“You Are My Son” – Former Accra Mayor Blankson Endorses Wontumi

Ebenezer Madugu
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“You Are My Son” – Former Accra Mayor Blankson Endorses Wontumi

NPP National Chairman aspirant, Chairman Wontumi, has secured another major endorsement from one of the New Patriotic Party’s most respected elders, Hon. Stanley Nii Adjiri Blankson — former Mayor of Accra, former Member of the Council of State, and current member of the NPP National Council.

During a meeting held in Accra today, Chairman Wontumi reflected on his political journey, the challenges he has faced, and his unwavering commitment to the party.

He emphasized that his grassroots connection remains the foundation of his bid for the position of National Chairman.

“Winning elections is a collective effort, not a one-man task. I come from the grassroots and I understand their concerns, sacrifices, and expectations. Political victory is not about titles or certificates; it is about understanding and connecting with the grassroots, and no one understands them better than I do, and my mission is to get the job done.” he added.

Responding to Wontumi’s remarks, Hon. Blankson offered strong words of endorsement, encouragement, and fatherly counsel.

“I have been in politics for a very long time, and Wontumi has remained loyal and dedicated to the party. God will reward you. Listen to advice. You are my son, and I am your father,” Hon. Blankson stated.

He further added, “I am going to rely on you, Wontumi. He is my son, and I deeply love him. We will work hard to ensure he wins. I am happy about your loyalty and commitment to Dr. Bawumia. Your words this afternoon have deeply touched me.”

Chairman Wontumi, in response, described Hon. Blankson as “one of the few remaining revered elders of the NPP,” adding that the former Mayor had entrusted him with the responsibility of helping the party reclaim lost ground in Greater Accra and across the country.

“Hon. Blankson is entrusting Greater Accra into my hands so we can reclaim all lost seats — not only in the Ashanti Region, but across every region of Ghana,” Wontumi said.

Outlining his vision for the party, Wontumi pledged to work tirelessly to secure victory for the NPP in 2028.

“I will work hard to ensure that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia becomes the next President of Ghana. I will be a National Chairman for all 276 constituencies and all 16 regions. I will descend into the trenches, work hand in hand with the grassroots, and lead the party back to victory in 2028,” he assured.

This follows his visit with Former President Nana Addo Danquah Akuffo Addo, Former Vice President Dr Mahamadu Bawumia , former National Chairman of the NPP Freddy Blay, amongst others as part of part of his ongoing stakeholder engagements.

Chairman Wontumi concluded by expressing profound gratitude to Hon. Stanley Nii Adjiri Blankson for his endorsement, guidance, and blessings.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Vincen Kwofie

Kpandai Parliamentary Seat Dispute Took Emotional Toll on Me — MP Matthew Nyindam

Najat Adamu
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Kpandai Parliamentary Seat Dispute Took Emotional Toll on Me — MP Matthew Nyindam

The Member of Parliament for the Kpandai Constituency, Matthew Nyindam, has opened up about the emotional impact of the controversy surrounding the Kpandai parliamentary seat.

Speaking in an interview on Atinka TV’s Flagship programme with Mr. Speaker Nana Fianko, the legislator revealed that the dispute deeply affected him emotionally and psychologically.

“The Kpandai parliamentary seat controversy affected me emotionally, I wept and had sleepless nights,” he disclosed.

According to Hon. Nyindam, the tension surrounding the issue generated widespread concern among traditional leaders and residents within the constituency.

He stated that many chiefs and community members were dissatisfied with the situation and actively sought intervention to restore calm and fairness.

“Chiefs and majority of the people were not happy about the situation in Kpandai. Some even came together to appeal to the president to step in to ensure justice,” he said.

The MP did not provide further details on the specific controversy during the interview but stressed that the ordeal was personally difficult for him and created anxiety within the constituency.

His comments add to ongoing discussions about political disputes and electoral tensions in parts of the country, particularly the emotional and social impact such controversies can have on public officials and their communities.

District Assemblies Must Boost Internally Generated Funds for Development — Dr. George Laryea

Najat Adamu
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District Assemblies Must Boost Internally Generated Funds for Development — Dr. George Laryea

Dr. George Laryea, Director in charge of Policy and Research at the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation (IMCCoD), has stressed the need for district assemblies to strengthen their internally generated funds (IGF) to support local development initiatives.

Speaking in an interview on Atinka TV’s Ghana Nie Morning Show, Dr. Laryea expressed concern about the heavy dependence of many district assemblies on the District Assembly Common Fund.

