Sandra Ewool emotional open letter to Dr. Bawumia
Sandra Ewool has penned an open letter to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, urging him to stand up for himself in the face of attacks from opponents. Apexnewsgh reports The letter comes after the NPP’s defeat in the December 2024 elections, which marked a turning point for Ewool. Ewool recounts her own experience of being targeted by keyboard warriors and even some former friends. However, she has since decided to stand up for herself and demand respect. “I made a firm decision to stand up for myself and match energy with energy,” she writes. “I understood something deeply: on this platform, no one owes you respect, if you don’t demand it, you’ll lose even the little you have left.” Ewool extends her personal experience to Dr. Bawumia, urging him not to let his opponents take advantage of his humility. “Do not allow your opponents to use your decency as a weakness,” she advises. “Do not be the punching bag they reach for every time they need to prove a political point.” She emphasizes that leadership is not just about diplomacy but also about knowing when to push back. Ewool assures Dr. Bawumia that he is not alone and has an army of supporters behind him who will stand up for him. “You have an army behind you, one that will not allow you to stand defenceless,” she writes. “We will surround you like a shield.” She encourages Dr. Bawumia to speak up and push back when necessary, as silence can make him an easy target for opponents. The letter is a call to action for Dr. Bawumia to assert himself in the political arena. Ewool’s message is clear: it’s time for Dr. Bawumia to show his strength and not let his opponents take advantage of his humility. With the support of his army, Dr. Bawumia can navigate the challenges ahead with confidence. Read full letter below: An Open Letter to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Dear Sir, Some time ago, I found myself constantly at the receiving end of salvos on these streets. Any idle keyboard warrior with WiFi and a grudge felt emboldened to come for me. And when they did, some of the very people I once called friends, people I stood up for, were right there cheering them on, handing them ammunition, and sometimes pissing in themselves. I became an easy target. A convenient object of their attacks. They could come for me any time they wanted, and they could do with me however they wanted. And quite frankly, some of the individuals who came at me looked like walking insults themselves. But after our party’s defeat in December 2024, something in me snapped, in the most necessary way. I had a moment of clarity: This nonsense had to end. I made a firm decision to stand up for myself and match energy with energy. I understood something deeply: on this platform, no one owes you respect, if you don’t demand it, you’ll lose even the little you have left. Today, when people come for me, they pause. They reconsider. And that’s not by accident. It is because I’ve redrawn the lines! Sir, there are people I’ve mentally bookmarked. Should they ever stumble into scandal or misfortune on these streets, I will drag them with the same intensity they once offered me. No hesitation, no mercy. I no longer forgive easily, and I certainly don’t forget. Both past and present draggings will be returned in full. And this time, with interest. Now, why am I saying all this? Because, respectfully, sir, this is the hard truth I believe you too must embrace. You see, in this political space, you are not the only one obligated to be respectful. Respect is rarely given in this space; it is earned, asserted, and defended. You’ve carried yourself with remarkable humility, and the nation sees it. But we, your supporters, respectfully insist: do not allow your opponents to use your decency as a weakness. Do not be the punching bag they reach for every time they need to prove a political point. Not in this season. Not in this race. Sir, you cannot continue to be the only one preaching peace and unity in a room full of performers throwing punches. Leadership is not only about diplomacy. It is also about knowing when to extend the olive branch and when to let it burn. Make no mistake, your opponents are misinterpreting your humility and diplomacy as a weakness. They say you do not have a mind of your own because of your gentle spirit. And they are rallying all manner of support for their candidate with this skewed narrative. As we prepare for the race ahead, let it be clear: you are not alone. You have an army behind you, one that will not allow you to stand defenceless. We are not here to watch you absorb attacks silently while others weaponize arrogance. Let them know that behind that calm exterior lies a man who will push back when pushed. You are not alone, sir. You have an army behind you, for you, and with you. We will surround you like a shield. Speak when you must. Push back when you must. Because in this arena, silence will always make you an easy target for your opponents. I humbly submit. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/ Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Wahala: Tertiary Education Unions Threaten Nationwide Strike
Three key unions in tertiary education — the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG), and the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) — have jointly threatened a nationwide strike if the government fails to pay their book and research allowances by June 13, 2025. Apexnewsgh reports In a statement issued on Monday, June 9, the three unions expressed frustration over the undue delay in releasing the exchange rate required to compute their book and research allowances. The delay has created significant uncertainty and frustration among members, as many depend on the funds to support academic work and research activities. Following a joint meeting on June 8, the unions resolved that while they are prepared to accommodate the late release of the exchange rate, they will not accept any extension of payment beyond September 2025. They stressed that the allowance is a statutory obligation under their Conditions of Service, not a discretionary gesture. The unions warned that failure by the government to honour the June 13 deadline will be treated as an official strike notice, triggering industrial action across all affected campuses. They urged the government to act swiftly to avert a nationwide disruption of the academic calendar and to protect the welfare of lecturers and the broader education sector. The unions’ ultimatum highlights the need for the government to prioritize the payment of the book and research allowances to avoid a potentially damaging strike. With the deadline looming, it remains to be seen whether the government will take the necessary steps to meet the unions’ demands and prevent a disruption to the academic calendar.
Minority Raises Concerns Over Delayed Funds for Parliament
The Minority in Parliament has expressed strong concerns over the undue delays by the Ministry of Finance in releasing funds allocated for the effective functioning of Parliament. Apexnewsgh reports According to the caucus, the continued withholding of these funds is crippling the work of parliamentary committees, with many now unable to fulfill their mandates due to a lack of financial resources. Raising the issue on the floor of the House on Friday, June 7, Chairman of the Assurances Committee and Member of Parliament for Bimbilla, Dominic Nitiwul, called on the Finance Minister to expedite the release of the necessary funds to support parliamentary work. “Parliament is now literally begging for money to enable its committees to function,” Nitiwul lamented. “As a committee chair, I could not access funds to carry out our duties. We had a scheduled workshop, but not even a cedi was released.” However, the claim was dismissed by the Majority Chief Whip, Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor, who insisted that Parliament is not facing any financial crisis. “They are alleging that Parliament is struggling to do what?” Dafeamekpor questioned. “As Members of Parliament, our salaries and allowances have been paid. The Finance Minister has released funds, and no one has officially raised concerns about not being paid.” Despite the disagreement, the Minority’s concerns highlight the need for timely release of funds to ensure the smooth functioning of parliamentary committees. Dominic Nitiwul’s plea to the Finance Minister underscores the importance of supporting Parliament’s work to enable it to effectively carry out its mandate. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GRNMA stands firm amid ongoing strike- says they’re open for talks, not renegotiation
The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has expressed its willingness to engage with the Ministry of Health but insists that it will not return to the negotiation table over matters already agreed upon. Apexnewsgh reports The association’s stance comes amid a nationwide strike that began on June 4, 2025, over the government’s failure to implement the provisions of their 2024 Collective Agreement. GRNMA’s Greater Accra Regional Chairman, Jefferson Asare, made it clear that while the association is open to discussions, it will not accept any attempts to reopen negotiations on matters already finalized. “We are ready to meet. If we receive a letter now, we will move anywhere they want us to go. But for renegotiation, we are not ready,” Mr. Asare stated in an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show. Mr. Asare stressed that among the various groups in the health sector, it is only nurses and midwives whose agreed-upon conditions of service remain unfulfilled. “In the health ecosystem, it is not only nurses who have problems with the conditions of service. But we are the only group whose conditions of service have not been implemented,” he added. The ongoing strike has disrupted healthcare services across the country, prompting calls from stakeholders and the public for a swift resolution. GRNMA maintains that the government must honour its commitments rather than attempt to renegotiate already-settled terms. The association’s firm stance underscores the need for the government to address the concerns of nurses and midwives to restore normalcy to the healthcare system. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
NPP Doesn’t Reward Poor Performance with Second Chances – Kennedy Agyapong
Former Member of Parliament and former NPP presidential aspirant, Kennedy Agyapong, has stated that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has never made it a practice to reward poor performance with a second shot, particularly in the selection of its presidential candidate. Speaking at a gathering of party loyalists in Mampong, Ashanti Region, Ken Agyapong emphasized that the party’s electoral history proves that performance is non-negotiable. Ken Agyapong’s comments appeared to be directed at former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who led the party in the 2024 general elections but lost to the NDC. “The NPP doesn’t give second chances to candidates who fail to deliver,” Agyapong declared. “We didn’t do it for Adu Boahen, and we shouldn’t do it now.” According to Agyapong, party tradition shows that second chances are earned through electoral performance, not handed out based on sentiment or incumbency. He cited examples of past leaders, including President Kufuor and Nana Addo, who had to prove themselves before being given another shot. “Even President Kufuor had to impress in 1996 before being given another shot in 2000,” he said. Ken Agyapong also referenced the late Prof. Adu Boahen, the NPP’s 1992 flagbearer, who despite his contributions to Ghana’s democratic struggle, was not given another chance after his defeat. “That tells you the NPP rewards performance, not sympathy,” Agyapong said, emphasizing the party’s focus on results over sentiment. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
GRA’s Fuel Levy Delay Highlights Need for Better Timelines – Tax Analyst
A tax analyst, Francis Timore Boi, has urged the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to provide industry stakeholders with adequate timelines to ensure effective compliance with tax policies, particularly those affecting fuel. His remarks follow the GRA’s delay in implementing the GHC1 Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy, initially scheduled for June 9, due to strong opposition from industry players. The new implementation date has been moved to June 16. Timore Boi emphasized the critical need for proper transition periods when introducing new taxes, especially on essential commodities like fuel. “Generally, when new taxes or levies are introduced—particularly on essential commodities like fuel—there must be a reasonable implementation period,” he said. “This allows businesses time to align and configure their systems for proper compliance.” Timore Boi called for dialogue between the GRA and Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to agree on a feasible timeline. “This situation requires both the GRA and OMCs to sit together and determine what a realistic timeline looks like,” he added. “The concerns raised by the OMCs are valid—there are technical adjustments that must be made before implementation can proceed smoothly.” The tax analyst’s comments highlight the importance of collaboration and adequate planning in implementing tax policies. By working together, the GRA and industry stakeholders can ensure a smoother transition and minimize disruptions to businesses and consumers. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GRA Revises Implementation Date for Energy Sector Levy
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has revised the implementation date for the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy, following stiff resistance from oil marketing companies. The levy, which was initially set to take effect on June 9, will now commence on June 16. Concerns from Oil Marketing Companies The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) had raised concerns over the timing and potential impact of the levy on fuel prices and consumer burden. After discussions with the GRA, a new implementation date was agreed upon. New Levy Rates The levy is part of government measures to settle mounting debts in the energy sector. The new rates are as follows: Motor Spirit (Super Petrol): GHC1.95 per litre (up from GHC0.95) AGO/Diesel and Marine Gas Oil (Foreign): GHC1.93 per litre (up from GHC0.93) Marine Gas Oil (Local): GHC0.23 per litre (up from GHC0.03) Heavy Fuel Oil (Residual Fuel Oil – RFO): GHC0.24 per litre (up from GHC0.04) Partially Refined Oil (Naphtha): GHC1.95 per litre (up from GHC0.95) Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) remains unchanged at GHC0.73 per litre Transitional Arrangements The new rates will apply to all petroleum products not lifted before June 16, 2025. However, products lifted by a Petroleum Product Marketing Company (PPMC) before June 16 will still be subject to the old levy rates. Any “cash-and-carry” transactions by PMMCs, for which products are lifted on or after June 16, 2025, will be subject to the new rates. Strict Compliance The Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, signed the directive and urged all ports and fuel stations to strictly comply with the new levy rates. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/ Ngamegulam Chidozie Stephen
GIPC Backs MTN Ghana’s $300m Investment Plan
The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) has thrown its full support behind MTN Ghana’s ambitious plan to inject $300 million into the country’s economy over the next few years. Apexnewsgh reports GIPC’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Simon Madjie, described MTN as a major force in Ghana’s economic transformation, particularly in the fast-growing ICT and fintech sectors. During a strategic meeting with MTN Ghana’s CEO, Mr. Stephen Blewett, Mr. Madjie praised the telecom giant’s continued commitment to Ghana’s development. He reaffirmed GIPC’s readiness to collaborate with MTN to attract further investments and engage key stakeholders across the country. Mr. Madjie stated that MTN’s investments align with Ghana’s national goals for digital and regional development. He emphasized GIPC’s commitment to facilitating partnerships that promote inclusive growth and private sector expansion. MTN Ghana’s investment strategy includes expanding digital infrastructure beyond the Greater Accra Region, aligning with GIPC’s agenda to stimulate regional economic activity and ensure equitable development across all 16 regions. The collaboration is expected to create opportunities in underserved areas, enhance digital access, and drive innovation. The partnership between GIPC and MTN Ghana aims to drive economic growth, promote digital inclusion, and foster innovation. By working together, both parties can leverage their strengths to create a more prosperous and digitally empowered Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegulam Chidozie Stephen
Minister of Health Appeals to Nurses and Midwives to Return to Work
The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has made a passionate appeal to members of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) to return to their posts, citing the critical needs of patients across the country. Apexnewsgh reports The Minister’s plea came during a monitoring visit to major health facilities in Accra, including Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, LEKMA Hospital, and Ridge Hospital. During his visit, Minister Akandoh assessed the impact of the ongoing strike on healthcare delivery and noted that the industrial action has clearly affected operations and the quality of care for patients. While some nurses and midwives remain at work, the Minister emphasized the need for all healthcare professionals to return to their duties. “I recognise the genuine concerns of our dedicated nurses and midwives,” Minister Akandoh said. “However, I appeal to them to reflect on the health and lives of vulnerable Ghanaians who depend on their care every day.” He assured health professionals that the government is actively working to address their grievances and resolve the impasse. The Minister emphasized his commitment to continued dialogue, expressing hope for a swift resolution. “I remain open to constructive engagement with all stakeholders, and I am confident we can find a common path forward that protects both the interests of our healthcare workers and the well-being of the public,” he added. The Ministry has reiterated its readiness to work collaboratively with the GRNMA to ensure that pressing challenges are resolved in a manner that strengthens Ghana’s healthcare system. The Minister’s appeal highlights the need for a collaborative solution that prioritizes the health and well-being of patients while addressing the concerns of healthcare professionals. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen