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Minority Demands Halt to Vetting of Chief Justice Nominee

By
Ivy Hollys
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The Minority in Parliament has filed a motion calling for an immediate suspension of all proceedings on the nomination of Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Chief Justice.

They argue that Parliament must wait until all legal cases challenging the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo are resolved.

Citing Articles 110(1), 125–127, 144(1), and 146 of the 1992 Constitution and relevant Standing Orders, the Minority urged Parliament to suspend the Appointments Committee’s vetting and any plenary debate or approval of the nomination.

The motion referred to several pending cases, including one before the ECOWAS Court and others before Ghana’s Supreme Court and High Court. These cases, according to the Minority, question the legality of Justice Torkornoo’s removal.

The Minority also requested that the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine, brief Parliament on the status of all ongoing litigation. They want full details on the nature of the suits, any court orders, the reliefs being sought, and the possible implications for the office of the Chief Justice.

They further asked for clarification on Ghana’s obligations under regional treaties linked to the ECOWAS Court case and the potential legal and constitutional consequences of proceeding with the appointment while the cases are still pending.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie was nominated by President John Dramani Mahama after the removal of Chief Justice Torkornoo

Fire Service Halts Construction at Roman Ridge After Building Collapse

By
Ivy Hollys
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Fire

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has ordered the site manager of a collapsed building at Roman Ridge in Accra to stop all construction work while investigations continue.

The incident occurred at the Roman Ridge Engineering Centre, between a 10-storey apartment building and the Ghana Institute of Engineering. The three-storey structure, reportedly being built by Fabrico Builders, collapsed on Tuesday afternoon.

According to the GNFS, it received a distress call at 12:18 p.m. A rescue team from the National Headquarters, led by Assistant Divisional Officer II Ankrah, arrived at the site 11 minutes later.

By the time firefighters reached the scene, all 14 affected workers all men had been rescued and sent to the 37 Military Hospital and the Ridge Hospital for medical treatment. Eyewitnesses said the workers sustained different degrees of injury, but no deaths had been reported.

The cause of the collapse is still unknown. The GNFS has begun a technical investigation to determine what led to the failure and whether safety standards were followed.

The Service has instructed the site manager to suspend all work until investigations are complete and to ensure the project fully meets safety requirements before resuming construction.

In a statement, the GNFS said it will share more details as investigations progress.

Court Issues Bench Warrant for Chairman Wontumi

By
Ivy Hollys
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Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi
Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi

The High Court has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, after he failed to appear in court without notice or permission.

When the case was called on Tuesday, October 28, both Chairman Wontumi and his legal team were absent, and no explanation was provided for their nonappearance.

The prosecution team, led by Chief State Attorney Stella Ohene Appiah, was present for the proceedings.

Presiding judge Justice Audrey Kocuvi-Tay expressed disappointment over the absence of the accused and his lawyers, stressing that they had offered “no excuse of any sort to the court.” She noted that the session was meant for the filing of disclosures and case management, aChairman Wontumi is standing trial alongside Kwame Antwi, a director of Akonta Mining Limited, and the company itself. They have been charged with assigning mineral rights without lawful authority.

The bench warrant means law enforcement officials have been authorized to arrest and present Chairman Wontumi before the court.

The case has drawn significant public attention due to Wontumi’s political position and the ongoing controversies surrounding Akonta Mining’s operations.

The company has previously faced scrutiny from environmental activists and government officials for alleged illegal mining activities in protected forest reserves, allegations it has repeatedly denied.

The court is expected to set a new date for the next hearing once the accused is brought before it.

Minority Accuses Attorney General Of Bias Through ‘Media Circus’

By
Ivy Hollys
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John Darko
John Darko

The Minority in Parliament has accused the Attorney General of prejudicing ongoing court cases by making public statements that label accused persons as criminals before judicial processes are concluded.

Addressing journalists in Parliament, the Minority’s Legal Counsel and Member of Parliament for Suame, John Darko, said the Attorney General’s recent public remarks about ongoing prosecutions undermine the rule of law and the constitutional right to a fair trial.

Mr. Darko’s comments follow the Attorney General’s description of the former Chief Executive Officer of the National Food Buffer Stock Company and the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party as “lawless looters” engaged in criminal activities.

The Minority contends that such comments compromise the integrity of the justice system and violate the fundamental principle of presumption of innocence.

“Competent Attorneys General do not prosecute their cases in the court of public opinion,” Mr. Darko stated. “Present your evidence in court and let the judiciary decide. Why take the evidence to the media and destroy people’s reputations before they even have the chance to defend themselves?”

He further cautioned journalists against amplifying what he called a “populist media agenda” being pursued by the Attorney General, arguing that such coverage risks undermining Ghana’s constitutional protections.

“You may think you are doing your job by publishing these statements, but in reality, you are amplifying a violation of the Constitution,” he warned.

Mr. Darko added that such conduct could erode public confidence in the justice system and weaken the nation’s democratic institutions.

The Minority has therefore called for the Attorney General to be restrained from making further public pronouncements on pending legal matters, urging that all prosecutorial actions remain confined to the courtroom.

When Your Salary Delays, How Do You Remind Your Boss?

By
Ivy Hollys
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payday
Payday end of month date on calendar with red marker and circled salary day

It’s that time of the month again, payday! In Ghana, salaries usually arrive at the end of the month, but what happens when it’s the 27th and your bank account is still as dry as the Harmattan wind? Don’t panic. Sometimes all your boss needs is a gentle and funny reminder that it’s time to process the payments.

We all know the struggle. From trotro fares going up to lunch money finishing before the end of the month, payday is that sweet relief everyone looks forward to. But reminding your boss can be tricky because you don’t want to sound rude or desperate. So how do you do it right?

This topic came up recently on The Urban Mix with Adwoa Afranewaa Frimpong, and listeners had some hilarious suggestions. One caller said you can greet your boss several times in the day just to make them wonder what’s going on. Another shared that you could create funny excuses like, “Sorry I’m late, I had to get a loan to get transport here.” Others joked about acting extra polite or asking your boss if “the system is still sleeping.”

If your workplace is more formal, keep it polite. A simple email saying, “Kind reminder, today’s the scheduled payday. Kindly confirm when salaries will be processed,” gets the message across without crossing any lines.

At the end of the day, payday brings peace of mind, from settling bills to buying that much-needed waakye and fried fish combo. So whether you’re using humour, subtle hints, or a professional nudge, remember that sometimes a little laughter is the best way to get your boss’s attention and your salary.

Workers at City Mall Appeal for Affordable Food Options

By
Ivy Hollys
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food

Employees working in and around the City Mall are appealing for the establishment of more affordable food joints nearby, citing the high cost of meals within the mall. Many workers say that the current dining options are too expensive for daily lunches, forcing them to either skip meals or depend on snacks.

“The prices inside the mall are costly for workers and staff members who eat there every day,” said one store attendant. “We spend most of our day here, but it’s hard to afford a decent meal without spending a large part of our salary.”

An employee from Melcom said he spends about GH₵100 on food each day, adding that it significantly affects his budget. Another worker shared that he spends around GH₵30 daily on meals, which still strains his finances. Also, a janitor shared that he brings food from home because he can’t afford the high cost of meals.

Several workers have expressed that the lack of affordable eateries makes lunch breaks stressful, as they have limited time and few nearby alternatives. Some rely on snacks or small portions to get through the day.

Local observers believe that introducing low-cost food stalls or small restaurants around the mall could ease the burden on workers and improve their overall well-being. “Affordable dining options would not only support employees but also create a more positive working environment,” said a local business consultant.

As the number of workers in the area continues to grow, the call for reasonably priced and accessible food options is becoming increasingly urgent. Many hope that new investors will recognize this need and respond with solutions that cater to the working community.

Evening Transport Crisis Leaves Kumasi Mall Commuters Stranded Daily

By
Ivy Hollys
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Kumasi Bus stop

The bus stop near Kumasi Mall has become a daily scene of frustration as commuters struggle to find transport home after 5 p.m. What should be a smooth evening journey has turned into hours of waiting for many passengers.

For residents heading to areas such as Ahodwo, Asokwa, Tech Junction, and Ejisu, the challenge is the same. Most buses arrive already full or pass by without stopping. “I closed from work around 5:30 p.m and came straight here. It’s now 7 p.m., and I’m still standing,” said Frimpong, an employee of Orange FM trying to get to Ejisu. “The buses are few, and when they come, they’re already packed from Adum or Kejetia.”

The bus stop serves hundreds of shoppers and workers leaving the busy Kumasi Mall area each evening. By rush hour, the space is overcrowded, with commuters pushing to board the few available buses.

Some passengers say the problem has existed for months but is getting worse. “Fridays are the worst,” said Kofi Owusu, an intern from KNUST. “Sometimes I just start walking toward Baba Yara Stadium, hoping to find a trotro or taxi along the way.”

Several drivers admit that many prefer shorter, more profitable inner-city trips during peak hours, leaving fewer buses for longer routes. High fuel costs and weak supervision from transport authorities have also worsened the situation.

Commuters are urging the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) and transport unions to address the crisis by increasing the number of buses during evening hours.

Until then, the scene repeats daily tired workers waiting under dim streetlights, hoping the next bus will stop and finally have space.

Bola Ray and Joselyn Dumas Unveiled as Goldbod Brand Ambassadors

By
Ivy Hollys
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GoldBod Jewellery, a subsidiary of the Ghana Gold Board, has officially appointed media personality Kwabena Anokye Disi, popularly known as Bola Ray, and award-winning actress Joselyn Dumas as its new brand ambassadors.

The company says the partnership forms part of a wider effort to promote Ghana’s rich gold heritage and showcase the nation’s craftsmanship in producing authentic, high-quality jewellery through ethical sourcing and exceptional artistry.

With Bola Ray’s influence and Joselyn Dumas’s elegance, GoldBod Jewellery aims to elevate global appreciation for Ghanaian-made gold ornaments and luxury accessories.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony at the company’s head office in Accra, the Chief Executive Officer of GoldBod Jewellery, Sammy Gyamfi, Esq., described the collaboration as a landmark step in advancing Ghana’s creative and luxury industries.

Kwabena Anokye Disi, popularly known as Bola
Kwabena Anokye Disi, popularly known as Bola Ray

“Bola Ray and Joselyn Dumas represent excellence, authenticity, and sophistication the core values of GoldBod Jewellery. Their appointment marks a major milestone in our mission to add value to Ghana’s gold and strengthen our place in the global luxury market,” Mr. Gyamfi stated.

He added that the partnership aligns with President John Mahama’s vision of positioning Ghana as Africa’s premier destination for authentic gold jewellery and ornaments.

Joselyn Dumas
Joselyn Dumas

As brand ambassadors, Bola Ray and Joselyn Dumas will lead promotional campaigns, media engagements, and outreach programs to showcase GoldBod’s collections of fine gold, diamond pieces, and bespoke luxury accessories.

Their roles are also expected to inspire public confidence in locally produced gold jewellery while highlighting Ghana’s growing presence in the global luxury market.

Education Ministry Launches Tracker to Improve Learning and Classroom Conditions

By
Ivy Hollys
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Tracker

The Ministry of Education has pledged to improve classroom conditions and increase investment in education through the newly launched Foundational Learning Action Tracker (FLAT).

Speaking at the launch of the 2025 FLAT in Accra, Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, said the tracker will help identify challenges and monitor progress in the education sector.

He explained that the platform will support data-driven decision-making and strengthen accountability across schools and institutions.

“FLAT is more than a monitoring tool. It is a platform for shared accountability and collective learning,” Dr. Apaak said. “It will help us track progress, identify areas that need improvement, and ensure that every child can thrive in the classroom.”

He called on teachers, school leaders, and education partners to use the tracker to guide reforms and improve teaching quality. “Let us commit to using data to drive meaningful reforms, invest in teachers, and create classrooms where every child can learn and blossom,” he added.

The Global Director of Education and Adolescent Development at UNICEF, Pia Rebello Britto, also spoke at the event. She stressed the need for stronger investment in human resources to support the education system.

“In 2024, only a quarter of countries reported national recruitment of personnel to support students’ mental health and wellbeing,” she said. “Much of this responsibility falls on teachers, and they are becoming overburdened. That is why we are focusing on teachers this year.”

The Foundational Learning Action Tracker aims to boost transparency, strengthen accountability, and improve learning outcomes across Ghana’s schools. It will also provide regular data to help policymakers and stakeholders design better strategies to support students and teachers.

Amazon to Lay Off 14,000 Employees as Part of AI Transformation Strategy

By
Ivy Hollys
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Amazon's headquarters. (Lindsey Wasson/Getty Images/File)

Amazon has announced plans to lay off 14,000 corporate employees this year as part of a major restructuring to prepare for broader adoption of artificial intelligence (AI).

In a memo to staff, Beth Galetti, Senior Vice President of People Experience, said the company will continue hiring in key strategic areas while streamlining operations to become “leaner, with fewer layers and more ownership.”

“We expect to continue hiring in key strategic areas while also finding additional places we can remove layers, increase ownership, and realize efficiency gains,” Galetti said in a statement posted on Amazon’s blog.

Reuters earlier reported that total job cuts could eventually reach 30,000.

Galetti explained that the move aligns with CEO Andy Jassy’s vision of running Amazon “like the world’s biggest startup,” enabling the company to stay nimble as AI reshapes the technology industry.

“What we need to remember is that the world is changing quickly. This generation of AI is the most transformative technology we’ve seen since the Internet,” Galetti added.

Amazon, which has over 350,000 corporate workers, said layoffs will begin Tuesday. Most affected employees will have 90 days to seek internal transfers, while those unable to secure new roles will receive severance packages and benefits.

In June, Jassy had said AI-driven efficiency gains would eventually reduce Amazon’s human workforce. “As we roll out more generative AI and agents, we will need fewer people doing some of the jobs that are being done today,” he noted.

This marks Amazon’s second major layoff in recent years after cutting 27,000 workers in 2023. Analysts say the decision reflects a shift from human labor to technological infrastructure amid rising global costs and tightening markets.

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