Chairman Wontumi Appears in Court as Samreboi Mining Case Nears Critical Ruling
Tension filled the corridors of the Accra High Court as Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, made his arrival. Today, July 20, the court is poised to deliver its much-anticipated ruling in the high-profile Samreboi mining concession case, a legal battle that has gripped the nation for months. At the heart of the case are allegations of unlawful mining activities involving Chairman Wontumi and his company, Akonta Mining Limited, on the Samreboi concession in the Western Region. With both prosecution and defence having concluded their arguments, all eyes turned to the court for a final decision. However, a late twist emerged as the defence team, led by Samuel Atta Akyea, filed an application seeking to suspend the delivery of the judgment. The defence contends that the High Court should wait for the Supreme Court’s determination of constitutional questions raised in the application before proceeding. Complicating matters further, Mr. Atta Akyea has informed the court of his absence from the country, he is expected back on July 22. As a result, the High Court now faces a pivotal decision: whether to go ahead with the scheduled ruling or pause the proceedings until the Supreme Court provides clarity on the constitutional matters at stake. Both Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining Limited have staunchly denied any wrongdoing, contesting the charges of illegal mining operations at Samreboi. With the courtroom packed and anticipation running high, the fate of the case, and potentially the future of mining regulations in the region—hangs in the balance as the judge prepares to rule. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
24-Hour Economy Secretariat Defends Flagship Policy, Highlights Billions in Investments and Job Creation
The debate over Ghana’s ambitious 24-Hour Economy programme intensified this week as the Secretariat firmly rejected claims that the government’s flagship policy has failed to yield tangible results. In the face of criticism from Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Ranking Member of Parliament’s Economy and Development Committee, the Secretariat released a detailed statement, asserting that the programme is not only underway but already producing significant outcomes. According to the Secretariat, implementation has moved well beyond the planning stage, attracting billions of dollars in investment and fostering increased industrial activity. By May 2026, Joint Development Agreements worth $5.5 billion had been secured with key co-development partners. The Secretariat revealed that 268 fuel stations and 33 manufacturing companies are currently operating under the programme’s multi-shift, 24-hour model, demonstrating the initiative’s growing reach. Responding to Mr. Oppong Nkrumah’s suggestion that substantial public resources had been committed with little to show, the Secretariat argued that success should be measured by investments mobilised, production capacity, export potential, and jobs created. The programme aims to generate 1.7 million decent jobs by the end of 2028, with four recent investment agreements expected to deliver more than 160,000 direct jobs. The Secretariat also dismissed claims that the 24-Hour Economy has drawn from the GH¢650 billion approved by Parliament, clarifying that the sum represents the nation’s overall budget, not programme spending. Instead, most projects are financed by private investment, with the government focusing on coordination, project preparation, and targeted support. Among the flagship ventures are the $1.45 billion Buipe solar and battery project, set to generate 1,500 megawatts of electricity and create 13,000 jobs, and the $250 million Kambonwule oil palm project, projected to support 120,000 jobs. The 24-Hour Economy has also spurred several state institutions, including the DVLA, Ghana Publishing Company, and GPHA, to extend their operations for round-the-clock service delivery. The Secretariat explained that the phased rollout is deliberate, designed to secure investors, ready viable projects, and address infrastructure, land, and energy challenges. As more investments materialise, factories ramp up production, and new jobs are created, the Secretariat expressed optimism that the programme’s benefits will soon become unmistakably clear. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Prosecution Nears Conclusion in High-Profile GH¢49.1 Million Theft Trial
The courtroom was tense as the trial of former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau, Kwabena Adu-Boahene, and two others approached a critical juncture This week, the prosecution is expected to close its case in the matter of the alleged theft of GH¢49.1 million, funds said to belong to the Government of Ghana. Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, the Deputy Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, took to Facebook to update the public. He revealed that state prosecutors, in collaboration with investigators from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), have assembled what he called a strong body of evidence. Their goal: to prove that the GH¢49.1 million was public money, held securely in a government bank account, before it was allegedly misappropriated. Inside the courtroom, the accused, Kwabena Adu-Boahene and his two co-defendants, listened as charges of theft and causing financial loss to the state were laid out against them. As the prosecution prepares to rest its case, all eyes are on the court, awaiting the next chapter in a trial that has captured national attention. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Initial Steps to Recalibrate the NPP’s Compass for a Positive Outcome in the 2028 General Election–Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih
“When wealth becomes the primary yardstick for choosing our executives, the party itself becomes poorer” These words strike at the very heart of a growing vulnerability within the New Patriotic Party (NPP). As the party works to consolidate its structures, break new ground, and restore its historical fortunes, it faces a critical internal crossroads. The creeping trend of commercialising political leadership, where deep pockets routinely outvote genuine commitment, is an existential threat to the party’s grassroots foundation. The destiny of the NPP is in the hands of those who elect our leaders at the various levels of the executive structure of the party. They must rate competence, loyalty, and commitment to the principles and ideals of the NPP over any other considerations when electing party leaders. When financial capability becomes the sole determinant for entry into leadership, the party compromises its collective future. To build an unshakeable political force capable of winning hearts, minds, and elections, they must urgently shift their focus from wealth back to party loyalty and commitment. When leadership seats go to the highest bidder rather than the most capable strategist, the entire party organisation pays the political cost: Disenfranchisement of the Grassroots: Dedicated organisers who have sacrificed for years feel alienated when sidelined by affluent newcomers who lack a history of local service. Loss of Organic Connection: Wealth can buy visibility, but it cannot buy genuine fellowship. Leaders chosen primarily for their resources often struggle to connect authentically with the everyday realities of ordinary voters. Strategic Deficit: A political party run purely on financial patronage eventually runs dry of intellectual and organisational depth. Money cannot replace strategic planning, conflict resolution, or policy articulation. To continue down this path is to throw caution to the wind, trading long-term institutional stability for short-term material convenience. Restoring the NPP to its glory days requires an uncompromising return to meritocracy. It is my conviction that the evaluation of prospective party executives must be anchored on five non-negotiable pillars: Competence: The proven capacity to manage party administrative structures, resolve internal frictions, and effectively outmanoeuvre political opponents. Mobilisation Power: True leadership is measured by the ability to inspire people to willingly invest their time, energy, and personal resources into the party’s vision. Sacrifice: A documented history of standing firmly with the party during challenging periods in opposition, not just showing up to reap the rewards of incumbency. Empathy: The willingness to listen to, validate, and address the genuine anxieties and frustrations of party stakeholders and foot soldiers. Track Record: A verifiable legacy of loyalty, reliability, and tangible contributions to the growth of the party at the local level. The NPP has a proud legacy of political resilience, intellectual fortitude, and community-first principles. Allowing this rich history to be replaced by a transactional political culture weakens the party from within and damages its credibility with the broader electorate. The time has come for delegates, elders, and stakeholders to do the needful. Reclaiming the soul of the party demands the courage to look beyond immediate material inducements and vote for sustainable institutional strength. By prioritising competence and character over financial influence, the NPP can rebuild an authentic, energised, and unified front ready to restore the party to its rightful glory. Let’s do this together. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Upper East Market Traders in Bolgatanga Petition IGP to Retain Black Maria Security Team
On a bustling Saturday morning in Bolgatanga, the heart of the Upper East Region, a wave of determination swept through the local marketplace. Traders, united by a common cause, gathered to stage a peaceful demonstration, their voices rising above the typical clamor of market life. Their message was clear: they wanted the Inspector-General of Police to retain the Special Operations Team, affectionately known as “Black Maria,” in their region. The demonstration came in response to a recent controversy. Lawyer Anthony Anamoo, the Upper East Regional Chairman of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), had called on the IGP to withdraw the Black Maria team, citing allegations of extra-judicial killings. However, his claims were met with widespread disapproval. Ordinary citizens, market women, and Bolgatanga’s prominent figures alike condemned the call, insisting that the presence of the Black Maria team had brought much-needed security to their community. With banners in hand and resolve in their hearts, the traders marched through the streets and eventually gathered at the Municipal Assembly. There, they presented a petition to Honorable Roland Ayoo, the Municipal Chief Executive for Bolgatanga, who received it on behalf of the Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Akamugri Donatus Atanga. In accepting the petition, Hon. Ayoo addressed the demonstrators, assuring them that their concerns would be relayed to the appropriate authorities for due consideration. He emphasized the government’s commitment to taking their petition seriously and promised that any necessary actions would be taken. Before the crowd dispersed, Hon. Ayoo commended the traders and residents for the peaceful nature of their demonstration. He reminded everyone that the right to protest is enshrined in law, and urged all citizens to continue exercising that right responsibly. As the traders returned to their stalls, hope lingered in the air, a hope that their collective voice would secure the safety and security they cherished in Bolgatanga. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The Path of Tested and Trusted Continuity: Why Alhaji White is the Safe Pair of Hands for Upper West NPP– Dr Hafiz Bin Salih
Every political party at its crucial turning points must choose between two paths: the path of experimentation or the path of tested, loyal continuity. As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Upper West Region prepares to elect a new crop of regional executives in 2026, we stand at one of these vital crossroads. To look back at our history in the region is to look at a lineage of formidable, steady leadership. From the foundational years of the late Alhaji Abdulai Issahaque (1992–2005), to the transition to Alhaji Abubakar Abdul-Rahman (Chairman Short, 2005–2018), and through the resilient stewardship of the late Mr S.B. Kangberee (2018–2024), our party’s progress has always been steered by figures of deep loyalty and institutional memory. When Chairman Kangberee unfortunately passed away in June 2024, the mantle of leadership fell upon the Regional 1st Vice Chairman, Alhaji Abdul-Aziz Abdul-Rahman, affectionately known to us all as Chairman White. In a moment of grief and potential transition anxiety, Alhaji White stepped forward, stabilised the party, and ensured that the work of the NPP in the Upper West Region continued without a single step backwards. As we look toward the future, it is clear that Alhaji White should not merely be a transitional figure. He has earned the right, through decades of quiet service, profound loyalty, and peerless apprenticeship, to be granted a full tenure as our substantive Regional Chairman. An Apprenticeship of Loyalty and Humility Leadership is not a role one should rush into without preparation. Alhaji White’s greatest asset is that he has learned at the feet of giants. He did not seek the chairmanship out of personal ambition; rather, he spent years studying the administrative styles, the unifying strategies, and the grassroots mobilisation techniques of the regional chairmen who came before him. By serving loyally as the 1st Vice Chairman, he proved that he understands the value of subordination, patience, and teamwork. In Ghanaian politics, and particularly within our cherished Danquah-Dombo-Busia tradition, respect for hierarchy and patience are the ultimate hallmarks of a true leader. Alhaji White has waited his turn, supported his superiors unconditionally, and absorbed the wisdom required to govern a diverse and politically competitive region. A Unifier in Times of Transition Taking over a political structure mid-stream after the loss of a sitting chairman is one of the most delicate tasks in party politics. It requires a calm temperament, a listening ear, and an inclusive heart. Alhaji White stepped into the vacancy left by Chairman Kangberee not with a spirit of disruption, but with a commitment to preservation and unity. He has kept the regional executive committee cohesive, bridged gaps between various factions, and maintained open communication channels with our constituency executives, patrons, elders, and the grassroots. A vote for Alhaji White is a vote to maintain this hard-won stability. Deep Grassroots Connection You cannot lead the Upper West NPP from an ivory tower. To win elections in our region, a chairman must understand the unique socio-political terrain of all eleven constituencies, from Lambussie to Wa West, and Lawra to Sissala East. Alhaji White is a man of the people. His accessibility is legendary; his doors have remained open to party faithful of all social standings. Because he has walked the dusty roads of our villages during campaigns, sat in the local parlours, and listened to the concerns of our polling station executives, he possesses the authentic empathy needed to re-energise our base. A Safe Pair of Hands The year 2026 is a defining moment for our party in the region. As we prepare to win some parliamentary seats and consolidate our gains, we cannot afford factional friction or the steep learning curves of untested leadership. Alhaji Abdul-Aziz Abdul-Rahman (White) represents the bridge between our rich party heritage and our modern electoral aspirations. He offers us a safe pair of hands, an unblemished record of loyalty, and a heart dedicated entirely to the service of the Upper West NPP. Let us honour his years of dedication, reward his patience, and secure our party’s future in the region. It is time to give Chairman White a full, well-deserved mandate. Let us elect Alhaji White as our substantive NPP Regional Chairman for the Upper West Region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Parliament Passes Tribunals Bill, 2026, Paving Way for Judicial Reform
