Arthur Kennedy, a prominent member of theNew Patriotic Party (NPP), asserts that former Ghanaian President John Agyekum Kufour’s inaction against the alleged Akyem dominance within the party amounts to a failure on his part.
Kennedy contends that Kufour possessed the authority to counter this perceived takeover but opted not to, a decision that he finds deeply troubling.
To him, Kufour should have spent his political capital fighting to save the NPP from the control of the Akyems.
“Talking about Kufour, I’ve always liked him. Very personable, very fine gentleman. But in his post-presidential years, he let the NPP down. I think that a lot of things, including taking over the party and extra constitutional things that the Kyebi mafia has done, like sacking Afoko, Kwabena Agyepong,.
The person who could have stopped that was Kufour, who refused to spend his political capital doing that. I say this because he is a very nice person, and I say that because he could have prevented a lot of these things from happening. Having said that, his abandonment of Alan might be based on the conviction thatBawumia is a better candidate,” he said.
Konongo, Nkawie, and the likes of Ahafo face the threat of significant property damage in the event of a fire outbreak.
This comes after the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) threatened to boycott or blacklist certain areas over the incessant attacks on their firefighters.
This statement comes in the wake of an incident on Saturday, February 10, in Konongo, where angry residents alleged that fire officers responded late to a fire outbreak. This led to an attack on the officers and damage to a fire tender.
During a media briefing on Thursday, February 22, GNFS Public Relations Officer (PRO) ADO 1 Alex King Nartey highlighted that outdated equipment contributes to response delays.
He emphasised that many fire tenders are between 15 and 20 years old, posing a significant concern.
“The unfortunate thing is that we always say that our logistics are very lacking. Most of our fire tenders are between 15, and 20 years old, a very worrying situation. As I speak to you now, Kasoa and Weija, their tender fighting is out of commission, so if there’s any fire at Kasoa, the appliance will either have to move from Anyaa or Budumburam, that’s very bad.
“So it means that if there is any fire within the Budumburam area, and one of the Budumburam probably attended to that fire, it means we have to call a much further appliance, probably from Dansoman, to attend to it. So you see the little appliances that we have left, we are trying to salvage them.”
Nartey reported further assaults on fire officers in Ahafo and Nkawie, leading to injuries requiring hospitalisation. Given these ongoing challenges, the GNFS is considering the possibility of boycotting areas where their personnel are at risk of assault.
“So it becomes very appalling when they turn to put their frustration on us. So what we are deciding to do is embark on a boycott on areas that are known to always want to attack our men because, as we speak, a few days after this report was made, another attack happened to our men at Ahafo. Three or four have been hospitalised, and I’m even hearing at Nkawie, another issue has happened.”
To salvage this, Mr Nartey called on the government to ensure timely procurement and supply of new equipment as well as construct more fire stations nationwide.
Assembly leaders were also called on to educate their residents about fire safety.
15-year-old prodigy is set to participate in a PGA Tour pre-qualifier on Thursday, aiming to secure a spot in the Cognizant Classic in Florida from February 29 to March 3, as announced by the PGA Tour on its website on Wednesday.
Charlie will compete at Lost Lake Golf Club in Hobe Sound, Florida, which is one of four pre-qualifying venues for the Classic.
Following this, a total of 25 players will advance to a full qualifier on Monday, with four players earning the opportunity to tee off in the Cognizant Classic alongside professionals such as Rickie Fowler and current world No. 2 Rory McIlroy.
If successful, the son of the 82-time PGA Tour champion will be just 15 years and 21 days old, surpassing his father, who played his first Tour event at the age of 16, according to USA Today.
Charlie has previously teamed up with his father in the two-player PNC Championship, which pairs major champions with family members. According to ESPN, Tiger and Charlie secured second place in the 2021 event.
In addition to Charlie, Tiger shares a daughter named Sam Alexis, aged 16, with his ex-wife Elin Nordegren. In December 2023, she also joined the pair at the PNC Championship, serving as her father’s caddie for the first time at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Orlando, Florida.
In a video shared on the PGA Tour and PNC Championship’s Instagram pages, Sam was seen standing beside her father, engaging in conversation as she cleaned one of his clubs.
“For the first time, Sam Woods is caddying for her father today ❤,” the post’s caption read.
“I just love being with them and seeing what they’re doing, what they’re capable of doing—the joys, just the shifts of interest,” the golf legend said of his children in 2011. “It’s just fun. We have a great time together.”
Sevilla’s 20-year-old full-back Juanlu Sanchez has hinted at the possibility of joining Real Madrid, acknowledging the club as the biggest in Spain and one of the largest globally.
Throughout the January transfer window, Juanlu was linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu, where he was seen as a potential successor to Dani Carvajal.
However, Madrid opted to halt their pursuit upon realising his €20 million release clause.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmEMpEzhprw
Curiously, Juanlu’s remarks regarding Real Madrid come just days before his team travels to the Spanish capital to face Los Blancos in a La Liga clash on Sunday, February 25th.
“Real Madrid are the biggest club in Spain or one of the biggest. I think they have the most complete squad in the world. If some get injured, others come in and continue to be the best in the world,” said the defender on Onda Cero Sevilla (h/t Estadio Deportivo).
He added that the likes of Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo are the best players in the world right now and they will be the biggest threats on Sunday.
In an intriguing development, Spanish publication AS has indicated that the deal between Mbappe and Real Madrid is nearing completion, with the final agreement expected to be conclusive.
Previously, it was noted that Real Madrid, the reigning European champions, are hesitant to surpass their wage limit. This implies that Mbappe, aged 25, will likely be on a salary similar to that of Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr.
So what’s stalling the deal?
Since the Galacticos era at Real Madrid, there has been a longstanding tradition of evenly splitting image rights, with a 50/50 division between the club and the player.
This practice initially laid the foundation for the Galactico era, characterized by the financial success of iconic players such as Figo, Ronaldo, David Beckham, and Zinedine Zidane.
However, this arrangement faced disruption with the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo in 2009. Madrid found themselves compelled to yield to his salary demands, altering the established norm.
The current negotiation between Real Madrid and Mbappe is primarily centred around the distribution of these image rights. This remains the final point of contention in their discussions, slowing down the finalisation of the deal.
What’s the current discussion?
While the finalisation of this deal is imminent, current discussions centre around the allocation of image rights. It is understood that Mbappe will retain 80% of these rights, with the remaining 20% assigned to Real Madrid.
Currently, Mbappe enjoys full control of his image rights, resulting in an annual income of €20 million solely from advertising. However, joining Madrid will significantly increase his earnings, even with a shared quota, elevating his global status substantially.
Mbappe currently boasts three major sponsors:Nike, Hublot, and Oakley. A move to Real Madrid promises to further enhance his popularity, translating into substantial financial gains for both Madrid and Mbappe, effectively making him a lucrative asset for the club.
However, Chelsea has firmly stated that they have no intention of allowing the 20-year-old to depart. Colwill signed a six-year contract with the club last summer, and Chelsea believes he is content at Stamford Bridge.
Nonetheless, PSG and Liverpool are monitoring the situation, as Chelsea may need to consider offloading academy graduates to address their financial concerns.
The club is under pressure to stay in line with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules — and academy players present “pure profit” in the accounts.
Conor Gallagher, Ian Maatsen (excelling on loan at Borussia Dortmund), Armando Broja (on loan at Fulham) and Trevoh Chalobah are all considered players who could depart to help fund moves for a striker, centre-back and left-back.
Last summer, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Brighton & Hove Albion expressed interest in Levi Colwill, with Brighton making multiple offers that were turned down. Since then, Colwill has emerged as a crucial player in manager Mauricio Pochettino’s lineup, starting in 19 Premier League matches.
Sporting director Luis Campos is spearheading PSG’s interest in Colwill. However, Lille’s Leny Yoro is their primary target, with plans to pursue a left-footed center-back in 2025.
An investigation revealed that John Hlophe, the chief judge in Western Cape province, attempted to sway justices at the nation’s highest court in a case involving former President Jacob Zuma. In 2008, he approached two justices to gauge their support for Mr. Zuma in a corruption case.
Despite Mr. Hlophe’s persistent denial of the allegations, the lengthy process of appeals and investigations contributed to the significant delay between the alleged offence and his impeachment.
This removal of a judge marks an unprecedented event since the inception of South Africa’s democratic era in 1994.
Additionally, a second judge, Nkola Motata, faced impeachment for disorderly conduct and racial remarks stemming from a 2007 drunk-driving incident. Mr. Motata, now retired, served as a High Court judge in Gauteng province at the time of the incident and also refuted the accusations.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is now tasked with approving the decision and determining a date for the formal removal of the judges.
Upon their removal, the judges will forfeit all benefits, including a lifetime monthly salary exceeding 1 million rand ($53,000; £42,000), a car allowance, and comprehensive medical coverage.
