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Mahama Reassures Labour: ECG Will Not Be Sold.

President John Mahama has assured Ghanaians that the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) will remain state-owned. It will not be privatised. This assurance addresses ongoing concerns regarding the country’s power sector.

During his address at the May Day celebration at Black Star Square, the President spoke on Thursday, May 1. He directly addressed the rising concerns about the potential privatisation of ECG. He made it clear that his administration has no intention of selling the state-owned power distributor.

“Let me assure you that it is not my intention to privatise ECG as an institution. Our attention is more on public-private collaboration to inject efficiency into our downstream electricity distribution system,” the President stated.

He elaborated on the financial challenges facing ECG. He also discussed the operational challenges, including its heavy debt burden and inefficiencies. These issues are threatening the stability of the entire power sector.

“The ECG has been brought to its knees by a culture of poor governance over the last eight years, with a debt of GH¢68 billion and rising. If we do not do something drastic, our whole power sector will collapse. We can only bring down power tariffs if we improve efficiency in the distribution of power,” he explained.

President Mahama proposed that public-private partnerships could be a practical solution. He pointed to a successful model from his earlier term in office as an example.

“When I was President, in the free zones, a private company, Enclave Power, was given the right of metering and billing in the free zone. ECG provided them with a bulk supply of power.

“They pay ECG, and until today, they still pay ECG monthly on time. Their billing and collection in the free zones enclave is 99% of revenue collected,” he shared.

He said this example illustrates how partnerships with private firms can enhance operational efficiency without the need to transfer ownership.

“I am confident that through public-private partnerships, we can make our electricity distribution system more effective, but I assure you that ECG as an institution will not be privatised,” President Mahama stressed.

Mahama Commits to Providing Decent Jobs and Economic Stability as Ghana Celebrates Workers’ Day

President John Dramani Mahama has once again reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to providing decent jobs. He is committed to fostering economic stability. Additionally, he ensures social justice for workers as Ghana celebrates this year’s May Day.

In a message shared on his official Facebook page, President Mahama paid tribute to the hard work of Ghanaian workers, calling them the “engine of our economy, the builders of our infrastructure, and the innovators who propel us forward.” He commended their unrelenting efforts, resilience, and their vital contribution to the country’s development.

The theme for this year’s May Day, “Striving for Peace and Stability to Drive Industrialisation, Trade, and Decent Work for Social Justice,” resonated with the President, who emphasized the need for sustainable policies that promote economic growth and equitable working conditions.

“My government recognises and deeply values the pivotal role of the Ghanaian worker in driving our national development agenda,” Mahama stated. He further emphasized that his administration is focused on creating a conducive environment where workers can thrive and help “Reset Ghana.”

President Mahama highlighted recent actions taken within the first four months of his return to office. These actions include measures aimed at stabilising the economy. He is advancing industrialisation through the value addition of raw materials. Additionally, he is expanding job opportunities in light manufacturing and related sectors.

He also highlighted Ghana’s expanding trade partnerships within Africa. These partnerships are crucial for opening new markets for local goods and services. A key part of this strategy, he mentioned, is the government’s flagship 24-hour economy initiative.

As part of his 120-day social contract, Mahama reaffirmed his pledge to deliver decent work for all Ghanaians. He is focusing on fair wages, safe workplaces, and skills development. He is also safeguarding workers’ rights.

“Only yesterday, the National Youth Authority launched the National Apprenticeship Programme, closely following the introduction of the Adwumawura and One Million Coders programmes,” Mahama said, noting that these initiatives aim to create skilled workers and dignified employment opportunities.

The President acknowledged the ongoing challenges of inflation, unemployment, and infrastructure gaps. He assured Ghanaians that the government is committed to addressing these issues head-on.

He also guaranteed continued investments in education, skills development, and infrastructure. Roads and energy are particularly crucial components of the country’s economic transformation.

In his closing remarks, President Mahama called for enhanced cooperation between employers and workers. He urged all parties to foster mutual respect. He also emphasized collective responsibility in creating a prosperous and just Ghana.

“Let us work together to create a more prosperous and equitable Ghana, where every citizen can contribute their talents and skills to national development,” he said, ending his message with the hashtags #ResettingGhana #LetsBuildGhanaTogether.

Afenyo Markin Describes Nomination of Seven Judges to the Supreme Court as Part of Mahama’s Third-Term Agenda

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo Markin has strongly criticised President John Mahama’s recent nomination. Seven Court of Appeal judges were nominated to the Supreme Court. He calls it a subtle attempt to push for a third term in office.

Afenyo-Markin spoke during a press conference hosted by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Thursday, May 1. He warned about the significant threat posed by this move. It endangers the balance of power and independence of Ghana’s judiciary.

“This is not a routine judicial appointment. What we are witnessing is a calculated and deliberate attempt to fill the Supreme Court with loyalists,” he remarked.

“The nomination of seven Court of Appeal judges, immediately following the suspension of the Chief Justice, points to a deeper, more concerning political agenda—essentially, a third-term plan under the guise of judicial appointments,” he added.

The Minority Leader accused the president of undermining democratic governance and the core principles of the Constitution. He suggested that such actions could diminish public confidence in the judiciary and destabilise Ghana’s democratic institutions.

“This is not the way a responsible government strengthens the rule of law. This is how a government seeks to consolidate its power through indirect means,” Afenyo-Markin stated.

He urged civil society, religious leaders, and the general public to stay alert. He encouraged them to speak out against what he described as an attack on the judiciary.

“We cannot afford to remain silent. This is a national issue that transcends political parties. The integrity of our justice system is in jeopardy, and we must resist any efforts to turn it into a political instrument,” he concluded.

The GoldBod Security Taskforce has apprehended three individuals suspected of smuggling gold.

GoldBod Security Taskforce has captured 3 suspected gold smugglers. Indian nationals Goutam Katriya (35), Miraj Sarvaych (22), and Manash Damani (42) are reportedly involved in gold trading. They are active in Kumasi and Accra. They are said to operate under the Unique MM company, which is reportedly owned by Musah Salifu.

They were picked up at a private residence near Atinga Junction in Kumasi. The residence had been transformed into an unlawful hub for gold trade.

The suspects were arrested. A patriotic whistleblower alerted authorities about their purchase of gold at “black market” prices. They allegedly bought it for smuggling purposes. They were brought before the Achimota Circuit Court on Monday, April 28, and remanded into custody for two weeks.

During the press conference in Accra on Tuesday, April 29, Chief Superintendent Osman Alhassan was present. He is the Director of Investigations at National Security. He disclosed significant findings. They obtained considerable evidence during the operation.

The items seized comprised GH¢1.9 million, 4,500 Indian rupees, 4.363 kilograms of gold, two counting machines, a CCTV recorder, and an Indian passport. Initial inquiries, based on his statement, have determined a significant finding. All suspects lack a legitimate permit to purchase or exchange gold in Ghana.

Furthermore, the trio are rumoured to have been active in Ghana’s gold industry for more than ten years. They have not presented proof of a residency permit. They also lack an employment permit or tax documentation.

Goutam Katriya is suspected to be the actual beneficial owner and controller. Additional information revealed that Musah Salifu is the listed Ghanaian shareholder of Unique MM. He is being used as a cover. Chief Superintendent Alhassan cautioned both local and foreign individuals. They must adhere to the regulations set forth in the Ghana Gold Board Act. This act and other laws govern the trade of gold within the country.

“This arrest is only the beginning of GoldBod’s ruthless war against illegal gold trading and smuggling. We know that the arrested suspects smuggle gold through unapproved border points into India. This has serious negative consequences for the Ghanaian economy. We are still gathering intelligence on several illegal gold traders and smugglers. And very soon, we shall take necessary action,” he said.

The NIB will retain custody of the suspects until their next court appearance on May 12, 2025. In the meantime, GoldBod stands firm on its initial order. All non-nationals involved in gold trading must leave the market by April 30, 2025.

It specifies that all gold dealings should occur in Ghana cedis. These transactions must use the Bank of Ghana Reference Rate. In a press release dated April 23, 2025, GoldBod announced that violating these regulations would be a punishable offense. This is per the GoldBod Act, 2025 (Act 1140).

The scheduled Bawku peace negotiations have been postponed. The Manhyia Palace will confirm a new date.

The ongoing efforts to settle the longstanding conflict in Bawku have been delayed. This information comes from sources at the Manhyia Palace. The resolution is postponed until next week. The delay is caused by the complex issues surrounding the chieftaincy dispute. These issues have been hindering progress in the peace process. The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is leading the effort. He was initially expected to make significant strides on Monday, April 28.

The Manhyia Palace has not yet announced a new date for the resumption of the mediation sessions. Otumfuo’s participation in the peace effort has been warmly embraced nationwide. His leadership is viewed as a potential catalyst for lasting peace and stability in the troubled region.

The mediation was initially scheduled from April 28 to May 1. It was set to take place at the Manhyia Palace. This was part of broader national endeavours to ease tensions in Bawku.

Kumasi | Ashanti Region

The MahamaCares initiative aims to safeguard lives, maintain dignity, and enhance Ghana’s healthcare system.

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also called the ‘MahamaCares’ initiative, has been officially introduced by the Government of Ghana. This new healthcare intervention strives to safeguard lives, uphold dignity, and fortify the nation’s healthcare infrastructure.

At the launch event on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh praised the initiative. He described it as a significant advancement. It marks progress in the country’s support for individuals battling chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). These diseases include cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney failure, and stroke.

” This is a promise fulfilled,” he emphasized. He recalled that the creation of this fund was a significant commitment. President John Dramani Mahama made this commitment during the 2024 election race. The fund’s purpose is to provide financial assistance. It targets those facing chronic illnesses. These illnesses are often accompanied by high costs and challenges in treatment.

Per the World Health Organization, NCDs were responsible for 75% of deaths around the globe this year, excluding pandemics. In Ghana, they contribute to 43% of all fatalities. They have a greater effect on the most productive demographic, which is 18-45 year olds.

