In a determined bid to curb the alarming rise in road crashes linked to reckless tricycle and motorcycle riding, the Western North Regional Police Command has launched a special enforcement operation to restore discipline on the roads. The operation, spearheaded by the Regional Commander, DCOP Dr. Francis Kwame Tsidi, began on May 28, 2025, and is focused on clamping down on unregistered tricycles, unlicensed riders, and those engaging in dangerous conduct. As part of the operation within the Sefwi Wiawso Municipality, several offenders were apprehended and swiftly prosecuted. The District Magistrate Court, presided over by His Worship Eric Baah Boateng, found the culprits guilty and handed down sentences of seven days in prison with hard labour. In addition, fines were imposed, with a stern warning that failure to pay would attract a default sentence of 90 days’ imprisonment with hard labour. According to the police, the move is part of a broader strategy to promote road safety and reduce avoidable accidents caused by non-compliant riders. Authorities believe the swift court actions and visible enforcement will serve as a strong deterrent to others. “The safety of the public is our priority, and this initiative will be sustained to ensure sanity on our roads,” DCOP Dr. Tsidi stated. The Regional Police Command is calling on the public to support the initiative by adhering to traffic regulations and reporting road offences. The ongoing crackdown is expected to be replicated in other parts of the region as the police intensify efforts to improve road safety across Western North. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The 24-Hour Economy Secretariat, in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, has commenced high-level stakeholder consultations at the Jubilee House as part of efforts to roll out the 24-hour economy policy. The meeting brought together key players from various sectors, all of whom expressed strong commitment to ensuring the full implementation of the policy to drive national development. Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, highlighted the transformative potential of the initiative. According to her, extending business operations beyond traditional hours will unlock new opportunities for employment, boost productivity, and stimulate sustainable economic growth. "In a country where the informal sector dominates, a 24-hour economy could significantly enhance trade, industrial output, and service delivery," she stated. "This policy is not just about longer working hours — it's about creating a dynamic and inclusive labor market that attracts investment and fuels development." The 24-hour economy strategy forms a central pillar of Ghana's broader economic modernization agenda, with the aim of positioning the country as a competitive and investment-friendly destination on the continent. Stakeholders present at the engagement affirmed their readiness to collaborate closely with the government to shape implementation frameworks that ensure efficiency, labor protection, and economic viability. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Dr. Bryan Acheampong, former Minister for Food and Agriculture and current Member of Parliament for Abetifi, has officially announced the formation of an exploratory committee to evaluate the possibility of contesting for the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) presidential slot. In a heartfelt statement issued to the public and party faithful, Dr. Acheampong emphasized that the decision follows deep personal reflection, widespread encouragement from party supporters, and extensive consultations with his family and stakeholders. "The NPP stands at a pivotal moment in its history—a time that calls for unity and a renewed commitment to our shared values," he said. "This exploratory committee will engage with grassroots members and key stakeholders across the country to assess whether my vision aligns with the aspirations of the party and the Ghanaian people." The committee, which is expected to report its findings within four weeks, will focus on key national priorities including job creation, food security, youth empowerment, infrastructure development, security, and good governance. Outlining his long-standing service to the NPP, Dr. Acheampong recounted his journey from grassroots organizer to four-term parliamentarian, cabinet minister, and dedicated financier of the party. He reaffirmed his loyalty to the party, pledging to continue serving with "unwavering loyalty and integrity." To the party's footsoldiers and loyalists, Dr. Acheampong issued a rallying call: "I firmly believe in the Party's capacity to overcome its challenges and once again lead Ghana towards a brighter future." The announcement marks a significant moment in the lead-up to the NPP’s internal contest to select a flagbearer for the 2028 presidential election. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a move that underscores the value of professionalism and excellence in public service, the Ghana Police Service has announced the promotion of four officers from its Western Central Regional Command. The promotions come as recognition for their critical role in a high-stakes operation that helped prevent further violence following the Asiyaw killings. The officers — Fetus Gameli Kukuia, Christian Asare, Nicholas Kingsley Amoah, and Adam Yakubu — were elevated to higher ranks after successfully intercepting and arresting three armed suspects on 30th April 2025, just a day after the brutal murder of five people near Nsawam. Their swift and strategic response at the Bawdie Barrier near Wassa Akropong led to the arrest of suspects Hakeem Imoro, Imoro Tahiru, and Nurideen Wahab, who were found with a submachine gun and 21 rounds of ammunition. Their interception not only foiled a potential escape but also linked the suspects to a wider criminal network tied to the Asiyaw killings. The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who approved the promotions alongside the Police Management Board (POMAB), described the officers’ performance as exemplary and central to the Service’s crime-fighting efforts. “This recognition is not only a reward for past performance but a message to all personnel that diligence, professionalism, and courage will be honoured,” the IGP said. The promotion of the officers is seen as a strategic move to reinforce morale and encourage operational excellence within the Ghana Police Service, especially at a time when security remains a national priority for both public safety and economic confidence. Security experts and business leaders have praised the swift response of the Service, noting that a stable and secure environment is essential for attracting investment and promoting commerce in Ghana’s resource-rich regions such as the Western Central enclave. By reinforcing its commitment to recognizing talent and bravery, the Ghana Police Service continues to signal that it is not only fighting crime but also building a motivated and professional workforce ready to support national development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government of Ghana says it is making steady progress in its ongoing discussions with all remaining external creditors as part of the country’s debt restructuring programme. In a press statement released by the Public Relations Unit of the Ministry of Finance, the government reassured its international partners that negotiations are proceeding in line with commitments made under the G20 Common Framework. “No creditor has been treated preferentially,” the statement noted, emphasizing Ghana’s adherence to the principle of Comparability of Treatment. "We have strictly applied the provisions of the Memorandum of Understanding with our official creditors, and importantly, we have continued to remain in arrears with all external creditors covered under the restructuring perimeter.” The government reaffirmed its commitment to reaching a fair and mutually beneficial resolution with all creditors and expressed gratitude to its partners for their patience, collaboration, and ongoing support. Ghana’s debt restructuring programme is a crucial step in the country’s broader economic recovery plan, aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability and ensuring long-term sustainability. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has successfully secured the conviction of a Nigerian national, Mr. Promise Ebuorbo, for harboring illegal migrants and residing in Ghana without proper documentation. According to Michael Amoako-Atta, Assistant Commissioner of Immigration and Head of Public Affairs at GIS, Ebuorbo was arrested at Sampa Valley, Weija, alongside four other Nigerian nationals following a tip-off. Intelligence revealed that he had accommodated ten young men in a rented apartment and facilitated their involvement in internet fraud, scamming unsuspecting individuals out of significant sums of money. “Following thorough investigations and successful prosecution, the court sentenced Mr. Promise Ebuorbo to 12 months in prison and imposed a fine of 50 penalty units,” Mr. Amoako-Atta disclosed. "His four accomplices were also convicted and fined 100 penalty units each.” He noted that this case should serve as a strong warning to landlords and property owners across the country. “The GIS wishes to remind the public, particularly landlords, of their legal obligation to verify the immigration status of all prospective migrant tenants,” he emphasized. "Providing accommodation to undocumented migrants is a criminal offense under Ghana’s immigration laws.” The Ghana Immigration Service, in collaboration with other security agencies and international partners, remains committed to enforcing immigration laws and protecting the public from transnational crimes, Mr. Amoako-Atta added. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has officially launched the Governance Series Wave 1 Report, revealing troubling insights into citizen perceptions of governance, corruption, and inclusiveness in Ghana. The launch event, held at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, brought together a cross-section of government officials, civil society actors, academia, and development partners. The welcome address was delivered by Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, who underscored the importance of using data to shape governance reforms in the country. “This report is far more than a collection of statistics,” Dr. Iddrisu noted. “It is a powerful reminder that meaningful policy reform must be grounded in robust, inclusive, and representative evidence that captures the diverse experiences of Ghanaians.” The Governance Series Wave 1 Report is the first of its kind under a panel survey approach and covers responses from 7,248 citizens across all 16 regions of Ghana using the Computer-Assisted Telephone Interviewing (CAPI) method. The survey, conducted from January to December 2024, explores themes such as corruption, inclusiveness, responsiveness, and citizen participation. Key Findings Paint Stark Picture Dr. Iddrisu highlighted several sobering insights from the report: Over 70% of Ghanaians believe the current political system offers little to no space for them to influence decision-making. 18.4% of citizens who interacted with public officials in 2024 admitted to giving gifts – mostly money – as a form of bribery to access public services. Bribery was significantly more common among males (68.3%) and urban residents (64.3%), compared to females (31.7%) and rural dwellers (35.7%). Alarmingly, 21.1% of persons living with disabilities reported engaging in bribery, with the highest prevalence among those with physical (40.1%) and visual (32.5%) impairments. Regionally, Greater Accra (22.0%) and Ashanti (18.1%) reported the highest rates of gift-giving, while Savannah (1.0%) and North East (1.1%) reported the lowest. “These results carry critical implications for how we design policies, implement anti-corruption measures, and rebuild public trust in our institutions,” Dr. Iddrisu emphasized. Evidence for Action As Ghana prepares for its 3rd Voluntary National Review (VNR) on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) this July, the findings from the report will serve as a vital benchmark for measuring performance, particularly under SDG Indicator 16.5.1 (bribery prevalence) and 16.7.2 (inclusiveness and responsiveness in decision-making). Dr. Iddrisu noted that the Governance Series is a panel survey, meaning the same respondents will be revisited every six months. This will allow the GSS to track changes and measure the impact of ongoing governance reforms over time. “This is just the beginning,” he said. “We are committed to ensuring public sector transformation is measurable, consistent, and grounded in data.” A Call for Greater Support The Government Statistician used the occasion to recognize the contributions of key institutional partners including CHRAJ, CDD Ghana, GACC, GII, and GIZ Ghana, while calling for increased technical, institutional, and financial support to scale up data production efforts across sectors. “The GSS stands ready to replicate this kind of evidence production in sectors such as health, education, labour, and social protection,” Dr. Iddrisu stated. "But to do this effectively, we need sustained support from government, private sector, civil society, academia, and development partners.” He urged all stakeholders – including journalists, policy actors, and researchers – to make use of the findings and drive evidence-based decision-making at all levels. “Data is only powerful when it is used,” he concluded. “Let us work together to embed evidence into the heart of governance reform – for transparency, for accountability, and ultimately, for the Ghana we all envision.” The event featured a high-level panel discussion moderated by Dr. Emmanuel Akwetey, Executive Director of IDEG, with contributions from governance experts and civil society leaders. The Governance Series Report is expected to be a critical tool in guiding policy, informing reforms, and enhancing transparency in Ghana’s public service sector. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

News coming in indicates that the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has picked up the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi. He was picked up following his appearance at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) headquarters on Tuesday, May 27. It is emerging that Chairman Wontumi was taken in for further questioning by EOCO officials shortly after assisting the CID with ongoing investigations. While the specifics of the EOCO probe remain unclear, Wontumi is already under scrutiny for alleged involvement in illegal mining activities. He was officially cautioned by the CID on Monday, May 26, over allegations of engaging in mining without a license, polluting water bodies, and unlawfully entering a forest reserve. Accompanied by a legal team led by former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame, Wontumi reportedly submitted a formal statement and was granted bail, with a directive to return for further questioning. Chairman Wontumi has, however, denied any wrongdoing, insisting he has abided by all legal procedures related to his mining business. He also dismissed claims linking him to a controversial COCOBOD payment. More updates to follow. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A day meant for jubilation turned to sorrow when a vehicle drove into a crowd of Liverpool Football Club supporters celebrating the team’s championship triumph during a trophy parade. The incident, which occurred near the end of the celebration, left dozens injured, including several children. Video footage captured in the aftermath showed shocked fans surrounding the car involved in the collision. UK police confirmed that the vehicle remained at the scene and that a 53-year-old British man was arrested in connection with the incident. Assistant Chief Constable Jennifer Sims of Merseyside Police said, “We believe this to be an isolated incident. The incident is not being treated as terrorism.” The North West Ambulance Service responded swiftly to the scene. David Kitchin, Head of Service, revealed that four children were among the injured. "Sadly, four of the injured were children who were enjoying the day with their friends and their families. Our teams treated 20 patients on-site for minor injuries, and 27 were transported to hospital. We believe two of those, including one child, have sustained serious injuries,” he stated. Liverpool Football Club issued a statement expressing deep concern. “Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by this serious incident,” the club said. What began as a moment of unity and joy for the Liverpool community has now been overshadowed by heartbreak, as fans and families grapple with the aftermath of this unexpected tragedy. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

