Manchester City has finalized the acquisition of the highly regarded Argentina under-23 midfielder Claudio Echeverri from River Plate, as announced by the club on Thursday.
The 18-year-old has committed to a contract with the Premier League champions until June 2028.
However, he will continue his tenure at River Plate until next January before making the move to City.
According to sources cited by ESPN, the deal is valued at approximately £12.5 million ($15.9 million), with additional add-ons.
Echeverri, identified by sources as having attracted interest from Barcelona, served as the captain of Argentina during the under-17 World Cup last year. He played a pivotal role in their journey to the semifinals, where they faced a penalty shootout defeat against Germany.
Echeverri showcased his goal-scoring prowess in the U17 World Cup, netting five goals, including a hat trick against Brazil in the quarterfinal. He was recognised with the Bronze Ball award as the tournament’s third-highest scorer.
Having made his debut for River Plate in June of the previous year, Echeverri made an instant impact, providing an assist in a 3-1 victory over Instituto. In total, he has accumulated six first-team appearances for the Argentine giants.
The agreement City has reached for Echeverri mirrors the arrangement used for Julián Álvarez, who joined the Etihad from River Plate in January 2022.
Álvarez stayed in South America until the subsequent summer, making his Premier League debut in August 2022.
Since then, he has played a role in City’s victories in thePremier League, FA Cup, Champions League, Super Cup, and Club World Cup. Additionally, he was part of the Argentina squad that secured the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
This decision comes in response to a petition submitted by the Municipal Chief Executive for Akuapem South, Frank Aidoo.
Aidoo’s petition seeks permission to participate in the party’s parliamentary primary scheduled for Saturday, January 27, 2024. This request follows the withdrawal of the incumbent MP, O.B. Amoah, from the race.
Initially expressing his reluctance to seek a fourth term as MP for Akuapem South, O.B. Amoah later changed course and obtained nomination forms to contest for re-election.
In a statement, the NPP’s general secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, highlighted that the postponement aims to address the raised concerns and appealed for cooperation from party supporters.
Below is the party’s full statement.
The leadership of the New Patriotic Party has resolved to postpone the AKUAPEM SOUTH parliamentary primary, initially scheduled for Saturday, January 27, 2024.
This decision is in response to petitions received, accompanied by recommendations from both the constituency executive committee and the regional executive committee. The postponement aims to ensure comprehensive consultations and address raised concerns.
We continue to rely on your unflinching commitment and cooperation.
The former vice president of the refereeing committee in Spain, José María Enríquez Negreira, is now required to testify as a defendant concerning payments his companiesreceived from Barcelona.
This decision follows a judge’s dismissal of Negreira’s claim of dementia, with the judge, Joaquín Aguirre, ruling that although Negreira experiences some memory impairment, he remains mentally capable of appearing in court and potentially facing prosecution.
Negreira, who was previously a referee in the Spanish top flight, is scheduled to testify on Feb. 21.
Barcelona made payments exceeding €7 million ($7.3 million) to Negreira’s companies between 2001 and 2018 during his tenure as the vice president of the committee. Last March, Negreira, along with his son Javier Enríquez Romero, was charged with corruption related to these payments.
Other individuals charged in the case include former Barcelona presidents Sandro Rosell and Josep María Bartomeu, as well as former executives Oscar Grau and Albert Soler.
Bribery charges were added in September after the judge said Negreira “exercised public functions” as vice president of the committee, which equates him to a civil servant.
In October, current Barça president Joan Laporta was also charged with bribery when the judge ruled his first spell in charge, between 2003 and 2010, should not be time-barred.
Laporta has insisted the money was for “technical reports about referees” and, along with the club, has repeatedly denied ever “buying referees or influence.”
However, prosecutors have accused Rosell and Bartomeu of having an agreement with Negreira in which “he would carry out actions aimed at favouring Barca in the decision-making of the referees in the matches played by the club and thus in the results of the competitions.”
Rosell was Barca president from 2010 to 2014, before Bartomeu replaced him. After six years at the helm of the Catalan club, Bartomeu resigned in 2020, with Laporta elected as his replacement in 2021.
Pep Guardiola has implied that Aleksander Ceferin should exercise better judgement when making comments about Manchester City, especially after the UEFA president supported the initial ban imposed on the club from European competition in 2020.
The ban, related to what UEFA termed as “serious breaches” of Financial Fair Play regulations, was imposed in February 2020 but later overturned in June 2020 by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Ceferin, a former lawyer, maintains his belief in UEFA’s decision, expressing it in an interview with The Telegraph. These remarks coincide with City facing accusations from the Premier League regarding a potential breach of their own financial rules.
“As a lawyer that he is and president of UEFA, he should wait and after do whatever he wants,” said Guardiola when asked about Ceferin’s comments.
“He has to respect it and he has to wait. He has a lot of jobs to do at UEFA. A lawyer should respect the procedure and understand we have a right to defend ourselves.”
Meanwhile, Guardiola says he hopes Kalvin Phillips will get the game time “he deserves” at West Ham as his loan move to the London Stadium edges close.
Phillips is set to move until the end of the season after being restricted to just two Premier League starts in 18 months at City.
“The club tells me it’s still not done but he travelled [to London] to make a medical test, but it is not completely done,” Guardiola said. “It is going to be a loan for six months and hopefully he can play the minutes he deserves, which I couldn’t give to him.
“I wish him [well]. I said many times, an exceptional human being and a football player; otherwise, he wouldn’t be on the national team. Hopefully he can improve what it is.”
Guardiola is set to be without Erling Haaland for City’s trip to Tottenham in the FA Cup fourth round on Friday but John Stones is in line to return.
“He [Haaland] is on the verge of coming back,”said Guardiola. “Tomorrow [against Tottenham], he is not ready but he is close. Training camp was good; he trained some sessions; the last few days there he trained, but it is not perfect and we will wait a little bit more.”
Leah Williamson,the captain of the England national team, marked her comeback from a nine-month absence due to an ACL injury by playing her first competitive match on Wednesday.
The injury occurred in April, while she was playing for Arsenal. Following an extensive rehabilitation period, she made a second-half appearance as a substitute in Arsenal’s 6-0 victory over Reading in the Conti Cup.
Williamson, a versatile player for Arsenal, led the Lionesses to victory in Euro 2022.
Unfortunately, the injury prevented her from participating in the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia. Her return is expected to provide a significant boost to both Arsenal and the England national team.
In the match against Reading, Williamson entered the game in the 61st minute, replacing Jen Beattie. She contributed to Arsenal’s victory by providing an assist for Beth Mead.
Talking about her return to the pitch, Williamson told Sky Sports News: “It was lovely. You think a lot about how that moment’s going to be and that was perfect.
“I love playing football for Arsenal. Everyone knows how much I love the club; I’ll get emotional about it if I talk about it too much. I’m just happy to be back and try and help my team.”
England will play two friendlies in February and then start their Euros qualification campaign in April and Williamson hopes to be back in the Lionesses mix. She said, “I’ve missed playing for England so hopefully I can get myself back in contention and see what happens.”
UEFA’s Chief of Football, Zvonimir Boban, has announced his departure from the European football governing body in protest against President Aleksandar Ceferin’s endorsement of proposed changes to statutes.
These changes would potentially enable Ceferin to extend his term in office. Boban, the former AC Milan midfielder and Croatia captain, shared his decision in an open letter published on the Croatian website Telesport.
In the letter, he expressed regret and sadness about leaving UEFA.
Boban clarified that his departure is prompted by Ceferin’s support for a proposal aiming to modify UEFA’s rules, allowing him to seek re-election when his initial four-year term concludes in 2027.
Currently, UEFA’s regulations restrict the president and members of the Executive Committee from running for office more than three times or holding their positions for more than 12 years.
“Paradoxically, it was Ceferin who proposed and launched the package of reforms in 2017 that were supposed to protect UEFA and European football,” Boban said.
“His departure from these values and changes in the main reforms are difficult to understand, especially in this delicate football time. “If I were to accept such a difficult and wrong decision and turn my head, I would be going against the principles and general values in which I deeply believe.
“I am not playing any hero, and I know very well that many are of the same opinion—perhaps naive, but certainly correct.”
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández expressed optimism about the club’s future, whether or not he remains in charge, following their 4-2 loss to Athletic Club in the Copa del Rey quarterfinal on Wednesday.
The defeat at San Mamés came on the heels of a 4-1 loss to Real Madrid in the Spanish Supercopa final just 10 days earlier, leaving Barcelona’s chances for silverware this season dependent on La Liga and the Champions League.
