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‘It’s not a norm’ – Akufo-Addo on rampant coup d’etats in West Africa
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President Akufo-Addo has dismissed claims that coup d’etats are becoming a norm in West Africa.
“It’s not a norm; I am not sure we can call it a trend. It’s been in three states out of the 15 states of ECOWAS so far. Obviously, we do not want this contagion to spread,” he said.
This comes in the face of five successful military takeovers within the sub-region in just a space of a year.
In an interview with France 24 at the EU-African Union Summit in Brussels, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Chairman said the isolated incidents in Mali, Guinea and Burkina Faso should not be generalised to represent the situation in sub-region.
According to him, it will be misplaced for anyone to see the recent developments in the Region as a mortal danger.
“I don’t understand the concept of mortal danger when you are dealing with the states and communities and state functions. But, of course, all kinds of revolutions happen, but it is something that is definitely not welcomed.”
Meanwhile, he says new arrangements are being considered to ensure Mali returns to democratic governance.
Mr Akufo-Addo says this has become necessary as the Mali junta failed to adhere to agreements reached with ECOWAS regarding the transition to democratic rule.
“In these matters, the doors never close to talk and negotiation. Contacts and dialogue are going on. As far as we are concerned, there was an agreement between ECOWAS and the transition authorities at the beginning of August 2020, which required that the transition be brought to an end in February this year, at the end of this month.
“At the last minute, we heard from the new junta in Mali that they no longer were in a position to honour that pledge, that they were proposing a four or five years in office.”
“We are determined to work towards a more acceptable solution. My feeling from talking to my peers is that a 12-month period would be an acceptable framework.
“You are hearing it from my mouth; it doesn’t mean it is ECOWAS policy. So we need to engage and find out how that can work out,” he said in the same interview with France 24.
Source: www.myjoyonline.com
Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana’s Department of Political Science, Dr. Joshua Jebuntie Zaato says the imprisonment of the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, will have little meaning unless it leads to a broader crackdown on illegal mining.
In a post on his Facebook page on the July 21, 2026, Dr. Zaato said the judgment should mark the beginning of efforts to completely eradicate galamsey and hold all those involved accountable, regardless of their political affiliation.
He said the country must work towards restoring polluted rivers, protecting forests and ensuring that people implicated in illegal mining activities are prosecuted.
According to him, those the President has publicly acknowledged to be involved in galamsey should face prosecution.
He called for the prosecution of district chief executives (DCEs), members of Parliament (MPs) and senior political party officials who have been accused of engaging in or supporting illegal mining.
Dr. Zaato further urged the government to take decisive action to end the destruction of the country’s forests caused by galamsey.
He maintained that the imprisonment of Chairman Wontumi would only have a lasting impact if it results in a comprehensive and impartial fight against illegal mining across the country.
By: Jacob Aggrey
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
