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Ghana’s Supreme Court Upholds Controversial Anti-LGBTQ Bill

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Ghana’s Supreme Court has upheld the controversial Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, rejecting two bids to overturn it. The bill, which severely curtails LGBTQ rights, was approved by Ghana’s Parliament in February and has since sparked international condemnation, particularly from human rights groups and western countries.

The legislation mandates jail terms of six months to three years for individuals found engaging in LGBTQ sex, a move that has garnered significant public support within the conservative country. However, the bill has faced criticism from the global community, including the United States, and raised concerns within Ghana’s finance ministry over the potential risk of losing billions of dollars in World Bank funding.

The court’s ruling, delivered by judge Avril Lovelace-Johnson, emphasized that the bill cannot be acted upon until it receives ratification from the outgoing president, Nana Akufo-Addo, who is set to step down on January 7 after serving two terms in office. Akufo-Addo has stated that he would wait for the Supreme Court’s ruling before making a decision on whether to sign the bill into law.

Judge Lovelace-Johnson clarified, “Until there is presidential assent to the bill, there is no act of which the Supreme Court will use its supervisory jurisdiction to overturn.” The decision follows legal challenges from Ghanaian broadcaster Richard Dela-Sky and university researcher Amanda Odoi, who questioned the constitutionality of the bill.

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West Africa

Randy Abbey’s COCOBOD Appointment Marks a New Era for Ghana’s Cocoa Industry

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The appointment of Randy Abbey as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) by President John Dramani Mahama has ignited widespread optimism within the cocoa industry.
Stakeholders see this leadership transition as a defining moment for Ghana’s cocoa sector, one that could reshape policies, empower farmers, and reinforce the country’s position as a global cocoa powerhouse.
The Cocoa Farmers Alliance Association of Africa (COFAAA) has been among the most vocal in welcoming the appointment. In a statement signed by its President, Comrade Adeola Adegoke; Public Relations Officer, Nana Yaw Reuben; and Secretary, Nabyoullah Dosso, the association lauded Abbey’s expertise and vision.
“This appointment comes at a crucial time for Ghanaian cocoa farmers. We believe Mr. Abbey’s leadership will bring innovative policies that enhance sustainability, productivity, and farmer welfare,” COFAAA’s statement read.

Ghana, the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, is at a crossroads. Challenges such as climate change, fluctuating global prices, and the need for greater local value addition require dynamic leadership and forward-thinking policies.
Abbey’s tenure is expected to prioritize solutions that not only secure fair pricing for farmers but also promote sustainable farming practices and industry modernization.

His appointment also comes amid renewed global focus on Africa’s role in the cocoa value chain.
The recent visit of ICCO Executive Director Mitchel Arrion to Yaoundé, Cameroon, for the 111th Ordinary Session of the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) highlighted the continent’s collective push for better conditions for cocoa farmers.
COFAAA and other industry leaders have pledged their full support to Abbey, stressing the importance of partnerships, innovation, and policies that put farmers at the center of the industry’s growth.

As Abbey steps into this pivotal role, the expectations are high. His leadership will be measured not just by Ghana’s production output but by the tangible benefits felt by the farmers who form the backbone of the industry.
“We are eager to collaborate and drive meaningful change that ensures cocoa farmers get the recognition, support, and opportunities they deserve,” COFAAA reaffirmed.
Abbey’s tenure could mark a turning point for Ghana’s cocoa sector—one that moves beyond raw exports to a more value-driven, farmer-focused, and globally competitive industry. His ability to navigate these challenges and opportunities will define the next chapter of Ghana’s cocoa legacy.

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West Africa

Obi Celebrates Mahama’s Return as Ghana’s President, Advocates for African Unity

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John Dramani Mahama

Nigerian statesman and former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has congratulated Ghana’s President, John Dramani Maham, on his re-election and inauguration for another term in office.
In a statement issued via his X handle, Obi hailed Mahama’s victory in Ghana’s December 7, 2024, election as a resounding mandate for national renewal and inclusive governance.
Obi praised the Ghanaian leader’s triumph as a reflection of the people’s yearning for progress, stability, and development. He urged Mahama to prioritize policies that promote equity, accountability, and economic resilience, ensuring the welfare of all Ghanaians.
“May this new chapter be defined by peace, prosperity, and the fulfillment of Ghana’s collective aspirations,” Obi stated. He emphasized that Mahama’s leadership should inspire the rest of Africa to pursue unity, growth, and sustainable development.
Political analysts have interpreted Obi’s message as a call for closer collaboration among African nations to address shared challenges, including insecurity, poverty, and economic disparities.
Obi further invoked the legacy of Ghana’s founding father, Kwame Nkrumah, urging Mahama to uphold the Pan-African vision of integration and continental progress.
Observers note that the bond between Obi and Mahama symbolizes a shift toward stronger West African cooperation amid mounting socio-economic and security concerns.
Ghanaians now look to Mahama’s administration to deliver on campaign promises, particularly in areas such as job creation, education, and infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Obi’s remarks have sparked widespread praise across social media, with many commending his statesmanship and Pan-African outlook.
As Mahama begins his new term, all eyes remain on how his leadership will address Ghana’s pressing needs while serving as a beacon of progress for Africa’s future.

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John Mahama Re-Elected as Ghana’s President, Bawumia Concedes Defeat

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Former Ghanaian President, John Dramani Mahama has made a stunning political comeback, securing victory in the nation’s fiercely contested 2024 presidential election.

The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate edged out his main rival, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, the presidential candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In a heartfelt concession speech delivered on Sunday, Mr. Bawumia acknowledged the NDC’s victory, citing internal data that indicated Mr. Mahama had won both the presidential and parliamentary polls.
“The people of Ghana have spoken, and I congratulate Mr. Mahama on his victory,” Bawumia stated.

Saturday’s election saw high voter turnout across the country as Ghanaians cast their ballots in what many described as one of the most competitive elections in recent history.

Although the Electoral Commission of Ghana has yet to officially declare the final results, Mr. Mahama’s win has been widely celebrated by his supporters, signaling the NDC’s return to power after losing the presidency in 2016.

John Mahama previously served as president from 2012 to 2017 and is expected to focus on addressing Ghana’s economic challenges and fostering unity in his new term.

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