General News
Mahama Must Be Commended for Upholding Ghanaian Tradition – Fio Richardson Commey
President John Dramani Mahama must be commended for his decision to appoint substantive replacements for the late Dr Edward Omane Boamah and Alhaji Dr Murtala Muhammed exactly one year after their death in the tragic August 6, 2025 helicopter crash, according to Fio Richardson Commey, Special Aide to the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts.
Speaking to KPDonline, Mr Commey said the President’s decision to observe a full year before permanently filling the two key government positions reflects a profound alignment with Ghanaian cultural values surrounding mourning, remembrance and closure.
He argued that by allowing the one-year period to elapse before making permanent appointments, President Mahama demonstrated respect for the deceased statesmen, their families and the wider Ghanaian society.
According to him, the decision supports the cultural significance of the one-year cycle, commonly associated with ‘Afehyia’ in some Ghanaian traditions, as a period after which heavy mourning formally comes to an end and families are able to take major decisions concerning leadership, property and other responsibilities.
Mr. Commey explained that within Akan traditional settings, major family and leadership decisions, including the appointment of successors to vacant stools or family headships, have traditionally been deferred until final mourning rites have been observed.
He said this practice is intended to provide a period of closure, allow families to honour the departed and ensure that important decisions are not made while emotions surrounding the death remain intense.
He also pointed to Northern and Islamic traditions, noting that although Islamic practice requires burial to take place shortly after death, commemorative prayers and the final organisation of responsibilities and estate matters can also provide important points of closure for families.
For Mr. Commey, these cultural practices demonstrate that the passage of time following the death of a prominent person can carry social and spiritual significance beyond the administrative considerations of government.
He maintained that across several Ghanaian ethnic groups, immediately replacing a prominent person who dies while serving the state could be perceived as failing to give adequate respect to the deceased.
“Waiting for the one-year mark shows that the vacuum left behind was treated with sacred weight rather than as a mere administrative inconvenience,” he argued.
Acting Ministers Were Not a Sign of Weakness
Mr Commey further defended the use of acting ministers during the one-year period, rejecting arguments that the arrangement created a governance vacuum or unnecessarily stretched the administration.
He said temporary caretakers have long existed within Ghanaian traditional governance systems and cited arrangements such as the ‘Gbong Lana’ in Dagbon and regencies associated with Akan stools as examples of temporary leadership mechanisms designed to preserve continuity during periods of transition.
According to him, the use of acting ministers allowed government operations to continue while permanent decisions were deferred.
“The acting ministers successfully held the fort, proving that the state apparatus was robust enough to handle the transition,” he said.
Mr. Commey therefore described claims of a governance vacuum as unfounded, arguing that the system continued to function while the nation and the affected families observed the period of mourning.
He said the arrangement demonstrated that temporary leadership does not necessarily constitute weakness but can instead provide institutional stability while allowing society to go through an important transition.
A Humanised Approach to Governance
Mr. Commey further argued that President Mahama’s decision humanised the state by showing that public officials are not merely occupants of political offices but human beings whose lives and contributions deserve recognition after their death.
He said waiting until the one-year anniversary before permanently assigning the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Environment portfolios gave the nation and the families of the deceased statesmen an opportunity to reach a significant point of closure.
“Delaying replacement until the grieving nation and families reached the one-year closure point therefore bestows fitting dignity upon statesmen who died serving the Republic,” he said.
He added that such an approach could strengthen public trust and loyalty, which he believes are more valuable to long-term political stability than hurried political appointments.
Call to Depoliticise the Decision
The Special Aide to the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts also called on the public to avoid viewing President Mahama’s decision purely through a partisan political lens.
He urged cultural advocates and members of the public who support the integration of Ghanaian customs and traditions into modern governance to recognise what he described as the President’s acknowledgement of the country’s cultural heritage.
Mr Commey said President Mahama should instead be appreciated for prioritising Ghanaian heritage and cultural considerations over political expediency by waiting exactly one year before making the substantive appointments.
He stressed that Ghana’s constitutional democracy should not be viewed solely as a legal and administrative system but also as a moral community shaped by the values and traditions of its people.
According to him, the authority of a constitution ultimately depends on the confidence and moral legitimacy that citizens attach to the leadership of the state.
“A constitution only has power if the people believe in the moral authority of their leader,” he said, arguing that Ghanaian governance should seek to harmonise modern constitutional principles with indigenous values rather than treating culture as something separate from public administration.
Cultural Precedent for Future Leaders
Mr. Commey concluded that President Mahama’s decision could establish a culturally significant precedent for future governments.
He maintained that modern democracy does not necessarily have to be detached from indigenous wisdom and that governance can function effectively while respecting deeply rooted cultural values.
He said the President’s action reinforces Ghana’s national identity and demonstrates that governance can be more effective when it takes into account the societal values of the people it serves.
“What President Mahama has done sets a culturally dignified precedent for future leaders,” Mr. Commey said.
The comments come as President Mahama names substantive replacements for the late Dr Edward Omane Boamah and Alhaji Dr Murtala Muhammed one year after the August 6, 2025 helicopter tragedy that claimed their lives.
The Northern Regional Police Command has arrested five suspects and recovered firearms, ammunition, suspected narcotics, cash and other exhibits during an intelligence-led operation at the Aboabo Scrap Area in Tamale.
The operation, conducted on Monday, September 21, 2026, was carried out by the Regional Special Operations Team, popularly known as RED MARIA, following what the police described as credible intelligence concerning suspected drug-related and other criminal activities in the area.
The suspects have been identified as Ibrahim Issahaku, 39; Mohamed John, 28; Mohamed Nawas, 25; Mohamed Osman Awal, 41; and Kwame Boateng, 28.
According to the police, Mohamed John and Mohamed Nawas are suspected drug users, while Kwame Boateng is suspected of dealing in narcotics.
Police also identified Mohamed Osman Awal as the owner of the scrap business at the location and alleged that he had been harbouring suspected drug peddlers on the premises.
Pistols, ammunition and suspected drugs uncovered
A search of Ibrahim Issahaku’s residence reportedly led to the recovery of two foreign-made pistols, two rounds of 9mm ammunition, a parcel of suspected Indian hemp and GH¢1,880 in cash.
Police also found GH¢18,825 concealed inside Kwame Boateng’s motorcycle, which they suspect could be proceeds from the sale of narcotic drugs.
The operation further yielded 123 wraps of suspected Indian hemp, 12 sachets of 1mg Rohypnol, seven sachets of 250mg Tramadol and 111 wraps of suspected “ashes”.
Three motorbikes were also seized during the operation.
The arrests and recoveries have heightened attention on criminal activities around the Aboabo area, where police have previously conducted operations targeting suspected drug activities and other offences.
The five suspects, together with the recovered exhibits, have since been handed over to the Regional Drug Law Enforcement Unit (RDLEU) for further investigation and necessary action.
The Northern Regional Police Command has reiterated its commitment to intelligence-led operations aimed at disrupting drug trafficking, drug use and related criminal activities in the region.
The suspects remain under investigation, and the allegations against them have not yet been tested in court.
US President Donald Trump has called on countries that are members of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to withdraw from the institution, describing it as a “rogue” tribunal with no jurisdiction over the United States.
Addressing the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, Trump said the United States would not allow its service members or other Americans to be subjected to investigations or trials by the ICC.
“The United States is equally opposed to the out-of-control institution known as the International Criminal Court,” Trump said.
“We will never allow U.S. service members or anyone else to be investigated or given show trials by an anti-American tribunal with no jurisdiction over us.”
He subsequently urged ICC member states to leave the court.
“I call on all nations that are members of the ICC to officially resign from this rogue institution immediately,” he said.
Trump also criticised UN human rights officials over their scrutiny of US policies on immigration and transgender-related issues.
He accused international human rights bodies of devoting attention to US domestic policies while, in his view, failing to adequately address persecution of Christians and human rights abuses in countries with repressive governments.
“It is equally unacceptable that, with all the genuine atrocities in the world, the UN’s top human rights officials spend their time criticizing the United States for protecting our children from transgender mutilation and enforcing our immigration laws,” Trump said.
He also highlighted what he described as widespread persecution of Christians around the world.
“Christians are being persecuted all over the world,” he said, arguing that greater international attention should be directed towards such cases and abuses committed by repressive regimes.
Trump further criticised calls for the United States to ease its immigration restrictions, linking the issue to concerns over gangs and criminal networks entering the country.
By Angel No Lie | KPD Online | September 22, 2026
NEW YORK — Tensions across the Middle East are casting a long shadow over the opening of the United Nations General Assembly, as world leaders gather in New York against the backdrop of continuing conflict involving Iran, Israel, Gaza, Lebanon and Yemen.
The high-level general debate of the 81st UN General Assembly opened on Tuesday, September 22, with heads of state and government arriving for a week of speeches, diplomatic meetings and negotiations. The UN says the high-level week runs from September 22 to 29, with the general debate scheduled for September 22–26 and September 28.
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Iran war dominates diplomatic agenda
The continuing conflict between the United States and Iran is among the most pressing issues confronting delegates.
U.S. President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian are both attending the General Assembly, creating an opportunity for indirect diplomatic contacts even though the two leaders are not currently scheduled for a direct meeting. Reuters reports that Iranian officials have indicated that Tehran’s delegation has authority to revive negotiations, while Washington has also signaled openness to diplomacy.
The possibility of renewed negotiations comes as the dispute over the Strait of Hormuz remains a major regional concern. Iranian officials have linked reopening the strategic waterway to demands for reduced U.S. military pressure and the lifting of blockades on Iranian ports, according to Reuters.
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Gaza and Israel-Palestinian conflict remain central
The war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza are also expected to feature prominently during the General Assembly.
The UN’s latest humanitarian reporting says civilians in Gaza continue to face widespread destruction, displacement, shortages of essential supplies and significant humanitarian needs. The organization has called for greater humanitarian access and continued implementation of a Gaza peace plan.
The Palestinian issue is also generating diplomatic controversy around this year’s gathering. Al-Monitor reported that the United States denied visas to Palestinian officials seeking to attend the summit, while Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is expected to address the General Assembly virtually.
Meanwhile, France, Britain and Canada are hosting a high-level meeting focused on advancing a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians.
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Yemen and Gulf security add to concerns
The situation in Yemen is another major source of regional tension. Renewed fighting involving Houthi forces and Saudi-supported forces has added pressure to an already fragile security environment, while attacks and threats involving important maritime routes have raised concerns about regional trade and energy supplies.
Gulf Arab states are also seeking discussions with Washington over regional security. According to Reuters, Saudi Arabia is looking for renewed U.S. military support amid the conflict involving Iran and Houthi forces in Yemen.
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Lebanon and wider regional instability
Israel’s conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon is also among the regional issues expected to receive attention during the UN meetings. The Associated Press reported that the wars involving Iran, Yemen, Gaza and Lebanon are dominating discussions as leaders gather in New York.
The overlapping conflicts have created a diplomatic environment in which developments in one part of the region can quickly affect neighboring countries, maritime routes and international energy markets.
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A critical moment for diplomacy
The gathering is taking place at a particularly difficult moment for the international system. Nearly 130 heads of state and government are expected in New York, according to Reuters, while the United Nations itself faces questions about its ability to manage major international crises.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has repeatedly called for de-escalation in the Middle East and emphasized the need to protect civilians and maintain humanitarian access. In a September 16 briefing, he said de-escalation must be the priority and called for humanitarian operations to proceed safely.
The General Assembly therefore provides a major diplomatic platform for governments to present their positions while creating opportunities for private negotiations on the conflicts.
What to watch
Several developments will be closely watched during the UN meetings:
- U.S.-Iran diplomacy: Whether indirect contacts develop into renewed negotiations.
- Strait of Hormuz: Whether diplomatic efforts can reduce tensions surrounding the strategic shipping route.
