News
OSP Appeals High Court Ruling in Sarfo-Kantanka Bribery Case
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has filed an appeal challenging the decision of the High Court in Kumasi, which acquitted and discharged Alexander Kwabena Sarfo-Kantanka, President Akufo-Addo’s nominee for Municipal Chief Executive of Juaben, Ashanti Region.
Mr. Sarfo-Kantanka was seen in a widely circulated video demanding refunds from assembly members following the rejection of his nomination.
He was subsequently charged with 26 counts of corruption, alleging he paid bribes to influence the outcome.
The trial judgment, initially ready for delivery in November 2024, was delayed after the presiding judge was transferred on the scheduled date to be read. The judgment was ultimately delivered on 26 May 2025.
The Court held that the video did not establish a direct link to the alleged bribery. The OSP, disagreeing with the ruling, argues that the judgment is inconsistent with the weight of the evidence and that the trial judge erred on key legal and factual issues.
The OSP believes justice was not served and has taken steps to challenge the decision at the appellate level.
President John Dramani Mahama joined the National Chief Imam, Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, and the Muslim community at the Black Star Square for Eid ul-Fitr prayers, marking the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.
In his address, the President underscored that Eid represents not only a moment of celebration but also a call to sustain the values of discipline, sacrifice, and compassion cultivated during Ramadan. He urged Ghanaians to carry forward the spirit of the holy month in their daily interactions, promoting unity, tolerance, and mutual respect.
President Mahama reaffirmed government’s commitment to inclusive national development, emphasizing that efforts are being made to ensure that progress reaches every part of the country. He noted that national development requires a shared responsibility between government and citizens.
Highlighting Ghana’s long-standing tradition of religious harmony, the President described the nation as a shining example of peaceful coexistence and called on all citizens to safeguard this unity by rejecting division and fostering national cohesion.
The National Chief Imam commended the President for his leadership and fulfillment of commitments to the Ghanaian people, and offered prayers for his continued strength, wisdom, and success. He further called on all government appointees to support the President in advancing policies aimed at improving the lives of citizens.
The President also extended his warm wishes to all Muslims in Ghana on the occasion of Eid ul-Fitr and prayed for continued peace, stability, and prosperity for the nation.
The Government of Ghana says it will engage authorities in Burkina Faso following the West African country’s recent ban on the export of fresh tomatoes.
The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry confirmed in a press release that the ban, which took effect on March 16, 2026, has prompted Ghana to open discussions with its neighbours to find a mutually beneficial solution.
The government said the talks will involve relevant state institutions and aim to address concerns surrounding the suspension while protecting the interests of Ghanaian traders and consumers.
The ministry urged tomato traders to remain calm as efforts are underway to secure an amicable resolution.
The ministry reiterated its commitment to boosting local tomato production through the “Feed Ghana” and “Feed the Industry” programmes.
These initiatives it said are designed to increase domestic output to meet market demand and reduce reliance on imports.
By: Jacob Aggrey