According to him, assemblies have the potential to mobilise more local resources if proper attention is given to revenue generation mechanisms.

“Over reliance on the District Assembly Common Fund is very worrying; internally generated fund is one area if properly utilized, district assemblies can accumulate more resources to support local development,” he stated.

Dr. Laryea also clarified the distinct roles of Members of Parliament and District Chief Executives within Ghana’s decentralisation framework.

He explained that while MPs may use their influence and advocacy to support development projects in their constituencies, their primary constitutional responsibility remains lawmaking.

“At some point, Members of Parliament can leverage their influence to drive development, but it is essential to note that their primary role is as lawmakers, whereas the District Chief Executives are the local development agents,” he noted.

He further encouraged local authorities to improve planning, accountability, and resource mobilisation to accelerate development at the district level.

FFAG Commends Bank of Ghana Over Suspension of Proposed Wallet-to-Bank Transfer Charges

Najat Adamu
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FFAG Commends Bank of Ghana Over Suspension of Proposed Wallet-to-Bank Transfer Charges

The Freight Forwarders Association of Ghana (FFAG) has welcomed the Bank of Ghana’s decision to suspend the proposed 0.75 percent charge on wallet-to-bank transfers, describing the move as timely and beneficial to businesses and the broader economy.

In a press statement, the Association said the proposed charge by Mobile Money Fintech Ltd, which was expected to take effect from June 1, 2026, would have placed an additional financial burden on freight forwarders, transport operators, importers, exporters, and small businesses operating within Ghana’s port and logistics sector.

According to FFAG, mobile money and digital financial transactions have become essential tools in the freight forwarding industry, facilitating customs payments, port charges, supplier transactions, transport coordination, emergency operations, and cross-border trade settlements.

The Association noted that any increase in digital transaction costs could negatively affect operational efficiency, raise the cost of doing business, and reduce trade competitiveness at Ghana’s ports.

“The freight forwarding industry operates in an already high-cost environment characterized by multiple statutory charges, operational delays, and rising logistics expenses,” the statement said.

FFAG further cautioned that additional charges on digital transactions would likely be transferred to importers and consumers, with broader consequences for trade facilitation and national economic activity.

The Association therefore praised the intervention of the Bank of Ghana, stating that the suspension of the proposed charges pending further consultations was in the best interest of businesses, financial inclusion, digital trade growth, and the Ghanaian economy.

Speaking on behalf of the Association, FFAG President Francis Nyarepe-Attipoe called on Mobile Money Fintech Ltd and other financial sector stakeholders to engage more extensively with industry players before implementing policies with significant operational and economic implications.

He emphasized that digital payment platforms have become central to modern port operations and trade facilitation, making it necessary for any policy affecting such systems to undergo broad consultation and impact assessment.

FFAG reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies aimed at promoting efficient trade, improving financial accessibility, and reducing the cost of doing business in Ghana.

Former GN Savings and Loans Staff to Reapply as Bank Moves to Resume Operations

Najat Adamu
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Former GN Savings and Loans Staff to Reapply as Bank Moves to Resume Operations

Source: Nana Kwesi Boakye

GN Savings and Loans has begun processes to resume operations before the end of the year following the Court of Appeal’s ruling restoring the company’s licence.

The development was confirmed by Nana Kweku Nduom, President of Groupe Nduom, during an interview on Channel One TV’s The Point of View, where he disclosed that preparations are underway for the institution’s return.

Speaking to Atinka News, the spokesperson for GN Bank, Atta Kwaku Boadi, explained that former employees of the bank would be allowed to reapply for their previous positions, but their reinstatement would not be automatic.

According to him, all former staff members would be required to undergo a fresh recruitment process before any decision is made regarding their re-employment.

Mr. Boadi stated that the bank would assess whether it remains in its best interest to work with former employees based on current operational needs and circumstances.

He noted that some former workers may no longer be available or interested in returning because they may have relocated, secured new employment opportunities, or passed away during the period the institution remained closed.

The spokesperson further disclosed that the upcoming recruitment exercise would also be opened to the general public, allowing qualified Ghanaians to apply for available positions once operations officially resume.

According to him, both parties involved in the legal dispute are expected to receive the full court judgment before the final processes toward the bank’s operational return are completed.

The Court of Appeal recently ordered the restoration of GN Savings and Loans’ licence, reversing an earlier High Court ruling and directing that the company’s assets and management be returned.

Nana Achiaa Aboagye of Tobinco Media Group’s Bullet TV Nominated for 2026 Africa Economic Leadership Council Summit in Namibia

Najat Adamu
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Nana Achiaa Aboagye of Tobinco Media Group’s Bullet TV Nominated for 2026 Africa Economic Leadership Council Summit in Namibia

Renowned Ghanaian journalist and media personality, Nana Achiaa Aboagye of Tobinco Media Group’s Bullet TV, has earned international recognition following her nomination to participate in the 2026 Africa Economic Leadership Council (AELC) Summit and Awards in Swakopmund, Namibia.

The nomination forms part of the official media delegation selected to cover the prestigious continental gathering scheduled to take place at the Court Parking Area in Swakopmund.

The high-profile event is expected to bring together business leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, investors, diplomats, and development partners from across Africa and beyond.

The Africa Economic Leadership Council Summit is one of the continent’s growing platforms focused on promoting intra-African trade, investment, economic cooperation, innovation, and sustainable development under the vision and framework of the African Union’s economic transformation agenda.

According to the official communication, Nana Achiaa Aboagye was nominated in recognition of her contribution to media excellence and her growing impact in the communication industry.

Her selection as part of the media delegation is expected to help amplify the conversations, opportunities, and outcomes from the summit to audiences across Africa through the platforms of Bullet TV and Tobinco Media Group.

The summit will feature a major business conference and trade exhibition expected to host more than 2,000 delegates and over 100 exhibitors from different sectors of the economy.

Participants will engage in discussions on trade partnerships, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, industrialization, investment opportunities, digital transformation, and regional collaboration.

One of the major highlights of the programme will be the prestigious Africa Day Gala and Awards Ceremony slated for May 30, 2026, where distinguished African personalities and institutions making significant impacts across various sectors will be celebrated.

The nomination of Nana Achiaa Aboagye marks another major milestone in her journalism career, further positioning both Bullet TV and Tobinco Media Group on the continental media landscape.

Over the years, Nana Achiaa Aboagye has built a reputation for professionalism, dedication, and excellence in broadcasting and media communication.

Since joining Bullet TV, a subsidiary of Tobinco Media Group, she has continued to distinguish herself as one of the promising voices in Ghanaian media.

Industry players, colleagues, and supporters have since congratulated her on the nomination, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of hard work, consistency, and commitment to impactful journalism.

Her participation at the 2026 AELC Summit is expected to strengthen Ghana’s media representation while fostering stronger collaborations and visibility for African media on the international stage.

Bank of Ghana Suspends Proposed 0.75% Wallet-to-Bank Transfer Fee

Najat Adamu
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Bank of Ghana Suspends Proposed 0.75% Wallet-to-Bank Transfer Fee

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has directed Mobile Money Fintech Limited (MMFL) to suspend the implementation of its proposed 0.75 percent fee on direct wallet-to-bank transfers pending further stakeholder consultations.

According to a press release issued by the Central Bank on May 26, 2026, the fee was originally scheduled to take effect on June 1, 2026, but has now been placed on hold to allow for broader engagement and review.

“The Bank of Ghana informs the public that Mobile Money Fintech Limited (MMFL) has been directed to pause the implementation of its proposed 0.75 per cent fee on direct wallet-to-bank transfers,” the statement said.

The BoG explained that the decision forms part of efforts to ensure fairness in the mobile financial services ecosystem while protecting consumers from abrupt cost burdens.

The statement added that the suspension demonstrates the Bank’s commitment to ensuring that any changes to charges within the mobile money and digital banking space are introduced in a manner that safeguards consumer interests and supports financial well-being.

The proposed fee had generated public debate and concerns among mobile money users and financial technology stakeholders over its potential impact on digital transactions and financial inclusion.

The statement was issued by the Communications Department of the Bank of Ghana.

Asante Kotoko Target Coach Chris Baffour-Akoto for Permanent Managerial Role

Najat Adamu
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Asante Kotoko Target Coach Chris Baffour-Akoto for Permanent Managerial Role

Source: Victor Kwawu

Ghana Premier League giants Asante Kotoko SC are reportedly in advanced discussions with UK-born Ghanaian coach Chris Baffour-Akoto as the club searches for a permanent head coach ahead of the new season.

According to trusted sources, the 25-time Ghana Premier League champions have held positive talks with Baffour-Akoto, who recently left Luxembourg Premier League side Titus Petange due to work permit restrictions.

