NALAG Urges Finance Minister to Release Outstanding Allowances and Motorbikes for Assembly Members

Najat Adamu
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NALAG Urges Finance Minister to Release Outstanding Allowances and Motorbikes for Assembly Members

The President of the National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana (NALAG), Hon. Alfred Asiedu Adjei, has appealed to the Minister for Finance, Hon. Dr. Ato Forson, to urgently release the outstanding monthly allowances owed to Assembly Members across the country.

The call follows resolutions adopted at NALAG’s 4th Quarter National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting held at the Tyco City Hotel in Sunyani.

Government Commended for Budgetary Support

Hon. Asiedu Adjei commended President John Dramani Mahama and the Government of Ghana for allocating GH₵100 million in the 2025 National Budget to support the payment of Assembly Members’ monthly allowances.
He said the allocation reflects government’s recognition of the crucial role Assembly Members play as frontline actors in Ghana’s decentralization process.

Six Months of Allowances Still Unpaid

Despite this allocation, the NALAG President expressed concern that only two months—April and May—have so far been released. This leaves six months of arrears, from June to November, still outstanding.

He explained that the prolonged delay is placing significant financial strain on Assembly Members, many of whom continue to serve their communities with limited or no logistical support.

Direct Appeal to the Finance Minister

On behalf of NALAG and in line with resolutions adopted by the NEC, Hon. Asiedu Adjei made a direct appeal to Dr. Forson to facilitate the immediate release of the remaining funds to the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA) for onward disbursement.

He noted that the appeal is anchored on the principles of:

-Fairness and equity

-Good governance

-Decentralization

-Respect for the sacrifices of Assembly Members

Call for Motorbike Distribution to Boost Local Governance

Beyond allowances, the NALAG President also urged the government to expedite the procurement and distribution of motorbikes to Assembly Members nationwide. He described motorbikes as essential tools for effective community engagement, project monitoring, and grassroots service delivery.

He observed that many Assembly Members currently walk long distances or rely on personal funds for transportation—a situation that undermines their efficiency and weakens the decentralization system.

Assurance to Assembly Members

Hon. Asiedu Adjei reaffirmed NALAG’s commitment to advocating for the welfare of Assembly Members, stating that:

-Engagement with top government officials remains ongoing;

-Advocacy for the timely release of outstanding allowances will continue;

-Lobbying for the motorbike distribution is being actively pursued.

He also commended Assembly Members for their resilience, patience, and steadfast commitment to their communities despite the challenges.

Conclusion

Hon. Asiedu Adjei expressed confidence that both the Finance Minister and the Local Government Minister will act swiftly to safeguard Ghana’s decentralization gains, boost the morale of Assembly Members, and strengthen grassroots development and accountability.

By Barimah Kwaku Saakwa

From Heartbreak to Comeback — Abu Francis Begins His Return After Leg Surgery

Najat Adamu
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From Heartbreak to Comeback — Abu Francis Begins His Return After Leg Surgery

Ghanaian midfielder Abu Francis is making encouraging strides in his recovery, returning to gym training just weeks after undergoing surgery for a severe leg fracture sustained in September during a friendly match against Japan.

The injury — the result of an unfortunate tackle — was widely regarded as one of the most heartbreaking moments in Ghanaian football this year, abruptly cutting short the young midfielder’s impressive run of form. For weeks, Francis remained sidelined, undergoing intensive treatment and rehabilitation to rebuild strength in the affected leg.

His recent return to gym work marks a significant milestone in his comeback journey and brings renewed hope to fans who have closely followed his rise. The progress suggests that, although full recovery will take time, the midfielder is firmly on track to return stronger than before.

Supporters and football enthusiasts alike will be watching closely as Abu Francis continues his steady push toward a full return to the pitch.

By Prince Tuffour

Youth in North East Region Demand Clarity on Development Plans

Najat Adamu
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Youth in North East Region Demand Clarity on Development Plans

A collaborative initiative between the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the National Youth Authority (NYA) has brought renewed attention to development concerns in the North East Region, as young people call for clearer, more inclusive planning.