- Gaza: Whether discussions produce progress on humanitarian access and the wider peace process.
- Israel-Palestinian diplomacy: Whether international efforts to advance a two-state framework gain momentum.
- Yemen and Gulf security: Whether regional governments can prevent further escalation and protect key maritime routes.
With the region facing several interconnected conflicts, this year’s General Assembly is becoming an important forum for both public confrontation and behind-the-scenes diplomacy. Whether those diplomatic efforts can translate into concrete steps toward de-escalation remains uncertain, but the presence of so many regional and global leaders provides an opportunity for negotiations at a time of heightened tensions.
Entertainment
Paramount Reaches Deal With 12 States, Removing Major Hurdle to Warner Bros. Acquisition
By Angel No Lie | KPD Online | September 22, 2026
LOS ANGELES — September 22, 2026 — Paramount Skydance has reached a settlement with California and 11 other U.S. states, resolving a major legal challenge to its proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery and clearing a key obstacle to the roughly $110 billion transaction.
The agreement ends an antitrust lawsuit filed in July by a coalition of state attorneys general. The states had argued that combining Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery could reduce competition across movie production, television, streaming and cable markets.
Conditions attached to the settlement
Under the agreement, the combined company will face several court-enforceable commitments over a period of up to five years.
Among the most significant provisions is a requirement to maintain a minimum level of theatrical movie production. The company must release at least 30 films annually during the first two years, rising to 32 films a year for the following three years. Financial penalties can apply if the commitments are not met.
Paramount has also committed to spending an additional $300 million annually on domestic film production, representing at least $1.5 billion in additional investment over five years. The settlement also establishes a $47.5 million fund for workers affected by the transaction.
The agreement includes provisions concerning cable negotiations and establishes measures intended to protect editorial independence at CBS News and CNN, two major news organizations that would come under the same corporate ownership following the transaction.
A major change for Hollywood
If completed, the acquisition would combine Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery’s extensive entertainment operations, including the Paramount and Warner Bros. film studios, CBS and CNN, and streaming services Paramount+ and HBO Max.
The Justice Department had previously cleared the transaction, while the lawsuit by the 12 states became a significant remaining obstacle. The settlement is subject to court approval.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta, whose office led the states’ legal challenge, said the settlement should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the merger. The states had originally sought to prevent the transaction, arguing that it could affect competition and consumers.
Paramount CEO David Ellison has described the merger as beneficial to consumers and the entertainment industry. The company is now moving toward completion of the acquisition, although the settlement’s court approval remains an important procedural step.
The proposed transaction would mark one of the largest consolidations in the modern U.S. entertainment industry, bringing two major Hollywood studios and their television, streaming and news operations under a single corporate structure.
By Angel No Lie | KPD Online | September 22, 2026
LONDON — British prosecutors have brought the first criminal case in the United Kingdom linked to the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, a landmark development in efforts to hold suspected perpetrators accountable decades after the atrocities occurred.
The accused, Vincent Brown, a 65-year-old man originally from Rwanda, faces one count related to genocide and six counts related to murder as crimes against humanity. Prosecutors allege that he directed and encouraged acts of violence in Kigali during the opening days of the genocide in April 1994. Brown denies the allegations.
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According to British authorities, the investigation began in 2019 following cooperation between UK investigators and Rwandan officials. The case was led by the Counter Terrorism Policing War Crimes Team, which examines allegations of genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes connected to suspects living in the United Kingdom.
The 1994 genocide remains one of the darkest episodes in modern history. More than 800,000 people, primarily Tutsis and moderate Hutus, were killed during approximately 100 days of violence that followed the assassination of Rwandan President Juvénal Habyarimana.
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British officials described the prosecution as a significant milestone, noting that the UK has long investigated allegations connected to the genocide but had never previously brought charges in a domestic court. Authorities also confirmed that investigations involving several other individuals remain ongoing.
The case is expected to attract international attention as survivors, legal experts, and human rights organizations continue to monitor global efforts to prosecute genocide-related crimes regardless of where suspects are located.
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