Interior Minister Mubarak Muntaka Condemns Violence During Ablekuma North Parliamentary Rerun
The Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Muntaka, has issued a strong condemnation of the violent incidents that disrupted the parliamentary rerun in the Ablekuma North constituency, vowing that all individuals involved, regardless of political affiliation, will face justice. Chaos erupted on Friday, July 11, when a group of unidentified macho men stormed the St. Peter’s Polling Centre, leading to significant disruptions across 19 polling stations and forcing a temporary halt to the voting process. Among those assaulted during the tumult was former Fisheries Minister, Mavis Hawa Koomson. In response to the violence, security measures in the area were heightened, allowing for the resumption of voting under reinforced police protection. Addressing journalists in Accra on Monday, July 14, Muntaka emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring accountability for the violent acts. “I can assure you that not my party, not any group, will we sit and allow to see the resurgence of vigilantism,” he stated firmly. He further revealed that he has directly communicated with the Inspector General of Police (IGP) about the incidents in Ablekuma North, sharing videos of the events and instructing him to take swift action to apprehend the perpetrators. Muntaka underscored that political connections or affiliations would not protect offenders from prosecution. “We’re not going to condone any actions by individuals within or outside our party going around to do the untoward. I can assure the public that we will ensure that under the leadership of H.E. John Dramani Mahama, no such group will be allowed to form,” he assured. The rerun, organized by the Electoral Commission (EC), aimed to resolve an unresolved electoral dispute from the December 7, 2024, general elections. Due to irregularities and the destruction of collation documents, the constituency had remained unrepresented in the 9th Parliament for over six months. In the tightly contested rerun election, the NDC’s parliamentary candidate, Ewurabena Aubynn, was declared the winner, narrowly defeating the NPP’s Nana Akua Afriyie. The outcome highlights the significance of maintaining peace and order in the electoral process as the nation moves forward. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Heritage Unveils Commemorative Activities for 13th Anniversary
The John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Heritage has announced a series of activities to commemorate the 13th anniversary of the passing of the late President John Evans Atta Mills. At a press conference held in Accra, the Chairman of the Memorial Heritage, Mr. Alex Segbefia, shared that these events are designed to honor the enduring legacy of the beloved statesman, who is remembered for his humility, integrity, and unwavering dedication to national service. The commemoration will kick off on July 22, 2025, with a special commemorative lecture at the Ohene Kofi Konedu Auditorium of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA). Titled “Atta Mills: A Case Study for the Fourth Republic,” the lecture will be delivered by Mrs. Charlotte Osei, the former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Ghana, and will be chaired by Mr. Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff. Two days later, on July 24, a solemn wreath-laying ceremony and memorial service will take place at Asomdwee Park in Accra, the final resting place of the late president. This important event will mark exactly 13 years since his passing and is expected to attract family members, dignitaries, friends, and citizens from across the country who wish to pay their respects. The commemoration will conclude on July 26, 2025, with the Atta-Mills Memorial Hockey Tournament at the Theodosia Okoh Hockey Stadium. This tournament pays tribute to one of Professor Mills’ lifelong passions—hockey—and aims to inspire youth development, discipline, and teamwork through the spirit of sports. Mr. Segbefia urged the media, civil society organizations, and the general public to enthusiastically participate in these events, emphasizing that the legacy of President Mills belongs to all Ghanaians. “The life of President Mills is a model of leadership rooted in peace, truth, and service. It is our collective duty to honor and preserve that legacy,” he stated. The planned activities attest to the lasting impact of President Mills and offer a platform for reflection on his contributions to Ghana’s democratic journey. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
MTN Ghana Deepens Commitment To Underserved Communities With Engagement In Donkorkrom
As part of its commitment to close the digital access gap and enhance customer experience in underserved areas, MTN Ghana held a community engagement in Donkorkrom in the Eastern Region aimed at empowering residents with knowledge on digital tools and mobile money safety measures. The forum focused on digital and financial inclusion for rural and remote communities and services designed to simplify their everyday lives. The forum also provided residents with vital information on how to prevent MoMo fraud. The community members were given updates on ongoing investments MTN Ghana is making to improve network infrastructure and reliability in Donkorkrom and surrounding areas. Commenting on the engagement, Georgina Fiagbenu, Corporate Communications Senior Manager at MTN Ghana said, “Our visit to Donkorkrom is a reflection of our commitment to serving all customers especially those in communities that have been historically underserved. We are listening, investing and working with urgency to improve the quality of service.” The community members actively participated in the forum, asking questions about product and services, the network and were taught how to spot and avoid MoMo scams. MTN’s team emphasized the importance of customer awareness. They also introduced the participants to digital tools to support their business operations and everyday tasks”. The District Chief Executive of Donkorkrom, Hon. Kate Mawusi, expressed her gratitude to MTN Ghana for their support to the district noting “I am happy to host MTN Ghana in Donkorkrom today. This visit demonstrates your commitment to your customers. We are excited to have you here in Donkorkrom”. The chief of Donkorkrom, Nana Akuamoah Boateng, commended MTN Ghana for coming to the community to engage with its residents. He commented that it was the first time a corporate organisation had recognised his community and organised such a forum to engage and solicit feedback on its services. He therefore urged MTN Ghana to continue to strengthen the relationship with Donkorkrom. Donkorkrom, a community with growing digital needs but limited infrastructure, was chosen as the location for the community engagement to reinforce MTN’s commitment to inclusive service delivery and improve connectivity in hard-to-reach communities. MTN Ghana has for several years organised community fora across Ghana to educate and solicit feedback on its services. These community fora underscore MTN Ghana’s dedication to providing timely information, improving digital literacy and strengthening trust through face-to-face engagement with its customers. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
President Mahama Appoints New Governing Board for Ghana Investment Promotion Centre
President John Dramani Mahama has announced the establishment of a new 10-member Governing Board for the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), a move aimed at enhancing the organization’s capacity to attract investments critical for Ghana’s economic transformation. The appointment aligns with the GIPC Act and follows consultations with the Council of State. Former Minister of State Akwasi Oppong-Fosu will chair the newly constituted board and includes influential figures from the finance, industry, and academic sectors. Among the members are Dr. Zakaria Mumuni, Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana; Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, Director-General of the National Development Planning Commission; Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Sampson Ahi; Deputy Minister of Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem; and the CEO of GIPC, Simon Madjie. Additional board members include John Awuah, CEO of the Ghana Association of Banks; Mercy Afrowa Needjan, President of the Greater Accra Markets Association; Dr. Reuben Owusu Gyamfi; and Major Christine Naa Adoley Oko (Rtd). At the inauguration ceremony held in Accra, the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, emphasized the pivotal role of GIPC in fostering job creation and stimulating economic growth through strategic Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). She highlighted the government’s commitment to reviewing the GIPC Act, which is designed to establish a more resilient and investor-friendly regulatory framework, asserting, “This will ensure that Ghana remains a top destination for high-quality investments.” Chairperson Akwasi Oppong-Fosu reaffirmed the board’s dedication to supporting the Ministry in achieving President Mahama’s vision of a transformed, investment-driven economy. Simon Madjie, the CEO of GIPC, described the inauguration as a significant milestone for the Centre and expressed optimism that the expertise brought by the new board members would greatly enhance the Centre’s investment promotion efforts. This development signals a renewed commitment to fostering an environment conducive to investment, ultimately driving Ghana’s economic progress. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
MP Mahama Ayariga Condemns Military Conduct Amidst Unrest in Bawku
Mahama Ayariga, the Majority Leader and Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, has issued a strong condemnation of the conduct of military personnel in Bawku, following the destruction of a revered statue and reports of violent assaults on civilians. In a statement released on July 14, 2025, Mr. Ayariga expressed his deep concern over the alleged demolition of a statue dedicated to the Zugran of the Kusaug Traditional Area, Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, an act reportedly carried out by members of the Ghana Armed Forces. “I condemn, in no uncertain terms, the unacceptable act of destruction of the statue of the Zugran of the Kusaug Traditional Area, Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, by some military personnel,” he declared. He stressed that such actions only exacerbate existing tensions in an already fragile security environment. The MP also criticized the military’s reported use of excessive force on July 13, labeling the incident a clear act of brutality. Additionally, he denounced a violent gun attack carried out by unidentified youth on a vehicle said to be under military escort. In a call for calm, Ayariga urged the youth of Kusaug to refrain from retaliatory actions, as he emphasized the need for the government to investigate what he referred to as “infiltrations into the ranks of the military by elements who seek to politicize and further destabilize the situation in Bawku.” He offered condolences to the families affected by the ongoing unrest and appealed for swift action from national leaders to restore peace in the region. “The government must take urgent steps to investigate and restore peace,” he added. Bawku has been embroiled in recurring clashes in recent months, with heightened tensions arising between security forces and segments of the local population. The recent incidents have prompted renewed calls for lasting peace and accountability, highlighting the urgent need for reconciliation initiatives in the area. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Food and Drugs Authority Appoints Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Manso Opuni as New Acting CEO
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has announced the appointment of Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Manso Opuni as its new Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective Monday, July 14, 2025. Prof. Opuni succeeds Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, who has led the FDA since 2017 but recently accepted a notable position as the Director General of the Africa Medicines Agency (AMA), marking a significant milestone in her impressive career in public health leadership. Before stepping into his new role, Prof. Opuni served as the Board Chairman of the FDA, where he gained extensive experience in public health policy, regulatory oversight, and institutional governance. His background equips him well to tackle the challenges ahead. In a statement regarding the appointment, the FDA extended its warmest congratulations to Prof. Opuni, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the Authority in fulfilling its essential mandate of safeguarding public health and safety in Ghana. Prof. Opuni assumes leadership at a critical time for the FDA, as the Authority is focused on strengthening regulatory systems, enhancing consumer protection, and ensuring the safety and efficacy of food, drugs, and other regulated products across the nation. His expertise and vision are expected to play a pivotal role in advancing these goals and addressing the ever-evolving landscape of public health in Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
CODEO Raises Alarm Over Security Lapses During Ablekuma North Parliamentary Rerun
The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has expressed serious concerns regarding the conduct of security personnel and the overall state of law enforcement during the parliamentary rerun held on Friday, July 11, 2025, in the Ablekuma North Constituency. The coalition warned that these issues pose a “clear and present danger” to the integrity of Ghana’s democracy. The alarm was raised following a violent incident at the St. Peter’s Society Methodist Church polling centre, where police allegedly stood by as unidentified men stormed the venue, disrupting the voting process. Among those assaulted were former MP for Awutu Senya East, Hawa Koomson, and the NPP’s parliamentary candidate for the constituency, Nana Akua Afriyie. The same group of assailants also attacked two journalists and Chris Lloyd Asamoah, the NPP’s deputy national organiser. In a strongly worded statement released on Monday, July 14, CODEO condemned the Ghana Police Service for failing to ensure the safety of voters, polling officials, and party agents, despite a significant presence of security personnel in the area. “The security lapses observed during this election rerun—despite the visible police presence—raise very serious questions about the state of the Ghana Police Service,” the statement read, emphasizing the need for accountability. CODEO further observed that unauthorized individuals, suspected to be political vigilantes, were seen moving freely in and around the polling centres, some traveling in unlicensed vehicles, thereby creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. The coalition expressed deep concern about this situation, especially given the high-stakes nature of the election and the urban environment in which it unfolded. “This posture of the police was observed during the 2024 elections and transition,” CODEO recalled, warning that the continued “emasculation” of the Ghana Police Service could erode public confidence in democratic processes and jeopardize national security. In light of these developments, CODEO is urging President John Mahama and the Police Council to act decisively under Article 202(2) of the 1992 Constitution to take immediate measures. “This must be done urgently to ensure clear remedial actions are taken ahead of the upcoming bye-election in Akwatia,” the coalition stressed. Furthermore, CODEO called on political parties, the Electoral Commission, security agencies, and the judiciary to reflect on these incidents and implement concrete measures to combat election violence, political vigilantism, and threats to police independence. “The failure to act now could undermine Ghana’s young democracy and endanger future electoral processes,” the coalition warned, highlighting the urgency of securing the electoral environment in the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NDC Executives Joseph Yamin and Yakubu Abanga Deny Allegations Tied to Rogue Anti-Galamsey Taskforce
Two national executives of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Joseph Yamin, National Organiser, and Yakubu Abanga, have firmly denied allegations linking them to an illegal anti-galamsey taskforce accused of extorting money and harassing small-scale miners across Ghana. The allegations originated from the Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana (CSSMGG), which claimed that a rogue taskforce, allegedly operating under the influence or support of Yamin and Abanga, has been terrorizing miners in various communities. The miners highlighted incidents in Sekondi, Bekwai, Offinso, and Prestea, where heavily armed individuals dressed in military gear purportedly invoked the names of the two political figures while engaging in acts of extortion and intimidation. In separate interviews, both Yamin and Abanga categorically rejected the accusations and called on national security authorities to take action against anyone impersonating them or misusing their names for illicit activities. “I would be the last to sanction the activities of any illegal taskforce or group,” Yamin stated during an interview on Sunday, July 13, 2025. He emphasized, “I have never engaged in mining, and I urge security agencies to act swiftly against any individuals using my name to harass legitimate miners.” Yamin also noted that he has previously reported illegal mining activities to the authorities, with his latest report involving a case in the Eastern Region. He encouraged miners to apprehend anyone claiming to represent him or the NDC in such operations, reinforcing his stance against illegal mining practices. Yakubu Abanga, the party’s 3rd Vice Chairperson, similarly denied any involvement, asserting that he has not authorized anyone to operate on his behalf regarding such matters. “I am a licensed miner with concessions in Ashanti, Western, and even in Côte d’Ivoire,” Abanga said. “I would never undermine the government’s anti-galamsey efforts, especially when I have been a victim myself, having some of my concessions taken from me and currently battling the matter in court.” Both leaders emphasized their commitment to supporting legal mining operations and upholding the rule of law, distancing themselves from any groups engaged in illegal activities in the guise of an anti-galamsey campaign. In a press statement addressing these claims, Yamin clarified: “For the record, I am not part of any galamsey taskforce, nor have I been consulted or invited to contribute ideas on how to address illegal mining activities involving some small-scale miners. If any individual or group is parading as a taskforce using my name, such actions are illegal and must be stopped immediately.” He urged the Concerned Small-Scale Miners to dissociate him from their claims and to address their grievances through appropriate legal and regulatory institutions for a lasting solution. Both Yamin and Abanga’s responses highlight their commitment to legality and transparency in the ongoing fight against illegal mining operations in the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Government Launches “The Government Accountability Series” to Promote Transparency
In a significant effort to enhance transparency and foster public accountability, the Presidency Communications Office has unveiled a new initiative known as “The Government Accountability Series.” Scheduled to commence on Monday, July 14, 2025, this program aims to provide a structured platform for key sector Ministers to present mid-year updates on their respective portfolios. The initiative offers Ghanaians a valuable opportunity to evaluate the government’s performance over the past six months. According to the Presidency, briefings will take place three times a week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays—starting at 11:00 a.m. The inaugural session of the series will feature the Minister for the Interior, Alhaji Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, who is expected to provide insights into developments within the country’s internal security, immigration, and public safety sectors. The Government Accountability Series seeks to promote open dialogue between government officials and the public, ensuring that citizens are well-informed about national progress, challenges, and the measures being adopted to address them. In the weeks that follow, additional Ministers will join the series to deliver comprehensive reports on their sectors, further enriching the dialogue between the government and the populace. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability, making strides toward more engaged and informed citizenry. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Former President Akufo-Addo Denies Proposals to Change NPP Conference Dates
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has categorically denied claims that he has reached out to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) with suggestions to alter the scheduled dates for the party’s National Delegates Conference and presidential primaries. In a statement released by his office, the former President clarified that he has not proposed any postponement of the upcoming July 19, 2025, National Delegates Conference or the January 31, 2026, presidential primaries. He stated unequivocally that he respects the party’s established structures and procedures and has no intention of interfering with the set timelines. Akufo-Addo further explained that he was not present at the National Council meeting where these crucial dates were determined and will also be absent from the upcoming conference on July 19. Nevertheless, he plans to send a goodwill message to be read during the event. In response to the ongoing speculation surrounding the dates, the former President encouraged party members with concerns to utilize the proper party channels to voice their grievances. “I have not commented on the dates, and I do not intend to do so,” he stated, reiterating his commitment to maintaining party unity and respecting due process within the NPP. His remarks aim to quell any misunderstandings and reinforce the importance of adhering to the party’s established processes as the NPP prepares for its significant upcoming events. Source: Apexnewsgh.com