Breaking News: Afenyo-Markin Invited by Police to Assist in Investigation
The Ghana Police Service has reviewed several video footages on an alleged assault on a Police officer by Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin during the just ended demonstration. Following the review, the Service has written to the Right Hon. Speaker of Parliament requesting the release of Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin to assist ongoing investigation into the alleged incident. The officer in question will also be assisting the investigation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Governance Expert Criticizes President’s Decision on Asset Declaration
Governance expert Professor Baffour Agyeman-Duah has expressed disappointment with President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to sanction government appointees who failed to declare their assets with a three-month salary forfeiture rather than immediate dismissal. The President had announced that appointees who do not comply with the final deadline of May 7, 2025, will face consequences. Professor Agyeman-Duah argued that appointees who ignored the President’s order should have been removed from office entirely. “I take presidential directives seriously, so if you blatantly defy the President’s order, it’s an insult to the President,” he said. While acknowledging the President’s discretionary powers, Professor Agyeman-Duah maintained that a firmer approach would have been more appropriate. “I won’t begrudge the President for using discretionary powers to decide what to do. Certainly, it wasn’t a good show by those who defied his powers,” he added. The President’s decision comes as part of the administration’s push to promote transparency and accountability in public service. However, Professor Agyeman-Duah’s criticism highlights differing perspectives on how to enforce compliance with asset declaration requirements. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NDC Supporters Accuses Felix Kwakye Ofosu of Arrogance
A group of aggrieved supporters and branch executives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Abura Asebu Kwamankese Constituency have urged the party’s national leadership to intervene in the growing tensions caused by the conduct of their Member of Parliament, Felix Kwakye Ofosu. The MP, who also serves as Minister of Communication, has been accused of arrogance, insubordination, and sowing division within the constituency. At a press conference led by Solomon Yaw Bentsil, the group expressed concerns about the MP’s actions, which they believe are alienating loyal party members and weakening the grassroots base. They accused Kwakye Ofosu of undermining the authority of Constituency Chairman Vincent Koomson and creating tension among party members. Key Concerns: Arrogance and Division: The MP’s actions are causing division and alienating loyal party members. Sidelining Party Loyalists: The group accused Kwakye Ofosu of appointing unfamiliar individuals to National Security roles and District Assembly positions, denying opportunities to committed NDC members. Threat to Party’s Success: The group warned that if the NDC performs poorly in the 2028 elections, Kwakye Ofosu should take full responsibility. The group urged Kwakye Ofosu to stop the “blame game” and work collaboratively with the chairman for the good of the party. They also called on the national leadership to step in and restore unity and discipline within the constituency, emphasizing that internal peace is crucial to maintaining the party’s electoral strength in the region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
CHASS Disappointed Over Minister’s Comments On School Food Quality
The Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) has expressed surprise and disappointment over Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu’s recent remarks about the quality of food served in senior high schools. Apexnewsgh reports The Minister had raised concerns about “poor quality food” and hinted at possibly reversing the decision to allow school heads to directly procure food. CHASS National Secretary, Primus Baro, described the Minister’s comments as unexpected, stating that no formal reports have been received about schools serving poor-quality food. In fact, feedback suggests improvement since headteachers began procuring food themselves. Baro urged that concerns about food quality be handled internally and constructively, rather than in the media, to avoid creating a misleading impression based on isolated incidents. It’s worth noting that a different perspective on this issue comes from Yaw Osei Adutwum, who argued that relinquishing control over the food system doesn’t guarantee a seamless process, highlighting historical challenges faced by the system. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Nominates New Kath CEO
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo as the new CEO of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi, following the dismissal of Prof. Otchere Addai-Mensah. The nomination was confirmed in an official statement signed by Secretary to the President, Callistus Mahama. The move has sparked mixed reactions, with some Asante youth calling for Prof. Addai-Mensah’s reinstatement. Dr. Baidoo’s nomination awaits regularization under the Ghana Health Service and Teaching Hospitals Act. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Zongo Community Rejects President’s Nominee For MCE Position
Tensions are running high in the Eastern Region’s Akyem Abuakwa area, where the Akyem Abuakwa Council of Zongo Chiefs and concerned youth groups have strongly rejected President’s nominee for Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Abuakwa South Municipal Assembly. Apexnewsgh reports The nominee, Nana Addo Aikins Jnr., has been met with deep dissatisfaction from the Zongo community, who feel snubbed by the decision. At a press conference in Kyebi, Chief Alhaji Abubakar Umar, Kyebi Zongo Chief and President of the Akyem Abuakwa Council of Zongo Chiefs, described the nomination as “a stab in the back” to the Zongo people. The community has been a loyal supporter of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for decades, and Chief Umar lamented the lack of recognition for their loyalty and long-standing service. The discontent centers around the exclusion of Alhaji Sanusi Mohammed, a respected figure in the Zongo community and NDC veteran. With a track record of commitment to the party since 1992, including serving as constituency chairman and parliamentary candidate, Alhaji Sanusi’s supporters argue that he was the most qualified candidate for the MCE position. Abdul Raman Kafando, convener of the aggrieved youth group, criticized the nomination as a betrayal of trust, emphasizing that the decision’s impact extends beyond one individual. “This is about our voice, our identity, and the future of the Zongo people. We demand an immediate reversal of this decision,” he stated. While emotions were high, Chief Umar urged the youth to remain calm and refrain from violence, emphasizing that the community expects the leadership to listen to their concerns. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama to Unveil New Code of Conduct for Government Appointees
President John Dramani Mahama is set to unveil a new Code of Conduct for all government appointees today, Monday, May 5, 2025, as part of his administration’s 120-day Social Contract. The announcement was made by Minister in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, in a Facebook post on Sunday, highlighting the significance of the week in the government’s reform and integrity agenda. The Code of Conduct aims to establish clear ethical standards and expectations for public officeholders, defining the “dos and don’ts” of public service and promoting a culture of accountability. By setting a benchmark for behavior across all levels of government, the code is expected to strengthen public trust in state institutions. This initiative is part of the Mahama administration’s broader commitment to transparency, combating corruption, and upholding responsible governance. The unveiling coincides with the administration’s assessment of progress made under its 120-day Social Contract, which includes reforms in public service delivery, youth employment, and institutional integrity. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
US President Donald Trump Plans 100% Tariff on Foreign-Made Movies
In a move aimed at bolstering the American film industry, US President Donald Trump announced plans to impose a 100% tariff on movies made in foreign countries. Trump took to his Truth Social platform to declare that overseas film production is undermining the US movie industry, labeling it a “National Security threat” and part of a “concerted effort” by other nations to lure production with financial incentives. “We want movies made in America, again!” Trump emphasized. He has authorized the US Department of Commerce and the US Trade Representative to begin implementing the tariffs, although details on calculation and applicability to streaming platforms remain unclear. US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick responded promptly, stating, “We’re on it.” However, specifics about the plan are yet to be disclosed. The announcement has sparked international reactions, with Australia and New Zealand expressing strong support for their domestic film sectors. Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke asserted, “Nobody should be under any doubt that we will be standing up unequivocally for the rights of the Australian screen industry.” New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon pledged to be a “great advocate” for the sector. Industry players like the British Film Institute and the Motion Picture Association have yet to respond publicly to the proposed tariffs. Trump’s move is part of ongoing trade tensions, with his tariffs already affecting global markets and increasing prices on various goods. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator Dismisses Claims of Illegal Mine Takeover
The Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator, Captain (Rtd.) John Kwame Jabari, has denied allegations that National Security operatives have taken over and are operating a licensed underground small-scale mine in Akatakyieso, Adansi North District. Apexnewsgh reports The claims were made in a viral Facebook post by journalist Erastus Asare Donkor, who questioned the role of National Security at the site. According to Captain Jabari, National Security’s operations in the area involve three distinct sites. The first site, allegedly operated by Chinese nationals, is no longer occupied by National Security personnel after they arrested several Chinese nationals who were later released due to valid work permits. The second site, an underground mine, is at the center of the controversy. Captain Jabari clarified that National Security operatives are not mining there but are securing the site after its closure. They are performing standard procedures like pumping out water and have requested legal documents from the operators, which were not provided. The third site, an open area, was a hotspot for illegal mining and environmental degradation. National Security successfully evacuated hundreds of illegal miners and halted further destruction. Captain Jabari labeled the claims of National Security seizing and operating the mine as “pure fabrications backed by no evidence.” The controversy surrounding the mine’s operation and ownership has sparked questions about the role of National Security and the legitimacy of mining activities in the area. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Political Parties March Against Chief Justice’s Suspension
Today, May 5, 2025, a coalition of political parties will stage a major demonstration in Accra to protest the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. The coalition, which includes the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), National Democratic Party (NDP), People’s National Party (PNP), Ghana Union Movement (GUM), and others, is calling on President John Mahama to reverse the decision. The suspension follows a prima facie case established from three petitions seeking her removal. However, the coalition condemns the move, citing it as an attack on the judiciary’s independence. They claim it’s part of a broader effort to dominate all government arms, including the Judiciary. The protest will begin at 7:00 a.m. near the Supreme Court, marching through Accra’s main streets, including a stop at Parliament House, before ending at the Jubilee House. There, they’ll present a petition to President Mahama or his representative. Source: Apexnewsgh.com