Mr. Hlophe’s impeachment was the first to occur on Wednesday evening, with MPs voting by the required two-thirds majority. The decision garnered support from the ruling African National Congress (ANC), the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA), and other minor parties.
Despite a last-minute attempt by Mr. Hlophe to halt his potential removal, which was rejected by a court just hours earlier, his impeachment proceeded swiftly, followed by that of Mr. Motata.
An investigation conducted by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) found that in 2008, Mr. Hlophe had contacted two of the eleven judges of the Constitutional Court in an effort to influence a ruling in favor of Mr. Zuma regarding a matter related to his arms-deal corruption case.
It’s important to note that Mr. Zuma has denied the corruption allegations, and there is no indication that he was involved in Mr. Hlophe’s actions.
Neither of the impeached judges has responded to the MPs’ decisions, but Mr. Hlophe had argued in court documents that parliament’s role was not merely to endorse findings by the JSC but to conduct its own investigation.
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula said the party welcomed parliament’s decision, while the DA’s Glynnis Breytenbach said her party felt vindicated after “years of the ANC government dragging its feet” on the judges’ removal.
“We may have waited 15 years for this moment, but the impeachment of Judge Hlophe, or any judge, has profound implications for judicial integrity in South Africa. It underscores the importance of upholding the highest ethical standards, the rule of law, and the constitution among judicial officers.
“It also sends a clear message that no one, regardless of their position or influence, is above the law,” Ms Breytenbach said.
Opposition party, the Economic Freedom Fighters, voted against the impeachments, with MP Busisiwe Mkhwebane arguing that the judges were remorseful and should be allowed to live the rest of their lives in peace.
“Can we let Judge Motata, in his misjudgement, be left to enjoy his retirement at home. We know that Hlophe was highly qualified and did his work with dignity. Punish this ANC government,” she told parliament, to cheers from her party’s benches.
Lawyer and the co-ordinator of advocacy group Judges Matter, Alison Tilley, told the BBC the removals were an important moment in the country’s history.
“It has taken time but it shows the systems to hold the judiciary accountable for its work. There are mechanisms that are now in place that give us confidence that a similar process would not take as long.”
A court in Spain has convicted former Barcelona and Brazil footballer Dani Alves of raping a woman at a nightclub in Barcelona.
The 40-year-old, known as one of football’s most accomplished players, has been sentenced to four and a half years in prison.
Alves, who denied the allegations, had been accused of sexually assaulting the woman in the early hours of a day in 2022. Despite his lawyer’s request for acquittal, Alves may appeal the verdict.
The court found that Alves had lured the woman to a VIP toilet area in the nightclub and determined that she did not consent to the encounter.
In its statement, the court cited evidence corroborating the victim’s testimony.
Additionally, Alves has been ordered to pay €150,000 (£128,500) in damages to the victim.
He has been in pre-trial detention since January 2023.
During the trial, Alves altered his testimony several times. Initially denying knowing the accuser, he later admitted to encountering her in the restroom but claimed nothing untoward happened.
Eventually, he asserted that the encounter was consensual.Prosecutors argued that Alves and a friend had bought champagne for three young women, inviting one to accompany him to another area, where he became aggressive and coerced her into sex despite her protests.
Alves, who played over400 games for Barcelona and was part of Brazil’s 2022 World Cup squad, faced a nine-year prison term, as requested by the prosecution.
In Spain, convictions for rape can result in sentences ranging from four to 15 years. Recent legal reforms prioritise consent, known as the “Only Yes is Yes” principle.
During a semi-final match in the Greek Cup on Wednesday evening,Ghanaian defender Abdul Baba Rahman experienced a terrifying moment when he collapsed on the pitch.
Rahman, who plays as a left-back for PAOK, collided with an opponent from Panathinaikos during the game.
The incident occurred in the 115th minute of the match, which had entered extra time following a 2-2 draw in regular time.
Rahman lost consciousness after his head inadvertently collided with an opponent’s during an aerial duel.
Immediate medical assistance was provided to Rahman on the field, and fortunately, he regained consciousness shortly afterward.
However, as a precautionary measure, he was taken off the pitch in an ambulance and is currently undergoing further observation at a hospital.
The match was briefly paused due to the incident but resumed eventually, ending in a penalty shootout after neither team could break the deadlock.
Panathinaikos emerged victorious in the shootout, securing their place in the Greek Cup final with a 6-5 win.
On Wednesday, February 21, 2024, the President of theGhana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, and Mustapha Ussif, the Minister of Youth and Sports, paid a visit to the camp of the Black Queens in preparation for their upcoming match against Zambia on Friday, February 23, 2024.
The visit comes in response to public outcry regarding the ministry’s failure to pay bonuses owed to the Black Queens.
Accompanied by Gifty Oware, the chair of the Black Queens management committee, Okraku and Ussif held a meeting with the players to address their financial concerns and provide encouragement ahead of the game against Zambia.
Images shared on the official social media account of the Black Queens depict the players’ enthusiasm during the meeting as they warmly greeted the GFA president and the Sports Minister.
Players of the Black Queens who participated in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and the previous rounds of the Olympic Games qualifiers are owed $7,500 each in winning bonuses.
It is understood that the Ministry had agreed to pay $2,500 per round, with the team having played four rounds so far—two in the Olympic Games qualifiers and two in the AWCON qualifiers. Payment for one round is still outstanding.
The team is currently in the final round of the Olympic Games qualifiers and is scheduled to face Zambia in the first leg in Accra on Friday, followed by the second leg in Zambia on Wednesday, February 27, 2024.
He made this revelation during the media launch of the Wealth and Jobs Expo Ghana.
This significant sum was strategically allocated to various initiatives aimed at addressing unemployment in the country.
Dr. John Kumah emphasised that, in light of recent statistics from the Ghana Statistical Service, which indicated that over a million Ghanaian youth were unemployed, it was imperative to allocate resources effectively.
Therefore, funds were channelled into key programs such as the YouStart Program, the Ghana Enterprise Agency, and the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme.
These initiatives are poised to combat unemployment by fostering entrepreneurship and providing support for job creation across different sectors of the economy.
“The Ghana Statistical Service announced on Wednesday that about 1.5 million Ghanaian youth are unemployed. Last year, the E-levy generated GH¢1.19 billion and as part of dealing with the job situation… unemployment situation, the government has committed funds through YouStart from these E-levy sources… to GEA and NEIP to address the unemployment situation in the country, and I am happy to announce that institutions like Wealth and Jobs Expo and all private groups that are willing to help create jobs in the private sector will also be supported to help create jobs and businesses in the private sector,” he said.
Dr. John Kumah underscored the government’s endeavours to draw investments into the nation, while simultaneously stimulating job growth. He stressed the importance of fostering belief in entrepreneurship as a crucial measure to tackle the unemployment rate.
“In the medium term, the government aims to intensify efforts to attract domestic investments and FDIs [Foreign Direct Investments] in strategic centres, with an emphasis on creating jobs anchored on the government’s growth strategy. The strategy is projected to contribute to the creation of approximately 500,000 jobs.
We are not saying there are 1.5 million [unemployed youth; every one of them should create jobs. No. Even if we get it, we get 10% of them, it’s 150,000 who will become entrepreneurs. If they do an average of, let’s say, 100 jobs… 150,000 x 100, you have almost solved the unemployment problem,” the Deputy Minister of Finance added.
Zambian Football Association has officially announced the tragic passing of Norin Betani, a player for the women’s national team. Betani, aged 24, passed away on Wednesday, February 21, 2024.
Betani was scheduled to accompany the team to Ghana for the Paris Olympic qualifying first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday.
However, she was unable to join the team as she fell ill and had to remain behind.
A statement from the Zambian FA read: “We regret to announce the death of one of our female players, Norin Betani, who was in the provisional squad for the Ghana match.
“Betani was taken to the nearest hospital to the team camp.
“This is the Kanyama Level One Hospital, and FAZ engaged the family at every stage.
“The patient was referred to the University Teaching Hospital on Monday and was under medical care until her demise.
“FAZ secretariat staff, family members, and her club (Indeni Roses) worked closely during the player’s hospitalisation.”
Zambia will be looking to go past Ghana’sBlack Queens and book a place at the Olympics for the second straight time after appearing at the Tokyo 2020 games.
Al Ahly SC, the Egyptian football giants, have formally requested the Confederation of African Football (CAF) postpone their upcoming match against Ghanaian champions Medeama SC.
In a statement released on Wednesday night, Ahly explained that their delegation’s flight from Accra to Kumasi was unable to complete its journey.
Despite landing in Accra for refuelling, the plane experienced a collision with the front of the fuselage, resulting in a malfunction that rendered it unable to continue flying, despite efforts to resolve the issue.
Efforts to secure an alternative flight for the Al Ahly contingent proved unsuccessful, leading to them spending the night in Accra.
They are expected to board the first flight to Kumasi on Thursday morning.
According to competition rules, visiting teams must undergo at least one training session at the match venue before matchday.
However, with Ahly set to arrive on Thursday, it is unlikely that they will be able to train on the same day due to concerns about jetlag.
Given these circumstances, Ahly has formally written to CAF to request postponing Friday’s match to Saturday.
Currently, the defending champions lead Group D with six points, while Medeama SC sits at the bottom of the group with four points, with two matches remaining in the group stage.
Former Ghanaian football star Asamoah Gyan has been appointed to the Manifesto Committee of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate for the 2024 election, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Gyan, renowned as Ghana’s highest goal scorer, has accepted the role of leading the “Youth and Sports” sub-committee within the manifesto team.
He will collaborate with twenty-three other members to conduct a comprehensive review of the NPP’s manifestos from 2016 and 2020, with the aim of crafting a practical manifesto for the upcoming 2024 election.
The committee plans to achieve this by engaging with various stakeholders and seeking input from sector ministers, who will act as advisors. Their goal is to develop a forward-thinking and practical manifesto that addresses the needs of the Ghanaian population.
Gyan’s recent cryptic message on his X (formerly Twitter) page, shared on Wednesday, February 21, has now gained significance with his appointment to the committee.
I believe the time has come for legends in sports to come together and use their influence, network and resources to attract investors into our country and make a meaningful impact on our youth in the sports fraternity, I.e football, boxing and other athletics. I strongly…— ASAMOAH GYAN (@ASAMOAH_GYAN3) February 21, 2024
Gyan is now expected to take an active role in communicating the sports-related aspects of Dr. Bawumia’s manifesto once it is finalised.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s flagbearer, has appointed the outgoing Majority Leader in Parliament, Osei Kyei Mensah-Bonsu, as the Chairman of the Committee.
Additionally, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has been named as the vice chairman, while Evron Hughes will serve as the secretary. Prof. Kwaku Appiah Adu and Dr. Isaac Owusu Mensah will act as the manifesto committee coordinators.
The committee has been given the responsibility of conducting a thorough review of the party’s previous manifestos from the 2016 and 2020 elections.
Mikel Arteta dismissed Arsenal’s past shortcomings in the Champions League knockout stages as “irrelevant” and urged his players to forge their own path towards a dream final at Wembley.
The Gunners are set to take on FC Porto at Estadio do Dragao in the first leg of the round-of-16 clash on Tuesday, aiming to advance to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2010.
Arsenal endured seven consecutive exits at the last-16 stage between 2011 and 2017, with Arteta himself involved in five of those defeats.
However, the Spaniard emphasised that the past does not define the present, especially as the club did not even qualify for the competition again until this season.
Only Mohamed Elneny remains from the squad that lost 10-2 on aggregate to Bayern in 2017 and Arteta said: “The players know that we have not been in the competition for seven years, obviously as some of them were here and they know the story. “And they know that what happened in the past is irrelevant. It is the challenge and ambition that we have now to go through.
Someone called [Lionel] Messi was another obstacle [in those years] for Bayern Munich, that we faced three times. “This competition is what it is. Individual quality is extremely important. It comes down to details and you need your players at their best when the occasion arises. Tomorrow,for sure, we’ll need that.
“We don’t have the experience; that’s the reality. Ninety-five percent of these players haven’t played in this competition, they haven’t played in the last 16; I haven’t [managed in this stage]. But they have so much energy and enthusiasm to play well and that’s our desire and how we’re going to play the game.”
Arsenal finished at the top of Group B, winning four out of six matches. Despite their relative lack of experience, the Gunners are viewed as favourites to advance against Porto, who suffered defeats both at home and away against Barcelona during their group stage.
When questioned about whether winning the competition should be seen as the ultimate achievement in European club football, Arteta pointed out the potential opportunity to play in this year’s final, which is scheduled to take place in London.
“I don’t know if it is the best [competition],” he said. “But it should be incredible to have that feeling to lift that cup, in London — the first of June. “It is there. It is in our minds. It is a dream but there are a lot of things you have to earn the right to do before that and tomorrow we have a big obstacle ahead of us. We are really looking forward to it.”
Thomas Partey, Gabriel Jesus,Oleksandr Zinchenko and Takehiro Tomiyasu have all stayed back in London, but Fabio Vieira has been included in the travelling party as he nears a return following groyne surgery in November.
Ilkay Gündogan has offered high praise for departing Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel, amid speculation linking the German coach with a move to succeed Xavi at Barcelona.
Barcelona recently confirmed Xavi’s departure at the end of the 2023–24 season, citing the club’s subpar performance compared to their previous season’s La Liga triumph.
Despite Barcelona’s recent improvement, with ten points from the last 12 available, they still lag behind bitter rival Real Madrid by eight points in the league standings.
Additionally, their hopes in the Copa del Rey were dashed following a crushing defeat at the hands of Athletic Club.
As speculation swirls regarding Xavi’s potential successor, several high-profile managers have been linked to the role. Tuchel, a former Champions League winner who is set to depart Bayern Munich in the summer due to similar underperformance, is among the frontrunners.
Gündogan, who previously collaborated with Tuchel at Borussia Dortmund for a year, expressed admiration for his former manager when questioned about him
Ilkay Gündogan has offered high praise for departingBayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel, amid speculation linking the German coach with a move to succeed Xavi at Barcelona.
Barcelona recently confirmed Xavi’s departure at the end of the 2023–24 season, citing the club’s subpar performance compared to their previous season’s La Liga triumph.
Despite Barcelona’s recent improvement, with ten points from the last 12 available, they still lag behind bitter rival Real Madrid by eight points in the league standings. Additionally, their hopes in the Copa del Rey were dashed following a crushing defeat at the hands of Athletic Club.
As speculation swirls regarding Xavi’s potential successor, several high-profile managers have been linked to the role. Tuchel, a former Champions League winner who is set to depart Bayern Munich in the summer due to similar underperformance, is among the frontrunners.
Gündogan, who previously collaborated with Tuchel at Borussia Dortmund for a year, expressed admiration for his former manager when questioned about him.
“I’m very surprised that Bayern are having difficulties now. With Thomas Tuchel, they have one of the best coaches in Europe,” Gundogan said.
“I can only say positive things about him from when we were at Dortmund. He’s outstanding tactically, extremely honest and open. Personally, I got along very well with him.”
Before his Bayern departure was officially announced, Tuchel openly flirted with the idea of takingover at Barcelona, referencing his openness to taking on another challenge abroad.
“Moving abroad would appeal to me again. Spain has an extraordinary league,” he admitted. “From my perspective, and based on my experience working with Spaniards, they are characterised by a tremendous amount of self-confidence.
“When you speak with Spanish players, I quickly get the sense that you are engaging with the person.”
On Tuesday, Manchester United announced that Sir Jim Ratcliffe had officially completed the acquisition of a minority stake in the club.
The 71-year-old British billionaire has purchased 25% of the Premier League club in a deal valued at £1.03 billion ($1.3 billion).
Ratcliffe’s initial investment of £158.47 million ($200 million) will be exchanged for shares, bringing his total ownership to 27.7%. Additionally, he plans to invest an additional £79.23 million ($100 million) by December 31, further increasing his stake to 28.9%.
“To become co-owner of Manchester United is a great honour and comes with great responsibility,” Ratcliffe said in a news release. “This marks the completion of the transaction, but just the beginning of our journey to take Manchester United back to the top of English, European and world football, with world-class facilities for our fans.
“Work to achieve those objectives will accelerate from today.”
Ratcliffe’s minority stake, valued at approximately £1.03 billion, has received approval from the Premier League and the Football Association, following its announcement on Christmas Eve.
With the final details now resolved, Ratcliffe and his team, led by INEOS director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford, are poised to commence their official duties at Old Trafford.
Although the Glazer family will retain majority ownership of the club, Ratcliffe and Brailsford will assume responsibility for football operations as part of the agreement.
“I would like to welcome Sir Jim as co-owner and look forward to working closely with him and INEOS Sport to deliver a bright future for Manchester United,” Joel Glazer, Manchester United executive co-chairman, said.
Omar Berrada has been lured away from rival Manchester City to serve as CEO of Manchester United starting in the summer. Additionally, the club has initiated formal discussions with Newcastle regarding the potential appointment of Dan Ashworth as their new sporting director.
According to sources from ESPN, Manchester United is also considering adding Jason Wilcox from Southampton to their recruitment department. Wilcox, who previously worked alongside Berrada at Manchester City, is being eyed for a role in the department’s overhaul.
Ratcliffe’s deal brings to an end an ownership saga at United that began in November 2022 when the Glazer family announced they were considering “strategic alternatives.”
Ratcliffe, owner and CEO of chemical company INEOS, and Qatari businessman Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani both submitted bids for majority ownership of the club before the Glazers settled on accepting Ratcliffe’s minority offer.
Javier Mascherano, the coach of Argentina’s under-23 team, has suggested that the captain of Inter Miami might have the opportunity to take part in the Olympic Games in Paris.
When asked about the potential involvement of Messi, who is expected to lead Argentina in the 2024 Copa América, in the Olympics as well, Martino avoided directly mentioning Messi. Instead, he referred to Messi’s MLS teammate, Diego Gómez, as an example.
“He [Paraguay’s Gomez] has the Copa América and the Olympic Games,” Martino said.
“We know that we have to give him to the Copa and not to the Games; we communicate; I have many friends there [in Paraguay’s FA] and I told them to choose only one.”
The 2024 Copa América will be staged in the United States from June 20–July 14, less than two weeks before the Games begin in Paris.
With the MLS season continuing uninterrupted while the Copa América takes place, Martino is against his players competing in both tournaments.
“I am a pro-national team, but in this case, there are two competitions [the Copa América and the Olympics] close together and that implies that a player is away for more than two months,” he said.
At 36 years old,Messi has previously competed in the Olympics, achieving gold in Beijing in 2008.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient secured victory in the 2021 Copa América and subsequently led Argentina to their third World Cup title the following year.
Haaland had nine attempts without scoring in a 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Saturday and missed a golden chance with a second-half header.
But against Brentford on Tuesday, the Norway striker, whose grandmother passed away last week, scored his 22nd goal of the season to hand City a narrow win and close the gap with Liverpool at the top of the Premier League to one point.
“Top scorers, top strikers, score a lot of goals; don’t criticise; he will shut your mouth,” Guardiola said. “Sooner or later, he is there. He was out for two months; he lost his grandmother. It is not easy for a human being. In thistype of game like Brentford, you need Erling.“
City had 31 shots against Chelsea and another 25 against Brentford for a combined two goals. It looked like a frustrating night against Thomas Frank’s side before defender Kristoffer Ajer slipped midway through the second half to allow Haaland to race onto Julián Álvarez’s pass and score the winner.
“I think throughout the game we were brilliant,” Frank said. “Very proud and pleased with the players’ performance. They believed and it gives me a lot of belief in them going forward.
“If he doesn’t slip, I’m convinced it would not be a goal. Haaland is quick but Kristoffer is as quick. City are good so they don’t need the margins going their way.”
In the aftermath of the match, Guardiola disclosed that Kevin De Bruyne was omitted from the starting lineup against Brentford due to discomfort in his hamstring. The midfielder, who previously endured a five-month absence following hamstring surgery, was included on the bench for Tuesday’s game. However, despite being listed as a substitute, the 32-year-old did not participate in warm-ups before or during the match.
“Today we could not use Kevin because he had niggles in his hamstring and I didn’t want to take a risk,” Guardiola said. “He is OK. Just precaution because he didn’t feel comfortable and after five months off, we didn’t take any risk.”
Brentford manager Thomas Frank lamented the misstep that led to Haaland’s goal.
“It was an unlucky situation, if Kristoffer doesn’t slip, I’m convinced it was never going to be a goal,” said Frank. “Haaland is quick, but Kristoffer is just as quick and it would never have been a goal. City are good enough with their quality, they don’t need the margins going their way.
Barca’s annual spending ceiling has been further reduced by €66 million, dropping from €270 million to €204 million, signalling the urgent need for the club to offload players during the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Sun reports that players such as Frenkie de Jong, Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, Raphinha, Ronald Araujo, and Pedri are all potential candidates for sale, as they possess significant market value and command high wages.
This reduction comes after a previous slash of €400 million in September, underscoring the formidable challenge ahead for Barcelona as they strive to regain competitiveness in the transfer market.
Sources disclosed to ESPN that the club’s squad costs, which the cap regulates, exceed €400 million, more than double the limit imposed by La Liga.
Consequently, Barcelona faces stringent financial constraints, restricting them to spending only a percentage of their savings in salaries or transfer fees earned, with the percentage contingent upon the magnitude of the savings.
However, competition from Manchester United could also be on the horizon, according to reports from The Telegraph.
Although Guehi is currently contracted with Selhurst Park until 2026, there are doubts about his contract renewal. This uncertainty might lead Palace to consider parting ways with the 23-year-old during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Liverpool is said to be interested in the English international, but Manchester United is also rumoured to be monitoring the situation closely.
The potential appointment of Dan Ashworth as sporting director at United could further bolster their pursuit of Guehi, especially considering Ashworth’s previous interest in the player during his time at Newcastle United.
In addition toManchester United and Liverpool, Chelsea, Guehi’s former club, could also pose a rival interest. The report indicates that Chelsea is rumoured to have a “matching option” for any potential approaches for the Cobham graduate.
With Thiago Silva expected to leave Stamford Bridge in the summer, Chelsea might be inclined to consider bringing Guehi back to the club
In a surprising development, Bayern Munich has announced that Thomas Tuchel will depart from the club at the end of the 2023–24 Bundesliga season.
This decision comes amid a challenging season for Bayern, as they currently trail by eight points in the Bundesliga title race and face the possibility of UEFA Champions League elimination following a recent 1-0 loss to SS Lazio.
Despite significant investments in star players Harry Kane and Kim Min-jae, totaling over €150 million during the summer transfer window, the team has struggled to find its form under Tuchel’s leadership.
Club CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen addressed the departure in a club statement, stating, “In a good, open discussion, we came to the decision to end our working relationship by mutual agreement in the summer. Our goal is to pursue a new football direction with a new head coach for the 2024–25 season.”
The decision reflects Bayern Munich’s dedication to rejuvenating their approach to the game, as they aim to bring in a new perspective and leadership style.
Dreesen emphasised that until the conclusion of the current season, every member of the club, including the players, is expected to give their all in both the Champions League and Bundesliga.
Dreesen expressed accountability, saying, “I also explicitly hold the team accountable in this regard. In the Champions League, after losing 1-0 in the first leg at Lazio, we are convinced we will reach the quarterfinals at a packed Allianz Arena with our fans behind us.”
As Bayern Munich navigates the remainder of the season, the announcement has sparked speculation about who will take the reins for the 2024–25 campaign.
Fans and football enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the unfolding of this managerial transition, as they look forward to a new era for the storied club.
TheWest African Examinations Council (WAEC) has published the provisional results of 37,825 candidates who participated in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for Private Candidates, 2023, Second Series.
According to a statement released in Accra by John Kapi, the Head of Public Affairs, the total number of candidates comprised 17,389 males and 20,725 females. Additionally, the figure included 16 visually impaired candidates.
It was also noted that a total of 1,231 candidates who registered for the examination were absent.
A statement issued in Accra and signed by the Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, said a total of 1,231 candidates who registered for the examination were absent.
“The results of 289 candidates alleged to have been involved in various cases of examination malpractice have been withheld, pending the conclusion of investigations into the cases of malpractice. These malpractices include collusion, impersonation, bringing foreign materials, including mobile phones, into the examination hall and seeking external assistance, among others.
“The withheld results of candidates will be released or cancelled based on the outcome of investigations,” it said. Caution The statement also cautioned the public to be wary of scammers who contact candidates and promise to upgrade their results for a fee payable through mobile money transfers.
“Candidates are to note that WAEC’s results database is well-secured and all results can be authenticated. Institutions and organisations are therefore advised to confirm or verify results presented to them directly from WAEC, access the confirmation/verification service online at the WAEC website or download the WAEC QR Code,” it said.
The Council also expressed its gratitude to all heads of school who provided accommodation for the examination, supervisors, invigilators, examiners and indeed, all partners who, in various ways, supported it in the successful conduct of the examination and release of results.
All Members of Parliament representing the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have been summoned for an urgent meeting with President Nana Akufo-Addo at the Banquet Hall of the Jubilee House tonight. This information comes from reliable sources at The New Publisher.
According to insiders, the meeting, originally scheduled for Tuesday, had to be rescheduled to tonight due to the president’s busy agenda.
Insiders reveal that among the topics to be discussed at the meeting is a dialogue aimed at reaching a consensus on the formation of a new leadership for the Majority Caucus in the current Parliament.
There are discussions regarding proposals for restructuring the current leadership of the majority.
Amidst these discussions, a few NPP MPs from the Ashanti Region held a brief press conference yesterday.
The conference, led by Joe Osei Owusu, the MP for Bekwai in the Ashanti Region, aimed to refute the speculations circulating about potential changes within the party’s leadership.
“We have confidence in the leadership as they are and the status quo shall remain. We are aware that upon the nomination of one of the Deputy Whips as a Minister, a replacement would be made.
That replacement would be made by the Caucus when we have had the opportunity and the time to consider the appropriate replacement,” Joe Osei Owusu, who also doubles as the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, noted.
He continued: “The Parliament of Ghana has adopted Standing Orders, which place the selection and change of leadership of the Caucus in the hands of the Caucus and not anybody outside Parliament.
Barely an hour after the Joe Osei Owusu press conference, another group of MPs from the same Majority Caucus were said to have assembled for another press conference to disassociate themselves from the position adopted by the first group.
Some members of the current leadership were said to have stepped in to restrain the second group of MPs, who insist they were neither contacted nor consulted by Joe Osei Owusu and his set of MPs.
Tonight’s meeting at the Jubilee is expected to be one of frank and open dialogue on the exact issues regarding the proposed reshuffle.
Meanwhile, some members of theMinority have started to mock the Majority and to describe the press conference addressed by Joe Osei Owusu as one with tribal undertones.
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office announced on Tuesday that South Africa is scheduled to hold national and provincial elections on May 29.
These elections are anticipated to be the most hotly contested since the end of the apartheid era.
Nearly 370 parties are eligible to partake in the election, marking the first time independent candidates can vie for national and provincial positions following amendments to electoral laws by parliament.
“Beyond the fulfilment of our constitutional obligation, these upcoming elections are also a celebration of our democratic journey and a determination of the future that we all desire,”
“I call on all South Africans to exercise their democratic right to vote and for those who will be campaigning to do so peacefully, within the full observance of the law,” he said.
President Ramaphosa, who is seeking a second term, has faced challenges in boosting economic growth since assuming office in 2018, following Jacob Zuma.
Political analysts widely predict that the African National Congress (ANC), the ruling party, may lose its parliamentary majority for the first time since 1994.
Voter dissatisfaction, stemming from ongoing power outages, inadequate service delivery, and high unemployment rates, contributes to this forecast.
South Africa’s unemployment rate is among the highest globally, and according to the World Inequality Lab, backed by Thomas Piketty, it is ranked as the most unequal country for which data is available.
Speculation surrounding the next technical team for the Black Stars continues to circulate within the media sphere, with Otto Addo emerging as a prominent figure in discussions to succeed Chris Hughton.
On Tuesday, February 21, 2024, reports emerged indicating that former Chelsea star Michael Essien is being considered for the assistant coaching position.
According to the reports, Essien has expressed openness to the opportunity and has welcomed the Ghana Football Association’s approach to serving as deputy to Otto Addo.
There are indications that the Ghana Football Association intends to construct a Black Stars technical team largely comprised of former players from the Black Stars squads spanning 2005 to 2014.
Recent rumours have linked Asamoah Gyan and Adam Kwarasey to potential roles within the team. It’s reported that Gyan may take on the position of custodian trainer, while Kwarasey, a member of the 2014 World Cup team, is under consideration for the role previously held by the esteemed Richard Kingson.
Additionally, Asamoah Gyan is rumoured to be considered as a replacement for Ameenu Shadow, who served as team manager during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Laryea Kingston, who is currently serving as an assistant coach with the Black Starlets, is also reportedly being considered for one of the two assistant coach positions.
Denial by GFA Exco member:
A member of the Executive Council of theGhana Football Association, Frederick Acheampong, has expressed shock about the reports flying in the media space over the issue.
“The appointment of the coach does not even stop with the search committee. This is from our level (the Executive Committee). The decision we made was that the search committee should draw up a shortlist of three coaches, so I was surprised to hear that Otto Addo is leading the race as if the search committee is in charge of appointing a coach.
“The search committee is expected to bring three coaches to the Executive Council for further discussions and checks before one person will be chosen amongst the three,” he said in a Kessben FM interview monitored by Footballghana.com.
During a recent interview on Onua FM’s morning show, Yɛn Nsɛmpa, hosted by Nana Yaa Brefo and JB, the Awutu Senya East Member of Parliament encouraged Ghanaians to consider rental rates in comparison to those in Canada.
She emphasised her recent trip to Canada, pointing out that even renting a single room there could exceed 2,000 Canadian dollars per month, which is considerably higher than in Ghana.
“People have been complaining that rent is expensive in Ghana. They should go to Canada. For a month, you pay over 2,000 Canadian dollars. That’s for a single room, not even a chamber or hall.
“Things are hard now, and there is a high cost of living everywhere, and when you compare Ghana to other countries, Ghana is doing far better,” she said in Twi.
During a recent interview on Onua FM’s morning show, Yɛn Nsɛmpa, hosted by Nana Yaa Brefo and JB, the Awutu Senya East Member of Parliament encouraged Ghanaians to consider rental rates in comparison to those in Canada.
She emphasised her recent trip to Canada, pointing out that even renting a single room there could exceed 2,000 Canadian dollars per month, which is considerably higher than in Ghana.
“People have been complaining that rent is expensive in Ghana. They should go to Canada. For a month, you pay over 2,000 Canadian dollars. That’s for a single room, not even a chamber or hall.
“Things are hard now, and there is a high cost of living everywhere, and when you compare Ghana to other countries, Ghana is doing far better,” she said in Twi.
Mavis Hawa Koomson, Ghana’s Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, staunchly defended the nation’s affordable rental rates amidst global economic challenges.
She attributed this affordability to the government’s diligent efforts.
Addressing criticisms comparing living conditions between Ghana and Canada, Koomson refuted claims that Canada offered superior living standards. She argued that the cost of living in Canada doesn’t necessarily outweigh that of Ghana.
In defence of the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Koomson highlighted the distribution of food items to citizens as a critical intervention.
Organisers of the Save Ghana Football protest have suspended the Kumasi edition of the demonstration aimed at calling on the government and theGhana Football Association (GFA) to reform football administration at all levels.
According to the organisers, their decision comes on the back of an invitation for an open dialogue extended by the GFA following the Accra edition staged last week (February 14).
“Conveners of Save Ghana Football Movement wish to notify the public of their intention to put on hold, the second protest originally slated for Friday, February 23, 2024, at Garden City, Kumasi.
“This decision was arrived at after a positive round of talks between the group and the Parliament of Ghana, as well as the relevant bodies whose duty we believe it is to revive the passion of the nation, football.
“While last week’s demonstration was the first of many things to come to ensure that football receives the right attention from those at the helm of affairs to develop the game and change our current narrative, it has become necessary to put the Kumasi event on hold to make room for dialogue following approaches made to us by the Ghana Football Association and the Ministry for Youth and Sports,” the group said in a statement dated Tuesday, February 20, 2024.
Last week, campaigners led by a group of leading sports journalists staged a protest in Accra, where a petition containing 15 key demands was presented to Parliament, the ministry and the GFA.
“It is an open secret that the football ecosystem is evidently collapsing and our demand that the nation embrace this unique opportunity to reform and set the game back on the path of its glory days has so far received the right attention from the various quarters, the statement added.
Save Ghana Football Kumasi Demo on hold
The organisation stated that the decision to postpone the Kumasi protest is in no way a resolution to the issue, but it does emphasise the need for discussion on their objectives.
Arsenal received a significant boost with the return of Thomas Partey to training after a period of injury, just in time for their crucial Champions League match against Sevilla.
The Ghanaian midfielder had been sidelined since October due to a hamstring injury, causing him to miss several games, including the recent home match against Liverpool.
Unfortunately, his recovery faced a setback, which also prevented him from participating in the recently concluded 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Ivory Coast.
However, the 30-year-old is now back on track and has trained with the team ahead of their Champions League Round of 16 first-leg clash against FC Porto in Portugal on Wednesday.
Partey, who previously played for Atletico Madrid, has not featured in the Champions League this season for Arsenal. His last appearance was back in October against Manchester City.
As he makes his comeback, fans are eager to see him in action against Porto and possibly in the upcoming Premier League fixture against Newcastle United on Saturday at the Emirates Stadium.
He disagrees with the notion held by the vice president as a mate other than a co-driver.
“This driver mate thing, Bawumia cannot be a mate; he is a co-driver because the nature of a mate is not neccessarily that of a driver with a licence.
This comes after Dr Bawumia delivered his vision speech as the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) at the UPSA auditorium on February 7, 2024, where he used the analogy of a mate and a driver, where the mate had limited control over driving; hence, in his position as a vice president.
He expressed how limited his powers and authority over decisions are, hence his desire to become president to be able to run the affairs of the country well.
But the PPP chairman, during an appearance on Kwame Sefa Kaye’s Kookrokoo morning show on Peace FM on February 20, believes this narrative is a ‘dangerous’ one to hold on to.
As stated by Mr. Owusu, a vice president is a co-driver and not a mate. As mandated by the constitution, a vice president is one who is eligible to step in as president in the absence of the president.
“But the nature of a vice president is that you are ready when the president is not there; you are there. That is why the constitution of the land says that when the president is not there, you are there. You are ready for the possibility. So a mate is not ready but vice president, you are ready.”
Meanwhile, Dr Bawumia has come under severe attacks from the public and the opposition parties, who accused him of distancing himself from the failures of the Akufo-Addo led government and undermining the president’s leadership in order to appear to deceive ordinary Ghanaians into voting for him in the2024 elections.
In an unexpected twist, FC Samartex’s home stadium echoed with silence as the club bid farewell to their long-standing goalkeeper, Lawrence Ansah.
The decision to part ways was reached mutually between Ansah and the club’s management, marking the end of a remarkable era for both.
Ansah, a stalwart in goal, had endeared himself to fans with his outstanding saves and unwavering commitment.
News of his departure sent ripples through the football community, evoking nostalgia for his countless moments of brilliance on the field.
The club’s management expressed heartfelt appreciation for Ansah’s contributions, recognising the significant role he played in the team’s journey.
As this chapter draws to a close, FC Samartex wishes Ansah the best in his future endeavours, acknowledging the lasting impact he has had on the club.
Supporters took to social media to share cherished memories and express gratitude for Ansah’s years of dedicated service. While bittersweet, the announcement marks a new beginning for both the club and the esteemed goalkeeper.
As the football community reminisces about Lawrence Ansah’s legacy, one thing is clear: his safe hands will forever be etched in FC Samartex’s history books.
Thank you, Lawrence Ansah, for the unforgettable saves and remarkable moments. May your journey beyond these familiar goalposts be as exceptional as the years you devoted toFC Samartex.
Kalvin Phillips has opened up about his departure from Manchester City, expressing feelings of being ‘useless’ during his time at the club.
Phillips, who joined West Ham United on loan during the January transfer window, had only made four league appearances for Manchester City this season. Since his move from Leeds United in the summer of 2022, he has made just 16 league appearances for the club.
His debut for West Ham against Bournemouth was marred by a mistake early in the match, and he faced criticism from Roy Keane following an error against Manchester United last weekend.
However, Phillips is gradually regaining match fitness after struggling with a shoulder injury.
Despite the challenges, Phillips admitted feeling ‘very sad’ about leaving Manchester City and revealed feeling ‘useless’ during his time at the Etihad.
“It’s obviously a massive decision for me and my family, but I think it was a decision that I needed to make because I wasn’t getting much game time,” he told West Ham’s official website.
“The one thing that I wanted when I left Man City in Januarywas to be back playing and to be enjoying myself playing football as well. When you don’t play football for so long, you kind of feel a little bit useless because you’ve not been doing anything. So, for me, it was just more coming to a good club with good fans and just enjoying my football again.”
The 28-year-old added: “I was very sad when I knew that my next step had to be to move on, but I got over that quite quickly and was just more excited than anything to get down here and see the place and see how London is, which is very busy. I was very excited to get going.”
Phillips will be hoping for a run of games at West Ham so he can regain his form in view of making Gareth Southgate’s England squad for Euro 2024.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued an apology to Kalvin Phillips after publicly criticising the midfielder for being “overweight” upon his return from the World Cup.
Guardiola’s comments came in December 2022, following Manchester City’s first game after the World Cup break, a 3-2 victory over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup. He expressed dissatisfaction with Phillips’ fitness, stating that he was “overweight” and “not in the right condition to train.”
Phillips, a 28-year-old England international, revealed in an interview with The Guardian this month that he found Guardiola’s criticism difficult to accept.
“After the World Cup was probably the toughest, when Pep came out and said I was overweight. He was right to do so but there are different ways to go about it,” he said.
“I did not disagree with him but obviously I took a big knock on my confidence and how I felt at City. And my family was not happy about it, either. Especially my mom.”
Phillips added, “It was just a misunderstanding and I think he was very frustrated with me coming back 1.5kg over my weight target.”
Guardiola has since responded to Phillips’ recent comments in hispre-match press conference ahead of Manchester City’s Premier League clash against Brentford.
After being confronted on the subject, he said: “Yeah, I’m sorry. Once in eight years is not bad. But I’m so sorry. I apologise to him. I do apologise. I’m so sorry.”
Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has cut off power to theAccra Sports Stadium due to an outstanding debt of GH¢400,000 owed to the country’s power distributor.
The disconnection took place on Monday evening as workers strived to prepare the facility for hosting Friday’s Paris 2024 Olympic football qualifier match between Zambia’s women’s national team and Ghana’s Black Queens.
This is not the first time ECG has disconnected power to the stadium over unpaid debts. In March 2022, the National Task Force of ECG disconnected power supply to the stadium due to a debt amounting to GH¢508,000.00.
Similarly, other facilities managed by the National Sports Authority (NSA) have faced similar situations in the past.
In April 2023, the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) also disconnected power supply to the Aliu Mahama Stadium in Tamale due to an outstanding debt of GH¢466,000.
In addition to hosting Friday’s crucial Olympic qualifier,the Accra Sports Stadium is scheduled to host all of the men’s football matches at the 2023 African Games starting on March 8.
The facility will also serve as the venue for two other events: sambo and wrestling.
Treasury is poised to make the second coupon payment on recently issued bonds, amounting to GH¢4.28 billion in cash, this week. This payment is expected to potentially bolster the market’s liquidity position.
In addition to the cash payments, bondholders will also receive GH¢3.24 billion in coupon payments-in-kind (PIK), which will be issued in the form of additional bonds. Furthermore, the Treasury is slated to disburse GH¢57.88 million in coupons to holders of old bonds maturing on August 1, 2039.
The settlement of the initial coupon payment totaling GH¢2.4 billion was executed in August of the previous year. This action underscored the government’s commitment to rebuilding investor confidence in both domestic and international markets, following a challenging debt restructuring process.
In the primary market last week, the Treasury capitalised on strong demand for T-bills to reduce its borrowing costs. This resulted in eight consecutive weeks of yield declines, with the 91-day bill decreasing by 11 basis points to 27.89 percent, the 182-day bill dropping by 5 basis points to 30.39 percent, and the 364-day bill falling to 30.90 percent.
The Treasury accepted all bids of GH¢5.71 billion demanded across the 91- to 364-day bills. The amount tendered by investors was 17 percent more than the target size of GH¢4.87 billion. This provides the Treasury with sufficient funds to cover today’s maturity size of GH¢4.15 billion, translating into a coverage ratio of 1.37x.
Notably, investors maintained firm demand for the 364-day tenor over the 182-day tenor.
In the coming week, with a maturing debt of GH¢5.44 billion due across all the bills, the Treasury intends to raise GH¢6.27 billion, with the next auction scheduled for Friday, February 23, 2024.
While the week’s target suggests higher funding needs by the government, Apakan Securities said: “We believe the expected coupon payments on the new bonds will help spur the market’s liquidity position. Thus, we expect the Treasury bill rate to decline, albeit at a slower pace”.
Databank in its review also shared a similar sentiment, saying: “We expect investors to price in inflation’s uptick when bidding in subsequent auctions, thus, likely slowing the momentum of decline in T-bill yields in the near -term”.
Secondary market
Activity in the secondary bond market experienced a decline last week, with the total volume dropping by 9.05 percent week-on-week to GH¢1.21 billion. The February 2028 bond, with a coupon rate of 8.50 percent, was the most actively traded, representing approximately 48 percent of the total volume and clearing at 21.45 percent. Similarly, the February 2030 and February 2031 bonds, with coupon rates of 8.80 percent and 8.95 percent respectively, attracted interest and settled at 30.50 percent and 22.24 percent, respectively.
Looking ahead, market liquidity conditions are anticipated to improve this week as the government is set to make coupon payments on all new bonds. It is projected that investors will receive coupon payments totaling about GH¢4 billion.
Meanwhile, activity in the secondary bond market for Government of Ghana (GoG) papers saw a further decline, with the total volume exchanged decreasing by 22.88 percent week-on-week to GH¢1.03 billion. Transactions involving the February 2028 paper, with a coupon rate of 8.50 percent, remained the main driver of activity, constituting approximately 66 percent of the total market turnover.
According to Databank, the local currency (LCY) yield curve shifted upwards, with the average yield to maturity (YTM) on the 2027–2030 papers rising to 22.31 percent (an increase of 317 basis points), while the 2035–2038 papers increased to 22.99 percent (an increase of 592 basis points).
“We expect the bond market to remain sluggish following the uptick in inflation for January 2024, as investor preference will largely reside in T-bills for repricing benefits,” it stated.
Ghanaian winger Jordan Ayew demonstrated his prowess to Crystal Palace’s new manager, Oliver Glasner, with a stunning goal against Everton in a Premier League match on Monday, February 19, 2024.
Glasner, who has been appointed as Roy Hodgson’s successor, observed the game from the stands to gain insight into his new team.
Jordan Ayew showcased his importance to Palace’s starting lineup by unleashing a powerful strike from outside the box after receiving a pass from Mateta.
This goal marked Ayew’s third of the 2023–2024 Premier League season, adding to his tally of five assists.
Ayew’s goal, scored in the 66th minute, was later equalized by Everton midfielder Amadou Onana, who headed home a corner kick.
Reflecting on his performance, Jordan Ayew revealed that he had been practicing the goal during the pre-match warm-up and expressed confidence in his ability to score.
“In the warm-up, I scored maybe five in a row, so I had a good feeling today. Sometimes things go your way, sometimes they don’t go your way, but you still need to keep pushing, and that’s what I’ve been doing throughout my whole career,” he said.
“It comes sometimes. You try it and it could have gone up, but this time it was successful. Today, things went well for me. I thank God and I thank the team for the effort they put in. I don’t want to talk too much about my goal, but the most important thing for me is the team, and we’re happy to go home with a point.”
“It’s always complicated to come here. You start with a game that’s a bit complicated and direct, and you speed up to the challenge and you manage to get a goal, and they equalise on a set-piece. It’s just one where we had to get something out of the game, and we managed to get a point, so we’re happy and move on to the next one,” he added.
Next on the agenda for Jordan Ayew and Crystal Palace is a match against relegation strugglers Burnley on Saturday, February 24th.
Tamale’s Mayor, Sule Salifu, who recently gained attention for slapping the Northern Regional Environmental Health Officer, Sulemana Yakubu, has issued a formal apology to the officer.
Prince Kwame Tamekloe, Rainbow Radio’s correspondent in the region, reported that Mayor Salifu sent elders to Sulemana Yakubu’s residence to convey the apology.
The Mayor, also the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for Tamale Central, expressed deep regret for his actions and took steps to address the situation.
He acknowledged responsibility for the consequences of his behaviour and disclosed that he had covered all medical expenses incurred by the health officer due to the incident, along with providing undisclosed compensation.
“There was a letter sent on Saturday that Sule Salifu has sent some elders to go and apologise to the health officer at his residence. He paid all his hospital expenses and compensated him as well to calm him down,” Tamekloe said.
Despite Mayor Sule Salifu’s apology to the Northern Regional Environmental Health Officer, Sulemana Yakubu, members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the constituency are calling for his removal from office.
They urge President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to take decisive action regarding the assault on the health officer.
The controversy stemmed from a recent transfer decision made by Yakubu, which included an acquaintance of Mayor Salifu among 18 staff members.
This decision led to a heated confrontation between the two, culminating in Mayor Salifu allegedly slapping Sulemana Yakubu three times.
Despite the regional minister’s intervention, the mayor initially refused to issue an apology to the health officer.
However, Mayor Salifu later sent elders to Yakubu’s residence to convey his apology, expressing remorse for his behaviour and assuming responsibility for the consequences.
He also covered all hospital expenses incurred by Yakubu and provided undisclosed compensation.
Ghanaian actor Kwadwo Nkansah, also known as Lil Win, has enlisted the talents of two esteemed Nigerian actors for his upcoming film ‘A Country Called Ghana’.
Ramsey Noah and Victor Osuagwu, affectionately known as ‘Awilo Sharp Sharp’, have arrived in Ghana to participate in a press conference scheduled for Wednesday.
Lil Win warmly welcomed the actors upon their arrival at Kotoka International Airport, where they were greeted with enthusiasm by fans who recognised them.
The leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ashanti Region has criticised the Ghana Police Service for what they perceive as bias in handling political matters in the country.
This criticism stems from the police’s decision to declare Mustapha Alhassan, the Manhyia South Constituency Organiser for the NDC, a wanted individual following his alleged threats of electoral violence in a viral video.
The NDC has voiced their dissatisfaction with the police’s handling of the situation, alleging that the law enforcement agency has shown partiality and selectivity in its actions.
Dr. Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Secretary of the NDC, raised concerns about the decision to declare Alhassan wanted without first consulting the party’s leadership.
Amoakohene, speaking in an interview with Citi News on February 19, 2024, argued that Alhassan is a well-known public figure and an executive member of the NDC. Therefore, he believes that the police could have collaborated with the party to facilitate his investigation.
“We saw a notice from the police that one of our officers is declared wanted. In the first place, why would you declare an officer, an identifiable person, wanted? It just tells you that they are out there to play mischief. Because you know that he is the organiser of the party, the right thing must be done. You have to go to the regional leadership for us to produce him.
“Because we are not fighting in the region and we are in a good working relationship. So don’t jump to social media and declare officers wanted when you have not made any frantic efforts in getting the party to produce the person,” citinewsroom.com quoted him to have said.
He pointed out cases where members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) purportedly made comparable public remarks advocating violence without encountering equivalent police intervention.
The Ghana Police Service issued a wanted notice for Mustapha after a video of him emerged on social media, wherein he was recorded issuing threats of violence in the 2024 elections if any attempt is made to rig the vote.
The suspect was seen cautioning the Electoral Commission (EC), the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), and individuals engaged in the electoral process.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jMoL-JJp_RQ
In the video, shared by GHOne TV on Twitter, he is heard stating, “I am telling the EC officer, the woman and the NPP that if they are planning to steal the elections… we will show you how to win an election,” he said.
“I am telling them that we have informed John Mahama that, whether you like it or not, wherever you go, we are fully organised and will show you how to win an election.
“We have won an election from the NPP before, and we will show you. There would be war between us, and if you dare, we will kill you,” the NDC organiser added.
He continued, “We are aware… if you plan on stealing the elections, we will show you. If you plan on not handing over power in case we win, we are aware and will show you,” he added.
Meanwhile, the NDC has insisted that they will present Alhaji Mustapha Alhassan on Tuesday, February 20, 2024.
The accused is said to have declined to give details, insisting the party has barred him from speaking to the media.
He, however, disclosed to reporter Ivan Heathcote–Fumador that he was provoked by a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) who contended the NPP would not be ‘fools’ to hand over power to an NDC administration.
“This guy I hear is from Asenso Boakye’s camp. He is a teacher.
“He provoked me by saying, ‘if President J.A. Kufuor was a fool to have handed over power to the NDC, President Akufo–Addo will not be a fool to hand over power to John Mahama’,” he recounted.
Alhaji Mustapha Alhasan also mentioned that he was not aware he was being recorded when he was involved in a heated exchange with the alleged NPP member.
Speaking to Starr FM, he expressed feeling betrayed by the edited video, which only showed his side of the conversation while omitting the provocations from the other party, portraying him unfairly.
A tragic event unfolded in Banda-Nkwanta, a community along the Bole-Bamboi highway in theBole district of the Savannah Region, when a man believed to be mentally unstable took the lives of four individuals.
The incident began when the man, known as Daganaa, arrived at a galamsey site to unload items and requested to use the restroom at a local compound house on Monday, February 19, 2024.
However, he was denied access, and in response, he reacted violently by stabbing one of the residents before fleeing to another compound.
In the second compound, he forcefully entered a room where two children, aged 10 and 12, were sleeping, and allegedly attacked them.
He also assaulted their frail grandmother, who had limited mobility.
Continuing his violent spree, Daganaa moved to another household, where he stabbed an individual resting in the compound’s foyer.
When confronted by residents, he barricaded himself in a room, issuing threats to anyone who approached.
The escalating situation prompted residents to call the Bole police command for assistance. Upon their arrival, Daganaa attacked two police officers, leading them to respond with gunfire, resulting in his death.
Tragically, four individuals lost their lives in the incident.
The elderly grandmother, who is critically injured, is currently receiving treatment at Carpenter Hospital in Bole.
Premier League team Newcastle United has released a touching documentary chronicling the life of the late Ghanaian footballer, Christian Atsu.
Atsu tragically lost his life in the devastating earthquake that struck Turkey on February 18, 2023.
A year after his passing, Newcastle United, where Atsu made a significant impact during his career, travelled to Ghana to document the life of their former player.
The documentary begins with Atsu’s twin sisters reflecting on their humble upbringing, growing up alongside their ten other siblings in a village in Ada Foah.
It vividly portrays Atsu’s journey from his rural roots to the bustling streets of Accra, where he first showcased his football talents with FC Peace before joining Cheetar FC in 2008 in Awutu Senya.
His former manager, Hay Yartey, shares stories of Atsu’s resilience, highlighting how he overcame challenges and earned a move abroad to Porto in Portugal.
The documentary delves into Atsu’s personal life, capturing intimate moments between him and his wife, Marie-Claire Rupio.
Marie-Claire recounts their love story, from their initial encounter in Portugal to the cherished memories they created together.
She reflects on the depth of the loss and how she is navigating life after the passing of her beloved husband.
The narrative tragically shifts to Atsu’s untimely death and the lasting impact he made through his philanthropic efforts.
Although Atsu passed away at the age of 31, he left an enduring legacy on the global stage, representing the Black Stars in 65 international matches.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has formally inaugurated his campaign team, comprising a diverse array of individuals from within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The team, consisting of 41 members, includes a mix of political figures, former leaders, and current Members of Parliament, all rallying behind the vice president’s bid for the NPP presidential candidature.
At the forefront of the campaign team are President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and former President John Agyekum Kufour, who will serve on the campaign advisory committee.
The team includes several sitting Members of Parliament, some of whom will not be returning after the 2024 elections but remain dedicated to ensuring the NPP maintains power.
Dr Mahamadu Bawumia, Ghana’s Vice President
Leading the campaign as chairman and strategist is Dan Botwe, the Member of Parliament for Okere Constituency in the Eastern Region.
Osei Bonsu Amoah, MP for Akwapim South Constituency in the Eastern Region, will serve as the Deputy for the Parliamentary Campaign under the campaign management team.
Four legislators have been appointed as campaign Coordinators to cover key regions:
Patrick Osei Agyemang, also known as Countryman Songo, a controversial sports journalist, has expressed his intention to address former Black Stars right-back John Paintsil over what he sees as unfavourable remarks about the condition of Ghanaian football.
Countryman Songo believes that John Paintsil’s comments on UTV’s United Showbiz programme on Saturday, February 17, 2024, presented a distorted view of the state of Ghanaian football. As a result, he plans to discuss Paintsil’s remarks on his Fire for Fire show.
“Tomorrow will be scary. He will feel his foolishness,” he tweeted on Sunday, February 18, 2024, in reaction to a tweet highlighting Paintsil’s comment.
Some Ghanaians have taken to social media to bash John Paintsil after he attempted to refute suggestions that Ghana football is in poor condition in his remarks on UTV.
Tomorrow will be scary yes my brother🔥he will will feel his foolishness 🔥🔥 https://t.co/S8HqEqcgDE
The former Fulham defender called for clarity on the matter, insisting that the failures of the Black Stars in recent tournaments are not enough evidence of the poor state of football in the country.
“I need to know the point of the demonstration. If it’s Ghana football, then we are not talking about the national team. The national team comes once every four months,” John Paintsil said.
“Even when we talk about the Black Stars, they qualified for the World Cup. We have to see that we are still building. It’s not the responsibility of the FA to look after local-based players. It’s up to the teams to develop well,” Paintsil said.
He said, “Every national team coach has a philosophy, and they want to do well to improve their CV. It’s not the FA that determines which local player is called. The so-called interference is hearsay; there is no truth in that.”
Ghana Football Association (GFA) is reportedly considering the re-appointment of former Black Stars coach Otto Addo as the new head coach of the Black Stars after scoring the highest marks in the job interview.
The Black Stars are currently without a substantive coach after the dismissal of coach Chris Hughton after his poor display and exit from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The GFA has since appointed a committee to hunt for an eligible coach to replace Chris Hughton.
Among the over 500 applicants received by the GFA for the role, Otto Addo, per speculation, is currently leading the race to become the new coach for Ghana, with talks currently ongoing between the two parties.
The 48-year-old’s first stint with the Black Stars was in early 2022, when he succeeded coach Milovan Rajevac and later led Ghana to edge Nigeria in two legs to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
At the Mundial in Qatar, he recorded only a win against South Korea and lost the remaining two against Portugal and Uruguay, after which he returned to his post at German giants Borussia Dortmund after the competition.
Meanwhile, some high-profile names, such as German coach Jurgen Kohler and former Black Stars coach Goran , as well as two local coaches and former players of the Black Stars,Maxwell Konadu and Michael.
Bayern Munich faced a setback in their game against Bochum, losing 3-2, as fan protests temporarily halted the match due to objections against proposed private equity investments.
The disruption began when Bochum fans threw tennis balls onto the field, prompting a pause in play.
Subsequently, Bayern Munich supporters joined in, leading referee Daniel Schlager to instruct both teams to retreat to their dressing rooms.
The fans voiced their discontent against the German Football League (DFL) during the interruption.
After a 13-minute delay, the match resumed. Across Germany, fans have been protesting against a potential deal to sell a future stake in the league to a private equity investor, with previous protests involving the throwing of apples, chocolate coins, and even remote control cars onto the pitch.
The defeat adds pressure on manager Thomas Tuchel as Bayern Munich’s pursuit of a 12th consecutive league title becomes increasingly challenging.
Bayern Munich now trails Xabi Alonso’s unbeaten Leverkusen side by eight points in the standings.
Despite taking an early lead through Jamal Musiala’s goal, Bochum managed to turn the tide, with Takuma Asano and Kevin Schlotterbeck scoring before halftime.
A late penalty from Kevin Stöger extended Bochum’s lead, rendering Harry Kane’s last-minute goal a mere consolation.
Marseille has parted ways with manager Gennaro Gattuso after his five-month tenure, according to a source familiar with the decision, reported by The Associated Press on Monday.
Jean-Louis Grasset, the former assistant coach at Paris Saint-Germain, who returned from Ivory Coastduring the Africa Cup of Nations, is set to assume managerial duties at Marseille until the conclusion of the season, as per a source cited by ESPN.
Gattuso’s dismissal came on the heels of Marseille’s 1-0 defeat to 10-man Brest in the league, a loss that dealt a blow to the club’s aspirations of securing a European competition berth for the following season.
“We’ve hit rock bottom,” Gattuso told a postmatch news conference after Sunday’s defeat. “When you hit rock bottom, you have to take responsibility. It’s my responsibility. There is nothing else to say. The table? The truth is that we’re going to have to start looking behind us. We can no longer speak about Europe. We just need to take the necessary points to be calm in the standings.”
Marseille and Gattuso are currently engaged in legal proceedings to finalise their separation, with the club already searching for a successor, as per the individual familiar with the matter, speaking anonymously due to the club’s yet-to-be-announced confirmation of Gattuso’s departure.
Real Madrid are currently engaged in negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappé regarding a potential free transfer move this summer, sources close to the situation have informed ESPN.
Earlier reports from ESPN on February 15 revealed that Mbappé had informed PSG of his intention to depart the club as a free agent once his contract expires at the end of the ongoing season, with his sights set on a move to Madrid.
Last month, Madrid officially presented a contract offer to the French international, although PSG remained optimistic about persuading their star player to stay.
Sources indicate that Madrid is now optimistic about finalising a deal in the near future. However, as of now, the contract remains unsigned, with some finer details still needing to be resolved.
Mbappé, who recently featured as a substitute in PSG’s 2-0 victory over Nantes in Ligue 1, made a significant impact by scoring a penalty in the 78th minute. He also found the net in PSG’s 2-0 triumph over Real Sociedad in the first leg of the Champions League round-of-16.
Despite ongoing speculation surrounding his future, Mbappé has managed to maintain impressive form this season, tallying a total of 32 goals across all competitions.
Having been a long-standing target for Madrid, Mbappé’s potential arrival at the club is now closer than ever before. Madrid came close to securing his signature in 2022, but a last-minute decision saw Mbappé opt for a contract extension with PSG instead.
Currently leading La Liga with 62 points, Madrid are six points ahead of their closest rivals, Girona, who have a game in hand. Additionally, they secured a 1-0 away victory over RB Leipzig in the first leg of the Champions League round-of-16.
In La Liga this season, midfielder Jude Bellingham has emerged asMadrid’s top scorer with 16 goals, followed by Joselu and Rodrygo with eight goals each, and Vinicius with seven.
The goals were scored by Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka (twice), Leandro Trossard, and Kai Havertz, securing a convincing win for the visitors.
Arteta said: “We have to believe we can win every game and we are approaching every game that way. When the team has that belief and confidence, something good can happen.
“We know what standards are required and we have to keep elevating those standards if we want to have a chance.
The French captain informed his PSG teammates last week that he will depart the club as a free agent at the end of the 2023–24 season.
Since then, Mbappe has been linked with several clubs, including long-time admirers Real Madrid and Premier League giants Liverpool and Manchester City.
However, Marca reports that Mbappe has reached an agreement with Real Madrid and will be officially unveiled by the club in the summer.
The report states that Real Madrid first contacted Mbappe in early January to gauge his interest in joining them.
After receiving Mbappe’s approval, managing director Jose Angel Sanchez began negotiations with the player and his mother and agent, Fayza Lamari, over a five-year deal.
While Real Madrid reportedly compromised on Mbappe’s image rights, his salary will be significantly lower than what he earned in his last two years in Paris.
Nevertheless, Mbappe is set to become the club’s highest-paid player, with an estimated annual salary ranging from €15m to €20m, plus bonuses based on performance objectives.
It is expected that Real Madrid will introduce Mbappe to their fans sometime in July, possibly between his participation in the Euros and the Paris Olympics with the French national team.
Meanwhile, Mbappe remains focused on PSG, who currently hold a 13-point lead at the top of the Ligue 1 table and are poised to win another title. He will next be in action against Rennes on Sunday.
