TIG Post

Author: Abigail Ampofo

  • Jobs, economy and education major determinants of voter decision-making – Global InfoAnalytics

    Jobs, economy and education major determinants of voter decision-making – Global InfoAnalytics

    A recent poll conducted by Global InfoAnalytics, just two months ahead of the December 2024 elections, highlights that the economy, jobs, and education are the top priorities for voters.

    According to the survey, 70% of respondents cited the economy as the most important issue, followed by jobs at 62% and education at 48%.

    The poll further reveals that the current economic situation is expected to have the most significant impact on the election outcome, influencing 55% of voters.

    “Economy, jobs and education remain the top issues for voters according to the poll as 70% of the issues cited as important was the economy, followed by jobs, 62% and Education, 48%.

    The current economic conditions of voters will have greater influence on the outcome of the December elections according to the poll as it is cited 55% of the time by voters, followed by past performance of the political parties, 40%, the credibility of the candidates, 34%, parties manifestoes, 28%, galamsey fight, 9% and other factors, 8%” the report revealed.

    This is followed by the past performance of political parties at 40%, candidate credibility at 34%, party manifestos at 28%, the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) at 9%, and other factors at 8%.

    In terms of voter preferences, National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate John Dramani Mahama (JDM) continues to lead with 51.1% support. Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia follows with 37.3%.

    Independent candidates Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen and Nana Kwame Bediako stand at 4.1% and 6.2%, respectively, while other candidates collectively hold 1.3% in the weighted committed voters’ model.

    In the unweighted likely voters’ model, John Dramani Mahama (JDM) holds 49.3% of support, while Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB) trails at 35.9%.

    Independent candidates Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen (AKK) and Nana Kwame Bediako (NKB) receive 3.9% and 6.0%, respectively, with others at 1.4% and undecided voters accounting for 3.5%.

    The survey indicates that a runoff election is unlikely, as the annual average shows JDM leading with 53%, followed by DMB at 36%, AKK at 7%, Bediako at 3%, and other candidates at 1%.

    Voter apathy poses a significant challenge for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), with 16% of those indicating they won’t vote identifying as party supporters. Only 3% are from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), while 38% are floating voters.

    Additionally, 4% belong to other parties, and 39% have not disclosed their affiliations. Overall, 4.4% of respondents stated they would abstain from voting.

    Success in the upcoming December elections will hinge on candidates’ ability to rally their bases and attract floating voters. The poll reveals that DMB has the support of 88% of his base, whereas JDM enjoys a higher rate of 96%, giving him an 8-point edge.

    Among floating voters, JDM significantly leads DMB, 54% to 23%, marking a 31-point advantage. Furthermore, he holds an 18-point lead among those unwilling to disclose their party affiliations.

    Notably, the poll reflects a decline in DMB’s support within the Muslim community, a crucial demographic for his campaign, as he has lost nearly 4% since July 2024.

  • GFA have taken over the referee selection job from us – Chairman of Referee Association

    GFA have taken over the referee selection job from us – Chairman of Referee Association

    Chairman of the Ghanaian Referees Association, George Saijah, has revealed that his organisation is no longer responsible for appointing referees for football matches in Ghana.

    Previously, the association handled the training and selection of referees for competitions such as the Women’s League, Division One League, and the Ghana Premier League, but that role has shifted.

    According to Saijah, for the last two seasons, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has taken over the task of assigning referees to officiate matches, a change he described as challenging.

    While addressing the Parliamentary Select Committee on Sports on September 30, 2024, Saijah mentioned that the current process for selecting referees has faced difficulties.

    “Orders that come up after the match is over. I’ll say our mandate ends when we train these referees.

    “Formerly, we were doing it, but for the past two seasons, GFA has taken that, and that is now with them. They do the training and selection of the referees.”

    Ghanaian referees have faced significant criticism for their match officiating, with many attributing their performances to substandard refereeing, which has led to various problems at stadiums.

  • This is how much you need to be able to invest in Ghana’s Gold Coin – BoG reveals

    This is how much you need to be able to invest in Ghana’s Gold Coin – BoG reveals

    Financial Markets Advisor to the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Stephen Opata, has advised potential investors in Ghana’s Gold Coins to prepare a minimum investment of ₵10,000.

    He mentioned that the coins, which will be accessible to the public via commercial banks, are expected to be priced starting at approximately ₵10,000.

    “So initially, obviously, if you want to buy the quarter-ounce coin, you must have savings of ₵10,000 minimum; you must have that. So if you don’t have that, then you would not be able to do that (invest),” he stated during an appearance on Metro TV’s Bottomline program on Monday, September 30, 2024.

    The Bank of Ghana (BoG) recently unveiled the Ghana Gold Coin, aimed at offering Ghanaians more diverse investment opportunities.

    These coins, which will come in various sizes, are part of the central bank’s Responsible Gold Sourcing Policy Framework.

    Dr. Stephen Opata noted that the BoG’s goal is to promote greater inclusivity by introducing these coins, allowing more people to participate in the investment.

    “Like I said, if we are able to tokenise this, that’s the next stage that will become very interesting, then we will have more inclusion. So the next stage is going to be interesting.

    We want to go into this project in phases, and as we gauge the success and roll this out, we will see that more people will be included. We will even get to the point where Ghanaians should be able to buy this using their mobile money account,” he stated.

    Dr. Ernest Addison, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, announced that the newly introduced ‘Ghana Gold Coin’ is made from refined dory gold, achieving a purity level of 99.99%.

    Backed by the central bank, the coins have been officially issued and guaranteed.

    During a press briefing last week, Dr. Addison highlighted that the gold coins aim to relieve pressure on the cedi by offering an alternative investment option for those who typically buy and hoard foreign currency like the dollar.

  • Parliament to reconvene at AICC on October 15 following renovation of main chamber

    Parliament to reconvene at AICC on October 15 following renovation of main chamber

    Parliament will commence its fifth meeting of the fourth session on October 15, 2024, at the Accra International Conference Centre’s Dome, as announced.

    The change in venue is due to ongoing renovation in the main chamber, where parliamentary sessions are typically held.

    In a statement released on Monday, September 30, 2024, Speaker Alban Bagbin notified Members of Parliament about the upcoming meeting and the temporary shift in location.

    The forthcoming parliamentary meeting is part of the legislative schedule and will focus on addressing important national matters.

    At a recent two-day emergency session held at the Dome, Parliament approved a $250 million loan from the World Bank to aid Ghana’s Energy Sector Recovery Programme.

    This loan agreement had initially been rejected before Parliament went on break.

    One of the main reasons for recalling MPs for the emergency sitting on September 3 was to reconsider and approve the crucial financial support needed for the country’s energy sector recovery initiatives.

  • 2024 polls: Mahama to win 51.1%, Bawumia to win 37.3% – Global InfoAnalytics

    2024 polls: Mahama to win 51.1%, Bawumia to win 37.3% – Global InfoAnalytics

    A recent poll conducted by Global InfoAnalytics indicates that John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, holds a significant lead over Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    According to the poll, Mahama commands the support of 51.1% of committed voters, while Bawumia lags behind with 37.3%.

    Independent candidates Alan Kwadwo Kyeremanten and Nana Kwame Bediako are polling at 4.1% and 6.2%, respectively, with other contenders collectively receiving 1.3%. In a separate unweighted likely voters’ model, Mahama still leads with 49.3%, compared to Bawumia’s 35.9%.

    A noteworthy trend in the poll is the growing voter apathy within the NPP. Sixteen percent of potential non-voters identify as NPP supporters, in contrast to just 3% from the NDC.

    Additionally, undecided voters and those who declined to reveal their party affiliations make up a combined 77% of non-voters, posing a serious challenge for the ruling party.

    Among undecided voters, Mahama has a commanding 54% to Bawumia’s 23%, giving him a 31-point advantage. He also leads by 18 points among voters who chose not to disclose their party affiliation.

    First-time voters also favour Mahama, giving him a 46% to 38% lead over Bawumia. This marks a shift from the July 2024 poll, where the two candidates were evenly matched.

    Bawumia, on the other hand, has lost some ground with Muslim voters, a crucial demographic for his campaign, dropping 4% in support since July.

    Additionally, the poll reveals that while 70% of those who supported President Nana Akufo-Addo in 2020 remain loyal to Bawumia, 19% have now switched their allegiance to Mahama.

    In key battleground regions such as Greater Accra and Central, Mahama has gained the backing of 20% and 37% of former NPP voters, respectively. Regionally, Mahama now leads in 12 regions, including Bono, while Bawumia remains ahead in the Ashanti, Eastern, Ahafo, and North East regions.

    The presence of independent candidates, Nana Kwame Bediako and Alan Kwadwo Kyeremanten, has also complicated Bawumia’s standing, particularly in the Ashanti and Eastern regions.

    In Ashanti, where the NPP aims for 85% of the vote, Bawumia currently holds 66%, while Mahama has 22%, and Bediako and Kyeremanten secure 7% and 4%, respectively. This division in support could be problematic for the NPP as election day nears.

    The poll also highlights key issues driving voter sentiment.

    The economy, jobs, and education were identified as the top concerns, with 70% of respondents listing the economy as their primary issue, followed by jobs (62%) and education (48%).

    Furthermore, 62% of respondents believe the country is on the wrong path, with dissatisfaction most pronounced among NDC supporters (88%), floating voters (74%), and backers of other parties (76%). In contrast, 64% of NPP supporters feel the country is moving in the right direction.

  • UTAG urges AG to halt prosecution of Democracy Hub protesters

    UTAG urges AG to halt prosecution of Democracy Hub protesters

    University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has called on the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice to submit a nolle prosequi to facilitate the prompt release of the protesters detained at Democracy Hub.

    UTAG has expressed its worries regarding the recent arrests and the continued detention of the demonstrators from the Democracy Hub, advocating for their swift release.

    “UTAG voiced serious concern over the recent arrests and ongoing detention of demonstrators from the Democracy Hub and called for their immediate release.

    While UTAG condemned the arrests as violations of the protesters’ fundamental rights and freedoms, the Association acknowledged that the exercise of such rights must occur within the framework of the rule of law.

    UTAG urged the Ghana Police Service to respect citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and protest, which is in line with the democratic principles that govern the nation.

    UTAG also encouraged the Attorney General and Minister for Justice to file a nolle prosequi to expedite the release of the detained demonstrators,” a communiqué issued after the fourth quarter meeting for 2024 at the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) said.

    The meeting, organised by the National Executive Council, aimed to address several pressing issues raised by its members.

    Earlier, Dr. Dominic Ayine, a former Deputy Attorney General, condemned the actions of the Democracy Hub protesters during their demonstration last week, which included alleged road blockages and confrontations with the police.

    Nonetheless, he argued that such behaviour should not be grounds for denying them bail. In his view, withholding bail from the protesters constitutes a violation of their rights.

    Speaking on the Key Points on TV3 on Saturday, September 28, the Bolgatanga East lawmaker said “The blocking of traffic is something that is condemnable; the attempt to engage in fisticuffs with police is something that we should condemn. Having said that, I do not think that the activities they engaged in are sufficient reasons you say they should be detained without bail.

    That is where my concern is. The denial of bail in this case is tantamount to punishing them; it is tantamount to judicial abuse of the rights of the citizens

    He also criticised the police for denying the suspects access to their lawyers.

    “The right to counsel is a key fundamental right… they need the assistance of a legal professional to be able to understand the issues so the Police acted in abuse of their right.”

    The state has brought eight charges against leading members of Democracy Hub, including offensive conduct, breach of the peace, and theft from some protesters.

    An Accra Circuit Court has remanded Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Felicity Nelson, and eleven others into police custody for two weeks. Their lawyers sought bail after the group pleaded not guilty. While Barker-Vormawor faces eight charges, including offensive conduct and theft, the other twelve are charged with six offences.

    Judge Kwabena Obiri Yeboah ordered the police to ensure the protesters receive food after reports emerged that they had gone without sustenance for approximately three days.

    Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who missed his initial court appearance due to health issues, arrived at the circuit court appearing frail and limping. Fanny Otoo could not attend the hearing, while Barker-Vormawor’s lawyer, Dr. Justice Srem Sai, claimed that the police had neglected his client’s medical needs, resulting in his collapse while in custody.

    In response to claims of police brutality during the Democracy Hub protest last weekend, law enforcement denied using excessive force, despite facing provocations. Following the unrest, police reported the arrest of 54 individuals, all of whom have been charged in accordance with legal procedures.

  • Hansi Flick to start Barca’s top players in Young Boys’ clash

    Hansi Flick to start Barca’s top players in Young Boys’ clash

    Flick is optimistic about the possibility of midfielder Frenkie de Jong making a return as Barcelona aims to recover from two defeats in just 10 days, including losses to Monaco in the Champions League and Osasuna in La Liga.

    The German coach has been dealing with an injury crisis, with key players such as Dani Olmo, Ronald Araujo, Gavi, and goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen unavailable.

    In Saturday’s 4-2 loss to Osasuna, he opted to rest regular starters Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, prioritising the upcoming Champions League match.

    De Jong, who has been sidelined since April with an ankle injury, also missed the European Championship while focussing on his recovery.

    “We will play with the team we believe to be the best in order to beat Young Boys. The first game (at Monaco) we lost, yes. But we must not be depressed,” Flick told reporters.

    “We have to recover our balance after the defeat at Osasuna. We have to build the game with fewer mistakes. Responsibilities must be assumed.

    “We need fresh legs, and Frenkie’s return is great news. Even if it’s just for five or 10 minutes. If he gets the chance, he’ll play.”

    Flick previously said his choice to rest key starters affected the team in their first domestic loss of the season at Osasuna, ending a seven-game winning streak.

    Young Boys will arrive in Spain following a 3-0 defeat by Aston Villa in their opening Champions League match at home.

    Asked if the five-times European Cup winners have lost respect after their defeat at Monaco, Flick said: “I am positive we can win… we play good football – entertaining football. And if we need to gain the respect of our opponents once again, we’re going to work hard on that.”

  • Mahama promises a week paternity leave for fathers, a month extension for mothers

    Mahama promises a week paternity leave for fathers, a month extension for mothers

    Presidential candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has pledged to implement a one-week paternity leave for fathers if he wins the upcoming December elections.

    During the launch of the NDC Women’s Manifesto in Kumasi on Monday, Mahama also proposed increasing maternity leave from three months to four months, giving mothers additional time to care for their infants.

    He stated that this initiative aims to ensure that newborns receive proper care during their crucial early development, emphasising the significance of both parents participating in childcare.

    However, he noted that this paternity leave would be restricted to legally married men, who must provide documentation to verify their marital status in order to access the benefit.

    He stated, “Whereas the mother gets four months maternity leave, the father of the child will also get a paternity leave of up to a week for you, as a father to take care of the mother and the child.

    “But as a man, you must provide evidence that the woman is your wife. You will enjoy that if the woman is your legally married wife.”

  • Nationwide measles immunisation exercise set for October 2 – GHS announces

    Nationwide measles immunisation exercise set for October 2 – GHS announces

    Ghana Health Service has announced a nationwide campaign to immunize children against measles, specifically targeting those aged nine months to 59 months.

    This immunization initiative will run from Wednesday, October 2, to Sunday, October 6, 2024.

    The program aims to protect children from measles and rubella while also offering vital vitamin A supplementation to enhance their overall health and wellness.

    During a press briefing in the Upper East Region on Monday, Dr. Samuel Boakye-Boateng, the Regional Health Service Director, emphasized the significance of this initiative.

    He noted that the region faced measles outbreaks earlier this year, with reported cases in Bawku West and Garu Districts, as well as additional occurrences in five other districts.

    Dr. Boakye-Boateng explained, “It’s a national exercise, a supplemental or supplementary immunisation activity with measles rubella vaccine. It’s integrated because we are also adding vitamin A supplementation.

    This year we recorded outbreaks across the whole country and in the Upper East region, two districts recorded outbreaks, that’s three or more cases where that district had about one or two cases a month or two ago.

    “When we say outbreak, those that recorded three or more cases, and that happened in Bawku West and Garu. So that’s why we call it an outbreak and how to investigate it.”

  • Saglemi housing project to resume works in November – Oppong Nkrumah  announces

    Saglemi housing project to resume works in November – Oppong Nkrumah  announces

    Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, has announced that construction on the Saglemi Housing project, which has been stalled, will restart in November.

    Originally launched by the previous NDC government, the $200 million project was halted after a value-for-money audit disclosed that only 1,506 housing units had been completed out of the planned 5,000.

    However, after receiving new directives from the cabinet, Minister Oppong Nkrumah stated that discussions are currently taking place with two shortlisted companies to facilitate the government’s public-private partnership, enabling work to resume next month.

    “Negotiations are currently ongoing, and we expect that in early November, work will resume after the new developer is signed up to go the site,” he said.

    He made these comments at a ministerial press briefing on September 30.

    The Minister stressed that the new arrangements do not mean the housing project is being sold.
    “We reiterate that we are not selling these projects. We are working in the PPP [Public Private Partnership] framework to complete these projects.

    The fact that the government of Ghana does not have money in the Treasury to advance for us to finish does not mean these projects should remain stalled,” he said.

    Mr. Oppong Nkrumah emphasised the urgency of completing the projects, noting that without action, the state’s significant investments would deteriorate.

    To address this issue, he mentioned that the ministry has turned to a public-private Partnership, which is expected to facilitate the continuation of the projects.

    “We can’t afford to wait for the government to allocate funds, and we certainly don’t want to see these projects fall into further disrepair. Collaborating with the private sector to secure funding is the most effective approach,” he explained.

    He further added that the financing provided by private companies would be reimbursed once the projects are completed and operational.

  • Ten Hag to remain with Man Utd despite heavy defeat to Spurs – Sources

    Ten Hag to remain with Man Utd despite heavy defeat to Spurs – Sources

    Manchester United is poised to retain manager Erik ten Hag for their upcoming matches against Porto and Aston Villa this week despite suffering a disappointing loss to Tottenham at Old Trafford on Sunday.

    The team has struggled this season, currently sitting in 12th place in the Premier League.

    Several high-ranking sources within Manchester United have informed BBC Sport that it’s business as usual, with the club concentrating on the forthcoming fixtures against Porto and Villa. There has been no formal statement from the club regarding Ten Hag’s position.

    Speaking after the 3-0 loss against Spurs Ten Hag said he was “not thinking” about losing his job, adding he and the owners are “on the same page”.

    Erik ten Hag secured a new contract over the summer, and just last month, club CEO Omar Berrada expressed that he had the organization’s complete support.

    Although Ten Hag is under increasing pressure, sources from BBC Sport indicated on Monday morning that the club’s leadership prefers to assess situations thoughtfully rather than react hastily to a negative outcome.

    Regardless, Ten Hag is entering a crucial week, with upcoming matches against Porto in the Europa League and Aston Villa in the Premier League before the international break in October.

  • Namib Mills porridge taken off shelves after death of 3 children in South Africa

    Namib Mills porridge taken off shelves after death of 3 children in South Africa

    In South Africa, an instant porridge product has been pulled from the market following the tragic deaths of three young children, who reportedly consumed it.

    According to police spokesperson Lt Col Siphokazi Mawisa, the victims, aged between 18 months and four years, experienced stomach pains after eating Top Score Instant Porridge before passing away on Friday.

    The Spar supermarket chain, where the porridge was sold, has ordered all its locations to take the product off their shelves.

    The porridge’s manufacturer, Namib Mills, a Namibian company, stated that while there is no current evidence linking their product to these tragic incidents, they are treating the situation with utmost seriousness.

    They expressed their condolences to the affected families and confirmed that the product will be removed as investigations are underway.

    “We are cooperating fully with all relevant authorities and have also initiated our own internal investigation to ensure complete transparency,” it said.

    The three deceased children belonged to two different families in the Eastern Cape province. Additionally, a seven-year-old child also experienced illness after consuming the porridge but was released from the hospital over the weekend.

    Reports indicate that the children had ingested the vanilla-flavoured variety of the instant porridge, leading to the decision to remove all flavours from circulation.

    The exact cause of the children’s deaths remains undetermined. According to Bongani Fuzile, a spokesperson for Buffalo City Municipality, samples of the porridge have been sent to the National Health Laboratory Services for thorough testing and analysis.

  • Lion fatally mauls zookeeper in Nigeria

    Lion fatally mauls zookeeper in Nigeria

    A tragic incident occurred at a wildlife park in south-western Nigeria, where a zookeeper was fatally attacked by a lion after failing to properly secure its enclosure, according to police.

    The 35-year-old man, employed at the Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, owned by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, was mauled during a feeding session.

    Police spokesperson Omolola Odutola confirmed that the lion inflicted severe injuries to the zookeeper’s neck, leading to his death. To free the victim, officers were forced to shoot the lion.

    The Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library later issued a statement indicating that the zookeeper had taken some guests to observe the lion’s feeding routine after official hours on Saturday evening.

    “The zookeeper, apparently, feeling comfortable with the animal, left the safety protection gate open and proceeded to feed the animal. He was mauled by the animal and died on the spot.

    “To prevent further mutilation of the body, the animal was put down immediately by personnel of the park.”
    The victim has been named Babaji Daule, described by police as a trained lion handler.

    It comes less than a year after another zookeeper was attacked and killed by a lion at the Obafemi Awolowo University, also in south-western Nigeria.
    The incident has triggered concerns with people raising questions about the country’s regulations and management of zoos and handling of wild animals.

  • Rwanda: Funeral sizes slashed to manage spread of Marburg virus outbreak

    Rwanda: Funeral sizes slashed to manage spread of Marburg virus outbreak

    Rwanda has limited the size of funerals for Marburg virus victims to help control the spread of the highly infectious disease.

    The outbreak, Rwanda’s first, has claimed eight lives, as confirmed by the country’s health ministry on Friday. Marburg, part of the same virus family as Ebola, can be deadly, with a mortality rate of up to 88%.

    It is transmitted to humans from fruit bats and then spread through contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals.

    To prevent further transmission, the health ministry has issued new rules, stating that no more than 50 people can attend the funeral of someone who has died from the virus.

    What is the Marburg virus, and how dangerous is it?

    “Normal business and other activities” can continue in the East African country, said the advisory, published on Sunday evening.


    However, it also urged the public to avoid close contact with “symptomatic individuals.” The ministry listed symptoms such as fever, headaches, muscle aches, vomiting, and diarrhoea.


    The Marburg virus can lead to death due to severe blood loss. According to the health ministry’s new guidelines, hospital patients will not be allowed visitors for the next 14 days, with only one caregiver permitted per patient at any given time.

    In many developing nations, families often assist with essential tasks like washing and feeding, which nurses would typically handle elsewhere.

    On Saturday, when the death toll reached six, Rwanda’s health minister revealed that the majority of those who died were healthcare workers in an ICU.

    Dr. Nahid Bhadelia, from Boston University’s Centre on Emerging Infectious Diseases, told the BBC’s Newsday program that controlling the virus may be difficult as most cases have emerged in Kigali, a densely populated city, unlike previous outbreaks in remote rural areas where containment was easier.

    However, she added that there is hope as Rwanda has “a lot better infrastructure and history of public health coordination than many other countries.”.

    Rwanda announced it is ramping up efforts in contact tracing, surveillance,, and testing to control the spread of the Marburg virus. On Sunday, the health minister revealed that around 300 individuals who had been in contact with confirmed cases are being closely monitored.

    The government has called on citizens to maintain proper hygiene, including regular hand washing. This marks the first confirmed case of Marburg in Rwanda. Neighbouring Tanzania faced an outbreak in 2023, and Uganda saw three fatalities from the virus in 2017.

  • Marine Le Pen faces trial over alleged misappropriation EU funds

    Marine Le Pen faces trial over alleged misappropriation EU funds

    Leader of France’s far-right National Rally and a prospective presidential candidate, Marine Le Pen, is set to stand trial in Paris on Monday over allegations of misusing European parliamentary funds.

    Alongside her, more than 20 top party officials face similar accusations, with prosecutors claiming they employed parliamentary assistants who were actually working on party activities instead of performing their roles for the European Parliament, which was financing them.

    Should Le Pen be convicted, she could be subjected to fines, imprisonment, and possibly barred from holding public office for up to a decade, dealing a serious blow to her hopes of running for the presidency.

    She has denied wrongdoing, and party spokesman Laurent Jacobelli said, “We are going to prove that there is no system to embezzle money from the EU.”

    “We are going to prove that it is possible to be an assistant to a European parliamentarian and get involved in the life of the RN (National Rally),” the spokesman told French media on Monday.

    Upon arriving at court, Marine Le Pen expressed confidence, maintaining that neither she nor her colleagues had broken any political regulations. Her father, Jean-Marie Le Pen, 96, the founder of the National Front (now the National Rally), is also facing charges but will not attend due to health reasons.

    The case revolves around accusations of fraudulent employment arrangements dating back to 2015, covering parliamentary assistant contracts from 2004 to 2016.

    Prosecutors claim that one of the individuals listed as a parliamentary assistant was actually serving as a bodyguard for Le Pen and her father.

    They are seeking to reclaim over €3 million (£2.5 million), although the party has already reimbursed €1 million (£834,000), stating that this payment does not imply guilt.

    The trial, anticipated to last nearly two months, comes as Le Pen, a former EU lawmaker and long-time party leader, prepares for a possible presidential bid in 2027.

    She previously stepped down from leading the National Front in 2017 after running in the 2012, 2017, and 2022 presidential elections.

    Le Pen’s political platform has focused on curbing immigration by limiting social benefits to French nationals and emphasising law enforcement and tax cuts.

    Despite her party’s surprising third-place finish in the French parliamentary elections in June, where the left-wing bloc won the most seats, her party had recently secured a significant victory in the European Parliament elections. Following those elections, President Emmanuel Macron formed a right-leaning government.

  • PSG axe Dembele from squad for Arsenal trip

    PSG axe Dembele from squad for Arsenal trip

    France’s Ousmane Dembele has been excluded from Paris Saint-Germain’s roster for their Champions League match against Arsenal on Tuesday, according to a source familiar with the club’s operations.

    This decision is not due to an injury but is attributed to coach Luis Enrique’s choice.

    Reports suggest that this disciplinary action follows a tense confrontation between Dembele and Enrique after PSG’s 3-1 victory over Rennes last Friday, as noted by sports outlet L’Equipe.

    In the absence of the in-form Dembele, who has scored four goals and provided three assists in six league appearances this season, PSG will likely depend more on Bradley Barcola.

    Barcola currently leads the French league in scoring with six goals, including two from the recent win over Rennes.

    Additionally, Marco Asensio is facing a race against time to recover from an injury sustained during PSG’s Champions League match against Girona two weeks ago.

  • Real Madrid goalkeeper Courtois battling abductor injury

    Real Madrid goalkeeper Courtois battling abductor injury

    Real Madrid’s goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, aged 32, has been diagnosed with an injury affecting the abductor muscle in his left leg, the club announced on Monday.

    Although Courtois played the entire match during Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid, he is now anticipated to miss Wednesday’s Champions League fixture against Lille and Saturday’s league encounter with Villarreal.

    The Belgian goalkeeper, who recently stated he would not participate in international matches under coach Domenico Tedesco, has been a consistent presence for Real this season, starting in all ten games.

    This follows a significant period out of play last season due to a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee.

    Courtois made his return to the squad in May, contributing to the team’s Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund, but he was not included in Belgium’s lineup for EURO 2024.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rec0lH5psQg
  • Neymar returns to Al Hilal training after long injury sideline

    Neymar returns to Al Hilal training after long injury sideline

    Brazilian football sensation Neymar, aged 32, has resumed team training with Al Hilal on Monday, marking his comeback after almost a year sidelined due to a left knee injury.

    Neymar transferred to the Saudi club from Paris Saint-Germain in a high-profile move in August 2023, but his time on the field was limited to just five matches before suffering a rupture of his meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament while playing for the national team in October.

    “Happy to be back in the group,” Neymar posted on Instagram, with pictures of him running and kicking the ball, watched by Al Hilal’s Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus.

    After surgery, Neymar resumed individual training in July. His return to competitive games will depend on “his technical readiness and the coach’s decision,” a club official who asked to remain anonymous told AFP.

    Brazil’s head coach, Dorival Junior, has called for patience regarding Neymar’s recovery as he has excluded the star forward from the squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Peru.

    Currently, Al Hilal, the reigning champions of the Saudi league, has not yet registered Neymar for this season of the Saudi Pro League, which commenced last month.

    Nevertheless, the former Barcelona star, earning approximately 100 million euros (£83.6 million) annually, is slated to participate in the AFC Champions League, Asia’s premier club competition.

    Even without Neymar, Al Hilal dominated the Saudi league last season, finishing unbeaten with 31 victories and three draws.

    The Riyadh club also achieved an impressive streak of 34 consecutive wins across all competitions before being halted in the Champions League semi-finals by Al Ain from the UAE.

  • Tottenham blasts offensive chants at Old Trafford

    Tottenham blasts offensive chants at Old Trafford

    Tottenham Hotspur are collaborating with local law enforcement and stadium security to track down fans involved in “disgraceful” anti-gay chants during their 3-0 victory against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.

    In a statement, Spurs condemned the behavior, stating, “This is entirely intolerable, deeply offensive, and not an appropriate way to support the team.”

    “The Club will be working closely with the Police and stewards to identify anyone instigating or joining in with the chanting — we shall take the strongest possible action in accordance with our Sanctions and Banning Policy.”

    Tottenham has encouraged fans at Premier League matches to confidentially report any incidents they witness to the club.

    “We shall be continuing our work with our LGBTQ+ supporters’ association, Proud Lilywhites, to ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment for all fans on matchdays,” the club said.

    “We all have a responsibility to act as ambassadors of Tottenham Hotspur, and discrimination of any kind has no place at our club.”

  • Atlético Madrid permanently ban fan over Courtois projectiles in derby

    Atlético Madrid permanently ban fan over Courtois projectiles in derby

    Atlético Madrid has issued a permanent ban to one of its fans following the incident of objects being thrown onto the pitch during the Madrid Derby, the club announced on Monday.

    The match, which ended in a 1-1 tie against Real Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium, was interrupted midway through the second half after Real took the lead with a goal from Éder Militão.

    During this period, various items, including lighters and plastic bottles, were directed at Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

    Referee Mateo Busquets Ferrer paused the game for an initial ten minutes, leading to an overall delay of approximately twenty minutes, as spectators were warned to stop their disruptive behaviour or face the match being abandoned entirely.

    After the conclusion of the game, Atlético’s coach Diego Simeone and team captain Koke expressed their criticism of Courtois, suggesting that his celebration following Militão’s goal played a role in inciting the crowd.

    On Monday, Atlético said that “the club has made the decision to permanently expel the person identified yesterday by the police, in collaboration with our security department, involved in the throwing of objects during the derby.”

    “Our security department continues to work with the police to identify the rest of those involved in the throwing of objects, who will be permanently expelled as soon as they are identified,” the club said.

    While the match was on hold, coach Diego Simeone, along with Koke and Atlético defender José María Giménez, approached the fans situated behind the goal. Among the crowd, at least two individuals were spotted wearing balaclavas.

    On Monday, the club said it would “imminently incorporate into its internal regulations the prohibition of using any element or garment in order to hide one’s identity.”

  • GPL clubs make no income from current TV broadcasts – GFA EXCO member

    GPL clubs make no income from current TV broadcasts – GFA EXCO member

    Member of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Committee, Nana Oduro Sarfo, has disclosed that premier league clubs currently do not benefit financially from television broadcasts of the league.

    He noted that the FA’s earnings from these broadcasts are inadequate to provide any financial assistance to the clubs.

    Despite this setback, Oduro Sarfo indicated that the GFA executive committee is set to convene to explore strategies for increasing revenue to support the premier league teams, particularly in light of the ongoing economic difficulties.

    “GPL clubs receive no financial gains from the current TV broadcasts of the league.

    There is an EXCO meeting scheduled for Tuesday to explore possible financial solutions for clubs,” he said, as shared by Oyerepa TV/FM on X (formerly Twitter).

    In the meantime, sports enthusiasts and analysts have expressed worries regarding the subpar television coverage, which diminishes the attractiveness of the matches for viewers.

    Among the media outlets broadcasting the games is Metro TV, along with other channels such as Globe TV, which are also airing the feeds.

  • Jose Mourinho sees yellow as he protests VAR, puts laptop in front of cameras

    Jose Mourinho sees yellow as he protests VAR, puts laptop in front of cameras

    Jose Mourinho received a yellow card during Fenerbahce’s 2-0 victory against Antalyaspor on Sunday after he protested an offside call by placing a laptop in front of the TV cameras.

    The incident occurred in the 76th minute when Fenerbahce was leading 1-0, and referee Cihan Aydin ruled Edin Dzeko’s goal offside following a VAR review.

    In response, Mourinho showcased a still image from the play on a laptop, positioning it in front of the broadcaster’s camera to express his dissent, resulting in the booking.


    “For us it was a good goal,” Mourinho said in Sunday’s post-game news conference. “I didn’t say a single word. I didn’t put any kind of pressure; I just put the laptop in there … I just reacted calmly.

    “The referee decided to give me a yellow card. It’s OK. I want a VAR that helps the referee. My analyst put the laptop in front of me with the position of the left-back that probably was not the position that VAR analysed because we have the technical camera that gives us the complete width of the pitch and the let-back was in position.”

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/SImZ0TGJnVo

    Fenerbahce, who had taken a lead through Dusan Tadic, secured the win thanks to an own goal by Thalisson Kelven.

    The result keeps Fenerbahce in second place, three points behind Galatasaray, and Mourinho said the upcoming international break won’t help in his side’s pursuit of the title.

    “In the international break we do nothing because we don’t have players,” Mourinho said. “We can just keep six or seven players, the ones that are not selected to go or others that no longer play in their national teams.

    “International break for us is never positive, I would say in fact that it is negative. We have lots of things to work on, one of the things is players have to understand my concept, simplicity is genius.

    “We have too many players that don’t understand that, the best players play one touch, two-touch football. It’s simple, a cross and a goal, it doesn’t need 20 touches. Football is simplicity.”

    Mourinho also spoke about the pressure he’s felt at Fenerbahce in the summer being self-inflicted.

    “The pressure I feel is the pressure I put on myself,” he said. “It’s not the pressure that anyone puts on me. I have around 1200 official matches, it’s too long to feel pressure from anybody, not journalists, not supporters, not opponents. I always want to do the things right, I always want to win, which is not possible. So the pressure is the pressure that I put in myself.”

  • Antoine Griezmann announces retirement from France’s national team

    Antoine Griezmann announces retirement from France’s national team

    Antoine Griezmann has officially retired from international football after a decade-long career with the French national team, as he announced on Monday.

    The 33-year-old forward played a crucial role in leading France to three major finals, including the Euro 2016 final, the victorious 2018 World Cup campaign, and the 2022 World Cup final loss. He also helped France win the 2021 UEFA Nations League.

    Griezmann’s final outings for France occurred during this month’s Nations League matches, following the team’s defeat by Spain in the Euro 2024 semifinals. The Atlético Madrid star now concludes his international journey.


    “It is with a heart full of memories that I close this chapter of my life,” Griezmann posted on social media. “Thank you for this magnificent, tricolour adventure, and see you soon.”

    “Today, with profound emotion, I announce my retirement as a France national team player,” Griezmann said. “After ten incredible years marked by challenges, successes and unforgettable moments, it’s time for me to turn the page and make room for the new generation.

    “Wearing this shirt has been an honour and a privilege … I leave the France national team with a sense of pride and gratitude. I had the honour of representing our country, and the chance to experience extraordinary moments, like becoming a world champion.

    “I’ll continue to follow Les Bleus with passion. I’m convinced that the future is bright, and I can’t wait to see the next generation shine.”

    Antoine Griezmann made his first appearance for the French national team in March 2014 during a 2-0 victory over the Netherlands in a friendly match. Since his debut, Griezmann has been coached by Didier Deschamps, who has been at the helm of France’s national team since 2012.

    In 2016, Griezmann featured in all seven matches as France advanced to the final of the European Championship, only to lose 1-0 to Portugal.

    In 2018, he played a pivotal role in France’s World Cup triumph in Russia, starting every match and netting four goals, including one from the penalty spot in the final against Croatia.

    Griezmann adopted a deeper midfield role during the 2022 World Cup, where France again reached the final but lost to Argentina on penalties.

    He accumulated 137 caps for France, scoring 44 goals. Over the weekend, Griezmann started for Atlético Madrid in their 1-1 draw with Real Madrid in La Liga.

    The forward has openly expressed his desire to finish his career playing in Major League Soccer (MLS).

  • Chelsea-Man United WSL match postponed due to UWCL scheduling

    Chelsea-Man United WSL match postponed due to UWCL scheduling

    Chelsea’s Women’s Super League match against Manchester United, originally scheduled for Oct. 6, has been postponed with just a week’s notice due to its proximity to the club’s first Champions League game.

    UEFA revealed on Saturday that Chelsea would face Real Madrid at Kingsmeadow on Oct. 8, just two days after the WSL fixture.

    The WSL issued a statement confirming the decision, citing concerns over player welfare as the reason for the postponement.

    “We apologise for any inconvenience to fans. In this instance, we have to put player welfare first, and we will announce a new date for the fixture in due course,” the league said.

    “We thank the clubs and Sky Sports for their understanding as we work on a resolution.”

    Both Chelsea, the defending WSL champions, and Manchester United have won both of their opening two league games of their respective campaigns.


    “It’s not ideal; however, in the best interests of the players for both Chelsea and Manchester United, it’s probably the right decision if it benefits their safety,” United manager Marc Skinner told a post-match news conference after his side’s 1-0 win over Everton on Sunday.

    “It’s frustrating we don’t have a game at the weekend, but we can work around that.”

    Chelsea were eliminated from the Champions League in the semifinals last season, losing to the eventual champions, Barcelona.

    In the final, Barcelona defeated Sonia Bompastor’s Lyon 2-0. Bompastor later succeeded Emma Hayes as Chelsea’s manager during the summer.

  • Jadon Sancho says anything is possible with Cole Palmer in team

    Jadon Sancho says anything is possible with Cole Palmer in team

    Jadon Sancho has expressed his belief that Chelsea’s potential is limitless with Cole Palmer on the squad, praising his impressive form at the start of the season.

    Palmer made headlines on Saturday by becoming the first player to net four goals in the first half of a Premier League match, as Chelsea triumphed 4-2 over Brighton.

    “When you have a player in your team like Cole Palmer, then anything is possible,” Sancho said.

    “I’ve known Cole a long time, since our days together at [Manchester] City. I’ve always watched him, and I always thought he would go on to be a great player. He’s showing that now at Chelsea.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aoy5DRM-6FM

    “We see what he’s capable of each day in training; we see the quality he has, and honestly, it’s no real surprise to me to see him score four goals.him,

    “In fact, he could have scored five or six goals! I’m sure he will be fuming not to add to his tally, but in all seriousness, he’s such a quality player. Having a player like Cole alongside you is very good, and I’m happy to assist him.”

    Sancho won the penalty, which Palmer converted for his second goal, and also set up the fourth, as he earned his third assist in three games since joining the club from Manchester United.

    “I thought I started off a bit slow [against Brighton], but I feel like I grew into the game,” Sancho said.

    “I’m happy to have been able to assist for goals in recent games; I’m settling in well here, and I just want to keep this momentum going and keep being able to assist my teammates. Or even get a first goal, that would be nice!”

  • Losing my job not my concern – Erik ten Hag after 3-0 loss to Tottenham

    Losing my job not my concern – Erik ten Hag after 3-0 loss to Tottenham

    Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has stated he isn’t worried about losing his job, despite a crushing 3-0 loss to Tottenham at Old Trafford on Sunday.

    Although Bruno Fernandes was shown a red card in the first half, United struggled throughout the match, even before being reduced to 10 men.

    With just three wins from their opening eight matches this season, the defeat is expected to add more scrutiny to Ten Hag’s position at the helm.

    Asked whether he is concerned his United bosses could look to change the manager, Ten Hag said: “I am not thinking about this.

    “We made the decision from a clear review [in the summer] what we have to improve and how we want to construct a squad, but we knew it would take some time. We need some time. We are all on one page or in one boat together. The ownership, the staff, and the players as well. I don’t have that concern.”

    Erik ten Hag expressed frustration over the manner in which Manchester United conceded during their 1-1 Europa League draw against FC Twente on Wednesday.

    Bart van Rooij effortlessly cut through United’s midfield to score, a mistake that was mirrored just days later when Spurs defender Micky van de Ven made a similar run, leading to Tottenham’s early goal in the opening three minutes.

    Despite these back-to-back defensive lapses, Ten Hag remains confident that his squad is still paying attention to his instructions, though his annoyance at conceding such goals twice in a short span was evident.

    “Yes, I am,” he said.

    “But it is clear and obvious when you concede a goal like this again; it shouldn’t happen, especially when we address it so loudly and clearly.”

    It won’t get any easier for Ten Hag with United facing tough trips to FC Porto and Aston Villa this week.

    The game at Villa Park on Sunday is United’s last before the international break, and another poor performance will ramp up the calls for Ten Hag to be dismissed.

    “There is always a new game,” he said.

    “It will be a new day, and it is also obvious you have to learn as a team. It can’t happen twice in four days that a defender can dribble through the whole team. You can’t make such mistakes in football.”

  • Ghana has a better future in boxing than in football – Former Sports Minister Nii Lante

    Ghana has a better future in boxing than in football – Former Sports Minister Nii Lante

    Former Sports Minister Nii Lante Vanderpuye has shared his belief that Ghana has a greater chance of excelling in boxing than in football, thanks to the recent discovery of promising young talents from the northern regions.

    While boxing has long been a celebrated sport in Ghana, with icons like Azumah Nelson and David Kotey hailing mostly from the southern part of the country, Nii Lante emphasized that the rise of northern boxers could significantly enhance the nation’s prospects of competing successfully on the global stage.

    “We have the potential to become much more better sports nation through boxing than in football,” he said in an interview with JoySports.

    “I was so much into the Boxing League and I saw most of the boxers who were got had all come from the North. Northerners are naturally strong, but it is the knowledge, skill, and technique that they need to adopt.

    “When you have somebody who is so much passionate, interested and you transfer knowledge, technique to the person and he gets that to compliment his natural strength, he is super.”

    Azumah Nelson, widely regarded as Africa’s greatest boxer, made history by holding the WBC Featherweight title and becoming a two-time Super-featherweight champion.

    Alongside him, notable boxers like David Kotey, also known as “D.K. Poison,” and Joseph Agbeko helped elevate Ghana’s global reputation in the sport.

    Despite this rich legacy, Ghanaian boxing has declined in recent years, with the country lacking a world champion since Richard Commey’s loss to Teofimo Lopez in 2019. For the first time since 2004, Ghana had no boxing representation at the 2024 Olympics.

    Ghanaian football has faced similar struggles, with the Black Stars failing to qualify for the Olympics since 2004. The national team hasn’t claimed a major title since their 1982 Africa Cup of Nations victory and was knocked out in the group stage of the last two tournaments.


  • EC sets IPAC meeting for September 30

    EC sets IPAC meeting for September 30

    Electoral Commission (EC) has announced an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting scheduled for Monday, September 30, 2024, at its conference room.

    The meeting, which will focus on the electoral register, comes in response to ongoing concerns about the integrity of the voter roll ahead of the 2024 general elections.

    This meeting follows the demand for a forensic audit of the Provisional Voter’s Register (PVR) by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), citing discrepancies in the current voter roll.

    The NDC’s call for an audit was part of a petition submitted after a demonstration on September 17, 2024.

    However, the EC, led by Jean Mensa, has dismissed the need for such an audit, maintaining that the current legal and administrative mechanisms in place to address any issues with the register have not yet been fully utilised.

    In a letter to NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the EC emphasised its confidence in the robustness of the current electoral roll, stating: “As a Commission, we are of the view that the existing legal and administrative processes for cleaning the PVR have not been fully exhausted to justify the call for a forensic audit.”

    The EC reassured both the NDC and the general public that it is actively addressing the discrepancies identified in the PVR, as it did during the 2020 general elections, and that the same processes will be applied for the upcoming 2024 polls.

    In an effort to foster transparency, the EC has invited the NDC to participate in discussions and observe the steps being taken to resolve any issues in the voter register.

    Additionally, the EC responded to concerns about the illegal transfer of votes, revealing that its District Officer in Pusiga, Upper East Region, had been dismissed for facilitating 38 illegal vote transfers, which have since been corrected.

    Regarding the NDC’s request for a re-exhibition of the voter register, the EC cited time constraints but assured voters that an online version of the register would remain accessible until election day.

    The EC concluded by urging trust in the established processes and reaffirming its commitment to delivering a transparent and credible election in 2024.

  • Necessary documents for minors in Ghana Card registration – NIA list

    Necessary documents for minors in Ghana Card registration – NIA list

    The Corporate Affairs Officer of the National Identification Authority (NIA), Theodie Addo-Dankwa, revealed that minors taking part in the upcoming Ghana Card Registration on October 7, 2024, will be required to present either a valid passport, birth certificate, or, where applicable, a certificate of acquired citizenship.

    During a Stakeholder Engagement in Accra on September 26, 2024, focusing on the registration of Ghanaians aged 6 to 14 years, she mentioned that in the absence of these documents, the child would have to go through a vouching process.

    “The vouching process allows for the biological parents, the legal guardian of the child, a relative which includes an auntie or grandparents.

    It must be noted that all these categories of persons must be above 18 years of sound mind and must be Ghanaian and equally possess their Ghana Card,” she explained.

    She stated that at the registration centres, essential information about the minors taking part in the exercise would be required.

    “At the registration centre, the questions that will be asked will be the full name of the child, date of birth, place of birth of the child, nationality and hometown.

    A form will be signed by the person who is representing the child. The Ghana Card of that person will be equally taken,” she noted.

    The government’s initiative to register minors aims to include every citizen in the national identification system, enhancing both the accuracy and accessibility of identification for all.

    During the first phase, the registration process will be conducted in specific schools across different districts, streamlining the enrolment process for eligible children.

  • Gold coin introduction, not a solution to cedi depreciation – Prof Bokpin to BoG

    Gold coin introduction, not a solution to cedi depreciation – Prof Bokpin to BoG

    Economist Professor Godfred Bokpin has expressed scepticism about the Ghana Gold Coin as a remedy for the cedi’s depreciation.

    On Friday, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) introduced the Ghana Gold Coin, a new investment product aimed at curbing dollar hoarding. The initiative is part of the domestic gold programme, designed to soak up excess cash in circulation and bolster the cedi’s strength against major currencies.

    The coin will come in three versions: one-ounce, half-ounce, and quarter-ounce, and will be sold through commercial banks within two weeks. BoG Governor Dr. Ernest Addison, speaking at the Monetary Policy Committee meeting on September 27, noted that coin prices will be made available on the central bank’s website.

    While the initiative is expected to reduce market liquidity and stabilize the cedi, Professor Bokpin argues that it falls short of offering a long-term solution to the currency’s persistent decline.

    But Prof Bokpin in an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM on Friday, indicated that “I associate with the intervention from the central bank to the extent that there are very limited alternative avenues right now in the market and therefore any genuine attempt to offer alternatives would be welcomed, and the next important question as you rightly asked is whether this is the solution.

    “We have been waiting for this all this while, and I think it is not too hard to look for that and to conclude that that is not the solution.”

    “The reason is as much as we acknowledge that this is an alternative, the market is dry largely also because of confidence and all of that. This is not the solution.”

    Prof Bokpin stressed that the introduction of the coin was not a substitute for managing the economy well.

    “I want to believe that it is not packaged as a substitute for managing the economy well because the fundamental thriving factors pushing the cedi to lose its own against the major trading currencies when it comes to fiscal discipline when it comes to enhancing the capacity of the local economy, less import reliance, adding value to the export of your raw commodities, this doesn’t substitute for all of that,” he added.

  • 2024 elections: Bawumia takes lead over Mahama in latest polls by Outcomes International

    2024 elections: Bawumia takes lead over Mahama in latest polls by Outcomes International

    Recent polls conducted by Outcomes International indicate that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate, is positioned to win the 2024 presidential election, with John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) coming in second.

    According to the data, Dr. Bawumia is projected to secure 49.4% of the vote, while Mahama is expected to receive 45.1%.

    Other candidates are predicted to collectively account for just 0.3% of the total votes, with 5.2% of voters remaining undecided.

    The survey, which spanned August to September 2024, gathered insights from thousands of registered voters across Ghana’s regions.

    “Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia will win in 11 out of 16 regions while Mr. Mahama will win in 5 regions. The overall findings show a very close contest between Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (49.4%) and Mr. Mahama (45.1%).

    However, 5.2% of the respondents were undecided, while 0.3% of the respondents said they would vote for other candidates,” the report said.

    The upcoming December 2024 presidential election is shaping up to be a close contest between former President John Dramani Mahama and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    Several reputable polls have alternated in placing one ahead of the other in the race.

    The most recent poll gives Dr. Bawumia a narrow lead over Mahama, who has been attempting to make a political comeback since his defeat in 2016 and his unsuccessful bid in the 2020 election.

  • Kudus picks West Ham’s away jersey as his favourite

    Kudus picks West Ham’s away jersey as his favourite

    West Ham United forward Mohammed Kudus shared his enthusiasm about wearing the club’s new away kit for their upcoming Premier League clash on Saturday.

    The Hammers will go head-to-head with Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium, with the match set to kick off at 14:00 GMT.

    This game will be the debut for Julen Lopetegui’s side in the bold new Cockney-themed kit, which Kudus helped promote before the season began.

    After securing a win against Crystal Palace and earning a draw with Fulham in their earlier away fixtures, the Ghanaian international is hopeful for another strong performance in west London.

    “My favourite kit is the away one, but the home kit is the traditional West Ham jersey. I like the design, colour, and everything else about it,” he told the club website.

    “I can’t wait [to wear it] and dance a little bit in it!” he added.

    Kudus had a standout debut season with the Hammers, scoring 14 goals in the 2023/24 campaign.

  • Barcelona slapped with ticket ban following racist behavior by fans

    Barcelona slapped with ticket ban following racist behavior by fans

    Barcelona have been prohibited from selling tickets for their Champions League away match against Red Star Belgrade in November due to racist actions by some of their fans.

    UEFA imposed a fine of 10,000 euros (£8,330) on the Spanish club following the racist behaviour observed during their 2-1 loss to Monaco on 19 September.

    The specific details of the behaviour were not disclosed.

    This is not the first instance of such punishment for Barcelona.

    The club previously faced a ban on selling away tickets for a UEFA competition after a Champions League quarter-final clash with Paris Saint-Germain last season, although that penalty was suspended for a year.

    Three Barcelona fans were arrested after the PSG match for using racist slurs and allegedly making Nazi salutes.

    As a result of the current ban, Barcelona will be without their travelling supporters when they face Red Star Belgrade on 6 November.

    Despite this controversy, Barcelona remains in strong form, with Hansi Flick’s side winning all seven of their La Liga games so far, putting them at the top of the league.

  • GFA visits Wa to inspect borehole projects

    GFA visits Wa to inspect borehole projects

    Vice President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Mark Addo, recently visited the Upper West Region to inspect three borehole facilities provided by the GFA.

    His visit included stops at Tendamba Junior High School and Wa Senior High School, where the boreholes were installed to supply water for the upkeep of football pitches in those areas.

    Accompanied by the Chairman of the Regional Football Association and several executive committee members, Mr. Addo first inspected the borehole at Tendamba JHS before continuing to Wa Senior High School.

    These projects are part of a broader effort to ensure sustainable water access for maintaining football fields, supporting the GFA’s mission to nurture grassroots football nationwide.

    Mr. Addo reaffirmed the GFA’s commitment to seeing the projects through to completion, emphasizing that investing in proper infrastructure is key to developing football at the local level.

  • Newcastle United’s CEO, Darren Eales to step down after cancer diagnosis

    Newcastle United’s CEO, Darren Eales to step down after cancer diagnosis

    Newcastle United announced on Friday that CEO Darren Eales will be stepping down due to a diagnosis of chronic blood cancer.

    Eales, 52, joined the Premier League club in July 2022 after previously holding the role of President and Chief Executive at Atlanta United, a Major League Soccer team he helped establish in 2014.

    Under his leadership, Newcastle achieved notable milestones, including their first domestic cup final appearance in 24 years, though they were defeated by Manchester United in the 2023 League Cup final.

    The club also made a successful return to the Champions League last season.

    “Being CEO of Newcastle United is an extraordinary privilege, and I am incredibly proud to be part of the club’s exciting journey,” Eales said in a statement.

    “However, it has become apparent to me that now is the right time to make this decision so that I can prioritise my health and my family.

    “In the short term, it will be business as usual in terms of running the club’s day-to-day operations, and I will give my full support to a transitionary period that will enable the board to carefully assess and appoint my successor.

    “I’m proud of what we have collectively achieved, and I’m excited to see what’s ahead for everyone as the club builds towards a future of sustained success.”

    Eales will continue to lead the club’s executive team until a successor is appointed, Newcastle said.

  • La Liga boss Tebas agrees with Man City’s Rodri’s on players striking over parked fixtures

    La Liga boss Tebas agrees with Man City’s Rodri’s on players striking over parked fixtures

    President of LaLiga, Javier Tebas, has stated that he wouldn’t be shocked if players decided to strike due to the growing issue of fixture congestion, which he described as a “justified” concern.

    The increase in UEFA’s club competitions and FIFA’s updated Club World Cup has resulted in this season being the longest in club history.

    Rodri, a midfielder for Manchester City, has indicated that players are prepared to consider striking, with several prominent footballers echoing his sentiments about the potential for such unprecedented measures.

    Tebas told ESPN: “Yes, it wouldn’t surprise me because we have reached certain limits that we need to say enough already with this situation.

    “When you see players of the level of Rodri speaking out and other players backing him, my experience tells me you have to take it seriously. Otherwise you will find on the table a strike request. The players have a right to strike like any worker, they are free to do so.

    “When you see these wake-up calls given [by players and leagues] that are somewhat justified, you need to pay attention and find solutions.”

    Premier League managers Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta have sounded alarm bells over exhaustion, while Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said he believes players would be willing to take a pay cut if it meant playing fewer games.

    “This is a maths issue,” Tebas said. “Two plus two is four and you can’t make two plus two equal six.

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/lIwHXdyJSps


    “We are not thinking about the mental aspect of the players, who cannot withstand that rhythm of competition.

    “FIFA organises the calendar and has to find solutions. It’s doing the calendar without even consulting others, let alone reaching an agreement which is what it should do.

    “We believe that certain competitions have to be reduced and, in certain cases, eliminated.”

    Tebas also spoke to ESPN about the possibility of playing a La Liga game in Miami in the near future.

    LaLiga has been pushing to take a regular season game to the United States since 2018, but it needs the approval of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) as well as the United States’ soccer federations, UEFA and CONCACAF.

    “It [a regular league game in Miami] will be played, but when it remains to be seen,” Tebas said. “We have to have an agreement with the federation in Spain.

    The federation is still in a significant void [with a president having yet to be elected], and that is causing a delay for it to happen this season. “We will see if it can be done next season.

    “We would look for a moment in the season where there is a perfect break to come and play in Miami, which is the place where we want to come.”

    LaLiga is not considering staging a regular season game outside of Spain other than in the U.S.

  • Man City’s Rodri out for season -Pep confirms

    Man City’s Rodri out for season -Pep confirms

    Pep Guardiola has announced that Manchester City midfielder Rodri will be out for the remainder of the season due to injury.

    Rodri sustained a knee injury during the 2-2 draw against Arsenal and subsequently went to Barcelona for medical evaluations on Monday.

    At a press conference on Friday, Guardiola revealed that the Spain international has had surgery and will not return for the rest of the campaign.

    “He had surgery this morning. ACL and some meniscus, we think. Next season he will be with us. This season is over. Unfortunately we got the worst news but that is what happened, we will be there to support him and move forward step by step.”

  • Ten Hag slams Man Utd for not giving their best during FC Twente

    Ten Hag slams Man Utd for not giving their best during FC Twente

    Erik ten Hag raised concerns about his players’ mentality, stating that the Dutch team “fought for every inch while we did not” following Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with FC Twente in the Europa League.

    United initially took the lead with a goal from Christian Eriksen in the first half, but the tide turned in the second half when Sam Lammers capitalised on a mistake by Eriksen to equalise.

    After the match, Eriksen admitted that FC Twente “showed more desire,” a sentiment that Ten Hag echoed in his response.

    “Yes, you saw it was the game of their life,” said Ten Hag. “They fought for every yard and we didn’t, and 99 percent is not enough, you have to give 100 percent.

    “You have to kill the game, you have to finish it off. You have to go for the second goal, and then you kill the game.

    “We are very ambitious, and when you have ambition, you have to perform; prove the point. Especially today in the second half, we were too complacent, we didn’t bring it over the line and as a team.”

    Erik ten Hag expressed particular frustration over Manchester United’s inability to capitalise on scoring opportunities. Following their 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace on Saturday, the team managed to take 19 shots against FC Twente but could only find the back of the net once.

    This season, the struggle to score has been evident, with United tallying just five goals in their first five Premier League matches.

    “We have to work on this,” said Ten Hag. “That’s also clear. We have to be more clinical in such situations, but I don’t think that was the only problem tonight. We have to keep going in the second half. Be more consistent. Kill it off, get the second goal, and the game is over.

    “We have across the frontline enough players who can score goals.”

  • Ole Gunnar Solskjaer anticipates a hopeful return to Man Utd even after previous dismissal

    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer anticipates a hopeful return to Man Utd even after previous dismissal

    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has expressed his willingness to return as Manchester United manager, saying he would “say yes every day of the week” if approached by the club.

    Solskjaer, 51, has been out of management since his dismissal in November 2021, after nearly three years at United. He originally took charge on an interim basis in December 2018 following José Mourinho’s exit.

    Despite leading United to a second-place finish in the COVID-affected 2020-21 season, Solskjaer struggled to secure any trophies. His departure came after a string of poor results, including a 5-0 loss to Liverpool, and six defeats in 11 matches.

    With current manager Erik ten Hag facing mounting pressure after just three wins in eight games this season, Solskjaer has hinted that he would be open to a return if the opportunity arises.

    “If the family [United] asks, I would say yes every day of the week,” Solskjaer said in a Q&A at the Oslo Business Forum. “It feels wrong to talk about jobs that other people have now, but I would say yes, of course.”

    Ten Hag, meanwhile, urged patience from United’s supporters in his Thursday news conference ahead of their clash with Tottenham on Sunday.

    “Still we are working and progressing, we made a choice to sign very young players,” he said. “We believe in them this moment and also for the future.

    “We have to build them. That takes time. I am impatient, I want to go straight forward, but also we had success in two seasons.”

    Since parting ways with Manchester United three years ago, Solskjaer has taken on the role of technical observer for UEFA, where he contributed to the Euro 2024 technical report after attending the tournament in Germany this summer.

    While he has been rumoured to be considering managerial positions with clubs in Turkey and the Middle East, Solskjaer expressed interest in the possibility of coaching the Norwegian national team.

    With current head coach Stale Solbakken likely to resign after Norway’s 2026 World Cup campaign, Solskjaer indicated that he would welcome the opportunity to step in when the position opens up.

    “I am a proud Norwegian, and of course if the question arises, when Ståle decides to give up, I will happily engage in discussions,” Solskjaer said. “I am a proud Norwegian and proud of where I come from.”

  • PSG’s Luis Enrique admits he prefers a 50% pay cut over meeting with the press

    PSG’s Luis Enrique admits he prefers a 50% pay cut over meeting with the press

    Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique has said he is willing to take “a 50% pay cut” if it meant he could avoid talking to the press.

    Speaking ahead of Friday’s Ligue 1 game against Rennes, Enrique said: “I have a lot of fun with you [the journalists], that is the truth.

    “I’ve never shortened a press conference. I love to talk … But if I had the choice and right now I could sign a piece of paper saying I don’t talk to the press anymore and have 25%, in fact 50 % taken off [wages], I would sign it.

    “But I think it’s going to be impossible because the contracts that the clubs sign demand that the coach speaks. I have a good time but if I could avoid it, I would; especially the post-game press conferences because I don’t have the energy to put up with certain things.”

    The former Barcelona, Roma and Spain coach recently showed his frustration during a news conference when he was asked about former player Kylian Mbappé’s start to life at Real Madrid.

    The Spanish manager vigorously shook his head when asked for his opinion on Mbappé’s performance and how his club will move on without him.

    “My God … my God! You’re still here?” Enrique said. “Do you live here [in Paris] or what? Did you enjoy the Olympics? Good.”

    Mbappé’s transfer saga ended in June when the forward agreed to join Madrid as a free agent after his contract with PSG expired.

    The theme of the press conferences was always centred on the France captain, much to the exasperation of Enrique.

    When asked in May, if he had spoken to Mbappé about his move to Madrid, Luis Enrique said: “I think that today is a rainy day, but at the same time very nice because it allows you to breathe a different air.

    “I like rainy days, it reminds me of my homeland, Gijón. I think I have answered perfectly what you asked me.”

  • Bravo! Inaki Williams lauds brother Nico’s decision to stay at Athletic Club

    Bravo! Inaki Williams lauds brother Nico’s decision to stay at Athletic Club

    Ghanaian forward Inaki Williams has praised his younger brother, Nico Williams, for his decision to remain at Athletic Club, despite significant interest from FC Barcelona during the summer transfer window.

    Barcelona had shown keen interest in signing the Spanish winger, but financial difficulties hindered the deal from happening.

    Nico eventually confirmed he would not be leaving, assuring Athletic Club supporters of another thrilling season as he takes on the responsibility of wearing the iconic number 10 jersey.

    Inaki shared his thoughts on Nico’s commitment to the club ahead of Athletic Club’s Europa League match against AS Roma.

    “It has been a very long, very hard summer. A summer of having to make decisions. After several months, for me, the right decision has been made,” he said.

    Reports suggest Inaki played a role in convincing Nico to remain with the Basque club for another year. The elder Williams is now focused on their shared dream of excelling in European competition.

    “Now we have a dream to fulfil, like the whole team. There are few of us who have had the chance to play in European competition with Athletic, and now we are going to fulfil the dream of many,” Inaki added.

    Nico Williams is expected to play a pivotal role for Ernesto Valverde’s team this season, but questions linger about where his long-term future lies beyond the current campaign.

  • ‘I see no captain leading Black Stars – Stephen Appiah passes damning verdict

    ‘I see no captain leading Black Stars – Stephen Appiah passes damning verdict

    Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah has expressed deep concerns about the team’s leadership, noting that over the past five years, the squad has lacked the necessary guidance and direction.

    Addressing the Parliamentary Select Committee on Sports, Appiah pointed out that the current leaders have struggled to inspire and effectively lead their teammates, which has negatively impacted the team’s overall performance.

    Drawing a comparison to his time as captain, the former Juventus star highlighted how he never hesitated to call out even top players like Michael Essien when it was required.

    According to Appiah, this level of accountability and firm leadership has been absent in recent years, contributing to the Black Stars’ disappointing run.

    “As a leader, you have to lead. Certain decisions may not be popular among the players, but you have to take them. I don’t see a captain leading the team now, and when you leave yourself like that, the players will assume that they can do whatever they want to do on the pitch.

    “During our time, which had players like Michael Essien, we fought on the pitch at times.

    We fought, argued, and exchanged words, but it never affected our ultimate goal,” Appiah said.

    Stephen Appiah, however, believes that the players must also take responsibility for their actions.

    Stephen Appiah noted that commitment and patriotism are lacking in the current team, as most of the players do not appreciate the honor that comes with playing for their country.

    “I must say that it is not only the captain. Players who come to the national team must be committed. I do not see commitment. To be selected from a population of over 33 million, you must see it as an honor.

    They must know that they are representing Ghana,” he said.

    Ghana’s poor performance at the 2023 AFCON is under investigation by Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee.

    The Black Stars failed to secure a single victory in their three group stage matches, managing only two draws against Mozambique and Egypt, while suffering a defeat to Cape Verde, leading to their early exit from the tournament.

  • Fan faces a year jail term, 3-year ban, for racially abusing Chukwueze, Vinicius Jr.

    Fan faces a year jail term, 3-year ban, for racially abusing Chukwueze, Vinicius Jr.

    A supporter of Real Mallorca has been handed a 12-month prison sentence and a three-year ban from attending football matches after racially abusing Nigerian player Samuel Chukwueze during a La Liga fixture.

    The Palma de Mallorca Court delivered the verdict, citing that the fan hurled racist slurs at Chukwueze while at the Son Moix Stadium.

    This act was classified as two offences against moral integrity, according to Real Madrid FC’s statement.

    judgementThe court also noted that the fan had previously targeted Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior with racial abuse, which influenced the final judgement.

    “Real Madrid C. F. communicates that the Court of Palma de Mallorca has today issued a conviction against the person who, from his locality in the stands of the Son Moix stadium, directed racist insults against our player Vinicius Júnior in the match played by Mallorca and Real Madrid on February 5, 2023.

    The accused has been found guilty of two crimes against moral integrity, aggravated by having acted with racist motivations, committed against Vinicius Júnior, and also against the player Samu Chukwueze, at that time a Villarreal player, who suffered similar insults in the Son Moix stadium by the same person two weeks later.

    “The court has decreed the sentence of twelve months in prison against the accused, also condemning him not to access soccer stadiums where matches of the National Professional Football League and the Royal Spanish Football Federation are held for a period of three years,” portions of the statement read.

    Racial abuse has been a significant issue for black players in the Spanish La Liga, with Vinicius Junior being a prominent advocate against it.

  • Key insights from Stephen Appiah’s discussion with the Sports Parliamentary Committee

    Key insights from Stephen Appiah’s discussion with the Sports Parliamentary Committee

    Former Black Stars captain, Stephen Appiah, appeared before the Parliamentary Select Committee on Sports on September 25, 2024, to voice his concerns regarding the current state of Ghanaian football.

    His appearance was part of an ongoing inquiry into Ghana’s poor showing at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where the team failed to advance beyond the group stage.

    Appiah attributed the struggles of Ghanaian players based abroad in the Black Stars squad to their limited understanding of the Ghanaian culture, a result of insufficient interaction and bonding during training camps.

    He also emphasized the importance of including more local players in the national team, citing how this approach was effective during his playing days.

    Here are the five crucial takes by Stephen Appiah when he faced parliamentary committee on sports:

    1. “Some of these foreign-based players don’t speak our local languages. Back in our time, after meals, we would gather to interact, joke around, and pray together, which helped us bond. But now, players go to camp and struggle to fit in because they aren’t familiar with the culture. It’s not about respecting or disrespecting the coaches – I haven’t witnessed anything like that.”
    2. “Local players need to be given opportunities to represent the national team. During our era, we had standout players, but we earned our spots through hard work. Take the 2004 World Cup as an example: Osei Kufuor, who was playing in Italy, was replaced in the second match by Shilla Illiasu from Kotoko. This is just one example of how local players have contributed significantly to the team’s success.”
    3. It is not only the captain; all the players who come to the national team have to be committed because it is an honor to represent Ghana. For the past five years, we have been struggling, and it is not only the captain who should be blamed. If the people you are working with have the same goal, it works.
    4. The Black Stars coaches are paid well, but coaches for the Under 17, 20, and 23 teams are not earning anything. If I were one of those coaches and an agent offered me money to pick a player, I would take it. So, we need to ensure that all coaches are treated fairly and compensated like the Black Stars coaches.
    5. I hold the coaches accountable for some of the disrespectful behavior in the camp because it’s their responsibility to decide who plays. If a player starts acting like they are above the coach, it’s up to the coach to take firm and decisive action
  • TUSAAG begins strike for better working conditions today

    TUSAAG begins strike for better working conditions today

    The Technical University Senior Administrators Association of Ghana (TUSAAG) will today lay down their working tools for a nationwide strike against the government’s refusal to revise allowances and adhere to obligations under the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

    The allowances set to be revised include vehicle maintenance, off-campus allowances, fuel, utility, and sanitation/security allowances.

    In a statement dated 26th September 2024, the Association revealed that the government has refused “to honour agreements made in July 2024, following the directive from the Ministry of Finance in May 2024″.

    On their part, the government’s neglect is “a clear violation of rights and demonstrates an unacceptable lack of attention for the Association”.

    The statement also accused the government of being biased in handling the payment of standard allowances, giving preferential treatment to other unions representing similar categories of employees in public universities while neglecting TUSAAG.

    “TUSAAG is unable to tolerate working conditions that undermine the principles of fairness and equity,” the statement added. TUSAAG is demanding from the government an acknowledgement of grievances and a commitment to uphold the terms of the CBA.

    A Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) is a legally binding agreement between an employer (or a group of employers) and a trade union that represents employees.

    It outlines the terms and conditions of employment, including wages, working hours, benefits, job responsibilities, and other employment-related matters.

  • State of emergency won’t work; politicians are engaging ‘galamseyers’ for favour – Allotey Jacobs

    State of emergency won’t work; politicians are engaging ‘galamseyers’ for favour – Allotey Jacobs

    Former Central Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Bernard Allotey Jacobs, has opposed calls encouraging the government to declare a state of emergency to tackle the issue of illegal mining in the country.

    Major rivers in Ghana, such as Pra and Ankobra have been severely polluted with toxic chemicals such as mercury, due to illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

    Given the worsening effects of menace, such as birth defects and developmental issues in children, several individuals and organisations, including Trade Unions, have called on the government to declare a state of emergency.

    During a media appearance on September 26, 2024, Mr Alletey Jacobs vehemently disapproved of this move, stating that it would not make any significant impact in the fight against galamsey since such activities are deeply rooted in various communities.

    “You want him [President Akufo-Addo] to declare a state of emergency? President Akufo-Addo, don’t do it. See, if a state of emergency is declared in galamsey areas, it won’t work. I want to repeat this—any declaration of a state of emergency in galamsey areas will not work. Galamsey has been deeply entrenched for a long time,” he noted.

    Some Members of Parliament (MPs), the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, and the general public have advocated against galamsey, urging the ruling government to take stringent actions against the perpetrators.

    But Mr. Allotey believes that these calls from politicians are mere lip service, accusing them of seeking favour and votes from those involved in illegal mining ahead of the 2024 elections.

    “Politicians are talking about galamsey because they want favours; they want votes from those working in the galamsey pits across the country,” Allotey Jacobs remarked.

    He also urged the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and others planning to protest against galamsey to focus their efforts on areas most affected by illegal mining activities. He suggested that an effective way to halt galamsey would be for protesters to demonstrate in those regions where illegal mining is rampant.

    “When I heard that Organised Labour wanted to go on a demonstration against galamsey, I wondered why. There is no galamsey in Accra, no galamsey pits in Accra. Go to the galamsey pits and demonstrate to those working there. That will shake the foundations of this country and show that all Ghanaians want galamsey to stop.”

    “We shouldn’t wait until it’s two months until the elections. Both NPP and NDC members involved in illegal mining will eventually go scot-free. That’s what is happening in this country,” he concluded.

    Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo has established a five-member ministerial ad-hoc committee to evaluate the government’s strategies and actions in combating illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey.”.

    The committee, composed of senior government officials, will assess the policies implemented to curb illegal mining, as well as the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies and local authorities in their efforts to contain the menace. Key areas of focus include reviewing the enforcement of mining regulations and determining the adequacy of resources provided to combat the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining.

    Leading the committee is National Security Minister Albert Kan-Dapaah, who will be joined by Lands and Natural Resources Minister Samuel Abu Jinapor, Defense Minister Dominic Nitiwul, Employment Minister Ignatious Baffour Awuah, and Information Minister Fatima Abubakar. Their mandate includes examining the impact of illegal mining on the country’s natural resources and providing recommendations to enhance the government’s ongoing anti-galamsey initiatives.

  • Be fair to oil and gas investors; commit to contract sanctity – US Ambassador to gov’t

    Be fair to oil and gas investors; commit to contract sanctity – US Ambassador to gov’t

    United States Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has called on the government and key stakeholders in the oil and gas sector to honour the terms of contracts signed with industry partners.

    She stressed that doing so would ensure a stable and conducive business environment, which, in turn, would foster economic growth for the West African country.

    Speaking at the 2024 Ghana Oil and Gas Conference organised by the Ghana Upstream Petroleum Chamber and held at the Accra Marriott Hotel, Ambassador Palmer further highlighted the importance of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) adopting more investor-friendly tax policies to attract and retain investment in the sector.

    “Improving Ghana’s business climate will be an important next step and one it must tackle. This means a commitment to contract sanctity, including provisions on international arbitration.

    It means clear, consistent, and fair treatment by the Ghana Revenue Authority. It means speedy dispute resolution,” she remarked.

    The U.S. Ambassador added, “It means real consultations on changes to localisation requirements and timely payments, as well as proper application of VAT exemptions in this key sector,” she emphasised.

    The Ghana Oil and Gas Conference is held annually to evaluate the performance of Ghana’s upstream oil and gas industry and to share ideas on how to further develop and invigorate the sector.

    The conference includes presentations on critical issues such as monetising natural gas resources, deepening local content, and securing financing for Ghanaian service companies. The event typically lasts two days and is held annually.

    The oil and gas industry in Ghana is subjected to a variety of taxes and levies, which include a 35% corporate income tax, a surface rental fee, and a royalty rate ranging from 5% to 12.5% depending on the field’s production level.

    From 2018 to 2023, exploration activities in Ghana have reduced by over 40%, according to reports. Investment in the oil sector dropped from $3 billion in 2015 to around $1 billion in 2022.

    The government’s revenue from the oil sector has fluctuated, with a notable decline from $980 million in 2019 to approximately $830 million in 2022, reports have shown.

    The upstream oil and gas sector in Ghana contributed 3.7 percent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2020 and recorded a growth rate of -4.6 percent (at constant 2013 prices), according to the Ministry of Finance.

    The 2023 annual report by the Public Interest Accountability Committee (PIAC) revealed that Ghana produced 48,247,036.61 barrels of oil in 2023, down from 51,756,481 barrels in 2022. This decline continues a trend from the peak production year of 2019 when 71,439,585 barrels were produced. 

    Production fell to 66,926,806 barrels in 2020, representing a 6.32% decline. This downward trend continued with 55,050,391 barrels in 2021, a 17.75% decline; 51,756,481 barrels in 2022, a 5.98% decline; and 48,247,036.61 barrels in 2023, a 6.78% decline.

  • I knew they’d feel uneasy in their answers – Wisdom Woyomee on NSA Parliamentary Hearing

    I knew they’d feel uneasy in their answers – Wisdom Woyomee on NSA Parliamentary Hearing

    Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Sports, Culture, and Tourism, Wisdom Kobena Woyome, has expressed that he was not shocked by the National Sports Authority’s (NSA) uneasy responses during the inquiry into the poor condition of sports facilities across Ghana.

    Woyome, who is also the Member of Parliament for South Tongu, shared his thoughts in an exclusive interview with ChannelOne Sports following the second day of the hearing.

    During the first day of the proceedings, Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif appeared before the committee, with Woyome describing the Minister’s approach as overly defensive.

    On Day Two, NSA Board Chairman Seth Panwum addressed several concerns, particularly the fact that Ghana lacks a CAF-approved stadium for hosting international matches.

    Woyome commented on the matter afterward.

    “Of course, I expect them to always be a bit jittery with answers to some of the questions because when I wanted them to know that it appears they are overwhelmed, I mean they are overwhelmed with all the responsibilities that they need to manage all these facilities across the country and they are not able hence the situation we find the facilities in.”

    Ghana is on the cards to play its “home” 2025 AFCON qualifier against Sudan in October outside Ghana due to the absence of a CAF-approved stadium in the country.

  • Cape Coast, Accra Sports stadia set to host Ghana-Sudan match – NSA claims

    Cape Coast, Accra Sports stadia set to host Ghana-Sudan match – NSA claims

    The National Sports Authority (NSA) has announced that both the Accra and Cape Coast stadiums are fully prepared to host Ghana’s upcoming AFCON 2025 qualifier against Sudan.

    This update comes as the official venue for the matchday three fixture remains undecided following CAF’s ban on the Baba Yara Stadium due to its poor playing surface.

    While there has been speculation about the game being relocated to Ivory Coast, NSA Board Chairman, Seth Panwum, assured that both the Accra and Cape Coast stadiums are in suitable condition to host the match.

    “Cape Coast is ready, Accra is ready.

    Send your (CAF’s) men to come and have a look at it; this is where we are as of now so we are waiting for them (CAF) to come and I can assure you that if they come, the game will be played in Ghana,” he said when appeared before the Parliamentary Select Committee on Sports, Culture and Tourism on Wednesday.

    The Black Stars are set to regroup for their doubleheader against Kwesi Appiah’s Sudan next month.

  • The referees are so bad! – Getafe’s Uche on racism in LaLiga

    The referees are so bad! – Getafe’s Uche on racism in LaLiga

    Getafe’s Nigerian midfielder, Christantus Uche, has expressed frustration with LaLiga referees for not taking action against the rough play he’s faced from opposing teams. Additionally, Uche, 21, condemned the racist abuse he has endured from fans.

    In his debut season in LaLiga after transferring from lower-league club Ceuta, Uche claimed that referees have not afforded him the same protection as other players on the field.

    “First two matches or three matches, I saw it with my eyes the referees are are so bad, they are so bad,” he told ESPN earlier this week. “They will kick me, the referee will just say I should stand up. No, it’s a foul, you have to blow it.

    “But if they kick another person the referee will just blow it. And it’s so painful, you cannot do anything, you don’t have any power because the referee has power to do anything he wants to do.

    “No, he has to stop it. Me I will fall down, they will kick me and I will fall down in front of the referee and the referee will not do anything. No it’s not good.”

    He added: “Racism is not good, it has to stop. Everybody is the same, everybody is equal.”

    Getafe president Angel Torres believes Uche made “a complete mistake” to talk about the referees.

    He also blamed the journalist who interviewed the player and Getafe’s press officers for not protecting Uche, who is not fluent in Spanish — though the interview was conducted in English.

    “He has made a complete mistake,” Torres told El Chiringuito TV when asked about Uche’s comments regarding Spanish referees.

    “The fact that it is not the right question to ask a young man who has just arrived does not justify him speaking badly of the referees or anyone else.

    “I will talk to him as I haven’t seen the full interview. I don’t want to justify it, but someone who doesn’t speak Spanish, who has a microphone placed in front of him, it seems to me that the journalist is more at fault.

    “Let’s hope that the [Spanish Football Federation disciplinary] committees understand it. The people in charge of my press office who were not there but have listened to it, and the journalists who asks that question to a lad who just arrived a month and a half ago, are just as guilty. That doesn’t justify him having to speak badly of anyone.”

    Uche also spoke out about racist abuse he said he’s received supporters, something that has been a frequent issue at Spanish stadiums.

    “Both the fans, some of the fans, they will be hailing you ‘f—— black,’ you are a ‘black this this, that that.’ No it’s not good. It’s not good.”