Upper East NDC Congratulates Hon. Dr. Dominic Ayine on Ministerial Nomination
The Upper East Regional Executive Committee of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) led by the Regional Chairman Alhaji Mumuni Bolnaba has congratulated Hon. Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine on his nomination as Minister-Designate for Attorney-General and Minister for Justice. Apexnewsgh reports This appointment is a testament to Ayine’s dedication, exceptional leadership, and outstanding contributions to the nation. As the Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga East, Ayine has demonstrated his commitment to justice and his expertise in the field. The NDC is confident that his vision and leadership will bring transformative progress to the justice sector. The Upper East Regional Executive Committee also expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for entrusting Ayine with this vital ministry. As Ayine embarks on this new journey, the committee has no doubt that he will champion reforms to strengthen the justice system and enhance its accessibility for all. The Upper East Region stands firmly behind Ayine, praying for God’s guidance, wisdom, and protection as he takes on this noble responsibility. The committee wishes him every success in this exciting new chapter. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Calm Restored in Ntotroso After Deadly Clash at Newmont Mining Site
A security breach at the Newmont mining site in Ntotroso on January 8, 2025, turned deadly when a group of individuals attempted to steal gold, leading to a confrontation with police. Apexnewsgh reports The clash resulted in the tragic deaths of three people and injuries to four others. According to the Ghana Police Service, police officers were forced to engage with the suspects to contain the situation. The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, swiftly intervened, working closely with the Regional Police team throughout the night to de-escalate tensions and prevent further violence or reprisal attacks. Thanks to these efforts, calm has been restored in Ntotroso. A special investigation team has been dispatched from Accra to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, while a reinforcement team has been deployed to the community to maintain peace and order. The police have confirmed that the three deceased individuals are Muslims, and necessary legal procedures are being followed to ensure the prompt and respectful release of their bodies to their families for burial later today, January 9, 2025. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Faces Daunting Task of Selecting 60 Ministers
President John Dramani Mahama has acknowledged the challenges of selecting a lean government of only 60 ministers. Apexnewsgh.com Speaking at the Presidential Dinner in Accra on January 8, Mahama expressed his concern about the overwhelming number of applicants vying for ministerial positions. “You wouldn’t want to be in my shoes when you’ve promised to appoint only 60 ministers, yet thousands of people are sending in their CVs,” he said. Despite the difficulties, Mahama reassured Ghanaians of his commitment to forming a capable team to address the country’s challenges. “I have hit the ground running,” he stated, highlighting his meetings with key partners to kick-start initiatives that will improve the lives of Ghanaians and tackle economic issues. Mahama emphasized that the success of his administration depends on collective effort, not just ministerial appointments. He urged his team to learn from the mistakes of the previous administration, which was punished by Ghanaians for its arrogance, incompetence, and failure to listen to their concerns. The president’s pledge to appoint only 60 ministers is a significant commitment, as he had previously stated that he would run the leanest but most efficient government under the fourth republic. with thousands of applicants vying for ministerial positions, Mahama’s task is daunting, but his commitment to forming a capable team is reassuring. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NDC Deputy General Secretary Accuses NPP Appointees of Witchcraft
Mustapha Foyo Gbande, Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), launched a blistering attack on the public officers and appointees of former President Akufo-Addo’s government. Gbande accused them of being unpatriotic and claimed they were “possessed with witchcraft” due to their actions, which he believed were designed to undermine the NDC government and create difficulties for Ghanaians. Gbande’s comments were sparked by the current energy sector crisis, which has left Ghana on the brink of a power crisis. A report from the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) revealed that nearly $90 million is urgently needed to avert this crisis. Gbande questioned why the previous government would deliberately leave behind such a mess, especially when it has direct implications for the well-being of Ghanaians. “The NPP government did not have Ghana at heart,” Gbande stated, his voice filled with passion. “The evil they have done to us… You will ask yourself if it’s indeed our brothers and sisters who have done this to us.” Gbande’s allegations are likely to ignite further political debates as Ghana navigates the challenges of transitioning power. With tensions running high, many will be watching closely to see how these allegations impact the political landscape. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
PTAAM-Africa Petitions President Mahama to Remove EC Leadership
A civil society organization, Positive Transparency and Accountability Movement-Africa (PTAAM-Africa), has taken a bold step by petitioning President John Dramani Mahama to remove the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Mrs. Jean Mensa, and her deputies from office. Apexnewsgh reports The petition, filed under Article 146 of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, outlines serious allegations of financial mismanagement, constitutional breaches, and misconduct that have compromised the credibility of Ghana’s electoral process. At the heart of the petition are concerns over the procurement of a new biometric voter device and the compilation of a new voter register before the 2020 general elections. PTAAM-Africa argues that these actions resulted in unnecessary financial losses, amounting to millions of taxpayer dollars. The organization believes that these resources could have been better utilized to address pressing national needs, especially since the existing voter register and devices were deemed functional. Furthermore, the petition accuses the EC leadership of exacerbating public distrust through their handling of the 2020 elections. The decision to conduct a voter registration exercise during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic put millions of lives at risk and disregarded advice from key stakeholders. Inconsistencies in the presidential election results and alleged political bias in appointments within the commission have also cast doubt on the integrity of the EC. PTAAM-Africa is urging swift action to restore public trust in the electoral process. The organization believes that removing Mrs. Jean Mensa and her deputies from office is a vital step towards ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections. This move is seen as essential in addressing the concerns of the Ghanaian people and upholding the principles of democracy. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Appoints Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson as Ghana’s Next Finance Minister
President John Dramani Mahama has named Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson as the country’s next Minister for Finance. This appointment is a critical part of Mahama’s newly released ministerial list, and it signals the government’s focus on implementing key fiscal reforms to drive growth and development. Apexnewsgh reports Dr. Forson is no stranger to the Finance Ministry, having previously served as Deputy Minister for Finance under Mahama’s administration from 2013 to 2017. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in managing Ghana’s fiscal policies, negotiating key financial agreements, and supervising economic initiatives aimed at strengthening the country’s financial health. With over 20 years of experience in the public and private sectors, Dr. Forson brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. He is an economist, chartered accountant, and tax practitioner with expertise in macroeconomics, fiscal policy, tax policy, and administration, finance, and business management. Dr. Forson’s impressive educational background includes a Ph.D. in Finance and a Master of Science degree in Economics from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. He also holds a Master of Science degree in Taxation from the University of Oxford, UK, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from London South Bank University. As a lawmaker, Dr. Forson has represented the people of Ajumako Enyan Essiam constituency in the Central Region since 2009. He has also served as the Minority Leader in Parliament and the Ranking Member of the Finance Committee of Parliament. Dr. Forson’s appointment as Finance Minister is a significant step towards achieving Ghana’s economic goals. His experience, expertise, and leadership skills make him an ideal candidate for the role. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Post-Election Violence Condemned by Minority Caucus
Ghana’s Minority Caucus in Parliament has strongly condemned the recent surge in violence allegedly perpetrated by supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) against New Patriotic Party (NPP) members and public officials. Apexnewsgh reports This condemnation comes after the 2024 Presidential elections, which have been marred by reports of intimidation and violence. At a press conference on Thursday morning, Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiah-Agyei expressed alarm over several incidents, including an attempt by NDC loyalists to seize control of the Tema Port and the forced closure of National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) offices in Koforidua. These acts, she said, pose a grave threat to Ghana’s democratic principles and the integrity of state institutions. Appiah-Agyei attributed the unrest in part to the creation of the Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) Committee, allegedly formed by President John Dramani Mahama. She criticized the committee as unconstitutional, claiming its existence has emboldened some NDC supporters to engage in lawlessness. The Minority Caucus is calling on President Mahama to take immediate action to halt the escalating violence, emphasizing that the safety of civil servants and the sanctity of democratic institutions are at stake. They also urged the country’s security agencies to enforce the law impartially and protect all public officials from intimidation or harm. In a plea for unity, Appiah-Agyei concluded, “We urge all Ghanaians to remain united in defending our democracy during these challenging times. It is imperative that we rise above political divisions and uphold the rule of law.” The Minority Caucus reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders to safeguard Ghana’s democracy and called for calm as the nation moves forward. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama appoints Forson and Ayine as Ministers -Designate
President John Dramani Mahama has announced his first set of ministerial appointments, naming three key individuals to drive his administration’s agenda. Apexnewsgh report The nominees, who have been submitted to Parliament for approval, are Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, John Abdulai Jinapor, and Dominic Akuritinga Ayine. Dr. Forson, a seasoned economist and chartered accountant, has been nominated as Minister for Finance Designate. With his extensive experience in public finance and macroeconomics, he is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the country’s economic policies. John Abdulai Jinapor, also known as JJ, has been nominated as Minister for Energy Designate. As an expert in energy economics, he is poised to transform Ghana’s energy sector. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, a senior lawyer with over three decades of experience, has been nominated as Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Designate. His extensive background in law makes him an ideal candidate to steer Ghana’s justice system towards greater efficiency and reform. These appointments mark the first steps in assembling President Mahama’s team, and Parliament is expected to scrutinize the nominees before their confirmation. The nominees’ expertise and experience will be crucial in driving the administration’s agenda for the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
CHECK THEM OUT: Talensi District DCEship Position Attracts 16 Applicants So Far
The governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) is set to appoint new Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) within the next two weeks. Apexnewsgh.com This announcement was made by Emmanuel Nii Ashie Moore, the Greater Accra Regional Chairman of the NDC. According to Ashie Moore, President John Dramani Mahama is committed to replacing all MMDCEs whose appointments were recently revoked as part of a broader restructuring effort to enhance local governance. In the Talensi District of the Upper East Region, over 15 individuals have expressed interest in the position of District Chief Executive (DCE). However, the people of Talensi District are calling on President Mahama to exercise caution in his selection. They urge him to investigate the candidates thoroughly, as some may have “skeletons in their cupboards”. The community is seeking a DCE who will prioritize the party’s interests over personal gain. They fear that a self-centered individual could tarnish the party’s reputation and harm its chances in the next election. With the appointment process underway, the people of Talensi District await President Mahama’s decision, hoping for a leader who will serve the community’s best interests. Per information collated so far by Apexnewsgh, below are interested applicants for the DCEship position in the Talensi District Vivian Yizukoli Hon. David N. Vulimeng Hon. Edward Azuah Akolog Charles Boarzor Hon. Goerge Adongo A Hon. John Millim Naabwomya Hon. Augustine Mmi-Oni Guure Prince Tindana Solomon T.T.B Nicholas Takuzee Daniel Palani Cetus Kolog Ngaaso Philip Yin Chief Nachinaab Peter Nayinbil Alice Azangbeo James Konzabre Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck Reach Divorce Settlement
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck have finalized their divorce settlement, roughly four months after Lopez filed to end their two-year marriage. According to court documents, neither party has requested spousal support. The settlement marks the end of their marriage, which began with a romantic Las Vegas elopement in 2022, followed by a grand wedding ceremony in Riceboro, Georgia. However, their relationship began to fray, and they eventually separated, putting their Beverly Hills home up for sale and canceling Lopez’s summer tour. Lopez and Affleck’s love story spans over two decades, dating back to their meeting on the set of the comedy film “Gigli” in 2002. After a whirlwind romance, they got engaged in November 2002 but postponed their wedding in 2003 due to excessive media attention. They eventually split in January 2004. The couple rekindled their romance in 2021, with Affleck expressing his gratitude for their reconnection. “My life now reflects not just the person that I want to be, but the person that I really feel like I am,” he told The Wall Street Journal in December 2021. Despite their divorce, Lopez and Affleck’s settlement agreement brings closure to their relationship, allowing them to move forward with their lives. Source: Apexnewsgh.com