP of no less than 30%, minimizing losses in the Annual State Ownership Report, and embedding efficiency as a dominant characteristic of the SEs. SIGA’s strategic plan is divided into three phases: - Short-Term Objective (Transition and Consolidation): Spanning from inception to FY2024. - Medium-Term Objective (Expansion and Growth): Spanning from FY2025 to FY2027. -Long-Term Objective (Transformation): Spanning from FY2028 to FY2029. Over the past five years, SIGA has made significant progress toward achieving its short-term objectives. The Authority has been staffed with competent personnel working synergistically to strengthen its oversight role. Collaborating with stakeholders, SIGA developed the Code of Corporate Governance, which received Cabinet approval in FY2023. Additionally, the State Ownership Policy was also approved by Cabinet in FY2023, providing further guidance to enhance the legal and institutional framework for oversight and corporate governance within SEs. To ensure legitimacy with SEs and other stakeholders, SIGA developed a comprehensive list of Specified Entities, approved by Cabinet in FY2023. This list includes 175 SEs, comprising 53 SOEs, 47 JVCs, and 75 OSEs. The list has facilitated clearer engagements with SEs, enabling the signing of annual performance contracts, monitoring of SE operations, training of boards and entity heads on corporate governance, and more. SIGA has also initiated a real-time monitoring project to digitize SE reporting, allowing SEs to upload financial and operational information onto a portal for analysis and decision-making. The pilot phase is nearing completion, with significant data already uploaded. This system is expected to improve the accuracy and timeliness of SE performance reports, thereby enhancing decision-making processes. SIGA’s efforts have led to a significant increase in the compliance and submission of annual financial statements. From just 18 SEs submitting financial statements in 2016, 147 SEs had prepared and submitted financial statements for FY2023 as of July 2024. This marks a major improvement in transparency and accountability within the SE sector. Additionally, the number of SEs covered in the Annual State Ownership Report (SOR) has increased from 18 in FY2016 to 147 in FY2023, with the FY2023 SOR set to be published in real-time by the end of August 2024. Financial performance within SEs has also improved, with revenues rising, losses decreasing, and the net worth of SEs showing marginal improvement. The 2023 SOR provisional data indicates that aggregate SOE losses dropped from GHS14,402 million in FY2022 to GHS2,573 million in FY2023. Similarly, losses among majority JVCs and OSEs have decreased significantly. SIGA’s strategic engagements with other oversight bodies have also contributed to a reduction in financial irregularities within the SE sector. 2T he 2023 Auditor General's Report revealed a 41.6% decrease in total irregularities among Public Boards, Corporations, and other Statutory Institutions, from GHS15.059 billion in 2022 to GHS8.799 billion in 2023. As SIGA moves towards its medium-term objective of Expansion and Growth from FY2025, the Authority will focus on optimizing the value of Government of Ghana shares in SEs, rationalizing SE portfolios, and advancing real-time monitoring and consolidation of funding for both the Authority and SEs. The Authority will continue to foster close relationships with stakeholders to monitor, evaluate, and support SEs in their journey towards efficiency and profitability. SIGA remains committed to transforming SEs to reduce the fiscal burden they pose and contribute to Ghana’s socio-economic development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister of Public Enterprises, Joseph Cudjoe has underscored the critical role of the State ownership Policy and code of Corporate Governance and oversight of the State Interest and Governance Authority (SIGA) in enhancing the transparency and accountability of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) in Ghana. Addressing the media in Accra on Thursday, he lauded the President's decision to establish the SIGA as a transformative step, enabling effective oversight of SOEs and ensuring that these enterprises are better positioned to contribute to the national economy. Minister Cudjoe drew comparisons between the current administration and the previous government, which governed for eight years but had only 6 SOEs reporting. He emphasized that the creation of the SIGA and his appointment as the Minister for Public Enterprises were pivotal in rectifying this situation. SIGA is however, being over sighted by the Minister for Public Enterprise "This highlights the essence of establishing the SIGA," he stated, noting that it ensures proper accountability for investments made in private and individual enterprises. The Minister