A Forensic Audit Uncovers $19.37 Million in Irregular Proceeds at Ghana’s Embassy in Washington D.C.
A forensic audit by the Auditor-General has uncovered a startling $19.37 million in irregular proceeds from visa and passport-related charges at Ghana’s Embassy in Washington D.C. between 2019 and 2025. The audit, which spanned several years, revealed a sophisticated scheme where applicants seeking passports or visas were redirected from the embassy’s official website to privately controlled external platforms. These platforms, disguised with official symbols and presentation styles, led many to believe they were dealing with government-authorised services. Instead, applicants found themselves paying hefty additional fees for processing and for the return of their documents. One of the most striking discoveries centered on mailing charges. Applicants were forced to pay $29.75 for return mailing, even though the average actual postage cost was only about $10.10. Over the review period, applicants paid a total of $6.95 million in mailing and dispatch fees. After deducting the true postage cost of $2.36 million, the auditors found an excess of approximately $4.59 million—money that found its way into unauthorized hands. But the irregularities didn’t end there. The audit found that applicants were also billed $67 for passport application support services and $76.78 for visa application assistance—charges that were never officially sanctioned by the government. Using data from the embassy’s Electronic Consular Information Management System (eCIMS) and AppTrack, investigators traced $21.34 million in transactions linked to these activities. After accounting for legitimate costs, about $19.37 million remained classified as irregular proceeds. The investigation uncovered that the external platforms, including TravelGhana.Net and GhanaPV.org, were linked to the embassy’s own Information Technology Officer, Fred Kwarteng, and associated entities. These sites were connected to the embassy’s official systems, with applicants unknowingly redirected to make payments through them. The ramifications of these irregularities extended beyond financial loss. The audit documented significant delays in the delivery of passports and visas. Between June and August 2025 alone, the embassy faced a backlog of 12,721 applications, even though applicants had already paid for mailing services. Of these, only 4,507 applications were mailed; the remaining 8,214 were either collected personally or not delivered at all. The embassy later spent about $45,000 to post letters and address part of the backlog. The report also scrutinized the actions of senior officials, such as former Ambassador Alima Mahama, who served from 2021 to 2024. According to the audit, Mrs Mahama signed a contract to formalize the outsourcing of passport and visa dispatch services to Travel Ghana/Secure Data Center, a decision that played a pivotal role in the unfolding events. Ultimately, the Auditor-General attributed the irregularities to weak internal controls, lack of oversight, manipulation of the embassy website, and the use of unauthorized external platforms. The report recommended that all irregular monies be recovered from the key actors involved, and that the implicated officers face sanctions under the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038). Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Kenneth Gilbert Adjei Returns as Defence Minister in Mahama’s Cabinet Reshuffle
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Kenneth Gilbert Adjei as Minister for Defence, marking a homecoming to a portfolio with which he is already well acquainted. Mr Adjei is set to take over from the late Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, whose untimely death in a military helicopter crash on August 6, 2025, left the ministry without a substantive head for nearly a year. Mr Adjei’s nomination signals both continuity and a return to familiar territory. He previously served as Deputy Minister for Defence between 2015 and 2016, gaining hands-on experience in Ghana’s defence administration during a period marked by heightened regional security challenges. His understanding of military operations and policy development was further deepened during this time, preparing him for the top job. In the interim, the Defence Ministry was overseen by Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, who managed its affairs in an acting capacity while the government sought a permanent replacement. Mr Adjei’s appointment, if confirmed by Parliament, will end this period of transition and restore full leadership to the ministry. Mr Adjei is not new to government leadership. Before his latest reassignment, he held the position of Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, where he steered major projects in housing delivery, water management, and public infrastructure since February 2025. His academic credentials also align closely with his new role. Mr Adjei holds a Master of Arts degree in Peace, Security and Intelligence Management from the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), where he graduated top of his class in 2022. The programme equipped him with vital skills in security strategy, intelligence coordination, conflict management, and policy development — all critical to the responsibilities of a Defence Minister. In addition, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from GIMPA and an Executive MBA from the University of Ghana. Mr Adjei’s return to the Defence Ministry comes at a time when Ghana faces ongoing regional security issues and a need to strengthen the capacity of the Ghana Armed Forces. His blend of institutional memory, hands-on experience, and specialist knowledge positions him to provide steady leadership as the country navigates complex security dynamics. The nomination also brings closure to the search for a substantive Minister after Dr Omane Boamah’s tragic passing, which claimed the lives of eight people on official duty. Dr Omane Boamah was not only a close ally of President Mahama but also a pivotal figure in the government, making the transition particularly significant. With Parliament’s approval, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei is expected to bring a balance of continuity and renewed expertise to the Defence Ministry, steering it through both challenges and opportunities ahead. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Chairman Wontumi Seeks Bail Pending Appeal After Illegal Mining Conviction
Lawyers representing Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi and the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), have taken a significant legal step in his ongoing battle for freedom. In a dramatic turn of events, his legal team, Zoe, Akyea & Co., has filed an application at the High Court, requesting bail for Chairman Wontumi as he mounts an appeal against his 20-year prison sentence for illegal mining. Currently, Chairman Wontumi is serving his sentence at the Nsawam Medium Security Prison, following his conviction for illegal mining activities at Samreboi. The case has captured national attention, becoming a landmark in Ghana’s fight against galamsey (illegal mining). According to the motion submitted to the High Court, Wontumi’s lawyers are urging the court to grant him temporary release from custody while the Court of Appeal reviews both his conviction and sentence. The legal team’s argument, detailed in an accompanying affidavit, asserts that their client should be admitted to bail during the appellate process. They have further asked the court to make any additional orders it deems appropriate given the circumstances. This latest court filing represents another determined effort by the defense to secure Chairman Wontumi’s release, at least temporarily, as the legal process continues. Should the High Court rule in his favor, Wontumi would be granted bail and regain his freedom until the final decision on his appeal is delivered. The High Court’s impending decision will hinge on whether Chairman Wontumi meets the legal threshold for bail pending appeal, a matter being closely watched by the public and political observers alike. His 20-year sentence and conviction for illegal mining have sparked widespread debate, solidifying the case as one of the most significant prosecutions in Ghana’s ongoing battle against galamsey. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Johnson Ayine: A Voice Demanding Development for Upper East
Johnson Ayine, an outspoken contender for the Communications Director position of the Upper East branch of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has become a prominent advocate for development in the region. His unfiltered criticism and bold advocacy have resonated with many residents who feel let down by the slow pace of progress. Ayine, drawing from his experience as the former Regional Deputy Communication Director, has openly challenged the Upper East Regional Minister. He insists that, with his extensive network and political influence, the Minister has no excuse for failing to secure the region’s fair share of national development. “With his links, you have bargaining power. Your bargaining power is 15 MPs, 100% score. So, you have also given me the development. We are not seeing it,” Ayine declared, underlining his frustration. The aspiring Communications Director’s criticism extends to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Members of Parliament. According to Ayine, the people’s faith in the NDC’s “Agenda 15-15” has not been rewarded. “They campaigned on Agenda 15-15 and delivered it well. Now, compare the votes that they had to what we are receiving as a result of it. It’s nothing to write home about,” he said, reflecting the widespread disappointment across the region. Ayine pointed to specific examples of unfulfilled promises, such as the stalled regional airport project. He recalled a particularly disappointing moment when the Buffer Stock Regional boss announced that President John Dramani Mahama would soon inaugurate the airport, a promise that remains unfulfilled to this day. But Ayine’s concerns go beyond unfinished projects. He accused some politicians of sidelining key community leaders, including Gabriel Agambila and Alagumgube, from the Airport project. This, he argued, has led to the hijacking and mismanagement of development efforts. He also challenged seasoned political figures, like Donatus Akamugri, to use their influence more effectively. “Every government comes in this Akamugri’s life. So, you mean the man is not actually living up to his expectations? He should make good use of his network,” Ayine remarked. Despite the Upper East Region being home to parliamentary heavyweights such as the Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and Isaac Adongo, the Chairman of the Finance Committee, Ayine lamented the region’s continued lack of major development projects. “How can you have a Majority Leader from the Upper East, the Chairman of the Finance Committee from the Upper East, and still not get your share of major projects?” he questioned. Ayine’s message is clear: the people of the Upper East Region deserve better. He called for urgent, effective leadership and strong advocacy to secure the region’s rightful share of national development, especially in crucial sectors like roads, agriculture, and infrastructure. His words serve both as a warning to current leaders and a rallying cry for citizens to demand more from those in power. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The New Patriotic Party (NPP): A History and Leadership Directory (1992 to Present) – Alhaji Dr Hafiz Bin Salih
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is a major centre-right political party in Ghana, established on 28 July 1992 during the national transition to multi-party constitutional governance under the Fourth Republic. Rooted in the historic Danquah-Dombo-Busia tradition—named in honour of founding figures Dr J. B. Danquah, Chief S. D. Dombo, and Dr K. A. Busia—the party advocates liberal conservatism, a property-owning democracy, free-market economics, and individual freedom. With the elephant as its symbol and red, white, and blue as its colours, the NPP operates under the motto “Development in Freedom”. Alongside the National Democratic Congress (NDC), it forms one of the two primary forces in Ghanaian politics. The party contested its first presidential election in 1992 under Professor Albert Adu Boahen, subsequently achieving national executive governance under Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor (2001–2009) and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo (2017–2025). The party’s administrative leadership is anchored by its National Chairman and supported by the General Secretary. Over the years, the party has elected capable individuals to these key positions. National Chairmen 1. B. J. da Rocha (1992–1995): Inaugural National Chairman 2. Peter Ala Adjetey (1995–1998) 3. Samuel Odoi-Sykes (1998–2001): Led the party through the 2000 election victory 4. Harona Esseku (2001–2005) 5. Peter Mac Manu (2005–2010) 6. Jake Otanka Obetsebi-Lamptey (2010–2014) 7. Paul Afoko (2014–2015): Suspended by the party’s National Executive Committee in October 2015 8. Freddie Blay (2015–2022): Served in an acting capacity from October 2015; elected substantively in July 2018 9. Stephen Ntim (2022–present): Elected at the National Delegates Conference in July 2022 General Secretaries 1. Joseph Agyenim Boateng (1992–1998): Inaugural General Secretary 2. Dan Botwe (1998–2005) 3. Nana Ohene Ntow (2005–2010) 4. Kwadwo Owusu Afriyie (Sir John) (2010–2014) 5. Kwabena Agyapong (2014–2015): Suspended by the party’s National Executive Committee in December 2015 6. John Boadu (2015–2022): Served in an acting capacity from December 2015; elected substantively in July 2018 7. Justin Frimpong Kodua (JFK) (2022–present): Elected at the National Delegates Conference in July 2022 Hafiz Bin Salih (PhD) Member of the National Council of NPP Former Upper West Regional Minister Former Upper West Regional 1st Vice Chairman Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Supreme Court Ruling: Opening Party Primaries Won’t End Money Politics, But Will Curb Electoral Corruption
In a landmark decision, Ghana’s Supreme Court has ruled that although opening political party primaries to all registered members will not abolish money politics, it will make electoral corruption significantly more difficult. This pivotal stance was set out in the judgment of Prof. Frimpong-Boateng & 2 Others v NPP & 4 Others, in which a seven-member panel, by a 5–2 majority, declared the delegates system used by political parties to elect their presidential and parliamentary candidates unconstitutional. The panel, comprising Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Justice Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu, Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, Justice Senyo Dzamefe, Justice Ernest Yao Gaewu, and Justice George Kingsley Koomson, emphasized that while corruption may not be eradicated overnight, broadening participation is an essential step toward strengthening Ghana’s democracy. An excerpt of the judgment, shared on Facebook by Deputy Attorney General Justice Srem-Sai, addressed concerns that expanding participation would not automatically wipe out vote-buying. Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie candidly stated that the Court was under no illusion that such corruption would simply vanish. “True, opening party primaries to every party member is no guarantee that money politics will disappear. Corruption is remarkably adaptable. It often changes its form rather than vanish altogether. Yet constitutional adjudication rarely offers perfect solutions. The Court is often required to choose the course that best promotes constitutional values in imperfect circumstances,” he noted. Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie explained that the delegates system, by concentrating power in the hands of a select few, made targeted inducements easier and more attractive to those seeking to influence outcomes. “Concentrating decisive electoral power in a relatively small body of delegates inevitably increases the value of each delegate’s vote. It creates a smaller market, a more identifiable electorate and, therefore, a more attractive environment for targeted inducements. A broader electorate may increase campaign costs, but it also disperses political power among thousands of ordinary members, making it considerably more difficult for electoral outcomes to be shaped by a relatively small number of transactions,” he explained. For the Supreme Court, the critical question was not whether the new system would entirely eliminate corruption, but whether it would better advance the democratic values enshrined in Ghana’s Constitution. Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie concluded that the nation’s constitutional democracy requires political parties to adopt a broader, more inclusive model for internal elections. “For that reason, this Court may legitimately conclude that, at this stage of Ghana’s democratic development, fidelity to the Constitution requires political parties to embrace the model of democracy that the Constitution itself consistently prefers for the purpose of constituting political authority.” With this judgment, the Supreme Court has mandated political parties to abandon the delegates system in favour of broader participation by their members in the selection of party executives and candidates, a move seen as a milestone in Ghana’s evolving democratic journey. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NPP Upper East Communication Director Aspirant Johnson Ayine Pledges Strong, Transparent Relationship with the Media
Johnson Ayine, an aspirant for Upper East Regional Communication Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has outlined his vision for a collaborative and transparent relationship with the media if given the opportunity to serve as Communication Director. Reflecting on his over two decades in the media, Ayine credited the industry for shaping his career and connections. “The media has played a pivotal role in getting me to where I am today. I’ve always said, if media professionals were the delegates for this election, no one would contest me, my rapport with journalists across the region is that strong,” he stated. Ayine emphasized that, for any communicator, the media should be an ally, not an adversary. “You need the media on your side. As a communicator, your reach is limited without them. I’ve never had issues with any journalist, host, or hostess in this region,” he said, adding that his approach is to work with all, regardless of the platform or interviewer. He proposed a fair and inclusive system for media engagement at party events. “If there are 50 journalists in the region and you can only accommodate 10 at an event, rotate them. The next program, invite a different set, so everyone feels included and all have the opportunity to report on party activities,” Ayine explained. This, he believes, will ensure wider coverage and strengthen the party’s relationship with the media. Ayine made this commitment in response to the numerous challenges and disappointments the media have experienced due to selective and tribalistic behavior by some party communicators. He also acknowledged the challenges journalists face, particularly inadequate compensation and welfare support. “The media fights for the rights of all, yet their own welfare is often neglected. We need to address this by making provisions for journalists at our events, ensuring they are comfortable, have refreshments, and are able to do their work effectively,” he said. He pledged to work closely with the leadership of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in the region, designating liaison persons to facilitate smooth communication and avoid misunderstandings. “Transparency will be key. I want to maintain the strong reputation I’ve built with the media. By working directly with media representatives, we can plan better and avoid leaving anyone out,” he noted. Ayine also highlighted the importance of proactive communication and mutual respect. “Sometimes, when sensitive or potentially damaging information is shared, I reach out to editors and producers to clarify or request restraint. This is the kind of professional relationship I want to maintain, one built on trust, openness, and shared goals.” He cautioned against favoritism and exclusion, warning that repeatedly inviting the same journalists while ignoring others could breed resentment and negative coverage. “Every media house should feel valued and engaged. That way, when we have good news, they’ll help amplify it, and when challenges arise, we can address them together.” In conclusion, Ayine affirmed his belief that leveraging the goodwill and professionalism of the media in the Upper East Region will be crucial in shaping public opinion and advancing the NPP’s communication goals. “With a transparent, respectful, and inclusive approach, we can use the power of the media to change minds and move the party forward.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NPP Upper East Communication Director Aspirant Johnson Ayine Unveils Vision for Stronger, United Party Messaging
Johnson Ayine, an aspirant for Upper East Regional Communication Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has laid out a bold vision to overhaul the party’s communication strategy, promote unity, and expand its appeal at both grassroots and regional levels. With over twenty years of experience in communication, known for his fact-based, data-driven approach, Ayine has pledged to address existing weaknesses and foster transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in the NPP’s outreach. “I know there are weaknesses we need to address to strengthen NPP communication. My aim is to do things differently and better,” he said in an interview. Ayine emphasized that effective political communication is crucial for shaping public opinion and influencing voter behavior. “If we want to win more constituencies and secure more votes for the NPP, we must equip every party executive and supporter with basic communication skills. This way, they can confidently represent the party in any setting, whether on radio, in the market, or on their farms.” He plans to introduce regular training for party members, ensuring everyone can clearly communicate NPP policies and respond to criticism. “Our communicators should be able to debate and win arguments wherever they are, helping people understand the party’s pro-poor policies and achievements.” Ayine also stressed the importance of unity, selflessness, forgiveness, and teamwork within the party, noting that unity is critical for public trust and electoral success. “When people see that party members are united, supportive, and ready to solve problems together, they are more likely to support us,” he said. To ensure transparency and accountability, Ayine will establish a welfare committee with a dedicated bank account for communication resources. “All contributions and expenditures will be recorded and acknowledged, so supporters know exactly how their resources are used. This will encourage more people to support the party financially.” He also intends to set up a research and archives committee to monitor promises made by both the NPP and their opponents, especially the NDC. “We must hold the NDC accountable for their promises and highlight the unfulfilled ones, just as they have done to us in the past by tagging our then Vice President Dr. Bawumia as “Bawuliar”. This committee will gather facts to support our arguments and strengthen our public messaging.” A monitoring and publicity committee will also be introduced to track media appearances and ensure the most suitable spokespersons address relevant issues. “We’ll monitor all media, match communicators to topics they are best suited for, and ensure we have the right people addressing the right issues to avoid missteps.” Ayine proposes an annual ‘Communicators Day’ to acknowledge and reward outstanding communicators, fostering motivation and healthy competition within the team. He also outlined plans for outreach days, where party communicators, executives, and candidates will visit communities, engage with voters, and conduct house-to-house campaigns. “Direct engagement helps us understand voters’ problems firsthand and tailor our messages to resonate with them.” He stressed the importance of localizing communication and making party messages relevant to the daily lives of constituents. “People want to hear how national policies affect their daily lives. Our communicators must be able to link party achievements to the concerns of the people.” Johnson Ayine’s vision centers on training, transparency, research-backed messaging, strategic media engagement, recognition of top communicators, and grassroots outreach. By implementing these strategies, he believes the NPP can build a more effective, united, and responsive communication network to win the hearts and minds of voters across the Upper East region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NPP Secures Police Approval for Mammoth Protest Following Court Ruling
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has received the green light from the Greater Accra Regional Police Command to hold a massive demonstration on Thursday, August 6. The move comes in the wake of the Court of Appeal’s decision to acquit and discharge the former Chief Executive Officer of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu, overturning her conviction and 10-year prison sentence handed down by the High Court. After securing police approval, the NPP’s National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, addressed the media and detailed the demonstration route. “We intend to stage this demonstration to press home our demand that democracy must be protected. On Thursday, August 6, at 5 AM, we will assemble in front of the Supreme Court before proceeding to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and then to the Jubilee House. We will also present a petition to Parliament through a designated representative,” Nana B announced. According to Nana B, the planned protest aims to draw attention to what the party sees as a subversion of justice, suppression of free speech, and the erosion of Ghana’s democracy. He explained, “On Friday, July 31, we submitted our notice to stage a mammoth demonstration over what we describe as selective justice, interference with the judiciary, and the repressive bail conditions imposed on members of the opposition.” Nana B further asserted, “Today, democracy is under attack. We are witnessing the suppression of free speech and the criminalisation of free expression. Our democracy is dying, and this is not what President Mahama promised.” The NPP’s upcoming demonstration is set to be a significant event, highlighting the party’s concerns about the current state of governance and judicial independence in Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Parliament Passes Ghana Cocoa Board Bill, Guaranteeing Farmers 70% of Export Price and Major Sector Reforms
Parliament has passed the Ghana Cocoa Board Bill, 2026, paving the way for significant reforms in Ghana’s cocoa sector and offering new guarantees for cocoa farmers. The landmark legislation, approved on Thursday, July 30, ensures that cocoa farmers will receive not less than 70 percent of the Free on Board (FOB) export price set by the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD). Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem, presenting the objectives of the Bill, explained that the new law establishes COCOBOD as the statutory body responsible for regulating, overseeing, and monitoring activities across the entire cocoa value chain. The legislation mandates COCOBOD to support cocoa cultivation, manage the buying, selling, and export of cocoa, and promote value addition within the sector. Ampem noted that the Bill provides a clear legal framework for the Producer Price Review Committee and associated technical structures, strengthening the process for determining producer prices. It also addresses longstanding compliance and enforcement challenges by granting statutory backing to regulatory functions that were previously guided by administrative directives. These include disinfestation procedures, quality inspections, service charges, cocoa take-over processes, and certification requirements, all of which will now have stronger legal enforceability. The legislation seeks to resolve governance and oversight inconsistencies that have seen COCOBOD shift between different supervising ministries over the years. The Bill formally places COCOBOD under the Ministry of Finance, giving legal effect to a 2025 government policy directive transferring oversight from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture. Additionally, the Bill aims to create an enabling environment for public-private partnerships and increased local value addition. It encourages collaboration with domestic and international partners, such as the European Union, the World Cocoa Foundation, and the Côte d’Ivoire-Ghana Cocoa Initiative. Regulatory flexibility is also introduced to support small-scale chocolatiers and cocoa by-product manufacturers, addressing barriers that have previously constrained domestic processing and innovation. The Ghana Cocoa Board Bill, 2026, is expected to strengthen the sector’s legal framework, ensure better returns for farmers, and drive innovation and growth in the cocoa industry. Source: Apexnewsgh.com