Former Finance Minister Petitions IMF Over Bank of Ghana’s Worsening Finances, Warns of Risks to Economic Stability
Former Finance Minister and Ranking Member on Parliament’s Finance Committee, Dr Mohammed Amin Adam, has sounded the alarm over Ghana’s economic future, petitioning the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to closely scrutinise the Bank of Ghana’s latest audited financial statements. In a detailed letter addressed to the IMF Ghana Mission Chief under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) programme in Washington, D.C., Dr Amin Adam expressed deep concern over what he termed the “material implications” of the central bank’s mounting financial challenges on Ghana’s macroeconomic stability and fiscal outlook. Dr Amin Adam began by commending the IMF for its support throughout Ghana’s ECF programme, which has helped steer the country through turbulent economic conditions. However, with Ghana preparing to exit the programme, he urged the Fund to ensure that the hard-won gains are not undermined by emerging risks. “Greater attention is needed to safeguard the durability of these gains,” he stressed. Central to his concerns is the Bank of Ghana’s worsening negative equity position. Dr Amin Adam cited figures from the 2025 audited financial statements showing the group’s negative equity ballooning from GH¢58.62 billion in 2024 to GH¢93.82 billion in 2025, while for the Bank itself, the figure grew from GH¢61.32 billion to GH¢96.28 billion over the same period. He warned that this sharp deterioration signals that “meaningful balance sheet repair has not yet commenced in substance.” The letter also highlighted the Bank’s escalating losses and rising monetary policy costs. Dr Amin Adam noted that the Bank recorded a loss of GH¢15.63 billion in 2025, up from GH¢9.49 billion in 2024, attributing the surge to high open market operation expenses and other financial pressures. He cautioned that such developments could spill over into government finances and jeopardise Ghana’s debt sustainability. Calling for action, Dr Amin Adam urged the IMF to ramp up post-programme surveillance and ensure full transparency in the central bank’s operations. He insisted that the durability of Ghana’s economic progress would depend on “transparent recognition of all public-sector obligations” and that fiscal consolidation must be accompanied by clear and open accounting. In his petition, Dr Amin Adam also called for clearer treatment of gold transactions, comprehensive recapitalisation plans for the Bank of Ghana, and robust safeguards against monetary financing. These measures, he argued, are essential to protect Ghana’s economic gains and ensure a stable path forward as the country navigates its post-ECF future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Upper East GJA Marks World Press Freedom Day with Focus on Ethical Court Reporting
The Upper East Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) commemorated the 2026 World Press Freedom Day with a renewed commitment to ethical court reporting. This year’s celebration, held in Bolgatanga, brought together journalists from across the region for a hands-on workshop aimed at deepening their understanding of the legal and ethical complexities of reporting on legal proceedings. In his address to the gathering, GJA Upper East Chairman, Albert Sore, celebrated Ghana’s remarkable progress in media freedom. “The World Press Index, released by Reporters Without Borders, shows that Ghana has climbed from 52nd to 39th out of 180 countries,” he announced. “Today, as we mark World Press Freedom Day, this is something remarkable that we should all be proud about. It is our hope that we will continue to see improvement in the years ahead.” The GJA Chairman emphasized that the decision to focus on court reporting was a conscious one, aimed at sharpening journalists’ skills and ensuring responsible coverage of sensitive legal matters. “If you misrepresent what transpires in court, you risk not only creating problems for yourself, but also infringing on someone’s human rights,” he cautioned. He urged participants to actively engage, ask questions, and share experiences, expressing his hope that the workshop would lead to a noticeable improvement in the quality of legal reportage in the region. The workshop featured presentations from key legal experts, including Lawyer Jaladeen Abdulai, Upper East Regional Director of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ). Lawyer Abdulai highlighted the crucial role of journalists in safeguarding transparency and accountability within Ghana’s justice system. “Journalism plays a vital role in protecting transparency and accountability in the justice system. If we shut the door to journalism, everything will be in the dark,” he said. Lawyer Abdulai walked participants through the proper procedures for court reporting, stressing the importance of accuracy, fairness, and respect for privacy. He advised journalists to consult with court registrars and judges to ensure their reports are factually correct and to avoid misrepresenting proceedings. “Irresponsible reporting can result in serious human rights violations, unfair trials, stigma, and privacy invasion,” Lawyer Abdulai warned. He also urged journalists to be mindful of the legal definitions of suspects, accused persons, and convicts, pointing out that a failure to use legal terminology correctly could mislead the public. The session delved into the ethical standards that govern the profession, reminding reporters that their work has the power to shape public perception and trust in the judiciary. “Every profession has its ethical standards,” Lawyer Abdulai said. “So is it within your standards to do what you are doing? You have to ask yourself that question.” His Lordship, Justice Ernest Gemadzie, the Upper East Regional Supervising High Court Judge, also addressed journalists, focusing on the intersection of human rights and legal reporting. Justice Gemadzie underscored the role of the courts in protecting individual rights and resolving disputes, and he called on journalists to ensure their reports uphold the dignity and privacy of all parties involved. “No position is permitted to interfere with the privacy of individuals except as required by law,” he noted, urging journalists to understand the boundaries of what can and cannot be reported, especially in sensitive cases such as those involving juveniles or victims of sexual offences. Justice Gemadzie further explained the importance of the Right to Information Act in promoting accountability and transparency, but cautioned that not all information is fit for public consumption, especially when it concerns ongoing investigations, national security, or confidential sources. He encouraged journalists to always seek clarity from legal professionals when in doubt, to avoid overstepping ethical or legal boundaries. Throughout the interactive workshop, participants engaged in vibrant discussions, posing questions about the disclosure of identities in criminal cases, the limits of public interest reporting, and the practical steps required to access court information. The training closed with a sense of enthusiasm and renewed purpose among the journalists, many of whom expressed excitement about applying what they had learned. As Ghana continues to rise in global press freedom rankings, the Upper East GJA’s commitment to responsible court reporting stands as a testament to the profession’s ongoing evolution, balancing the right to inform the public with the responsibility to protect the rights and dignity of all citizens. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana to Host Landmark Global Conference on Reparatory Justice in June 2026
In a historic move following the United Nations’ recognition of the trans-Atlantic enslavement of Africans as one of the gravest crimes against humanity, Ghana is set to welcome the world for a major conference on reparatory justice this June. The three-day summit, scheduled for June 17 to 19 in Accra, will be led by President John Dramani Mahama, who also serves as the African Union’s Champion for Reparations. This High-Level Next Steps Conference comes on the heels of overwhelming international support for the UN resolution, which was endorsed by 123 member states. The event aims to transform global support into tangible actions, focusing on practical strategies to address the enduring legacies of slavery. Organisers expect to convene a diverse group of global leaders, policymakers, legal experts, historians, activists, and representatives from international organisations. Together, they will chart a path forward, discussing the creation of policies, institutional frameworks, and coordinated efforts to advance the cause of reparatory justice worldwide. A key outcome of the conference will be a landmark document, setting out a unified approach for international engagement and paving the way for real-world implementation of reparations measures. The gathering will also feature a special Juneteenth observance on June 19 at Christiansborg Castle, a powerful symbol of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, drawing participants from African and diaspora communities, especially the United States. With a mission to strengthen Africa’s voice on reparations and forge deeper connections with the global African diaspora, the conference is poised to be a watershed moment in the ongoing quest for justice and healing. Details on participation and accreditation can be accessed via the conference platform organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Upper East Region Prepares for 2026 BECE: Over 22,000 Students Set to Write Exams
The first Monday of May 2026 dawned with a buzz of anticipation across Ghana’s Upper East Region. In every town and village, families and teachers rallied around their young scholars as the Ghana Education Service (GES) announced the start of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). This year, 22,326 candidates are preparing to take this pivotal exam from May 4th to May 11th, a crucial gateway to senior high school. The Regional Education Directorate has orchestrated this massive undertaking across 95 examination centres, ensuring that every district and municipality is included. For thousands of junior high school students, the BECE is not just another test; it’s a milestone marking their readiness to step into the next phase of academic life. Among the candidates, the majority, 19,381 students, hail from public schools, with the girls (10,994) outnumbering the boys (8,387). Private schools have also contributed 2,945 candidates, including 1,557 girls and 1,388 boys. This continued rise in female participation has been celebrated by education stakeholders as evidence of successful initiatives to empower girls through education. Bolgatanga Municipality stands out as the region’s academic powerhouse, registering 2,974 candidates spread across 14 centres. Not far behind are the Bongo District with 2,085 candidates and the Kassena-Nankana West District with 1,936 candidates. Other districts with strong showings include Bawku Municipality (2,038), Talensi District (1,577), and Bawku West District (1,499). However, the numbers also reveal significant variation. Builsa South District will send only 719 candidates to the exam halls, the lowest in the region. Binduri District and Bolgatanga East District report 1,036 and 711 candidates, respectively. In Nabdam District, every one of the 756 candidates comes from a public school, with not a single private school student among them. Meanwhile, the GES has issued a stern reminder to all candidates: discipline and integrity must guide their actions. The Directorate has implemented strict monitoring systems and warned that all forms of malpractice will be met with serious consequences. “Candidates are advised to remain focused, prepare adequately, and avoid any form of examination malpractice,” the statement stressed. As the examination week kicks off, the Upper East Region stands united in support of its young learners, hopeful that this year’s BECE will be a testament to both academic achievement and the growing opportunities for all, especially girls, in education. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Bolgatanga MCE Highlights Health and Development Achievements During NDC Chairman’s Visit
When the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketia, arrived in Bolgatanga for his Thank You Tour, he was greeted not just with applause, but with stories of transformation and hope. The gathering was more than ceremonial; it was a celebration of hard-won progress and a recommitment to the municipality’s future. Taking center stage, Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive Roland Atanga Ayoo welcomed the party chairman and supporters with pride. He noted that the visit underscored the NDC’s dedication to building strong grassroots networks and staying deeply engaged with the people, the foundation of the party’s strength. “Bolgatanga Municipality,” Mr. Ayoo proclaimed, “has always played a strategic role in the Upper East Region’s socio-economic and political growth. Our people are resilient and united by a shared pursuit of development, democracy, and progress.” Mr. Ayoo then shared the results of months of dedicated effort. Since taking office in April 2025, he had vowed to work side by side with stakeholders to uplift the municipality. And true to his word, achievements could be seen across education, health, agriculture, social welfare, and sanitation. Education, he said, was witnessing a renaissance: New classroom blocks were springing up in Dorongo Aperiga, Yorogo Gaabisi, and Kologu Aguusi. The Anateem Kindergarten block had been completed, and the Nyariga classroom block renovated. With 1,200 dual desks and nearly 12,000 textbooks distributed, and over 600 teachers trained, the path was set for better learning outcomes, especially for girls, as hundreds received support for their BECE exams. But it was in healthcare that the MCE’s pride shone brightest. According to Mr. Ayoo, the Yipaala Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound had been handed over to the Ghana Health Service, while other facilities in Zaare East, Kulbia, and Sawaba were also completed. Ongoing construction and renovations at Waribisi, Sumbrungu Anateem, and Daporetindongo promised even greater access to healthcare in the near future. Public health campaigns and strong partnerships were raising awareness and improving services, especially for mothers and children. Agriculture, the backbone of the local economy, was thriving. Over 800 groups, nearly 20,000 farmers, joined the Feed Ghana Program, while women food processors received essential startup kits. Training and business support empowered local artisans and entrepreneurs, with carpenters, hairdressers, and dressmakers benefiting from the National Apprenticeship Programme. Social protection initiatives were also bearing fruit. Through the LEAP program, more than 1,100 households received over 3.1 million Ghana Cedis in grants, with further expansion on the horizon. Persons with Disabilities were supported with funds, equipment, and stipends, helping transform lives and livelihoods. The MCE also highlighted the municipality’s push for environmental cleanliness, with intensified clean-up campaigns and improved waste management. Public education, radio outreach, and collaboration with security agencies were key to fostering a healthy, peaceful community. Yet, challenges remained. Mr. Ayoo called for support to complete unfinished dormitories at ZAMSTECH, finish the abandoned polyclinic, elevate Bolgatanga to metropolitan status, and resolve the Bolgatanga Skin dispute for lasting peace and future development. Expressing gratitude to the NDC’s national leadership, the hardworking Member of Parliament, and the people of Bolgatanga, Mr. Ayoo closed with a warm invitation to Mr. Nketia. “Feel at home,” he said. “The people of Bolgatanga are renowned for their hospitality, and we are honored to host you.” With these words, the MCE brought his address to an end, leaving the assembly with a sense of pride in their achievements and hope for even greater progress as a united community. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Bongo Beo Tankoo Assembly Member Issues Caution and Encouragement Ahead of 2026 BECE
The Assembly Member for Beo Tankoo Electoral Area in the Bongo District, Upper East Region, Hon. Akolgo Emmanuel, has delivered a heartfelt message to candidates, parents, and the community ahead of the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). In his statement, Hon. Emmanuel described the examination season as a significant milestone marked by both anticipation and concern. He stressed the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for candidates, urging organizers and communities to refrain from hosting “pens down” parties, street jams, or alcohol-related celebrations . “Such unsupervised and inappropriate gatherings expose our children to considerable risk,” he cautioned, referencing a tragic incident in the district last year when two candidates lost their lives in a motor accident en route to a celebration. “No celebration is worth the life of a child,” he emphasized. Addressing parents and guardians, Hon. Emmanuel strongly advised against providing mobile phones to candidates, warning that it facilitates examination malpractice and undermines the integrity of the educational system. “Let us instill confidence and courage in our children to give their best effort, and desist from aiding them to engage in dishonest acts,” he urged. He also encouraged families to celebrate responsibly, suggesting modest family gatherings and moments of prayer over risky outings or alcohol-fueled parties. To the BECE candidates themselves, Hon. Emmanuel reminded them of the value of their lives and the years of effort they have invested in their education. “Say no to alcohol, reckless riding, and examination malpractice. Your true ‘pens down’ celebration will be receiving your results and progressing to Senior High School with dignity and pride,” he stated. He extended condolences to the families in Balungo who lost loved ones after last year’s final paper, hoping such a tragedy would never be repeated. Hon. Emmanuel concluded his message by wishing all 2026 BECE candidates in Beo and across the Bongo District the very best, urging them to write with integrity, remain safe, and make their families and the nation proud. “Your future begins now, protect it,” he affirmed. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Police Dismantle Alleged Robbery Gang In Upper East Region; Four In Custody, Two Dead During Operation
A special intelligence team of the Ghana Police Service has allegedly dismantled a robbery gang responsible for a series of violent attacks in the Upper East region, following an intelligence-led operation on 29th April 2026. The suspects, Awudu Kasim, Malik Baako, Mohammed Amidu, and Wadud Abdul were arrested at their hideout at Zuarungu. A search at the location led to the retrieval of a G3 rifle loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition which had been concealed in the storage compartment of a motorbike that suspect Samsudeen Mohammed and an accomplice known as “DJ”, currently at large, had robbed from a victim. Police also retrieved seven (7) other motorbikes believed to be stolen. During interrogation, the suspects admitted involvement in a series of robbery attacks across the region. These include an attack on 4th February 2026 along the Zuarungu–Kongo road, during which a bus driver, Ussif Abdul Razak, sustained gunshot injuries and lost three fingers, and a separate attack on a cargo truck driver, Mohammed Ibrahim, on the same stretch. They also admitted to a robbery at the Kejetia mining site at Gbane on 28th March 2026, where a miner, Atani Mark, was robbed of cash and gold, as well as other incidents in the area. Two suspects, Samsudeen Mohammed and Seidu Safianu, now deceased, sustained gunshot injuries during the operation. Their bodies have been transported to the Police Hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy. All four suspects are in custody assisting investigations, while efforts are ongoing to arrest other accomplices, including one identified as “DJ”, who is at large. The Ghana Police Service assures the public that all those at large will be arrested to face the full rigours of the law. Source: UER Police
Alagumgube Calls for Timely Sod-Cutting of Upper East Airport as Workers Mark May Day
A diaspora-based language and development association, Alagumgube, has used this year’s May Day celebration to renew its call for the swift sod cutting of a proposed airport in the Upper East Region. In a press statement issued during the 2026 May Day observances, the association, founded in New Jersey, USA, by indigenes of the Upper East Region, said it proudly joined workers across Ghana and beyond to commemorate the day. Alagumgube, which has seven active branches and a growing footprint in Africa, noted its continued commitment to advocating for the socio‑economic development of the Upper East Region. The group said its efforts have already contributed to key milestones, including the establishment of a Passport Office in the region. Currently, the association’s major focus is the development and sod‑cutting of an airport in the Upper East Region. Through sustained advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and collaboration with government, the project has gained national attention, according to the statement. Technical teams have assessed the proposed site, and significant preparatory work has been undertaken. On the other hand, Alagumgube is appealing for a bypass to ease traffic flow through Bolgatanga, citing the heavy trucks that pass through the city en route to other neighbouring countries. “As we participate in the May Day march, we reaffirm our call for the timely sod cutting of the Upper East Airport, which we believe will enhance connectivity, create jobs, and accelerate regional development,” the statement read. Alagumgube said it stands united in purpose, both in the diaspora and at home, working together to build a stronger and more prosperous Upper East Region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GES Launches Nationwide Crackdown on Examination Malpractices
