Nigeria players celebrating their victory with the trophy
Nigeria produced a sensational second-half comeback to beat hosts Morocco 3-2 and seal a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.
The Atlas Lionesses led 2-0 at the break in Rabat through GhizlaneChebbak’s fine curling effort and a scuffed shot from Sanaa Mssoudy.
But Esther Okoronkwo inspired the West Africans after the break, pulling a goal back from the penalty spot in the 64th minute after Nouhaila Benzina handled FolamideIjamilusi’s cross.
Okoronko burst into the Morocco box and squared for Ijamilusi to equalise in the 71st minute, then teed up substitute Jennifer Echegini to score the winner with two minutes of the game remaining.
The 21,000-capacity Olympic Stadium was stunned into silence as the Super Falcons players collapsed to the turf in celebrations at the final whistle after producing a seemingly unlikely revival that will live long in the memory.
Nigeria billed their campaign as Mission X and have achieved their target, reclaiming the title they last won in 2018 and preserving their 100% record in Wafcon finals.
The Super Falcons pick up $1m in prize money – which has been doubled since the last edition – and become the first side to lift the new-look Wafcon trophy.
Asante Kotoko claimed the 2025 Toyota Cup after defeating South African giants Kaizer Chiefs 3-2 on penalties at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday.
The Ghanaian side held their nerve in a tense shootout, with goalkeeper Mohammed Camara emerging as the hero after saving three penalties to seal victory for the Porcupine Warriors following a goalless draw in regulation time.
Kaizer Chiefs, fresh from their pre-season tour of the Netherlands, handed starts to new recruits Thabiso Monyane, Nkanyiso Shinga, and Flavio Da Silva.
The South African club made a bright start, testing Camara with a powerful strike from Glodly Lilepo, which the Guinean shot-stopper did well to parry away.
Kotoko responded with a threat of their own as Henry Ansu’s looping header forced a fingertip save from Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen. Chiefs continued to press, with Da Silva’s header narrowly missing the target after a well-taken corner.
Lilepo remained lively for Chiefs, linking up smartly before firing over from close range. Both sides had opportunities after the break but failed to convert.
Chiefs had a chance to steal it late when they earned an 83rd-minute penalty, but the effort from Miguel was squandered, ensuring the game went to penalties.
In the shootout, Camara’s brilliance between the posts made the difference as he saved three spot kicks. Asante Kotoko converted three of their attempts to emerge 3-2 winners and lift the Toyota Cup.
The win serves as a major confidence boost for Kotoko ahead of the new Ghana Premier League season and highlights their growing strength ahead of their CAF Confederations Cup campaign.
In the heart of Accra, on the historic Ring Road, where a great deal of Ghana’s political story was written, Ing. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong (KAA) is set to unveil his national campaign office, a magnificent edifice symbolising not just a political ambition, but the return of a man whose life epitomises Service, Sacrifice and Selflessness.
These are not mere words on a campaign poster; they are the lived reality of a man who has carried the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on his back through some of its toughest battles.
Today, as the NPP faces its most daunting test in decades; internal cracks, growing public disaffection and the need for a unifier to rally the base, KAA stands as the most charismatic, visionary and selfless candidate ready to rebuild the Party and reconnect it with its soul.
KAA’s life story is not the tale of a pampered political aristocrat. The story of his childhood was marked by tragedy, yet shaped by Resilience.
It is the story of resilience carved through pain. One of his favourite scriptures is Job 23:10 which says; “But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.”
Here is KAA, standing strong with deep insight and wisdom, willingly yielding to the call to fix a broken party just to deliver prosperity for all Ghanaians through a leadership that so empathises with every heartbeat of the Ghanaian.
In 1982, tragedy struck when his father, the distinguished High Court Judge, Justice Kwadwo Agyei Agyepong, was abducted and brutally murdered along with three others, in the infamous June 30 killings.
For a young man still in university, that was enough to break the spirit of anyone. But not KAA. He mourned, indeed, but was never left broken in perpetuity. He went back to his Civil Engineering studies at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) with renewed grit, determined to live up to his father’s legacy of service to Ghana.
It is interesting to note that he took consolation as a Sports broadcaster, who learned Leadership in the trenches. All who know and have followed KAA well, understand that aside his journeying in diplomatic circles, his love for sports, particularly Asante Kotoko, Liverpool and Boxing, is not some mere entertainment; it has been his training ground for leadership.
As Chairman of Kotoko Supporters Union (Circle 48, KNUST), KAA learned how to mobilise people, raise funds and unite factions under one goal: victory for Kotoko by all means!
He fondly recalls mobilising supporters to man the gates during African Cup matches in 1982, where he mobilised his colleague students to man the gates at the Kumasi Sports Stadium, thereby increasing match revenue for his beloved Asante Kotoko.
That experience shaped his appreciation for grassroots work; you cannot lead people if you have not stood with them under the scorching sun, fighting for something bigger than yourself.
And who can forget the humour in his Liverpool obsession? Even during his Contract Management courses in school, he scribbled Liverpool’s legendary 1986 Double-Winning Team in his notebook, a gesture that served proof that passion and duty can co-exist.
A very down to earth lover of the partying night life at KNUST, he also organised boxing nights to revive an old Mfantsipim tradition.
These anecdotes may sound light-hearted, but they reveal a man who knows how to bring people together through shared love and excitement; a unifying trait the NPP desperately needs.
In the Trenches and in the Strongroom – The Living Pillar of the NPP’s Legacy
KAA’s political baptism of fire came early. He positioned himself as a courageous voice under JJ Rawlings! As a young sports journalist and pundit at Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), he took a bold stand against the Rawlings regime, subtly but firmly campaigning for democratic change at a time when many feared even whispering NPP slogans.
Imagine a young man still grieving his father, a victim of political brutality, yet refusing to be silenced! That courage did not just make him a respected broadcaster; it cemented his reputation as a man who values truth over convenience.
Yet another remarkable addition to his rich experience is the fact that KAA devoted himself as a young Party activist who helped to build the NPP from the scratch. When the NPP was formed in 1992, he was not a distant supporter; he was in the trenches.
He joined the Young Executives Forum (YEF), contributing cash, strategy and mobilisation of various resources. He was part of the group that helped finance the first NPP party office in Kokomlemle, Accra.
In 1994 he was among the first to represent the NPP on the newly created Inter Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) of the EC.
In 1996 KAA served as a member of the National Campaign Committee under the Chairmanship of Alhaji Issaka Inusah. In 1998, he played a leading role in Akufo-Addo’s presidential primaries campaign and by 2000, he was in the ‘Strongroom’ of the EC, safeguarding J.A. Kufuor’s votes. He had the singular honour of putting in the phone call from the EC ‘Strongroom’ to Candidate J.A. Kufuor’s West Airport residence, to break the news of his victory.
His commitment was honoured when President Kufuor appointed him Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesman in 2001, a role he executed with tact and excellence, earning Ghana so much respect on the international stage.
From the White House to the African Union, from the G8 Summits in Savannah, Georgia USA and Gleneagles, Scotland, to key diplomatic missions, KAA was the young disciplined, articulate face of Ghana to the world. His calm yet firm demeanour made him stand out as a professional among political communicators.
The General Secretary Who Paid the Price for Principle
In 2014, NPP delegates massively elected KAA as General Secretary. His election was seen as a return of principled, organisational leadership to the Party. But internal shenanigans cut short his tenure; in December 2015, he was suspended indefinitely.
Yet, here is where KAA’s character shines brightest; he did not abandon the NPP. Despite this setback, KAA organised financial resources to support over 100 distressed constituencies.
When the party needed him most to win back disaffected party faithful, KAA returned in 2020, taking a leave from his role as Executive Director of the Ghana Institution of Engineering, at the request of President Akufo-Addo to help win re-election.
How many politicians would set aside personal grievances for the greater good of their party? That is KAA, Service before Self.
The Minority Caucus in Parliament has petitioned President John Dramani Mahama, demanding swift action on what it describes as a dangerous escalation of electoral violence and illegal mining under his administration.
Frank Annoh-Bompreh, Minority Chief Whip speaking
The six-page petition, dated July 24 and signed by Deputy Minority Leader Hon. Patricia Appiagyei, warns that recent developments in Ghana’s electoral and environmental landscape risk derailing the country’s democratic progress and endangering future generations.
“Ghana’s democratic progress painfully built over decades through the sacrifices of citizens and leaders alike cannot be undermined by a culture of impunity and orchestrated violence,” the Minority stated.
Among other demands, the group urged the declaration of a State of Emergency in mining zones and prosecution of all officials found complicit.
Find the full statement below:
On behalf of the Minority Caucus in Parliament and in solemn fidelity to our constitution and in pursuit of Chapter 6 of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, I write to submit this petition regarding two pertinent issues being the violence that marred the parliamentary rerun election held on Friday, 11th July, 2025, in the Ablekuma North Constituency and the state of the galamsey menace in Ghana.
We the Minority Caucus are compelled to formally bring these disturbing developments to your attention with a view to enlisting your engagement and moral leadership in protecting the democratic space and adhering to the Presidential Oath as captured in the 2nd Schedule of the 1992 Constitution.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The petition details two (2) key issues of urgent nature and great public concern.
The Escalation of Electoral Violence and The Erosion of Democratic Norms in Ablekuma North Constituency.
The State of the Galamsey menace in Ghana and the existential threats to our Environment.
The first issue raises the grave incidents of electoral violence which have regrettably become trend, as seen at the parliamentary rerun election held on Friday, 11th July 2025, in the Ablekuma North Constituency, institutional complicity particularly from our state security agencies, and the overall adverse effect on the growth of our democracy.
What was meant to be a peaceful electoral exercise intended to restore representation for the constituents of Ablekuma North was instead characterized by widespread violence, intimidation, impersonation of security forces, and brutal assaults on journalists, electoral officials, and opposition party members. These coordinated attacks, occurring across multiple polling stations—including St. Peter’s Society Methodist Church, Awoshie DVLA, and Asiedu Gyedu Memorial School—point to a premeditated and organized campaign to subvert the democratic process. The petition highlights key acts of illegality and constitutional breaches, including:
. Assault on key personalities such as Hon. Mavis Hawa Koomson, Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie, and Hon. Dakoa Newman;
. The impersonation of security officers by armed thugs in security-like uniforms;
. Violent confrontations involving the Ghana Police Service;
. Assault on journalists from JoyNews and GHOne TV;
. Public glorification of violence by two senior public officials—Dr. Hanna Bissiw (CEO of the Minerals Development Fund) and Mr. Malik Basintale (Acting CEO of the Youth Employment Agency).
The silence or implicit endorsement of such violence by government-aligned officials and institutions represents a disturbing departure from Ghana’s longstanding democratic norms and violates key provisions of the 1992 Constitution, including Articles 12, 15, 17, 41, 284, and 296. If left unaddressed, these developments threaten to normalize electoral violence, foster a culture of impunity, and erode public trust in democratic governance.
Accordingly, the Minority Caucus makes the following urgent demands:
The immediate dismissal of Dr. Hanna Bissiw and Mr. Malik Basintale for misconduct, the swift arrest and prosecution of all involved in the electoral violence, an independent investigation into the Ghana Police Service with focus on Chief Superintendent Fredrick Lumor Senanu, a public condemnation and apology from the President reaffirming commitment to peace and rule of law, and the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry under Article 278 to uncover causes, actors, and institutional lapses, and to recommend necessary reforms.
The State of the Galamsey menace in Ghana and the existential threats to our Environment.
The second issue is raised to draw urgent national attention to the uncontrolled and devastating surge in illegal mining (galamsey) activities in Ghana, particularly under the watch of your new government. It questions widely proclaimed resolve earlier expressed by your administration to definitively address galamsey, noting the alarming deterioration of our environment.
The Minority Caucus demands:
. A constitutionally mandated declaration of a national emergency on the matter given the facts presented, as have transpired over the last 6 months.
. A condemnation of all forms of illegal mining irrespective of political ties, repeal LI 2462, and ensure swift, impartial prosecution of all complicit officials.
. The Launching of a comprehensive National Environmental Recovery Programme focused on afforestation, river restoration, and civic environmental education.
THE PETITION
PART 1
Electoral violence at Ablekuma North rerun elections: Events that transpired
The rerun election, which was meant to affirm the will of the people and restore parliamentary representation to the good people of Ablekuma North, was gravely undermined by acts of violence, intimidation, impersonation of security forces, and assault on journalists and electoral officials. The coordinated nature and execution of these acts point to a deliberate, premeditated campaign aimed at subverting the electoral process.
Some of the incidents that took place at the polling station were captured and documented in the media and are listed below:
. At St. Peter’s Society Methodist Church Polling Station, NDC thugs attacked participants, injuring several opposition figures. Hon Mavis Hawa Koomson, a former Minister and Member of Parliament, was physically assaulted and demeaned publicly. Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie, the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary candidate, suffered facial injuries that required medical attention as well as Hon Dakoa Newman former for MP for Okaikwei South.
. Thugs dressed in brown security-like uniforms were found impersonating law enforcement at Awoshie DVLA Polling Station. Their inability to produce ID upon police questioning exposed a dangerous and fraudulent tactic aimed at confusing voters.
. At Asiedu Gyedu Memorial School Polling Station, a violent confrontation erupted between the thugs and police officers.
. Chris Lloyd Nii Kwei Asamoah, Deputy National Organiser of the NPP, was also brutally attacked in what appears to be a systematic effort to target opposition leadership and destabilize the electoral environment.
. Furthermore, journalists were not spared. A reporter from JoyNews and another from GHOne TV were assaulted, with one attacked by a uniformed police officer.
Encouragement Of Violence By State Officials
Equally troubling is the response or calculated silence from top government officials. Two senior members of the current administration, namely; Dr. Hanna Louisa Bissiw, National Women’s Organiser of the NDC and CEO of the Minerals Development Fund, and Mr. Malik Basintale, Deputy National Communications Officer of the NDC and Acting CEO of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), made public statements and social media posts that justify, glorify, and even celebrate the perpetrators of violence. These public endorsements of brutality against political opponents and journalists, fundamentally contradict the values of rule of law and peace that underpin democratic governance.
A Growing Pattern of
Electoral Violence
What occurred in Ablekuma North is not an isolated incident. It follows similar violent episodes that accompanied the 2024 general elections and reflects a disturbing trend of political violence and impunity. The International Community has often praised Ghana for its peaceful transitions and stable democratic record. However, the situation is deteriorating. If not checked now, these acts threaten to normalize political violence, compromise the electoral space, and reverse the democratic gains made since 1992.
This petition draws your attention of your high office to the probable political posture and concerns that may be emerging within the Diplomatic Corps accredited to Ghana, following the recent spate of electoral violence recorded during the 11th July 2025 Parliamentary Rerun Election in Ablekuma North.
International and Diplomatic Repercussions of Recent Electoral
Violence
The acts of violence, impersonation of security forces, physical assaults on opposition leaders and journalists, and the public endorsement of such acts by state-affiliated officials, constitutes a serious deviation from Ghana’s longstanding commitment to democratic governance, civil liberties, and the rule of law.
These developments are likely to raise alarm among members of the international community, who may interpret the situation as a breach of Ghana’s obligations under international law, including: Article 25 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), to which Ghana is a State Party, guaranteeing every citizen the right to participate in public affairs, to vote, and be elected in genuine periodic elections conducted fairly.
The African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG), which Ghana ratified in 2010, obliging member states to ensure free and fair elections and to condemn and reject acts of violence and intimidation during electoral processes.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 21), affirming the right to take part in government through free and fair elections.
It is imperative to note that this electoral violence is a setback to Ghana’s democratic credentials, potentially straining relations with key partners such as the European Union, the United States, the United Nations, ECOWAS, and the African Union, all of whom have consistently supported electoral reforms, institutional stability, and peacebuilding in Ghana.
Secondly, this electoral violence triggers for the invocation of diplomatic mechanisms, including quiet diplomacy, statements of concern, and potential travel advisories, which may impact investor confidence and Ghana’s international image as a bastion of democratic governance in West Africa.
Again, electoral violence has legal and humanitarian concern, particularly regarding the reported assault on journalists, which contravenes Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and may prompt interventions from global press freedom watchdogs such as the Committee to Protect Journalists and Reporters Without Borders.
Considering the above, and consistent with your constitutional obligation under Article 58 and the Presidential Oath in the 2nd Schedule of the 1992 Constitution, it is imperative to publicly reassure both Ghanaians and the international community of the government’s unwavering commitment to peaceful democratic practice, accountability, and nonviolence.
Swift and transparent action, especially against public officials who glorify electoral violence and those impersonating state security agencies will be critical in preserving diplomatic trust and Ghana’s international standing.
Our Demands to the Executive
In light of the gravity of these developments, the Minority Caucus respectfully makes the following demands:
In the spirit of constitutional fidelity and national accountability, we respectfully urge Your Excellency to establish a Commission of Inquiry, empowered under Article 278 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, to investigate the coordinated violence, abuse of incumbency, and democratic infractions witnessed during the Ablekuma North rerun election. Such a commission must be independent, impartial, and adequately resourced to unearth the root causes, identify perpetrators, and recommend systemic reforms. Ghana’s democratic progress painfully built over decades through the sacrifices of citizens and leaders alike cannot be undermined by a culture of impunity and orchestrated violence. The conscience of the nation is stirred when state institutions appear complicit or silent in the face of such affronts to justice. By an extension of this an independent body must investigate the Ghana Police Service’s performance, particularly the role of Chief Superintendent Lumor Fredrick Senanu. Officers found complicit should face disciplinary and legal consequences. An inquiry backed by law and led by conscience will not only safeguard the sanctity of future elections but will serve as a moral and institutional reckoning that reaffirms Ghana’s standing as a beacon of democracy in Africa.
The public utterances and conduct of Dr. Hanna Bissiw and Mr. Malik Basintale—both serving in official capacities—constitute a serious breach of constitutional duty and violate core principles underpinning public service in Ghana. Their open endorsement and glorification of political violence during a constitutionally sanctioned electoral process directly contravene Article 41(a) and (b) of the 1992 Constitution, which obligate every citizen, especially public officials, to uphold and defend the Constitution and promote the rule of law. More gravely, their behaviour undermines Article 284, which prohibits public officers from placing themselves in situations where personal or partisan interests conflict with public duty. As public servants, their comments and actions have endangered public order and eroded trust in democratic governance, thereby violating Article 296, which requires the fair, candid, and impartial exercise of discretionary powers. Furthermore, their conduct offends the Code of Conduct for Public Officers of Ghana, which demands that office holders act with integrity, impartiality, and accountability. It is also contrary to the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29)—specifically, provisions on incitement to violence and conduct conducive to the breach of the peace. In view of these egregious constitutional and statutory violations, their continued stay in public office poses a threat to public safety, state legitimacy, and the moral foundation of public service. We therefore urge Your Excellency to exercise the executive authority vested in you under Article 58(2) to relieve them of their appointments with immediate effect in defence of constitutional order, public trust, and national cohesion.
Furthermore, Articles 15(1) and 15(2) guarantee the dignity of all persons and prohibit cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, while Article 296 enjoins all holders of discretionary power to exercise it fairly and reasonably. Therefore, we demand that all individuals involved in the acts of brutality and electoral violence be identified, arrested, and prosecuted without fear or favour, as mandated under Articles 17(1) and 17(2) on equality before the law, to avoid reinforcing a culture of impunity.
Lastly, as Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, your silence or inaction risks being interpreted as tacit endorsement. Under Article 58(2), the executive authority of Ghana is vested in you not only to govern, but to preserve national peace, protect the Constitution, and uphold the rule of law. We therefore respectfully call on you to publicly denounce these acts, issue an unambiguous apology to the victims, and restore national confidence in our democratic institutions and electoral processes.
PART 2
In the same vein, we also petition your high office on the menace of galamsey with a profound sense of duty, sorrow, and urgency. The call is not just for executive action but for national introspection. Galamsey is no longer a socio-economic challenge. It is now a full-blown ecological emergency, a moral crisis, and an indictment on our collective conscience.
Facts of the case
Since January 2025, the destruction wrought by illegal mining has intensified at an alarming rate, including in your own hometown of Bole Bamboi. The Yonkamba stream—a lifeline for your people—now flows with poison rather than promise. Verified environmental data from A Rocha Ghana and Global Forest Watch, point to a 17% increase in river turbidity and a 9% forest cover loss in just six months. This is not a political statistic; it is a national tragedy.
The reality before us is that those entrusted with power have either remained passive or, worse, become complicit. Campaign promises to end galamsey have been betrayed, and the hopes of millions have been crushed under the weight of polluted rivers and dying forests.
The Role of State and Party Actors Hampering the fight against Galamsey
Disturbing reports and credible investigations—including from The Fourth Estate and IMANI Ghana—have exposed a network of collusion involving District Chief Executives, political operatives, and elements of our security forces. Rather than dismantling illegal mining operations, some of these actors have become their shield and enablers.
On May 1, 2025, the Secretary-General of the TUC gave voice to the pain of the Ghanaian worker, condemning government complicity. University lecturers, civil society, and traditional leaders are rising in protest, not for political gain but to protect what remains of our heritage.
The Collapsing Ecosystem: Our Rivers and Forests Under Siege
The Pra, Offin, Ankobra, and Birim rivers which were once sources of life are now dead zones. The Ghana Water Company now spends 27% more per cubic meter in chemical treatment due to contamination. Forest reserves in Wassa Amenfi, Atiwa, and Upper Denkyira are vanishing before our eyes. These are not abstract environmental statistics. We are endangering food security, destroying community livelihoods, and undermining our climate resilience.
A Violation of our International Commitments
Ghana is party to the Paris Agreement, the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, the Convention on Biological Diversity, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. Our Constitution, under Article 41(k), demands that every citizen protect and safeguard the environment. Yet today, our silence and state inaction constitute a betrayal of those commitments. We are not only violating international treaties—we are undermining our global reputation.
In light of the constitutional, moral, and environmental catastrophe before us, we respectfully urge Your Excellency to:
Declare a National State of Emergency in all illegal mining zones as per Article 31 of the Constitution.
Publicly and unequivocally condemn all forms of illegal mining, regardless of the political affiliations of perpetrators.
Repeal Legislative Instrument 2462, which has inadvertently enabled illegal operations.
Initiate swift and impartial prosecution of all government and party officials found complicit.
Establish an Independent Multi-Stakeholder Commission made up of civil society, traditional leaders, academia, and religious institutions to oversee the anti-galamsey efforts.
Strengthen and empower the Forestry Commission and Water Resources Commission with legal autonomy and operational resources.
Launch a bold National Environmental Recovery Programme, with special focus on afforestation, river restoration, and civic education on environmental stewardship.
CONCLUSION
We believe that as President of the Republic of Ghana, your swift action to address these major issues which undermine the security of the State, as well as its institutions which support our democracy and the rule of law, is critical in salvaging the situation which has become a trend of electoral violence. With an impending by-election on the horizon, the Minority Caucus urges Your Excellency to act swiftly and decisively to give justice to victims of violence, save Ghana’s democratic reputation, protect the constitutional order, and reassure the citizenry of the state’s commitment to peace and accountability.
Similarly, the issue of the galamsey menace is not just another policy failure but appears to be a national betrayal. The blood of our rivers is the blood of our people. Our forests are falling, our water is poisoned, and our integrity as a nation is on trial. We demand truth, justice, and action. May history remember this moment, not for your silence, but for your courage to act.
We take this opportunity to extend to Your Excellency, the assurances of our highest consideration.
Yours faithfully,
HON. PATRICIA APPIAGYEI DEPUTY MINORITY LEADER
Cc: The Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Ghana.
The Centre for Democratic Development Ghana (CDD).
Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO).
The Country Director, World Bank Ghana
The Head of EU Delegation
The High Commissioner, United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human
Rights (OHCHR).
The Resident Representative, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The Chairman, Christian Council of Ghana.
The Chief Imam.
The President, Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference.
The body of the suspected armed robber who was killed during a gun battle at Obuasi-Abedwum
The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has intensified its crackdown on violent crime, resulting in the fatal shooting of a suspected armed robber during a gun battle at Abedwum, near Akrokerri, in the Adansi North District of the Ashanti Region.
Addressing the media on the progress of ongoing crime-fighting efforts, the Ashanti South Regional Police Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Joseph Hammond Nyaaba, revealed that on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 the police received intelligence about a robbery incident unfolding at Abedwum.
The four suspected armed robbers with weapons, ammunition, mobile phones and motorbikes retrieved upon their arrest at Fenaso
“Immediately upon receiving the information, the Obuasi Divisional Operations team moved to the scene. On arrival, the suspects fled into a nearby forest while firing gunshots,” ACP Nyaaba narrated.
He added that the police team pursued the suspects into the forest and engaged them in a fierce exchange of gunfire, which resulted in the death of one of the armed men.
A search of the deceased suspect’s backpack revealed 14 rounds of live ammunition and other incriminating items.
According to ACP Nyaaba, the remaining suspects, believed to have sustained gunshot wounds, managed to escape. He called on the public to assist in locating the injured suspects.
“We are urging the public to report any individuals with suspicious wounds or injuries, especially those suspected to be from gunshots, to the nearest police station.
“We also encourage citizens to support the police by volunteering information on criminal activities,” he appealed.
Four Suspected Armed Robbers Arrested
In a related development, the Ashanti South Police Command has apprehended four suspected armed robbers in the Amansie Central District. The suspects were identified as Rahman Alhassan, 27; Nurudeen Fatawu, 25; Naafewu Masahud, 22 and Yaw Saake, 42.
ACP Joseph Hammond Nyaaba stated that on July 9, 2025 the regional operations team on patrol responded to a distress call indicating that four men had blocked the Ankanko-Asuoso-Fenaso road and were robbing commuters.
Upon reaching the scene, the police encountered the suspects in the act. The suspects, upon noticing the police presence, attempted to flee on motorbikes but the police gave a hot chase, disabled the motorbikes and arrested all four.
A search conducted on the suspects revealed one pump-action gun, 20 rounds of AAA ammunition, a sword, and a string of talismans.
ACP Nyaaba reiterated the police’s commitment to fighting violent crime and maintaining public safety across the region.
Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has declared that the current administration did not assume office to “manage decline” but to “reverse it and reset the nation.”
Presenting the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review in Parliament on Thursday, the Minister pointed to key macro-economic gains achieved in the first half of the year, as evidence of the country’s gradual, but determined economic recovery.
With visible confidence, Dr. Ato Forson anchored his presentation on four pillars: macroeconomic performance, fiscal discipline, debt restructuring and the rehabilitation of key government programmes.
The data, he noted, reflect a government focused on stability, sustainability and structural reform, rather than short-term populism.
Growth Beyond Expectations
According to the Minister, Ghana’s economy expanded by 5.3% in the first half of 2025, surpassing the year’s target of 4%.
This growth marks the highest first-quarter performance since 2020, buoyed by agriculture (6.6%), services (5.9%) and industry (3.4%).
Notably, the fishing sub-sector surged by 16.4% and ICT-led growth in the services sector reached 13.1%.
“From promises to purpose, from ineptitude to action, and from distress to relief we are building a resilient economy,” Dr. Ato Forson said.
He credited the government’s flagship 24-hour economy initiative, the Big Push Programme, and the Agriculture for Economic Transformation (AfET) agenda as strategic levers driving the rebound.
Inflation Falls Sharply, Cedi Appreciates
Inflation, a major source of public concern in 2024, has dropped significantly. Consumer inflation declined from 23.8% in December 2024 to 13.7% in June 2025. Producer price inflation tumbled from 26.1% to 5.9%, and food inflation dropped by over 11 percentage points within the same period.
“This is not luck; it is the result of deliberate fiscal consolidation, tight monetary policy, and currency stability,” the Finance Minister emphasised.
The Ghana cedi has seen a historic rebound appreciating by 42.6% against the US dollar, from GH¢17 to GH¢10.4. It also appreciated by 30.3% against the British pound and 25.6% against the euro.
The Minister of Finance said the reversal of multi-year depreciation is “unprecedented in Ghana’s history.”
Interest Rates, Borrowi and Debt Payments Down
He explained that interest rates on treasury bills fell sharply, with the 91-day bill dropping from 27.7% to 14.7%. Lending rates eased slightly, and domestic borrowing declined significantly saving the country GHS 4.9 billion in interest payments.
According to the ministry, the government recorded a primary surplus of 1.1% of GDP (on commitment basis) as of June 2025, outperforming the 0.4% target. The fiscal deficit also improved, coming in at 0.7% compared to a target of 1.8%.
On cash basis, the deficit stood at 1.1%, again better than the expected 2.4%.
“These numbers tell a story of discipline. We are not overspending, we are delivering within our means,” the Minister said.
Reserves, External Sector
The Minister revealed that Ghana’s international reserves rose to $11.12 billion, equivalent to 4.8 months of import cover up from $8.98 billion in December 2024. The trade surplus increased to $5.57 billion, a more than 300% rise from the previous year.
Meanwhile, capital and financial inflows reached $937 million by June 2025, reflecting investor confidence.
He also highlighted the government’s commitment to further stabilizing the cedi through measures such as the establishment of the Ghana Gold Board and sustained export development, alongside reforms at the Bank of Ghana. While acknowledging that challenges remain, Dr. Ato Forson said the first half of 2025 marks a turning point.
“Our steps are now steadier. The direction is clearer. Ghana is back. We inherited uncontrolled spending, but today, we are delivering measured discipline and real results,” he said.
AC4NCA delegation in a group photograph with officials at Dutch Embassy
The Africa Centre for Nature-Based Climate Action (AC4NCA) has initiated discussions with the Royal Netherlands Embassy in Accra to strengthen collaboration on climate resilience, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable development efforts across Africa.
The high-level meeting, held on Wednesday, June 23, brought together officials from AC4NCA and the Dutch Embassy to explore synergies in advancing climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and nature-based solutions (NbS).
AC4NCA’s delegation was led by its Board Chair, Rev. Dr. Joyce Aryee, a renowned stateswoman and champion of environmental stewardship. She was accompanied by Acting Executive Secretary Juliet Osei-Wusu, Project Developer Emmanuel Ameyaw, and Program Officer Jonathan Kidiyar.
Rory Wood, Senior Policy Officer for Climate, Environment, and Water, received the team on behalf of the Dutch Embassy.
Rev. Dr.Aryee shared AC4NCA’s vision of promoting Africa-led, science-informed, and community-centered climate initiatives. She underscored the Centre’s mission to restore degraded ecosystems and strengthen climate-resilient livelihoods through nature-based approaches.
“Through strategic collaboration, we believe we can co-create inclusive and practical solutions that benefit both people and the planet,” she said.
She also applauded the Netherlands for its enduring contributions to Ghana, particularly in Agroecology and coastal resilience, noting that these are critical areas where the Centre’s priorities align.
Mr. Wood commended AC4NCA’s locally-driven approach and reaffirmed the Embassy’s interest in supporting initiatives that empower communities and enhance long-term environmental sustainability.
He also pledged to connect AC4NCA with Dutch institutions, international networks, and partners that could foster joint projects and innovations.
“We are committed to linking the right stakeholders to drive impactful action,” Mr. Wood stated.
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to develop a structured partnership, focusing on potential pilot initiatives and capacity-building programs in Ghana. Both parties agreed to sustain technical engagements in the months ahead.
Positioning itself as a regional hub for nature-based climate solutions, AC4NCA’s work spans ecosystem restoration, climate adaptation and policy advocacy, with a strong focus on building local capacity, particularly for women and young people.
The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, according to a citinewsroom.com report, has disclosed that a nationwide payroll audit has uncovered significant irregularities in Ghana’s public sector salary administration, including over 14,000 unverifiable workers and 53,307 separated staff still on payroll.
Presenting the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review in Parliament on Thursday, July 24, 2025 Dr Ato Forson said the Ghana Audit Service, commissioned by the Ministry of Finance, has completed 91% of a comprehensive payroll audit across all 16 regions. “So far, the Audit Service has not been able to identify or verify more than 14,000 workers,” the minister told Parliament.
The Minister of Finance further revealed that 53,307 individuals, categorised as retired, reassigned, terminated, on leave without pay or even deceased, are still receiving salaries under the government payroll.
“The Audit Service expects to recover a minimum of GHS150.4 million in unearned salaries from these separated staff over the 2023 and 2024 period alone,” he stated. Dr Ato Forson described the findings as alarming and stressed the need for strict enforcement of payroll validation protocols moving forward.
“Going forward, we will enforce the monthly payroll validation system and strictly apply sanctions to anyone who violates the process of paying salaries,” he added. It is important to stress that the issue about payroll fraud is no more news in Ghana.
Since the advent of the Fourth Republic, almost all the succeeding governments have lamented over the issue, yet none of them has been able to tackle the problem head-on. A whopping GHS150.4 million going to individuals as unearned salaries, within just a year, is a serious matter that would attract the attention of any advanced country, but not here in Ghana, a developing country.
Clearly, if proper investigations are conducted into these reoccurring issues, the culprit would have been found and punished. Unfortunately, this doesn’t happen. What we are actually interested in are lamentations and the issues are eventually pushed to the backburner. Obviously, these salaries were paid into accounts owned by human beings. The latter would then issue a cheque to withdraw the cash. If we are serious as a country, can’t we easily crack down on this people and allow the laws of the land to deal with them?
What the Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, is telling us, as we had earlier indicated, is no more news. Ghanaians expect him to brief them that Messrs A, B, C and D -have been arrested and put before court – for drawing salaries from the government of Ghana coffers, when they are, in truth, not working in any government department.
We suspect this crime is thriving because some officials at the Controller and Accountant General Department have colluded with these criminals to siphon money from state coffers. The fact that every government worker is paid after he or she has been verified through the Ghana Card and yet some of these slippages are being encountered tells a story that it is an ‘insider job’.
Our obsession to steal from the state without using the same brain to create jobs that will employ many Ghanaians is a Gordian Knot The Chronicle is finding it very difficult to untie. But we can’t blame these ‘mater brains’ because the state is not doing much to expose them, let alone being made to face the full rigours of the law.
If we, as a country, do not want to expose ourselves as jokers to the outside world, then this is the time to tackle the problem head-on and stop the lamentations.
The European Union has allocated €1.5 million to provide humanitarian assistance to internally displaced persons in Benue State, including victims of the Yelewata killings.
According to the EU, more than 1.5 million people have been displaced from their homes since 2018.
A statement by the EU also noted that between 2024 and 2025, no fewer than 6,900 lives had been lost and over 400,000 people displaced.
“This EU funding will support, for a period of six months, and in partnership with the IOM, efforts to implement activities in sectors such as protection, shelter, water, sanitation, and hygiene, as well as multi-purpose financial aid.
“Escalating armed violence in Benue State, Nigeria, has displaced thousands of people, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian crisis. In June 2025, a wave of attacks forced almost 23,000 people to flee, many of whom had already been displaced in the past, triggering a cycle of heightened vulnerability.”
The aid package will focus on protection, shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene as well as multi-purpose cash assistance for affected populations.
“Conditions inside the camps are dire. There is a severe lack of shelter for families, and inadequate access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). Access to livelihoods remains precarious, while protection risks have increased considerably, particularly for women, children, and people with disabilities, making the humanitarian response even more complex.
“This latest wave of violence is part of a protracted humanitarian crisis that has been shaking the state of Benue since 2018. More than 1.5 million people have been displaced from their homes since 2018.
“The escalation of violence in 2024 and 2025 has already claimed some 6,900 lives and displaced more than 400,000 people, stressing the urgency of the situation”, the statement concluded.
The Yelewata attack on June 13 resulted in several deaths and displacements.
A cholera outbreak in six local government areas in Niger State, has reportedly claimed 13 lives and led to the hospitalisation of over 236 other residents. The outbreak, first reported on Sunday in the Shiroro Local Government Area, has since spread to Bosso, Minna, Magama, Bida, and Munya LGAs, with health officials confirming escalating cases across the affected councils.
Sources revealed that Chanchaga (Minna), Bosso, and Shiroro were among the hardest-hit areas, prompting an emergency health response from the state government.
The Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, Dr. Ibrahim Dangana, confirmed the outbreak and said the state had adopted a multi-sectoral approach to contain the spread.
According to him, treatment and isolation centres had been established in each of the affected LGAs.
“We have set up treatment and isolation centres to mitigate the spread, and we are also embarking on aggressive sensitisation campaigns,” Dangana stated.
“The awareness drive is targeting religious bodies such as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Islamic groups, and the eight emirates in the state,” he added.
To reinforce the containment effort, the state government has opened an isolation centre at the old wing of the Late Senator Idris Ibrahim Kuta Primary Healthcare Centre along Old Airport Road in Minna.
Dangana also commended Governor Umaru Bago for his swift intervention and appreciated the support of donor agencies assisting the state.
Corroborating the commissioner’s statement, the Director of Public Health in the Ministry of Tertiary Healthcare, Dr. Ibrahim Idris, confirmed that Minna, Bosso, and Shiroro remained the epicentres of the outbreak.
It was, however, learnt that health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as efforts intensify to prevent further loss of lives.
