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Rev. Stephen Wengam Urges Assemblies of God Pastors to Safeguard Credibility Through Spiritual Discipline
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Rev. Stephen Wengam Urges Assemblies of God Pastors to Safeguard Credibility Through Spiritual Discipline

Rev. Stephen Wengam, the General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, Ghana, has issued a strong call to the clergy to protect their moral and professional credibility by avoiding negative attitudes such as grumbling and over-anxiety. Speaking during his 3rd Apostolic Visitation at Assin Atonsu, the General Superintendent emphasized that the internal disposition of a leader directly impacts the spiritual health and growth of their congregation. He noted that maintaining a positive, Christlike outlook is not merely a personal choice but a professional necessity for those tasked with guiding the faithful. To achieve this standard of leadership, Rev. Wengam underscored the importance of rigorous spiritual discipline, specifically pointing to consistent prayer and intensive Bible study as essential tools for fostering positivity. The event featured a practical demonstration of these principles, including a three-and-a-half-hour prayer session focused on spiritual renewal. In a move to reinforce the church's commitment to stable family units, the visitation also included a mass renewal of marriage vows, reaffirming the Assemblies of God's firm theological stance against divorce among its leadership. Complementing the General Superintendent’s message, Lady Monica Wengam, National President of the Ministers Wives Association, spoke on the necessity of selfless service and humility. She encouraged the clergy and their families to prioritize the needs of the church over personal ambition, arguing that true leadership is rooted in a spirit of sacrifice. In recognition of their leadership and impact, the Central Regional Council honored the Wengams with the Royal Servant Leadership Award, citing their dedication to the church’s mission and their exemplary conduct. As the Assemblies of God leadership continues its nationwide apostolic visitations, these sessions serve as a critical platform for internal reform and the strengthening of church governance. By focusing on the personal integrity and spiritual habits of its ministers, the church aims to ensure its leaders remain resilient in the face of modern social pressures. This emphasis on character-driven leadership is expected to influence not only the local congregations in Assin Atonsu but also the broader national network of the Assemblies of God as they navigate contemporary challenges to religious authority.

Apostle Dr Eric Nyamekye, President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council, speaking at the conference
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President Mahama Faces Growing Pressure Over Agricultural Policy and Accountability as 2026 Legislative Agenda Progresses

The administration of President John Dramani Mahama is navigating a complex landscape of political criticism and urgent calls for accountability as the 2026 political season progresses. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has spearheaded the opposition's latest critique, alleging that the government has largely abandoned the agricultural sector in favor of "GoldBod" initiatives. This accusation comes at a critical time as the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) attempts to bolster the sector's legal framework by advancing the Agricultural Extension and Advisory Services Bill. This legislative framework, which underwent a high-level validation meeting on June 25, 2026, is intended to strengthen and formalize advisory services for farmers nationwide, yet the opposition maintains that these efforts are insufficient to address broader systemic neglect and shifting economic priorities. In addition to policy debates, the executive is facing sharp demands for administrative transparency and immediate justice within the healthcare system. The Africa Centre for Security and Counterterrorism (ACSC) has formally petitioned President Mahama to remove and prosecute Omega Timothy, the Saboba District Health Insurance Manager. Timothy is accused of practicing medicine without a license for nearly eight years, a period during which his unauthorized actions allegedly resulted in multiple patient fatalities. The ACSC has expressed grave concern over the government’s perceived inaction on these long-standing allegations, framing the case as a significant test of the administration's commitment to public health safety and institutional integrity. The judicial system also remains under the national spotlight with the continuation of the high-profile JB Danquah-Adu murder trial. At the Accra High Court, Daniel Asiedu, widely known as "Sexy Dondon," has once again pleaded not guilty to charges of robbery and murder. As he remains in custody pending a July 8, 2026, hearing, the case continues to serve as a pivotal reminder of the ongoing search for justice for the late Member of Parliament. Simultaneously, Robert Wisdom Cudjoe, the MP for Prestea Huni-Valley, has raised a red alert regarding the use of live ammunition during traditional festivals. Cudjoe warned that the transition from traditional muskets to modern firearms, including assault rifles, has turned cultural celebrations into lethal events, and he urged the government and security agencies to strictly enforce existing firearm laws to prevent further loss of life. As these political and legal issues unfold, civil and religious organizations are demanding more robust state intervention in infrastructure and social welfare. The Tricycle Operators’ Association of Ghana has signaled its intent to stage a nationwide demonstration following the closure of the Tambourine dumpsite at McCarthy Hill by National Security, citing a critical lack of alternative waste disposal infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), led by Apostle Dr. Eric Nyamekye, has urged the government to enforce building regulations more strictly to mitigate the impact of frequent flooding while calling on citizens to adopt better waste management practices. Together, these multifaceted challenges highlight the intensifying pressure on the Mahama administration to deliver on its promises of safety, accountability, and economic revitalization.

Benedict Batabe Assorow (right), Ambassador of Ghana to Croatia, presenting his letters of credence to President Zoran Milanovic of Croatia
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Ghana Deepens European Partnerships as Burkina Faso Severs French Ties and South Africa Faces Political Shifts

The diplomatic and political landscape across Africa is undergoing a significant transformation, characterized by Ghana's strengthening of European alliances, Burkina Faso's radical departure from traditional Western partnerships, and a shifting domestic political tide in South Africa. In Accra, the 735th National Day of Switzerland was recently celebrated, marking over seven centuries of the Swiss confederation and highlighting the robust bilateral relations between the two nations. The event also served as a farewell to the outgoing Swiss Ambassador, Ms. Simone Giger, who was honored for her four-year tenure focused on trade, climate action, and governance. During the reception, attended by government officials and the diplomatic corps, Ambassador Giger praised Ghana's cultural richness but issued a stern call for collaborative action against illegal mining and environmental degradation, while Ghanaian Minister Samuel Nartey George reaffirmed Switzerland's role as a vital development partner in sectors ranging from renewable energy to cocoa production. Parallel to these celebrations, Ghana is actively expanding its footprint in Eastern Europe. Ambassador Benedict Batabe Assorow recently presented his credentials to the President of Croatia, signaling a strategic move to transition from merely cordial relations to structured, tangible engagements. Assorow emphasized the potential for collaboration in technology and economics, leveraging Croatia's specialized expertise and Ghana’s strategic positioning within the African Continental Free Trade Area. This proactive diplomacy underscores Ghana's commitment to diversifying its international partnerships and securing technical cooperation that directly benefits its national development agenda. In stark contrast to Ghana's diplomatic expansion, the military junta in Burkina Faso has formally severed diplomatic ties with France, its long-standing colonial and security partner. Under the leadership of Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the Burkinabe government accused France of "ceaseless activism" and neo-colonial ambitions that allegedly undermined national interests. This rupture follows the expulsion of French troops and a decisive pivot toward Russia and China for security and economic support. While the French foreign ministry has labeled the decision as "hostile and unfounded," the move reflects a broader trend in the Sahel region where military-led governments are distancing themselves from Western influence and the ECOWAS bloc in favor of new regional alliances. These geopolitical shifts are mirrored by significant internal political changes in South Africa, where the dominant African National Congress (ANC) is facing unprecedented challenges. A recent by-election victory by the Democratic Alliance (DA) in the black township of Evaton West marks a historic shift in voter demographics, as the ANC’s support plummeted below 32%. Analysts suggest that widespread frustration over service delivery and municipal mismanagement is eroding traditional party loyalties. Collectively, these events—from the diplomatic corridors of Accra and Zagreb to the protest-weary streets of Evaton West and the junta-led offices of Ouagadougou—illustrate a continent in a state of profound political and diplomatic flux.

Okogyeaman Owusu Basapon II
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Dr. Abu Sakara Foster Enskinned in Mankuma as Suhyen and Mfantseman Resolve Leadership and Legal Disputes

In a significant period for local governance across Ghana, traditional institutions have seen major transitions alongside state-led peace-building efforts. Former presidential candidate and prominent agriculturalist, Dr. Abu Sakara Foster, has been enskinned as the Kakulasewura of the Mankuma Traditional Area in the Savannah Region. This ceremony, which drew a large gathering of royals and politicians, signals the continued integration of modern political leaders into traditional roles. Simultaneously, in the Eastern Region, the New Juaben Traditional Area celebrated the enstoolment of 62-year-old Nana Kofi Owusu as Okogyeaman Owusu Basapon II, the new chief of Suhyen. Succeeding the late Okogyeaman Ankomah Basapon II after a five-year vacancy, the new chief has pledged to leverage his experience as a business leader to attract investment and foster development. Parallel to these leadership changes, the National Peace Council (NPC) has intensified its grassroots interventions to ensure stability. In Kongo, located in the Tempane District, the NPC established a nine-member Local Peace Committee (LPC) and a team of eleven community monitors. This initiative, part of a broader governance project funded by Denmark, Norway, and South Korea in collaboration with the UNDP, is designed to identify early warning signs of conflict and prevent violent extremism. The committee's mandate includes mediating recurring disputes, particularly regarding farmland, through dialogue and transparent conflict resolution techniques, with a heavy emphasis on representing women, youth, and minority groups. Further promoting social harmony, a high-profile legal dispute in the Central Region has been resolved through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). Ernest De-Graft Egyir, President of the Mfantseman Saltpond Development Alliance (MSDA), and Omanhen Nana Okesse Essandoh IX successfully settled a defamation suit stemming from statements made during the 2025 Odambea Festival. The amicable settlement, which awaits formal endorsement by the High Court, involved a formal apology and a mutual commitment to responsible public commentary. This resolution is seen as a vital step in reinforcing unity within the Nkusukum Traditional Area and demonstrates the power of mediation in resolving sensitive leadership conflicts. These collective developments highlight a national trend toward strengthening local-level governance through both traditional and institutional frameworks. By filling long-vacant stools with development-oriented leaders and equipping local communities with the tools for conflict monitoring, Ghana is bolstering its internal security and social cohesion. The successful application of ADR in defamation cases further illustrates a growing preference for restorative justice over litigation, ensuring that community leaders can focus on progress rather than protracted legal battles.

Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba Orders Military Siege and Shutdown of Uganda’s Leading Independent Media Outlets
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Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba Orders Military Siege and Shutdown of Uganda’s Leading Independent Media Outlets

In a significant escalation of media repression in Uganda, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the country's military chief and son of President Yoweri Museveni, has ordered the immediate shutdown of several prominent independent media outlets. The affected organizations, which include the Daily Monitor newspaper, NTV Uganda, and Spark TV, have reported being under a 'military siege' as armed soldiers were deployed to their headquarters in Kampala. These actions have resulted in television stations being taken off the air and a complete halt to newspaper distribution, drawing widespread international concern and condemnation from press freedom advocates. General Kainerugaba has been blunt about the motivations behind the crackdown, explicitly stating his lack of belief in a free press. He asserted that media outlets should operate under the rules of the ruling party and be managed by military cadres rather than independent journalists. According to the General, these shutdown orders were sanctioned by his father, President Museveni, who has maintained a 40-year hold on power. This stance represents a major shift toward overt state control of information and a rejection of democratic norms regarding freedom of expression in the East African nation. This crackdown follows a long history of state-led intimidation against the Daily Monitor and NTV, both of which have been targeted in the past for their critical coverage of the government. The current political atmosphere in Uganda is increasingly tense, following a controversial election cycle that the United Nations and human rights groups described as being marked by repression and intimidation. Observers suggest that these moves are part of a broader strategy to secure the ruling family's legacy, particularly as the President appears to be grooming Kainerugaba as his political successor. The international community and human rights organizations have condemned the military siege as a dangerous move toward total authoritarianism. Critics argue that by silencing the country’s most vocal independent outlets, the government is removing critical oversight and transparency. As the military continues to occupy media offices, the future of independent journalism in Uganda hangs in the balance, signaling a challenging road ahead for civil liberties and the protection of democratic institutions.

The Chamber of Ghana’s Parliament
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Ghana’s Quest for Accountability: Gertrude Torkornoo’s Legal Battle and Transparency Declines Shape Governance Landscape

Ghana’s democratic landscape is currently navigating a period of intense scrutiny as high-profile legal battles and declining transparency scores highlight systemic challenges within the Fourth Republic. The removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has triggered an extensive judicial marathon across multiple courts, while demands for executive accountability remain at the forefront of political discourse. At the same time, institutional efforts to bolster civic education and budget transparency are facing uphill battles against public skepticism and deteriorating performance indicators, raising questions about the resilience of the nation’s governance frameworks. The legal struggle surrounding Gertrude Torkornoo’s removal has expanded significantly, involving five Supreme Court cases and multiple High Court applications. Deputy Attorney General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai recently revealed that while the ECOWAS Court dismissed her claims of rights violations on June 24, 2026, Torkornoo continues to seek consolidation of her remaining domestic cases to address core issues of judicial independence and constitutional governance. Parallel to this judicial drama, National Petroleum Authority (NPA) CEO Edudzi Kudzo Tameklo has asserted that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta cannot evade legal scrutiny by remaining abroad. Tameklo emphasized that accountability is a cornerstone of democracy and that public officials must face investigation regardless of their location, citing international precedents to warn that impunity undermines public trust. In response to growing perceptions of corruption and partisan gridlock, the Parliament of Ghana, in collaboration with Junior Graphic, has launched the "Parliament and You" educational series. This initiative aims to instill values of probity and social justice in the youth, addressing critical gaps such as asset declaration deficiencies and the slow passage of essential legislation like the Property Rights of Spouses Bill. The program emerges as a response to criticisms of Parliament's performance, seeking to bridge the gap between democratic ideals and the reality of executive dominance and ethical challenges among parliamentarians. However, these efforts to rebuild trust are complicated by the latest Open Budget Survey (OBS) results, which show a concerning decline in fiscal transparency. Ghana’s score for budget openness dropped from 30% in 2023 to 25% in 2025, according to the International Budget Partnership. While public participation saw a slight increase to 33%, the overall transparency score of 22% remains significantly below the 61% benchmark for sufficient information publication. Oversight scores were notably low, with Parliament at 28% and the Audit Service at 44%, highlighting the urgent need for more accessible budget information and stricter adherence to the Public Financial Management Act. The convergence of these events paints a picture of a democracy at a crossroads, where the rhetoric of accountability is being tested by institutional performance. The decline in budget transparency and the ongoing litigation regarding the judiciary underscore the need for structural reforms to strengthen legislative oversight and judicial independence. As public interest in the Torkornoo cases remains high and the call for executive accountability persists, the effectiveness of civic education initiatives will likely depend on whether the state can demonstrate a genuine commitment to the principles of probity and the rule of law in practice.

The Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Gilbert Kenneth Adjei
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NPP Demands Transparency in Railway Acquisition as Government Navigates Mining Reforms and Utility Adjustments

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has raised serious concerns regarding the government's recent acquisition of two refurbished British Rail Class 56 diesel locomotives and 20 freight wagons, demanding full transparency over the age, cost, and long-term viability of the equipment. Through its Minority Transport Policy Committee, the party characterized the locomotives—manufactured between 1976 and 1983—as outdated 'museum pieces' that could burden the state with high maintenance costs and operational unreliability. The NPP is calling for a detailed disclosure of the procurement terms, spare parts arrangements, and local capacity-building plans, contrasting this purchase with the previous administration’s acquisition of new Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs) from Poland which included robust support frameworks. While the government faces scrutiny over transport infrastructure, the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has implemented a quarterly tariff adjustment, increasing electricity and water rates by 3.49% and 0.85% respectively, effective July 2026. This move has sparked a divide in political and civic circles; Abdul-Fatawu Alhassan, the Member of Parliament for Yendi, endorsed the gradual increases as a manageable approach for consumers. However, CUTS International criticized the PURC’s formula as 'too mechanical,' arguing that it fails to address deeper systemic inefficiencies within the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), such as significant technical and commercial losses that continue to drive up costs for the average citizen. In the natural resources sector, a significant shift in policy is being proposed through the Minerals Royalty Bill. A study led by Dr. Abdulai Darimani recommends increasing the community share of mineral royalties from 10% to 15% and, crucially, including landowners in the disbursement to minimize local conflicts. This push for equitable wealth distribution coincides with the introduction of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP). The initiative received backing from HRM Awulae Kwasi Amakye III, Paramount Chief of the Western Nzema Traditional Area, though he cautioned that the program must maintain a strict framework to prevent irresponsible mining practices and protect the future of resource-rich communities. Further legislative and safety reforms are also on the national agenda, as the government moves to repeal outdated regulations with a modern, consolidated Rent Act intended to protect low-income tenants and stimulate private investment. Simultaneously, the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), under Director-General Abraham Amaliba, is rolling out the 'Traffic Tech' enforcement system and mandatory vehicle towing to curb road fatalities. These multifaceted developments, which also include academic calls for the removal of taxes on residential solar PV systems, reflect a broader period of regulatory transition and heightened political accountability as Ghana seeks to modernize its infrastructure and governance frameworks.

Vice President Opoku-Agyemang Advocates for Informal Workers as Unions Threaten Industrial Action
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Vice President Opoku-Agyemang Advocates for Informal Workers as Unions Threaten Industrial Action

The 2026 National Labour Conference in Ho has emerged as a pivotal moment for Ghana’s labor landscape, with Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang leading a call for the comprehensive protection of the country’s informal sector. Addressing stakeholders under the theme "Strengthening Industrial Harmony as a Catalyst for Accelerated Economic Growth and National Development," the Vice President highlighted a significant gap in the nation’s legal framework, noting that 78% of the workforce operates in the informal sector with inadequate labor rights. This push for reform comes at a volatile time, as the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU) concurrently issued warnings of potential strikes over wage inequalities and delayed allowances. During her keynote address, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that the exclusion of informal workers—particularly women and the urban poor—from existing labor protections hinders sustainable economic development. To address this, the government is championing the Labour Bill of 2026, which aims to modernize labor administration and integrate the concerns of informal workers into national policy. Dr. Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, the Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, reinforced this commitment, noting that the Ghana Decent Work Country Programme (2026–2030) would be instrumental in expanding employment protections and adapting to contemporary workplace challenges, including the rise of artificial intelligence and shifting global economic dynamics. However, the government’s vision for industrial harmony faces immediate pressure from organized labor. Joshua Ansah, General Secretary of the TUC, warned that the union is prepared to strike if the government fails to rectify alleged unequal public sector salary adjustments, urging for fairness in salary administration. Adding to the tension, the Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU) has set a hard deadline of June 30, 2026, for the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) to release agreed-upon Institution Specific Allowances. The union expressed deep frustration over delays following an agreement finalized in March 2026, signaling that industrial peace is contingent on the prompt fulfillment of financial commitments. Beyond immediate labor disputes, the conference also served as a platform for innovative proposals aimed at long-term worker welfare. Dr. Nana Dr. Emmanuel Adu-Sarkodee Afriyie, President of the Ghana Employers’ Association, proposed a National Homeownership Programme to address the country’s housing deficit and create jobs, which he argued would significantly enhance worker productivity. Supporting this call for institutional evolution, Dr. Vanessa Lerato Phala of the International Labour Organization (ILO) urged for the inclusion of informal workers in all policy discussions. The summit concluded with a consensus that while legislative reforms like the Labour Bill of 2026 are vital, the immediate restoration of trust through fair compensation and transparent dialogue remains the primary hurdle for national development.

NPP Intensifies Grassroots Restructuring and Reorganization as Leaders Demand Civility Ahead of 2028 General Elections
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NPP Intensifies Grassroots Restructuring and Reorganization as Leaders Demand Civility Ahead of 2028 General Elections

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has launched an intensive internal reorganization effort across various constituencies in Ghana, signaling a determined push to rebuild following its defeat in the 2024 general elections. From the Oti Region to the Northern Region, the party is witnessing a surge in internal democratic activity as members vie for executive positions. In the Biakoye Constituency, the leadership race has significantly heated up with 28 aspirants filing nominations for various roles, a development that local officials describe as a sign of renewed enthusiasm. Similarly, in the Akan Constituency, 20 aspirants have undergone vetting for executive roles, with key positions like Constituency Chairman and Secretary notably remaining unopposed, highlighting a mix of fierce competition and strategic consolidation at the local level. While the grassroots mobilization gains momentum, senior party members are emphasizing that organizational structures alone will not guarantee success in 2028 without a fundamental shift in internal conduct. Eric Kwesi Taylor, a prominent party member and CEO of Penyman Group Limited, has issued a stern call for civility in political discourse. He urged the party leadership and youth wings to cease personal attacks and insults directed at senior figures, specifically referencing the role of Mr. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong. Taylor argued that the party's future depends on respectful debate and a focus on community service rather than rhetoric, suggesting that the NPP must prioritize job creation and youth development to restore public confidence. This call for unity is echoed in the national leadership discourse, where former MP Francis Addai-Nimoh has endorsed Paul Awentami Afoko as a unifying force for the party's reorganization. Afoko’s campaign, centered on the "3Rs Agenda"—Reuniting, Rebuilding, and Returning the NPP to power—aims to mend deep-seated internal divisions that critics argue contributed to the 2024 loss. Addai-Nimoh noted that mending these internal fractures is more critical than fighting external opposition, especially in regions where the party currently lacks parliamentary representation. However, the path to unity remains complex, as evidenced by the withdrawal of Abdul-Wadud Iddrisu from the Gushegu Constituency Communication Officer race due to internal disagreements and unmet demands. Reflecting on the 2024 electoral outcomes, political analysts suggest that the NPP faces a paradox of "disapproval without abandonment." Recent data from Afrobarometer indicates that while the presidency's approval rating plummeted from 76% in 2017 to 31% by 2024, a significant portion of the electorate still supports key government policies. This indicates that the party's path back to power lies in reconciling its policy platform with better leadership conduct and grassroots empowerment. As the NPP continues its internal elections and vetting processes, the focus remains on whether these new executives can translate high candidate enthusiasm into a cohesive national strategy capable of reclaiming the presidency in 2028.

John Dramani Mahama Concludes Central Region Tour with Focus on 24-Hour Economy and "Big Push" Infrastructure
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John Dramani Mahama Concludes Central Region Tour with Focus on 24-Hour Economy and "Big Push" Infrastructure

John Dramani Mahama has successfully concluded his multi-day "Resetting Ghana" tour of the Central Region, culminating in a high-energy town hall meeting in Apam. Throughout the tour, the former President and flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) engaged with residents to discuss his administration's policy priorities, including the "24-Hour Economy" agenda and the "Big Push" infrastructure initiative. Accompanied by his running mate, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Mahama emphasized the need for a comprehensive economic reset that prioritizes job creation, healthcare, and sustainable development across the region. A cornerstone of the tour was the sod-cutting ceremony for the Assin Bereku 24-Hour Economy Market, a project designed to stimulate local commerce and provide employment opportunities beyond traditional working hours. In addition to commercial expansion, Mahama highlighted significant investments in human capital, including the inauguration of a Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound and the distribution of Free Primary Healthcare kits. These initiatives were presented as part of a broader strategy to bridge the gap in essential services for rural communities while simultaneously promoting the region's tourism potential through visits to historic sites like the Cape Coast Castle. Infrastructure development remained a primary focus of the tour, with Mahama conducting detailed inspections of several projects under the "Big Push" initiative. Key inspections included the Kafodzidzi–Aburansa road rehabilitation—a project valued at approximately GHC 54,961,893 and currently 22.8% complete—as well as the Apam–Mumford–Hweda–Dago–Otuam road corridor. These projects are strategically aimed at improving connectivity for farming and fishing communities, thereby reducing transport costs and minimizing post-harvest losses. Mahama commended the contractors for their progress but issued a stern directive regarding quality standards, insisting that no payments be approved until road works undergo rigorous engineering supervision to ensure long-term durability. In his closing address at the Apam Town Hall, Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to a governance style that is responsive to community input. He assured residents that funds for ongoing infrastructure projects are secured and will be disbursed promptly upon certification of work. By linking infrastructure quality to economic growth, Mahama's tour sought to solidify his vision for a Ghana where enhanced road networks and an active 24-hour economy drive national prosperity. The tour concluded with a strong emphasis on restoring public trust through transparency and the efficient use of public funds for lasting benefit.

Ghana Journalists Association Sounds Alarm Over Surging Defamation Lawsuits and Physical Attacks on Media Practitioners
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Ghana Journalists Association Sounds Alarm Over Surging Defamation Lawsuits and Physical Attacks on Media Practitioners

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has raised a grave alarm over what it describes as a systemic attempt to stifle press freedom through a surge in defamation lawsuits and physical intimidation. Dominic Hlordze, the GJA General Secretary, revealed that there are currently more than 15 defamation cases pending against media practitioners across the country. These legal actions, often described as Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), are increasingly being used by powerful individuals to silence investigative reporting and accountability. The GJA warns that the financial and psychological burden of these suits is crippling the media’s ability to function as a watchdog, ultimately threatening Ghana’s democratic accountability. Legal experts and media advocates, including lawyer and UniMAC lecturer Zakaria Tanko Musah, argue that Ghana’s reliance on common law for defamation leaves journalists uniquely vulnerable. Because there is no dedicated statutory defamation law, there is significant ambiguity regarding legal defenses and remedies. This lack of clarity allows wealthy litigants to exploit the legal system to intimidate journalists who often lack the financial resources to sustain prolonged court battles. In response, the GJA is urging Parliament to enact specific legislation that would define defamation more clearly, establish standard defenses, and protect journalists from frivolous litigation. Beyond the courtroom, physical violence remains a potent threat to media practitioners. A recent flashpoint occurred at Obaatanpa Radio in Kasoa, where a producer, Bernard Mireku, was allegedly assaulted during a discussion on internal National Democratic Congress (NDC) tensions. Following the incident, the NDC Central Regional Chairman, Prof. Richard Kofi Asiedu, filed a GH¢10 million defamation lawsuit against the station and its host, Kofi Kyei Baffour. While the GJA has condemned the assault and the temporary closure of the station as an "attack on democratic values," the situation highlights the volatile environment in which local journalists operate, particularly when reporting on political factions. The judicial landscape has also come under scrutiny following the criminal contempt case of journalist Larry Dogbey. Dr. Kojo Asante, Director of Policy Engagement at CDD-Ghana, criticized the use of criminal contempt proceedings against the press, suggesting they compromise judicial impartiality and create a conflict for judges. Amidst these rising pressures, the GJA has advised journalists to strictly adhere to the GJA Code of Ethics to mitigate legal risks and encouraged aggrieved parties to utilize the "right of rejoinder" and other dispute resolution mechanisms rather than immediately resorting to the courts. These combined legal and physical pressures, the association warns, are deterring a new generation of investigative journalists from pursuing the critical work of holding power to account.

Sarah Adwoa Safo Petitions Attorney-General to Transfer Shooting Case to High Court Over Jurisdictional Concerns
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Sarah Adwoa Safo Petitions Attorney-General to Transfer Shooting Case to High Court Over Jurisdictional Concerns

Sarah Adwoa Safo, the former Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, has officially petitioned the Attorney-General to transfer a criminal case involving a violent shooting incident from the Adenta Circuit Court to the High Court. The petition, filed on June 25, 2026, argues that the Circuit Court lacks the necessary legal jurisdiction to hear the matter because the principal charges constitute first-degree felonies. This legal move follows a significant encounter on June 21, 2026, during which Safo sustained serious injuries after being reportedly attacked while in her vehicle outside her brother's residence. The case centers on the events of that June evening, where Safo was allegedly shot multiple times, resulting in severe physical harm and damage to her vehicle. Her brother, Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena, along with eight others, was subsequently arrested and charged with various offenses, including the use of offensive weapons, unlawful possession of firearms, and causing unlawful damage. Safo’s legal team emphasizes that the gravity of these charges necessitates a trial by indictment, a procedure that under Ghanaian law must be conducted within the High Court to ensure a proper and thorough resolution. In the petition, Safo’s lawyers contend that the Adenta Circuit Court’s current handling of the case, including the granting of bail to the accused, is procedurally and legally flawed. They argue that because the court does not have the mandate to try first-degree felonies, its decisions regarding bail—recently set at GH"500,000 for the accused—are incorrect. The legal team is calling for the Attorney-General to review the police docket and refile the charges at the High Court, asserting that a transfer is essential for a fair and expedited trial that aligns with constitutional standards. This development adds a new layer of legal complexity to a high-profile case involving one of Ghana’s prominent former legislators. By seeking this transfer, Safo and her counsel are pushing for a more rigorous judicial review of the circumstances that led to her hospitalization and the subsequent arrests. As the Attorney-General considers the petition, the outcome will likely determine the venue and pace of the trial, setting a potential precedent for how first-degree felony cases are managed within the Ghanaian judicial system.