Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu has called on the Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, to provide a clear explanation for the state’s decision to discontinue several high-profile cases. Among the cases is the trial of former Works and Housing Minister Collins Dauda and four others in connection with the $200 million Saglemi Affordable Housing Project. The accused initially faced 70 charges, including causing financial loss to the state, but all charges have now been dropped by the Attorney General’s office. Another case that has been discontinued is the controversial ambulance procurement trial involving former Majority Leader and now Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, and businessman Richard Jakpa. These legal decisions have sparked criticism, with some alleging political considerations influenced the move. Martin Kpebu emphasized the need for transparency from the Attorney General to address growing public concerns. “He should give reasons. He should explain the decision, all of them. Some of them, the reasons are not far-fetched,” Kpebu stated. He specifically pointed to the ambulance case, arguing that there were clear signs of political interference under the former Attorney General, Godfred Dame. “You catch him on the Jakpa tape, saying that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Ken Ofori-Atta are on his neck to get Ato Forson convicted by hook or crook,” Kpebu alleged. He further noted that such circumstances justified the discontinuation of the case but insisted that the Attorney General should officially clarify the rationale behind the dropped prosecutions. “The other ones, I am sure when he comes, he will give an explanation,” Kpebu added. The decision to halt these cases has reignited discussions about the role of political influence in Ghana’s judicial system. Many are now awaiting a formal response from Dr. Dominic Ayine to shed light on the government’s legal stance. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has called on members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to set aside internal disputes and focus on fostering unity for the party’s future. Addressing a delegation of party executives, Members of Parliament, former appointees, and other NPP faithful at his residence on Monday evening, Dr. Bawumia stressed that personal attacks and public blame games could weaken the party’s cohesion. He urged party members to be measured in their discussions about the party’s performance in the 2024 elections, especially in the media, to prevent deep divisions that could be difficult to mend. “I want to appeal to everyone, all of us, to be mindful of our utterances in order not to hurt and jeopardize the unity of our party, which we need,” Dr. Bawumia said. “We need unity, and if we tear ourselves apart now, we will not be able to unite and rebuild for the battle ahead in 2028.” He emphasized that internal disintegration only serves to weaken the party’s collective strength and called for a concerted effort to promote harmony at all levels. The delegation, which visited Dr. Bawumia for the first time since he vacated his official residence following the presidential inauguration last month, described the visit as a courtesy call to check on his well-being. They also commended him for the dignified manner in which he has conducted himself since the 2024 elections. Dr. Bawumia expressed gratitude for the visit and the support from party members, reaffirming his commitment to the party’s progress and unity. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Amid Ghana’s economic challenges, concerns continue to mount over excessive spending on government officials while the ordinary citizen struggles with basic needs. According to Policy Analyst, Roselyn Mawufemor Fiagbe, the gap between the privileged few in leadership and the larger population enduring economic hardship highlights the need for fiscal discipline and equitable resource distribution. Madam Fiagbe notes that while senior government officials enjoy undisclosed perks and privileges, many Ghanaians, including school children, face difficult living conditions. "Some students walk long distances to school, while others in Senior High Schools are forced to manage with inadequate meals due to budgetary constraints. Meanwhile, public funds are used to sustain a life of luxury for a selected group,” she observed. She stressed that governance must prioritize the well-being of all citizens rather than catering for a privileged few. "The goal of leadership should be national development, not the comfort of a small elite. Responsible spending and transparency in government expenditures are crucial in addressing the inequalities that exist in our society.” Roselyn Fiagbe cited international examples where responsible financial policies have ensured fairer resource distribution and national development. She pointed to Norway, where despite vast oil wealth, the government ensures financial sustainability through its Government Pension Fund Global (Oil Fund), securing long-term stability rather than indulging in reckless spending. Instead of extravagant government perks, Norway prioritizes free education and healthcare to benefit all citizens. In Rwanda, stringent measures have been taken to cut wasteful spending, redirecting funds into education, healthcare, and social services. “This contrasts sharply with Ghana, where government perks remain shrouded in secrecy while key sectors suffer from underfunding,” she said. She also highlighted Singapore, a country renowned for efficient governance, where government salaries are linked to performance and economic outcomes. “This discourages unnecessary spending, unlike Ghana, where some officials enjoy benefits that are neither transparent nor merit-based.” Furthermore, Madam Fiagbe referenced New Zealand, a nation that ensures transparency in public expenditures, allowing citizens to track how national resources are allocated. “If Ghana adopted a similar approach, it would curb excessive spending on government officials and redirect resources to essential public services,” she suggested. Roselyn Mawufemor Fiagbe stressed that a nation’s budget should reflect its priorities. She called for a transparent and fair approach to resource allocation, ensuring that all citizens benefit equitably from Ghana’s wealth. “Our leaders must set an example by curbing unnecessary expenditures and prioritizing investments in education, healthcare, and innovative ideas that will drive national progress,” she emphasized. She urged the government to implement strong financial management systems that promote accountability and fiscal discipline. "Ghana’s future depends on how wisely we manage our resources. It is time for leaders to demonstrate a commitment to the people by embracing responsible spending and prioritizing policies that uplift the entire nation,” she concluded. With growing concerns over economic hardship and disparities in resource allocation, calls for financial responsibility in governance continue to resonate. As Madam Fiagbe advocates, adopting transparency, cutting wasteful spending, and investing in critical sectors will not only bridge the inequality gap but also set Ghana on a path toward sustainable development. The call comes following the recent controversy surrounding the former Managing Director (MD) of SIC Insurance Company Limited, Ms. Hollistar Duah-Yentumi, which brought to light significant concerns regarding the compensation packages of high-ranking officials in Ghana. The Former SIC Boss was reportedly receiving an annual salary of GH₵840,000, which equates to a monthly income of approximately GH₵70,000. In addition to this substantial salary, her role included a range of significant benefits: Accommodation: A fully furnished residence. Transportation: A company vehicle with a driver. Medical Coverage: Comprehensive healthcare for herself and her family. Annual Leave: 30 days of paid vacation. This revelation sparked public outrage, especially considering the country's ongoing economic challenges. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Works, Housing, and Water Resources, Mr. Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, has lauded Ghana Water Limited (GWL) for its ongoing efforts to expand urban water supply and improve service delivery across the country. During a working visit to the GWL Head Office in Accra, Mr. Adjei reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring universal access to potable water, pledging continued support for the water sector through policy interventions and strategic investments. Speaking at the engagement, Mr. Adjei emphasized that access to clean water is a fundamental right, assuring Ghanaians that the government remains dedicated to improving infrastructure, addressing operational challenges, and enhancing service efficiency. "The government is committed to providing the necessary resources to ensure every Ghanaian has access to safe and affordable water. We will work closely with stakeholders to improve infrastructure and strengthen service delivery," he stated. He highlighted that water sector development remains a priority, with major investments planned to expand water supply networks and rehabilitate infrastructure nationwide. He also acknowledged challenges such as Non-Revenue Water (NRW) losses—which impact revenue generation—and pledged to support GWL in tackling them. Providing insights into GWL’s operations, Managing Director, Mr. Adam Mutawakilu, outlined the company’s governance framework, which includes a Board of Directors overseeing multiple divisions such as Water Treatment and Quality Management, Finance, Business Development, and Regional Operations. Currently, GWL operates 92 water systems, serving an estimated 17 million people across 15 operational regions, with a vision to continuously enhance efficiency and financial sustainability. Highlighting key projects, Mr. Mutawakilu revealed that GWL has expanded transmission networks from Kpong to Tema to enhance supply reliability. Additionally, the company is replacing aging pumps, installing Automatic Voltage Regulators (AVRs), and dredging intake points at Sekyere Hemang, Owabi, Winneba, and Nsawam to improve infrastructure resilience. To combat Non-Revenue Water (NRW) losses caused by leaks, theft, and metering inaccuracies, GWL is deploying advanced metering systems, drones, and GIS mapping technology to detect and fix leaks promptly. The company aims to reduce NRW by 1-2% annually while scaling up electronic payment systems and digital monitoring to enhance operational efficiency. Mr. Mutawakilu further disclosed that a Performance Improvement Programme (PIP) is being implemented to minimize breakdowns in treatment plants, pumps, and distribution pipelines, ensuring smoother operations and reduced downtime. In response, Mr. Adjei reaffirmed the government’s readiness to support GWL’s initiatives, stating that water accessibility remains a critical part of the country’s infrastructure development agenda. "We will work closely with GWL to ensure that urban water supply meets growing demand while maintaining affordability. The government recognizes the company’s challenges and will provide strategic support to enhance efficiency and sustainability," he assured. With Ghana’s urban population expanding, water security remains a crucial national priority, and the collaboration between the government and GWL is expected to drive further improvements in service delivery. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghanaian Social Media Personality, Karen Baaba Sam has vowed to fight relentlessly for full custody of her five-year-old daughter, stating that having her child by her side is "non-negotiable." In an exclusive interview, Ms. Sam expressed her deep commitment to raising her daughter in a loving and nurturing environment, emphasizing that she would go to any lengths to ensure her child’s well-being. "My daughter is my pride, and I will stop at nothing to have her by my side and raise her into the woman God created her to be," she asserted. Ms. Sam, who gained public attention after opening up about alleged domestic abuse at the hands of her ex-partner, real estate developer Nana Kwadwo Adjei, acknowledged that her own childhood struggles shaped some of her past decisions. However, she remains determined to provide her daughter with a better future. "I have made choices—some good, some bad—but my focus now is ensuring my daughter gets the best care a mother can give. She is my greatest blessing, and her well-being comes before anything else," she stressed. Media Allegations and Court Battle Addressing recent media reports that she had defied a court order regarding custody arrangements, Baaba Sam dismissed the allegations as a smear campaign orchestrated by her ex-partner. "I know Nana Adjei has rented the press, and they are doing his bidding through newspapers and online portals. Those publications don’t bother me. In fact, they only strengthen my resolve to fight even harder for full custody of my daughter," she stated. She further assured that her legal team had filed various motions in court, and she remained confident that justice would prevail. "I believe in the judiciary and trust that a good judge will hear my case and deliver a fair ruling," Ms. Sam added. Background of the Custody Dispute Karen Baaba Sam first broke her silence on January 20, 2025, detailing years of alleged domestic violence and emotional abuse at the hands of Nana Kwadwo Adjei. According to her, the relationship, which began in 2016, quickly turned abusive, with Nana Adjei subjecting her to physical attacks—even during her pregnancy. She recalled that in December 2018, Nana Adjei assaulted her after returning home intoxicated. Despite her repeated attempts to seek justice, she claimed that his influence over the police prevented any action from being taken. The situation escalated in April 2023 when, after discovering Nana Adjei with another woman, Baaba Sam decided to leave the relationship. However, she alleged that Nana Adjei responded with more physical abuse, even attacking their daughter and two visiting family friends. By December 2023, she officially ended the relationship and moved out in February 2024. However, on her first night in her new residence, she suffered an armed robbery attack, which she believes was linked to her ex-partner. Since then, Baaba Sam has been engaged in a legal battle for full custody of their daughter, insisting that her child deserves a stable and safe environment. Despite the ongoing media scrutiny and legal hurdles, she remains resolute: "No amount of intimidation will stop me from protecting my daughter. I will fight with everything I have to ensure she grows up in the right hands," she declared. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Africa Prosperity Network (APN) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat has unveiled a groundbreaking Infrastructure Compact, marking a decisive step towards African economic integration. The comprehensive framework emerged from the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025, A gathering of African leaders was held from January 30 to February 1 at the Accra International Conference Centre. The event attracted 5,000 participants, including African heads of state, industry leaders, CEOs, government ministers, policymakers, thought leaders, and development partners. Under the theme "Delivering Africa's Single Market Through Infrastructure: Invest, Connect, and Integrate," the summit convened prominent African leaders and policymakers to address critical infrastructure challenges facing the continent. Some distinguished attendees included:  H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of Ghana (Host)  H.E. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of Togo  H.E. Azali Assoumani, President of the Union of Comoros  H.E. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Vice President of Ghana  Honourable Ibrahim Boughali, Speaker, People’s National Assembly, Algeria  Mr Charles M’ba, Minister of Public Accounts and Debts, Gabon  Mr Mark Doumba, Minister of Economy and Participations, Gabon  H.E. Wamkele Keabetswe Mene, AfCFTA Secretary-General  Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, APN Advisory Council Chairperson  Ambassador Édouard Nduwimana, Representative, Burundi  Mr Jean-Paul D’offray, Representative, Seychelles The Infrastructure Compact outlines five transformative pillars for immediate implementation: Transport and Logistics Integration: The framework prioritises the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and addresses the 30-40% cost premium currently impacting intra-African trade. It advocates for comprehensive air service liberalisation and execution of the Africa Integrated Maritime Strategy 2050. Energy Security and Power Integration: Responding to widespread power reliability challenges affecting over 30 African nations, the Compact emphasises developing interconnected power grids and harmonised regional energy policies, with a special focus on strategic projects like the Grand Inga Dam. Digital Transformation: The framework establishes a five-year roadmap for achieving pan-African mobile system interoperability, prioritising investments in broadband infrastructure, e-commerce platforms, and unified regulatory frameworks to accelerate digital trade. Healthcare and Social Infrastructure: Comprehensive recommendations focus on strengthening healthcare systems through increased domestic pharmaceutical production capacity and digital health solutions, including integrated mobile payment and insurance platforms. Strategic Infrastructure Financing: The Compact introduces an innovative Infrastructure Fund targeting £2 trillion in mobilisation from domestic capital markets, including pension funds, insurance companies, and sovereign wealth funds, supported by streamlined regulations and risk mitigation mechanisms. Commitment to Action: Leaders Push for Implementation Emphasising the need for urgent action, President Mahama stated: “The decisions we make at this conference must not end in resolutions alone. We must act with urgency, determination, and a shared vision for prosperity. Let us rise to the occasion, break down the barriers that divide us, and build a strong, self-reliant, and globally competitive Africa.” Presidents Gnassingbé and Assoumani echoed this commitment, while AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene announced the AfCFTA Transit Guarantee Scheme, set to launch in 2025, as a key step in implementing the Compact’s recommendations. The summit culminated in the ceremonial lighting of the Africa Trade Torch (ATT), a private sector initiative symbolising the commitment to mainstream AfCFTA benefits across African communities, with particular emphasis on SMEs, women-led enterprises, and youth engagement. Secretary-General Wamkele Mene announced the imminent launch of the AfCFTA Transit Guarantee Scheme, demonstrating concrete progress towards implementing the Compact's recommendations. Dr Dlamini Zuma highlighted Ghana's mobile payment ecosystem as a potential blueprint for continental digital financial integration. Siding Eltoum, Chief Executive Officer, highlighted This dialogue is crucial in uniting Africans around a shared vision, driving collaborative action, and ensuring our solutions are both practical and impactful. Towards a Prosperous Africa: APN’s Continued Commitment As the organising body of APD, the Africa Prosperity Network (APN) remains steadfast in advancing the vision of “Africa We Want” in line with the AU Agenda 2063. Through platforms like the Africa Prosperity Dialogues, APN is driving Africa’s progress through collaboration, innovation, and self-reliance—without dependence on external aid. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has successfully restored water supply to the Ho Municipality following a major disruption caused by the breakdown of all three pumps at the Kpeve Water Abstraction Plant. The company’s technical teams worked around the clock to resolve the issue within the stipulated 48-hour timeline, as part of a short-term intervention spearheaded by GWL’s Managing Director, Hon. Adam Mutawakilu. In addition to the rapid repairs, GWL deployed tanker services to provide essential institutions with temporary water supply. To ensure long-term stability, the company has procured two new pumps, which are expected to arrive in Ghana by the end of March. Meanwhile, broader efforts are underway to expand the Kpeve Water Treatment Plant, aligning with the government's ‘Water for All’ initiative. This expansion aims to bridge the gap between rising water demand and supply, ensuring a more sustainable system for the municipality and surrounding communities. GWL management also expressed appreciation for the leadership and commitment of former President John Dramani Mahama in securing a stable and equitable water supply for residents of Ho and across the country. The company reassured the public of its continued efforts to improve water service delivery and thanked all stakeholders for their patience and cooperation during the disruption. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a major milestone for Africa’s healthcare sector, top national medicines regulatory authorities from across the continent have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration and reliance on regulatory decisions. The agreement, facilitated by the African Union Development Agency – New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD) and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), aims to expedite the approval process for medicines, vaccines, and medical devices, while fostering a supportive environment for local pharmaceutical production. The MoU was signed by Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Rwanda’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Senegal’s Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (ARP), South Africa’s Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), Tanzania’s Medicines & Medical Devices Authority (TMDA), and Zimbabwe’s Medicines Control Authority (MCAZ). These regulatory bodies have achieved WHO Maturity Level 3 (ML3) status, signifying their adherence to globally recognized regulatory standards. Enhancing Regulatory Efficiency and Access to Medicines The agreement is designed to accelerate the approval process for essential medicines and medical products across Africa by allowing regulatory agencies to rely on each other’s assessments and decisions. Through structured reliance, authorities can share evaluation reports, quality control data, and inspection outcomes, reducing duplication and speeding up approvals. “This MoU comes at a critical moment as Africa works towards the operationalization of the African Medicines Agency (AMA),” said H.E. Nardos Bekele-Thomas, CEO of AUDA-NEPAD. “For Africa to achieve a harmonized regulatory system, we must build trust in one another’s regulatory decisions. This agreement is a step forward in ensuring that safe and effective medical products reach our populations faster while strengthening our capacity to manufacture the medicines we need.” Key Benefits of the Agreement Faster Access to Medicines: By sharing regulatory decisions, the MoU will reduce delays in approving essential medicines, vaccines, and medical devices. Strengthened Collaboration: The agreement fosters cooperation among Africa’s leading regulators, leveraging scientific expertise while maintaining independent oversight. Optimized Resource Use: Countries with limited regulatory capacity can rely on stronger agencies, reducing costs and improving efficiency without compromising safety. Enhanced Public Health Response: Streamlined regulatory processes will enable Africa CDC to respond more swiftly to public health emergencies, ensuring timely deployment of life-saving interventions. Boosting Local Pharmaceutical Manufacturing The agreement is also expected to accelerate Africa’s push towards self-sufficiency in medicine production. By harmonizing regulatory processes, local manufacturers will face fewer bureaucratic hurdles, allowing for quicker market entry of domestically produced medicines. H.E. Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC, emphasized the importance of the agreement in supporting the expansion of vaccine and pharmaceutical manufacturing on the continent. “This MoU strengthens Africa’s ability to respond to public health crises by ensuring that regulatory processes are agile, efficient, and collaborative. It enhances our preparedness and response capabilities, enabling faster deployment of medical interventions during outbreaks.” A Step Towards the African Medicines Agency (AMA) This agreement is a significant achievement under the African Medicines Regulatory Harmonization (AMRH) initiative, which has been working to streamline medicine approvals across the continent. It aligns with Africa’s broader agenda of establishing the African Medicines Agency (AMA), a pan-African regulatory body that will further harmonize medicine regulations and improve access to safe and effective medical products. As Africa CDC and AUDA-NEPAD continue to champion regulatory harmonization, this MoU sets the stage for future collaborations, ultimately improving public health outcomes across the continent. About Africa CDC The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is the public health agency of the African Union, dedicated to strengthening health systems, improving disease surveillance, and coordinating emergency responses across member states. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has reaffirmed his commitment to preserving the rich heritage, culture, and values of the Ga-Dangbe people. He emphasized the need for unity and collective efforts in safeguarding the ethnicity, identity, language, and morals of the Ga State. He made these remarks on Monday when the Management of Channel One TV and Citi FM paid a courtesy call on him at the Ga Mantse Palace in Accra. Addressing the delegation, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II underscored the importance of media partnerships in promoting the Ga State’s development and fostering trust among investors. He urged the media to play a constructive role in advancing the interests of the Ga people, particularly in empowering the girl-child through education and self-reliance. "We need you as partners to help spread the message that the Ga State must unite at all costs. Sometimes, the news creates disaffection and a lack of trust, even among investors. Instead of taking a divisive approach, we ask you to join us in building the Ga State," he stated. The Ga Mantse further stressed the vulnerability that comes with hosting the Ga State and called for collective action to protect the rights of every child, ensuring they have access to education, a clean environment, and opportunities for self-development. As part of efforts to uphold Ga heritage, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II announced that the Ga Traditional Council would collaborate with stakeholders during Heritage Month to promote Ga culture, language, and traditions. "We will support it and make sure that our ethnicity is not lost, our identity is not lost, our language is not lost, and our morals are not lost. As Ga and Dangbe, we will never be lost," he affirmed. On his part, General Manager of Channel One TV/Citi FM, Bernard Avle, congratulated the Ga Mantse on his leadership and contributions to the Ga State, as well as to formally inform him about upcoming programs, including the station’s annual Heritage Month celebrations in March. Mr. Avle expressed gratitude for the Ga Mantse’s guidance and support, emphasizing the media house’s commitment to promoting Ghanaian culture and heritage. The delegation also sought the king’s blessings as they continue their work in Accra and beyond. The courtesy visit was part of efforts by Channel One TV and Citi FM to strengthen relationships with traditional leaders and support initiatives aimed at preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Former President Nana Akufo-Addo has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Dr. Sam Nujoma, the Founding President of the Republic of Namibia and a pivotal figure in Africa's liberation movements. In a heartfelt message on his twitter account, Former President Akufo-Addo lauded the late leader's monumental contributions, stating, "The late First President of Namibia’s life will continue to be celebrated for his heroic leadership of the people of Namibia, not only in the fight for independence from colonial rule but also in laying the foundation for a secure, prosperous, and democratic nation." Dr. Nujoma, who passed away at the age of 95 in Windhoek, was instrumental in leading Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990. He served as the nation's first president for 15 years, championing national reconciliation and coining the motto "One Namibia, One Nation." Reflecting on Nujoma's legacy, Akufo-Addo emphasized the enduring impact of his leadership, noting that his life "will continue to be celebrated for his heroic leadership of the people of Namibia." Joining countless Africans and admirers worldwide, Akufo-Addo extended his deepest condolences to President Nangolo Mbumba, the people of Namibia, Dr. Nujoma's widow and children, and the leadership of the SWAPO party. Dr. Nujoma's passing marks the end of an era of liberation heroes in southern Africa. His leadership and dedication to his nation's freedom and unity have left an indelible mark on the continent's history. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A U.S. Army Major, Kojo Owusu Dartey, has been sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally exporting firearms without a license. Dartey, 42, of Fort Liberty, was convicted on April 23, 2024, after a jury trial. He was found guilty of multiple charges, including false statements to a U.S. agency, false declarations in court, conspiracy, dealing in firearms without a license, failing to notify carriers of firearm shipments, and smuggling goods from the United States to Ghana. According to court records, Dartey purchased seven firearms in the Fort Liberty area and instructed a U.S. Army Staff Sergeant at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, to buy three additional firearms and send them to him in North Carolina. He then concealed the firearms inside blue barrels under rice and household goods and, with the help of an Army Chief Warrant Officer, smuggled them through the Port of Baltimore, Maryland, onto a container ship bound for the Port of Tema, Ghana. The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) intercepted the shipment, recovered the firearms, and reported the seizure to the DEA attaché in Ghana and the ATF Baltimore Field Division. Court documents also reveal that Dartey played a key role in uncovering a 16-defendant marriage fraud scheme involving soldiers at Fort Liberty and foreign nationals from Ghana. During a related trial (U.S. v. Agyapong) between June 28 and July 2, 2021, Dartey lied under oath about his sexual relationship with a defense witness. He also misled federal investigators regarding the relationship. Following his conviction, Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II handed down the sentence. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), and the Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement. The prosecution was led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gabriel J. Diaz, while Daniel Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the official announcement after sentencing. This conviction underscores U.S. authorities' commitment to curbing illegal arms trafficking and ensuring military personnel are held accountable for criminal activities. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) communications team, Kofi Tonto, has called on all Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) appointed by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to step down immediately, urging them to make way for individuals aligned with the vision of the new administration under President John Dramani Mahama. In a Facebook post, Tonto stressed the importance of appointing individuals who share Mahama’s policies and governance agenda. “You cannot campaign against the vision and ideas of Mahama and expect to be maintained as a CEO. Step down for those who believe in his ideas and vision. It’s that simple!” he wrote. His comments come in the wake of a leadership standoff at SIC Insurance PLC, where the immediate past Managing Director (MD), Hollistar Duah-Yentumi, has filed an injunction application against the company and her successor, James Agyenim-Boateng. Reports indicate that Duah-Yentumi has locked the MD’s office and withheld the keys, preventing Agyenim-Boateng from assuming his role. Speaking on an Accra-based radio station, the newly appointed MD revealed that Duah-Yentumi also declined to attend a management meeting meant to introduce him to the staff. “It has become apparent that the real difficulty regarding why I have not been able to access the office is because my predecessor has actually locked up the office and bolted with the keys. It is strange,” Agyenim-Boateng stated. Concerns have also been raised over Duah-Yentumi’s failure to present her handover notes. Meanwhile, through her lawyer, E.N. Poku Esq, she has filed an interlocutory injunction at the High Court, seeking to restrain Agyenim-Boateng from acting as MD and preventing SIC Insurance from recognizing his appointment. The unfolding leadership crisis has sparked discussions about the transition of political appointees and the potential legal battles that could arise as the Mahama administration moves to restructure key state institutions. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith