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Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has raised concerns over Ghana’s loss of billions in revenue due to the illegal transfer of gold, one of the country’s most valuable natural resources.

In a post on X, he highlighted the devastating impact of illicit gold smuggling on the nation’s economy, revealing that at the height of Ghana’s economic crisis in 2022, an estimated 60 tonnes of gold—worth around $1.2 billion—were smuggled out of the country through illegal channels.

Dr. Forson emphasized the significant economic loss Ghana has endured, questioning the potential boost the country could have seen had the gold remained within the local economy.

“Imagine the impact if that wealth had stayed in our economy!” he stated, stressing the urgent need to curb illegal mining and smuggling activities that have long deprived the nation of crucial revenue.

To address the issue, he announced that he had met with officials from the UK-Ghana Gold Programme, a collaborative effort aimed at severing links between illegal artisanal gold mining and organized crime.

The programme seeks to ensure Ghana fully benefits from its gold resources while tackling the illegal trade that has negatively impacted the country’s finances.

The Central Regional Minister, Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere, has urged security agencies and institutions to work with the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) to address the region’s worsening sanitation crisis.

Speaking during an engagement with the police and the Ghana National Fire Service, the Minister expressed concern over poor sanitation and the recent cholera outbreak, calling for urgent collective action.

Central Regional Police Commander, DCOP Charles Kofi Adu, urged the Minister to engage the Regional House of Chiefs to resolve ongoing chieftaincy disputes, which he said threaten regional peace, especially during festive seasons.

He called on the Judicial Council of the House of Chiefs to expedite case resolutions.

He further assured the police’s commitment to supporting the RCC in maintaining law and order.

Meanwhile, Central Regional Fire Service Commander, DCFO Malinda Mary Atsigah-Mensah, outlined operational challenges affecting the fire service and appealed for the Minister’s support to enhance their effectiveness.

She expressed gratitude for his visit, noting it provided an opportunity to discuss their concerns and for him to gain firsthand insight into their operations.

The lawyer for former National Signals Bureau (NSB) Director, Kwabena Adu Boahene, has mounted a strong defense for him and his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, following allegations of financial misconduct.

In a statement, lawyer and former Abuakwa South MP, Samuel Atta Akyea, rejected what he described as attempts to portray the couple as criminals, insisting that they are respected professionals who should not be subjected to public ridicule.

“Mr. Kwabena Adu Boahene cannot be called a common criminal, and neither can his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng. Prior to this sordid exposé, Mr. Boahene was the immediate past Director of the National Signals Bureau and is internationally connected. His wife, Angela, has never been a woman of straw and is engaged in considerable business activities,” Atta Akyea stated.

His remarks follow a press conference by the Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, on Monday, where Boahene was accused of diverting $7 million of public funds into his private account.

Dr. Ayine disclosed that Boahene was arrested on Thursday, March 20, at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) upon his arrival from London Heathrow on a British Airways flight.

According to the Attorney General, the funds in question were intended for the procurement of cybersecurity infrastructure.

However, Boahene’s legal team has challenged the circumstances surrounding his arrest.

They claim that upon his arrival, he was initially detained under the pretext of passport irregularities. They further allege that he was lured into an open public space at the airport before being handcuffed and taken into custody by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO).

The defense team argues that the manner in which Boahene and his wife are being treated suggests persecution rather than a fair legal process. They stress the need for due process to ensure justice is served without prejudice or public humiliation.

“It beggars belief that a so-called criminal would voluntarily return to Ghana through Kotoka International Airport—a high-security area—when he could have used unmonitored routes through Togo or Ivory Coast,” the statement added.

Atta Akyea also suggested that the Attorney General’s approach to the case reflects a predetermined stance, stating, “Obviously, the Attorney General is using a different eyeglass, and we cannot fault him for that.”

The lawyer concluded by emphasizing that his client remains innocent until proven guilty, warning against any attempts to politicize the case or use it as a tool for public spectacle.

Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Old Tafo, has urged his fellow New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs not to defend Kwabena Adu Boahene, who has been accused of misappropriating GH₵49 million in state funds.

Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Tuesday, Assafuah cautioned party members against shielding Adu Boahene if the allegations are proven true.

“If this is true, I am warning party persons, NPP persons, in the event that this is proven, please don’t go and defend it because we are building a nation,” he stated.

The Minister for Justice and Attorney General, Dr. Dominic Ayine, made the allegations on Monday, March 24.

According to Dr. Ayine, Adu Boahene, who served as the Director General of the National Signals Bureau between 2017 and 2025, embezzled millions of dollars meant for a cyber defense project and diverted them into real estate investments in Accra and overseas.

He has also allegedly laundered over $2 million through the real estate business.

The allegations have sparked public concern, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the matter.

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has refuted claims that it has frozen the financial accounts of Richard Nii Armah Quaye, the businessman and Chairman of the Micro Credit firm, BILLS.

The GRA’s denial comes on the back of many news reports that have suggested otherwise.

The reports suggested that Quaye’s accounts had been restricted, but the GRA clarified that such actions are part of a routine procedure to assess tax payments and ensure compliance.

According to the GRA, the assessment is a standard part of their audit process, aimed at verifying tax compliance among businesses and high-net-worth individuals.

Sources within the GRA confirmed that discussions are ongoing with Mr. Quaye regarding his tax obligations, with efforts focused on ensuring that all necessary payments are made.

The authority emphasized that these assessments are periodic and often carried out for individuals and companies with a history of compliance.

Following the audit, Quaye will be expected to settle any outstanding tax obligations, including duties on imported goods, as advised by the GRA.

A source within the GRA explained to Joy Business: “This is a routine exercise aimed at fostering a cooperative relationship between the GRA and taxpayers as part of efforts to increase tax revenue this year.”

Richard Nii Armah Quaye Celebrates 40th Birthday in Style

In other news, Richard Nii Armah Quaye recently marked his 40th birthday with a lavish celebration at Accra’s Black Star Square.

The event, themed #RNAQ40, attracted a host of influential business leaders, entertainment stars, and government officials.

Prominent figures such as Dr. Osei Kwame Despite and Dr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong attended, highlighting Quaye’s significant presence in Ghana’s business community.

The celebration also featured performances from top artists including Nigerian superstar Davido, Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie, and dancehall sensation Stonebwoy, adding to the excitement and making the occasion unforgettable.

After 38 years of dedicated service to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and the nation, Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, has officially retired from the military.

In line with military tradition, the GAF honoured him with a farewell parade and pull-out ceremony at Burma Camp in Accra.

Dressed in full military ceremonial attire, the outgoing CDS appeared elated upon arrival at the parade grounds, where he was received by senior military officers, both serving and retired, along with leaders of various security agencies, government officials, colleagues, family, and well-wishers.

The Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, and members of the diplomatic corps were also in attendance.

After taking the general salute and inspecting the parade, General Oppong-Peprah received gifts from the military command, security agencies, and other organisations in recognition of his contributions to the GAF and national security.

As part of the formal handover, he officially passed the command baton to Major General William Agyapong, marking a smooth transition of leadership.

The event concluded with a symbolic pull-out ceremony, signifying his retirement.

Profile

General Oppong-Peprah’s distinguished military career began at the Ghana Military Academy in 1984, where he graduated as the Best Officer Cadet in 1986.

Commissioned into the Armoured Corps, he pursued advanced military training at institutions such as the US Army War College, the Royal College of Defence Studies in London, and the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College.

He holds a Master’s degree in International Security and Strategy from King’s College, London, and an Executive MBA from the University of Ghana.

Throughout his career, he held key command and staff positions, including Commanding Officer of the 64 Infantry Regiment and the Armoured Reconnaissance Regiment; Director of Strategic Intelligence; Director of Operations and Plans; Chief Staff Officer at Army Headquarters; and General Officer Commanding the Southern Command.

He later became Chief of Staff at the General Headquarters before his appointment as Chief of the Army Staff in 2020.

Beyond military service, he contributed to national security as Coordinator of State Transport Security and served on the board of the National Disaster Management Organisation.

He also played a role in international peacekeeping under UN missions in Rwanda, Libya, Chad, Western Sahara, and Lebanon.

On February 1, 2024, he was appointed Chief of the Defence Staff.

Gratitude

Reflecting on his tenure, General Oppong-Peprah described his leadership as a period of growth and commitment to national security.

“We have navigated complex security landscapes both domestically and regionally, working tirelessly to enhance our capabilities, strengthen partnerships, and ensure the safety of our citizens.

“Our performance in the recent general election was exemplary, demonstrating our firm commitment to democracy and the rule of law,” he stated.

He highlighted key achievements, including the expansion of GAF through new units and formations, supported by significant infrastructure development to address evolving security threats.

“To all officers, soldiers, and Defence Civilian Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces, I salute you for your loyalty, professionalism, and unwavering support.

“There were difficult moments, but I drew strength from your dedication and commitment. You inspired me to remain focused and determined to improve your welfare. God bless you all,” he added.

General Oppong-Peprah expressed confidence that under the leadership of the new CDS, the GAF would continue to thrive.

“I urge you all to give him your full support by upholding the highest standards of integrity and discipline.

“Remember, our role extends beyond defense —it is about safeguarding the future of our nation,” he said.

Former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has sympathized with traders affected by the fire outbreak in Adum, the Central Business District of the Ashanti Region.

The blaze, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, March 21, destroyed several shops and properties, leaving many traders in distress.

During a visit to the scene on Tuesday, March 25, Dr Bawumia described the incident as “deeply unfortunate” and pledged his support to the affected traders.

Accompanied by former government appointees and New Patriotic Party (NPP) leaders, he offered words of comfort to the victims.

To aid the traders in rebuilding their businesses, Dr Bawumia donated GH¢200,000 and 1,000 bags of cement.

“This support is just a small way to help you get back on your feet. I will continue to stand with you in any way I can,” he assured.

Many traders expressed gratitude for the donation, stating that both the financial aid and cement would help them restart their businesses.

“We have lost everything, but this gesture gives us hope,” one shop owner said.

As investigations continue to determine the cause of the fire, the community hopes for long-term measures to prevent similar disasters.

The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has announced that 57 radio stations risk having their frequencies suspended due to regulatory breaches.

According to the Minister, the suspension is not a punitive measure but an opportunity for affected stations to rectify their infractions and comply with broadcasting regulations before resuming operations.

Speaking to journalists on Monday, March 24, Samuel Nartey George revealed that three of the six radio stations recently suspended have met the necessary requirements for frequency restoration.

“The other six stations are part of a total of about 63 radio stations whose frequencies will not be revoked but suspended. We cannot have a situation where media houses flout regulations and claim that press freedom exempts them from meeting licensing conditions,” he stated.

He emphasized that stations affected in the first phase have been given a chance to correct their anomalies.

“Of the six initially suspended, three have submitted the required documentation to the regulator, and I will be authorizing the restoration of their frequencies,” he added.

Private legal practitioner and National Democratic Congress (NDC) legal team member, Nii Kpakpo Addo, has advised individuals and former government officials who believe their rights have been violated during recent National Security operations to seek legal redress.

This counsel follows a series of searches conducted by National Security operatives at the residences of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and former Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Ernest Addison.​

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin condemned these searches, alleging that personal items, including jewelry and money belonging to Dr. Addison’s wife, were stolen during the operation. ​

In an interview on Channel One TV‘s “The Big Issue,” Nii Kpakpo Addo emphasized the importance of pursuing legal action if individuals feel they have been unjustly treated.

He highlighted that Mr. Ofori-Atta has already initiated a lawsuit against two police officers, alleging an unauthorized raid on his Labone residence. ​

Addo also noted that members of the NDC who faced similar situations in the past sought legal remedies, suggesting that former government appointees should consider doing the same to address any grievances regarding the recent security operations.

“In the case of the former finance minister, for example, he has gone to court, saying that he feels that his human right has been violated under Article 33. That is the recourse to law.

“So, if you feel that your rights have been violated one way or the other. You have the right to go to court. And to vindicate your rights in court that based on this and that, I feel that the search was not lawful, my rights have been violated, I have not been dealt with fairly. Whatever it is you have a grievance with, you can go to court,” he said.