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Suspend Free SHS until economy picks up – Seth Tekper tells Akufo-Addo
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A former Minister of Finance has asked the government to suspend the Free SHS policy until the economy rebounds.
Mr Seth Tekper said the current economic crisis does not support the implementation of policies such as the Free SHS and that all capital intensive projects should be reviewed urgently.
“I am going to use the Free SHS, unfettered free SHS, I am free to say it because in 2017 I tweeted and said unfettered free SHS was attractive but cannot be achieved. Ghana cannot do unfettered free SHS,” he said.
He added that the IMF deal will come with constraints to expenditure. So should the flagship policy be suspended, the money from it can be used for roads construction and hospitals.
“If we have a project which we have signed to complete in three years, I think we can suspend it for one year until we improve the situation…for instance some roads or some hospitals.”
The government and the Bretton Woods Institution in a joint press statement on Monday, December 12, said a Staff-Level Agreement on economic policies has been reached.
This is to be supported by a new three-year arrangement under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) of about $3 billion.
According to a statement from the fund, the government’s strong reform programme aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability while protecting the vulnerable, preserving financial stability and laying the foundation for strong and inclusive recovery, was key in this decision.
However, the staff-level agreement is subject to IMF Management and Executive Board approval and receipt of the necessary financing assurances by Ghana’s partners and creditors.
Meanwhile, the government announced it is suspending debt service payments on certain categories of external debts, including Eurobonds, commercial loans and most bilateral debt.
According to the government, this is aimed at bringing the country’s unsustainable debt level under control – a statement from the Ministry of Finance said.
Source: www.myjoyonline.com
The Government of Ghana has expressed profound sadness over the passing of His Majesty Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II, King of Dagbon.
In a statement issued on Monday, President John Dramani Mahama, on behalf of the Government, extended his deepest condolences to the Royal Family, the people of Dagbon, and the entire nation.
“The Government of Ghana has received with profound sadness the news of the passing of His Majesty Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II,” the statement said.
President Mahama described the late King as a distinguished traditional ruler whose reign was defined by healing, reconciliation, and lasting peace in Dagbon following years of conflict.
The statement noted that His Majesty’s “unwavering commitment to unity, stability, and the welfare of his people created an enabling environment for development”and strengthened the partnership between traditional authorities and Government in advancing progress across Dagbon and Ghana.
The Government paid tribute to the life and legacy of Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II, and honoured his invaluable service to the nation.
“May his wisdom, leadership, and dedication to peace continue to inspire future generations. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement concluded.
The passing of Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II marks the end of an era for Dagbon, which saw significant strides in unity and development under his leadership.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Hohoe Municipality Command, has conducted fire safety inspections and public education at selected fuel filling stations within the municipality.
The exercise, held from July 3, 2026 to July 5, 2025 was led by the Municipal Commander, DO III Bismark Hosu-Porbley.
During the inspection, the team assessed the fire safety preparedness of the facilities. Staff were also educated on fire prevention, emergency response procedures, and the proper use of firefighting equipment.
Management of the affected fuel stations expressed appreciation for the exercise and pledged to comply with the recommended safety measures.
The GNFS said the exercise reaffirms its commitment to continuous fire safety awareness and risk reduction to safeguard lives and property.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