explained that one of the SIGA's significant achievements is the improvement in the reporting process of SOEs. He pointed out that this improvement is not merely about an increase in the number of reports but also a qualitative enhancement where losses reported by SOEs are gradually declining. "Improvement in this sense doesn't mean increasing," Minister Cudjoe clarified. "But improvement means decreasing losses, turning loss-making entities into profitable ventures." Minister Cudjoe highlighted a forward-looking approach in the public enterprise space, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to turn around struggling SOEs. He noted that companies with significant losses but substantial potential are being closely monitored by the Ministry of Finance, SIGA, and his secretariat. A comprehensive program under the world bank, termed the "PFM for Service Delivery," has been initiated to study these enterprises, identify their challenges, and provide the necessary capitalization to transform them into profitable or more efficient entities. Among the enterprises under this initiative are Ghana Airports Company, GNPC, Metro Mass Transport, and the Ghana Gas Company. These entities, Minister Cudjoe noted, have vast potential to contribute significantly to the economy. He mentioned that a comprehensive study is underway to address the problems faced by these companies, ensuring they can fully realize their potential. The Minister concluded by reiterating the government's commitment to transparency, efficiency, and economic growth. "We are not only focused on the present but are looking ahead to a future where our SOEs are not just surviving but thriving, contributing robustly to the national economy," he affirmed. Through these measures, Minister Joseph Cudjoe is confident that the efforts being made today will yield substantial dividends for Ghana's economy in the years to come. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Rev. Father Peter Kusi Twumasi , the Acting Rector of St. Stephen Rectorate in Bodomase, Ashanti Region, has publicly apologized after leading his congregation in singing a popular secular song, “Aseda,” by Ghanaian artist King Paluta, during a church service. The incident, which was captured on video and quickly went viral on social media, shows Rev. Father Twumasi and his congregation joyfully singing along to the song. The video sparked a wave of reactions, with many questioning the appropriateness of incorporating secular music into a sacred Catholic service. Acknowledging the controversy, Rev. Father Twumasi admitted that he was "carried away by the moment" and inadvertently allowed the secular song to permeate the church's sacred atmosphere. In his apology, the priest expressed deep regret for his actions, emphasizing that he had no intention of disrespecting the traditions and values of the Catholic Church. "I sincerely apologize for my lapse in judgment," Rev. Father Twumasi stated. "I understand the sanctity of our worship and the importance of maintaining the spiritual integrity of our services. My actions were not reflective of the respect I hold for the Catholic faith and its long-standing traditions." The incident has ignited a broader discussion within the religious community about the boundaries between secular and sacred music, and the role of priests in guiding their congregations in worship. Rev. Father Twumasi’s apology has been met with mixed reactions. Some have praised him for taking responsibility for his actions, while others believe that such a lapse should not have occurred in the first place. The Catholic Church has yet to issue an official statement on the matter. As the debate continues, Rev. Father Twumasi has vowed to be more vigilant in ensuring that future services adhere strictly to the liturgical norms of the Church, reaffirming his commitment to his duties as a spiritual leader. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Dr. Sammy Ayeh, a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Communication Team, has strongly criticized the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for its handling of the economy, particularly in relation to youth unemployment and the education sector. Speaking on Think Tv's political show, SE NO PEI , on behalf of the NDC, Dr. Ayeh outlined a series of economic and social challenges facing Ghanaians under the current administration, contrasting these with the achievements and forward-looking promises of former President John Dramani Mahama. Dr. Ayeh began by addressing the alarming rise in unemployment, which he attributes directly to the NPP's economic policies. "Under the NDC, unemployment was at 8%. Today, under the NPP, it has doubled to a staggering 16%. This means that 1.9 million of our youth are unemployed—a clear sign of the current government's failure to create job opportunities," Dr. Ayeh stated. Highlighting former President Mahama's commitment to reversing this trend, Dr. Ayeh detailed plans to equip one million young Ghanaians with essential skills to improve their employment prospects. "John Mahama has promised to implement comprehensive training programs aimed at empowering one million youths. These programs are designed to provide the skills necessary for sustainable employment, addressing the unemployment crisis head-on," Dr. Ayeh explained. He also pointed to the Accra Digital Centre as a key part of Mahama’s vision for youth employment, particularly in the tech industry. "The Accra Digital Centre, under Mahama’s leadership, is expected to create jobs for 300,000 young people. This initiative reflects Mahama’s foresight in recognizing the digital economy as a vital sector for the future," Dr. Ayeh added. Turning to the education sector, Dr. Ayeh criticized the NPP's economic mismanagement, which he claims has severely impacted young Ghanaians' access to education. "In the 2022/23 academic year, 420,000 young Ghanaians graduated. However, while 60% passed their exams, only 32% could afford to continue their education. This is a direct result of the financial hardships imposed by the NPP’s poor economic policies," he said. Dr. Ayeh further criticized the NPP for the sharp decline in the value of the cedi, which has worsened economic conditions for ordinary Ghanaians. "In 2016, the exchange rate was GHS 4 to the dollar. Today, it stands at GHS 16. This steep depreciation is a testament to the NPP’s disastrous economic management. A responsible leader must be sensitive to the hardships faced by the people, but the current administration has shown little empathy," Dr. Ayeh remarked. In contrast, Dr. Ayeh highlighted Mahama's commitment to easing financial burdens on students, particularly those entering university. "Mahama has recognized the financial difficulties faced by level 100 students and is determined to introduce measures that will make life easier for them," he noted. Dr. Ayeh also accused the NPP of mismanaging the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), which he argues has made it harder for students to access the financial support they need for their education. "The NPP's mismanagement of GETFund has created unnecessary obstacles for students. This fund is crucial for educational financing, and its poor handling is yet another example of the NPP’s failure to prioritize the needs of Ghanaians," he stated. In conclusion, Dr. Ayeh praised Mahama’s policies as both fiscally responsible and in good faith. He pointed to Mahama's pledge to reduce the number of ministers and their deputies to 60 as evidence of his commitment to efficient governance. "Unlike the NPP, the NDC under Mahama will ensure that public funds are spent wisely, with every cedi working to benefit the people," Dr. Ayeh said. Dr. Ayeh closed by expressing confidence in Mahama’s ability to restore Ghana’s economy and improve the lives of its citizens. "Ghana’s economy is in a dire state, but with Mahama’s leadership, there is hope for a turnaround. His plans, particularly for the youth, will make life better for all Ghanaians," Dr. Ayeh concluded. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Isaac Parry, Deputy Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Akuapem North Constituency, has launched a scathing attack on the leadership of John Mahama, accusing the NDC Flagbearer of being a "confident trickster" who cannot be trusted. Isaac Parry's remarks, delivered with unwavering conviction, paint a picture of a politician who has consistently misled the youth and the nation with false promises and contradictory statements. In 2020, Mahama's promise to pay 50% of tertiary fees was met with skepticism by the youth, many of whom saw it as an empty political gimmick. Now, the NDC has returned with a new strategy, pledging to cover all fees, a promise Parry dismissed as yet another lie designed to win votes without any real intention of fulfillment. Speaking on Think Tv's political talk show, SE NO PEI , Isaac Parry pointed out that Mahama once ridiculed the Free SHS policy, stating that if he had money, he would not waste it on such an initiative. Yet, paradoxically, Mahama is now promising to pay the fees of those who benefited from the very policy he once mocked. This, Parry argued, is a clear indication of Mahama's inconsistency and lack of genuine commitment to the well-being of the youth. "Mahama himself admitted in 2020 that he was not a magician to create jobs for the youth," Parry noted, adding that under Mahama's leadership, the NDC has failed to win elections in any tertiary institution, reflecting the lack of trust young people have in his promises. Isaac Parry contrasted Mahama's wavering stance with the steadfast commitment of President Akufo-Addo, who pursued