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The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has publicly condemned unsavoury remarks directed at former President John Agyekum Kufour by one of its members, Dela Edem. The party, in a statement signed by its National Communication Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, described the comments as "distasteful and unfortunate." The NDC expressed satisfaction that Dela Edem had retracted his statements and issued an unqualified apology to the respected statesman. "The NDC adds its voice to the apology that has been rendered and hopes that this retraction and apology bring closure to the matter," the statement read. Reaffirming its respect for elderly statesmen, the party emphasized that it holds Ghana's leaders, past and present, in high regard. It also advised its communicators to stay focused on propagating the transformational policies of former President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC ahead of the December 2024 general elections. The statement further urged the media to be vigilant against the spread of fake news, which it attributed to the "modus operandi" of some operatives of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). The NDC accused certain NPP communicators and presidential staffers of disseminating false information to mislead the public and called for such individuals to be held accountable. With the elections approaching, the NDC assured Ghanaians of its commitment to running an issue-based campaign while respecting the dignity of all citizens, especially senior statesmen. The party reiterated its stance on civility and respect, urging all members and communicators to uphold these values in their public engagements. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A leading spokesperson for former President John Dramani Mahama, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has downplayed former President John Agyekum Kufuor’s endorsement of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as a viable candidate to lead Ghana. According to Kwakye Ofosu, Kufuor’s allegiance to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) obliges him to support the party’s flagbearer, but this does not guarantee voter support. In a post on his official X account, Kwakye Ofosu described the NPP administration as an abject failure, stating that Ghanaians are disillusioned and ready to remove the party from power. “The consummate Danquah-Busia man that he is, President Kufuor, is duty-bound to defend his party and campaign for its candidate. It doesn’t mean the electorate accepts his narrative. The NPP has been utter rubbish in government and must be thrown out,” he wrote. Kwakye Ofosu’s comments come in response to remarks made by Kufuor on Sunday, November 17, during an interaction with journalists. Former President Kufuor had expressed confidence in Dr. Bawumia’s ability to transform Ghana’s economy, citing his economic expertise and previous contributions to the nation’s fiscal stability during his tenure. “I have observed his remarkable abilities in economic enhancement during my tenure, as he was integral to the Bank of Ghana’s team under Governor Dr. Paul Acquah, contributing to the revival of the currency,” Kufuor said. He added, “Given the current global circumstances, I firmly believe that Ghana’s economy will experience significant improvement if Bawumia is elected as President. With divine guidance, he is capable of delivering on this promise, and I encourage you to support his candidacy.” Kufuor’s endorsement of Dr. Bawumia marks a strategic move by the NPP to bolster their flagbearer’s campaign amid growing political tension ahead of the 2024 general elections. However, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been quick to dismiss these claims, framing the NPP’s track record in government as a liability. The exchange highlights the intensifying political discourse as Ghana inches closer to election day. Both the NPP and NDC are pulling out all stops to sway the electorate, with economic management and governance serving as key battleground issues. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Prof. Ben K.D. Asante, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Gas Company Limited, has outlined the transformative impact of Ghana Gas infrastructure on the country's energy sector. Addressing journalists in Accra on Sunday, Prof. Asante detailed the milestones, challenges, and achievements in the company’s journey toward energy sustainability. “Ghana Gas achieved a major milestone in November 2014, when the country received its first domestic gas. Following the installation of our infrastructure, it took approximately five months to commission the system, leading to the commencement of commercial operations in May 2015,” Prof. Asante revealed. "This marked a turning point as Ghana transitioned from relying on limited gas imports from Nigeria and liquid fuels, such as light crude oil and diesel, to utilizing its own gas resources.” Prof. Asante highlighted the