The Ghana Police Service has intensified efforts to maintain law and order nationwide following the general elections, with enhanced patrols and the strategic deployment of officers to protect sensitive infrastructure, according to Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director of Public Affairs. Speaking in an evening briefing on Friday, ACP Ansah-Akrofi disclosed that nine additional suspects were arrested in connection with various post-election disturbances over the past 24 hours. This brings the total number of arrests to 132. “The nine suspects have been arraigned before court and subsequently remanded. Additionally, three of the four suspects arrested within the past 48 hours were also remanded, while one has been granted Police Inquiry bail,” she stated. Currently, 45 suspects are in custody, 71 have been granted Police Inquiry bail, and 16 remain on court bail. The Director of Public Affairs further provided updates on the ongoing investigation into the December 8 shooting incident at the Nsawam Adoagyiri Constituency Collation Centre in the Eastern Region. She confirmed that the victim, who sustained injuries during the disturbances, is receiving medical treatment and cooperating with investigators. “The Ghana Police Service remains committed to ensuring peace and security for all citizens during this period. We will continue to provide the necessary protection to safeguard the nation’s stability,” ACP Ansah-Akrofi reassured. She urged the public to remain calm and cooperative as investigations continue into all reported cases of election-related violence. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced its intention to seek legal redress over the Electoral Commission’s (EC) ongoing re-collation of election results. The party has petitioned the EC to halt the process, which it claims lacks legal backing and undermines Ghana's electoral laws. Addressing journalists in Accra on Friday, the NDC National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, expressed dissatisfaction with the re-collation exercise taking place at the Tesano Police Training School. He described the process as illegal and a deviation from established electoral procedures. “Our silence is being taken advantage of by both the EC and the NPP,” Mr. Asiedu Nketia said. “Elections are won or lost at polling stations. Collation of results is done at constituency collation centers, not police stations. What is happening at Tesano has no basis in our electoral laws.” He further alleged that the results for Fanteakwa North Constituency, which had already been collated and announced at Begoro, were being re-collated and re-declared by an unauthorized individual at the Tesano Police Training School. According to the NDC, only designated Returning Officers at the constituency level have the exclusive authority to collate and pronounce results for both parliamentary and presidential elections. The party argued that any action by unauthorized individuals compromises the credibility of the electoral process. “The district officers, if not designated as Returning Officers, cannot pronounce parliamentary results. Whatever is happening at the Police Training School is inappropriate and fraught with consequences,” the National Chairman added. Mr. Asiedu Nketia questioned the role of the police in providing security for what he described as “illegalities” and called on traditional leaders to refrain from supporting actions that could exacerbate tensions. The NDC has filed for an injunction to stop the re-collation process and warned of serious repercussions should the EC proceed with what the party considers a flawed exercise. “If the EC insists on continuing with this re-collation, they must be ready to face the consequences,” Mr. Asiedu Nketia cautioned. The party also emphasized its commitment to protecting the sanctity of Ghana’s electoral process, urging stakeholders to adhere strictly to the country's electoral laws. The court is yet to rule on the NDC’s application for an injunction, as tensions rise over the legitimacy of the re-collation exercise. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Presidential Staffer under the outgoing Akufo-Addo administration, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, has revealed that he handed over his official government vehicle in compliance with a directive from President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Mr. Aboagye stated, “I handed over my car last Monday,” urging all political appointees to follow suit and return all state vehicles in their possession. The directive, which was reiterated by the Office of the President, mandates that all outgoing Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Regional Ministers, Special Assistants, and other political appointees under the Presidential Office Act, 1993 (Act 463), must return government vehicles by January 3, 2025. A statement issued earlier in December emphasized that this measure remains in full effect, reiterating President Akufo-Addo's stance against the acquisition of government vehicles by appointees at the end of his second and final term in office. “This directive underscores the President’s commitment to accountability and the responsible management of state resources. The Office of the President anticipates the cooperation of all appointees in adhering to this important measure,” the statement read. While previous administrations permitted appointees to purchase one official saloon car through valuation by the State Transport Company Ltd., this practice has been discontinued under President Akufo-Addo's leadership. The President’s office has clarified that all vehicles must be returned to the Chief Directors of the respective Ministries by the deadline, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to safeguarding state resources. Dennis Miracles Aboagye's compliance is seen as a significant step in ensuring adherence to the directive, setting a tone of accountability for other appointees as the transition to a new administration nears. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President-Elect, John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to restoring Ghana’s economy, emphasizing immediate steps to stabilize the local currency and foster economic growth once sworn into office on January 7, 2025. Speaking at his residence during a courtesy call by the Algerian Ambassador to Ghana, Mourad Louhaidia, Mr. Mahama highlighted his administration's priorities for the nation. “We are looking to focus and bring Ghana back up in terms of economic growth, in terms of stabilising the currency, in terms of bringing down inflation. And this is the time Ghana needs to work even closer with its partners, including China,” Mr. Mahama stated. He further disclosed plans to engage international partners, particularly China, to deepen technical cooperation. “As early as possible, once we get the transition out of the way, it is our hope that we will be able to constitute a delegation to begin engaging with China on the issues of our technical cooperation,” he added. The president-elect’s comments come amid encouraging economic data. Ghana’s economy posted an impressive 7.2 percent year-on-year growth in the third quarter of 2024—the fastest pace in nearly five years. This resurgence was announced by Government Statistician, Professor Samuel Kobina Annim, on December 11, 2024. Key drivers of this growth include a 10.4 percent expansion in the industrial sector, buoyed by mining and quarrying activities. The services sector grew by 6.4 percent, while agriculture expanded by 3.2 percent. However, challenges persist, with the cocoa sector contracting by 26 percent for the fifth consecutive quarter. While the economy shows resilience, high inflation and concerns over government debt sustainability remain critical issues for the incoming administration. Despite recent gains, including a stronger cedi, sustaining this momentum will require robust economic reforms and fiscal discipline. Mr. Mahama’s pledge to stabilize the currency and foster international partnerships underscores his administration's intent to build on the current economic progress while addressing persistent structural challenges. “This is a pivotal time for Ghana, and we are committed to making the necessary changes to secure the country’s economic future,” Mr. Mahama reiterated. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A-Plus, has confidently proclaimed his intention to become President of Ghana in 2032, describing his political journey as divinely inspired. The newly elected Member of Parliament for the Gomoa Central Constituency, who won the seat as an Independent Candidate, shared this bold vision while speaking on an Accra-based television network on Friday. “I keep telling people I have met God, and I know exactly what I am about. In 2024, I knew I would become an MP. And in 2032, I will become President of Ghana,” A-Plus declared emphatically. Reflecting on his rise in politics, A-Plus recounted pivotal moments, including his initial support for President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. However, he criticized the President for being an “opportunist and self-centered,” alleging that Akufo-Addo neglected loyal allies who had worked tirelessly for his success. “I worked so hard for Akufo-Addo. I defended him and did everything I could to ensure he became President. But when some of us complained about the misconduct of his appointees, he fell out with us" "He never spoke to me from 2018 until two weeks to the 2020 election when he wasn’t sure whether he was going to win,” A-Plus alleged. A-Plus revealed that it took the intervention of Kennedy Agyapong, who personally called him, for him to speak with Akufo-Addo. “Kennedy pleaded with me not to disappoint him, so I agreed to speak to Akufo-Addo, but I didn’t care about his promises or offers. I was proud and focused on my journey.” Highlighting his unwavering faith and vision, A-Plus recalled an incident at a rally in 2020 where someone wore a T-shirt reading "Kwame 2024." He described it as a sign of his destiny to lead. “I knew that by 2024, I would be in Parliament. Now that it has happened, the next step is clear—I will be President of Ghana in 2032. That is the history we must all be ready to write,” he affirmed. A-Plus’s victory in Gomoa Central has been widely celebrated as a major upset against traditional party politics. His bold declarations of future leadership are already stirring conversations about his potential impact on Ghana’s political landscape. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A-Plus, has labeled President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as an "opportunist and self-centred" leader, citing personal experiences of neglect and disappointment during the President’s tenure. Speaking on an Accra-based television network on Friday after his historic victory as an Independent Candidate for Gomoa Central, A-Plus did not hold back in expressing his frustrations with the President. “I worked so hard for Akufo-Addo. I liked Akufo-Addo so much. I did everything I could to defend him and ensure he became President,” A-Plus said. However, he noted that things took a sharp turn when he and others began raising concerns about misconduct among some government appointees. According to him, their concerns were met with hostility, leading to a fallout with the President. “Akufo-Addo never spoke to me from 2018 until two weeks to the 2020 election, when he wasn’t sure whether he was going to win. Before that, Kennedy Agyapong had told me several times that Akufo-Addo wanted to speak to me, but I refused. I said, ‘He can be President of the world, but he will never get me to pick up my phone,” A-Plus recounted. He revealed that he eventually spoke to the President through Kennedy Agyapong’s intervention but emphasized that he was unmoved by the President’s overtures. “Kennedy called and pleaded with me not to disappoint him. That’s the only reason I spoke with Akufo-Addo. But I didn’t care about his promises or offers.” A-Plus also touched on his political ambitions, asserting that his journey to Parliament and beyond is divinely inspired. “In 2020, at a rally in Asylum Down, I saw someone wearing a Kwame 2024 T-shirt. I knew I would be an MP in 2024. I have met God, and I know that by 2032, I will be President of Ghana. That is the history we must be ready to write.” The outspoken politician reiterated his belief in God’s plan for his life and urged Ghanaians to prepare for his eventual presidency. A-Plus’s recent victory as an Independent Candidate has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, and his bold statements are likely to spark heated debates in the days to come. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Some scores of Ghanaians living at Asofan New Station, a community in the Trobu Constituency have expressed mixed reactions over the aftermath of 2024 elections and its results. According to a section, they are saddened by the defeat of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to the National Democratic Congress (NDC). While the other faction revealed that they are extremely happy for the change in governance. Speaking to Thinknewsonline.com , Nana Ama Muah, an Asofan resident said "I am a staunch NPP member but had to switch because, my people disappointed me hence voting for the NDC" She added that the ruling New Patriotic Party has failed in the implementation of the its flagship programme 'Free SHS'. She described the policy as a 'white elephant' adding that NPP lost the essence of it since it's inception. "The Free SHS seem a very nice policy but the sad thing is that it is a white elephant. A policy in which a child will go to school for a month and come home for three months is nothing to write home about" She added that long break leaves parents with no option than finding studies teachers for their wards Miss Muah stressed that the policy if we'll implemented will not compel parents to buy extra materials for their wards. She also expressed disappointment in Dr. Bawumia, Flagbearer of the party for the recently held election. She noted Dr. Bawumia who tauts himself as a driver's mate should have voiced out his opinion on issues adding that it will not have contributed in dragging Ghana into a ditch. Loretta Owusu, another resident noted that Dr. Bawumia’s defeat hit her so hard adding that she least expected such figures. She revealed that the NPP in 2028 should choose either Alan Kyeremanten or Kennedy Agyapong as Flagbearer. Madam Owusu is confident that the NPP will win the 2028 Presidential election. On his part, Wofa Yaw, another resident expressed joy over John Mahama's victory. He was confident that the NDC will do more to stay long in power. LINK: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AbQsjQsd8/ Madam Rita, another resident expressed anger over the choice of Bawumia as running mate. She disclosed that Dr. Bawumia does not have what it takes to becomes a President. She appealed to the NPP leadership to reconsider and bring back Alan Kyeremanten to the party. Other NPP residents believe a better candidate help the NPP win back power. The NDC residents says their party will never return to opposition ever again. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Joyce Bawa Mogtari, Special Aide to President-elect, John Dramani Mahama, has hailed the NDC Flagbearer's unparalleled dedication and strategic approach during his campaign, describing him as a leader with an intricate understanding of Ghana's political and geographical landscape. Speaking on an Accra-based television network on Thursday, Madam Mogtari revealed how Mr. Mahama’s insistence on visiting all 276 constituencies during the campaign was a testament to his commitment to connecting with every Ghanaian. According to her, while some members of the campaign team were concerned about time constraints and logistics, Mr. Mahama was resolute about meeting people in every corner of the country, no matter the challenges. “John Mahama has the map of Ghana in his mind and at his fingertips,” Madam Mogtari said. “He knows the travel times, the distances, and even recalls details from previous campaigns to guide his strategy. It was incredible to witness his determination, even if it meant campaigning deep into the night and starting again at dawn.” She recounted how Mr. Mahama's leadership style encouraged debate and collaboration among his team. Despite his vast experience, he would listen to diverse perspectives and meticulously analyze every decision before taking action. Reflecting on the success of the campaign, Madam Mogtari praised John Mahama's hard work and vision, which she said contributed significantly to his commanding electoral performance. “This victory was well-deserved. He worked tirelessly to earn the trust of Ghanaians and to secure the results we are celebrating today,” she added. Madam Mogtari also emphasized that Mahama’s approach serves as a case study for political science and leadership, urging analysts to study the dynamics of the campaign and its impact on the political landscape. With this win, she noted, Mr. Mahama has not only cemented his place in Ghana's political history but also demonstrated the power of strategic planning, resilience, and genuine connection with the people. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has issued a directive to all government appointees to return official vehicles assigned to them by January 3, 2025. This directive, which was communicated through a statement from the Office of the President and signed by Director of Communications, Eugene Arhin is aimed at ensuring a smooth transition and proper accountability in the management of state assets. The statement emphasized that all appointees, including ministers, deputy ministers, chief executives, and heads of government agencies, are required to comply with this directive without fail. Appointees who fail to return the vehicles within the stipulated time will face sanctions. The move is part of efforts to streamline the use of state resources and curb any potential misuse during the transition period. Government officials are also urged to ensure that all state properties, including official residences, are handed over to appropriate authorities in good condition. This directive reflects the President's commitment to promoting accountability and transparency in governance. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Wednesday hosted President-elect John Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House to kickstart the transition process following Mr. Mahama’s victory in the just-concluded presidential elections. The meeting, which focused on the inauguration of a joint transitional team, marked a crucial step towards ensuring a seamless transfer of power. Addressing journalists after the meeting, President Akufo-Addo emphasized his commitment to a smooth transition and expressed his readiness to support the incoming administration. “One of the reasons for meeting him earlier than scheduled was to assure him of my full support and that of my government over the transitional process to ensure that this administration takes off in the best of conditions,” President Akufo-Addo stated. Acknowledging their cordial relationship, President Akufo-Addo highlighted Mr. Mahama’s familiarity with the presidency. "He’s familiar with this place. He was here before I came. He’s back here again. He knows exactly what is entailed.” President-elect Mahama, in turn, expressed gratitude to President Akufo-Addo for his congratulatory call after the election results were declared and for his cooperation during the preliminary meeting. “We had a very cordial meeting, and I am happy at the assurance he has given us that we’re going to work together in the interest of Ghana to ensure a seamless transition,” Mr. Mahama noted. He also underscored the importance of continued collaboration. “Even after the transition, it will be necessary for us to maintain open communication channels to consolidate Ghana’s democratic credentials and work together in the national interest.” The transitional team, which will oversee the transfer of power, is expected to begin its work immediately, with both leaders expressing optimism about the process and its impact on the country’s democracy. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A 2024/2025 joint transitional team has been inaugurated at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) in Accra. On the side of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), its transitional team comprises of Chief of Staff, Hon. Akosua Frema Osei-Opae, The Attorney-General – Godfred Yeboah Dame, Minister responsible for Presidential Affairs – Hon. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, Minister responsible for Finance – Hon. Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, Minister responsible for the Interior – Hon. Henry QQuarty, Minister responsible for Defence – Hon. Dominic Nitiwul. Others include; Minister responsible for Foreign Affairs – Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Minister responsible for Local Government – Hon. Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, Minister responsible for National Security –  Hon. Albert Kan Dapaah, The Head of Civil Service – Dr. Evans Aggrey-Darkoh, The Head of the Local Government Service – Dr. Nana Ato Arthur, The Secretary to the Cabinet – Ambassador Mercy Debrah-Karikari and The National Security Coordinator – Mr. Edward Asomani On the part of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), its transitional team comprises of Hon. Julius Debrah - Co-Chairperson, Hon. Johnson Asiedu Nketia - Member, Hon. Fifi Fiavi Kwetey - Member, Dr. Callistus Mahama– Member/Secretary to the Transition Team, Dr. Valerie Sawyer - Member, Prof. Kwamena Ahwoi - Member, Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson - Member, Hon. Mahama Ayariga - Member Hon. Goosie Tanoh - Member, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Member. The President-elect also nominated Edward Doe Adjaho as a member of the transitional Advisory Council. Speaking at the inauguration of the 2024/2025 Joint Transitional Team, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo underscored the importance of unity and collaboration as the country navigates its transitional process. He emphasized the need for a smooth and cooperative handover to ensure continuity in governance. President Akufo-Addo called on all stakeholders to prioritize the nation's interest, saying, "Let us not lose sight of our shared goals. Our collective focus must remain on building a stronger, more prosperous Ghana for all." President Akufo-Addo reiterated his administration’s dedication to maintaining stability and expressed hope that the incoming government would build on the foundation laid by his leadership. Taking his turn, President-elect, John Dramani Mahama lauded Ghana’s democratic resilience and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring a seamless transfer of power during the inauguration of the 2024/2025 Joint Transitional Team. The event, marked the official commencement of the transition process following the successful conclusion of the 2024 elections. Addressing the gathering, which included Vice President-elect Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Chief of Staff, members of the outgoing administration, and other dignitaries, President-elect Mahama extended gratitude to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for facilitating early discussions on critical national issues. “I want to thank His Excellency the President for his kind invitation this morning to visit the Office of the President to discuss preliminary issues before the inauguration of the transition team" "I also thank him for the early briefing on matters of national security and the economy,” he stated. Mr. Mahama commended the Security Services, the Electoral Commission, and all stakeholders for ensuring a successful election. "Our country has done it once again despite the belief of naysayers, and I believe Ghana will continue to get it right when it matters the most.” He emphasized the importance of the Joint Transitional Team, noting that its work is critical to ensuring a smooth transfer of power. “This team carries a huge responsibility. There is great expectation that it will get its work right so that we have a smooth transition of power from one democratically elected government to another,” he remarked. The President-elect acknowledged the framework provided by the Presidential Transition Act, signed into law in 2012 by the late President John Evans Atta Mills, describing it as a vital pillar of Ghana's democratic process. Mr. Mahama concluded by urging all members of the Joint Transitional Team to execute their duties with dedication, emphasizing that their work will set the tone for a successful governance handover. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President-elect, John Dramani Mahama has called on irate youth purported to be supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to cease engaging in acts of violence against state institutions. Speaking during a national address on December 10, Mr. Mahama condemned reported attacks on state facilities such as Ghana Gas, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO). He described these actions as unacceptable and counterproductive. “These acts must cease immediately. The youth must channel their frustrations into productive enterprises. The intention may be good, but the manner in which it is being done is not right,” he cautioned. Mr. Mahama acknowledged the tension often associated with political transitions but emphasized that no individual or group should exploit the period as an excuse for lawlessness. “Transitions create an impression of a vacuum of power that makes some people act in their own parochial interest instead of the national interest. I condemn that in no uncertain terms,” he stated. He also reminded Ghanaians that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo remains in charge of the country until January 7, 2025, and urged the outgoing administration to exercise its authority to maintain law and order. “I urge the current government to ensure that security officers act decisively on the current state of affairs to preserve peace and unity in the country,” Mr. Mahama added. The President-elect’s call comes amid heightened political tensions following the December elections, with some incidents of unrest reported in parts of the country. His remarks are seen as a move to restore calm and reiterate the need for responsible conduct during the transition period. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith