The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has admitted that open defecation and poor sanitation are fueling the recent cholera outbreak in Ghana, despite government measures to control the disease. Speaking to residents of Winneba during a campaign tour in the Central Region, Mr. Akandoh painted a troubling picture of the situation, warning that the outbreak could worsen if sanitation practices do not improve. "I know some of you won’t do it, but to those who defecate openly and leave it in the community, this is one of the biggest causes of the disease. We must put an end to this practice," the minister stated, underscoring the severity of the problem. Mr. Akandoh revealed that the government has rolled out a nationwide vaccination campaign to curb the spread of the disease. The exercise has already commenced in Cape Coast in the Central Region and at Ablekuma in the Greater Accra Region, with Swedru expected to follow soon. While urging the public to embrace the vaccination drive, the minister sought to dispel fears about the safety of the vaccine. "The vaccine is not poisonous, harmful, or dangerous. I have taken mine, so there is no need to fear," he assured. However, the outbreak’s scale and persistence raise concerns about the effectiveness of the government’s response. Despite efforts to combat the disease, the rise in cases and the continued practice of poor sanitation signal that more needs to be done. Public health experts have warned that without a drastic improvement in sanitation infrastructure and public compliance with hygiene protocols, the outbreak could spiral out of control. Mr. Akandoh’s remarks highlight the urgent need for stricter enforcement of sanitation laws and a more aggressive public health campaign to address the root causes of the outbreak. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, and the Acting Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, have embarked on a public education campaign in the Central Region to raise awareness about the ongoing cholera outbreak and promote proper sanitation practices. The campaign began on the streets of Winneba, where the minister and his team engaged residents on the dangers of cholera and the importance of maintaining good hygiene to prevent its spread. He emphasized the need for proper sanitation and urged the public to adhere to health guidelines. Mr. Akandoh later visited the Agona Swedru Municipal Hospital, where he checked on four patients receiving treatment for cholera. He assured them of the government's commitment to fighting the outbreak and encouraged them to take advantage of the government’s vaccination exercise. "How long have you been here? Is there a gutter in front of your house? Don’t worry, you will be fine. The government has rolled out a vaccination policy, so when it comes, please ensure that you get vaccinated to help fight the disease," the minister told one of the patients. According to Mr. Akandoh, the government has already implemented several measures to combat the outbreak, including a nationwide vaccination exercise. He revealed that the campaign has commenced in Cape Coast in the Central Region and Ablekuma in the Greater Accra Region, with Swedru expected to begin soon. "The vaccine is not poisonous, harmful, or dangerous. I have taken mine, so there is no need to fear," the minister said at the Winneba Municipal Hospital, encouraging citizens to participate in the exercise. Prof. Kaba Akoriyea reinforced the need for improved sanitation, stressing that it remains critical in the fight against cholera. Dr. Julius Abuku, Medical Superintendent of the Agona Swedru Municipal Hospital, disclosed that the facility has recorded 327 suspected cases of cholera. He added that the municipality has reported 411 suspected cases, with 71 samples tested and 28 confirmed positive. Dr. Abuku further noted that the municipality has recorded three deaths since the outbreak began. However, he highlighted that no fatalities have occurred in nearly a month, thanks to enhanced health measures. The minister was accompanied by the World Health Organization (WHO) Country Director, Dr. Frank Lule; Nene Ofei Bosso, the Public Relations Officer of the Ministry; and other officials from the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service. Mr. Akandoh urged citizens to take advantage of the vaccination exercise and adhere to proper sanitation practices to help curb the spread of cholera. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government of Ghana has officially inaugurated the MahamaCares Technical Taskforce, marking a significant step toward improving access to quality healthcare for Ghanaians. The inauguration ceremony took place on Wednesday, at the Ministry of Health Auditorium in Accra. Addressing the gathering, Minister of Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh highlighted that the MahamaCares initiative, also known as the Ghana Medical Care Trust Fund, is a direct response to the growing burden of chronic diseases such as cancer, kidney disease, and heart conditions, which impose significant financial strain on families. He noted that non-communicable diseases account for 42% of all deaths in Ghana, with cardiovascular diseases contributing 19% and cancers 5%. “The Ghana Medical Care Trust Fund, widely known as MahamaCares, is a bold response to this challenge. Its purpose is clear: no Ghanaian should have to choose between their health and financial ruin. This initiative will bridge the current gaps in healthcare financing, ensure fairness in access to treatment, and enhance the well-being of all Ghanaians,” Hon. Akandoh stated. The Health Minister emphasized that the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has made significant progress in providing coverage for general health needs, but it does not comprehensively address the high costs of specialized treatments for chronic illnesses. MahamaCares, he explained, will provide dedicated financial support to individuals battling these debilitating conditions. The nine-member Technical Taskforce, chaired by Rev. Prof. Emeritus Seth Aryeetey, former Provost of the College of Health Sciences, has been mandated to develop a robust policy and legal framework to establish MahamaCares as a statutory entity. The taskforce is also expected to design a sustainable funding model, establish transparent eligibility and disbursement criteria, and evaluate healthcare infrastructure to ensure equitable access. Other key members of the Taskforce include: Prof. Emeritus Binka – Former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Health and Allied Sciences Prof. Margaret Kweku – Public Health Consultant Dr. Alfred Doku – Consultant Cardiologist Dr. Radolph Nsor-Ambala – Financial Expert Dr. Anthony Gingong – Representative of the National Health Insurance Trust Fund Dr. Anthony Seddoh – Health Policy and Financing Expert Anna Pearl Akiwumi Siriboe – Attorney General’s representative Dr. Belinda Afriyie – Public Health Consultant and Secretary of the Taskforce Hon. Akandoh expressed confidence in the expertise and dedication of the taskforce, urging them to approach their mandate with passion and integrity. “The choices you make in the coming months will shape the future of this initiative. Your efforts will not only encompass policies and frameworks; they will focus on saving lives and restoring hope to families in need,” he added. He called on government agencies, private sector organizations, civil society, and the international community to collaborate and support the initiative through resource mobilization, technical expertise, and advocacy for sustainable healthcare financing. “This is a promise of hope. MahamaCares is not merely a health initiative; it is a commitment to reducing deaths caused by chronic diseases. It is about ensuring that no one is denied treatment due to an inability to afford it. It is about restoring dignity to healthcare,” Hon. Akandoh said. The Minister encouraged the taskforce to consult widely and design a solution that is effective and sustainable. He expressed optimism that MahamaCares would transform healthcare delivery in Ghana, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of financial status, have access to life-saving treatments. On his part, Chairman of the MahamaCares Technical Taskforce, Rev. Prof. Emeritus Seth Aryeetey, has assured Ghanaians of the taskforce’s commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery in the country. Rev. Prof. Aryeetey, who is also the Former Provost of the College of Health Sciences, expressed gratitude to the government for the confidence reposed in them. He pledged that the taskforce would work tirelessly to improve access to quality healthcare. “We will work from dawn to dusk to ensure better healthcare for Ghanaians,” he stated. Rev. Prof. Aryeetey highlighted former President John Dramani Mahama’s contributions to healthcare infrastructure, noting that during his first term, Mahama built the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) and several other health facilities. “Even in opposition, we proudly recall the things President Mahama achieved. He has a heart for the people,” he added. The MahamaCares Technical Taskforce is tasked with developing a comprehensive framework to support healthcare financing and improve access to specialized medical care across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Acting Managing Director of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC), Sammy Gyamfi, has assured Ghanaians that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government is poised to deliver relief and prosperity to the nation through the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy. Speaking on the floor of Parliament following the presentation of the budget by the Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Sammy Gyamfi declared that the budget is designed to address the pressing needs of Ghanaians, particularly focusing on job creation and economic recovery. "The change we voted for is here," Sammy Gyamfi stated confidently. "The hope the people of this country need is here, and I am very optimistic that by the time the Finance Minister is done reading this budget, many Ghanaians will find hope in his words." According to him, the budget reflects the NDC’s unwavering commitment to the social contract it signed with the Ghanaian people, adding that the government is determined to fulfill the promises made during the 2024 general elections. "We are going to have a budget that responds to our needs, meets our aspirations as a people, and eases hardships. It will be a budget that creates jobs, fosters prosperity for all, and respects the social contract that we, in the NDC, have with the good people of this country," In an interview with an Accra-based television network, he reiterated that the NDC's 2024 campaign promises were carefully considered and backed by feasible policies. "We were very clear in our minds about the promises we made to the people of this country in the lead-up to the 2024 polls. Our promises were well thought out, and we knew from the onset that the policies we proposed were pragmatic and implementable. So, we are not going to face any difficulties… 'Aban papa aba,’" he stressed. The 2025 budget presentation, in line with Article 179 of the 1992 Constitution, is expected to outline strategic measures to stabilize the economy and improve the living standards of Ghanaians. Mr. Gyamfi’s remarks reflect growing confidence within the NDC that the new administration will deliver meaningful change and restore hope to the nation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government of Ghana has announced that it has allocated GH¢3.5 billion towards the Free Secondary Education Programme for the 2025 fiscal year. Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday during the presentation of the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy, Finance Minister, Dr. Ato Forson revealed that the government has resolved the longstanding funding challenges for the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy by uncapping the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund). "Mr. Speaker, the overarching concern about free secondary education has been its quality and the absence of a dedicated source of funding. H.E. President John Mahama has resolved the funding challenge by uncapping the GETFund. This makes available dedicated funds for the full financing of free secondary education and free tertiary education for Persons with Disability (PWDs)," Dr. Forson stated. He explained that the government will amend the Capping and Realignment Act to uncap GETFund, ensuring that GH¢4.1 billion in additional funding is directed towards financing the Free SHS programme and other related educational expenditures. "Aside from the uncapping of GETFund, we have also absorbed the debt service, made up of interest and principal, from the Daakye bond GETFund contracted," he added. Dr. Forson further outlined that GH¢564.6 million has been allocated for the provision of free curricula-based textbooks. This will cover four sets of kindergarten books and workbooks for 2.8 million learners, four sets of primary school textbooks for 800,000 learners, and nine sets of Junior High School (JHS) 3 textbooks for 540,000 learners. Additionally, the government has increased budgetary allocation for the School Feeding Programme from GH¢1.344 billion to GH¢1.788 billion in 2025, representing a 33% increase. This will raise the feeding cost per meal per child per day from GH¢1.50 to GH¢2.00, an increase of 33.3%. In support of teacher and nursing training, Dr. Forson announced that GH¢203 million has been allocated for the payment of teacher trainee allowances, while another GH¢480 million will go towards nursing trainee allowances. The Capitation Grant has also seen a significant boost, increasing from GH¢84 million in 2024 to GH¢145.5 million in 2025, representing a 73.2% rise. Dr. Forson emphasized that these measures reflect the government’s commitment to improving the quality of education and supporting Ghana’s future workforce. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced that the government will abolish the 10% withholding tax on lottery winnings, popularly known as the "Betting Tax," as part of measures outlined in the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy. Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, Dr. Forson explained that the removal of the betting tax forms part of the government's broader strategy to ease the financial burden on citizens and enhance domestic revenue mobilization. "We have programmed the removal of some nuisance taxes in line with our manifesto promise. This includes the abolition of the 10% withholding tax on lottery winnings, which has been a source of concern for many Ghanaians," Dr. Forson stated. The Finance Minister noted that the removal of the betting tax is expected to improve disposable incomes for households and promote compliance within the gaming industry. He emphasized that despite the commitment under the International Monetary Fund (IMF)-supported programme to increase non-oil tax revenue by 0.6 percentage points of GDP annually, the government remains focused on relieving citizens of undue tax pressures. Dr. Forson highlighted that the government has identified alternative sources to offset the revenue shortfall from the removal of the betting tax and other levies. "By reducing the current tax refund ceiling from 6% to 4% of total revenue, we will save GH¢3.8 billion in 2025 alone — enough to cover the GH¢180 million shortfall from the removal of the betting tax," he explained. In addition to the betting tax, the government also announced the abolition of the 1% Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy), the Emission Levy on industries and vehicles, the VAT on motor vehicle insurance policies, and the 1.5% withholding tax on unprocessed gold winnings by small-scale miners. The Finance Minister assured Parliament that these measures will not compromise Ghana's fiscal targets but will instead strengthen economic resilience and support business growth. "We are committed to protecting the livelihoods of Ghanaians while ensuring economic stability and sustainable growth," Dr. Forson added. The proposed measures are part of the government's strategy to align with its IMF-supported economic recovery programme while stimulating business activity and boosting consumer confidence. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has revealed that Ghana’s energy sector financing shortfall is expected to surge to approximately GH¢35 billion in 2025, despite significant expenditure aimed at addressing the sector's financial gap in 2024. Presenting the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, Dr. Forson highlighted the alarming state of the energy sector’s finances, stressing that the shortfall for the period between 2023 and 2026 has been projected at about GH¢140 billion. “Mr. Speaker, a recent exercise conducted by the energy sector financing modelling team under the Energy Sector Recovery Programme (ESRP) revealed that the Business as Usual (BAU) energy sector financing shortfall has increased significantly to about GH¢35 billion for 2025, even after the rather large spending for the sector’s shortfall in 2024,” Dr. Forson stated. He noted that the estimated GH¢140 billion financing gap over the next three years is more than 20 times the allocation for Goods and Services for all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) for 2025. Dr. Forson further disclosed that beyond the projected shortfall, the government is also grappling with significant unpaid legacy arrears owed to Independent Power Producers (IPPs). “The legacy arrears, which stood at US$1.73 billion at the end of 2024, remain a major financial burden on the sector,” he added. The Finance Minister underscored the urgent need for structural reforms and innovative financing strategies to stabilize the energy sector and prevent further financial deterioration. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Kwame Asuah Takyi Esq. has called for bold and decisive action to accelerate gender equality and empower women and girls. Speaking at the International Women’s Day celebration held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Accra, the Comptroller-General highlighted the progress made in advancing women's rights while underscoring the persistent challenges that require urgent attention. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Spanish Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Angel Lossada Torres Quevedo, representatives from the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, development partners, and security services. Delivering her keynote address, the Comptroller-General emphasized the importance of this year’s theme, "Accelerate Action for All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment," as a call to collective mobilization for a more equitable society. “This theme ignites a profound call to action, propelling us beyond reflection and into collective mobilization. By uniting us around a common vision of justice and equality, it inspires collaborative effort and fuels our determination to create a more just, equitable, and inclusive world,” he said. Reflecting on the global and historical context of the fight for women’s rights, the Comptroller-General noted that despite the strides made in education, governance, and economic empowerment, women continue to face entrenched barriers. These include gender-based violence, limited access to opportunities, and discriminatory practices that undermine their ability to reach their full potential. Highlighting his tenure's achievements, the Comptroller-General outlined several measures undertaken to promote gender equality within the GIS. A significant milestone was the establishment of the Gender Mainstreaming Section in July 2019 and the development of the GIS Gender Policy. These initiatives have aimed to foster diversity and inclusion within the Service. “We have invested in capacity-building programs for officers, both domestically and internationally, focusing on gender-related issues. To address the gender imbalance, I have increased the number of female officers in management positions and ensured their representation at the regional level,” he stated. The Comptroller-General also announced the development of the Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH) Policy in 2024, making the GIS the first security institution in Africa to implement such a policy. “The Gender Mainstreaming Section has become a strategic department with focal persons in all 19 administrative regions, ensuring that gender considerations are integrated into all aspects of our operations,” he added. The Comptroller-General stressed the need for collective action beyond policy reforms, calling for increased education, training, mentorship, and leadership development to close the gender gap. “Empowering women through education has a profound ripple effect, transforming not just individuals but entire communities and societies. This fight is not solely the responsibility of women; it is a collective obligation that demands our unified efforts,” he emphasized. He also expressed gratitude to the Spanish Embassy and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) for sponsoring a skit on the PSEAH Policy, which aims to raise awareness about gender-based exploitation and harassment. The Comptroller-General acknowledged the contributions of female officers within the Service and encouraging them to remain resilient in their pursuit of excellence. “As we look to the future, let us envision a world where every woman and girl has the freedom, resources, and opportunities to achieve her full potential. Together, we can accelerate transformative change and forge a future where every woman and girl can thrive with freedom, dignity, and respect,” Delivering a speech on behalf of the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey; Miriam Bafowaa Opoku, Programme Officer at the Ministry highlighted the significance of this year’s celebration, themed “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” with the campaign hashtag #ForAllWomenAndGirls. She emphasized that the theme underscores the need to address systemic barriers and create a future where no one is left behind, regardless of socioeconomic background, disability, or geographical location. “This year’s celebration is particularly significant as it coincides with 50 years of the National Women’s Machinery in Ghana and 30 years of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action,” Madam Opoku noted. “It is an opportune moment to take stock of our progress and strategize for the future.” She commended the government’s strides in promoting gender equality, citing the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024, as a key milestone. She also highlighted other legislative and policy frameworks such as the Domestic Violence Act, the Human Trafficking Act, the National Gender Policy, and the Child and Family Welfare Policy as critical tools for addressing gender inequality. She underscored the importance of initiatives such as the Orange Support Center, which provides 24-hour toll-free services, legal and medical support, and counseling for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. The Ministry’s digital efforts, including the Social Welfare Information Management System and the Single Window Citizen’s Engagement Service, were also highlighted as significant advancements toward improving service delivery and enhancing accountability. She emphasized that the government, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, remains committed to empowering women and ensuring their full participation in national development. She urged stakeholders to intensify efforts toward realizing Sustainable Development Goal 5, which focuses on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls. “The time has come for us to build stronger partnerships and integrate gender concerns into national planning, budgeting, and development to address inequalities in Ghana,” Nyavor stressed. She also commended women within the Ghana Immigration Service for their immense contribution to national development and applauded the support of male champions in advancing gender equality. “The Ministry believes that this year’s International Women’s Day celebration will intensify efforts toward empowering the next generation of young women to serve as agents of change,” she added. On his part, Spanish Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Angel Lossada Torres Quevedo, commended the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) for its outstanding service and contribution to national development. Ambassador Torres Quevedo praised the female officers of the GIS, acknowledging their significant role in strengthening the service. “The contributions of the women in the Ghana Immigration Service have been remarkable and have played a crucial part in bringing the Service to where it is today,” he stated. He urged the Service to remain committed to its mandate, encouraging officers to continue delivering with professionalism and dedication. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has emphasized that clearing the government’s mounting arrears and addressing the Bank of Ghana's (BoG) negative equity challenge are crucial steps toward stabilizing Ghana’s financial system. Presenting the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy in Parliament on Tuesday, March 11, Dr. Forson revealed that the BoG is seeking a GHS53 billion bailout to resolve its negative equity position and restore financial stability. “The BoG is also seeking an amount of GHS53 billion as a bailout to be able to address their negative equity challenge they face,” Dr. Forson stated. Dr. Forson further disclosed that the central government’s total arrears had reached GHS67.5 billion as of December 2024, representing 5.2% of Ghana’s GDP. He noted that the road sector alone accounted for GHS21 billion of the total debt. “At the end of December 2024, total central government arrears amounted to GHS67.5 billion, representing 5.2% of GDP. Mr. Speaker, with the road sector recording arrears of GHS21 billion,” he explained. Upon assuming office on January 23, 2025, Dr. Forson said the Ministry of Finance (MoF) was inundated with payment requests from contractors and suppliers. To assess the scale of the debt, the ministry formally requested details of all outstanding claims from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) on January 28, 2025. “Subsequently, Mr. Speaker, the MoF held a special hearing with the MDAs to validate the arrears submitted for payment. The response from the MDAs revealed that a staggering amount of GHS67.5 billion is owed to government contractors and suppliers,” Dr. Forson noted. The arrears include GHS49.2 billion in interim payment invoices from MDAs and GHS18.3 billion in bank transfers from the Controller and Accountant General’s Department. Dr. Forson also clarified that this figure excludes an additional $1.73 billion owed to Independent Power Producers (IPPs), GHS68 billion owed by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to contractors, GHS32 billion owed by COCOBOD, and GHS5.75 billion owed by the Ghana Road Fund to various contractors. The Finance Minister stressed that resolving the BoG’s financial difficulties and clearing the government's arrears would be pivotal in stabilizing the economy and ensuring long-term recovery. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the 24-Hour Economy Policy as a key strategy for driving economic growth and boosting productivity. Presenting the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy in Parliament on Tuesday, March 11, Dr. Forson underscored the significance of the policy in addressing Ghana’s economic challenges and enhancing resilience. “We remain committed to the pursuit of the 24-Hour Economy Policy,” Dr. Forson stated. “This policy is crucial for enhancing our economic resilience and ensuring sustainable growth.” He explained that the policy, which aims to promote round-the-clock economic activities, will be instrumental in transforming the country’s economic landscape by increasing productivity and creating more opportunities for businesses and workers. Dr. Forson further disclosed that the government will soon present the policy to Parliament for approval and implementation, stressing that it forms a vital part of the broader strategy to strengthen Ghana’s economic foundation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has assured Ghanaians that President John Dramani Mahama is committed to restoring economic stability and driving prosperity under his leadership. Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday during the presentation of the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy, Dr. Forson expressed confidence that the Mahama-led administration will address the country’s economic challenges through strategic reforms and accountability. “The theme of our budget is ‘Respecting the Economy for Ghana’s Prosperity.’ We are determined to rebuild trust in the economy by creating jobs, ensuring accountability, and driving sustainable growth,” Dr. Forson stated. He emphasized that the government’s policies will focus on stimulating local industries, enhancing infrastructure, and improving the overall business environment to attract both local and foreign investments. Dr. Forson also highlighted the strength of Ghana’s democratic foundation, noting that the peaceful transition of power has reinforced the country’s political stability. “Mr. Speaker, the democratic principles we have tirelessly fought for are being upheld. Our democracy has been consolidated with yet another peaceful transition of power. That must be the standard,” he said. The Finance Minister assured Parliament and Ghanaians that the Mahama administration’s approach to governance will be guided by transparency and a commitment to economic justice. “This budget is not just about numbers—it is about respecting the trust of the Ghanaian people and ensuring that the economy works for everyone,” he added. The 2025 Budget outlines key interventions in agriculture, industrialization, and social welfare, aimed at reducing the cost of living and creating sustainable jobs. Dr. Forson reiterated that with President Mahama’s leadership, Ghana’s economy will be placed on a path to recovery and long-term stability. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called for an end to name-calling and derogatory remarks directed at the late Dr. Joseph Boakye Danquah, emphasizing his pivotal role in Ghana’s political development. Akufo-Addo’s call comes in response to allegations that Tamale Central MP, Murtala Mohammed, described Dr. Danquah as a “traitor” and a “CIA operative” during parliamentary proceedings on February 4, 2025. The remarks have since sparked widespread reactions, prompting the Coalition for Youth Development in Okyeman to petition the Speaker of Parliament on March 7, seeking redress over the comments. Speaking at the 60th Anniversary Remembrance Service held at the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church in Kyebi on Sunday, March 9, Akufo-Addo unveiled a compendium of 60 commemorative statements honouring JB Danquah’s legacy. He highlighted Danquah’s unwavering advocacy for the rule of law and individual freedoms, which he described as the foundation of Ghana’s political stability. “The persistent call for the rule of law to be entrenched in our body politic is the ultimate guarantee of liberty and individual freedom. Today, it stands as a central feature of Ghanaian politics, which we must never renounce,” Akufo-Addo stated. He lamented the ongoing controversies surrounding Danquah’s legacy, adding, “Despite JB Danquah’s immense contributions to Ghana’s development, his name continues to be embroiled in needless controversy, both in death as in life.” Delivering a speech on behalf of the Minority Caucus in Parliament, Effutu MP Alexander Afenyo-Markin condemned the recent remarks made against JB Danquah, stressing the need for national unity. He also criticized the invasion of the former Finance Minister's residence, describing it as an affront to democratic values. “Since the 1940s, no group of people has suffered a smear campaign as enduring as that against Daddy Danquah and his people. These are individuals who have contributed immensely to public service and the betterment of our nation, yet they have been maligned beyond measure for their pure and patriotic sacrifices,” Afenyo-Markin stated. He urged Ghanaians to reject hate speech and divisive rhetoric, adding, “Let us denounce hate campaigns, regardless of their targets, and put the love and dignity of Ghana and Africa above all differences. What unites us is far greater than the forces seeking to divide and weaken us.” The Overlord of Akyem Abuakwa State, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, also weighed in on the matter, calling for an end to the vilification of JB Danquah’s legacy. “Looking at the immense sacrifices he made for us, we have done little to honour him in return. Some individuals continue to spread malice, mischief, and willful ignorance to defame him, but we must not allow that to happen. The next generation must hear of JB Danquah’s sacrifices for Ghana,” he said. The event concluded with renewed calls for unity and respect for Ghana’s political heritage, with speakers underscoring JB Danquah’s enduring impact on the nation’s democratic evolution. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith