A three-member panel comprising Justices Emmanuel Ankamah, Emmanuel Senyo Amedahe and Samuel Obeng-Diawuo ruled on Thursday that the prosecution failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Delivering the unanimous decision, the appellate court criticised the approach adopted by the trial court, stating that the learned judge had departed from the constitutional principle that every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The court also raised concerns about the manner in which the prosecution handled the case, concluding that the evidence presented did not meet the legal threshold required to sustain the convictions.

The Court of Appeal said its detailed reasons, contained in a 94-page judgment, would be released before the close of business on Thursday.

Sedina Tamakloe was convicted by the High Court in April 2024 following a trial that began on January 30, 2019. She was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment after being found guilty on multiple charges linked to her tenure as MASLOC Chief Executive.

She faced 78 counts, including stealing, conspiracy to steal, wilfully causing financial loss to the state, causing loss to public property, improper payment of public funds, unauthorised commitment and money laundering.

The prosecution, led by then Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame and based largely on investigations by the Economic and Organised Crime Office, alleged that she misappropriated public funds through several MASLOC programmes.

Among the allegations were the diversion of a GH¢500,000 loan intended for Obaatanpa Microfinance after the institution reportedly rejected the facility over its interest rate, the misappropriation of funds earmarked for MASLOC sensitisation programmes, the diversion of relief funds meant for victims of the Kantamanto Market fire, and the alleged inflation of procurement costs for vehicles and mobile phones.

During the trial, the prosecution called seven witnesses and relied heavily on a forensic audit report to support its case.

However, the Court of Appeal has now set aside the judgment delivered by Justice Afia Serwaa Asare Botwe of the High Court, acquitting and discharging Sedina Tamakloe of all charges, bringing an end to the long-running criminal proceedings unless further legal action is pursued.

The development was disclosed by the NPP’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, in a statement shared on his official Facebook page. According to him, the party’s national leadership, together with its flagbearer and legal team, is holding a meeting to examine the court’s ruling concerning the Samreboi mining matter.

Mr. Kodua explained that the meeting is intended to assess the implications of the judgement and determine the most appropriate response on behalf of the party.

“The leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), together with our flagbearer and the party’s legal team, is currently in a meeting to thoroughly review the judgement delivered by the Court in the case involving our Ashanti Regional Chairman, Mr Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, concerning the Samreboi mining matter, and to determine the appropriate next course of action,” he stated.

He assured party members and the general public that an official statement outlining the outcome of the deliberations and the party’s position would be issued after the meeting.

“The party will communicate its official position and the decisions arising from these deliberations in due course,” he added.

In the meantime, Mr. Kodua appealed to members and supporters of the NPP to remain calm and united while the leadership completes its review of the judgement.

He urged party faithful to continue supporting the leadership during what he described as a difficult period, emphasizing the need for discipline, unity, and commitment to the values and interests of the New Patriotic Party.

“I respectfully urge all members of our great Party to rally behind the leadership during this challenging moment. Let us remain calm, united, disciplined, and steadfast in our commitment to the values and interests of the New Patriotic Party,” he said.

The beneficiaries received a range of items, including deep freezers, fufu pounding machines, industrial sewing machines, laptops, as well as cash support to enable them to establish or expand income-generating ventures.

Presenting the items, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Effia-Kwesimintsim, Abdul Majeed Dorkurugu Nassam, said the intervention forms part of the Assembly’s commitment to implementing the government’s social protection agenda for Persons with Disabilities.

According to him, the distribution represents the second tranche of support for 2025, aimed at equipping beneficiaries with the resources needed to become economically self-reliant.

“This support is intended to empower Persons with Disabilities to create sustainable sources of income and improve their standard of living. It is part of government’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in the national development process,” Hon. Dorkurugu Nassam said.

He reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to promoting inclusive development and ensuring that Persons with Disabilities receive the necessary support to contribute meaningfully to the local economy.

The Presiding Member of the Effia-Kwesimintsim Municipal Assembly who is also the Assembly Member for Sofon Zongo Electoral Area, Musah Adamu, urged beneficiaries to make good use of the equipment and safeguard the items to achieve the intended impact.

“These items have been provided to help you become financially independent. We encourage you to use them responsibly because the Assembly will monitor their utilization to ensure they serve the purpose for which they were distributed,” he stated.

Musa Adamu stressed that EKMA remains committed to inclusion, empowerment and equal opportunities for Persons with Disabilities, adding that the Assembly will continue to invest in programs that improve their socio-economic well-being.

Some of the beneficiaries, who spoke after receiving the support, expressed appreciation to the Assembly and the government, describing the intervention as timely.

They said the equipment and financial assistance would enable them to start or expand their businesses, generate sustainable incomes and better cater for themselves and their families.

The initiative forms part of EKMA’s broader strategy to promote social inclusion, reduce poverty and empower Persons with Disabilities through sustainable livelihood interventions.

The exercise, held on Sunday, July 12, followed an official request by the Atlantic View Ghana Conference of the SDA Church to the Effia-Kwesimintsim Municipal Assembly (EKMA) for exemption from Saturday’s National General Cleaning Exercise to enable members to observe the Sabbath.

With the Assembly granting the request, members of the Anaji West District, led by District Pastor Dominic Bonney, mobilised to clean the St. Peter’s School enclave in the Anaji East Electoral Area.

Armed with cutlasses, brooms, shovels and other cleaning tools, the volunteers weeded overgrown bushes, swept the surroundings and desilted choked drains to improve sanitation and reduce the risk of flooding and disease outbreaks in the area.

Speaking to Almighty News, Pastor Bonney said the initiative marks the beginning of a sustained sanitation campaign by the church.

“This is not going to be a one-off exercise. In line with a directive from the South West Ghana Union Conference, we will undertake this clean-up every month to support our communities,” he said.

He disclosed that the church would continue to engage the Effia-Kwesimintsim Municipal Assembly to identify communities that require urgent sanitation interventions.

Pastor Bonney stressed that while the Constitution guarantees every citizen the freedom to worship, Christians also have a responsibility to contribute meaningfully to national development through voluntary community service.

“As citizens, we have the right to worship according to our faith, but we also have a responsibility to support national development. Community service is one of the practical ways we can demonstrate our faith,” he noted.

Assembly Member for the Anaji East Electoral Area, Mrs. Linda York, commended the church for the initiative, describing it as an exemplary act of civic responsibility.

She urged other churches, faith-based organisations and community groups to emulate the SDA Church’s commitment to keeping communities clean.

The Member of Parliament for Kwesimintsim, Lawyer Philip Fiifi Buckman, who visited the exercise on his way to church, also praised the volunteers for their dedication.

Describing the clean-up as “true Christianity and patriotism,” he assured residents that all refuse and debris collected along the road shoulders would be evacuated by Monday evening.

“This is true Christianity and patriotism. I commend every member who sacrificed their time to serve the community. We will ensure that all the debris collected is cleared by Monday evening,” the MP said.

He further prayed for God’s blessings upon all those who participated in the exercise, expressing hope that their contribution would inspire others to support efforts aimed at creating cleaner, healthier communities.

The clean-up forms part of broader efforts by the Seventh-day Adventist Church to complement national sanitation initiatives while remaining faithful to its observance of the Sabbath.

The exercise saw management and employees at the company’s headquarters and operational sites across the country engage in various sanitation activities, including sweeping streets, weeding, cutting overgrown grass, clearing curbs, and desilting choked drains within and around their operational areas.

The nationwide clean-up forms part of the National Clean-Up Campaign launched by President John Dramani Mahama under the theme, “Our Action, Our Future: Cleaning Ghana After the Floods.” The initiative is aimed at restoring clean and healthy communities in the aftermath of recent floods while fostering a sense of shared responsibility for environmental protection among citizens.

At the Ghana Gas Head Office, the exercise was attended by the Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, John Dumelo, who joined the company’s management and staff in the clean-up exercise. He commended the enthusiasm displayed by participants and stressed the importance of collective action in maintaining a clean environment.

Officials of Ghana Gas described the company’s participation as part of its corporate commitment to supporting national development initiatives that improve environmental hygiene and safeguard public health.

The company reiterated its dedication to environmental sustainability and urged all Ghanaians to embrace proper sanitation practices by taking active responsibility for keeping their communities clean, safe, and healthy.

Ghana Gas has consistently supported initiatives that contribute to national development, with environmental stewardship remaining a key pillar of its corporate social responsibility agenda. Through its participation in the nationwide clean-up exercise, the company says it hopes to inspire greater public participation in protecting the environment and preventing future sanitation-related challenges.

He made this call on Friday while overseeing the ongoing two-day National Sanitation Day activities across Sekondi-Takoradi in the Western Region.

This nationwide effort, aimed at improving waste management and promoting environmental cleanliness, brought together security agencies, local authorities, sanitation workers, and community groups to clear clogged drains, sweep streets, and remove heaps of trash from public areas.

The exercise started around 7:40 a.m. at Sekondi Komfoase, where personnel from the Western Naval Command, Sekondi District Police Command, the Ghana National Fire Service, and other security agencies, with logistical support from Zoomlion Ghana Limited, carried out an extensive clean-up effort.

During nearly three hours, the teams desilted and washed several heavily clogged drains while clearing waste from major streets and other public spaces within Sekondi.

Speaking to journalists after inspecting activities at various sites, Mr. Nelson emphasized that environmental cleanliness should not be limited to occasional cleanup campaigns but must become a daily responsibility for every Ghanaian.

He pointed out that while periodic efforts are useful, lasting improvements can only be achieved through ongoing public commitment, increased education, and strict enforcement of sanitation laws.

The Regional Minister also called for harsher penalties for those who dispose of waste irresponsibly, arguing that offenders must be held accountable for actions that threaten public health and environmental safety.

“We cannot keep organizing cleanup efforts while people continue to litter without facing consequences. Those who violate our sanitation laws must be sanctioned. We need stronger enforcement alongside ongoing public education to change attitudes towards cleanliness,” he stated.

Mr. Nelson further urged residents to develop good waste-disposal habits and support the District Assembly’s authorities’ initiatives to keep communities clean.

Meanwhile, the Flag Officer Commanding of the Western Naval Command, Commodore Samuel Ayelazono, reaffirmed the Navy’s support for efforts that promote environmental sanitation.

He urged residents to see cleanliness as a civic duty, stressing that maintaining a clean environment is crucial for public health and sustainable growth.

The National Sanitation Day effort is part of the government’s renewed push to improve sanitation standards and inspire collective action towards building cleaner, healthier communities across the country.

According to him, the activities of illegal miners, popularly known as galamsey, have led to the destruction and pollution of several rivers and streams that serve as major sources of drinking water for many communities.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with the Almighty News Desk, Nana Poku Bosompim stressed the need for stronger collaboration among traditional authorities, local communities and state institutions to effectively combat the menace.

“The recent trend we are witnessing is largely being driven by foreign nationals who have infiltrated the region to engage in illegal mining. Their activities are causing extensive destruction to our forests and polluting our water bodies, which should be a source of life for our people,” he said.

The Regional Director appealed to chiefs, queen mothers and community elders to support the Forestry Commission by protecting their lands and refusing to offer sanctuary to illegal miners.

“Traditional leaders have a critical role to play. We need chiefs and elders to work closely with us by denying illegal miners access to their lands and by providing timely information that will help us enforce the law,” he appealed.

He also criticised some residents living near rivers and forest reserves for allegedly allowing foreign nationals to settle in their communities and use their lands for illegal mining operations.

“Some community members are facilitating these activities by leasing or giving out land to foreigners for illegal mining. We must all take responsibility because protecting our environment is a shared duty,” Nana Poku Bosompim stated.

The Forestry Commission Director further called on the security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering and enforcement operations to dismantle illegal mining networks operating in the region.

“The fight against galamsey cannot be won by the Forestry Commission alone. It requires a coordinated effort involving the security agencies, traditional authorities, local assemblies and every Ghanaian who values our natural resources,” he added.

He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s forest reserves and water bodies, urging all stakeholders to work together to eliminate illegal mining and preserve the environment for future generations.

The intervention is expected to significantly improve access to safe drinking water for hundreds of pupils, teachers, and community members while reducing the health risks associated with unsafe water sources.

Speaking at the handing-over ceremony, Mrs. Jammie Tart Appiah-Kubi said the project reflects Caring Hands’ unwavering commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable communities through practical and sustainable interventions.

“At Caring Hands, we believe every child deserves access to clean and safe drinking water. Water is life, and no child should have to worry about where the next drink of water will come from before concentrating in the classroom. We are honoured to partner with this community and hope this borehole will serve generations of pupils and residents.”

She encouraged the school authorities and the community to cultivate a strong maintenance culture to ensure the facility remains functional for many years.

“This project belongs to the community. We encourage everyone to protect it, maintain it and use it responsibly so that future generations can continue to benefit from it.”

The Headteacher of Freeman Methodist Primary School A, Mr. Gorge Abekah, expressing gratitude on behalf of the staff and pupils, described the donation as a turning point for the school.

“For many years, access to potable water has been one of our greatest challenges. This borehole has brought lasting relief to our school. Our pupils can now focus on their studies without worrying about where to fetch water. We are deeply grateful to Mrs. Jammie Tart Appiah-Kubi and her partners for this remarkable act of generosity.”

The headteacher added that the availability of clean water would greatly improve sanitation, hygiene and the overall learning environment.

A representative of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), Mr. Benjamin Kwofie, also commended the donors for responding to a critical need.

“This is one of the most meaningful gifts any institution can receive. Beyond providing drinking water, this project will improve the health and wellbeing of our children and reduce the financial burden on many parents.”

Community leaders at Saw Mill also welcomed the intervention, describing it as a life-changing investment for the area.

The Assembly Member for the electoral area praised Caring Hands for extending its support beyond borders.

“Development is achieved through partnerships, and today’s donation demonstrates what can happen when people who care decide to give back to society. This borehole will benefit not only the school but the entire Saw Mill community. We sincerely appreciate Mrs. Appiah-Kubi and her partners for remembering us.”

Some pupils could not hide their excitement after the facility’s commissioning.

Benedicta Yeboah, a Primary 6 student, speaking on behalf of colleagues, said, “We are very happy because we now have clean water in our school. We promise to take good care of the borehole and use the water wisely. We thank our donors for thinking about us.”

The commissioning of the borehole underscores the critical role partnerships between local communities and international charitable organisations continue to play in addressing basic social needs. The project is expected to improve access to safe water, promote better hygiene practices and contribute to a healthier teaching and learning environment for Freeman Methodist Primary School A and the surrounding Saw Mill community.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, the state-owned gas company said publications alleging that the current management purchased the property located at No. 225 Osibisa Close, Airport West, Accra, were inaccurate and should be disregarded.

According to the company, the property in question was acquired under a previous administration and not by the current management.

“Ghana Gas wishes to state unequivocally that the current Management had no role whatsoever in the acquisition of the said property. The property was acquired under the previous administration and was subsequently the subject of adverse findings contained in the 2024 Auditor-General’s Report,” the statement said.

The company further disclosed that the transaction is already under investigation by the Economic and Organised Crime Office and other relevant state investigative agencies.

Ghana Gas said it is fully cooperating with investigators and remains confident that the outcome of the investigations will exonerate the current management from any wrongdoing.

“Ghana Gas remains fully committed to cooperating with these investigations and is confident that the facts will establish that the current Management had no involvement in the acquisition of the property,” the statement noted.

The company also appealed to media organisations and the general public to verify information before publishing or circulating reports on the matter.

“We therefore urge the media and the general public to disregard these false and misleading publications and to verify facts before circulating or publishing such claims,” the company stressed.

Reaffirming its commitment to good corporate governance, Ghana Gas said it remains dedicated to transparency, accountability and the prudent management of public resources.

“Ghana Gas remains steadfast in its commitment to the highest standards of transparency, accountability, good corporate governance, and the prudent management of public resources,” the statement concluded.

The statement was signed by Richard Ernest Kirk-Mensah, Head of Corporate Affairs of Ghana National Gas Limited Company.

The 60-metre-span bridge over the River Whin at Apremdo forms part of the Takoradi–Agona Nkwanta dual carriageway project, a flagship intervention under the Government of Ghana’s ambitious Big Push infrastructure programme.

The bridge is one of three major river crossings being constructed to improve traffic flow and support economic activity along the strategic highway corridor.

Large portions of the riverbank adjacent to the bridge have reportedly been filled with earth to create space for a car washing bay, significantly reducing the width of the watercourse and raising fears of flooding and structural damage.

Officials say the encroachment could force the river to overflow during periods of heavy rainfall, exposing nearby communities to flooding while increasing the risk of erosion around the bridge’s foundation.

The development has also sparked concerns about the long-term stability of the bridge, with experts warning that sustained water pressure and erosion could weaken its supporting pillars if urgent action is not taken.

Officials from the Ghana Highways Authority have described the situation as worrying, stressing that indiscriminate development within waterways poses a direct threat to public infrastructure and the safety of road users.

Chief Executive Officer of JUSTMOH Company Limited, Dr. Justice Amoh, is calling for immediate intervention by the Ahanta West Municipal Assembly and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to halt the encroachment and restore the river to its original course.

“The river must be allowed to flow freely. Any obstruction close to the bridge creates a real risk of flooding and gradual erosion that could undermine the structure. Immediate action is needed to prevent a disaster,” Dr. Amoh appealed.

He urged the relevant authorities to remove the unauthorized structures before the onset of heavy rains, warning that delaying action could have devastating consequences for both the bridge and surrounding communities.

According to him, the newly constructed bridge is a critical transport link for residents and motorists travelling through the area and must be protected from human activities that threaten its lifespan.

The situation has renewed concerns over the growing incidence of unauthorized development along waterways in the Western Region, with stakeholders calling for stricter enforcement of planning regulations to protect public infrastructure and prevent avoidable disasters.