Interior Minister Orders Probe Into Alleged Assassination Attempt on Special Prosecutor

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Ghana’s Minister of the Interior, Mohammed Muntaka-Mubarak, has ordered an immediate investigation into claims of an assassination attempt on the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, as well as allegations of police brutality against a senior official at the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

The directive follows revelations made on December 6 during JoyNews’ Newsfile programme, where Samuel Appiah Darko, Director of Strategy, Research, and Communications at the OSP, alleged that Agyebeng had survived an assassination attempt.

Darko further claimed that he himself had been “handcuffed and beaten by 17 police personnel.”

In a statement issued on Monday, December 8, the Interior Ministry warned that such threats, if true, could undermine the government’s anti-corruption drive.

“Such dangers to personnel of accountability institutions, if true, can undermine the government’s efforts to combat corruption, which have intensified since it took office,” the statement said.

Preliminary findings
The Ministry noted that initial contacts with Agyebeng suggested the alleged assassination attempts “happened before this year.” It added that “there is no record or report of such threats against his life at any police station or at any of the state security agencies in the country.”

Despite the absence of official records, Muntaka-Mubarak has directed security agencies to pursue the matter.

“Since crime does not expire, the Ministry has ordered a full-scale investigation into the claim of assassination attempts. The Ministry has also ordered an investigation into the claim by Mr. Samuel Appiah Darko that he was handcuffed and beaten by 17 police personnel,” the statement said.

The Ministry pledged to keep the public informed of the outcome of the investigations and any subsequent actions. “The Ministry of Interior reiterates its commitment to protecting all lives and properties to ensure that all Ghanaians can conduct all their lawful affairs without any fear for their safety,” it added.

By Ebenezer De-Gaulle

Benin Coup Attempt Exposes Limits of ECOWAS Non-Interference Clause

International Relations expert Irbad Ibrahim has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to strengthen its peer review mechanisms following the attempted coup in Benin.

Speaking on Morning Target with Bright Nana Amfoh, Mr. Ibrahim argued that the Non-Interference Clause in the ECOWAS charter has limited the ability of West African leaders to hold each other accountable, contributing to the rise of coups in the subregion.

“Serious reforms need to happen if ECOWAS is to survive the next decade,” he said, while calling on “ECOWAS to strengthen its peer review mechanisms so that when a leader is doing something wrong, fellow leaders can step on his foot and say: the path you’re taking could lead to a coup.”

Attempted Coup in Benin
In the early hours of Sunday, December 7, a group of soldiers appeared on Benin’s state television announcing the dissolution of the government. The group, calling itself the Military Committee for Refoundation, declared that President Patrice Talon had been removed and all state institutions dissolved. Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri was named head of the military committee.

The attempt was foiled by Benin’s army. President Talon later condemned the move in his first public comments, after sporadic gunfire was reported in parts of the administrative capital, Cotonou.

The incident adds to a growing list of military takeovers in West Africa. Just last month, Guinea-Bissau’s former President Umaro Embalo was ousted after a disputed election in which both he and the opposition candidate claimed victory.

ECOWAS, in a statement, strongly condemned the attempted coup in Benin:

“ECOWAS strongly condemns this unconstitutional move that represents a subversion of the will of the people of Benin. ECOWAS will support the Government and the people in all forms necessary to defend the Constitution and the territorial integrity of Benin.”

By Ebenezer De-Gaulle

Ahafo Ano North MCE Cautions Farmers Against Use of Poison on Vegetables

The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ahafo Ano North in the Ashanti Region, Hon. Kwasi Adusei, has cautioned farmers against the use of poisonous chemicals on vegetables, warning that the practice poses severe health risks to consumers and undermines food safety efforts.

Speaking at the 41st National Farmers’ Day celebration held at Numasua Camp 2 School Park, Hon. Adusei stressed the need for farmers to adopt safer and more sustainable farming methods. He noted that harmful substances used on vegetable farms threaten public health and affect the quality of food on the market.

Hon. Adusei also encouraged the youth to take up farming, describing agriculture as a dependable and lucrative venture. He revealed that he is personally engaged in farming under President John Dramani Mahama’s “Nkoko Nketenkete” initiative, which seeks to boost youth involvement in the agricultural sector.

The Director of Agriculture for Ahafo Ano North, Mr. Stephen A. Kwaku, echoed the MCE’s concerns and urged farmers to seek regular technical guidance from the Department of Agriculture to enhance productivity and maintain safe farming standards.

This year’s Municipal Best Farmer, Mr. Adams Azuga, thanked the President and the MCE for a well-organized Farmers’ Day celebration. He appealed for continued support from authorities to help farmers scale up production and contribute meaningfully to national food security.

By Sofoba Kwame Afrifah

Akwaboah Prioritizes His Gospel Music, Laments Tepid Reception from Churches

Celebrated Ghanaian singer–songwriter Gladstorm Kwabena Akwaboah Jnr, popularly known as Akwaboah, has opened up about the lukewarm response his gospel songs receive—particularly from churches and pastors despite his strong personal commitment to the genre.

In an exclusive interview with Atinka TV, the award-winning musician expressed concern that gospel songs composed by secular artists are often sidelined, not because of their message, but because of their creators.

“I don’t see anything wrong with playing a gospel song by a secular musician in church. The focus must be on the lyrics, not the composer,” Akwaboah stated.

He further explained that his identity as a secular musician does not diminish or conflict with his faith in God.

“I will continue to compose gospel songs since being a secular musician doesn’t change my belief in God,” he added.

Shooting Music Videos Abroad: A Practical Choice

Akwaboah also touched on his decision to frequently shoot music videos outside Ghana, revealing that the choice is driven more by practicality than preference.

“I usually take the opportunity to shoot my videos abroad whenever I can. It is cost-effective, and the production process is more streamlined compared to what I experience in Ghana.”

Blurring Boundaries Between the Sacred and Secular

With his unwavering dedication to gospel music, Akwaboah believes artists should feel free to express their spirituality regardless of the primary genre they are known for. His stance challenges conventional expectations within the gospel space and opens a broader conversation on how audiences engage with faith-inspired music.

By Miss Melody

Shatta Fest to Join Annual Event Calendar – Sammy Flex Hints at Global Expansion

Public Relations Officer for Shatta Wale, Sammy Flex, has hinted at plans to make Shatta Fest an annual global event, with future editions expected to be hosted not only across Ghana but on every continent.

Speaking in an interview with Miss Melody on Atinka TV, Sammy Flex revealed that the vision for Shatta Fest extends far beyond Accra.

“We aim to take this event outside of Ghana and not station it in Accra. Our vision is to host Shatta Fest across the country, paving the way for future international deals,” he said.

Shatta Fest 2025 Records Massive Attendance

Sammy Flex highlighted the overwhelming success of Shatta Fest 2025, describing it as one of the biggest entertainment gatherings ever staged in Ghana.

“In Ghana, Shatta Wale draws large crowds to every event he attends. He can boast that Shatta Fest is one of the greatest events ever hosted in Ghana, attracting over 600,000 attendees,” he affirmed.

He noted that the festival’s reach and visibility were amplified by strong promotional partnerships and growing international attention.

Shatta Wale’s Influence on Ghanaian Music

According to Sammy Flex, Shatta Wale’s influence on the music industry goes far beyond his personal achievements. He stressed that the artist’s impact on emerging talents, the industry’s growth, and the global perception of Ghanaian music remains unmatched.

Chatter-house Recognises Shatta Wale as a Legend

Sammy Flex also expressed appreciation to Momo Fest and Charterhouse for their roles in the success of Shatta Fest. He disclosed that Charterhouse executives have decided to exclude Shatta Wale from all competitive award categories, acknowledging him as a legend of Ghanaian music.

“Their decision is based on the level he has reached. They consider him a legend, so they prefer to honour him differently rather than place him in competitive categories,” he explained.

A Festival Growing in Influence

The success of Shatta Fest 2025, coupled with Shatta Wale’s far-reaching contributions to Ghana’s music culture, reinforces his status as a major force shaping the industry and inspiring the next generation of artists.

By Miss Melody

Ghana Drawn Against England, Croatia and Panama for 2026 FIFA World Cup

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Excitement is building across the globe as the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup—to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico—was held at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. Although the three host nations have known since 2018 that they would stage the tournament, the reality of the expanded 48-team competition is now fully setting in.

With new formats, bigger groups, and increased global participation, the 2026 World Cup promises to be the most unique edition in the tournament’s history.

Ghana Lands in Tough Group L

The Black Stars of Ghana have been handed a difficult but exciting challenge after being drawn into Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama.

The group sets up thrilling matchups, especially the Ghana–England clash, which has already begun generating reactions among fans worldwide.

Match Schedule for the Black Stars

Ghana’s group-stage fixtures are as follows:

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Ghana vs. Panama
Venue: BMO Field, Toronto

Ghana opens its campaign against Panama, a match many analysts describe as crucial to building momentum in the group.

Tuesday, June 23, 2026

Ghana vs. England
Venue: Gillette Stadium, Boston

This highly anticipated clash is expected to be one of the most watched matches of the tournament’s group stage, as Ghana faces one of Europe’s traditional heavyweights.

Saturday, June 27, 2026

Ghana vs. Croatia
Venue: (To be assigned by FIFA)

Ghana will wrap up its group matches against 2018 World Cup finalists Croatia—another stern test for the Black Stars.

Looking Ahead

With a blend of young talent and experienced players, Ghana will be aiming to defy expectations in what is arguably one of the tournament’s most competitive groups. The expanded World Cup format means greater opportunities—but also fiercer competition.

By Prince Tuffuor

Police Rescue Kidnap Victim in Wapuli; Three Arrested, One Suspect on the Run

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The Ghana Police Service in the Northern Region has rescued a kidnap victim at Wapuli in the Yendi Division following a swift, intelligence-led operation.

According to a Northern Regional situation report, the incident was first reported to the Tamale Regional Police Intelligence Directorate (RPID) on December 2, 2025, at about 9:30 a.m. The kidnappers had demanded GH₵100,000 from the victim’s family in exchange for his release.

In response, the Northern Regional Commander, DCOP Wisdom Lavoe, deployed a five-member intelligence team from the Tamale RPID to Wapuli to conduct surveillance and execute a rescue operation. The team successfully rescued the victim on December 5.

During a follow-up operation at 12:30 a.m. on December 6, police officers engaged the suspects in a gunfire exchange. The assailants managed to escape, abandoning a motorbike with registration M 25 NR and a Samsung mobile phone, which were retrieved as exhibits.

Later that morning, police arrested three suspects at Bokpaba along the Bimbilla–Yendi road. They have been identified as Haruna Seidu, 31; Amidu Bandi, 30; and Osman Bandi, 40. Officers also recovered GH₵70,000, believed to be part of the ransom payment, as well as two motorbikes.

Police say one suspect remains at large, and efforts are underway to apprehend him.

By Ebenezer Madugu

“This Is Why Coach Zito Deserves More Time” — Justice Adusi-Poku, Sports Analyst, Atinka FM

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Head Coach Abdul Karim Zito deserves more time and support despite the rising criticisms over Kotoko’s recent performances. After a bright start to the 2025/2026 campaign, the club’s momentum has stalled, with the team failing to win any of its last three outstanding matches — drawing twice and losing once.

But according to sports analyst Justice Adusi-Poku, the call for Zito’s dismissal is premature. Several critical factors have contributed to the team’s dip in form, many of which are beyond the coach’s control.

1. Unprecedented Injury Crisis

Kotoko is currently battling one of its worst injury spells in years.

  • 13 first-team players are sidelined.
  • About five of them are regular starters.

The analyst notes that no club can perform at its best with such a depleted squad, especially after integrating 15 new signings from the last transfer window. Team cohesion takes time, and injuries have disrupted the process significantly.

2. Fatigue from Excessive Travel and Congested Fixtures

The Porcupine Warriors have been travelling across the country for both regular league matches and outstanding fixtures that were rescheduled earlier in the season.
This has resulted in:

-Player fatigue

-Accumulated knocks and new injuries

-Opponents taking advantage of a tired Kotoko side

Justice Adusi-Poku argues that this physical toll has clearly affected the team’s sharpness and consistency.

3. Absence of Key Players

Perhaps the most damaging factor has been the loss of Albert Amoa, the team’s best performer and creative force this season.
Other influential players like Kwame Poku and Isaac Mintah have also been unavailable, further weakening the squad.

With the spine of the team missing, Zito has been forced into constant tactical adjustments, making stability difficult.

Conclusion: A Coach Who Needs Patience, Not Pressure

Justice Adusi-Poku insists that Coach Abdul Karim Zito must not be judged solely on recent results. The circumstances surrounding the team would pose a challenge to even the best managers.

He believes Kotoko will regain form once:

-Injured players return,

-The team gels fully, and

-The travel load eases.

For these reasons, he concludes that Zito deserves more time to execute his project and steer the club back to winning ways.

By Justice Adusi-Poku

AU Commission Chairperson Condemns Deadly Attack on Civilians in South Kordofan

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has condemned in the strongest terms the reported killing of more than 100 civilians in Kalogi, South Kordofan, Sudan, describing the attack as “horrific” and a grave breach of international law.

According to media reports referenced by the AU, the victims included dozens of women and children, many of whom were inside a pre-school when the assault occurred. Educators, medical personnel, and civilians attempting to assist the injured were also reportedly targeted.

In a statement, the Chairperson said he was “appalled by the repeated and escalating atrocities committed against civilians in the region,” highlighting continued aerial bombardments, drone attacks, and assaults on essential civilian infrastructure such as hospitals and schools.

H.E. Youssouf called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire to halt the violence and urged all parties to fully protect civilians — especially children, women, and the elderly — in accordance with international humanitarian and human rights law.

He further appealed for unhindered humanitarian access to allow lifesaving assistance to reach affected populations, and stressed the need for independent investigations to ensure accountability for all violations.

“Those responsible for these heinous acts must be brought to justice,” the statement said.

The African Union reiterated its solidarity with the people of Sudan and reaffirmed its commitment to working with regional and international partners to prevent further atrocities and to support a return to dialogue, peace, and stability in the country.

Bullet TV’s Karen Antwi Joins Israel-Selected Delegation For Cyber Week 2025

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Bullet TV’s Karen Antwi has been selected by the Embassy of Israel in Accra to join Ghana’s official delegation for Cyber Week 2025 and AI Week 2025 in Tel Aviv—making her the only journalist from Ghana chosen for this year’s mission.

The two conferences, hosted annually at Tel Aviv University, are among the world’s most influential gatherings on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. The 2025 editions, scheduled for 8–11 December, will bring together policymakers, security experts, academics, tech companies and international media from more than 80 countries.

Bullet TV’s Karen Antwi Joins Israel-Selected Delegation For Cyber Week 2025

Cyber Week has, over the past decade, grown into a global platform for strategic discussions on cyber defence, featuring high-level panels, live demonstrations of emerging digital threats and exhibitions from Israel’s cutting-edge cybersecurity industry.

AI Week, which complements the main conference, focuses on advances in machine learning, autonomous systems, and global AI governance frameworks.

Israel remains one of the world’s foremost cybersecurity hubs, powered by decades of investment, elite military intelligence expertise, and a vibrant start-up ecosystem. The country’s cyber defence firms contribute significantly to global innovation in the field, and its national cyber strategies are frequently studied by governments strengthening their digital resilience.

For Ghana, participating in the summit highlights the nation’s increasing prioritisation of cyber-readiness as digital systems expand across government, banking, education and commerce.

With cybercrime, online fraud and data breaches becoming more sophisticated, the Israeli Embassy says Ghana’s involvement will enhance technical cooperation, deepen institutional capacity and expose key actors to international best practices.

Karen Antwi’s inclusion as the sole Ghanaian journalist is expected to offer Ghanaian audiences exclusive insight into one of the world’s foremost cyber and AI gatherings.

Her coverage will explore global cyber policies, evolving threat landscapes, and the growing role of African nations in shaping digital governance.

Her selection also reflects the expanding responsibility of journalists in interpreting rapid technological change for the public. As global cyber threats intensify, the ability of the media to break down complex digital issues is becoming increasingly essential.

Bullet TV will provide continuous updates from her coverage in Tel Aviv throughout the conference.

By Karen Antwi