NPP Elections Committee Chair: Chairman Wontumi Free to Pick Nomination Form, Final Eligibility Rests with Vetting Committee
The Chairman of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) National Elections Committee, Fredrick Opare-Ansah, has clarified that Bernard Antwi Boasiako, familiarly known as Chairman Wontumi and currently incarcerated, remains free to pick up a nomination form for the party’s 2026 national elections. Speaking to the media on August 21, 2026, Mr. Opare-Ansah addressed reports that Chairman Wontumi had obtained a form to contest a national executive position. He emphasized that the Secretariat has no mandate to prevent any person from acquiring nomination forms, regardless of their current circumstances. “Nothing stops anybody from buying a form,” he said. “But I can tell you that the eligibility of aspirants is not determined by the Secretariat. It’s determined by the Vetting Committee.” Mr. Opare-Ansah explained that anyone interested in contesting can access the forms online or in person and submit them for consideration. However, he was quick to point out that picking up a form does not guarantee a spot on the ballot. “It is only when you appear before the Vetting Committee that, if there is any reason why you cannot be cleared to contest, then that will come up,” he stated. He added that he was still awaiting the Secretariat’s final report to confirm if Chairman Wontumi had indeed picked up a form, noting, “I’ve gotten the statistics of how many people picked up forms today, and the breakdown: the Chairman category, the Vice-Chair category. I’m yet to receive the end-of-the-day report, which will tell me exactly which persons picked up forms.” The NPP has also extended the deadline for filing completed nomination forms by two days, shifting the closing date from Thursday, August 27, to Saturday, August 29, 2026. The extension aims to give prospective aspirants more time to complete the process, reflecting the strong interest in the upcoming elections. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Roads Minister Warns Against Inflated Compensation Claims, Eyes EOCO Probe for Surveyors
At the heart of Ashanti Region, where asphalt machines rumbled along the two-kilometre Feyiase-Sewua Regional Hospital access road, Minister for Roads and Highways Governs Kwame Agbodza delivered a stern warning that reverberated beyond the construction site. Speaking during an inspection of the ongoing project by Kofi Job Construction Limited, Mr. Agbodza revealed that the government is considering referring two quantity surveyors to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). The reason: alleged attempts to manipulate compensation claims involving properties affected by road projects. According to the Minister, these surveyors have been accused of persuading property owners to reject the official valuations conducted by government authorities. In return, they promise to secure compensation payments many times higher than the original assessments, a practice Mr. Agbodza described as a drain on public funds and a source of avoidable delays for crucial road works. “We are looking at the possibility of reporting two of those people to EOCO for investigation,” he stated, emphasizing that surveyors who deliberately encourage owners to turn down government valuations in the hope of inflated compensation could face scrutiny and legal consequences. Mr. Agbodza urged those whose properties are affected by road developments to rely on assessments made by state institutions like the Ghana Highway Authority and the Department of Urban Roads. He cautioned against employing private surveyors who, after government teams have completed their work, approach property owners and encourage them to seek higher payments, sometimes even leading to court injunctions that stall projects and inflate costs. The Minister questioned how private surveyors could arrive at estimates significantly greater than those of trained professionals working in government agencies, all of whom follow established procedures. He reassured affected persons that the government remains committed to fair and lawful compensation for properties acquired for public projects. Mr. Agbodza also commended property owners who have cooperated with authorities during compensation processes for major projects such as the Accra-Kumasi Expressway. He stressed that concerns over inflated claims are not unique to the Ashanti Region, noting that similar issues have arisen in Accra and elsewhere. As roadworks progress across the country, the Minister’s message was clear: collaboration, transparency, and adherence to the law are essential to delivering the infrastructure Ghana needs, free from manipulation and unnecessary delays. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Interior Minister Orders Crackdown on Vigilantism and Unauthorized Security Groups
Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak has addressed the nation’s top police commanders. With a firm voice and unwavering resolve, he outlined a growing threat to Ghana’s peace, the rise of self-styled security groups formed by political parties, traditional leaders, individuals, and organizations. “These groups,” the Minister warned, “pose a real danger to our stability. The law is clear: only state-sanctioned security agencies are permitted to provide protection.” He referenced the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999), reminding everyone that the formation of private security outfits without government approval is strictly prohibited. Standing before the assembled officers at the regional commanders’ conference, Mr. Muntaka issued a directive: the Ghana Police Service must intensify its efforts to root out vigilantism. Police commanders, he said, should act decisively to identify, investigate, and prosecute those involved in setting up illegal security groups. But his concerns didn’t end there. The Minister also turned his attention to a worrying new trend—the unauthorized recording and circulation of videos showing security recruits in training. He cautioned that such practices, especially when training footage appears on social media, risk undermining the integrity and confidentiality of the country’s security institutions. “Protecting the secrecy of our training is vital,” he stressed. “We cannot allow the professionalism and effectiveness of our security services to be compromised by careless publication of sensitive material.” With that, Mr. Muntaka called on all security service commanders to implement strict measures, ensuring that images and videos of recruits remain confidential unless officially approved. His message was clear: Ghana’s safety, professionalism, and peace must be preserved at all costs, and the law must be enforced without fear or favor. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Residents Warned as Spoiled Poultry Products Illegally Dumped in Ho Community
Residents of Tsawenu and Sokode Ando stumbled upon an unusual and troubling scene. Cartons filled with frozen chicken drumsticks, whole chickens, chicken feet, and other poultry parts were scattered along a path leading to the farmlands. The discovery soon sent shockwaves through Ho and its surrounding communities. Lawrence Senya, the Ho Municipal Environmental Health Officer, was quick to issue a public caution: residents should avoid purchasing or consuming poultry products, especially those found in the area, until further notice. Initial reports revealed that some of the chicken was still frozen and had no telltale odor, tempting some locals to collect, prepare, and eat the meat. But the absence of spoilage signs didn’t convince officials of its safety. “We cannot rule out the possibility of contamination, toxins, or other harmful substances,” Mr. Senya cautioned, explaining that unknown individuals may have deliberately disposed of the products for a reason. As word spread, a joint team from the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and environmental health officials launched an investigation to identify those responsible for the illegal dumping. In the meantime, community sensitization efforts began, urging anyone who had collected poultry from the site to voluntarily surrender it. Many residents had already cooked, smoked, or roasted the chicken before learning of the potential risks. To prevent further exposure, environmental health officials have been retrieving the surrendered products for safe disposal. Educational campaigns have intensified, warning residents to steer clear of suspicious poultry products until the authorities complete their investigation. Mr. Senya also reminded cold store operators, wholesalers, and retailers that food waste or expired products should only be disposed of through proper channels, with the supervision of health authorities. The incident has sparked serious conversations about food safety in the municipality. Authorities are appealing to the public to report any suspicious food dumping or unsafe handling to the FDA or local health offices, aiming to prevent a possible outbreak of foodborne illnesses. Wisdom Akorli, the Assemblyman for the area, condemned the act as evil. “This is an evil act for someone to dump spoiled frozen food in my area to destroy my people, but I pray we get the person,” he declared. He encouraged residents to surrender any questionable poultry to the authorities and assured them of his commitment to working with officials to bring the culprits to justice. “If you feel unwell after consuming any of these products, please report immediately to the nearest health facility,” he urged. As the investigation continues, the people of Ho are reminded to remain vigilant and prioritize their health above all else. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Mineworkers’ Union Demands Release of Locked-Up Savings for Over 19,000 Miners
The National Executive Council of the Ghana Mineworkers’ Union (GMWU) has launched a protest over the prolonged delay in releasing funds belonging to more than 19,000 miners whose savings remain trapped in financial institutions affected by the Bank of Ghana’s financial sector clean-up. The union revealed that the locked-up funds include provident funds, welfare contributions, leave savings, individual deposits, and severance packages, all entrusted to institutions licensed and regulated by the central bank. GMWU leaders argue that miners, who deposited their savings in good faith, should not be left to bear the repercussions of regulatory failures. The union has strongly criticized the Bank of Ghana’s management of the issue, stating that assurances from successive governors and references to commitments in IMF reports from 2023 and 2024 have yet to yield results. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson has maintained that the central bank should recover and liquidate the assets of affected institutions to settle outstanding depositor claims. The Ministry of Finance, Forson added, currently lacks the funds to directly compensate depositors. Frustrated by the ongoing impasse, the GMWU insists that both the government and the Bank of Ghana must take urgent steps to ensure the affected miners receive their money without further delay. As part of their campaign, the union plans to submit a formal petition to the Minister of Finance, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiamah, and the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Armah Kofi Buah, pressing for immediate action. The fate of thousands of miners, and their hard-earned savings, now hangs in the balance as the union ramps up pressure on authorities to resolve the crisis. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GES Suspends Two Watchmen, Hands Case to Police After Alleged Sexual Assault at Bolgatanga Girls SHS
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has taken swift action in the wake of an alleged sexual assault involving a special needs student at Bolgatanga Girls Senior High School. Two watchmen at the school have been interdicted and handed over to the Police to assist with ongoing investigations into the incident. According to a statement released by the GES on Thursday, August 20, the student, who was on medication and had suffered a relapse that day, required medical attention. It was during this vulnerable period that the alleged assault took place, prompting immediate intervention from the school authorities and the GES. The GES has emphasized that a thorough investigation is underway to establish the facts of the case, and that the outcome will guide any further sanctions in accordance with the GES Code of Conduct and the laws of Ghana. In the interim, the Service has urged all staff to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, prioritizing the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of every student. “Management cautions that the Service will not tolerate any conduct that compromises the safety and wellbeing of students,” the statement stressed, assuring parents, guardians, and the public that the matter is being treated with the utmost seriousness. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Announces Construction of 30 New E-Blocks to Boost Secondary Education
During a stop in the Paga Constituency of the Upper East Region as part of his Resetting Agenda programme, President John Dramani Mahama unveiled a bold new plan to expand access to secondary education across Ghana. Addressing a gathering of community leaders and residents, President Mahama announced his government’s commitment to construct 30 brand new E-blocks, modern secondary school facilities, across the country. “We’re going to build another 30 new E-blocks from scratch,” President Mahama declared. “While we work to complete the previously abandoned projects, these 30 new schools will be entirely new additions.” He explained that many of the new E-blocks will be located in high population density areas, particularly in major cities, so that they serve as community-based schools. “This means children will be able to walk from home to secondary school,” he said, emphasizing the convenience and accessibility the new schools would offer urban families. President Mahama also noted that, while many E-blocks started during his previous term were situated in rural districts, the latest phase would focus on addressing the growing needs of urban communities. The initiative is expected to significantly boost enrollment and ease congestion at existing schools, offering more students the opportunity to pursue quality secondary education within their own neighborhoods. However, President Mahama commissioned the newly completed E-block in Paga Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Paga Pio Appeals to President Mahama for Key Infrastructure and Security Upgrades- Says They Are living in Fear
During President John Dramani Mahama’s Resetting Agenda visit to the Paga Constituency, the Paga Pio seized the opportunity to present a series of heartfelt appeals aimed at addressing pressing needs in the area. At the top of the list was the completion of the Agenda 111 district hospital project, which the Paga Pio described as “dear to our hearts.” He passionately urged both the President and the Minister of Health to prioritize the hospital’s completion for the benefit of Paga and the surrounding communities. Turning his attention to transport and safety, the Paga Pio highlighted the challenges posed by the limited space at the Custom Park on the Paga border. The current facility struggles to accommodate the heavy trucks, many carrying petroleum products or explosives bound for Burkina Faso and Mali, that cross the border daily. To temporarily ease congestion, he revealed that some trucks had been diverted to nearby filling stations during the President’s visit. However, he called for a permanent solution: expanding the Custom Park, ideally doubling its size, to better handle the influx and keep the highway clear for local commuters. The Paga Pio also appealed for the construction of a critical bridge linking major towns in the district, noting that the absence of a bridge has, for over five years, made travel impossible during the rainy season. Further, he requested that the Burkina Faso township be connected to the Ghana Water Company Limited network to ensure a constant and reliable water supply, as is enjoyed by other towns. Recognizing rising security concerns in the border region, the Paga Pio called for an increased presence of security agencies, including police, army, and customs officers, and the establishment of more offices and facilities to support them. He emphasized the importance of these measures in light of the volatility in neighboring countries and the risks associated with cross-border activities. The Paga Pio’s appeals reflect the community’s urgent needs for infrastructure, water, and security, and he expressed hope that President Mahama’s ongoing Resetting Agenda would bring meaningful change to the region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Upper East Region Schools to Receive Major Upgrades Under STAR-J Programme
Excitement is building across the Upper East Region as Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has announced a sweeping package of improvements for local secondary schools under the government’s STAR-J infrastructure programme. The initiative, worth 2.8 billion Ghana cedis, is set to transform the educational landscape of the region between now and December 2027. The announcement came in Paga during President John Dramani Mahama’s Resetting Agenda tour, coinciding with the commissioning of a new E-Block facility, a symbol of the government’s ongoing investment in education. Among the schools selected for major upgrades are Bolgatanga Central Technical Institute, Gambibgo Community Day Senior High School, Binduri Community SHS, and Garu Community Day SHS. These schools will benefit from new facilities and upgraded science laboratories, giving students better learning environments and expanded academic opportunities. Minister Iddrisu also emphasized the importance of inclusive infrastructure, making a special appeal for the construction of boarding facilities at Paga Senior High School. He stressed that ensuring adequate accommodation for both boys and girls is crucial to making sure no student is left behind in the region’s educational progress. The STAR-J programme is poised to usher in a new era for secondary education in the Upper East, providing the resources and infrastructure needed to accommodate growing enrollments and meet the demands of modern academic standards. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Education Minister Unveils Major Infrastructure Boost During Presidential Visit
It was a day of optimism and anticipation in Paga as the Education Minister, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, delivered news set to transform the educational landscape of the Upper East Region during President John Dramani Mahama’s Resetting Agenda tour. Standing before an eager crowd, Minister Iddrisu framed the President’s return as a “democratic dividend,” bringing long-awaited benefits to the people. He pointed to the commissioning of the previously abandoned e-block as a symbol of renewed commitment to educational access. “To deny these young people their required infrastructure is to deny them opportunity,” he said, noting the dramatic increase in secondary school enrollments, from 1,800 students to as many as 4,000 in some schools, since 2018. In a landmark announcement, the Minister revealed that, starting next academic year in September, Berger Senior High School would be upgraded to a fully-fledged institution, equipped to serve both local and national needs. This transformation, he explained, is part of President Mahama’s broader STAR-J program, a comprehensive, well-funded initiative aimed at expanding access to secondary education nationwide. Between now and December 2027, the STAR-J program will inject 2.8 billion Ghana cedis into secondary school infrastructure. Schools across the Upper East Region, including Bolgatanga Central Technical Institute, Gambibgo Community Day SHS, Binduri Community SHS, and Garu Community Day SHS, are set to benefit, either through new facilities or upgraded science laboratories. Iddrisu also appealed for the construction of boarding facilities for boys and girls at Paga Senior High School, ensuring no student is left behind. The Minister highlighted President Mahama’s track record of building strong institutions, referencing the establishment of the Scholarship Authority, which will now work alongside the GETFund to administer scholarships with greater transparency and accountability. Medical education was also in focus, with plans to expand university access and demystify the path to becoming a doctor. On the perennial issue of student feeding, Iddrisu assured the gathering that uncapped GETFund resources would ensure seamless food supply, eliminating disruptions to the academic calendar and ending the practice of using classrooms as storage spaces. Looking ahead, the Minister confirmed that President Mahama had directed his economic team to finalize the funding modalities for a new GETFund, with a bill to be presented before Parliament in January 2027. “President John Dramani Mahama’s leadership is about building viable institutions and responding to the real needs of Ghana’s youth,” Iddrisu concluded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen