Iran closes Strait of Hormuz, demands US lift blockade on Iranian ports
via GhanaWeb1 min read
Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor, stating it will remain shut until the United States lifts its blockade on Iranian ports. This decision escalates tensions over the waterway, through which approximately a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas is transported. The move reverses a recent development from April 17, 2026, when Iran had indicated the strait was open for commercial shipping following a ceasefire arrangement. This closure is expected to increase uncertainty in global energy markets, which have already seen fluctuating oil prices due to shifting signals on maritime access and security in the Gulf. Maritime tracking data previously showed reduced vessel movement through the strait due to security concerns, with many companies remaining cautious despite earlier claims of reopening.
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The Deputy Attorney General, Dr Justice Srem-Sai, has affirmed his office's commitment to securing a conviction against former National Signals Bureau Director-General, Kwabena Adu-Boahene. Adu-Boahene and his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, face charges including causing financial loss to the state, money laundering, and theft, in connection with an alleged GH¢49 million cybersecurity contract scandal. Defence counsel Samuel Atta Akyea stated that their team will rely strictly on verifiable facts. Despite criticism regarding prosecution delays, Dr Srem-Sai expressed confidence in gathering sufficient evidence for a conviction, as reported by TV3. This case is part of broader scrutiny on the government's anti-corruption efforts.
Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament, has called on judges to exercise sound judgment, maintain independence, and strictly adhere to their constitutional oath when performing their duties. In a post on his X page on Friday, April 17, 2026, he advised judges against succumbing to external pressure or "unseen instructions." He emphasized that their decisions become public record and will be judged by posterity, urging them to apply their legal knowledge and common sense, guided by Article 296. Afenyo-Markin also encouraged judges to remain apolitical, stating, "The tables will turn in 2028. For your own peace, stay away from politics. Let politicians do their politics and simply observe." These comments follow public discussion regarding the proceedings involving Abubakar Yakubu, also known as Baba Amando, the Sunyani East Constituency Communication Officer of the NPP. Baba Amando was remanded by an Accra Circuit Court for allegedly sharing derogatory images of President John Dramani Mahama and government members on social media, but has since been granted bail of GH¢30,000 with two sureties, and is required to report to the police every two weeks.
Must ReadPaul Twum-Barimah, a lawyer and former Member of Parliament for Dormaa East, has defended a High Court ruling that restricts the Office of the Special Prosecutor OSP from independent prosecution. He asserts this decision is based on constitutional law, not judicial error. In a Facebook post on Friday, April 17, 2026, Twum-Barimah highlighted Article 88 of the 1992 Constitution, which vests prosecutorial authority in the Attorney-General, meaning the OSP requires proper authorization to initiate prosecutions. He also referenced Article 130, which gives the Supreme Court final interpretative authority on constitutional matters, and Article 12, the supremacy clause, stating that the Constitution is the supreme law and any inconsistent laws are void. He argued that while the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 Act 959 aims to combat corruption, it cannot override constitutional provisions. Twum-Barimah cautioned that misinterpreting the law could undermine constitutional order and urged the Supreme Court to provide a conclusive determination to resolve inconsistencies in judicial interpretations, warning that continued uncertainty could impact corruption cases. He implied the High Court simply applied existing law and that the Supreme Court must bring final clarity to prevent institutional conflict and ensure legal certainty.
Kumawood actor Alexander Kofi Adu, known as Agya Koo, has arrived in Accra to officially register his new political party, the Ghana First Party. Videos circulating on social media show the actor, accompanied by security and an entourage in party-branded attire, campaigning through the capital. Agya Koo announced the Ghana First Party as a direct challenge to the long-standing dominance of the New Patriotic Party and the National Democratic Congress. He stated in a media interview that his party aims to be a credible third force in Ghanaian politics, seeking to improve the lives of Ghanaians. This move has surprised many, as the actor was previously a strong supporter of the NPP.