Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

There is no dearth of news on the political terrain in the country, and with limited space at the disposal of editorial boards, the task of what to tackle becomes challenging.

Even more challenging is the case where a subject is before our law courts, in which case we must tread carefully lest we breach the standards; and there is one such case on the bosom of our judges.

Be it as it may, last week and the current have been laden with so much to deal with.

One of the flagbearer aspirants of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia won the hearts of many Ghanaians, both within his party and outside it, when out of humility he pleaded with NPP supporters and by extension floating voters to forgive the past administration for not meeting their expectations in certain regards.

The Akufo-Addo administration of which he was a part did a lot in the area of good governance and infrastructural development. In spite of these, however, being a human institution and therefore not without blemishes, the need to plead for forgiveness where toes were stepped on should be regarded as a mark of maturity and good leadership.

The recent request for forgiveness where the expectations of the people were not met should not be tendentiously misconstrued and hanged as some seek to do within the party.

Many NPP supporters were incensed about some interventions during the previous regime, as did floating voters. This accounted for the record number of NPP supporters who refused to go and cast their votes, a protest refusal if you like.

The debt rescheduling initiative was one of such programmes which had Ghanaians, especially pensioners, complaining in spite of the many feats chalked, one being the famous Free Senior High School (SHS), which remains unparalleled in terms of social intervention.

In one of his post-office discourses, former President Akufo-Addo acknowledged the concern expressed by many, especially pensioners, about the mandatory haircut. His remorseful remark triggered a conversation among party supporters and victims of the haircut.

It is worrisome therefore when begging for forgiveness on behalf of the NPP becomes a matter of political polemics when indeed there is a plethora of bad governance being committed by those at the helm today.

One of the acts of humility from former President Akufo-Addo was when in the face of public furore when he uttered ‘all die be die’, he told Ghanaians if that had touched their sensibilities he was sorry.

It was such a show of humility which calmed tempers, and to date the subject is hardly remembered. To err is human, and to forgive is divine.

Expressing apology cannot be equated with knocking oneself down, ignoring the fallouts from stepping on toes of the governed by the governors is.

The Police in the Walewale District of the North East Region, has arrested one person for inflicting multiple machete wounds on a victim at Walewale.

On October 4, 2025, the suspect, Rafai Tahiru, 25, and two others currently at large alleged that the victim had stolen a mobile phone belonging to suspect Rafai Tahiru.

The three suspects then tied up the hands and legs of the victim with robes, put him in a tricycle, whipped him with canes, and inflicted multiple machete wounds on his forehead and body.

The victim was however rescued by onlookers and rushed to the Walewale Government Hospital for medical attention, while a report was lodged with Walewale Police.

Robert Anabiik Anmain, Deputy Superintendent of Police Public Affairs Unit, North East Region, who confirmed the incident to DAILY GUIDE, said suspects fled the scene after committing the crime. However, on October 5, 2025, based on intelligence, suspect Rafai Tahiru was arrested at his hideout in Tampulungu, a suburb of Walewale.

According to him, a search in the suspect’s room led to the discovery of a machete which was stained with blood and believed to be the weapon the suspects used to inflict the wounds on the victim.

He disclosed that the suspect will be arraigned before court, while efforts are being made to arrest his accomplices.

The Member of Parliament (MP) for Ho Central, Richmond Edem Kofi Kpotosu, has clarified that no Legislative Instrument (L.I.) has been passed to upgrade the Ho Municipal Assembly to metropolitan status, cautioning that recent public pronouncements on the matter amount to ‘optical shows’ rather than genuine progress.

Addressing journalists after the Ho Municipal Assembly’s General Assembly Meeting, Mr. Kpotosu explained that the critical parliamentary requirement for the elevation a Legislative Instrument has not yet been laid before Parliament.

‘By the grace of God, when we resume for our third session of the Ninth Parliament, the L.I. will be laid for the mandatory 21 days before we can officially say that Ho has been elevated to a metropolitan assembly. Only then can we establish sub-metros,’ he pointed out.

The MP underscored that upgrading Ho to metropolitan status is vital to accelerating socio-economic development, particularly in fishing, urban infrastructure, and other key sectors. However, he expressed concern that despite discussions across four consecutive parliaments, no concrete legislative action has been taken.

‘Everything done so far is just optics. You can have the optical shows and say anything, but the reality will always expose you,’ Mr. Kpotosu stressed, urging stakeholders to avoid misleading the public with premature declarations.

The clarification comes amid growing public interest in granting Ho metropolitan status, a move expected to provide greater administrative autonomy and attract more development opportunities to the Volta Region’s capital.

Ghanaian gospel musician, Sarah Sarkodie, has released a spirit-filled song titled ‘Abrewa Sarah,’ which she described as both a weapon of spiritual warfare and a balm of divine healing.

Inspired by the biblical matriarch Sarah, wife of Abraham, the song is more than music-it is a prophetic declaration. ‘Abrewa Sarah’ speaks to anyone who has ever faced delay, disappointment, or doubt.

It reminds listeners that God’s promises may tarry, but they never fail. Through stirring melodies and spirit-laden lyrics, Sarah Sarkodie invites audiences to believe again, hope again, and trust again.

Raised in a devout Christian home here in Ghana, Sarah’s journey was marked early by the unmistakable presence of grace. Her love affair with music began at just seven years old, nurtured within a household where worship wasn’t just a Sunday affair but a daily lifestyle.

It was in those sacred moments-singing hymns with her family, soaking in Scripture, and leading worship in church-that her voice was shaped into the powerful instrument it is today.

With ‘Abrewa Sarah,’ she not only marks a new chapter in her ministry but also sends a rallying cry to women, dreamers, and believers who are waiting on God’s promise: Don’t give up-your time is coming.

She said, ‘Whether you’re walking through a silent season or standing on the edge of breakthrough, this song is your anthem. It is a reminder that the same God who fulfilled His promise to Sarah is still in the business of doing the impossible.’

‘Abrewa Sarah’ is now available on all major digital platforms.

Newmont Corporation has entered into a partnership with the Government, through the Ministry of Roads and Highways, to rehabilitate the 46-kilometre Sunyani-Ntotroso-Akyerensua highway, a key route serving communities within the Ahafo Region.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalising the partnership has been signed between Newmont and the Ministry, paving the way for the contractor to mobilise equipment and commence work on the project.

The rehabilitation is expected to significantly improve accessibility, boost trade, and enhance socio-economic activities along the corridor.

The initiative forms part of Newmont’s long-standing commitment to infrastructure development in its host communities, which complements its investments in health, education, and other social sectors.

Over the years, Newmont has funded and supported several major road projects in the Ahafo area, including the Ntotroso-Kenyasi and Hwediem-Kenyasi roads, as well as internal road networks within Ntotroso, Wamahinso, Gyedu, Kenyasi No.1, and Kenyasi No.2.

These interventions have not only improved road safety but have also opened up local communities to greater economic opportunities.

In a statement, the company said the Sunyani-Akyerensua project underscores its belief that quality road infrastructure is essential for the efficient movement of goods and services and for stimulating local economies.

‘Supporting government’s effort to enhance national infrastructure aligns with our purpose of creating value and improving lives through sustainable and responsible mining,’ the company stated.

The Sunyani-Ntotroso-Akyerensua highway serves as a major link between mining communities and the regional capital, and its rehabilitation is expected to ease transportation challenges faced by commuters, traders, and farmers.

THE ASHANTI Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Caucus have described reports suggesting that they opted for community roads instead of flyovers to beautify their region and ease vehicular movement when the NPP was in government, as blatant lie and should be treated with the contempt it deserves.

They have consequently entreated Gabby Otchere-Darko, another NPP bigwig, and a relative of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who is alleged to have made that unfortunate statement, to immediately produce evidence to support his statement or withdraw it for peace to prevail.

