Author: Abigail Ampofo

  • EPL teams move closer to implementing spending cap

    EPL teams move closer to implementing spending cap

    Premier League clubs have taken a step towards implementing a spending cap, voting on Monday for the league to complete the economic and legal analysis needed for such a model.

    The model will be presented to clubs before a final vote at the league’s Annual General Meeting in June at the earliest. It would replace the existing profitability and sustainability rules (PSR) from 2025-26.

    The cap would limit how much clubs can spend in a bid to prevent the super-rich teams from dominating the league amid concerns over a growing gulf between the haves and have-nots.

    The cap, discussed at a Premier League shareholders’ meeting on Monday, would be based on how much money the lowest-earning club in the English top flight makes from television rights and could come into effect as early as the 2025-26.

  • Man United not open to summer bids for Rashford – Source

    Man United not open to summer bids for Rashford – Source

    Manchester United isn’t anticipating any offers for Marcus Rashford this summer, as they believe there’s currently no market for the England striker, according to a source speaking to ESPN’s Rob Dawson,

    While United would entertain bids exceeding £70 million ($87.8m) for Rashford, they don’t expect any club to meet that valuation.

    The club isn’t actively seeking to sell the player, as per the same source.

    At Old Trafford, there’s a sense that only Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) could potentially meet United’s fee requirements and Rashford’s wage demands.

    However, despite PSG’s previous interest in Rashford, United has been informed that he isn’t a priority for them to replace Kylian Mbappé, who is expected to join Real Madrid at the season’s end, according to sources.

    Despite Rashford’s struggles this season, with only eight goals scored in all competitions, United is adamant that they will only entertain reasonable bids and won’t be swayed by cut-price offers, as stated by a source speaking to ESPN.

  • Liverpool sets course of action for Salah in next season – Report

    Liverpool sets course of action for Salah in next season – Report

    A recent report indicates that Liverpool is confident Mohamed Salah will remain at the club for the upcoming season and is strategizing accordingly.

    Despite nearing the end of his contract and potential lucrative offers from Saudi Arabian clubs, Liverpool is not considering parting ways with Salah, as per The Athletic.

    Rumors of Salah’s departure intensified following a public disagreement with Jurgen Klopp during a recent match, but Liverpool remains steadfast in their commitment to keeping him.

    Club officials are reportedly eager for Salah to stay, and the altercation has not altered their stance.

    Furthermore, the Saudi Pro League authorities believe Salah intends to stay at Liverpool for at least another season, postponing any potential move until 2025 when he would become a free agent.

    Addressing Salah’s long-term future will be among the priorities for incoming sporting director Richard Hughes.

    Liverpool has reached an agreement with Feyenoord for the appointment of Arne Slot as the new boss, pending official confirmation.

    Slot’s arrival may coincide with significant squad changes, but retaining key players like Salah is a top priority for the club.

    While Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk’s contract situations are also under scrutiny, there is no indication that they are seeking to leave at this time.

  • Yahaya Mohammed dares accusers to present proof of bribery allegations

    Yahaya Mohammed dares accusers to present proof of bribery allegations

    Former Aduana Stars striker, Yahaya Mohammed, has responded to bribery accusations leveled against him, asserting that the club should acknowledge their shortcomings in team performance.

    Dismissing his involvement in an alleged GH₵50,000 bribery scandal, which some fans believe contributed to the team’s defeat against Karela United on Saturday, April 27, 2024, Yahaya Mohammed emphasized that the allegations are merely a distraction from the team’s underlying issues.

    He refuted claims of accepting and distributing money to influence the game’s outcome, stating that Aduana’s loss was primarily due to injuries.

    “The fact is, Aduana had only two centre-backs available for the game. A boy they promoted from my youth side was injured, and the regular starter was also injured, so they had to convert their third-choice midfielder to play as a centre-back in the game. So the team was weakened because of injuries,” he told Angel TV.

    He also mentioned Aduana’s form this season, indicating that the team has not been in good shape; hence, the accusations are attempts to channel the blame on him.

    “That aside, how is Aduana’s form this season? How many away games have they played? They’ve won only two away games – RTU and Hearts of Lions.

    Check those teams’ positions on the table. So they have to accept that they are out of form. But they don’t want to understand and instead, they are playing blame games.”

    The ex-Asante Kotoko striker challenged his accusers to substantiate the bribery allegations.

    “They claim I took a bribe. They mentioned Bright Adjei, Sam Adams, and Yaw Ansah as players I shared the money. Why don’t we have a sit-down? Who gave me the money? When did I disburse the money? Prove it.”

    He insisted that he would never do such a thing due to the love he had received from Aduana owner Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II and the people of Dormaa.

    “Do I have the power to fix games? Do you know what Osagyefo has done for me? Do you know what the people of Dormaa have done for me? The team is not weakened, and they have a poor management and technical team. They have the poorest management in Ghana.”

    Aduana Stars currently hold the third position in the league standings with 42 points, trailing the league leaders Samartex by 10 points. However, they are experiencing a poor run of form, having lost five and won only two of their last seven matches.

  • Hearts of Oak coach Aboubakar Ouattara says clubs target is to beat Accra Lions on Wednesday

    Hearts of Oak coach Aboubakar Ouattara says clubs target is to beat Accra Lions on Wednesday

    Phobians are set to take on their Week 28 opponents on Wednesday, May 1 in a midweek Ghana Premier League fixture.

    Hearts of Oak faced a setback in their previous match, enduring a 2-0 loss to Legon Cities FC.

    Following the defeat, Coach Aboubakar Ouattara expressed determination in a post-match interview, emphasizing his team’s commitment to putting in the hard work during training to secure victory in their upcoming encounter against Accra Lions.

    “Every match, we need the three points. We lost today, but next, we must focus and work hard for the three points,” Coach Aboubakar Ouattara told StarTimes.

    Following the loss, the Phobians currently occupy the 12th position on the Ghana Premier League table with 35 points. Achieving a top-four finish now appears challenging for them.

    The upcoming match against Accra Lions on Wednesday will take place at the Accra Sports Stadium.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GB3nWgi5jII
  • Dumsor vigil – Yvonne Nelson says Kofi Bentil, others now sympathisers of gov’t

    Dumsor vigil – Yvonne Nelson says Kofi Bentil, others now sympathisers of gov’t

    Actress Yvonne Nelson claims that individuals who backed her initial Dumsor Must Stop Vigil are now aligned with the current government.

    Despite her attempts to contact them for assistance in organizing another vigil amidst the ongoing power crisis in the country, they have yet to respond to her.

    The actress and author of “I’m not Yvonne Nelson” book has therefore reached out to interested Ghanaians to help her hit the streets of Accra to drum home the need for government to prioritize the needs of the people of Ghana.

  • ActionAid add voice to pause on the commercial release of GMO foods

    ActionAid add voice to pause on the commercial release of GMO foods

    ActionAid Ghana (AAG) has reiterated its opposition to the proliferation of genetically modified organisms (GMO) foods in the country, aligning with other stakeholders in this stance.

    AAG’s resistance aims to safeguard the interests and livelihoods of smallholder farmers, who play a pivotal role in Ghana’s agricultural sector.

    Expressing concern over the government’s approval of commercializing 14 GMO foods, AAG underscores the potential implications on biodiversity, food security, and the well-being of vulnerable populations.

    Amidst widening economic challenges exacerbating the poverty gap, AAG urges the government to prioritize agroecology as a sustainable farming approach. It calls for a reconsideration of recent decisions to lift GMO restrictions.

    In its statement, AAG emphasizes the urgent need to adopt agroecological principles for resilient and sustainable food systems, prioritizing constituents’ welfare. Furthermore, alongside advocating for halting GMO commercialization, AAG proposes critical measures for government action.

    These include adequate funding for the Ministry of Agriculture to support agroecological practices and facilitating training and knowledge-sharing among smallholder farmers.

    Recognizing the crucial role of female smallholder farmers in food production, AAG urges the government to provide appropriate acknowledgment and support for their contributions.

    AAG presses for the suspension of GMO commercialization until comprehensive research on their impact on human life and public consultations are conducted. Criticizing the lack of proper consultation in the government’s decision-making process, AAG highlights the denial of citizens’ rights to voice opinions on their food consumption.

    Moreover, AAG raises concerns about the National Biosafety Authority’s (NBA) active promotion of GMOs, suggesting a compromise in the institution’s independence and the nation’s interests.

  • We are not joining Alan’s Alliance for change – GUM’s Kyiri Abosom

    We are not joining Alan’s Alliance for change – GUM’s Kyiri Abosom

    Founder and leader of the Ghana Union Movement (GUM), Christian Kwabena Andrews, has turned down an invitation to join Alan Kyerematen’s Alliance for Revolutionary Change (ARC) for the 2024 general elections.

    Firmly asserting GUM’s stance against forming alliances with any political party or movement, Andrews cited Kyerematen’s absence from the Electoral Commission’s records as a key reason for declining the offer.

    He emphasized the distinction between GUM as a political party and ARC as a movement, insisting that alliances should be forged among political parties, not movements.

    Andrews expressed GUM’s willingness to consider forming alliances with leading political parties in a potential run-off scenario.

    During an appearance on Class 91.3 FM’s morning show hosted by Kwame Dwomoh Agyemang on Monday, April 29, 2024, Andrews suggested that Kyerematen should instead consider joining GUM to further the goal of unseating the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming December 7, 2024, elections.

    Highlighting the political nature of GUM in contrast to ARC, which he described as a movement, Andrews reiterated the importance of alliances being between political entities.

  • ‘What if you apologized to them’– Sefa Kayi to Ashanti Regional minister amid feud with ECG officials

    ‘What if you apologized to them’– Sefa Kayi to Ashanti Regional minister amid feud with ECG officials

    Host of the Kokrokoo morning show, Kwame Sefa Kayi, has encouraged Ashanti Regional Minister Simon Osei-Mensah to pursue a peaceful resolution to his ongoing disagreement with officials of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) in the region.

    The Peace FM presenter proposes that rather than adopting a confrontational approach, the minister should extend a cordial apology to the employees of the power supply company to resolve the matter amicably.

    “But Minister, what would happen if you apologized to them? Not everything should be handled confrontationally. My friend, Mr. Osei-Mensah, this feud with ECG is not beneficial.

    Minister, you, of all people, should just call them and acknowledge them as your people… After that, offer them a meal, and that should conclude the matter,” he commented on the Monday, April 29, 2024, broadcast of his show.

    Employees of the Electricity Company of Ghana have been urging the Ashanti Regional Minister to apologize for his role in the arrest of their Ashanti East Manager, Mark Wiafe Asomani.

    However, Mr. Osei-Mensah has rejected these demands, maintaining that his actions were justified.

    “Do I need to apologize for carrying out my security duties? I want to clarify that I requested the police to summon Ing. Mark Asomani Wiafe on security grounds due to the events in the electricity sector in the region and the possibility of a task force from outside disconnecting power without adequate notification.

    It’s ironic that they claim not to be under my jurisdiction, hence I cannot direct their actions, yet they wish to instruct me on how to fulfill my security obligations as stipulated in the Securities and Intelligence Act of 2020, Act 10(30),” the minister explained to journalists during a press briefing last week.

    The Ashanti Regional Minister sanctioned the arrest of Mr. Wiafe following ECG’s decision to disconnect power to Kumasi Technical University over outstanding debts.

    The minister argues that ECG’s actions constituted a challenge to his authority.

  • See Azumah Nelson ramping up training ahead of clash with EU ambassador

    See Azumah Nelson ramping up training ahead of clash with EU ambassador

    Three-time world champion Azumah Nelson is intensifying his training regimen ahead of his upcoming exhibition match.

    Scheduled to face off against Irchad Razaaly, the European Union Ambassador to Ghana, on Saturday, May 4, 2024, the bout will take place at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra as part of the EU Month celebrations in May.

    Titled “Diplo-Rumble: Empowering Youth Through Sports,” the event aims to not only showcase the talent of young boxers in the Bukom area but also promote youth empowerment through sports.

    Azumah Nelson, the 65-year-old Ghanaian boxing legend, has returned to the gym in preparation for the match.

    Recently, footage has emerged showing him throwing punches as he strives to rekindle his former boxing prowess.

    Meanwhile, Irchad Razaaly, a kickboxer by background, is equally dedicated to his training, leaving no stone unturned in his preparation for the bout.

    Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia will preside over the fight on May 6, adding prestige to the event.

  • What a player! – Arsenal fans call for ‘forever’ contract for Partey after Spurs clash

    What a player! – Arsenal fans call for ‘forever’ contract for Partey after Spurs clash

    Arsenal fans are urging the club to extend Thomas Partey’s contract following his stellar performance against Tottenham on Sunday, April 28, 2024.

    The Ghanaian midfielder, also the deputy skipper for the Black Stars, played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s thrilling 3-2 victory over their North London rivals.

    Partey’s standout display against Tottenham adds to his impressive showing in the previous match against Chelsea, where his midfield dominance contributed to Arsenal’s commanding 5-0 win.

    With these recent performances, Arsenal supporters consider the Ghanaian as a vital asset to the team, advocating for a long-term contract extension.

    Many fans believe that Partey’s unique contributions make him indispensable to the squad, with some even labeling him as the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League.

    Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta echoed this sentiment, highlighting Partey’s significance to the team’s success.

    “He’s a really important player, and we have missed him for many months. He looks in great shape. It’s his presence, his quality, his physicality and his experience”.

    Thomas Partey joined Arsenal in 2020 and signed a five-year contract. His contract will expire in 2025. Therefore, he has one year remaining.

    https://twitter.com/abz88221/status/1784598759185191139?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1784598759185191139%7Ctwgr%5E0c8705079da1be36b067bafb5d46f85177b8e465%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ghanaweb.com%2FGhanaHomePage%2FSportsArchive%2FGive-Partey-a-lifetime-contract-Arsenal-fans-plead-after-exceptional-performance-against-Tottenham-1928329
  • Don’t take NPP seriously if they appoint a female running mate – Prof. Marfo

    Don’t take NPP seriously if they appoint a female running mate – Prof. Marfo

    Professor Charles Marfo Ofori, a former president of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP), suggesting they shouldn’t be taken seriously if they choose a woman as their running mate.

    Prof. Marfo expressed dissatisfaction with the NPP’s approach to gender politics, especially in light of the National Democratic Congress (NDC’s) recent selection of Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as their female running mate.

    “I like women a lot, so you can even refer to me as a womanizer, it’s fine, so I don’t have a problem with women.

    “But if they (the NPP) appoint a woman, it is going to be so clear that it is because of Jane. It has unsettled them, and we should not consider such a party as a serious one,” he said on a panel discussion on Oyerepa TV on April 26, 2024.

    He further argued that the prominence of a woman within the NDC has unsettled the NPP’s agenda, causing disruption to their tactics and revealing their weaknesses.

    “Jane has unsettled them, decapitated their strategies, that is how I see it. Not that I am canvassing for Matthew Opoku Prempeh, but that man has done well,” he added.

  • Finidi George appointed as Nigeria’s new head coach

    Finidi George appointed as Nigeria’s new head coach

    On Monday, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced Finidi George as the new head coach, succeeding Jose Peseiro.

    Peseiro, who guided Nigeria to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) earlier this year, departed after his contract concluded in February, marking a tenure of 22 months.

    George, formerly a member of Peseiro’s coaching staff, took interim charge for Nigeria’s friendlies against Ghana and Mali in March.

    Concurrently, he has been leading Nigerian top-flight team Enyimba since September 2021.

    Notably, George boasts a successful playing career with Ajax, clinching the Eredivisie title and the Champions League. He also played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON victory.

    George’s key objectives will encompass guiding Nigeria to qualification for the upcoming AFCON in Morocco in 2025 and the 2026 World Cup.

    His tenure will commence with Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin in June.

  • GHS set to begin COVID-19 vaccination exercise from May 4 onwards

    GHS set to begin COVID-19 vaccination exercise from May 4 onwards

    Ghana Health Service (GHS) has declared a nationwide COVID-19 vaccination initiative in response to escalating infections across healthcare facilities.

    Scheduled from May 4 to May 10, 2024, the campaign aims to curb the surge in cases, particularly in the Greater Accra Region, where the highest numbers have been recorded.

    Highlighting the virus’s high transmissibility, the GHS emphasized the criticality of adhering to safety protocols.

    Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of Public Health at GHS, underscored the pivotal role of widespread vaccination in containing the spread. He urged all Ghanaians to actively engage in the campaign, as shared during a media briefing.

    “We are getting a few cases reported in parts of Accra and a few other regions. And it brings to bear the fact that Ghanaians need to be vaccinated and so on the 4th to the 10th of May, we are going to do a nationwide COVID-19 vaccination campaign and we want to urge all Ghanaians to be part of the exercise.

    “We plan to do about four or five before the end of the year. The thinking is that we need to get the necessary population immunity that will help us minimize the risk of getting infections in the country,” he stressed.

  • 7,000 police officers, 6 contenders, 92,564 voters – Find out what is happening at Ejisu today

    7,000 police officers, 6 contenders, 92,564 voters – Find out what is happening at Ejisu today

    Today, April 30, voters in the Ejisu constituency will cast their votes to choose a new Member of Parliament. This follows the passing of John Kumah, who was elected under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) ticket in 2020.

    Kumah, serving as deputy finance minister, has been chosen as the NPP candidate for the December 2024 elections. Interestingly, the main opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), opted not to nominate a candidate, citing its intention to concentrate efforts on the broader 2024 general elections.

    We examine significant figures related to the election organization. Given that the vote is situated in the Ashanti Region, traditionally a stronghold for the NPP, expectations lean towards their victory.

    Six aspirants

    The Electoral Commission (EC), weeks back announced that six aspirants were in the race. Three party-backed candidates and three independent candidates.

    The list in order of their appearance on the ballot paper is as follows:

    1. Esther Osei (CPP)
    2. Kwabena Boateng (NPP)
    3. Beatrice Boakye (LPG)
    4. Kwabena Owusu Aduomi (Independent)
    5. Gabriel Agyemang Joseph (Independent)
    6. Attakorah Joseph (Independent)

    92564 voters on voters register

    Based on the 2020 voter population record of the EC, there are over 92,000 votes available in the Ejisu constituency. In the previous election, John Ampontuah Kumah (NPP) secured 68,326 votes, accounting for 82.83% of the total votes, while his closest rival, George Kwame Huze (NDC), received 14,164 votes, constituting 17.17%.

    To ensure security during the election, over 7,000 police officers will be deployed, as reported by Starr FM. The Inspector-General of Police, George Akuffo Dampare, has assured that the peaceful atmosphere witnessed in the Assin North and Kumawu by-elections will be replicated.

    Voting typically commences at 8 am and concludes at 5 pm, after which the ballots will be counted, collated, and the winner declared.

  • Akufo-Addo to commission €38 million urology and nephrology center at Korle-Bu

    Akufo-Addo to commission €38 million urology and nephrology center at Korle-Bu

    The newly constructed Urology and Nephrology Centre of Excellence at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) has been completed, marking a significant milestone in healthcare infrastructure.

    Funded through a €38 million credit facility by the government, the project underscores a commitment to universal health coverage and quality healthcare provision.

    Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, appointed by the President to oversee the Ministry of Health, conducted a working visit to KBTH on April 29, 2024, as part of his oversight duties of key government health projects.

    During the visit, Dr. Okoe-Boye noted several key features of the facility.

    The three-storey building is fully equipped with modern amenities including beds, furniture, and state-of-the-art medical equipment, both inside and out.

    Notably, it boasts a 31-bed dialysis station catering to individuals with chronic kidney disease, alongside a 70-bed space dedicated to genito-urinary patients.

    The facility encompasses various units such as outpatient, diagnostic and treatment, in-patient services, administration, training rooms, and a management and technology center, providing comprehensive care.

    Guided by Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah, the CEO of KBTH, the visiting team also inspected the refurbished Fevers Unit, now transformed into a modern infectious disease center, showcasing a holistic approach to healthcare infrastructure development.

    Dr. Okoe-Boye emphasized the advanced treatment options available at the facility, particularly for individuals with genito-urinary conditions, chronic and acute kidney failures, and specialized nephrology services including kidney transplants. This signifies a significant step forward in enhancing healthcare delivery and addressing critical medical needs within the community.

    “The centre will also provide outpatient services and serve as a resource base to conduct research into urology and nephrology cases,” he said.

    He said the facility was initiated by the current government as part of its commitment to the delivery of universal health coverage and quality healthcare for all.

    “It is common knowledge that there is a lack of specialized care both at the primary and tertiary level when it comes to the practice of urology and nephrology in the country which needs to be addressed.

    “In response to this, a proposal was initially designed to run as a Public Private Partnership model to fund the construction of the facility.

    “Under the PPP, the investor was going to run the facility until they had recouped their investment before handing over,” he said.

    However, Dr Okoe-Boye said that the current government, recognizing the importance of such a project decided to renegotiate the project and revise the model of payment.

    “The financial arrangement as well as the construction operational arrangement and payback period posed a challenge, as a result, the government in 2017, decided to replace this model with an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) Turkey model under an Export Credit Arrangement (ECA).

    “The Government therefore secured a loan of thirty-eight (38) million Euros for the construction of the modern Urology and Nephrology Centre of Excellence at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital,” he said.

    Dr. Okoe-Boye noted that the inception of this project traces back to August 11, 2020, when President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo initiated the construction and equipping of the 101-bed facility. This underscores a proactive approach by the government to address healthcare needs comprehensively.

    Regarding the transformation of the fevers unit into an infectious disease center, Dr. Okoe-Boye highlighted the government’s decision stemmed from the unit’s dire condition.

    However, he emphasized the importance of ensuring that both patients and healthcare providers receive and offer services in an environment that upholds dignity and respect.

    “This project was initiated by the government as part of the country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

    “This was an existing building that was remodeled in line with the COVID Infection Prevention and Control Practices to serve both as a treatment centre and also to continue to perform its function as a fevers unit.

    “The project commenced from 1st March 2021 to 31st December 2023, at a contract sum of GH¢23,521,654.94,” he said.

    He continued, “The place has been renovated and retrofitted with modern equipment. It has two intensive care units with a total capacity of 120 beds.

    “It has also been fitted with a modern laboratory to be operated by the GHS’s reference laboratory. The laboratory has a similar capacity as the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research.

    “The laboratory can conduct an examination into all manner of viruses and infectious disease examinations, including Lassa fever and Marburg.

    “It has a reception and waiting areas, counselling rooms, consulting rooms, staff lounge, 50-seater meeting room, IT and general administrative offices, X-ray and imaging rooms, patient wards (male, female, and paediatric, decontamination rooms and changing rooms for clinical purposes among others,” he added.

  • Col Gaisie implicated in NPP HQs’ $100k National Security bribe in Nicaragua ‘Jakpa’ saga

    Col Gaisie implicated in NPP HQs’ $100k National Security bribe in Nicaragua ‘Jakpa’ saga

    Tension has arisen at the New Patriotic Party Headquarters following allegations that two National Security officials utilized the Asylum Down office for the receipt of a US$100,000 payment related to flight facilitation to Nicaragua.

    The individuals in question, Ali Mohammed Kasule (commonly known as Aliu) and Robert Yaw Akumpo (referred to as Roberts), purportedly met with their counterparts inside an office at the NPP Headquarters in late 2022 to receive an initial payment of US$80,000.

    This payment was intended for flight clearance for a chartered flight to Nicaragua, aimed at facilitating the journey of some youth seeking a pathway to the United States, as confirmed by MyNewsGh.com.

    The two National Security officials received the funds from Mohammed Tindannayil Bala, who serves as the coordinator for the Nicaragua trip.

    Specifically, US$80,000 was exchanged at the NPP party office in Asylum Down, while the remaining US$20,000 was transacted at Aliu’s residence in Nanakrom.

    The money originated from youth residing in various communities such as Nima, Mamobi, New Town, 441, Kumasi, Tamale, Bimbila, Takoradi, and other locations across the country, all seeking better opportunities in the United States via the Nicaragua route.

    Following the cancellation of the trip, Aliu and Roberts allegedly went into hiding, refusing to refund the money.

    They claim to have already disbursed US$15,000 to Colonel Gaisey, the head of National Security at the airport, but are unable to retrieve it.

  • Scandal in waiting as govt plans handover domestic tax collection to an Indian-owned company

    Scandal in waiting as govt plans handover domestic tax collection to an Indian-owned company

    Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has resurrected plans to hand over the country’s domestic tax mobilization to an Indian company under the leadership of the newly appointed Commissioner-General, Julie Essiam.

    This decision comes after the former Commissioner-General, Rev. Dr. Amishaddai Owusu-Amoah, halted the process in January 2024 due to financial constraints.

    Reports from Techfocus24 suggest that Dr. Owusu-Amoah’s opposition to the deal led to his replacement by Julie Essiam. Allegations suggest that the government, with support from the finance ministry and the new leadership at GRA, is determined to finalize the agreement, despite concerns raised about its national implications.

    Of particular concern is the timeline of the deal, which coincides with the upcoming change in government after the 2024 elections. This raises suspicions about the motives behind rushing through an anti-local content agreement that would come into effect under a new administration.

    Dr. Owusu-Amoah’s decision to cancel the contract for the Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS) was met with resistance, particularly from GRA officials and the dissolved GRA Board, led by Dr. Oteng Gyasi.

    Since the emergence of these developments, Techfocus24 has reached out to GRA officials and past board members, all of whom have deferred responsibility to Julie Essiam, suggesting she holds the key to the situation.

    There are concerns that the claims made by officials of IPMC/Tata regarding GRA’s inability to intervene may hold merit. At the center of this controversial deal is IPMC CEO, Amar Deep, whose alleged actions raise questions about his loyalty to Ghana.

    The technical and financial proposals submitted by IPMC/Tata have been forwarded to the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) for approval. If approved, this would pave the way for the installation of their systems on GRA’s infrastructure, signaling a transition away from Axon Information Systems by 2025. As of now, the status of the approval remains uncertain.

    This is in spite of a number of worrying facts, including the following:

    1. The Central Tender Review Committee (CTRC) disqualified IPMC/Tata from getting the contract on the grounds that IPMC/Tata, among other things, failed to meet up to 80% of GRA’s requirements on deployment experience and also failed the 30% local content test.
    2. First hand evidence gathered by top officials of GRA from Rwanda, Kenya, Zambia and Uganda indicate that Tata’s ITAx system is very problematic on several levels.
    3. The record is there to show that the current vendor – Axon, which is a wholly-Ghanaian-owned company, is doing a great job by all standards, and GRA officials have testified that Axon’s Ghana Integrated Tax Management and Information System (GITMIS) is at par with any ITAS in the world.
    4. Before their abrupt dissolution, the board of GRA were opposed to the moves to award the contract to IPMC/Tata.
    5. This government would have gone out of office by the time IPMC/Tata’s contract takes effect in 2025.
    6. This writer is also reliably informed that the former CG wrote to the presidency and Finance Ministry and stated his objection to the deal with clear reasons.
    7. The former CG also wrote to IPMC/Tata in January, informing them that the deal had been CANCELLED due for lack of funds.

    But that was not the first time the former CG wrote a letter to say the process had been cancelled. Way back in August 2023, when 12 entities were in the run for the deal, he wrote a letter to all 12 companies telling them the deal was off due to lack of funds.

    Then just a month later, in September 2023, the same former CG, wrote exclusively to IPMC/Tata and asked them to submit their technical and financial proposal for the same contract. Clearly, the CG was operating under the whims and caprices of persons in government with vested interest on that occasion.

    But when Techfocus24 reached out to GRA staff and Board members, including the former CG and Board Chair, they paid heed to the voice of reason and put the brakes on the whole process, which later culminated in the January 3, 2024 letter, eventually leading to the removal of the former CG and dissolution of the Board.

    Techfocus24 did a very detailed article about how this whole process began and how it finally led to the replacement of the 62-year-old former CG, with a 61-year-old woman under very strange circumstances including the complete dissolution of the entire GRA board.

    Parliament must intervene

    As things stand now, if Parliament does not intervene, Ghana’s domestic tax mobilization and all the critical national data it comes with, will go into the hands of an Indian company that has been kicked out of at least three other African countries.

    If the deal goes through under the watch of this outgoing government, and the new government decides to cancel it, the Ghanaian taxpayer will end up paying huge judgement debt to that Indian company. This is exactly what former GRA Board Chair, Dr. Oteng Gyasi alluded to when he said procurement has become the main conduit for corrupt government officials and their cronies in the private sector to loot the national purse.

  • Enough of the codswallop! – Sam George reacts to High court judgement on “Akufo-Addo and Anti-LGBTQ bill”

    Enough of the codswallop! – Sam George reacts to High court judgement on “Akufo-Addo and Anti-LGBTQ bill”

    Leading advocate for the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, as well as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, and Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo Prampram, Sam George, has criticized the High Court’s ruling on the legal challenge aiming to compel President Nana Akufo-Addo to assent to the anti-LGBTQ bill passed by Parliament.

    In a tweet, the Ningo MP accused the President and the Office of the Attorney General of colluding to secure such a ruling. He expressed his lack of surprise regarding the court’s decision.

    “I am not surprised at this ruling. It is a contrived verdict predetermined between @NAkufoAddo, the Attorney-General’s Office, and the Judiciary” parts of the tweet read.

    He went on to challenge the duo to deny his accusations reminding the President of a meeting held in his office on 22n April.

    “I dare them to challenge me on this. The President should remember the meeting in his office on Monday 22nd April. Enough of the codswallop, Mr. President!” he added.

    Sam George’s reaction comes after a legal challenge was presented to the Supreme Court on March 5, 2024 that sought to compel President Nana Akufo-Addo to immediately act on the anti-LGBTQ bill passed by Parliament

    However, on Monday, April, 2024, the court ruled that it would be inappropriate to force the President to accept the bill for possible assent while there are two pending Supreme Court challenges against it.

    The NDC MP has been vocal and active in the legislative process, expressing gratitude to his colleagues in Parliament for passing the bill.

    Sam George has also been urging President Akufo-Addo to sign the bill into law following its passage by Parliament.

  • New GRA boss awakens fishy IPMC/Tata deal after former CG cancelled it

    New GRA boss awakens fishy IPMC/Tata deal after former CG cancelled it

    Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has resurrected plans to hand over the country’s domestic tax mobilization to an Indian company under the leadership of the newly appointed Commissioner-General, Julie Essiam.

    This decision comes after the former Commissioner-General, Rev. Dr. Amishaddai Owusu-Amoah, halted the process in January 2024 due to financial constraints.

    Reports from Techfocus24 suggest that Dr. Owusu-Amoah’s opposition to the deal led to his replacement by Julie Essiam. Allegations suggest that the government, with support from the finance ministry and the new leadership at GRA, is determined to finalize the agreement, despite concerns raised about its national implications.

    Of particular concern is the timeline of the deal, which coincides with the upcoming change in government after the 2024 elections. This raises suspicions about the motives behind rushing through an anti-local content agreement that would come into effect under a new administration.

    Dr. Owusu-Amoah’s decision to cancel the contract for the Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS) was met with resistance, particularly from GRA officials and the dissolved GRA Board, led by Dr. Oteng Gyasi.

    Since the emergence of these developments, Techfocus24 has reached out to GRA officials and past board members, all of whom have deferred responsibility to Julie Essiam, suggesting she holds the key to the situation.

    There are concerns that the claims made by officials of IPMC/Tata regarding GRA’s inability to intervene may hold merit. At the center of this controversial deal is IPMC CEO, Amar Deep, whose alleged actions raise questions about his loyalty to Ghana.

    The technical and financial proposals submitted by IPMC/Tata have been forwarded to the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) for approval. If approved, this would pave the way for the installation of their systems on GRA’s infrastructure, signaling a transition away from Axon Information Systems by 2025. As of now, the status of the approval remains uncertain.

    This is in spite of a number of worrying facts, including the following:

    1. The Central Tender Review Committee (CTRC) disqualified IPMC/Tata from getting the contract on the grounds that IPMC/Tata, among other things, failed to meet up to 80% of GRA’s requirements on deployment experience and also failed the 30% local content test.
    2. First hand evidence gathered by top officials of GRA from Rwanda, Kenya, Zambia and Uganda indicate that Tata’s ITAx system is very problematic on several levels.
    3. The record is there to show that the current vendor – Axon, which is a wholly-Ghanaian-owned company, is doing a great job by all standards, and GRA officials have testified that Axon’s Ghana Integrated Tax Management and Information System (GITMIS) is at par with any ITAS in the world.
    4. Before their abrupt dissolution, the board of GRA were opposed to the moves to award the contract to IPMC/Tata.
    5. This government would have gone out of office by the time IPMC/Tata’s contract takes effect in 2025.
    6. This writer is also reliably informed that the former CG wrote to the presidency and Finance Ministry and stated his objection to the deal with clear reasons.
    7. The former CG also wrote to IPMC/Tata in January, informing them that the deal had been CANCELLED due for lack of funds.

    But that was not the first time the former CG wrote a letter to say the process had been cancelled. Way back in August 2023, when 12 entities were in the run for the deal, he wrote a letter to all 12 companies telling them the deal was off due to lack of funds.

    Then just a month later, in September 2023, the same former CG, wrote exclusively to IPMC/Tata and asked them to submit their technical and financial proposal for the same contract. Clearly, the CG was operating under the whims and caprices of persons in government with vested interest on that occasion.

    But when Techfocus24 reached out to GRA staff and Board members, including the former CG and Board Chair, they paid heed to the voice of reason and put the brakes on the whole process, which later culminated in the January 3, 2024 letter, eventually leading to the removal of the former CG and dissolution of the Board.

    Techfocus24 did a very detailed article about how this whole process began and how it finally led to the replacement of the 62-year-old former CG, with a 61-year-old woman under very strange circumstances including the complete dissolution of the entire GRA board.

    Parliament must intervene

    As things stand now, if Parliament does not intervene, Ghana’s domestic tax mobilization and all the critical national data it comes with, will go into the hands of an Indian company that has been kicked out of at least three other African countries.

    If the deal goes through under the watch of this outgoing government, and the new government decides to cancel it, the Ghanaian taxpayer will end up paying huge judgement debt to that Indian company. This is exactly what former GRA Board Chair, Dr. Oteng Gyasi alluded to when he said procurement has become the main conduit for corrupt government officials and their cronies in the private sector to loot the national purse.

  • Ruben Amorim apologises for London trip for West Ham move talks

    Ruben Amorim apologises for London trip for West Ham move talks

    Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim has issued an apology to the club’s fans and players for his recent trip to London to discuss a potential move to West Ham.

    Initially linked with a move to Liverpool following Jurgen Klopp’s departure announcement, it was later revealed that West Ham emerged as the leading contenders to secure Amorim’s services.

    The 39-year-old’s meeting with the Hammers reportedly influenced Liverpool’s decision to pursue Feyenoord’s Arne Slot instead. Amorim has acknowledged that meeting with West Ham to potentially replace David Moyes this summer was a “mistake.”

    Amorim told reporters: “The first thing to say is that the club knew about my trip, that’s the first thing, because it’s important and changes the context. The second thing to talk about is this ‘veil of secrecy’ around the trip. I ‘secretly’ parked my car outside, ‘secretly’ walked past 15 people, spoke with the people, took photos with people and got on a plane. It’s important to take away this idea that it was all done behind the club’s back, that didn’t happen.

    “And now the most important point, that obviously it was a mistake. The trip, the timing was completely wrong. I didn’t think so at the time but it was wrong, especially when I’m so demanding of my players, and I’m always the first to say that the problems of individuals can’t take over the team, and I’ve taken players out of the team for much less. It was my fault, I have to accept that and live with it.

    I didn’t think it was so bad at the time but thinking back on it it’s very clear. I’ve explained this with the players, the staff, but most important now is to carry on. I’m using the conference here to say sorry to the Sporting fans, the staff and above all to say sorry publicly to the players for the mistake that I made.”

    Amorim traveled to London just before Sporting’s crucial match against Porto, where they could potentially secure the Portuguese league title. Despite the club’s historic aspirations, the former midfielder seemed preoccupied. His future remains uncertain.

    Meanwhile, West Ham is actively seeking a successor for manager Moyes, whose contract expires this summer. With Slot likely heading to Liverpool, the Hammers must decide whether to retain Moyes or pursue other options, potentially including Amorim.

  • Antony denies being burdened by £86m transfer fee, says critics motivate him

    Antony denies being burdened by £86m transfer fee, says critics motivate him

    Despite experiencing another disappointing season at Manchester United, winger Antony remains unfazed by his hefty £86 million (€108m) price tag.

    The Brazilian was brought in from Ajax for a substantial fee during the 2022 summer transfer window.

    However, United has yet to see significant returns on their investment, as Antony struggled to adapt in his debut season and has faced even greater challenges this year.

    With only four games remaining, the 24-year-old scored his first league goal of the season against Burnley, managing just a single assist.

    Criticism has mounted against his lacklustre performances, particularly following his controversial celebration after Man Utd’s FA Cup semi-final shootout victory over Coventry City.

    Nevertheless, Antony remains resolute that his transfer fee has not burdened him during his time at Old Trafford. Instead, he views his critics as sources of motivation.

    He told The Athletic: “It (the transfer fee) doesn’t really impact me because I know my worth, the money is the money and obviously everyone speaks about it but no one would if the performances of everyone and myself were at the top.

    “It’s something that is just a way of working harder, knowing I can get better, I know my worth and I will (show it). The critics are going to exist, and it’s something that makes me want to work harder, and prove to myself first. I’m going to keep working, giving everything for the group because it’s most important to have a good mentality and to be focused.”

    Off-field issues have undoubtedly posed a distraction for Antony, especially after being accused of domestic violence by his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin last summer.

    With a police investigation still ongoing as the season draws to a close, Antony may find himself playing for his Manchester United future in the remaining matches, starting against Crystal Palace on Monday, May 6.

    Reports suggest that the club’s new co-owners, INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, are eager to offload the £86 million player to minimize losses. However, the ongoing police investigation could potentially disrupt their plans.

  • Harry Kane was Ancelotti’s number 1 target, until Florentino blocked move

    Harry Kane was Ancelotti’s number 1 target, until Florentino blocked move

    It is reported that, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez vetoed coach Carlo Ancelotti’s proposal to sign Harry Kane from Tottenham last summer.

    Ancelotti had prioritized Kane as his top transfer target over Jude Bellingham after Karim Benzema’s departure for Al-Ittihad.

    However, Perez was determined to secure Kylian Mbappe instead and was prepared to operate without a recognized striker until signing the French forward on a free transfer in the upcoming summer.

    Kane eventually joined Bayern Munich from Spurs and has enjoyed a remarkable debut season, despite his team’s struggles domestically.

    He has netted 42 goals in as many appearances across all competitions, aiding Thomas Tuchel’s side in reaching the Champions League semi-finals, where they will face Madrid.

    It seems Perez’s ambitions are set to materialize as Madrid is expected to secure Mbappe’s signature in the next transfer window.

    Although Mbappe has informed Paris Saint-Germain of his intention to depart when his contract expires, no agreement with Madrid has been finalized yet.

    Ancelotti’s Madrid is slated to clash with Kane’s Bayern in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals in Germany on Tuesday, followed by the return fixture in Spain the following Wednesday. The victors will advance to face either Mbappe’s PSG or Borussia Dortmund in the final.

  • It’s obvious SSNIT on the verge of collapse – Former Attorney-General

    Former Attorney-General Betty Mould-Iddrisu has expressed concern over the apparent collapse of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT).

    She finds it alarming that SSNIT’s reserves are on the brink of depletion, describing the revelation as shocking.

    “It’s shocking, SSNIT is evidently on the verge of collapse,” Madam Mould-Iddrisu said on the Hot Issues on TV3 Sunday, April 28 with Kemmini Amanor while commenting on a prediction by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) that the reserves of SSNIT are going to be completely depleted by 2036.

    According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), the total income, comprising contributions, investment income, and other revenue sources, will become insufficient to cover annual expenditures, including pension payments to retirees, by the year 2029.

    “Starting in 2029, total income (contributions, investment income and other income) is no longer sufficient to pay for annual expenditures.
    “The reserve starts to decrease. During the year 2036, the reserve drops to zero” the research emphasised.

    SSNIT, with no alternative payment methods, will rely on its reserves to meet payment demands, thus initiating the depletion process. According to the valuation report, this trend is expected to persist until 2036, when reserves are projected to diminish to zero.

    The reserve ratio, indicating the year-end reserve compared to annual expenditures, declines from 3.4 to 0 between 2021 and 2036. Consequently, without contributions, investment income, or other revenue streams, the scheme will be unable to cover pension benefits.

    The valuation report attributes this predicament primarily to government payment delays. As of December 31, 2021, government arrears accounted for 73.7% of SSNIT’s total indebtedness of GH¢9.35 billion. This late payment significantly affects SSNIT’s expected investment returns, resulting in a 1.3% decrease, as highlighted in the report.

    According to the study, “Past experience suggests that, by not paying on time and not paying the interest income on delayed contributions, the Government shifts an important part of the cost to the private sector”.

  • They deny dumsor, yet hired plants for their Ejisu rally! – X user slams NPP

    They deny dumsor, yet hired plants for their Ejisu rally! – X user slams NPP

    A tweet from @_AlbertAkwesi, shared on X (formerly Twitter), suggests that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) enlisted a standby power source for their rally in Ejisu, anticipating potential power outages (dumsor) which have become increasingly common recently.

    Despite assertions from some party members, including Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh, backing the Electricity Company of Ghana’s claims of providing stable nationwide power supply.

    According to the ECG any outage experienced in any town or community could be as a result of localised fault.

    Consequently, @_AlbertAkwesi, jabbed the NPP over its proactiveness to hired a plant if it claims ‘dumsor’ isn’t nationwide disturbance but localised.

    “NPP hired a Plant for their last Rally in Ejisu, yet you are here defending dumsor … 🤣🤣 saying nana addos dumsor is dark and lovely 🤡🤡” he tweeted.

    The decision to have a standby power source reflects the party’s proactive approach to mitigate any disruptions during the rally, acknowledging the challenges faced by citizens due to intermittent power supply; a claim which they deny.

    Over the weekend, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) organized a significant rally in Ejisu as part of their campaign efforts leading up to the Ejisu by-election scheduled for April 30, 2024.

    This comes after the seat become vacant following the demise of the Member of Parliament and deputy Finance Minsiter John Kumah

    Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, also the NPP’s presidential candidate, urged constituents to vote for the party’s candidate, Kwabena Boateng, stressing the importance of continuity and progress.

    Special appearances by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Bawumia were anticipated at the rally. The event complemented the unity walk in Kumasi and aimed to garner support for Kwabena Boateng.

    With the NPP aiming to maintain its parliamentary majority, the rally played a crucial role in their efforts to mobilize support.

  • Man Utd, Arsenal race for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi

    Man Utd, Arsenal race for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi

    Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi is eyeing a departure from the club, with both Manchester United and Arsenal expressing interest in securing the defender’s signature this summer.

    According to reports from The Times, Crystal Palace anticipates losing the talented defender in the upcoming transfer window, as both the Red Devils and the Gunners vie for his services.

    Despite being the subject of attention for the past two years, Guehi opted to stay with Palace last summer. However, it is now widely expected that he will make a move this time around.

    With his high potential and two years remaining on his contract, Guehi is reportedly available for a price exceeding £55 million ($68.8 million).

    Manchester United, facing urgent needs in central defense, may find themselves in a bidding war for Guehi’s signature this summer, particularly as Sir Jim Ratcliffe seeks to revamp the squad.

    Having progressed through Chelsea’s youth system, Guehi joined Palace three years ago for a reported fee of £18 million ($22.5 million). While Chelsea retains the right to match offers from other clubs, it seems unlikely that they will pursue re-signing the defender.

    Despite undergoing knee surgery in February, Guehi aims to return to action before the end of the season, hoping to earn a spot in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for Euro 2024 in Germany.

  • Video: Thiago Silva bows out, set to leave Chelsea by summer end

    Video: Thiago Silva bows out, set to leave Chelsea by summer end

    A tearful Thiago Silva has announced his departure from Chelsea this summer, drawing a close to his four-year tenure at Stamford Bridge.

    The esteemed Brazilian defender, who joined the Blues as a free agent in 2020 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, had been operating on short-term contracts since then, but there will be no extension in 2024.

    At 39 years old, Silva is expected to return home, fulfilling his desire to conclude his career where it all began, at Fluminense. Departing after leaving a lasting impact in west London, the South American conveyed an emotional message to Chelsea supporters.

    Silva has told the club’s official website: “Chelsea means a lot to me. I came here with the intention of only staying for a year and it ended up being four years. Not just for me but for my family, too. My sons play for Chelsea so it’s a source of great pride to be a part of the Chelsea family – literally because my sons are here. I hope they can continue their careers here at this victorious club that many players wish to be part of.

    I think in everything I did here over the four years, I always gave my all. But, unfortunately, everything has a start, a middle and an end. That doesn’t mean that this is a definitive end. I hope to leave the door open so that in the near future I can return, albeit in another role here. But…it’s an indescribable love. I can only say thank you.


    “Obviously, when I started here, it was during the pandemic so there wasn’t any fans in the stadium. But through social media, it became something very special to me and then when the fans started coming back to the stadium and life was getting back to normal, I started to feel a lot of affection and respect for my story and for my start here. It is already hard saying goodbye in the most normal of circumstances but when there is a mutual love, it’s even harder. But one a Blue, always a Blue.

    The way in which I came to the club, with the support of the club, I got to the club as a leader even though I didn’t feel like it having arrived as the new guy. It’s always difficult to integrate but bit by bit I became part of the group and (Frank) Lampard played a big part in that.

    I am grateful to him for that. [It’s been a] dream, definitely a dream. Not even in my wildest dreams did I imagine that I could achieve such great things and win one of the best professional titles, the Champions League, at one of the biggest clubs in the world. Goodbyes are for those that leave and don’t come back. I intend on coming back one day…”

  • No wonder he is the best – MLS rival attest to Messi’s skills after plot to stop him

    No wonder he is the best – MLS rival attest to Messi’s skills after plot to stop him

    An MLS rival has praised Lionel Messi’s exceptional abilities, emphasizing his latest performance as a testament to why he’s considered the best.

    The Inter Miami star showcased another outstanding display in a 4-1 victory over the New England Revolution.

    With a brace and an assist, Messi captivated the 65,000 spectators at Gillette Stadium, proving unstoppable even when opponents like centre-half Xavier Arreaga thought they had a plan to contain him.

    He said in the Boston Globe: “That kind of player, that’s why he’s the best, because he can find the space that I think no other player can find.

    Obviously they also have a good player like [Sergio] Busquets, they know the perfect pass between them. It was hard because I think the first 35 minutes, we did a great job trying to block most of the passes for Messi, but at the end of the day, we couldn’t do that and he scored.”

    New England captain Carles Gil added on trying to contain the obvious threat that Messi poses: “You need to be focused for 90 minutes. If you only last 45 minutes, [Messi] scores two goals and one assist. He’s focused for 90 minutes.”

    Messi’s mesmerizing performance in Massachusetts has maintained Inter Miami’s position at the summit of the MLS Eastern Conference.

    With 11 goals in 10 appearances this season, he continues to dazzle. Next up, the Herons will return to their home turf to face the New York Red Bulls.

  • Pochettino: Late VAR call on Chelsea’s goal has marred Premier League’s credibility

    Pochettino: Late VAR call on Chelsea’s goal has marred Premier League’s credibility

    A VAR decision ruling out what looked to be a late winner for Chelsea at Aston Villa on Saturday has damaged the Premier League, the London club’s manager Mauricio Pochettino said.

    His side thought they have completed a remarkable comeback when substitute Axel Disasi netted in second-half stoppage time, but the goal was ruled out after a VAR review penalised a push by Benoit Badiashile in the build-up.

    “Me and you and everyone in the stadium watching the game, they didn’t see a foul on the pitch and then VAR changed the decision of the referee. For me that was a normal challenge. The decision was there and that’s it,” Pochettino told broadcaster TNT following the 2-2 draw.

    “For me, it damaged a little bit the Premier League and English [football]. If we want to be the best league in the world it should be protecting the spectacle and the decision … [it] damaged myself, damaged my team, my players, the fans,” he added.

    “The performance was very good and we played really well. It is true in the first half we conceded easy … to play Villa, who are fighting for the top four, I am pleased with the team and the players were good,” Pochettino said.

    Villa boss Unai Emery said his side, who are currently in fourth spot and seven points ahead of Tottenham Hotspur, still had their sights set on qualifying for next season’s Champions League. Spurs, however, have three games in hand.

    “We have to try to keep being consistent with the players we have and I believe in the players … in Premier League we are fighting with Tottenham for fourth position,” he said.

  • Salah refuses to address spat with Klopp; says there will be fire if he speaks

    Salah refuses to address spat with Klopp; says there will be fire if he speaks

    Mohamed Salah has opted to keep mum about the touchline disagreement he had with manager Jurgen Klopp during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with West Ham at the London Stadium on Saturday, stating: “There is going to be fire today if I speak.”

    During the match, Salah and Klopp appeared to have a disagreement as Salah waited to be brought onto the pitch with 13 minutes remaining.

    Fellow substitutes Darwin Núñez and Joe Gomez intervened to calm the situation.

    Following the game, Salah chose not to speak to reporters in the mixed zone, reiterating: “There is going to be fire today if I speak.”

    The draw dealt a blow to Liverpool’s dwindling hopes of clinching the Premier League title. Klopp’s team is now two points behind Arsenal, who can extend their lead when they face Tottenham on Sunday.

    Liverpool is scheduled to play against Spurs next Sunday.

    Klopp declined to provide further details on the disagreement.

    “We spoke about that in the dressing room and it’s done for me, that’s all,” the Liverpool boss said.

    Salah’s contract at Anfield is due to expire at the end of next season. In February, sources told ESPN’s Rob Dawson that the 31-year-old was one of a number of top Premier League stars who will targeted by Saudi Pro League clubs in the summer transfer window.

  • Salah’s quarrel with Klopp sparked after the Eqyptian broke manager’s ‘interaction’ rule

    Salah’s quarrel with Klopp sparked after the Eqyptian broke manager’s ‘interaction’ rule

    Mohamed Salah’s touchline confrontation with Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp allegedly stemmed from the Egyptian breaking his manager’s rule regarding “interaction.”

    Concerns have arisen regarding the atmosphere within the Anfield team following the incident involving the star forward during the Premier League match against West Ham.

    Salah, Liverpool’s key winger, entered the game as a substitute in the 79th minute, shortly after Michail Antonio scored an equalizing goal for the hosts in the 2-2 draw.

    Tension between Salah and Klopp carried over to the final whistle, as Liverpool’s leading goal-scorer headed down the tunnel without shaking hands with his boss, and it is that lack of interaction that is said to have started the argument.

    The Sun credits a source as saying: “This has happened occasionally with Jurgen and other players. He is very big on interaction with his subs before they go on and felt it didn’t happen at first with Mo. Mo was obviously annoyed at being left out of the team and wasn’t in the best of moods while Jurgen wasn’t happy with his behaviour.

    The players were given a couple of days off after the match and are meeting up again on Tuesday. It is hoped that by then tensions will have calmed down.”

    Klopp attempted to brush the issue under the carpet afterwards, telling reporters after the match: “We spoke about it in the dressing room, but it’s done for me. That’s it.”

    Salah hinted at brewing tensions with his remark, stating that there would be consequences if he were to speak out amidst ongoing speculation. Rumors persist about Salah’s potential departure from Liverpool in the summer, fueled by reported interest from Saudi Arabia.

    Additionally, Klopp’s announcement of his departure at the end of the season adds further uncertainty. Liverpool’s position in the Premier League table is precarious, sitting third after a draw against West Ham, trailing Arsenal by five points with three games remaining.

  • Mbappe leaves with title as PSG clinch third successive Ligue 1 trophy

    Mbappe leaves with title as PSG clinch third successive Ligue 1 trophy

    Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) clinched their third consecutive Ligue 1 title on Sunday after Monaco suffered a 3-2 loss to Lyon.

    PSG had a comfortable 12-point lead over Monaco before the 31st matchday, following their 3-3 draw with Le Havre on Saturday.

    Although Monaco took an early lead against Lyon, the home team rallied back to secure a 2-1 advantage within the first 26 minutes.

    Despite Monaco equalizing in the second half with Ben Yedder’s second goal, Lyon sealed the victory with Malick Fofana’s 84th-minute strike.

    With three games remaining, Monaco trails PSG by 12 points, making it impossible for them to catch up, and PSG secures their 12th league title in history.

    PSG has been dominant throughout the season, losing only one of their 31 league matches, scoring 76 goals and conceding just 29. Kylian Mbappe leads the race for the top scorer award with 26 goals, a significant 18 goals ahead of his closest competitor.

    PSG’s focus now shifts to the Champions League semi-final against Borussia Dortmund, with the first leg scheduled for Wednesday and the return leg on May 7.

  • Ghana registers an average of 9,900 incidents of snakebites every year

    Between 2015 and 2020, Ghana documented a staggering 59,600 cases of snakebites, marking the first comprehensive collection of such data.

    This averages out to 9,900 snakebites annually across the country.

    Interestingly, the incidence was notably higher among males, averaging 5,600 cases per year compared to females, who experienced 4,300 cases annually.

    These findings were revealed by Dr. Joseph Opare, Programme Manager of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) at the Ghana Health Service, during the launch of the African Snakebite Alliance (ASA) Ghana.

    Snakebite holds a significant place among the World Health Organization’s (WHO) list of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), with Ghana being endemic to 14 out of 20 identified conditions. Alarmingly, more deaths are reported annually due to venomous snakebites compared to fatalities caused by Ebola. In low and middle-income countries, snakebite envenoming ranks among the deadliest of NTDs.

    Globally, an estimated 5.4 million snakebites occur each year, resulting in 1.8 to 2.7 million cases of poisoning. Shockingly, this leads to between 81,410 and 137,880 deaths annually, along with three times as many cases of amputations and other permanent disabilities.

    Dr. Opare highlighted that snakebites predominantly affect individuals in farming, hunting, fishing, and rural communities across Ghana. Notably, the Upper West, Ashanti, and Eastern regions have recorded the highest number of snakebite incidents.

    Burden of snakebite

    Dr. Opare outlined measures undertaken by the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to mitigate snakebite mortality and morbidity. These initiatives include enhancing surveillance and ensuring the availability of sufficient antivenoms.

    Additionally, the GHS is intensifying efforts to raise awareness about snakebites, empowering individuals with knowledge of remedial actions in case of an incident.

    Despite these efforts, Dr. Opare emphasized that the true extent of snakebite envenomation in Ghana remains unknown. He explained that the hospital visit rate for snakebites is estimated at 35 per 100,000 persons annually.

    Envenomation, the exposure to poison or toxin from a snake, scorpion, spider, insect, or marine creature, poses a significant threat. Dr. Opare identified several challenges hindering Ghana’s progress in addressing snakebite envenomation.

    These include the lack of reliable data on snake types and distribution, limited availability and accessibility of antivenoms, their occasional unaffordability, and the scarcity or costliness of protective gear for rural farmers.

    ASA

    The African Snakebite Alliance (ASA) is a transformative organization dedicated to bridging international scientific expertise with local policy and community engagement in the field of snakebite research.

    Comprised of experts from institutions such as the Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine (KCCR), the Kenya Institute of Primate Research, the University of Global Health Equity in Rwanda, the Eswatini Antivenom Foundation, the Rwanda Biomedical Centre, and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine in the United Kingdom, the ASA operates with funding from the Wellcome Trust.

    Dr. John H. Amuasi, the Principal Investigator of the ASA and leader of the Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research Group at KCCR, highlighted that achieving the 2019 WHO roadmap’s goal of halving snakebite-related deaths and disabilities by 2030 faces significant hurdles due to the dearth of high-quality research evidence guiding policy and practice.

    The ASA’s objectives are multifaceted. They aim to conduct rigorous research pertinent to enhancing health outcomes for snakebite victims in Africa, establish frameworks to assist African national and regional entities in integrating research findings into policy and planning, and foster sustainable interdisciplinary capacity for snakebite research across Africa.

    As part of their initiatives, the ASA will provide small grants to researchers interested in conducting various types of snakebite research. Additionally, they are committed to ensuring that research findings are effectively translated into actionable policies.

    Antivenoms

    A representative of the WHO Ghana Office, Dr Angela Ackon, described snakebite as a neglected public health issue in many tropical and sub-tropical countries, adding that while highly effective treatments existed, antivenoms were not widely available in the regions where they were needed, pointing out the main challenge to be the preparation of the correct snake venoms.

    “At present, very few countries can produce snake venoms of adequate quality for antivenom manufacture and many manufacturers rely on common commercial sources. These may not properly reflect the geographical variation that occurs in the venoms of some widespread species,” she explained.

    Furthermore, Dr Ackon said the lack of regulatory capacity for the control of antivenoms in countries with significant snakebite problems resulted in an inability to assess the quality and appropriateness of the antivenoms.

    It was for that reason that the WHO prequalification was paying serious attention to the issue and was evaluating other types of antivenoms, Dr Ackon said, adding that if compliant with WHO standards, those products would be listed for international procurement.

    The Presidential Advisor on Health, Dr Anthony Nsiah-Asare, said most cases of snakebite were recorded from March to June and October to November of every year, which were the major and minor farming seasons.

    The acting Director, of the Technical Coordination Directorate and Director of external Health Cooperation of the Ministry of Health, Dr Hafez Adam Taher, described snakebite as the most neglected among NTDs even though it was covered under the National Health Insurance Scheme, explaining that there was still scarcity of vaccines for snakebites.

  • SML deal simply Agyapa deal in “suit and tie” – Bright Simons

    SML deal simply Agyapa deal in “suit and tie” – Bright Simons

    Vice President of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons, has made a striking assertion regarding the revenue assurance contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML).

    He contends that this contract represents an evolved version of the failed Agyapa Royalties deal.

    According to Simons, following the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government’s inability to execute the Agyapa deal, which aimed to leverage Ghana’s mineral resources as collateral, they broadened the scope of the SML agreement. Initially focused on revenue assurance for oil production, the contract was expanded to encompass minerals as well, as reported by myjoyonline.com.

    During a comprehensive presentation on the responsibilities of SML on Joy FM’s Newsfile program on April 27, 2024, Simons highlighted that despite the questionable nature of the contract, the government tasked the company with extending its services to cover Ghana’s mineral production.

    “We are completely certain that when you try to expand this SML service to cover the minerals and petroleum it was simply Agyapa [deal] in suit and tie.

    “When Agyapa failed, somebody suggested that if we cannot get the percentage of the royalties that we wanted from every ounce of gold sold in Ghana, then we will do even more, we will add the oil as well and we will create a mechanism to get a certain percentage out of that,” he is quoted to have said.

    Simons pointed out several irregularities in the SML deal, notably the challenges in accurately determining oil production and calculating royalties. These concerns are compounded by doubts regarding the reliability of data provided by oil companies.

    He criticized the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) for depending on mechanisms that struggle to establish royalty payments, emphasizing the inherent difficulties in monitoring and regulating petroleum extraction and sales.

    “It doesn’t make any sense to try and claim that because the Tullow and other companies are lying about the oil produced, you will use some mechanism to try and establish that.

    “And for every barrel of oil produced, you will then be entitled to a percentage. What logic is that?” he quizzed.

    Background:

    President Akufo-Addo,in a press statement issued by the Presidency’s Communications Director, Eugene Arhin, directed the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Ministry of Finance to engage in renegotiating the SML contract. He stressed the importance of closely monitoring and periodically evaluating the renegotiation process to ensure it aligns with expectations.

    “There is a clear need for the downstream petroleum audit services provided by SML. GRA and the State have benefited from these services since SML commenced providing them. There has been an increase in volumes of 1.7 billion litres and an increase in tax revenue to the State of GHS 2.45 billion. KPMG also observed that there were qualitative benefits, including a 24/7 electronic real-time monitoring of outflow and partial monitoring of inflows of petroleum products at depots where SML had installed flowmeters and six levels of reconciliation done by SML.

    “This minimises the occurrence of under-declarations. However, it is important to review the contract for downstream petroleum audit services, particularly the fee structure.

    Given the experience and proficiency of SML over the last four years of providing this service, the President has directed that the fee structure be changed from a variable to a fixed fee structure.

    Other provisions of the contract worth reviewing include clauses on intellectual property rights, termination, and service delivery expectations,” he wrote.

    The decision to renegotiate the contract follows the president’s acceptance of the recommendation by KPMG after its audit of the deal.

    The audit findings prompted the need for a review of the revenue assurance contract, highlighting areas where improvements are necessary to enhance its effectiveness.

    On January 2, 2024, President Nana Akufo-Addo commissioned KPMG to investigate the contract between SML and GRA, prompted by an exposé by media outfit, the Fourth Estate.

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has since received the KPMG audit report regarding the revenue mobilisation contract between GRA and SML.

    The report was delivered to him on Wednesday, March 27, as announced in a Facebook post by Eugene Arhin, the Director of Communications at the Presidency, on Wednesday, April 3.

  • 2024 polls: Bawumia’s nationwide campaign stars today

    2024 polls: Bawumia’s nationwide campaign stars today

    Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP),Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is gearing up to kick off his political campaign today Monday, April 29, in preparation for the December general elections.

    In a press release issued by Dennis Miracles Aboagye, the Director of Communications for the Bawumia for President 2024 Campaign, it was announced that Bawumia will commence his campaign in the Eastern Region and will traverse all sixteen regions over the course of the next month.

    During the tour, Bawumia is slated to engage with a diverse array of stakeholders, including traditional leaders, clergy, youth, traders, drivers, farmers, students, and visit various businesses, including marketplaces, to interact with both sellers and consumers.

    Ghanaians have been urged to give Dr Bawumia the needed reception during the tour, as he has “shown in these eight years that he has more integrity, discipline, focus, ideas, and solutions than his main opponent [John Dramani Mahama] showed in his 8 years as Vice President and President.”

    “It is without doubt that, Dr. Bawumia has proven to be Solutions-oriented and remains committed to finding more solutions to Ghana’s challenges if given the nod as President in the December 2024 elections,” the statement read in part.

    Below is the full press statement:

    NPP PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE DR. MAHAMUDU BAWUMIA BEGINS NATIONWIDE CAMPAIGN

    The 2024 Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, will officially kick off his presidential campaign for the December 7 general elections with his first nationwide tour from Monday, 29 April 2024. Dr Bawumia and his campaign team are promising an issue-based campaign, one that will focus on cogent, practical, and tailor-made ideas to deal with issues that are most dear to the Ghanaian people.

    Beginning in the Eastern Region, Dr. Bawumia and his campaign team will visit all 16 regions over the next month in this first round of campaigning. On his rounds, he will meet with a wide range of stakeholders, including traditional leaders, the clergy, the youth, traders, drivers, farmers, students and visit businesses, including marketplaces to interact with both traders and consumers. The candidate will
    engage the media, hold townhall meetings and continue with his regular stakeholder engagements with the Ghanaian people.

    Long before his election on November 4, 2023, and since then, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has been very active in undertaking broad consultations and interactions with various groups across the country. Apart from fulfilling his busy schedule as Ghana’s most active ever Vice President, the 2024 NPP Presidential Candidate and the Party leadership have utilized these recent months to put the structures, personnel, logistics and programmes in place to embark on a very comprehensive, inclusive, constructive, and impactful presidential and parliamentary campaign.

    As we enter the active phase of the 2024 Election campaigning, Dr. Bawumia is buoyed up by the strong backing from our party’s grassroots and the growing enthusiasm and confidence resonating throughout the entire party. This burgeoning energy signifies our preparedness for the activities that lie ahead in the upcoming contest.

    For us in the NPP, the 2024 race is all down to three key things.

    The Battle of Ideas and Character:

    As Ghana moves into the next phase of our development, it is more important than ever to elect a leader that holds himself to the highest standards, a man of character, performance, work ethic, vision, programmes, wisdom, decisiveness, self-discipline, integrity, and a very high credibility. It’s indisputable that in this regard, Dr. Bawumia emerges as the most formidable candidate.

    Dr. Bawumia has shown in these eight years that he has more integrity, discipline, focus, ideas, and solutions than his main opponent showed in his 8 years as Vice President and President.

    It is without doubt that, Dr. Bawumia has proven to be Solutions-oriented and remains committed to finding more solutions to Ghana’s challenges if giving the nod as President in the December 2024 elections.

    The Battle of Records:

    There is no denying that there have been global economic challenges, and as a party, we recognize the hardship that this global tragedy has presented to all Ghanaians and the world at large.

    It is, however, important to remember and highlight the many achievements of the NPP government in these seven years in constituencies and communities and to not allow anyone to rewrite the history of the previous NDC government. While we are confident, we don’t have to rely on confidence alone; the numbers clearly show that the NPP government has consistently outperformed the NDC government and that it has done so despite historically unmatched global challenges.

    As we remind the public of our accomplishments, we clearly understand 2024 is more about the future of our country, and the vision Dr. Bawumia has for her.

    The Battle of Effective Campaigning:

    As we set out to campaign for the presidency and the future of this country, we stand united and energized on a common platform.

    It cannot be overstated how determined and hardworking our 276 parliamentary candidates and all our campaign teams, especially the Electoral Area and Polling Station campaign teams, are. We rely on them; we stand on their shoulders as we rise together. This party was built on the very idea of unity, and unity is what bonds us together as we build a future of possibilities for Mother Ghana.

    The big issue for 2024 comes down to the two personalities. Which of the two main candidates will Ghanaians want as their next leader after 2024? The one who was given his chance and blew it through his incompetence or the one who has shown what he can do even as a Vice President and is now asking to also be given the opportunity to show what he can do as President? We are daring the main opposition Party to come to a debate on the two personalities.

    Dr. Bawumia’s Campaign invites the Ghanaian voter to focus on the credibility and weight of the policies of each of the two foremost presidential candidates – Bawumia and Mahama. In the next few months, the Bawumia campaign will humbly but decisively address all major issues facing our nation and how, with the current positive turnaround, he intends to consolidate the gains and tackle the outstanding issues head-on if given the mandate in December.

    He will also be asking the crucial questions: Which of the two main candidates is saying anything for the sake of power and who is really plugged into what will deepen the transformation of Ghana? Who is equipped to address the employment needs of our young people, and make our private sector more competitive and profitable going into the future? Which of the two main candidates can guarantee the education of our children and the health of our parents.

    These and many more questions will be asked and answered by our candidate, as he asks the Ghanaian people to elect him to the highest office in the land.

    The maiden national campaign tour, which runs till the first week of June, will have Dr. Bawumia showcasing his innovative ideas for Ghanaians.

    Dr. Bawumia will present what he terms “BOLD SOLUTIONS FOR OUR FUTURE” to the nation.

  • Come clear, not these lies and fantasies – IMANI to EC over BVDs at recycling plant

    Come clear, not these lies and fantasies – IMANI to EC over BVDs at recycling plant

    IMANI Africa has expressed reservations regarding the Ghana Electoral Commission’s explanation concerning the unearthing of 10 outdated biometric verification devices (BVDs) at a recycling plant.

    In response to the EC’s assertion that the BVDs were antiquated and lawfully auctioned, IMANI Africa has called for additional details regarding the auction process.

    They are seeking clarification on the licensing of the auctioneers, the auction methodology, and the identities of the successful bidders.

    Moreover, IMANI Africa questions the wisdom behind procuring obsolete devices specifically tailored for electoral use and the involvement of a commercial recycling plant in managing potentially sensitive data.

    The think tank underscores the significance of transparency in the disposal of these BVDs to maintain public confidence in the electoral system.

    Key inquiries from IMANI Africa include the identities of auctioneers and successful bidders, the advertisement of the auction, and the authorization for recycling these devices in a facility lacking secure data-handling capabilities.

    “The EC claims that the 10 BVDs were auctioned and that they just somehow then found their way into a recycling plant. Who were the auctioneers? Are they registered auctioneers licensed to conduct auctions by the Auctioneers Registration Board?”

    “Who were the successful bidders? How was the auction advertised? Why would anyone want to buy ten used biometric devices that the EC claims have been “hard-coded” for electoral purposes, for which reason it has refused to use the thousands of devices bought in recent years?”

    “Why would a commercial recycling plant be interested in just ten devices? Who authorised the recycling of the devices in a facility without adequate secure data handling capabilities?” IMANI asked.

    IMANI also lunged at the EC, saying its press statement was “full of lies, half-truths, and pure fantasies.

    “The EC says that only ten biometric verification devices (BVDs) were ‘auctioned’. And that they ‘found their way’ into a recycling plant. The obvious questions that the media ought to ask are: a) Before the EC jettisoned the existing system, it had told Parliament that it had implemented a ‘2 BVDs per polling station’ policy and, therefore, had more than 70,000 BVDs in stock.

    “Then, in 2020, it proceeded to buy a brand-new set of biometric voter registration (BVR) kits with corresponding BVD kits and swore (despite video evidence collected by Bright Simons) that they never used any of the pre-existing devices in the 2020 mass voter registration exercise. Why, then, did they auction only 10 out of the over 70,000 devices? Why ’10’, and not 5, 100, or 1000?” IMANI wondered.

    “How have the remaining tens of thousands of devices been disposed of? Ghanaians who have been paying attention to the EC’s strange conduct under the current leadership know that the EC admitted to having lost some BVRs recently, but when pushed it insisted that they were only five in number. There is a clear pattern here. What exactly is going on?” the think tank asked.

  • GBC celebrates Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s 25th anniversary in new documentary

    GBC celebrates Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s 25th anniversary in new documentary

    On April 26, 1999, Nana Barima Kwaku Duah ascended to the throne as Otumfuo Osei Tutu II after his inauguration ceremony, completing the rituals to become the Asantehene.

    Now at 73, on April 26, 2024, Osei Tutu II celebrates 25 years as the revered leader of the Golden Stool.

    Throughout his reign, the Asantehene has engaged in numerous interviews with both local and international media, addressing a wide range of topics.

    His life story has been extensively documented in various forms, including magazines, books, and documentaries.

    To commemorate his Silver Jubilee, the state broadcaster, GBC, aired a special video titled “Otumfuo Osei Tutu II: Celebrating 25 Years of Local and Global Impact,” highlighting his profound influence both within Ghana and on the global stage.

    The video features testimonials from a diverse array of high-profile figures, including politicians, diplomats, technocrats, royals, and personal acquaintances, all speaking eloquently about the Asantehene’s enduring legacy and his significant contributions to society, both at home and abroad.

  • StarTimes secures rights to air La Liga matches

    StarTimes secures rights to air La Liga matches

    StarTimes is thrilled to announce that it has successfully secured the non-exclusive broadcast rights for the highly esteemed Spanish football league, La Liga EA Sports and La Liga Hypermotion, for the next five seasons.

    La Liga EA Sports is the premier football league in Spain and is considered one of the top professional football leagues in Europe and the world, featuring 20 participating teams.

    Each season consists of 38 rounds with 10 matches per round, following a home and away format.

    La Liga also boasts the record for producing the most winners of both the Ballon d’Or and the FIFA World Player of the Year awards.

    With this acquisition, StarTimes holds the rights to broadcast La Liga EA Sports and La Liga Hypermotion for the seasons spanning 2024/25, 2025/26, 2026/27, 2027/28, and 2028/29.

    The broadcast will be available in all languages except French, including English, Portuguese, and local languages, reaching audiences across all countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

    Melcior Soler, La Liga’s Audiovisual Director stated: “Reaching our audience is essential for us, and partnering with StarTimes is key to deliver our best-in-class content to all our fans in the Sub-Saharian region.”

    “We are thrilled to share the news of our successful bid for the La Liga broadcast rights, securing access to one of the most prestigious football competitions globally.

    Soccer is at the heart of StarTimes’ sports content strategy, and this latest acquisition underscores our dedication to delivering top-notch football entertainment to our subscribers,” said Tiffany Shao, Sports Acquisition and Operation Director of StarTimes.

  • Stephen Appiah tipped to contest Ayawaso West Wuogon seat this year – Reports

    Stephen Appiah tipped to contest Ayawaso West Wuogon seat this year – Reports

    Social media post by Fiifi Tackie, spokesperson for the Ayew family, suggests that former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah is preparing to run for the Ayawaso West Wuogon (AWW) seat in the upcoming 2024 elections as an independent candidate.

    “Stephen Appiah to contest Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency as an independent Parliamentary candidate,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, April 26, 2024.

    If confirmed, Stephen Appiah will be joining Executive Council Member of the Ghana Football Association, Frederick Acheampong as the two leading football personalities gunning for seats in the next parliament.

    Frederick Acheampong won the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary primaries for the Ahafo Ano South East constituency.

    He polled 164 votes to represent the NPP in the 2024 general elections.

    Stephen Appiah will be battling Lydia Seyram Alhassan of the NPP and John Dumelo of the NDC for the AWW seat.

  • “10 years already, we won’t forget you Tito” – Messi pays tribute to ex-Barcelona boss

    “10 years already, we won’t forget you Tito” – Messi pays tribute to ex-Barcelona boss

    On Thursday, Lionel Messi took a moment to pay tribute to his former coach, Tito Vilanova, marking the 10th anniversary of his passing.

    The Argentine shared a heartfelt post on social media, remembering his coach and friend fondly.

    Vilanova guided Messi and Barcelona to a memorable La Liga title victory in the 2012-2013 season, during which they set a new league record of 100 points.

    Sadly, Vilanova had to step down from his role in 2013 due to a recurrence of gland cancer, and he passed away a year later.

    Vilanova’s influence on Messi and his lasting impact on Barcelona will always be remembered, with reports suggesting that he played a pivotal role in convincing Messi to stay with the club amidst uncertainties about his future.

    According to Marca’s 2019 report, Vilanova spent hours in conversation with Messi during his final days, urging him to remain loyal to Barcelona.

    Tito convinced Mesi to stay loyal to Barca 6 days to his demise
  • It’s been 6 months of pain – Enzo Fernandez breaks silence after surgery

    It’s been 6 months of pain – Enzo Fernandez breaks silence after surgery

    Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez has shared details about his recent surgery to address a long-standing injury issue.

    The 23-year-old Argentine international disclosed that he had been experiencing pain for up to six months.

    Despite receiving regular injections and medication to alleviate the discomfort, the problem persisted and even worsened in recent weeks. Consequently, Fernandez made the decision to undergo surgery in order to resolve the issue effectively.

    Speaking on his personal Instagram account, Fernandez wrote: “I wanted to let you know that my operation was successful, everything went well, thank God.

    “I needed to have this surgery, since I had been experiencing pain for approximately 6 months. It was something I could avoid while constantly treating myself with injections and medications.

    “But a few weeks ago the pain began to become more and more intense, without any of this having an effect, and it was worse since I trained and played with discomfort, but I did not want to stop being in the games I had.

    “Every time I had to play with the Chelsea shirt, like that of the National Team, I always tried to give my best despite all this but I couldn’t take it anymore.

    “Thank you for the messages, the encouragement and your usual expressions of affection. Greetings to everyone, I promise you that I will come back stronger than ever. Take care. EJF. Thank the doctors who took care of me during surgery.”

  • The Laporta promises that kept Xavi at Barcelona

    The Laporta promises that kept Xavi at Barcelona

    Barcelona president Joan Laporta has reportedly made significant assurances to convince Xavi to remain as the club’s coach despite financial challenges.

    Xavi initially announced his departure after Barcelona’s loss to Villarreal in January but has now decided to stay until at least 2025 after discussions with Laporta and the board.

    According to Sport, the talks focused on addressing communication gaps between the coaching staff and administration. Both parties shared their expectations to build a better working relationship.

    The club aims to strengthen the squad, especially in midfield and on the left side of attack.

    Defensive reinforcements are also needed, with only Joao Cancelo currently available on loan from Manchester City.

    Xavi sought assurances about the club’s plans for the transfer window and received positive feedback, despite financial constraints.

    The success of planned signings depends on offloading surplus players to ease financial burdens. Barcelona is actively exploring player sales to create room for new acquisitions.

    Laporta is also exploring renegotiating the club’s contract with Nike to secure a lucrative deal, aiming for the best sponsorship contract in the market. He hopes to finalize this agreement in the future.

    Barcelona’s financial stability is expected to improve with the renegotiation of contracts, helping them meet La Liga’s strict financial rules.

    Xavi’s decision to stay provides stability, though their focus is on the next season, given Real Madrid’s strong lead in La Liga. They aim to end the current campaign positively, starting with a match against Valencia on Monday.

  • Pochettino reveals Todd Boehly hasn’t spoken to him in ‘months’ club’s struggles

    Pochettino reveals Todd Boehly hasn’t spoken to him in ‘months’ club’s struggles

    Mauricio Pochettino acknowledges that he hasn’t had direct communication with Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly for “months,” even amidst the club’s on-field challenges.

    Despite significant investments in the transfer market, Stamford Bridge has witnessed another inconsistent campaign, with the Blues facing the prospect of failing to qualify for European competitions once more.

    While Boehly has faced criticism from discontented fans, his involvement during periods of adversity has been notably minimal.

    Pochettino has revealed as much, with the Argentine – who has faced questions of his own future – telling reporters when asked about communication between the dressing room and boardroom: “To be honest, in the last few months, we didn’t cross messages, we communicated via the sporting director.

    Nothing’s changed, we are not changing. My views and my feelings are not changing, even if, now in the last few weeks, we are not crossing texts.”

    Chelsea were hammered 5-0 by London rivals Arsenal in their last outing, having come unstuck in the FA Cup semi-finals against Manchester City immediately prior to that, but Pochettino added on the mood inside his camp: “We talk about being together and having a big squad, trying to be together.

    It’s another thing we have to deal with. We need to be positive. The only way to move forward is to be positive, never give up, we are pushing them and trying to get the best in the period we have.”

    Currently occupying ninth place in the Premier League standings, Chelsea have six matches remaining in the season.

    Despite their current position, they retain the possibility of climbing into the top six, given that they have played fewer games than their counterparts. Their pursuit of this objective will resume with an upcoming fixture against Aston Villa, who are performing strongly in the league.

  • Bayern fans want Tuchel to stay in new petition; see his response

    Bayern fans want Tuchel to stay in new petition; see his response

    Thomas Tuchel has addressed a fan petition urging him to reconsider his departure from Bayern Munich and remain at the helm for the 2024-25 season.

    The announcement of Tuchel’s impending exit from the Allianz Arena came in February, prompted by criticism over Bayern’s failure to mount a serious challenge for the Bundesliga title and their elimination from domestic cup competitions.

    However, Bayern’s progression to the Champions League semi-finals has sparked renewed support for Tuchel, leading to the circulation of an online petition with over 13,000 signatures calling for his retention.

    Tuchel told reporters when asked about that cause and whether it could change his mind: “Even though this topic is good for me when they [the fans] wish you to stay, it’s not something that is a priority and it isn’t allowed to be a priority. In the next 11 days it’s only about football, nothing else.

    We want to achieve all we can and to gather as many points as possible in the Bundesliga to get the best result and to reach the final of the Champions League. Whether it’s pleasant or unpleasant, I don’t allow myself to be influenced by it. We’re only focusing on every day counting towards our goals and there’s no exception.”

    Several potential successors to Tuchel have been suggested. Xabi Alonso is unlikely to leave Leverkusen this summer, and doubts have been raised about whether Zinedine Zidane is the ideal candidate for the role.

    Martin Demichelis, currently managing River Plate in Argentina, has emerged as a strong contender, along with former RB Leipzig and Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick.

  • This is what killed my passion for football – Ex- Hearts player Joe Louis shares story

    This is what killed my passion for football – Ex- Hearts player Joe Louis shares story

    Former player for Hearts of Oak, Joe Louis, revealed that his passion for anything related to football waned after retirement, attributing it to a troubling experience he encountered during his time with the club.

    In an interview with Dan Kwaku Yeboah TV, Louis recounted the challenges he faced in his final years at Hearts, particularly concerning unpaid bonuses. Frustrated by the situation, he made the difficult decision to forgo an entire year’s salary and depart from the club.

    Louis explained that upon informing the club of his decision, the management refused to accept his resignation and instead insisted that he fulfill the remaining year of his contract. This, he asserted, significantly dampened his enthusiasm for the sport.

    “I first informed Alhaji Hearts about my decision because he was very nice to me during my time. He told me to take it easy and that they would sort things out. Then I went to Harry Zakour (former Heart of Oak CEO) and told him ‘I’m giving up my one-year salary, I want to leave’ but he also said no. It was from that point I lost my passion for football,” he said.

    Joe Louis asserted that the struggles local players and coaches go through before getting money due to them made football unpleasant to him.

    He said he was cheated by clubs, stating that despite his dedication during his peak years, he did not receive what he was entitled to.

    “To be honest, I don’t have the urge to become a coach. While I was playing football, I saw a lot of things. I played football wholeheartedly but didn’t get the incentives I deserved. I feel our leaders didn’t look out for us well enough. When I look back, there was a lot of cheating.”

    “And it wasn’t only me, about 98% of Ghanaian players. And it exists among all the teams in Ghana. Signing on fees, bonuses, and a lot of things are always an issue. It gets to a point where you just have to let go.”

    “I loved football. Aside from playing, I really liked football. I used to watch second-division and first-division games. But because of what I went through, after I retired, I didn’t have the urge to become a coach or do anything football-related.”

    He added that the situation has not improved and that has hindered him from becoming a coach or taking a football-related career patch after retirement.

    “Nothing has changed. They will employ you as a coach but you wan’t your salary and it becomes a problem. You will have to fight for it. I love football but I don’t have the urge to do anything football-related, to be honest.

    Following his retirement, Joe Louis worked with his brothers to run an automobile dealing company for a while, but he stopped along the line.

  • Black Stars coaching job was forced on Otto Addo – Mohammed Polo

    Black Stars coaching job was forced on Otto Addo – Mohammed Polo

    Former Ghana international, Mohammed Polo, believes Otto Addo was forced to take up the Black stars job, claiming the former Borussia Dortmund talent coach is not ready for the job.

    The Ghana Football Association re-appointed Otto Addo as head coach of the senior national team in March 2024 following the sacking of Chris Hughton after the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire.

    Otto Addo was, reportedly, not part of the initially shortlisted coaches for the position, but was a late entry because the GFA preferred him over those who applied.

    Speaking to Joy Sports in an interview, Mohammed Polo was critical in his assessment of the GFA’s decision to re-appoint the 48-year-old as Ghana coach.

    “Otto was not even ready. He was been forced to take up the job. Those who are ready, give it to them,” Polo said.

    “The guy came here and he told you point blank he has a job, and you said, ‘Please, come and do the job,’ as if we without him, nobody can do the job. What is this?

    “He came, fine, and qualified us to the World Cup [in Qatar] with only two matches.”

  • Swedish FA dismiss VAR consideration amid club protests

    Swedish FA dismiss VAR consideration amid club protests

    Swedish Football Association (SvFF) chairman Fredrik Reinfeldt announced that Sweden’s top leagues will not adopt a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, following opposition from clubs.

    The decision stems from concerns expressed by clubs about the technology’s controversial nature, including extended analysis of close offside calls and significant delays during matches.

    Back in July 2023, the majority of clubs in the top two divisions of Swedish football, represented by the Swedish Professional Football Leagues, actively opposed the introduction of VAR.

    Notably, clubs in Sweden’s Allsvenskan must have at least 51% fan ownership.

    “If I counted correctly, we have 18 elite clubs and two districts that have said they do not want to introduce VAR,” Reinfeldt, the former prime minister of Sweden, told the Aftonbladet newspaper in an interview published on Thursday.

    “We respect that. That’s why we didn’t bring forward any proposal about VAR to the previous board of representatives meeting and I don’t foresee it in the future either. I stand by respecting the democratic rules of the game.”

    Reinfeldt, who previously hailed VAR as “the future,” has faced backlash from fans for his current stance on the issue. The 58-year-old explained that his earlier comments were made in light of discussions suggesting UEFA might mandate VAR implementation.

    “I don’t think so now, from what I’ve heard, so then it is up to us to make the decision,” he added.

    The SvFF’s stance means that the Allsvenskan will be the only league UEFA’s top 30 divisions to reject VAR.

  • Brazil legend Marta announces retirement from international soccer

    Brazil legend Marta announces retirement from international soccer

    Brazil’s all-time top scorer in both men’s and women’s football, Marta, will retire from internationals this year, the 38-year-old striker said on Thursday.

    Marta, who has been playing in the United States with Orlando Pride since 2017, hopes to make her sixth appearance at the Olympics at this year’s Games in Paris.

    “If I go to the Olympics, I will enjoy every moment, because, regardless of whether I go to the Olympics or not, this is my last year with the national team,” Marta told CNN in an interview on Thursday.

    “There will be no more Marta from 2025 in the national team as an athlete.

    “I am very calm about this, because I see with great optimism this development that we are having in relation to young athletes.”

    Marta, fondly referred to as “Queen Marta,” holds the record as Brazil’s all-time leading goal scorer, tallying 116 goals in 175 matches.

    Recognized as one of the greatest footballers in history, she also holds the title for the most goals scored in the Women’s World Cup, with an impressive 17 goals to her name.

    Despite not clinching a World Cup victory, Marta reached the final in 2007, where Brazil suffered a 2-0 defeat to Germany in Shanghai, China.

    Throughout her career, Marta has secured three Copa America Femenina titles and contributed to Brazil’s silver medal finishes at the 2004 and 2008 Olympic Games.

    Marta’s journey in club football commenced with Vasco da Gama, followed by stints at prominent Swedish clubs such as Umea IK, Tyreso FF, and Rosengard.

    Additionally, she made an impact in the U.S. league, representing teams like Los Angeles Sol, Western New York Flash, and Gold Pride.

  • FIFA solidifies Saudi alliance with World Cup partnership deal involving Aramco

    FIFA solidifies Saudi alliance with World Cup partnership deal involving Aramco

    FIFA solidified its partnership with Saudi Arabia by officially announcing a sponsorship deal with the kingdom’s state oil company, Aramco, on Thursday.

    The agreement, widely anticipated, became inevitable after Saudi Arabia was nearly confirmed last October as the host nation for the 2034 men’s World Cup.

    Covering the period up to 2027, the deal encompasses major events such as the men’s World Cup in 2026, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as well as the 2027 Women’s World Cup, the hosts for which will be determined next month.

    While the financial details of the arrangement were not disclosed, it is likely one of FIFA’s most lucrative deals in terms of average annual value.

    It may also involve sponsorship of the inaugural 32-team Club World Cup scheduled for next year in the U.S.

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino has developed close relations with Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman since before the 2018 World Cup.

    Notably, the tournament in Russia was sponsored by the state-owned energy company, Gazprom.

    The bidding process for the 2034 World Cup was unexpectedly launched last October, seemingly tailored to favor Saudi Arabia, with only FIFA member federations in Asia and Oceania permitted to participate.

    By the end of that month, Saudi Arabia was confirmed as the sole candidate.

    While the Visit Saudi tourist board was a minor sponsor of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, its presence was absent at the 2023 Women’s World Cup following objections from organizers in Australia and New Zealand.

  • Spanish govt to take charge of football federation until elections

    Spanish govt to take charge of football federation until elections

    On Thursday, the Spanish government announced the establishment of a special committee to oversee the country’s football federation (RFEF) until new elections are held.

    This decision comes in response to the ongoing crisis within the organization and in defense of Spain’s general interests, as stated by the National Sports Council (CSD), the government agency responsible for sports.

    The decision follows a series of scandals, which began with former RFEF chief Luis Rubiales’s unsolicited kiss on player Jenni Hermoso during the on-pitch awards ceremony for Spain’s women’s World Cup success in Sydney.

    “The Spanish government has taken this decision in order to correct the serious situation that the RFEF is going through and to allow the organisation to begin a period of regeneration,” the CSD said.

    “This Commission for Supervision, Normalisation and Representation will be headed by independent persons of recognised prestige.”

    Spain is trying to move on from the issues within the RFEF as it gears up to co-host the 2030 World Cup.

    FIFA and UEFA say they are closely monitoring the situation with great concern. FIFA regulations state that members shall manage their affairs independently and without influence from third parties.

    “FIFA and UEFA will seek additional information to assess the extent to which the CSD’s appointment of the so-called ‘Supervision, Normalisation and Representation Commission’ may affect the RFEF’s obligation to manage its affairs independently and without undue government interference,” they said in a joint statement.

    Investigations over a multi-million euro corruption probe during Rubiales’ tenure led to other RFEF executives being fired after police raided the organisation’s headquarters in Madrid last month.

    Rocha, who was acting as RFEF stand-in president and hoped to be anointed permanently, was placed under investigation by a judge this month after testifying as a witness in court. He was the sole candidate to succeed Rubiales.

    Rocha said on April 16 he had “no knowledge nor, therefore, any responsibility for the facts that are being investigated.”

    An apartment belonging to Rubiales was also raided as part of an investigation into the alleged corruption.

    Rubiales was banned on Oct. 30 by world soccer’s governing body FIFA for three years from all football-related activities following the kiss, which was done allegedly without consent.

    The CSD also postponed until Tuesday a decision on whether to take action in relation to disciplinary proceedings opened against Rocha on which the Administrative Court of Sport (TAD)will rule in the coming weeks.

    The RFEF said in a statement this month that the TAD case was not related to the corruption probe but rather whether the federation overstepped its duties after Rubiales resigned.

    Rocha’s office said in a statement this month that the irregularities in TAD’s case would be challenged.