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Queenstar Pokuah Sawyerr visits Islamic communities with food items

Agona East Member of Parliament, Queenstar Pokuah Sawyerr made her annual visit to the Islamic communities in Agona East Constituency.

The visit began with a house-to-house outreach to the elderly, where they received special packages containing undisclosed amounts of money.

The Member of Parliament was accompanied by Samuel Oscar Mensah, the Constituency Chairman, and other party executives.

During the visit, donations were made to the communities, including bags of rice, oil, milo, and milk. A prayer was said for the MP and President John Dramani Mahama.

The Muslim community expressed gratitude to the National Democratic Congress government for reducing Hajj fees and building the Hajj village at Accra International Airport.

Hon  Queenstar Pokuah Sawyerr thanked the community for their support in the general elections and promised to represent their interests in Parliament. She also committed to developing the Zongo community and Agona East as a whole.

Ghanamps.com

Foreign Affairs Ministry reclaims its lands; stop sale of diplomatic properties

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced that Government has successfully reclaimed all lands belonging to the Ministry.

“We have reclaimed all of the Ministry’s lands, and I can boldly say that the adjoining lands to the Foreign Ministry and they are now fully belonging to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the people of Ghana “.

The Minister who disclosed this in parliament on Friday affirmed that they have served notice that no ministry’s land would be up for sale .

Relatedly, Mr Okudzeto Ablakwa disclosed that they have stopped the attempted sale of diplomatic properties in Nigeria and Zambia, affirming that they have declared a zero tolerance against the sale of diplomatic assets.

He said “under President Mahama’s government, no diplomatic property would be sold, and we are leading by example, and the attempted sale in Nigeria and Zambia have been g and sanctioned”, he stated.

Dominic Shirimori/Ghanamps.com

John Jinapor vows to recover missing ECG containers

The Minister for Energy and Green Transition John Abdulai Jinapor has vowed to ensure he secures all the missing containers belonging to the Electricity Company of Ghana, (ECG).

“As the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, currently my vision is simple, I want all the 1346 containers accounted for; 1346 containers, whatever it takes I would bring these containers to where they ought to be”.

Setting the record straight on the controversies with regards to the numbers being churned out since news about the missing ECG containers broke out, Mr Jinapor on the floor of Parliament said, “there’s not been any inconsistency; at the Transition Committee, Hon. Ayariga was there, they gave us a figure of 3000, then they told us it had incurred a demurrage of 1.5 billion; I was sworn into office on the 17th, on the 24th, I visited the harbour. At the harbour, I was told the containers were 2500; that is what aroused my suspicion. I didn’t say at the harbor that the containers are 2500; I couldn’t have counted 2500 containers instantaneously”

He continued that he briefed the president on the 27th “and by 31I had established this committee”.

He disclosed that the auditing was done by Professor Senyo, a Chartered Procurement expert and it was during the presentation of the report that he was told that contrary to the figures given out, over 1300 containers cannot be accounted for. “These are the facts and nothing but the facts”, he added.

The Minister, however, assured that he would not be deterred by publications on social media about the development, and would do all it takes to secure the containers and bring the perpetrator to justice.

He disclosed that he and the National Security operatives visited four warehouses at Kpone on Friday; two of which are factories, “and what they’ve been doing over the years is that they buy these containers with brand new aluminum cables and then melt them into aluminum rods and export them”.

He also affirmed the president’s commitment to getting to the root of the problem, stating that “yesterday when the President Mahama called me, his message was simple, Jinapor you have my full backing, go the full trotting”.

He assured that they are working to achieve the president’s wish thus some Chinese Nationals have been arrested and they are on the trail of some Indian Nationals who have bolted.

According to him, he has received a lot of briefing; and he is getting to know the people behind it”, stating that these unfortunate actions have been going on for years but he will stop it.

Dominic Shirimori/Ghanamps.com

Ghana’s Parliament strengthens collaboration with CSOs for inclusive governance

Ghana’s Parliament has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering greater transparency and inclusivity by engaging civil society organisations (CSOs) and think tanks in high-level dialogue. The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, spearheaded the initiative, lauding the critical role that CSOs play in shaping governance and policy.

Addressing the forum on the theme “Embracing Inclusivity, Engagement, and Collaboration with the Parliament of Ghana,” Speaker Bagbin called for a governance framework that transcends traditional parliamentary democracy to incorporate broader participation from civil society. He stressed that no one should be left behind, stating that CSOs are a fundamental pillar of Ghana’s democratic architecture.

Speaker Bagbin commended civil society organisations (CSOs) for their contributions to policy development, particularly through research and data-driven advocacy. He referenced key parliamentary initiatives, including anti-corruption efforts and local government reforms, that were supported by the input of civil society. “With Ghana ranking top in the 2022 Africa Open Parliament Index, these reforms demonstrate Parliament’s commitment to enhancing its democratic processes through a continuous partnership with civil society,” he noted.

One area in which the Speaker is particularly passionate is gender equity. He reiterated the importance of the Affirmative Action Act, which mandates more significant gender equity across all sectors of governance. “Equity, not equality,” he stressed, urging the implementation of gender equity policies within Parliament and government institutions. He acknowledged that progress has been slow and called for more robust gender equity initiatives in governance. He also urged support for the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024, ACT 1121.

The Chair of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Caucus in Parliament, Hon. Emmanuel Bedzrah, announced Ghana’s recent recognition at the Regional Meeting for Africa and the Middle East. He noted that technology and innovation have been essential in enhancing Parliament’s engagement with citizens, mentioning that Parliament’s website and data platforms have been continuously updated to meet the public’s needs. However, he stated that more can be achieved through collaboration. He alluded to an Action Plan that is yet to be launched, which would further strengthen these efforts and ensure that Parliament meets its commitments to an open and accountable government.

The Clerk to Parliament, Mr Ebenezer Djietror, emphasised that the theme of the meeting aligns with Parliament’s Corporate Strategic Plan, which seeks to enhance engagement with media, CSOs, and think tanks. He reiterated that Parliament’s role is to reflect the people’s will, as outlined in Ghana’s Constitution, ensuring that all governmental powers serve the welfare of its citizens.

The CSOs lauded Speaker Bagbin for his commitment to inclusive governance, particularly in promoting female leadership. However, some participants raised concerns about the lack of female representation in certain parliamentary committees, especially in areas such as health, where women’s perspectives are vital. They urged constitutional amendments to strengthen gender representation in government.
Additionally, they advocated for sustained collaboration with Parliament, calling for the full implementation of the Open Government Partnership Action Plan to enhance transparency and accountability.

Requesting an expansion of oversight responsibilities in Parliament, the Speaker presented copies of the Code of Conduct for Members of Parliament to CSOs to support their role in holding legislators accountable.

Members of Parliament, including Hon. Emmanuel Akwasi Aquah, Hon. Agyeman Prempeh, and Hon. Abednego Bandim, along with Deputy Clerk Dr./Mrs. Gloria S. Kumawu and other parliamentary officials, attended the engagement.

Among the participating CSOs were IMANI Africa, the Ghana Integrity Initiative, the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-GH), Parliamentary Network Africa, the Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG), Star Ghana, ACEPA, the Media Foundation for West Africa, the Gender Center for Empowering Development, CAMFED, the Legal Resource Centre, and Youth Advocate Ghana.

Ghanamps.com

Parliament passes 10 Revenue Legislations

The Parliament of Ghana on Wednesday, March 27, 2025, enacted 10 revenue legislations to give effect to tax repeal and alignments as announced by the Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson in the 2025 Budget Statement and Fiscal Policy of the Government.

10 Revenue Legislations Passed by Parliament

1. Electronic Transfer Levy (Repeal) Bill, 2025

2. Emissions Levy (Repeal) Bill, 2025

3. Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025 to abolish
• Betting Tax
• Taxes on Gaming and Lotteries
• 1.5% Withholding Tax on unprocessed Gold

4. Revenue Administration (Amendment) Bill, 2025

5. Value Added Tax (Amendment ) Bill, 2025

6. Special Import Levy (Amendment Bill, 2025 – ( to extend the implementation of the law from 2026 to 2028)

7. Growth and Sustainable Levy (Amendment Bill, 2025) – (to raise levies imposed gold mining companies, and other mining operators and upstream oil and gas companies by 3%)

8. Energy Sector Levy

9. The Earmarked Funds Capping & Realignment (Amendment) Bill, 2025 – (seeks to expunge the schedule NHIF, GETFund, MIIF, GIIF & TRF to GNPC from petroleum revenue. The uncapped amounts will serve as a dedicated source of funding for the FSHS, free tuition for disabled students among others).

10. Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (Amendment Bill), 2025.

Ghanamps.com

Bill abolishing E-levy passed

The Parliament of Ghana on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 approved the repeal of the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy).

The Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson during the presentation of the 2025 Budget Statement and Fiscal Policy of the government announced the government decision to abolish the E-levy among other taxes usually referred to as ‘nuisance taxes’.

Dr. Cassiel Ato Frson presented the Electronic Transfer Levy (Repeal) Bill, 2025, and it was referred to the Finance Committee for consideration.

The Committee in their report stated that the levy discouraged the adoption of digital payments by penalizing electronic transactions while cash transactions remained untaxed.

The Finance Minister emphasized that repealing the levy would encourage digital transactions, potentially lower inflation, and boost economic activity.

The removal of the E-levy became a topical issue in the lead to the 2024 general elections with the two leading political parties promising to get rid of it.

The introduction of the levy by the previous government in 2022 was without issues as it targeted electronic financial transactions including mobile money transfers, bank transfers, and online payments.

Following the controversies around the levy, the initial 1.5% tax was eventually reduced to 1% and affected transactions above GHC100.00

Meanwhile, the President of the Republic John Dramani Mahama would have to assent to it to take effect.

Ghanamps.com

Parliament approves GH¢ 3.2 billion for Ministry of Roads and Highways

Parliament on Tuesday approved GH¢3.2 billion allocation for the Ministry of Roads and Highways for the year 2025.
The significant funding is expected to drive major infrastructure projects and improvements in the country’s road network.

According to reports, the Ghana Highway Authority, under the Ministry, plans to recruit 137 new staff members to address the shortfall created by the establishment of new regions and regional offices.

The move is part of the Ministry’s decentralization efforts to enhance operations.

The Ministry has outlined ambitious plans to dualize and improve safety on major trunk roads across the country.
Additionally, the ongoing construction of four by-passes on the Accra-Kumasi Highway at Osino, Anyinam, Enyiresi, and Konongo is expected to continue, further enhancing the country’s transportation infrastructure.

The 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy of the government was presented to Parliament by Dr. Caasiel Ato Forson, the Minister of Finance on Tuesday, March 11 on the theme: “Resetting Ghana for the Economy We Want.”
The comment on the budget ended on Tuesday March 25 2025 following the Majority and Minority
Leader’s comments.

Elsie Appiah-Osei

Jomoro MP calls for economic empowerment and financial literacy for women

The Parliament of Ghana has been called upon to priorities the economic empowerment and financial literacy of women.

Dorcas Affo-Toffey, the Member of Parliament for the Jomoro constituency in the Western Region made this call in a statement on the floor of the House.

According to her this is very important and emphasizing women’s crucial role in Ghana’s economy.
The MP who strongly advocates for women empowerment indicated that, despite owning nearly 44% of businesses and contributing 20% to GDP, many women face challenges in accessing credit due to collateral requirements, high-interest rates, and limited financial education.

She thus commended the government’s 2025 budget allocation for the Women’s Development Bank, a move aimed at providing affordable credit and business support for women.

Drawing from international success stories like India’s Self-Help Groups and Bangladesh’s Grameen Bank, she stressed that financial inclusion leads to economic growth and poverty reduction.

However, she noted that access to finance alone is insufficient without financial literacy. She urged the government and financial institutions to implement nationwide financial literacy programs, offer business development training, and strengthen policies promoting inclusive financing for women.

Hon. Affo-Toffey concluded by stating that investing in women is essential for national progress therefore, calling for the removal of financial barriers to ensure women can fully participate in Ghana’s economic development.

Kwaku Sakyi-Danso/Ghanamps.com

Frequencies of three radio stations to be suspended — Communications Minister

Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation Samuel Nartey George has hinted that sixty-three radio stations would have their frequencies suspended of which six have had theirs suspended.