‘The attention of the Ashanti Regional NPP Parliamentary Caucus has been drawn to recent remarks attributed to Mr. Gabby Otchere-Darko, suggesting that Members of Parliament from the Ashanti Region opted for community roads instead of flyovers, and that this alleged decision accounts for the current state of infrastructure in the region.

‘We wish to state emphatically that these assertions are false, inaccurate and misleading. We therefore challenge Mr. Otchere-Darko to produce clear, verifiable evidence of any such request made by Ashanti Caucus or withdraw his statement without delay.

‘Anything short of that must be regarded as unfounded commentary that undermines party unity and disrespects the good people of Ashanti,’ a statement signed by Anyimadu-Antwi Kwame and Vincent Ekow Assafuah, Chairman and Secretary respectively, of the Ashanti Regional NPP Parliamentary Caucus, indicated.

The statement attributed to Gabby Otchere-Darko, according to the NPP lawmakers, has the potential of portraying them (MPs) as people who don’t want the transformation of the Ashanti Region.

‘It is unfortunate and disappointing that such remarks would be made in a manner that seeks to malign and unfairly portray Ashanti MPS. We wish to place on record that no such meeting ever took place between Ashanti MPs and any person in authority, where such a choice or preference was made,’ they stressed.

The aggrieved MPs stated that if the NPP government failed to develop the region, which has been giving the party more votes to win national elections, nobody should peddle falsehood to shift the blame on them, promising to continue their good works by championing for the development of the region and better lives of their people.

‘The people of Ashanti deserve truth, respect, and results. As their representatives, we will not allow them to be used as scape in any attempt to deflect responsibility lapses in government performance. We remain committed to constructive engagement with the party leadership, the executive, and all stakeholders to secure the development Ashanti rightfully deserves,’ they added.

According to them, even though they appreciate the numerous developmental projects that successive NPP administrations brought to the region in the areas of markets, community roads, schools, hospital, One District One Factory (1D1F) and others, there are still room for improvement.

‘We also acknowledge and appreciate the significant developmental efforts made by successive NPP governments in Ashanti Region. Indeed, the improvement of several community road networks, the redevelopment of major markets such as Kejetia, the construction of schools and hospitals, and the support for industries under the flagship initiatives like One District One Factory (1D1F) and all commendable interventions that have positively impacted our people.

‘However, we must state, with utmost candour, that these efforts, while appreciated, remain insufficient when measured against the immense loyalty, support, and contribution of the Ashanti Region to the electoral success of the NPP,’ they said and added, ‘the people of Ashanti Region have stood unwaveringly with the party, and it only fair that their loyalty is rewarded with projects that reflect their central role in Ghana’s political and economic development.’

The lawmakers also promised their readiness to continue advocating for transformative and high-impact projects in the region, noting that ‘Ashanti deserves not only community roads, but also modern interchanges, flyovers, expressways, and strategic infrastructure capable of driving economic activity, facilitating trade, and easing mobility for our citizens.’

The government has approved a proposal to introduce a Sports Levy as the main source of revenue for Ghana’s upcoming Sports Development Fund, marking a major step toward sustainable financing for national sports.

According to officials, the proposal which received cabinet approval two weeks ago has also been endorsed by President John Dramani Mahama, paving the way for the final bill to be presented to Parliament when it reconvenes.

Treasurer of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), Evans Yeboah, explained that the levy will serve as a dedicated funding stream for sports growth and infrastructure.

‘There is an incoming Sports Levy that would go into the fund, with a top-up from the Gaming Commission, creating a revolving fund within the sector,’ Yeboah stated.

He added that the government plans to operationalise the Sports Development Fund in 2026, noting that preparations are underway for its official launch.

‘We are hoping that by the end of the year or by the first quarter of next year, the Sports Fund will be launched to assist all national federations,’ he said.

Once passed by Parliament, the Fund will become the primary source of financing for the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, supporting both capital projects and operational expenses.

Yeboah further emphasised that the Fund will prioritise support for national sports federations, particularly those competing in world championships and major international events.

