President Mahama Calls for Accountability in Governance
President John Dramani Mahama has emphasized the need for greater accountability among public officeholders, stressing that leadership must be driven by service, not self-interest. Speaking at the National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service held at the State House in Accra on July 1, President Mahama called on Ghanaians to hold those in authority accountable, noting that public office is a responsibility, not a privilege for personal gain. “We must hold those in authority accountable,” President Mahama said. “Public office is a responsibility, not a privilege for personal gain.” The President’s remarks come at a time when many Ghanaians are calling for transparency and integrity in governance. The National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service, which brought together religious leadership, political figures, civil society groups, and citizens from across the country, served as both a spiritual gathering and a moment of national reflection. President Mahama described the service as a sacred moment in the national calendar, meant to unite citizens across religious backgrounds in collective reflection, prayer, and gratitude. The President also highlighted the significance of the service, which is meant to promote unity, moral leadership, and national renewal. He urged Ghanaians to remain vigilant in their civic duties, hold their leaders accountable, and work together to build a just and prosperous Ghana for all. The call for accountability and good governance is a timely reminder of the importance of ethical leadership in public office. As President Mahama noted, leadership must be driven by a commitment to serve the people, not personal interests. The National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service provided a platform for Ghanaians to reflect on their values and principles, and to recommit to building a better future for themselves and future generations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
NPP Lawmakers Urge Party to Tone Down Internal Squabbles Ahead of Flagbearer Election
As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) prepares to elect a new flagbearer in January next year, two prominent party members have issued a call for calm and unity within the party. Apexnewsgh reports Kennedy Nyarko Osei, Member of Parliament for Akim Swedru, has urged party members to stop engaging in name-calling and internal squabbles, which he believes are detrimental to the party’s image. In a Facebook post, Nyarko Osei emphasized that the party’s internal conflicts are hurting its reputation and urged members to focus on rebuilding and strengthening the party. He also stressed the importance of giving younger generations within the party a chance to take on leadership roles, noting that this is crucial for the party’s future success. Meanwhile, Former Speaker of Parliament Professor Mike Oquaye has also weighed in on the issue, criticizing the divisive campaigning by some NPP flagbearer hopefuls. Speaking at the launch of the party’s new ideological centre, the Patriotic Institute, Oquaye called for a clean and issue-based contest that focuses on rich ideas for both the party and Ghana. Oquaye, a stalwart of the NPP, urged aspirants to emulate the party’s founding patriots, who upheld mutual respect and prioritized party unity. He encouraged potential candidates to focus on their achievements, their vision for the party, and their plans for the country if elected as the party’s presidential candidate. The call for unity and issue-based campaigning comes as the NPP is reorganizing itself after a heavy defeat in the 2024 general elections. With the flagbearer election just around the corner, it remains to be seen whether party members will heed the call to tone down their rhetoric and focus on building a united and progressive campaign. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Kojo Oppong Nkrumah Urges Government to Use World Bank Funds Transparently
Member of Parliament for Ofoase Ayirebi, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, has called on the government to ensure that the recently approved $360 million financing agreement with the World Bank is used for its intended purposes. Apexnewsgh reports He emphasized the need for transparency in the utilization of the funds, cautioning against deviations from the approved plans. The $360 million facility, which was approved by Parliament on July 1, 2025, is aimed at supporting the 2025 budget and achieving key economic objectives, including improving citizens’ livelihoods, accelerating economic growth, sustaining macroeconomic stability, curbing inflation, and restoring economic growth. According to Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the government must ensure that the funds are used transparently and in accordance with the approved plans. He made the call during the debate on the financing agreement in Parliament, urging his colleagues to support the motion while emphasizing the importance of accountability. The financing agreement was presented to the House by Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem, and the Finance Committee recommended its approval. However, the Minority voiced opposition during the debates. The MP’s call for transparency and accountability in the use of the World Bank funds is a timely reminder of the need for prudent management of public resources. As the government moves forward with implementing the projects and programs supported by the facility, it is essential to ensure that the funds are used effectively and efficiently to achieve the desired economic outcomes. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Plastic Product Prices Set to Rise as GPMA Announces 7% Increase
Consumers in Ghana should prepare for a hike in the prices of plastic products, as the Ghana Plastic Manufacturers’ Association (GPMA) has announced a 7% price increase on all locally manufactured plastic goods, effective July 1, 2025. Apexnewsgh reports In a statement signed by the Association’s President, Ebbo Botwe, the GPMA attributed the price adjustment to the recent implementation of a 5% Excise Tax on locally produced plastic products. The Association noted that the move, while regrettable, has become necessary to cushion manufacturers against the added tax burden imposed by the new government policy. The GPMA has urged businesses, retailers, and consumers to take note of the adjustment and plan accordingly. According to the Association, the price increase is unavoidable, given the current economic conditions and the rising costs of doing business in Ghana. The announcement comes amid growing concerns about the cost of doing business in the country, particularly within the manufacturing sector. Energy costs, raw material prices, and regulatory fees continue to climb, making it challenging for manufacturers to maintain their prices. As a result, consumers can expect to pay more for plastic products, including packaging materials, household items, and other essentials. The GPMA’s decision highlights the need for stakeholders to adapt to the changing economic landscape and find ways to mitigate the impact of rising costs on their businesses and customers. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Ghana Secures $360 Million Financing from World Bank to Boost Economic Resilience
Parliament has approved a $360 million financing agreement between the Government of Ghana and the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank Group. Apexnewsgh reports The facility aims to support Ghana’s post-crisis recovery and build long-term economic resilience. The financing arrangement is part of the Second Resilient Recovery Development Policy Financing (DPF) operation and will focus on three core areas: restoring fiscal sustainability, strengthening financial and energy sector stability, and enhancing social, climate, and economic resilience. Specifically, the funds will be used to improve domestic revenue mobilization, enhance public financial management, and promote greater debt transparency. Additionally, the facility will support efforts to ensure financial sector oversight, boost the operational and financial sustainability of the energy sector, and expand social protection, addressing gender disparities and integrating climate responsiveness into national development planning. The $360 million facility is provided on highly concessional terms, including a 1.25% service charge, zero interest, a five-year grace period, and a 30-year repayment schedule. According to the Finance Committee, chaired by Hon. Isaac Adongo, the terms are consistent with Ghana’s medium-term debt strategy and pose no significant risk to the country’s debt sustainability. The financing forms part of a wider package of World Bank support for Ghana, which also includes the technical assistance and investment lending. The financing builds on the first Resilient Recovery DPF and complements reforms under the ongoing IMF programme. Parliament’s adoption of the motion paves the way for the Ministry of Finance to access the funds and begin implementation of key policy measures. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Conor McGregor’s appeal against civil rape case ruling begins
Former mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Conor McGregor has begun an appeal against the finding of a civil rape case. In 2024 a woman who accused him of raping her won her claim against him for damages. A jury found McGregor sexually assaulted Nikita Hand in a Dublin hotel in December 2018. He was ordered to pay her more than €248,000 (£206,000) in damages. Ireland’s Court of Appeal was told on Tuesday morning that McGregor had withdrawn an application to have new evidence entered at the appeal. The proposed evidence was from a couple, Samantha O’Reilly and Steven Cummins, who are former neighbours of Nikita Hand. A previous preliminary hearing was told that they claimed to have witnessed a row between Ms Hand and her former partner Stephen Redmond in December 2018. The court heard McGregor believed the new evidence suggested that bruising on Nikita Hand’s body could have been caused by her former partner. In an affidavit, Ms Hand had described the allegations as untrue and lies. | A group of people, including TD (Irish MP) Ruth Coppinger (second from right) , gathered outside the court in support for Nikita Hand A lawyer for Ms Hand said she had responded to the suggested new evidence by saying it was “all lies” and that had now been conceded. He also said McGregor should be referred for “subornation of perjury”, meaning inducing people to commit perjury. McGregor has also abandoned an application to introduce new evidence from the former state pathologist for Northern Ireland Prof Jack Crane. What is the basis for McGregor’s appeal? The appeal is based around several issues arising from the civil trial at Dublin’s High Court last year. They include reference to the question “did Conor McGregor assault Nikita Hand?” being asked of the jury on the issue paper. Conor McGregor’s legal team say it should have specified sexual assault. However, a barrister for Ms Hand said “assault” covers a wide variety of assaults adding “what we were dealing with was assault by rape”. He added the question put to the jury “was agreed and the jury could not have been confused by it”. McGregor is also appealing an issue around the handling of his answers in interviews with gardaí (Irish police officers). His legal team explained that the jury heard McGregor gave about 100 “no comment” answers to gardaí. His barrister said he had a right to silence in police interviews and it was “left hanging”, allowing the jury to draw an adverse inference. Ms Hand’s legal team countered this argument by saying that if this was such a serious issue for McGregor at the time “surely an application to discharge the jury would have been made”. Her barrister said such an application was not made. McGregor’s legal appeal is also raising an issue about the judge’s charge to the jury during the civil trial. The appeal is being heard before three Appeal Court judges. Ms Hand attended Tuesday’s hearing along with family and friends. Source: bbc
President Mahama Honors Ghana’s Senior Citizens on Republic Day
President John Dramani Mahama hosted a special luncheon at the Presidency on Tuesday to honor Ghana’s senior citizens as part of the nation’s 65th Republic Day celebration. Apexnewsgh reports The event brought together distinguished elder statesmen and women who have made significant contributions to the country’s development across various sectors. In his address, President Mahama paid tribute to the senior citizens, acknowledging their sacrifices, wisdom, and enduring commitment to national progress. “You have laid the foundation on which we continue to build,” he said. “Your service to Ghana is not forgotten. Today, we honor not just your past, but your continued relevance to our democratic journey and national cohesion.” The President’s sentiments were echoed by the esteemed gathering, which included Vice President H.E. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Acting Chief Justice Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, and Chairman of the Council of State Rt. Hon. Edward Doe Adjaho. President Mahama emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the elderly, ensuring that their welfare and dignity remain a national priority. He also encouraged the younger generation to draw inspiration from the lives and achievements of the senior citizens, and urged them to share their wisdom and experience with others. The event served as a poignant reminder of the importance of honoring and appreciating the contributions of Ghana’s senior citizens, who have played a significant role in shaping the country’s history and development. As the nation celebrates its 65th Republic Day, the luncheon was a fitting tribute to the elderly, who have laid the foundation on which Ghana continues to build. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
NPP Officials Join Ghanaians in National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving
Ghanaians from all walks of life came together on Tuesday, July 1, to observe the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, a solemn occasion declared by President John Dramani Mahama to foster national unity, spiritual renewal, and gratitude for the country’s progress. Officials of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) were among the many Ghanaians who joined in the observance, attending church services and regional gatherings across the country. Senior figures within the NPP, including party executives and Members of Parliament, were seen praying alongside fellow Ghanaians, highlighting the non-partisan nature of the occasion. The event brought together citizens of all political, religious, and ethnic backgrounds, united in their quest for divine guidance and intervention for the nation’s future. Party officials described their participation as an act of national solidarity, emphasizing that building a prosperous Ghana requires not only policies and leadership but also moral renewal and spiritual direction. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo Markin, who attended the service, noted that the day was “bigger than politics” and that it was about Ghana, expressing pride in being part of it. Religious leaders who led prayers during the observances urged political actors to uphold peace, integrity, and humility, especially as the nation prepares for the upcoming 2028 general elections. The National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving was marked nationwide under the theme “Reflect, Reset, and Renewal for National Prosperity,” a call to reflection and renewal that resonated with Ghanaians from all walks of life. The occasion served as a reminder of the importance of spiritual guidance and moral renewal in shaping the nation’s future. As Ghanaians came together to pray and seek divine intervention, they reaffirmed their commitment to building a prosperous and peaceful nation for all. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Electoral Commission Weighs Rerun of Ablekuma North Parliamentary Election
The Electoral Commission (EC) is reportedly considering a rerun of the Ablekuma North parliamentary election in the Greater Accra Region. According to sources, the EC has been engaging with key stakeholders, including political actors and security agencies, over the past two weeks to discuss the possibility of a rerun. A decisive meeting was held today, where the EC, in collaboration with these stakeholders, aimed to finalize arrangements for the potential rerun. While details of the meeting are still emerging, it is clear that the EC is taking steps to address concerns surrounding the election. The Ablekuma North parliamentary election has been under scrutiny, and the EC’s consideration of a rerun demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the integrity and credibility of the electoral process. As the situation unfolds, Ghanaians will be watching closely for updates on the EC’s decision and the potential implications for the constituency. Source: Apexnewsgh.com