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Ghana Condemns Guinea-Bissau Coup

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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The Government of Ghana has condemned the military takeover in Guinea-Bissau.
It has described the development as an unconstitutional act that threatens democratic governance.

In a press release on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, the Foreign Affairs Ministry spoke out.
Ghana expressed “profound concern” over the coup d’état carried out by military elements.
The statement noted that the action disrupts the electoral process in Guinea-Bissau.
This follows peaceful presidential and legislative elections held on November 23.

According to the statement, the overthrow undermines the people’s democratic will.
It has also halted the planned announcement of election results on November 27, 2025.

Ghana urged all parties to use peaceful and lawful means to address disputes.
It called for transparent and legally recognised channels to resolve any electoral grievances.

The government further demanded the immediate restoration of constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau.
It stressed the importance of safeguarding the rights and security of all citizens.
It also highlighted the need to protect foreign nationals living in the country.

Special concern was expressed for the ECOWAS Election Observation Mission in Guinea-Bissau.
Ghana insisted that their safety and freedom of movement must be guaranteed immediately.

The statement also appealed to the people of Guinea-Bissau to remain calm.
Citizens were urged to avoid actions that could heighten tensions or trigger violence.

Ghana reaffirmed its support for ECOWAS and the African Union on this matter.
It backed regional efforts to coordinate a collective response to the crisis.
The statement stressed adherence to continental protocols on democracy and good governance.
It also underscored the importance of upholding constitutional rule across the region.

Minority Warns of Fresh Tax Burden Under New VAT Bill

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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The Minority in Parliament is cautioning that more tax hikes may be on the way.
They warn these increases will further strain already struggling businesses across the country.

Their concerns follow the approval of the Value Added Tax (VAT) Bill 2025.
The new law scraps the flat-rate VAT system for retailers and some service providers.
It effectively raises VAT on retail goods and services from 3% to 15%.
It also increases VAT on real estate transactions from 5% to 15%.

During the debate on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, tensions were clear in Parliament.
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin argued that the changes will hurt businesses.
He said the new structure will complicate tax compliance and worsen economic hardships.

“The burden contained therein is this: you are increasing retail services VAT from 3% to 15%. Also, real estate is going up from 5% to 15%. The revenue-neutrality language you are using is not of interest to us. You state in your own report that the introduction of this bill will help the government generate revenue. We are telling you that this bill is being brought because you need revenue,” he said.

However, the government strongly disputes the Minority’s position.
Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem rejected claims of additional tax burdens.
He insisted that the bill is designed to simplify VAT compliance, not raise taxes.

“The bill, contrary to what the Minority Leader is saying, is not imposing any new tax on Ghanaians. It is rather giving back to Ghanaians. The decision to change the treatment of the Health Insurance Levy and GETFund Levy to allow for tax-credit deductibility is giving back. The NHIL alone, by changing from a straight levy to a VAT-creditable levy, offers relief,” he explained.

The two sides remain sharply divided on the impact of the new VAT regime.
While the Minority sees rising costs and pressure on businesses, government insists on relief.

Kpandai MP Still Legitimate – Minority

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has reaffirmed the status of Kpandai MP Mathew Nyindam.
He insists Mr. Nyindam remains the legitimately elected representative for the constituency.
This is despite a recent court ruling ordering a re-run of the 2024 election.

On Monday, November 24, 2025, the Tamale High Court delivered its ruling.
The court annulled the Kpandai parliamentary election results.
It also instructed the Electoral Commission to conduct a fresh election.
The decision followed what the court described as several anomalies in the 2024 polls.

Following the ruling, the Majority Caucus took a strong position.
They called on the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, to act immediately.
They want the Kpandai seat declared vacant in line with the court order.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament, Majority Chief Whip Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor backed this demand.
He referred to previous events to justify the removal of the Kpandai MP.

“Mr. Speaker, I’m not raising these matters whimsically because precedent will guide us. Mr Speaker, when the Honourable Gyakye Quayson was ordered by the court that go through a re-run, members of this side at the time, mainly led by the now Minority Leader, spoke vociferously against the fact that the Honourable Gyakye Quayson cannot be entertained in this house.

“Eventually, he had to leave. This is a path that we have travelled. Nobody can tell us in this house today that the Honourable Nyindam must have a voice today. It won’t happen,” he said.

However, the Minority side disagrees with this position.
Addressing journalists in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin rejected the call.
He insisted that Mr. Nyindam still holds his seat in full.
“Let me speak directly to the people of Kpandai: your Member of Parliament remains the sitting MP for the Kpandai Constituency. He remains a full Member of Parliament and a proud member of the Minority Caucus and the NPP,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin stated.

