Attorney-General Opposes Former Chief Justice Torkornoo’s Challenge to Removal, Mahama Nominates Successor
The Attorney-General’s Department has mounted a legal defense against an application by former Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, who is seeking to challenge her recent removal from office. In an affidavit filed on September 23, 2025, State Attorney Reginald Nii Odoi argued that Justice Torkornoo’s bid to invoke the supervisory jurisdiction of the High Court lacks merit and should be dismissed. The Attorney-General stated that two separate petitions calling for Justice Torkornoo’s removal remain under consideration by the Article 146 committee. The affidavit emphasized that, under the Constitution, the contents of such petitions must be kept confidential until the President acts on the committee’s recommendations. The state has therefore requested the court to strike out portions of Justice Torkornoo’s affidavit which reveal details of the pending petitions, citing the protection of the in camera rule. Addressing the substantive issue, the affidavit outlined that the office of Chief Justice is unique within Ghana’s judiciary, requiring a distinct appointment process. The removal of the Chief Justice, it argued, automatically ends her ex-officio membership of the Supreme Court and other Superior Courts. The inclusion of “Justice of the Supreme Court” in the presidential warrant of removal, the Attorney-General said, was to clarify the law and eliminate any ambiguity regarding her status. Justice Torkornoo, who was ousted earlier this month following a citizen’s petition, contends that her removal was unconstitutional and violated her rights. Meanwhile, President John Mahama has nominated His Lordship Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the next Chief Justice of Ghana. The announcement, made on Tuesday, September 23, by presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, noted that the nomination was in accordance with Article 144(1) of the 1992 Constitution. Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s name has been forwarded to the Council of State for consideration. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Elon Musk’s father accused of sexually abusing his children and stepchildren
Errol Musk, the 79-year-old father of tech billionaire Elon Musk, has been accused of sexually abusing five of his children and stepchildren since 1993, the New York Times reported on Tuesday. The outlet said those allegations could be why the entrepreneur, who temporarily served as an adviser to the second Trump administration, rarely mentions his father – and that family members of Elon Musk have reached out for help, prompting him to sometimes take action to intercede. Errol Musk dismissed the allegations reported by the Times out of hand, telling the publication they were “nonsense” and “false”. He did not immediately respond to requests for comment from the Guardian. Citing personal letters, emails, and interviews with family members, the Times said that Errol Musk, who has at least nine children and stepchildren and has been married to three women, “maintains a powerful grip over much of the family”. The Times said Elon Musk did not respond to the publication’s requests for comment. Judging from court records, personal correspondence, social workers and interviews with family members, the Times said the earliest accusation against Errol Musk was in 1993, when his four-year-old stepdaughter told relatives he had touched her at the family house. A decade later, the stepdaughter said she caught him sniffing her dirty underwear, the Times reported, adding that some family members have also accused him of abusing two of his daughters and a stepson. Composite of pictures of Elon Musk as a child and adult. Three separate law enforcement investigations were opened, the outlet said, citing police and court records, as well as family members’ accounts. Two of the inquiries ended without action, while it is unclear what happened in the third investigation. “There was no evidence because this is nonsense,” Errol Musk said in a statement to the Times, saying “the reports are false”. He accused family members who were “putting the children up to say false things” and that they were trying to extort Elon, his eldest son. Elon Musk has described a difficult relationship with Errol on the rare occasion when he has commented on his father. He told Rolling Stone in 2017 that his father had done “almost every evil thing you could possibly think of”. In the profile, Musk said he had gone to live with his father at age 10 while his younger siblings, Kimbal and Tosca, stayed with their mother. “I felt sorry for my father, because my mother had all three kids. He seemed very sad and lonely by himself. So I thought, ‘I can be company,’” he said. He continued: “I didn’t really understand at the time what kind of person he was … It was not a good idea.” Without going into specifics, he told the publication, “My dad will have a carefully thought-out plan of evil. He will plan evil.” Source: The Guardian
President Mahama Applauded by African Leaders for Championing Health Sovereignty Summit
Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has won unanimous acclaim from African Heads of State during the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for spearheading the landmark Africa Health Sovereignty Summit held in Accra this August. The summit, hailed as a pivotal moment for Africa’s future, reinvigorated discussions on the continent’s journey toward health self-sufficiency and resilience. Leaders at the UNGA noted that the summit could not have come at a more critical time. With international healthcare funding shrinking, highlighted by the United States’ announcement of an £8 billion reduction in overseas assistance, the urgency for Africa to pursue its own solutions has never been greater. In a special meeting of the Committee of Heads of State and Government of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), attended by the Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO), leaders adopted an ambitious roadmap. Central to their plan is the creation of regional drug manufacturing hubs to produce 60% of Africa’s pharmaceutical needs by 2040. This initiative is expected to drive down drug costs and generate thousands of jobs across the continent. President Mahama detailed Ghana’s concrete steps toward health sovereignty, including removing the cap on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to broaden healthcare access, and the upcoming ‘Big Push’ initiative, which will channel substantial new investments into the health sector starting next year. “The Accra Reset is driving Africa forward,” Mahama affirmed, reiterating his vision of an Africa where nations hold the reins of their own healthcare destinies. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana and Norway Sign Landmark Political Consultations Agreement at UNGA
Ghana and Norway have taken a significant step to strengthen their partnership with the signing of a Political Consultations Agreement on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The agreement, inked on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, by Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto-Ablakwa, ushers in a new era of cooperation between the two nations. The deal aims to deepen collaboration in strategic sectors such as oil and gas, trade facilitation, education, agribusiness, artificial intelligence (AI), maritime security, the blue economy, and intelligence sharing. This expanded scope reflects the evolving priorities and ambitions of both countries. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Ghana’s delegation and Norway’s Minister of International Development, Mr. Åsmund Grøver Aukrust, who played a pivotal role in finalising the agreement and was commended for his efforts. Beyond bilateral relations, the agreement commits Ghana and Norway to a joint leadership role on the global stage. Both countries will continue to serve as co-chairs of the High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy, championing responsible stewardship of ocean resources. Officials hailed the agreement as a milestone, noting that it not only strengthens ties between Ghana and Norway but also enables the two nations to collaborate closely on shared global priorities, particularly sustainable development and environmental protection. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Names Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as New Chief Justice
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated His Lordship Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie for appointment as Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana, in accordance with Article 144(1) of the 1992 Constitution President John Dramani Mahama has nominated His Lordship Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie for appointment as Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana, marking a significant milestone in the country’s judicial leadership. The President’s nomination, made in accordance with Article 144(1) of the 1992 Constitution, has been formally submitted to the Council of State for consideration. Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, whose distinguished legal career has taken him from the High Court to the Court of Appeal and ultimately to the Supreme Court, is widely recognized for his diligence, integrity, and substantial contributions to Ghanaian jurisprudence. He has garnered deep respect from the Bench, the Bar, and the broader legal community for his intellect, impartiality, and unwavering commitment to justice. Since April 22, 2025, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie has served as Acting Chief Justice, bringing decades of judicial experience and leadership to the role. Government spokesperson and Minister for Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, confirmed the nomination in a statement on Tuesday, highlighting that Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s “wealth of experience and long service on the Bench render him eminently qualified for the high office of Chief Justice.” Should the Council of State approve the nomination, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie will take up the position on a substantive basis, becoming the head of Ghana’s judiciary and continuing his legacy of dedicated public service. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Government Intensifies Nationwide Crackdown on Galamsey with Specialised Security Training
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MLNR), in partnership with Ghana’s security agencies, has ramped up its campaign against illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, by training and deploying more combat-ready personnel for operations across the country. Illegal mining remains one of Ghana’s most urgent environmental problems, leaving forests, rivers, and farmlands ravaged. Experts caution that contaminated water and soils are reducing agricultural productivity and endangering public health. Responding to the crisis, President John Dramani Mahama instructed sector Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah to suspend the issuance of new mining licenses while a comprehensive sector review is undertaken. The Minister has also petitioned the Attorney-General to repeal Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, which has faced criticism from civil society for allegedly enabling galamsey activities. In a further step, the Minister launched the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations (NAIMOS) to coordinate and strengthen anti-galamsey interventions. Officials report that NAIMOS is already yielding positive results. To consolidate these gains, NAIMOS Coordinator, Col. Buah, has introduced a specialised training programme for security officers. The training covers forest laws, land regulations, and operational protocols, equipping over a thousand personnel to deter, halt, and apprehend illegal miners at more than 44 identified flashpoints. Unlike previous efforts, the newly trained officers will be stationed permanently at affected sites and rotated regularly to maintain vigilance. The initiative also calls for close collaboration with traditional leaders, while emphasizing uncompromised enforcement. This crackdown builds on earlier interventions, such as rCOMSDEP and Blue Water Guards, aimed at safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources. Minister Armah-Kofi Buah affirmed the government’s commitment to responsible mining, declaring, “This government supports responsible mining, but we will not tolerate destruction of our environment and livelihoods.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Galamsey Crisis: Adomako Kissi Calls on GoldBod to Fund Water Treatment
Former Member of Parliament for Anyaa Sowutuom, Dr. Dickson Adomako Kissi, has called for the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) to bear the cost of water treatment in the wake of a proposed 281 percent tariff increase by Ghana Water Limited (GWL) Former Anyaa Sowutuom MP, Dr. Dickson Adomako Kissi, is urging the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) to shoulder the cost of water treatment in response to Ghana Water Limited’s (GWL) proposed 281 percent tariff hike. GWL has applied for regulatory approval to raise water tariffs from GH¢5.28 to GH¢20.09 per cubic metre, citing mounting debts, operational challenges, and the soaring expense of treating water tainted by illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey. Speaking on Accra-based media , Dr. Adomako Kissi argued that it is unjust for ordinary Ghanaians to absorb these costs. He pointed out that GoldBod, which profits from purchasing gold from both legal and illegal miners, should be held responsible for the environmental damage inflicted on Ghana’s water bodies. “The GoldBod has made a huge amount of money, which they have flaunted; they have told everybody. Why must I pay for the water treatment as a Ghanaian? Why must I bear that burden? I really think that the revenue from gold that has been flaunted everywhere, a portion of that should be used to work on all the water facilities in this country. I really think that the true beneficiary of the damages to all of our water bodies is the gold and mining industry,” he stated. Dr. Adomako Kissi further contended that it is unfair for Ghana Water Limited to pass the burden on to consumers. “The idea that Ghana Water Company wishes to increase tariffs that I and you have nothing to do with in terms of damage to our water, I think it is very wrongfully placed. As it stands now, all the gold, whether legal or illegal, goes to GoldBod, and as a matter of fact, I think they should be made to pay for all the water damages in this country,” he added. Meanwhile, GWL has defended its tariff proposal, explaining that, in addition to pollution from galamsey, factors such as foreign exchange pressures and the high cost of imported equipment and chemicals have compounded its financial difficulties. The debate highlights growing concerns over who should bear the cost of environmental damage and the broader impact of illegal mining on public utilities and consumers. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Tinubu Refuses To Quit Smoking Habit Despite Intervention Attempts By Close Allies, Sources Say
Since taking office in May 2023, Tinubu has made about 40 international international trips, some of which are believed to be for medical reasons. President Bola Tinubu has reportedly continued his smoking habit, despite repeated efforts by those around him to persuade him to quit, SaharaReporters has learned. Sources close to the President said that Tinubu remains committed to smoking and has resisted attempts by aides and associates to help him give up the habit. The sources noted that, while concern has been raised over the health implications, the President has so far refused to change his behavior. “Tinubu’s smoking addiction is an issue. The President is still smoking, and despite efforts to get him to stop, he has refused,” one of the sources said. SaharaReporters learnt that the President’s handlers, concerned about the issue, believe that as a national leader, Tinubu’s personal health choices are matters of public interest. Since taking office in May 2023, Tinubu has made about 40 international trips, some of which are believed to be for medical reasons. Tinubu’s frequent international travel has sparked persistent speculation about his health, especially given the number of trips to Europe, especially France and the UK. While many of these visits are officially described as “working trips” or “diplomatic engagements,” SaharaReporters has reported that some may have included medical consultations. The Presidency has occasionally issued reassurances, stating that the President is “fit and capable,” but these statements have not fully quelled public concern. In June, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaye, disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had undertaken 36 foreign trips since assuming office. Providing a mid-term review of the administration’s foreign policy record, Enikanolaye noted that the trips, which began after Tinubu’s inauguration on May 29, 2023, spanned Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas. According to him, the President’s destinations included Benin Republic, Chad, Ghana, Senegal, Guinea, Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Africa, Tanzania, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, the Vatican, the United States, Brazil, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, India, and China. Source: Saharareporters
Nnamdi Kanu’s Hearing Advanced to Sept 26: Court to Rule on Release Application
The Federal High Court in Abuja has brought forward the court date for the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to address his application for release In a significant development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has rescheduled the trial date for Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), moving the hearing forward from October 10 to September 26. The new date, set by Justice James Omotosho, will allow the court to address Kanu’s urgent application for release. The main terrorism trial against Kanu had originally been slated to resume on October 10, 2025, with a ruling expected on the no-case submission filed by Kanu’s lawyers after the Federal Government had presented its case against him. However, recent developments have accelerated court proceedings to consider pressing health concerns raised by Kanu’s legal team. Earlier in September, the Federal High Court adjourned a separate application from Kanu’s lawyers requesting his transfer to the National Hospital for urgent medical treatment. This adjournment came as Justice Musa Liman’s tenure as a vacation judge ended on the final day of the Federal High Court judges’ vacation. In support of the application, Emmanuel Kanu, the IPOB leader’s younger brother, submitted an affidavit describing his brother’s life-threatening heart condition and the inadequacy of current medical facilities at his place of detention. During the hearing, Kanu’s senior counsel, Uchenna Njoku, told the court that the Federal Government’s lawyers had only that morning served a 37-page counter-affidavit, leaving little time for review. Njoku requested additional time to study the document, while lead government counsel Adegboyega Awomolo agreed, expressing regret that the matter had not been scheduled sooner. Justice Liman, acknowledging the urgency and seriousness of the health concerns, agreed to hear the case but ultimately returned it to the Central Registrar for reassignment, as his jurisdiction as a vacation judge was lapsing. He stressed in the case file that the matter was urgent and should be scheduled for hearing by Justice James Omotosho before the next date of the main trial. The rescheduled hearing on September 26 is expected to focus on Kanu’s application for release, given the gravity of his health condition, as the legal battle between Kanu and the Federal Government continues to unfold. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghanaians Fleeing: CDM Slams Government Over Governance Failure
The Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) has described the displacement of Ghanaians from Bawku and other northern communities into neighbouring countries as a “national tragedy” and evidence of governance failure The Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) has sounded the alarm over the recent displacement of Ghanaians from Bawku and other northern communities, describing it as a “national tragedy” and clear evidence of governance failure. In a strongly worded statement, the group highlighted that ongoing violent conflicts in the Upper East, Oti, and Northern Regions have driven some citizens to seek refuge in neighbouring Togo and Burkina Faso. “This is the first time in Ghana’s history that citizens are fleeing as refugees to neighbouring countries,” the CDM lamented, expressing deep concern over what it sees as a turning point in the nation’s story. The group stressed that the development undermines Ghana’s long-standing reputation as a peaceful and stable nation within West Africa. “Ghana, long celebrated as a haven of peace in West Africa, now faces the disturbing reality of citizens seeking safety outside its borders,” the statement said. The CDM did not mince words in its criticism of the government, accusing it of abdicating its constitutional duty to protect life and property. “A government that cannot secure its borders, prevent violent conflict, or protect its citizens has abdicated its primary responsibility under the Constitution of Ghana,” the group charged. It emphasized that security must not be reduced to mere rhetoric, but must translate into tangible protection for all citizens. The statement further linked the insecurity to broader weaknesses in governance, citing institutional failings, neglect of constitutional obligations, and a lack of proactive conflict management as key reasons why violence continues to displace families. The CDM warned that if the crisis is left unaddressed, it could escalate further, threatening both Ghana’s national security and the stability of the wider region. Concluding its statement, the CDM called on traditional authorities, faith-based leaders, and civil society to mount pressure on the government to take decisive action. “The government must understand that the lives of Ghanaians matter. The safety of our people is the true foundation of national prosperity,” the group concluded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com