significant upgrade in gas transmission capacity over the years. “Initially, our pipeline between Atuabo and Takoradi could handle only 135 units of gas. However, the installation of the Aboadze compressor in 2020 tripled that capacity to 405 units. This critical infrastructure enhanced the efficiency of our gas distribution system,” he said. The relocation of the Karpowership from Tema to the Takoradi enclave in 2019 was another key development. The ship, with a capacity of 450 megawatts, previously relied on heavy fuel oil (HFO). Its proximity to Ghana Gas infrastructure now enables it to use natural gas, reducing fuel costs and emissions. "The Karpowership’s 450 megawatts represent approximately 20% of the country’s total thermal capacity, underscoring the importance of this integration,” Prof. Asante emphasized. Discussing the broader impact of natural gas utilization, Prof. Asante noted that approximately 94% of processed gas from the Jubilee and TEN fields is directed toward power generation, while 6% is used to produce natural gas liquids (NGLs), including LPG and condensates. “Currently, Ghana Gas supplies about 50% of the country’s LPG needs, while 85% of the gas used for thermal power generation is handled by our infrastructure. This underscores our pivotal role in the energy sector,” he explained. He added that condensates are blended with RON95 to produce premix fuel for outboard motors, benefiting coastal communities significantly. Prof. Asante concluded with an invitation for stakeholders and the public to visit the Atuabo plant to gain firsthand knowledge of Ghana Gas operations. "Our facilities demonstrate the critical role we play in ensuring energy security and advancing the country’s economic development,” he said. The achievements of Ghana Gas underscore the importance of strategic investments in energy infrastructure to reduce dependency on imports, boost local production, and support national development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Boxing Legend, Mike Tyson has revealed his thoughts on the concept of legacy, dismissing its importance with the same bluntness that characterized his career in the ring. "Legacy doesn’t mean nothing," Tyson said during a recent interview. "That’s just some word everybody grabbed onto. Someone said it, and now it’s used every five seconds. It means absolutely nothing to me. I’m just passing through. I’m going to die, and it’s going to be over. Who cares about legacy after that?" The former heavyweight champion, known for his brutal knockouts and turbulent personal life, reflected on the fleeting nature of life and the futility of trying to be remembered. "I won’t be able to think, ‘I’m this. I’m great.’ I’m nowhere. I’m nothing. We’re just dead. Our legacy is nothing," he added. Tyson’s remarks challenge the perspective often held by athletes who strive to cement their names in history books. For him, the concept of being remembered carries little value. "Why would someone care about me when I’m gone? What’s so bad about just accepting that we’re nothing when we’re dead?" His words have sparked a discussion in the sports world, with many questioning the true meaning of legacy and the significance it holds. Tyson’s unique perspective serves as a stark reminder of the impermanence of fame and the deeper existential questions athletes often grapple with after their careers end. For the man once crowned "The Baddest Man on the Planet," his focus remains on living in the present, unburdened by thoughts of how the world will remember him. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Michael Osei, a former Ghana international footballer and respected coach, has passed away at the age of 53. He died in London after a short illness, family sources have confirmed. Osei's career both on and off the pitch left an indelible mark on Ghanaian football. As a player, he represented Ghana at the international level, earning a reputation as a talented and dependable figure. Transitioning into coaching after his playing days, Osei held managerial roles at several notable Ghanaian clubs, including New Edubiase United, Asante Kotoko, Liberty Professionals, and Bibiani Goldstars. His expertise extended to national duty, where he served as the assistant coach of Ghana's U23 team, the Black Meteors, for five years. Osei was instrumental in nurturing young talents and contributing to the growth of the team before the technical unit was dissolved in 2023. Details about his funeral arrangements are yet to be announced. Michael Osei leaves behind a legacy of passion and commitment to Ghanaian football. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Police Service has initiated a search for a group of individuals identified as the "NDC Youth of Obuasi," who were captured in a viral video issuing threats of violence ahead of the 2024 General Elections. In a statement issued by the Police, the actions of the group are considered a violation of Section 207 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), which pertains to offensive conduct conducive to breaches of the peace. “The behaviour of the group constitutes the offence of offensive conduct conducive to breaches of the peace,” the statement noted. The Police have assured the public that an operation is underway to apprehend the individuals involved to ensure they face justice. The Service reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order, particularly in the lead-up to the elections, and urged the public to support efforts to create a peaceful electoral environment. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ministry of Education has initiated an urgent investigation into claims by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, regarding the distribution of expired food to Senior High Schools (SHSs) across Ghana. Ablakwa alleged that 22,000 bags of expired and repackaged rice were supplied to SHSs in February 2024. He accused the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) and Lamens Investments Africa Limited of conspiring to repackage expired rice imported from India. According to him, the rice, which had an expiry date of December 2023, was rebranded with local sacks labeled “ECOWAS” and “Made in Ghana rice,” but notably omitted any expiry date. The MP claimed the repackaging occurred at NAFCO's storage facility in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, compromising the health and safety of students nationwide. In a statement issued Thursday evening, Kwasi Kwarteng, spokesperson for the Ministry of Education, confirmed that the allegations are being taken seriously. He expressed gratitude to Ablakwa for drawing attention to the matter and highlighted the Ministry’s dedication to ensuring the safety of students. “As a matter of urgency, we have commenced a full investigation. The Ministry has engaged NAFCO and the Ghana Commodity Exchange (GCX), the entities responsible for food supply to senior high schools, to conduct a thorough inquiry into these allegations,” Kwarteng stated. He assured parents, students, and the public of the Ministry's commitment to safeguarding the well-being of students, promising transparency and regular updates as the investigation progresses. This development follows ongoing concerns about food quality in schools, adding urgency to calls for improved oversight in the procurement and distribution processes. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Major General Richard Addo Gyane, Commandant of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), has called for a renewed global commitment to the Geneva Conventions as they mark their 75th anniversary. Speaking at a commemorative event hosted by the KAIPTC, Maj. Gen. Gyane emphasized the enduring significance of the Conventions, which have served as the foundation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) since their adoption in 1949. "The Geneva Conventions have been a cornerstone in promoting humanity and compassion, even amidst conflict. For 75 years, they have safeguarded millions of lives and provided dignity to soldiers, women, children, and vulnerable groups impacted by war," Maj. Gen. Gyane stated, acknowledging the contributions of Henry Dunant, whose vision of humane treatment during war inspired the Conventions. Reflecting on the challenges facing IHL today, he highlighted the evolving nature of conflicts, especially with the rise of non-state actors and the use of asymmetrical warfare, which has increasingly endangered civilians. "The changing dynamics of conflict, including the alarming increase in attacks on civilian populations, forced displacements, and environmental issues, require us to question how the Geneva Conventions can adapt to contemporary conflicts," he said. Maj. Gen. Gyane underscored the critical need for countries to uphold the tenets of the Geneva Conventions, pointing out that failure to do so could diminish their moral authority. Citing U.S. Senator Charles Schumer’s concerns, he asked, "If we say the Geneva Convention is obsolete, then what do others who have our soldiers say?" He urged continued respect for IHL to maintain the dignity of soldiers and civilians alike. He also addressed obstacles in enforcing compliance with IHL, such as accountability and international cooperation challenges. "Strengthening international collaboration is crucial to enhance compliance and ensure accountability for violations," Maj. Gen. Gyane remarked. He affirmed KAIPTC’s dedication to fostering peace and security through training and capacity-building, equipping peacekeepers to respect IHL principles in even the most challenging situations. As the world faces increasingly complex conflicts, Maj. Gen. Gyane advocated for strengthening humanitarian protections and respecting the rights of all parties involved in conflict. "We must aim for a world where, in all conflict situations, civilians are shielded from harm, and dignity prevails, even amidst the worst provocations," he said. He also expressed gratitude to the Swiss Government for supporting KAIPTC’s commemoration of this milestone and honored the courage of peacekeepers, humanitarian workers, and others who work to protect lives in conflict zones. The Commandant reaffirmed KAIPTC’s commitment to promoting global peace, stating, "Let us strive for a future where the Geneva Conventions are not just a legacy but a living testament to our shared humanity." Taking her turn, Swiss Ambassador to Ghana, Simone Giger emphasized the pressing need for global adherence to international humanitarian principles. The symposium, co-organized by the Swiss Embassy and the Peace Training Center, focused on the challenges in implementing international humanitarian law (IHL) amidst escalating conflicts worldwide. Ambassador Giger underscored the troubling rise in conflict-related fatalities, referencing data from the Stockholm International Peace Institute. She noted that conflict-related deaths surged from 153,000 in 2022 to over 170,000 in 2023, with high-intensity conflicts like those in Myanmar, Sudan, Israel-Palestine, and Ukraine contributing significantly to the toll. Sub-Saharan Africa, she said, remains the region with the most conflicts, though fatalities have declined in some areas, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria. However, Sudan and Burkina Faso have seen significant increases in violence, affecting civilian populations, especially women and children. “The Geneva Conventions represent a universal commitment to a measure of humanity even amidst war,” Madam Giger stated, reflecting on Switzerland's unique role in humanitarian diplomacy as the custodian of these international treaties since 1949. "The Conventions protect those not engaged in hostilities—civilians, medical personnel, and humanitarian workers—as well as the wounded and prisoners of war." In response to a United Nations General Assembly resolution in September, Switzerland has agreed to host a Conference of High Contracting Parties to the Fourth Geneva Convention in March 2025. The conference will specifically address the protection of civilians in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and will focus on upholding IHL in these conflict zones. Madam Giger stressed that the conference aims to produce a unified declaration reaffirming IHL's core principles and committing parties to concrete actions that bolster the Convention’s enforcement. She emphasized the importance of IHL in limiting wartime suffering and facilitating peace. “Respect for IHL is ultimately in everyone’s interest,” she asserted, adding that any violation of these rules not only endangers civilians but also undermines post-conflict reconciliation. The Swiss ambassador concluded by calling for a renewed, global commitment to uphold the Geneva Conventions as a safeguard for “our common humanity,” inviting the audience to engage in discussions with representatives from the International Committee of the Red Cross and other humanitarian stakeholders on the role of IHL in today’s complex conflicts. The symposium highlighted that, even after 75 years, the Geneva Conventions remain a critical framework for preserving human dignity in the face of war. Others speakers took turns to share their views on the evolution of International Humanitarian Law, how far so far; challenges and lessons learnt from the Israeli-Palestinian context, contemporary dilemmas and challenges of ICRC as custodians of IHL as well as upholding IHL in peacekeeping theatres. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Together with the Government of Ghana, Africa Oil Week (“AOW”) and the Africa Prosperity Network are thrilled to announce that the 2025 event will be held in Accra from September 15th to 18th at the prestigious Kempinski Hotel. This momentous relocation from South Africa to Ghana highlights Ghana’s central role in the global energy arena as it prepares to host one of the largest platforms for advancing energy development and investment across Africa. His Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, expressed his pride in welcoming AOW to Accra, calling it a defining moment for both Ghana and the continent. “I am therefore personally delighted to endorse Africa Oil Week and to welcome its move from Cape Town to Accra. My gratitude extends to Sankofa Events for entrusting Ghana as the new host of such a significant gathering, led by Mr. Paul Sinclair, a fellow Ghanaian whose dedication to advancing Africa’s energy sector is truly inspiring.” AOW’s move to Ghana marks a new era in which Africa can champion its own energy narrative and pursue a unified strategy for oil, gas, and broader energy development. With a focus on driving investment, M&A, and deal flow in the regional energy sector, Paul Sinclair, CEO of Sankofa Events and owner of AOW, emphasized Africa’s unique opportunity to shape its future. “Africa Oil Week is about Africa charting its own course for natural resource development and finding the right partners who share a vision of equitable growth in the sector. Our goal is to secure energy access for our people and to establish a prominent role for Africa in the global energy landscape.” The organizers conveyed a strong and unified message, now is the time to develop a cohesive and progressive strategy for the continent’s oil and gas potential, ensuring Africa plays a central role in the global energy mix. Mr. Sinclair stated, “It is not simply a choice between fossil fuels and renewables; oil and gas will play a vital role in meeting energy demand for years to come, and we must embrace sustainable, low-carbon strategies that prioritize regional and international needs. Hosting this event in Accra moves us forward in ensuring Africa’s full potential drives economic development and contributes to our future success.” Across the course of the press conference Ghanaian leadership also contributed to echoing the sentiments of President Nana Akufo-Addo. Hon. Minister Herbert Krapa added to the Press Conference by stating "We are fully committed to ensuring that all Ministries, National Oil Companies, and Regulators across Africa are represented at the 2025 Africa Oil Week Summit in Accra. Our goal is to make it the premier energy dialogue on the continent, setting the stage for transformative discussions and partnerships that will propel Africa’s energy future.", whilst Mr. Egbert Faibille Junior, CEO of the Petroleum Commission also contributed by stating "The arrival of Africa Oil Week in Ghana is a landmark occasion for the continent, aligning perfectly with our vision at the Petroleum Commission to strengthen Ghana’s upstream potential and develop new frameworks that will make the national upstream more competitive. "We will also be working with our counterparts to ensure all regional regulators are present to ensure AOW maintains a Pan African focus. We thank Sankofa Events and Paul Sinclair for partnering with the Government of Ghana to make this possible.” With a steadfast commitment to Africa’s prosperity, AOW is also dedicated to supporting African service providers in international projects, empowering them to access tenders and secure their place in Africa’s energy sector. This vision is shared by Africa Prosperity Network, AOW’s strategic partner, as both organizations work tirelessly to establish African companies as leading suppliers in the region’s energy industry. A spokesperson for Africa Prosperity Network underscored the significance of this partnership: “Hosting a world-class event like AOW in Accra is a proud moment for Ghana and Africa’s oil and gas sector. Over five days, the global energy community will focus on Accra, exploring new projects, frontier markets, and deal-making opportunities within the African upstream. This is Ghana’s opportunity to shine and showcase Africa’s vast energy potential.” Both AOW and Africa Prosperity Network remain deeply committed to Africa’s sustainable oil and gas development. Together, they believe that Africa must lead its own energy journey, using its natural resources to drive socio-economic growth and secure a vital position in the global energy market. AOW, along with its partners, eagerly anticipates hosting a gold-standard, world-class event in Accra from September 15th to 18th, 2025, with leading international energy companies, setting the stage for Ghana to become a pivotal hub for energy dialogue, investment, and innovation across Africa. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has touted its 2024 Manifesto as a comprehensive plan to revitalize Ghana’s economy and propel the nation towards sustained growth. Speaking at a press conference at the NPP Headquarters in Accra on Wednesday, the party’s Director of Communication, Richard Ahiagbah, emphasized the NPP’s superior economic proposals, which he said would stabilize and grow the economy while leveraging digital advancements. “The NPP’s 2024 Manifesto offers Bold Solutions for jobs and business. Its ideas are forward-looking, aiming to stabilize and grow the economy, leveraging the digital revolution to make Ghana competitive,” Ahiagbah stated. He noted that the NPP’s economic strategies are designed to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, asserting that they would drive long-term national development. Proposals According to Mr Ahiagbah, the NPP’s policy proposals have been extensively analyzed and endorsed by economic experts, who find them “relevant, workable, and effective” for ensuring economic stability in the immediate term. He underscored the importance of these solutions, which he believes are crucial to sustaining Ghana’s economic recovery and laying the foundation for widespread prosperity. “Dr Bawumia and the NPP’s Bold Solutions for the economy have been widely discussed and found by experts to be relevant, workable, and effective in sustaining the economic recovery and delivering a stable economy for Ghanaians in the immediate term,” he added, stressing the credibility and feasibility of the NPP’s proposals. Mr Ahiagbah also urged Ghanaians to support the NPP and its presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, in the upcoming December 7 elections. He emphasized that the economy should be the primary focus of voters, as the NPP presents the best policy options to drive growth and improve living standards. “We should vote for Dr Bawumia and the NPP to implement these widely accepted policy ideas to stabilize and grow the economy. The economy is everything to vote for on December 7, and Dr Bawumia and the NPP offer the right policy solutions to boost growth and prosperity for Ghanaians,” Ahiagbah remarked. The NPP’s vision, he explained, is grounded in leveraging digital technologies to enhance economic competitiveness and create sustainable employment opportunities. The party remains confident that its comprehensive approach will position Ghana as a formidable player in the global economic landscape. Commendation He indicated: “We want to commend the NPP Parliamentary party, led by Hon. Alexander Afenyo Markin, for their spirited defense of the 1992 Constitution. We commend the Supreme Court for its service to the nation. I want to echo the words of the Majority Leader, Hon. Alexander Afenyo Markin: this is not a victory for one side and defeat for another, but rather, a triumph for our democracy and the rule of law. Now, let’s get back to work” He indicated that NDC campaign has consisted mainly of insults led by its flagbearer, H.E. John Mahama, and an outright refusal to debate the economy to help Ghanaians make an informed decision on December “As things stand, with 24 days or so to the elections, Ghanaians are confused about the NDC’s plan to grow Ghana’s economy. They propose a catchy phrase, 24-hour economy, but they cannot explain it. The NDC is running an empty slogan campaign. We return later to the 24-hour economy proposal,” he said. He stressed that Dr Bawumia and the NPP’s Bold Solutions for the economy have been widely discussed and found by experts to be relevant, workable, and effective in sustaining the economic recovery and delivering a stable economy for Ghanaians in the immediate term. The NPP Director of Communication explained that Dr. Bawumia’s bold economic solutions focus on several key areas: sustaining and expanding Ghana’s recovering economy, creating jobs, implementing comprehensive tax reforms, building Ghana into a world-class digital economy, reducing the cost of living, and enhancing public infrastructure. He said, these initiatives, address the urgent challenges of economic growth and jobs for the youth of Ghana. *Bawumia’s Bold Solutions* He stated that the economy has rebounded strongly since we turned the corner in 2023. “The average growth of the first two quarters of 2024 is 5.8 percent, 4.8 percent, and 6.9 percent, respectively. The IMF projects a 4 percent real GDP growth for 2024, but at this rate, the economy will likely expand beyond the projected 4 percent. Ghana is on track to outperform the IMF’s 3.6 percent growth projection for the Sub-Saharan region”. Mr. Ahiagbah mentioned that Dr Bawumia proposes to accelerate the growth and expansion of the economy over the next four years. “Under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, we increased the size of the Ghanaian economy by US$20 billion since 2016, from US$56 billion to US$76 billion by the end of December 2023. Dr. Bawumia’s Bold Solutions would likely double the size of Ghana’s economy as President”. He added that Bawumia aims to “achieve and sustain an average growth of 6% by expanding agriculture, mining (including establishing a Minerals Development Bank), the 1D1F initiative, emerging industries, digital hubs and services, sports, tourism, and the creative arts”. “Enhance public-private partnerships (PPPs) as a primary funding model for public infrastructure projects. Establish an independent Fiscal Responsibility Council to oversee fiscal policy. Amend the Fiscal Responsibility Act to add a new fiscal rule requiring that expenditure in any year not exceed 105% of the previous year’s tax revenue,” he outlined. Broad tax reforms Mr Ahiagbah said Bawumia will offer a one-time tax amnesty to all Ghanaians and corporate entities through tax amnesty from the payment of taxes from the previous years. He indicated that the waiving of interest and penalties for failure to file taxes in previous years will enable everyone to start their tax journey afresh. It will “wipe the slate clean” for all taxpayers in Ghana. He added that Bawumia will introduce a flat rate tax system in Ghana, like Estonia. This he said, will simplify the tax administration by giving taxpayers visibility into their tax obligations, making it easier to file and pay their taxes; reform the Value Added Tax regime by merging all levies into a single line-item levy and treating the merged levy as part of input and output VAT to eliminate the cascading effect in the current regime. The policy he said will also help to reduce withholding Tax (WHT) for small-scale gold exports to 1% to discourage smuggling; abolish the Betting Tax; incentivize Ghanaian start-ups in selected strategic sectors with Investment Tax Credits (ITC) for the first of their operations; digitize all aspects of tax administration to reduce leakages and improve efficiency and ease of filing; complement a Flat Rate for all importers, bringing predictability and stability of imported goods; harmonize port charges to align with charges in competing regional ports, particularly Togo. He added that duties at our ports will be the same or lower, and broaden the tax base by leveraging digitalization to capture more eligible taxpayers to reduce the pressure on the few. Story by: Political News Desk

