Ghanaian artist Kwesi Arthur sparked discussions on Twitter following his performance at Davido’s Away Festival in the United States.
Despite being excited when he was announced as one of the performers, fans expressed disappointment, criticising his subpar performance with a slow tempo that left the crowd seemingly dispersed.
Some argue that he has fallen off in a changing music landscape.
https://youtu.be/1D4_b8CzcP4
Defenders suggested he might be facing personal battles.
Kwesi Arthur, thanking Davido for the opportunity, responded to critics, stating he would have continued even with just two patrons in the auditorium.
The ‘Ground Up’ crooner, without mincing words, jabbed his critics to “shove their opinions up their asses”.
I see y’all comments. Even if there were 2 people in the arena I would have still performed. I go need y’all to shove your opinions up your ass.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has expressed his admiration for young Benfica midfielder João Neves, who has been linked with interest from Old Trafford.
Scouts from the Premier League side reportedly attended Benfica’s 2-1 victory against Sporting CP, witnessing the 19-year-old’s crucial stoppage-time goal.
Neves has been a standout performer for Benfica this season, earning his senior international debut for Portugal.
His impressive form has attracted attention, including interest from Manchester United, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.
“It has to be the Manchester United coach who says whether he has a place in the team or not,” Fernandes told reporters ahead of Sunday’s 2-0 win over Iceland.
“He’s a great player, I don’t know if he would have a place or not. It depends on the coach and his ideas. But he’s an excellent player and an excellent kid, very professional. He will have a bright future wherever he goes.
“I would love to have him by my side, because he has quality and will have a bright future. It depends on him.What I want most is the best for him.”
In a strong defence of formerPresident John Mahama’s promise to eliminate the Teacher Licensure Exams (TLEs) if elected President in 2024, Sammy Gyamfi, the Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has argued that the exams are a tactic by the current administration to hinder teacher recruitment.
During his ‘Building Ghana Tour’ in the Bono Region, Mahama pledged to do away with the Teacher Licensure Exams, stating that subjecting teacher trainees to an additional assessment for qualification is unnecessary.
This position has faced criticism from the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG), which emphasises the exams’ importance.
In response to these concerns, Gyamfi emphasised that teacher trainees already undergo rigorous four-year Bachelor of Education programs, covering at least fifty courses and eight semesters of intensive study.
He questioned the necessity of an additional exam after such comprehensive training.
Gyamfi decried the Teacher Licensure Exams as a “dubious ploy” by the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government to cut down on teacher recruitment due to financial constraints.
He disclosed that a significant number of qualified teacher trainees experience failure in the exams, leading to unemployment and pushing some to resort to bribery to secure licenses.
Gyamfi highlighted the lack of transparency in the Teacher Licensure Exams marking scheme, pointing out that pass marks are arbitrarily adjusted to meet the government’s hiring requirements. He also noted that even those who eventually pass the exams often face delays in securing employment.
In reiterating Mahama’s commitment to education, Gyamfi emphasised the NDC’s plan to concentrate on enhancing pre-certification education standards and examinations in Colleges of Education.
He emphasised that this approach would better ensure the quality of future teachers without imposing unnecessary barriers to employment.
Below is the full statement by the Sammy Gyamfi
MAHAMA’S PROMISE TO ABOLISH OBNOXIOUS TEACHERS’ LICENSURE EXAMINATION IS SOUND AND SENSIBLE
H.E John Mahama and the NDC fully support the Licensing and Registration of Teachers as required by sections 12 & 13 of the Education Act (ACT 778), 2008. What we are vehemently opposed to, is the use of a needless Licensure Exam as the basis or precondition for licensing teachers. It’s as simple as that.
Below are the reasons why the Teachers’ Licensure Exam is obnoxious and hence must be abolished:
Currently, Teacher Trainees undertake 4-year (Bachelors of Education) degree programs in various Colleges of Education. During the 4-year academic period, Teacher Trainees are taught and examined in not less than fifty (50) courses over eight (8) semesters, that is, two semesters per year.
It is worthy of note, that the curriculum for each semester includes a mandatory field practical course called Supported Teaching in Schools (STS). This practical academic activity is climaxed with a rigorous full-semester mandatory internship course during the first semester of level 400. During this period, Teacher Trainees are assigned to the field to understudy mentors in classrooms and practically guided to teach. Trainees are required to prepare lesson notes, reflective journals among others, for assessment. After successfully passing eight (8) semester examinations involving not less than 30 courses, including the mandatory full-semester internship course, Teacher Trainees graduate from school and are issued with Bachelors of Education Degree certificates.
One would have thought that the right thing for government to do after this, would have been to simply license and employ these teachers and pay them the appropriate salary, as the practice had always been, before the current NPP government took office. Sadly, this is not the case now.
In a dubious ploy by the failed Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government to suppress teacher recruitment, they now require Teacher Trainee graduates who have successfully passed all their course exams in school including the mandatory field internship program, to undertake another examination called Licensure Examination before they are licensed to teach- an examination that has no active guide whatsoever.
To add insult to injury, Teacher Trainees are also forced to undertake a one-year compulsory National Service. This is despite the fact that their 4-year academic curriculum already involves intense teaching support services to the state.
Many Teacher Trainee graduates end up being failed after taking the obnoxious licensure exam without even knowing why they were failed. These qualified teachers are made to stay home without any job. Out of desperation, some are compelled to pay bribes to officials of the National Teaching Council in order to get a license. The marking scheme for the obnoxious licensure examination remains a mystery. The pass mark is whimsically and capriciously adjusted depending on the number of qualified teachers government intends to deny employment every year. Even worse is the fact that, some teachers who failed the obnoxious licensure exam on their first attempt but have eventually managed to pass the the exam have been denied posting and are siting home idle.
The reason for this injustice is simple; the failed Akufo-Addo government/Bawumia government simply does not have the financial capacity to employ all Teacher Trainee graduates, hence has devised a plan to use the obnoxious licensure exam to suppress the number of teachers they have to employ every year under the guise of licensing teachers. This elimination by rough tactic is simply unfair. This is why, the visionary Nation Builder, H.E John Dramani Mahama has promised to abolish it when elected in 2024.
For those who are concerned about quality assurance, it is worthy of note, that section 13 of the Education Act requires professional certification as the basis for licensing and registering Teachers. Thus, any policy or proposal intended to improve quality assurance must focus on improving pre-certification education standards and examination in Colleges of Education. This is precisely what John Mahama is talking about.
If government thinks that all the academic examinations and field works Teacher Trainees are taken through during their 4-year programs in school are not enough for quality assurance, then what government ought to do is to improve pre-certification teaching and examination standards in line with best practices. Once that is done, there will be no need for another exam to license teachers after they have successfully graduated.
Using myself as an example, the pre-certification course and exam in the law school where I attended is very rigorous and competitive. Once you pass it and successfully undertake the mandatory internship course, you are licensed and called to the Bar. You are not required to write another licensure exams before you are licensed as a lawyer. Neither are you required to undertake compulsory national service before you are licensed. You are only required to do pupillage after you are licensed as a lawyer. This practice is the same for doctors and other professional bodies.
For the avoidance of doubt, licensing is not the same as Licensure Examination. I am a licensed lawyer but I was not required to write any licensure exam before I was licensed as a lawyer. The NDC started piloting the licensing of teachers in the year 2016 without examination. We were ready to fully rollout the policy for the 2016/2017 academic year before we lost power. See https://www.graphic.com.gh/news/general-news/new-teacher-licensing-starts-from-2016-17-academic-year.html
The visionary Nation Builder has spoken in very clear terms on this matter. No attempt to spin to this well-thought out policy will wash. The obnoxious Teachers’ Licensure Exams and superfluous National Service will be canceled after John Mahama is sworn in as President on 7th January, 2025. “Insha Allah!” Teacher trainees deserve to be automatically licensed and employed after successfully completing their 4-year programs.
SAMMY GYAMFI ESQ. National Communications Officer, NDC
Chelsea and manager Mauricio Pochettino are taking a cautious approach with Christopher Nkunku’s return from a knee ligament injury, prioritising his full recovery before returning him to the pitch.
The club is unwilling to take any risks with Nkunku and will only reintroduce him to match action when both Pochettino and the player himself are completely confident in his fitness, according to The Standard.
Nkunku, a French international, has yet to make his competitive debut for Chelsea since sustaining the injury in a pre-season friendly against Borussia Dortmund.
Despite being in contention for the club’s matchday squad against Newcastle United, Pochettino has not provided the latest update on his condition.
In a recent conversation with Nkunku, Pochettino revealed that the player expressed his desire to return to the pitch after the November international break.