Free SHS despite losing two elections on the promise. Akufo-Addo's persistence paid off, and today, Free SHS is a reality, benefiting millions of Ghanaian students. Mahama's opposition to Agenda 111, which he labeled "over-ambitious," and his inconsistent promises to the people of Bawku—where he once promised a new region only to later deny making such a commitment—further demonstrate his lack of reliability, according to Parry. "The NDC is devoid of new ideas, resorting to stealing the promises of our Flagbearer, Dr. Bawumia," Parry asserted. He dismissed the NDC's no-fee policy as baseless and reminded the public of the failed Hope City project in 2013, which was supposed to train youths in coding but never materialized. "What's new about the NDC youth manifesto?" Parry asked, questioning the credibility of the party's recent promises" "John Mahama is not a man you can trust. His track record shows he's a confident trickster, making grand promises with no intention of following through." Isaac Parry's pointed critique underscores the NPP's message that John Mahama's leadership is defined by deception and inconsistency, making him unfit to lead Ghana again. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a robust defense of the Akufo-Addo administration's handling of public lands, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, has assured Ghanaians that all public lands under the government's stewardship are secure and being judiciously managed. Speaking at a press briefing in Accra on Tuesday, the Minister emphasized the government's commitment to transparency and the protection of national assets, countering recent allegations of state capture and the indiscriminate sale of public lands. He reiterated the government's responsibility to manage and utilize these lands in the interest of the Ghanaian people, as mandated by the Constitution. The Minister highlighted several key points to dispel what he described as misinformation about the government's land management practices. One of the most prominent examples he discussed was the land hosting the former Bulgarian Embassy. According to Mr. Jinapor, this land was part of a larger parcel acquired by the state in 1920 and subsequently granted to a private individual, Theophilus Kofi Leighton, in 1977, for a 99-year lease. He clarified that the government had no role in the recent demolishing of the embassy building, an act carried out by the executor of Mr. Leighton’s will under a court order. The Minister stressed that the government's only involvement was to mediate due to the diplomatic nature of the situation, ensuring that any compensation due would not be paid by the state. Addressing further allegations, Minister Jinapor detailed the history of several other public lands, including those at Roman Ridge, Cantonments, and properties leased by the Judicial Service. He noted that these lands were either leased or sold by previous governments, long before the current administration took office. "For instance, the Parks and Gardens land at Cantonments was leased in 2016, following a request from the then Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development under the leadership of Hon. Elvis Afriyie Ankrah" Mr. Jinapor questioned the credibility of accusations against the current government, given that these transactions occurred prior to its tenure. The Minister also provided insights into the government's proactive measures to protect public lands. He referenced a 2021 policy directive requiring the Lands Commission to seek presidential approval before granting any interest in public land. This measure, he noted, was designed to ensure that the President, as the custodian of these lands, is fully informed before any transactions are finalized. Mr. Jinapor also revealed that the government has been actively reversing unauthorized leases of public lands, particularly in the Northern Region, following investigations into improper land transfers. Further emphasizing the government’s commitment to safeguarding public lands, the Minister announced ongoing efforts to digitize land records through the Enterprise Land Information System (ELIS). This digitalization initiative, he said, will promote efficient land service delivery and improve transparency across the country. The Lands and Natural Resources Minister reiterated that the allegations of state capture and the reckless sale of public lands were baseless and politically motivated, especially with elections approaching. He assured the public that the government would continue to manage public lands with the highest standards of integrity and in the public interest. Moreover, he announced that President Akufo-Addo had ordered the compilation of a comprehensive list of all public lands transferred since the inception of the Fourth Republic, with details to be made public once the exercise is complete. The Minister's remarks serve as a strong rebuttal to critics, reaffirming the Akufo-Addo administration's dedication to protecting and managing Ghana’s public lands for the benefit of all citizens. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The High Court in Accra (General Jurisdiction) on July 29, 2024, ordered the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) to pay a total of GH¢93,905,760.79 million to Tobinco Pharmaceuticals Ltd for the unlawful destruction of unexpired drugs belonging to Tobinco. In 2014, the FDA confiscated pharmaceutical products imported to Ghana by Tobinco on grounds that the products were unwhole­some. In 2019, Tobinco sued FDA and asked the court to award cost against the FDA and declare its action as unlawful. Tobinco, the plaintiff judgement creditor in the suit was represented by Mr Philip Addison, of Addison Bright Sloane, Barristers, Solicitors, Consultants, Accra. In reaching a decision, the court presided over by Justice AudreyKo­cuvie-Tay, declared that the wanton destruction of Tobinco’s unexpired products without obtaining any order from court was unlawful. The court again declared that “the unlawful lockup of Tobinco’s warehouses by the FDA and bad media publicity by the FDA re­sulted in the massive expiration of Tobinco’s products between June 2014 and August 2015.” Justice Kocuvie-Tay further declared that the order by the FDA prohibiting the sale of Tobinco’s products without obtaining an Executive Instrument from the Minister of Health was unlawful. She declared that the actions of the FDA and its CEO in banning Bliss GVS Pharma Limited from importing drugs into Ghana with­out the issuance of an Executive Instrument (E.I.) by the minister was unlawful. The judge held that that Tobin­co did not import fake drugs into the Ghanaian market. She declared that the unlawful conduct of the FDA and its CEO caused substantial damage and loss to the business of Tobinco. The court said that the actions of the FDA in declining to register Tobinco’s drugs, confiscation of Tobinco’s drugs from customers, order for the arrest of Tobinco’s CEO and detention of Tobinco’s imported drugs at the Tema Port was an abuse of the FDA’s statutory powers and duties. For these actions by the FDA which occasioned losses to Tobinco, the court ordered the FDA to pay special damage of GH¢24,003,157.20, being the total cost of Tobinco’s products which expired in warehouses. The court also ordered for special damages in the sum of GH¢511,414.35, being the cost of expenses incurred by the plaintiff for demurrage. It also ordered for special damages in the sum GH¢67,300, being the cost of expenses incurred in respect of bonded warehouses and for the payment of interest on the amounts stated above at the prevailing bank rates. The court said that even though Tobinco did not indicate the commencement dates of the calculation of interests on the various amounts granted supra, evidence proffered gave indication of the dates of the occurrence of theinfractions and/ or losses as indicated against the amounts/reliefs granted as follows: GH¢24,003,157.20 from January, 2015, at the prevailing bank rate till date of final payment, and GH¢511,414.35 from November, 2015, at the prevailing bank rate till date of final payment. The court awarded as cost GH¢67,300 from January, 2015 at the prevailing bank rate till date of final payment in addition to general damages GH¢5 million against the FDA for misfeasance. The court further awarded cost of GH¢1 million against the FDA favour of Tobinco. The others include recov­ery of special damages in the amounts GH¢24,003,157.20, GH¢ 511,414.35 and GH¢67,300.   Credit: Ghanaian Times

George Opare Addo, the National Youth Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has accused members of the clergy of showing bias in favor of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) while remaining silent on allegations of corruption and state capture under the current government. Mr. Opare Addo expressed his concerns during the NDC’s youth manifesto presentation, where he criticized religious leaders, some civil society organizations, and certain media outlets for their perceived partiality. According to Opare Addo, these religious figures and organizations had previously supported the NPP openly, helping to shape public opinion in favor of the party. However, he accused them of now turning a blind eye to the alleged corruption and hardships imposed on Ghanaians by the administration of President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. “They rallied self-centred clergymen and women, corrupt civil society groups, and rented media to achieve this agenda. Today, these men of God have disappeared and turned deaf and blind to the wanton acts of corruption, state capture, and untold hardships unleashed on Ghanaians by