Top Story: Succession Tensions Emerge Within NDC Ahead of 2028 & More on News Night (25-05-26)

Ajouté : 2026-05-26

[00:00:11]Tonight, barely two years into President John Muhamad's final term, a secession fight is spilling out of the back rooms into public view with national chairman Johnson and Education Minister Harrisu trading veiled jobs as rival power blocks from within the governing party.

[00:00:29]We have to change the forward line of parliament. President Muhammad disagreed with me but I said that look I say my brother hara somewhere >> not the other thank you the proper thank you to President Mohamad proper thank you to President Mama >> it comes just two weeks uh after the secretary to the president warned that early jostling for 2028 could destabilize both government and party tonight on top story we're asking is the NDC's post election unity unsettling and who control the NDC. Now, the chairman or the president our top story is brought to us by teley cell connecting energies holy insecticide spray and coiling holy sleep and also by shield pension trust into the future with you. I am Samuel Kojo Bruce. Now two thank you to us. One party on one stage is the President John Mama on another is chairman auya. Now the early battle over who leads the NDC after President John Romany Mama is beginning to spill into the open with tensions rising between national chairman Johnya and education minister Haruna Idrisu.

[00:02:20]the party secession plan are no longer quiet. Uh on on Friday, Aiden Keta admitted he forced through the 2024 parliamentary leadership overhaul over President Muhammed's objections including Haruna Idris's removal as majority as minority leader. Then listen >> then new things were emerging and I said that we have to change the forward line of parliament otherwise it will be difficult for us to win election.

[00:02:48]President Muhammad disagreed with me but I said that look you have elected me as chairman of this party. I am the coach of the party going into the election. So let me make the changes that win the election. When we win we all enjoy together since I made that change. I see my brother sit somewhere the other guy he also sit some let people come new people come and you sit on the bench and watch there was hell and people started thinking that somebody who has been my friend for more than 20 years has certainly become my enemy how become my enemy it cannot become my enemy Well, that uh particular statement has been received with some more responses.

[00:03:44]One of such people is the education minister Harry Nadu who has since hit back uh speaking on the president's tour calling chairman Kier store a curtain raiser. Listen to him.

[00:03:56]>> During legacy was to have this B college of education established in this in this in this in this area. And I recall when president came for his thank you tour not the other thank you tour the proper thank you tour of president mama proper thank you to president mahama as president flag what cannot be said we can say a proper thank you of president mahama not ky razor one not razor one when president mama came for his thank you he assured the people of Tinga thanks to your MP that they will get a dedicated STEM school. We will be there shortly. That school when you start from kindergart you will see your end at senior high school in the same building.

[00:04:49]It is now my honor and privilege to introduce to you your own son, president of the republic who keeps his word.

[00:04:58]>> Well, so this is how it is unfolding.

[00:05:01]Some watchers have declared this as quite a blistering response from the education minister. Now, even though no one has officially declared a bid, research agency global info analytics has repeatedly listed these two among top names likely to succeed President John Muhammad. Just two weeks ago, uh, Secretary to the President Kalistto Mama cautioned that early secession politics could destabilize both government and party structures. My colleague Michael Ashel joins me in studio with details of that particular warning. Michael, what exactly did he say?

[00:05:33]>> So at the time, and I'll quote portions of what he had written, he he said the timing the timing of some of these uh internal wranglings were deeply concerned, describing it as a quiet danger that creeps into political life, not with noise, but with whispers.

[00:05:49]According to him, that moment appears to be approaching far too early, especially when the administration is barely a year and a half into its mandate. He warns that quote attention can drift unquote from government to succession stressing that again quote to turn even partially from that task toward personal political calculations is not just premature. It is a quiet form of neglect to the government in itself. Now he points out that the internal democratic journey in itself is incomplete. Noting that even basic structures like the branch level elections have not yet been conducted.

[00:06:27]He says the foundation has not yet been settled yet thoughts are already drifting to the summit warning that this rush could undermine the legitimacy of future leadership. Now he writes more.

[00:06:40]He says that the pursuit of personal ambition creates a quiet erosion of performance, discipline and trust. And in says that public officials must prioritize governance. He has that those who cannot subordinate ambition to duty risk doing injustice to both and where necessary quote there is honor in stepping aside unquote. So ultimately he's saying that this is not a time for leadership contest stressing that the focus now must be on delivery and not sat. This was two weeks ago just before u we are hearing some of these comments from the national chairman and also um some sort of response to it from Narun's education minister >> and these two people have a role to play have roles to play in the government.

[00:07:27]The the chairman is a board chair of one institution with Hara being a minister.

[00:07:32]>> Yes. Um so in in in in appointments these two individuals have been appointed by the John Mahama le government but again this is the national chairman and also you have an educational minister. Um in the constitution of the NDC it is written clearly that when in government the president is supposed to be the leader >> okay >> of the party right except in in opposition when you heard Haruna himself mentioned that in opposition the party chairman even when you have um flag bearer is the the to use his word the coach of the of the party and he decides >> yeah uh what what's how do you react to what is happening in the governing NDC.

[00:08:17]>> Uh good evening KJO. Uh can you hear me >> clearly? Yes.

[00:08:21]>> Yes. Thank you. So you know it it started off uh those you know as you follow the news and you heard what the party's chairman uh Mr. Sunet has said um and then the the response of the honorable uh Harona. uh initially you're thinking okay chairman has said something uh in a in a subtle response honorable Hanura say Harona says something in in return um but you you don't want symptomatic of something bigger right as it is being framed now as some rising tensions within the party as they look forward to who succeeds President uh uh John Mahama for for me whatever the underlining issues are or whatever the underlining motives are whoever is involved or whichever persons are involved in this would want to take a few steps back and think the party first and think the government first because as Dr. Kalistas Mahama rightly put it, the time to have the succession conversation will come. The time to have quote unquote that internal battle over who gets to succeed President John Mama.

[00:09:54]That time would come. But that time is not now. And even when that time comes ultimately the question that is going to be settled by voters is not who gets to succeed President John Mahama or not but what they have done with the mandate and whether they have kept faith with the people. I think that was a very brilliant piece and very sound advice even as different individuals may have their own intentions ambitions of I'm thinking 2028 but but in an organization of deferring uh ambitions I mean can that organization detect how and when people will behave?

[00:10:44]I mean the organization can or even the leader. So if you think back to um former president Kufur because I recall interviewing him and asking him about post 2020 2008 and if you recall one of the things that he urged in the party as they were getting close to 2008 was that well if you are still in my government but you have political ambitions feel free to step aside so those of us you know so we can focus on governing and then those of you with political ambitions of wanting to succeed can look towards that succession and engage in activities around that succession. So you're right that the organization and in this case the political party or the leadership of the political party uh would have to um you know come up with certain I don't want to call them rules right but certain guidelines set certain things that can shape and guide behavior that says look we are still in the phase of governing uh we are barely into year two of the administration and so we ought to be a little circumspect in balancing our obligations to govern which is why we were elected versus our own ambitions as you look beyond you know I have to govern now versus I would like to be the next person in line when President John Mama has served out his his term >> and the leadership of the party has to find a way uh to communicate that message and find a balance. I mean of course some of the speculation also involves you know in terms of who wants to be next also involves people who are in party leadership and would have to come up with those kinds of rules. So that makes it a little tricky. But for me overall, you want to find that balance between your ambition and also ensuring that you are governing because if you don't govern it well, what will then become of that ambition?

[00:12:54]And and when you see clear battle lines drawing with the party chairman on one end, the president will likely be on another because of what's happening. Is it worrying what we are seeing emerge within the NDC?

[00:13:12]If it continues down this path, if the tensions continue to rise, if this if there is an internal battle that is going to spill over and start playing out publicly where different personalities would have to take sides, then yes, it it is a it is a worrying development, especially when you are also the incumbent party that is governing. And I say that because if you are not careful, it can become a distraction from the everyday things that you're trying to do to govern. And I'll give you a quick example. Um there's a new decentralization policy, right, that I believe can strengthen our local government structures and move the the efforts that we are making in the area of local government forward a lot more. But between over the last 48 hours, how much of that has gained any traction in public spaces and in public conversations? I mean, yesterday on the probe, Joy had a good discussion. I was part of that on it. But my point is that when these internal battles takes center stage and spill over publicly, then the the real issues of governance and efforts being made to address all of our different governance challenges move the country's development needle forward gets lost. Um and at the end of the day, citizens are not going to reward you on how well um you fought for your own political ambitions. At the end of the day, it is the governance outcomes that is going to determine whether the Ghanaian voter decides to retain your party in power or not. Which is essentially the point that Dr. Kalistas Mahama was trying to make which is let's focus now and the time to decide who gets to be next in line will come and when that time comes we can have quote unquote that fight. But but what's the potency of what's happening on you know the or its potential you know on on destabilizing the government such that it will sway them off the tangent they're on.

[00:15:32]I don't think it would destabilize the government but I think it would you don't want the destruction right so for example you would want the honorable Harona to focus on delivering the president's agenda in the education sector you don't want some of these uh internal contest or internal battles over who is next in line to distract him from being able to pursue the president's agenda in education. So it may not it is not what would bring the government down but it if it intensifies it can be distracting enough that it can slow down whatever agenda the president is trying to pursue in all of the key in in all of the key sectors. And ultimately that won't be good if the party wants to retain power in 2028. Again, that for me should be the the guiding framework for all of the actors involved, right? How do you balance your ambition with ensuring that you don't get distracted and that you can focus on the business of government? Because ultimately again as I keep saying your reward is not going to be how well you fought each other over your political ambition to be the next successor. It is going to be how well you delivered uh in terms of the governance outcomes and that for me is what Ghanaians are going to look at come 2028.

[00:17:11]Uh stay with me. Let me bring in uh Miracles Dennis Miracles Abad who's director of communications for the Bomia campaign team. Dennis, I'm grateful to you for for joining.

[00:17:21]>> Uh Dennis, do I have you with me?

[00:17:25]>> Hello there.

[00:17:26]>> Yes, I'm on the line.

[00:17:27]>> Great. Now, I mean, you are a beneficiary of of of an under performance of this government from what is happening in in the NDC where battle lines are already drawing with Dr. Mama warning of its implications on the government. What do you make of what's happening in the NDC?

[00:17:53]>> Well, I I mean I've said it countless time that the NBC are basically going through what every political party goes through, not just in Ghana, but in any multi-arty democracy. Can you hear me? Can you hear me?

[00:18:06]>> Clearly I can.

[00:18:07]>> Yeah. But in any multi-party democracy the the problem with the NBC or what the challenge the NDC is facing now is that they've been living in a particular bubble for a very long time. They've been living in a self den denial for a very long time because if you look at the NDC um architecture and history you realize that they really have not seen such intensive internal um democracy before. I mean president rallies came in de facto 1992 at the time he was leaving in 2000 he went to do the swedo declaration and basically planted professor mills on the party professor mess was the leader throughout so he became president in 2008 and then by 2012 unfortunately he passed he passed at a time where we were we had just about 6 months or so to elections to the vice president then John Ramani Mama his excellency automatically succeeded him and then eventually John Mhamama his excellency has the leader of the party all the way till now indeed you remember that throughout the process the NDC had to go through a lot of friction and fracture but it wasn't difficult for them to manage because they were they had a clear leader you remember the Funka games the Funka games which led to the co-founder of the NBC the founder's wife actually setting up her own party breaking away and setting up her own party those things didn't really affect the NDC because at that time they had a a clear leader in the person of his excellent John Romani Mahama. Today the situation is different in the next 6 months. Nobody in the NBC really would care about what his excellency Mama is saying or thinks because like it happens in every democracy. The president that is exiting and will not come for another term is going to be a lame duck. It is just what political science has taught everybody and that is not going to be different from from what with with with the NDC. What I think they have to do is to embrace their reality, admit their current situation and begin to open up and allow these things to span out in a way that would naturally get away. But other than that, trust me, they are going to see the fiercest the fiercest internal contest they have seen already.

[00:20:27]You've heard you've heard them throw shots at each other across across the and it hasn't even started yet. It has not even started yet. So, um I don't wish them well because the NDC clearly have become a menace for this country.

[00:20:42]So, I really don't wish them well, but I should brace up. They should raise up for what democracy truly is.

[00:20:47]So I mean do you see what's happening bolstering your chances of returning to power?

[00:20:54]>> I mean our chances is is largely dependent on the vision and the ideas will be proposing to the people of this country. It is not dependent on the fortunes or otherwise of the NDC. And so um whatever happens to the NBC is purely their business and it's purely a determinant of their future. for the MPP the Dr. Mammuda is going to articulate to the mason, to the mechanic, to the teacher, to the nurse, to the businessman, to the market woman, to the student, to the unemployed youth, to the woman, to the man, to the little child what he believes each of these people deserve as Ghanaians going into the future. And he's going to take his time, articulate, >> and explain each of his policies >> which are going to change the lives of these people. post 2028 and that is what is going to leave for Dr. Mahmuda into 2028. It has nothing to do with the fortunes of of of the NDC. Okay.

[00:21:58]>> We we have our faith in our own hands and we are taking it up aggressively.

[00:22:03]>> To you Dennis Mira is director of communications of the Birming campaign team. Doc, do I still have you?

[00:22:09]>> Yes please.

[00:22:10]>> Great. Now, should a party set clearer rules for secession discussions in order to avoid destabilizing the government in this first term and and I've heard some party uh you know stalwart say that there's a disconnect between the party and government. Do you see that playing out now? You add these two questions for me then we can wrap up.

[00:22:27]>> Good. Good. Well, I mean ultimately, right, there would have to be some uh some rules of behavior, right, that guide what happens, what doesn't happen between now and whenever the party decides who is going to lead the party into the 2028 election. The time for that internal battle would come and they can slug it out. I have always said I'm really not a big fan of internal party primaries because these parties fight so intensely. Sometimes I say to myself, have you forgotten who quote unquote the real enemy is, which is your political rivals. But having said all of that, I just hope that the party keeps in mind what is at stake. And as I keep saying, it is again how you work that fine balance between the rules of conduct, the rules of behavior. How do we conduct ourselves in such a way that you can still govern, you can still keep your party together and you can still ultimately have your internal contest that picks a successor to President John Rammani Mahaba. The again the the thing you want to avoid is or at least the thing you want to keep in mind cojo is that ultimately whoever emerges victorious I'm not saying it's inconsequential it it does have some consequences for 2028 but what the average Ghanaian voter is looking at is not who came up with the best strategy to beat out all of the competition in the internal in internal struggle for succession and so you don't want to um sort of lose track of the important governance things as well. Um and again at the end of the day everybody gets to decide which is more important whether it's their ambition or whether it's you know the the party or the the the party's record you know in office.

[00:24:28]>> I'm grateful to you for joining us here.

[00:24:30]Dr. John Oai Cop is director the democracy project CDD. This was brought to you by teles holy insecticide spray and coil and the show pension trust. My name is Samuel Kjo's news night right after this.

[00:24:45]>> There are many reasons to connect and it's all to put smiles on the faces of those you love. Daddy >> thanks for the tea. Okay.

[00:24:52]>> That's my daughter Angela.

[00:24:57]>> Caring for my parents. That's my duty. I also get to pay my utility bills easily with Teleyell cash and to the suppliers at my shop.

[00:25:04]>> Hello sir, tell Cash payment received right on time. Thank you.

[00:25:07]>> I get to make them smile because I can pay to my suppliers merchant numbers even on other networks directly. My dear ones, we keep the connection stronger when our family, friends and business relations are happy on cash, enjoy convenience and make those who matter smile when you send them money withell cash. Teley connecting energies me all night long till I got a remedy.

[00:25:36]Now I'll be spraying them away with holy insecticide spray.

[00:25:43]I spray them away with hold insecticide spray.

[00:25:50]When I sleep, I spray.

[00:25:56]>> Holy mosquito quil holy multi-purpose insecticide spray.

[00:26:02]For bulk purchase, call 0302681582.

[00:26:07]This advert is FDA approved.

[00:26:11]Heat. Heat. N.

[00:27:16]Hello and welcome to news tonight.

[00:27:19]Tonight, President Muhammad is facing a conflict of interest probe as a citizen.

[00:27:24]Petitions charge to investigate the takeover of the Dharman mine by engineers and planners, citing concerns over the president's relationship with his brother Ibrahim Muhammad. We speak to the petitioner.

[00:27:36]>> Also, Feed Ghana program delays spark food insecurity fears as sent Ghana raises alarm over in import distribution setbacks. Most of the districts are yet to receive these inputs and we are very much concerned that if government doesn't step up efforts or being proactive as far as implementing these intervention is concerned and this has implication of production figures for next year.

[00:28:00]Coming up in business, >> we'll hear more from the uh governor of the Bank of Ghana in terms of responding to claims that they they have actually had to slow down on market support which has led to the current pressure on the Ghana city. Coming up in sports, former black stars forward David Akam backs the team to shine despite World Cup group.

[00:28:22]And a bit later, the city is under pressure again as persistent dollar demand from oil importers and the energy sector has pushed the currency down nearly 12% this year with almost 10% of that loss coming since tensions with Iran escalated. We hear from experts who are warning the slide may not be over.

[00:28:42]The latest of these and many other stories are coming up in the next 60 minutes. Feel free to be a part of the show by sending us a WhatsApp on 05511997.

[00:28:52]My name is Kenneth Jesse.

[00:28:53]>> My name is Gemma Appia.

[00:28:55]>> Details after this.

[00:29:29]Heat. Heat.

[00:29:52]Tonight, a private citizen, Emmanuel Señor Amelu, has petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice charge to immediately commence a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the takeover. over of the Dan mine by engineers and planners.

[00:30:09]According to him, there are serious conflict of interest concerns surrounding the takeover given the relationship between President John Muhammad and his brother Ibrahim Mouhamama. My colleague Michael Ashali joins me in studio with more on this petition. Michael, what more is contained in this petition? Well, first it says the petition is premised on serious concerns of conflict of interest, abuse of executive influence and the possible use of public office for private family advantage contrary to article 284 of the constitution. The petitioner says well he is informed and verely believe that the takeover process received approval from cabinet and therefore it is a matter of public record and constitutional fact that cabinet is also chaired by President John Dmani Mahama whose biological brother Ibrahim Mahama is alleged to be the beneficiary of the said transaction.

[00:30:59]The central concern for him arising from these factors whether the president participated in, influenced, supervised or in any manner precided over deliberations relating to the transaction from which his close family member directly or indirectly benefited.

[00:31:15]Further um respectfully he's also stating that an additional matter of grave public concern has arisen in relation to the continuous use by the president of a private jet reportedly owned controlled or made available by his brother Ibrahim Mama for official and presidential travels since assuming of it has also been um publicly reported that when vice president was taken ill and required urgent transportation outside the country um it was the same jet owned by Ibrahim Muhammad that facilitated the lifting arrangement through the provision of private aviation support. While humanitarian assistance may not in itself support uh in itself continue wrongdoing, the continuous provision of private logistical and aviation support to the highest offices of the republic by an individual who is simultaneously alleged to be benefiting from government related transactions. raises legitimate constitutional on ethical concerns regarding undue influence uh preferential assets dependency uh reciprocity and the possible blurring of the distinction between public office and private family interest. Yes. So these are some of the details of this petition that has been sent to Shrad.

[00:32:26]>> Well, what is the petitioning asking Shra to do? So the petitioner assess that well but this matter raises substantial public interest concerns because it touches directly on the integrity of executive decision making public confidence in government and also the constitutional obligation imposed on public officers to avoid situations that create actual or apparent conflict between official duties and private family interests. So he's asking the office of shr to first of all commence a fullscale investigation to the circumstances surrounding the approval and takeover process of the mine. again obtain and review all cabinet um memoranda minutes uh recusals, declarations of interest and related correspondence connected to the transaction and also investigate the circumstances surrounding the provision and use of the private jet allegedly belonging to Ibrahim Mama for presidential, vice presidential and official travels, including whether any public funds, concessions, benefits or reciprocal arrangements are connected to. And finally also to determine whether constitutional or ethical breaches occurred and also these asking for recommendations appropriate um for maybe a sanction or remedial measures where violations are established and take over take any further steps necessary in the public interest and in furtherance of constitutional accountability. Michael Ashal with details of the petition by the private citizen Emmanuel seen a menu >> and uh Emmanuel seen is joining us right now and so is Dr. Steve Bantea he's a policy analyst and natural resource governance advocate gentlemen thank you very much for your time this evening let me begin with you Mr. Seenor uh what specifically triggered your decision to petition shr over the dam mine takeover?

[00:34:28]>> Much good evening to you and good evening to your cherish listeners.

[00:34:33]First of all, let me indicate that this petition is beyond the usual rhetoric of policies that we do here.

[00:34:40]It is grounded on article 284 of the 1992 constitution which prohibits public officers from placing themselves in situations where personal or family interest conflict with official duties.

[00:34:55]So it is on that remmit that I feel that the issue is not merely in one way or the other an illegality. However, it must also be seen more or less of an appearance of impropriy and also conflict of interest. And on that case, either that allegations of um you know his brother which is Mr. Ibrahim Mahama being the beneficiary of the dharma mind take over and uh cabinet reportedly approving the transaction. It clearly tells you that you cannot distinguish uh the issue of whether indeed there was some sort of conflict of interest or not. So the only person the only state institution that can be able to you know come to my aid in clarifying this is shr up upon that basis I felt it is appropriate to write to them to seek for their um concern by way >> um Emmanuel. So um regarding this particular issue, the uh the government spokesperson had an interview with Evans Mensah where he told us that the president recused himself when during the cabinet meeting when the dam my le issue came on board. Is that not a good enough reason that the president recused himself and so he was not directly involved in the process leading to ENTP winning that bid?

[00:36:28]First of all, let's ask ourselves when did the government spokesperson informed us of the president's recusaler from this cabinet meeting after a month where EMP has take over.

[00:36:44]>> Does it matter?

[00:36:46]>> It matters in government structure when accountability and transparency lead. We must be kept in the known at every point in time. We must not wait when time is far gone then you are not keeping the people in the known. What are you trying to do? What are you telling us? This is an afterthought after a month where fanfair chares and all of that are taking place. You are now informing us why we know very well that the man in question is taking over the mining concession is the brother of the president. So it's only proper.

[00:37:24]>> So for you public so for you hold on hold on hold on let me let me ask this question. Let me ask this question. So for you the fact that Ibrahim Mama is the brother of the president um disqualifies him from winning such a bid. Is that what you're saying?

[00:37:42]>> The fact that he remains the brother of the president does not just disqualify him. But the fact that the president continue you to use his private jet, the government continues to use his private jet alone should tell you that there is something happening and the president should not allow his brother should take over because in the in the how do you call it in the terms of shr where they outline to you what constitute conflict of interest the terms are very very clear. We have actual conflict of interest, apparent conflict of interest, potential conflict of interest. Do not give yourself for people to talk about. I don't need to tell you that ABC that the president did constitute conflict of interest.

[00:38:36]>> Kindly hold on for me, Mr. Señor. Dr. Steve Mateo is also joining this conversation. Welcome to the program.

[00:38:43]We've been listening to the petitioner.

[00:38:45]Does he have a case you'd say?

[00:38:50]Hello Dr. Monteo.

[00:38:55]Kindly unmute your microphone so we can hear.

[00:38:57]>> Yeah, I can hear you.

[00:38:59]>> Okay, much better.

[00:39:00]>> Good evening and thanks for the opportunity to comment on this matter.

[00:39:06]It is indeed not for me to determine the merit or otherwise of the matter that has been brought to Shira.

[00:39:14]It gladdens my heart all the time when citizens resort to appropriate state institutions to ensure that the right thing is done.

[00:39:26]So I think what the gentleman has done is in order. Let review what has happened and determine whether there is any issue of concern in terms of the process.

[00:39:42]But let me make it clear that the fact that you are in a potential conflict of interest situation does not mean you need to back out of that particular situation or does not mean that that potential conflict of interest cannot be killed.

[00:40:05]So potential conflict of interest happens all the time and there are lay down procedures for curing them. So for instance, if indeed it is documented that in the process of giving approval to the lease transfer to engineers and planners, the president recused himself then that is a way in which you cure potential conflict of interest.

[00:40:38]>> Dr. uh respectfully kindly hold on for me. I want you to listen to uh the government spokesperson Felix Quatchi ofu make that pronouncement a while ago. Listen, >> on the contrary, I would agree that the biggest obstacle to EMP taking down manager President indeed it may you may you may want to be informed that when the lands and natural resources minister brought the matter to cabinet for consideration.

[00:41:11]First of all, he needed to draw the attention of cabinet to the fact that the lease uh for the dharma mine was expiring and that a decision had been taken that it not be renewed >> for that session that considered that particular matter of the dam mining lease the president recused himself he did not sit in that meeting >> that is government spokesperson Philix quatch ofu Dr. are making that pronouncement. But some are arguing that really whether the president recused himself or not, it doesn't change anything really because the cabinet members only advise the president, they do not take a decision. The final decision in cabinet is taken by the chair of the cabinet which is the president. So even even if he hadn't recused himself, he has the final say, doesn't he?

[00:41:59]He may have a final say but that final say will be subject to the recommendations of the committee that's cabinet. So if it's it's on record that parliament did not approve I mean what cabinet did not approve of the transaction and yet the president went ahead to take that decision to award the contract to his brother then that is an issue but if the recommendations from the cabinet itself was that the man had won the contract on merit he only need to approve it and I don't there will be any problem with it. There will be a problem only when there's a disagreement and the president exercises his discretion in awarding or approving the contract.

[00:42:50]>> Senior, let me come to you now before we got to Dr. Matea. You sought to draw in um the president's use of the private jet by his brother. What crime or what conflict of interest is is in there? um the the the state or the aircrafts that we have we understand is not in good condition. The president's brother has an aircraft. He is giving it generously to his brother who is the president.

[00:43:17]What problem really are you raising?

[00:43:21]>> Yeah. Before I even respond to that question, uh after the the playback of what Mr. Offici said and then uh Mr. Dr. Uh Steve Mante also said if indeed the president recuse himself from the said discussion.

[00:43:43]One critical question I want us to ask is that after the discussion by the members of the committee who finally approved it because the president cheers and approves every discussion that goes on who actually approved whatever they discussed because he left the discussion room but at the end of the day it is incumbent on him to say that I am approving AB or not. So we want to know let there be a determination that indeed it was discussed behind him but when he returned he approved of the discussion a discussion that you were not part of why would you approve of it these are questions we should be asking it should not be an after thought matter so let's put that on hold then I I now go on he said how can or how does the pre the president use of the private jet constitute conflict of interest where we know very well that the the the the country's jet is not in good position or good condition to actually do that. I believe that you do not or you don't have to give room for people to say that you are actually aligning yourself in the situation of conflict of interest especially when the issue of potentiality comes in play. Now the continuous use of the private jet has allegedly linked to Mr. Ibrahim Mama raises additional ethical constraints fair to each other. I keep saying that this is beyond the politics. It is an issue of article 284 as a public official or as a public officer. What does the article say? The exacer says that article 284 says that a public officer shall not put himself in a position where his personal interest conflicts or is likely to conflict with the performance of the functions of his office. M in the quest.

[00:45:45]>> So you expecting that the states spend so much money, thousands of dollars um to hire a private jet for the president to be able to um travel outside the country and perform his duties. That's what you expecting as a private citizen. I I believe strongly that beyond the president going with the the the brother's private jet I is there there are other prominent private jets that the president could have rented. Why is it not the state that is financing it now beyond even that the the president's brother who is actually using his jet? Are you aware that the the the the government is actually the one paying for the fuel and one or two other cost?

[00:46:35]What is wrong if the government actually rent a different jet >> to actually clear the mouth of the public that the president is actually conflicted?

[00:46:46]>> Mr. Sor, what are you expecting from Sraj?

[00:46:50]So what I'm expecting from Shra is that one there is the need for a full scale of his investigation that need to be you know constituted to know the circumstance surrounding the whole approval. We want to know in terms of the the the the alleged recusers the minutes the memoranda and all of that.

[00:47:10]We want to know Shr will get all those things, investigate them and whilst he do that, we want them to also determine whether indeed there was a constitutional or ethical breaches as far as the takeover is concerned and recommend appropriate sanctions or remedial measures where violations are established and take any other steps necessary in the public interest in fering of constitutional accountability and transparency. I believe that if this is done and done very well, I will be okay and then we'll let the matter go.

[00:47:46]>> Emanuel Seor, thank you very much. Is a petitioner there. Earlier, we heard from Dr. Steve Mantea who is a policy analyst and natural resource governance advocate.

[00:47:56]>> The Ghana city is being dragged down by persistent foreign currency demand, particularly from oil importers and players within the energy sector. The local currency has depreciated by nearly 12% since the beginning of the year and close to 10% since the escalation of tensions involving Iran. Experts also warned the city could weaken further against the dollar. Meanwhile, crude oil prices on the international markets have dropped below the $100 mark as optimism grows over a possible diplomatic breakthrough between the US and Iran.

[00:48:28]Even though tensions in the Middle East remain unresolved, the sharp depreciation is raising fresh concerns over market pricing, import cost, and overall economic stability as corporate demand outstrips central bank supply.

[00:48:43]Data and research analyst Jason Day joins me in studio with a deep dive into the research details. Jason, break down the research details for us. First, what can you tell us on the crude prices on the international market? Well, Gemma, crude prices are dropping on the international front, reaching its lowest price in two weeks since May May 7th.

[00:49:04]>> This follows after President Trump made some comments of a possible peace peace deal with Iran. And prices closed last week at $10354 and today they opened at $100.73 and closed at $97.71 because of the comments of the from President Trump >> it may continue to fall further.

[00:49:27]>> What do we know about the current pressures on our currency the city? So jama we started the year with 10 cities and 40 pesos to a dollar but now it's trading at 11 cities and 62 pesos to the dollar. details that we are getting are showing that high oil prices due to the Iran war. is also fueling increased dollar demand from oil importers and with this it's draining some of the progress we have we have made with the city also mining sector forex inflows and central bank auction allocations have not been enough offset >> have not offset what we have right what's imported demand so over the last two central bank auctions bids have exceeded 500 500 million dollars >> thank you very much uh Jason Day is a data and research analyst here at Joy News.

[00:50:24]We are working the line to get um professor Patrick assuming he is an economist and lecturer with the University of Ghana Business School um to have a conversation about the CD uh with him. Welcome to the news. Um now are current Bank of Ghana interventions enough to stabilize the city or are we treating the symptoms instead of the real cause of the challenge?

[00:50:55]>> Hello Prof, kindly unmute for me.

[00:50:59]>> Thank you for joining us.

[00:51:03]>> Hello professor. Assuming I can hear you. Welcome to the news. I asked are current Bank of Gun interventions enough to stabilize the city?

[00:51:13]>> Well, thank you very much and good evening to listeners.

[00:51:17]I think that the Bank of Ghana definitely has more than enough reserves to be able to keep the currency stable.

[00:51:27]We have to understand that they have adopted a new framework for conducting the interventions in the forest market.

[00:51:37]And what they are trying to do is to prevent massive swings in the currency, massive depreciation.

[00:51:46]Even though in the last couple of weeks we've seen a little bit more depreciation than usual, we have to understand that compared to our historical rate is still reasonable limit. So some of the interventions that they are doing is to make sure that you smoon the rate of depreciation.

[00:52:07]So even though people are expressing concerns about the rate of depreciation, I think this falls within what they will consider reasonable in terms of keeping the currency within a small bank and not allowing massive depreciation of the currency.

[00:52:26]>> Given the current trend, should we expect further depreciation or is there room for stabilization in the short term?

[00:52:36]I'm not sure exactly what the short-term horizon will mean for you, but we have to understand that you know the kind of appreciation that we see we saw last year those days are gone currently the thinking of the central bank I believe at least based on their communication is that the currency should be kept from moving widely.

[00:53:04]And at the over the past one year or so, the currency has been moving between 10.5 and 11.5.

[00:53:11]So I think it's when the currency is threatening to move significantly away from that that you are likely to see massive intervention. So what we are seeing now is part of the new strategy of how they are going to do their forest interventions. Even though you have the reserves, they are not going to be just keeping pumping the dollars on the market to keep the currency stand still at one particular rate. No. So allowing the currency to vary within the band that we have something between 10 and 12 is something we should expect. What what good does it do to the economy if the the dollar um trades at 10 cities 40 pesos and 11 cities to the city? What good does it do to the economy?

[00:54:02]>> Well, I think at this point the most important thing is to keep it keep the rate of depreciation relatively small.

[00:54:12]Now if you are asking that compared to where we were before that is the 15 16 well then where we are it has it own advantages and disadvantages keeping the currency between 10 and the 11 because of where we brought it. I think that initial stage was a disadvantage.

[00:54:33]But now that we have we seem to have become used to the 12 the 10 to 11 range. I think you know it just means that businesses can now plan and know that even if you if you are buying goods and services the worst case scenario you are going to deal with will be probably 12 and then the best case scenario you are going to deal with be probably 10.

[00:55:00]And I think that is keeping that in that range the the predictability is what businesses are looking for. Some may argue that that range is too wide and I will probably agree with that. If we keep the band narrower, so say we are going to keep it between 11 and 11 and a half, that one is a smaller band and it's easy for businesses to say that even if there are changes within that small band, any losses to businesses might be minimal. But it look like this is a new norm that the central bank want to operate in. So we should be able we should be willing to expect that this kind of short-term movements will become part of how the currency will be managed and it's not something that we should um we should be too concerned about when it comes to the currency. What we really shouldn't we don't really want to happen is that in a two week period the currency loses 15% 10% of its value. that that is what is very devastating for the economy.

[00:56:02]>> But if there's a clear communication as it appears to be the case now that we are keeping the currency in a short band, it's something that we have to live with.

[00:56:13]>> So for now we shouldn't worry. Uh thank you so much professor Patrick Sumin is an economist and lecturer with the University of Ghana Business School. And news just coming in is that the white styrofoam takeaway packs used daily by thousands of Kenyans will soon become a thing of the past as the Environmental Protection Authority has announced a sweeping nationwide ban for on foam products beginning January 2027. Well, the move forms part of government's renewed push against plastic pollution, chop bars and food vendors. Again, ceiling and in insulation materials made from polyester foam, foam mattresses and bedding materials. Again, packaging and cushioning materials and any other form of polyester foam product intended for human use or consumption related activities. Note the um EPA says that the prohibition shall however exclude um um EPS products specifically um intended for medical, scientific, laboratory and diagnosive purposes subject to applicable regulator. This policy directive forms part of national efforts to um protect public health, improve environmental sanitation, reduce plastic pollution. But Kenneth does not taking immediate effect. At least um all those who are highly dependent or are currently producing it have until 1st of January 2027 to enforce this particular ban. So you can use them until the first day of next year 2027. Kenneth >> Michael Ashal, thank you very much.

[00:57:45]Professor Nana Brown Cl is the CEO of the Environmental Protection Authority.

[00:57:50]She's joining me right now for a conversation on the back of this.

[00:57:54]Welcome to the program. Some will argue why now?

[00:57:59]>> Thank you very much. I think it's a a conversation that is long overdue.

[00:58:06]So last year on the world environment day, the president announced the ban and as a regressively institution, we took our time to work on the implementation plan to roll out the plan. So we have come to a point where we are ready to roll it out but we also understand that stakeholders needs time to put together the alternatives to this packaging and the use of this uh styrofoam products. So we have given up to 1st of January to have it completely off the market of our homes in the country. So that is what has brought this conversation today. This is Ghana.

[00:59:00]We needed to take our time to go through the process of the ban.

[00:59:04]>> And do you think you've had enough time to effectively ban it from the 1st of January?

[00:59:12]Yes. Um we needed to convince ourselves on the road map which we have put together comprehensively.

[00:59:22]Now between now and January 1 we going to engage stakeholders. We also have a shadow for stakeholder engagement, food vendors and all these categories of stakeholders and the general consumers of of Ghana. And so we believe that from now until then once the issue is out once the release is out we believe that Ghanaians will comply companies will comply even foreign companies that are also involved in the sale the production and importation of the styrofoam will comply to this directive. M one of the major reasons why this ban is coming into effect is its health implications on consumers. Correct.

[01:00:11]Yes. So research has shown that the styrofone uh when exposed to uh extreme heat can le can leave substances like stine which is a cancer um agent or it's cosmogenic.

[01:00:31]It's also inflammable, highly inflammable substance. So it's not biodegradable for the environment. So whilst we talk about the health >> of humans, we also talk about the health of environment when it comes to tyrofone.

[01:00:46]>> Then why wait until the 1st of January and why not do it now?

[01:00:52]>> So the relief is now because this is a human institution. We are dealing with people. We are dealing with stakeholders and we thought that if some get importation by this time they've already sent out uh request for the importation they will come into the system but if you know that by 1st of January you can no longer make use of such products you will not import over a certain period until that time. So we thought we give importation importation time, production time and consumers also time to ban this completely.

[01:01:35]>> Professor Brown Cluche, thank you very much. She's the CEO of the Environmental Protection Authority. Let's do business.

[01:01:42]George is here with the latest.

[01:01:43]>> Hi Kenneth and Came Bank of Ghana deny slowing down dollar support for market.

[01:01:48]a move some analysts believe has contributed to the current sustained depreciation of the local currency and MTN announces charge on mobile money transfers to bank accounts effective June 1, 2026.

[01:02:05]The business news on News Night is brought to you by MTN Business. Welcome to the new world of business. Kingdom Books and Stationary, your number one stop for office essentials. Kingdom Books and Stationary.

[01:02:23]>> Hello, >> Charlie. I'm at the library. Why do you keep calling me?

[01:02:26]>> Wait question. What's the capital of volcano?

[01:02:28]>> Wagadu. Bye.

[01:02:30]>> Wait, wait. Which planet is the hottest in the solar system?

[01:02:34]>> Venus. Actually, why all these questions?

[01:02:36]>> See, I'm playing the MTA swipe and win promo. I might cash out some cool thousand Ghana cities today. 1,000 cities.

[01:02:45]>> Tell him what's the next question.

[01:02:46]What's the next question?

[01:02:47]>> Join the MTN swipe and win promo today.

[01:02:50]Answer trivia and points and stand a chance to win 1,000 Ghana cities every day. Weekly cash of a,000, 2,000 or 3,000 Ghana cities. A brand new Hyundai Texan in the first 3 months and the ultimate grand prize of 500,000 Ghana cities. Recharge your account to qualify for the daily draws. TO JOIN, VISIT SWIPE and winpromo.mtn.com.g.

[01:03:12]GH download the my MTN app or dial star5030#.

[01:03:16]This promo is regulated by the NLA on the character lottery platform. TNC's apply >> MTN.

[01:03:29]>> Son, we are so proud of you for setting up this hospital. I really love those hospital beds and waiting chairs. By the way, did you import them?

[01:03:36]>> No, Dad, I didn't. I actually got them from Kindle Book Stationary right here in Ghana.

[01:03:40]>> Wow. We also bought our office supplies, safes, executive desks, and chairs from Kingdom. And they gave us expert advice on how to set up our office.

[01:03:48]>> Guys, that makes three of us. I also got our sofa and bedroom sets, plus our dining hall furniture for our new home from Kingdom. Well, Mom, that makes four of us. I usually get my stationary items from Kingdom. And my teacher also mentioned that our classroom furniture was provided by Kingdom. So, there you have it. Whenever you're thinking about setting up an office or acquiring furniture for your home, etc., Kingdom Books and Stationery should be your first port of call. With over 40 years experience in the industry, we stock and supply a wide variety of globally sourced office and home furniture, stationary and equipment. Visit our head office taku near the osu cemetery.

[01:04:23]Tmania community 4, Takari opposite Fiji Maze Plaza, Cape Coast University Bookshop, Spintex Road near Absang, Atomic Center Mall, Winnibar University Campus, KNUSD the university bookshop and Santasi in Kumasi. You can also visit our shop online www.kingdomstoonline.com.

[01:04:43]Hurry while stock lasts. For further inquiries, contact us on 0501620810 or 0302764101.

[01:04:53]Email [email protected].

[01:04:55]Kingdom Books and Stationary Limited where quality and affordability is assured. Terms and conditions apply.

[01:05:02]>> Hello CEOs. Ghana's foremost business platform marks 10 years of leadership impact. Join the 10th Ghana CEO Summit and Expo on Thursday, 28th May 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Campiski Hotel Acra. The summit is themed celebrating Ghana's economic transformation driving bold reforms through leadership, technology, and industrialization tagline from vision to action. His Excellency John Ramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, will attend a special guest of honor and officially launch the CEO Government Compact 2026. Highlights include presidential CEO dialogue, master classes, panels, brand expo, CEO profiles, networking, registered now at Ghana CEOs.com. Call 054-6391970 or email [email protected].

[01:05:50]Powered by CEO Network Ghana in partnership with Deote PWC EY GIPC, University of Ghana Media General and the Multimedia Group. The 10th Ghana CEO Samidan Expo, a decade of leadership impact supply.

[01:06:07]Cast your mind back to 2022. The prices were rising. The stress was high. Every litter of fuel felt like a sacrifice. Do you remember who stepped forward first?

[01:06:21]When others were comfortable with high prices, Star Oil chose you. We cut our own profits so you could keep your AC on, keep your engines running, and keep your life moving without the heavy burden. We gave you room to breathe when things felt tight. Because of you, our star savers, we became number one.

[01:06:43]Today, the pumps are a battleground.

[01:06:45]Others are finally cutting prices because they have to. But Star Oil, we do it because we want to. Don't just chase a price. Remember a friendship. We were there for you then. And with new innovations coming your way, we are here for you now. Star Oil. Still quality and affordable fuels for all.

[01:07:16]If you want quality where you belong to sing no break when the rain they fall still no shake they choose they prove how many project you She sle come before every mosquito run away.

[01:08:33]This advert is FDA approved.

[01:08:36]>> You're welcome back to business on News Night. Now, the Bank of Ghana has denied cutting down on dollar support for the market. The local currency is said to have depreciated by some more than 10% based on commercial banks rate. has resulted in Reuters Africa rating the city as the worst performing currency in Africa. But speaking at the monetary policy committee press conference, the governor of the bank of Ghana of Johnson argues that they've always been active on the market.

[01:09:09]>> We understand very well why the pressure is there right now. We are we are in the market, you know, on a weekly basis.

[01:09:17]Every Tuesday, every Thursday, we are in the market. Our auction is still there.

[01:09:21]We've announced it, pre-announced it.

[01:09:24]The banks are aware. We continue doing what we are doing. But for now, that is what we have. Remember, we have the buffers and it's an auction. We pre-announce how much each month we will make available to the market. And for this month, I I guess we made available about a billion dollars. We are on track with that. We have not reduced our presence at all. The banks are aware of it. Um and there shouldn't be too much panic about that.

[01:09:56]>> And that is Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Johnson Isyama. MTN has announced that from June 1, 2026, all mobile money transfers to bank account would attract 75% fee per transaction. This according to telecom's giant will be capped at five Ghana cities. The mobile operator in a text to subscribers this evening noted that this is to help them to continue to serve their customers better. We expect >> to other stories. IMF is said to move Ghana from a higher risk of debt distress in July this year. Now this will happen when it presents its s program review report to the board for scrutiny. The country is currently classified as high risk of debt destroy despite the significant progress made in reducing its debt numbers. Meanwhile, the Ghana's debt is said to be has reached sustainable levels even before the 2028 deadline set by the IMF. Dr. Rubin Toyam is the IMF mission chief for Ghana.

[01:10:58]>> We expected that the program will bring Ghana to moderate of the distress already by 2028.

[01:11:05]We reached uh this level already last year when in 2025 we saw that uh the mechanical signals coming out of our the sustainability analysis we're producing moderate risk of that distress rating.

[01:11:18]IMF being IMF always cautious and prudent. We applied judgment to keep Ghana at high risk of the distress uh rating but uh this is the final review of ECF and we are quite hopeful that with the completion of the review we'll be able to upgrade Ghana >> and will will we see the fund very soon reviewer because in I remember I had an interaction with the country representative and he tried to explain to me how soon would the fund make the necessary recommendation to the board to take a second look at our classification. when it comes to the DSI assessment of country Ghana.

[01:11:55]>> All of that will be happening around July 27th.

[01:11:58]>> And that is the IMF mission chief for Ghana, Dr. Rubinatorium, explaining that they are set to move Ghana from high risk of debt distress to moderate in July this year. Let's still stay on the fund issue because businesses have indicated that they see the technical assistance instrument from the IMF as very important to currently being stabilized to help improve the business environment. It is coming after government announced that he has formally requested for that policy coordinating instrument to help sustain recent gains. Greater regional president of the Ghanaian of Industry Chamalu tells their business the move should be seen as good for businesses especially in these times.

[01:12:40]For us, we are keen to see the the specific measures government is going to put in place to ensure that number one, the stability achieve sustained over the period of time to allow business people to still continue to invest in the economy and the expand economy. And also we're interested in seeing government measures taken to for example promugate policies like um um increasing um local production and ensuring that measures are taken to increase productivity because all of this will come to nothing if we unable to increase our productivity within the Ghanaian economy >> and that is the gate acra regional president to the session of Ghana in the situ Melu describing government's request for the IMF policy that is the coordinating instrument as good for the business environment. And that's all for business on news night.

[01:13:40]Thank you George. Let's do sports. And in sports, former black stars um forward does David a comebacks the team to shine despise tough world cup group. Now the black stars have been faced as they've faced criticism for being too individualistic instead of functioning as a cohesive unit. Now ahead of the World Cup where Ghana has been drawn in a difficult group alongside England, Croatia and Panama, Akam believes the team can stand a strong chance if their chemistry and teamwork are improved.

[01:14:09]>> It's it's difficult especially the group we are in for us. We just need to pray for them cuz uh we can't make the decisions. We can't play for them. we can make the uh selection. So for us, we will support them and and I pray and hope that they give everything they have and they do well for the country, for themselves and for their families. Uh every time I've watched them, it's it's difficult to to see them playing as a team and it's difficult to see their principles or their tactics that they want to play. It's mostly we have like players that pop up and and do something. So at the moment we have a new technical team. Hopefully they will solve the problems that we had before and they they will bring uh cohesion to the team and they can play well and win games.

[01:14:54]>> So that's former black stars player there David come and um Kenneth >> Yeah.

[01:14:59]>> Did you see the celebrations of the fans over the weekend?

[01:15:03]>> I didn't like that.

[01:15:08]>> I said I did it. I I saw a video where they went to church wearing the Arsenal GC parties and George has left.

[01:15:15]>> I haven't seen you in his Aral Jalabia or his Arsenal suit or something, >> but that's for another day.

[01:15:22]>> You know, strange things are happening in sports this year as won the league.

[01:15:26]Ronaldo won a trophy without NASA. And then the the final game of the Ghana Premier League, someone scored eight six goals.

[01:15:35]>> Six goals, but there's no video to show that.

[01:15:38]That's another day. So that's it for sports.

[01:15:42]>> Thank you very much.

[01:15:44]>> Saint Ghana is raising alarm over delays in the distribution of agricultural inputs under the government's feed Ghana program, warning that the situation could disrupt this year's planting season and threaten food security. The policy and advocacy organization says with the race already setting in across parts of the country, many farmers are yet to receive essential inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and other farming supplies promised under the program.

[01:16:12]Speaking to Joy News, the deputy country director for Send Ghana, Alhaji Mumi Muhammad said the country is at risk of low production if government does not step up with implementation.

[01:16:26]It is becoming clear that the process of implementation has delayed given that this is an intervention that is time bound or some activities or most of the activities within the intervention is time bound. So for instance if you talk about the issue of uh input you know giving fertilizer feed this is time bound as we speak you know both in the north and south the the season is fast approaching the breeding season is is almost setting in in in the north. I know in the south is it's been on for some time now but our checks on the ground reveals both with farmers but also the department of agre that most of the districts are yet to receive these inputs and we are very much concerned that if government doesn't step up uh efforts or being proactive as far as implementing this intervention is concerned yet I mean yes we are we are aware that the fertilizer would come but it might come at a time that is no longer needed is likely to be distributed to farmers who might not use it for the cropping season and this has implication our production figures for next year that is even if we do proper targeting to make sure that farmers will be the event I mean would be the ones to receive this.

[01:17:39]>> He also called on government to improve communication with farmers as to improve targeting as many district directors of agric knowledge about the policy implementation.

[01:17:52]the weak flow of information regarding the implementation. I tell you in the program document it is said that the backbone is going to be the department of agriculture. If you go to the districts and you ask the directors of our they have very limited information in terms of where they are or the status of implementation and that for us is quite worrying. We were told by government that implementing the feed Ghana program was going to be uh through the um uh farmer service centers and they had a target to start to set up a number of them that is still not uh you know been finished and so government is using a stop gap measure to implement through MMDAs and our checks for the department of agric shows that the agree department is not really directly involved in this. This is more championed by MMDC's and MPs and we are very much concerned because the agric department is the ones dealing with farmers either as cooperatives or individual farmers and so if we are not careful targeting is going to be an issue and the possibility of you know politicization which has been the issue with most of our interventions is very high.

[01:19:03]The National Anti-legal Mining Operations Secretariat Nimas has been deployed to the Oda Forest Reserve in response to growing pressure on government to clamp down on illegal mining and logging activities destroying large sections of the forest reserve.

[01:19:19]Recent checks by Jaw News revealed extensive destruction within the reserve, including deep excavated pits, failed trees, and polluted water bodies believed to have been caused by illegal miners and encroachers. Traditional leaders in the Bquay area say the situation is becoming alarming and are calling for immediate action to safeguard the ecological zone and surrounding communities. Here is Nana Buim Pu the second truffle of the Bquay traditional area who has been speaking on the destruction within the reserve.

[01:20:33]We plead with authorities to lock down the forest for us. This is an old-aged forest which has really helped the community and Ghana at large. People are invading it with illegal mining activities. They get the license from the authorities. We plead with the Minister for Land and Natural Resources to help us care illegal mining in this forest.

[01:21:10]That's the Chafuhini of the Bquire Traditional Area. Nanabachi Yadam is my colleague there monitoring events for us. He's joining me right now with some updates. Nana, what is the current situation at the Odan Forest Reserve?

[01:21:25]>> Well, Kenneet, the situation remains the same. Um our last check from the um forest indicates that there hasn't been any intervention so far from the ministry of lands and and so the reports that we have earlier through our checks which indicates that um there's been um high invasion of the other forest reserves um through illegal mining and illegal logging activities um still remains with residents um raising concerns about the um situation affect affecting their daily lives and their unavailability to have access to um some necessities due to this.

[01:22:04]>> Nanai Adam there. Thank you very much.

[01:22:09]>> Now Ghana's new e visa portal has officially gone live marking a major shift in the country's travel and immigration system. Applicants from across the world can now complete visa applications for Ghana entirely online without having to visit Ghanaian embassies or consulates physically. For African travelers, the visas will be issued free of charge as part of government's efforts to promote regional integration and ease movement across the continent. Speaking at the launch at the Kinsky Hotel, President Muhammad said while some countries are expelling fellow Africans and making them feel unwelcome, Ghana proudly welcomes them and affirms this is their home.

[01:22:50]And so, ladies and gentlemen, effective today from this moment, all holders of African passports traveling to Ghana for business or tourism will apply for visas exclusively via the new online e visa platform and they will pay no visa fee.

[01:23:09]And so, for emphasis, all African passport holders will not be required to pay visa fees when they apply online.

[01:23:18]The previous visa on arrival arrangement for African passports which I initiated in my previous term as president is hereby discontinued and replaced by this more secure and efficient electronic visa regime. For African countries with which Ghana has visa waiver agreements, citizens of those countries will continue to travel freely to Ghana without applying for visas. For Caribbean and other nations with which Ghana has visa waiver agreements, they also will continue to enter Ghana freely without applying for visas. Applicants will continue to undergo all the necessary vetting and due diligence. The financial barrier for African travel has been removed. What remains firmly intact is our commitment to security, order, and effective border management. By introducing the continentwide free visa access via an electronic platform, Ghana joins countries such as Rwanda, Kenya, Benin, Seells, the Gambia and Togo in demonstrating that openness and security can coexist. We also send a message that welcoming fellow Africans does not undermine your sovereignty. Rather, it strengthens African unity. It strengthens economic cooperation and shared progress. I therefore urge the remaining African Union members, including some of the continent's largest economies, to act with great urgency to implement the free movement protocol.

[01:24:57]The African continental free trade area is operational and the second 10-year implementational plan of agenda 2063 is already underway.

[01:25:08]The architecture for integration already exists. What is required now is the political courage and the political will to implement it. Ghana's doors are open and we encourage others to open their doors as well. While some countries are expelling fellow Africans and making them feel unwelcome, Ghana proudly welcomes them and affirms that this is your home.

[01:25:44]That there was President John Muhammer.

[01:25:46]And that brings us to the end of News Night. My name is Kenneth Jesse.

[01:25:50]>> My name is Gemma Aia.

[01:25:51]>> Don't forget to do the two. Brush your teeth day and