A heavy security presence was observed at the Supreme Court on Friday, December 27, ahead of the hearing of a lawsuit filed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) challenging a High Court ruling regarding disputed parliamentary election results in nine constituencies. The NDC is contesting a December 22 ruling by the High Court that directed the Electoral Commission (EC) to re-collate election results in the disputed areas. The ruling followed a mandamus application filed by parliamentary candidates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the affected constituencies. In its decision, the High Court ordered the EC to fulfill its constitutional obligation of verifying and re-collating the results in line with due process. The EC has since complied with the directive in seven of the nine constituencies, completing the re-collation process. However, results for Dome/Kwabenya and Ablekuma North remain pending. The case has drawn significant political attention, with both the NDC and NPP closely monitoring proceedings at the Supreme Court. Legal experts suggest that the outcome of the case could have far-reaching implications for Ghana’s electoral processes and parliamentary representation. The Supreme Court’s decision on the matter is expected to clarify the legal framework surrounding electoral disputes and strengthen confidence in Ghana’s democratic institutions. Meanwhile, supporters of both political parties have been urged to remain calm and allow the judicial process to take its course. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has described the recovery journey of Priscilla, a four-year-old cured leprosy patient, as his most cherished Christmas gift this year. Priscilla, who now walks confidently with a prosthetic leg after a life-changing treatment in Italy, visited Dr. Bawumia at his home upon her return to Ghana. The Vice President, visibly moved by the encounter, shared the moment on his Facebook page on December 26, 2024, celebrating the triumph of resilience and hope. “I got my best Christmas gift yesterday when Priscilla… returned to Ghana and paid me a visit at home to thank me and show that she can now walk with her new leg,” Dr. Bawumia wrote. “To God be the glory.” Priscilla’s story began at the Weija Leprosarium, where she was taken in after being abandoned by her parents at birth due to her condition. Under the care of Father Andrew Campbell, she battled the debilitating effects of leprosy, which eventually led to the amputation of her severely affected leg in Ghana. Dr. Bawumia, a Patron of Lepers Aid Ghana, met Priscilla during one of his regular visits to the leprosarium. Deeply touched by her plight, he took it upon himself to sponsor her medical journey to Italy, where she received specialized care. For five months, Priscilla underwent intensive treatment, culminating in the fitting of a prosthetic leg. The transformation was life-changing, allowing her to walk independently for the first time. On her return to Ghana, Priscilla arrived at the Kotoka International Airport, accompanied by Father Campbell and officials from the Weija Leprosarium. Her first stop was at the Vice President’s residence, where she expressed heartfelt gratitude. In an emotional video shared by Dr. Bawumia, Priscilla is seen walking confidently into his arms, a testament to the remarkable progress she has made. “She is a symbol of resilience and hope, and her journey reminds us of the power of compassion and commitment,” Dr. Bawumia remarked. The Vice President’s role in Priscilla’s recovery underscores his long-standing commitment to supporting lepers and marginalized individuals in Ghana. Through initiatives like Lepers Aid Ghana, Dr. Bawumia continues to advocate for improved care and social reintegration of leprosy survivors. Priscilla’s story is not just a personal triumph but a powerful message of what can be achieved through unity and compassion. For the Vice President, it is a Christmas gift that transcends material value – a story of hope renewed and a life transformed. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Freddie Blay, has raised concerns over the National Democratic Congress (NDC)'s continued pursuit of additional parliamentary seats, despite securing over 180 seats in the December 2024 elections. In an interview on Accra-based radio station on December 24, Mr. Blay expressed his surprise at what he described as the NDC’s relentless push for more constituencies. According to him, the opposition party's decision to contest outcomes in certain constituencies, despite their clear majority, risks unsettling Ghana’s democratic process. “It’s surprising to see the NDC still chasing two or three more seats when they’ve already secured a comfortable majority. This approach, if not managed carefully, could undermine the rule of law and democracy,” Mr. Blay stated. Mr. Blay cautioned against disregarding rulings from the courts and decisions by the Electoral Commission (EC), warning that such actions could lead to national instability. “If justice is denied, can you imagine the chaos this country will run into?” he asked. He emphasized the importance of respecting judicial processes to prevent potential disorder and preserve peace. Mr. Blay urged the NDC to prioritize national stability over further legal battles and parliamentary disputes. He noted that while political parties have the right to challenge results, it must be done within the framework of the law to maintain Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa. “The judicial and electoral systems are pillars of our democracy. Undermining these institutions for political gain will only weaken our country,” he added. The former NPP chairman also used the opportunity to encourage his party to regroup and strategize for the next election. “While the NDC is focused on securing more seats, the NPP must work towards rebuilding and regaining the confidence of Ghanaians,” he said. As Ghana transitions into the post-election period, Freddie Blay’s remarks highlight the need for political maturity and respect for democratic institutions to ensure peace and progress in the nation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In an incredible display of generational unity and cultural resilience, the small town of Santrokofi Benua has taken a giant leap towards bridging the digital divide. Through an aspiring community-driven initiative, the locals have raised an impressive GHc195,000 to complete its state-of-the-art Information and Communication Technology (ICT) centre started in 2017, marking a significant milestone in their journey to preserve their traditions while embracing technological advancements. What started as a youth-led vision in 2017 has evolved into a collective mission that has brought together the entire community, transcending generational boundaries. The idea was born out of a desire to equip Santrokofi Benua with the tools and resources needed to thrive in the 21st century, while ensuring that their rich cultural heritage remains intact. "From the very beginning, we recognized the importance of involving everyone in this project. Our elders have a wealth of knowledge and experience that we need to draw upon, while we, as the youth, bring a fresh perspective and a deep understanding of the digital world," explained William Kwaku Adjei Dogbe, the President of the Santrokofi Benua Welfare Association. This collective approach has been the foundation of the community's success, as they have navigated the delicate balance between preserving their cultural heritage and embracing technological advancements. The journey has not been without its challenges, as the youth have advocated for a more progressive approach while respecting the traditions and customs that have sustained their community for generations. "There are some practices that we believe need to be re-evaluated," the Youth President acknowledged. "We want to work together with our elders to find a way to uphold our core values while adapting to the changing times." The completion of the ICT centre has been a true testament to the power of generational unity and collective action. Through a combination of personal contributions, corporate sponsorships, and outreach to the Santrokofi diaspora, the community has rallied together to raise the funds required to finalize the project. The Homecoming event, which celebrated the town's rich heritage and cultural traditions, provided a fitting backdrop for this remarkable achievement. As the vibrant sounds of drumming and traditional dances filled the air, the community came together in a powerful display of unity and generosity, united by a shared vision for a brighter future. According to Nana Opoku Mintah, Chairman of the Santrokofi Benua Development Committee, "This ICT centre is not just a building; it represents the aspirations and dreams of our entire community. It is a symbol of our resilience, our determination, and our commitment to providing our youth with the tools and resources they need to thrive in the digital age." The completion of the ICT centre will mark a significant milestone in Santrokofi Benua's journey towards digital transformation, but it is just the beginning. The community recognizes that true progress is not a destination but a continuous journey, one that requires a delicate balance between honoring the past and embracing the future. "We are not abandoning our traditions; we are building upon them," emphasized Nana Sarku Brempong, the Chief of Santrokofi Benua and the Nifahene of the Santrokofi Traditional Area. "The ICT centre is a bridge that will connect our youth to the world while ensuring that they remain grounded in the values and customs that have sustained our community for generations." This sentiment echoes the central theme of Santrokofi Benua's journey – a harmonious fusion of tradition and technology, where the wisdom of elders and the aspirations of youth converge to create a future that is both prosperous and culturally rich. As the community looks ahead, they are determined to leverage the ICT centre as a catalyst for further growth and development. Plans are already underway to introduce digital literacy programs, vocational training, and entrepreneurship initiatives, all designed to empower the youth and provide them with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world. "We are not just building an ICT centre; we are investing in the future of our community. Through this project, we are equipping our youth with the tools and knowledge they need to shape their own destinies and contribute to the growth and progress of Santrokofi Benua," said Nana Mintah. This go-getting vision is not limited to the boundaries of the town itself. The community hopes that their journey will serve as an inspiration to others, demonstrating that progress and tradition need not be mutually exclusive. By fostering intergenerational collaboration and embracing a holistic approach to development, they are paving the way for a future where communities can thrive while preserving their cultural identities. "We are not just doing this for ourselves; we are doing it for communities across Ghana and beyond," said Nana Opoku Mintah. "Through our example, we hope to show that it is possible to embrace the future while honoring the past, and that true progress can only be achieved when we work together, across generations and cultures." "Santrokofi Benua's journey towards digital transformation is a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision and a commitment to progress," said Nana Odabra Brekuate III, Krontihene of Santrokofi and Vice Chairman of the Ad hoc Committee. "We are proud to support this initiative and look forward to witnessing the positive impact it will have on the lives of the people of Santrokofi Benua and beyond. This project demonstrates the power of unity, where the wisdom of our elders and the aspirations of our youth converge to create a brighter future for all." Nana Brekuate further emphasized the importance of preserving their cultural heritage while embracing technological advancements. "Our traditions are the foundation upon which we build our future. By integrating our rich cultural values with modern technology, we ensure that our progress is rooted in our identity, and our identity is strengthened by our progress. This ICT centre is a bridge that connects our past, present, and future, paving the way for a brighter tomorrow while honoring the lessons of our ancestors." As the sun sets on this remarkable day, the people of Santrokofi Benua can take pride in their accomplishments, knowing that their unwavering determination, generational unity, and commitment to preserving their cultural heritage have set them on a path towards a brighter future. The echoes of tradition will now harmonize with the symphony of technological advancement, creating a symphony of progress and prosperity that will resonate for generations to come. As the sun sets on this remarkable day, the people of Santrokofi Benua can take pride in their accomplishments, knowing that their unwavering determination, generational unity, and commitment to preserving their cultural heritage have set them on a path towards a brighter future. The echoes of tradition will now harmonize with the symphony of technological advancement, creating a symphony of progress and prosperity that will resonate for generations to come. As the sun sets on this remarkable day, the people of Santrokofi Benua can take pride in their accomplishments, knowing that their unwavering determination, generational unity, and commitment to preserving their cultural heritage have set them on a path towards a brighter future. The echoes of tradition will now harmonize with the symphony of technological advancement, creating a symphony of progress and prosperity that will resonate for generations to come. Through their example, the community has proven that the journey towards a truly inclusive and sustainable development begins with a deep respect for one's roots and a willingness to embrace change. It is a testament to the power of intergenerational collaboration and a reminder that true progress can only be achieved when we work together, across generations and cultures, to build a future that celebrates our diversity while embracing the opportunities of the digital age. Credit: Innocent Samuel Appiah

President Akufo-Addo has expressed profound gratitude to Ghanaians for entrusting him with the leadership of the nation over the past eight years, describing the presidency as the greatest honour of his life. Delivering his final Christmas message as President on December 24, 2024, President Akufo-Addo reflected on the privilege and responsibility of serving as Ghana’s leader, noting the collective achievements made during his tenure. “As I approach the conclusion of my tenure as your president, I want to speak from the heart and say, thank you. Serving as the leader of our beloved country has been the greatest honour of my life,” he stated. President Akufo-Addo underscored the critical role of leadership in nation-building and commended the resilience and determination of Ghanaians in driving the country's progress. “Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones. We have expanded access to education, strengthened the healthcare system, invested in infrastructure, revitalised agriculture, accelerated the industrial transformation of the economy, and worked tirelessly to secure a brighter future for our children,” he noted. Highlighting these accomplishments, the President stressed the importance of unity and a shared vision for sustainable development. As he prepares to leave office, Akufo-Addo urged Ghanaians to continue fostering a spirit of collaboration and to build on the foundation laid during his administration. “My greatest hope is that Ghana continues to rise, led by leaders who cherish the mandate of the people and remain steadfast in their commitment to service,” he concluded. President Akufo-Addo’s final Christmas message serves as both a farewell and a rallying call for the citizenry to remain committed to the nation’s development. It reflects his enduring dedication to Ghana and his optimism for the country's future under new leadership. The outgoing president’s tenure has been marked by significant policy initiatives, including the Free SHS program, Planting for Food and Jobs, and a drive for industrialization through initiatives like One District, One Factory. As he bows out, his message resonates as a reminder of the shared responsibility to uphold and advance Ghana’s progress. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Electoral Commission (EC) has defended its decision to re-collate parliamentary election results in nine constituencies disrupted by violence during the 2024 General Election. Addressing a press conference in Accra, Dr. Bossman Eric Asare, Deputy Chairman in charge of Corporate Services, cited historical precedents and security challenges as key reasons for the re-collation exercise. According to Dr. Asare, while the constitutional instrument (C.I.) guiding elections prohibits re-collation after declarations, this applies only to declarations made following due process. He argued that results declared under duress or through illegitimate means cannot be upheld, emphasizing that the Commission is committed to ensuring the will of the people is accurately reflected. Dr. Asare highlighted similar instances under the leadership of former EC Chair, Dr. Kwadwo Afari-Gyan. He referenced incidents in the Zabzugu-Tatale, Tolon, Yapei-Kusawgu, and Pru constituencies during the 2004 elections, where re-collation and recounts were conducted at regional offices due to security threats and disruptions at collation centers. "In Zabzugu-Tatale, for instance, the collation center was attacked by a mob, resulting in the destruction of election materials and the hospitalization of the District Electoral Officer. The EC re-collated the results at the regional office in Tamale to ensure the integrity of the process," he recounted. The Deputy Chairman outlined the disruptions that occurred during this year’s parliamentary elections. He noted that mobs attacked collation centers in constituencies such as Techiman South, Tema Central, and Akwatia, forcing returning officers to declare results prematurely. “In Obuasi East, for example, the wrong person was declared winner after the Returning Officer was coerced by a mob. However, with support from the Ghana Police Service and the National Election Security Taskforce, the EC has since rectified these anomalies in 10 out of the 12 affected constituencies,” he stated. Dr. Asare further explained the rationale behind relocating the collation process for the remaining two constituencies to Accra. He revealed that consultations with the Ghana Police Service and the Election Security Taskforce concluded that the security situation in the affected constituencies made it unsafe to complete the process locally. “The EC does not gazette collation centers. As such, when security concerns impede the collation process, we are mandated to identify safer venues. This approach ensures the integrity of the electoral process while safeguarding the lives of all stakeholders,” he added. Dr. Asare reaffirmed the EC’s independence as enshrined in Article 46 of the 1992 Constitution, urging all stakeholders to respect the Commission’s mandate. He stressed that any grievances regarding the process should be addressed through legal channels. “We are committed to carrying out our mandate to its logical conclusion. Once that is done, anyone with adverse findings can proceed to court,” he concluded. The Deputy Chairman thanked the media for their support throughout the electoral process and extended Christmas and New Year wishes to all Ghanaians. The EC is optimistic that the outstanding results will be declared ahead of the swearing-in of the new Parliament, ensuring a smooth transition in the nation’s governance. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

News coming in indicates that five vehicles, including that of Bishop Salifu Amoako, Founder and General Overseer of Alive Chapel International, have been involved in a multiple-vehicle accident near Tesano-Papaye on Tuesday. The incident, has caused significant damage to all the vehicles. Sources say a truck reportedly experienced brake failure, triggering a chain collision. The truck driver was said to have fled the scene immediately after the crash. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Emergency responders confirmed that all occupants escaped unharmed despite the extensive damage to the vehicles, including Bishop Amoako’s. An investigation has been launched to identify and apprehend the truck driver responsible for the incident. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Institute for Education Studies (IFEST) has recommended a review of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, suggesting that parents bear part of the cost to ensure its sustainability and effectiveness. This proposal follows an appeal by the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) to the Ministry of Education to release overdue funds critical to the smooth operation of SHSs as they prepare to reopen for the 2025 academic year. In a communiqué signed by CHASS National Secretary, Primus Baro, the group expressed frustration over unpaid arrears for perishable items, utility bills, and other essentials, which continue to hinder the functioning of schools. The communiqué cited earlier correspondences dated September 20, 2024, and August 12, 2024, as well as unfulfilled assurances from the Minister of Education during a Zoom meeting on December 18, 2024. CHASS warned that without the release of these funds, reopening schools as scheduled on January 3, 2025, would be jeopardized, affecting the quality of education, infrastructure maintenance, and student welfare. Speaking on Monday, Patrick Danquah, Deputy Director of IFEST, emphasized the need for an urgent reassessment of the Free SHS policy to address these challenges. “Free SHS needs to be reviewed so that they can relook at the element of taking part of the cost and allowing the parents who were handling the costs better to continue to handle it the way they did,” Danquah stated. The Free SHS policy, a flagship initiative of the government, has faced criticism over its funding challenges, with stakeholders calling for reforms to ensure its long-term success. The latest developments highlight the growing concerns within the education sector as schools gear up for the new academic year. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Priscilla Naa Aklerh Plange, a gender advocate, has cautioned young people, particularly women, against recording intimate moments with their partners, warning of the potential long-term consequences. Speaking at an intergenerational dialogue organized by Plan International Ghana in Accra, Mrs. Plange emphasized that capturing such moments, even with the intention of deleting them, could severely damage one’s reputation, career prospects, and leadership ambitions. “Whatever you are doing on social media, if you are having sex and recording to watch later and then delete it, thinking nobody will see it, trust me, people would find out, and it can destroy your future and career opportunities,” she said. The dialogue, held as part of Plan International Ghana’s “She Leads” project, sought to empower young girls and promote female leadership by connecting them with mentors, including politicians, legal practitioners, civil society leaders, and law enforcement officials. Mrs. Plange, who serves as the Personal Assistant to Francis-Xavier Sosu, the Member of Parliament for Madina Constituency, also encouraged young women to pursue leadership roles despite societal barriers. “When I decided to enter politics, I faced criticisms—people questioned my gender and my Christian faith. But I asked myself, who should make decisions for me if not me? Don’t let anyone discourage you. Stay determined, learn how to network, and seek mentorship from impactful people,” she advised. She urged young women to envision themselves in leadership roles, including becoming Ghana’s president. “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring your own folding chair,” she said. Mrs. Plange also encouraged aspiring leaders to actively seek mentorship opportunities, assuring them that most requests would be positively received. The Country Director of Plan International Ghana, Mr. Constant Tchona, highlighted the cultural, social, economic, and political barriers that hinder women’s leadership ambitions. “He has been leading all the time, so this time we want to have more women leading. If you step out as women, Ghanaians are willing to vote for you,” he said, noting that increased female representation in Parliament would provide widespread mentorship opportunities and address many challenges faced by young women. The “She Leads” project continues to advocate for a future where female leadership is the norm, fostering a generation of empowered women ready to make impactful decisions for society. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Rev. Kwadwo Bempah has delivered a stinging critique of President-elect, John Dramani Mahama, questioning his support for the ORAL Team, a group formed to investigate alleged electoral malpractices following the 2024 elections. In a pointed statement, Rev. Bempah called out Mahama for what he described as misplaced priorities, arguing that Ghanaians expect leaders to address pressing economic issues rather than pursuing politically charged investigations. “We voted for you to stabilize the dollar, not to chase people,” Rev. Bempah stated, highlighting the frustration many Ghanaians feel about the depreciating cedi and the rising cost of living. The ORAL Team, tasked with probing allegations of electoral irregularities in several constituencies, has drawn mixed reactions from the public. While opposition parties have championed its establishment as necessary for electoral integrity, critics like Rev. Bempah believe the focus should be on immediate economic reforms and alleviating the struggles of ordinary citizens. “Ghanaians need relief, not more political drama,” Rev. Bempah added, emphasizing the need for pragmatic solutions to stabilize the economy and create jobs. The comments come at a time when Ghana’s post-election atmosphere remains highly charged, with political and religious leaders taking center stage in the debate over the country's priorities. As the ORAL Team begins its work, its investigations are expected to further polarize opinions, intensifying discussions about the balance between political accountability and economic progress. For now, Rev. Bempah’s remarks have amplified calls for leaders to focus on policies that directly impact the daily lives of Ghanaians, signaling a growing demand for economic stability over political posturing. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Electoral Commission (EC) has defended its decision to re-collate results in nine parliamentary constituencies following the December 2024 elections, describing the move as a standard electoral practice aimed at ensuring transparency and integrity. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), which alleges irregularities in the process. On Saturday, December 21, the EC completed the re-collation exercise in seven out of the nine disputed constituencies, with all the outcomes favouring New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidates. The affected constituencies include: Ahafo Ano North Techiman South Ahafo Ano South West Nsawam-Adoagyiri Obuasi East Okaikwei Central Tema Central The re-collation exercise was prompted by disputes and alleged irregularities in the initial tabulation of results. Legal challenges from stakeholders compelled the Commission to revisit the results in these constituencies. In a public statement, the EC emphasized that re-collation is not unprecedented in Ghana’s electoral history, citing past instances under Dr. Afari Gyan’s tenure: In the 2004 parliamentary elections, re-collation was conducted in the Pru, Tolon, Yapei-Kusawgu, and Zabzugu constituencies to resolve disputes and declare rightful winners. During the 1998 district-level elections in the KEEA District, re-collation addressed errors and ensured accurate results. The Commission reiterated that such measures are necessary to rectify procedural errors or disruptions, maintaining the credibility of the electoral process. “This practice is a recognized mechanism to uphold the integrity of elections in the face of irregularities or violence,” the statement read. The NDC, however, remains skeptical, questioning the impartiality of the EC and the timing of the re-collation. The opposition party has vowed to pursue legal redress and continue its advocacy for electoral reforms. With the remaining two constituencies yet to be re-collated, the spotlight remains on the EC to ensure fairness and transparency as Ghana’s electoral system faces another test of credibility. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

An Accra Circuit Court has granted bail to a 34-year-old marketing officer, Emmanuel Osei, who is accused of embezzling GH¢176,693.50 from his former employer, Clemonic Company Limited, a cement distribution firm. Presiding over the case, Mrs. Susanna Eduful set the bail at GH¢100,000 with two sureties. The court directed that one of the sureties must be a public servant earning no less than GH¢2,500 monthly. Osei, who has denied the charges, is scheduled to reappear on January 8, 2025, for cross-examination. Police Chief Inspector Ebenezer Teye-Okuffo, leading the prosecution, revealed that the complainant, Eugene Twumasi, is the general manager of Clemonic Company Limited, which operates in Accra and Kumasi. Osei, employed as a marketing officer in the Accra branch, was responsible for securing customers, coordinating their cement requests, and collecting payments, which he was required to deposit into the company’s bank accounts. In January 2022, Mr. Twumasi discovered that customers brought in by Osei had accrued a debt of GH¢176,693.50. Investigations revealed, however, that customers denied owing the company. The prosecution alleged that Osei had collected the said amount but failed to deposit it into the company’s accounts, instead claiming that the customers were in arrears. During the investigation, Osei allegedly admitted to misappropriating the funds. Chief Inspector Teye-Okuffo disclosed that GH¢50,000 of the stolen amount was recovered from Osei and returned to the company. Following investigations, Osei was charged and arraigned. The court proceedings continue as Osei maintains his innocence. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith