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BoG urges deep structural reforms for economic reset 

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Bank of Ghana

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has stated that macroeconomic stability alone cannot drive Ghana’s economic reset, calling for bold reforms to address longstanding structural transformation challenges.

The Central Bank’s call follows recent macroeconomic improvements, particularly the Cedi’s approximately 18 per cent appreciation against the US Dollar since the beginning of 2025, contributing to an overall improvement in economic indicators.

Speaking at the Daily Graphic/Ecobank Economic Forum in Accra on Wednesday, Mr Osei Gyasi, a Director at the BoG, said government must prioritise long-term reforms.

“It is important to recognise that macroeconomic stability is a necessary condition, but not sufficient to fully reset the Ghanaian economy. Stability strengthens the economic fundamentals, but structural transformation provides the direction for sustainable and inclusive growth,” he said.

The government’s economic reset agenda aims to revitalise productivity and governance to create jobs, promote accountability, and ensure prosperity for all, through fiscal stability and debt sustainability.

Mr Gyasi called for a diversified growth model, with value addition to Ghana’s competitive resources and their export, especially through enhanced intra-African trade.

“Undoubtedly, gold and cocoa are key drivers in the recovery process but are limited in scope. We need to build on the extractive sector with value addition and diversification to achieve long-term prosperity and employment generation.

“We must leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to position Ghana as a regional hub for agro-processing, light manufacturing, and logistics,” he said.

Mr. Gyasi urged the government to focus on tourism, education, and health sectors, supported by targeted policy interventions and infrastructure investments.

That, he noted, would also require addressing deep structural constraints and prioritising institutional reforms.

On revenue, Mr Gyasi called for broadening domestic mobilisation through enhanced tax compliance, efficiency, and fairness. He also recommended performance-based budgeting and stronger public financial management systems to ensure value for money.

“The economic reset agenda is not just about policy tools – it is about policy consistency and institutional reforms. If we get these fundamentals right, Ghana can move from resilience to transformation,” he said.

He reaffirmed the Central Bank’s commitment to prudent monetary policies that would stabilise and grow the economy, supporting Ghana’s goal of becoming a stable, sovereign, and globally competitive nation.

Mr Seth Terkper, Presidential Advisor on the Economy, supported the call for structural reforms, stating that the country’s policy framework was falling behind economic transformation, as the economy had become predominantly service-led.

He expressed concern over the decline of agriculture in favour of services and said the government remained committed to reversing the trend through private sector collaboration to enhance value addition and economic diversification.

Mr Terkper added that government is also focused on strengthening domestic taxation to raise the tax-to-GDP ratio to between 18 and 20 per cent.

“As the President has said, when we start borrowing, we should channel it towards projects that can pay for the loan, that’s or put some money outside, so that if it’s social infrastructure, then we can develop,” he said.

By Francis Ntow 

GNA 

Faith Impacts The World

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Dr. Joyce Rosalind Aryee, Executive Director, Salt and Light Ministries

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. – 1 Peter 2:9-10.

INTRODUCTION

Jesus not only affects our private life, but our public life as well. As Christ’s followers we can recover that dimension of the gospel today. We can discover how to live out our faith in visible, public ways, as the “people of God”, in order to powerfully impact our culture. But in doing so we need to consider: How does faith impact the world?

It helps to understand how our world operates. We can start by identifying three components of the “global village” in which we live and work.

  1. The workplace, made up businesses, governments, and services.
  2. Communities, involving groupings of people such as cities, neighborhoods, and especially families.
  3. Systems, such as laws, traditions, and values, that support work and community life.

The world of work and employment can be divided into three general sectors: business, government, and service. Each sector contains thousands of specific occupations, and there is much overlap, gatekeepers, power brokers, and other leaders exist from each sector.

The more general, and in many ways less formal, sectors of community and family are represented by the larger horizontal disc that supports the workplace.

The undergirdings of society, systems, are not as easily observed. They exist conceptually in our minds and hearts, quietly supporting and influencing the institutions, systems, and peoples of the world. Policies, traditions, values, laws, beliefs – like piling sunk deep into the ground under tall buildings – are powerful supports that provide a foundation for society. Some parts of the foundation are permanent in their value. But sometimes, as illustrated by the decaying columns, the nature of the foundation changes as unreliable supports crumble and the stronger foundations are relied upon even more and fortified if possible.

Behind it all is the sovereign God who sustains creations. Faith in Him enables truly meaningful social progress, as believers move back and forth between gathering for worship and scattering for engagement with the world.

How, Then, Does Christian Faith Impact the World?

Three ways that Christ’s message impacts our world are:

  1. Through followers of Christ. These are individuals like you and me with an active faith who live out the gospel and proclaim it to the world through:
  2. Sharing Christ by word and deed in our relationships and lifestyles;
  3. The proper handling of responsibilities and resources in our personal possession;
  • Informal networks of friendships, care groups, and guilds;
  1. Active participation in the structures of society.
  2. Recognized leaders who influence others in the society.

 

  1. Through Christian institutions and structures. In many cultures, believers have the privilege of owning or controlling organizations that present the gospel and its implications to the society. Some of these include;
  2. Local churches, whose members and attenders can influence the larger community;
  3. Service organizations that render human aid such as medical care, education, and help to the poor;
  • Media outlets such as magazines, radio and televisions stations, and publishing houses.

 

  1. Through lobbying and advocacy. Here Christians attempt to influence the values of society and the people and institutions that determine them. This can mean either affirming support for beliefs with which Christians agree or restraining and resisting influences that seem opposed to scripture. Christian advocacy might include;
  2. Voting;
  3. Running for office or supporting candidates and legislation;
  • Lobbying leaders and institutions to affect policies, procedures, and activities;
  1. Pressing for business and community development that benefits people and their surroundings;
  2. Demonstrating publicly for or against various activities;
  3. Taking legal action.

CONCLUSION

People often base their self-concept on their accomplishments. But our relationship with Christ is far more important than our jobs, successes, wealth or knowledge. We have been chosen by God as His very own, and we have been called to represent Him to others.

Let’s remember that our value comes from being children of God, not from our achievements. We have worth because of what God does, not because of what we do.

We see that faith impacts more than just individuals. Jesus used images such as salt, light, leaven and seeds to describe His kingdom’s effect on the world. His gospel not only transforms persons but also institutions and value structures that undergrid society.

Evil and sin certainly pervade the world. In response, Jesus has sent us into world to have influence for His sake. ‘He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’ – Mark 16:15.

Through our work, our families, our prayers for the world and its leaders, our activities as good citizens, and our involvement in the structures of society, we can present Christ’s message and have great impact on a world that needs Him now more than ever.

Remain Blessed!

Please note that the preaching program on Sunny 88.7 FM – Tuesdays at 5:30 am has been temporarily put on hold. However, please continue to join us on Asempa 94.7 FM – Sundays at 5:30 am and YFM 107.9 – Sundays at 6:30 am for our Radio Bible Study, as well as on Sunny 88.7 FM every Sunday at 3:30 pm for Hymns and Their Stories.

 

Feature: Wontumi Wept

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Africanus Owusu Ansah (Hot Issues)

“Sweet not always” – A novel by Karen van der Zee.

– An inscription on a tro-tro vehicle.

INCROYABLE (Unbelievable) Antwi Boasiako, a.k.a. Chairman Wontumi literally (not figuratively) crying? “Seesei dee me nye Ghana-ni bio”. A “Prime Minister”, a “Governor” crying? “Ghanafoo, monsore (2x), NPP foo monsore (2x)…” Arise, Ghanaians, arise NPP members… He cunningly draws the sympathy of Ghanaians and NPP sympathisers to “arise” – for what? Since “it is because of you that I am being harassed by Mahama – because I campaigned for NPP, and because I am gunning for NPP National Chairmanship: M’accounts’ koraa mode mo nsa ato so… menya sika ntua me mma school fees … m’aye Minister da, …? (My accounts have been frozen… I don’t have money to pay my children’s school fees; have I ever been a Minister?”

And the above drama played out on Friday, 23rd May when the Police and operatives of the National Security stood at the gates of Wontumi’s house to “arrest” him after he had failed to heed the invitation to the CID headquarters in Accra. Wontumi justified the absence on grounds of sickness.

The media space including social media was awash with intriguing comments and observations. Many could not understand the “raid” in Wontumi’s house by the Police or the operatives of the National Security. This is damnable, given our present democratic dispensation … some recall the part of the National Anthem which enjoins us “… and help us to resist oppressor’s rule…” Was it a show of power? OR was it diversionary tactics? AND was government playing to the gallery?

How dare anybody face somebody who has access to power and says “…when John Mahama is coming to Kumasi, he needs my permission…” What! And NPP supporters did not hear this? A Christian singing: “won a adepa ba a wokye di no, eka ba a won ara na ekye tua (Those benefitting from a windfall should suffer the penalty thereof).

St. Sark, the General Overseer of Open Arms Ministry says: “Wontumi is reaping what he has sown… Your cup is full; you are reaping what you sowed when NPP was in power. There’s no way you will get help and you know personally that the party will not help you”.

At Royal TV, Boyz-Boyz would argue: “The sensible ones in NPP did not heed the call… Because of money, Wontumi gets swollen-headed and assumes to be more sensible than all others… Some of the people he (Wontumi) is urging to “arise” have died… On his Wontumi TV, he would behave foolishly…” The obvious question is: When he was “enjoying” did he invite NPP members? And when he was boasting on TV with bars of gold with children dying from Kwashiorkor, did he reckon that the day of accountability would one day arrive? Whilst Wayoosi urges: “When you get a position, don’t bluff!”, Kofi Nti, ex-NPP Constituency Chairman of Fomena, yells: “Whoever follows Wontumi is also a criminal … the “neophytes” in NPP must show respect to the “elders.”

I went to the city and started as a shoe-shine boy, and gradually built myself up… Wontumi insulting the sensibilities of “poor” NPP members, and the NPP stronghold of Ashanti cannot boast of a Regional Party Office – renting places for meetings… And Wontumi seeks to be NPP National Chairman wouldn’t that be a travesty of justice? “A-Plus recalls being “chased” by Wontumi, and angrily charges at him: “Now, you want “Ghanaians” to buy adult diapers for you because your tummy is running…?” Solomon Owusu, calls the invitation for Wontumi’s support “populist tactics… NPP created a class society … the call is unwarranted…”

Akufo-Addo, as President, had given a clean bill of health to Akonta Mining: “Here was a President who had promised Ghanaians: ”…I am prepared to put my presidency on the line to wipe out galamsey…”

Some people are asking: “How committed was President Nana Akufo-Addo in stamping out illegal mining?” Nana Akufo-Addo’s own Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Abu Jinaper, had charged Wontumi’s Akonta Mining to leave the Nimri Forest and had, for good reason, refused to issue a licence to him, and the President stands on a platform to say “Akonta Mining is not engaged in any illegal mining … as we speak,” What about “before he spoke”? God in his own infinite wisdom (His omniscience) may have designed it. Ghanaians may have been “lucky” to have a change in government.

Some people think the arrogance, impunity, disrespect, corruption, aggrandizement in NPP during Akufo-Addo’s eight-year rule were disarming and unpardonable. We are not saying everything is rosy about the NDC. The NPP had to be shown the red card, to stay back and learn lessons in humility. Mahatma Gandhi says: “It is unwise to be too sure of one’s own wisdom. It is healthy to be reminded that the stronger might weaken and the wisest might err.”

And Mother Teresa admonishes us; “These are the few ways we can practice humility: Speak as little as possible of one’s self; mind one’s own business; Not to want to manage other people’s affairs; Avoid curiosity; Accept contradictions and correction cheerfully; Pass over the mistakes of others; Accept insults and injuries; Accept being slighted, forgotten and disliked; Be kind and gentle even under provocation; Never stand on one’s dignity; Choose always the hardest”. AND Winston Churchill sums it all up when he says: “The greatest lesson in life is to know that even fools are right sometimes”.

And in the words of Max Erhmann, the American poet, in the 1927 poem “Desiderata” (Latin; things desired). “Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story … You are a child of the universe … you have a right to be here …”

In the Bible, John II: 34 – 36 we read: “And Jesus said, where have ye lain him? They said unto him, Lord come and see: 35 – Jesus wept 36 Then said the Jews, behold how he loved him”. The shortest verse in the Bible, therefore, is John II: 35 “Jesus wept” – only two words. And Jesus was weeping for his friend, Lazarus, when he saw Mary and Martha wailing and sobbing; No analogy to the wailing and sobbing of Wontumi, except for the two words; “Jesus” substituted by a variable “Wontumi” and “wept” a constant.

Remember “No Tears for Ananse” the 1968 Ghanaian movie authored by Ato Kwamina Yanney and directed by Sam Aryeetey? Ananse’s insatiable greed made him feign death and before his death he had directed his family to bury him in his farm – that was done. The family detecting thefts in the farm built a statue smeared with glue.

Ananse, seeing the statue thought it was a thief. He kicked, boxed, headed the statue and got stuck… When the family went to the farm the following day, they saw Ananse… Any tears? EOCO’S Rambo-style of arresting Wontumi – why? “The law is the law”. (Gertrude Torkonoo) NPP Supporters massing up in support? – Be mindful of your utterances: Ghana belongs to NDC, NPP and Movement for Change…all Ghanaians!

Feature: Pope Leo XIV is God Sent

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Ever since Pope Leo XIV was elected pope on May 8, 2025, some anti-Catholics started prophesying dooms-day for Catholicism and the world, attributing God’s glorious works to Satan; a blasphemy which attracts the eternal death (Mark 3:29, Matthew 12:31-32, and Luke 12:10).

These dooms-day prophets, who only prophesy deaths and disasters, but strangely could not prophesy Covid-19, exhibit how fake they are.

On Pope Leo XIV, these non-Catholics, who always condemn the Catholic Church have taken a Catholic internal matter to themselves and talking senselessly like drunkards in a drinking competition.

On the other end, some people guided by the Holy Spirit, have read into prophecies and relate events that occur on certain dates to prophesy that Pope Leo XIV, is the pope the world needs now.

Bob of Elijah’s Cloak was just fantastic in his presentation on Pope Leo XIV, entitled Unfolding Prophecies of Pope Leo XIV.

Pope Leo XIII, promoted the teachings of St Aquinas and Pope Leo XIV attended St. Aquinas Pontifical University in Rome. Pope Leo XIII was a strong advocate for the poor and Pope Leo XIV devoted most of his priestly life, working for the poor and actually doing manual work, in mountainous regions of Peru.

Pope Leo XIII, had a revelation of Satan begging God to be given one hundred years to torture mankind. The pope became troubled and instituted the St. Michael’s Prayer.

May 8, is the Feast Day of the Apparition of St. Michael on Mont Gargano in Apulia, Italy, which occurred in 492 AD. Pope Leo XIV, was elected pope on May 8, 2025. It means that Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate is going to end the period given to Satan to attack humans.

May 8, is also the Feast Day of St. Peter of Tarentaise in the Franciscan calendar. And interestingly, in the Diocesan calendar, the Feast Day of St. Peter of Tarentaise falls on September 14. Pope Leo XIV was born on September 14, 1955. This cannot be a mere coincidence, because St. Peter of Tarentaise, as bishop, brought reformation to his diocese and attended to the needs of the poor, supplying them with May Bread (bread with soup). Pope Leo XIV, has the poor at heart.

St Padre Pio, prophesied about the conversion of America, and is it a coincidence that the US Vice President, J.D. Vance, a true Catholic, visited Pope Francis a day before the pontiff died? Then the next pope is American? It looks obvious that under Pope Leo XIV, he will help accelerate the American conversion.

St. Pope John Paul II, was from Poland, and was elected pope in 1978, during the peak of socialism while his country was under the control of the USSR. John Paul II, became pope and socialism collapsed and the fifteen states of the Soviet Union split up to become independent countries.Will Pope Leo XIV, an American, transform America? Surely, theseare prophecies from God.

One can then safely say that we are going to have in Pope Leo XIV, a pope who will reform the Church, society and the world; he will make catering of the poor, a very essential Church issue. Spiritually, he will pray for the protection of the Church and the world, committing both to God through St. Michael. So, we have a pope who will seek our temporal needs and spiritual protection under God.

He is going to be a very important figure in the world, who will unite wealthy and poor nations, where the rich will gladly offer to well cater for the poor. Pope Leo XIV, is both American (a wealthy nation) and a Peruvian (a poorer nation).  So, we may have wealthy nations no longer exploiting the poor ones. Political ideologies which seek to exploit the poor and vulnerable will fade away.

We may see a world that will be very united, where everyone will be each other’s keeper. One for all and all for one. The prophesy of Garabandal will also be fulfilled, when Pope Leo XIV visits Russia. He will be the first pope to do so. Gloriously meaning, that Matthew 28 (The Great Commission) will take deeper roots in all nations, including those which do not entertain Christianity.

Jesus said to Peter, in Matthew 16:18, “And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church,and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.”What Christ has said is fulfilled at all times.

Peter was a weak person in all sense of the word. He elected himself as the spokesperson for the apostles but showed lapses in leadership. For example, he did not understand why Jesus should sacrifice His life. Then he denied Jesus, three times, and even though he was made aware that he would do that, he swore he would rather die than to deny Jesus.

Then there was John, the apostle Jesus loved. He was so close to Jesus that other apostles would prompt him to ask Jesus something on their behalf (John13: 21-25). He stood by Jesus throughout from His arrest, persecution to His crucifixion. The only apostle who went all out with Jesus, right to the end. By human reasoning, John was more than qualified to be the leader of Church and the first pope.

After Jesus resurrected and met His apostles who were fishing in the Sea of Tiberias, He ask them, if they have caught any fish. When they said “No,” He ask them to caste the net to the right side, which they did and caught one hundred and fifty-three fish. St. Augustine interpreted this figure to be the Ten Commandments plus the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit, making Seventeen, then adding all the figures from 1 to 17 and the total will be 153.

When they sat to eat, one would expect Jesus to remove Peter as head, because he failed woefully as leader. But after asking him, “Do you love Me?” three times and Peter responding positively from his heart, Jesus handed over His Church to him.

What Jesus saw in Peter to make him leader cannot be explained, especially with John around. This means that it is the Holy Spirit that picks popes.

But there were eight popes considered to be the worse in history. They were Popes, Stephen VI, Sergius III, John XII,Benedict IX, Boniface VIII, Urban VI, Alexander VI and Leo X, who did things that were completely alien to the mind of Christ. Examples include, turning the papal palace into a brothel, killing cardinals and spending lavishly on worldly things. Was it the Holy Spirit who picked them and if yes, why was it so? Anyway, when Jesus picked His apostles, Judas Iscariot was included.

And despite all these scandals, the Catholic Church only grew stronger and stronger. Even after the Protestant reformation led by Martin Luther, the Catholic Church has continued to be the largest Christian denomination in the world today, with over 1.4 billion followers. And no matter how hard the Evil One tries, his gates, the gates of hell, cannot prevail against the Catholic Church.

A new pope is elected and some people are thinking that he would bring calamity unto earth. Some are even interpreting the Prophecy of the Popes by St Malachy, which listed Pope Francis as the most famous and last pope. Now if Pope Francis is gone, and a new one has come, then maybe that prophecy was meant for the end of a certain era of popes and the start of another era which begins with Pope Leo XIV.

There is this talk about a certain Peter the Roman as pope. Good prophets see the new pope as someone who is going to reform the Church which is facing challenges that can compare with what St. Peter faced in the early days of the Church.

Today, the Church’s teachings are at variance with politics, especially with the issue of the environment and LGBTQ+. While politics in more than one way does not see the reason to clamp down on environmental degradation, with global warming issues and deforestation and also the legalization of LGBTQ+ activities in lots of countries, the Church holds a different view, looking the way of God.

Liberation Theology which is prevalent in South America is not new to Pope Leo XIV and with him on the Chair of St. Peter, the Church may find a lasting solution to this Marxist approach, that will not hurt the poor. Marxism is not for the poor, but for the exploitation of the poor.

Pope Leo XIV, was picked by the Holy Spirit to lead not only the Catholic Church but the whole world as well. His plans to visit China and appeals for cease fire in the Middle East, which are steps in the right direction to bring the world together and have peace to reign on earth.

Pope Leo XIV is Godsent and all I can end with is “Blessed be Jesus in the Most Holy Sacrament of the Altar, Amen and Thank You All.”

Hon. Daniel Dugan

PSG, Inter go head-to-head in the Champions League final

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Luis Enrique, Coach of Paris Saint-Germain

The conclusion of the European club football season is upon us, as Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan will go head-to-head in the Champions League final in Munich on Saturday night.

PSG have been the competition’s nearly-men over the past decade and are seeking a first ever title, while Inter are seasoned veterans, hoping to add a fourth Champions League crown to their glittering trophy cabinet at the Allianz Arena.

Ousmane Dembele, Paris Saint-Germain

It may not have been the final some neutrals wanted, but it is one of most fascinating for many years, simply because it is so tough to call which style of play will reign supreme in Bavaria on Saturday night.

Both clubs are well worth their spot in the final and they have gotten this far by very different means, with PSG’s free-flowing, expansive football catching the eye of many, while Inter’s stylish and stubborn tactical masterclasses have frustrated both Bayern Munich and Barcelona.

There is so much on the line for both, as PSG are looking to complete the treble and become the first French club ever to do so, while Inter are hoping not to end the season trophyless, after still being in the hunt for the treble just a month ago.

Paris Saint-Germain

Back in November, it was not beyond the realm of possibility that PSG would have missed out on the knockout stage entirely by finishing outside the top 24 in the league phase, with manager Luis Enrique‘s job in some jeopardy.

However, the club’s transformation in 2025 has been scarcely believable and they have been the most impressive team in Europe since the turn of the year.

The Parisians won Ligue 1 again at a canter, and swept Reims aside in the Coupe de France final last week, so they are now just one game away from completing the perfect season and one that their Qatari owners have waited over 14 years for.

In addition to this, on the four occasions the final has been held in Munich, a first-time winner has been crowned, so PSG will be looking to join Nottingham Forest, Marseille, Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea in that list.

The French club lost their only previous Champions League final, behind closed doors in 2020 to Bayern Munich, but the same fate beset Inter in 2023, as they were beaten in Istanbul by Manchester City.

Inter Milan

That defeat means on all three occasions Inter have lost a UCL final, it has been against a club that won the treble, something PSG will manage with a win here, however, the Italian giants have plenty of history to fall back on, with three Champions League triumphs already stored away.

Simone Inzaghi, Coach of Inter Milan

After falling short in Serie A and the Coppa Italia, Simone Inzaghi‘s men will be desperate to make amends for failing to get over the line in both competitions, as well as the final two years ago.

Talk of the treble was rife following their incredible 7-6 aggregate win over Barca in the semi-finals, but even taking home just the Champions League would mark one of the greatest seasons in the club’s history, given how few people fancied them at the start of the season.

The Nerazzurri are a better team than they were in 2023 when Man City beat them in Istanbul though, and captain Lautaro Martinez has made it clear the squad have been determined to put that result right ever since the defeat.

Inter’s strength is that they so often find themselves in control of games, having taken the lead in 11 of their 14 Champions League games this season, while they have only trailed for a combined seven minutes – in injury time versus Bayer Leverkusen in the league phase, and late on against Barcelona in the second leg of their semi-final before Francesco Acerbi‘s leveller.

Inzaghi’s men enter the final as slight underdogs, but they were also unfancied in the markets against Bayern and Barca, so underestimate Inter at your peril.

INJURY CONCERNS

In quite a remarkable turn of events, both teams are set to be a full strength with no injury concerns at all in either camp.

Apart from the banished Presnel Kimpembe, who has barely featured all season and is struggling with a leg injury, Enrique has the entire PSG squad at his disposal, so they could look very similar to the side that faced Arsenal in the semi-finals.

Ousmane Dembele was only a substitute for that second leg, but will start here, so Enrique has a decision to make between selecting Desire Doue or Bradley Barcola, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia likely to be nailed on for a starting berth.

Inter’s only two injury doubts have both returned to training this week and should be involved in the squad on Saturday, as Benjamin Pavard and Piotr Zielinski were both pictured with their teammates in high spirits.

Lautaro Martinez, Inter Milan

Captain Martinez has not played since the second-leg win over Barca, when he played through the pain barrier for 70 minutes, and that rest and recuperation time has meant he will be fit for this one.

Inzaghi rested almost the entire first-choice XI for the trip to Como last Friday, with goalkeeper Yann Sommer, wing-back Federico Dimarco, and playmaker Hakan Calhanoglu the only members from that XI likely to remain in the side here.

POSSIBLE LINE-UP

Paris Saint-Germain possible starting lineup:
Donnarumma; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Joao Neves, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz; Doue, Dembele, Kvaratskhelia

Inter Milan possible starting lineup:
Sommer; Bisseck, Acerbi, Bastoni; Dumfries, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Thuram, Martinez

PREDICTION

This final is one of the toughest to call in many years, and even though PSG are listed as the favourites, a win for Inter would surprise nobody.

Both clubs have been involved in tense, tight encounters throughout the competition, and the final should prove no different, with penalties a real possibility, and PSG’s ruthless edge away to Liverpool on spot kicks in the last 16 could give them the slight advantage in that regard.

Credit: sportsmole.co.uk

4 police officers promoted for high standard of professionalism

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The officers spotting their new ranks

The Ghana Police Service has promoted four officers from the Western Central Regional Police Command in recognition of their exceptional diligence, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to duty.

The promoted officers are No. 47459 G/Sgt. Fetus Gameli Kukuia, now promoted to the rank of Inspector, No. 52192 G/Cpl. Christian Asare, promoted to Sergeant, No. 52441 G/Cpl. Nicholas Kingsley Amoah, promoted to Sergeant, and No. 59947 G/Const. Adam Yakubu, promoted to Lance Corporal.

The Junior officers before their promotion

The promotions were announced following the officers’ key role in a high-profile arrest on April 30, 2025, which led to a breakthrough in a murder case that had gripped the nation. Just a day after the killing of five individuals at Asiyaw near Nsawam, the officers intercepted and arrested three suspects—Hakeem Imoro, Imoro Tahiru, and Nurideen Wahab—at Bawdie Barrier, near Wassa Akropong, for unlawful possession of arms and ammunition.

The suspects, who were traveling on a Grand Bird Bus with registration number AS 4431 22, were found in possession of a submachine gun and twenty-one rounds of ammunition. Through diligent interrogation, it was revealed that the weapon had been provided by Samuel Atsu Forson alias “Alanyo”, a suspect already in custody in connection with the Asiyaw murders.

Further investigations confirmed the suspects’ direct involvement in the Asiyaw killings and their intent to evade justice by fleeing the region. The swift and professional actions of the four officers not only prevented their escape but also provided critical leads that strengthened the ongoing investigation.

Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, and members of the Police Management Board (POMAB) commended the officers for their exemplary conduct. The IGP stated that their promotion is a testament to the Ghana Police Service’s resolve to recognize and reward excellence in law enforcement.

“This is a clear message to all personnel that hard work, vigilance, and integrity will not go unnoticed. We will continue to celebrate and reward officers who go above and beyond the call of duty,” the IGP remarked.

The Ghana Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism and dedication in the fight against crime, while encouraging officers across the country to emulate the conduct of their promoted colleagues.

NPP Prez primary: Bryan Testing The Waters … Sets up Exploratory Committee to engage stakeholders

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JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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Dr Bryan Acheampong

The immediate past Minister for Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Abetifi, Dr Bryan Acheampong, has signaled a possible bid for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential ticket by setting up an Exploratory Committee, tasked with gauging grassroots sentiment, consulting party stakeholders and assessing the political terrain, ahead of the party’s internal primary.

“The Committee will listen to the voices of our grassroots and constituents and test the alignment between my vision and the aspirations of our party and the Ghanaian people,” he stated.

The move, seen by many within the party as a strategic step towards a formal announcement, comes amid growing calls from sections of the party base, urging him to contest for the flagbearer position.

Highlighting his longstanding relationship with the NPP, Dr Bryan Acheampong pointed to his journey through the ranks of the party, from grassroots mobilisation to top-tier government leadership.

“These roles and experiences have granted me invaluable insights into the sacrifices, dedication and strategic vision required to build and sustain the foundations of our Party,” he noted, adding “They have also deepened my resolve to uphold the NPP’s values with unwavering loyalty and integrity.”

A four-term Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister, Dr. Acheampong, has also served as a party financier, committee member and campaign strategist over the years. He underscored his continued dedication to the NPP, saying: “Everything within me and every resource at my disposal have been put to the service of the party and I will continue to serve.”

Party insiders believe his decision to form the committee reflects a thoughtful and structured approach to leadership – one that emphasises consultation, unity and disciplined preparation rather than rushed ambition.

The Exploratory Committee is expected to complete its stakeholder consultations and submit a report within four weeks, which could shape the direction of Dr Bryan Acheampong’s next steps in the party’s internal race.

Few days ago, former Member of Parliament for Asante Akim North, Andy Appiah-Kubi, hinted that Dr Bryan Acheampong was preparing to contest the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primaries. Speaking to the media, Mr. Appiah-Kubi described Dr. Acheampong as the right candidate to unify and reinvigorate the party.

“The task on our hearts is to present a great candidate who can redeem our party, and Dr. Bryan Acheampong is preparing himself for that mission. He will speak for himself in due course, but I am only a messenger. From what I know, he is the one—and his work speaks volumes,” he said.

According to Appiah-Kubi, the Member of Parliament for Abetifi offers a unique blend of intellectual capacity and entrepreneurial success that distinguishes him from other contenders.

“If we are looking for a candidate with intellectual prowess, Bryan is the one. If we want a successful business mogul, he’s that too. So with him, we’re killing two birds with one stone… he is a symbol of victory,” he added.

It will also be recalled that following the recent fire outbreak at Kejetia Market in Kumasi, Dr. Bryan Acheampong pledged to rebuild the affected shops at Blue Light-Adum, subject to approval from the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and the city authorities. He assured that once he receives the green light, the reconstruction would be completed within a year to enable affected traders to return to business.

In a show of solidarity, the Member of Parliament for Abetifi donated GH¢300,000 to the executive of the Kejetia Market and an additional GH¢500,000 to support victims of the Kantamanto fire disaster in Accra further reinforcing his commitment to community development and economic recovery.

Bawumia To EOCO: Wontumi’s Right Must Be Respected

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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Dr Mahamudu Bawumia

Former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has urged the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and other state institutions to act strictly within the bounds of the law.

These comments are in relation to the arrest and continued detention of Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Dr. Bawumia, in a Facebook post on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 said: “I also urge the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and all relevant state institutions to act strictly within the bounds of the law and to respect the rights of Mr. Wontumi as guaranteed by our Constitution.”

According to him, any deviation from these principles risks undermining public trust in our justice system and weakening the democratic values we have worked hard to build.

The former Vice President questioned the legality and transparency surrounding Wontumi’s detention, describing the charges as “vague” and noting that his current whereabouts remain unknown.

He warned that any deviation from constitutional principles would damage public confidence in Ghana’s justice system.

“In a democratic environment such as ours, no individual is above the law. Equally, no Ghanaian – regardless of political affiliation or status – should ever be denied their constitutional rights,” he said, and added that “Justice and due process are not optional; they are the foundation of our democracy.”

He disclosed that he had been in close contact with Wontumi’s legal team since the morning of the arrest and commended them for their “professionalism and vigilance” in ensuring the protection of the NPP chairman’s rights.

Reaffirming his commitment to democratic governance, the former Vice President emphasised the importance of institutional integrity and legal accountability in safeguarding Ghana’s democracy.

“Ghana must always remain a nation governed by law, not by arbitrary power. Our Republic is strongest when our institutions are both firm and fair.”

Background

On Monday, May 26, 2025 Chairman Wontumi reported to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service in Accra, flanked by his legal counsel and party allies, after a dramatic and failed attempt by security forces to arrest him the previous Friday, in Kumasi.

Shortly after honoring the CID’s invitation, he was subsequently picked up by the Economic and Organised Crime Office officials and transported to their offices for further questioning, reportedly on related issues.

Subsequently, he was rushed to a hospital on Tuesday, May 27, after reportedly falling ill while being interrogated by the EOCO team.

The development was confirmed by his lawyer and former Member of Parliament for Asante-Akim North, Andy Appiah Kubi, who disclosed the information to journalists late Tuesday evening.

The arrest triggered immediate tension, with scores of NPP supporters and party executives storming the EOCO premises in protest, demanding his release. The chaotic scenes prompted the deployment of military personnel to reinforce security at the facility.

Several NPP figures, including party National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye and former Greater Accra Regional Minister Titus Glover, accused the government and EOCO of engaging in politically motivated actions aimed at intimidating opposition figures.

Torkornoo’s Injunction Application Thrown Out

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo

The Supreme Court has, by a majority decision, rejected an application by suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo to halt the work of the presidential committee probing her potential removal from office.

The ruling marks another major legal setback in her efforts to challenge the constitutional process triggered by three separate petitions seeking her dismissal.

A five-member bench, comprising Justices Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu, Yonny Kulendi, Henry Anthony Kwofie and Richard Adjei-Frimpong unanimously dismissed her request for an interlocutory injunction and struck out a supplementary affidavit filed in support of her case.

The Deputy Attorney General, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, opened arguments by requesting the court to strike out the second to sixth defendants, claiming that the writ filed by the Chief Justice on May 21, 2025 indicated only the Attorney General as the party truly affected by the reliefs sought.

Justice Tanko Amadu, however, questioned the approach, noting such an objection should have been raised via a formal motion to allow for a proper response.

In response, the former A-G Godfred Yeboah Dame, representing the Chief Justice, called the objection “unmeritorious,” arguing that the reliefs sought clearly implicated all the defendants, despite procedural omissions in identifying them by name.

The Court agreed, ruling that failure to name all parties explicitly in the writ was not fatal to the case and dismissed the objection.

The Deputy Attorney General also urged the Court to strike out the Chief Justice’s supplementary affidavit filed on May 26, 2025 arguing that it breached Article 146(8) of the Constitution, which mandates confidentiality in proceedings for the removal of judges.

He cited Tiger Eye PI v Justice Dery and other cases to support his claim that any reference to the committee’s in-camera proceedings in the affidavit was unconstitutional.

While Mr Dame countered that the affidavit did not amount to disclosing committee “proceedings” as constitutionally defined, and maintained that judicial review remains a valid recourse even under Article 146, the Court ruled otherwise.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie observed that the affidavit contained details of events occurring within the confidential process. The Court unanimously struck out the supplementary affidavit for violating Article 146(8).

Allegations of Bias and Fair Trial

Godfred Dame further argued that the Chief Justice had not been properly informed of a prima facie determination by the President, as required under Article 146.

He pointed to a letter dated April 22, 2025 from the Office of the President as insufficient evidence of such a determination.

He insisted that this procedural lapse infringed upon the Chief Justice’s right to a fair hearing and due process.

He also raised concerns about the impartiality of committee members -Justices Gabriel Pwamang and Adibu-Asiedu – citing their prior involvement in cases connected to the allegations. He argued that their presence on the committee undermined the integrity of the process.

The Deputy Attorney General rebutted, stating that previous court rulings had already addressed these concerns, including an earlier ruling, which found no sufficient basis to disqualify Justice Asiedu or to question the prima facie determination.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, responding to Dame’s arguments, questioned the propriety of suggesting bias among senior judges without clear evidence. “We took an oath,” he said, emphasising the judiciary’s independence and integrity.

Final Ruling: Injunction Dismissed

The suspended Chief Justice’s main plea was for an interlocutory injunction to stop the committee’s proceedings until the Court had resolved the broader constitutional questions she raised. She claimed irreparable harm would befall her if the process continued without clarity on whether proper procedures were followed.

Mr. Dame stressed that this was the first time the directly affected individual – Chief Justice Torkornoo – was before the Court and argued that serious constitutional questions warranted intervention.

Justice Kulendi pushed back on Dame’s broader plea for a blanket bar on future injunction applications in the matter, saying “You expect us to issue a pre-emptive decree that nobody should file an injunction again?”

In a final ruling, the Court held that the application had no merit and dismissed it. The justices unanimously ruled that no sufficient legal grounds had been presented to justify halting the committee’s work.

The full reasons will be made available on June 12, 2025.

Newly Appointed Ashanti DVLA Boss Pays Courtesy Call on Asantehene

By
RICHARD OWUSU-AKYAW
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Mr. Jerry Afablo and Otumfuo afyter the meeting

Mr. Jerry Afablo, the newly appointed Ashanti Regional Manager of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), has paid a courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the Manhyia Palace, to formally introduce himself and seek the King’s blessings for his new role.
With a wealth of experience and a proven track record in the DVLA, Mr. Afablo brings to his new position strong leadership skills, a commitment to service excellence, and a vision for institutional transformation.

Over the years, he has been instrumental in improving service delivery through effective human resource management and infrastructure development.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II warmly received Mr. Afablo and his team, commending the visit as a show of respect and a commitment to duty. He encouraged the new regional manager to work diligently to uplift the standards of the DVLA and ensure more reliable and efficient service to the public.
Mr. Afablo was accompanied by a delegation of senior officials from the DVLA, including: Madam Hudu Ali Arzika – Deputy Manager,Mr. Frank Marful Sau – Head of Finance,Mr. Erasmus Matthew Afagbegee – Head of Finance, Mr. Michael Antwi Tuffour – Head of Information Technology and Mr. Promise Abu Sam – Personal Assistant to the Regional Manager

Others were Mr.Helis Mensah – Senior Finance Officer,Bernice Fosuah Kyeretwie – Head of Administration and Madam Juliana Tuffour – Senior System Administrator

Mr. Jerry Afablo, the newly appointed Ashanti Regional Manager of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) in a hand shake with Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at the Manhyia Palace.

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