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Court Orders EOCO to Produce Audio Recording in Case Involving Former NSB Boss

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Kwabena Adu-Boahene, accused

The High Court, General Jurisdiction 10, presided over by Justice John Eugene Nyadu Nyante, has ordered the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to submit an audio recording of the interrogation of Edith Ruby Adumauah, Head of Finance at the National Signals Bureau (NSB), by the close of Thursday, November 13.

The order follows an application by Samuel Atta-Kyea, counsel for the former Director-General of the NSB, Kwabena Adu Boahene, who is standing trial for alleged financial impropriety. Mr Atta-Kyea argued that the said recording contained material that could exonerate his client.

Continuing his cross-examination of Ms. Adumauah, the defence lawyer said EOCO had informed the witness that her engagements were being recorded and, therefore, requested the court to order the production of the audio as part of further disclosures.

However, the Deputy Attorney-General (DAG) opposed the request, arguing that the grounds for further disclosure had not been satisfied. The DAG contended that a recent Supreme Court pronouncement cited by the defence did not constitute binding precedent, but was merely an obiter dictum.

Mr. Atta-Kyea, rebutting, insisted that Section 2(1) (g) of the Practice Direction on Disclosure explicitly lists “audio recordings” as material subject to disclosure.

Justice Nyadu Nyante, in his ruling, overruled the prosecution’s objection and directed that if the audio recording of Ms. Adumauah’s interrogation existed, it should be procured by the Attorney-General and filed as part of further disclosures.

During the resumed cross-examination, Ms. Adumauah confirmed that her house had been searched by EOCO, but maintained that she was never charged with any offence.

She also confirmed that she had written a statement for EOCO dated May 9, 2025, after the accused persons were arraigned on April 30, 2025.

Pressed on why EOCO granted her bail, Ms. Adumauah stated that she did not know, but acknowledged that she was informed her interrogation was being recorded.

Mr. Atta-Kyea further questioned her over two separate invoices issued by ISC Holdings Limited, both bearing the same invoice number, but for different items — one for a Digitised Investigative Audit System and another for a Cyber Defence System.

Ms. Adumauah explained that payment was made only for the Digitised Investigative Audit System addressed to the National Security Council, and not the one addressed to BNC Accra Ghana.

The case has been adjourned to December 9, 10 and 11

Continuation of cross examination by Atta-Kyea
Q. I put it to you that because you were a suspect EOCO searched your house, is that not so?
A. I was of the understanding that anyone who is sent there their house is searched.
Q. So was your house searched at all?

A. Yes.
Q. More than one house of yours was searched, is that not so?
A. Not so my Lord. I was asked to identify whether I had other house but it was … where I lived.

Q. Do you have other houses apart from that which was searched?
A. Yes my Lord
Q. Have you ever filed an asset declaration form?
A. No.
Q. Do you remember the last statement you write out for the benefit of EOCO?

A. No.
Witness shown a statement and she confirms writing it.
Q. What is the date.
A. 9th May 2025
Q. Do you know when the accused persons were arraigned?

A. No.
Q. Can you tell the court the date on the charge sheet?
A. 30th April 2025.
Q. I suggest to you that is the date the accused persons were arraigned before this honourable court?

A. I’m not aware.
Q. I suggest to you that post the arraignment of the accused persons before this honourable court you have a statement you referred to, 9th May 2025.
A. Yes
Q. From the document you’re holding you were not charged with any offence?

A. Yes
Q. Even against the backdrop that you were investigated by EOCO you were not charged?
A. Yes
Q. And you are very happy for that?

A. Yes, my Lord. I believe investigations are supposed to find out the truth so if EOCO deemed it fit that I’m not charged, I cannot say anything about it.
Q. The three statements you mentioned that you delivered to EOCO, they exclude the one you gave on 9th May, 2025, is that not so?

A. No my Lord, I wrote three statements including this one.
Q. When you came to the space of EOCO they told you the interrogation is being recorded, is that not so.
A. Yes my Lord

Atta-Kyea: We pray that the court orders EOCO to submit the recording as it will show that the witness said things that go in our favour.

DAG: We are opposed to the request on ground that the subject matter of the request does not satisfy the grounds for further disclosure. The Supreme Court recent decision is to all intents and purposes an obiter and regardless of how elaborate the court put it down cannot constitute a ratio this engender.

The issue before the court is what determine what the ratio of the decision is. If the court decides to veer off and make pronouncements on matters, which do not form part of matters before it and in respect of matters, which arguments were not taken, the authorities on what constitutes judicial precedent is clear on the matter.

And, therefore, this court and all other courts are not in any way bound to follow a decision, which is contrary to precedent. The precedent on this matter stick stands, which the Supreme Court well considered decision on Baffoe-Bonnie, which this court digested in its erudite most immaculate ruling, which is that relevant is a key consideration in determining an application for further disclosure.

Atta-Akyea: As a matter of fact the witness has stated that she was informed by EOCO that her engagements with EOCO were being recorded. Section 2(1)(g) of the practice direction, a material for disclosure includes audio recordings. I don’t see how this legal request informs the basis of an opposition on point of law.

The denial of the audio recording will tantamount to concealment of evidence against the clear provision of the law that exculpatory evidence be ordered for use whether the attorney General has disclosed them or not. I pray that the objection be overruled the opposition for further disclosures so that in the ultimate interest of justice nm Lord will know what was said at EOCO and what is being said here.

Court: The Prosecution is overruled. The audio recording in the custody of EOCO in respect of the interrogation of Edith Ruby Pokuaa if any. They should be procured by the attorney General and filed as a further disclosure. Same to be filed by close of day tomorrow (Nov. 13).

Cross examination continues
Q. You obtained your LLB from which university?
A. Mountcrest university.

Q. Did you read some criminal law at all?
A. My Lord I did, but I’m here on behalf of National security secretariat to testify on financial matters, which is very verifiable in the office.
Q. You are here to testify to truth, is that not so?
A. Yes

Q. And the truth you are required to testify to may not only be in your office, but outside your office. Is that not so?
A. I have a letter from the office, which asked me to come to court to testify. And I have a copy.

Q. Do you have a copy right with you here?
A. No.
Q. It is the case that it is not a suspect who is admitted to bail.
A. I don’t know.

Q. I’m putting it to you that the only reason EOCO gave you bail on pain of incarceration is because you were a suspect?
A. I do not know
Q. At the last sitting you were making a comparison of two invoices, which had the same invoice number generated by ISC Holdings Limited. Can you refresh your memory on this matter?

A. Yes.
Q. The items as described in the invoices are different, is that not so?
A. There are two different items with the same invoice number. I remember I said we had not seen the one for procurement for cyber defence system in our procurement records for payment. What we had was Digitised investigating auditing system.

Q. With one of the invoices is it addressed to who?
A. One is addressed to National security council Ghana, which was the one we paid for.
Q. And the other is addressed to?
A. BNC Accra Ghana

Q. Madam said the other invoice is addressed to BNC Accra Ghana?
A. Yes
Q. Is there also NSC/BNC?
A. My lord is BNC
Q. Kindly look at the other one what is there?
A. National Security Council

Q. So madam cannot you see a customer ID in respect of the purchase of the invoice number NSC006, which relates to digitised investigative audit system (in Exhibit B4)
A. The customer ID is NSC?
Q. What is the customer ID on the invoice relating to the cyber security equipment (ID1)?
A. The customer ID in relation to procurement of cyber security ID1 is NSC/BNC.

A. How do you come to know the invoices relating to digitised investigative audit system
A. The digitalised investigative audit system, which is also NSC006 was what we make payment for

Q. Who delivered the invoice to you
A. As I mentioned earlier my boss who sent it to me or sometime I’m copied in an email, but I still take instructions from my boss to do.
Q. When your boss does not send a copy of the invoice to you and you are not kept loop in the email, you have no knowledge of the invoice?
A. Yes

 

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COCOBOD to reward whistleblowers in fight against cocoa smuggling

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admin
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Dr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, the Board Chairman, COCOBOD

Dr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, the Board Chairman, Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has revealed that whistleblowers would be rewarded in the fight against cocoa smuggling.  He said a whistleblower would be entitled to one-third of the value of any “contraband” intercepted.

Dr Ofosu-Ampofo, during a stakeholder engagement on cocoa smuggling at Hohoe in the Volta Region, said the Board had realised that one of the challenges COCOBOD was facing, especially in the Volta and Oti regions, was the smuggling of cocoa beans across the country’s borders.

He said it was realised that the juxtaposed cost of input supplied to farmers and the output in terms of production was nothing to write home about.

