28th August News Headlines: IEA Rejects $1.7bn GoldBod Loss Claim as Parliament Approves Ayariga and Zenator as Ministers
IEA: $1.7bn GoldBod “Loss” Is Mostly Valuation, Not Real Money Lost
The Institute of Economic Affairs has strongly disputed the widely reported $1.7 billion GoldBod loss figure, insisting that up to 90% represents foreign-exchange valuation differences rather than actual cash losses. AFAG has meanwhile demanded a full forensic audit of GoldBod’s spending, including a claimed GH¢78.6 million expenditure.
2. Ministerial Approvals
Parliament Approves Mahama Ayariga and Zenator Agyeman-Rawlings
Storyline: Parliament has confirmed Mahama Ayariga as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs and Zenator Agyeman-Rawlings as a minister. In a notable cross-party moment, Ayariga described Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin as “a paragon of honesty, fortitude and integrity.”
3. NPP Leadership Race
Fresh Nominations as Nana B and John Boadu File for Top NPP Positions
Storyline: Nana B has filed to contest the position of 1st Vice Chairman, declaring himself “the right man at the right time.” John Boadu has also submitted his nomination for National Chairman, while youth leader Abanga has promised to deliver four million youth votes for Dr Bawumia in 2028.
4. Supreme Court Nominations
Headline: Appointments Committee Clears Three SC Nominees as Minority Boycotts
Storyline: The Appointments Committee has recommended three Supreme Court nominees for approval. The Minority walked out of the vetting process, accusing the Majority of rushing the exercise.
5. Other Major Stories
President Mahama cuts sod for a major multi-tiered car park and airport hotels complex, as well as other airport expansion projects.
Local Government Minister-designate says improved property rate collection can generate GH¢20 billion yearly for local assemblies.
GES recruitment scandal: successful applicants allegedly asked to pay GH¢18,000 for appointment letters; two people arrested.
Church leaders warn that galamsey has become “normalised” and is now seen by some as youth employment.