‘There will be a pool of funds reserved to assist national federations, with top priority given to global competitions,’ he concluded.

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced plans to commence foreign exchange (FX) intermediation under the Domestic Gold Exchange Programme beginning October 2025.

Speaking at a meeting with Chief Executives of commercial banks in Accra, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, said the central bank intends to sell US$1.15 billion for the month as part of efforts to deepen the interbank foreign exchange market and strengthen market transparency.

According to Dr. Asiama, the FX sales will be conducted on a spot basis through twice-weekly, price-competitive auctions open to all licensed banks. He explained that there would be no conditions or earmarking for allocations, ensuring a level playing field and transparent access to the market.

‘Monthly auction volumes may be adjusted depending on evolving market conditions, but our overarching objectives remain clear – to deepen the interbank FX market, enhance price discovery, and smooth volatility,’ Dr. Asiam stated.

He reaffirmed the central bank’s commitment to transparency, noting that the BoG will continue to publish details of all FX market operations and outcomes in line with international best practices.

Dr. Asiama emphasised that consolidating macroeconomic stability requires shared responsibility, pointing out that maintaining a stable exchange rate, expanding credit to productive sectors, and boosting exports demand close collaboration between the Bank of Ghana and the banking industry.

He noted that the strong performance of the cedi, which ranks among the best-performing currencies globally, underscores the growing credibility of the BoG’s policy framework and the renewed confidence of financial markets.

To support the ongoing disinflation process while promoting growth, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted to lower the policy rate by 350 basis points to 21.5 percent, reflecting confidence that inflation will remain within the medium-term target band of 8 ± 2 percent by the end of the fourth quarter.

The Governor, however, cautioned that the central bank remains mindful of potential risks, including global oil price volatility and possible domestic tariff adjustments, and stands ready to act decisively to preserve stability.

‘The easing in policy rates has already started to transmit through the financial system. Treasury bill rates have declined from 13.4 percent in July to 10.3 percent in August, while average lending rates have dropped from 26.6 percent to 24.2 percent. We expect further improvement as banks realign their pricing models to reflect the easing stance,’ he said.

Dr. Asiama added that the BoG has introduced a series of new directives to strengthen prudential oversight and risk management, including the Bancassurance Directive, the Large Exposures Directive, and the Guidelines on Credit Concentration Risk Management.

Afro-dancehall musician, Stonebwoy has called on the government to bring back Ghana Airways, the country’s defunct national airline.

In a post on X on October 6, 2025, the artist appealed to authorities to revive the airline despite its long period of inactivity.

‘Bring back GHANA AIRWAYS. Please and Thank You. It is possible,’ he wrote.

Ghana Airways, established in 1958, served as the nation’s official carrier until it ceased operations in 2004 and was liquidated in 2005 due to heavy debt, mismanagement, and safety issues.

Over the years, successive governments have made several attempts to re-establish a national carrier, but none have materialised.

Stonebwoy’s call adds to ongoing public discussions about the need for Ghana to revive its own national airline.

President John Dramani Mahama has honoured the University for Development Studies (UDS) with a cash reward of GHS500,000 for their historic victory at the FISU World University Football Tournament in China.

The UDS football team made continental history as the first African university to win the prestigious global competition, stunning Brazil’s Paulista University 2-1 in a dramatic final. Despite conceding within the opening 10 seconds, captain Mohammed Sulemana equalised in stoppage time before Ezedeen Alhassan clinched the winner with a brilliant header from a corner in extra time.

During a courtesy call at the Jubilee House, the victorious team presented their trophy to President Mahama, who commended their resilience and sportsmanship. He lauded the players for ‘lifting Ghana’s flag high’ and inspiring young athletes across Africa to pursue excellence through discipline and teamwork.

The UDS contingent arrived home on Sunday, October 5, to a rousing reception at the Kotoka International Airport, where fans, students, and sports officials gathered to celebrate their remarkable achievement.