According to him, unlike the immediate past government they would not revoke the licenses of the radio stations and with the first six to have their frequencies suspended, he would come before Parliament to brief the House.

Addressing the Parliamentary Press Corps he noted that he is already engaging the Ghana Independent Broadcast Association and the Media Foundation for West Africa, as they are already in line with the process being undertaken.
“We cannot have a situation where media house would default the regulations and say that because of press freedom the condition of their licenses would not be met”.

And further added that, President Mahama has intervened and ask that they wave all those finds; some are four million Ghana cedis, “we are waving and giving them a time frame to remedy their situation.”

The Communications Minister affirmed that he has authorized the revocation of radio licenses by the NCC of only one radio station, Gooma FM, “and I did that on the national security consideration. I did not just wake up and do that, I got the request from the Ministry of Interior on behalf of National Security that there were commentaries on that frequency that have huge security implications in Bawku and I wrote back to the Ministry of the Interior telling them I do not take instructions on the shut down or revocation from national security, that I would only take that action if I saw a layer of process that was done and so Interior Ministry went back to local government and had the regional minister convene regional security decision and the minute of which they met took their decision through the Local Government Minister to the Interior”.

According to him, another letter was done and sent to the Communications Ministry, “before I wrote to the NCA ten days from the original date given to the day when I gave the authorization. Unfortunately during that period seven people were killed. So when people say I acted anyhow, no, I followed the process through and when I am acting on the basis of national security”.

Kwaku Sakyi-Danso/Ghanamps.com

NCA, a pale shadow of itself; as Minister laments poor state of the Communication Ministry

Minister for Communications Samuel Nartey George on Monday, March 24, 2025, revealed that he has inherited a very deeply troubled Ministry that calls for a lot of re-engineering legislative wise and financially.

According to him the legislation on the sector is over twenty-two years old and gave example of the Ghana Telecom Act, 2003, Law on Post and Currier Regulative Commission Act 2003, Law on Data Protection Act 2012, Electronic Transition Act 2008 and Electronic Communications Act 2008.

“The sector’s legislation is supposed to be in the museum not in the ministry; so we are planning in the next four months to bring fresh legislations for all the agencies under the ministry to re-structure it”, he said at a media brief after addressing the House.

Hon Samuel George further revealed that the ministry is debt ridden; the National Communications Authority (NCA) which used to be very buoyant institution that everybody looked up to has been rendered a pale shadow of itself.

Again, NITA has twenty-five Ghana cedis, eighty pesewas as its bank balance at the Bank of Ghana, whiles the agency owes eight hundred and thirteen million, four hundred and eighty six thousand, five hundred and five Ghana cedis eighty-nine pesewas; this is the ministry that we took over.

NITA has a certain contract arrangement with a third party vendor, “I have summoned the third party vendor to appear before me today, I do not understand why all the revenue coming to NITA, the previous administration signed the contract that has taken all of that fund, the revenue that comes and given it to a third party. So, NITA is not getting any money; almost everything at the ministry goes to a third party. Just January this year, services that are run using NITAs infrastructure, that I was supposed to approve to a third party company was almost four million Ghana cedis”.

“I have refused to sign it and it has been referred to the Attorney General and Minister for Justice; I would not sign until I understand why NITA is not getting any money and a private sector player is using NITAs infrastructure earning in excess of almost four million Ghana cedis and all the debt in NITAs book and revenue going to the private sector. The Ministry is a true definition of state capture; and I would take my time to come before the House and brief the House extensively on the rot in the Ministry.”

On staff rationalization ongoing at the ministry, the Minister showing frustration on his face questioned, “if you are a minister and you take over a ministry that has three thousand one hundred and seventeen staffs in the ministry and its agencies and you notice that almost 600 were employed after Saturday December 7, 2024”, basically, you cannot expect me to come and inherit such a mess and continue with it. So the rationalization is ongoing; today I have authorized the termination of a few more at Ghana Post, almost a hundred that were done post December 7, 2024.

“We would continue this rationalization; I would clean up the Ministry and make sure its lean and efficient and carries out its work, and I would be counting on you the media”.

Kwaku Sakyi-Danso/Ghanamps.com