Articles by Kobina Baidoo

Technology

Speaker defers parliamentary resumption indefinitely

The Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has indefinitely postponed the reopening of the Third Meeting of the First Session of the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic. In a formal notice issued on Monday, October 6, 2025, the Speaker announced that the meeting originally scheduled to resume on October 14 following a prior summons dated September 29 has been deferred due to “circumstances beyond my control.” The statement, released from the Office of the Speaker in Accra, did not elaborate on the nature of the circumstances prompting the delay. However, it emphasized that a new date for resumption would be communicated in due course. "Pursuant to the notice to summon Parliament dated September 29, 2025, I, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament, hereby give notice that the commencement of the Third Meeting of the First Session of the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic is deferred until further notice due to circumstances beyond my control,” the Speaker stated. The postponement means that parliamentary business including the anticipated presentation of the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy will remain on hold. The delay comes at a critical time when lawmakers were expected to deliberate on key legislative and fiscal matters.

Technology

Samira Bawumia calls for youth-centered leadership at Africa Women and Children Conference

Former Second Lady of Ghana and Founder of Africa Women and Children (AFRIWOCC), Samira Bawumia, has called on African leaders to place youth empowerment at the center of development agendas. Addressing a diverse audience of policymakers, activists, and development partners at the 2025 Africa Women and Children Conference, Mrs. Bawumia highlighted the urgent need to invest in locally driven solutions and create platforms that elevate young voices in leadership and innovation. “Our continent’s transformation depends on how boldly we engage our youth,” she said. “We must connect their ideas to policy and action if we are to build resilient and inclusive societies.” Her remarks reinforced AFRIWOCC’s mission to amplify the role of women and children in shaping Africa’s future, with this year’s conference focusing on sustainable development and youth-led initiatives.

Technology

Godfred Dame appears before CID over alleged misconduct in ‘Ambulance case’

Former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame has reported to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to assist with an inquiry into allegations of misconduct, following a formal petition filed by Richard Jakpa, Director of Special Operations at the National Security Secretariat. Jakpa, a key figure in the controversial ambulance procurement case involving Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, accused Dame of attempting to fabricate evidence during the trial. The petition, which has sparked public interest, calls for a thorough investigation into Dame’s alleged actions. On Monday, October 6, Dame arrived at the CID headquarters in Accra, accompanied by a team of lawyers and supporters. Among them was legal practitioner Kobby Amoah, who addressed journalists outside the facility. “We are here to support the former Attorney General, Godfred Dame,” Amoah said. “There is a presumption of innocence, and until proven guilty, he remains innocent. We are following due process and are confident that the truth will prevail.” The allegations stem from Jakpa’s claim that Dame pressured him to give false testimony against Dr. Forson. Jakpa has reportedly submitted audio recordings as part of his evidence. As the investigation unfolds, Dame’s legal team maintains that he is cooperating fully with authorities.

Technology

Ken Ashigbey urges minerals commission to enforce Data-Driven licensing for small-scale mining

Environmental advocate Ken Ashigbey has called on Ghana’s Minerals Commission to tighten its licensing procedures for small-scale mining operations. Speaking at a DAAD Alumni Seminar held in Takoradi, Ashigbey stressed the urgent need for verified mineral data before permits are issued, warning that the current system is contributing to widespread environmental degradation. He emphasized that unregulated mining activities often carried out without proper geological assessments are damaging ecosystems and threatening water sources across the country. Ashigbey urged policymakers to adopt sustainable, data-backed practices that balance economic development with environmental protection. “The time has come for us to stop issuing licenses blindly,” he said. “We need to ensure that every mining activity is grounded in solid scientific data to prevent further harm to our land and communities.” His remarks add to growing calls for reform in Ghana’s mining sector, where illegal and poorly regulated operations continue to pose serious environmental and social risks.