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KATH, Ridge Hospital and 10 others referred to Attorney General by PAC

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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The Public Accounts Committee has referred twelve public institutions for prosecution.
These institutions, including Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Ridge Hospital, failed to recover public funds.
The action follows findings in the Auditor-General’s latest report.
The committee believes the institutions deliberately ignored directives to retrieve the money.

The move was announced during a PAC sitting on Monday, November 3.
Members reviewed reports showing continued non-compliance by affected institutions.
The Ranking Member, Samuel Atta-Mills, stressed the seriousness of the decision.

“All those who have not complied will be referred for prosecution. It’s that simple,” he said.
“Those with 60 and 90 days might also face the same fate if they fail to act. Maybe they will enjoy appearing before the court,” he added.

According to the committee, the inaction breaches the Public Financial Management Act.
The funds involve unretired imprests, unearned salaries, and other financial irregularities.
The total amount runs into tens of millions of Ghana cedis.
It represents a major financial loss to the state.

Michael Addo, Assistant Auditor-General, confirmed several institutions ignored earlier directives.
He presented evidence showing the failure to retrieve the funds.

The referral falls under Article 187(5) of the 1992 Constitution.
The PAC is mandated to examine public accounts and enforce accountability.
The Attorney General will assess the evidence and file charges where necessary.
The step aims to recover public funds and deter future misconduct.

President Mahama Appoints Dr. Afotey Nii Okle as Head of Investment and Tourism in China

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Dr. Richmond Afotey Nii Okle as Head of Investment and Tourism at Ghana’s Embassy in China.

Dr. Okle currently lectures at the Beanstalk International Bilingual School in Beijing. He previously served as Secretary of the NDC China chapter since 2018.

He holds a PhD in Finance, a Master’s in Finance and Investment, and a Bachelor’s in Mathematics and Statistics. He also heads the Mathematics Department at BIBS and completed Mfantsipim School in 2005.

His key mandate is to attract foreign direct investment from China into Ghana. The goal supports government efforts to strengthen productive sectors and advance the 24-hour economy agenda.

Dr. Okle will promote investment opportunities, including Ghana Free Zones and Public-Private Partnerships. He will also engage Chinese firms and financial institutions to drive strategic capital inflows.

Bilateral trade between Ghana and China reached $11.8 billion in 2024. Dr. Okle will participate in investment forums, business seminars, and trade fairs across China to position Ghana as a prime investment destination.

He will serve as the main contact for Chinese investors, offering guidance on regulations, incentives, and business processes. He will also work with both governments to resolve investor challenges.

Dr. Okle will support the $10 billion “Big Push” infrastructure vision, targeting roads, rail, and energy partnerships.

In tourism, he will strengthen collaboration between Ghanaian and Chinese industry players to improve visitor experience. He will also promote Ghana’s heritage attractions, including Cape Coast and Elmina Castles, to Chinese travellers.

GRA Boss, Top Aides Questioned in SML Ghana Case

By
Ivy Hollys
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The Office of the Special Prosecutor has directed Anthony Sarpong, Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority, and two senior officials to appear before investigators over the controversial SML Ghana contract.

Sources say the directive follows the recent arrest of the GRA’s Acting Head of Legal, who is being probed for alleged corruption, obstruction of justice, and related offences.

Those summoned include Mr. Sarpong, Celestine Annan, Assistant Commissioner in charge of Finance, and Kenneth Agyei-Duah, Technical Assistant to the Commissioner-General. This marks the second invitation for both Mr. Sarpong and Ms. Annan. Their earlier testimonies reportedly contradict the contents of a letter suspected to have been authored or approved by them at the request of SML Ghana’s lawyers in mid-October.

The three officials are expected to clarify inconsistencies linked to that correspondence. Both Mr. Sarpong and Mr. Agyei-Duah previously worked with KPMG, the auditing firm engaged by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to review SML’s operations.

The SML GRA contract involved the provision of revenue assurance services in Ghana’s petroleum and minerals sectors. However, it has drawn public criticism over alleged inflated costs, procurement breaches, and concerns about value for money.

The OSP, led by Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, has broadened its investigation to include senior officials at the Ministry of Finance. Mr. Agyebeng hinted that formal charges could be filed by the end of November 2025 against several individuals, including former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and two former GRA Commissioner-Generals.

He stated that the investigation aims to “safeguard public resources and ensure accountability in the management of state contracts.”

Rawlings Family Officially Announces Nana Konadu’s Passing to Asantehene

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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The family of the late former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, has officially notified Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II of her passing. The visit occurred at the Manhyia Palace on Monday, November 3, 2025.

Nana Konadu passed on October 23, 2025, at the Ridge Hospital in Accra. A one-week observance took place on October 30 with broad national attendance.

During the visit, the Asantehene expressed deep sadness over her death. He extended sincere condolences to the Rawlings family and pledged full support for her funeral arrangements.

Otumfuo praised Nana Konadu’s outstanding leadership and lifelong devotion to national progress. He highlighted her major role in empowering women through the 31st December Women’s Movement.

Nana Konadu, wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, remains a defining figure in Ghana’s history. She is remembered for her courage, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to uplifting communities.

Her legacy continues to inspire efforts toward women’s advancement and national development.

Breaking the Myths: Why Couples Must Register Their Marriages

By
Ivy Hollys
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Marriage

Despite growing awareness of legal rights in Ghana, many couples in the Asokwa District still shy away from registering their marriages largely due to misconceptions and lack of proper education on the issue.

At the Asokwa Marriage Registry, officials say that the low turnout is not because people cannot afford the fees, but because of long-held cultural beliefs. “Some men believe that once you register your marriage, your wife becomes bossy and begins to control the home,” an official at the registry explained. “It’s a misconception that discourages many from completing the process.”

This mistaken belief, coupled with limited public education, has left many unions without legal recognition. Couples often consider traditional or religious ceremonies as sufficient proof of marriage, not realizing that these do not provide the same legal protection under Ghana’s laws.

The result is that when issues such as inheritance, divorce, or custody arise, many spouses especially women find themselves without the legal backing they deserve. In some cases, years of companionship and joint effort are lost simply because the marriage was never formally registered.

However, marriage registration does not shift power in the home, rather protects both partners equally.

To address the problem, the registry is planning community engagements to correct misconceptions and educate the public on the value of legal marriage documentation.

For Asokwa to progress, officials say, couples must move beyond fear and tradition and embrace registration as a mark of responsibility and respect, not rivalry.

Ghana, Germany Chart New Path to Strengthen Bilateral Relations

By
Ivy Hollys
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President John Dramani Mahama and his German counterpart, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the longstanding partnership between Ghana and Germany.

The two leaders held bilateral discussions on Monday, November 3, 2025, during President Steinmeier’s State Visit to Ghana. The talks focused on strengthening political, economic, and people-to-people ties for the mutual benefit of both nations.

President Mahama and President Steinmeier reviewed existing areas of cooperation and explored new opportunities to expand collaboration. They recalled the historic relationship between Ghana and Germany, which dates back to before the formal establishment of diplomatic relations in 1957.

Over the decades, cooperation between the two countries has led to tangible progress in health, education, renewable energy, vocational training, peacekeeping, and capacity building. These initiatives have contributed significantly to youth empowerment, institutional development, and economic growth.

The leaders also discussed ongoing negotiations toward an Agreement on Labour Mobility, designed to promote safe and structured employment for Ghanaian professionals in Germany.

On regional security, both Presidents expressed concern about rising instability in West Africa and emphasized the importance of dialogue, trust, and cooperation to ensure peace.

They also exchanged views on international peacekeeping, cybersecurity, and climate-related threats, agreeing to pursue joint training and innovation in these areas.

A Joint Declaration of Intent was signed between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ghana and the Federal Foreign Office of Germany to formalize future political and diplomatic consultations.

Ghana and Germany reaffirmed their shared vision for a sustainable, peaceful, and prosperous future, built on mutual respect and partnership.

How Do You Handle A Difficult Boss?

By
Ivy Hollys
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boss
Photo by Craig Adderley

Today on The Urban Mix with Adwoa Afranewaa Frimpong, the conversation turned to the workplace as the team discussed a question many employees can relate to: How do you handle a difficult boss?

Guests Rhodalin Apenteng Aku and Kofi Boamah joined Adwoa to share their thoughts. Rhodalin began by describing a difficult boss as someone who is often autocratic and hard to communicate with.

“You can’t always get through to them,” she said. “So the best thing to do is to focus on your work and do it well.”

Kofi agreed, adding that in many cases, doing your job diligently is the best way to protect your peace and reputation.

“If your boss is unreasonable, don’t let it discourage you,” he said. “Let your work speak for itself.”

Listeners also joined the conversation through Orange FM’s WhatsApp line, sharing their own advice and experiences. DJ Zee wrote, “Don’t take things personally. Keep your confidence. Don’t let their behavior define your self-worth. See their behavior as about them, not you. If it gets unbearable or abusive, document incidents and report to HR or higher management.”

Others encouraged calmness and emotional control. One message read, “Practice stoicism — don’t see them as your enemies. Just make them feel like they’re always right.” Another listener simply said, “Ignore him or her. Focus on your goals.”

The conversation wrapped up on a lighter note, with Adwoa, Kofi, and Rhodalin laughing about the heavy traffic from Ejisu to Anloga Junction, which had many listeners tuning in from their cars.