He said, “As a policy, we decided to come and engage the stakeholders and find out some of the push and pull factors that had resulted in this unprecedented level of smuggling.”

Dr Ofosu-Ampofo said COCOBOD would plough back findings and suggestions into its policy-making process to see how it could redesign some of the policy initiatives to address the exigencies of the day.

He said the government through COCOBOD had developed a new scholarship scheme for the children of cocoa farmers, targeting those who would be entering into tertiary institutions.

Research had revealed that the Oti and Volta regions had the best soil, quality of soil suitable for cocoa production, as well as devoid of “galamsey” activities, Dr Ofosu-Ampofo said.

He said the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana had developed hybrid cocoa which was now reducing the period from planting to production from three years to 27 months.

He called on business communities, public servants, politicians and all those who wanted to go into the cocoa industry to take advantage of the golden age to go into the cocoa plantation.

Dr Ofosu-Ampofo said COCOBOD had outlined a number of measures and that they were going to team up with Security Councils in the Oti and Volta regions, to tackle the smuggling menace and reduce it to the barest minimum.

Mr Jake Kudjo Samahar, the Director, Special Services, COCOBOD said smuggling routes in the Oti Region include; Jasikan-Bodada, Asato-Kadjebi, Nkonya-Jasikan, Poase Cement-Obuasi, Dodofie-Dodo Amanfrom and Pampawie-Amapayo-Ahamansu, all through to Togo.

He said for the Volta Region, smuggling routes include; Tsito-Bame-Kpedze, Logba-Leklebi, Alavanyo-Hohoe-Kpando-Fodome-Wli, all through to Togo.

Mr Samahar stated that political interference had been identified as hindering the fight against cocoa smuggling.

He revealed that although between August 8 to September 29, 2025 a total of 14 vehicles with cocoa beans were impounded by the Sogakope Taskforce, only one of these was currently packed at the police station.

Mr James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, said the Region was strategically positioned to grow cocoa and would not be a transitional zone for the smuggling of cocoa.

He noted that the fight against cocoa smuggling was one of a clarion call since any bag of cocoa smuggled reflected a job lost in the cocoa sector.

From Edward Williams, Hohoe

GNA 

Ghana, EU Deepen Cooperation on Nuclear Safety

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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Officials present at the workshop in a group photograph

Ghana has made a significant stride in its peaceful nuclear power ambitions with the successful completion of a European Union – funded initiative to strengthen the country’s nuclear regulatory framework and safety systems.

The six-year project, titled “Support to the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA) of Ghana” was implemented under the European Instrument for International Nuclear Safety Cooperation (INSC).

Launched in September 2019 with a total funding of €1.75 million, the initiative aimed to enhance the capacity, independence and technical competence of Ghana’s Nuclear Regulatory Authority, as the country prepares to establish its first nuclear power plant.

A high-level closing ceremony in Accra, on Thursday, brought together representatives from Ghana’s Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI), the European Union Delegation to Ghana and several European nuclear safety institutions.

The event was attended by Mr. Kwamena Essilfie Quaison, Director of Science and Technology at MESTI and Mr. Jonas Claes, Deputy Ambassador of the European Union to Ghana.

EU commends Ghana’s nuclear progress

In his remarks, Mr. Claes praised Ghana’s steady progress and the professionalism demonstrated by the NRA throughout the collaboration.

“This partnership, supported by European expertise and guided by the International Atomic Energy Agency’s recommendations, is helping Ghana to develop its nuclear sector safely and responsibly,” he said.

“Together, we are protecting communities, safeguarding the environment, and setting a standard for the region in safe and sustainable energy development.”

He emphasized that nuclear safety is a global priority that transcends national borders, underscoring the EU’s commitment to supporting countries like Ghana to uphold strong and transparent regulatory systems.

“The EU is fully committed to nuclear safety as a common, non-negotiable objective. History shows that ensuring nuclear safety requires cooperation, competence, and trust. Through this project, we have worked together to promote safety, transparency, and independence within Ghana’s regulatory system,” Mr. Claes added.

Strengthening Ghana’s nuclear regulatory systems

Mr. Quaison, speaking on behalf of the Ministry, outlined the major achievements Ghana has recorded under the INSC project.

