Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and Seven Others to Be Arraigned Over SML Case
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has announced that it will arraign eight individuals, including former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, before the court on Monday, November 24, in connection with the Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) case. This development comes after the OSP filed 78 charges against Ofori-Atta and seven others for their alleged involvement in controversial revenue assurance contracts between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML). According to a post on the OSP’s official Facebook page, the prosecution will also seek court orders to serve the charge sheet on fugitives currently outside the country. The former minister and his co-accused face a total of 78 counts of corruption and related offences, including “conspiracy to commit the criminal offence of directly or indirectly influencing the procurement process to obtain an unfair advantage in the award of a contract.” The OSP indicated that the charges, filed on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, constitute violations of section 23(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), and section 92(2)(b) of the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663). Portions of the suit, filed at the Criminal Division of the High Court in Accra under case number CR/0106/2026, read: “Conspiracy to commit the criminal offence of directly or indirectly influencing the procurement process to obtain an unfair advantage in the award of a procurement contract, contrary to section 23(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), and section 92(2)(b) of the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663).” Those set to face prosecution include former GRA Commissioners-General Dr Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah and Emmanuel Kofi Nti, as well as senior GRA officials Isaac Crentsil and Kwadwo Damoa. Other accused persons are Ernest Akore, former Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Finance, Evans Adusei, owner of SML, and the company itself. The arraignment marks a major development in the OSP’s ongoing efforts to address corruption and procurement-related offences in public administration. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Eduwatch Renews Call for Scrapping Teacher Trainee Allowance, Urges Shift to Student Loan Scheme
Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch) has renewed its appeal for the government to scrap the Teacher Trainee Allowance, describing the policy as uneconomical and unsustainable in light of the 2026 national budget. This latest call was made in a statement released on Thursday, November 20, following the presentation of the 2026 Budget by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson on November 13. According to the budget, GH¢207.8 million has been allocated for teacher trainee allowances for students in Colleges of Education in 2026. However, Eduwatch maintains that these funds would be more effectively utilised if redirected to the Students’ Loan Scheme, thereby supporting all tertiary students, including teacher trainees. “An amount of GH¢207.8 million has been set aside in the 2026 budget for Teacher Trainee Allowances at Colleges of Education. The allocation is uneconomical. Eduwatch reiterates its long-standing position that this allocation should be scrapped, and resources redirected to the Students’ Loan Scheme to benefit all tertiary students, including teacher trainees,” the statement read. The advocacy group emphasised that discontinuing the allowance policy and bolstering the loan scheme would ensure broader and more equitable financial support across the tertiary education sector. Eduwatch’s position reflects a growing debate over how best to allocate scarce public resources to maximise access and impact within higher education. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang and Egyptian Ambassador Pledge Stronger Ghana–Egypt Ties
Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has hosted H.E. Wael Fathy Ahmed, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt, in what she described as a productive and forward-looking engagement aimed at deepening cooperation between Ghana and Egypt. The meeting, which underscored the enduring and historic ties between the two nations, provided an opportunity for both sides to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations across key sectors. Assuring the Ambassador of the Government’s unwavering support, Professor Opoku-Agyemang stated, “Ghana remains committed to working closely with Egypt to broaden the scope of our cooperation and deliver tangible benefits to our people.” She also expressed Ghana’s gratitude for the warm hospitality shown to President John Dramani Mahama during his recent visit to Cairo for the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), highlighting the museum’s global significance. “The Grand Egyptian Museum is not only a monumental achievement for Egypt but a cultural treasure for the world,” she remarked. Discussions centered on shared values of unity, respect, and collaboration in addressing global challenges. With both countries home to dynamic and youthful populations, the Vice President emphasized the importance of empowering the next generation. “Our young people hold immense promise, and it is our duty to create pathways for skills development, innovation, and meaningful opportunity,” she said. Ambassador Wael Fathy Ahmed lauded Ghana’s longstanding friendship with Egypt and reiterated his commitment to expanding cooperation. “Egypt values its partnership with Ghana and looks forward to expanding collaboration in areas that will drive progress for both countries,” he noted. Against the backdrop of shifting global dynamics, Professor Opoku-Agyemang stressed the urgency of forging stronger partnerships in training, technology, and knowledge exchange. “The world is changing rapidly, and our collaboration must reflect the pace of transformation,” she observed. “By bridging knowledge gaps and promoting shared learning, we can unlock new avenues of growth.” The meeting concluded with both delegations expressing confidence in the renewed momentum of Ghana-Egypt relations and a shared resolve to pursue peace, development, and prosperity for their peoples. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
