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Twenty-Three Ghanaian Referees Receive FIFA Badges for 2026

Bismarck Obeng
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Twenty-Three Ghanaian Referees Receive FIFA Badges for 2026

Ghanaian Match Officials Approved for International Duties

Twenty-three Ghanaian referees have been officially awarded FIFA badges for the 2026 football season, highlighting Ghana’s continued presence and influence in the global officiating arena. 

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Twenty-Three Ghanaian Referees Receive FIFA Badges for 2026 3

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) presented the badges at a symbolic ceremony held at the GFA Headquarters in Accra on Tuesday, January 21, 2025. The badges entitle these officials to officiate international football matches from January to December 2026. 

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Twenty-Three Ghanaian Referees Receive FIFA Badges for 2026 4

The approved group reflects Ghana’s expanding footprint across multiple formats of the game and includes 10 Centre Referees, 10 Assistant Referees, one Futsal Referee, one Beach Soccer Referee, and one Video Assistant Referee (VAR). 

Veteran official Daniel Nii Laryea tops the list, earning dual recognition as both a Centre Referee and a Video Assistant Referee — a testament to his consistency and recognition at African and international levels. The roster also features new assistant referee Richard Kwaku and Portia Oppong, who makes history as Ghana’s Beach Soccer referee on the FIFA-approved list. 

At the ceremony, GFA Vice-President Mark Addo encouraged the officials to uphold the highest standards of fairness, professionalism, and impartiality as they represent Ghana on the global stage. He also stressed the importance of maintaining world-class performance and decorum as ambassadors of Ghanaian football. 

FIFA badges are awarded annually to match officials who meet stringent performance, fitness, and technical requirements. National federations first assess their referees before forwarding their nominations to FIFA for final approval. Those who receive badges are eligible to officiate international matches and tournaments throughout the year the badge is valid. 

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NSS Ghost Names Scandal: Trial of Former Deputy Director Gifty Oware Begins January 22

Melion Spyglass
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NSS Ghost Names Scandal: Trial of Former Deputy Director Gifty Oware Begins January 22

High Court set to hear case linked to alleged payroll irregularities at NSS

The trial of former National Service Scheme (NSS) Deputy Director, Gifty Oware, in connection with the widely reported NSS ghost names scandal, is scheduled to begin on Thursday, January 22, at the High Court.

Gifty Oware is expected to face charges relating to alleged irregularities involving the inclusion of so-called ghost names on the NSS payroll, a scandal that sparked national outrage and raised serious concerns about accountability and public financial management.

Prosecutors are expected to outline allegations that the scheme led to the wrongful payment of state funds to non-existent or unqualified beneficiaries during her tenure. The case forms part of broader efforts by state authorities to address corruption and payroll fraud within public institutions.

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NSS Ghost Names Scandal: Trial of Former Deputy Director Gifty Oware Begins January 22 6

The NSS ghost names scandal previously prompted investigations into how thousands of names allegedly found their way onto the payroll system, costing the state millions of cedis and undermining public trust in the national service programme.

While Gifty Oware has consistently maintained her position regarding the allegations, the upcoming trial is expected to bring clarity as evidence is presented before the court.

The proceedings are being closely watched by the public, civil society groups, and anti-corruption advocates, as the case is seen as a key test of Ghana’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public service administration.

Ghana Police Hunt Suspect Over Alleged Boko Haram-Linked Threats

Bismarck Obeng
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Ghana Police Hunt Suspect Over Alleged Boko Haram-Linked Threats

Authorities investigate claims of violent extremist encouragement and threats

The Ghana Police Service has launched a manhunt for a man suspected of allegedly encouraging violence and making threats linked to the extremist group Boko Haram, raising serious national security concerns.

According to police sources, the suspect is being sought in connection with alleged plans to promote extremist ideology and cause harm within Ghana. Authorities say the individual is believed to have made statements and threats that suggest support for violent extremist activities.

Security agencies emphasize that investigations are ongoing and caution the public against spreading unverified information or drawing premature conclusions.

The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its commitment to maintaining national security and preventing any form of extremist activity within the country. Officials have also urged members of the public to remain calm and report any credible information that may assist ongoing investigations.

Police stress that Ghana remains a peaceful nation and that robust intelligence and security systems are in place to detect and neutralize potential threats before they materialize.

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Ghana Police Hunt Suspect Over Alleged Boko Haram-Linked Threats 8

As of now, no arrests have been announced, and the identity of the suspect has not been officially released by police. Further updates are expected as investigations progress.

Akufo-Addo Became the Problem Ghanaians Were Solving – Kwaku Bonsam

Melion Spyglass
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Akufo-Addo Became the Problem Ghanaians Were Solving – Kwaku Bonsam

Spiritual leader delivers scathing critique of former president’s leadership

Controversial spiritual leader Kwaku Bonsam has launched a sharp attack on former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, accusing him of failing to deliver on the promises that secured him power.

According to Kwaku Bonsam, Akufo-Addo once begged Ghanaians to vote for him with assurances that he would solve their problems, but instead became the very problem citizens had to contend with.

“Akufo-Addo begged Ghanaians to vote for him to solve their problems, but he was rather the problem Ghanaians were solving,” Kwaku Bonsam stated.

The outspoken traditional priest argued that the economic hardships, rising cost of living, youth unemployment, and growing public frustration experienced during Akufo-Addo’s tenure reflected a major disconnect between campaign promises and governance realities.

Kwaku Bonsam further suggested that many Ghanaians voted with hope and trust, only to be confronted with policies and decisions that worsened their living conditions rather than improving them.

His comments have sparked renewed debate on social media, with supporters and critics of the former president weighing in on whether Akufo-Addo’s administration met the expectations set during election campaigns.

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Akufo-Addo Became the Problem Ghanaians Were Solving – Kwaku Bonsam 10

While supporters of the former president argue that global economic pressures contributed significantly to Ghana’s challenges, critics insist that leadership decisions played a decisive role in the country’s struggles.

The remarks by Kwaku Bonsam add to a growing list of public criticisms aimed at Ghana’s political leadership, as the country continues to reflect on governance, accountability, and the future direction of national leadership.

Ken Ofori-Atta Finally Coming Home as U.S. Federal Court Orders His Deportation

Bismarck Obeng
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Ken Ofori-Atta Finally Coming Home as U.S. Federal Court Orders His Deportation

Court ruling clears way for former finance minister’s return to Ghana

Reports emerging indicate that a United States Federal Court Judge has ordered the deportation of former Ghanaian Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, paving the way for his return to Ghana after months of public speculation surrounding his stay abroad.

Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is finally expected to return to Ghana following a ruling by a U.S. Federal Court Judge ordering his deportation.

The development comes amid heightened political tension and public discourse over Ofori-Atta’s prolonged absence from Ghana, particularly at a time when he has remained a central figure in several ongoing accountability and governance discussions.

Sources familiar with the matter say the court’s decision effectively ends his stay in the United States, clearing all legal barriers preventing his return home. While details surrounding the deportation order remain limited, the ruling has already sparked widespread reactions across Ghana’s political and social landscape.

Ken Ofori-Atta, who served as Ghana’s Finance Minister from 2017 until his exit from office, has faced sustained criticism over Ghana’s economic downturn, debt restructuring programme, and the cost-of-living crisis that affected millions of Ghanaians during his tenure.

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Ken Ofori-Atta Finally Coming Home as U.S. Federal Court Orders His Deportation 12

His absence from the country in recent months fueled speculation, with critics accusing him of deliberately avoiding scrutiny and accountability. Calls for his return intensified following parliamentary debates, civil society pressure, and public demonstrations demanding answers over economic decisions made under his leadership.

News of the deportation order has reignited public interest, with many Ghanaians now anticipating his arrival and possible engagement with ongoing state processes.

As of now, Ghanaian authorities are yet to officially comment on the court ruling or confirm a specific date for Ken Ofori-Atta’s return. However, expectations remain high that his homecoming could mark a significant moment in Ghana’s political and accountability discourse.

JHS Student Killed in Western North After Fight Over Boyfriend

Bismarck Obeng
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JHS Student Killed in Western North After Fight Over Boyfriend

Teenage dispute at Nkwadum school turns fatal, sparking community shock

A tragic incident has rocked the Nkwadum community in the Akontombra District of the Western North Region after a 16-year-old Junior High School student was fatally stabbed during a fight with a fellow student.

A 16-year-old student of Nkwadum D/A Junior High School in the Akontombra District has lost her life following a violent altercation with another student over a boyfriend.

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JHS Student Killed in Western North After Fight Over Boyfriend 14

The deceased, identified as Akua Kumah, was allegedly stabbed in the breast by a 15-year-old JHS 2 student, Francisca Hayford, while both students were returning home from school on Monday.

According to reports from the area, the confrontation began as a misunderstanding between the two teenagers, which quickly escalated into a physical fight. During the altercation, Francisca Hayford allegedly pulled out a sharp object and stabbed Akua Kumah in the chest.

Isaac Etsie, the Assemblyman for the Nkwadum Electoral Area, confirmed the incident, stating that he received information about the fight later that evening.

“I was informed on Monday evening that two students were fighting, and during the altercation, the 15-year-old student stabbed the 16-year-old in the breast,” he said.

Akua Kumah was rushed to the Sewi Nsawora Health Centre but was pronounced dead on arrival. A physician assistant at the facility, Charles Kwabena Amoako, confirmed that the cause of death was a stab wound to the chest which led to severe bleeding.

The body of the deceased has since been transported to the Sefwi-Wiawso Government Hospital for an autopsy.

Meanwhile, the suspect, Francisca Hayford, is currently in police custody at Sefwi-Akontombra, where she is assisting with investigations. Police say further action will be taken after investigations are completed.

The tragic incident has left residents of Nkwadum in shock, with many calling for increased counselling, discipline, and conflict-resolution education in schools to prevent such devastating outcomes in the future.

Veteran Ghanaian Gospel Icon Yaw Sarpong Passes Away

Bismarck Obeng
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Veteran Ghanaian Gospel Icon Yaw Sarpong Passes Away

Legendary Gospel Musician Dies at 66, Leaving Enduring Legacy in Ghanaian Music

Veteran Ghanaian gospel musician and songwriter Yaw Sarpong has passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at the age of 66. The news of his death was confirmed by his manager, Nana Poku Ashis, as reported by multiple Ghanaian news outlets. 

Sarpong, the founder and leader of the Asomafo gospel group, died at Emena Hospital in Kumasi after a period of ongoing health struggles that saw him step back from public life in recent years. Details surrounding the precise cause of death have not yet been publicly disclosed. 

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Veteran Ghanaian Gospel Icon Yaw Sarpong Passes Away 16

The veteran musician was widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in contemporary Ghanaian gospel music, known for his inspiring leadership and soul-stirring worship songs. Through Yaw Sarpong & Asomafo, he helped shape the sound of modern Akan gospel music, producing timeless hits such as Wo Haw Ne Hwan, Tie Obiaa, Aduro Yesu, and Awurade Kasa — songs that remain fixtures in church services across the country. 

In 2025, he was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards in recognition of his profound impact on Ghana’s music industry. 

His passing comes only weeks after the death of Maame Tiwaa, a key member of the Asomafo group whose soulful vocals helped define the band’s sound for decades. 

Yaw Sarpong’s legacy extends beyond music; his work helped elevate gospel music as a cultural force in Ghana and inspired generations of musicians and worshippers alike. 

Quick Facts

Name: Yaw Sarpong

Occupation: Gospel Musician, Songwriter

Group: Yaw Sarpong & Asomafo

Date of Death: January 20, 2026

Age: 66

Place of Death: Emena Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana

Notable Songs: Wo Haw Ne Hwan, Tie Obiaa, Aduro Yesu, Awurade Kasa Awards: Lifetime Achievement Award (Telecel Ghana Music Awards 2025)

Beautiful Serwaa Amihere Bursts into Laughter After Dr. Likee’s Jokes

Bismarck Obeng
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Beautiful Serwaa Amihere Bursts into Laughter After Dr. Likee’s Jokes

Ghanaian TV Personality Serwaa Amihere Shares a Joyful Moment with Dr. Likee

Beautiful Ghanaian media personality Serwaa Amihere was recently caught in an uncontrollable burst of laughter after being pleasantly surprised by comedian Dr. Likee. Known for his witty and relatable jokes, Dr. Likee managed to bring a moment of pure joy to the popular broadcaster, leaving her visibly amused and entertained.

The lighthearted encounter quickly went viral on social media, with fans expressing delight at seeing a more playful side of Serwaa Amihere. Many commented on how refreshing it was to witness celebrities in genuine moments of laughter, proving that even public figures need times of fun and relaxation.

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Beautiful Serwaa Amihere Bursts into Laughter After Dr. Likee’s Jokes 18

This cheerful interaction highlights the positive impact of humor in everyday life. Dr. Likee’s talent for connecting with people through comedy continues to resonate widely, while Serwaa Amihere’s infectious laughter reminded everyone why she’s a beloved personality in Ghanaian media.

Fans across platforms have shared clips of the incident, tagging friends and encouraging them to embrace laughter as a form of relief and happiness. Moments like these reinforce the power of joy, making social media a lighter space amidst daily news and updates.

Brahim Díaz Apologises After Heartbreaking AFCON Final Penalty Miss

Ghana Media
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Brahim Díaz Apologises After Heartbreaking AFCON Final Penalty Miss

“My soul hurts” – Moroccan star takes full responsibility after loss to Senegal

Breaking News: Moroccan international and Real Madrid forward Brahim Díaz has issued an emotional public statement following his missed penalty in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final, a moment that proved pivotal in Morocco’s 1–0 defeat to Senegal. 

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Brahim Díaz Apologises After Heartbreaking AFCON Final Penalty Miss 20

In a heartfelt message posted on social media, Díaz expressed deep sorrow and took full responsibility for the outcome. “My soul hurts,” he wrote, acknowledging the pain of letting down supporters who believed in the team’s historic dream of lifting the continental title. 

The 26‑year‑old explained that the love and support he received from Moroccan fans throughout the tournament gave him strength, but that the wound from this loss would not heal easily. He also apologized “from the bottom of my heart” to everyone affected by the heartbreaking result. 

Despite the setback, Díaz vowed to keep pushing forward—not for himself, but “for everyone who believed in me and for everyone who suffered with me.” He pledged to one day repay the love and become a source of pride for the Moroccan people. 

The penalty miss came after a highly controversial moment late in the final, where Senegal briefly walked off the pitch in protest before the spot‑kick was taken. After missing his chance, Morocco went on to concede in extra time, giving Senegal their second AFCON title in history. 

Key Points

Brahim Díaz apologised after a crucial penalty miss in the AFCON final against Senegal.  He accepted full responsibility and admitted it will be hard to recover emotionally.  Díaz wrote that he will continue to push forward for fans and his fellow Moroccans.  Morocco’s title dream ended with a 1–0 extra‑time loss in a final marked by controversy.  

BREAKING: Trump Links Greenland Ambitions to Nobel Peace Prize Snub in Letter to Norway

Bismarck Obeng
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BREAKING: Trump Links Greenland Ambitions to Nobel Peace Prize Snub in Letter to Norway

U.S. President Donald Trump claims failure to receive Nobel Peace Prize justifies Greenland focus

U.S. President Donald J. Trump has reportedly sent a letter to Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre linking his perceived failure to receive the Nobel Peace Prize to a renewed U.S. focus on Greenland. The letter, confirmed by Støre’s office, has sparked international debate and raised tensions with NATO allies.

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BREAKING: Trump Links Greenland Ambitions to Nobel Peace Prize Snub in Letter to Norway 22

In the letter, Trump wrote that Norway’s decision not to award him the Nobel Peace Prize for “having stopped 8 Wars PLUS” freed him from thinking “purely of Peace,” allowing him to prioritize “what is good and proper for the United States of America.” He further argued that Denmark cannot protect Greenland from Russia or China and questioned Denmark’s sovereignty over the territory, stating, “There are no written documents, it’s only that a boat landed there hundreds of years ago, but we had boats landing there, also.”

Trump emphasized his contributions to NATO, claiming he had “done more for NATO than any other person since its founding,” and suggested that NATO should reciprocate by supporting U.S. strategic interests, particularly regarding Greenland. He concluded with a provocative statement: “The World is not secure unless we have Complete and Total Control of Greenland.”

Norway’s Response

Prime Minister Støre confirmed receipt of the letter, emphasizing that Norway does not control Nobel Peace Prize decisions—the Nobel Committee operates independently. He urged de-escalation of any rhetoric that could destabilize international relations. Denmark and other NATO allies have rejected Trump’s claims, reaffirming Greenland’s sovereignty under Danish governance.

Global Reactions

The letter has triggered concerns among European nations and NATO members about U.S. intentions in the Arctic region. Analysts note that Greenland’s strategic location makes it central to Arctic security, particularly in the context of Russian and Chinese activities. The letter has also sparked debate over the intersection of personal grievances and national security decisions.

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