The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has announced a significant improvement in data bundle values across all mobile networks, effective 1st July 2025, as part of wide-ranging reforms to revitalize Ghana’s ailing telecommunications sector. Addressing the media on Tuesday, the Minister disclosed that after three months of intense stakeholder engagement and policy reforms, a 10% increase in the value of data bundles currently offered by the telcos will be rolled out to benefit Ghanaian consumers. “This is not a cosmetic fix. It is a structural realignment,” Hon. Nartey George said, emphasizing that the new policy was the product of consultation, regulatory reform, and a clear commitment to address longstanding quality and pricing concerns in the sector. Among the key highlights: AT Ghana will offer a 10% increase across all data bundles. Its popular GH₵400 bundle, which previously provided 195GB, will now offer 236GB. Telecel Ghana will also increase all bundle values by 10%, with the GH₵400 bundle rising dramatically from 90GB to 250GB. MTN Ghana, the market’s Significant Market Power (SMP) operator, will implement a 15% increase in data value. The previously revised GH₵399 bundle, which offered 92.88GB, will be restored to 214GB. The Minister stressed that the changes will come into effect on 1st July 2025, giving operators time to reconfigure their systems. He noted that the National Communications Authority (NCA) has been directed to strictly monitor implementation and sanction any defaulting operator. According to the Minister, these improvements are not only about better value but also aim to address the quality of service issues that have plagued the sector in recent years. “We inherited a telecom sector in crisis — with collapsed operators, failing infrastructure, and an absent regulator. We are fixing that,” he stated. To improve quality, the government is facilitating Spectrum acquisitions by MTN and Telecel and mandating over $150 million in collective investments from the three telcos by the end of 2025. The Minister also revealed that if the Finance Ministry agrees to rationalize telecom taxes, including the nearly 39% tax component in current data pricing, even greater price reductions will follow. “There will be no arbitrary data billing. And where there is, the regulator will act,” he assured, citing recent NCA tests that showed no anomalies in the billing systems of the three major operators. In his closing remarks, Hon. Samuel Nartey George reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, regulatory enforcement, and long-term sectoral growth, promising to “serve with heart, sweat and blood” to deliver digital equity and better telecom services for all Ghanaians. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Family of former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, has vowed to ensure that the INTERPOL Red Notice listing him as a fugitive is withdrawn and permanently deleted, describing the move as unlawful and politically motivated. In a strongly-worded press statement issued on Monday, June 9, 2025, the family accused the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) of abusing its powers, violating Ofori-Atta’s fundamental human rights, and manipulating Ghana’s judicial process to secure an arrest warrant under questionable circumstances. Arrest Warrant Based on “Manipulated Evidence” According to the statement, the OSP secured an arrest warrant dated February 11, 2025, under the vague charge of “using public office for private profit,” but without filing the legally required affidavit—a critical step under Ghanaian law. Despite this, the warrant was served on INTERPOL through the Ghana Police Service, leading to the controversial Red Notice. “The OSP may have manipulated evidence to procure an arrest warrant under unusual and irregular circumstances,” the family asserted. “The public must know that the warrant lacked a supporting affidavit, raising serious legal and ethical concerns.” They revealed that the legitimacy of the warrant is being contested in court, while also confirming that the INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Ghana has been notified of the irregularities. Violation of Human Rights and Due Process The family decried what they described as the OSP’s repeated violation of Mr. Ofori-Atta’s constitutional rights through public declarations that he is a fugitive—despite no formal charges being filed at the time and ongoing legal processes to challenge the arrest. “This public branding of Mr. Ofori-Atta as a wanted man, especially via press briefings, constitutes a blatant violation of his rights to personal liberty, freedom of movement, and health,” the family stated, referencing an active suit at the Human Rights Court titled Ken Ofori-Atta v. OSP . OSP Ignored Medical Evidence Highlighting Mr. Ofori-Atta’s medical condition, the family said he has been receiving long-term treatment at the Mayo Clinic in the U.S. and recently received a cancer diagnosis requiring surgery scheduled for June 13, 2025. Despite notifying the OSP and offering to participate in a video-recorded interview to assist investigations, the OSP refused the request. The family called the OSP’s refusal to allow a virtual interview “unreasonable and cruel,” especially given that such methods have previously been accepted by the office in other cases. “Theatrical Stunt” and Media Trials The family also criticized the OSP’s decision to repost Mr. Ofori-Atta’s “wanted” poster on June 2, describing it as a “theatrical stunt” meant to humiliate a man fighting for his life. “This is not justice. It is a calculated attempt to publicly lynch a man who has cooperated