Ministry of Health Condemns Attack on Health Professionals at Ridge Hospital
The Ministry of Health has issued a stern condemnation following an incident at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge), where health professionals were attacked during an emergency situation. Describing the altercation as an act of aggression that endangers both healthcare providers and patients, the Ministry emphasized the unacceptable nature of such behavior and its impact on the delivery of critical medical services. The incident came to light after a video circulated showing relatives of a patient and some health workers embroiled in a heated exchange at the hospital’s emergency department. In a statement signed by Ministry spokesperson Tony Goodman on Monday, August 18, 2025, the Ministry called the assault on health workers at the emergency department “unacceptable and compromising to the delivery of critical healthcare services.” In response, the Ministry has announced immediate steps to enhance safety for both staff and patients. Security at Ridge Hospital will be tightened, and investigations have been launched into the circumstances that led to the reported delay in care. Minister of Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, personally visited the hospital to reassure management and staff of the Ministry’s unwavering support and commitment to their protection. The Ministry’s statement also urged the public to demonstrate patience, cooperation, and mutual respect, stressing that these values are essential for health professionals to provide timely and effective care. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
National Flags Restored to Full Mast After State Funeral for Fallen Public Officials
Following the solemn state funeral and befitting burial of the eight public officials who lost their lives in a tragic military helicopter crash on August 6 in the Ashanti region, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has issued a directive for all national flags hoisted at public buildings across Ghana to be restored to full mast with immediate effect. This order marks the official end of the national mourning period and a step toward healing for the nation. In a statement released on Monday, August 18, the Presidency conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Ghana and the international community for their overwhelming support since the tragedy. The government acknowledged the steadfast solidarity of traditional chiefs, clergy, Muslim clerics, civil society organizations, the diplomatic corps, political leaders, security chiefs, and service personnel who extended condolences and stood by the bereaved families. The eight distinguished victims honored at the state funeral were Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Samuel Aboagye, National Democratic Congress (NDC) Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed. “We are deeply moved by the outpouring of solidarity shown across the nation and beyond. Your messages of sympathy, your attendance at the state funeral, your practical assistance, and the many acts of kindness extended to the bereaved families have provided great consolation in this time of sorrow,” the Presidency’s statement read. Special appreciation was extended to individuals and corporate organisations whose support ensured a dignified state burial for the victims, described as a fitting farewell that honoured their memory and reflected the compassion of the Ghanaian people. As the country returns to its regular duties, the Presidency called on all Ghanaians to remain united in prayer, comfort one another, and continue supporting the families affected by the tragedy. In a gesture of enduring support, Stanbic Bank Ghana has donated GHS500,000 to the newly established Children’s Support Fund, created to provide financial assistance to the children of the victims. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President John Dramani Mahama Grants Amnesty to 998 Prisoners Nationwide
In a remarkable exercise of presidential mercy, President John Dramani Mahama has granted amnesty to 998 prisoners across Ghana. This decision, a significant moment for the nation, follows the recommendation of the Prisons Service Council and the Council of State, and is in line with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution, which empowers the president to grant reprieves and pardons in deserving cases. It all began when the Prisons Service Council carefully reviewed the cases of inmates from facilities throughout the country. After consultations and thorough consideration, a total of 1,014 inmates were recommended for amnesty. President Mahama, acting on these recommendations and his constitutional mandate, approved the release of 998 individuals. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Presidential Spokesperson and Minister of Government Communications, confirmed the decision in a public statement, highlighting the President’s commitment to justice and compassion. The amnesty is seen as a demonstration of the President’s belief in mercy and the possibility of a fresh start for those who have shown remorse and deserve another chance. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NPP Suspension Still in Force: Ayinbisa Debunks Amnesty Claims by Acting Party National Chairman
The Upper East Regional Communication Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Peter Ayinbisa, has clarified that the party’s suspension of some members remains in effect, despite a recent communiqué suggesting otherwise. In an exclusive interview with Apexnewsgh, Ayinbisa refuted claims that the party had granted amnesty to suspended members nationwide. The confusion arose after the NPP’s acting National Chairman, Danquah Smith Buttey, issued a statement suggesting a waiver for affected members. Ayinbisa explained that during the last emergency meeting, the First Vice-Chairman, Mr.Danquah Smith Buttey, proposed the idea of lifting suspensions ahead of the next general elections. However, members present argued that the timing was inappropriate and deferred the discussion to the next general meeting. “The matter was not formally discussed or approved,” Ayinbisa emphasized. “It was merely a suggestion, and members agreed to revisit it later. Until then, the suspensions stand.” He further revealed that he had personally verified the information with the party’s General Secretary, who confirmed that no such decision had been ratified by the National Executive Council (NEC). Responding to critics who questioned the party’s credibility due to the conflicting signals, Ayinbisa defended the NPP’s unity and discipline. “The NPP is the largest political party in Africa, and one individual’s statement does not define us,” he said. “We are a serious party focused on winning power and improving Ghana.” When asked whether the chairman’s unilateral communiqué indicated internal divisions, Ayinbisa dismissed the notion, attributing the move to personal interests rather than disunity. “Elections bring different interests to the forefront,” he noted. “Some may seek favor or political advantage, but that doesn’t mean the party is divided. Democracy allows for diverse opinions, and we remain united under our leadership.” Ayinbisa urged party members and the public to disregard the amnesty claims, stressing that only a collective decision by the NEC could lift the suspensions. “For now, those on suspension remain so. Any change will come through proper channels—not through individual pronouncements,” he concluded. The clarification puts to rest speculations about an immediate reprieve for suspended members, reinforcing the NPP’s structured decision-making process. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Mahama Thanks Sierra Leone’s President for Condolences Over Helicopter Crash
Former President John Dramani Mahama has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio for his show of solidarity following the recent helicopter crash in Ghana’s Ashanti Region. The tragic incident, which occurred earlier this month, claimed the lives of eight individuals, including five government officials and three military officers, sending shockwaves of grief across the nation. President Bio’s gesture of condolence was not only a personal expression of sympathy but also a representation of the people of Sierra Leone and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) community. During Ghana’s period of national mourning, President Bio took the time to extend his deepest condolences to the bereaved families and the Ghanaian people. Mahama commended President Bio for this noble gesture, describing it as a testament to the strong bond between Ghana and Sierra Leone. He also highlighted the spirit of unity that binds the ECOWAS sub-region, emphasizing the importance of such displays of solidarity in times of need. The expression of gratitude from Mahama underscores the value of regional unity and cooperation, particularly during difficult times. As Ghana continues to heal from the loss, the show of support from fellow West African nations serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience that comes from such partnerships. Source: Apexnewsgh.com