OSP Publishes Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta details as Wanted Person
Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has issued a wanted notice for former Finance Minister Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta, citing his failure to appear for questioning in multiple corruption-related investigations. Apexnewsgh reports The notice, made public on February 17, 2025, declares Ofori-Atta a fugitive from justice and a wanted man. According to the OSP, Ofori-Atta is under investigation for his alleged involvement in several financial irregularities, including: Strategic Mobilization Limited-GRA contract: a controversial deal that has raised eyebrows among anti-corruption advocates Termination of the ECG-BXC contract: a move that has been questioned by many National Cathedral payments: a project that has been marred by allegations of corruption Ambulance procurement contract: a deal that has been criticized for its lack of transparency Utilisation of the Tax Refund Account: a matter that has raised concerns about financial mismanagement The OSP believes Ofori-Atta may be residing in the United States or the United Kingdom. The wanted notice is a significant development in the ongoing investigations into Ofori-Atta’s activities during his tenure as Finance Minister. While some have applauded the OSP’s move as a demonstration of Ghana’s commitment to accountability and transparency, others have expressed mixed reactions. As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: the OSP is determined to ensure that public officials are held responsible for their actions. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Government Announces Return of Parent-Teacher Associations to Public Schools
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has announced the return of Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) to the management framework of public schools. Apexnewsgh reports This decision is expected to enhance student learning outcomes and foster community involvement in schools. Speaking at a public forum, Minister Iddrisu emphasized the importance of PTAs in improving learning outcomes and producing quality human capital for the country. “PTAs will be introduced back into the management of education to work with parents and teachers to improve learning outcomes in our educational institutions,” he stated. The reintroduction of PTAs is expected to provide additional support to public schools, addressing concerns such as infrastructure development, student discipline, and academic performance. Previously, PTAs played a key role in shaping policies at the school level, but their influence had been reduced in recent years. With this policy shift, the government aims to create a more inclusive education system where parents, teachers, and administrators work together to ensure quality education for all students. As the government moves forward with this decision, schools are expected to formally reintegrate PTAs into their administrative frameworks in the coming months. The Ghana Education Service (GES) has already developed guidelines for Parent Associations, outlining their roles, responsibilities, and operational framework. These guidelines aim to ensure that Parent Associations operate effectively, transparently, and autonomously, while maintaining a collaborative relationship with school management. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Fuel Prices Drop as OMCs Adjust Prices Downward
In a welcome relief to motorists, some Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have begun reducing fuel prices at the pumps, marking the first decline this year. Apexnewsgh reports The price drop comes after three consecutive increases since January. Total Energies has taken the lead, slashing the price of both petrol and diesel to GH¢15.99 per litre, down from GH¢16.15 in the first pricing window of February. Notably, Total Energies had maintained its price at GH¢16.15 while other OMCs increased theirs in the first pricing window. Shell has also followed suit, reducing the price of diesel to GH¢15.99 per litre, down from GH¢16.09. The price of petrol has also dropped from GH¢16.23 to GH¢15.89 per litre in the second pricing window of the month. Industry analysts attribute the reduction to a decline in crude oil prices on the international market, alongside other market dynamics influencing local pricing. This development is expected to bring relief to motorists and potentially slow down the rising cost of living. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Opposition Mounts Against Ekow Obeng Kenzo’s Potential Appointment as VRA Chief Executive
A storm is brewing within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) caucus and among the staff of the Volta River Authority (VRA) over the potential appointment of Mr. Ekow Obeng Kenzo as the Acting Chief Executive of the authority. Apexnewsgh reports Stakeholders are vehemently opposing the move, citing allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and abuse of power. At the heart of the opposition are concerns over Mr. Kenzo’s alleged involvement in a $52 million sole-sourcing procurement scandal in 2022, alongside former Chief Executive Emmanuel Antwi Darkwa. The scandal, exposed on ‘With All Due Respect TV (WADR-TV)’, raised serious concerns about transparency and financial accountability within the VRA. Critics also point to Mr. Kenzo’s handling of the Akosombo Dam spillage in 2023, which resulted in severe flooding and displaced thousands of people along the Volta Lake. He’s accused of failing to engage stakeholders