Upper East Regional Minister Rallies Stakeholders Ahead of 10-Year Development Forum
As the Upper East Region prepares for a pivotal Regional Economic Development Forum, Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri Atanga has called on stakeholders and residents to unite behind a shared vision for growth. Speaking at a media engagement in Bolgatanga, Mr. Atanga outlined the objectives and structure of the forum, which will take place from June 29 to July 1 and serve as the foundation for a comprehensive 10-year development plan. Minister Atanga revealed that, upon assuming office, he established an independent working committee comprised of technical experts from various sectors to guide the process. “Their role is to bring expertise to the table and ensure the plan we develop is realistic, inclusive, and focused on long-term growth,” he explained. The upcoming three-day forum will convene technical specialists, civil society organizations, traditional leaders, and other key stakeholders from across the region. The aim is to generate ideas and set clear, actionable priorities in areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, education, health, and economic development. Emphasizing the need for unity, the Minister urged all participants to set aside partisan interests and focus on the region’s collective progress. “We must come together as one people. This plan will only succeed if we focus on the development of the region, not individual gain,” he said. Supporting the initiative, Professor Sumaila Mohammed Asaah, a member of the working committee with experience in regional planning, encouraged residents to take the opportunity seriously. He expressed optimism that with commitment, the Upper East Region can match the developmental strides of other regions. All political parties and key ministries have been invited to the forum, which will also leverage the media’s reach to highlight investment opportunities and promote the region to potential investors. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GPCC Criticizes Current Anti-LGBTQ Bill, Calls for Stronger Protection of Family Values
The Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) has expressed disappointment with the recently passed Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2025, commonly known as the Anti-LGBTQ Bill, arguing that the legislation in its present form falls short of expectations and lacks the strength needed to safeguard Ghana’s long-standing family values. In a statement addressed to Parliament and relevant stakeholders, the GPCC asserted that the Bill, as it stands, does not adequately protect Ghana’s cultural heritage or the moral fabric of society. The statement, signed by GPCC President Apostle Dr. Eric Nyamekye, underscored the Council’s unwavering commitment to Christian values, national morality, and the preservation of Ghanaian culture. The Council called for the reinstatement of the earlier version of the Bill, passed by the previous Parliament, describing it as more comprehensive and better equipped to address the nation’s moral and cultural concerns. “Its prior endorsement for Presidential Assent is a testament to its legislative merit, and GPCC strongly recommends that it be reinstated and passed without further delay,” the statement read. While reaffirming its solidarity with the Government, Parliament, and people of Ghana, the GPCC emphasized that it remains steadfast in defending the nation’s values and sovereignty, regardless of any domestic or international scrutiny the legislative process may attract. The Council reiterated its dedication to upholding the moral well-being of Ghanaian communities as the debate over the Bill continues. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Chief Justice Applauds Landmark Legal Education Act, Calls for Institutional Readiness
Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has lauded the passage of the Legal Education Act, 2026 (Act 1170), describing it as a transformative milestone poised to reshape Ghana’s legal education landscape and broaden pathways for aspiring lawyers. The new law, which was approved by Parliament in March and signed by President John Dramani Mahama last month, aims to both widen access to legal education and elevate the quality and relevance of professional legal training in the country. Speaking at a colloquium themed “Implementing the Legal Education Act 2026: Institutional Readiness, Accreditation and the Future of Legal Training,” Justice Baffoe-Bonnie emphasized the importance of collaboration among universities, law faculties, and stakeholders to ensure that legal education contributes meaningfully to national development. He urged institutions offering legal education to proactively embrace the reforms, highlighting that the successful implementation of the Act will require genuine preparedness to meet new standards and expectations. “Readiness must go beyond symbolism and reflect concrete measures that uphold quality, accountability and academic standards,” he stated. The Chief Justice stressed that the emphasis should be on building strong governance structures to safeguard academic excellence and professional integrity, rather than mere regulatory compliance. He also called for substantial investment in modern learning infrastructure, such as technologically advanced moot courts and digital learning platforms, to provide students with the practical training necessary for success in the evolving legal profession. Justice Baffoe-Bonnie concluded by underscoring that such investments and reforms are essential to equipping Ghana’s future lawyers with the skills and experience needed to thrive under the new legal education framework. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Energy Minister Pledges Action After Receiving Akosombo Substation Fire Report
Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has assured the public that the government will take decisive action following the submission of the final report on the recent fire at the Akosombo Substation. Addressing the media on Thursday, June 11, Dr. Jinapor confirmed that he had officially received the findings from the investigative committee tasked with looking into the cause and circumstances of the incident. He emphasized that the government would thoroughly review the committee’s conclusions and recommendations before determining the necessary steps to address the situation. “Accountability is a top priority,” Dr. Jinapor stated, assuring Ghanaians that any measures taken would be grounded in the evidence and recommendations provided by the committee. He explained that the investigation was launched to uncover the facts behind the fire and to lay the groundwork for preventing similar incidents in the future. The Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting critical energy infrastructure and maintaining the reliability and stability of Ghana’s power transmission system. The Akosombo Substation fire had sparked concerns about the security of key installations, prompting the swift establishment of an investigative committee. The government is expected to announce its next steps once a comprehensive review of the report and its recommendations has been completed. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi Steps Down from Akonta Mining Case for Chairman Wontumi
Lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi has announced his withdrawal as legal counsel for Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, in the ongoing criminal proceedings involving Akonta Mining Limited. In an interview with Citi News, Appiah-Kubi revealed that his decision to step down was prompted by concerns over how Criminal Court 4 has managed the case. He stated that he had officially filed a motion to withdraw, supported by an affidavit detailing his reasons for leaving the case. “My disappointment is in the attitude, record and the determination of the court so far in handling these matters before the court. I’m so totally disappointed, that’s why I am withdrawing,” Appiah-Kubi said, making clear that his withdrawal was motivated by dissatisfaction with the court’s conduct and approach. Addressing speculation, Appiah-Kubi dismissed any link between his withdrawal and ongoing plea bargaining negotiations involving Chairman Wontumi in the separate EXIM Bank fraud case. He emphasized that the Akonta Mining prosecution and the EXIM Bank matter are entirely distinct and unrelated. Appiah-Kubi further clarified that he remains a member of Chairman Wontumi’s legal team on all other issues, including the EXIM Bank case, and that his withdrawal applies exclusively to the Akonta Mining proceedings. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Seized Firearms from Anti-Galamsey Operations Handed Over for Destruction
The first batch of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS) has handed over a cache of firearms seized during anti-illegal mining operations to the Ministry of the Interior as part of ongoing efforts to combat galamsey in Ghana. In a formal ceremony, the items were presented to Interior Ministry officials, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening enforcement measures against illegal mining activities. The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, along with the NAiMOS team, received commendations for their dedication to tackling the galamsey menace. Following the presentation, the seized firearms were transferred to the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons for documentation, marking, and destruction in accordance with established legal protocols. Authorities have assured the public that all items confiscated during anti-galamsey operations, including excavators and heavy equipment, will be handled transparently and in compliance with legal procedures. They pledged to keep the public informed about seizures and subsequent actions to ensure accountability and build public trust. Stakeholders have urged communities affected by illegal mining to continue supporting the government’s efforts, warning of the ongoing threat galamsey poses to water bodies, farmlands, the environment, and public health. Newly deployed NAiMOS personnel have been encouraged to uphold professionalism and integrity to sustain confidence in the national anti-illegal mining campaign. Interior Minister Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka reaffirmed the government’s resolve to protect Ghana’s natural resources and ensure that future generations benefit from sustainable environmental practices. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minority Demands Probe Into Ministers of State Excellence Honours Over Bribery Allegations
The Minority Caucus in Parliament has called for the formation of an investigative committee to scrutinize the circumstances surrounding the recently held Ghana Ministers of State Excellence Honours, amid mounting concerns about the credibility of the awards scheme. The call was made on Thursday, June 11, by Deputy Minority Chief Whip, Habib Iddrisu, who argued on the floor of Parliament that a transparent and impartial inquiry is needed to clarify the selection processes, standards, and criteria for honourees. This demand comes after the Director-General of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), Professor Michael Kpessa-Whyte, alleged that he was asked to pay GH¢50,000 in exchange for receiving an award. The allegation has sparked widespread public debate and intensified calls for greater transparency and accountability in the administration of the honours. Iddrisu asserted that explanations provided so far have not addressed the core issues and stressed that Parliament has a duty to establish the facts behind the controversy. “Listening to the issue and the response given by the Minister for Government Communication, Mr. Speaker, if you can kindly direct to set up a committee to investigate the matter. A bipartisan committee should investigate this matter so that we know the criteria for the awards. We deserve the truth,” he said. The Minority’s call for a bipartisan probe reflects growing concerns in and outside Parliament over the integrity of the awards programme and aims to restore public confidence through a thorough investigation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Begins Repatriation of Citizens Stranded in Côte d’Ivoire After Demolition Exercise
The Government of Ghana has initiated the repatriation of 327 nationals left stranded in Côte d’Ivoire following a demolition exercise in the Port Bouët Municipality of Abidjan. The operation, which destroyed homes and livelihoods, compelled Ghanaian authorities to act swiftly in support of their displaced citizens. In a press release dated Thursday, June 12, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that 228 affected Ghanaians had already been safely returned to Ghana as of June 11, with arrangements finalized for the remaining 99 to arrive on June 12. The government’s intervention is aimed at providing immediate relief and facilitating the reintegration of those impacted by the demolition. The Ministry explained that all 327 Ghanaians had been living in the demolished communities and, after losing their homes and sources of income, found themselves without the means to secure alternative accommodation in Côte d’Ivoire. Looking beyond repatriation, Ghana is also advocating for compensation for the victims. According to the Ministry, Ivorian authorities have expressed a willingness to compensate those affected, and Ghana’s diplomatic mission in Abidjan is actively engaged to ensure the promised support is delivered. The Foreign Affairs Ministry assured that it will continue to work closely with its counterparts in Côte d’Ivoire to coordinate the compensation process and address any ongoing concerns about the welfare of the repatriated citizens. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Kojo Oppong Nkrumah Proposes Five-Point Plan to Tackle Ghana’s Youth Unemployment Crisis
The Ranking Member on Parliament’s Economy and Development Committee and Member of Parliament for Ofoase-Ayirebi, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, has sounded the alarm over Ghana’s escalating youth unemployment crisis and put forward a comprehensive five-point strategy to address the problem. Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, June 11, 2026, Mr. Oppong Nkrumah described youth unemployment as one of Ghana’s most urgent socio-economic challenges, cautioning that existing interventions are falling short of expectations. Quoting recent data from the Ghana Statistical Service, he noted that the unemployment rate among persons aged 15 to 24 rose from 32% in December 2024 to 32.5% by the third quarter of 2025, and that nearly two million young Ghanaians are neither in education, employment, nor training. “Mr. Speaker, we do not need more slogans or promises that results are in the pipeline. We need a more effective architecture to solve the worsening youth unemployment problem in our country. The time to act is now,” he declared. Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the MP for Ofoase-Ayirebi stressed the need for bold and measurable reforms, arguing that Ghanaian youth demand practical, dignified, and well-paid job opportunities—not rhetoric. Oppong Nkrumah’s five-point proposal includes: Publishing delivery scorecards for all job creation programmes, using clear metrics such as beneficiaries, cost per job, time-to-placement, and employment retention rates; Distinguishing between skills training initiatives and actual job creation efforts, noting that training alone does not guarantee employment; Shifting from government-led financing to increased private sector participation, with government reducing investment risks, co-investing in strategic sectors, and creating a supportive regulatory environment; Making apprenticeship programmes the backbone of the youth employment strategy, anchored by national certification, employer incentives, and structured pathways to jobs or entrepreneurship; Establishing a credible Labour Market Information System to provide real-time data on vacancies, skills gaps, and labour demand. He concluded by urging policymakers to move beyond slogans and promises, and instead adopt practical, accountable solutions to reverse the trend and unlock opportunities for Ghana’s burgeoning youth population. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
DRIP National Coordinator Vanderpuye Signals Bid for NDC National Chairmanship
Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, National Coordinator of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), has announced his readiness to step down from his current role to contest for the National Chairmanship of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), should incumbent chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia choose not to seek re-election. In an interview the media, June 11, 2026, Vanderpuye made clear his respect for Asiedu Nketia, describing him as a “senior brother” and stating he would not run against him. “We started together in Sunyani; he’s one of the people that I respect so much, and so I wouldn’t want to contest him if he decides to contest. But if he’s not contesting, I’m ready to offer myself,” Vanderpuye stated. Highlighting his extensive history with the NDC, Vanderpuye traced his political journey from youth organiser and foundation member of the party to serving as a ward secretary during the party’s formation in 1992, even while working at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation. “I was the youth organiser of the Democratic Youth League of Ghana, the Future Leaders Organisation. I’ve always been part of this. I’m also a foundation member of the party,” he recounted. Vanderpuye also pointed to his experience as a parliamentary aspirant, deputy minister, cabinet minister, and campaign official in past NDC administrations. “I was a parliamentary aspirant as far back as 1996. Former deputy minister for trade, former deputy local government minister, former minister for youth and sports, director of operations for President Mills’ campaign, and officer at the presidency in those days.” When asked if he would resign from his current post as DRIP National Coordinator to enter the chairmanship race, Vanderpuye confirmed his intent to step down, stating, “Yes, because I think this party has given me so much. I want to give back to the party.” Vanderpuye’s declaration sets the stage for a potential leadership contest within the NDC, pending the decision of the current national chairman. Source: Apexnewsgh.com