Parliament has passed the Tribunals Bill, 2026, clearing the path for the re-establishment of tribunals under a new legal framework designed to improve access to justice. The historic moment unfolded on Thursday, July 16, as lawmakers gathered for the third reading of the Bill. After a robust debate, Members of Parliament adopted the legislation, bringing the months-long parliamentary process to a close. The Bill now awaits President John Dramani Mahama’s assent before it becomes law. The day’s proceedings were marked by a critical intervention from Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine. Recognizing the urgency of the reforms, Dr Ayine requested the House to waive the Standing Orders that typically require a one-day interval between the consideration stage and the third reading. Parliament responded positively, granting the request and allowing the Bill to proceed immediately to its final stage. Dr Ayine first introduced the Tribunals Bill earlier this year, presenting it as a cornerstone of broader justice sector reforms. He emphasized that the new tribunal system would come with stronger constitutional safeguards, aiming to improve access to justice, reduce delays in case resolution, and enhance the efficiency of Ghana’s courts. Following its introduction, the Bill was referred to Parliament’s Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee as well as the Judiciary Committee for detailed scrutiny. After careful examination and debate, the committees returned the Bill to the House, where MPs gave it their final approval. Once signed into law by the President, the Tribunals Bill, 2026 will provide the legal foundation for the re-establishment of tribunals, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s ongoing effort to reform and modernize its judicial system. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
MTN Ghana Reassures Nation: We’re Here to Stay Amid South Africa Unrest
As concerns ripple through Ghana over recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, MTN Ghana has moved swiftly to reassure its customers and the nation that it has no plans to exit the country. Speaking at the 2026 MTN Media and Stakeholder Forum in Takoradi, Chief Internal Audit and Forensics Officer, Michael Gbewonyo, offered a firm message: “MTN is here to stay. We are not going anywhere.” Addressing journalists from the Central and Western Regions, Gbewonyo dismissed suggestions that unrest in South Africa, where MTN’s parent company is based, could influence the company’s operations in Ghana. He emphasized that Ghana remains a strategic market for MTN, noting the company’s unwavering commitment to the nation’s socio-economic development throughout its 30-year presence. “We will continue to expand our network, support digital inclusion, create opportunities for Ghanaians, and partner with the government and other stakeholders to drive Ghana’s digital and economic transformation,” Gbewonyo assured. He highlighted MTN Ghana’s substantial contributions to national development, citing tax payments, employment opportunities, and a series of corporate social responsibility initiatives. The decision to list shares on the Ghana Stock Exchange and the ongoing activities of the MTN Ghana Foundation, he added, underline the company’s long-term commitment to Ghanaian society. Reflecting on three decades of growth, Gbewonyo expressed gratitude to customers, partners, employees, communities, the media, and other stakeholders. “Our success is not just about business growth, but about earning and keeping public trust through accountability, responsibility, transparency, and customer-centric services,” he said. He credited MTN’s achievements to the vital support, constructive criticism, and collaboration of all stakeholders, which have helped the company bridge the digital divide, support businesses, and connect more people than ever before. Notably, Gbewonyo revealed that MTN Ghana contributes about six per cent of the country’s total tax revenue. “Through the MTN Ghana Foundation, thousands of young people have received scholarships and support to pursue their dreams. In communities across the Western and Central Regions and beyond, our investments in health, education, and economic empowerment are changing lives every day.” He concluded by praising the media for telling the company’s story and pledged that MTN will continue to work with stakeholders to deepen its impact and build on three decades of progress. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Upper East Records Major Gains in Birth Registration Through Collaboration and Mobile Outreach
The Upper East Regional Office of the Births and Deaths Registry has recorded significant progress in birth registration, following a series of interventions aimed at reaching underserved communities and improving access to civil registration services. The Regional Registrar, Ms. Ismatu Yahaya, says the region registered 7,236 births in the first quarter of 2026, comprising 3,721 males and 3,515 females, describing the achievement as a major improvement over previous years. A district breakdown shows Bawku West recorded the highest number of registrations with 874 births, followed by Bongo District with 710, Bolgatanga Municipal with 701, and Bawku Municipal with 685. Other districts recorded Garu – 371, Bawku East (Binduri) – 238, Builsa South – 294, Builsa North – 188, and Bolgatanga East – 166. The Registry also recorded 77 deaths during the same period. Bolgatanga Municipal accounted for the highest number with 30 registrations, followed by Bawku West and Builsa North with five each, while Bongo District recorded no registered deaths during the quarter. According to Ms. Yahaya, one of the biggest milestones came after the Registry partnered with the Ghana Health Service during the Child Health Promotion Week in May. The collaboration produced a sharp increase in birth registrations across the region. During the campaign, Bawku West registered 1,491 births, Bongo District 1,219, Bawku Municipal 1,218, Bolgatanga Municipal 1,170, Garu 620, Binduri 461, Builsa South 374, Builsa North 344, and Bolgatanga East 265. The figures demonstrate the impact of integrating birth registration into child health services. The Regional Registrar attributed the success to stronger collaboration rather than relying solely on the Registry’s limited resources. She noted that working with the Ghana Health Service has enabled officials to reach more mothers and children during routine health programmes. The Upper East Region has also been selected as one of five regions benefiting from the national Mobile Birth Registration Programme, which targets hard-to-reach communities. Ms. Yahaya says the region had already begun implementing similar outreach activities before the national rollout. She disclosed that a recent outreach exercise in Pusiga District resulted in the registration of nearly 60 children in a single community, underscoring the need to intensify mobile registration services across remote areas. Despite the gains, the Registry says several challenges remain. These include inadequate logistics, limited personnel, poor public awareness, and the difficulty of accessing isolated communities. Many parents, particularly in rural areas, are still unaware of the legal importance of obtaining a birth certificate within the first year of a child’s life. The Registry is therefore calling for stronger partnerships with the media, the Department of Gender, non-governmental organisations, traditional authorities and community leaders to deepen public education on birth registration. Ms. Yahaya stressed that a birth certificate is a child’s first legal identity document and serves as the foundation for accessing education, healthcare, social protection and other constitutional rights. She reminded parents that while late registration is possible, it attracts additional procedures and costs, making early registration within the infant period the most convenient and affordable option. The Upper East Regional Births and Deaths Registry says it will continue expanding community outreach and strengthening partnerships to ensure that every child in the region is counted, protected and recognised under the law. Source: Apexewsgh.com/Prosper Adankai/Contributor
President Mahama Pledges Unbiased Development for All Regions at Juapong Groundbreaking
Chiefs in regal attire, market women with hopeful smiles, energetic youth groups, and residents from all walks of life gathered as President John Dramani Mahama arrived to break ground on a project many had awaited for years: the construction of a 24-Hour Economy Market. But the day was not just about bricks and mortar. Standing before the crowd, President Mahama addressed a concern that has echoed across Ghana’s regions for years, the perception that national development favors certain areas based on how they vote. With conviction, he declared, “Let me assure you that this government that I lead does not regard the Volta Region merely as a region of loyal political support. We reject the notion that any part of Ghana should be taken for granted or left behind because of its electoral choices.” He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fairness and equity, emphasizing that every citizen, regardless of location or political affiliation, deserves equal opportunity. “Our mandate given to us by the people of Ghana is to govern the country for every Ghanaian and our commitment to the Volta Region is founded on fairness and equity,” he said. The Juapong market project is part of a broader government plan to modernize trading infrastructure, boost trade, create jobs, and extend economic activity beyond the usual working hours in key commercial hubs. For the people of the South Tongu District, the event was more than a ceremony, it was a promise that their region, like all others, would not be left behind. Source: Apexnewsgh.com