President Mahama nominates new ministers– Read More
President John Dramani Mahama has announced a new wave of ministerial appointments, including nine cabinet positions and three regional ministers. Apexnewsgh reports This development comes as part of the government’s efforts to strengthen key sectors such as education, agriculture, and infrastructure development. Veteran parliamentarian Haruna Iddrisu has been appointed Minister of Education, while Kwame Governs Agbodza will lead the Ministry of Roads and Highways. These appointments reflect a careful balance of experienced politicians and technocrats, with several returning ministers bringing valuable institutional knowledge to their roles. Regional Ministerial Nominees: Wilbert Petty Brentum – Western North Region Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere – Central Region Joseph Nelson – Western Region Newly Nominated Ministers: Kwame Governs Agbodza, MP – Ministry of Roads and Highways Eric Opoku, MP – Ministry of Food and Agriculture Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, MP – Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection Abla Dzifa Gomashie, MP – Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Emelia Arthur, MP – Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture George Opare-Addo – Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment Haruna Iddrisu, MP – Ministry of Education Ahmed Ibrahim, MP – Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, MP – Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry The nominations have been submitted to Parliament for approval, and the Appointments Committee will vet the nominees based on their qualifications, track records, and alignment with national priorities. This move is seen as a deliberate strategy to address Ghana’s critical sectors, with President Mahama’s administration under pressure to deliver results swiftly. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Dr. Tiah Abdul-Kabiru Mahama Condemns Military Brutalities in Walewale
Dr. Tiah Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, the Member of Parliament for Walewale, has denounced the recent military brutalities that have left the local community reeling in fear and distress. Apexnewsgh reports The violence erupted following an incident involving a vehicle loaded with pepper that caught fire, igniting a chaotic response from the military. Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle, which was making its way from Bawku to Accra, suffered an electrical fault that led to the fire. However, this seemingly minor incident escalated dramatically as a massive military response resulted in unprovoked violence against innocent civilians. Many residents were left wounded, horrified by the overwhelming show of force. Dr. Kabiru expressed his outrage in a statement, firmly asserting, “I unreservedly condemn the military brutality against innocent residents of Walewale. There is no justification whatsoever for the unprovoked violence on civilians.” He emphasized that the circumstances surrounding the fire did not warrant such a heavy-handed military intervention. The MP further pointed out the critical reasons for restricting military involvement in civilian affairs, stating, “There are good reasons why military intervention in civilian space is restricted and will only be called upon when matters escalate beyond control. The military command therefore owes the victims unqualified apologies for these excesses.” Vowing to take action, Dr. Kabiru pledged to stand by his constituents and seek justice for the victims of this unfortunate incident. “I shall liaise with the affected persons to ascertain the scale of injury and the next line of action to bring justice to the affected,” he said. He also urged the people of Walewale to remain calm and resolve their grievances through lawful means. As the community seeks to recover from the shock and trauma of the incident, Dr. Kabiru’s commitment to uphold justice and protect the rights of his constituents shines a light of hope amidst the darkness. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Sammy Crabbe Announces Bid for NPP National Chairman Amid Party Concerns
Sammy Crabbe, a former Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has declared his intention to run for the position of national chairman in the party’s next internal elections. Apexnewsgh reports This announcement comes at a time when the party is grappling with the aftermath of its defeat in the 2024 general elections. The NPP’s Council of Elders, led by Chairman Hackman Owusu-Agyeman, has expressed concerns over ongoing campaigns by party executives, members, and sympathizers. The council views these campaigns as counterproductive to the party’s rebuilding efforts. Crabbe, however, believes that expressing his interest in the national chairman role is not premature. “I have expressed an interest. Come 2026, I will want to run as national chairman, and there is nothing wrong with that,” he stated on Point Blank on Eyewitness News. Crabbe also attributed the NPP’s defeat in the 2024 general polls to its weakened internal structure and lack of cohesion. He emphasized that the party’s failure to align its gains in government with the aspirations of grassroots members has eroded loyalty and motivation. This disconnect, Crabbe noted, has led to disillusionment among party members, ultimately contributing to the NPP’s struggles. The NPP’s internal rifts, as highlighted by Crabbe, are not the only concerns facing the party. The party’s defeat in the 2024 general elections has left it with only 88 seats in parliament, a significant decline from its previous numbers. As the NPP navigates its rebuilding efforts, Crabbe’s announcement has sparked interest in the party’s future leadership. Whether his bid for national chairman will be successful remains to be seen, but one thing is clear – the NPP has a long road to recovery ahead. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
ORAL Committee to Present Report to President Mahama Amidst Over 700 Petitions
The Chairman of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that the committee will soon present its report to President John Dramani Mahama. Apexnewsgh reports This comes after the committee received over 700 petitions from the public, a daunting task that Ablakwa acknowledges, but one that the committee is passionate about tackling. Speaking to Citi News, Ablakwa emphasized that the committee’s work is aimed at ensuring accountability and keeping government officials in check. “We are all passionate about this,” he said. “And what I like about what is going on is that we have the opportunity to show the same passion that we exhibited in opposition, now that we are in government, we are committed to this.” The ORAL Committee has been working tirelessly to review the petitions and gather information. Ablakwa noted that the committee would soon begin the validation process to ensure thoroughness and accuracy in the information gathered. This process will involve field validation sessions across the country, where the committee will visit all regions that have submitted reports. Ablakwa expressed his commitment to transparency and accountability, stating that the committee’s work serves as a deterrent to those in government. “What this does is that it serves as a deterrent to those of us coming into government,” he said. The ORAL Committee’s report is expected to be presented to President Mahama soon, and Ablakwa is confident that the committee’s work will make a significant impact in the fight against corruption. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Calls for BOST’s Commercialization: ACEP Advocates for Transparency and Efficiency
The Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP) has put forth a compelling argument for the commercialization of the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company (BOST). Apexnewsgh reports The think tank is also advocating for BOST’s eventual listing on the Ghana Stock Exchange, suggesting that it could lead to greater transparency and efficiency in the energy sector. During a media briefing held on January 15, Kodzo Yaotse, the Policy Lead for Petroleum and Conventional Energy at ACEP, highlighted concerns regarding BOST’s current operations. He pointed out that the company collects a GHp 12 margin on every litre of petroleum, purportedly to sustain its operations and maintain strategic reserves. However, ACEP contends that BOST has not fulfilled its mandate effectively. According to Yaotse, BOST has strayed from its core responsibilities and now controls around 20% of the petroleum import market through the controversial Gold for Oil program. This shift has raised eyebrows, particularly as BOST reportedly garners nearly GHȼ600 million annually from margins on petroleum products while competing against private businesses that operate under taxation. Yaotse stressed the need for a reevaluation of BOST’s role in the market. “The market we operate in now shows that we do not need BOST. Or, if we are to keep BOST, we should commercialize it and list it on the stock exchange,” he said. He emphasized that such changes could enhance accountability in BOST’s operations and ultimately lessen the financial burden on consumers, potentially saving them another GHp 0.12 in payments. As the debate continues, the future of BOST remains uncertain, but ACEP’s push for reform could pave the way for significant changes in Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Sammy Awuku Hails Government’s Decision to Scrap Betting Tax
Sammy Awuku, former Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, has expressed enthusiasm over the government’s decision to scrap the betting tax. Apexnewsgh reports Awuku, a vocal critic of the tax, described it as a counterproductive measure that has failed to yield positive results in many jurisdictions. “I’m excited that the betting tax is going to be scrapped,” Awuku said in an interview with Daily Guide Network (DGN). “I’ve been consistent about it, even during the NPP era, and I said it is something that personally has not worked in many of the jurisdictions anytime you have introduced taxes on betting.” Awuku highlighted the challenges posed by the tax, particularly for government-owned institutions like the NLA. “Lottery was part of the betting tax. The National Lottery Authority, for instance, is owned by the government, and apart from the things that they do, at the end of the day, they must also contribute to the national kitty,” he explained. The tax, Awuku noted, created an unfair advantage for illegal betting operators. “If the government is taxing itself, then what will happen is that the underground operators that we call the illegal operators will become emboldened. If you play with the government, you attract a 10% tax on what you win. But if you play with the illegals, you get your full money.” Awuku also criticized the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) government for its inconsistent stance on the issue. “The difficulty with the NDC position is that earlier the Finance Minister-designate had said that it should be banned—not just the tax being scrapped,” he said. As a former Director-General of the NLA, Awuku’s concerns are rooted in his experience. Previously, he revealed that the government had not been able to collect even a cedi from the betting tax due to challenges with the framework guiding the process. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
U.S. Senator Urges Treasury Secretary to Ensure Ghana Repays Debts to American Companies
Senator James E. Risch, Ranking Member of the United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, has asked Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to use the country’s influence as the IMF’s largest shareholder to ensure Ghana repays its debts to American entities. Apexnewsgh reports This repayment will be a precondition for U.S. support for further IMF assistance to Ghana. Senator Risch expressed concerns about Ghana’s potential $3 billion IMF loan, citing significant unpaid debts owed to American companies, including Twin City Energy, American Tower Company, and Kosmos Energy. These debts, totaling approximately $251 million, have placed a severe financial burden on these companies and threaten their operations in Ghana. The senator warned that proceeding with IMF disbursements without addressing Ghana’s debt obligations could undermine constructive U.S. engagement with Ghana and deepen Ghana’s reliance on international financial assistance. He emphasized that two of the affected companies have investments backed by the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), meaning Ghana’s arrears affect not only private businesses but also investments financed by U.S. taxpayers. Senator Risch urged Secretary Yellen to direct the U.S. executive director at the IMF to make clear that U.S. support for further IMF assistance to Ghana will depend on a good faith effort to establish a concrete and enforceable repayment plan. The proposed plan should include transparent auditing, reporting, and enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance. The IMF Board of Directors is set to review Ghana’s Third Programme under the Extended Credit Facility later this month. Senator Risch’s letter, copied to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other key officials, highlights the urgency of resolving Ghana’s outstanding debts and ensuring responsible fiscal practices. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
If you think ORAL is unlawful, go to court– Domelevo to critics
Daniel Domelevo, former Auditor General and member of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee, has fired back at critics, stating that those who believe the committee is acting unlawfully should take their grievances to court. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking on Joy News’ Upfront, Domelevo maintained that ORAL’s activities are lawful and straightforward, focused solely on collecting data to assist the executive. “We’re not overstepping our mandate or infringing on other anti-corruption agencies,” Domelevo emphasized. “We’re simply collecting information from those who voluntarily come forward, as requested by the president-elect’s office.” He noted that the committee’s work is entirely voluntary and aimed at supporting the executive in making informed decisions about corruption-related cases. Domelevo attributed the backlash to fear and hypocrisy, pointing out that similar initiatives have been perceived differently in the past. “In 2017, the senior minister announced that foreign firms would be engaged to collect data and investigate. It was fine back then, but now a simple team collecting data is a problem. That’s the hypocrisy we have in this country,” he said. He also humorously highlighted the importance of clarity in legal matters, saying, “Until something is prohibited by law, it’s lawful. Otherwise, one day you’ll say I’m being unlawful for wearing a smock into the studio.” Domelevo encouraged critics to channel their concerns through appropriate legal avenues instead of resorting to baseless accusations. “If we’re working unlawfully, go to court. Until then, we’ll continue doing what we’re doing – lawfully and transparently.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Justin Frimpong Kodua rendered apology after 2024 party abysmal election performance
Justin Frimpong Kodua, General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has publicly apologized for the party’s failure to retain power in the December 7, 2024, Presidential and Parliamentary elections. Apexnewsgh reports The NPP suffered a significant loss to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) in both contests. Mr. Kodua expressed regret on behalf of the party’s leadership and members, acknowledging the disappointment and frustration felt by many Ghanaians who supported the party. He specifically apologized to the youth who worked tirelessly during the 2016 and 2020 elections, saying, “We say we are deeply sorry.” The NPP General Secretary also extended his gratitude to professionals such as lecturers, lawyers, and businesspeople who contributed to the party’s previous successes. However, he acknowledged the party’s shortcomings, particularly in its treatment of key individuals who had contributed to its growth. While defending the achievements of the Akufo-Addo administration, Mr. Kodua highlighted the implementation of unparalleled projects and policies, aside from those of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. He noted the government’s flagship social policies as major accomplishments. Despite the defeat, Mr. Kodua expressed optimism about the party’s future, urging unity among members and a commitment to restructuring and rebuilding. He viewed the defeat as an opportunity for reflection and refocusing, emphasizing the need to strengthen the party ahead of future elections. “The battle is still the Lord’s. The NPP will rise again,” he declared. “This is not the end. It’s a chance to prepare ourselves for victory in the years to come.” Mr. Kodua’s apology and reflections offer a glimpse into the NPP’s efforts to come to terms with its election loss and chart a new course for the future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com