The Porcupine Warriors are currently restructuring their technical team following a turbulent season that saw multiple coaching changes.

The club initially appointed Hamza Obeng as interim head coach after managerial setbacks during the campaign. Former substantive coach Karim Zito later stepped down by mutual consent, following mounting pressure from supporters who demanded improved performances and results.

Assistant coach Prince Yaw Owusu also exited his role before the end of the season amid growing dissatisfaction from sections of the fan base.

Sources close to the club indicate that Kotoko’s hierarchy is eager to appoint a technically strong coach capable of rebuilding the team and satisfying supporters’ expectations.

Baffour-Akoto is believed to have impressed club officials following his work in the 2024/25 Division One League season, where he guided Rospak FC to a second-place finish.

Under his leadership, Rospak FC accumulated 59 points, scored 50 goals, and secured more than 18 victories during the campaign.

The UEFA Licence A holder has also previously worked with Crawley U-21 and Fort William, while serving in technical roles with the Ghana national football team and Ghana’s U-20 side as a video assistant coach.

There is growing belief within Asante Kotoko that Baffour-Akoto’s style of play and experience with youth development make him a suitable fit for the club’s current squad.

Club officials are reportedly aiming for an early appointment to allow the new coach enough time to familiarise himself with the players, structures, and preparations ahead of the upcoming season.

ILAPI Advocacy Spurs National Reform on Dormant Assets

Najat Adamu
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ILAPI Advocacy Spurs National Reform on Dormant Assets

Source: Ebenezer De-Gaulle

Ghana’s government has inaugurated an Inter-Agency Technical Working Group to design a national framework for managing billions of cedis in unclaimed funds, a move officials say will strengthen consumer protection and restore confidence in the financial system.

The initiative follows advocacy by the Institute for Liberty and Policy Innovation (ILAPI) through its Next of Kin Project, which has drawn attention to fragmented arrangements in handling dormant and unclaimed financial assets.

Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem, speaking on behalf of the Finance Minister at the inauguration, said unclaimed entitlements across banking, pensions, insurance, securities, and e-money sectors often become disconnected from their rightful owners. “When citizens cannot access what is rightfully theirs, confidence in the financial system is weakened, and that is a national concern,” he said.

Hon. Ampem noted that current arrangements remain inconsistent, with varying definitions of dormancy and reporting standards across sectors. He said the Working Group’s first task will be to replace estimates with verified, sector-by-sector data to establish a reliable national baseline.

The group includes representatives from the Ministry of Finance, Bank of Ghana, National Pensions Regulatory Authority, Securities and Exchange Commission, SSNIT, National Communications Authority, National Identification Authority, the Attorney-General’s Department, and other agencies.

Officials said the framework will cover regulated financial sectors and extend to other categories of unclaimed assets, including lottery winnings, court-awarded funds, intestacy-related property, public sector salary arrears, and real estate.

David Klotey Collison, chair of the committee, described the initiative as “a national reform that requires shared ownership” and urged members to approach their mandate with practicality. The Working Group is expected to submit its framework within three months.

GRA Announces Two-Month Amnesty for Uncustomed Vehicles

Najat Adamu
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GRA Announces Two-Month Amnesty for Uncustomed Vehicles

Source: Mavis Fantevi

The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has announced a two-month amnesty period for users of uncustomed vehicles across the country, aimed at encouraging voluntary regularisation of illegally imported vehicles.

According to the GRA, the amnesty will run from June 1 to July 31, 2026, during which all penalties that would normally be imposed on uncustomed vehicles will be waived.

In a public notice issued by the Domestic Tax Revenue Division, the Authority urged owners and users of such vehicles to take advantage of the opportunity to regularise their documentation before the deadline expires.

The GRA explained that the initiative is intended to allow vehicle owners to comply with customs regulations without facing sanctions that would ordinarily apply if the vehicles were seized by customs officials.

The Authority warned that after July 31, 2026, the Customs Division will embark on nationwide unannounced inspections of vehicles on roads across the country. It stressed that all uncustomed vehicles found during the exercise would be impounded.

The GRA further advised the public to visit the nearest Customs Collection office or the GRA Head Office near the Accra Sports Stadium for assistance and further clarification on the regularisation process.

The Authority also provided additional contact channels for enquiries, including its official email address, toll-free line, and WhatsApp numbers.

The announcement forms part of efforts by the GRA to improve compliance with customs regulations and strengthen revenue mobilisation in the country.

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