News
Okudzeto Ablakwa visits passport office headquarters and Accra PAC
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP), undertook a tour of the Passport Office Headquarters, Ridge, and the Accra Regional Passport Application Center (Accra PAC) on February 19, 2025.
At both Offices, the Minister was given an in-depth tour of the facilities, where he was introduced to the various stages of the passport processing system, including the latest advancement in chip-embedded passport technology.
The Minister took the opportunity to interact with the staff. He, on behalf of His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama expressed appreciation for their dedication and service.
As part of his commitment to improving service delivery, the Minister outlined plans to introduce a 3-schedule shift system to clear the existing backlog of passport applications.
He also hinted at an increase in staff strength at the passport offices, upgrade and better equip the place to meet the growing demand.
Mr.Ablakwa further informed of an expansion of the office facilities, improved security, and enhanced transportation options, all aimed at ensuring staff productivity and efficiency.
In a bid to make passport services more accessible, Ablakwa announced that the government was exploring ways to subsidize the cost of obtaining a standard 32-page ordinary passport.
Additionally, he revealed plans to introduce premium passport services at a relatively higher cost, designed to offer faster processing time for those with urgent travel needs.
Addressing the passport processing timeline, the Minister stated that while the current duration had already been reduced to four weeks, efforts would be made to shorten it further, aiming for a one-week turnaround in the near future.
News
8 suspects in Ablekuma North violence charged – Police announces
The Accra Regional Police Command has announced that eight people have been charged in connection with violent incidents during the Ablekuma North Parliamentary re-run held on July 11, 2025.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, the Police said the suspects were arraigned before the Circuit Court in Accra.
The statement identified them as Mohammed Abubakari, 32, a private security officer; Tijani Mahamudu, 38, a driver; Prince Dzakpasu, 39, a businessman; Anas Mohammed, 42, an estate developer; Mohammed Hamda, 35, a mechanic; Darko Otibu Samuel, 33, a businessman; Musah Muntari, 46, a station manager; and Ali Saeed, also known as Bomba, 43, a businessman.
The statement indicated that all eight suspects pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit crime, to wit assault, and assault, contrary to Sections 23(1) and 84 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).
The Police added that the case had been adjourned to August 29, 2025, and that each accused person had been granted bail in the sum of GH₵80,000 with one surety.
According to the Police, the command remains committed to ensuring justice while maintaining peace and order.
By: Jacob Aggrey
News
Kwabena Agyepong files nomination ahead of primaries
Kwabena Agyepong has officially filed his nomination to contest for the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), becoming the first candidate to do so ahead of the party’s upcoming primaries.
Following the successful filling, Mr. Agyepong told party supporters that his vision was to build a Ghana that is “economically robust, fiscally responsible, socially cohesive, and fully accountable to its people.”
He said the country faces urgent challenges, including high unemployment, illegal mining, poor sanitation, chaotic city planning, and court congestion due to land disputes.
He warned about growing political polarization and the demoralization of young Ghanaians.
Mr. Agyepong stressed the need to restore the party and national values of service, sacrifice, and selflessness.
He called for leaders who can take tough decisions and provide real solutions for the nation.
The NPP leadership race will determine the party’s flagbearer for the next general elections, with Ing. Kwabena Agyepong’s nomination marking the official start of the contest.
By: Jacob Aggrey