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has launched a nationwide campaign to combat examination malpractices, recognizing the growing threat such acts pose to national development and the integrity of the country’s education system. Mr. Richard Ayitey, National Examination Coordinator at the GES Headquarters, underscored the seriousness of the issue, noting a disturbing increase in incidents of cheating and fraud during examinations. “Examination malpractice is a criminal act, and this year, we will not spare anyone, be it a teacher, non-teacher, or any individual, who tries to undermine the examination process. It’s affecting our quality of education and drastically impacting student performance,” Mr. Ayitey asserted. He further explained that the prevalence of exam fraud has encouraged students to become complacent and less motivated to study. “When students believe they can rely on malpractice, it makes them lazy and less likely to develop the skills to become future writers or thinkers. This year, we want students to prepare properly and take their studies seriously.” To address the problem, GES is enforcing strict measures at examination centers. Only supervisors will be permitted on the premises, minimizing the risk of external influence or assistance to candidates. Supervisors and invigilators have also been instructed to maintain heightened vigilance to ensure incident-free and malpractice-free examinations. Razak Z. Abdul-Korah, Upper East Regional Education Director, described a recent stakeholder forum as part of the nationwide effort to raise public awareness and build consensus on solutions. “As of yesterday, eight regions had completed similar forums, and the rest will soon follow. This initiative is meant to mobilize collective action against exam malpractices,” he explained. The Regional Director emphasized that robust material and security arrangements are in place for upcoming examinations. He called on teachers, school leaders, and the wider community to take the campaign seriously and to help spread the message. “Certifying students whose integrity is in doubt undermines our entire education system. We must all play our part to tackle this menace.” The forum also featured collaboration with the police, who shared strategies to deter and detect malpractices. A multi-level monitoring team, including national and regional officials, will oversee the conduct of exams across the country. “Today’s engagement was impactful and has given us hope. However, it is crucial that the message reaches every educator and student. The media’s role in amplifying this campaign is vital,” Abdul-Korah added. Other educational stakeholders from both private and public schools also contributed ideas and pledged their support for the crackdown. With concerted effort from all parties, GES hopes to restore integrity and excellence to Ghana’s examination process. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
TEWU Urges Government to Address Security Staff Concerns at Upper East Workshop
Mr. Matthew Abeaba Abereniya, Principal Industrial Relations Officer (IRO) of the Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU) in the Upper East Region, shared insights at a recent workshop organized for educational sector staff, including new recruits. Mr. Abereniya explained that the workshop was designed to refresh participants on security matters and update them on new security issues affecting educational institutions. “This workshop is an opportunity for our members to cross-fertilize ideas, share security tactics, and discuss ways to manage their various associations more effectively,” he said. He emphasized the importance of collaboration, particularly in addressing challenges such as kidnapping, student abscondment, and unauthorized intrusions on school campuses. The TEWU officer highlighted that the union includes a diverse range of professionals, metrons, accountants, security personnel, supply chain officers, administrators, and others, who all benefit from such knowledge sharing. “From time to time, these groups come together to share ideas to improve their work and ensure the safety of students, staff, and property,” Mr. Abereniya noted. Representing the General Secretary and National Officers, Mr. Abereniya said his presence was meant to motivate and encourage participants, reinforcing the union’s commitment to their welfare. However, he drew attention to a pressing issue: overtime allowances. “The government has denied our members their overtime allowance for some time now, and they are becoming increasingly agitated. Their salaries are already meagre, and yet they risk their lives, sometimes braving harsh conditions, to protect school property and ensure safety.” Mr. Abereniya called on the media to help amplify the union’s concerns, urging the government to address the matter urgently. “We expect the government to expedite action. Our members deserve to be compensated fairly for their dedication and sacrifices,” he concluded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com