Rawlings Legacy Honoured as Statue Is Unveiled to Inspire Future Generations

Najat Adamu
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Rawlings Legacy Honoured as Statue Is Unveiled to Inspire Future Generations

The family and founding members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have unveiled a statue in honour of Ghana’s former President, Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, to preserve his legacy and inspire future generations.

The colourful ceremony, held in Keta, brought together traditional leaders, party executives, government officials, and members of the Rawlings family. Speakers at the event reflected on the values of accountability, transparency, unity, and hard work that defined the life and leadership of the late statesman.

According to the organisers, the statue symbolises the principles, lifestyle, and selfless leadership of Rawlings, who played a pivotal role in guiding Ghana through critical periods of political transition and democratic consolidation.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief of Keta, Togbe JOAKI KEDZII, called on the youth to draw inspiration from the life of the former president, urging them to uphold discipline, patriotism, and national unity.

The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, described Rawlings as a man of integrity whose contributions remain a significant asset to the nation.

In an emotional address, the late president’s daughter, Dr. Zenator Agyeman Rawlings, said the statue serves as a permanent reminder of her father’s sacrifices and unwavering commitment to the Ghanaian people.

Also present was the National Chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, who highlighted Rawlings’ foundational role in the formation of the party and his lasting impact on Ghana’s democratic development. He welcomed the initiative, describing the statue as an important source of inspiration for future generations.

The unveiling of the statue stands as a lasting tribute to the life and leadership of Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, reinforcing his enduring influence on Ghana’s political history and reminding generations yet unborn of the values he lived by and stood for.

Reported By Christina Ahodie

Kwesi Nyantakyi Denies Claim He Boasted of Having President “in His Pocket”

Najat Adamu
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Kwesi Nyantakyi Denies Claim He Boasted of Having President “in His Pocket”

Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kwesi Nyantakyi has dismissed claims that he once boasted of having the Ghanaian president “in his pocket,” describing the allegation as false and deliberately damaging.

Speaking in an interview with JoyNews, Nyantakyi rejected reports that he made such remarks ahead of the release of Anas Aremeyaw Anas’ investigative documentary, Number 12, which exposed widespread corruption in Ghanaian football.

“I never said the president was in my pocket. I never said that anywhere,” Nyantakyi stated.
“That allegation has gained so much notoriety that it will be illogical for me to even stand up to contradict it. It was the figment of somebody’s imagination just to discredit me and make me look very bad in the eyes of the public—and they succeeded.”

Ahead of the documentary’s release in 2018, claims circulated that Nyantakyi had told an unidentified investor that his political connections could be leveraged to facilitate business entry into Ghana.

The Number 12 exposé later showed Nyantakyi accepting US$65,000 from an undercover journalist while making claims about his ability to use political influence to advance business interests. The revelations sparked national outrage and triggered sweeping reforms in Ghanaian football.

In October 2018, FIFA imposed a lifetime ban on Nyantakyi for breaches of its code of ethics, a sanction that was later reduced to a 15-year suspension.

Nyantakyi resigned from his positions at the GFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and FIFA in June 2018, as the corruption scandal sent shockwaves through the country’s football administration.

Despite the sanctions and public backlash, Nyantakyi maintains that some of the most damaging claims attributed to him—including assertions about controlling political power—were fabricated to ruin his reputation.

By Prince Tuffuor

NPP Calls on CID to Probe Alleged Plot to Rig Presidential Primary

Najat Adamu
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NPP Calls on CID to Probe Alleged Plot to Rig Presidential Primary

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has formally requested the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service to investigate allegations of a plot to rig its upcoming presidential primary scheduled for January 31, 2026.

The request follows a petition allegedly submitted to the Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson by Alex Kwaku Tetteh, who is identified as a member of the campaign team of presidential aspirant Ken Ohene Agyapong.

In a letter dated January 6, 2026, and signed by William Yamoah, Secretary to the party’s Presidential Elections Committee (PEC), the NPP asked the CID to conduct a comprehensive probe into the allegations contained in the petition.

According to the party, the petition raises serious claims of attempts to unlawfully influence and compromise the outcome of the presidential primary. It further alleges that secret meetings may have taken place between representatives of a presidential aspirant and individuals purported to be officials of the Electoral Commission.

“In addition to this petition, we have also intercepted two videos which are practically making the same allegations,” the letter stated.

“We are referring these three matters to you to investigate to confirm the veracity or otherwise of the allegations therein,” it added.

The PEC stressed the need for an immediate, thorough, and impartial investigation, noting that the credibility of the party’s internal democratic processes must be protected.

“Accordingly, I have been directed by the Chairman of the Presidential Elections Committee to respectfully request your esteemed office to institute an immediate, thorough and impartial investigation into the allegations contained in the petition,” the letter concluded.

US Immigration Detains Former Ghana Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta Over Residency Status

Najat Adamu
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US Immigration Detains Former Ghana Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta Over Residency Status

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has detained Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta, Ghana’s former Minister for Finance, as authorities assess the legality of his current residency status in the country.

In a public notice dated January 7, the law firm Menka-Premo, Osei-Bonsu, Bruce-Cathline and Partners confirmed the development, stating that Mr. Ofori-Atta’s legal team in the US is actively engaging with ICE to ensure a swift resolution of the matter.

According to the lawyers, Mr. Ofori-Atta has a pending petition for adjustment of status, a legal process that allows an individual to remain in the United States beyond the validity period of their original visa.

“Mr. Ofori-Atta has a pending petition for adjustment of status, which authorizes a person to stay in the US legally past the period of validity of their visa. Under US law, a change of status by this method is common,” the statement explained.

The legal team emphasized that the former finance minister is cooperating fully with US immigration authorities.

“The public is therefore advised to note that Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta, as a law-abiding person, is fully cooperating with ICE to have this issue resolved,” the lawyers stated.

No further details were provided on the timeline for resolving the matter, but the legal team expressed confidence that the situation would be addressed in accordance with US immigration laws.

Mahama Warns Appointees Against Complacency, Urges Humility in Leadership

Najat Adamu
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Mahama Warns Appointees Against Complacency, Urges Humility in Leadership

President John Dramani Mahama has cautioned government appointees against complacency, reminding them that political power is temporary and must be exercised with humility, empathy, and a strong sense of responsibility.

He delivered the message at his First Anniversary Non-Denominational Thanksgiving Service held on Wednesday, January 7, at the Jubilee House courtyard.

According to the President, Thanksgiving should go beyond expressions of gratitude and serve as a moment to reaffirm commitment to moral leadership, national unity, and compassion for the vulnerable.

Mr Mahama noted that the year ahead would test the patience, discipline, and resolve of leaders, but also presents an opportunity to deepen ongoing reforms and fast-track national development.

He urged appointees to commit themselves to selfless service, stressing that leadership is a form of stewardship entrusted temporarily to those in authority.

“Let us move forward with humility, let us lead with empathy, and let us govern with courage,” the President said. “The year ahead will demand even more from us. It will test our resolve, patience, and discipline.”

He added that while challenges lie ahead, there are also opportunities to ensure that growth and development reach every part of the country.

“Let us never forget that leadership is stewardship. It is temporary and fleeting. Authority is a trust held on behalf of the people,” Mr Mahama emphasised.

Ghana Police Withdraw from Checkpoints in North East and Upper East After Officer’s Death

Najat Adamu
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Ghana Police Withdraw from Checkpoints in North East and Upper East After Officer’s Death

The Ghana Police Service (GPS) has withdrawn its personnel from all police checkpoints in the North East and Upper East Regions following the tragic death of Constable Damoah Seth.

Sources say the decision was taken as a mark of respect for the fallen officer and to allow for a joint investigation into the incident. The move is also described as a temporary measure to enable a reorganisation of security arrangements in the affected areas.

The withdrawal has, however, raised concerns among residents, particularly in the North East and Upper East Regions, with fears of increased lawlessness due to the absence of police presence at checkpoints, especially at night.

Ghana Police Withdraw from Checkpoints in North East and Upper East After Officer’s Death

Police in Bolgatanga have begun a joint investigation with their counterparts in Walewale after a deadly attack on a bus and a police checkpoint between Karimenga in the North East Region and Pwalugu in the Upper East Region.

Constable Oppong Damoah Seth, who was due for promotion in January 2026, was allegedly shot and killed by unknown gunmen at about 11:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 28, 2025.

Ghana Police Withdraw from Checkpoints in North East and Upper East After Officer’s Death

As of Tuesday, January 6, 2026, checks revealed that all checkpoints along the Walewale–Nasia–Tamale highway remained closed, heightening security concerns for commuters and residents, particularly during night travel.

The Ghana Police Service is yet to officially announce when the checkpoints will be reinstated, as investigations into the attack continue.

Reported By Tahiru Apiliye’s

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Cautions Police Against Brutality, Extortion and Negligence

Najat Adamu
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Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Cautions Police Against Brutality, Extortion and Negligence

Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has cautioned police officers against the use of excessive force, extortion and professional negligence, warning that such practices undermine public trust and endanger lives.

The remarks were delivered during a historic courtesy visit to the Inspector-General of Police on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.

He stressed that effective policing should go beyond law enforcement to include public education, restraint and the promotion of peace.

“Your duty is not to beat people. Your duty is to educate and create a peaceful atmosphere,” the Asantehene said.

Acknowledging internal challenges within the Ghana Police Service, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II noted that the conduct of some officers continues to damage the institution’s image.

“I know there are problems with some of your personnel that we must address. There are officers who give the police a bad image, and we have to work to correct that,” he stated.

He further condemned the practice of stopping vehicles to extort money instead of properly enforcing road safety regulations.

“You don’t stop cars just to take money when you are supposed to check insurance, tyres and whether the vehicle is roadworthy,” he said.

Warning of the consequences of such negligence, the Asantehene added: “If you take money and allow an unfit vehicle to continue and it causes an accident that kills people, what have you done?”

He concluded by stressing that poor working conditions or low salaries cannot justify misconduct. “It doesn’t matter your salary or wages,” he said.

BoG Urges Diaspora to Channel Remittances into Productive Investments

Najat Adamu
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BoG Urges Diaspora to Channel Remittances into Productive Investments

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has called for a shift in the use of diaspora capital, urging Ghanaians living abroad to channel remittances into productive investments that can support long-term economic growth.

Speaking at the London–Accra Economic Growth Summit, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, said the initiative seeks to leverage the strong social and cultural ties between London and Accra to generate sustainable economic benefits.

BoG Urges Diaspora to Channel Remittances into Productive Investments

“Diaspora inflows have long supported household consumption and macroeconomic stability, but beyond consumption, remittances hold even greater potential as a driver of productive investment,” Dr Asiama stated.

The London–Accra campaign, launched in July 2025 by London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan, positions the diaspora as a vital bridge connecting ideas, markets and capital between the two cities.

Dr Asiama noted that remittances from the United Kingdom accounted for 17.5 per cent of Ghana’s total inflows between January and September 2025, a decline from 28 per cent recorded over the same period the previous year. He said the figures point to significant potential for growth if supported by targeted incentives and investment-friendly frameworks.

“Capital market deepening is a key priority. Well-functioning domestic debt and equity markets reduce reliance on short-term flows, improve price discovery, and enhance resilience to external shocks,” he explained.

He added that the summit provides an opportunity to move beyond discussions to practical implementation by directly linking diaspora capital to viable investment opportunities.

“Today’s summit provides an important platform to move from dialogue to implementation, linking diaspora capital to investment opportunities and supporting long-term financial stability,” Dr Asiama said.

The summit is expected to catalyse a series of initiatives, including the development of a national remittance strategy and continent-wide investment roadshows, aimed at strengthening Ghana’s engagement with its diaspora and reinforcing economic resilience in both Ghana and the United Kingdom.

GJA Condemns Assault on Class FM Journalist, Demands Arrest of Fire Officers

Ebenezer Madugu
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GJA Condemns Assault on Class FM Journalist, Demands Arrest of Fire Officers

“This is a criminal matter that must be tested in the law court,” –  President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has said in reaction to the alleged assault of a Class Media journalist by personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).

Addressing a press conference, Mr. Dwumfour condemned what he described as a brutal and unlawful attack on Class FM journalist Samuel Addo, who was assaulted while covering a fire outbreak on Monday, January 5, 2026. A video widely circulated on social media shows the journalist being manhandled, shouted at, and allegedly hit with a hard hat by some fire service officers as he filmed the scene.

Mr. Dwumfour stressed that no emergency or security institution has the authority to intimidate or assault journalists carrying out lawful duties at a public emergency scene. He described the incident as a direct attack on media freedom and the public’s right to information.

The GJA President dismissed explanations by the GNFS that their officers only seized the journalist’s phone, describing the claim as misleading and an attempt to downplay a serious criminal act.

The Association is demanding the immediate arrest, investigation, and prosecution of all officers involved and has called on the Inspector General of Police to act swiftly. He confirmed that the journalist has formally reported the matter to the police.

Mr. Dwumfour also called on the leadership of the Ghana National Fire Service to publicly condemn the assault, identify the officers involved, and apply severe internal sanctions, including dismissal where necessary.

No Fire Personnel Can Demand Permission for Lawful Journalistic Work – GJA President

Ebenezer Madugu
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No Fire Personnel Can Demand Permission for Lawful Journalistic Work – GJA President

The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has stated that no personnel have the authority to demand permission for lawful journalistic work at a public emergency scene.

He made the statement while addressing a press conference to condemn the alleged assault of a Class Media journalist by personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).

The incident occurred on Monday, January 5, 2026, when Class FM journalist Samuel Addo was covering a fire outbreak. A video circulating on social media shows the journalist being physically confronted, shouted at, and allegedly struck with a hard hat by some fire service officers who tried to stop him from filming the scene.

Mr. Dwumfour described the attack as brutal, unlawful, and unacceptable, stating that it constituted a direct assault on media freedom and the public’s right to information. He rejected claims by the GNFS that the officers only seized the journalist’s phone, describing the explanation as misleading and contradictory.

The GJA is demanding the arrest, investigation, and prosecution of all officers involved and has called on the Inspector General of Police to act swiftly, noting that the journalist has formally reported the case.

The Association also called on the leadership of the Ghana National Fire Service to publicly condemn the attack, identify the officers involved, and apply severe internal sanctions. The GJA further demanded a public apology to the journalist, Class Media Group, and the media fraternity for the trauma and professional obstruction caused.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com

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