Minister Akandoh emphasized that chronic diseases in Ghana have an average treatment cost of GHS 53,000 per patient annually. This causes financial struggles for over 60% of households. These households deal with these illnesses. A significant portion of their non-food income is allocated towards healthcare expenses. He stressed the urgency of taking action to prevent families from sliding into poverty due to illness.

The Mahama Care Fund aims to address gaps in healthcare coverage. These are gaps that the National Health Insurance Scheme does not currently address. This will involve providing specialist-level treatment and promoting early diagnosis. Moreover, it includes initiatives to enhance the capacity of our healthcare workforce through training programs.

The latest public poll revealed strong backing for the project. A notable 79% of Ghanaians expressed their belief in the necessity of the fund. More than half indicated their willingness to make regular contributions.

Three key accomplishments have been reached thus far. We have formulated a comprehensive policy document. We have finalized a draft bill for presentation to Parliament. We eliminated a significant financial obstacle by lifting the National Health Insurance Fund cap.

The Minister urged all health organizations and collaborators to fully support the execution of the fund. He stated, “Together, we can ensure the success of this life-changing initiative.”

8 Confirmed Dead, Others in Critical Condition After Accident on Yeji-Kumasi Highway

Eight individuals have been confirmed dead following a tragic accident on the Yeji-Kumasi Highway in the Bono East Region. Approximately 11 others are reported to be in critical condition after the incident, which took place around 5:30 p.m. on Monday, April 28, 2025, near Nyumuase in the Atebubu-Amantin Municipality.

The injured passengers are currently receiving medical care at Mathias Hospital in Yeji. The accident involved a minibus, with registration number AS 4360-23, carrying 19 passengers traveling from Ejura to Yeji.

The victims were believed to be business people engaged in cattle trading. They returned home from their daily activities. That is when the crash occurred.

According to reports, the driver was speeding and lost control after hitting a pothole, which caused the crash. The Pru East District Chief Executive (DCE), Abdul-Nasir Dauda, has linked the accident to the road’s poor condition. The problem is between Amantin and Yeji. He has urged drivers to be extra cautious while traveling along that stretch of the highway.

On a somber note, some of the deceased are expected to be buried today, April 29, 2025, by Islamic tradition.

Thaddeus Sory Critiques GBA’s Inaction on Past Judicial Misconduct

Renowned legal practitioner Thaddeus Sory has criticized the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) for what he sees as selective activism and a conspicuous silence in the face of past judicial misconduct. In a statement issued on April 29, he called into question the legal and moral integrity of the Bar’s recent resolution demanding the reinstatement of the suspended Chief Justice and the withdrawal of the Acting Chief Justice’s administrative directive.

“It took two whole days for the Bar’s resolution to even see the light of day,” Mr Sory remarked, questioning both the timing and the sincerity behind the Association’s position, which was passed on Saturday, April 26, but only became public on Tuesday, April 29.

He was particularly critical of the GBA’s demand for the President to revoke the suspension of the Chief Justice, calling the request “legally flawed and disrespectful.”

Thaddeus Sory: Revoke and Suspend the Bar

The GBA’s resolution argued that the President’s actions were “unconstitutional” and taken “in the absence of a published Constitutional Instrument, Statutory Instrument or Regulation(s),” according to Article 296 of the 1992 Constitution. However, Sory rejected this reasoning.

“Article 146(10) of the 1992 Constitution clearly states: ‘… the President may, acting in accordance with the advice of the Council of State, suspend the Chief Justice.’ This means that unless there is advice from the Council of State, the President cannot suspend the Chief Justice,” Sory explained.

“The word ‘may’ here does not grant discretion to act unilaterally. Once advised by the Council of State, the President is constitutionally bound to act—he must suspend.”

But Sory didn’t stop at constitutional interpretation. He pointed out the GBA’s silence in the face of administrative overreach by the now-suspended Chief Justice.

“When she was in office, the Bar raised no objections as she reassigned judges and altered case allocations,” Sory wrote. “Did they then suggest she rely on an algorithm or random generator to assign cases?”

Sory further alleged that unconstitutional and unlawful administrative guidelines were issued under the Chief Justice’s leadership, leading to “financial loss to the Republic through ill-conceived launches.”

He said bluntly, “Where was the Bar when the suspended Chief Justice issued unconstitutional and unlawful administrative guidelines and practice directions?”

If the GBA claims ignorance of these actions, Sory insisted that defence would not be valid: “I wrote publicly on those very matters.”

He accused the Bar of inconsistency, hypocrisy, and politicizing the law.

“The Bar’s position implies that the powers of the office are personal to the suspended Chief Justice,” he said, countering that the administrative authority to assign cases lies with the office of the Chief Justice, not the individual.

“Therefore, anyone constitutionally recognized as the Chief Justice, including one serving in an acting capacity, is empowered by law and practice to assign cases.”

Thaddeus Sory ended by challenging the Bar to test its claims in court.

“There is no need for threats or rhetorical outrage. If the Bar believes it has a case, let it go to court. But history is not on their side. Past attempts have yielded embarrassing defeats.”

In one of his most striking statements, Sory drew a clear line between legal principle and institutional entitlement: “The law is not in the bosom of the Bar!”