Bawumia and Akufo-Addo," Opare Addo stated, expressing his frustration over the perceived silence. Mr. Opare Addo also made a strong call to action, urging the youth of Ghana not to stand idly by while politicians engage in what he described as state capture. He emphasized that young people are becoming increasingly vigilant and determined to hold elected officials accountable, ensuring that power is used for the benefit of the people rather than for personal or party gain. “We have been robbed of our dignity as young people and our future has been stolen from us. We will not forget to hold them accountable for our suffering,” he declared, signaling a renewed resolve among the youth to demand justice and transparency. He also noted that some of those who once opposed former President John Mahama have since come forward to apologize, acknowledging that his reputation was tarnished as part of a broader agenda to consolidate power. "Today, many of them have come out to apologize to him [Mahama] for what they did. For them to be able to amass this wealth and steal from us, they needed to destroy his reputation," Opare Addo added. As the NDC gears up for the 2024 elections, Opare Addo’s remarks reflect the party’s strategy of mobilizing youth support and challenging the integrity of the current administration. His accusations of bias and corruption are likely to fuel further political debate as the election approaches, with both parties seeking to sway public opinion in their favor. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Nana Yaa Jantuah, former General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), has made an impassioned plea to the government to take immediate action to stem the ongoing decline of the Ghanaian cedi against major international currencies. In a heartfelt appeal, Jantuah highlighted the severe impact of the cedi’s depreciation on businesses and the broader economy, warning that continued inaction could lead to even greater hardships for traders and consumers alike. Speaking in an interview with Kwaku Owusu Adjei on Accra-based Original TV’s "Adwenepa," Jantuah expressed deep concern over the challenges faced by businesses due to the weakening cedi. She pointed out that the local currency's depreciation against the US dollar and other key trading currencies had triggered a sharp increase in the cost of imported raw materials, which in turn forced businesses to hike prices. This, she lamented, has placed an unbearable burden on traders who are struggling to keep their operations afloat. “Most of our raw supplies are imported, and as a result, prices have jumped by 100%. This poses a significant problem to dealers as it compels them to raise prices,” Jantuah explained, her voice tinged with frustration. She stressed that every business in the country relies on the cedi’s exchange rate against the dollar, making it crucial for the government to intervene and stabilize the currency. Jantuah painted a vivid picture of the difficulties faced by local businesses, which must compete not only within Ghana but also with counterparts across the West African sub-region. She warned that if the government does not act quickly to reverse the cedi’s decline, Ghanaian businesses could be outpaced by regional competitors, further exacerbating the economic challenges faced by the nation. “The government must act quickly to turn the situation around,” Jantuah urged, calling for decisive measures to strengthen the cedi and protect the livelihoods of millions of Ghanaians who depend on the stability of the local currency for their daily survival. Her plea underscores the broader anxieties felt across Ghana as the cedi’s depreciation continues to ripple through the economy, affecting everything from the price of goods and services to the cost of doing business. With inflation on the rise and the cost of living soaring, Jantuah’s call for action reflects the urgent need for solutions that can restore confidence in the cedi and provide relief to those bearing the brunt of the economic downturn. In her interview, Jantuah did not shy away from highlighting the broader implications of the cedi’s fall, noting that the issue is not just an economic one but also a matter of national importance. She called on the government to prioritize the stabilization of the cedi as part of its broader economic strategy, emphasizing that the well-being of the nation’s businesses and citizens depends on it. As Ghana grapples with these economic challenges, Nana Yaa Jantuah’s plea serves as a reminder of the critical role that currency stability plays in ensuring the health of the economy and the prosperity of its people. Her words resonate with the many Ghanaians who are hoping for swift and effective action to safeguard their livelihoods in these uncertain times. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith