President’s Claim of Cutting Government Size Challenged by MP
Member of Parliament for Damongo, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has questioned the president’s assertion that reducing the number of ministers and deputy ministers to 60 is a cost-cutting measure. Apexnewsgh reports Jinapor argues that the government has merely shifted appointments to the President’s Office, leaving taxpayers with the same financial burden. According to Jinapor, the President has increased the number of presidential advisors, staffers, and aides, who enjoy the same status and privileges as ministers. He cited examples, including Dr. Valerie Sawyerr, a Senior Presidential Advisor on Government Affairs, and almost ten Presidential Advisors covering various sectors. Jinapor pointed out that the Office of the President now has a growing number of high-ranking appointees, including dozens of Presidential Staffers and Aides assigned to specialized roles. He noted that this trend suggests a political accommodation approach, where new Presidential Advisors or Staffers are appointed to match significant campaign pledges. The former Lands Minister also alleged that the President has appointed 16 Presidential Staffers, each assigned to a region, despite initially insisting that he would not name Deputy Regional Ministers. Jinapor questioned whether these individuals are essentially Deputy Regional Ministers with different titles. Furthermore, Jinapor expressed concerns about the Office of the President’s communication team, which he claimed consists of numerous personnel, including a Minister for Government Communications, a Presidential Advisor on Media, and several Directors and Deputy Directors of Communication. He wondered what exactly they would be communicating. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
2025 Budget Unlikely to Deviate from Previous Administration’s Economic Plan
According to Development Economist, Dr. George Domfeh, the upcoming 2025 Budget, set to be presented on March 11, will likely build upon the existing economic foundation laid by the previous Akufo-Addo administration. Apexnewsgh reports Dr. Domfeh believes that the Post Covid Program for Economic Growth (PCPEG) will remain a central focus, with the new government aiming to achieve its objectives. The PCPEG program, initiated by the previous government, seeks to restore macroeconomic stability, ensure debt sustainability, and implement reforms to drive resilient and inclusive growth. Dr. Domfeh expects the new government to fulfill its promise of scrapping the E-Levy, Covid levy, and betting tax. However, he notes that this move will not be unprecedented, as the previous administration also scrapped taxes during its tenure. Dr. Domfeh commended former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta for his successful negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He credited Ofori-Atta’s understanding of the financial market for securing favorable deals for Ghana. Dr. Domfeh also disputed claims that the country’s debt reduction was due to global market confidence in President Mahama, instead attributing it to Ofori-Atta’s efforts. Ghana’s economy is projected to grow at a slower pace in 2025, with a forecasted real GDP growth rate of 3.6%. The services sector is expected to drive this expansion, while the cocoa subsector shows promising signs of improvement. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Economist Warns Against Excessive Taxation, Advocates for Fiscal Discipline
Dr. Ishmael Yamson, Chairman of the National Economic Dialogue, has cautioned the government against imposing additional taxes, emphasizing that Ghana’s economic recovery relies on fiscal discipline and effective resource management. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking on TV3’s Hot Issues program monitored by Apexnewgh, Dr. Yamson stressed that overtaxing the same segment of society will hinder economic growth. “You can’t keep increasing taxes on the same people and expect the economy to grow,” he said. “We need to be disciplined in how we manage the resources we already have.” Dr. Yamson pointed out that Ghana’s primary issue is not low revenue collection, but rather poor management and misuse of public funds. According to Dr. Yamson, the current tax system is flawed, allowing wealthy individuals and large businesses to avoid paying their fair share. He advocated for a digitized revenue collection system to reduce tax evasion. “There are people in this country making millions but not paying taxes because the system allows it,” he noted. Dr. Yamson also emphasized that struggling businesses cannot be taxed into prosperity. Instead, he urged the government to create an environment that fosters business growth and expands the tax base. “You can’t tax struggling businesses into prosperity,” he advised. “The government must make the economy work so that more people and companies can contribute their fair share.” In conclusion, Dr. Yamson warned that excessive taxation is not the solution to Ghana’s economic challenges. “We don’t need more taxes; we need discipline,” he said. “If we fail to manage our resources wisely, no amount of taxation will fix this country.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Public Debt-to-GDP Ratio Sees Significant Drop to 61.8% in 2024
Ghana’s public debt-to-GDP ratio has witnessed a substantial decline, dropping to 61.8% in 2024. Apexnewsgh reports This significant reduction marks a notable improvement from the peak of 80.4% recorded in 2020. According to Dr. Gideon Boako, Member of Parliament for Tano North, this achievement is a direct result of the government’s effective debt management strategy. The latest debt ratio is not only lower than the 2020 peak but also surpasses the pre-COVID-19 level of 65.7%. This underscores the success of the government’s fiscal policies in restoring debt sustainability. Dr. Boako emphasized that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government’s strategy has yielded positive results in stabilizing Ghana’s economy. The reduction in debt has significant implications for Ghana’s financial outlook under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme. Dr. Boako expressed optimism that Ghana could achieve the debt sustainability target of 55% ahead of the initial 2028 projection, provided the new government continues to implement the debt management strategy. However, concerns have been raised about the accuracy of fiscal data under the new administration. Dr. Boako alleged possible manipulation of economic figures by the Minister for Finance to create a misleading narrative about Ghana’s economic state. He urged the government to ensure transparency in financial reporting. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Reaffirms Commitment to Resolving ECOWAS-ASS Tensions
President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his dedication to resolving the diplomatic strains between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Alliance of Sahel States (ASS). Apexnewsgh reports During a high-level meeting with Burkina Faso’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, in Ouagadougou, President Mahama emphasized the need to rebuild trust and foster dialogue between the two regional blocs. The meeting, which took place on Monday, March 10, 2025, marked a significant step towards restoring cooperation and stability in the region. President Mahama assured that the concerns of the Sahel states would be presented at the upcoming ECOWAS summit, demonstrating Ghana’s commitment to regional diplomacy and collaboration. In addition to addressing diplomatic concerns, President Mahama announced ongoing discussions to establish direct daily flights between Accra and Ouagadougou. This initiative aims to enhance trade, connectivity, and people-to-people relations between Ghana and Burkina Faso, further strengthening bilateral ties. The meeting underscores Ghana’s role in promoting regional peace, stability, and economic integration in West Africa. As a key player in ECOWAS, Ghana has been actively engaged in efforts to resolve tensions between the regional bloc and the ASS. President Mahama’s visit to Burkina Faso is part of his broader diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties with ECOWAS member states and address regional security challenges. This visit follows a recent diplomatic tour by President Mahama to three Sahelian countries—Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NDC Communication Bureau Leadership Under Fire for Prioritizing Personal Interests
Takyi Addo, Co-Founder of the Ghana Federation of Traders, has launched a scathing attack on the leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communication Bureau. Speaking on Accra 100.5 FM’s ‘Ghana Yensom’ show monitored by Apexnewsgh, Mr. Addo accused the bureau’s leaders of abandoning their communication responsibilities to lobby for government appointments instead. “As we speak, there is no communication bureau because its leaders are busy seeking appointments,” he said, highlighting the party’s communication strategy is in disarray due to a lack of coordination. “Everyone is doing something just to catch the eye of those making appointments.” Mr. Addo also expressed disappointment over recent government appointments, claiming that key party communicators during the last elections have been sidelined. “Some of those who worked tirelessly for the party’s victory have been ignored, while others who were nowhere near the campaign are now smiling with appointment letters.” As the Director of Communication for the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association, Mr. Addo feels frustrated about his exclusion from government appointments. “No NDC communicator has worked harder than me, yet they have shut me out!” Despite his grievances, he has remained restrained out of respect for President John Dramani Mahama and other top officials. However, Mr. Addo warned that if the trend continues, some overlooked party members might take matters into their own hands. He questioned the rationale behind some appointments, arguing that genuine party communicators have been ignored while others with no grassroots presence have been rewarded. “Who worked harder than me? Who is more heard in villages than I am?” he queried. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Crackdown on Illegal Mining: Joint Task Force Seizes Equipment and Arrests Miners
In a bold move to combat illegal mining, a combined team of the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) of the Forestry Commission (FC) and 30 military personnel raided the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in the Enchi Forest District of the Western North Region. Apexnewsgh.com The operation, which took place on Sunday, March 9, 2025, resulted in the seizure of nine excavators, one bulldozer, and the arrest of four individuals engaged in illegal mining. This decisive action followed a series of previous operations aimed at stopping illegal mining activities in the forest reserve. On March 4, 2025, a team from the Forest Services Division (FSD) of the FC, along with the RRU, stormed the reserve after receiving a tip-off about illegal mining. Although they successfully drove out 12 excavators, they were unable to make any arrests due to the miners being heavily armed and outnumbering them. Undeterred, the team re-entered the reserve on March 6, 2025, to prevent the miners from returning. However, on March 8, 2025, the miners regrouped and re-entered the reserve, overpowering the enforcement team once again. This led to widespread public concern, with videos and images of the illegal mining activities circulating on social media. In response, a joint team comprising the military and the RRU was deployed for a full-scale operation. The team successfully arrested four illegal miners and seized nine excavators and a bulldozer. The confiscated equipment is being transported to the Enchi District Assembly premises, and the Forestry Commission has lodged a formal complaint with the Enchi District Police Command for further investigations and legal action. The government has reiterated its commitment to protecting Ghana’s forest reserves and has warned illegal miners against encroaching on protected lands. The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, emphasized the government’s firm stance against illegal mining, stating that they will not relent until every inch of the forest reserve is safeguarded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana and Japan Strengthen Ties with $13 Million Grant for Electricity Supply
In a significant move to bolster their bilateral relationship, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Ablakwa, has signed an Exchange of Notes with Japanese Ambassador Yoshimoto Hiroshi. Apexnewsgh reports This agreement unlocks a substantial grant of 1.92 billion Japanese Yen (approximately US$13 million) aimed at stabilizing electricity supply in Tamale City. The project underscores the robust bond of friendship between Ghana and Japan, with several other collaborative initiatives currently under discussion. This development is the latest milestone in the longstanding relationship between the two nations, which has been marked by mutual cooperation and support. Ghana and Japan have enjoyed diplomatic relations since March 1957, with Japan providing significant economic cooperation, including loans, grants, and technical assistance. The two countries have also collaborated on various development projects, such as promoting health services, improving nutrition, and reducing maternal and infant mortality. The grant for the Tamale City electricity supply project is a testament to Japan’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s development goals. As the two nations continue to foster their partnership, Ghanaians can expect to see further collaborations in areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. Source: Apexnewsgh com
2025 Budget Key to Ghana’s Economic Recovery – Finance Minister
Ghana’s Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has emphasized the crucial role the 2025 Budget and Policy Statement will play in stabilizing the country’s struggling economy. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking during a youth engagement session on X Spaces, hosted by social media influencer KalyJay, Dr. Forson acknowledged that Ghana’s financial situation remains fragile, despite recent efforts. “We’re not out of the woods yet,” Dr. Forson cautioned. “Our economy is still in distress, and we need to take measures to restore stability.” He outlined the government’s commitment to implementing policies aimed at fostering economic stability, including efforts to control inflation, maintain a stable exchange rate, and create a predictable economic environment. To achieve this, the government plans to reduce domestic borrowing, making more financial resources available to the private sector. Dr. Forson stressed the importance of curbing government expenditure to facilitate business growth and economic expansion. “It’s critical for the government to cut expenditure and reduce its appetite for borrowing,” he said. Dr. Forson also assured the public, particularly the youth, that their input would be taken into account in shaping government policies. He dismissed suggestions that such engagements were merely symbolic, saying, “I don’t take the people of Ghana for granted. I’m here to hear your take.” The 2025 Budget is scheduled to be presented on March 11. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
3 Upper East Region MPs Appointed Committee Chairmen
In a significant milestone for Ghana’s governance, Parliament has officially announced the leadership of several crucial committees, with three Members of Parliament from the Upper East Region appointed as chairmen. Apexnewsgh reports Isaac Adongo, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, and James Agalga will lead committees overseeing vital sectors such as finance, health, defense, education, and more. These committees, comprising both government and opposition members, will be responsible for spearheading discussions, scrutinizing bills, managing budgetary allocations, and ensuring the seamless implementation of national programs. Notably, some committees will be chaired by opposition members, demonstrating Parliament’s commitment to bipartisan collaboration and effective oversight. The appointed chairmen from the Upper East Region bring a wealth of experience to their respective committees. Isaac Adongo, Chairman of the Finance Committee, will work closely with Ranking Member Mohamed Amin Adam to oversee financial matters. Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, Chairman of the Health Committee, will focus on healthcare issues alongside Ranking Member Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie. James Agalga, a seasoned politician, will chair a committee overseeing defense and interior matters. Other key committee leadership appointments include: Privileges Committee: Chairman Bernard Ahiafor and Ranking Member Kwabena Darko Mensah Public Accounts Committee: Chairperson Abena Osei Asare and Ranking Member Samuel Atta-Mills Education Committee: Chairman Peter Nortsu-Kotoe and Ranking Member Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum These appointments reflect Parliament’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and bipartisan cooperation in addressing national issues. The committees are expected to commence work immediately, reviewing legislation, overseeing government activities, and tackling key policy issues affecting Ghanaians. Source: Apexnewsgh.com