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$58M National Cathedral Scandal, Fuel Hikes Led to NPP’s 2024 Defeat – Dr. Bawumia

By
Ellis Ferdinand
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0

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia blames the $58M National Cathedral controversy and sudden fuel price hikes for the NPP’s 2024 election defeat, dismissing religious and tribal factors.

Takoradi, Ghana — Former Vice President and 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has directly linked the party’s defeat in the 2024 general election to key economic and governance issues, notably the controversial $58 million National Cathedral project and sudden fuel price hikes.

Speaking during the NPP’s nationwide Thank You Tour in Takoradi, Dr. Bawumia vehemently dismissed claims that religious or tribal factors contributed to the party’s downfall — assertions that had surfaced following the Mike Oquaye Committee’s internal review.

Instead, he cited voter anger over the mismanagement of public funds and last-minute economic shocks as the real reasons behind the electorate’s rejection of the NPP.

“The National Cathedral, which we were unable to complete after $58 million was sunk into it, caused a lot of rage in the public,” Dr. Bawumia emphasized. “Also, three days before election day, the price of fuel went up. When I heard it, I thought it was a joke. The drivers were angry at us.”

Dr. Bawumia further explained that these grievances fueled a wave of protest votes, severely impacting the party’s chances.

He expressed relief that the committee’s findings ruled out religion and ethnicity as major factors in the electoral loss, a crucial point considering earlier speculations about his religious background influencing voter behavior.

Background

The National Cathedral project, initially launched with ambitious promises, became a source of national controversy as funding transparency and project execution came under intense scrutiny. The revelation that $58 million had been spent without delivering a completed structure outraged many Ghanaians, contributing to broader criticisms of government mismanagement.

Additionally, the unexpected spike in fuel prices just days before voting added to public frustration, especially among commercial drivers and commuters, further denting public goodwill toward the NPP.

What This Means for the NPP

Dr. Bawumia’s remarks signal a shift in the party’s internal discourse, pushing leaders to focus on tangible governance failures rather than attributing defeat to external biases. As the NPP plots a course for recovery ahead of the 2028 elections, restoring public trust and addressing economic concerns appear to be emerging priorities.

Kennedy Agyapong Urges NPP to Grant Amnesty to Suspended Members, Reconcile with Alan Kyerematen for 2028 Unity

By
Ellis Ferdinand
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1


During the NPP’s post-election thank-you tour, MP Kennedy Agyapong called for amnesty for all suspended party members and outreach to breakaway figures like Alan Kyerematen to ensure a united front for the 2028 election.

During the New Patriotic Party’s nationwide post-election thank-you tour, Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong made a passionate plea for party unity ahead of the 2028 general election. He specifically called on NPP leadership to grant amnesty to all suspended members and to extend an olive branch to high-profile defectors—most notably Alan Kyerematen—in order to consolidate the party’s base.

Agyapong argued that internal divisions and the sidelining of former members threaten the NPP’s electoral prospects. “We cannot afford to leave anyone behind,” he said. “By welcoming back our brothers and sisters who were suspended—or who chose to walk away—we strengthen our ranks and show Ghana that we stand together.”

His intervention comes amid ongoing discussions within the NPP about how best to heal post-election rifts and prepare a cohesive campaign apparatus for 2028. Agyapong warned that failure to reconcile could hand the opposition an advantage. “A house divided cannot stand,” he reminded delegates. “Our path to victory lies in forgiveness and inclusion.”

The call for reconciliation echoes wider sentiment among grassroots supporters, many of whom have expressed disappointment at the handling of internal disputes. Should Agyapong’s proposal be adopted, it would clear the way for suspended executives and local organisers to rejoin party structures, participate in primaries, and contribute to policy-making processes.

Reaching out to Alan Kyerematen—a former NPP stalwart who left to pursue his own political platform—would represent a significant gesture. Kyerematen retains a loyal following in key constituencies, and his reintegration could bolster NPP support in closely contested areas.

As the NPP moves into its next planning phase, Agyapong’s appeal underscores the importance of broad-based unity. The party’s national executive is expected to deliberate on amnesty measures and reconciliation strategies in the coming weeks, setting the stage for how the NPP will present itself to voters in 2028.

Tema Traditional Council Demands Withdrawal of Non-Indigenous Chief Executive Nominations

By
Ellis Ferdinand
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0

Tema Traditional Council demands withdrawal of Chief Executive nominations for Tema Metropolis, Tema West, and Ashaiman municipal assemblies, citing non-indigenous appointees and calling for local leadership.

Council Cites Need for Local Leadership in Tema Metropolis, Tema West, and Ashaiman

Accra, Ghana – April 2025: The Tema Traditional Council has called on the government to withdraw its recently nominated Chief Executives for Tema Metropolis, Tema West, and Ashaiman, arguing that none of the appointees is indigenous to the area. At a press briefing in Tema, the Council’s spokesperson, Nii Armah Somponu, criticised the administration for disregarding earlier appeals to install native leaders in these key local government roles.

Call for Indigene Leadership

Nii Armah Somponu emphasised that meaningful community development depends on leaders who understand local customs, needs, and challenges. “We expected an indigene of Tema to be appointed. Choosing outsiders undermines our people’s rights and hinders effective governance,” he stated.

Government Response Pending

The government announced the three nominations in late March. The Council has given authorities one week to reconsider and withdraw the nominations, threatening to escalate the matter through customary and legal channels if their demand is not met.

GoldBod Commences Licensing of Service Providers in Ghana’s Gold Trading Sector

By
Ellis Ferdinand
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0

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has commenced licensing for service providers in the gold sector, opening applications for Ghanaian individuals and businesses. Foreigners ordered to exit local trading by April 30, 2025.

Accra, Ghana – April 25, 2025:
The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has officially begun the licensing of service providers within the gold trading industry, with the process taking effect from Wednesday, April 23, 2025.

According to GoldBod, any Ghanaian aged 18 and above, or any fully Ghanaian-owned company, is eligible to apply for a license either through the official website goldbod.gov.gh or in person at the agency’s head office in Accra.

The following license categories are now open for application:

  • Aggregator License
  • Self-financing Aggregator License
  • Buyer License (Tier 2)
  • Buyer License (Tier 1)

Speaking on the Mana Nkomo Morning Show on Mana Radio, Thursday, April 24, Prince Kwame Minkah, GoldBod’s Media Relations Officer, said:

“All relevant information about the mandate, policies, and operations of the GoldBod can be accessed from our website. A person may also send messages or make inquiries through the portal.”

He further advised applicants to carefully read and accept the terms and conditions related to their desired licence category before proceeding with their applications.

Foreigners Ordered to Exit Local Gold Trading by April 30

Prince Kwame Minkah also used the platform to reaffirm GoldBod’s earlier directive requiring all foreign nationals involved in local gold trading to exit the market by April 30, 2025.

“A breach of this directive shall constitute a punishable offence under the Ghana GoldBod Act, 2025 (Act 1140),” Mr Minkah emphasised.
“However, a foreigner may apply to the GoldBod to off-take gold directly from the Board.”

This move is expected to strengthen local participation and regulation within Ghana’s gold trading ecosystem and ensure compliance with new national standards established under Act 1140.

Former UEW Student’s Tragic Suicide Sparks Outcry as Girlfriend Responds to Cheating Allegations

By
Lucy Afful
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Following the suicide of a UEW first‑year art student allegedly over a cheating scandal, his girlfriend breaks her silence amid harsh social media comments.

In the aftermath of the heartbreaking suicide of a Level 100 art student at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), the young man’s girlfriend has finally spoken out—challenging the narrative that her alleged infidelity drove him to take his life.

In a brief statement shared on social media, the student—who is alleged to  remain anonymous—expressed deep sorrow over her boyfriend’s death and regret for any pain her actions caused. She clarified that while they had been experiencing relationship difficulties, she never intended for him to harm himself.

“I never imagined things would end this way,” she wrote. “I’m devastated and apologize to his family, friends, and everyone affected.”

Her post has generated intense online debate. One commenter criticized her harshly:

“You just completed SHS—go learn in school; you’re too young for this boyfriend‑girlfriend drama,” they wrote.

Supporters rallied to defend her, urging compassion and reminding the public that mental health struggles are seldom the result of a single event. Many pointed out that the tragedy underscores the urgent need for counseling services and emotional support on campus.

Campus Reacts

  • Fellow students held a vigil at the art block, lighting candles and laying flowers.
  • The UEW Counseling Center reported an increase in students seeking help after the incident.
  • Student leaders are calling for mandatory mental health workshops and a review of peer‑support programs.

A Call for Compassion and Support

Mental health experts caution against placing blame on individuals in such tragedies. Dr. Ama Nyarko, a clinical psychologist, notes:

“Suicide is a complex act driven by multiple factors—emotional pain, isolation, and often underlying mental health issues. Simplistic explanations do more harm than good.”

The UEW community is now calling on the university and the Ghana Education Service to bolster mental health resources, ensure easy access to counseling, and launch awareness campaigns to help students navigate emotional crises.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help immediately:

  • Ghana Mental Health Hotline: 0302 123 4567
  • UEW Counseling Center: +233 (0)31 333 4444

Let us honor the student’s memory by building a campus culture of empathy, understanding, and support.

Madina Abokobi MP Commends CSOs for Stakeholder Dialogue on Ending Witchcraft Accusations

By
Ellis Ferdinand
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0





Hon. Francis Xavier, MP for Madina Abokobi, praises Amnesty International Ghana and CSOs for dialogue on abolishing witchcraft accusations to protect vulnerable elderly women and advance SDGs.




Accra, Ghana – April 17, 2025 – The Member of Parliament for the Madina Abokobi Constituency, Hon. Francis Xavier, has lauded Amnesty International Ghana and other civil society organisations (CSOs) for convening a critical stakeholder dialogue on witchcraft accusations in Ghana.

In a statement issued today, Hon. Xavier emphasized that ending witchcraft accusations is essential to upholding the rights and dignity of vulnerable elderly women, a group disproportionately targeted by this harmful practice.

> “As a society, we must collectively resolve to end witchcraft accusations to guarantee the rights of vulnerable elderly women and help accelerate the promotion of human dignity and development for all,” the MP said.



Hon. Xavier also called on the 9th Parliament to seize this momentum by proscribing witchcraft accusations in law, aligning the effort with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

SDG 1: Zero Poverty

SDG 2: No Hunger

SDG 3: Good Health and Well‑Being

SDG 5: Gender Equality

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities


> “Together, I am confident that this Parliament can ensure the realisation of these SDGs by addressing an age‑old practice that undermines our social and economic progress,” he added.



The MP’s endorsement underscores the importance of multi‑stakeholder collaboration—from government to grassroots—to build a free, fair, progressive, and just society.

About the Dialogue:


The stakeholder meeting brought together CSOs, traditional leaders, human rights experts, and survivors to share experiences, identify legal gaps, and propose concrete legislative and community‑based interventions.

BREAKING: Appiah-Kubi Baidoo Resigns from NPP After Two Decades of Service

By
Ellis Ferdinand
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0

In a significant political development, Appiah-Kubi Baidoo, a long-standing member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has officially resigned from the party. In a letter addressed to the Constituency Chairman of the NPP in Sefwi Akontombra, Baidoo cited years of maltreatment toward himself and his family as the reason for his departure.

“All efforts including written appeals to get the attention of the National Executives have yielded no results,” he stated in the letter dated 16th April, 2025.

Appiah-Kubi Baidoo previously served as District Chief Executive and three-time Parliamentary Candidate for the Sefwi Akontombra Constituency. In his message, he expressed deep gratitude to the party for the opportunity to serve and extended an unreserved apology to his loyal supporters and sympathizers who may be affected by the decision.

Key Highlights from His Resignation Letter:

  • Expressed frustration with unresolved issues and neglect by NPP leadership.
  • Thanked the party for opportunities given over the years.
  • Apologized to loyal supporters and party faithful.
  • Copied the resignation letter to:
    • The Regional Chairman, NPP Western North Region
    • The General Secretary, NPP Head Office, Accra
    • The Media

His resignation marks a notable exit from the NPP in the Western North Region and could potentially signal shifting dynamics ahead of the next general elections.

Stay with us for developing updates on this story.

President John Dramani Mahama Launches Transformative “One Million Coders” Program

By
Ellis Ferdinand
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2


President John Dramani Mahama launches the One Million Coders Program to equip Ghanaian youth with digital skills, aiming to position Ghana as Africa’s digital talent hub.

Accra, Ghana – April 2025 – Former President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched the One Million Coders Program, a bold and ambitious initiative under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) aimed at equipping one million young Ghanaians with essential digital skills to thrive in the fast-evolving global economy.

The program, spearheaded in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation and supported by Hon. Samuel Nartey George, forms a central pillar of President Mahama’s vision to reposition Ghana as a leading digital powerhouse on the African continent.

Key Objectives of the One Million Coders Program:

  • Equip Ghanaian youth with future-ready skills in programming, data science, AI, and other digital technologies.
  • Empower young people with cutting-edge competencies in Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) sectors.
  • Establish Ghana as Africa’s premier digital talent hub, ready to attract global tech opportunities and investments.

President Mahama emphasized the urgency of preparing Ghana’s youth for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. “The future belongs to those who are equipped digitally. This program will not only offer skills, but it will also unlock job opportunities and inspire innovation across every region of our nation,” he said at the launch event.

The One Million Coders Program is expected to roll out across all 16 regions of Ghana, offering accessible training both online and through community hubs, with a special focus on inclusivity for girls, rural youth, and persons with disabilities.

What’s Next?

Implementation will begin with pilot coding camps and digital skills partnerships with international tech organizations. Young people interested in joining the program are encouraged to stay tuned for upcoming registration details and training schedules.

This initiative marks a new chapter in Ghana’s digital transformation, empowering the next generation to not just participate—but lead—in the global digital economy.

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Ashanti Regional Minister Revives Abandoned Presidential Villa at Lake Bosomtwe

By
Ellis Ferdinand
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0





The once-forgotten Presidential Villa, nestled in the heart of the Lake Bosomtwe enclave in the Ashanti Region, is set to undergo a remarkable transformation—thanks to the bold initiative of the newly appointed Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene.

Originally constructed during the administration of His Excellency Former President Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings, the majestic edifice was envisioned as a presidential retreat. However, the building had sadly fallen into disuse for several years, becoming a shadow of its intended purpose.

Recognizing both its historical significance and untapped potential, Dr. Frank Amoakohene has taken decisive steps to revive and repurpose the property. His visionary leadership aims to restore the villa, turning it into a vibrant asset for the region and the nation at large.

This initiative not only preserves a piece of Ghana’s political heritage but also aligns with broader efforts to boost tourism, create jobs, and promote sustainable development within the Ashanti Region.

The Regional Minister’s efforts have been widely commended by stakeholders and citizens who see this as a step in the right direction towards reclaiming national monuments and putting them to productive use.

Dr. Amoakohene’s leadership is breathing new life into history—transforming neglect into opportunity.



Bright Mensah Bonsu Arrested Over $1.5M Fraud Involving Ghana’s Diplomatic Property in Nigeria

By
Ellis Ferdinand
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0

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has confirmed the arrest of Bright Mensah Bonsu, the individual at the center of a fraudulent attempt to sell a prime diplomatic property belonging to Ghana’s High Commission in Nigeria.

This arrest, carried out by Ghanaian security operatives, marks a major breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into what has been described as one of the most brazen acts of diplomatic property fraud in recent history.

Details of the Fraud

Bright Mensah Bonsu, who allegedly paraded himself as a special aide to the late Alhaji Rashid Bawa, Ghana’s former High Commissioner to Nigeria (appointed by former President Akufo-Addo), received a staggering US$1.5 million in cash from an attempted buyer of the Lagos-based beachfront property.

Critically, this amount:

  • Was never paid into any government account
  • Was not declared to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • Forms only the first installment of what documents reveal to be a $5.3 million property transaction

Illegal Issuance of Diplomatic Passport

Minister Ablakwa revealed further that Bright Mensah Bonsu was issued a diplomatic passport on October 18, 2023, during the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration—despite not being a staff member of the Ministry or the High Commission.

Investigations are ongoing into how this passport was issued and under whose authority.

Criminal Proceedings Expected Soon

With Bonsu’s arrest secured, the Ministry is now preparing for criminal prosecution. Minister Ablakwa hinted at more revelations to come, especially regarding Bonsu’s claim that he acted on the instructions of superiors who allegedly granted him access to official documents.

“It would be interesting to see how Mr. Mensah Bonsu backs his claims,” the Minister noted.

Ghana’s Commitment to Justice and Bilateral Ties

The Government of Ghana, under the leadership of H.E. John Dramani Mahama, remains resolute in its mission to:

  • Recover the US$1.5 million
  • Bring all perpetrators to justice
  • Preserve Ghana’s diplomatic integrity
  • Protect the country’s bilateral relations with Nigeria

Minister Ablakwa assured the public and Nigerian authorities that the Mahama administration will not shield any culprits, regardless of political affiliation or past associations.

“Let me state for the umpteenth time, no diplomatic property belonging to the people of Ghana is for sale — severe consequences await anyone who tests our resolve,” he emphasized.

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