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“Appointments Committee is Not a Rubber Stamp” – Bernard Ahiafor

By
Ivy Hollys
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Bernard Ahiafor

The Chairperson of Parliament’s Appointments Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, has dismissed allegations that the committee is merely a rubber stamp for approving ministerial nominees. His defense comes amid growing concerns over the speed at which the committee has vetted over 40 nominees within two weeks.

Many argue that the committee is failing to exercise its role in providing oversight. However, Ahiafor insists that the committee has adhered strictly to constitutional requirements.

“As a matter of fact, the committee is not a rubber stamp. What is it that the committee should do in vetting the nominees that the committee have not done?,” he quizzed.

According to him, Article 78 of the Constitution sets out the qualifications for a Minister of State, aligning them with those of a Member of Parliament as outlined in Article 94. He pointed out that many of the nominees were already MPs, making them constitutionally qualified for ministerial positions.

He said, “The constitution in Article 78 indicates clearly that for you to qualify to be a Minister of State, you must otherwise qualify to be a Member of Parliament. The qualification of a Member of Parliament is spelled out in Article 94. So most of the people that we have even vetted so far are all Members of Parliament. So it means that [per] constitution, they are qualified to be Ministers of State.”

He also challenged the notion that a shorter vetting duration compromises the process, emphasizing that the nominees’ competence and policy knowledge are thoroughly examined. “Their [nominees] vetting should be linked to their knowledge, policies in relation to their various fields, their competency to be able to do that. So I do not see the public judging the committee for not doing two days’ vetting for a nominee to be a rubber stamp,” Bernard Ahiafor explained.

Did the Appointments Committee Deny Ghanaians the Opportunity to Submit Memoranda?

Another major criticism is that the committee did not allow the general public to submit memoranda regarding the nominees. Critics argue that the process lacked transparency and limited public participation. Bernard Ahiafor, however, refuted this claim.

“We have always been publishing papers requesting a memoranda. The publications are there to speak for the committee. There is no single committee vetting without publication in papers requesting a memoranda. So for every single committee vetting, we did so,” he asserted.

However, he admitted that in some cases, the period for submitting memoranda was short. “If the public is complaining that for some of them the memoranda, the publication requesting for memoranda was too short, then I will agree. But in this case, we are always guided by our standing order.”

He further justified the urgency in some cases, citing two ministerial nominees who had to be vetted quickly. He said, “Two of the ministers were under some imperative to conduct the vetting so that they can travel outside the country in a designated capacity to solve a problem regarding our energy sector.”

Call for Transparency and Due Process

Despite Bernard Ahiafor’s assurances, public concern over the pace of the vetting process and the level of scrutiny remains high. Many Ghanaians believe that the vetting should be more thorough, with adequate time for public participation and deeper questioning of nominees.

With growing calls for parliamentary reforms, the debate over whether the Appointments Committee is effectively fulfilling its mandate is likely to continue. 

Read also: Parliament’s Appointments Committee: The Suspensions, Chaos, and Allegations 

Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) Expels Worldwide Securities Limited Over Compliance Violations

By
Ivy Hollys
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ghana stock exchange

The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) has expelled Worldwide Securities Limited (WSL) for multiple regulatory breaches, barring it from trading activities.

A statement from the GSE confirmed that WSL failed to renew its Broker-Dealer license with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The Exchange cited Rule 9(2)(e) of its Dealing Membership Rules, which mandates firms to maintain a valid license.

WSL also defaulted on financial obligations to the GSE, violating Rule 9(2)(b), which requires timely payment of dues.

Additionally, the firm lacked the required activity threshold for broker-dealer operations,  breaching Rules 6(L) Exchange’s regulations.

With this expulsion, WSL can no longer trade securities, manage investments, or operate as a GSE member.

The Exchange has advised affected clients to transfer their accounts and assets to other licensed brokers. The Exchange has advised affected clients to transfer their accounts and assets to other Licensed Dealing Members.

This action reinforces the GSE’s commitment to enforcing compliance and safeguarding investor confidence in Ghana’s financial markets.

Source: Citinewsroom

Parliament intensifies security to prevent suspended MPs entry.

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Security intensifies in Parliament

Security in Ghana’s Parliament has intensified, with police presence and barricades at the entry of parliament, to prevent the four suspended Members of Parliament entry into the chamber for proceedings.

Majority Chief Whip and MP for South Dayi, Rockson Nelson Dafeamakpor; the Minority Chief Whip and MP for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Frank Annor-Dompreh, the MP for Gushiegu, Alhassan Sulemana Tampuuli, and the MP for Weija-Gbawe, Jerry Ahmed Shaib were suspended for two weeks by Speaker Alban Bagbin on 31st January, 2025 following their involvement in the chaos during the vetting at the Appointments Committee sitting.

Ahead of parliamentary sitting today at 12 noon, security has been heightened, with heavy police presence to enforce the absence of these four MPs in the chamber.

However, the minority caucus continues to protest suspension of its members, demanding and fair hearing before sanctioning.

Written by: Cindy Adasah Boamah

Ashanti Region: Suame car dealers lose millions to fire.

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Fire Outbreak at Suame
Aftermath of fire outbreak at Suame

A devastating fire has ravaged a section of the Suame Garage in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, causing significant financial losses estimated in millions of cedis. The blaze, which broke out late on the night of Friday, January 31, destroyed numerous workshops and left spare part dealers and other business owners in despair. Thankfully, no one was injured in the incident.

Victims of the fire speculate that an electrical fault may have been the cause of the blaze. Many expressed their frustration over the loss of their property, noting that they were unable to salvage any items from their shops or workshops. With no clear plan for recovery, the affected individuals are left uncertain about their next steps.

Additionally, the victims voiced their dissatisfaction with the Ghana National Fire Service, criticizing their delayed response to the emergency. The fire’s widespread damage was exacerbated by the slow arrival of the fire service, which many believe allowed the fire to cause even greater harm.

In light of the tragedy, shop owners in the area have called on the leadership of the Ghana National Association of Garages to push for the establishment of a nearby fire station. They believe this would ensure a quicker and more effective response to future fire outbreaks, potentially saving businesses and preventing further devastation in the region.

Football Hooliganism in Ghana: Tragedy Strikes as Kotoko Fan Dies Amid Violence

By
Ivy Hollys
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football hooliganism in Ghana

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has banned Nsoatreman FC from using its home venue indefinitely. This follows violent incidents during a Ghana Premier League match between Kumasi Asante Kotoko and Nsoatreman FC on Sunday.

A Disturbing Pattern of Violence

Football-related violence is not new in Ghana. Similar incidents have occurred over the years, including a brutal attack on Real Tamale United players at the same venue four years ago. The latest case, however, turned fatal.

Francis Frimpong, a Kumasi Asante Kotoko supporter, lost his life during the chaotic scenes at the field in Nsoatreman. Reports indicate that tensions escalated even before the match began.

In a statement, Kotoko condemned the violence and called for stricter measures against hooliganism. “Asante Kotoko strongly condemns the violent and unacceptable incidents that marred our Ghana Premier League Match week 19 fixture against Nsoatreman FC at the Nana Koramansah Park.” the club stated. They also alleged that missiles were thrown at their bench on multiple occasions, which created an unsafe environment for their players and officials. They said the situation escalated further when their Head of Media suffered a serious ear injury after being struck by an object.

Eyewitness Accounts and Events Leading to the Tragedy

Witnesses revealed that Nsoatreman FC owner Ignatius Baffour-Awuah, a former Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, attempted to calm tensions when fights broke out. He reportedly called Kwesi Appiah to intervene, but fans advised Appiah to stay away.

When Baffour-Awuah returned to his seat, witnesses claim the club owner pushed Frimpong, which the fans mistook for an altercation. The fans therefore joined the fray, and beat up Frimpong. Afterwards he was seen sitting with Kwesi Appiah but Appiah later rose to go change his clothes since he had been pelted. 

Reports suggest he was found later with a fatal wound on his upper left side. A medical officer who followed the ambulance to Nsoatreman Ghana Health Center stated that Frimpong likely died at the stadium before reaching the hospital.

Conflicting Statements and Investigations

Nsoatreman FC released a statement suggesting that Frimpong’s death resulted from an altercation near a drinking spot. However, their account has faced scrutiny. The GFA has swiftly acted, banning Nsoatreman FC’s venue and reporting the matter to the police. Authorities have launched an investigation, and sources indicate that arrests could be made soon.

Additionally, CAF has requested a detailed report from the GFA. The association’s head of security, Jonathan Ankrah, was expected to submit the report by 10 a.m. today.

This tragic incident has once again highlighted Ghana’s problem with football hooliganism. Fans and analysts alike demand stricter security measures and harsher penalties for offenders.

Read the full statements of Asante Kotoko Sporting Club and Nsoatreman FC below: 

Asante Kotoko sports club: Football
Nsoatreman FC statement

Parliamentary Tensions: Afenyo-Markin’s Outburst and Allegations Against Clerk 

By
Ivy Hollys
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Afenyo-markin

Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin the minority leader, had openly confronted the Clerk of the Committee, accusing her of bias and procedural lapses. His actions have since sparked widespread debate, with some questioning the conduct of parliamentary leaders and the integrity of the vetting process.

Speaking on JoyNews’ The Probe, Afenyo-Markin defended his actions, insisting that his frustrations stemmed from persistent difficulties in obtaining committee reports before they were presented on the floor. He alleged that the Clerk, whom he described as uncooperative and partisan, had repeatedly withheld crucial documents from the Minority side, delaying parliamentary business and fueling tensions between the two factions.

A History of Friction

Afenyo-Markin, revealed that he had faced similar challenges with the same Clerk when his party was in power. He recounted instances where she had refused to release reports until the Minority had reviewed them, a practice he claims disrupted government business. “I was once upon a time a majority leader. This same clerk to the Appointments Committee insists that until the minority sees a report, she would never ever sign. I ran through a lot of difficulties. There were times I would call her into my office [and] plead with her that the minority was being unreasonable and government business was delaying. She would say no,” he said.

Now in opposition, he argues that the Clerk’s actions continue to undermine parliamentary processes. “Let me say it in clear language, not that I’m mixing up and then, you know, you have to repeat my words. I’m saying that all the reports that we’ve been moving, I see them on the House floor.” he lamented.

 He, however, commended the Majority leader at the time, Mahama Ayariga, for his previous roles in ensuring parliamentary diplomacy. “let me again, continuously commend Mahama Ayariga for….. leading real parliamentary diplomacy.”

Outburst and Fallout

Afenyo-Markin was seen raising his voice and openly confronting the Clerk. His outburst has drawn criticism, with some describing his actions as inappropriate and unbecoming of a parliamentary leader. Others, however, have defended him, arguing that his frustration reflects deeper systemic issues within the legislature.

Calls for Institutional Reforms

The incident has reignited calls for reforms in parliamentary procedures, particularly in the appointment and oversight of clerks. Some governance advocates argue that clerks must be held accountable to ensure impartiality, while others stress that MPs must maintain decorum, even in moments of frustration.

In response to the backlash, Afenyo-Markin hinted at an upcoming statement addressing the issue but stopped short of offering a direct apology. “I shouldn’t shy away from criticism. In this game, you have your good day and your bad day. You cannot have all good days.” he stated.

Parliament’s Appointments Committee: The Suspensions, Chaos, and Allegations 

By
Ivy Hollys
-
appointments committee

The Appointments Committee of Ghana’s Parliament has been thrown into turmoil following a chaotic vetting process that resulted in suspensions, allegations of partisanship, and concerns over due process.

At the center of the controversy are four key Members of Parliament (MPs) who have been suspended for their roles in the disorder: Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor (Majority Chief Whip), Frank Annoh Dompreh (Minority Chief Whip), Jerry Ahmed-Shaib, and Alhassan Tampuli. Their suspension has sparked outrage from some, who describe the move as an overreach and an act of selective justice.

Tensions at the Vetting Process

The chaos erupted during the vetting of some ministerial nominees, with tempers flaring between some committee members. In videos making rounds on social media, some lawmakers engaged in physical altercations, lifting chairs and disrupting proceedings.

Speaker Criticizes Committee Leadership

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, expressed deep disappointment over the disorder, stating that even members of Parliament themselves do not take the Appointments Committee seriously. He emphasized that respect must be earned. “even members themselves don’t take them (appointments committee) seriously. I think we need to, but before we ask for our pound of flesh, respect is earned.”

The Speaker further criticized the leadership of the Appointments Committee, questioning whether they were following the established rules for conducting public hearings on presidential nominees.

He argued that the recent chaos undermines the credibility of Parliament and called for an urgent review of the committee’s approach. “Please, appointments committee, we have crafted rules of how the appointments committee should conduct the business of public hearing. that is the term used-public hearings of nominees of the president. I’m not too sure there’s a reference to those rules in what I am witnessing myself,” he said. 

Appointments Committee Offer Apology

The Chairman of the Appointments Committee has since issued an unqualified apology to the Speaker, leadership, and the public for the disorder. However, questions remain over his ability to maintain control of the committee’s proceedings.

Meanwhile, the Majority Leader has been hailed as a “hero” for his efforts to de-escalate tensions and restore order. In contrast, the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has made controversial allegations against the committee’s clerks, claiming they are aligned with the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). This accusation has drawn widespread criticism, with many arguing that attacking parliamentary staff is inappropriate and risks deepening partisan divisions.

Appointments Committee’s Role and Powers

The Appointments Committee plays a crucial role in vetting and approving presidential nominees for key government positions, including ministers, deputy ministers, the Chief Justice, Supreme Court judges, the Special Prosecutor, and the Common Fund Administrator.

The committee has the authority, under Article 103 of the Constitution, to summon witnesses, examine them under oath, and compel the production of documents. However, recent events have raised concerns over whether the committee is fulfilling its mandate effectively.

Progress of the Vetting Process

President Mahama promised to appoint 60 ministers, with 36 vetted so far. The process is ongoing, with six ministers still awaiting vetting. One notable event from the vetting process was the appearance of Linda Ocloo, who completed her vetting in under 10 minutes. This has sparked debate over whether all nominees are being thoroughly scrutinized.

Worth noting is Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who is not a minister, but spent over 1 hour and 35 minutes before the committee due to bribery allegations leveled against them.

The controversy surrounding the Appointments Committee is not new. In 2017, MP Mahama Ayariga raised concerns about bribery within the vetting process, leading to the establishment of a special committee. 

Now, in 2025, similar allegations have resurfaced, with Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor making claims of bribery. As Parliament moves forward with the remaining vettings, Ghanaians are watching closely and are hopeful the Appointments Committee can restore order and credibility to its proceedings.

Read also: Rashid Pelpuo Addresses Labour Strikes and Graduate Employability During Vetting

LGBTQI Bill will be Reintroduced in the 9th Parliament – Sam George

By
Ivy Hollys
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sam george on airteltigo deal

During his vetting, Sam George reaffirmed his commitment to the anti-LGBTQI bill. He stated that the bill would be reintroduced in the ninth Parliament, either as a government bill or a private member’s bill.

He made it clear that he remains committed to protecting Ghanaian family values and children’s innocence. He emphasized that the bill is a crucial part of national life and must be pursued for the moral and cultural integrity of the country. “My position is that that bill is a critical part of our national life. Ghanaian family values, our children’s innocence, must be protected. It is a critical part of our national life. Ghanaian family values—our children’s innocence—must be protected,” he emphasized.

When asked about his past comments on the Chief Justice’s handling of the bill, Sam George stood by his statements. He argued that the Chief Justice delayed action on the matter and insisted that his concerns had been vindicated. He stated that his views on the issue remain unchanged. 

He said, “My opinions about the actions and inaction of the Chief Justice remain. They are unchanged, and they have been vindicated by the actions of the Chief Justice post my demonstration against her. She could have taken action earlier.”

Sam George on Mahama’s Stance on the LGBTQI Bill

On the matter of President Mahama’s stance on the bill, Sam George clarified that all bills that were not assented to before the expiration of the eighth Parliament had expired. However, he assured the committee that discussions on the bill would resume in the ninth Parliament to build consensus on the way forward.

He quoted President John Dramani Mahama’s statement during his meeting at the Catholic Bishops Conference. “I wish to quote what he said, parts of what he said, with your permission. So the convention is that all bills that are not assented to before the expiration of the life of Parliament expire. And so that bill effectively is dead. It has expired. I don’t know what the promoters of the bill intend to do, but I do think that we should have a conversation on it again….so that all of us if we decide to move that bill forward, move it forward with a consensus,” he read. 

He concluded by reiterating that the anti-LGBTQI bill remains a priority for him and that he will take steps to ensure its passage in the new Parliament.

Sam George completed his education in Nigeria and Ghana, earning a degree in agricultural engineering at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. 

He has served in various ministries in government, including the communications and labor relations board. He is currently the minister-designate for communications, digital technology, and innovations in science and technology.

Read also: Supreme Court to Deliver Judgment on Anti-LGBTQI Case On December 18

Sam George on Cybersecurity, 5G, and Internet Connectivity Concerns

By
Ivy Hollys
-
sam george

Minister-designate for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations Science and Technology, Sam George, has emphasized the need for stronger cybersecurity measures in Ghana. During his visit, he stated that the country must proactively address digital threats to safeguard national security and economic growth.

Responding to questions on how he intends to handle cyber threats, Sam George assured the committee that his ministry would prioritize cybersecurity policies. He stressed that with the rise in cybercrime, government agencies and businesses must be equipped with modern tools to combat digital threats effectively.

He criticized past government policies on SIM re-registration, calling them flawed. He insisted that the re-registration process should be reviewed to ensure efficiency without causing unnecessary inconvenience to Ghanaians. According to him, the current system has not adequately protected the digital identities of citizens.

5G and Internet Connectivity

Sam George acknowledged that while Ghana launched its 5G network, many rural areas still struggle with poor internet access. He assured the vetting committee that the government would not abandon 3G and 4G networks while rolling out 5G. 

He emphasized that the government would address connectivity challenges. He said, “Chairman, following on your premise, the Honorable Member has just admitted the failings of the past government over the last eight years, but we would fix it. President Mahama is here to reset the country, and in resetting it, we’ll fix it. Fixing 3G, 4G, and ruling out 5G are not mutually exclusive.”

SIM Re-registration and Data Integration

Sam George criticized the previous government’s approach to SIM re-registration, calling it a waste of productive hours. He pledged a new system that eliminates long queues by integrating telco data with the National Identification Authority’s (NIA) biometric database. “We will do a proper re-registration again. But this time, nobody’s going to queue, because common sense will prevail, expertise will prevail, and logic will work. The MNOs hold a certain set of data.

We would use technology to cross-reference that against the NIA’s database and all biometric databases. And only instances where there are disparities would require you visit a Mobile Network Operators (MNO) shop,” he emphasized. 

He assured Ghanaians that the re-registration process would not cost them money. “Unlike under the immediate past government where people had to pay to use an app, no Ghanaian will have to pay for this,” he explained.

I would not be afraid to impose fines – Sam George.

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Samuel Nartey George
Hon. Samuel Nartey George

Minister-designate for Communications, Hon. Sam Nartey George has emphatically stated that he would not shy away from imposing fines on Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) who fail to provide the quality of telecommunication services Ghanaians deserve.

Speaking at his vetting by the Appointments Committee of Parliament, the minister-designate explained that if he is approved by parliament, his ministry would work closely with the National Communications Authority(NCA) to provide more spectrums for all MNOs and raise the KPIs to ensure high standard of service for consumers.

He said this as a strategy to ensure quality call service and reduce the cost of call service for Ghanaians.

The Minister-designate says he is committed to ensuring quality telecommunication services.

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