The day’s discussion served as a reminder that professionalism, patience, and emotional intelligence remain the best tools for navigating a tough boss.

Press Freedom at Risk! GJA Slams Cybersecurity Amendment Bill

By
Ivy Hollys
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The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has expressed strong concerns over portions of the Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, warning that some clauses could erode press freedom and limit free expression if passed without proper consultation.

Addressing the media in Accra on Monday, November 3, to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor said while the Association supports government’s efforts to enhance cybersecurity, it is crucial that reforms do not undermine constitutional rights.

“We call for broad engagement, public consultation, and education to fine-tune the bill,” he said. “Every sector directly affected must make input in the public interest.”

Mr. Dwumfuor cautioned that rushing the amendment could bring “unintended consequences” that may threaten media independence and weaken democratic accountability.

“If what the amendment seeks to cure will worsen the cyber ecosystem, then we must tread cautiously,” he added.

He stressed that the media remains a vital pillar of Ghana’s democracy, adding that any legislation restricting journalistic work under the pretext of cybersecurity would damage transparency and accountability.

The GJA President urged Parliament to involve journalists, civil society groups, digital rights advocates, and technology experts before approving the bill. He emphasized that reforms must promote responsible online behavior while safeguarding free expression.

The Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, seeks to strengthen regulatory oversight and align Ghana’s laws with international standards. However, sections of the media, civil society, and the Minority in Parliament fear the amendments could be used to silence dissent or target critical voices.

German President Honours Prof. Frimpong-Boateng for Strengthening Medical Cooperation

By
Ivy Hollys
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President

The President of Germany, Dr. Frank Walter Steinmeier, has presented Ghanaian cardiothoracic surgeon Professor Kwabena Frimpong Boateng with the Federal Cross of Merit. The award recognises his remarkable work in advancing medical cooperation between Ghana and Germany.

The ceremony took place on Monday evening at the German Ambassador’s residence in Accra. It formed part of President Steinmeier’s three day state visit to Ghana. The award highlights Professor Frimpong Boateng’s efforts in medical research, education, and professional exchange between the two countries.

President Steinmeier praised Professor Frimpong Boateng for his long standing collaboration with German research and training institutions. He said the partnership had strengthened cardiovascular medicine and supported knowledge sharing between the nations.

Professor Frimpong Boateng trained in cardiac surgery at Hannover Medical School in Germany. He became one of the early pioneers in heart transplantation before returning to Ghana in 1989. He later founded the National Cardiothoracic Centre at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. The Centre also houses the Ghana Heart Foundation. It has saved many lives and trained health professionals from Ghana and other African countries.

Speaking after receiving the award, Professor Frimpong Boateng said the honour was both humbling and motivating. “I am very grateful for this recognition from Germany,” he said. “However, it is sometimes sad that it takes another country to value what we do for Ghana. I will continue to work for our country’s progress through collaboration with our German partners.”

Professor Frimpong-Boateng studied medicine at the University of Ghana and completed postgraduate training in Germany. He qualified as a general, vascular, and cardiothoracic surgeon. He later served as Chief Executive Officer of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and as a professor at the University of Ghana Medical School. From 2017 to 2021, he was Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation.

The Federal Cross of Merit, known in German as Verdienstkreuz am Bande, is one of the country’s highest civilian honours. It is awarded to individuals who make outstanding contributions to Germany or strengthen its relations with other nations.

President Steinmeier’s visit to Ghana focuses on deepening cooperation in education, sustainable development, and economic growth.

WAEC Dismisses Claims of Withheld Results

By
Ivy Hollys
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The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has denied reports claiming that results of more than 34,000 candidates have been withheld due to alleged examination malpractice.

Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, John Kapi, clarified that the Council has not released any official statement on the issue. He described the circulating reports as “factually inaccurate.”

Mr. Kapi said WAEC is still investigating irregularities recorded during the recent examinations. However, he stressed that the Council has not yet concluded its findings or released any data.

“We have not released any official statement. I’ve seen the statement myself, but it contains a lot of inaccuracies. We are still dealing with the issues and have not concluded investigations,” he said.

Mr. Kapi noted that WAEC deployed a stronger monitoring and inspection team this year to protect the integrity of the exams. Despite the expanded oversight, a few cases of malpractice were detected.

“We had people all over the place monitoring the exams. Of course, there were still some bad nuts in the system, and we recorded some irregularities. However, it is not true that we have withheld the results of over 34,000 candidates. For now, we haven’t put out any figures,” he explained.

Earlier, reports circulating online claimed that WAEC had withheld results for 34,563 candidates over alleged collusion, impersonation, and use of unauthorised materials.

WAEC says its investigations are ongoing, and official details on withheld results will be released only after the Examinations Committee completes its review.

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