Additionally, other Chelsea players like Wesley Fofana and Romeo Lavia are also on the road to recovery from their respective injuries.
Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to face the “phenomenal” Lionel Messi, having only encountered the Argentine superstar in video games before.
Martinelli is part of the Brazil squad preparing to play against the reigning world champions at the Maracanã on Tuesday.
This match holds significant importance in the qualification race for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Even though Messi will be a star attraction in Rio de Janeiro, opponents like Martinelli are excited about sharing the pitch with the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Martinelli, at 22 years old, acknowledges Messi’s status as a phenomenal player, considering him the best in the world once again this year.
I want to enjoy the moment of being able to play against him, being in the same stadium as him, and watching him up close because I’ve only seen him in video games. It’s going to be a wonderful experience.”
The intense rivalry between Brazil and Argentina will persist when they face each other, but for Gabriel Martinelli, the opportunity to share the field with his football idol,Lionel Messi, is a moment to relish. There might even be a desire to exchange shirts with Messi at the end of the match.
A self-proclaimed Ghanaian prophet has prophesied 2024 as a year of doom for Ghanaian socialite and former co-host of TV3’s Lady Circle, Abena Korkor .
During an interview on VIM Buzz TV, the prophet claimed to have had a vision of Abena Korkor standing naked on a wooden stool in her family house while water was being poured on her.
According to the prophet, he interprets this vision as a sign that Abena Korkor is facing a difficult destiny, influenced by negative forces.
The prophet expressed concern that Abena Korkor’s potential greatness is being hindered by witches in her family, who, according to him, have bound her.
He warned that if prayers are not offered on her behalf, she may suffer from mental health issues.
The prophet contends that these alleged witches view Abena Korkor as a person of significant potential, and their attacks on her have resulted in her current struggles.
He asserts that their influence has caused her to experience mental health challenges, preventing her from realising her full potential.
“I think he should rather think of how to do away with bleaching nu because, by next year, the heat in gh nu won’t do justice to him kraa . Nsemhunu keka nkoaa,” one netizen wrote.
“He wants to use Abena Korkor to trend but enfa, 😂😂cos this one be prophecy 😂,” another fan said.
There are circulating reports on social media suggesting that the results of actress Jackie Appiah’s son, Damien Agyemang, have been cancelled.
According to the information, although provisional results of the WAEC examination have been released, Damien’s results have been withheld due to alleged cheating during the exam.
The report indicates that Damien was caught cheating in the examination hall.
He reportedly arrived an hour late to the exams wearing an arm cast, and initially, it was assumed that he was injured.
However, the invigilator later discovered that he had the answers to the questions written on the arm cast.
It is stated that Damien did not admit to cheating and refused to hand over his papers or the foreign material he had to the coordinator.
Egypt’s management team has addressed concerns overMohamed Salah’s safety following a pitch invasion during Egypt’s World Cup qualifying game against Sierra Leone.
Fortunately, the Liverpool star emerged unharmed, as security prevented the intruders from reaching him. The Pharaohs secured a 2-0 victory, with Trezeguet scoring both goals.
The military escorted Salah off the field.
A day later, the Egyptian team management assured fans and Liverpool that the incident was not serious.
They explained that the pitch invaders were passionate Premier League followers and emphasised that many people in Sierra Leone are fans of Liverpool or Arsenal. Seeing Salah and Mohamed Elneny play in their home country was considered a rare and exciting experience for them.
Speaking to The Athletic, the team manager for the Egypt national team, Mohamed Ghoraba said: “The story of it being an assault is not there at all. Here, the people are very kind and they support Liverpool or Arsenal.
“For them, Mohamed Salah and Mohamed Elneny are icons, so their presence in the country is something they wish to happen again. For them, that’s the only opportunity to have Salah play in their ground, so it’s normal like any fan enter the pitch.”
The Liverpool star is in excellent form this season, scoring 10 goals and providing four assists in 12 Premier League appearances.
He is currently only three goals behind Manchester City’s prolific scorer Erling Haaland in the race for the Golden Boot. The 31-year-old will be back in action against Manchester City in the league on Saturday.
Scholarship Amount: Full Tuition Fee and Monthly Stipend of $1000
Eligible Degrees: AFAM, Master’s, PhD
The Italian government consistently endeavours to make its education system accessible to international students. One notable initiative is theItalian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students, among the premier Italian scholarships for international students.
Introduced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, these programs aim to provide support to students from various parts of the world, particularly those facing financial challenges.
This scholarship in Italy is strategically designed to enhance international cooperation across technological, cultural, and scientific domains.
Available to eligible international students enrolled in Italian universities, the scholarships cover partial or full tuition fees based on the number of qualified students and their academic merit.
Additionally, recipients receive monthly allowances, totaling approximately $1000, disbursed on a quarterly basis. Before initiating the application process, you can verify the eligibility of your country on the scholarship page.
2. University of Bologna Study Grants for International Students
Scholarship Amount: $13,000 Grants and Tuition Fee Waivers
Eligible Degrees: Bachelor’s, Master’s
Several universities in Italy provide institutional financial aid to eligible students. One such example is the University of Bologna, which offers study grants to students meeting the qualification criteria. Some students may also be eligible for full tuition waivers throughout the duration of their current programs, applicable to First, Single, or Second Cycle Degree Programmes at the University of Bologna.
To qualify for this scholarship in Italy, it is essential to possess academic qualification documents that meet the requirements of the selected course. Ensure that all necessary documents are ready by the time of registration. Additionally, only individuals who have not previously benefited from this grant are eligible. For further information and a comprehensive guide on the application process, visit the official scholarship website.
3. Padua International Excellence Scholarship Programme
Scholarship Amount: Tuition Fee Waiver and $9,000 Annual Stipend
Eligible Degrees: Bachelor’s, Master’s
As one of the premier universities in Italy, the University of Padua is dedicated to fostering the growth of its international community. In line with this commitment, the institution has established a scholarship program offering 50 scholarships to highly promising students seeking to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. All courses are conducted in English, making this scholarship opportunity accessible to a wide pool of eligible international students.
Given the substantial number of applicants, the competition for these scholarships is intense. Due to its high level of selectivity, students with exceptional achievements and outstanding academic records will be chosen for this award. The maximum duration of the scholarship for Bachelor’s degrees is approximately three years, while for Master’s degree candidates, it is around two years.
Also offered by the University of Padua, Regione Veneto Scholarships were established for students who came from low-income families. In order to be considered for this scholarship, eligible applicants must first be admitted into one of the programs offered by the University of Padua, and they also must be eligible to obtain an Italian visa, which is an ideal requirement for an international applicant.
To accommodate as many students as they can, the scholarship award mainly depends on your family income, which means that a low family income means high financial aid. Even though the duration of this scholarship is only one year, scholarship recipients renew their scholarship duration by meeting the renewal requirements.
Scholarship Amount: 50% or Full Tuition Fee Waiver
Eligible Degree: Bachelor’s, Master’s
Another university with a program(s) geared towards improving the welfare of international students is the University of Bocconi. It has two popular programs for international students. Merit Awards, for one, cover full tuition fee costs for those who meet the requirements. Undergraduate students who are beneficiaries of these awards receive up to $14,500, while graduates can receive up to $15,700.
It’s worth noting, though, that the acceptance rate of those who apply for this scholarship is very low. This can be attributed to the huge amount of funds awarded to each beneficiary. Nevertheless, you always have a chance of being considered provided you meet the minimum requirements set by the university.
Are you a student in the fields of Engineering and Architecture? Consider Politecnico di Torino as your potential destination. The institution provides Italian scholarships for international students interested in their programs. There are five distinct scholarship projects available at the institution.
For example, the Alta Scuola Politecnica targets talented international students interested in the Master of Science programs. The COLFUTURO scholarships are specifically designed for Colombian students enrolled in Engineering and Architecture programs at the Master of Science and Ph.D. levels. Additional scholarship opportunities include the Eni Project (Petroleum Engineering), TOPoliTo, and Invest Your Talent in Italy. For more details on each of these programs, visit the official scholarship page.
Nana Appiah Mensah, the embattled CEO of Menzgold and Zylofon Media, popularly known as NAM 1, has initiated legal proceedings against entertainer turned politician Kwame A-Plus.
The lawsuit is in response to A Plus describing NAM 1 as a fool and a criminal.
In addition to A Plus, Fadda Dickson, UTV, and, by extension, Despite, are also listed as defendants in the legal action.
Nana Appiah Mensah asserts that A Plus’s characterization of him as a criminal and foolish during an episode of United Showbiz is defamatory. A Plus made these claims following NAM 1’s announcement of his intention to charge consumers to ascertain if Menzgold owed them money.
“NAM 1 shouldn’t be allowed to be walking around and misbehaving and doing all of these things but they cannot arrest him because they (Government) are thieves… that guy is a criminal,” A-Plus said on the show.
NAM 1 contends that the statement has significantly damaged his reputation and inflicted substantial harm upon him. He emphasizes that he has never been convicted in any court of law and, therefore, should not be labeled a criminal.
He is appealing to the Accra High Court to award him GHC $1 million in damages for defamation.
Additionally, he is seeking an extra GHC $1 million in damages for the infringement of his presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial as guaranteed by the Constitution.
Mr. Joseph Aloba, the father of the late afrobeat singer Mohbad, has expressed disapproval of the decision to retrieve his son’s body from police custody for a dignified funeral.
Several celebrities, including Bella Shmurda and Tonto Dikeh, had advocated for the removal of the deceased singer’s body from the mortuary to ensure a fitting burial.
This proposal arose two months after Mohbad’s exhumation by the police for investigative purposes.
In a recent video, Mohbad’s father condemned such actions and insisted that he should be consulted and given the authority to make such decisions rather than having them carried out without his knowledge.
He further emphasised the significance of obtaining bodily samples from his late son for a DNA test to establish paternity for Liam Light.
In his words, “I’ve been hearing maybe some people want to go and carry Mohbad’s body. When this boy was alive, he was my son. Now that he’s gone, he still retains my name. Nobody should go and carry Mohbad’s body from there.
“If there’s anything you want to do, I should be the one to authorise it. Let’s get justice for Mohbad; after burial, wetin remain? Let justice prevail first; the DNA is necessary.”
Gospel musician Nacee expressed his disagreement with the Food and Drugs Authority’s decision to prohibit Ghanaian celebrities from endorsing alcoholic products, deeming it nonsensical.
During an appearance on United Showbiz on Saturday, November 18, 2023, Nacee raised questions about the disparity that allows foreign personalities to promote such products while imposing restrictions on local celebrities.
Nacee, who serves as both a musician and a music producer, underscored the point that even if less-known individuals are granted the opportunity to advertise, they could eventually gain celebrity status.
Therefore, he argued, the ban on celebrities would be ineffective in the long run.
“A continued posting of images and videos of people makes them popular. Nobody knew Michael Power until Guinness kept pushing his commercials,” he said. “If we feature an ordinary person in ads and keep promoting the said ads, they will rise to become popular in a couple of months so much so that they may not be able to buy food from the roadside.”
Nacee continued: “It is surprising that we won’t let our local celebrities advertise but our foreign counterparts are allowed to. It is good to regulate whatever we do, but it should not be discriminatory. We love foreigners more than ourselves; it doesn’t make sense. Let’s stop starving ourselves while giving foreigners juicy deals.”
In 2015, the FDA implemented a ban on Ghanaian celebrities endorsing alcoholic beverages, citing compliance with a World Health Organisation policy. The regulatory authority emphasised that the decision was part of ongoing initiatives to safeguard children and deter them from being enticed into alcohol consumption.
Despite facing criticism and appeals for a reconsideration of the policy, Kofi Essel, the Head of Industry Support Services Department at the FDA, stated in an interview that the organization is unable to lift the ban on well-known figures endorsing alcoholic beverages.
“Well-known persons have the potential to influence their followers who are not legally permitted to possess alcohol or use alcohol,” he argued. “In view of that, guidelines have been set to guide the operations of alcoholic beverage companies, including the advertisement of their products and this is the reason well-known persons are not allowed to endorse the products.”
Court case
Mark Darlington Osae, the artist manager of Reggie ‘N’ Bollie and Skrewfaze, has taken legal action against theFood and Drug Administration (FDA) and Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame over the prohibition on celebrities endorsing alcohol-related products.
Osae filed a writ of summons on November 11, 2022, asserting that the FDA’s 2015 guidelines are unjust to the creative arts sector.
His central argument revolves around what he claims is an inconsistency and violation of articles 17(1) and 17(2) of the 1992 Constitution.
These articles guarantee equality before the law and prohibit discrimination based on factors such as social or economic status and occupation.
“No well-known individual or professional may be used in advertising for alcoholic beverages; this is against the 1992 Constitution’s provisions 17(1) and 17 (2).
“Articles 17(1) and 17 (2) of the 1992 Constitution guarantee quality before the law and prohibit discrimination against persons on grounds of social or economic status, occupation, among others, and consequently are null, void, and unenforceable,” Osae argued.
On November 15, 2023, the case was adjourned until January 17, 2024.
In a joyful moment, Chioma was seen singing and dancing to Davido’s popular “I’m Unavailable” song, perfectly mimicking the dance steps associated with the track.
After cancelling his Away Festival last year due to the tragic loss of his son, Davido successfully hosted his highly anticipated African concert at the State Farm Stadium, which turned out to be a sold-out show.
Despite maintaining a low profile following the passing of their son and the recent birth of their twins, Chioma surprised everyone by making an appearance at the concert.
Videos circulating online capture the new mom showing support for her husband, tightly holding onto him as they left the show. This marked the first public appearance of the mother of two at her husband’s concert since hisreturn to the stage.
On Monday, November 20, 2023, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) took the step of revoking the membership of certain individuals who openly expressed their allegiance to Alan Kyerematen, a former party member.
In an official statement, the NPP announced the suspension of Hopeson Adorye, Nana Ohene Ntow, Boniface Abubakar Saddique, and Yaw Buaben Asamoa. The basis for this suspension was their violation of the party’s stance against endorsing the candidature of individuals not officially representing the party.
Noteworthy is the absence of Sylvester Tetteh, the Member of Parliament for Bortianor-Ngleshi-Amanfro, a prominent figure in Kyerematen’s campaign during his tenure with the NPP.
According to Article 3(5)(A)(4) of the NPP constitution, all members are required to “abide by and publicly uphold the decision of the party.”
The clause further states that “a member who stands as an independent candidate against the officially elected party member, or supports another political party or independent candidate when the party has sponsored a candidate in an election, automatically forfeits party membership.”
However, Sylvester Tetteh adeptly avoided inclusion in the list of suspended members, a move credited by GhanaWeb to his timely response when Alan Kyerematen withdrew from the November 4, 2023, contest and later resigned from the New Patriotic Party.
Swiftly distancing himself from the Alan campaign following his former ‘boss’s’ departure, Tetteh promptly redirected his allegiance by providing steadfast support to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s candidature for the party’s flagbearer position.
In a GhanaWeb report on September 13, 2023, – when Alan withdrew from the race, the MP stated, “It is obvious that the NPP rank and file support the candidature of Vice-President Bawumia, and, in that light, I have decided, in consultation with my constituents, to join Team Bawumia.”
He emphasised that with Alan Kyerematen no longer in the race, he needed to choose among the remaining candidates, and his choice was Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia because he believes Bawumia would make an excellent president.
“I am making a firm commitment that I will support Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the November 4 elections,” Tetteh stated.
Sylvester Tetteh’s adherence to the party’s constitution during this transition spared him from suspension, distinguishing him from his colleagues who have recently faced disciplinary measures from the party.
In contrast to Sylvester Tetteh and the others—Hopeson Adorye, Nana Ohene Ntow, Boniface Abubakar Saddique, and Yaw Buaben Asamoa—the party deems them to still maintain allegiance to Alan Kyerematen and his new Movement for Change, leading to their dismissal.
The proposal by John Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), to eliminate licensure exams for teacher trainees has faced staunch opposition from the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG).
Mahama had announced his intention to abolish these exams during his ‘Building Ghana Tour’ in the Bono Region, contending that subjecting teacher trainees to an additional assessment is unnecessary.
In contrast to Mahama’s position, CETAG firmly asserts that licensure exams play a crucial role in ensuring the competence and quality of future teaching professionals.
Prince Obeng Himah, the President of CETAG, emphasized the unique nature of teacher training in comparison to other professions, underscoring the profound impact educators can have on entire generations.
In an interview with Citi News, Himah stated, “In my opinion, it is something that is good and it shouldn’t be cancelled.
“That is CETAG; we have stated that we should implement what we agreed two years ago when we had a conference that the students wanting to enter the teaching profession should be subjected to entrance exams.”
On Sunday, November 19, 2023, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, made a majestic entrance at the St. Peter’s Basilica in Kumasi, riding in his distinguished 88-year-old Rolls Royce. The purpose of this grand entrance was the Thanksgiving Service held in honour of the late former First Lady, Theresa Aba Kufuor.
This vintage Rolls Royce carries immense ceremonial importance for the Asante Kings and was originally purchased in the 1940s by the then Asantehene, Otumfuo Prempeh II.
The unique vehicle, known as 20/25, is adorned with the traditional colours of Asanteman—Yellow, Black, and Green.
The historic Rolls Royce made its debut in 1935 at a durbar in Kumasi, commemorating the reunification of the Asante Confederacy during the reign of Otumfuo Sir Osei Agyeman Prempeh II. Safo Kantanka, an Asante historian, highlights that Prempeh II was the first to utilize the vehicle during this significant event.
After Prempeh II’s passing in 1970, Opoku Ware II succeeded him and continued to use the Rolls Royce for an impressive 29 years. In 1999, Osei Tutu II became the thirdAsantehene to inherit and utilise this historic vehicle.
Spain secured a 3-1 triumph against Georgia in their last Euro 2024 qualifying Group A encounter on Sunday.
Despite being a bittersweet victory for the hosts, who had already clinched the top spot, the win was overshadowed by midfielder Gavi (19) suffering a knee injury.
Spain concluded the qualifying campaign with 21 points from seven wins in eight matches, their only loss coming against second-placed Scotland, who also qualified for the finals with 17 points after a 3-3 draw with Norway.
Georgia finished in fourth place with eight points, trailing behind Norway in third.
Cyprus ended up at the bottom of the group without securing any points.
For Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, it marked the most poignant victory of his career as Gavi, who plays for Barcelona, left the field in tears during the first half while clutching his injured knee.
“It is a very difficult moment for Gavi, Barcelona, and the national team and for me, it seems as if we have lost the game,” De la Fuente told a news conference.
“This is the ugly part of football. I am very sorry. Let’s wait for the tests to confirm the extent of the injury. This is the most bitter victory I have ever experienced in my life.”
Spain took an early lead in the fourth minute when Ferran Torres delivered a free kick from the left, finding Robin Le Normand’s head for his inaugural international goal.
However, Georgia swiftly equalized six minutes later through a rapid counterattack, culminating in a straightforward finish by forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
The joy of the moment was dampened for Spain as Gavi suffered an injury in a collision with an opponent.
“We can’t celebrate as we would have liked. Gavi’s injury is a hard blow, I’m really gutted,” said Le Normand. “It wasn’t my best game with the national team, there are things to improve”.
The hosts restored their lead 10 minutes into the second half with a header from Torres, who celebrated by holding up the number nine jersey of his Barca teammate Gavi.
Georgia’s Luka Lochoshvili put the ball in his own net in the 72nd minute to seal the Spaniards’ win.
Colombian pop sensation Shakira has reached an agreement with Spanish prosecutors to resolve a tax fraud case just as her trial was set to commence.
The singer has paid a €7.5 million (£6.5 million) fine, averting the possibility of an eight-year jail term and a €23.8 million (£20.8 million) fine, as initially sought by prosecutors in the event of a guilty verdict.
The allegations involved tax fraud amounting to €14.5 million (£12.7 million) in a Barcelona court.
Shakira, who has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, said she settled “with the best interest of my kids at heart”.
In a lengthy statement, she said her children “do not want to see their mom sacrifice her personal well-being in this fight”.
Having declined an earlier settlement proposed by prosecutors, the artist chose to proceed with a trial. The focus of the case revolved around Shakira’s residence during the years 2012–2014.
“Throughout my career, I have always strived to do what’s right and set a positive example for others,” she said.
“Unfortunately, and despite these efforts, tax authorities in Spain pursued a case against me as they have against many professional athletes and other high-profile individuals, draining those people’s energy, time, and tranquillity for years at a time.
“While I was determined to defend my innocence in a trial that my lawyers were confident would have ruled in my favour, I have made the decision to finally resolve this matter with the best interest of my kids at heart who do not want to see their mom sacrifice her personal well-being in this fight.”
She added she needed to “move past the stress and emotional toll of the last several years and focus on the things I love – my kids and all the opportunities to come in my career”.
Dispute over residency
The focal point of the dispute revolves around Shakira’s residency status from 2012 to 2014, during which prosecutors asserted that she resided in Spain while officially declaring another location as her residence.
In accordance with Spanish law, individuals spending more than six months in the country are deemed residents for tax purposes. However, Shakira contends that Spain was not her primary residence during that period.
In July, prosecutors presented documentation claiming she purchased a house in Barcelona in 2012, which served as a family home for her and her then-partner, Barcelona footballer Gerard Piqué.
According to her legal representatives, a significant portion of her income until 2014 was derived from international tours, and she spent extended periods outside of Spain during this time.
“The Spanish tax authorities saw that I was dating a Spanish citizen and started to salivate. It’s clear they wanted to go after that money no matter what”, she told Elle magazine.
Shakira officially designated Spain as her tax residence in 2015, affirming that she has fulfilled her tax obligations by paying €17.2 million (£15 million) and has no outstanding debts.
In an unrelated case in 2019, Mr. Piqué received a fine of €2.1 million (£1.8 million) from the Spanish national court for tax evasion spanning the years 2008 to 2010.
The couple, who announced their separation in early June after 11 years, shares two sons aged seven and nine.
Declan Rice (24) expressed being “very nervous” about his high-value transfer to Arsenal from West Ham United.
Upon arriving in North London, the midfielder was aware of the club’s anticipation for him to make an immediate impact.
Arsenal secured the services of the England international in July for a record-breaking fee of 105 million pounds ($130.84 million), surpassing the previous record set by Manchester City’s payment of 100 million pounds for Jack Grealish from Aston Villa in 2021.
“When the transfer was going through, I was very nervous because of the price tag,” Rice told reporters ahead of England’s final European Championship qualifier against North Macedonia.
“You’re a human being bought for 105 million pounds, it doesn’t feel very normal. But that was because of what I’d done at West Ham, what they valued me at.
“It’s 100 million pounds; it’s a lot of money. I could understand the pressure that comes with it.
“Not only the pressure you put on yourself but there’s an expectation of being bought for that much money we need to see performances straight away. They have invested a lot of money in me, I need to prove why I can go there and change things.”
Rice additionally mentioned that he comprehended the challenges faced by his England teammate Grealish, who achieved a treble with City last season but might have encountered difficulties initially following his transfer.
“He was a 100 million-pound footballer but as he wasn’t playing as much, it was probably as bit different for him. Now he’s flying and it’s the same for me,” added Rice.
Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sané has reportedly left the possibility of a departure from the Bundesliga champions open, as per Sport.
The forward, whose contract extends until 2025, has attracted significant attention from LaLiga powerhouses Barcelona and Real Madrid in the recent months.
In early November, reports emerged that no concrete agreement had been made between Bayern and the 27-year-old to extend his contract.
Now, while on international duty with Germany, Sané has said that he “hadn’t thought about it yet; the club wants to have conversations, but for now I want to focus on this season.”
The ex-Manchester City player seamlessly aligns with Barcelona’s winger criteria, particularly amid speculation of Raphinha departing from Camp Nou.
Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association has ordered a temporary ban on Bofoakwa Tano FC from using Sunyani Coronation Park as its home venue, with immediate effect.
This decision has become necessary due to the unfortunate incidents that occurred after the Match Day 11 match between Bofoakwa Tano FC and Nsoatreman FC played on November 19, 2023.
The decision is in accordance with the GFA Premier League Regulations Article 14(2), which states, inter alia, “the GFA may order the closure of any league centre where the safety of clubs, Match Officials or Spectators cannot be guaranteed.”’
The Competitions Department is hereby directed to designate a venue for the Club’s future home matches, as per Article 14(3) of the Premier League Regulations.
It is important to note that this directive does not preclude the ongoing case before the Disciplinary Committee, which has been tasked with hearing the matter in compliance with the relevant Regulations.
The GFA expresses strong disapproval of the misconduct exhibited by the supporters of Bofoakwa Tano FC during the match. The Association unequivocally condemns the breaches of GFA Safety and Security Regulations and Premier League Regulations that occurred.
GFA Prosecutors are now reviewing all video evidence and matching reports to promptly file appropriate charges. The Disciplinary Committee is expected to expedite the proceedings on this matter.
Bofoakwa Tano FC is urged to collaborate with the Regional Police in apprehending those involved in the attack on the away team and the unlawful detention of match officials, as promised during engagements with the Inspector General of Police.
Pending the case’s resolution, theCompetitions Department is instructed to determine venues for Bofoakwa Tano FC’s upcoming home matches, considering the distances for the away teams. (Note: Matches may be scheduled at the away team’s home if necessary.)
All clubs are reminded to strictly adhere to the Safety and Security Regulations and the GFA Disciplinary Code. The GFA issues a stern warning to all members, particularly clubs, emphasising that any harassment or assault on Players, Team Officials, Match Officials, and sports media will be dealt with promptly and decisively.
His Excellency, Prince Tetteh, the CEO of the Pribet Group of Companies, is in advanced negotiations to acquire a substantial 60% stake in Ourense FC, a Spanish football club.
This strategic move has garnered support from a distinguished consulting group featuring key figures from the football and legal sectors.
The consultancy group is composed of Mr. Julio Vazquez Dominguez, Antonio Nuñez Tena (former Real Madrid and Liverpool player), and Ms. Laura Vazquez, a notable football activist and lawyer representing Mr. Prince Tetteh’s interests.
Upon a warm reception by the club’s President, Mr. Camilo Diaz, Prince Tetteh was provided with a comprehensive briefing on the club’s activities. Diaz also personally guided him through the club’s stadium and gallery room, showcasing the numerous trophies the team has won over the years.
The Mayor of Ourense, Mr. Gonzalo Pérez Jácome, expressed his commendation for Mr. Tetteh’s potential involvement in the club. He articulated hope for increased opportunities for young African players to join not only Ourense FC but also other teams in Spain and Europe as a whole.
In recognition of his potential partnership with the club, Mr. Tetteh was honoured with prestigious awards, symbolising the community’s esteem.
As a gesture of goodwill, he invited Mr. Augusto César Lendoire, former Deportivo La Coruna President and owner, to witness the promising initiatives and contribute to the future plans for the club.
Mr. Prince Tetteh is the visionary leader of the Pribet Group of Companies, a diversified conglomerate specialising in construction, civil engineering, security services, multimedia, energy production, fuel importation, agriculture technology, and ICT solutions.
The group operates in both Europe and Africa, serving as the local partner for Karpower and providing electricity for Guinea-Bissau.
In recognition of his achievements, he was appointed as Ghana’s Consular to Guinea-Bissau in 2021 by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, exemplifying his commitment to serving and representing his country in diplomatic capacities.
Ourense CF, formerly known as Ponte Ourense Club de Fútbol since its establishment in 1977 and rebranded in 2014 following the dissolution of CD Ourense, competes in Segunda Federación, Group 1.
The club plays its matches at Estadio O Couto, accommodating up to 5,659 spectators, and currently holds the 2nd position in their league table.
This potential collaboration signifies a significant opportunity for Mr. Tetteh to apply his business acumen to the club, potentially elevating the visibility of young African talents in European football.
The acquisition of shares in Ourense FC holds promise for mutual growth and development for both the club and the broader football community.
Coalition of Aggrieved Customers of Menzgold, Ghana, has called on the Attorney General to exercise caution in distributing the GH¢2.5 million handed over by Nana Appiah Mensah (NAM1), the embattled CEO of the now-defunct Menzgold company.
In a petition dated November 17, the customers urged the Attorney General to avoid disbursing funds to a list provided by NAM1, expressing concerns about the list’s credibility and the potential for discrimination.
The Attorney General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, had confirmed that NAM1 had delivered GH¢2.5 million to the authorities, which is currently held in an exhibit account at the Bank of Ghana, awaiting further instructions.
The Coalition of Aggrieved Customers of Menzgold, Ghana, in its petition, cautioned the Attorney General “not to succumb to any pressure from NAM 1 nor any amorphous group to disburse the GH¢2.5 million paid by NAM 1 to the so-called attached list since we cannot verify the credibility of the so-called names.”
The coalition reiterated its endorsement of the initial decision made by the Attorney General and the Ghana Police Service to keep the funds in the exhibit account, considering the ongoing court proceedings related to the Menzgold case.
“We do agree with the initial decision taken by the Honourable Attorney General and Ghana Police authorities that the money be kept in the exhibit account since the matter is pending before the court.
Nana Appiah Mensah should never be allowed to determine who should be paid first or last. All customers are entitled to their money at the same time, and as a coalition, we will resist any attempt by NAM1 and his Menzgold to discriminate against customers in the matter of payment”, they stated in their petition.”
Renowned radio broadcaster and host of the Kokrookoo morning show on Peace FM, Kwami Sefa Kayi, has issued an apology to Deputy Minister of Finance, Abena Osei-Asare, citing miscommunication regarding her absence on the show on November 16, 2023.
On that morning, the deputy minister was scheduled to appear at 9 a.m. to discuss the budget presented by the finance minister to parliament on November 15.
Sefa Kayi disclosed that the minister had indeed come to the studios but requested permission to attend the funeral of the late Theresa Kufuor.
This led to criticism from other panellists, who questioned her decision to prioritise the funeral over explaining the budget to the public.
Sefa Kayi clarified that the misunderstanding arose due to miscommunication between the minister and the production team and extended an apology to her for any offence caused.
“Yesterday, I and the Deputy Finance Minister, Abena Osei-Asare, were supposed to have a discussion that couldn’t come on. I said some things that I should not have said. This was due to a miscommunication. It could have gone better.
“Abena Osei Asare, if you’re listening to this,I would like to render my sincerest apologies to you if I said some things that were not good or did not go down well with you,” he said.
During theBlack Stars’ match at the Baba Yara Stadium on Friday, November 17, 2023, some Ghanaian football supporters took a break to enjoy the popular Ghanaian dish, beans and gari, commonly known as ‘Gobe.’
In the midst of the 2026 World Cup qualifier match, a supporter wearing the Ghana jersey pulled out his ‘Gobe,’ and as he began eating, other supporters joined in, chanting, “Y3 b3 di” (We will eat).
Men are a whole different vibe all together. I doubt they even know each other pic.twitter.com/7r1lC0bo1U
Despite the unexpected communal feast, the owner of the ‘Gobe’ maintained composure, nearly breaking down in tears at one point.
Some supporters were even captured requesting to partake in the meal.
The match saw Athletic Bilbao forward Iñaki Williams scored a last-minute goal for Ghana against Madagascar, marking his inaugural goal for the Black Stars at the vibrantBaba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.
Boateng, who played alongside Balotelli at AC Milan, witnessed the Italian’s qualities up close.
Balotelli scored 33 goals and provided nine assists in 77 games during his time at AC Milan.
However, it was in Man City that Balotelli’s meteoric rise began, with impressive performances that garnered attention.
Despite early promise, Balotelli’s career trajectory did not lead him to the pinnacle of European football, as he later made moves to clubs such as Swiss side Sion and Turkish club Adana Demirspor.
“I love Mario Balotelli; I think he could have won three Ballons d’Or,” Boateng,who is a former Ghana international, said via (GOAL).
Chelsea women’s manager Emma Hayes has praised Lauren James as the “most naturally gifted footballer in the country” following her recent goal-scoring performance.
James scored a hat-trick in Chelsea’s 5-1 victory over Liverpool, helping the team extend their lead in the WSL.
Despite not starting in the Champions League draw against Real Madrid, the 22-year-old demonstrated her value with a left-foot finish to open the scoring and provided an assist for Aggie Beever-Jones before half-time.
In the second half, Lauren James quickly secured her hat-trick with two goals, while Sjoeke Nusken compounded Liverpool’s misery by tapping in from Rytting Kaneryd’s enticing cross.
Despite the comprehensive victory, the standout performance ofLauren James stole the headlines, with her manager Emma Hayes expressing admiration for her undeniable talent.
“Lauren got into such good positions because of the work she did off the ball,” Hayes said, as cited on the BBC.
“What she did out of possession was outstanding—the way she back-pressed, counter-pressed, dominated her duels, did it for 90 minutes and was very selfless in her work.
Hayes stated that James is the most naturally gifted footballer in England, highlighting her ability to effortlessly execute actions on the pitch.
The Chelsea boss added, “She’s the most naturally gifted footballer in the country. She does things with very little backlift. Lauren is a really, really intelligent footballer. Forget the technical bit; she’s really intelligent.”
Ancelotti’s future at Real Madrid hangs in the balance as his existing contract in the Spanish capital approaches its conclusion at the close of the 2023–24 season.
The Italian manager, currently in his second stint with the La Liga powerhouse, has steered the club to two successful seasons, prompting varied opinions on Real Madrid’s decision after his current contract concludes.
Reports from Marca suggest that the Brazilian national team is closely monitoring Ancelotti, expressing admiration and a desire for him to potentially become their coach in the future.
Despite Ancelotti consistently downplaying links with the Selecao, speculation about his potential takeover of the Brazilian national team persists.
Amidst the ongoing discussions regarding the future of the former AC Milan manager, Spanish outlet Relevo has reported that Real Madrid is contemplating extending Ancelotti’s tenure at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium.
According to Relevo’s report, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez views Ancelotti as the ideal candidate to lead the team, and discussions are underway regarding a contract renewal.
Perez seeks to deter Ancelotti from the prospect of coaching Brazil by proposing a contract that could include an initial year with a 12-month extension option.
Conversely, the Brazilian national team is reportedly inclined towards offering a straightforward deal.
However, the final decision rests with the 64-year-old manager, who must determine if he remains motivated by the challengesReal Madrid presents, along with the added expectation of securing at least one major trophy in 2024.
Saudi champions Al Ittihad have named Argentine Marcelo Gallardo (47) as coach through 2025 following the sacking of Nuno Espirito Santo (49), the club said on Saturday.
Gallardo returns to management after leaving River Plate last year following an eight-year spell that saw him guide the team to 14 titles, including two Copa Libertadores, making him the club’s most successful coach.
“The Board of Directors of Al Ittihad announces the signing of a new coaching staff, led by the Argentinian Marcelo Gallardo, to coach the football first team with a contract extending for a year and a half,” the club said.
Al Ittihad are fifth in theSaudi Pro League, having won only once in their last five games.
They also slumped to a 2-0 loss at Air Force Club in their last Asian Champions League match, though they still lead Group C with nine points from four games against seven for the Iraqis.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente selected 28-year-oldDavid Raya to start against Cyprus, marking a shift from his previous role as a substitute since being called up by Luis Enrique in March 2022.
Raya has become a consistent presence in the national team, making his debut goal for Spain in March 2022 in a memorable match against Albania held at the RCD Espanyol stadium in Barcelona.
The friendly, which Spain won energetically, saw a packed stadium saluting Raya with full honours.
Known as a self-made goalkeeper, Raya is recognized for his relentless work ethic and chose his position inspired by the resources available at home.
“When I was four or five years old, I started as a goalkeeper. My middle brother was a winger and I had to play goalkeeper at home and I liked it. My parents signed me up for the village team and that’s where I have my first memories of playing in the garden at home and then on the village team,” he explains nostalgically.
At 28, Raya has made a name for himself in England, now at Arsenal after seasons at Blackburn, Southport and Brentford, with whom he made his Premier League debut.
David Raya is in action for Arsenal He is considered one of the best goalkeepers in the top flight, and it is no coincidence that that is how specialists describe him.
“I left the country when I was very young, just 16 years old, and I had to work hard to get to where I am now. You value a lot of things, like when I left to play in the fifth division at 18 to 19 years old.
“It’s very different from professional football or training and from the facilities I was used to at Blackburn. They taught me a lot of things there and it helps you appreciate what you have.I wouldn’t change my career for the world.”
Sadio Mane, aged 31, celebrated his 100th cap for Senegal by scoring two goals in a comfortable 4-0 home victory over South Sudan as they kicked off their World Cup qualifying campaign.
The Group B match in Dakar saw Mane set up the opening goal for Pape Matar Sarr in the first minute and add a goal himself five minutes later.
Debutant Lamine Camara scored the third just before halftime, and Mane netted his second from the penalty spot in the second half.
Senegal aims to qualify for their third consecutive World Cup, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo expected to be their toughest opponents in the group.
In other results, South Africa secured a 2-1 home victory over Benin in Group C, with Percy Tau and Khuliso Mudau scoring for the hosts, while Tanzania won 1-0 away against Niger in Marrakech, Morocco, with Charles M’Mombwa scoring in his debut for Tanzania.
South Africa now leads Group C, with aspirations of qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since hosting the tournament in 2010. The winners of the nine qualifying groups will advance to the 2026 finals, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the US.
Five moreAfrican qualifiers are scheduled for Sunday, featuring challenging away games for heavyweight contenders Algeria, Egypt, and Nigeria.
England players aspiring to participate in the upcoming European Championship in Germany must ensure their fitness meets the required standards, cautioned manager Gareth Southgate.
UEFA has reduced the permitted squad size to 23 players, down from the increased limit of 26 at the previous Euro edition.
The adjustment was initially made to address the potential challenges posed by COVID-19, such as player shortages due to infections and quarantine measures.
During the 2021 Euros, Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson made the England squad while recovering from injuries, and in the last World Cup, players like Kyle Walker, James Maddison, and Kalvin Phillips were included despite grappling with similar fitness issues.
“We can take far fewer gambles than we were able to take for the last two tournaments, where it was 26,” Southgate told reporters ahead of England’s Euro 2024 qualifier against North Macedonia.
“The size of the squad makes it a different sort of thought process because you’ve had that leeway in the last couple of tournaments to take players that weren’t going to be fit for the first couple of games.
“This time the physical conditioning of players is going to be really important. The ability for players to bat out six, seven games…If you can only take two for each position, players that are adaptable are helpful.”
England, who have already qualified for the Euro 2024 finals, top Group C with 19 points from seven games. They face North Macedonia in Skopje on Monday.
Wrexham faced criticism from Accrington Stanley owner Andy Holt for making “stupid, mistimed statements” amid a dispute over ticket prices ahead of their League Two fixture on Saturday.
Accrington went on to secure a 2-0 victory against Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s team at Wham Stadium.
The public spat on X arose due to Accrington’s decision to raise ticket prices for both sets of fans for the weekend match, with tickets costing £5 more than the usual rate for games at Accrington’s home stadium.
“In response to Accrington Stanley’s decision to increase the matchday price by £5 from that previously charged at Wham Stadium for league games this season, we have decided to reduce the price of matchday tickets by £5 for the return game at the STōK Cae Ras on 02/03/2024,” Wrexham’s official account posted on X.
In response, Accrington chairman Andy Holt said in a post on X: “When costs are already high, @Wrexham_AFC, the last thing football needs is stupid mistimed statements.
“It’s surprising how stupid you are given that a former CEO of @EFL is employed by you. Let’s have a great day for all fans safely, whatever the outcome on the pitch.”
Shaun Harvey works as a special advisor to Wrexham’s board, having spent six years as the EFL’s chief executive until 2019.
In a response to a fan highlighting Accrington’s price rise, Holt said the increase resulted from an unusually large away following coming to the game, requiring extra police presence and more stewards, thus driving up costs for the club.
According to Accrington, there were 2,587 Wrexham fans in attendance, just under half of the total crowd of 5,261.
Goals from Tommy Leigh and Rosaire Longelo and a missed penalty in second-half stoppage time by Wrexham’s talisman Paul Mullin condemned the Welsh outfit to their first defeat in 12 games.
Wrexham slip to fourth in League Two, eight points behind leaders Stockport.
Real Madrid’s forward, Vinícius Júnior, is facing a setback as the LaLiga club confirmed a hamstring injury, adding to the team’s challenges with various long-term injuries this season.
This injury is considered more severe than the hamstring issue in his other leg, which sidelined him for a month between August and September earlier in the season.
Vinícius, aged 23, suffered a thigh injury during Brazil’s 2-1 loss to Colombia in a World Cup qualifier on Thursday, leading him to return to his club for additional assessments.
“[Vinícius] has been diagnosed with a tear in his left femoral bicep which is affecting the tendon in his hamstring,” Real Madrid said in a statement.
“His recovery will be monitored.”
“We will come back stronger,” Vinícius wrote on social media platform X.
Vinícius has six goals and four assists in all competitions for Madrid this season.
Real Madrid has suffered another blow as midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, aged 21, sustained an injury on international duty.
Camavinga tore a ligament in his right knee during training with France.
Lionel Messi has generously contributed a unique meet-and-greet experience to the Football For Change charity, which was established by Jude Bellingham and other footballers.
According to The Liverpool Echo, Messi made this donation in anticipation of a gala dinner scheduled for Saturday, with the charity aiming to raise over £1 million.
Founded in 2021 by Bellingham, along with Jamie Carragher, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Conor Coady, the Football For Change gala is set to benefit from Messi’s donation, which is expected to garner over £300,000.
Additionally, David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami, has also offered a tour of the football club, possibly conducted by the former England captain himself.
As part of its initiatives, Football For Change plans to distribute 20 grants, each valued at £100,000, to children and young people in disadvantaged communities in the United Kingdom.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKTjeaKpPYA&t=11s
Ahead of the gala this weekend, Alexander-Arnold said, “Football For Change is about helping young people onto a positive path.
“It is footballers and business leaders coming together with a goal to help improve the life chances and opportunities of young people from some of the most challenged neighbourhoods in the country. It is a brilliant initiative and I know, growing up in Liverpool, that is needed now more than ever.”
Currently on international duty with Argentina, he is gearing up for two crucial World Cup qualifiers, with a match against Uruguay on Friday followed by a clash with Brazil on Wednesday.
Kylian Mbappe showcased a stunning performance, scoring a hat-trick as France achieved a historic 14-0 victory against 10-man Gibraltar on Saturday night.
The momentum began with own goals from Ethan Santos and Aymen Mouelhi within the first five minutes, followed by debutant Warren Zaire-Emery finding the net soon after.
However, the joy for Gibraltar was short-lived as Santos was sent off for a foul on Zaire-Emery, as confirmed by VAR.
The onslaught continued with goals from Kylian Mbappe, Jonathan Clauss, Kingsley Coman, and substitute Youssouf Fofana before halftime.
Adrien Rabiot and Coman added more goals in the second half, with substitute Ousmane Dembele contributing a splendid solo goal.
Mbappe secured his brace and completed a hat-trick with a magnificent chip from 40 yards, placing him third in France’s all-time scoring list.
Olivier Giroud and France sealed the historic win with a 13th and final goal, surpassing Germany’s 13-0 victory over San Marino in 2006 in European Championship qualification history.
Former President John Dramani Mahama has placed the blame on the Akufo-Addo-led administration for the current setbacks and hardships in the nation.
Despite a gradual decline in the inflation rate, the government appears to be grappling with challenges in revitalizing the economy, marked by an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout, the depreciation of the cedi against major trading currencies, and a worsening unemployment rate, among other issues.
During an address in Wenchi as part of his Building Ghana Tour, John Dramani Mahama attributed Ghana’s current poor state to the leadership failures of the NPP administration.
He expressed the belief that the present government has hindered the nation’s progress, particularly by halting the ongoing developmental projects initiated by the erstwhile Mahama administration.
“People thought there was development and prosperity here, and now we have lost everything. The nation is pitiful, the country is facing hardships, and the economy is bad.”
“I thought they would continue the good work I left behind, but the nation seems to be retrogressing in development,” Mahama complained.
Mr. Mahama reflected on a time when Ghana proudly held the title of the black star of Africa as the first African country to achieve independence. He encouraged the youth to maintain hope in the prospect of a better Ghana, asserting that the NDC is the optimal choice for improved development and growth.
Simultaneously, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate initiated the Building Ghana Tour in the Bono Region on November 17.
New Patriotic Party (NPP) made a significant presence at the final funeral of former First Lady Theresa Kufuor on November 18, 2023.
The event, held at Heroes Park in Kumasi, was followed by a private burial at Daaban.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, accompanied by his spouse, the Vice President, and other high-ranking members, attended the ceremony.
However, the occasion was marred by a heated exchange between supporters of former trade minister Alan Kyerematen and NPP supporters.
In a video shared by Accra-based Citi FM, members of Alan’s Movement for Change, clad in customized black and yellow butterfly prints, engaged in a taunting exchange with NPP supporters, who responded in kind.
The video captured Alan’s supporters singing songs that hinted at surprises for the ruling party, especially in the region.
Alan, formerly a senior member of the party and a contender for the 2024 elections, resigned in early September to form the Movement for Change. He aims to contest the election under its banner.
Meanwhile, the NPP elected Vice President Bawumia as its flagbearer for the same election in early November.
Following the November 4 presidential primaries, a meeting between Assin Central Member of Parliament and Vice President Bawumia was hailed byNew Patriotic Party (NPP) supporters.
Initially reported by the pro-government Daily Guide newspaper, the meeting occurred at the MP’s residence, with a focus on party unity in preparation for the 2024 general elections.
As weeks passed, insiders claimed to have additional details about the discussions. According to Adakabri Frimpong Manso, a presenter with Despite Media, the meeting wasn’t as harmonious as initially reported.
Manso alleged that Ken was actually ambushed after evading multiple invitations from the Bawumia camp for a meeting.
“They did all they could to get him but he was also evading them, so they surveilled him till they realised he was at home and then they ambushed him,” he said on Neat FM last week, asking, “Isn’t there the need to inform people of your visit?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etLNwQQUqKU
He continued: “This was a case where he was not aware. They tried all they could through the handlers, so when they checked and got information that he was at home, they made their move.
“They kept very long at the residence and had extensive conversations,” he added, stating that a central theme was around persons who abused Agyapong during the flagbearer campaign.
During the November 4 polls, Agyapong secured a commendable second position, with Bawumia emerging victorious with over 61%. Despite this, the Vice President is set to lead the NPP into the 2024 general elections, while Ken steps down from Parliament after completing five terms.
The Minister of Communication and Digitalization, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, has delivered a strong caution to Ghanaians who evade taxes.
The minister emphasised that it is unjust for individuals to demand benefits without fulfilling their responsibilities.
During an interview with Oyerapa TV, she clarified that essential amenities such as good roads, clean drinking water, and reliable networks are not obtained solely through requests.
She underscored that the government can only furnish the nation with fundamental necessities when citizens play their part by fulfilling their tax obligations.
“We are all crying about the hardships in the country. As it stands now, we are unable to finance our debts. So, we need to pay for our development. You can’t cry for a road, electricity, water and a good network; where do we go for the money? If you don’t get the money through taxes, where will you get it from?
“The only way to finance your development anywhere in the world is through either taxation, through dividends citizens pay to the government or through loans. That’s my little knowledge about that. So, if you don’t want to pay taxes, you don’t want the government to also borrow; where will the government get money to finance development?” she said.
Former National Chairman of the People’s National Convention (PNC), Bernard Anbataayela Mornah, has recounted the times he went through while growing up in his village of Sankana in the Nadowli-Kaleo District of the Upper West Region.
This is the first time the Nkrumahist is detailing his life story and how hard things became for him to the extent that he had to devise his own means of survival to cope with the hunger at the time.
Detailing his struggles with Ohenewaa Kesse Boahen on CTV, monitored by MyNewsGh.com, the youth activist and by far one of Ghana’s serial demonstrators disclosed that he had to hunt and cook lizards for a meal.
“I had to go round with a cane looking for lizards, hunt lizards and go and roast or cook it and use that as my meal to survive” he disclosed to the shock of the hostess and reiterated “I ate lizards to survive”.
“When you get the lizard, you look for millet and go to the grinding stone to mill the millet and mix the stock of the cooked lizard with the millet. We call it ‘kankale’; then you eat it”, he explained.
“It was an experience but that shaped my growing up”, he said, adding: “You can understand the humanity in me that when it comes to suffering, I went through it, I lived it and, so, when I see people, I can feel what they are going through and that is how come I’m so passionate when I’m making my national conversations because I lived these circumstances”. He stressed.
Regarding his approach to studying, he revealed that he never had the privilege of studying with electricity or even locally made lanterns. Instead, he had to rely on the illumination provided by the moonlight.
“My mother will not give you her ‘Bobo’ lamp to study because she will complain that the oil may finish. So you have to read with the moonlight and when it enters the clouds, you sit and wait for it to come out. I had to be reading very fast when the moon was up”, he recounted.
The actor, celebrated for his roles in various films, underscored the significance of safeguarding one’s well-being and not allowing others to cause frustration.
In a post on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Osei emphasised that individuals should not feel compelled to please everyone around them. He stressed the importance of preserving energy and mental health by establishing boundaries.
Osei suggested that it’s acceptable to distance oneself from individuals who do not positively contribute to one’s life or align with their energy. The actor’s straightforward counsel promotes the idea of prioritising self-care and cultivating a healthy environment.
“People will frustrate you if you allow them to learn to say NO and mean it!! You didn’t come into this world to make everyone happy. If they don’t sum up your energy, politely tell them to f*ck off! Have a blessed day, family,” he said.
Prince David Osei’s remarks come in the midst of increasing appeals for celebrities to prioritise their mental well-being. Prominent figures such as Efya, Kuami Eugene,and Funny Face have openly discussed the challenges and pressures experienced by celebrities in Ghana.
Ghanaian rapper EL has issued an apology to his fans for deceiving them about facing challenges in the past. This comes after the 2016 VGMA Artiste of the Year winner publicly admitted to fabricating stories.
In April 2023, during an interview with 3Music TV, EL claimed to have worked as a food courier in the United States. However, in a September interview on Hitz FM, he confessed that he only made those statements for attention.
Continuing his admission, EL used his X (formerly Twitter) handle on November 16, 2023, to express remorse and offer an apology to his fans. He also pledged not to engage in such deceptive tactics again.
“Done a lot of things but one thing I’m really sorry about is lying to my fans in that interview. I love My Eliens too much and y’all didn’t deserve it. No more stunts, I promise,” he shared.
His post was met with positive reactions from fans,with many forgiving him for his errors and some others asking him to apologise with a song.
Ghana’s highly acclaimed reggae/dancehall artist, Stonebwoy, shared the stage with Africa’s preeminent icon, Angelique Kidjo, at her 40th anniversary concert held at London’s Albert Hall.
The event commemorated Angelique Kidjo’s exceptional contributions to the global prominence of Afro-sounds, leaving a profound impact worldwide and serving as a source of inspiration for women in Africa.
The two remarkable icons delivered a captivating performance of their latest collaboration, ‘Manodzi,’ from Stonebwoy’s 5th Dimension album, creating a warmly engaging atmosphere within Albert Hall.
The night was truly unforgettable as the Beninese singer-songwriter and five-time Grammy Award winner took the spotlight.
Angelique Kidjo delivered electrifying renditions of some of her most beloved songs, accompanied by the Chineke! Orchestra and other esteemed artists who graced the stage.
Angelique Kidjo’s global influence was evident through her extensive musical catalogue, skillfully fusing West African traditions from her youth with American R&B, funk, and jazz, drawing inspiration from Europe and Latin America.
The concert marked the commencement of Kidjo’s year-long world tour, spanning continents such as Australia, Asia, Europe, and South America, with a grand finale planned at New York’s prestigious Carnegie Hall in 2024.
After the tragic death of Black Stars player Raphael Dwamena, football enthusiasts have been questioning why he ignored doctors’ advice to retire from the sport.
It has been disclosed that the footballer chose to remove his defibrillator, leading to his sudden demise after only 23 minutes of play in the Albanian league.
Dr. Antonio Asso, Dwamena’s personal cardiologist, has faced intense criticism for permitting the player to remove the defibrillator. However, Dr. Antonio clarified that it was Dwamena’s personal decision to have the defibrillator removed a year prior to his untimely death.
Dr. Antonio emphasised that the defibrillator had previously saved Dwamena’s life when he experienced malignant arrhythmia.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9crmsBY_ztQ
Despite advising the player to quit football after that incident, Dwamena made the personal choice to remove the device, which ultimately had tragic consequences.
“He died as a result of a respectable personal decision. But if the defibrillator had not been explanted, Raphael would still be alive,” Dr Asso said, as quoted by the Daily Mail.
“We managed to convince him of the imperative need to implant a defibrillator to at least guarantee his life, at the same time that we advised against practising professional sports.”
The Spanish cardiologist added: “A couple of years ago, they told me that the defibrillator had saved his life when he had a malignant arrhythmia that had been correctly treated automatically by the device. We subsequently lost contact.
“From that moment on, I was aware that one day the tragedy that occurred on Saturday on a soccer field in Albania would happen.”
According to earlier reports, Gifty was already married before meeting the former Black Stars Captain, meaning her union with the footballer was never officially recognized.
In a surprising turn of events, it has been revealed that Gifty was actually a virgin when she first entered into a relationship with Asamoah Gyan.
Furthermore, it has been confirmed that Asamoah Gyan was the one who broke Gifty’s virginity in 2004, leading to the birth of their first child.
This revelation comes as a shock to many, especially considering that when news of their annulment became public, Baffoe Gyan, Asamoah Gyan’s older brother, stated that Gifty’s first husband claimed to be the father of her eldest son.
The court in its judgment noted that when Gifty “first had sexual relations with the Petitioner (Asamoah) in 2004, she was a virgin a fact which establishes that…” there was in fact no consummation between herself and her first “husband” she married for Europe papers.
Gifty’s claim that she was a virgin when she had her first sex with the Asamoah in 2004 was not refuted, the court stated, “thereby leading to an admission of same.”
Following the entire procedure, Gifty was granted a portion ofAsamoah Gyan’s property by the court, which was presided over by Hafisata Ameleboba JA, on the grounds of her significant contribution.
In an interview on Joy Prime’s ‘Prime Morning’, Nacee highlighted that having Total Family Health Organisation (TFHO), the producer of Ebony Condoms, as a sponsor helps promote their products and make a profit, enabling employees and employers to pay their tithes in church.
He stressed the need for money to support the Kingdom of God, mentioning, “At the end of the day, we need money to push the kingdom. We buy Bibles.”
Explaining the reason for his choice further, Nacee explained that some women, due to allergies to contraceptive pills, might prefer condoms to prevent pregnancy.
“Females are very sensitive beings. God created you guys differently, and your hormonal balance is kind of totally different. Most of you are not okay with those contraceptive pills when you take them.
“Most women don’t like it. Some complain that when they take it, they begin to gain weight, and some of them also have reactions after taking it. Married people sometimes want to stay away from pregnancy,” he explained.
He added, “So, even if you’re married and you have reactions after taking contraceptives, the only thing that you can use to prevent the pregnancy that you’re not ready for is a condom.”
When asked if condoms would be shared at the concert, he replied, “I’m sure the company will provide some giveaways.”
TheKavod Concert 2023 is Nacee’s first event since starting gospel music, and he explained that “Kavod” means ‘The terrifying glory of God,’ chosen to suit the attribute of God on the event day.
Oliver Mawuse Barker-Vormawor, the organiser of the FixTheCountry movement, has disclosed a series of purported humiliations he faced due to his involvement in protests against the government.
In his resignation announcement from the #FixTheCountry and #OccupyJulorbiHouse movements, Barker-Vormawor claimed to have experienced various forms of mistreatment.
In a Twitter post dated November 17, 2023, he outlined the challenges encountered during his three-year leadership of the #FixTheCountry movement and outlined the reasons behind his decision to step down.
Here are the eight alleged humiliations he highlighted:
1.Seizure of passport
Barker-Vormawor claims that due to his participation in numerous protests against the government, his passport was confiscated, limiting his freedom of movement and ability to engage in international travel.
2.Treason trial
The activist was arrested and charged with treason for allegedly calling for a coup, asserting that the military of the country is “useless ” for watching the government mismanage the economy.
3.Jail time
He claims to have on three occasions spent time in prison cite of one or two of those occasions
4.Halting of Ph.D. program
Barker-Vormawor asserts that his Ph.D. program at the University of Cambridge has been put on hold, impacting his academic pursuits.
5. Cyberbullying:
He mentions facing cyberbullying, indicating the toll that online harassment has taken on his well-being.
6. Surveillance of his home with communication devices
Barker-Vormawor claims that his residence underwent surveillance, with communication devices installed throughout the premises.
7. Separation from family He asserts that during his tenure as the convener of the anti-government group, he was forcibly separated from his family
8. Multiple arrests
Barker-Vormawor alleges enduring five separate arrests in a legal battle with law enforcement agencies in his role to lead demonstrations
The farewell journey for former First Lady Theresa Aba Kufuor commenced on Thursday, November 16, 2023, in Accra, with a requiem mass held in her honour at Christ the King Catholic Church.
A state funeral followed at the forecourt of the State House in Accra on Friday, after which her remains were transported to Kumasi for a final traditional funeral and burial on Saturday, November 18, 2023.
The traditional funeral is scheduled at Heroes Park in Kumasi, followed by a private burial for the late wife of former President John Agyekum Kufuor at the family’s private residence in the Ashanti Regional Capital.
An exclusive video shared by Angel Broadcasting Network reveals the serene final resting place of Madam Kufuor, situated in a nearly completed private residence.
The mansion, positioned atop a hill at an undisclosed location, is in its finishing stages, with furnishing and other final touches in progress.
Mrs. Kufuor passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023, just 24 days shy of her 89th birthday.
Kylian Mbappe has mentioned that he is accustomed to coaches expressing negative comments towards him following criticism from Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique.
Mbappe struck three times as PSG beat Reims in Ligue 1, but coach Luis Enrique said afterwards that he was “not happy” with the forward. “I have nothing to say about the goals, but he can help the team in another way. I will talk about it with him first, but they are private conversations.
Kylian is one of the best players in the world, but we want more,” he said.
At 24 years old, Mbappe leads the scoring charts in Ligue 1, contributing 13 goals out of Paris Saint-Germain’s total of 29 in just 11 matches this season.
Despite ongoing speculation about his future and strong interest from Real Madrid, recent reports suggest that the Spanish club has withdrawn their pursuit of the World Cup winner.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHScxNhKVUo
Mbappe insists his relationship with Luis Enrique is fine, however, telling reporters: “I’ve always worked well with the coaches I’ve had, like Didier Deschamps, Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel and so on.
These are coaches who have spoken to me ‘badly’, so to speak, but it didn’t stop me from playing well and having a good relationship with them.
“I’m a player who’s very demanding of himself, so when I find that demand from my coaches, then I’m very happy. I don’t need my manager to tell me I’m the best player in the world every day.”
Asked about the links to Madrid, he said while on international duty: “It’s not something that concerns the French national team,” began the France captain in an evasive manner. “You should come to Campus PSG and I’ll respond; the focus is on the country above anything else for the next week.”
Mbappe will likely be involved when France takes on Gibraltar in Euro 2024 qualifying on Saturday. PSG return to action with a Ligue 1 clash against Monaco on Friday, November 24.
