Author: nii Ghanamps

Leader of the Minority Caucus in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin has described the suspension of the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo as Executive intimidation, interference and attack on the judiciary.

He emphasised that as political actors, the judiciary should remain the neutral arbitor but recent developments by the executive on the judiciary undermines our democracy and the rule of law.

“The judiciary is our last hope; targeting the Chief Justice like this undermines our democracy and the rule of law”, he stated.
“For the Chief Justice to be singled out for this unfortunate attack; flimsy pedestran petition; the Council of State has failed this country”.

At the Supreme Court to present their first petition during Monday, May 5, 2025 “Save The Judiciary Demo”, Mr Afenyo Markin urged the Judiciary to put aside their individual differences and fight for the independence of the institution, noting that “maybe today it is Tokornoo”, but tomorrow it maybe another person because they cannot serve at the whims and caprices of a political party and a government.

He insisted that the demonstration was to protect the judiciary because what is happening is repugnant to good conscience; adding that the government’s focus should be directed towards governance instead of attacking non-political actors.
“We have become aware that the very government that criticized the increase in the number of judges to the bench has suddenly appointed seven more judges to the Supreme Court”.

The Effutu Member of Parliament also affirmed that the reset by the government is a negative reset, and called on the acting chief justice, the acting judicial secretary, and all judges not to be comfortable because they are not at the receiving end of the ‘injustice’.

Ghanamps.com

The Deputy Chief of Staff (Operations), Stan Dogbe has commended the organisers of the ‘Save the Judiciary Demo’ for the peaceful manner they carried out the demonstration on Monday.

Speaking after receiving the petition on behalf of the Chief of Staff, he noted that the reference by the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo Markin to an end to the retaliatory politics is an admission that there were things that did not go well in the past eight years under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia Government; adding that if things had gone on well, the reference to retaliatory politics by the Minority wouldn’t have been the case.

“If this had been the case over the past 8 years, I’m sure the retaliatory politics you mention wouldn’t have occurred. Your reference to retaliatory politics is an admission that the 8 years under Akufo-Addo and Bawumia were not the best.”

He, however, assured that President Mahama is not a believer of retaliatory politics and would not be engaging in same as he is known by all Ghanaians as “too much of a father for all president”.

He asserts that whatever action that is being taken now in respect of the beleaguered Chief Justice is in line with the provisions of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana.

The Deputy Chief of Staff also noted that even before former President Akufo Addo left office, he started a certain process where issues were brought to him about the Chief Justice which he referred to the Council of State; and President Mahama has just done same. “It is not about retaliating on something that was done by the previous administration against President Mahama or the NDC; so the process that is ongoing is constitutional and I do believe that the committee that has been set will complete its work and whatever decisions that they make just as the Council of State advised the President was binding on him, it would be binding on him”.

He also assured that just as the government has allowed the demonstration to go on peacefully without any acrimony, it will be same going forward; and this, he noted attests to how President Mahama intends to entrench democracy in Ghana.

Meanwhile, the Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-MArkin in presenting the petition assured that the language is descent and expressed the grievances of the protestors. He also expressed optimism to the effect that the President John Dramani Mahama will act on it and ensure the Chief Justice goes back to her office.

Ghanamps.com

Ahead of reforms in Ghana’s transport sector especially the use of motor cycle, Hon. Joseph Azumah, the Member of Parliament for Akrofum in the Ashanti Region has engaged Okada riders, promising to lead them obtain training and licences.

The MP disclosed this when he met with a section of commercial motor cycle users to explain to them the benefits of the new reforms in their type of transport system. According to him, this will help them to be recognised legally and avoid being harassed by the police and also boost their business.

The first term National Democrat Congress Member of Parliament promised to lead them to obtain the necessary training set aside by the government and also get them license.

Amongst some of the new reforms for the legalization of the ‘Odada’ business according to government include:
•⁠ ⁠One must be 25 years and above;
•⁠ ⁠Must have a Valid National ID card;
•⁠ ⁠Purchase the right protective gear;
•⁠ ⁠Sit for proficiency exams, eye tests, DVLA Okada riding card, and go for training for a unique yellow plate; and
•⁠ ⁠Users must have helmet for both the rider and passenger with helmet numbers as well as obey all traffic regulations.

Failure to abide by these rules may attract 100 penalty units or jail .The illegalization of Okada was a major policy initiative by the National Democratic Congress during the 2024 campaign period with the view of bringing sanity into their operation to offer job opportunity in a safer and more conducive environment.

As the government has already initiated steps to actualizing this, it would therefore be a promise fulfilled when it finally comes into operation.

Kwaku Sakyi-Danso/Ghanamps.com

Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Member of Parliament for the Ellembele constituency, has called for swift intervention in the unfolding fish disease crisis in Kamgbunli.

The alarming situation, attributed to contamination in the Ebi River, has disrupted fishing activities, the community’s primary livelihood, and raised public health concerns. The MP issued the appeal following reports of fish caught in the river exhibiting severe skin infections, accompanied by a noxious odour and unusual discolouration of the water.

To protect residents, a temporary ban on fishing in the Ebi River has been imposed. While necessary, the ban has left many fishermen without an income, exacerbating the community’s economic hardship. “I am deeply troubled by the alarming reports emerging from Kamgbunli, a town in my beloved Ellembele constituency, where a mysterious fish disease is wreaking havoc on the livelihoods of our fishermen and posing a significant threat to the health of our community“, the MP said in his statement.

Hon. Buah has appealed to the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, and other relevant agencies to collaborate in investigating the root cause of the crisis. “I…call on the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, and other pertinent agencies to collaborate and offer the requisite support to investigate and address this pressing crisis“, he added.

He has also emphasised the need for immediate support for the affected fishermen, whose livelihoods have been brought to a standstill by the temporary ban on fishing in the Ebi River.
“I stand in solidarity with the people of Kamgbunli and call on all stakeholders to prioritize this issue and work together to address the urgent needs of our constituents,” the MP added.

It is now official as the President John Dramani Mahama has assented to bills that abolish Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy), Betting Tax, and Emissions Tax.

Parliament on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 passed 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.

Notable among these taxes include the Electronic Transfer Levy (Repeal) Bill, 2025; Emissions Levy (Repeal) Bill, 2025; Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025 to abolish
•⁠ ⁠Betting Tax
•⁠ ⁠Taxes on Gaming and Lotteries
•⁠ ⁠1.5% Withholding Tax on unprocessed Gold; Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025 among others.

There was high anticipation among the public for the President’s assent last week when parliament concluded work on the tax amendment bills.
The President’s action thus comes as huge relief to the public and a promise fulfilled to the people.

Ghanamps.com

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

As Ghana enters the 2025 rainy season, the pressing question remains: Are we prepared for the challenges ahead, or will we once again wait for disasters to strike before taking action? Year after year, the country experiences heavy rains that bring both blessings and destruction—flooding, loss of lives, destruction of property, and outbreaks of diseases. Despite recurring warnings, it often seems that the government, district assemblies, and disaster management agencies react only after the worst has happened.

According to climate experts, Ghana’s 2025 rainy season will be significantly influenced by global heat waves, which have reached record levels over the past few years. The excessive heat has disrupted normal wind patterns, contributing to unpredictable rainfall patterns.

• Most parts of the country are expected to experience near-normal to below-normal rainfall.
• The southeastern coastal areas will likely receive above-normal rainfall, increasing the risk of flooding.
• The southwestern regions may face below-normal rainfall, leading to potential drought conditions.
• Longer dry spells of 8-13 days at the beginning of the season and 10-19 days at the end could negatively affect agriculture and water supply.

Given these projections, the responsibility lies with government bodies, local authorities, and communities to implement proactive measures before it is too late.

Flooding remains one of the biggest threats during the rainy season, particularly in cities like Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi. But has enough been done to prevent a repeat of previous disasters?

• Drainage Systems: Many drains are still clogged with waste, despite repeated calls for desilting before the rains. Has the government ensured that major drains are cleared?
• Flood Warning Systems: Are there adequate early warning systems in place, or will residents once again wake up to rising floodwaters with no prior alert?
• Emergency Shelters: Have district assemblies designated safe zones and shelters for those in flood-prone areas, or will evacuation efforts be last-minute and disorganized?

For farmers, an unpredictable rainy season means the risk of crop failure, loss of livestock, and food shortages. What steps are being taken to support agriculture?

• Have authorities provided farmers with drought-resistant seeds and improved irrigation options?
• Is there enough food storage in place to prevent shortages if certain regions experience poor harvests?
• Are agricultural extension officers providing guidance on climate-smart farming practices?

Heavy rains often bring health crises, including cholera, malaria, and respiratory infections. Have public health authorities made the necessary preparations?

• Are hospitals and clinics stocked with mosquito nets, anti-malaria drugs, and cholera treatments?
• Has there been enough public education on hygiene and sanitation to prevent waterborne diseases?
• Is the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) coordinating with health agencies to prepare for emergency medical responses?

Strong winds and heavy rains frequently damage roads, bridges, and power lines. How prepared is the country to minimize disruptions?

• Has routine maintenance been carried out on roads and bridges in flood-prone areas?
• Are power companies monitoring vulnerable areas to prevent outages and electrocutions?
• Are construction projects adhering to proper drainage planning, or are buildings still being constructed in waterways?

Ghana has seen the consequences of poor planning and delayed responses during previous rainy seasons. The time for reactionary measures is over—it is time for a proactive approach.

• Government agencies must act now to ensure adequate flood control, infrastructure maintenance, and health preparedness.
• District assemblies must enforce regulations against building in flood-prone areas and ensure drains are properly maintained.
• Communities must take responsibility by keeping their surroundings clean and reporting hazards before they turn into disasters.
• The media and civil society organizations must hold authorities accountable to ensure early interventions are implemented.

President John Dramani Mahama recently breathed air of hope in dealing with flood issues with the establishment of a seven-member Anti-Flood Taskforce to combat Ghana’s persistent flooding challenges.

As part of its field operations, the Anti-Flood Taskforce conducted an aerial reconnaissance mission to assess flood-prone areas and gather critical data to prevent future disasters.

Key locations surveyed included Weija, the Sakumono Ramsar site, and the Tema Fishing Harbour area. Following the aerial survey, Mr. Stanislav Dogbe announced that the government will enforce stricter flood prevention measures.

The 48 Engineers Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces, in collaboration with local government authorities, will commence desilting of major drains to improve water flow and mitigate flood risks. Additionally, a road reconnaissance survey will be undertaken to assess the impact of poor drainage systems on flooding.

Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim assured that flood assessment efforts will extend beyond Accra to other regions. “The rains will be setting in soon, and permanent solutions must be implemented. But in the interim, maintenance works like desilting must be the immediate step,” he stated.

The question remains: Are we truly prepared for the 2025 rainy season, or will we wait for another disaster before we take action?

Shang Annang Papa Nii/Ghanamps.com

In a bold financial maneuver, Ghana’s Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has redirected portions of the country’s tax refund allocations to fund critical government policies in the 2025 budget. This move, aimed at strengthening social interventions and reducing tax burdens, has sparked national discussions on fiscal discipline and the ethical use of public funds.

During a recent briefing on JoyNews after the presentation of the budget to parliament, Dr. Forson revealed a striking misuse of funds within Ghana’s tax refund system. The Revenue Administration Act, introduced in 2016 under former Finance Minister Seth Terkper, mandated that 6% of all revenue be set aside for tax refunds. However, an internal review of the account showed that from 2017 to 2024, only 43% of the accumulated GH₵26 billion had been used for its intended purpose.

The remaining 57%, amounting to over GH₵14 billion, was allegedly misapplied. According to the finance minister, this misallocation raised serious concerns about the management of public funds and the potential impact on taxpayer confidence. “We cannot continue this practice,” Dr. Forson emphasized, signaling a shift towards greater fiscal accountability.

To rectify this issue, the government has decided to reduce the tax refund allocation from 6% to 4%, freeing up GH₵3.8 billion in the 2025 budget. The finance minister strategically directed these funds towards social interventions and tax relief measures, ensuring that the reallocated resources directly benefit the Ghanaian people.

The breakdown of the reallocation is as follows:

• Abolishing the E-Levy would result in a revenue loss of GH₵1.9 billion from the GH₵3.8 billion reallocated fund, but it aims to ease financial burdens on individuals and businesses.
• Scrapping the betting tax would lead to a revenue loss of GH₵180 million.
• After these deductions, the government would still have GH₵1.7 billion remaining for critical social interventions.

• Social Interventions (GH₵1.7 billion total):
  • Local Governance Support (Assembly Members Allowances): GH₵100 million was granted to assembly members to enhance local development initiatives.
  • Sanitary Pad Distribution: GH₵499.5 million was allocated to provide free sanitary pads for schoolgirls, addressing menstrual health challenges.
  • Capitation Grant Increase: A 73% increase in the capitation grant was funded to support basic education.
  • Textbooks and School Feeding: Additional funds were directed towards improving textbook availability and expanding the school feeding program.

Dr. Forson’s approach represents a shift in Ghana’s fiscal management, prioritizing direct social benefits over unchecked bureaucratic expenditures. By repurposing funds from a historically mismanaged account, the Finance Ministry has demonstrated a commitment to financial prudence and equitable resource distribution.

However, the move raises questions about long-term sustainability. Will reducing the tax refund allocation create future financial gaps? These concerns highlight the need for transparent oversight and structured financial planning to prevent unintended economic disruptions.

Ghana’s 2025 budget reflects a deliberate effort to balance economic efficiency with social responsibility. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s financial engineering has enabled the government to abolish unpopular taxes while funding essential social programs. As the nation moves forward, ensuring accountability in fund utilization will be crucial to sustaining public trust and economic stability.

The real test lies ahead: will this strategy yield the intended benefits without compromising fiscal integrity? Only time will tell.

Shang Annang Papa Nii/Ghanamps.com

The people of Ghana are expectant of a budget and fiscal policy that brings hope and relief to the citizenry.

The Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson will on behalf of the President present the government’s first budget to Parliament since his inauguration on January 7, 2025.

Ghanaians are looking forward to tax cuts, scrapping of a number of taxes including E-levy, betting tax, COVID tax.
The government has already served notice of the re-introduction of the road toll.

It is also the expectation that the 2025 budget will lead to job creation, infrastructure development, and social interventions.