ORAL Committee to Submit Report to President Mahama

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January 16, 2025

The Chairman of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced an upcoming report submission.

Ablakwa revealed that the committee is reviewing over 700 public petitions to ensure accountability and prevent government malpractice.

“We are still compiling all the cases, and we will be presenting our report to the president soon. What I can tell you, avoiding specifics, is to say that so far, in terms of the petitions that have come in, they are over 700, and it has been really such a daunting task, but there is the political will.”

He emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining the same anti-corruption zeal shown while in opposition.

“We are all passionate about this. And what I like about what is going on is that we have the opportunity to show the same passion that we exhibited in opposition, now that we are in government, we are committed to this. And what this does is that it serves as a deterrent to those of us coming into government, he said.”

He said the committee is conducting a thorough validation process to confirm the accuracy of collected information. He said the team will visit other regions in the coming days to validate reports submitted nationwide.

“We are hoping to be wrapping up soon in the next couple of weeks. We believe that we have gathered enough. We are now virtually done with a field validation in the capital, where a lot of the looting happened, but we also have reports from across the country, so, in the next few days from this weekend, we are going out of the capital to carry out the validation sessions. We will make sure that all the regions are visited where we have received reports from.”

The ORAL committee aims to conclude its work within the next few weeks and provide a comprehensive report to the president.

Regional Ministerial Nominees: Mahama Makes 10 Picks

By

Ivy Hollys

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January 16, 2025

President John Dramani Mahama has nominated 10 people for Parliament to consider for appointment as regional ministers.The 10 nominees have been forwarded to the Speaker of Parliament.

They are nominees for Oti, Volta, Eastern, Northern, North East, Upper East, Ashanti, Ahafo, Savannah, and Greater Accra.

Six regions are outstanding: Western, Western North, Central, Bono East, Bono, and Upper West, where the President is yet to nominate people for consideration for appointment.

Apart from the Greater Accra Region, where the nominee is not a regional executive of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), all nominees are executive officers of the NDC in their respective regions.

The Greater Accra nominee, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo is a Member of Parliament (MP) for Shai Osudoku.

List of the 10 nominees for regional minister positions

Mrs Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey – Eastern
Ibrahim Tia – North East
Dr Frank Amoakohene – Ashanti
Danatus Akamugri Atanga – Upper East
Charity Gardiner – Ahafo
Salisu Bi-Awuribe – Savannah
Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo – Greater Accra
Ali Adolf John – Northern
John Kwadwo Gyapong – Oti
Volta – James Gunu

Already, three nominees, who are all members of Parliament, have been vetted by Parliament’s Appointment Committee and are waiting for approval from the plenary.

They are Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson for Finance, John Jinapor for Energy and Green Transition and Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine for Attorney General and Minister of Justice.

They are MPs for Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam, Yapei-Kusawgu and Bolgatanga East respectively.

See profiles of the nominees provided by the presidency below:

Ashanti

Dr. Frank Amoakohene is a medical professional and youth leader with expertise in healthcare, governance, and public service.

He holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from the University of Ghana, a Doctor of Medical Laboratory Science degree from the University of Development Studies, and an MBA from the Accra Business School.

He is currently the Ashanti Regional Secretary of the NDC.

Volta

James Gunu is a veteran media practitioner. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism, a Master of Arts in Development Communication, and a Master of Arts in Local Government Administration and Organization.

Mr. Gunu is the former MCE for Akatsi.

Eastern

Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey is a distinguished leader with a wealth of experience in governance, education, and community development.

She holds an M Phil in Leadership from the University of Professional Studies, Accra. And has an impressive track record as a local governance practitioner, having served as Presiding Member of the Yilo Krobo Municipal Assembly and Deputy Eastern Regional Women Organiser of the NDC.

She is also a seasoned educator and advocate for women’s empowerment, with a commitment to advancing local development and inclusive governance. She is currently pursuing a PhD in migration at the University of Ghana.

Oti

John Kwadwo Gyapong is a business executive and former Member of Parliament for the Akan Constituency.

He serves currently as the NDC Regional Chairman for the Oti Region.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from the University of Cape Coast.

Upper East

Akamugri Donatus Atanga holds a Masters in Human Rights and a Bachelor of Education Degree in Social Studies and Mathematics from the University of Education Winneba.