Despite the disappointment in the result, Xavi commended the team’s young players, highlighting the contributions of teenagers Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, Hector Fort, and Marc Guiu in the match against Bilbao.
“All coaches at big clubs depend on trophies, but I feel pride at how we competed against a great team until the end, especially the youngsters,” Xavi said in his postgame news conference.
“We’re playing with kids. The squad is small. This is what I mean when I say we are in construction. I think this is the start of something big. Whether I am here or not, Barça have a big future.
“There is a really good project, not in terms of me as a coach, but in terms of a really good generation coming through. Cubarsí, Fort, Lamine, Guiu and many more players … Fermín López.
“I think it’s the start of something big, but we have to work hard and we have to win. It’s about winning at Barça.”
Sam Kerr has reportedly reached a preliminary agreement on a new deal with Chelsea, indicating her intention to prolong her tenure at Stamford Bridge beyond the upcoming summer.
While Kerr’s existing contract with Chelsea is set to expire in the summer, sources suggest that the 30-year-old Australian has made a commitment to stay with the west London club, as reported by The Athletic.
However, Kerr is currently recovering from a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), a setback that will keep her off the field for the rest of the 2023–24 season.
Unfortunately, her prolonged injury means she is unlikely to feature in another match under manager Emma Hayes, who is set to depart Chelsea at the conclusion of the season to assume the role of head coach for the US Women’s National Team (USWNT).
“With the announcement (of Kerr’s injury, the focus for Sam right now is on rehab,” Hayes said when asked about Kerr’s contract situation earlier in January. “I’m sure when the time is right to discuss her future, that will come from Sam and the club, but Sam loves Chelsea and Chelsea loves Sam, so I think that’s the most important thing to say on that front.”
Since her transfer from the Chicago Red Stars to Chelsea in 2019, Sam Kerr has established herself as a highly productive goal-scorer, registering an impressive tally of 99 goals in 128 matches.
Her remarkable contributions have played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s success, with the team securing four Women’s Super League (WSL) titles, three FA Cups, and two League Cups during Kerr’s tenure in west London.
As Kerr focuses on her rehabilitation due to a recent injury, Chelsea is gearing up to resume their league campaign against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday.
Currently, they sit at the top of the WSL standings, leading by three points over Manchester City.
Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana expressed his joy in celebrating Cameroon’s advancement in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), even though he was benched in the crucial match against The Gambia.
To the surprise of many, Cameroon’s coach Rigobert Song opted not to start Onana in the must-win AFCON group game, which Cameroon won 3-2 after coming back from a two-goal deficit, eliminating The Gambia and securing a spot in the knockout stages based on goals scored.
Onana Andre
Despite being on the bench, Onana joined his teammates in celebrating the victory, setting aside any disappointment about not playing.
In his absence, Onana’s cousin, Fabrice Ondoa, took the goalkeeper position against The Gambia and will be eager to maintain his place in what has proven to be a challenging tournament for the Manchester United goalkeeper.
Onana faced criticism for arriving late to the tournament, resulting in his being left out of the team’s opening match. He then made a crucial mistake in Cameroon’s defeat to Senegal before being benched against The Gambia.
Cameroon’s progression means that Onana will miss Manchester United’s FA Cup match against Newport County, providing Altay Bayindir with an opportunity to stake his claim at Old Trafford.
Cameroon is set to face Nigeria in the last 16 on Saturday, and it remains uncertain who Coach Song will select as the goalkeeper. Reports suggest that Onana was dropped due to an ongoing feud with Cameroon FA President Samuel Eto’o.
Meanwhile, Manchester United is scheduled to play against Newport on Sunday, where Bayindir is expected to make his first appearance since joining from Ankaragucu in the summer.
Spanish judge has suggested that the former president of the football federation, Luis Rubiales, be brought to trial in connection with the women’s World Cup kiss incident involving captain Jenni Hermoso.
The incident occurred during the presentation after Spain’s victory in Australia, where Mr. Rubiales grabbed Ms. Hermoso’s head and kissed her. While Ms. Hermoso stated that the kiss was “not consensual,”
Mr. Rubiales has denied this claim. The judge has determined that there is sufficient evidence for the case to proceed to trial.
During a hearing in Madrid, the judge described the kiss as “not consensual and… a unilateral and surprising initiative,” according to a statement from the court cited by the Reuters news agency.
Luis Rubiales kisses Jenni
Following the incident, Luis Rubiales resigned from his position as the president of Spain’s football federation. Mr. Rubiales had previously been charged by prosecutors with sexual assault and coercion in connection with the incident, and the potential penalties for such actions range from fines to four years of imprisonment.
The case has implicated several Spanish football executives, including Jenni Hermoso’s former coach, a former marketing manager, and the sports director of the men’s team. Jorge Vilda, Rubén Rivera, and Albert Luque are accused of allegedly pressuring Ms. Hermoso to publicly declare that the kiss had been consensual.
The judge in Madrid has determined that the trio should also face trial.
Legal representatives involved in the proceedings now have a 10-day window to formally request a trial before a court. Jenni Hermoso, Spain’s leading goal scorer, provided testimony before the court investigating her allegation, a process that lasted for more than two and a half hours in January.
According to Spanish media, she said the kiss was “unexpected and at no time consensual.”.
Jenni Hermoso said she “received threats” amid the controversy.
Jorge Vilda (right) is considered a close ally of Luis Rubiales (left)
A statement issued shortly after the final that was attributed to Ms Hermoso indicated the kiss had been consensual. But she later complained of being pressured by officials of the Spanish football federation to add her name to the statement.
The kiss took place during the medal ceremony in Sydney on August 20 last year, following Spain’s win over England.
Mr Rubiales has alwaysmaintained the kiss was a “consensual peck,” but in the wake of the incident, he was forced to resign as president of the Spanish football federation.
It set off a wave of global anger at sexism at the highest levels of women’s sport.
Manchester United is reportedly on high alert, as Real Madrid is considering parting ways with Vinicius Junior if they successfully secure the signing of Kylian Mbappe in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Sources suggest that Real Madrid has already made a decision to offload Vinicius should they manage to acquire the undecided Paris Saint-Germain forward.
With a recent midfield overhaul, Real Madrid aims to strengthen their attacking lineup with a global star.
President Florentino Perez reportedly sees Mbappe as the potential star player for the club starting next season, expressing doubts about Vinicius’s potential to become the face of Madrid.
Despite Vinicius signing a contract extension in October until 2027 and expressing his commitment to continue playing for Los Blancos until later returning to his childhood club Flamengo, the possibility of his departure looms.
Mbappe is reportedly seeking an annual salary of €70 million (£60 million or $76 million) along with a transfer bonus of €125 million (£107 million/$136 million) to make the move to the Spanish capital.
Real Madrid, however, is unwilling to break their wage structure and is prepared to offer him €35 million (£30 million/$38 million) annually, which would still make him the highest-paid athlete at the club.
Manchester United is closely monitoring the situation and is reportedly ready to offer £130 million ($165 million) for Vinicius Junior.
Madrid may be tempted to accept the offer as bringing Mbappe to Santiago Bernabeu could strain their finances, although the possibility of Mbappe staying at Parc des Princes has not been ruled out.
Ace Ghanaian journalist, Collins Atta Poku, has claimed that theGhana Football Association (GFA) almost sacked Chris Hughton after the Black Stars’ defeat to Cape Verde at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
According to Atta Poku, who travelled with the team to Ivory Coast, the GFA officials allegedly held a long-hour meeting after the defeat and decided to axe the manager but had strong opposition from the government.
Giving an account of Sompa FM, he said the Irish manager was recommended by the government and thus the FA struggled to show him the exit door despite poor results.
“The Black Stars coach was sacked right after the game against Cape Verde. They held a meeting on Sunday night that entered into Monday. When it was communicated to government officials, they weren’t happy so they stopped it.
“Some radical GFA officials alleged that Gabby Otchere-Darko recommended the manager so they can’t sack him.”
Chris Hughton has eventually been sacked after steering the team to an embarrassing exit from the 2023 AFCON.
The Ghana Football Association officially announced the sacking of Chris Hughton and the entire technical team on Tuesday, January 23, 2024.
Ghana suffered yet another group-stage exit from the AFCON after failing to record a win, losing one and drawing two of their three games.
Following Ghana’s defeat to Cape Verde at the 2023Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), reports surfaced of an alleged attempt by a Black Stars supporter to assault the then-coach, Chris Hughton.
According to the information, the fan was reportedly apprehended by Ivorian police for trying to assault Chris Hughton at the team’s hotel after the 2-1 loss to Cape Verde on Sunday, January 14, 2023.
In the aftermath of Ghana’s disappointing performance in the international competition, two reputable journalists who were present in Ivory Coast for the tournament have shed more light on the incident.
Saddick Adams from Angel Broadcasting Network, reporting based on alleged information, claims that the individuals attempting to attack Chris Hughton are members of the security team of Kurt Okraku, the president of the Ghana Football Association.
Obama, as he is known, stated on Peace FM that if it weren’t for the swift intervention of some individuals present, the assailant would have physically confronted Chris Hughton.
“Kurt Okraku’s security, who is like a brother to me, is the one who did it. My biggest worry is that journalists were prevented from entering the Black Stars hotel. Ghana and Nigeria were in the same hotel but Nigeria opened its doors to us and allowed us to interact with and interview them.
“Our players were hoarded like bars of soap during coup time. It was that night that we heard that two members of Kurt Okraku’s security team were at the hotel’s lobby, hoping to attack Chris Hughton. But for the timely intervention of some person, he would have punched Kurt Okraku. They were arrested and handcuffed,” he said.
On Thursday, January 25, 2024, a day prior to Saddick Adams’ appearance on Peace FM, Collin Atta Poku identified the two individuals involved in the attack.
He asserted that one of the individuals was named Faisal, serving as the personal bodyguard for Kurt Okraku, and the other was Fatawu Mohammed, an assistant to Kurt Okraku and the owner of Avenor Stars, a football club in Accra.
Atta Poku alleges that these individuals are regularly seen in the company of Kurt Okraku and are consistent members of his team.
Late on Wednesday, January 24, 2023, several members of the senior national football team, the Black Stars, arrived in Accra from Ivory Coast after being eliminated from the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Online footage captured the arrival of notable players such as the Ayew brothers, Antoine Semenyo, and Gideon Mensah.
In the video shared by GhanaWeb, Andre Ayew graciously posed for photos with fans, while Jordan Ayew casually greeted onlookers, including his father, Abedi Pele, who was present at the airport to welcome his sons.
As of now, the Ghana Football Association has not released an official list detailing the number of players who returned home and those who departed for their respective bases from Ivory Coast.
One such player, forward Inaki Williams, flew back to Spain and notably contributed to his club’s victory over Barcelona in a cup match, scoring a goal after coming on as a substitute.
Abedi Pele personally welcomed his sons Andre Ayew and Jordan Ayew at KIA after the Black Stars Afcon poor show in Ivory Coast. pic.twitter.com/TZaHult68S
The Black Stars concluded the AFCON tournament with just two points, finishing behind group winners Cape Verde and second-placed Egypt, but ahead of Mozambique.
Criticism has been directed at specific players, as well as the leadership of the Ghana Football Association and the sports ministry.
Additionally, Coach Chris Hughton was dismissedby the FA on January 23, as it became evident that the team could not secure a spot in the knockout rounds as one of the best third-placed teams.
Athletic Bilbao’s striker, Inaki Williams, quickly made an impact for his club just hours after returning to Spain from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where he played for the Black Stars.
Despite Ghana’s early exit from the AFCON with just two points in the group stage, Williams showcased his resilience by scoring for Athletic Bilbao upon his return.
His challenging start in the first two AFCON matches led to his being benched for the final, making it a frustrating campaign for the striker.
In Athletic Bilbao’s quarter-final clash against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey, Williams, who initially started on the bench, entered the game in the 59th minute.
He made a significant impact by providing an assist to his younger brother, Nico Williams, and later scoring a crucial goal in the 105th minute. This helped Athletic Bilbao secure a 4-2 victory over Barcelona and advance to the semi-finals.
The goals for Athletic Club also came from Gorka Guruzeta and Oihan Sancet, while Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal scored consolation goals for Barcelona.
Williams’ return to goal-scoring form added to his impressive season tally of 10 goals in all competitions.
The news of his performance quickly gained traction on social media,with Inaki Williams and related terms trending on platforms like Accra trends on X (formerly Twitter).
Argentina, the reigning World Cup champions, have purportedly agreed to engage in a friendly match against Ghana’s national team, the Black Stars.
According to reports emanating from Argentina, the match is scheduled to take place in China on a provisional date of March 26, 2024.
This friendly encounter is one of the two matches the World Champions have slated for the first international break of the year.
Prior to facing the Black Stars, Argentina is set to play against China. Notably, this marks the second meeting between Argentina and Ghana since their 2009 clash, which saw Argentina secure a 1-0 victory.
These matches serve as valuable preparation for the South American Champions as they gear up for the 2024 Copa America.
Currently holding both the Copa America and FIFA World Cup titles, Argentina is ranked as the top national team globally.
In contrast, Ghana holds the 61st position in the world rankings, reflecting their less-than-ideal performance in recent years, with no advancement beyond the group stage in their last three major tournaments.
The recent termination of Chris Hughton ashead coach of the Black Stars has sparked a flurry of speculations regarding the now-vacant position.
On January 23, 2024, the Ghana Football Association officially announced the dismissal of Chris Hughton following Ghana’s elimination from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
With the Black Stars set to resume play in March, there is a sense of urgency for the FA to swiftly secure a replacement to guide the national team.
Several potential candidates have been mentioned in discussions; let’s take a look at five prominent individuals whose names are circulating for the coaching role.
Michael Essien
The ex-Black Stars midfielder and Chelsea icon’s name is prominently featured in discussions, with many expressing confidence in his potential to guide the national team to success.
Currently associated with a youth team at FC Nordsjaelland in Denmark, Essien’s wealth of experience is seen by many as a compelling qualification for the coaching role.
Supporters of this idea argue that assembling a technical team composed of former footballers under the leadership of Michael Essien could pave the way for success for Ghana.
Herve Ren
As is the tradition, there is persistent speculation connecting the French coach to the vacant Black Stars position.
Renard, widely praised for his successful stints with Zambia, Ivory Coast, and Saudi Arabia, is once again strongly associated with the Black Stars.
The primary obstacle to securing Renard has been his substantial salary demands. Nevertheless, many advocate for both the government and the Football Association to pursue his appointment, emphasising the belief that he is the ideal candidate to guide Ghana to success, regardless of the associated costs.
Tom Saintfiet
The name of the Belgian technician has shot up to the top of the list following his considerable success with the Gambian national team.
He also qualified them for the 2023 edition, where they exited the group stages. He resigned afterwards and is now available on the market.
George Boateng
Prior to the appointment of Chris Hughton, George Boateng was heavily tipped to be a successor to Otto Addo but could not get the job as Hughton was believed to be a government plant.
George Boateng’s name has come up again as a possible replacement for Hughton.
The former Aston Villa youth coach has been with the team since 2021, serving in a deputy capacity.
Kwasi Appiah
The name of the former Black Stars coach is mentioned again as someone the Ghana Football Association to turn to.
The Sudan national team coach is reportedly a name being considered due to his rich experience with the national team, having coached them twice.
Kwasi Appiah’s experience with talented identification and World Cup qualifiers also make him a suitable candidate.
Jose Mourinho
Jose Mourinho has turned 60
The Portuguese coach finds himself available once more following his recent departure from AS Roma.
Jose Mourinho has openly shown his affinity for Ghana, particularly after a visit with Michael Essien. Speculation suggests that a compelling offer from the Ghana Football Association and GFA could potentially attract him.
Mourinho’s illustrious track record, including multiple UEFA Champions League, Premier League, and La Liga triumphs, speaks for itself and adds considerable weight to his candidature.
Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has advised all CLOU customers to ensure they have sufficient credit, as the company plans to conduct emergency maintenance on the CLOU Prepayment Metering System’s server.
The maintenance is scheduled to take place from midnight on Thursday, January 25, to 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 26, 2024.
Customers using remotes to operate their prepaid metres are considered CLOU customers.
ECG issued this notice on Tuesday, January 24, emphasising the importance of purchasing enough credit to cover their power needs during the maintenance period.
Areas such as Korle-Bu District, Ablekuma District, Nsawam District, Amasaman District, Bortianor District, Tema North and South Districts, Ashaiman District, Krobo District, Nungua District, Afienya District, Koforidua District and Kibi District are expected to be affected during the operation.
The statement added that “The inconvenience caused to affected customers is deeply regretted”.
Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has clarified that the Value Added Tax (VAT) on residential electricity consumption above the lifeline category has not been implemented. In a statement dated January 22, 2024, the company urged all stakeholders to adhere to the previous payment model.
The proposed VAT on electricity consumption is intended to address debts owed to independent power producers, according to the government.
Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has advised its members not to implement any fare increases until negotiations with the government on the proposed 20% fare hike are concluded.
This advice comes after a meeting between the union and the government failed to reach a resolution. Initially, the union had threatened a 60% fare increase but later agreed to a 20% increment.
Abass Moro, the Industrial Relations Officer of the Union, has urged transport operators to maintain their current fares while ongoing discussions with the government continue.
“We made our grievances known, and they also told us their side. Finally, we have to go back and have another meeting. We will use your medium to tell our people [drivers] that where we have got to, we are pleading that they should still maintain what we are taking for now until we come out very clearly.
“So that nobody will say drivers are taking advantage of them. It’s our business that we are trying to defend,” Mr Moro said on Citi News.
The Emissions Levy Bill, recently approved by Parliament, mandates an annual fee of GHC100 for owners of both petrol and diesel cars, effective January 2024.
The government presented this tax bill in Parliament with the aim of encouraging the adoption of environmentally friendly energy sources for vehicle propulsion.
This move aligns with the government’s commitment to fostering climate-friendly measures and mitigating carbon emissions. In light of these changes, the GPRTU has submitted a petition to the Speaker of Parliament, requesting a reassessment of the Emission Levy Bill.
Martial’s playing time this season has been limited, making only 19 appearances across all competitions, primarily due to an unspecified illness.
His last on-field contribution was as a substitute in United’s Premier League defeat to Bournemouth, where they lost 3-0 in December.
“Anthony Martial has completed successful surgery to address a groin complaint and will be out of action for about 10 weeks as he rehabilitates,” United said in a statement.
Manchester United faced significant injury challenges this season.
However, there is positive news on the team’s front, with midfielder Casemiro and defenders Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw returning to training after recovering from injuries.
Manager Erik ten Hag officially confirmed their return on January 12.
Currently positioned seventh in the League standings, United is trailing 16 points behind the league leaders, Liverpool.
Their upcoming challenge is against Newport County in the fourth round of the FA Cup, scheduled for Sunday.
🚨 @AnthonyMartial has completed successful surgery to address a groin complaint.
We wish Anthony a speedy recovery and look forward to his return ❤️#MUFC
Head of Sports at Pure FM, Bright Kankam Boadu, has provided a detailed breakdown of the potential financial benefits that Black Stars players, officials, and staff could have received if the team had advanced to the knockout phase of the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.
According to Kankam Boadu, a majority of the staff, deemed essential members of the team, would have been eligible for financial rewards had the Black Stars progressed to the round of sixteen.
Speaking on Pure FM, Kankam Boadu said, “If we had qualified, this useless team would have made $30,000 each as a player. Chris Hughton would have made $60,000.
“Team Doctor would have gotten $21,000 (70% of the players’ bonus). Ameenu Shadow would have gotten $21,000 and Ball Boy would have gotten $21,000.
Black Stars bowed out of the 2023 AFCON without securing a victory, managing two draws and suffering one defeat in Group B.
They began with a 2-1 loss to Cape Verde, followed by 2-2 draws against Egypt and Mozambique in their second and final group matches, respectively.
With only two points and a goal deficit, Ghana experienced back-to-back group-stage eliminationsfrom the AFCON, replicating their fate in the 2021 edition.
Following this disappointing performance in Ivory Coast, the Ghana Football Association has terminated Chris Hughton’s coaching tenure.
Last week, the president’s office announced that a medical check-up had revealed the presence of “cancerous cells.” Although no additional details about his condition were provided, the statement assured that President Geingob would continue to fulfil his presidential duties.
There have been increasing concerns about the president’s health, with reports suggesting that he acknowledged his frailty last year.
In a statement, the vice president of the governing Swapo party, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, said Mr Geingob was in “good spirits” and receiving “good medical attention.”.
She appealed to Namibians to allow the president and his family to focus on his recovery and healing process without engaging in speculation.
President Geingob underwent an aortic operation last year, and in 2014, he disclosed that he had successfully battled prostate cancer.
Namibia is scheduled to conduct presidential and parliamentary elections later this year.
Swapo, the ruling party since the country’s independence in 1990, has selected Mrs. Nandi-Ndaitwah as its presidential candidate.
Currently serving as Namibia’s deputy prime minister, she would become the nation’s first female president if she emerged victorious.
Their examination results, ranging between aggregates 16 and 31, ensure their progression to the next level of the academic ladder.
This group includes 26 juveniles from the Senior Correctional Centre in Accra, nine inmates from the Nsawam Medium Security Prisons, eight inmates from the Kumasi Central Prison, and four each from the Ankaful Maximum Security and Sunyani Central Prisons.
Among them, 13 juveniles have been discharged upon completing their terms, while the remaining 38 inmate Senior High School (SHS) freshmen are still serving their sentences. Currently, 13 juveniles remain in prison custody.
Juvenile inmates serve sentences ranging from a minimum of three months to a maximum of three years. In a statement issued by the Head of Media Relations of the Ghana Prisons Service, Deputy Superintendent of Prisons (DSP) Irene Pokuah Wiredu, it was highlighted that “the inmate students have, over the years, justified the investments made in their education.”
The schools
Upon further investigation, The Daily Graphic found that the juvenile inmates, including those who have been discharged, have been placed in various pre-tertiary institutions such as Mfantsipim Senior High School (SHS) in Cape Coast, Labone SHS, St Thomas Aquinas SHS, Accra Technical Training Centre, and Forces SHS, all located in Accra. Juvenile inmates serving sentences attend regular SHSs and are escorted to and from school by prison officers.
Adult inmates who took the BECE are pursuing General Arts or Business courses at SHSs within the Prisons Service premises, under the supervision of the Ghana Education Service. These students benefit from the Free SHS initiative, receiving free tuition, meals, and educational materials from the GES.
The statement highlighted theGhana Prisons Service’s commitment to its reformation and rehabilitation mandate, aligning with modern universal best practices. The introduction of formal education for inmates includes subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies.
“Formal education gained its popularity in the prisons in 2007, with the support of the Centre for National Distance Learning and Open Schooling and the Ghana Education Trust Fund,” it added.
Director-General’s remarks The statement quoted the Director-General of Prisons, Isaac Kofi Egyir, as saying that “prisoner education is one of the surest and safest ways the service had prioritised over the years to reform inmates and provide them with better living upon their release.’’
“It is worthy to note that there is a drastic reduction in the rate of recidivism (the tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend) for the prisoners who participated in prison education programmes, thereby reducing the recidivism rate in the prisons to the barest minimum,” Mr Egyir stated.
“For those who are serving lengthy sentences, prison education has had a profound and often life-changing benefit on them such as a substantial reduction in violence and disciplinary infractions, breaking down religious and ethnic barriers that sometimes created tension in prisons, significantly improving relations between officers and the inmates, and enhancing the inmates’ self-esteem,” the statement further quoted the Director-General of Prisons.
Other educational projects
Beyond basic school and SHS, the Prisons Service, in partnership with the University of Cape Coast and the Plan Volta Foundation, has introduced the University of Cape Coast Distance Learning Programme which provides tertiary education for prison inmates of the Nsawam Medium Security and Nsawam Female prisons who have excelled in their West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) over the years.
The educational programmes run by the service include University of Cape Coast Distance Programme, National Vocational Training Institute (NVTI)/ICT and Proficiency for Tradesmen, Energy Commission Training and CTVET Electrical Certification Programme.
These, the statement said, would soon be extended to the other prisons across the country.
Currently, it said, 162 prisoners had been enrolled in the College of Distance Education (University of Cape Coast) to study for a Bachelor of Education degree with specialisation in English Language and Social Studies or Mathematics and Science, and a Bachelor of Commerce with specialisation in Accounting and Management.
About eight juveniles, who successfully completed SHS while in detention at the Senior Correctional Centre between 2020 and 2022, are pursuing various programmes at the University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, the University of Energy and Natural Resources in Sunyani, the University of Professional Studies, Accra, and the Technical universities of Accra, Ho and Koforidua, among others.
Ghanaians were left enraged, heartbroken, and also disappointed after the Black Stars’ draw with Mozambique on Monday, January 22, 2024, at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Ebimpé, Côte d’Ivoire.
Till the 90th minute, Ghana was leading by two goals until Mozambique converted a penalty after Ghana’s captain, Andre Ayew, handled the ball in the box.
Reactions on social media show that Ghanaians were left even more devastated after Mozambique scored their second goal in the 94th minute, when Reinildo Mandava headed in a cross from the left wing by da Conceição Nangy, securing a late equaliser and leaving Ghana on the brink of an exit.
Amid the disappointment and hurt, Black Stars’ winger, Joseph Paintsil, has taken to X, formerly Twitter, to offer an apology to Ghanaians for the teams inability “to meet the expectations of Ghanaians.”
In a tweet, he said, ” Sincere apologies to the good people of Ghana. We are truly sorry for not meeting your expectations.Important lessons to take away from this unforgettable experience. Thank you for coming through with your support in our low moments.”
Sincere apologies to the good people of Ghana. We are truly sorry for not meeting your expectations.Important lessons to take away from this unforgettable experience.💔
Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has taken legal action after excerpts of VAR audio from Real Madrid’s 3-2 victory over Almería were leaked.
Journalist Gerard Romero published conversations between referee Francisco.
José Hernández Maeso and VAR official Alejandro Hernández are discussing potential acts of aggression by Vinícius Júnior of Madrid and Almería’s Chumi.
Notably, none of these interactions resulted in Hernández Maeso reversing his initial on-field decisions or reviewing the incidents on the pitch-side monitor.
The leaked clips specifically cover instances when the screen was not utilised, unlike decisions related to Madrid’s first two goals and a disallowed Almería strike in the second half, which involved VAR review.
The RFEF had introduced a new initiative last month to release audio if the referee had been sent to the monitor.
“On Tuesday, we filed a report with the Guardia Civil [the Spanish police] after the publication of audios from the VAR system, which are of a completely private and professional scope, relating to the LaLiga match between Real Madrid and Almería,” the RFEF said in a statement.
“We have also opened an internal investigation and consider the aforementioned infraction extremely serious. We hope that a response will be found as soon as possible to clarify who is responsible.
“Meanwhile, all necessary measures will be taken to ensure the security of all RFEF communications.”
In the first conversation revealed by Romero, Hernández Maeso and Hernández Hernández assess an incident where Vinícius appears to make contact with Alejandro Pozo’s face using his elbow. However, they conclude that there is insufficient evidence to warrant VAR intervention.
In the second exchange, they scrutinise a clash between Chumi and Madrid’s Dani Ceballos, where Ceballos falls to the ground after the contact. Nonetheless, they decide to maintain the on-pitch decision of not awarding anything.
On both occasions, the referee was not summoned to the screen, in contrast to three other instances in the second half when Madrid rallied from a 2-0 deficit to secure a 3-2 victory.
After reviewing replays, Hernández Maeso awarded Madrid a penalty for handball, disallowed an Almería goal due to a foul by Dion Lopy on Jude Bellingham in the build-up, and allowed Vinícius’ equaliser, deeming the contact high enough to validate the goal. Initially, all three decisions were against Madrid.
Madrid ultimately clinched the win with a 99th-minute goal from Dani Carvajal, keeping them within one point of La Liga leaders Girona with a game in hand.
In December, the RFEF and LaLiga announced that conversations between referees and VAR would be publicly disclosed under a new agreement between the two organisations.
Consequently, discussions occurring during the review of incidents using the pitch-side monitor are made available to broadcasters after the conclusion of each day’s matches.
Host of the Onua Concert Party show on Onua TV, Aba Martins, popularlyknown as Ama Dhope, has shared a hilarious story of how she lost her job as a teacher twice in Ghana due to her bad pronunciation of some English words.
While telling her story of how she survived in China while she was furthering her education, Ama, during an interview on Berla Mundi’s “ The DayShow “on TV3, recounted her distress over common words that cost her two jobs in the Asian country.
According to her, she knew nobody in China during her stay there, but she “was able to manoeuvre her through” because she took on side jobs such as teaching English in some Chinese schools.
She recounts how she lost her first job over the mispronunciation of the lion, which took her out of what she anticipated to be another source of income for her survival.
She said, “In China, I knew nobody, but I was able to manoeuvre my way through because I was doing some side business; I was teaching English. Our phonetics here in Ghana are quite different from those in China.
Pronounciation of words like lion: where we were thought to pronounce it like “ly-yon,” in China it is pronounced LY” + “uhn. You won’t get it easy with mispronunciations.
After managing to get a second job, on another occasion, the comedy show host added, that
“I didn’t know that Thursday should be pronounced as thuhz-day; we were thought ‘Turz-day’ , not knowing it was a dentine.
I was there and the owner of the school walked to me and ordered me to pack my bags because what I was teaching the kids was deadly.
Same with my second school , there I lost my job again over the pronunciation of lion”.
Ama Dhope is a TV host on Onua TV, a Ghanaian television station owned by Media General.
She is the host of the Onua Concert Party show, a comedy and entertainment program that showcases local talents and celebrities.
José Mourinho has turned down an offer from Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab to take on the role of their new manager, according to a source from ESPN.
Domenico Tite, the sporting director of the club, engaged in talks with Jorge Mendes, Mourinho’s agent, immediately after the Portuguese coach was sacked by AS Roma last week.
Despite expressing his desire to manage in Saudi Arabia in the near future, Mourinho, who turns 61 on Friday, has opted against joining the SPL at this time.
While he has garnered interest from European clubs, the source mentioned that Mourinho is taking his time to decide on his next move.
Due to league regulations, he cannot manage another Italian club this season, making potential interest from clubs like Napoli a consideration for the next season.
Mourinho, who has faced dismissal in his last five coaching positions, including Chelsea, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Tottenham, and Roma, has indicated his preference to stay in Europe, but only for the right project.
Jose Mourinho shrug
Al Shabab, currently 11th in theSaudi Pro League, is eager to replace their embattled manager, Igor Biscan, having won just five of their 19 league games this season.
West Ham has reached an agreement for a loan deal with Manchester City for midfielder Kalvin Phillips, as reported by sources to ESPN.
The deal is still in progress, and negotiations for an option to make the move permanent in the summer are currently underway, according to a source.
Last week, ESPN reported that West Ham was among several clubs showing interest in Phillips, who is eager to secure a move from Etihad in the January transfer window for consistent first-team football, aiming to maintain his spot in the England squad ahead of the European Championships in Germany this summer.
Despite making a £43 million ($54.5 million) transfer from Leeds United to City in 2022, Phillips has not been a significant part of manager Pep Guardiola’s plans.
With just two starts for City this season, even in the absence of starting defensive midfielder Rodri, Phillips has struggled to secure regular playing time.
West Ham manager David Moyes has a long-standing interest in Phillips, having even considered a part-exchange involving the midfielder for Declan Rice last summer, whoeventually joined Arsenal.
Real Madrid has confirmed the contract extension of Éder Militão until June 2028.
The Brazilian, aged 26, joined the LaLiga club in June 2019 from FC Porto and has since become a crucial part of their defensive lineup.
“Real Madrid and Éder Militão have agreed to extend the contract of our player, who remains linked to the club until June 30, 2028,” a Madrid statement said.
“In his five seasons defending our shirt he has become one of the best centre-backs in the world.”
Militão’s previous deal was due to expire in 2025.
The Brazil defender has scored 11 goals in 143 appearances for Madrid and has won nine trophies, including two league titles and a Champions League.”I’m thrilled to have renewed my contract,” Militão said in a video posted on Instagram.
A regular in Brazil’s squads, Militão won the 2019 Copa America and competed in the 2022 World Cup.
English Premier League club West Ham United is reportedly in advanced negotiations with FC Nordsjaelland for the signing of Ghanaian teenager Ibrahim Osman.
The Hammers and the Danish outfit are said to be nearing an €18 million transfer deal from the Right to Dream Academy.
Osman, previously targeted by clubs like Crystal Palace and Fulham, could potentially join former FC Nordsjaelland midfielder Mohammed Kudus at the London Olympic Stadium.
Currently with his Nordsjaelland teammates in the United States for preparations, Osman, a winger, had an outstanding campaign last season, scoring six goals across all competitions.
The Right toDream Academy graduate is expected to follow in the footsteps of Ghanaian stars like Mohammed Kudus and Kamaldeen Sulemana.
Actress Sarah Martins used her Instagram page to mock colleague Yul Edochie following his recent announcement of opening his church.
Yul Edochie faced criticism and mockery from social media users after declaring his new career and calling in the ministry.
One of the first people to respond to her colleague’s news is Sarah Martins, who was once good friends with Judy Austin, Yul Edochie’s second wife.
“Church of tatatata, adulterous pastor” – Sarah Martins mocks Yul Edochie as he opens his church
In response to the news, the actress said that the story of Yul Edochie and Judy Austin had inspired her to write a new movie. Adding to that, Yul Edochie’s church will teach men how to snatch other people’s wives and destroy families.
A man publicly set up his GOTV decoder in protest against Multichoice for removingTB Joshua’s channel from their platform.
The man explained that his act of setting the GO TV decoder on fire was in response to the complete removal of the Emmanuel TV channel owned by SCOAN.
He criticised Multichoice for acting hastily in response to the BBC’s allegations, emphasising some of the positive contributions of the late Prophet TB Joshua. Pouring fuel on the decoder and its accessories, he ignited the fire with a lighter.
The video has attracted reactions from social media users….
@wendy_adamma wrote: “Religion look this man and say, I will dealll with you!!!!!”
iamdbull wrote: “Be prepared for a nationwide protest. Nigerians, let’s all join him.”
success_twins2 wrote: “People forget about all the good things you have done for them and judge you with just 1wrong🤷🏾♀️🤷🏾♀️we are not even sure TB Joshua did all these things he is been accused of..”
Cameroon goalkeeper Andre Onana finds himself on the bench for a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group-stage encounter against The Gambia.
Despite starting in Cameroon’s second match, a 3-1 defeat to Group C leaders Senegal, Onana has been dropped to the bench for the clash against The Gambia. Fabrica Ondoa, who filled in for Onana in the 1-1 draw against Guinea, will make his second start in the tournament.
Onana, who arrived late to the tournament after featuring for Manchester United against Tottenham Hotspur, was absent for Cameroon’s opening AFCON game against Guinea on January 15.
Cameroon currently sits in third place in their group and needs a victory against The Gambia, along with a Senegal win against second-placed Guinea, to have a chance at automatic qualification to the round of 16.
This situation is not unfamiliar to Onana, who faced disciplinary issues during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, leading to his exclusion from the matchday squad.
Onana retired from international duty last year after a disagreement with Samuel Eto’o, the president of the Cameroon Football Federation (Fecafoot), during the World Cup.
Despite being called up to the AFCON squad in December and made available for the tournament, Onana’s delayed arrival led to his absence in the opening match against Guinea.
The goalkeeper played a full 90 minutes for Manchester United against Tottenham in the Premier League on January 14 before joining the Cameroon squad in the Ivory Coast.
The complex relationship between Andre Onana and the Cameroon national team appears to face further challenges, raising questions about the goalkeeper’s role in the team’s future tournaments.
Former Togolese international footballer Emmanuel Adebayor criticised the Ghanaian national team’s performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) , suggesting that the players lacked dedication and passion.
Following the team’s disappointing display in their final group match against Mozambique, which ended in a draw, Adebayor expressed his frustration with the team’s attitude.
“I’m not surprised by the outcome, but I’m certainly disappointed,” Adebayor stated. “They had control of their fate going into this game, knowing that a victory would secure their progression. But the way they played, it seemed like they were just here for entertainment purposes, without any real desire to succeed.”
Adebayor’s comments came after Ghana failed to win a single game in the group stage, earning only two points out of a possible nine. The team’s poor performance resulted in their elimination from the competition, mirroring their previous showings at the 2021 AFCON and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
In response to the team’s underwhelming performance, the Ghana Football Association announced that Chris Hughton has been relieved of his duties as head coach, along with the dissolution of the technical team.
DWP Academy has officially announced the departure of one of their star dancers, Danita Akosua Adomaah Yeboah, widely recognised as Afronitaaa.
Speculations regarding her exit surfaced earlier this month in January 2024, triggered by a tweet from an X user expressing grief over the rumors of Afronitaa’s departure from DWP.
Fast forward: another X user with the name ‘EL-DAD @ ChristDeKing tweeted on January 18, 2024, that “Afronita left DWP.”
Following this, the management of the academy, in an official release titled “DWP Bids Afronitaaa Well in Her New Journey,” confirmed the rumours that they have indeed parted ways with one of their star dancers.
“We are happy to announce that our dear Danita Akosua Adomaah Yeboah (Afronitaaa) has moved on as a brand on her own. It was a tough decision to let Afronitaaa go but her move is in line with the mission of Dance With A Purpose (DWP) Academy, to build brands out of all the young and gifted personalities that join the family”.
DWP further went on to eulogise her admirable nature of succeeding at both her academics and profession as a dancer, however, adding that her leaving is certainly not the first nor will it be the last.
On their part, her exit is an affirmation of their motto as an academy: “Find Your Purpose and Live It.”
“She, together with the many talented members of the DWP family, have changed the narrative around professional dancing in Ghana and beyond. Afronitaa’s move is not the first and will certainly not be the last. Indeed, an opportunity like this affirms our slogan; “Find Your Purpose and Live it.”
The academy went on to express their readiness to welcome and nurture more talents
“DWP is committed to unearthing talents, nurturing them and building strong personalities and brands that can thrive individually and as a group.We will continue to focus on our core family values, including honesty, respect, compassion and responsibility. We believe the sky is big enough to allow all of us space to shine as a group and as individuals. Our doors are open to new talents in Ghana and beyond as we roll out our next biggest initiative this year.”
Gambia’s national football team head coach, Tom Saintfiet, has immediately resigned following their elimination from AFCON 2023, as confirmed by AfricaSoccer.com.
The 50-year-old Belgian coach stepped down after Gambia failed to secure any points in the group stage, succumbing to a 3-2 defeat against Cameroon in their final match.
Despite initially taking the lead, a late free-kick by Cameroon’s Christopher Wooh secured their victory, advancing them to the next round.
Gambia finished the group phase without a single point, losing all three games to Senegal, Guinea, and Cameroon.
Expressing gratitude to the Football Association and his staff, Saintfiet declared,
“This was my last match as coach of Gambia. My contract expires in August 2026, but I step down.”
Despite leading Gambia to the quarter-finals in the previous AFCON, where they lost to the hosts, Saintfiet has chosen to end his tenure prematurely due to the disappointing campaign in Cote d’Ivoire.
Having led Gambia to their maiden AFCON appearance two years ago, the experienced tactician has decided to part ways, citing the timing and his commitment to the nation.
This decision follows Ghana’s failure to secure a victory in their final group game against Mozambique, resulting in a 2-2 draw and an early exit from the tournament.
Hughton, who took on the role of head coach in February 2023, achieved a win-loss-draw ratio of 30.77%, 30.77%, and 38.46% in all competitions during his nearly one-year tenure.
Under his leadership, the team scored 13 goals, averaging one goal per match, while conceding 16 times.
Assistant coaches George Boateng and Didi Dramani, along with goalkeepers’ coach Richard Kingston and other members of the technical team, are also departing from their positions.
The GFA has indicated that it will outline a roadmap for the future direction of the Black Stars in the coming days.
Ghana’s lacklustre performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations has generated criticism and raised concerns about the team’s competitiveness on the international stage.
The GFA’s decision to dissolve the technical team is seen as a strategic move to address these issues and restore the team’s credibility.
The Black Stars have faced challenges in recent years, falling short of replicating past successes. The early exit from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations has prompted calls for change and a renewed focus on nurturing young talent.
The GFA is anticipated to name a new head coach and technical team in the near future, with speculation already circulating about potential candidates. Fans and stakeholders eagerly await the association’s roadmap for the Black Stars, hoping it signals a fresh start and a return to glory.
Bank of Ghana has confirmed the receipt of US$600 million as the second installment of Ghana’s bailout package with theInternational Monetary Fund (IMF).
This financial injection, designated for budget support and stabilisation of the local currency, was officially credited to the Central Bank’s account on Tuesday, January 23, 2023.
With this, Ghana has now received a total of US$1.2 billion out of the approved $3 billion under the three-year extended credit facility initiated in May of the previous year.
Unlike the first tranche, which aimed to address Ghana’s balance of payment issues, the entirety of the second tranche will be used to fund projects and programs outlined in the 2024 budget.
The IMF approved the second tranche last Friday, following Ghana’s successful negotiations with bilateral lenders, including China and France, a crucial step that triggered the disbursement.
The IMF highlighted Ghana’s positive performance under the program, with implemented reforms yielding positive outcomes and signs of economic stabilisation becoming apparent.
Barring unforeseen circumstances, the next IMF program review for the third tranche of US$720 million is scheduled in six months.
In addition to the funds from the IMF, the second tranche has facilitated additional financial support from other international donors. The World Bank’s Executive Board is set to provide approximately $300 million in budget support for Ghana, following an agreement in principle on the key parameters of the proposed debt restructuring reached by the Official Creditors’ Committee under the G20 Common Framework.
This disbursement aims to aid Ghana’s recovery, attract investments, and restore a sustainable growth path while addressing the country’sdebt sustainability.
The Board’s approval on January 23, 2023, will be followed by the World Bank’s disbursement of $250 million as part of its contribution to the Ghana Financial Stability Fund. This contribution is expected to assist banks significantly affected by the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme.
Member of Parliament for Akuapem South, OB Amoah, has announced his withdrawal from the upcoming parliamentary elections of the New Patriotic Party scheduled for January 27, 2024.
This decision, influenced by personal considerations, is also deemed beneficial for the party’s interests. As the Chairman of the Research Committee of the Party, OB Amoah emphasised that his choice not to seek re-election has been the result of extensive consultations with the party’s leadership.
Despite stepping back from the parliamentary race, he affirmed his commitment to actively engaging in the party’s activities at both the national and constituency levels.
“It is for the people to judge whether I will be missed or not, and I cannot say whether I will be missed or not. I have been in Parliament for four terms and have also served in the executive, gathering a lot of experience along the way. I am still active in the party. I withdrew for the national interest of the party and my personal interest.”
His exclusion now leaves Eric Apeadu Yeboah, Kwame Ofori Gyawu, and Samuel Annor Mensah to fiercely contest for the seat the Member of Parliament has held for four consecutive terms.
OB Amoah, however, called on delegates in the Akuapem South constituency to ensure peaceful elections on Saturday.
“I meet delegates and speak to them every time, and the most critical thing is on Saturday, we have peaceful elections and rally behind the winner to ensure that we retain the seat.”
Moroccan referee Bouchra Karboubi achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Arab woman to officiate a match at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament as the main referee.
Her groundbreaking role took place during the decisive match between Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau at the Stade Félix-Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan on the third and final day of Group A in the 2023 AFCON.
This achievement reflects the proactive approach of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) in promoting women’s soccer, aligning with the enlightened vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
The notable growth in women’s soccer in Morocco, including recent accomplishments like the U-20 national team’s historic qualification for the 2024 World Cup, underscores the FRMF’s sustained efforts and tangible actions to advance the sport.
Before officiating the Nigeria-Guinea-Bissau match, Karboubi, a police inspector, had already distinguished herself by overseeing numerous soccer matches at both national and continental levels.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rLe4kEDkMU
Her notable achievements include being the firstMoroccan woman to officiate a Throne Cup final between AS FAR and Moghreb de Tétouan in Agadir in May 2022.
Additionally, she contributed to the officiating team at the 2023 Women’s World Cup held in Australia and New Zealand from July 20 to August 20.
On January 10 in Dubai, Karboubi was awarded the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Prize for Sports Creativity, in its twelfth edition, as “Best Arab Football Referee”.
Bouchra Karboubi, the Moroccan referee, received the prestigious prize in acknowledgment of her leadership and outstanding performance as a professional referee overseeing international matches in top-level competitions.
The closely contested match betweenGuinea-Bissau and Nigeria concluded with a narrow victory for the Super Eagles, securing their second-place finish and advancement to the next stage of the competition.
The chairperson of the Kumasi Ministers Conference, Pastor Ransford Obeng, has urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to reconsider its decision to not use indelible ink in the December 7 general elections.
Emphasising the importance of involving all political parties in discussions on such sensitive matters, Pastor Obeng expressed that such consultations would instill confidence in the electoral process and contribute to a peaceful exercise.
Addressing journalists in Kumasi ahead of a three-day revival with Pastor Mensa Otabil, the founder and head pastor of Calvary Charismatic Centre, Pastor Obeng advised the electoral commission to make decisions that would garner satisfaction from all parties and individuals.
“What I want to encourage the EC is that they should sit down with the political parties. That is all that I want to tell them, because whatever we have been doing and how it is working for us, we don’t have to remove it. You only add to it; you don’t change anything that has helped you conduct elections successfully.
“It is anything that brings problems that you change. If it has not brought any problems, we should not change it,” he said.
Pastor Ransford Obeng also offered advice to pastors, urging them to exercise caution when sharing prophecies in the media regarding the general election.
He emphasised the importance of pastors maintaining discretion about their revelations and suggested that they should choose to pray privately rather than publicise their prophetic insights.
“I think that if you are a prophet andGod reveals to you who is going to win, it will be wise not to say it so that you keep it to yourself. you can talk to your small group but to publicise it, I don’t encourage it because it brings all kinds of things. So you should use wisdom,” he added.
In a statement released on January 23, 2024, the DVLA issued a caution, stating that individuals holding driver’s licences and vehicle owners who neglect to renew their licenses and roadworthy certificates before the expiry dates will incur delinquency charges
“The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) wishes to remind its cherished customers of the need to renew their driver’s licences and roadworthy certificates when due.
The driver licence holders and vehicle owners who fail to renew their licences and roadworthy certificates on or before the expiry dates as indicated on their documents shall be made to pay for the appropriate delinquency charges as provided for, in the Fees and Charges Instrument 2015 (L.1.2220).”
DVLA has provided guidance for motorists whose vehicles may not be in use during the stipulated validity period for roadworthiness. The advice is to apply to the Licensing Authority to cancel the Vehicle Registration Certificate.
“DVLA further wishes to inform customers that Regulation 15 (1) of the L.I. 2180 provides that “where a motor vehicle is not in use during the stipulated validity period for roadworthiness, a person may apply to the Licencing Authority to cancel the Vehicle Registration Certificate and issue the applicant with a Lay-Off Certificate.” Vehicle owners’ are advised to take note of this regulation and comply when https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftZf4vnK4tkrequired,” the DVLA said in its statement.
The lawyer was summoned in response to his earlier outburst, where he made derogatory remarks about some chiefs in the Ashanti region.
“We are going to talk law and no one is above the law. The chiefs could have just summoned me directly without going through Manhyia. Even if I decide not to work here in Kumasi, I can still fire from Accra.
I will honour the invitation, and you will clap for Lawyer Ampaw on Monday. I am going with the truth. Otumfuo supports the truth and I am going to lay bare the facts,” lawyer Ampaw told Aduanaba Kofi Asante Ennin on GhanAkoma.
On Monday, the General Secretary of the ruling NPP, Justin Frimpong Kodua, appeared before the Asanteman Council at the Manhyia Palace to respond to alleged unsavoury comments allegedly passed by the Ashanti Regional Chairman during a vetting process.
Lawyer Ampaw was also invited for a derogatory remark passed about chiefs in Ashant, a video of which has since gone viral. He alleged in the video that “some chiefs in the Ashanti Region are corrupt.”
He stressed that he has respect for the Manhyia Palace so he will make it a point to honour the invitation.
“Everything that I have said will be subjected to strict proof. I will not say I am sick. I am not sick. I will be there. I am going there happily, because I will explain everything to them. It’s been a while since I went there. I will wear white-white. I am ready,” he added.
It would be recalled that Otumfuo’s Chief Linguist, Nana Kofi Owusu, told the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), led by Justin Frimpong Kodua, that they should bring before the Asanteman Council the Regional Chairman of the Party, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, aka Wontumi, within one week.
The order was given at a meeting held on January 22 at the Manhyia Palace.
“Wontumi should be produced here by next week, even if he is on a sick bed,” he told the NPP delegation.
The General Secretary of the NPP, Justin Frimpong Kodua, accompanied by the national organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, and several regional executives of the party, appeared before the Asanteman Council to plead on behalf of the Regional Chairman.
However, conspicuously missing was Bernard Antwi Boasiako. Mr Kodua told the chiefs that Wontumi was indisposed “Nananom, we could not come with Chairman Wontumi because he has not been well.”
But the excuse did not sit well with some of the chiefs.
For instance, one of Otumfuo’s chief linguists, Nana Kwaku Owusu, demanded a medical report on Wontumi. “If you claim Wontumi is sick, where is his doctor’s report?” he queried.
Mr Frimpong Kodua pleaded for clemency as he was unable to present the doctor’s report requested.
Parliament of Ghana is set to resume its parliamentary activities on February 6, 2024, following a recess for the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The fourth session is scheduled to commence on February 6, 2024.
The resumption date was announced by the Speaker of Parliament, RT Hon. Alban Sumana Bagbin, in a January 17, 2024, circular issued.
“KNOW YE ALL MEN that in the exercise of the powers conferred on the Speaker by clause (1) of Article 112 of the Constitution, I, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament, by this Constitutional Instrument, appoint Parliament House, Accra, to be the place, and Ten O’clock in the forenoon of Tuesday, February 6, 2024, to be the date and time which the Fourth Session of the Eighth Parliament of the Fourth Republic shall commence,” the Speaker noted.
Following an all-night session to approve the Appropriations Bill for the fiscal year ending in December 2023, Parliament adjourned on the morning of December 23.
During the trial of Nana Appiah Mensah, also known as NAM1, the fifth prosecution witness, Priscilla Adu-Boateng, testified that after investing GH¢760,000 in Menzgold, the accused assaulted her when she requested her returns.
Priscilla Adu-Boateng, a trader and a single mother of four, claimed that on January 8, 2020, NAM1 brandished a gun when she and other aggrieved customers went to his house in Trassaco, Accra, to demand their money.
“I am a single mother with four children, and these investments were made in furtherance of their education.
“My business is not thriving, and I am in the process of selling my house to make ends meet”, she said in her witness statement, which has been adopted by the court presided over by Justice Ernest Owusu-Dapaa, a Justice of the Court of Appeal sitting as an additional High Court judge,
Led by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Yvonne Atakora Obuobisa, the witness mentioned that she was attracted to invest in Menzgold due to the advertising billboard. Additionally, she revealed that an executive from Menzgold had persuaded her for about a year before she eventually decided to invest in the business.
After the witness statement was adopted, there was no cross-examination by Counsel for the accused, Kwame B. Akufo.
NAM1, along with two of his companies, Menzgold Ghana Limited and Brew Marketing Consult Ghana Limited, faces 39 charges. These charges include selling gold without a licence, operating a deposit-taking business without a licence, inducement to invest, defrauding by false pretence, fraudulent breach of trust, and money laundering.
The allegations accuse them of defrauding their customers of various sums of money between 2016 and 2018, amounting to GH¢340,835,650.
NAM1 has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is currently on bail of GH¢500 million, secured by four sureties.
Prosecution’s facts
Between 2017 and 2018, as per the prosecution’s account, NAM1 and Menzgold extended invitations to the public to purchase gold from Brew Marketing Consult Ghana Limited and deposit it with Menzgold.
The prosecution alleges that, through various forms of invitations, the accused, representing the two companies as deposit-taking entities, encouraged the public to deposit gold with Menzgold, promising profits ranging from seven to ten percent.
Responding to this invitation, over 16,000 individuals deposited substantial sums, believing they were engaging with an authorised deposit-taking business that would ensure the advertised returns.
Despite numerous engagements and warning notices from relevant agencies, Menzgold Ghana Limited and Brew Marketing Consult Ghana Limited, the prosecution contends, persisted with their operations.
“Meanwhile, members of the public started facing challenges, either with delayed payments or reduced dividends; a number of cheques issued by NAM1 and Menzgold were also dishonoured,” the prosecution said.
On September 7, 2018, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) directed Menzgold to suspend its business for operating without a licence.
Between November 2016 and March 2019, the prosecution said, many customers of the accused entities petitioned the police, complaining that they had invested huge sums of money with the accused, but were unable to realise their investments despite persistent efforts.
“Investigations revealed that the accused persons, under false pretences, took a total sum of GH¢340,835,650 from their customers, which these customers have not recovered.
“Investigations further disclosed that between 2017 and 2018, the accused persons transferred huge sums of depositors’ funds from Menzgold Ghana Company Ltd and Brew Marketing Consult Ltd to Zylofon Media, a company related to NAM1,” the prosecution said.
“Investigations have established that the money fraudulently obtained from depositors and dishonestly appropriated by the accused persons remained unpaid as Menzgold Ghana Company Ltd’s licence was revoked,” the prosecution stated.
Manchester United is aiming to generate £100 million by offering Antony and Jadon Sancho to clubs in the Saudi Pro League, as per reports from the Evening Standard.
Earlier this month, Sancho left United on loan, returning to his former club, Borussia Dortmund for the remainder of the season. The 23-year-old’s future at Old Trafford seems uncertain following a notable fallout with manager Erik ten Hag.
Antony, who made an £82 million move from Ajax in the summer of 2022, has struggled to replicate the form that justified his transfer, failing to contribute a goal or assist in any competition.
In an effort to recoup a significant portion of the transfer fees, especially given the high wages involved, United is exploring potential deals with Saudi clubs.
Director of Football John Murtough initiated discussions with officials from the Saudi Pro League and Saudi Ministry of Sport during the Club World Cup last month.
The Red Devils are seeking £50 million for each player, with additional Saudi interest in Casemiro and Raphael Varane.
However, Varane, whose contract expires in the summer, won’t be offered a new deal by United.
Black Stars head coach Chris Hughton attributed his decision to bench Joseph Paintsil in the second half of the match against Mozambique to fatigue.
This decision followed Ghana’s late-game collapse, resulting in a 2-2 draw that significantly diminishes their chances at the 2023 AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire.
With the possibility of a second consecutive group stage elimination looming, Ghana’s point tally (2) and goal difference (-1) currently place them outside the top four third-placed teams vying for qualification to the round of 16.
In contention for the coveted spots are Zambia, Algeria, Namibia, Cameroon, and South Africa, with the final group stage games set to conclude on Wednesday, January 24.
Joseph Paintsil played a crucial role in Ghana’s first goal against Mozambique, winning a penalty kick that Jordan Ayew successfully converted.
His surprising substitution at halftime for Andre Dede Ayew in the second half led to speculation about a potential injury for the KRC Genk winger.
However, Hughton explained his reason for the substitution in his post-game press release, saying Paintsil “looked fatigued.”.
Ashanti regional chapter of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), an opposition party, strongly criticises the government, alleging neglect and sidelining of the Ashanti region in terms of development.
Specifically, they point fingers at President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, claiming a deliberate lack of attention and resources directed towards the region’s growth.
Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Region Secretary of the NDC, expressed concern during a press conference in Kumasi, highlighting the perceived intentional deprivation of developmental projects for the Ashanti region.
He drew comparisons with other regions experiencing consistent infrastructural advancements.
Amoakohene urged the electorate to consider voting out the NPP in the upcoming 2024 polls, citing dissatisfaction with the perceived neglect.
He emphasised the government’s need to expedite the completion of all stalled projects in the region.
“We believe that the Ashanti region has been sidelined, so far as development is concerned. And it’s even reflected in his appointments, ministers, Chief Executives and others.
“We believe that this current NPP set-up has nothing to offer the Ashanti region,” the Ashanti Regional Secretary of the NDC said.
Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, a former Trade Minister during the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration, has expressed his willingness and readiness to serve as the running mate to the party’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, in the upcoming 2024 elections.
Dr. Spio-Garbrah believes that his experience and competence can contribute significantly to the success of the NDC’s electoral campaign.
During an interview on TV3 in Accra, Dr. Spio-Garbrah affirmed that he is fully prepared to take on the role if called upon by Mr. Mahama, demonstrating his commitment to serving the party in the upcoming elections.
“I am also capable; I am also ready. So it is a matter of his choice. If he chooses me, we all hear about it. I have made myself known and available to lead our party and to lead Ghana, and I’m still here in Ghana,” he said.
Mr. Mahama, vying for re-election in 2023, revealed that he plans to announce his running mate in February 2024. In the 2020 elections, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang was chosen as the running mate to the former president.
Trades Union Congress (TUC) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the government, demanding the withdrawal of the imposition of Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity consumption above the lifeline.
In a letter dated January 1, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta instructed the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCO) to implement the VAT as part of efforts to generate revenue for the COVID-19 recovery program.
However, the TUC, led by Secretary General Dr. Yaw Baah, strongly opposes this decision, highlighting its adverse effects on the lives of ordinary Ghanaians, particularly pensioners and low-income earners.
At a press conference on Tuesday, Dr Baah said “It’s always the poor people in this country, including pensioners, who bear the brunt. And we should not allow that to continue. Organised Labour, we have come together and our message to the government is very simple, we cannot pay VAT on electricity.
“We will not pay it today or tomorrow. Organised Labour is demanding the immediate withdrawal of the letter, and another directive from the Finance Minister to Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo), ECG to stop the implementation of the VAT on electricity. We are giving the government, up to January 31, 2024, to withdraw the letter,” Dr Yaw Baah said.
He stated that they will advise themselves if the finance minister fails to directGRIDCo, and ECG to withdraw the letter.
“If by that time the minister of finance fails to give directive to GRIDCO and ECG we will advise ourselves,” he said.