His Royal Majesty, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II has commended the United Kingdom’s Trade Envoy to Ghana, Hon. Bellavia Janet Ribeiro-Addy, for her commitment to deepening UK-Ghana relations, describing her appointment as a source of pride for the Ga-Dangme people. Speaking during a courtesy call at the Ga Traditional Council, the Ga Mantse expressed his heartfelt joy at receiving Hon. Ribeiro-Addy, who is of Ga heritage and serves as Member of Parliament for Brixton Hill in the UK. “I am proud of your appointment to such a high office and thankful to the English Crown for bestowing this honour on someone who represents an entire community. You are a shining light of all Ga-Dangme,” the King said. He encouraged the UK Trade Envoy to be an example to the youth and assured her of the Ga State’s full support as she executes her mandate. The King also announced that the Ga Mantse Foundation and the Ga Mantse Business Desk would collaborate with her office to identify areas of mutual interest and generate job opportunities for the people. Hon. Ribeiro-Addy, in her remarks, expressed delight at the opportunity to connect with her ancestral roots. “It is very important to me that I am able to come and greet my King. As a proud person of Ghanaian heritage, I am honoured to be here,” she said. The visit formed part of her official mission to Ghana aimed at strengthening bilateral trade, investment, education, and cultural collaboration. She emphasized the importance of Ghana as a key trading partner to the UK and highlighted ongoing efforts to increase UK business presence in Ghana and boost Ghanaian exports to the UK through various tariff-free schemes and trade partnerships. She also noted that her tour includes engagements with British companies in Ghana and Ghanaian entrepreneurs both from the diaspora and local communities who are contributing to the country’s economic growth. The Ga Mantse also took the opportunity to thank the British High Commission for its support in Ghana’s development, and commended the recent elevation of Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, describing it as another milestone worth celebrating. The meeting highlighted the strong cultural and diplomatic ties between the Ga State and the United Kingdom, and set the stage for continued collaboration in trade and development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Some Christian churches that violated the annual ban on drumming and noise-making imposed by the Ga Traditional Council have rendered an unqualified apology to the Ga State. The churches, whose sound equipment were confiscated during the period of the ban, appeared before the Ga Traditional Council on Thursday to respond to the violations. During the session chaired by Nii Adote Otintor II, the Sempe Mantse and Acting President of the Ga Traditional Council, the church leaders were cross-examined by paramount chiefs. They admitted their wrongdoing and offered apologies for breaching the customary directive. Struggling to explain their actions, the representatives failed to justify why they disregarded the rules that preserve the traditions of the Ga people. Nii Adote Otintor II instructed the churches to submit indenture documents for their properties to the Council. He warned that if the documents fail to meet required standards or reflect discrepancies, the Council would be compelled to take stringent actions. The ban on drumming and noise-making is a sacred tradition observed annually in the lead-up to the Homowo Festival, aimed at ensuring peace and spiritual cleansing. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Traditional Council has issued a stern directive to some Christian churches that flouted the annual ban on drumming and noise-making, instructing them to submit indenture documents for their properties or face severe consequences. The churches were summoned before the Council on Thursday after they breached the sacred ban, which forms part of the traditional rites leading up to the Homowo Festival. The ban is observed to ensure spiritual sanctity, peace, and reflection within Ga communities. Appearing before a panel of paramount chiefs chaired by Nii Adote Otintor II, the Sempe Mantse and Acting President of the Ga Traditional Council, the church leaders rendered an unqualified apology for their actions. Their sound equipment had earlier been confiscated as part of enforcement efforts. During the cross-examination, the representatives admitted their wrongdoing but struggled to explain why they defied the directive, which had been widely publicized and supported by various stakeholders, including the security services. Nii Adote Otintor II emphasized the need for compliance and respect for Ga customs. He ordered the churches to present the legal indentures to prove rightful ownership and appropriate use of their properties. He warned that should any discrepancies be discovered in the documents submitted, the Council would not hesitate to take stringent measures, including possible sanctions or legal action. The Ga Traditional Council reiterated its commitment to upholding the traditions and cultural heritage of the Ga people and urged all religious bodies to cooperate in preserving the peace and sanctity of the Homowo season. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith