Chief Justice’s Remarks and Tours of State Institutions Stir Controversy
A wave of controversy has swept through Ghana’s political landscape following remarks by Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, who questioned the country’s progress over the past eight years during visits to state-owned institutions, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from Ofoase-Ayirebi MP, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah. The Chief Justice made headlines on Wednesday, September 2, while visiting the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), where he lauded the institution’s achievements under the current administration. “I must congratulate you. I mean, you have done marvellously well… sometimes when we hear the things that you have done, the things that some organisations are doing now, we wonder; some of us keep wondering what really we have been doing in the past eight years,” he remarked, appearing to contrast recent performance with that of the previous administration. Earlier in the day, the Chief Justice had visited the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), expressing similar praise for its current operations and drawing attention to past management decisions. “If you compare that to the fact that not too long ago, SSNIT was preparing to sell its prized assets like Labadi Beach Hotel, you wonder how Ghana could have sunk so low,” he noted. These comments, coupled with the Chief Justice’s ongoing tours of state-owned enterprises, have provoked concern from Mr. Oppong Nkrumah. The MP questioned the appropriateness of such visits, noting, “For all the years that I have followed politics and governance, I haven’t heard of such that the Chief Justice will be touring state-owned enterprises. I haven’t heard of that before.” He emphasized the traditional independence of the Judiciary from the Executive and Legislature, arguing that judges typically avoid public and political engagements. “It is a well-known, established practice that the Judiciary doesn’t mingle, so you don’t see judges going around mingling in public,” Mr Oppong Nkrumah said. He further described the situation as “absolutely shocking” and “unprecedented,” expressing bewilderment at both the nature of the Chief Justice’s remarks and his involvement with state institutions. “If upon that now there are official tours that are going on, it’s bewildering, and then I find it strange to hear some of these comments being made by the Judiciary,” he concluded. As debate swirls around the Chief Justice’s actions and statements, questions are being raised about the separation of powers and the evolving role of the Judiciary in Ghana’s public life. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Bawumia Hails Nurses and Midwives as Backbone of Ghana’s Healthcare System
Former Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has placed nurses and midwives at the heart of Ghana’s healthcare conversation, describing them as indispensable pillars in building a resilient health system. Dr. Bawumia’s remarks came during a meeting with the national executives of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) in Accra on Wednesday, September 3, 2026. The engagement forms part of his ongoing stakeholder consultations as he refines his policy agenda ahead of the 2028 elections. Calling the session “fruitful and enlightening,” Dr. Bawumia listened intently as frontline health professionals shared their experiences, challenges, and ideas for policy reforms. “Without nurses and midwives, there is no healthcare system. You are the first point of contact, you are the last line of defence, and you are the heart of care delivery in Ghana. You must be seen and treated as indispensable,” he told the Association’s leadership. The GRNMA executives seized the opportunity to highlight urgent issues facing their members and the sector at large. Their presentation zeroed in on the need to enhance nursing education, invest in continuous professional development, address infrastructure gaps in health facilities, and strengthen leadership and management within the sector. They also advocated for innovative and sustainable measures to improve welfare, motivation, and working conditions, calling for clearer career progression, better recognition, and improved service conditions to match the sacrifices nurses and midwives make daily. Dr. Bawumia commended the group for their candor and depth of insight, assuring them that their feedback would help shape his health policy proposals. “What I have heard today is invaluable. You have given me practical insights that you only get from those who are on the ground doing the work every day. My commitment is to work with you to build a healthcare system that values its workers and delivers for the Ghanaian people,” he stated. He reiterated his vision for a modern, well-managed healthcare system, one that motivates, trains, and supports its health workers to deliver quality care for all. The meeting with the GRNMA is the latest in Dr. Bawumia’s series of consultations with key stakeholders, including professional bodies, youth groups, business leaders, and civil society, as he crafts his 2028 policy agenda. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Presidency Announces Impending Shake-Up of SOE Leadership
The Presidency has signaled a major shake-up at the highest levels of Ghana’s State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), with an impending reshuffle of Chief Executives on the horizon. In a formal notice addressed to Ministers and political appointees, Secretary to the President, Callistus Mahama, underscored that the imminent changes, following recent ministerial appointments and the dissolution of selected boards, reflect President John Mahama’s drive to reinforce institutional leadership and sharpen government coordination. “The recent ministerial changes and the dissolution of selected boards, together with the impending reshuffle of Chief Executives, reflect the President’s determination to strengthen institutional leadership, enhance coordination and ensure that every appointee remains fully aligned with the Government’s policies and priorities,” the statement read. The notice stressed that all Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Chief Executives, Board members, and other political appointees are expected to serve with integrity, diligence, humility, and strict adherence to administrative procedures. It warned that any conduct undermining governmental cohesion, institutional authority, or effective policy implementation would not be tolerated. Appointees were reminded that holding public office is both a privilege and a duty to the Ghanaian people. The Presidency made clear that performance will be closely monitored across all sectors, and President Mahama stands ready to take further action to uphold the integrity and effectiveness of his administration. “As we work together to deliver the Government’s mandate and improve the lives of the Ghanaian people, I urge all appointees to cooperate and commit fully,” the statement concluded. This latest move comes after a series of warnings from President Mahama. In March 2025, he cautioned SOE CEOs that their positions depended on performance and alignment with his administration’s reset agenda. The following year, he intensified the pressure, directing CEOs to submit overdue audited accounts and annual reports or risk dismissal, making compliance a key performance indicator. The announcement also follows the release of the State Interests and Governance Authority’s (SIGA) 2025 State Ownership Report, which provides an assessment of the financial and operational health of SOEs, joint ventures, and other state entities. As the reshuffle approaches, all eyes are on who will remain at the helm of Ghana’s major public enterprises and how these changes will shape the future of state-owned institutions. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Upper East GJA Records Improved Participation for 5th Regional Awards
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Upper East Regional Branch, has recorded an increase in both the number of entries and participating journalists for the 5th Upper East Regional GJA Awards, reflecting growing interest in the annual recognition of journalistic excellence. This was disclosed in a press statement issued by the Regional Secretary of the Association, Anthony Adongo Apubeo, following the close of submissions on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. According to the statement, the Branch received 47 entries from 24 journalists, surpassing the previous edition, which recorded 42 entries from 18 journalists. The improvement, the statement noted, demonstrates the increasing enthusiasm among journalists in the Upper East Region to have their professional work recognised and celebrated. The 5th Upper East Regional GJA Awards is being organised under the theme, “Beyond the Headlines: The Media’s Role in Promoting WASH for Safe Motherhood and Quality Healthcare.” The awards aim to honour journalists whose outstanding reportage has contributed to public discourse, accountability, development, and the promotion of issues affecting communities in the Upper East Region and Ghana as a whole. Following the close of submissions, all entries will undergo a rigorous assessment by an independent Awards Vetting Committee, which is expected to be unveiled on Friday, September 4, 2026. The committee will evaluate the submissions based on the approved criteria for the various award categories. The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on Friday, October 2, 2026. The Upper East Regional Branch of the GJA expressed appreciation to all journalists who submitted entries, as well as its partners and stakeholders, for their continued support in promoting journalism excellence in the region. The Branch also wished all participating journalists success as their entries proceed through the vetting process. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Christian Council Calls for Unity to Revive National Cathedral Project
In a renewed bid to breathe life into the long-stalled National Cathedral project, the Christian Council of Ghana is urging the government to put aside political differences and rally support for its completion. The call came from Rev. Dr. Cyril Fayose, General Secretary of the Council, during a courtesy visit to Mahama Ayariga, Ghana’s newly appointed Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs. Seated across from the minister, Rev. Dr. Fayose emphasized the willingness of both Ghanaian Christians and international partners to contribute to the project, if only the government would help clear the political fog surrounding it. “What we need is the blessing of the state,” Rev. Dr. Fayose declared. “We take away all the politics surrounding the building of the National Cathedral. I think it can be done by the grace of God.” He described the cathedral as a potential cornerstone of Ghana’s religious and cultural heritage, and urged the minister to create the conditions for work to resume. Despite the controversies, ranging from management and funding to the suitability of its location, Rev. Dr. Fayose sounded a note of optimism, invoking faith that the project could still be realized. Minister Ayariga responded with support for the cathedral’s vision but reiterated his long-standing concerns about its location. He recalled his time as an opposition MP, when he and other Minority members objected to plans to clear judicial residences to make way for the cathedral. “At the time that the initiative started, I was part of the minority in parliament that really felt that it wasn’t the right location and it wasn’t the right thing to demolish all the Houses of the judges,” Mr. Ayariga explained. He noted that the affected properties were home to senior members of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal. Despite these reservations, the meeting ended on a conciliatory note, with both the Council and the minister recognizing the cathedral’s potential national importance. As the debate over the project’s future continues, the Christian Council’s plea for unity and government support may mark a turning point for the ambitious but troubled endeavour. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NABOCADO Equips Upper East Journalists with Conflict-Sensitive Reporting Skills to Promote Peace
The Navrongo-Bolgatanga Catholic Diocese (NABOCADO) has stepped up efforts to strengthen peacebuilding in the Upper East and North East Regions by training journalists and members of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) on conflict-sensitive reporting. The training, held under NABOCADO’s Integrated Peace Building for Improved Food and Nutrition Supply (INPEACE) Project, forms part of a broader strategy to reduce violent conflicts and promote peaceful coexistence in communities affected by recurring tensions. Speaking at the event, the Director of Justice, Peace and Humanitarian Response (JPHR) at NABOCADO, Mr. Theophilus Abolga, explained that the INPEACE Project, which runs from June 2026 to May 2029, is designed to improve social cohesion while reducing violent conflicts across selected communities in the Upper East and North East Regions. According to him, the project is being implemented in four districts, including Bawku Municipality and Kasena Nankana West in the Upper East Region, as well as Nakpanduri and Yunyoo-Nasuan in the North East Region. Mr. Abolga noted that the media remains one of the most influential institutions in society, capable of either promoting peace or escalating tensions through the way conflicts are reported. He said the training was therefore intended to equip journalists with practical tools to ensure their reports contribute to reconciliation rather than deepen divisions. He observed that for many years, conflicts, particularly the protracted Bawku conflict, have shaped public perception of the region, overshadowing its positive developments. He stressed that NABOCADO wants journalists to help rewrite that narrative by highlighting stories that foster unity, peaceful coexistence and hope. “We want media reports to become instruments for building trust and social cohesion instead of unintentionally fuelling violence,” he said, adding that responsible journalism is critical to creating an environment where development can thrive. Mr. Abolga further revealed that significant progress has already been made through the peacebuilding project. He explained that many communities are now taking ownership of peace initiatives by establishing youth groups and community peace structures dedicated to preventing violence. He said NABOCADO has also established peace trackers in project communities to monitor early warning signs of conflict and report them promptly to the relevant authorities for timely intervention before situations escalate. The JPHR Director praised traditional leaders for their growing commitment to peacebuilding, explaining that although chieftaincy disputes have at times contributed to conflicts, chiefs have equally demonstrated their ability to become powerful agents of reconciliation when given the necessary support. He cited examples from Doba, Kandiga and parts of the Bawku area, where traditional authorities have worked closely with NABOCADO, the National Peace Council and other stakeholders to restore peace. Speaking on behalf of the Ghana Journalists Association, Mr. Apubeo commended NABOCADO for consistently investing in the capacity building of journalists. He described the training as timely and necessary, noting that the media has a responsibility not only to inform the public but also to educate citizens, shape public opinion and contribute to peaceful coexistence. Mr. Apubeo called for sustained collaboration between media organisations and peacebuilding institutions to ensure journalists continue to receive the skills and knowledge needed to report conflict-related issues accurately, fairly and in ways that strengthen peace and social cohesion. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Peace Expert Urges Media to Amplify Peacebuilding Efforts Across Upper East
A peacebuilding expert and former Regional Secretary of the Upper East Regional Peace Council, Mr. Ali Anankpang, has urged journalists to dig deeper into conflict-related issues and provide the public with a balanced understanding of both the causes of conflicts and ongoing efforts to promote peace. He said the media had a critical responsibility to amplify peacebuilding initiatives across the Upper East Region, particularly in conflict-affected areas such as Bolgatanga, Doba-Kandiga and Bawku. Mr. Anankpang made the call on Tuesday during a media training engagement organised by the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Catholic Diocesan Development Organisation (NABOCADO) under the Integrated Peace Building for Improved Food and Nutrition Supply (INPEACE) Project. According to him, several peacebuilding interventions were ongoing across the region, but many of them were not receiving the level of media attention needed to inform the wider population. He therefore encouraged journalists to interview individuals and organisations involved in peace promotion to understand their perspectives and communicate their efforts to the public. “There are efforts in building peace in the region across the various conflicts, Bolgatanga, Doba-Kandiga and Bawku and all these efforts are being made, but they need to be amplified. And who can do that better than the media?” Mr. Anankpang asked. He stressed that while violent incidents often dominated news coverage, peacebuilding activities were also taking place and deserved equal attention. “Without the media, there is no way people really know what is happening, except that all we hear is about violence. But while the violence is taking place, we also know that peace efforts are going on,” he noted. Mr. Anankpang said journalists could help bring these efforts to the attention of the public by engaging peace actors, understanding their interventions and reporting on how communities and other stakeholders were working to prevent conflicts. The peacebuilding expert also acknowledged improvements in conflict-sensitive reporting in the region, saying some journalists had moved beyond reporting incidents to examining the historical, social and economic contexts surrounding conflicts. He cited reports that had explored the historical origins of settlements, including engagements by ApexnewsGh with experts on history, as examples of journalism that could help audiences better understand the underlying issues. He also mentioned reports and interviews conducted around the Bongo area, as well as extensive coverage of the Bawku conflict and its effects on education and the local economy. According to him, such reporting was important because it helped the public understand that, despite the challenges in conflict-affected areas, efforts were being made to restore peace and normalcy. He cautioned journalists against amplifying only conflict and violence, warning that such reporting could create fear and discourage people from returning to affected communities. “When we amplify only the conflict, then it will continue to scare people away. But when you begin to talk about peace, like some of you have done, then people will begin to have confidence to return to their place, and that is how communities are developed,” he said. Mr. Anankpang, however, urged journalists not to become complacent with the progress made so far but to continue strengthening their coverage of peacebuilding initiatives. He encouraged the media to maintain professional and responsible reporting that would help the public appreciate the progress being made in peacebuilding across the region. “You need to do more. What you do is so important that you cannot rest on what you have done so far. Continue to add your voice to what is happening in terms of peace promotion,” he urged. He added that responsible and comprehensive reporting would help showcase the Upper East Region not only as an area experiencing conflicts but also as a region where significant efforts were being made to promote peace, stability and development. Meanwhile, Mr. Anthony Adongo Apubeo, Upper East Regional Secretary of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has commended NABOCADO for its continued support towards strengthening journalists’ capacity in conflict-sensitive reporting. Speaking on behalf of the GJA, Mr. Apubeo expressed appreciation to NABOCADO for consistently organising training programmes aimed at equipping journalists with the skills needed to report responsibly on conflict-related issues. He described the initiative as a step in the right direction, stressing the important role the media plays in society, particularly in promoting peace, educating the public and shaping public discourse. He encouraged continued collaboration between media organisations and peacebuilding institutions to ensure that journalists are adequately equipped to report conflict-sensitive issues in a manner that promotes peace and social cohesion. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Akanbange Nsobila Nelson ‘Brainbox’ Officially Declares Intent to Contest NDC Deputy Communication Officer Position
Akanbange Nsobila Nelson, popularly known as “Brainbox,” has officially declared his intention to contest for the position of Deputy Communication Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Bolgatanga Central Constituency. In his declaration, Mr. Nsobila appealed to Electoral Area Coordinators, Polling Station Executives, party elders, youth and women’s wings, communicators, constituency executives and the entire NDC rank and file for their support. According to him, his decision is driven by his commitment to the party and years of experience serving at various levels of the NDC. He highlighted his previous roles, including serving as TEIN Deputy Secretary at St. John Bosco’s College of Education, Navrongo, during the 2015/16 academic year, and as a two-term Branch Secretary since 2018. Mr. Nsobila also noted that he has been a member of the Constituency Communication Team since 2017, a member of the Regional Communication Team since 2019, and a member of the Regional Youth Working Committee since 2023. He further served as a party agent at Pobaga Tua No. 1 during the 2016, 2020 and 2024 general elections, experiences he says have given him a strong understanding of grassroots party organisation and communication. Explaining his motivation, Mr. Nsobila said he intends to bring experience, fresh ideas and modern communication skills to the constituency’s communication structures. He pledged to help strengthen the party’s communication systems, counter misinformation, engage effectively with the rank and file and contribute to the NDC’s efforts toward securing victory in the 2028 general elections. Mr. Nsobila concluded by humbly appealing to party members for their blessings, support and votes as he seeks to serve the party in the capacity of Deputy Communication Officer. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Importers and Exporters Association Applauds GoldBod and Bank of Ghana for Enhancing Forex Stability
The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has lauded the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) and the Bank of Ghana (BoG) for their significant roles in stabilising the country’s foreign exchange market and promoting economic resilience. At a press conference, IEAG Executive Director Samson Asaki Awingobit highlighted the benefits that a steady foreign exchange environment brings to Ghana’s business community. He explained that the recent stability in the forex market had made it easier for importers and exporters to plan ahead, manage risks, and engage in international trade with greater certainty. Awingobit credited GoldBod’s trading policies for bolstering Ghana’s foreign exchange reserves and improving legitimate businesses’ access to hard currency. He also praised the Bank of Ghana for its commitment to macroeconomic and financial stability, singling out the recent reduction in interest rates as a welcome relief for businesses that rely on credit to fund their operations. Quoting the Bank of Ghana’s Financial Stability Review, Awingobit noted that the average lending rate fell from 30.3 percent in December 2024 to 20.5 percent by the end of 2025, a development he described as a “major boost” for importers and exporters in need of working capital. He urged both GoldBod and the BoG to maintain and expand their efforts to sustain foreign exchange stability and lower borrowing costs, particularly as the festive season approaches, a time when demand for foreign currency, credit, and imported goods typically rises. The IEAG emphasised that ongoing monetary and regulatory support would be critical in helping businesses navigate seasonal trade pressures and foster long-term economic growth. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Urges Swift Action on AU Peace Fund for Sustainable Conflict Response
Former President John Dramani Mahama has called for urgent action to speed up the African Union Peace Fund’s resource mobilisation strategy, emphasizing the need for the effective implementation of the 0.2% import levy. According to President Mahama, this is crucial to securing sustainable and predictable financing for Africa’s peace and security initiatives. He made the call while addressing the 21st Extraordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government on Sunday, August 30. President Mahama highlighted the persistent and evolving nature of conflicts across the continent, noting that these challenges demand stronger enforcement of existing peace and security mechanisms. “The effectiveness of our peace architecture will depend not only on better coordination but also on reliable and predictable resources to support timely interventions,” President Mahama stated. He underscored that early warning systems must be matched by early action, which in turn requires that resources be available when needed. President Mahama welcomed the progress made in operationalising the AU Peace Fund and reaffirmed his support for its continued capitalisation towards the $1 billion target. He also advocated for greater resource mobilisation from within Africa, including financial institutions, the private sector, and other indigenous sources, to reduce dependence on external funding and enhance the continent’s capacity to manage conflicts. With his remarks, President Mahama urged African leaders to prioritise the Peace Fund’s full implementation to strengthen Africa’s ability to respond to security challenges on its own terms. Source: Apexnewsgh.com