President Akufo-Addo of Ghana has called on world leaders to abandon empty rhetoric and commit to decisive actions in addressing the urgent climate crisis, urging that this year’s COP29 summit must signal a shift from dialogue to real action. Addressing the World Climate Leaders Summit on Wednesday, November 13, President Akufo-Addo stressed the need for concrete steps to protect vulnerable communities and ecosystems facing increasingly severe threats from climate change. “We gather here not only as individuals or policymakers but as people bound by a love for our land and environment. Our children’s futures hinge on our decisions, so COP29 must be a shift from dialogue to action,” he declared. Highlighting the urgency of the climate crisis, Akufo-Addo noted that time is running out to implement solutions capable of safeguarding both lives and ecosystems. He pressed for the COP29 discussions to prioritize actionable measures rather than superficial conversations. Climate financing was also a central point in President Akufo-Addo’s remarks. He called on developed nations to fulfill their financial commitments, which are essential to support green energy transitions globally. This funding, he argued, is vital for less wealthy nations to meet climate goals and help avert the worst effects of climate change. The Ghanaian leader’s comments echo a growing sentiment among global leaders and activists that tangible action, particularly from wealthier nations, is needed now more than ever if the international community is to effectively combat climate change. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Odododiodioo MP, Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has criticized the Supreme Court’s ruling regarding the vacant seats case in Parliament, describing it as “unfortunate” and arguing that the decision has not resonated well with many Ghanaians. In a 5-2 decision, the Supreme Court upheld a suit filed by Alexander Afenyo-Markin challenging Speaker Alban Bagbin's declaration of four seats as vacant. This decision, announced yesterday, November 12, is expected to be elaborated upon with a full judgment today, Wednesday, November 13. The lawsuit initiated by Afenyo-Markin created a power struggle within Parliament, with NDC MPs assuming the majority position following Bagbin’s ruling, while New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs protested by boycotting parliamentary proceedings. With the Supreme Court’s recent decision, Parliament is expected to revert the NDC MPs to their original Minority status. However, Vanderpuye voiced strong opposition to the ruling during an interview on an Accra-based television station, stating, “I do not care about the Supreme Court ruling that the declaration of four seats vacant by Speaker Alban Bagbin was unconstitutional.” He criticized the court for intervening in what he argued was a straightforward constitutional issue. "Any class 6 pupil can read this article and understand this. But they decided to give an interpretation. Many Ghanaians will tell you they are not happy about the ruling," he added. Vanderpuye further argued that this ruling had compromised the image of the Supreme Court, referencing a recent report by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation. “One would have thought that the Supreme Court would use this to restore some image to itself. But they further pushed their image and integrity into the barn, so I am not worried,” he said. In light of the decision, Vanderpuye stated that the NDC MPs would not comply with a recall to Parliament to reinstate the original status quo. “If the Supreme Court says they have the authority to change the status quo in Parliament, then they should arrogate to themselves the power to order Parliament to sit tomorrow" "No MP from our side will respond to any call to leave the field and come to the House. We are not robots to be pushed here and there,” he declared. When asked if this response reflected the position of the entire NDC caucus, Vanderpuye confirmed that “about 99% of our members on our platform have said that we will not respond to any recall of Parliament.” However, he clarified that the NDC would still respond to a recall initiated directly by Speaker Bagbin, stressing the importance of evaluating the timing and necessity of any such summons. This dispute stems from Bagbin's October 17, 2024, decision to declare four NDC seats vacant due to alleged constitutional violations by certain MPs. Alexander Afenyo-Markin subsequently filed a motion with the Supreme Court, leading to yesterday's verdict, which now adds a new chapter to the ongoing political tensions in Ghana’s Parliament. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith