Ghana Police have requested the release of Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin by Parliament to assist in investigations into a viral video showing an alleged assault on an officer during a recent demonstration.
The Ghana Police Service has officially invited Majority Leader Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin to assist in investigations into a viral video showing an alleged assault on a police officer during a recent demonstration.
According to a statement from the Police Service, multiple video footages were reviewed following public concern over the conduct of the Member of Parliament. The footage allegedly captures an altercation between Hon. Afenyo-Markin and a uniformed officer amid heightened tensions during the protest.
As part of standard procedure, the Police Service has written to the Right Hon. Speaker of Parliament, requesting that Hon. Afenyo-Markin be made available to assist with the ongoing investigation.
In a balanced approach to the investigation, the police officer involved in the incident has also been invited to provide a statement and support the inquiry. The Service emphasized its commitment to fairness and due process, assuring the public of a thorough and impartial investigation.
Public Reaction
The incident has sparked a nationwide debate, with many Ghanaians calling for accountability and transparency, especially from public officials. Civil society groups have also urged law enforcement to handle the matter with professionalism and avoid politicization.
The Ghana Police Service reiterated that no one is above the law, and all individuals involved—regardless of rank or position—will be treated equally in the pursuit of justice.
Further updates are expected as investigations progress.
The Ghanaian cedi is now trading at GHS13.32 to the dollar, signaling renewed hope for economic stability. Citizens welcome the gains, but experts warn of cautious optimism.
In what many are calling a refreshing turn of events, the Ghanaian cedi has shown notable appreciation against major foreign currencies—particularly the US dollar. As of May 6, 2025, the cedi is buying at GHS13.32 and selling at GHS13.82 per USD, according to average exchange rates from selected banks.
This development comes as a welcome sigh of relief for Ghanaians who have grappled with months of currency volatility and rising living costs. Compared to exchange rate highs of GHS16.50+ per USD in late 2024, this improvement has sparked cautious optimism across markets and households.
The improvement in the cedi’s performance is largely attributed to:
Ongoing economic reforms initiated by the Ministry of Finance and Bank of Ghana aimed at restoring investor confidence.
Stabilizing inflation trends, driven by tighter monetary policy.
Enhanced foreign reserves, supported by increased gold and cocoa exports.
Improved fiscal discipline backed by continued IMF program oversight.
Other Currencies Reflect Similar Trends
The cedi has also strengthened marginally against other major currencies:
GBP: Buying at GHS17.64 | Selling at GHS18.46
EUR: Buying at GHS15.02 | Selling at GHS15.64
CNY: Buying at GHS1.84 | Selling at GHS1.91
XOF: Buying at GHS0.022 | Selling at GHS0.024
ZAR: Buying at GHS0.72 | Selling at GHS0.75
Public Reaction: A Mix of Relief and Caution
From market traders to salary earners, the cedi’s appreciation is being welcomed with open arms. Many hope this signals the beginning of a more stable economic period after a year of sharp currency depreciation, rising inflation, and job losses.
“At GHS13.32 to the dollar, I can finally restock my goods with a bit more confidence,” said Mariam Issah, a trader at Makola Market.
However, economists warn that the road to full recovery is still long. They emphasize the need for sustained policy discipline, export-led growth, and productive sector investment to maintain this momentum.
Conclusion
While the cedi’s rebound is indeed heartening, analysts urge Ghanaians and businesses to remain vigilant. A single data point does not make a trend—but it can inspire renewed national confidence and a belief that economic healing is within reach.
GOIL’s latest fuel prices effective May 5, 2025, show a hike in Super XP and Diesel, deepening the cost-of-living strain for many Ghanaians.
Ghanaians woke up on Monday, May 5, 2025, to a fresh surge in fuel prices as GOIL, one of the country’s leading petroleum distributors, announced new pump rates.
Effective from 6 a.m., Super XP is now selling at GH¢13.69 per litre. Diesel XP has been adjusted to GH¢14.41 per litre, while Super XP 95 has increased to GH¢15.11 per litre. These figures represent a noticeable rise compared to previous pricing, sending ripples across the country’s transport and energy sectors.
This development comes at a time when the cedi is showing signs of relative strength, currently trading at GH¢13.32 to the US dollar for buying and GH¢13.82 for selling.
Many citizens had hoped that the improved exchange rate would ease the cost of imported commodities such as petroleum, but that optimism has been dampened by the reality at the pumps. The upward adjustment appears to stem not only from international crude oil fluctuations but also persistent local tax burdens and operational costs.
The public reaction has been immediate and intense. Across major cities, commercial drivers and everyday commuters expressed frustration, citing the new prices as yet another blow to an already strained budget. For many, this increase adds to the daily struggle of coping with a high cost of living.
Kwame Boakye, a taxi driver in Accra, voiced his dismay, saying, “Every time the cedi gains, we think we’ll catch a break. But fuel prices go up anyway. We can’t increase fares every week—it’s killing our business and passengers are angry.”
Industry observers suggest that the hike could be attributed to global oil market volatility, where Brent crude oil is hovering around $86 per barrel. High refinery charges and global freight costs also play a role, compounded by local levies that remain steep despite public outcry.
While the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) claims it is closely monitoring the situation, energy analysts are calling for an urgent review of Ghana’s fuel pricing formula. Irene Sarpong, an energy consultant, remarked, “The current model places too much burden on consumers. Government must consider buffering mechanisms and adjust taxes if we want lasting relief.”
The latest increase has renewed fears of inflation, as transportation costs are likely to push the prices of goods and services even higher. Many Ghanaians are now bracing for yet another wave of economic strain, with calls growing louder for long-term policy reform and stronger social protection measures.
GOIL’s latest fuel prices effective May 5, 2025, show a hike in Super XP and Diesel, deepening the cost-of-living strain for many Ghanaians.
Ghanaians woke up on Monday, May 5, 2025, to a fresh surge in fuel prices as GOIL, one of the country’s leading petroleum distributors, announced new pump rates.
Effective from 6 a.m., Super XP is now selling at GH¢13.69 per litre. Diesel XP has been adjusted to GH¢14.41 per litre, while Super XP 95 has increased to GH¢15.11 per litre. These figures represent a noticeable rise compared to previous pricing, sending ripples across the country’s transport and energy sectors.
This development comes at a time when the cedi is showing signs of relative strength, currently trading at GH¢13.32 to the US dollar for buying and GH¢13.82 for selling.
Many citizens had hoped that the improved exchange rate would ease the cost of imported commodities such as petroleum, but that optimism has been dampened by the reality at the pumps. The upward adjustment appears to stem not only from international crude oil fluctuations but also persistent local tax burdens and operational costs.
The public reaction has been immediate and intense. Across major cities, commercial drivers and everyday commuters expressed frustration, citing the new prices as yet another blow to an already strained budget. For many, this increase adds to the daily struggle of coping with a high cost of living.
Kwame Boakye, a taxi driver in Accra, voiced his dismay, saying, “Every time the cedi gains, we think we’ll catch a break. But fuel prices go up anyway. We can’t increase fares every week—it’s killing our business and passengers are angry.”
Industry observers suggest that the hike could be attributed to global oil market volatility, where Brent crude oil is hovering around $86 per barrel. High refinery charges and global freight costs also play a role, compounded by local levies that remain steep despite public outcry.
While the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) claims it is closely monitoring the situation, energy analysts are calling for an urgent review of Ghana’s fuel pricing formula. Irene Sarpong, an energy consultant, remarked, “The current model places too much burden on consumers. Government must consider buffering mechanisms and adjust taxes if we want lasting relief.”
The latest increase has renewed fears of inflation, as transportation costs are likely to push the prices of goods and services even higher. Many Ghanaians are now bracing for yet another wave of economic strain, with calls growing louder for long-term policy reform and stronger social protection measures.
Legacy Rise Sports CEO Sharaf Mahama calls on the African diaspora to drive investment and innovation in Africa’s sports and entertainment industries, describing them as tools for reshaping the continent’s global image.
Sharaf Mahama, the Chief Executive Officer of Legacy Rise Sports, has issued a clarion call to the African diaspora to become active stakeholders in the development of Africa’s sports and entertainment sectors.
Speaking passionately at the Africa Business Conference hosted by Johns Hopkins University in Washington D.C., Mahama described these industries as Africa’s emerging “modern soft power” with the capacity to redefine the continent’s narrative and open up vast economic opportunities.
Addressing a packed audience during a panel discussion on Media, Marketing, and Entertainment, Mahama emphasized the transformative impact of African success stories on the global stage.
“Every time an African athlete or artist succeeds on the world stage, they break down negative stereotypes about Africa,” he stated, urging diasporans to harness their influence, networks, and capital to support this momentum.
Highlighting the vision of his organization, Mahama said, “At Legacy Rise Sports, we are committed to supporting our athletes to excel, not only in their sporting careers but also as ambassadors of a new African story—one that is defined by resilience, talent, and opportunity.”
He unveiled an ambitious plan to expand Legacy Rise Sports’ operations across all 16 regions of Ghana by 2030. This expansion is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, with a focus on athlete education, mentorship, and empowerment.
According to Mahama, investing in sports and entertainment is not just about talent development, but a strategy for sustainable youth employment and continental rebranding.
As the global appetite for African creativity and athleticism grows, Mahama’s message was clear: the diaspora holds a critical role in amplifying Africa’s voice and transforming its potential into reality.
701 Diplomatic and Service Passports Cancelled Over Non-Compliance—Ministry Cracks Down on Former Officials
Ferdinand | PoliticsGhana | May 6 | 701 Diplomatic and Service Passports Cancelled Over Non-Compliance—Ministry Cracks Down on Former Officials
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has cancelled 701 diplomatic and service passports after repeated failure by former officials to comply with a presidential recall directive. Passports are now flagged at all border points.
In a decisive move to uphold travel protocol integrity, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has cancelled 701 diplomatic and service passports effective May 6, 2025. This action follows the persistent refusal or failure of several former government officials and other designated individuals to return the passports despite a directive issued by President Mahama in January 2025.
The cancelled documents include 341 diplomatic passports and 360 service passports, now blacklisted on a “Stop-List” at all entry and exit points, as well as Ghanaian embassies abroad. According to a press release from the Ministry, any attempt to use these invalidated passports will result in immediate confiscation.
The Ministry’s directive targeted former ministers and their spouses, Members of Parliament from all parties, retired Justices, ex-regional leaders, board members of state institutions, businesspersons, traditional leaders, former ambassadors and their dependents, as well as individuals associated with the National Cathedral Project—none of whom currently hold official roles.
The Ministry acknowledged and commended 407 holders of diplomatic passports and 403 holders of service passports who returned their documents in line with the directive, demonstrating respect for the legal and administrative expectations of the state.
However, the continued disregard by the remaining holders has left the Ministry with no option but to enforce the cancellation. “The consistent failure/refusal of the holders of these passports to comply with President Mahama’s directive since January has left us with no other choice,” the Ministry stated.
As part of transparency and enforcement, the Ministry has published the serial numbers of the cancelled passports, reinforcing that they are no longer valid for international travel.
This cancellation represents a strong message from the government about the misuse of state-issued travel privileges and the need for accountability, especially among former public servants.
Mahama to Appointees: Declare Assets by May 7 or Consider Yourself Dismissed
Ferdinand | PoliticsGhana | May 5 | Mahama to Appointees: Declare Assets by May 7 or Consider Yourself Dismissed
President John Mahama has warned that political appointees must declare their assets by May 7, 2025, or face dismissal, under a newly launched Code of Conduct aimed at promoting ethics and accountability in public service.
President John Dramani Mahama has issued a final ultimatum to all political appointees who failed to declare their assets by the original March 31 deadline, warning they have until Wednesday, May 7, 2025, to comply or face immediate dismissal.
The warning came during the official launch of the Code of Conduct for Political Appointees, held on Monday, May 5, 2025. The President emphasized that asset declaration is not a ceremonial requirement but a key measure to combat corruption and prevent the abuse of public office.
“For all those who were appointed or nominated before 31st March 2025 and failed to meet the deadline, you are to forfeit three months of salary to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund,” Mr. Mahama said.
He further stated, “If by close of day Wednesday, 7th May 2025, any of you still fails to declare your assets, count yourself automatically dismissed.”
The President added that, in addition to the three-month salary forfeiture, all affected appointees are expected to contribute an additional one month’s salary to the Mahama Kess Trust Fund, totaling four months’ pay.
The newly launched Code of Conduct is described as a binding document for ministers, deputy ministers, presidential staffers, chief executives, members of the Council of State, and board members.
“This is a government of shared responsibility, and there will be no sacred cows,” Mr. Mahama asserted. “The Code applies equally to myself, the Vice President, the Chief of Staff, and all advisors.”
The Code enforces strict rules, including:
A ban on political appointees purchasing state assets such as land, vehicles, or shares.
A GH¢20,000 limit on undisclosed gifts.
Prohibition on using government funds for personal gifts or hampers.
“If you attempt to purchase state assets and you are found out, your appointment will be terminated,” the President warned.
He also announced a public reporting platform where citizens can submit reports of misconduct under the Code, assuring that all submissions would be confidential and fairly investigated.
“This Code is part of our 120-day social contract with the people of Ghana,” Mr. Mahama concluded. “It is the foundation of a new ethos in public service—one grounded in ethics, discipline, and accountability.”
Ferdinand | PoliticsGhana | May 4 | KNUST Inaugurates New Governing Council with Akyamfoɔ Asafo Boakye Agyemang-Bonsu as Chairman
On 29 April 2025, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology officially inaugurated its newly constituted Governing Council, appointing Akyamfoɔ Asafo Boakye Agyemang‑Bonsu as Chairman.
The 15‑member body brings together representatives from academia, student and staff constituencies, and wider civil society to provide strategic oversight to Ghana’s second‑largest university.
Inauguration and Charge to Council
The Education Minister, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, presided over the inauguration and urged the Council to prioritise STEM disciplines, artificial intelligence, and the employability of graduates over an over‑expansion of humanities programmes .
He reminded members that shaping Ghana’s human capital through science and engineering is vital to national development .
Composition of the Governing Council
The Governing Council comprises 15 members drawn from key stakeholder groups:
Chairman: Akyamfoɔ Asafo Boakye Agyemang‑Bonsu
Vice‑Chancellor (ex‑officio): Prof. (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson
Academic Convocation Representatives: Prof. Samuel Asare‑Nkansah (Professorial) and Ing. Dr. Daniel Opoku (Non‑Professorial)
University Teachers Association: Prof. Dr. Eric Kwabena Kyei Abavare
Postgraduate Students: Mr. Gabriel Alexander Kpevu
Undergraduate Students: Mr. Kena Nana Francis
Alumni Association: Dr. Herman Yobo Addae
Teachers & Education Workers Union (TEWU‑GH): Mr. Michael Ayuune
Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS): Mr. Zachariah Suleiman Yeboah
National Council for Curriculum & Assessment (NaCCA): Dr. Frimpong Kaakyire Duku
Three Additional Members: Ms. Gloria Naa Amanuah Appoh, Prof. Leonard Derkyi‑Kwarteng, and Prof. Abdul Samed Muntaka
Mandate and Expectations
Under the KNUST statutes and the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission Act, the Governing Council is charged with oversight of policy, finance, and strategic direction. Education Ministry guidelines direct the Council to ensure academic programmes align with national development needs, particularly in STEM and AI.
Minister Iddrisu’s emphasis on reducing humanities expansion reflects a broader policy shift toward science‑driven growth .
Council Chair Agyemang‑Bonsu, a veteran administrator and former university leader, pledged to foster inclusive governance, transparency, and stakeholder engagement.
He highlighted the need to address infrastructure deficits, research funding, and graduate employability through robust industry partnerships.
Early Reactions and Next Steps
The inauguration drew both support and protest. Leaders of the KNUST branch of TEWU‑GH declared an indefinite strike, alleging inadequate consultation in the Council’s composition; they demanded greater representation for non‑teaching staff .
University management has pledged to engage the union to resolve concerns and ensure the Council’s work proceeds unimpeded.
In the coming weeks, the Council will hold its first meeting to adopt a strategic plan, review financial statements, and set up committees on audit, academic affairs, and infrastructure. Its decisions will shape KNUST’s trajectory as it seeks to enhance research output, expand postgraduate training, and deepen industry linkages.
Ferdinand | PoliticsGhana | May 4 | NDP Grassroots Disown NPP’s ‘Unlawful’ May 5 Protest Against Chief Justice’s Suspension
The grassroots members of the National Democratic Party (NDP) have publicly distanced themselves from the NPP-led demonstration on May 5, 2025, in Accra, rejecting political alignment over the Chief Justice’s suspension.
The grassroots base of the National Democratic Party (NDP) has issued a clear statement distancing itself from the upcoming protest organized by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), scheduled for May 5, 2025, in Accra. The demonstration is aimed at opposing the recent suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, but the NDP insists it has no part in the action.
In a press release on Saturday, representatives of the NDP grassroots emphasized that the protest does not reflect the values or priorities of their party, describing the move as politically motivated and lacking in constructive purpose.
“We, the grassroots members of the NDP, wish to state categorically that we are not in support of, nor do we endorse, the planned May 5 protest led by the New Patriotic Party,” the statement read. “While we believe in the right of all Ghanaians to peaceful protest, we reject any attempt to draw our party into what is clearly a politically staged event.”
The suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo by President John Dramani Mahama has stirred significant national debate, with the NPP alleging executive overreach and judicial intimidation. However, the NDP’s grassroots say the legal and constitutional processes should be allowed to play out without interference from politically aligned demonstrations.
According to the group, respect for Ghana’s democratic institutions must take precedence over partisan tactics. “This is a matter that deserves sober reflection and due process—not street protests designed to inflame passions or score political points,” the statement continued.
Political observers see the move as a notable development in Ghana’s dynamic political environment, especially as it underscores divisions not just across party lines but within the broader political opposition. While NDP leadership has yet to issue an official national position, the grassroots message sends a clear signal that not all voices on the opposition side are aligned with the NPP’s methods.
Background to the Controversy
Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo’s suspension followed an ongoing inquiry into allegations of judicial misconduct and administrative irregularities. The government has cited constitutional provisions that permit the executive to take interim measures in such cases, while the opposition NPP maintains that the process undermines judicial independence.
With the protest planned for Monday, security services have been alerted, and Accra is expected to see heightened police presence. The NDP grassroots have urged their members and sympathizers to “stay away from the demonstration” and focus instead on “constructive dialogue and respect for the law.”
Public Reactions Mixed
Reactions to the NDP’s disavowal have been mixed. While some civil society groups have praised the party’s grassroots for promoting institutional integrity, others suggest it reveals fractures within the opposition that could weaken collective political leverage.
Meanwhile, the NPP has stated that it will proceed with the protest regardless of dissent, promising a “peaceful yet powerful show of democratic resistance.”
As the date draws near, all eyes remain on Accra—and on the unfolding political implications of Ghana’s ongoing judicial saga.
Trump Draws Global Backlash Over AI Image of Himself as Pope Amid Vatican’s Search for Francis’ Successor
Ferdinand | PoliticsGhana | May 4 |Trump Draws Global Backlash Over AI Image of Himself as Pope Amid Vatican’s Search for Francis’ Successor
Donald Trump sparks outrage among Catholics and world leaders after posting an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the Pope, days ahead of the Vatican conclave to elect a new pontiff.
As the Catholic Church mourns the passing of Pope Francis and prepares for a historic conclave to elect his successor, US President Donald Trump has stirred global controversy by posting an AI-generated image depicting himself as the Pope. The post, shared through official White House social media channels late Friday, May 2, 2025, has drawn swift backlash from religious leaders, politicians, and Catholic faithful worldwide.
The image features Trump in full papal regalia—donning a white cassock, a bishop’s miter, and a large cross—striking a solemn pose with his finger raised. The timing of the post, coming less than two weeks after Pope Francis’ death on April 21 and just days before the conclave begins, has led many to interpret it as insensitive and even sacrilegious.
The New York State Catholic Conference, representing Catholic bishops across New York, was among the first to denounce the post. In a sharp rebuke on X (formerly Twitter), the group wrote:
“There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr. President. We just buried our beloved Pope Francis and the cardinals are about to enter a solemn conclave to elect a new successor of St. Peter. Do not mock us.”
The controversy intensified when Italian political figure and former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi condemned the post as offensive and inappropriate. “This is an image that offends believers, insults institutions, and shows that the leader of the right-wing world enjoys clowning around,” Renzi wrote in Italian.
Trump, who has previously made quips about religious leadership—including a recent joke to reporters saying, “I’d like to be Pope”—has once again found himself at the center of a culture war between faith, politics, and technology. The use of AI-generated imagery to depict religious figures or symbols has raised ethical questions, especially when involving current world leaders.
When questioned about the post during a Vatican press briefing, spokesman Matteo Bruni declined to comment, instead shifting focus to the upcoming conclave, which begins Wednesday. The conclave will see cardinals from around the world gather in Rome to elect the next spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics.
Meanwhile, the White House has pushed back on accusations of irreverence. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt released a statement defending the president’s intentions, saying: “President Trump flew to Italy to pay his respects to Pope Francis and attend his funeral. He has been a staunch champion for Catholics and religious liberty. The AI image was meant to reflect the seriousness with which he regards the Catholic Church, not mock it.”
Despite the administration’s attempt to downplay the backlash, critics argue that the incident underscores a growing problem in political communication—blurring the lines between satire, self-promotion, and faith during sensitive moments.
This isn’t the first time a US president has come under fire for behavior deemed disrespectful to the Catholic Church. Last year, then-President Joe Biden faced criticism from conservatives for making the sign of the cross during a pro-abortion rally in Florida.
As the conclave nears, focus in the Vatican and across the Catholic world remains on Pope Francis’ legacy and the future direction of the Church. However, the AI image scandal serves as a reminder of how rapidly evolving technologies—and the public figures who wield them—can influence global discourse in deeply personal and spiritual domains.