These include the approval of the Nuclear and Radiation Safety Policy, which was reviewed through the initiative, and the development of nine new nuclear safety regulations, five of which are currently under review by the Attorney-General’s Department.

The approval of the Safety Policy and the ongoing review of regulations covering site evaluation, licensing, construction and design are clear evidence of the progress achieved through this collaboration,” Mr. Quaison stated.

“The support from our European partners has been invaluable in strengthening the Authority’s operations and enhancing public confidence in the safety of Ghana’s nuclear programme.”

He further revealed that the NRA is finalizing arrangements for an audit of its Integrated Management System under ISO 9001:2015, expected to be completed by the end of the year with EU support.

Knowledge transfer and institutional capacity

Over the six years, the NRA benefited from extensive technical assistance, including training courses, workshops, and on-the-job training in three EU Member States.

These programmes built local expertise in nuclear safety assessment, licensing procedures, radiation protection, and emergency preparedness.

The collaboration also helped Ghana prepare for an Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) mission of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), including a nationwide self-assessment of nuclear and radiation safety systems.

In December 2024, the IAEA recognised Ghana’s commitment to continuous improvement in nuclear and radiation safety, commending the NRA for aligning its operations with international best practices.

The project was implemented by a consortium of European Nuclear Regulatory authorities and experts, including the Hungarian Atomic Energy Agency (Hungary), Slovenian Nuclear Safety Administration (Slovenia), Nuclear Regulatory Authority of the Slovak Republic (Slovakia) and ENCO Consulting, a nuclear safety consultancy based in Austria.

These institutions provided mentorship, technical advice, and hands-on training to strengthen Ghana’s institutional readiness for nuclear power development.

 

 

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Rainbow Agrosciences, IWMI Support 41st National Farmers’ Day with Cash and Farm Inputs

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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The Minister of MOFA, Eric Opoku in a picture with officials of IWMI

Two organisations, Rainbow Agrosciences Limited and the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), have presented cash and agricultural inputs to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), to support preparations for the 41st National Farmers’ Day celebration, scheduled for December 5, 2025 in Ho, Volta Region.

The donations, made at a brief ceremony at MoFA’s head office in Accra, included assorted crop protection products, fertilisers and financial support to aid activities marking the event.

Rainbow Agrosciences Limited, an agrochemical company, contributed crop protection products including insecticides, fungicides and herbicides valued at GH¢270,000 along with a cash donation of GH¢30,000.

The Minister of MOFA, Eric Opoku (r) in a picture with officials of Rainbow Agroscience Limited

Mr. George Selasi Ocloo, Technical Manager of Rainbow Agrosciences, said the gesture formed part of the company’s corporate social responsibility and partnership with the Ministry to enhance agricultural productivity through initiatives such as the Crop Clinic programme.

“We recognise the Ministry as a key stakeholder in the agricultural sector. It’s our duty to give back and ensure that farmers have access to safe, quality products that boost yields,” he said.

The IWMI also donated 100 bags of fertiliser to the Ministry.

Prof. Kehinde Ogunjobi, IWMI’s Country Representative, explained that the support aligns with the organisation’s mission to promote sustainable, environmentally friendly farming practices.

“We are supporting the transition from inorganic to compost-based fertilisers that protect the environment and improve soil health,” he said.

“Our compost fertilisers, developed through research, have proven effective on various crops.”

Receiving the donations, the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Mr. Eric Opoku, expressed appreciation to the two organisations for their continued partnership and commitment to advancing agriculture in Ghana.

“We all share the responsibility of putting agriculture on the right track so that Ghanaians can fully benefit from its potential,” he said.

“We assure you that every item received will reach the farmers, who remain the backbone of our economy.”

Instituted in 1985, National Farmers’ Day is celebrated annually on the first Friday of December to recognise the contributions of farmers, fishers, and agricultural workers to national development and food security.

This year’s celebration, themed “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future” will feature a five-day national agricultural fair in Ho, showcasing innovations in mechanisation, irrigation, value addition and digital agriculture.

 

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Brad Pitt & Ines de Ramon’s Relationship Isn’t What It Appears

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Brad Pitt & Ines de Ramon

Brad Pitt and Ines de Ramon’s relationship seemed to be sailing smoothly, unlike previous claims. Recently, the couple attended the Los Angeles premiere of George Clooney’s “Jay Kelly.” According to a source, the duo seemingly looked “loved up” and “joined at the hip” throughout the event. Earlier, it was reported that the jewelry designer was getting agitated because of her boyfriend “chasing old battles.”

Brad Pitt and Ines de Ramon’s recent outing reportedly showed that all is well in their paradise. On Tuesday, they showed up at the “Jay Kelly” premiere to support the actor’s friend, George Clooney. At the event, a source told PEOPLE that the couple were “very touchy-feely” and glued together.

“They looked loved up. He was in a great mood and seemed thrilled to be there to celebrate his friend,” they added. While Pitt appeared in a green velvet tracksuit, de Ramon looked gorgeous in a beige outfit. She wore a halter-style, knitted dress with a jacket in one hand. With hair let loose, she wore a bird pendant and carried a Chanel sling bag. Interestingly, the duo’s outfits screamed different styles.

The news of their romance at the party would come as relief for their fans. Earlier, a report suggested otherwise, claiming that de Ramon was worried about her partner. She recently moved in with the “F1” star to give their relationship a “fresh start.” However, an insider mentioned that the 32-year-old seemed uneasy because of Pitt’s legal battle with his ex-wife, Angelina Jolie.

“Brad keeps saying he won’t let Angelina win,” they added. But his girlfriend would like to find out what “winning” means for him. “He has love, success, a gorgeous home, and someone who truly cares for him–yet it never seems to be enough while he’s still chasing old battles,” the source said.

Credit: yahoonews

Kim Kardashian Locked in Legal Battle With Condom Brand 

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Kim Kardashian

Kim Kardashian is reportedly facing a new trademark challenge that could complicate the expansion of her SKKN by Kim line. According to a recent report, one of the world’s largest condom manufacturers has taken issue with her latest trademark applications, arguing the reality star’s branding is too similar to its own.

Kim Kardashian’s growing beauty and wellness empire has hit another legal snag, this time involving LifeStyles Healthcare — the global sexual wellness company behind SKYN condoms. According to filings referenced by the Daily Mail, the brand has formally opposed several trademark applications submitted by Kardashian’s company, Kimsaprincess Inc., over the summer.

Kardashian’s team reportedly filed three new applications in June and July to expand the SKKN by Kim name into fragrances, supplements, and moisturizers. LifeStyles, however, has claimed that the SKKN branding is too similar to its long-standing SKYN line, which includes condoms made from a non-latex material, as well as lubricants and sex toys. The company has been granted more time to prepare full opposition documents, signaling that the dispute may continue for months.

To defend her trademarks, Kardashian has enlisted the legal team at Dickinson Wright, a firm known for representing high-profile entertainers. LifeStyles, meanwhile, is represented by powerhouse firm Greenberg Traurig. The same group has advised celebrities including Katy Perry, Britney Spears, and Kardashian’s ex-husband, Kanye West.

This isn’t the first time Kardashian has found herself navigating trademark pushback. In 2022, she was forced to abandon an earlier attempt to trademark SKKN by Kim. This was after model Lori Harvey’s team argued the name conflicted with Harvey’s own skincare label, SKN by LH. A Brooklyn spa named Beauty Concepts also challenged her use of the SKKN name, prompting additional legal negotiations. Both matters ultimately ended with Kardashian’s applications being dropped.

Credit: yahoonews

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ prison release date pushed back after rapper allegedly violates multiple rules

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ prison release date has been bumped back an extra month.

The embattled music mogul was initially expected to finish serving time at Fort Dix Federal Correctional Institute in New Jersey on May 8, 2028.

However, Page Six confirmed on Wednesday that his release has been pushed to June 4, 2028.

While the reason behind the adjusted date remains unclear, it comes on the heels of the rapper making headlines for allegedly violating multiple prison rules.

Combs’ rep and the Bureau of Federal Prisons have yet to respond to Page Six’s request for comment.

Last week, TMZ reported that Combs was in “trouble with prison officials” for consuming “homemade alcohol” made of fermented sugar, Fanta soda and apples.

Combs’ spokesperson told Page Six last week that the Grammy winner was “in his first week at FCI Fort Dix [after being transferred from Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center] and … focused on adjusting, working on himself and doing better each day.”

The rep continued, “As with any high-profile individual in a new environment, there will be many rumors and exaggerated stories throughout his time there — most of them untrue. We ask that people give him the benefit of the doubt, the privacy to focus on his personal growth.”

Credit: pagesix.com

Buy a lot of land –Samini advises young artistes 

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Samini

Ghanaian music icon Samini has urged up and coming artistes to make smart financial decisions by investing in land rather than spending on luxury items.

Speaking on Daybreak Hitz on Hitz FM with Kwame Dadzie and Doreen Avio, Samini advised young artistes to “buy a lot of land,” revealing that it was one of the best decisions he made early in his career.

“This is one of the things I did when I was young,” he said, adding that the advice came from an older friend who noticed his habit of frequently changing cars. “He told me to stop wasting money on cars and buy land instead,” Samini recounted.

Beyond music, the celebrated dancehall and reggae artiste runs several business ventures. He is involved in large-scale farming and owns other properties. Samini also operates a music and events company, Highgrade Family, which has nurtured several Ghanaian talents over the years.

Samini is currently preparing for his annual concert, Saminifest, scheduled for 24th December in Accra. The event, which celebrates his musical journey and Ghanaian culture, will feature performances from top artistes and promises to be a highlight of the festive season.

The multi-award-winning musician, known for hits like Linda, My Own, and Obaa, continues to inspire younger artistes to think long-term both in their craft and finances.

Credit: myjoyonline

   Baffoe-Bonnie’s Vetting

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admin
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Africanus Owusu Ansah (Hot Issues)

A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.

John C. Maxwell

PAUL BAFFOE – BONNIE has gone to the Vetting and come back victoriously.

The vetting went on, the walkout of the NPP members of the Appointments Committee notwithstanding.

There was a showdown between Hon. Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin and Hon. Mahama Ayariga. It started with the use of the expression “disputed Chief Justice Nominee” to describe the hard-working Supreme Court judge now Acting Chief Justice and soon-to-be Chief Justice of Ghana: Said Afenyo-Markin “We gather to vet the disputed nominee for the office of Chief Justice.

This is a case of whether Ghana’s Judiciary will remain independent” Hon. Ayariga retorts: “I am objecting to the term ‘disputed’ because there is no dispute regarding the nominee before us” When the Minority could not get their way introducing the “unresolved legal challenges relating to the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkonoo”, they bowed out. Afenyo Markin remarked:

“We are registering that we reject the nomination and the record should reflect that the report of the vetting be a Majority report” Referring to the plethora of cases by the former CJ Torkono at the High Court, Supreme Court and ECOWAS Court, they argued that continuing the process undermines judicial independence and prejudges matters that are still under adjudication – subjudice.

At the vetting, it seems to us, nearly all the questions that the Minority would have asked were asked by the Majority and the CJ answered succinctly: “It does not matter who you are; once it comes to the law, it is no discrimination of persons. That has been my lifestyle, and if anybody is to go through my life, this is what he will come up with”.

He continued: he was confident to build a judicial system that “not only interprets the law but elevates the nation’s conscience” Was his nomination a reward for his role in the 2012 Election Petition in which his vote favoured the sitting President, John Dramani Mahama: He answered: “I wouldn’t know what goes in the president’s mind” But his elevation was the result of merit and long service – not political patronage – appointment by ex-President JJ Rawlings as a Circuit Court judge; appointment to the High Court by President John Agyekum Kufuor; then later  (2006) to the Court of Appeal and then (2008) to the Supreme Court. He answered Hon. Ayariga’s question on the delays at Court (some land cases lasting up to 40 years) by structural reforms which would require constitutional amendment. Would the Supreme Court’s size and workload be improved by separating constitutional and appellate function? Yes

What about the suggestion about moving Ghana’s general elections to early November (instead of 7th December) to allow for, at least, 57 days for hearings of disputes before the swearing-in of a new President? Doesn’t the Legal Aid Board deserve support for effective work? And don’t the Courts put themselves in shape for the 24-hour operations?

The dire state of the prisons ought to be looked at (in answer to Hon. Ayamba for Pusiga). The “Justice for All” should be a constant programme and community service for minor offences could be seen as a remarkable proposition. The CJ nominee says “Punishments should serve justice, not vengeance, and where rehabilitation is possible, we must pursue it”. Remarkable!

Who wouldn’t acknowledge that public confidence in the judiciary is waning as a result of delays, inefficiency and corruption? But the CJ nominee admits. “The judiciary is as honest or corrupt as the society it serves”. The President’s constitutional duty is to appoint judges on the advice of the Judicial Council and in consultation with the Council of State, and this should not be disturbed: no “court packing” by Presidents when Judicial appointments are based on merit and subject to multi –institutional checks.

The e- justice system could be expanded to embrace places outside Accra; there was a vital need to improve conditions of service for lower bench staff and magistrates who constitute the bulk of the judiciary who remained poorly paid – a vital requirement for service delivery.

Was there any injunction on the vetting of the CJ nominee? Nothing, so Parliament was right in proceeding to do its constitutional task.

The question to ask is; Is this all that the NPP Minority can do in Parliament? Earlier, it was about the arrest of Bernard Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi) the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP. The Minority staged a walkout of Parliament on 29th May, 2025 when there was serious business to do. The MPs dishonourably went and massed up at EOCO… and sat on the road like paupers. Meanwhile, with a comfortable majority of the NDC in Parliament, business could be carried on there without the input of the minority.

The Executive Director of the African Center for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA) Dr. Rasheed Draman asked “What’s the value of the walkout and the threat not to participate in government business at a time when the NDC has a comfortable majority and can form a quorum to do parliamentary work and to carry out government business? … we are not in the eighth parliament, where a few members could delay or block proceedings. In this ninth parliament, the number no longer favour such tactics”.

In the vetting case, Afenyo Markin quotes a passage in Macbeth which was “our” choicest passage at the 1971 O Level Literature in English: Act 1 Sc 7 (If it were done when ‘tis done, then ‘twere well it were done quickly …. Bloody instructions, which, being taught, return to plaque the inventor…)

First, as I am his kinsman and subject, Strong both against the deed, then as his host, who should against his murderer shut the door, Not bear the knife myself, Besides this, Duncan Hath borne his faculties so meek … I have no spur To prick the slides of my intent, but only vaulting ambition which o’erleaps itself And falls on the other…” Hon. Mahama Ayariga (Majority Leader’s) challenge, referring to Order 122 and 123 of the Parliament Standing Orders (Rules of debate and content of speeches-requiring a motion) could not be countenanced by Hon. Afenyo Markin.

Logo –Ligi Logarithm, our lecturer in Russian Language Atukwei Okai would show the parallel in traditional and modern consciousness. We would be urged to follow the rules, Was it “a travesty of justice” at the Parliament’s Appointments Committee? Was Afenyo Markin and the Minority pandering to the whims of ex Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo or playing the political card? Or were they playing to the gallery? What was “special” about beautiful Gertrude Torkonoo?

How does this attitude measure to Speaker Bagbin’s prayer for Parliamentarians to display the “highest standard of civility”? In Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, Marcus Antonius would say: “Oh judgement thou art fled to brutish beasts And men have lost their reason…” (Human beings have lost their capacity for reason and behave like other creatures – not human beings not Members of Parliament) despite their work being highlighted by Articles 93 to 124 of the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, 1992.

Why would ordinary Ghanaians queue to vote for Members of Parliament, with abundant privileges and luscious perks…. Are we seeing the best of the NPP representatives in Parliament?  Or does any NPP MP think we are all Zombies (who can follow them sheepishly)?

 

Africanus Owusu-Ansah

africanusoa@gmail.com

Feature: Black Wednesday Indeed!!!

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Kwabena Osei Esq - The writer

“Shame on those hearts of stone, that cannot melt in soft adoption of another’s sorrow” – A. Hill.

Yah, GHONE reported it like this:

“28 casualties, 12 critical cases, 5 in ICU and 6 dead” – Wao!!!

Class FM at 5pm on Wednesday, 12th November, placed the total number of affected would-be recruits at 51.

l am short and lost for words. 21st century ‘paa’ and potential recruits are dying in their bid to go through a recruitment processes.

Hmmm, in our first year at the University, at Management lecture, we were hinted of queuing theory – that was its theory. Fast forward in the second year, queuing theory again reared its ugly head in quantitative methods.

Some potential recruits along the road

Oh yes, there are mathematical models to solve such problems. It is a matter of keying in the variables – expectant figures, how long you want each through the process, the number of processes etc. into a formula and you are there with the number of attendants, exits, entrances, days etc. to contain a situation such as the above.

This has even been enhanced lately with the emergence of AI, but no, because of greed, ‘noko fio’, and what l term ‘Ghanafo’, oh yes, we lose all senses when we see a crowd we are to serve. In the transport industry, drivers will be clamouring for passengers, but the day they see passengers lined up awaiting their services, they adopt a show off attitude via varied and various excuses leaving the passengers stranded. That exactly fits the actions and inaction of the Military High Command, oh yes, they take ultimate and absolute responsibility.

All the above aside, COMMON SENSE, should have pricked the conscience of whoever was charged with this exercise, that the numbers was huge and they ought to change their regimental strategy, but that was not to be, accounting for attributing this failure and tragedy to lack of COMMON SENSE. The sheer numbers at the precinct as at 5am was enough trigger knowingly knowing all cannot be attended to on the Wednesday.

Kindly permit me to pose this question  – what is the likely effect of congregating such a huge number of teens at a designated place – stampede, abi.

 

EL -WAK STADIUM

Not quite long, there was news all over of how that facility had deteriorated and the reluctance of the Army to open up when contacted by the media for their version of the story.

l was thus pleasantly surprised that this deteriorated facility was the host of such an important national exercise. No further comments, least, l touch town.

 

NO POLITICS

I have listened to social commentators including the take of the Youth Organizer of the opposition NPP playing the blame game. l need hardly state here that, l am constrained and restrained from going “apolitical”, more so when human lives is the nerve of the equation.

Notwithstanding, l wish to state here that with the churning out of thousands of SHS graduates without any form of employable skills, such numbers were expected and to twist it that NPP did or could have done better is not only below the belt but plain disingenuous.

We were in this country when MPs in the then ruling government went berserk on radio stations, openly touting and boosting of the number of recruits they have “twisted” to have same recruited into the security services as if non NPP members were not Ghanaians and, again, deserved not to be in the security apparatuses – one wonders if the MPs were recruitment officers.

Perhaps, the sin(s) of NDC was making the exercise very transparent this time but, and l repeat, but, it does not take the shine off of they ensuring that the potential recruits safety was guaranteed and must take the blame.

 

COMMITTEE

As posited by C. F. Kettering, “If you want to kill any idea in the world, get a committee working on it”. Yah, heard that the exercise has been suspended indefinitely whilst a Board of Inquiry or whatever, is put up to DO WHAT?

The answers thereto are clearly written on the four walls of El -Wak Stadium – failure and lack of common sense of the part of the Human Resources Unit of the Ghana Army headed by the Chief of Staff (CDS) to think through and outside the box, leading to this catastrophe, PERIOD.

Their reactionary, rather than proactive traits were at its best on this occasion.

Bet me, it will be the usual findings will be the absorption by the State of the burial/funeral expenses and a token and the matter ends.

We all are privy to the outcome of the May 9, 2001 Ohene Djan stadium disaster where some of the best brains in the legal fraternity were employed to play with words and technicalities, which virtually ensured that no soul was found culpable.

Bet me, no one will be held to account or culpable. “Ehuru a, ɛbɛ dwo” and “Fama Nyame” dichotomies will come to play and take over after a few weeks and life continues.

My heart goes to the families of the deceased persons, learnt they are all females – sad. Pray the Almighty God comforts, guide and guard them in this very trying times – l just cannot imagine wearing their shoes.

 

TESTING THE LAW

l urge the affected and infested families to throw the “Fama Nyame” and “It’s God Who Gives And Takes” dichotomies to the bin and test the law. Yah, institute legal action against the Military High Command and the Attorney General for their loss. l believe it will send the right signal to institutions to ‘behave themselves’ in future. Even if they don’t succeed, which l am very doubtful judging from the circumstances, such action will send the right signals to institutions to sit up in the immediate and remote future.

In this vein, l will make a passionate appeal to Ghana Bar Association Women’s Forum, International Federation of Women Lawyers and Africa Women Lawyers Association, Ghana, among others, to spearhead this noble cause.

Instances abound, Awuni v WAEC being a typical example where the law was put to test.

In fact and indeed, this tragedy defies the Akan adage that reads, “Adeɛkye na sɛ y’annte asɛm foforɔ a, y’ɛkyi” but this One de3, in my candid opinion, “Aboro So” – too much to bear.

What an UNEVEN WORLD !!!

l rest my Fractured Peace.

Written by Osei Kwabena Esq., Etia Street, Asante Effiduase

 

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