fully with every legal and institutional process during and after his tenure,” the statement noted. Appeal to INTERPOL and Ongoing Legal Actions The family disclosed that Mr. Ofori-Atta’s legal team has formally petitioned the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL’s Files (CCF) to assess whether the OSP disclosed all relevant facts—especially his medical status and pending legal suits—when submitting the Red Notice request. They contend that the lack of transparency may violate Articles 2 and 3 of INTERPOL’s Constitution, which commit member states to uphold human rights and refrain from political persecution. History of Cooperation Insisting that Mr. Ofori-Atta has nothing to hide, the family pointed to his history of cooperation with state institutions, including the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Parliament, and even the ECOWAS Court, where he was never found culpable. “Accusations that he is fleeing justice are entirely unfounded,” the family stressed. “Once his surgery and recovery are complete, Mr. Ofori-Atta will return to Ghana and face the OSP.” They concluded by expressing confidence that justice will prevail and pledged to continue all legal efforts—both domestic and international—to clear Mr. Ofori-Atta’s name and secure the removal of the Red Notice. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Ghana’s Ministry of Finance have officially signed a Grant Agreement to support the “Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS),” marking a renewed commitment to strengthening Ghana’s public sector through advanced education and training. The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Finance, where JICA Executive Senior Vice President, Ms. Miyazaki Katsura, and Ghana’s Minister for Finance, Hon. Cassiel Ato Forson, signed the agreement on behalf of their respective institutions. The JDS project is a strategic initiative aimed at building Ghana’s human resource capacity by offering scholarships to outstanding young government officials. These individuals are selected based on their leadership potential and the strategic importance of their roles in the formulation and implementation of national development policies. Rooted in Japan’s own development experience, the JDS program views human capital as the cornerstone of sustainable national progress. It provides participants with the opportunity to study at top Japanese universities, where they gain insights into Japan’s unique modernization path and development philosophy—an alternative to traditional Western models. Scholars also explore Japan’s role in accelerating development across Asia, enriching their understanding of international development dynamics. Since its inception in Ghana in 2012, the program has steadily contributed to the country’s capacity-building agenda. To date, 130 Ghanaians have been selected for the scholarship, with 103 having successfully completed their postgraduate programs in Japan. Currently, 27 fellows are pursuing various fields of study, and 13 new participants will join this academic year to specialize in areas including Economics, Public Financial Management, Public Administration, Public Health, and International Relations. The signing comes ahead of the upcoming Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), scheduled for August 2025 in Yokohama, Japan. TICAD serves as a major platform for international collaboration on African development, emphasizing African ownership and global partnership. This year’s theme, “Co-create Innovative Solutions,” highlights the importance of exchange programs like JDS in fostering innovation and cooperation between Africa and Japan. The JDS Scholarship is administered by the Japan Development Secretariat and reflects Japan’s long-term commitment to international cooperation, human development, and global peacebuilding. As Ghana continues to prioritize knowledge-driven growth, initiatives like the JDS program will remain crucial in equipping the country’s next generation of public sector leaders with the expertise and global perspective needed to drive sustainable development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, is calling on all Ghanaians to rally behind the government’s flagship ‘Tree for Life’ Reforestation Initiative—describing it as a national duty critical to restoring Ghana’s degraded landscapes , preserving biodiversity, and combating the threats of climate change. Launched earlier this year by President John Dramani Mahama in Nkawie in the Ashanti Region, the initiative aims to plant 30 million trees by the end of 2025. Hon. Buah believes this green revolution will only succeed if every citizen, institution, and community embraces the cause. “I urge every Ghanaian to actively participate in the ‘Tree for Life’ Reforestation Initiative. This campaign is not just about planting trees—it’s about planting hope, protecting our environment, and leaving a legacy for future generations,” the Lands Minister said. He made the remarks during activities marking World Environment Day at the Kwabenya Community Senior High School in Accra, where the symbolic “One Child, One Tree” exercise was held under the theme “Child Beyond Academic Skills.” The model integrates environmental education with practical life skills and creativity. Hon. Buah stressed that the success of the initiative depends on collective participation—from Parliamentarians to schoolchildren, faith-based groups to private businesses. The Ministry, in collaboration with key partners, is distributing free seedlings nationwide through District and Regional Forestry Commission offices and other government outlets. “The time to act is now. Let’s all embrace this initiative and nurture the future we want to see,” the Minister added. The ‘Tree for Life’ campaign runs from June 5 to June 30, 2025. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has commended the Executive Director of the Centre for Business Analysis (CBA), Stephen Obeng Kwateng, for his elevation to a top leadership role, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his competence and dedication. Speaking during a courtesy call paid on him by Mr. Kwateng and his team at the Ga Mantse Palace, the revered monarch expressed pride in the new CBA boss and urged him to approach the task ahead with commitment and vision. “I am so happy and proud of Mr. Kwateng. This is a huge task, but I am confident that the stool of the land will rally behind you and make your work very productive,” the Ga Mantse stated. King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II further pledged the support of the Ga Traditional Council to partner with the Centre for Business Analysis in rolling out projects aimed at promoting socio-economic growth in the Ga State. He emphasized the importance of collaborative leadership and urged the CBA staff to work closely with Mr. Kwateng. “Work with him as a team and discharge each other’s responsibilities professionally,” he advised. On his part, Mr. Kwateng expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Ga Mantse and described the moment as a personal honour. He noted that he had lived in the area for much of his adult life and held deep admiration for the Ga people and their customs. “As a son of this land, it’s a privilege to be welcomed here today. We admire your leadership and the royal legacy you uphold,” Mr. Kwateng said. He also extended a formal invitation to the Ga Mantse to attend the upcoming CBA Business Summit, scheduled for October 31, promising further engagement through the Ga Mantse's Chief of Staff or Chairman. The visit, according to Mr. Kwateng, marks the beginning of a strong partnership between traditional leadership and business-oriented institutions to drive sustainable development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama, on Thursday led the nation to mark World Environment Day 2025 with a bold call for collective action against plastic pollution and deforestation. Addressing a gathering of government officials, diplomats, traditional leaders, faith groups, and students in Accra, the President launched a landmark initiative dubbed “One Tree Per Child” aimed at deepening environmental consciousness among Ghana’s youth. The theme for this year’s global observance, “Ending Plastic Pollution,” struck a chord with President Mahama, who described Ghana’s plastic waste crisis as both urgent and solvable. He warned that unless bold steps are taken, plastic waste could outnumber fish in our oceans by mid-century. “Our rivers are choked, farmlands are laced with microplastics, and cities flood because drains are clogged with plastic waste. But this is not a death sentence—it is a call to action,” he said. As part of the national response, the President announced that every school-aged child in Ghana will be given a seedling to plant and nurture under the One Tree Per Child Initiative. The goal, he said, is to instill a culture of environmental stewardship in the next generation while accelerating reforestation across the country. “This is more than tree planting—it’s about creating a lifelong bond between our children and the environment,” he added. The President further announced the official commencement of the Tree for Life Reforestation Exercise, which runs from June 5 to June 30, 2025. The nationwide campaign aims to plant 30 million trees within the month, building on the earlier Tree for Life launch in Nkawie, Ashanti Region, where the government committed to restoring seven million hectares of degraded land. He urged all Ghanaians—from local assemblies to security agencies, private companies to civil society organisations—to join the effort. “Whether it’s financing recycling plants, enforcing anti-dumping laws, or simply refusing single-use plastics, we all have a role to play,” the President emphasized. President Mahama also highlighted recent policy interventions, including the formation of the Ministry of Climate Change and Sustainability, the National Plastics Management Policy, and a revamped Solid Waste Management Strategy aimed at reducing plastic waste in landfills by 60% by 2030. In a heartfelt appeal to development partners and businesses, he called for deeper collaboration and investment in Ghana’s green economy. Plans are also underway for regional tree-planting festivals, national clean-up drives, and a Green Innovation Expo to showcase homegrown solutions. Ending his address with a stirring reminder, President Mahama declared: “The future is not something we enter—it is something we create. Let us create a Ghana where rivers run clear, forests stand tall, and communities live in harmony with nature.” The World Environment Day celebration reaffirmed Ghana’s growing commitment to sustainable development and environmental renewal. On his part, the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI), Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed underscored the critical threat plastic pollution poses to public health, biodiversity and sustainable development. He lamented that Ghana’s markets, beaches and drainage systems are increasingly clogged with single-use plastics, posing serious risks to human and environmental well-being. “Every year, over 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced globally. Much of this ends up in oceans, rivers, forests and even in the food we consume. Ghana is not exempt. But today is not