The Former Managing Director of SIC Insurance Company Limited, Hollistar Duah-Yentumi, has officially withdrawn her lawsuit against the company and its acting MD, James Agyenim-Boateng. Duah-Yentumi had taken legal action against SIC PLC, contesting what she described as the unlawful termination of her contract. She sought full payment of her salary and benefits for the remainder of her four-year tenure, which was originally set to expire in 2028. Additionally, her lawsuit challenged the appointment of James Agyenim-Boateng as acting MD, arguing that the decision was procedurally flawed. However, in a surprising turn of events, Duah-Yentumi has opted to discontinue the case. The reasons for her withdrawal remain undisclosed, leaving questions about the future of the leadership tussle at SIC Insurance. The development marks a significant shift in the controversy surrounding the company’s top management, with industry observers keenly watching for the next steps from all parties involved. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Managing Director of Ghana Water Limited (GWL), Mr. Adam Mutawakilu, has assured residents of Ho and its surrounding communities that urgent measures are being implemented to address the ongoing water supply challenges. Barely a week into office, Mr. Mutawakilu led a team of engineers to inspect the Kpeve Water Intake Point and Treatment Plant, which supplies water to Ho and neighboring districts. He acknowledged the severity of the crisis, revealing that while a submersible pump had been deployed as an interim measure, it was inadequate in meeting demand. To provide a medium-term solution, two new pumps have been procured and are expected to arrive in March 2025. Meanwhile, GWL will collaborate with the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) and other service providers to supply water to affected communities using water. Mr. Mutawakilu reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to the “Water for All Agenda,” stating that President John Mahama is deeply concerned about the water situation in Ho and remains dedicated to implementing the Ho Water Expansion Project and other regional interventions. “The expansion of the Kpeve Treatment Plant is non-negotiable as it remains the only long-term solution to meet the growing population’s demand,” he emphasized. The Kpeve Water Treatment Plant, with an installed capacity of 18,181 cubic metres per day, currently produces only 11,272 cubic metres, far below the 23,580 cubic metres needed to meet demand. Ho’s population, estimated at 262,000, continues to face significant water supply gaps, affecting households, businesses, and institutions. To ensure fair and sustainable distribution, GWL has introduced a Demand Management Programme, while plans are underway to complete the Adidome Water Project, which will serve Agotime-Ziope, Adaklu, and parts of Ho. Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu, described the Ho Water Expansion Project as a critical intervention and reiterated the government’s determination to resolve the crisis. “As part of immediate relief efforts, we will begin supplying water to essential institutions such as hospitals and schools through tankers,” he announced. He also disclosed plans to organize a Regional Water Dialogue to engage stakeholders in finding lasting solutions to the Volta Region’s water supply challenges. Togbe Howusu Adzilakle XII, Awafiaga of the Asogli State, and Ametsitsia Adza Komla, spokesperson for the Kpeve Traditional Council, lamented the adverse effects of the water crisis on their communities. However, they commended GWL for its proactive steps and expressed optimism that the new interventions would lead to a permanent solution. “Water is life, and that is why SDG 6 focuses on ensuring clean water and sanitation for all,” Mr. Gunu emphasized, urging residents to remain patient as the government and GWL work towards sustainable solutions. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Renowned businessman and Football Enthusiast, Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom, has called for a comprehensive overhaul of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), citing mismanagement and financial disparities that continue to cripple the country's football ecosystem. According to Dr. Nduom, a small group of individuals at the top of the GFA are benefitting from FIFA funds while clubs, referees, and players struggle to survive. He described the situation as alarming, warning that if immediate action is not taken, Ghanaian football will suffer further losses, both financially and competitively. "What are we waiting for? More deaths, more bankruptcies, and more Black Stars defeats?" he questioned, emphasizing the dire state of local football. Dr. Nduom stressed that many clubs are on the brink of collapse due to a lack of financial support, while referees are often underpaid, leading to a decline in officiating standards. He called on stakeholders, including the government and corporate entities, to step in and ensure that funds meant for football development are properly distributed and managed. His remarks come at a time when Ghanaian football has been marred by allegations of corruption, poor administration, and dwindling performances on the international stage. The call for reform, he believes, is necessary to restore confidence in the game and secure a brighter future for players, officials, and fans alike. Dr. Nduom further urged football lovers and policymakers to demand accountability and transparency from the GFA, insisting that the current leadership must either reform or step aside for a new era of football governance in Ghana. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Dr. Doli-Wura Awushi Abdul-Malik Seidu Zakaria as the new Managing Director of the National Investment Bank (NIB), effective January 27, 2025. The appointment was confirmed in an official letter signed by Callistus Mahama, Ph.D., Secretary to the President, and addressed to the Minister of Finance. The letter directs the necessary processes to be undertaken to regularize Dr. Zakaria’s appointment in accordance with the Companies Act, 2019 (Act 929) and the bank’s constitution. Dr. Zakaria’s nomination is expected to bring strategic leadership and expertise to NIB as it continues its mandate of supporting businesses and individuals with tailored financial solutions. His appointment forms part of the government’s broader vision to strengthen Ghana’s financial sector and improve the efficiency of state-owned financial institutions. With a strong background in finance and investment management, Dr. Zakaria is anticipated to drive innovation and growth at NIB, reinforcing its role as a key player in the country’s economic development. His appointment comes at a crucial time as the government pushes for reforms aimed at bolstering the financial stability and performance of public sector banks. Industry experts anticipate that under his leadership, NIB will expand its financial services, enhance corporate governance, and contribute to Ghana’s economic transformation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has rescinded the suspension of four Members of Parliament (MPs) following appeals from both Majority and Minority leadership. The affected MPs—Frank Annor-Dompreh, Rockson Dafeamekpor, Hassan Tampuli, and Jerry Ahmed Shaib—were suspended for their involvement in chaotic scenes during the Appointments Committee's proceedings on January 30. The disruption, captured on camera, saw MPs engaging in physical altercations, pushing and shoving each other, and overturning tables, leading to the destruction of microphones and other parliamentary equipment. The disorder stemmed from a disagreement between the Minority and Majority sides over the continuation of vetting beyond 10:00 PM. While the Minority insisted on adjourning after a long day, the Majority sought to proceed without them. This led to a standoff, with some Minority members placing chairs on tables and overturning furniture in protest. It took the intervention of Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga to restore calm. Following the incident, Speaker Bagbin took the unprecedented step of suspending the four MPs. However, on February 4, after pleas from both Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and Minority Leader Mahama Ayariga, he lifted the suspension. Mr. Afenyo-Markin urged the Speaker to reconsider, highlighting the MPs’ contributions to the swift vetting of 42 ministerial nominees in record time. “We have cooperated with the Majority members to vet the President’s nominees in record time. We plead with you to rescind your decision,” he appealed. Mr. Ayariga also made a light-hearted yet persuasive plea, saying, “To err is human, to forgive is Speaker.” In response, Speaker Bagbin emphasized the importance of discipline but acknowledged the need for balance in punishment. “As a father, when your son commits an offence, you don’t punish your son to the extent of breaking his leg,” he remarked. With that, he formally lifted the suspension, allowing the four MPs to resume their parliamentary duties. He urged all MPs to adopt dialogue and constructive engagement in resolving conflicts rather than resorting to disruptive behavior. The decision has been welcomed by both sides of the House, with many calling for better decorum in parliamentary proceedings moving forward. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The President of Nsoatreman Football Club, Ignatius Baffour Awuah, has been granted bail set at GH¢500,000 with two sureties following his arrest in connection with violent disturbances during a league match between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko in Nsoatre, Bono Region. Baffour Awuah, a former Minister of Employment and Labour Relations and ex-MP for Sunyani West, faces charges of "abetment to commit crime, to wit murder," under the Criminal Offences Act 1960 (Act 29). He was arrested alongside two others, Joseph Kyeremeh, who was also granted bail, and Agyemang Duah Owusu, who remains in police custody. The Sunyani District Magistrate Court B, presided over by Judge Eric Daning, has ordered Baffour Awuah to surrender his passport for the next 14 days and restricted his movement outside the Sunyani Municipality unless permitted by the court. Baffour Awuah and Kyeremeh are expected to reappear before the court on Monday, February 17, 2025, as investigations continue. This development has sent shockwaves through the football community, raising concerns about security at league matches and the integrity of the game. Fans of Nsoatreman FC and the wider football fraternity are closely following the case, hoping for a resolution that upholds justice while preserving the sport's integrity. More updates to follow. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, has announced the reintroduction of the National Sanitation Day and the introduction of a Cleanest City Award as part of efforts to promote a cleaner and more environmentally responsible region. Speaking during her first official engagement with the management of the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC), Hon. Ocloo emphasized that sanitation and waste management would be a key performance indicator for Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). The outlined plans to observe a Regional Sanitation Day on the last Friday of every month, in line with the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s Clean Up Ghana  agenda, to improve cleanliness and waste management. As part of her administration’s sanitation policy, she announced initiatives such as waste segregation, provision of garbage bags and bins in public spaces and homes, and strengthening the sanitation and waste management departments within the MMDAs to enhance efficiency. Additionally, she stressed the need for social and behavioral change campaigns to educate citizens on proper sanitation practices. Beyond sanitation, Hon. Ocloo pledged to strengthen local governance by empowering MMDAs to improve revenue generation for sustainable development. She also committed to reinforcing sub-district structures, including zonal and area councils, to enhance participatory governance. On security, the Regional Minister, who also chairs the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), assured that her administration would collaborate with security agencies to maintain peace and order in line with the Security and Intelligence Agencies Act, 2020 (Act 1030). She further announced plans to intensify the provision and replacement of streetlights across the region to improve visibility, curb crime, and enhance road safety. Hon. Ocloo also highlighted her vision for economic development, particularly in collaboration with MMDCEs to promote local economic growth. She announced her commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs through partnerships with the Women’s Bank, fostering innovation, and promoting women-led businesses. Additionally, she revealed plans to facilitate trade fairs in collaboration with key institutions such as the Department of Agriculture, Ghana Tourism Authority, Ministry of Trade, and the Ghana Enterprise Agency, aimed at boosting commerce and investment in the region. The Regional Minister called on civil society organizations, the private sector, and the media to support her administration’s vision of transforming Greater Accra into a cleaner, safer, and more prosperous region. She reiterated her reliance on the expertise of public servants to drive the government’s development agenda. “With collective effort, Greater Accra will become a model region for environmental sustainability, security, and economic growth,” she assured. Story by:

The newly sworn-in Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Akweley Ocloo, has set security and sanitation as her key priorities in a renewed push to enhance development in the capital. Addressing the management and staff of the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council on Monday, February 3, 2025, Madam Ocloo outlined a series of initiatives aimed at addressing some of the region’s most pressing challenges. At the heart of her agenda is the reintroduction of the Regional Sanitation Day, an initiative designed to promote cleanliness across the city. To incentivize participation, Madam Ocloo also announced a new award scheme to recognise the cleanest city in the region. “Sanitation is one of the biggest challenges we face in Greater Accra. The Regional Sanitation Day will help us take steps toward cleaner streets, healthier communities, and a more sustainable future,” she stated. Madam Ocloo also underscored the importance of strengthening decentralisation and participatory governance, pledging to work closely with traditional leaders, religious groups, and local stakeholders to ensure effective governance at all levels. “I will collaborate with traditional leaders, religious organizations, and other key community groups to deepen decentralization and ensure inclusive governance,” she remarked. As part of her broader vision, she stressed the need for empowering municipal and district assemblies to become more self-sustaining. She highlighted her commitment to improving revenue generation for sustainable development, ensuring local authorities have the resources to implement community-driven solutions. She also reaffirmed her commitment to supporting zonal and area councils, ensuring they monitor and provide technical support to local assemblies as mandated by the Local Governance Act 936. With a focus on security, sanitation, and decentralisation, Ocloo aims to drive a governance agenda that fosters greater participation, strengthens local institutions, and promotes sustainable urban growth in Greater Accra. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Nsoatreman FC has officially withdrawn from the Ghana Premier League following a violent incident during their Matchday 19 clash against Asante Kotoko at the Nana Kronmansah Park on Sunday. The club’s Communications Director, Joel Gyempeh, confirmed the decision in an interview with an Accra-based radio station, stating that the club has formally notified the Ghana Football Association (GFA) of their withdrawal. "We have officially written to the GFA over our withdrawal from the league," Gyempeh announced. The decision follows a tragic turn of events that led to the death of Francis Yaw Frimpong, widely known as Nana Pooley, a member of Asante Kotoko’s Supporters’ Communication Team. Mr. Frimpong was allegedly stabbed by unknown assailants during the chaos that erupted at the stadium. Both clubs have since pledged full cooperation with law enforcement agencies to ensure a thorough investigation into the matter. In response, the GFA has indefinitely suspended Nsoatreman FC’s home venue as part of immediate actions to restore order. Additionally, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Lydia Donkor has been assigned to lead the investigation. Despite the unfortunate incident, the game ended 1-0 in favour of the defending FA Cup champions, Asante Kotoko. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Police Service has arrested three individuals in connection with violent disturbances that erupted during a football match between Nsoatreman FC and Kumasi Asante Kotoko FC on February 2, 2025, at Nsoatre in the Bono Region. The incident led to the tragic death of one person. The suspects, identified as Ignatius Baffour Awuah, Agyemang Duah Owusu, and Kyeremeh Joseph, are currently in police custody assisting with investigations. A search conducted in the residence of suspect Agyemang Duah Owusu led to the retrieval of two dresses with suspected bloodstains and an MP 23 pistol loaded with 15 rounds of ammunition. The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has spoken to the family of the deceased and the leadership of Kumasi Asante Kotoko FC, expressing the Police Service’s condolences and assuring them of a thorough investigation into the matter. Additionally, a special team from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters has been deployed to support the Bono Regional Police Command in its investigations. This was contained in a statement issued by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director of Public Affairs, Ghana Police Service. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Accra Hearts of Oak Sporting Club PLC has strongly condemned the recent incident of hooliganism that marred the Ghana Premier League match between Nsoatreman FC and Kumasi Asante Kotoko at the Nsoatre Park on matchday 19. The violent scenes led to the tragic death of a devoted Kumasi Asante Kotoko supporter, sending shockwaves through the football community. In a statement released by the club’s management, Hearts of Oak expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate event and extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, affectionately known as "Pooley." The club described him as a passionate fan whose love for the game will always be remembered. "Such reprehensible behavior goes against the values of unity and entertainment that football embodies. Violence and disorder only serve to tarnish the esteemed reputation of our sport. It is crucial for all of us to uphold the integrity of football and promote #BringBackTheLove with earnest dedication," the statement read. The club has called on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and all relevant stakeholders to take urgent and decisive steps to combat hooliganism in Ghanaian football. Hearts of Oak emphasized the need for increased education and awareness to address the root causes of violence in the sport. "As committed advocates against any actions that dishonor our sport, we urge all stakeholders, including the GFA, to collaborate in a comprehensive campaign to eradicate hooliganism. Football should unite us in harmony, not divide us through discord," the club stressed. The statement concluded with a rallying call to all football lovers to uphold discipline and ensure the sport remains a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Hearts of Oak reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the integrity and future of Ghanaian football, urging all supporters to join in saying a firm NO TO HOOLIGANISM. The incident at Nsoatre Park has reignited discussions on security measures at football venues across the country. Stakeholders are expected to deliberate on stricter regulations, including enhanced security presence, stiffer sanctions for offenders, and education campaigns to promote peace in the sport. With growing concerns about hooliganism in Ghanaian football, many believe that a unified approach is necessary to preserve the beauty of the game and protect its passionate followers. This report reflects Accra Hearts of Oak's firm stance against hooliganism and highlights the need for immediate action to restore discipline in Ghanaian football. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A broken wing means so much to a bird, which intends to fly again, but a lazy one that has given up cares less. Decision-making in Parliament certainly requires numbers, but when numbers mean nothing to you, a Speaker's suspension would not push you to court. Else, Afenyo Markins would have been in the Supreme Court with the speed of light to challenge the decision of the Speaker if the numbers were to be 137/137. Taking out 3 from its side for 2 weeks with serious decisions to be taken? Hell would have definitely broken loose!!! Thankfully, with their real size, the court can not be their refuge. Posterity is such a wonderful judge!!! On the other hand, I dont know if they are considering the effect of their disruptive strategy ahead of the 2028 elections. If there is anything to go by, they were 167 in 2016, 137 in 2020, and now 87 in 2024. They should be careful that they don't get to 67 in 2028. Ghanaians always demand respect. How can a whole Minority come down on a Clerk of Parliament, a woman, for that matter, and call her names. Today, they can see an NDC Clerk, but they couldn't see an NPP EC and other NPP learned ones in wigs!!! If their inspiration is in the saying, he who is down needs fear no fall, then, they can not be an inspiration to any young one. He who is down must do everything possible to rise up. Less than a month in opposition, they have sung *"yen ara y'asaase ne"* for more than 5 times in Parliament already, I wonder how many more times the choir will be called upon Anyway, President Mills admonished us to "chop our house matter" - *de wo fie as3m* I can only wish them well as we all pray for better days ahead. *Kun Fa Yakun* Credit: Godwin Ako Gunn, President, Kun Fa Yakun Movement. NOTE: Views expressed are solely those of the author and not that of Thinknewsonline.com .