Energy Minister-Designate John Jinapor Vows to Address Malfunctioning Smart Meters Crisis
Ghana’s Energy Minister-designate, John Abdulai Jinapor, has revealed that nearly three million smart prepaid meters across the country are malfunctioning, creating significant challenges for electricity consumers. Apexnewsgh reports This shocking disclosure was made during his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on January 13, 2025. According to Jinapor, at least 2.9 million meters require immediate replacement to address the current demand in the market. He expressed concerns over the limited availability of meters, noting the frustrations faced by customers due to delays and difficulties in acquiring replacements. To address this issue, Jinapor underscored the need for a structured approach to improve supply and ensure customers have access to functional meters. He pledged to tackle the issue head-on if approved as Energy Minister, exploring innovative solutions such as selling meters directly to consumers. Jinapor’s commitment to addressing the malfunctioning smart meters crisis has been welcomed by stakeholders, including Nana Amoasi VII, Executive Director of the Institute for Energy Security, who has praised Jinapor’s youthful energy and charisma as assets in driving solutions for the energy sector. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Attorney General-Designate Dr. Dominic Ayine Defends Constitutionality of “Operation Recover All Loot” Team
Dr. Dominic Ayine, the Attorney General and Justice Minister-Designate, has robustly defended the constitutionality of the government’s “Operation Recover All Loot” (ORAL) team. Apexnewsgh reports During his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, January 13, 2025, Dr. Ayine dismissed concerns about the legal basis of the ORAL team, which was established on December 18, 2024, and is chaired by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. Dr. Ayine acknowledged that ORAL is not a traditional legal body but asserted that its operations align with the values and principles of Ghana’s Constitution. He emphasized the preamble of the 1992 Constitution as the foundational basis for the team’s mandate, highlighting the importance of accountability as a fundamental value. The ORAL team is designed to ensure accountability by targeting politically exposed persons who have misused public office to amass wealth through illegal means. According to Dr. Ayine, the team’s mandate is to recover stolen property, funds, and other intangible resources for the benefit of the state. Dr. Ayine clarified that the non-legal nature of the ORAL team does not equate to illegality. “The fact that it is a non-legal body doesn’t mean it is illegal,” he said, adding that the team operates within a framework that respects the rule of law and upholds the rights of individuals under investigation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Attorney General-Designate Dr. Dominic Ayine Vows to Safeguard Ghana’s Interests
Dr. Dominic Ayine, Attorney General and Minister of Justice-designate, has pledged to protect Ghana’s interests in all international contracts and legal transactions. Apexnewsgh reports During his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, January 13, 2025, Dr. Ayine emphasized his commitment to implementing robust measures to prevent potential losses in such dealings. With his extensive experience in international arbitration, Dr. Ayine assured the panel of his capability to handle complex cases effectively. “I’m quite familiar with the London Court of International Arbitration, having appeared before the tribunal several times,” he said. “I will ensure that the public’s interest is not compromised”. Dr. Ayine also defended the previous National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration’s track record, stating that there were no questionable incidents of judgment debts during its tenure. As a seasoned lawyer and politician, Dr. Ayine’s commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s interests is a welcome development. His impressive background, including his experience as Deputy Attorney General and his work with international law firms, makes him well-suited to handle the challenges of his new role. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Attorney General-Designate Dr. Dominic Ayine Pledges to Protect Citizens’ Rights with Revamped Public Tribunal System
In a move aimed at decentralizing justice delivery across Ghana’s regions, Attorney General and Minister of Justice-designate, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has vowed to reintroduce a revamped public tribunal system. Apexnewsgh reports This promise is in line with the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) 2024 manifesto, which included the reintroduction of public tribunals. Addressing concerns about past abuses associated with public tribunals, Dr. Ayine assured the Appointments Committee of Parliament that such violations would not occur under his leadership. He proposed drafting and passing a Public Tribunal Court Act to regulate the system, prevent potential misuse, and ensure the tribunals uphold fairness and justice standards. Dr. Ayine emphasized the need for a comprehensive Act that would contain restrictions on the conduct of tribunal affairs. He also pledged to realign Ghana with the principles of the 1992 Constitution, a move that would promote citizens’ rights and the rule of law. As a seasoned lawyer and politician, Dr. Ayine brings a wealth of experience to the role. His commitment to protecting citizens’ rights and promoting justice is a welcome development in Ghana’s quest for a fair and equitable society. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Former UK Ambassador to Ghana Jon Benjamin Condemns Akufo-Addo Statue
In a recent tweet, former UK Ambassador to Ghana Jon Benjamin expressed his disapproval over the erection of a statue honoring former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Apexnewsgh reports Benjamin emphasized that putting up monuments in one’s honor during their lifetime or tenure in office is simply wrong. The statue, unveiled in November 2024 in front of Effia Nkwanta Hospital in Sekondi, was part of Akufo-Addo’s “Thank-You Tour” of the Western Region. However, its unveiling sparked public criticism, with many residents questioning the former President’s contributions to the region. The situation took a turn when the statue was vandalized, allegedly by supporters of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), on January 13, 2025. The NDC has since denied any involvement or endorsement of the vandalism, stating that such actions do not align with their principles. Benjamin’s comment has ignited a broader debate on the appropriateness of self-honouring gestures, especially within the political sphere. His statement, “Nobody should ever put up a statue of themselves while still alive, let alone while still in office,” highlights the importance of humility and restraint in politics. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Finance Minister-Designate Dr. Ato Forson Pledges to Stabilize Cedi
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Ghana’s Finance Minister-designate, has vowed to stabilize the cedi through effective coordination with the Bank of Ghana. Apexnewsgh reports He emphasized the need for a joint effort to anchor the currency, acknowledging the significant impact of depreciation on Ghana’s debt. “As long as we borrow in foreign currencies, any depreciation of the cedi will directly impact our debt figures,” Dr. Forson explained. To address this, he pledged to work closely with the central bank to stabilize the currency and prevent unnecessary economic shocks. Dr. Forson also criticized the previous government’s approach to debt reporting, highlighting the need for an independent Debt Management Office to ensure transparency and avoid future inconsistencies. Additionally, he expressed his commitment to maintaining and enhancing the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which was originally introduced by the Akufo-Addo administration. “My party’s position on Free SHS has been well articulated by President John Dramani Mahama,” Dr. Forson said. “We do not intend to cancel the Free SHS. President Mahama has said the Free SHS has come to stay.” With Dr. Forson at the helm of the Finance Ministry, Ghanaians can expect a renewed focus on economic stability and growth. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Meets with National House of Chiefs to Address Chieftaincy Disputes
President John Dramani Mahama recently met with the steering committee of the National House of Chiefs to discuss pressing issues affecting traditional governance in Ghana. Apexnewsgh reports The meeting highlighted the need for constitutional reforms, strengthened traditional governance structures, and improved collaboration between the government and traditional authorities. President Mahama acknowledged the significant role of chiefs in maintaining peace and order in their communities but noted that chieftaincy disputes have become a major security concern. “The issue of chieftaincy disputes has become a major issue,” he said, emphasizing the need for solutions to prevent disputes from escalating into security crises. The President pointed out that the 1992 Constitution intentionally left chieftaincy matters to the chiefs themselves to prevent government interference. However, he acknowledged that the government has a role to play in ensuring law and order during chieftaincy disputes. Mamponghene Daasebre Osei Bonsu, a member of the National House of Chiefs, expressed concerns about the structural changes to the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs and the need to clarify the constitutional standing of chiefs. The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between the government and traditional authorities in addressing the challenges facing traditional governance in Ghana. By working together, they can find solutions to prevent chieftaincy disputes from escalating into security crises and promote peace and stability in Ghanaian communities. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Breaking News: Special Prosecutor to Investigate Electoral Misconduct in 2024 General Elections
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has announced plans to investigate and prosecute individuals who engaged in unlawful activities during the 2024 general elections. Apexnewsgh reports This decision comes after the OSP received numerous petitions from members of the public and candidates alleging various forms of electoral misconduct. According to the OSP’s mid-year report for 2024, the office has been investigating cases of vote-buying and vote-selling, ranging from internal party contests to the general elections. The report also stated that the OSP has received several petitions alleging corruption, intimidation, impersonation, and falsification of election results. The 2024 general elections were marred by disturbances in several constituencies, including incidents of violence and intimidation involving party agents from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP). These disturbances led to disruptions in the electoral process, resulting in delays in the Electoral Commission’s ability to declare parliamentary results in some areas. Tragically, three individuals lost their lives during these disturbances. Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng emphasized the importance of these investigations, stating that the OSP will engage stakeholders to strengthen its efforts in eradicating electoral corruption in Ghana. The OSP has the mandate to investigate and prosecute corruption and corruption-related offenses, including those committed by public officials, politically exposed persons, and private individuals. The OSP’s investigation and prosecution of electoral misconduct are crucial in promoting transparency, accountability, and fairness in Ghana’s electoral process. By holding perpetrators accountable, the OSP aims to prevent future occurrences of electoral corruption and ensure that the country’s democratic institutions remain intact. Reports below: Half_Yearly_Report__JUL_-_DEC__2024 Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Finance Minister-Designate Vows to Address Negative Impact of DDEP
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minister-Designate for Finance, has pledged to tackle the challenges posed by the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) on Ghana’s economy and its citizens. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking during his vetting session before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on January 13, 2025, Dr. Forson assured the public that his administration would take necessary measures to remedy the issues created by the debt restructuring programme. The DDEP, introduced to address Ghana’s mounting debt crisis, has had significant effects on the country’s financial sector and citizens. The programme restructured domestic bonds and debts, resulting in losses for creditors and a complex repayment schedule that has raised concerns about Ghana’s fiscal sustainability. Dr. Forson expressed his commitment to resolving these issues and ensuring Ghana remains on a path toward financial recovery and economic stability. He outlined the payments Ghana faces as part of the debt restructuring process, including repaying GH¢12.6 billion in 2025, GH¢15.7 billion in 2016, and GH¢53 billion in 2027. Dr. Forson emphasized that his administration would take decisive action to address the challenges posed by the DDEP. “We will do whatever it takes to clear the harms that have been created as a result of the domestic debt restructuring,” he stated. With his commitment to resolving the issues surrounding the DDEP, Dr. Forson aims to promote economic stability and growth in Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Inflation Will Return to Single Digit– Dr. Ato Forson
Ghana’s Finance Minister-designate, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has pledged to reduce the country’s inflation rate to single digits through robust fiscal measures. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking during his vetting on January 13, Dr. Forson outlined a series of proposals aimed at stabilizing the economy, including cutting unnecessary spending and reducing the country’s reliance on borrowing. Dr. Forson’s key priority is to bring inflation down to a target range of 8%. He believes that by introducing strong measures, particularly from the expenditure side, Ghana can achieve this goal and reopen the domestic bond market. This move would help the country move away from its over-reliance on the treasury bill market. To restore confidence in the economy, Dr. Forson promised to implement fiscal discipline. He emphasized the need to cut wasteful spending within the government, stating that it’s time to “cut the waste” and live within the country’s means. Dr. Forson’s proposals are aimed at promoting economic stability and growth. By reducing inflation and cutting unnecessary spending, Ghana can create a more favorable business environment and improve the lives of its citizens. With Dr. Forson at the helm of the Finance Ministry, Ghanaians can expect a renewed focus on fiscal discipline and economic stability. Source; Apexnewsgh.com