He has previously served as a Coordinator of the National School Feeding Program and Presiding Member of the Bongo District Assembly.

Northern

Ali Adolf John is an education professional, having served as a Tutor, Circuit Supervisor and Desk Officer within the Ghana Education Service structure.

He holds a Bachelor of Education and Masters in Technology degrees from the University of Education, Winneba.

He is currently the Northern Regional Chairman of the NDC.

Ahafo

Charity Gardiner is a businesswoman and Human Resource Professional with close to a decade of experience.

She has strong credentials in non-profit, humanitarian work, with a specific interest in girl child education and empowerment. She holds a Masters and Bachelors degrees in Human Resource Management.

Savannah

Salisu Be-Awuribe is a Law Lecturer, Lawyer, Valuation Professional and Development Expert.

He has previously served as District Chief Executive of the Central Gonja District.

He holds a Professional Qualifying Certificate in Law from the Ghana School of Law, a Masters in Law degree from the University of Ghana and a Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Science in Land Economy from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.

Greater Accra

Linda Ocloo is the Member of Parliament for the Shai-Osudoku constituency. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Administration (Banking and Finance option) from the University of Ghana.

North East

Ibrahim Tia is a public health finance and local government professional with expertise in systems management, public relations, and health financing.

He has extensive experience, including his work with the National Health Insurance Scheme, where he rose from the position of District Manager to Deputy Regional Manager for the Northern Regional Office of the NHIA.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Information and Communication Technology, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management Studies, and a Mini MBA in Project Management. Mr. Ibrahim Tia has served as the Regional Secretary of the NDC in the North East Region since 2019.

See Official statement below:

Mahama Announces New Set of Ministerial Appointments.

By

Adwoa Afranewaa

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January 16, 2025

His Excellency John Dramani Mahama has released a list of new ministerial appointments for his administration, today, January 16th, 2025.

The announcement was made in a communique from the Office of the President Communications.

Key appointments include Haruna Iddrisu, former minority leader as Minister for Education designate.

For the newly created Ministry for Youth Development and Empowerment, NDC National Youth Organizer, Opare Addo would be leading the ministry if approved. The ministry aims to prioritize youth-focused policies and programs to address unemployment and foster innovation among Ghana’s young population.

Other nominations include;

Kwame Governs Agbodza – Ministry of Roads and Higways

Eric Opoku – Ministry of Food and Agriculture

Agnes Naa Momo Lartey – Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection

Abla Dzifa Gomashie – Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts

Ahmed Ibrahim – Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs

Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare – Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry

Boko Haram: At least 40 Farmers Killed

By

Ivy Hollys

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January 16, 2025

At least 40 farmers were killed in an attack by the Islamist extremist group Boko Haram in Nigeria, an official said on Monday.

Fighters from Boko Haram and its breakaway group loyal to the Islamic State were suspected of attacking on Sunday, January 12, in Nigeria’s north-eastern Borno State, Information Commissioner Usman Tar said on Monday, January 13, 2025.

“Initial report indicates about 40 farmers have been killed, while the whereabouts of many who escaped the attack are being traced for reunion with their families,” Tar said.

Boko Haram began a violent campaign in northeast Nigeria in 2009 to introduce a strict Islamic theocracy in the West African nation.

More than 35,000 people have been killed in this conflict, while more than 2 million people have been displaced.

About Boko Haram

Boko Haram, officially known as Jamā’at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da’wah wa’l-Jihādis a self-proclaimed jihadist terrorist organization based in northeastern Nigeria. The organization is also active in Chad, Niger, northern Cameroon, and Mali.

Founded by Mohammed Yusuf in 2002, the group was led by Abubakar Shekau from 2009 until his death in 2021, although it splintered into other groups after Yusuf’s death in 2009, as well as in 2015.

When the group was first formed, its main goal was to “purify,” meaning to spread Sunni Islam and destroy Shia Islam in northern Nigeria, believing jihad should be delayed until the group was strong enough to overthrow the Nigerian government.

The group formerly aligned itself with the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. The group has been known for its brutality. Since the insurgency started in 2009, Boko Haram has killed tens of thousands of people in frequent attacks against the police, armed forces, and civilians. It has resulted in the deaths of more than 300,000 childrenand has displaced 2.3 million from their homes.

Youth in Governance: Dr. Frank Amoakohene in focus.

By

Adwoa Afranewaa

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January 16, 2025

One would imagine a minister as one who is advanced in age, with loads of academic achievements with work and leadership experience gathered over the years. For so many years, Ghana has had aged leaders, serving the nation in various capacities and offices- public institutions, ministries and even the presidency. Lots of concerns have been raised over the low representation of the youth in governance, while advocating for inclusion of the youth in the nation’s administration. After years of advocacy, a flickering light is seen at the end of the tunnel, igniting the hope of many youth in this regard.

The announcement of Dr. Frank Amoakohene as nominee for Ashanti Regional Minister position, have sparked conversations, particularly among the youth on social media seem to approve of his nomination and have send congratulatory messages, while highlighting the need to carry out responsibilities with due diligence when he officially assumes office.

The young and vibrant Dr. Fred Amoakohene is a medical practitioner by profession and expert in healthcare, governance and public service. He holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery Degree from the University of Ghana, a Doctor of Medical Laboratory Science degree from University of Development Studies and a Masters in Business Administration from Accra Business School.

Dr. Amoakohene is also a social media sensation, engaging his over 300,000 followers with video posts, while sharing knowledge about their health concerns. His social media page, is one of the major tools he used to campaign for the National Democratic Congress ahead of the 2024 elections – reaching his large audience with the party’s campaign messages.

Dr. Amoakohene is currently the Ashanti Regional Secretary of the National Democratic Congress. He also also served as President of National Union of Ghana Students and National Health Students Association of Ghana, where he championed and advocated for the welfare of students.

With his new office as Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Amoakohene would oversee the implementation of government policies and programs in the Ashanti Region. He is also expected to work collaboratively with local stakeholders, including traditional leaders, business owners, and community groups, to foster development in the region.

Ghanaian youth have commended the Mahama-Jane led administration for his nomination, and are hoping for more nominations and large representation for the youth in this government.

A new hope for the country has been birthed in the hearts of the youth, and hopefully that hope is fed and nourished by their fellows in government giving their best for a better Ghana.

Written By: Cindy Adasah Boamah

Sammy Awuku Lauds Government’s Decision to Scrap Betting Tax

By

Ivy Hollys

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January 16, 2025

Sammy Awuku, former National Lottery Authority (NLA) Director-General and Akuapem North MP, has welcomed the government’s move to abolish the betting tax.

Awuku, a consistent critic of the tax, described it as counterproductive and ineffective in various global contexts. “I’m excited that the betting tax is going to be scrapped,” he stated. Mr. Awuku said he opposed the tax even during the NPP administration.

He said, “I’ve been consistent about it, even during the NPP era, and I said it is something that personally has not worked in many of the jurisdictions anytime you have introduced taxes on betting.”

He explained that taxing betting, including lottery, hurt government institutions like the National Lottery Authority (NLA).

“Lottery was part of the betting tax. The National Lottery Authority, for instance, is owned by the government, and apart from the things that they do, at the end of the day, they must also contribute to the national kitty,” he said.

Awuku warned the tax inadvertently boosted illegal betting operators by making them more appealing to bettors. He also criticized inconsistencies in the NDC government’s stance, citing remarks from the Finance Minister-designate about banning betting entirely.

“If you play with the government, you attract a 10% tax on what you win. But if you play with the illegals, you get your full money. So, I told them that, for me, it was counterproductive.”

“The difficulty with the NDC position is that earlier the Finance Minister-designate, in time past, had said that it should be banned—not just the tax being scrapped,” he said.

Awuku urged for more consistent policies to ensure fairness and support for government-owned betting institutions.

Mahama requests recall of diplomatic and service passports.

By

Adwoa Afranewaa

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January 15, 2025

President John Mahama on family values bill — NDC flagbearer:John Mahama

His Excellency John Dramani Mahama has ordered for the recall of all diplomatic and service passports issued in the Nana Addo-Bawumia led administration.

In a letter addressing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Callistus Mahama, Secretary to the President stated that “this exercise aligns with government’s commitment to ensuring the proper use and administration of official travel documents by national and international standards”.

Deadline for holders of such passport to turn them in to the Foreign Affairs Ministry is 24th January, 2025.

The Ministry’s Chief Director is expected to ensure that a thorough review will be conducted on all returned passports to ensure they align with the current eligibility criteria for issuance.

Sammy Awuku resigns as NLA boss

By

Adwoa Afranewaa

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January 14, 2025

Samuel Awuku has today, January 14, 2025 has resigned from his position as the National Lottery Authority(NLA) Director-General with immediate effect.

He announced his resignation in a letter addressing President John Dramani Mahama, citing his election as Member Of Parliament for Akuapem North as the reason for his decision to resign.

Sammy Awuku reiterated his commitment to serving his constituents as their MP, now that his attention is solely on that responsibility.

“In the light of this new responsibility, I wish to focus my efforts on serving as a Member of Parliament,” he wrote.

He served as Director-General of NLA since August 2021 until his resignation today.

Sammy also appealed to President Mahama to appoint a new Director-General as soon as possible to ensure a swift transition process.

Bawku: Bringing Peace Back is my Priority –Mahama

By

Ivy Hollys

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January 14, 2025

President John Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to restoring peace in Bawku, describing it as one of his administration’s top priorities.

Addressing the people of Bawku during a visit President Mahama assured residents that his government is resolute in addressing the conflict and creating an atmosphere of lasting stability.

“During the campaign, I stated that if God granted our desire and I was elected president, bringing peace to Bawku was going to be one of my number one priorities,” President Mahama said.

“Today marks exactly one week since my swearing-in, and my first major assignment outside Accra is to assure you that we are working diligently to bring peace back to Bawku,” he said on Tuesday, January 14, 2025.

The President acknowledged the hardship the people of Bawku have endured over the past three years, living under stress and fear due to the conflict.

He reminisced about the period of calm during his previous administration, when Bawku and its surrounding areas thrived in peace, and pledged to restore that stability.

Source: myjoyonline

President Mahama Advocates Teaching Family Values in Schools

By

Ivy Hollys

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January 14, 2025

Speaking to the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference in Accra, President Mahama stressed the importance of a values-based education system. He emphasized teaching family values in schools rather than relying solely on legislation.

He also highlighted the importance of designing a curriculum to instill values in children as they grow.

“If we are teaching our values in school, we won’t need to pass a bill [on LGBT] to enforce our family values. And that is where I think more than, even the family values bill is [on] us agreeing on a curriculum that inculcates these values into our children as they are growing up so that we don’t need to legislate it. And so we will see how all these will go. I am looking forward to a review conference,” President John Mahama stated.

He noted that the previous anti-LGBTQ+ bill, introduced as a private member’s bill, failed to progress due to procedural issues. He further called for a government-sponsored bill to encourage broader consultation and ensure a consensus-driven approach.

“The bill did not reach the president and expired with the 8th Parliament,” Mahama explained He also stated that, that particular bill is now “dead” with the tenure of the previous government over.

“as far as I know, the bill did not get to the president. And so, the convention is that all bills that are not assented to before the expiration of the life of parliaments expire. And so that bill effectively is dead, it has expired,” he stated.

Will President Mahama Sign the Bill?

During the 2024 presidential election campaign, John Dramani Mahama said his decision to assent to the controversial anti-LGBTQI bill, formally titled the “Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill,” would depend on a thorough review of its contents.

“It is not an anti-LGBTQI Bill; it is a Family Values Bill. It was approved unanimously by our Parliament. [LGBTQI] is against our African culture, it is against our religious faith, but I think we must look at the Bill, and the president must indicate what he finds wrong with that bill and send it back to Parliament or alternatively he must send it to the Council of State and get the Council of State’s advice.”

When asked directly if he would sign the bill into law if he were elected president, Mahama said: “It depends on what is in the Bill.” He explained that if he had been president when the bill was passed by Parliament, he would have sought a detailed examination of its provisions and consulted with relevant advisory bodies.

The Bishops congratulated President on his victory in the 2024 general election. During the meeting, Most Rev Emmanuel Kofi Fianu, Vice President of the Conference, urged the President to consider signing the bill.

“We already know your position, but we are hopeful that you will sign it into law,” he declared.

President Mahama thanked the Catholic Church for its contributions to education and health and welcomed its input on the moral and educational development of the nation’s youth.

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