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Feature: NPP – Rudderless?

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Africanus Owusu Ansah (Hot Issues)

“There are two things in Africa today: if you want to be rich without working hard at all, be a politician or found a church.” – PLO Lumumba

Kwasi, our putative reader may not understand the intricacies of politics; he may not have dabbled in politics for a reasonably good time; He may be an “afraid man” or a “fear-fear” man, and not a political analyst. He may want to show unflinching support and political steadfastness, so he may not want to say anything “bad” about the party “in which he was born” (yewoo no too mu).

But a critical mind, a political/historical analyst would recall the history of NPP from the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) days (1948)) to Baffour Akoto’s National Liberation Movement (NLM) days; to United Party (UP) days, in opposition to Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s Convention People’s Party (CPP); the one party state of 1965; to the 1966 coup d’état of Kotoka/Afrifa, to Kofi Abrefa Busia’s rise through 1969-72, Progress Party (PP) to Acheampong’s coup of 1972; to the military skirmishes that brought General Fred Akuffo; to the Rawlings’s coup of June 4th 1979; to Dr. Hilla Limann’s rise through People’s National Convention (24th September, 1979); to J. J. Rawlings’s 1981 coup; till 1992 when J. J. beat Professor Adu Boahen to rule for 19 years; to the golden years of Kufuor … until 2001 to 2008… and he knows the rest… (Atta Mills, 2009-2012; J. D. Mahama 2012 – 2016; Akufo-Addo – 2017-2024; then Mahama again 2025-?)

How many people will be bold enough to challenge the assertion that (now) the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is among the most unattractive, unappealing and unalluring parties in Ghana? And the “sad” situation appears to grow worse and worse with each passing day.

“Oh judgment, thou art fled to Brutish beasts and men have lost their reason” Marcus Antonius would lament in Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar”.

And Kwasi quoque being “patriotic” to Ghana, and not skewed to a party or to a personality would lament with Marcus, to read the headlines: “NPP to elect flagbearer on January 31, 2026” (Daily Graphic); “It’s over; 60 MPs declare for DMB (Bawumia)” (The Chronicle).

Then the political savvy in us pushes us to ask many questions: “How many NPP members are in the presidential race: Patrick Yaw Boamah, Boakye Agyarko, Yaw Adutwum, Bryan Acheampong, Kennedy Agyapong, Kwabena Agyapong, Dr. Bawumia, Joe Ghartey (no particular order)? And are these personalities not entitled to “equal treatment”?

Then reflect on the words of Founding Father, 83-year-old Nyaho-Nyaho Tamakloe: “The leadership that led the party into (ignominous – our own word) defeat cannot be trusted to conduct a credible process that aims at returning the party to power in 2028. We need a transparent, inclusive approach that strictly adheres to the party’s Constitution if we are serious about rebuilding the NPP.” Nyaho deprecates the “top-to-bottom” approach.

Which Ghanaian does not know Bawumia as a fine gentleman? Who said; “When the fundamentals are weak, the exchange rate will expose you”? Who does not know Bawumia’s deep knowledge in Economics (save Captain Smart who sees “Bawumia’s PhD thesis as a collection of academic quotations, not ‘research’).

Who would not hail Bawumia for insisting: “Religious politics is dangerous for NPP… we are a united party encompassing people from all ethnic groups, all religions and we are all part of the elephant family … it is stated in black and white in the Oquaye report, as well as other surveys that religion and tribe were not factors in the 2024 election.

So we should not say that Christians would not vote for Bawumia. My 4.7m votes, were there only Muslims who voted for me? All voted for me… (Me as a hindrance?) … I wouldn’t have contested at all. I would have stepped aside if that is the case because I’m not a selfish person… I would not jeopardize the ability of the party to win the 2028 election.”

Call it a mature response to Stephen Amoah’s remarks: “Christians hardly vote for Muslim leaders.” And the million-dollar (or billion-cedi) question: “Where is the Oquaye Report?” And again, what were the Ebenezer Doku-led ex-MMDCEs doing at Bawumia’s residence, singing: “Adie no adane, yiee..”, (the tables have turned) from whom to whom? From Kennedy Agyapong’s residence or Bryan Acheampong’s where they had previously wined and dined? Without making any declaration – in support? Are the ex-MMDCEs principled? Was the enticement payola from Bawumia bigger? Or as Dr. Kwame Asante Ohene of Cape Coast University claims: Were they “political prostitutes”?

“Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Lord Acton in 1887 was warning us: when power is unchecked and unlimited, the tendency towards abuse is great; without accountability, checks and balances, those in power overwhelmingly get the opportunity to prioritise their own needs…  And did you hear Danquah Smith Butey, the 1st Vice Chairman hitting Dr. Nyaho Tamakloe below the belt and rubbishing Nyaho’s assertions for flouting the party’s Constitution? Is it Article 7 (a) ” … breach of the duty to uphold publicly Party policies… (g) bringing the name of the party into disrepute or public ridicule…? and you leave Kwame Baffoe (Abronye)?

So, election of a presidential candidate before polling station, District, Regional and National elections. To whose advantage? Will it be an advantage for the Establishment candidate? Is it a truism that in Ghana, one has to face the electorate two to three times before getting endorsed as a President, and “they” will cite the example of Kufuor or Akufo-Addo? I. K. Gyasi would exclaim: “Haba!”

The situation gets murkier, and people get browbeaten with the candidates bulldozing their way through trickery, deceit or enticement.

In what Yaw Nsarkoh calls “Santa Claus” democracy, the politicians have to dole out money to voters (even at primaries as was apparent at Ejisu Constituency in the rehearsal for the bye-election when John Kumah died), Prof. Agyemang Duah tells us the source of the funds for this “Santa Claus” display: corruption, euphemism for thievery of the public purse. So that a “new” road project cannot last more than three years, for it to be re-done… the auditors cannot trace the source of some funds from GCB to private accounts.

Are we interested in demonstrating J. B. Danquah’s democracy to attract the youth? Do you know the implications of one group or another in the same party feeling done in? Or feeling cheated? “Fear delegates”, Sir John would say. It is happening in NPP now, and no one gets bothered.

Do the NPP members forget that the Convention People’s Party (CPP) was once a Behemoth (or Leviathan) political party.

Afenyo Markin, the Minority Leader talks conciliatory; “My view is that we should be very neutral in all this (visiting Presidential candidates and making pronouncements) so that after the primary, we can bring all sides on board and be the advocates for peace.

Whilst Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the Ex- Majority Leader defended the party’s decision to hold its presidential primary on January 31, 2026, Arthur Kennedy disagrees; “There is the need for renewal of the mandate by all party executives, from the polling station all the way to the national level…” The logical end of all this is getting everybody who is a party member to vote. That would help prevent the buying of delegates and ensure the true voice of the party’s rank and file was heard”. Oh, NPP paa nie? Is this Kufuor’s NPP?

Today’s FIFA 2025 Club World Cup Previews

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Sergej Milinković-Savić, Al Hilal

Al-Hilal welcome already-eliminated Pachuca

Needing victory to have any hope of reaching the last 16, Al-Hilal will meet already-eliminated Pachuca in their final group game at the Club World Cup.

Real Madrid and Red Bull Salzburg lead the way by two points coming into Thursday’s Group H finale, but Simone Inzaghi‘s side could still squeeze through with a win in Nashville.

Sunday’s goalless stalemate with Salzburg left Al-Hilal with a sense of frustration, having previously held mighty Real Madrid to a 1-1 draw.

Dreams of making the Club World Cup’s knockout phase took a hit in Washington DC, where they dominated possession but struggled to break through the Austrian team’s defence amid sweltering conditions.

So, the Saudi side are relying on a final-day win to escape Group H and reach the last 16 – and even that may not prove enough.

If Al-Hilal beat Pachuca, the winners of Salzburg vs Real Madrid would top the group with the losers knocked out, but a draw between Salzburg and Real would leave all three sides level on points.

As Inzaghi’s men have a goal difference deficit, and goals scored and conceded against Pachuca would not count, they could still crash out if they win and the other game ends all square.

Unbeaten in seven matches since losing to Al-Ahli in the AFC Champions League semi-finals, Al-Hilal at least know that victory gives them a chance, and much may rest on whether injured striker Aleksandar Mitrovic can return.

Al-Hilal may still be missing former Fulham man Aleksandar Mitrovic, who sat out both of their first two games with a calf problem, so Brazilian striker Marcos Leonardo should continue to deputise.

Previously with Santos and Benfica, the latter has scored 25 goals in 40 appearances for the Riyadh club since joining last year, but he has yet to find the net in Group H.

Simone Inzaghi, who has been boosted by news that Nasser Al-Dawsari will recover from a minor muscle strain, should stick with a familiar starting XI; so Malcom, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and captain Salem Al-Dawsari are all set to to feature in Leonardo’s supporting cast.

Al-Hilal will be fully motivated to get the win, while Pachuca are inevitably eyeing the exit door, so the Saudi Pro-League side are more likely to prevail.

With a stronger squad, Simone Inzaghi and co can claim a first victory at this year’s Club World Cup – but it remains to be seen whether that will take them through.

Credit: sportsmole.co.uk

 

Red Bull Salzburg square off with Real Madrid

Seeking to secure their spots in the last 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup, Red Bull Salzburg and Real Madrid square off in an all-European Group H contest at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Friday (BST).

Both teams sit level on four points and are looking to secure top spot in the group, with Los Blancos currently boasting a slight advantage courtesy of goals difference.

Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid

Los Blancos, five-time winners of the Club World Cup, can afford to draw against Salzburg to finish in the top two, but they would miss out on top spot if the spoils are shared on matchday three and Al-Hilal, who currently sit two points further back in third, claim all three points against Pachuca to climb to the summit.

Alonso is set to make a late call on the fitness of star forward Kylian Mbappe, who has missed the opening two group games with a bout of gastroenteritis. Antonio Rudiger is the most likely candidate to replace Asencio and start in central defence alongside summer signing Dean Huijsen, while fellow new recruit Trent Alexander-Arnold will be hoping to retain his place at right-back.

Real Madrid will be regarded as firm favourites to outscore their Austrian opponents and claim all three points, especially if Mbappe is back fit and firing.

Credit: .sportsmole.co.uk

 

Uefa to decide Palace’s Europa League fate on today

Uefa executives will meet on Friday to decide whether Crystal Palace will be allowed to play in next season’s Europa League.

Crystal Palace

The Eagles won the FA Cup to qualify for Europe for the first time in their history but Uefa must decide if they have breached its multi-club ownership rules.

The expectation is that the outcome of the hearing will be announced by Friday evening.

On Monday it was announced New York Jets owner Woody Johnson has signed a “legally binding contract” to buy John Textor’s 43% stake in Crystal Palace in a deal believed to be worth close to £190m.

Palace are under threat of losing their spot in Europe on the basis of Textor’s involvement at the club.

Uefa has been considering whether Palace breached its multi-club ownership rules which bars linked clubs from competing in the same European competition.

Textor has a stake in French club Lyon, who also qualified for the Europa League.

Palace insisted Textor has no significant control at Palace despite his shareholding at the club.

There was a further twist this week when Lyon suffered relegation into Ligue 2 because of their poor financial state, which could prevent the French side from playing in Europe altogether.

Credit: bbc

 

Arsenal in talks to sign Valencia defender Mosquera

Arsenal are in talks to sign defender Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia.

The Gunners want to make a defensive signing this summer and the 20-year-old Spaniard, who can play at centre-back and right-back, is emerging as their favoured option.

Cristhian Mosquera, Valencia

Arsenal have shown interest in Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace, but the England international may be reluctant to join given that he may find opportunities limited behind Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba.

Spain Under-21 international Mosquera has made 90 appearances for Valencia and was a regular in the team last season, playing 90 minutes in 37 of the club’s 38 La Liga games.

It has been a busy 24 hours for Arsenal, who are also on the verge of completing a move for Brentford midfielder Christian Norgaard.

A fee worth up to £15million has been agreed and the Denmark international is set to undergo a medical.

Arsenal are also imminently expected to complete the signing of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea.

Meanwhile, 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly signed a five-year deal at Emirates Stadium on Thursday.

The full-back made 39 appearances for Arsenal last season as he established himself as a regular in Mikel Arteta’s side.

Fellow defender Gabriel also signed a long-term contract earlier this month.

Credit: bbc

Zoomlion Lands In Burkina … As Africa Expansion Agenda Continues

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Dr. Siaw Agyepong (left), Executive Chairman, JGC, signed the MoU for his Group while Hon. Roger Baro (right), Burkinabe Minister in Charge of the Environment, Water and Sanitation, signed for his country.

After making successful inroads in East African countries – Kenya, DR Congo and others, Zoomlion Ghana Limited, a waste company and a subsidiary of the Jospong Group, has now turned its attention to West Africa.

Dr Siaw Agyapong and his team holding a meeting with the Burkina Faso officials

Executive Chairman, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong and Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister, Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo met on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 and discussed in detail how the company plans to extend its expertise in Waste management to Ghana’s northern neighbour.

The meeting, The Chronicle understands, was also attended by the Burkinabe Minister in Charge of the Environment, Roger Baro and the Ambassador of Burkina Faso to Ghana, Major Colonel David Kabré.

Zoomlion officials and their Burkinabe counterparts in a group photograph

The development marked a significant step forward in the realisation of a major project to   extending integrated waste management in Burkina Faso.

The initiative shall encompass waste collection, recovery, recycling and treatment within the waste management value chain in neighbouring Burkina Faso.

The project is a result of discussions between Burkinabe and Ghanaian authorities, including the President of Ghana during his official visit to Burkina Faso on March 10, 2025 and is part of a South-South cooperation initiative focused on sustainable development and job creation.

With over twenty years of experience in the waste management sector, the waste management experts present in 24 other African countries aim to leverage on proven technologies and models in Ghana to address Burkina Faso’s environmental challenges.

Dr Siaw Agyapong holding discussion with a Burkinabe official

“We are in a logic of promoting internal expertise, African, “the Prime Minister said, hailing this hopeful and laudable initiative, both for youth employment and combating unhealthiness. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to accompany and support investors who contribute to the development of the country.

On his part, Dr. Siaw Agyepong expressed confidence in the vision of the Burkina Faso President, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, including his ambition to boost job creation and promote a prosperous Burkina Faso.

He announced the imminent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Burkina Faso’s Ministry in charge of the Environment, a key step before the start of infrastructure work.

As part of the project, Jospong Group plans to train Burkinabe youth in Ghana to manage the facility and its associated services delivery locally.

“We are not going to import Ghanaian workers to Burkina Faso, We will train young Burkinabe people who will take charge of waste management in their country,” Dr. Agyepong said.

My Removal Process Is Politically Motivated –CJ

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Suspended CJ Torkornoo

Suspended Chief Justice of Ghana, Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, has publicly decried what she describes as a “historic miscarriage of justice” in the ongoing proceedings seeking her removal from office.

In a rare and emotionally charged press conference held yesterday in Accra, the Chief Justice broke her silence, alleging systemic violations of her rights and constitutional norms guiding such high-profile inquiries.

Suspended CJ Torkornoo

Justice Torkornoo, Ghana’s first Chief Justice to face removal proceedings in the country’s 68-year post-independence history, described the process as deeply flawed and politically motivated.

“This process should have been a precedent for strengthening our democracy. Instead, every step taken has broken the rules that ensure justice in our republic.”

A Litany of Grievances

Among the Chief Justice’s grievances were serious procedural concerns, including:

The Committee’s refusal to recognise her legal counsel on the first day of hearings, due to her absence, despite counsel being physically present.

Failure by the Committee to specify allegations against her or offer reasons for prima facie determinations, leaving her unable to mount a proper defence.

Denial of the opportunity to cross-examine petitioners Daniel Ofori and Shining Stars, whose testimonies reportedly form part of the evidence.

Refusal to allow a family member or spouse in the hearing room for support.

Personal searches conducted in violation of standard protocols and courtesies for a sitting Chief Justice.

She also raised alarm over the choice of venue, the high-security Adu Lodge facility on Castle Drive, Osu, alleging that it was intentionally chosen to intimidate and isolate her.

Justice Torkornoo noted the location’s dark history, recalling its association with the abduction and murder of judges during Ghana’s military past.

“The place where I am being tried,” she stated solemnly, “is the same place where my uncle and guardian, Major Sam Acquah, was implicated and killed in the 1981 judicial murders.”

Political Agenda?

The Chief Justice suggested that the removal proceedings may be fueled by political interests aiming to control the judiciary.

“I have heard commentary that this is a political agenda and I must admit, the irregularities make it hard to believe otherwise,” she said, adding that she had chosen to participate in the process out of respect for constitutional procedure, even as she questions its legality.

Justice Torkornoo, a seasoned legal professional with 38 years at the Bar and 21 years on the Bench, emphasised that her protest is not about clinging to power but about defending the integrity of Ghana’s judiciary.

“No one can look me in the eye and accuse me of taking a bribe to decide a case,” she asserted. “This is the personal treasure of integrity I live with.”

Echoes of History

Citing German Pastor Martin Niemöller’s famous quote on silence in the face of oppression, Justice Torkornoo warned of a dangerous precedent being set, one that could render judges and independent office holders vulnerable to political whims and smear campaigns.

“If this nation descends into secret proceedings that break every rule of adjudication,” she warned, “no judge, commissioner or constitutional officer will be safe.”

She concluded with a prayer for the future of Ghana, saying “I choose to trust that such darkness will not totally engulf this nation. May God bless our homeland Ghana, and make our nation great and strong.”

 

Electricity Tariff Hits The Roof Despite Cedi Appreciation; CUTs, CEMSE Worried

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Appiah Kusi Adomako -CUTS Ghana

Two leading policy think tanks, CUTS International Accra and the Center for Environmental Management and Sustainable Energy (CEMSE), have condemned the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) for its lack of transparency in the decision to review electricity tariffs, effective July 1st, 2025. The tariff adjustment violates Section 3(c) of Act 538 of 1997, which mandates fair electricity pricing for the mutual benefit of the government, producers, and end-users.

In a joint statement, Appiah Kusi Adomako, West Africa Regional Director for CUTS International, and Benjamin Nsiah, Executive Director of CEMSE, stated that the PURC’s tariff adjustment lacks regulatory transparency. Consumers had expected a significant reduction in electricity tariffs due to the appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against the dollar and declining inflation, which are key determinants of end-user tariffs.

Instead, the PURC announced a 2.43% increase in electricity tariffs, introducing new end-user tariff determinants contrary to expectations of a reduction in the third quarter of 2025.

As Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), we reject the PURC’s tariff adjustment for the following reasons:

  1. Exchange Rate Appreciation:The cedi appreciated by over 30% between the first and second quarters of 2025, from $1/Ghc15.70 to $1/Ghc10.31. This appreciation means end-users overpaid by 30% in previous quarters, resulting in a windfall of approximately Ghc1 billion for the government and distribution companies. These funds could have been used to offset arrears or procure emergency fuel, rendering the tariff increase unjustifiable.
  2. Inflation Miscalculation:The PURC used an inflation rate of 20.67% instead of the current 18.4%, despite consistently using higher rates in previous quarters (22.49% in Q1 and Q2 2025). Declining inflation reduces operational costs, and these savings should benefit consumers, not the government and power sector providers.
  3. Insignificant Gas Cost Increase:The Weighted Average Cost of Gas (WACOG) rose by only $0.08 (1%), a negligible impact compared to previous quarters. For instance, a 25% WACOG increase in Q2 2024 led to only a 3.5% tariff hike. The cedi’s appreciation further diminishes the justification for this adjustment, making the tariff increase economically dishonest.
  4. Unaccounted Arrears:The PURC cited Ghc488 million in arrears as grounds for the tariff hike, ignoring the Ghc1 billion windfall from currency appreciation. This lack of accountability and transparency undermines trust in the tariff-setting process.
  5. Exclusion of Stakeholders:The PURC failed to engage stakeholders before introducing fuel costs and reserve margins into the tariff decision. The 27% fuel cost component lacks transparency, with no clear simulations, fuel price disclosures, or procurement details provided. Similarly, the reserve margin allocation remains opaque, with no attached figures or percentages.

If care is not taken, PURC’s frequent upward tariff adjustments could succeed in the creation of an energy sector that is not efficient. PURC must address the systematic issues like the commercial and technical losses that have bedeviled the electricity sector rather than asking Ghanaians to pay more for a sector that has not learnt the best practices.

The lack of participation, transparency, and accountability in setting the Q3 2025 tariff undermines fairness in Ghana’s electricity pricing. We urge the PURC to halt the 2.43% tariff increase and demand a detailed disclosure of the tariff adjustment methodology and underlying assumptions.

Mahama in Brussels as Advocate for GAVI Vaccine Replenishment   

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President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has arrived in Brussels, Belgium, as a prominent advocate and ambassador for the GAVI Alliance’s crucial vaccine replenishment efforts.

The Presidency in a statement said President Mahama would participate in the Global Summit on Health and Prosperity through Immunisation, co-hosted by the European Union, the Gates Foundation and the Vaccine Alliance.

It said the summit aims to secure vital support for GAVI’S ambitious 2026-2030 strategy.

“This strategy seeks to immunise an additional 500 million children, save over eight million lives and protect up to 150 disease outbreaks, delivering over $100 billion in economic benefits,” the statement said.

It said President Mahama’s presence highlights the vital role of global cooperation in providing fair access to vaccines, especially in lower-income countries.

The statement said having experienced the transformative impact of immunisation in Ghana and across Africa first-hand, President Mahama had been dedicated to advocating for a fully funded GAVI.

In 2013, President Mahama played a similar role to support the Alliance in its mission to save children’s lives and protect health by increasing immunisation.

President Mahama believes that a fully funded Gavi would save millions of lives, unlock significant economic potential, and strengthen global health security.

The statement said the global summit provides a critical opportunity to garner renewed commitment from traditional and newer donors, highlighting the proven effectiveness and value of GAVI’s partnerships with governments, international organisations, civil society, communities, and industry leaders.

It said since 2000, GAVI had reached over a billion children with life-saving vaccines, preventing more than 18.8 million deaths and generating over $250 billion in economic benefits for lower-income economies.

While in Brussels, President Mahama would also hold discussions with many leaders, including the President of the EU Council of Ministers and Bill Gates, the statement added.

GNA

Proposed NPP Presidential Primary is subject to approval -Afeku

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Catherine Afeku

A former Minister for Tourism and Creative Arts in the Akufo-Addo administration, Catherine Ablema Afeku,  has stated that the New Patriotic Party (NPP)  presidential primary slated for January 31, 2026  is a mere proposal by the party’s National Executives and National Council of Elders.

Sharing her views in an interview on Kumasi-based radio station, Silver FM on Tuesday with William De Bordes (Locing Cee), the former Legislator for Evalve-Ajomoro-Gwira Constituency said the date for the Presidential primary  is just a ‘proposal subject’ for the  upcoming Conference next month (July).

She explained that leadership would expatiate the “conviction” behind the said proposal as well as listen and consider the views of the party’s following.

Catherine Afeku stressed that human beings are resistant to change, hence the need for the party’s leadership to step up communication and make clear the air about such proposals.

The former lawmaker noted that though the NPP has never held a presidential primary six months after a defeat in a general election, members must remain calm and wait for the outcome of the deliberations.

She explained that normally Presidential primaries are held at least a year after a defeat and two years after a win and further stressed that the NPP has never elected its Flagbearer before its National Executives, which situation she likened  to appointing an army General before appointing his troops.

The former Minister said this could generate friction and advised the party to “stick” to its traditions and customs. Madam Afeku, however, recommended the expansion of delegate-base to facilitate the assimilation of the masses in the decision-making of the party.

The former Legislator also admitted that the NPP is at a crossroads, hence its inability to function as an “effective opposition”, noting that 80% of the party’s focus is on its internal issues while its other focus is on the sitting government as its (NDC) mistakes are piling up and the party needed to take stock of them.

Criticising the government, Madam Afeku condemned the abrupt termination of contracts of School Feeding Contractors without prior notice making Contractors indebted to loan facilitators.

The former Minister, therefore, urged the leadership of NPP to expedite the resolution of its internal issues and present a “formidable front”, to help scrutinise and criticise the government as well as ensure the party wins power in the 2028 General elections, stressing that “one must take the speck out of his/her own eyes, before removing a speck in another’s eyes”.

Catherine Ablema Afeku also disclosed her intentions to run for the National Women’s Organiser slot of the NPP to advocate for women. She pledged to help the party recapture power in the 2028 General elections.

From Oswald Pius Freiku, Kumasi

Teachers without pay: GES Responds to Mounting Pressure Over Staff ID Delays

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Wisdom Klu, the writer

The Ghana Education Service (GES) is facing heightened scrutiny following a petition submitted on June 23, 2025, by a group of newly hired teachers who began their roles in September 2024. These teachers have voiced serious concerns over administrative delays, particularly the late issuance of Staff IDs, which has impacted their salary payments.

In response, the GES released a detailed statement on June 24, 2025, aimed at clarifying its position and outlining the specific measures being taken to resolve these issues. The release emphasizes the GES’s acknowledgment of the problem, commitment to transparency in its ongoing efforts, and a plea for patience and collaboration from the affected teachers.

 Context of the Recruitment

To grasp the concerns more fully, it’s essential to understand the recruitment context. In 2024, the GES hired 12,807 graduates from Colleges of Education to meet the increasing demand for qualified teachers nationwide. By December 2024, 9,950 of these recruits had received their Staff IDs and corresponding salaries.

However, 2,113 teachers with Staff IDs have not been paid due to an expired financial clearance, causing considerable frustration. Additionally, 582 teachers did not receive IDs due to issues with documentation such as SSNIT numbers and Ghana Card details, which delayed their data validation.

These administrative challenges highlight systemic issues within the GES’s on boarding process for large groups of teachers. The GES recognizes these delays and assures stakeholders that corrective actions are in progress.

Actions Taken

To address these challenges comprehensively, the new GES management launched a nationwide staff validation exercise from March 7 to 14, 2025. This initiative was designed to verify teacher postings, clean the recruitment database, and rectify any discrepancies in the records, following alarming inconsistencies revealed by recent audits. A technical committee, consisting of key stakeholders and representatives from the affected teachers, has been established to enhance communication, provide timely feedback, and coordinate resolution efforts effectively.

Moreover, the GES has sent requests via the Ministry of Education to the Ministry of Finance for an extension of the expired financial clearance, enabling salary payments for those previously denied. The 2025 national budget has earmarked funds to support this request, indicating the government’s acknowledgment of the issue’s urgency.

The GES has also reaffirmed its dedication to not only resolving the current backlog but also addressing the underlying causes of these systemic problems. It is working towards reforming internal recruitment processes to avert similar issues in future engagements.

Challenges with Representation

A key obstacle in swiftly addressing grievances is the inconsistency in teacher representation. GES reports that new factions of disgruntled teachers frequently arise with changing leadership and diverse demands, complicating efforts to track and address concerns adequately.

Different groups have organized demonstrations with varying participants, often disrupting continuity in conversations. To enhance engagement, the GES has called for a unified and consistent representation from teacher groups, believing this will facilitate more effective discussions and quicker resolutions. It is crucial for teacher unions, such as the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT), to collaborate more effectively and provide structured leadership in addressing their members’ shared concerns.

 Transparency and Call for Calm

The GES’s press statement concludes with an important appeal for calm and ongoing dialogue. While the frustrations of affected teachers are understandable, the GES assures that substantial progress is being made toward resolving the issues.

All affected teachers are guaranteed that efforts are underway to facilitate timely remuneration for those genuinely recruited. Emphasizing values of transparency, accountability, and collaboration, the GES is committed to fair labour practices and the welfare of teachers.

Additionally, the current crisis is seen as an opportunity for lasting reforms, encouraging a redesign of outdated systems reliant on fragmented data handling and bureaucratic delays.

 Educational Implications

Beyond resolving salary and ID issues, this situation highlights deeper structural challenges within our education system. In light of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) implementation, maintaining the integrity and morale of the teaching workforce is crucial.

Teacher satisfaction and timely payments are essential not only for labour relations but also for enhancing teaching quality and learning outcomes, as research consistently indicates that motivated teachers significantly impact student performance (Adom, 2022). Ensuring efficient on boarding and timely payments is therefore a matter of educational equity and national progress.

To prevent similar future issues, stronger collaboration among the Ministry of Finance, the Controller and Accountant General’s Department, and GES is necessary to develop an integrated data system for recruitment and payroll processing. Investments in digital HR systems and biometric validation can help overcome existing gaps and increase transparency.

Conclusion

The recent petition from newly hired teachers reflects broader institutional inefficiencies. Nonetheless, the GES’s proactive engagement and prompt actions signal a positive shift towards accountability. It is imperative for unions, ministries, and civil society to collaborate to transform these commitments into tangible outcomes.

As Ghana aims to redefine its educational framework, now is the time to decisively tackle recruitment inefficiencies. The strength of any educational system is reflected in how it values its teachers. By prioritizing teacher welfare, the GES can cultivate not only a dedicated workforce but also a generation of learners prepared for the future.

 By Wisdom Koudjo Klu

Editor’s note: Views expressed in this article do not represent that of The Chronicle

Editorial: Are The Recent Building Collapses Reminders Of Systemic Failure?

By
THE CHRONICLE
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0
Editorial

A second storey-building has collapsed in Cape Coast, killing one person, five days after a similar incident killed two people, according to Graphiconline report.
This latest incident happened Tuesday dawn at Idun, near Amissah Ekyir around 2am, leading to the death of one Ernestina Nduom.

The Mayor of Cape Coast, George Justice Arthur, broke the news of Madam Ernestina Nduom’s tragic passing to the family after she was rushed to the hospital.
Two persons were rescued from the rubble and rushed to the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital for treatment.

Last Saturday, a collapsed building killed two elderly persons and injured three others at the London Bridge in Cape Coast. This brings to three the number of deaths caused by collapsed buildings in less than a week after heavy rains.

Cape Coast has some very old homes in the central area. The Metropolitan Chief Executive for Cape Coast, Justice George Arthur, has said all such structures would be demolished to avert more disasters, as heavy rains set in.
First of all, The Chronicle finds the incidences of collapsing buildings very appalling. These recent building collapses in Cape Coast are more than just tragic accidents, they are stark reminders of a systemic failure that continues to put lives at risk.

In just under a week, three people have died, families have been torn apart and yet again the question echoes: How many more must die before we act?
The alarming frequency of these collapses now three within days makes it painfully clear that Cape Coast, like many cities across Ghana, is sitting on a structural time bomb. And the culprit is not just the rain. It is the lack of oversight, poor enforcement of building standards and decades of institutional negligence.

Where were the inspections? Where was the routine assessment of older buildings, especially as the rainy season approached? Why are buildings still being occupied without proper structural evaluation? The answers are buried beneath the rubble along with innocent lives.

Local assemblies, mandated to supervise and regulate construction activities, have failed to rise to their duty. Too often, buildings go up without the proper permits or oversight. In many cases, substandard materials are used, and construction is supervised by unqualified individuals. The absence of enforcement, compounded by bureaucracy and corruption, has turned our communities into dangerous zones.

This is not a Cape Coast problem alone. It is a national crisis—one that calls for a coordinated effort across all districts and municipalities. The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development must issue urgent directives for comprehensive audits of buildings, particularly in areas prone to flooding and structural wear.

We cannot continue to treat these tragedies as isolated events. Every building collapse is a failure of leadership, a collapse of responsibility. The cost of ignoring this issue is being paid in human lives—and that is too high a price.
If we do not act now, more families will wake up to the horror of crumbled homes and lost loved ones. Let these recent deaths be the last and let them mark the beginning of real, lasting change.

Man, 28, accused of defrauding Forex traders to fund betting 

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Dansoman Circuit Court

A 28-year-old businessman, Abdul Kadir Nasir, has been hauled before the Dansoman Circuit Court for allegedly defrauding seven foreign exchange traders under the pretense of conducting currency exchange transactions, only to reportedly use the funds for online betting.

Nasir, who operates within the Tudu area of Accra, pleaded not guilty to seven counts of fraudulent breach of trust, contrary to Section 128 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). The case is being presided over by Her Honour Halimah El-Alawa Abdul-Baasit.

According to the prosecution, led by Chief Inspector Christopher Wonder, the accused on March 8, 2025, approached several forex traders at Tudu, claiming he had secured a transaction that required both local and foreign currencies.

The traders, trusting his assurances, handed him various sums totalling over GH¢325,000 and US$5,700.

The complainants include: Mohammed Osman – US$5,200, Abdul Rahman Seidu – US$500, Musah Zibo – GH¢50,000, Safiyan Iddriss – GH¢65,000, Jibril Adams – GH¢110,000, Sumana Munkaila – GH¢25,000, and Bilyamin Abdul Rahman – GH¢15,000.

However, Nasir reportedly vanished after receiving the funds. When later confronted by the complainants, he claimed the money had been deposited into his mobile money account and subsequently used by an “unknown Nigerian man” to place bets on an online betting platform.

Nasir has so far refunded GH¢10,000 during police investigations. The accused has been granted bail in the sum of GH¢150,000 with two sureties, one of whom must be a public servant earning not less than GH¢2,000 monthly. He has also been ordered to deposit his Ghana Card with the court registry. The case has been adjourned to August 18, 2025, for further hearing.

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