UHAS Lecturer Calls for Fans’ Support Fund to Sustain Ghanaian Presence at Major Tournaments
Dr. Frank Appiah Kusi, a Lecturer and Researcher in Sport Management and Marketing at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), has urged the government to establish a Fans Support Fund to sustainably finance supporters’ participation in major international tournaments. His call comes in the wake of the Sports Minister’s recent announcement that the government does not intend to state-sponsor fans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Dr. Appiah Kusi explained that Ghanaian football fans have become accustomed to government-sponsored trips since the 2006 World Cup. However, he argued that the current economic climate makes such support unsustainable. “It has become a tradition for fans to travel to support the national teams from 2006 to date, so the fans are expecting the government to continue,” he said. “But the financial sustainability is in question, good governance practices are in question.” Dr. Appiah Kusi highlighted the escalating costs of attending major tournaments, noting that even the lowest-priced ticket for the 2026 World Cup is $100, not including travel and accommodation. “Is Ghana prepared to buy these tickets for fans?” he asked. “In my candid view, it’s not financially sustainable for government to lift fans to any international competitions.” He drew comparisons with Europe, where governments do not directly sponsor supporters to attend tournaments. “In Europe, none of their governments lift their fans to the stadium, but they indirectly support them,” he observed. To address this challenge, Dr. Appiah Kusi recommended the establishment of a Fans Support Fund. Such a fund, he suggested, could mobilize private sector contributions, corporate sponsorships, and structured fan membership schemes to enable Ghanaian supporters to attend major events without relying solely on state funding. Dr. Appiah Kusi emphasized that a Fans Support Fund would promote transparency, financial discipline, and long-term sustainability, while preserving Ghana’s tradition of passionate fan support at global tournaments. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Pragya Riders Stage Mass Protest in Kumasi Over Harassment and Restrictions by City Authorities
Commercial tricycle operators, popularly known as Pragya riders, staged a massive protest in Kumasi on Thursday, November 20, 2025, decrying what they described as ongoing harassment, extortion, and unfair restrictions imposed by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA). Hundreds of riders abandoned their tricycles and crowded the streets of the Ashanti Regional capital, blocking colleagues from working and compelling many to join the demonstration. The protest, dubbed ‘Enough is Enough,’ saw participants march through major thoroughfares, waving placards and chanting for urgent government intervention. The riders’ anger was directed at recent initiatives by the KMA, which they claimed were crippling their livelihoods. About two years ago, the assembly enforced a directive banning Pragya operations in key areas of the Central Business District (CBD), citing the need to reduce congestion and restore order. Although the tricycle operators initially complied following demonstrations and negotiations, they argue that the CBD remains congested and traffic conditions have not improved. The protesters accused the KMA of failing to honor its commitments and questioned why they continued to be targeted, insisting that they are not to blame for ongoing congestion. Beyond the operational restrictions, riders alleged persistent harassment and extortion by some KMA city guards and police officers—claiming that officials frequently demanded money or seized their tricycles without cause. Regional Chairman of the National Union of Tricycle Operators, Seidu Mubarak, expressed frustration over the lack of response to their repeated appeals and engagements with city authorities. According to him, their grievances have been ignored for too long. At the end of the march, the riders presented a petition to both the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly and the Ashanti Regional Minister, listing their concerns and calling for immediate intervention. The protesters issued a two-week ultimatum for authorities to address their demands or risk further demonstrations. The Pragya riders’ protest has thrown the spotlight on the ongoing tensions between city authorities and informal transport operators in Kumasi, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions that balance urban management with the livelihoods of thousands of workers. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Calls for Reforms in Global Diamond Trade at Kimberley Process Meeting
Ghana has issued a powerful call for renewed commitment and progressive reforms in the global diamond trade, urging members of the Kimberley Process (KP) to modernise the definition of conflict diamonds and address the evolving challenges facing diamond-producing communities. At the Kimberley Process Ministerial Meeting in Dubai, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD), Sammy Gyamfi, delivered Ghana’s official statement. He acknowledged the KP as one of the world’s most successful multilateral initiatives but cautioned that its mandate risked becoming outdated if long-overdue reforms continued to stall. Gyamfi highlighted that while overt armed conflicts in diamond-producing regions have diminished in recent years, many communities still face “the violence of exploitation, dispossession, and exclusion.” He stressed that modern conflict extends beyond traditional warfare, taking new and more subtle forms that must be addressed by the KP. He pointed out that the proposals before the KP to redefine “conflict diamonds” underscore a shared commitment among member states to protect vulnerable groups and uphold the credibility of the global certification scheme. What is needed now, he said, is decisive and collective action. “Consensus is at the heart of the Kimberley Process,” Gyamfi reminded delegates. “But consensus must be a path to progress, not a recipe for paralysis.” He warned that continued failure to agree on reforms would erode the KP’s moral authority and relevance. Advocating for a pragmatic approach, the CEO urged participating countries to seek common ground, listen to one another, and embrace reforms—even incremental ones—that would bolster the diamond supply chain’s integrity while supporting legitimate trade. He cautioned against allowing “the quest for perfection to become the enemy of meaningful incremental reform,” and called on delegates to ensure that history would remember this meeting for choosing renewal and cooperation over stagnation and self-interest. Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with all member states so that the Kimberley Process will continue to evolve, protect communities, promote ethical trade, and address the modern challenges facing the diamond industry. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
National Anti-Galamsey Army Commander Calls for Tougher Measures Against Illegal Mining
The fight against illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, has reached a decisive moment in Ghana, with calls for stronger and more aggressive interventions echoing across the nation. At the forefront of this battle is Colonel Robert Narh, National Anti-Galamsey Army Commander and head of the Ghana Army Combat Training School, who has urged the government to authorize bolder actions to bring an end to the devastation caused by galamsey operations. During a recent meeting with small-scale miners in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality of the Central Region, Colonel Narh spoke candidly with journalist Samuel Nana Tawiah about the escalating crisis. He emphasized the military’s readiness to take decisive action, even suggesting that a “shoot and kill” approach could be considered if illegal miners violently resist efforts to halt their operations. However, he was quick to add that such drastic measures would only proceed with explicit government approval. “There are already task forces reclaiming destroyed lands, and soon, Ghanaians will regain their water bodies,” Colonel Narh stated. He called on citizens to support the national effort to end the destruction of Ghana’s environment, adding, “Restoring our environment is a shared responsibility, and we all have a role to play.” Providing a regional update, the Central Regional Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Mr. Kwesi Dawood, reported significant progress in the fight against illegal mining. According to Mr. Dawood, more than 1,000 acres of degraded land have been reclaimed in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality alone. These efforts, he explained, are not just about environmental restoration, but also about returning the land to productive use. Mr. Dawood noted a marked decline in the number of people engaging in illegal mining since the reclamation initiative began. In a positive development, there have been no recent reports of water bodies being siphoned for galamsey activities—a testament to the effectiveness of current interventions. “NADMO remains committed to sustaining the momentum and eliminating the menace across the Central Region,” he assured. The human cost of galamsey is starkly evident in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality. According to the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr. George Anane, over 27 residents have lost their lives after falling into abandoned mining pits left behind by illegal miners. These tragic incidents highlight the urgent need for comprehensive land reclamation and stronger regulatory enforcement. Mr. Anane pledged to intensify the campaign against illegal mining, emphasizing that the ongoing reclamation exercise will help prevent further tragedies while restoring the land for agriculture, housing, and other beneficial purposes. He warned that anyone found mining in protected areas—including forests and water bodies, would face arrest and prosecution. “We are committed to achieving zero galamsey in this municipality by the end of the year,” he declared, signaling a new era of accountability. Colonel Narh’s call for tougher measures has resonated with many in government and civil society, reflecting a growing consensus that bold action is necessary to end illegal mining for good. The current campaign brings together the military, NADMO, local government authorities, and community members in a coordinated effort that combines enforcement, land reclamation, and public engagement. The results are already visible in cleaner water bodies, reclaimed lands, and safer communities. Yet, officials caution that the fight is far from over. Sustained vigilance, public support, and the political will to empower security agencies with the necessary legal backing are all seen as critical to ensuring long-term success. As Ghana presses forward in the battle against galamsey, the stakes could not be higher. Illegal mining has not only devastated the natural environment but also claimed lives and threatened the country’s future prosperity. The government now faces mounting pressure to take decisive action, balancing the need for security with respect for human rights and the rule of law. With continued commitment and collaboration, the vision of a Ghana free from galamsey is within reach. For the communities of Upper Denkyira East and beyond, the promise of restored lands, clean water, and renewed hope offers a powerful incentive to persevere through to the end. Source: Apexnewsgh.com