The engagement, held in Walewale, formed part of an adolescent and youth-led meeting designed to amplify youth voices and examine critical issues affecting the region’s development trajectory.

UNFPA, the UN’s sexual and reproductive health agency, partnered with the NYA — a statutory body established under Act 939 of 2016 to coordinate youth development nationwide — to create a platform for open dialogue between young people and local authorities.

Youth Voices Are Crucial — NYA Regional Director

Addressing participants, Robert Kampi Laari, North East Regional Director of the NYA, underscored the significance of youth-led spaces in shaping policies that directly impact young people. He noted that such meetings give adolescents and the youth the opportunity to share challenges, contribute solutions, and influence decisions that affect their lives.

Development Officer Explains Municipal Plans

Also speaking at the event, Salifu Wuni Seidu, Development Planning Officer for the West Mamprusi Municipality, briefed participants on the municipality’s development process and the ongoing preparation of the Draft Medium-Term Development Plan (DMTDP). His presentation sought to clarify how youth priorities can be incorporated into long-term development strategies.

UNFPA Commends NYA’s Commitment to Youth Growth

UNFPA focal person Sampson Kpanob praised the NYA for its dedication to advancing adolescent and youth development. He emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration in improving opportunities for young people.

Key Concerns Raised by Youth

During open discussions, youth groups highlighted several challenges affecting communities within the municipality, including:

-Declining education quality

-Limited access to healthcare

-Growing impact of climate change

-Poor sanitation

-Social and economic barriers limiting youth potential

They called for swift, coordinated interventions and clearer communication from authorities on development plans for the region.

Reported By Thiru Apiliye Ibrahim

Kasoa Tragedy: Two Children in Critical Condition After Candlelight Ignites House Fire

Najat Adamu
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Kasoa Tragedy: Two Children in Critical Condition After Candlelight Ignites House Fire

A tragic fire incident at Kasoa Lamptey in the Awutu Senya East Municipality of the Central Region has left two children in critical condition at the 37 Military Hospital. The blaze, which gutted a chamber-and-hall residence, has plunged the community into sorrow.

In an interview with Atinka News, eyewitnesses recounted that the fire started after the eldest child, a young girl, lit a candle to study following a power disconnection by the ECG. She is said to have fallen asleep while learning, causing the unattended candle to ignite the room.

The three children were alone at home at the time of the incident. Their desperate cries for help drew neighbors, who forcibly entered the burning room to rescue them. Two of the victims — both female — were found unconscious due to the severity of their burns and smoke inhalation. They were immediately transported to the 37 Military Hospital, where they are currently battling for their lives. The third child, a boy, is reported to be in stable condition.

According to residents, the parents were away, leaving the home in the care of the eldest child.

Although the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, preliminary information suggests that the candle was the likely source.

Lawyer Kojo Mensah ‘Disappointed’ in Minority Protest Over Kpandai Seat

Ebenezer Madugu
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Lawyer Kojo Mensah ‘Disappointed’ in Minority Protest Over Kpandai Seat

A Communications Team Member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and former Parliamentary Candidate aspirant for Trobu, Lawyer Kojo Mensah, says he was deeply disappointed watching Minority MPs bang tables in Parliament during Tuesday’s uproar over the Kpandai seat.

Speaking on Atinka TV’s Ghana Nie with Ama Gyenfa Ofosu-Darkwa, Lawyer Kojo Mensah described the conduct of the Minority as “shameful” and “lawless,” insisting that proper parliamentary procedures exist for challenging the Speaker’s rulings.

According to him, the current controversy stems from a case filed by the NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Kpandai, who he said “respectfully submitted himself to the law.” The court, he explained, ruled that the NPP candidate was “illegally declared winner,” ordering a rerun of the election.

He argued that although the NPP candidate has filed an appeal and an application for stay of execution, that process does not overturn the court’s ruling nor estop the parliamentary process.

“There is a clear precedent that if you file a stay of execution, it doesn’t stop what is happening in Parliament,” he said. “So if you’ve not seen or heard the ruling, how do you disagree with it?”

Lawyer Kojo Mensah noted that it was the Majority Chief Whip, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, who first raised the matter on the floor, urging the Speaker to apply the parliamentary precedent that once a court declares a seat vacant, the affected MP must not participate in proceedings.

“The Speaker in his wisdom gave a seven-day ultimatum, indicating that there may be a change. The seven days have elapsed, and the Speaker through the clark of Parliament has written to the Electoral Commission to take the necessary steps to conduct the rerun.”

Against this backdrop, he questioned the Minority’s insistence on having matters resolved their way, accusing them of unnecessarily disrupting parliamentary business.

“I was so ashamed of the actions of the Minority MPs yesterday,” he said. “If parliamentary business is all about wearing nose masks and holding placards, then I’m sorry—I am investing in the wrong venture.”

He expressed particular disappointment that his own MP for Trobu, Gloria Owusu, joined in the table-banging protest. “It doesn’t sound well of an MP,” he lamented.

Lawyer Mensah insisted the Minority had no authority to derail governance, emphasising that state institutions were functioning effectively.

“The Minority can never disrupt the government. John Dramani is very determined. Government is working, the Bank of Ghana is working. We are managing the economy properly,” he said.

He urged MPs dissatisfied with the ruling to seek redress through the courts rather than resort to demonstrations in the chamber.

“This is an issue of law. If they have any issue, they should go to court,” – Mensah stressed.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com

Government’s Move to Cut Lithium Royalty Rate From 10% to 5% Raises Serious Corruption Red Flags – APL

Najat Adamu
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Government’s Move to Cut Lithium Royalty Rate From 10% to 5% Raises Serious Corruption Red Flags – APL

The Africa Policy Lens (APL) is calling on citizens, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and anti-corruption bodies to resist what it describes as the Mahama administration’s “strange and troubling” decision to reduce Ghana’s lithium royalty rate from 10% to 5%.

According to the policy think tank, the previous government had secured a mutually agreed 10% royalty stake with Barari DV Ghana Limited—an arrangement widely viewed as one of the most favourable mining agreements in the country’s history.

Government’s Move to Cut Lithium Royalty Rate From 10% to 5% Raises Serious Corruption Red Flags – APL

However, the current government, which previously criticised the 10% rate as too low while in opposition, is now seeking to slash the rate to 5%. The administration argues that the earlier agreement was “illegally” negotiated, a justification APL describes as misleading and suspicious.

Addressing the media at a press conference, Dr. Hayford Mensah Ayerakwa, Director of Research and Administration at APL, said the government’s justification for cutting Ghana’s stake “smacks of corruption” and contradicts its responsibility to protect national interests.

“The previous government acted appropriately in securing what remains Ghana’s most advantageous mining agreement to date,” APL stated, after outlining the detailed processes that led to the 10% royalty arrangement.

Dr. Ayerakwa added that the current administration’s claims regarding lithium pricing and the legality of the earlier lease are “misleading” and warrant swift scrutiny from citizens and anti-corruption institutions.

He warned that implementing the proposed reduction would cause Ghana to lose millions of dollars in potential revenue, describing the move as a textbook example of a mineral agreement vulnerable to corruption.

“Reducing the royalty rate from 10% to 5% would not only short-change the country but could also grant the company legal grounds that may complicate future attempts to raise the rate—possibly triggering arbitration under international investment treaties,” Dr. Ayerakwa cautioned.

APL is urging all stakeholders to demand transparency and ensure that Ghana’s mineral resources are managed in a manner that protects the national interest.

By Ebenezer Madugu

Hon. Kofi Adams Backs New BMG Music & Art Festival With Major Sponsorship

Najat Adamu
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Hon. Kofi Adams Backs New BMG Music & Art Festival With Major Sponsorship

The Buem Constituency is set to experience a vibrant boost in creativity and cultural expression as preparations advance for the maiden edition of the BMG Music & Art Festival, scheduled for December 27. The community-centered event aims to spotlight emerging talent and promote artistic growth within Jasikan and surrounding communities.

The festival received a significant push following a financial contribution from the Member of Parliament for Buem and Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Adams. The donation, presented on his behalf by the Municipal Chief Executive of Jasikan-Buem, Parke-Davis Magyigbe, officially positions the MP as the festival’s principal sponsor.

