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Majority Leader Ayariga warns against automatic vacant seats for detained MPs
via GhanaWeb4 min read
Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has cautioned against an interpretation of the Constitution that would automatically vacate the seats of detained Members of Parliament. Ayariga argued that applying the constitutional provision on absenteeism without considering the circumstances of an MP's absence could set a problematic precedent. He stated that such an approach could lead to an elected representative being removed from Parliament due to an arrest, even before allegations are proven. These comments were made in response to discussions surrounding the prolonged absence of Asante Akyem North MP Kwame Ohene Frimpong, who was arrested in Amsterdam on May 8 on allegations of money laundering and romance scam-related offenses. Frimpong's absence has sparked debate over Article 971c of the 1992 Constitution, which allows for a parliamentary seat to become vacant after an MP is absent from 15 consecutive sittings without permission. Ayariga emphasized that Parliament should avoid establishing a precedent that could be used in future cases involving MPs detained against their will.
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Must ReadThe Ghana Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics GAND has raised concerns about growing food safety threats in Ghana, specifically citing illegal mining, known as galamsey, and the increased consumption of ultra-processed foods. These concerns were highlighted in a statement launching the 2026 National Nutrition Month, themed "Food Safety: Everyone鈥檚 Responsibility." GAND noted that galamsey activities contaminate rivers and groundwater with heavy metals like mercury, arsenic, lead, and cadmium, which can enter the food chain through farming and fishing. Studies on rivers such as the Pra, Offin, Ankobra, and Birim have shown heavy metal levels exceeding acceptable limits. Long-term exposure to these contaminants can lead to neurological damage, kidney problems, reproductive complications, and increased cancer risks, especially in children and pregnant women. Additionally, GAND expressed concern over ultra-processed foods, which often contain high levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, and may lack clear nutritional information. The Academy called for mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels to help consumers make informed choices. GAND emphasized that foodborne diseases, including typhoid, cholera, dysentery, and viral hepatitis, continue to strain Ghana's healthcare system. Globally, the World Health Organization estimates 600 million people fall ill annually from contaminated food, resulting in 420,000 deaths, with children under five accounting for 125,000 deaths. Africa bea
Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has criticized Parliament's decision to hold a closed-door session with the Bank of Ghana Governor, stating that it undermines transparency. In an open letter to Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, Awuni expressed his dissatisfaction with Ayariga's explanation for the in-camera appearance, calling it unconvincing. Awuni argued that the lack of transparency fosters public suspicion and is detrimental to democracy. He urged the Majority Leader to promote openness, emphasizing that keeping matters in the dark, even if there is nothing to hide, only worsens the government's image.
Two 11-year-old Ghanaian identical twin brothers were found dead in the Ter River in Manlleu, Barcelona, on July 14, 2026. The boys had gone out to play football at dusk and did not return home, prompting their father to report them missing. A police search led to the discovery of their bodies in the river, with the first found around 1:00 pm and the second an hour later. Clothing matching what the twins were reportedly wearing was also found nearby. The bodies have been sent to the Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences of Catalonia for autopsies and formal identification. Police suspect accidental drowning, and investigations are underway to determine the exact circumstances of their deaths.