and implement necessary precautionary measures before opening the spillway gates. Furthermore, VRA staff have accused Mr. Kenzo of fostering a hostile work environment, describing his leadership style as authoritarian and oppressive. The VRA Ladies Association has also raised concerns about favoritism in promotions, claiming that some individuals were elevated based on personal relationships rather than merit. Mr. Kenzo’s lack of significant contributions to Ghana’s power generation capacity has also been criticized. Despite holding the position of Deputy Chief Executive (Engineering & Operations), he failed to add new megawatts of power to the national grid. Instead, he prioritized the costly relocation of Ameri power units from Aboadze to Kumasi, a move widely criticized as a misallocation of resources. The NDC caucus and VRA staff are demanding a halt to any plans to appoint Mr. Kenzo as Acting Chief Executive. Instead, they’re calling for a full-scale investigation into his past decisions and actions, which they claim have resulted in financial losses for the VRA. The statement was jointly signed by William Agbenuawor and Abraham Tetteh. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Richard Jakpa Appointed Director of Special Operations Amidst Controversy
Richard Jakpa, a businessman and retired military officer, has been appointed Director of Special Operations at the National Security Secretariat, effective January 31, 2025. Apexnewsgh report This confirmation has put to rest speculation surrounding his involvement in the recent raid on the residence of former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta. Initially, reports suggested a forceful entry, but new information reveals that Jakpa and his team had a valid warrant and were granted access by Ofori-Atta’s security personnel. Eyewitnesses described the raid as being carried out by a group of about 12 individuals, including five in military uniforms, one in a police uniform, and the rest in plain clothes. However, official sources clarify that the operation was conducted within legal bounds. As Director of Special Operations, Jakpa will oversee the planning and execution of both covert and overt operations. His role also includes: – Developing Early Warning Systems: creating systems to detect emerging threats such as terrorism, insurgency, and organized crime. – Ensuring Readiness of Special Forces: guaranteeing the preparedness of special forces and rapid response units. – Leading Crisis Response Efforts: heading crisis response efforts during national security emergencies. – Executing Strategic Duties: carrying out other strategic duties as assigned by the National Security Coordinator or Chief Director. Jakpa’s appointment signals the government’s commitment to enhancing national security operations, particularly in addressing complex security challenges. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings Advocates for Democratic Equity at Munich Security Conference
Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament for the Korle Klottey Constituency, recently represented Ghana at the 61st Munich Security Conference (MSC), held from February 14 to 16, 2025. Apexnewsgh reports The conference brought together a distinguished panel to discuss the evolving challenges facing democracies worldwide. Dr. Zanetor joined U.S. Senator Christopher Coons, Polish Parliament member Aleksandra Uznańska-Wiśniewska, and Zin Mar Aung, a Myanmar political figure, in a thought-provoking discussion. They explored the global perception of the United States, shared personal experiences with democratic governance, and strategized ways to rejuvenate faith in democratic systems. A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the need for a paradigm shift in defining democracy and ensuring its promises are fulfilled. Dr. Zanetor emphasized the importance of restoring faith in democracy, stating, “Without restoring faith in democracy as a viable means of governance, we risk creating a vacuum that drives people toward alternatives.” She also highlighted the disparities between established and emerging democracies, stressing that “established democracies must recognize that without equity among democratic states, the justice we seek for our citizens will remain out of reach.” Dr. Zanetor advocated for tangible steps to address these disparities, including a transformation in international trade agreements and practices that currently place less developed and younger democracies at a perpetual disadvantage. The panelists collectively called for a reevaluation of global democratic practices, aiming to foster equity and restore public trust in democratic institutions. Dr. Zanetor’s participation in the conference demonstrates Ghana’s commitment to democratic values and its role in shaping the global conversation on democratic governance. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ofori-Atta to Face Justice, Even in Death, Warns Deputy Director of Operations
Deputy Director of Operations at the Presidency, Mustapha Gbande, has vowed that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta will face justice, even if it means prosecuting his estate after death, if he refuses to return to Ghana to answer corruption allegations. Apexnewsgh reports Gbande emphasized that the government will take all necessary measures to ensure Ofori-Atta’s return and recover any misappropriated public funds. In an interview with Joy News, Gbande stated, “If Ken Ofori-Atta should refuse to come, every measure will be deployed to bring him down to this country. If for any reason he passes on, his dead body will be prosecuted and jailed, and every stolen money belonging to the people of Ghana will be retrieved.” He reaffirmed his commitment to integrity, stressing that he values public trust over personal wealth and would never compromise his principles for financial gain. Gbande’s remarks come after the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) declared Ofori-Atta a suspect in four high-profile corruption investigations, including allegations related to the National Cathedral project and Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML). Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng has warned that legal measures will be enforced if Ofori-Atta fails to comply with the OSP’s request for his return. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Advocates for Strengthened Fiscal Responsibility and Anti-Corruption Measures
President John Dramani Mahama emphasized the need to bolster Ghana’s Fiscal Responsibility Act and Public Financial Management Act, stressing the importance of eliminating waste and corruption. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking at the Africa Business Forum 2025 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Mahama highlighted the urgency of addressing these critical issues. In the face of the current crisis, Mahama’s primary focus is on stabilization, aiming to reduce interest rates and inflation, stabilize the currency, and tackle debt overhang. However, he also underscored the importance of understanding the root causes of the crisis to prevent its recurrence. To achieve this, Mahama proposed strengthening the Fiscal Responsibility Act and Public Financial Management Act, which would entail cutting out waste and reducing corruption. He views these measures as essential to ensuring Ghana’s economic stability and growth. Mahama’s commitment to anti-corruption efforts is not new. In his previous speeches, he has emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in governance, citing the devastating impact of corruption on Ghana’s economy and society. His administration plans to establish a Governance Advisory Council, comprising representatives from civil society, religious leaders, traditional leaders, academia, labor, and ordinary Ghanaians, to promote good governance and combat corruption. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Rodaline Ayarna backs OSP Insist Ken Ofori Atta allegedly absconded
The recent statement from the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) regarding Ken Ofori-Atta, the former Finance Minister of Ghana, has ignited a wave of intense debate across the nation. Apexnewsgh reports Reports suggest that Ofori-Atta has left the country, with his lawyers asserting that he is currently receiving medical treatment abroad indefinitely. However, many Ghanaians are not convinced; prominent public interest activist, Madam Rodaline Ayarna, among others, has raised concerns that this is merely a tactic to avoid facing serious accusations. The OSP’s allegations against Ofori-Atta are troubling and substantial. They claim he has financially benefited from various high-profile contracts, notably those related to the contentious ambulance purchases, the supply of spare parts for these vehicles, and the ambitious National Cathedral project. Given the public’s interest in these matters, the demand for answers is mounting. There is a growing consensus among Ghanaians that Ofori-Atta must return to address these serious allegations. The citizens, especially pensioners and retirees who have invested in government bonds, are seeking transparency and accountability in the face of these claims. The OSP’s demand for Ofori-Atta to present himself or face the risk of being declared a fugitive appears increasingly justifiable in light of the circumstances. As discussions unfold and the public awaits further developments, many believe that the truth surrounding this matter will eventually come to light. For now, the emphasis remains on the urgent need for Ofori-Atta to return to Ghana and confront the allegations that have captivated the nation’s attention. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Johnson Asiedu Nketia Vows to Hold Ex and Present Officials Accountable for Corruption
The National Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to holding former officials of the Akufo-Addo administration accountable for alleged corruption. Apexnewsgh reports This promise is a key part of the NDC’s campaign message, emphasizing accountability and transparency. In a video circulating on social media, Asiedu Nketia specifically mentioned former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, who has been declared wanted by the Office of the Special Prosecutor. “Wherever Ken Ofori-Atta is hiding, we will find him by all means. He must avail himself for questioning on multiple cases. All former officials implicated in corruption will be compelled to face the law,” he stated. The NDC government is committed to enforcing strict accountability measures, ensuring that no official, past or present, escapes justice if found guilty of corruption. “We will tighten the noose on accountability, and even elements within this government who engage in corrupt activities will not go scot-free,” Asiedu Nketia added. This promise comes as the NDC government receives over 2,400 complaints of suspected corruption, which have been submitted to the Attorney General for investigation. The government’s commitment to accountability will be closely watched as it moves forward with these investigations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com