Organizers described Hon. Adams’ support as a major milestone for the new initiative, noting that the contribution provides the needed foundation to bring the festival’s vision to life. They expressed deep gratitude for his confidence in the project and commitment to empowering the creative sector in the region.

The planning committee assured the public that the funds will be managed responsibly to deliver a memorable, engaging, and well-coordinated event. They also extended an invitation to individuals, corporate bodies, and institutions interested in partnership or sponsorship opportunities.

The BMG Music & Art Festival has quickly become one of the most anticipated creative events in the municipality, offering a valuable platform for young artists and celebrating the rich cultural identity of the Buem area.

By Noble Atsu

Education Behind Bars: Nsawam Prison Hosts a Functional Tertiary School

Najat Adamu
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Education Behind Bars: Nsawam Prison Hosts a Functional Tertiary School

The Nsawam Medium Security Prison is now home to a fully operational tertiary learning centre, established in partnership with the University of Cape Coast (UCC) through its Distance Learning Programme. The initiative offers inmates a rare opportunity to pursue higher education while serving their sentences.

According to the Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Prison Service (GPS), CSP Abdul Latif Adamu, the programme is already yielding remarkable results, contributing to improved discipline, rehabilitation, and reintegration outcomes. He noted that the GPS is calling for increased investment to expand the facility and accommodate the growing number of inmates eager to enroll.

Authorities at Nsawam highlight inadequate educational infrastructure as a major challenge. Despite valuable support from partners such as the Church of Pentecost, the prison urgently needs more classrooms, teaching materials, and learning resources to sustain and scale up the programme.

Officials further emphasized that the ongoing “Thinking Prison 360” modernization drive seeks to enhance facilities, broaden educational opportunities, and introduce impactful development programmes for inmates.

The GPS is appealing for collaborations and strategic partnerships to strengthen the tertiary school and replicate similar initiatives in other prisons nationwide—not only in education but also in agriculture, poultry farming, and other vocational sectors aimed at transforming inmate lives.

By Noble Atsu

IMANI Files RTI Request Over Government’s Planned SIM Registration Exercise

Najat Adamu
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IMANI Files RTI Request Over Government’s Planned SIM Registration Exercise

The IMANI Center for Policy and Education has formally submitted a Right to Information (RTI) request to the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, seeking full disclosure on the Government’s upcoming nationwide SIM registration exercise slated for early 2026.

The request, delivered to and acknowledged by the Minister’s secretary, calls for extensive documentation covering the legal, technical, procurement, and institutional frameworks underpinning the new registration regime.

IMANI’s submission was made under Article 21(1)(f) of the 1992 Constitution and the RTI Act, 2019 (Act 989), which guarantee citizens’ right to access information in the interest of transparency and accountability.

The decision comes amid mounting public concern over the cost, governance, and privacy implications of the proposed SIM registration campaign. Particular attention has been drawn to the biometric verification arrangements and the potential role of private vendors in managing sensitive citizen data.

IMANI emphasized that clarity on these issues is essential to safeguard public trust and ensure that the exercise is conducted in line with constitutional rights and international best practices.

The Ministry is yet to respond publicly to the request.

By Ebenezer De-Gaulle

2026 WORLD CUP: “The England Game Is What Every Player Yearns For” — Agyemang Badu

Najat Adamu
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2026 WORLD CUP: “The England Game Is What Every Player Yearns For” — Agyemang Badu

Former Black Stars midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang Badu has shared his excitement and anticipation ahead of Ghana’s crucial 2026 World Cup clash with England, describing it as the kind of fixture every footballer dream of.

Speaking on Atinka TV’s Kick-Off show, Badu highlighted the magnitude of the encounter, noting that matches against football giants like England offer players a rare and cherished opportunity.

According to him, games of this caliber allow players not only to showcase their individual brilliance but also to measure the strength and resilience of the entire team against some of the world’s best talents.

Badu, who has represented Ghana on the biggest stages of world football, emphasized the pride and motivation that come with stepping onto the pitch in such a high-profile contest.

His remarks reflect the heightened expectations and national excitement as the Black Stars prepare to face one of international football’s most respected sides.

By Prince Tuffuor

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