Mr. Afenyo argued that the court’s decision is not yet final.
Until that process is completed, Mr. Nyindam’s status as MP remains unchanged.

Ghana’s Lithium Deal: A Simple Breakdown of the Royalty Debate

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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site

Ghana’s new lithium mining agreement is undergoing careful review in parliament. This deal is a major opportunity for the nation, and lawmakers are taking their time to ensure it is done right. This article explains the key facts, especially the current debate over the royalty rate—the percentage of revenue Ghana earns from its lithium.

Why the Delay is Important

The parliamentary committee is moving slowly to allow for full public scrutiny. This careful approach is commendable. Ghana’s mining sector has historically suffered from poor management of mining revenues, so transparency is crucial for a better outcome.

The Central Issue: The Changing Royalty Rate

The most significant change involves the money Ghana will get. The original 2023 deal secured a strong 10% royalty. However, the new version sent to parliament now says the company will pay a royalty “as prescribed by law.”

The committee explains that the current mining law sets the maximum royalty at just 5%. To apply the higher 10% rate, the government must first amend this law. As the committee chair stated, “Revenues from a 5% royalty and 10% royalty can never be the same.” The goal is the higher rate, but they insist changing the law is the correct legal path.

What Happens Next?

Ghana has a few options. It can amend the law to raise rates for all minerals, create a flexible royalty range for different minerals, or approve the 10% rate for lithium specifically through this parliamentary agreement.

While this deliberation is good, the shifting explanations create uncertainty. This can scare away future investment and leaves local communities waiting for promised benefits. With global lithium prices rebounding, securing a fair and stable deal is essential for Ghana to truly benefit from its natural resources.

National Guard Members Shot Near White House in Targeted Attack

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Two National Guard soldiers are fighting for their lives after being shot in a targeted attack just blocks from the White House. The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon near the Farragut Square Metro Station, a busy downtown Washington, D.C. location.

According to police, a lone gunman opened fire on two National Guard members from West Virginia while they were on a high-visibility patrol. Other National Guard members nearby heard the gunshots, subdued the suspect, and prevented further tragedy.

Metropolitan Police Assistant Chief Jeff Carroll described the assault as an ambush, stating the suspect “came around the corner” and “immediately started firing a firearm.”

In a live address, President Donald Trump, who was in Florida at the time, identified the alleged shooter as an Afghan national who entered the U.S. in September 2021. He labeled the shooting “an act of evil, an act of hatred and an act of terror,” vowing that his administration would ensure the suspect “pays the steepest possible price.”

Multiple law enforcement sources have identified the alleged gunman as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal. His specific immigration status remains unclear, though he arrived during the period when tens of thousands of Afghans were admitted to the U.S. following the 2021 withdrawal.

“We must now re-examine every alien who has entered our country from Afghanistan under Biden,” President Trump stated, signaling a potential policy response.

The suspect was shot four times during the confrontation and was apprehended at the scene. The FBI is leading the investigation into the attack.

President Trump has deployed the National Guard to several Democratic-led cities, arguing it is necessary to combat crime. Official police data shows a decrease in overall crime in Washington, D.C., since the deployment began.

Declan Rice Hails Arsenal After Crucial Bayern Munich Win

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice hailed his team’s “outstanding” performance after a crucial 3-1 victory over German giants Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League.

The match was decisively turned on its head by two returning substitutes. Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli, both coming back from injury, broke the 1-1 deadlock with goals in the 69th and 77th minutes, sealing a massive win for the Gunners.

Speaking to TNT Sports after receiving the Man of the Match award, Rice expressed his delight but immediately issued a focused message to his teammates.

“Look at Bayern Munich this season, they have been the best team in Europe. This was probably the toughest game tactically we have played this season,” Rice stated.

“We went man to man with them in the second half and I thought tonight we were outstanding. The manager is so happy. It was a special European night.”

Despite the euphoria of defeating a previously unbeaten Bayern side, Rice emphasized the need for perspective. “There is a hunger and desire to win every game. There is a long way to go – let’s not get carried away,” he cautioned.

This victory solidifies an impressive European campaign for Arsenal, who, at the time of writing, remain the only unbeaten team in the 2025-2026 UEFA Champions League.

Thunderstorms to Hit Accra, Kasoa & Kumasi – GMet Forecast

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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THUNDERSTORM

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued a weather alert for thunderstorms and rainfall expected to hit parts of Ghana later today. According to their latest 24-hour forecast, residents in Accra, Kasoa, and sections of the Ashanti Region should prepare for unstable weather conditions this afternoon and evening.

The affected areas include Accra, Kasoa, Kumasi, Obuasi, Tarkwa, Cape Coast, Takoradi, Axim, and Sefwi Bekwai.

Today’s Weather Outlook

The day began with mist and fog patches in coastal, forest, and hilly areas, causing reduced visibility for morning commuters.The weather is now the subject doing the action. This is more forceful, clear, and engaging for the reader.

GMet forecasts that localized thunderstorms and rain will develop over the coastal belt and parts of the middle and transition zones, continuing into the evening hours.This states the forecast confidently and directly, making the weather the active subject. It’s clearer and more engaging for the reader.

The agency also notes that sea conditions will remain rough, and residents in upper regions will experience relatively cool temperatures during nighttime and early morning hours.

Commuters and residents in affected areas are advised to plan accordingly and exercise caution during the expected thunderstorms.

Ghana Passes New VAT Bill, Scraps COVID-19 Levy in Major Tax Reform

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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E-LEVY
PARLIAMENT REPEALS E-LEVY

Ghana’s Parliament has approved a new Value Added Tax (VAT) Bill, marking the country’s most significant tax system overhaul in over ten years. A key part of this reform is the official cancellation of the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy.

The changes deliver on a major government promise made in the 2025 budget to create a fairer and simpler VAT system. Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson stated that the new law will remove complexities, encourage businesses to comply, and improve economic efficiency.

Key Benefits of the New VAT Law

The new structure introduces several important benefits for individuals and businesses:

  • Abolished COVID Levy: The removal of the COVID-19 levy is expected to return GH¢3.7 billion to the economy in 2026 alone.
  • Reduced Business Costs: The bill reintegrates GETFund and NHIL levies into the VAT base, making them eligible for tax deductions. This move is projected to lower the cost of doing business by about 5%.
  • Support for Small Businesses: The VAT registration threshold has been raised. This change prevents small, micro-enterprises from being burdened by complex VAT registration and compliance costs, allowing them more freedom to grow.

A Move to a Digital Tax System

The reform also modernizes tax collection. The government will introduce electronic devices to track transactions and implement digital VAT collection for cross-border online shopping. A new VAT reward scheme will also encourage consumers to always request receipts, helping to improve overall tax compliance.

The Ghana Revenue Authority will soon begin a nationwide education campaign to ensure a smooth transition for all businesses and consumers. The government believes these comprehensive reforms will boost investor confidence, support local industries, and stimulate job creation.

Minister Advocates Flexible Charter System for Private Universities

By
Ivy Hollys
-

Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu says the government is preparing a policy amendment that will make the acquisition of a Presidential Charter optional for private universities. The ministry is finalising a cabinet memo to seek approval for the new framework, which aims to address long-standing concerns from private tertiary institutions.

Private universities have often argued that the chartering process is rigid, slow, and limits their ability to innovate. A Presidential Charter grants full autonomy to confer degrees and certificates. However, many institutions say the current model delays growth and creates unnecessary administrative pressure.

Speaking at a stakeholder engagement on the Kwaku Ansa-Asare Committee report in Accra, Mr Iddrisu said the ministry is close to completing the memo for Cabinet consideration. He added that, if necessary, the ministry may request executive approval from President John Mahama due to time constraints.

He emphasised the need to acknowledge the contribution of private universities to national development. According to him, the ministry remains focused on access, relevance, and quality. He noted that the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission will continue to enforce strong quality assurance standards.

Chairman of Parliament’s Education Committee, Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, welcomed the proposal and described it as long overdue. He said feedback gathered from visits to private universities showed broad support for an optional system. Ranking Member Dr Yaw Adutwum has also endorsed the call for flexibility.

Mr Nortsu-Kotoe highlighted the financial relief private universities provide to the state. Studies indicate that the government saves about GH₵50,000 for every student enrolled in a private institution. He added that high enrolment levels in private universities reduce pressure on public university infrastructure.

Black Stars Assigned to Pot 4 for 2026 World Cup

By
Ivy Hollys
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Ghana’s Black Stars have been placed in Pot 4 for the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage draw, scheduled for December 5 in Washington DC.

They join Jordan, Cabo Verde, Curaçao, Haiti, New Zealand, the four UEFA play-off winners, and the two FIFA Play-Off Tournament qualifiers in the same pot. Their placement reflects their ranking among the lowest-seeded teams to have qualified for the expanded 48-team tournament.

Meanwhile, other African nations sit in higher pots: Morocco and Senegal in Pot 2, and Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, Côte d’Ivoire, and South Africa in Pot 3.

Under FIFA’s draw procedures, Ghana could face a top-tier team from Pot 1 such as Argentina, Spain, or England, along with a Pot 2 side like Croatia, Japan, or Uruguay. The rules also ensure that no group will feature more than one African team.

Ghana qualified for the 2026 World Cup after topping Group I with 25 points, finishing ahead of Mali, Madagascar, Chad, the Central African Republic, and Comoros.

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