for lamentation — it is for action,” the Minister said. He mentioned that each child will be encouraged to plant and nurture a tree, promoting climate resilience and reforestation efforts. ACT Now – Awareness, Conscious Consumption, and Transformation The Minister explained that the acronym ‘ACT’ — derived from the national slogan — captures the threefold approach needed to combat plastic pollution: A – Awareness: Educating the public on the dangers of plastic pollution and promoting sustainable alternatives. C – Conscious Consumption: Encouraging individuals and businesses to reduce, reuse and repurpose plastic. T – Transformation: Driving innovation, policy reforms and circular economy models to manage plastic waste sustainably. The Minister further revealed that the government is vigorously implementing the National Plastic Management Policy, with enhanced enforcement and incentives to promote green innovation. Through projects like the Circular Economy Framework for the Plastic Sector in Ghana (CEF-PS), the Ministry is working closely with local industries to develop biodegradable alternatives and create green jobs in recycling and upcycling. “We are moving from awareness to action. Our collaboration with local industry will ensure extended producer responsibility, create jobs, and stimulate innovation in waste management,” she noted. The Minister extended heartfelt gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for his presence and leadership in championing environmental protection. “To have the President with us today is a strong symbol of national commitment. His presence affirms that environmental sustainability is a top priority for our development agenda,” she said. The Minister also called on young Ghanaians to take the lead in building a sustainable future. “To our youth — you are not just leaders of tomorrow, you are the actors of today. Your ideas, your creativity, your drive — these are the forces that will transform Ghana,” she said. He concluded by urging all stakeholders — from industry players and local governments to civil society and international development partners — to support the country’s vision of a greener, plastic-free future. “As we mark this important day, let us remember that we do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors — we borrow it from our children. What we do today will shape the Ghana we leave behind,” she said. World Environment Day 2025 served as a powerful reminder that ending plastic pollution requires more than promises — it demands action, innovation, and unity across all sectors of society. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring Ghana’s natural environment with the official launch of a nationwide commemorative tree planting exercise under the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative. Speaking at a special ceremony at Kwabenya Senior High School on Thursday, President Mahama described the exercise as “a historic national task that reflects our collective duty to restore degraded landscapes and safeguard the environment for future generations.” This year’s 'Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative 2025 was being observed under the theme “Restoring Degraded Landscapes Across the Country”, with a specific focus on ending plastic pollution and boosting national reforestation efforts. President Mahama announced that the tree planting exercise—part of the broader Tree for Life campaign he launched earlier in March at Nkawie in the Ashanti Region—officially kicks off today, June 5, and will run until June 30, 2025. The goal, he said, is to plant 30 million trees across all regions of Ghana within the period. “Let this not be just a ceremony, but a national call to action,” the President urged. "Each tree we plant today is a living investment in the future of our country—cooling our cities, protecting our rivers, reclaiming our soils, and lifting our spirits.” He also used the occasion to unveil a new flagship environmental initiative—One Tree Per Child—which mandates that every school-aged Ghanaian will be supported to plant and nurture a tree. Under the program, students will receive seedlings of native species suited to their regions, with guidance from teachers, traditional leaders, and local environmental officers. President Mahama stressed that these initiatives are part of a larger environmental policy agenda rolled out since his return to office in December 2024, including the creation of a Ministry of Climate Change and Sustainability, the adoption of a National Plastics Management Policy, and a strengthened Solid Waste Management Strategy aimed at cutting plastic landfill waste by 60% by 2030. The President praised communities, faith groups, and private enterprises already supporting the green transition, noting impressive gains in recycling rates and innovative reuse of plastics. He also called on various stakeholders—government ministries, local assemblies, development partners, and the private sector—to play active roles in supporting green ventures, enforcing regulations, and championing the Extended Producer Responsibility scheme. “Plastic pollution and deforestation are not separate crises—they share a common root: a neglect of environmental values. Our duty is to correct that,” he said. The event at Kwabenya SHS saw participation from ministers of state, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional leaders, students, environmental activists, and civic organizations. President Mahama concluded his address with a stirring message of unity and hope: “When every child plants and protects a tree, that tree becomes a symbol of our shared future—green, prosperous, and just.” He encouraged every Ghanaian to make a personal pledge: “I will not litter; I will reduce my plastic use; I will plant and care for a tree.” The commemorative tree planting exercise is expected to continue throughout the month with regional festivals, national clean-up campaigns, and the introduction of a Green Innovation Expo to highlight Ghana-made solutions to environmental challenges. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse, has extended a warm welcome and heartfelt congratulations to the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital. The gesture came during a courtesy visit paid to the Palace by the new CEO and his team. King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse expressed his confidence in the capabilities of the new CEO and highlighted the critical role the Greater Accra Regional Hospital plays in supporting healthcare delivery in the capital, especially as a complementary institution to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. “We first and foremost want to congratulate you for the position that has been given to you by His Excellency the President of the Republic,” the Ga Mantse stated. “The Greater Accra Regional Hospital is a very important facility, and your leadership will go a long way in improving health service delivery in our region.” The Ga Mantse revealed plans to construct a 350-bed specialist hospital for children, in partnership with a private investor, the Sempe Stool, and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. He explained that the current services provided by the Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital are inadequate for the growing population and health demands of children in the region. “This planned facility is aimed at strengthening pediatric care in Accra. We see it as a critical addition to the existing health infrastructure, especially as we seek to ensure every child in the Ga State and beyond receives the best care possible,” he noted. In further remarks, the Ga Mantse invited the Greater Accra Regional Hospital to actively participate in the Ga State’s community health screening initiatives. He emphasized that such collaborations would help bring the hospital’s services closer to the people, improve public awareness about the facility’s offerings, and enhance trust between the community and the hospital. “We would want you to be part of our health screening exercises, as it would serve as an extension of your hand into the community. It will also help residents understand what exactly you do at the Regional Hospital and the value of the services you provide,” the Ga Mantse added. Concluding his remarks, the Ga Mantse acknowledged the enormous responsibilities facing the hospital’s new leadership and called for continued support from the CEO’s team and principals. “We are grateful for your presence and pray that your team sees the weight of your task and supports you fully. Thank you for your dedication, and we look forward to a fruitful partnership.” On his part, the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Dr. Leslie Adam Zakari, who was accompanied by members of his management team during the visit to the Ga Mantse Palace thanked the King for the warm reception. He described the meeting as both symbolic and significant, emphasizing the need for collaboration between the hospital and traditional leadership for effective healthcare delivery in the region. “It’s a privilege to be here, and we don’t take it lightly. As soon as I received my appointment and reported to duty, I informed my team that we must come home to greet our father,” Dr. Zakari stated. “We are here today to show respect to His Royal Majesty, and to let him know that we have been assigned to serve him and the people of this land.” The CEO stressed the importance of working closely with the Ga State, acknowledging that the success of the hospital depends in part on the support and cooperation of traditional leaders. “The Greater Accra Regional Hospital—formerly Ridge Hospital—is a very important institution, and the work we do there can only be successful with the full support of our traditional leaders,” he said. "There are times when we will need guidance, advocacy, and even intervention. And if we wait until problems arise before seeking the King’s support, then we haven’t done our part as good children of this land.” Dr. Zakari expressed appreciation to the Ga Mantse for granting the audience and reaffirmed his commitment to serve with humility, respect, and excellence. His Royal Majesty, in response, welcomed the CEO and his team warmly and assured them of the Ga State’s support in all endeavors aimed at improving health services for the people of Accra and beyond. The visit marks a strong beginning for a collaborative relationship between the Greater Accra Regional Hospital and the traditional authorities, with both parties looking forward to initiatives that will enhance healthcare accessibility and quality in the region. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has called for the inclusion of traditional authorities in the structure of the National Day of Thanksgiving and Prayers Committee, emphasizing that Ghana's spiritual foundation cannot be complete without the voice of indigenous spirituality . He made the remarks when the leadership of the National Day of Thanksgiving and Prayers paid a courtesy call on him at the Ga Mantse Palace on Wednesday. According to the Ga King, while Ghana recognizes the importance of Christianity and Islam in national life, there is a missing link that must be addressed: the spiritual contributions of traditional Ghanaian customs and ancestral rites. “There’s something missing in the structure of this committee, and it is the voice of traditional Ghanaian spirituality,” he stated. “Our customs, rites, and ancestral observances are not just culture—they are covenant. And that input is essential.” He further stressed that peace and stability in Ghana, particularly in the capital, are not only the result of visible religious practices, but also due to sacred traditional rites that are often carried out in silence and secrecy by custodians of the land. “Why do we have peace in Accra? Why has Ghana not burned like others have? It is because of unseen sacrifices—spiritual transactions—done by the Ga Dzaasɛi, Wulomei, Asafoatsemei, and elders,” he said. Drawing parallels with the fasting periods observed by Christians and Muslims ahead of their holy festivals, the Ga Mantse noted that similar spiritual preparations—such as the ban on drumming before Homowo—are also observed within Ga traditions as a form of fasting for the land. “These are not fetish or witchcraft—they are sacred duties,” he said, urging Ghanaians and the committee to move beyond mere tolerance of tradition to fully embracing and honoring it. He concluded by proposing that a traditional thanksgiving rite be held, even if on the eve of July 1st, to invoke the blessings of the ancestors and acknowledge the spiritual guardianship of the land. “Let the traditional rite come first. Without this, any national thanksgiving is incomplete,” he declared. The Ga Mantse’s remarks have reignited conversations around the role of traditional spirituality in national events and the need for inclusive representation across all faiths in shaping the country's moral and spiritual direction. On his part, Chairman of the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving Committee, Mr. Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, underscored the crucial role of traditional leaders in sustaining peace and stability in Ghana, describing their contribution as indispensable to the country’s spiritual and national wellbeing. He made these remarks when he led a delegation to the Ga Mantse Palace on Wednesday to officially invite His Royal Majesty, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, and the Ga Traditional Council to participate in the upcoming National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, slated for July 1, 2025. Mr. Ankrah conveyed warm greetings from former President John Dramani Mahama, who initiated the declaration of July 1st—a date formerly known as Republic Day—as a national day of spiritual reflection and thanksgiving. He noted that the decision to visit the Ga Mantse first was a sign of deep respect for traditional authority and its central place in Ghana’s spiritual and social framework. "His Excellency believes that chiefs play a crucial and important role in the sustenance of peace in our country,” he said. "As the main event is going to be held in Accra, it is important, in his view, that we come and seek your permission, your blessings, and your participation.” According to Mr. Ankrah, Ghana's peace amidst growing conflict across the African continent and beyond is not accidental but the result of divine providence and the intercession of spiritual leaders—including traditional rulers, Christian pastors, and Muslim clerics—who continue to uphold the spiritual sanctity of the nation. “Ghana has become an oasis of peace in a turbulent region. We do not take this for granted. We believe it is by the grace of God—and through the quiet, consistent work of our chiefs, imams, and pastors—that we continue to enjoy this peace,” he emphasized. He explained that the theme for this year’s observance—“Reflect, Reset, and Renew for National Prosperity”—was chosen to guide Ghanaians to reflect on their identity and purpose, both individually and collectively. “We didn’t choose to be Ghanaians. It was by divine arrangement that we were born here. Ghana was the first sub-Saharan country to gain independence. These are not coincidences. There is a reason, a purpose behind this,” Mr. Ankrah noted. As a symbolic gesture, the delegation presented the Bible and the Quran to the Ga Mantse, acknowledging the importance of all religious scriptures in the act of national thanksgiving. “We know you already read these scriptures, but this is symbolic—because in all holy books, we are instructed to give thanks. And as we thank God, He continues to bless us,” he added. Mr. Ankrah invited the Ga Mantse and his council to join the main ceremony scheduled for 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the forecourt of the State House, followed by Muslim prayers at 12:30 p.m. at the National Mosque. He emphasized that the Ga Mantse’s presence would symbolize national unity and respect for traditional leadership, and that similar events would be held concurrently in all 16 regions and 261 districts across the country. “July 1 is our Republic Day—our true national birthday. We now seek to elevate it into a spiritual milestone, adding deeper meaning so that what God has started in this country, He will bring to a glorious end,” Mr. Ankrah concluded. He also expressed optimism about early signs of economic improvement, attributing them to divine intervention, and called on all Ghanaians—regardless of faith or background—to come together in thanksgiving and prayer for a prosperous and united Ghana. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Parliament has, under a certificate of urgency, approved the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introducing a new tax of GH¢1 per litre on petroleum products as part of efforts to address the country’s mounting energy sector debt. The new levy, passed on Tuesday, June 3, is expected to rake in approximately GH¢5.7 billion annually, providing much-needed revenue to clear arrears and stabilize the sector. Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who presented the bill, revealed that Ghana’s energy sector debt has hit US$3.1 billion as of March 2025. He said a minimum of US$3.7 billion is required to fully offset these liabilities, with an additional US$1.2 billion needed to secure fuel for thermal power generation throughout the year. “This levy is critical,” Dr. Forson told the House. “It will allow us to meet our obligations in the energy space while ensuring reliable power supply for households and industries.” To allay public fears about rising fuel prices, the Minister assured Parliament that the GH¢1 increase per litre would be offset by recent gains made by the Ghana cedi, thereby cushioning consumers from any immediate price hikes at the pumps. However, the bill did not pass without controversy. The Minority fiercely opposed it, arguing that the new levy amounts to an unnecessary and unfair burden on already struggling Ghanaians. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin described the move as deceptive, claiming it amounted to a reintroduction of the scrapped Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) under a different name. “What is Energy? Is it not ‘E’? This is another form of E-Levy disguised as an energy sector levy,” Afenyo-Markin said in Parliament. Despite the strong opposition, the bill sailed through, paving the way for its implementation in the coming days. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has accused the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) of reintroducing the much-criticized Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) through what he described as a deceptive legislative maneuver. Speaking passionately on the floor of Parliament, Mr. Afenyo-Markin challenged the Finance Minister’s move to pass the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill  under a Certificate of Urgency, insisting it is a veiled attempt to bring back the unpopular E-Levy. “Mr. Speaker, how can the Finance Minister, in one breath, repeal the E-Levy and in the next, reintroduce it?” he questioned. “This is the E-Levy. You’ve introduced E-Levy, then you say you run it through a Certificate of Agency. What is Energy? Is it not ‘E’? The short form of this new levy is E-Levy. That’s what you are doing – reintroducing the E-Levy,” he added. The Minority Leader criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the Finance Ministry’s approach, stating that the justifications presented by the Minister were never previously discussed or agreed upon. He also accused the government of attempting to bypass proper parliamentary procedure and scrutiny. “What stopped the Finance Minister from engaging this side of the House?” he asked. “You said in your budget there would be no new taxes or levies. Now you repeal E-Levy and bring it back in disguise. Ghana is watching.” Mr. Afenyo-Markin also questioned the precedent being set by rushing such significant financial legislation without adequate debate, warning that such actions could haunt the government in the future. The Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill  was introduced to Parliament earlier in the day by the Finance Minister and immediately faced stiff opposition from the Minority. Despite government claims that the bill does not amount to a reintroduction of the E-Levy, the Minority Leader insisted the similarities in intent and structure are too striking to ignore. “This is the House of Records,” he said. “Let the truth be told: the E-Levy is back.” Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Former Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Lawyer Samuel Atta Akyea, has called for calm and unity within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), urging party members to remain focused and rally around a central symbol of leadership during this period of opposition. Speaking in a reflective tone, the former legislator noted that although the party’s 2024 presidential bid, led by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, ended in defeat, it would be premature and destabilizing for members to begin jostling for power or leadership at this early stage. “Who should lead the party? With the greatest of respect, I think history should guide us. Dr. Bawumia led us into a major political battle. Though we did not emerge victorious, the leadership he symbolizes should not be quickly discarded,” he said. Atta Akyea cautioned against internal wrangling and what he described as “rocking the boat” too soon after the party’s electoral loss. He emphasized that the party’s immediate priority should be to heal, stabilize, and present a united front as a strong opposition force. “Right now, we are seeing some battle lines being drawn already, and I think it's too early in the day for that appetite for power to resurface. The cracks are deep. It’s a storm. But let’s be honest: this party has faced such turbulence before. We can survive this four years in opposition,” he stressed. According to the former MP, the party must find something or someone to rally around—be it a person, the party’s flag, or its core ideals—if it is to remain relevant and credible heading into the next electoral cycle. “We need stability. People need something they can rally around. I thought we should have rallied around Dr. Bawumia. But whatever the case, let’s not lose sight of the bigger picture. The time for division is not now,” he added. Atta Akyea’s comments come amid growing tension and early political maneuvering within the NPP. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith