Six civil society organizations and an individual have filed a lawsuit at the Accra High Court to halt mining activities in Ghana's forest reserves, challenging the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2022 (L.I. 2462). The plaintiffs argue that the law is inconsistent with existing environmental policies and the 1992 Constitution. The lawsuit targets government officials and appointees, including members of the New Patriotic Party, who have been implicated in acquiring mining licenses. The case seeks to annul L.I. 2462 and prevent further mining activities in forest reserves, highlighting concerns over environmental degradation and legal inconsistencies.

The article investigates the involvement of politically connected individuals and companies in mining activities within Ghana's forest reserves, highlighting the environmental damage and legal controversies surrounding these activities. It reveals that several companies, owned by politicians from the ruling New Patriotic Party, have applied for or been granted mining leases in protected areas, despite the environmental regulations. The article also discusses the role of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Forestry Commission in facilitating these activities, drawing criticism from environmental activists and organizations like A Rocha Ghana. The findings suggest a conflict of interest and potential exploitation of natural resources for personal gain, raising concerns about the future of Ghana's forest reserves.

The Minerals Commission removed critical information about mining companies from its website following revelations by The Fourth Estate about political figures, including NPP members, obtaining mining concessions in Ghana's forest reserves. The report highlights the role of Francis Owusu-Akyaw, a political candidate, in securing mining licenses for multiple companies, raising concerns about political influence and transparency. The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative emphasizes the need for clear licensing procedures to prevent conflicts of interest. The article underscores the importance of disclosing politically exposed persons in the mining sector to mitigate corruption risks.

The Fourth Estate has filed a Right to Information request to the Ghanaian Presidency seeking details on mining concessions granted in forest reserves designated as Globally Significant Biodiversity Areas (GSBAs). Despite international commitments to protect these areas, at least four companies have been granted mining leases, raising concerns about environmental impact and transparency. The Minerals Commission has not disclosed key information, and additional applications for mining licenses are pending. Environmental advocates, including Daryl Bosu of Arocha Ghana, criticize the concessions as a betrayal of future generations and environmental stewardship.

The Scholarships Secretariat in Ghana has been criticized for mismanaging public funds by awarding scholarships to politically connected individuals and their relatives, contrary to its mission to support needy students. In 2019, Desmond Asare's wife received a spousal allowance, while Chelsea Naa Arday was funded to study Luxury and Fashion Management abroad, raising questions about the prudence of such allocations. The Right to Information Commission mandated the release of this data, revealing that GHS437.5 million was spent on scholarships over two years, with some beneficiaries receiving multiple awards.

An Accra High Court dismissed the case filed by Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) against The Fourth Estate, a project of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), for alleged defamatory reports. The court ruled that The Fourth Estate, not being a legal entity, could not be sued, and awarded costs against SML for failing to verify this before filing the lawsuit. The investigative report in question had exposed false claims by SML regarding revenue losses it purportedly helped the state avoid. The court allowed SML to amend its suit to include MFWA instead of The Fourth Estate.

President Nana Akufo-Addo's claim that 600,000 self-employed individuals registered for SSNIT contributions in 2023 is fact-checked and found to be completely false. Data from SSNIT and the National Pension Regulatory Authority indicate significantly lower registration numbers, contradicting the President's statement. The article underscores the discrepancy between the President's claim and the actual figures, highlighting the low registration rates among self-employed workers.

Ghana's Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, likened his role to that of a trotro mate, attempting to distance himself from the economic failures of the Akufo-Addo administration as he campaigns for the presidency. Despite his claims of being merely an advisor, the article criticizes his significant role in the economic downturn, highlighting issues such as increased borrowing, high taxes, and financial mismanagement. The piece questions his credibility and leadership, suggesting that his reluctance to accept responsibility undermines public trust and raises doubts about his ability to address future economic challenges.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP flagbearer, claimed that the government created 2.1 million jobs between 2017 and 2022, citing SSNIT data. However, Fact-Check Ghana's investigation revealed inconsistencies in the government's employment statistics. SSNIT data showed only 1,542,592 new contributors, falling short of Bawumia's claim. The article highlights discrepancies in job creation figures provided by various government officials, questioning the accuracy of the Vice President's statements.