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President Mahama Leads Wreath-Laying Ceremony in Honour of Enslaved Africans
President John Dramani Mahama led a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the African Burial Ground National Monument in Lower Manhattan, New York, paying tribute to the memory of nearly 20,000 Africans laid to rest at the historic site.
โWe lay down this wreath to honour the memories of the nearly 20,000 Africans who are buried on these grounds, some of whom were free but most of whom were enslaved,โ the President stated.
Reflecting on Ghanaโs historical connection to the transatlantic slave trade, President Mahama noted that Ghana is home to more than thirty slave castles and forts more than any other African country underscoring the profound likelihood that many of those enslaved passed through, or originated from, present-day Ghana.
In a poignant call to remembrance, the President added:
โWe lay down this wreath in remembrance of all the victims of slavery and the transatlantic slave tradeโthe men, women, and children who were taken from their lives and from those who loved them to be enslaved in a foreign land; and also, the people to whom they belongedโฆ whose lives were forever altered.โ
The ceremony formed part of a broader programme of engagements in New York focused on remembrance, justice, and advancing the global conversation on reparatory justice.
The Ministry of the Interior has suspended the Private Security Organisation licence of Kantanka Security Services Limited with immediate effect.
The suspension follows reports of alleged use of unprescribed uniforms, and unauthorised possession and use of firearms and ammunition by the companyโs personnel.
The incident occurred on Sunday, June 21, 2026, while they were providing private security services at Kwabenya, Accra.
According to the ministry, preliminary investigations suggest possible violations of the Police Service (Private Security Organisations) Regulations, 1992, L.I. 1571, which regulate private security operations in Ghana.
The Ministry said the use of unprescribed uniforms, unauthorised firearms, and security accoutrements by private guards constitutes a serious breach with direct implications for public safety.
As a result, Kantanka Security Services Limited has been directed to cease all operations immediately pending the outcome of investigations.
All individuals and institutions are advised to stop doing business with the company until further notice from the Ministry.
The Ministry has also instructed Kantanka Security Services to fully cooperate with the Ghana Police Service and provide all information needed for a thorough investigation.
The Ministry assured the public that the suspension is an administrative measure to protect public safety while investigations continue, adding that appropriate action will be taken after investigations, in line with laws governing private security operations in Ghana.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
The National Democratic Congress has officially renamed its national headquarters the โJerry John Rawlings Houseโ to honour its founder and former President, Jerry John Rawlings.
The ceremony took place on Monday, June 22, 2026, as part of activities marking what would have been Rawlingsโ 79th birthday.
Held under the theme โFrom Revolution to Fourth Republic: The Rawlings Legacy,โ the event brought together party members and senior government officials to celebrate his life, leadership, and role in shaping Ghanaโs democracy.
President John Dramani Mahama unveiled a commemorative plaque and a bust of the late statesman at the newly named building.
He said the renaming is a tribute to Rawlingsโ immense contribution to the NDC and the nation.
โHistory matters because it teaches people where they came from and inspires the future,โ Mahama said.
He described the ceremony as a significant act of institutional memory that ensures future generations understand the sacrifices made to build the party and protect Ghanaโs democracy.
Kimathi Rawlings, son of the late President, expressed the familyโs gratitude.
โThe naming of this headquarters after our dad, Jerry John Rawlings, is far more than a symbolic gesture,โ he said.
He called it a fitting tribute to Rawlingsโ legacy, values, and sacrifices that continue to influence Ghanaโs politics.
The event ended with a cake-cutting to mark Rawlingsโ birthday.
Rawlings, who died in November 2020, first led Ghana as a military ruler, then guided the transition to constitutional rule and served as the countryโs first President under the Fourth Republic from 1993 to 2001. He remains one of the most influential figures in Ghanaโs modern history.
The ceremony which was a moment of remembrance and celebration of his enduring legacy was attended by top party officials, government appointees and NDC faithfuls
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
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