TIG Post

Author: Abigail Ampofo

  • NPP’s Osei Bempah names Bagbin as the worst Speaker under Fourth Republic

    NPP’s Osei Bempah names Bagbin as the worst Speaker under Fourth Republic

    Member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Team, Kwame Osei Hweree Bempah, has labeled Alban Bagbin as the worst Speaker of Parliament in Ghana’s Fourth Republic.

    He criticized Bagbin for becoming increasingly intolerant and lacking objectivity in his role.

    This critique follows an incident on July 22, 2024, when Speaker Bagbin expelled Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, the MP for Sefwi Wiawso, from the chamber.

    The expulsion occurred after Dr. Afriyie made a comment deemed rude by Bagbin during a discussion on President Akufo-Addo’s Supreme Court nominations.

    Bagbin, while addressing the House, suggested deciding on the number of justices needed and considering legislation to cap this number.

    This suggestion was met with resistance from Dr. Afriyie, who argued that it was prejudicial. The Speaker’s reaction included having the Marshalls remove Dr. Afriyie from the chamber.

    On the Ghana Kasa show on Kasapa 102.5FM/Agoo TV, Kwame Osei Hweree Bempah criticized Bagbin for his perceived loss of objectivity and urged him to adopt a more accommodating approach.

    “I sometimes don’t understand Bagbin. I think his andropause level has shot up too high after becoming the Speaker of Parliament. He has become unpredictable.

    I used to admire him a lot from his days as Minority Leader and Majority Leader. He was very objective. But after becoming Speaker in 2021, he has probably become a power-drunk.

    He’s acting like he got the speaker position by chance. It appears he does not trust himself, so he wants to exert himself as the speaker. At one point, he declared himself the second-most powerful person after the president,” he said.

    He continued: “Is Bagbin a demigod? We have seen past speakers, such as the late D.F. Annan and Peter Ala Adjetey, who were very objective. We saw instances where Bagbin, then MP for Nadowli, had heated exchanges with Speakers on the floor of Parliament.

    He has been a very good parliamentarian but the worst Speaker of Parliament. He is the worst we’ve had in the Fourth Republic based on his demeanor.

    Because he’s been the longest-serving MP, he has forgotten that he is not supposed to participate in debates on the floor of the House. He sometimes feels like he’s still an MP,” he added.

  • Full text: 2024 Mid-Year Budget Review

    Full text: 2024 Mid-Year Budget Review

    On Tuesday, July 23, Finance Minister Mohammed Amin Adam delivered the 2024 mid-year budget review to Parliament.

    In his presentation, Dr. Amin Adam pledged that the government remains committed to sticking to its budgetary limits.

    He highlighted the administration’s focus on fiscal discipline, stressing the importance of managing expenses prudently and preventing overspending.

    Dr. Amin Adam reiterated the government’s commitment to upholding its financial boundaries and ensuring strict budgetary control.

    2024 Mid-Year Speech as at 4am updatedDownload
  • Akufo-Addo speaks on new Deputy IGP’s appointment since announcement

    Akufo-Addo speaks on new Deputy IGP’s appointment since announcement

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has addressed the appointment of Commissioner of Police (COP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the new Deputy Inspector-General of Police (IGP) responsible for Operations.

    This appointment had generated controversy, with some critics suggesting it might undermine the authority of the current IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.

    During the inauguration of 320 new homes for Ghana Police Service personnel, President Akufo-Addo expressed his full confidence in COP Yohuno. He praised Yohuno and affirmed his belief in Yohuno’s ability to effectively oversee operations in his new role.

    “I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the long-serving and respected law enforcement officer, Commissioner of Police Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, on his promotion to the office of Deputy Inspector General of Police with responsibility for operations.

    “I have no doubt that, as in the past, Deputy Yohuno will be a valuable team player and will contribute fully to the success of an effective and efficient police service,” he said.

    Regarding the commissioning of the housing units, the president mentioned that the completion of the 320 homes was one of his promises.

    He noted that the completion of the homes was part of efforts to improve the working conditions of police officers.

    “This morning, we are witnessing the fulfillment of our promise, a vision that has been in progress for some time.

    “… I am delighted to be here today to commission 320 housing units for the police service in Tessano, Accra.

    This milestone not only demonstrates our commitment to improving the living standards of our security personnel but also marks a significant step forward in our national efforts to enhance security and safety.”

  • Photos: Unknown men set NPP vehicle ablaze in Binduri

    Photos: Unknown men set NPP vehicle ablaze in Binduri

    A Nissan Pickup owned by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Binduri Constituency was set on fire by unidentified individuals. The incident took place at the home of Constituency Chairman Samuel Ayaago in Atuba, Binduri District on July 22.

    Witnesses reported that between 9:00 pm and 10:00 pm, three masked assailants on two motorbikes fired shots in front of Mr. Ayaago’s residence, then doused the vehicle, registered GX 4164–17, with what is believed to be petrol, causing it to burn.

    The vehicle was used by Abdulia Abanga, MP for the area and Deputy Minister for Local Government, for his campaign.

    It is reported that this attack follows similar incidents in Zebilla and Pusiga constituencies in June, where NPP vehicles and posters featuring the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, were targeted.

    Abanga visited the scene and condemned the attack, urging law enforcement to find those responsible and calling for calm among NPP members as the investigation continues.

  • The backlash after 2010 penalty miss was intense, it affected me so much – Asamoah Gyan

    The backlash after 2010 penalty miss was intense, it affected me so much – Asamoah Gyan

    Former Black Stars forward Asamoah Gyan has disclosed the impact that the criticism he faced after missing a penalty against Uruguay in the 2010 World Cup had on him.

    In the quarterfinal match against the two-time champions, Gyan failed to convert a crucial penalty in the dying moments of regular time, with the score tied at 1-1.

    The former Liberty Professionals player, who had previously been successful with penalties in the tournament, struck the ball over the crossbar.

    This missed opportunity proved pivotal, as Ghana was ultimately defeated 4-2 in the subsequent penalty shootout, resulting in their exit from the competition.

    “The backlash was intense and it took a toll on me,” Gyan admitted at the Afro Sports Summit in Accra.

    “But it also made me realize the importance of mental health. Athletes need to take mental health issues seriously and seek help when needed” he added.

    Gyan also highlighted the influence of former defender Sammy Kuffour, who served as a mentor and source of inspiration.

    “Sammy Kuffour was a trailblazer. His vision and tenacity for creating wealth helped me through some of my toughest times before and after my footballing career.”

    Gyan, who announced his retirement in June 2023, remains the country’s all-time leading goal scorer with 51 goals and Africa’s leading goal scorer in the history of the World Cup.

  • Brazilian sharks found with cocaine in their system

    Brazilian sharks found with cocaine in their system

    Sharks off the coast of Brazil have tested positive for cocaine, according to scientists.

    Marine biologists examined 13 Brazilian sharpnose sharks near Rio de Janeiro and discovered high levels of cocaine in their muscles and livers.

    The detected concentrations were up to 100 times higher than those previously reported in other aquatic species. Conducted by the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, this study is the first to identify cocaine presence in sharks.

    Experts suggest that cocaine might be entering the waters through illegal drug manufacturing labs or the excrement of drug users.

    Although less likely, lost or discarded cocaine packages by traffickers could also contribute.

    Sara Novais, a marine eco-toxicologist at the Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre of the Polytechnic University of Leiria, told Science magazine that the findings are “very important and potentially worrying.”

    All female sharks in the study were pregnant, but the effects of cocaine exposure on their fetuses remain unknown.

    Further research is needed to determine if cocaine is altering the sharks’ behavior. Previous studies have indicated that drugs can have similar effects on animals as they do on humans.

    Last year, seawater samples off the south coast of England also revealed chemical compounds, including benzoylecgonine, which is produced by the liver after cocaine use.

  • Tesla to produce, use humanoid robots next year – Elon Musk

    Tesla to produce, use humanoid robots next year – Elon Musk

    Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced that the company will begin producing and utilizing humanoid robots starting next year.

    In a social media post, Musk stated that these robots, known as Optimus, will initially be used by Tesla, with plans to start selling them in 2026.

    Musk had previously mentioned that Optimus would be operational in Tesla factories by the end of this year. Other companies, such as Honda and Boston Dynamics, are also developing their own humanoid robots.

    “Tesla will have genuinely useful humanoid robots in low production for Tesla internal use next year and, hopefully, high production for other companies in 2026,” Mr Musk said on his social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

    It came just a day before Tesla was due to release its latest financial results.
    The company’s shares ended Monday’s trading session in New York up by more than 5%.


    The company has said it aims to build an “autonomous humanoid robot” to perform “unsafe, repetitive or boring tasks.”

    Mr Musk has previously said Tesla aimed for the robots to be mass produced and cost less than $20,000 (£17,900) each.
    He is known for setting ambitious timelines for his companies, which he has not always met.

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/j4dDsslYmoU


    In 2019, he said he felt “very confident” Tesla would have self-driving taxis on the road by the following year.

    Earlier this year, Mr Musk said the long-awaited robotaxi would be unveiled on 8 August.
    Last week, he appeared to confirm a report that the event would be delayed.


    Mr Musk did not give a new date but said he had requested a change to the front of the vehicle.

    “The extra time allows us to show off a few other things,” he wrote.
    This announcement followed a Bloomberg News report indicating that the event had been postponed to October.

    Musk’s companies have increasingly turned their attention to technologies like artificial intelligence, autonomous driving, and robotics amidst a period of slowing demand for electric vehicles.

  • US Secret Service boss resigns

    US Secret Service boss resigns

    US Secret Service director Kim Cheatle has resigned from her role following an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

    Cheatle faced bipartisan calls to step down after a heated House committee hearing on Monday regarding the incident.

    Lawmakers’ frustration grew as she declined to answer questions about the shooting at Trump’s campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania earlier this month.

    “As your director, I take full responsibility for the security lapse,” she said in a resignation letter to agency staff on Tuesday.

    Ms Cheatle said she has always “put the needs of the agency first” and it is “with a heavy heart” that she made her decision.
    “The scrutiny over the last week has been intense and will continue to remain as our operational tempo increases,” she said in the letter.


    “I do not want my calls for resignation to be a distraction from the great work each and every one of you do towards our vital mission.”

    President Joe Biden said in a statement that he’s grateful for her decades of public service.
    “The independent review to get to the bottom of what happened on July 13 continues, and I look forward to assessing its conclusions. We all know what happened that day can never happen again,” he said.

    President Biden announced that he will soon appoint a new director for the Secret Service, following recent controversies. In 2022, he appointed Ms. Cheatle to lead the agency, which is responsible for protecting current and former presidents and other officials.

    Ms. Cheatle had served with the Secret Service for 27 years in various capacities, including the evacuation of Vice-President Dick Cheney during the September 11, 2001, attacks and later as the supervisor of Biden’s protective detail when he was vice-president. She eventually became the deputy assistant director of protective operations.

    However, her leadership faced scrutiny after a shooting at Trump’s rally on July 13 left a bullet grazing the former president’s ear. Trump appeared at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee the following week with a bandage over his wound. The incident also resulted in one audience member’s death and two others being badly wounded.

    Lawmakers grilled Ms. Cheatle about security measures at the campaign rally during a tense six-hour House Oversight Committee hearing on Monday.

    Ms. Cheatle accepted responsibility for the security failures but resisted calls to resign. She described the shooting as “the most significant operational failure at the Secret Service in decades.” Witnesses reported seeing a suspicious man, Thomas Matthew Crooks, with a rifle on a rooftop minutes before the shots were fired.

    Crooks was killed by a counter-sniper shortly after. Despite the presence of multiple security and law enforcement agencies at the rally, Ms. Cheatle did not provide new information on how Crooks accessed the rooftop or why Trump was allowed to take the stage.

    Following the hearing, committee leaders James Comer and Jamie Raskin sent a letter to Ms. Cheatle expressing their belief that she should step down. Mr. Comer stated that Ms. Cheatle “instilled no confidence” during the hearing in her ability to fulfill the Secret Service’s protective mission.


    “The Oversight Committee’s hearing resulted in Director Cheatle’s resignation and there will be more accountability to come,” he said in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter.


    In a post on his social media platform on Tuesday, Trump said: “The Biden/Harris Administration did not properly protect me, and I was forced to take a bullet for Democracy.”


    Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson called her resignation “overdue” and said he is “glad she did the right thing”.
    “Now we have to pick up the pieces, we have to rebuild the American people’s faith and trust in the Secret Service,” he told reporters.


    Teresa Wilson, an ex-marine who attended the rally, told the BBC that she is “glad [Ms Cheatle] succumbed to the pressure”.
    “I hope they still follow through with the independent investigation now that she’s resigned. We want answers,” she said.

  • UEFA launches probe into Morata, Rodri EURO 2024 “Gibraltar” chants during celebrations

    UEFA launches probe into Morata, Rodri EURO 2024 “Gibraltar” chants during celebrations

    UEFA has started disciplinary actions against Spanish players Alvaro Morata (31) and Rodri (28) due to their conduct during a EURO 2024 presentation in Madrid, European football’s governing body announced on Tuesday.

    On July 15th, following their 2-1 victory over England in Berlin to secure the European Championship, the players chanted “Gibraltar is Spanish” during a public celebration in Madrid.

    Gibraltar is a British territory located at Spain’s southern tip.

    The Gibraltar Football Association filed a formal complaint to UEFA about the chant, leading UEFA to appoint an ethics and disciplinary inspector to determine if it breached regulations.

    The charges against Rodri and Morata include violating basic rules of decent conduct, general principles of conduct, using sporting events for non-sporting manifestations, and bringing the sport of football into disrepute.

  • Mbappe, Bellingham model in Real Madrid’s new away kit ahead of 2024/25 season

    Mbappe, Bellingham model in Real Madrid’s new away kit ahead of 2024/25 season

    Spanish giants will sport an orange shirt for their away fixtures next season, revealing a striking, vibrant design as they aim to retain both their La Liga and Champions League titles.

    The jersey features an astral, abstract pattern, symbolizing stars in the night sky.

    In a statement released by the club, Madrid unveiled the inspiration behind their unique look, explaining that the design is drawn from “the stars that appear in the sky outside the Santiago Bernabeu.”

    The club continued: “Its design is born from the idea that it doesn’t matter where the team competes because Real Madrid fans are always connected by the stars in the sky.”

    Madrid’s new away kit brings back memories of their third kit from the 2013/14 season—the same season they clinched their dramatic tenth Champions League title.

    In the upcoming season, stars like Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and new signing Kylian Mbappe will don this shirt.

    The Spanish champions introduced their new home kit in June, showcasing a minimalist, classic design that underscores the team’s enduring legacy.

    With La Liga fixtures now announced, Madrid will start their season against Mallorca on August 18.

    However, their first match will be against Serie A side Atalanta in the UEFA Super Cup on August 14.

  • Al Nassr ‘bait’ Kudus in new €1m monthly salary offer – Reports

    Al Nassr ‘bait’ Kudus in new €1m monthly salary offer – Reports

    Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr has extended a substantial offer to Mohammed Kudus this summer, reportedly proposing a lucrative €13 million per season, equating to a €1 million monthly salary, to attract the Ghanaian international to the Gulf region.

    Kudus, who joined West Ham last summer, has quickly garnered attention as one of Europe’s most sought-after players.

    In response to the high demand for his services, West Ham has set his release clause at a significant £85 million, far exceeding the £38 million they paid Ajax for him.

    Despite the attractive offer from Al Nassr, Kudus appears inclined to stay with the East London club for another season. His preference to remain at West Ham is a crucial factor amid the transfer speculation.

    Additionally, Al Nassr is reportedly interested in his teammate, Lucas Paquetá, and has started discussions with the player’s agents about a potential move.

    However, the likelihood of Kudus moving to Saudi Arabia seems low, as significant gaps remain regarding the project and personal terms following initial and follow-up meetings in early July.

    Last season, Mohammed Kudus scored 14 goals and provided six assists in all competitions for West Ham.

  • Frank Annor-Dompreh fined GHS 7.2k for Contempt of Court

    Frank Annor-Dompreh fined GHS 7.2k for Contempt of Court

    Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyire Constituency in the Eastern Region, Frank Annor-Dompreh, has been found guilty of contempt by the High Court in Accra.

    Presided over by Justice Abena Oppong Adjin-Doku, the court convicted Annor-Dompreh after he admitted to the offense.

    Despite his high profile, the court opted against a custodial sentence, noting that he should have been more aware of proper conduct.

    On Tuesday, July 23, Justice Adjin-Doku sentenced Annor-Dompreh to a fine of 600 penalty units, which amounts to GHS 7,200.

    The MP was held in contempt for obstructing the work of Court Bailiffs and Police Officers who were executing orders related to a land dispute.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Va-gWmATGxQ
  • Kevin de Bruyne isn’t going anywhere – Pep addresses Saudi, other links

    Kevin de Bruyne isn’t going anywhere – Pep addresses Saudi, other links

    Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has firmly rejected speculation about star midfielder Kevin de Bruyne potentially leaving the club.

    De Bruyne, a crucial part of City’s team, played a key role in helping the club win the Premier League title last season, marking their fourth consecutive championship and his sixth since joining the team.

    Recent reports have linked De Bruyne with a move to Saudi Arabia, suggesting he might be interested in new opportunities following a successful period with City.

    The Belgian has won every major club trophy during his tenure and has one year left on his current contract. He recently hinted that he might consider a move to the Saudi Pro League due to attractive financial offers.

    Despite these rumors, Guardiola remains confident about De Bruyne’s future at City.

    In a pre-season press conference before their game against Celtic in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Guardiola addressed the speculation and reaffirmed De Bruyne’s commitment to the club.

    “Kevin isn’t leaving,” he told reporters. “If someone leaves, we are going to talk about that and, of course, until the last day [of the transfer window] we have chances. I don’t rule out new players as an option, but I think there is an 85, 90, 95% chance we will have the same squad.”

    Guardiola’s confidence suggests that Manchester City are likely to retain the core of its championship-winning squad as they prepare to defend their Premier League title.

    City’s first match of the new season is set against Chelsea on August 18.

  • “We’ll squeeze him in” – Carlo Ancelotti addresses Mbappe position in club

    “We’ll squeeze him in” – Carlo Ancelotti addresses Mbappe position in club

    Carlo Ancelotti has assured that Kylian Mbappe will find his place at Real Madrid, despite some concerns about his positioning within the team.

    Mbappe, who was unveiled to a crowd of 80,000 last week, joined Real Madrid on a free transfer after leaving Paris Saint-Germain.

    His role at the Santiago Bernabeu has raised questions due to the intense competition for attacking positions.

    Ancelotti now faces the challenge of integrating Mbappe into a potent attacking lineup that already includes Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham.

    Mbappe has primarily played as a left winger, but with Vinicius Jr. currently occupying that spot, Ancelotti may need to devise a new tactical approach for the 2024-25 season.

    Speaking at the Giffoni Film Festival, Ancelotti said when quizzed on where Real’s new galactico will play: “It is my responsibility to find a place for Mbappe. We’ll find a place for him, we’ll squeeze him in.”

    Spanish reports indicate that Ancelotti may consider repositioning Kylian Mbappe to a central role to optimize his impact and adjust the team’s attacking setup. Under this plan, Vinicius Jr. would maintain his role on the left wing, while Rodrygo would continue on the right.

    Jude Bellingham might be shifted further back into midfield, potentially filling the role left by German great Toni Kroos, who retired following Euro 2024.

    Mbappe is currently on a break after a demanding 2023-24 season with PSG and the French national team.

    He is anticipated to make his debut for Real Madrid in the UEFA Super Cup final against Atalanta on August 14, provided he has fully recovered from the broken nose he sustained during Euro 2024.

  • Erik ten Hag-Jadon Sancho reunion could backfire – Man Utd legend Dwight Yorke

    Erik ten Hag-Jadon Sancho reunion could backfire – Man Utd legend Dwight Yorke

    Manchester United legend Dwight Yorke has cautioned Erik ten Hag that his reconciliation with Jadon Sancho might backfire. The English winger has resolved his issues with Ten Hag and is now playing a significant role in pre-season.

    However, former United striker Yorke suggests that tensions could resurface if the Red Devils fail to win matches when the new Premier League season begins in mid-August.


    “It’s a really bizarre scenario there with Jadon Sancho and one I don’t think either party expected to be in,” Yorke said in an interview with BoyleSports, who offer the latest Premier League betting.

    “Ten Hag wasn’t meant to win the FA Cup, but he did. Jadon Sancho wouldn’t have expected Ten Hag to win, which would’ve led to the manager being sacked and his return.

    But Sancho has got three more years on his contract and he’s one of the highest-paid players.

    There are only very few clubs around the world that will be able to afford his salary, so he’s not going anywhere so that’s caused a little bit of a dilemma.

    “How do you settle this? You have a man-to-man conversation and try to settle the whole disagreement. The problem is if they don’t get off to a good start and they’re losing football matches.

    I think fingers will start to be pointed at each other again. It’s a situation to watch and it’s all well and good trying to make up but if things go belly up then these things can blow up in the face of the manager.”

    Yorke also warned United against putting Rashford up for sale, with it widely reported they are ready to listen to suitable offers. The England international endured a bleak run of form that saw him score just eight goals in 43 appearances in the 2023-24 campaign.

    “If it’s £40 million or £50 million then it would be nothing in the modern game and he’s so much better than that, with the ability he has shown us in the past,” Yorke said.

    However, the former striker believes that a £100 million bid would be difficult for new part owners INEOS to turn down.

    “United should keep Rashford, but £100 million would create a dilemma,” he added.

    “If PSG for instance are to bid £100 million, it would really stir up the pot because that is a huge amount of money even though he is still one of United’s best players.”

    As Sancho has been regaining his form under Ten Hag, Rashford had difficulties in the match against Rosenborg and was later rested against Rangers due to a reported minor injury.

    Manchester United will now head to the United States for the next stage of their pre-season. They are set to face Arsenal, Real Betis, and Liverpool before returning home.

  • FIFA faces lawsuit as European leagues, player unions accuse them of ‘abuse of dominance’

    FIFA faces lawsuit as European leagues, player unions accuse them of ‘abuse of dominance’

    Premier League has joined the legal battle against FIFA over alleged “abuse of dominance” concerning the international football calendar.

    The European Leagues organization, representing professional divisions in England, announced that a complaint will be submitted to the European Commission in collaboration with the players’ union FIFPRO Europe, citing competition law grounds.

    FIFA’s decision to expand the Club World Cup to 32 teams from 2025, scheduling it after domestic and international matches conclude, has sparked concerns about the excessive demands placed on players due to congested schedules.

    The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has said of taking a stance against FIFA: “The complaint will explain that FIFA’s conduct infringes EU competition law and notably constitutes an abuse of dominance: FIFA holds a dual role as both the global regulator of football and a competition organiser.

    This creates a conflict of interest, which, consistent with recent case law of the EU courts, requires FIFA to exercise its regulatory functions in a way that is transparent, objective, non-discriminatory and proportionate.

    FIFA’s conduct in respect of the international match calendar falls well short of these requirements.

    “This complaint, that will be formally filed by European Leagues, LaLiga, and FIFPRO Europe will run in parallel to separate actions initiated by individual leagues and player unions at national level.

    The English, French and Italian player unions brought an action with the Brussels commercial court in June. European Leagues and FIFPRO Europe have already informed the European Commission of their decision and look forward to working closely with the Commission, relevant public institutions and football stakeholders throughout the investigation process.”


    FIFA are yet to grant a mandatory 28-day break during annual off seasons, with league and player unions claiming that world football’s governing body has “consistently refused to include national leagues and player unions in its decision-making process”, while also asserting that “the international match calendar is now beyond saturation and has become unsustainable for national leagues and a risk for the health of players”.


    FIFA will be fighting its corner and pointed out that current calendars have been unanimously approved by its ruling council. A statement given to Sky News reads: “The current calendar was unanimously approved by the FIFA Council, which is composed of representatives from all continents, including Europe, following a comprehensive and inclusive consultation, which included FIFPRO and league bodies.

    FIFA’s calendar is the only instrument ensuring that international football can continue to survive, co-exist, and prosper alongside domestic and continental club football.

    Some leagues in Europe – themselves competition organisers and regulators – are acting with commercial self-interest, hypocrisy, and without consideration to everyone else in the world. Those leagues apparently prefer a calendar filled with friendlies and summer tours, often involving extensive global travel.

    By contrast, FIFA must protect the overall interests of world football, including the protection of players, everywhere and at all levels of the game.”

  • Breathlessness, I couldn’t walk, cough well – Joshua Clottey opens up struggles after Gutierrez bout

    Breathlessness, I couldn’t walk, cough well – Joshua Clottey opens up struggles after Gutierrez bout

    Former Ghanaian boxer Joshua Clottey has shared insights into the most challenging fight of his title-laden professional career.

    Renowned as one of Ghana’s most successful pugilists, Clottey reached the pinnacle of his career by earning a world title.

    In an interview with The Game TV, Clottey reflected on his boxing journey and revealed that his match against Mexican boxer Richard Gutierrez was the most demanding.

    Clottey described this bout as the toughest of his career, stating it took him more than two weeks to fully recover.

    Recalling his experience facing Gutierrez, who was the world champion at the time, Clottey admitted he had difficulty breathing after the match.

    “My toughest fight was against Richard Gutierrez. I struggled to cough and breathe properly after the bout. I won the fight by majority decision, and it was my first fight on HBO. He had an unbeaten record of 28 fights, and I had seven wins and one loss.

    “Heading into that fight, I knew beating him would be a tall order because he was very strong. I couldn’t walk after the fight and had to be held by my trainer and girlfriend. It took me two weeks to start feeling my body,” he said.

    On June 29, 2006, Joshua Clottey made a significant mark on the world boxing scene by defeating Richard Gutierrez at the Chumash Casino Resort in California, USA.

    In addition to reflecting on his career, Clottey shared advice for young boxers and athletes, emphasizing the importance of avoiding distractions, particularly from women. He stressed that maintaining discipline is crucial for success in boxing and warned that womanizing could jeopardize their careers.

    Clottey’s professional record includes 47 fights, with 41 wins—24 by knockout—and five losses.

  • English-born Ghanaian Josh Acheampong joins Chelsea’s USA tour squad

    English-born Ghanaian Josh Acheampong joins Chelsea’s USA tour squad

    Chelsea’s rising star, English-born Ghanaian Josh Acheampong, has been included in the squad for the club’s upcoming tour of the United States, a notable achievement in his budding career.

    Acheampong, recognized as one of Chelsea’s brightest prospects, was instrumental in the academy team’s success during the 2023/24 season.

    He made his first-team debut under manager Mauricio Pochettino in March 2024, contributing to a home victory against Tottenham.

    His stellar performances earned him his first professional contract at the start of 2024.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fM7I3Lyskuk

    Acheampong’s highlight came when he scored a header in the U18 Premier League national final against Manchester United, despite Chelsea’s 2-1 loss at Stamford Bridge.

    Chelsea’s transatlantic tour will kick off in Santa Clara with a pre-season match against Wrexham.

    The team will then head to Notre Dame for a game against Celtic, followed by a clash with Club America in Atlanta.

    The tour will wrap up with matches against the last two Champions League winners: Manchester City in Columbus and Real Madrid in Charlotte on August 6.

    Chelsea will return to England to prepare for their final pre-season fixture against Inter Milan.

  • 13th African Games: Over 40 hotels threaten legal action against govt over failure to settle debts

    13th African Games: Over 40 hotels threaten legal action against govt over failure to settle debts

    More than 40 hoteliers have threatened legal action against the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) over unpaid dues for hosting visitors during the 13th African Games.

    The hoteliers allege that, despite receiving an initial 20 percent payment from the Ministry, all attempts to collect the remaining balance have been unsuccessful.

    This year, the 13th African Games saw participation from over 13,000 individuals, including 5,000 athletes, 3,000 technical officials, 3,000 volunteers, and 2,000 guests from 54 African nations, many of whom were accommodated in hotels across Accra.

    As reported by 3news.com, the LOC, in conjunction with the Ministry, had negotiated the accommodation rates before the event, agreeing that 20 percent would be paid upfront and the remaining 80 percent immediately after the games.

    However, despite the games concluding on March 23, the Ministry has yet to settle the outstanding debt.

    “We fed them for 21 days and 21 nights during the three weeks they stayed. Some of us have 30 rooms, others have 40 rooms, and they booked all.

    They promised us that they would pay the balance before the visitors left, but they did not. On the last day, we even wanted to lock them in, but we thought about the bad image it would give Ghana,” a hotelier is quoted by 3 News to have said.

    Another hotelier also expressed disappointment at the turn of events.

    “We have been to the ministries and the LOC several times, and the accountant keeps giving us excuses that they are doing auditing.

    For how long are they going to do the auditing when we have clients to settle? We credited the food items to feed them, the toiletries, etc. We credited a lot of items, so the suppliers are also after their money.”

    “We are prepared to sue both the Ministry and the LOC to unlock our money,” the hotelier added.

    Meanwhile, the ministry according to the report has indicated that it will soon issue a statement to clarify issues surrounding the payment.

  • Story behind how Ghana Amputee coach died amidst Norway Paralympics visa scandal

    Story behind how Ghana Amputee coach died amidst Norway Paralympics visa scandal

    Amputee coach, George Gyamfi Gyasi, tragically passed away in Norway after leading an 11-member Paralympics team to compete in the Fjordkraft Bergen City Marathon in Oslo.

    Gyasi reportedly collapsed and died on April 28, 2024, following an investigation into the team’s trip to Norway for alleged impersonation.

    The National Security Council’s statement detailed how the 11-member Paralympic team fled upon arrival in Norway, noting Gyasi’s death.

    However, sports journalist Saddick Adams clarified that Gyasi, who led the team, did not collapse but rather succumbed to a serious illness, leading to his admission to Oslo University Hospital (ULEVAL).

    “The scandal came to light after the head coach felt unwell. He couldn’t deal with the weather at the time, so he passed away,” he said on Angel TV.

    The Paralympics team has become topical after the president of the National Paralympics Committee, Samson Deen, revealed that the said 11-member team who absconded in Norway forged documents to secure visas and embark on the trip.

    “They forged my signature on the letter and applied for visas for some people who have no affiliation with the Ghana Paralympic Team,” he said.

    Samson Deen’s explanation followed a report from National Security Minister Albert Kan-Dapaah, detailed in a letter dated July 3, 2024, about 9 of the 11 Paralympic team members being on the run.

    The letter stated that the team was scheduled to participate in the Fjordkraft Bergen City Marathon on April 27, 2024.

    However, upon their arrival in Norway on April 25, 2024, they failed to register for the competition and were absent from the event two days later.

    One team member was reportedly arrested by Norwegian security officials while attempting to travel to Sweden from Norway.

  • Ghana’s elections more credible than Europe’s – Kofi Akpaloo

    Ghana’s elections more credible than Europe’s – Kofi Akpaloo

    Leader of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), Kofi Akpaloo, has asserted that Ghana’s elections are more reliable than those in many developed nations.

    He argues that no one, including the Electoral Commission, has the capability to manipulate the elections in favor of any party.

    “Now, we have a biometric verification device to check voters before they cast their ballot, so how can someone steal an election?

    The Ghanaian media keenly follows the election from the beginning to the end, so how can someone steal the election? Anyone who thinks an election can be rigged in Ghana has a small mind.

    Elections in Ghana are more credible than in Europe. With the eyes that are keenly monitoring the election, including the media, who can steal the election? Who is the EC to rig an election, and who will the EC rig the elections for?” he asked.

    This statement comes amid ongoing accusations from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), which has claimed that the Jean Mensa-led Electoral Commission is scheming to rig the forthcoming election in favor of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). The Commission has strongly refuted these allegations.

    During the Democracy Cup presentation by Parliament’s leadership in Accra last Wednesday, Electoral Commission Chairperson Jean Mensa assured the public of fair elections and urged all political parties to respect the results of the 2024 general elections.

    The NDC has criticized Mensa’s comments.

    In an interview on the Ghana Kasa show on Kasapa 102.5FM/Agoo TV, Kofi Akpaloo expressed confusion over the controversy surrounding the EC Chairperson’s remarks.

    “It is only in Africa that we always have election result disputes. Go to the grassroots, go on the field—that is where you will get your votes and convince people to vote for you come the December 7 election.

    Elections are not about being rowdy and resorting to violence. Who can rig either the Presidential or Parliamentary election in Ghana?

    Has EC Boss Jean Mensa rigged an election for anyone before? We have no evidence to suggest that the EC boss may rig the election in someone’s favor. Let nobody deceive you—nobody can rig elections in Ghana. The days of elections being rigged, as happened in 2012, are fast gone.

  • “Confident” NAPO will soon shame his critics – Farouk Mahama on arrogant tag

    “Confident” NAPO will soon shame his critics – Farouk Mahama on arrogant tag

    MP for Yendi, Farouk Aliu Mahama, has predicted that Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) vice-presidential candidate, will soon shut all of his critics.

    According to asaaseradio.com, Mahama is confident that NAPO’s selection will enhance the party’s vote count, particularly in their stronghold, the Ashanti Region.

    He also asserted that people often mistake NAPO’s attitude for arrogance, but he disagrees, saying that “He speaks his mind, just like me.

    He doesn’t know how to pretend; NAPO speaks his mind and he is a confident person. So, he has been misconstrued to be arrogant.”

    Aliu Mahama said this during a TownHall Talk on Asaase 99.5.

    He continued by saying that “Somebody who has been trained by royals can never have any sign or blood of arrogance in his system because his father was a humble man.

    In politics, it is not all that everybody says about you, is right. But I believe it rather helps to shape him.”

  • Election 2024: Judge urges politicians to accept results and not rely on courts to decide winners

    Election 2024: Judge urges politicians to accept results and not rely on courts to decide winners

    A High Court Justice, Justice Anna Taylor has called on Ghanaians, particularly politicians, to accept election results declared at polling stations, emphasizing that it is not the court’s role to announce election winners.

    During her speech at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre’s Stakeholder Dialogue Series in Kumasi, Justice Taylor highlighted the need for thorough education on Ghana’s electoral system.

    She acknowledged that while there is general recognition that elections are decided at the polling stations, there remains a common tendency to turn to the judiciary for resolving disputes.

    “If the necessary education has gone on, the parties involved, [they] should also be ready to accept the results because I hear people say over and over again that elections are won at the polling stations.

    But, of course, they know where the elections are won, at the end of the day, they want to go to the court for the courts to pronounce who has won.

    So, we must understand the law, understand how they operate, and I believe if there is a trust system, then everything will go on smoothly”, Justice Taylor said.

    She also noted that delays in resolving election disputes are often due to the necessary legal timelines and procedures but assured that the Judicial Service is equipped to handle such matters effectively.

    “People may expect that, immediately the petition is filed, within three days, everything must be resolved, it is not possible, because you should remember, there are even timelines. When you should even file your petition, the law has spelled it. Then when it is filed, the other party must respond.

    It all comes within time frames that have been set…but of course, the courts can manage its time, and allot more time to matters that are pending and give some priority to the election petition.”

    “The Judicial Service is ready, and the forums for resolving disputes are already available and when you look at the law, at times, it’s as if we, we are looking forward to having disputes and the law itself is ready to accommodate disputes”, the High Court Judge remarked.

  • Ghana Police Service: 320 new homes to be commissioned by Akufo-Addo

    Ghana Police Service: 320 new homes to be commissioned by Akufo-Addo

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will inaugurate a 320-unit housing project for the Ghana Police Service on Tuesday, 23 July 2024, at the National Police Training School in Tesano, Accra.

    The housing project, which began in 2018, includes seven blocks of two-bedroom apartments and thirteen blocks of three-bedroom apartments, each containing sixteen units.

    Alongside the residential blocks, the development features a multipurpose sports facility, a kindergarten, and additional support facilities.

    In a press release issued on Friday, 19 July 2024, and signed by Elvis Adjei-Baah, the Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Works and Housing, the Ministry emphasized the project’s importance.

    “The completion and utilization of this housing project will augment the government’s other housing programmes that are being rolled out to increase the residential stock of public service workers,” the statement read.

    It said the project represents a substantial effort by government to enhance the living conditions of public service workers and to address the housing deficit in the country.

    The Ministry further emphasized that this initiative is a critical step towards reducing accommodation challenges in Ghana’s urban areas. “This project will reduce accommodation challenges in our sprawling cities and ultimately bridge the national housing deficit, which stands at 1.8 million housing units,” the release noted.

    The newly constructed housing units are set to significantly improve accommodation for police personnel and enhance their overall welfare, which will, in turn, support them in carrying out their duties more efficiently.

    The inauguration ceremony will be attended by senior government officials, representatives from the Ghana Police Service, and key stakeholders from the housing sector.

    The event is expected to mark a significant milestone, showcasing the government’s dedication to meeting the housing needs of its citizens.

  • Spurs star Son’s father charged for verbal abuse of young players

    Spurs star Son’s father charged for verbal abuse of young players

    Tottenham Hotspur, Son Heung-min’s father, Son Woong-jung, is facing allegations of verbally abusing a young player at his football academy in South Korea, according to a police interview transcript provided to AFP by a lawyer on Monday.

    Son Woong-jung, a well-known figure in South Korea and author of a best-selling memoir about his role in his son’s rise to prominence as a top Premier League striker, is now at the center of controversy.

    The family of a 12-year-old player, referred to only as Kim, reported to the police that he was subjected to inappropriate language shortly after starting at Son’s academy in November.

    “I was called out by coach Son for making a mistake during a passing practice,” Kim alleged in the interview.

    The coach then continued with a tirade of foul and abusive language and called the boy various offensive names on multiple different occasions, Kim told police investigating the academy.

    The boy was also allegedly hit with a corner flag by Son Heung-yun, the brother of the Tottenham striker, leaving a large bruise on his left thigh.

    Son Heung-yun previously said that he and Son Heung-min were “hit by our father a lot when training, which is unimaginable these days”.

    “Some of our neighbours even doubted he was our real father,” he told AFP in a 2019 interview.

    Son senior has described his actions at the academy as tough love designed to avoid his young charges becoming “failed athletes”.

    Son Woong-jung asserts that he made efforts to address the situation with the family in a peaceful manner, but they reportedly sought an exorbitant settlement.

    Ryu Jae-yool, Kim’s lawyer, described the case to AFP as indicative of a “long-standing pattern of child abuse masked as training methods.”

    Son Woong-jung and his coaching staff are under investigation, and depending on the severity of the findings, they could face fines or, if necessary, the matter may be taken to court, Ryu added.

    “I expect Son to be indicted and tried at court,” Ryu said, adding that this would “contribute to ridding the country of physical and verbal abuse against youth”.

    Separately, Kim’s family have also reported Son senior to the state-run Korea Sport Ethics Centre for an investigation.

    As part of the probe, authorities will question young players to determine if they have experienced verbal or physical abuse and will refer the case to law enforcement if wrongdoing is found.

  • CETAG vows to fight against illegal salary freezes amid ongoing strike

    CETAG vows to fight against illegal salary freezes amid ongoing strike

    TColleges of Education Teachers Association (CETAG) has vowed to continue its indefinite strike in response to any unlawful attempts to freeze members’ salaries. The association is demanding the immediate implementation of the arbitral award and negotiated service conditions.

    CETAG asserts that its strike is legally justified and accuses the National Labour Commission of spreading misinformation about their actions.

    The Association also disputes claims that its members have received arrears for the 2022/2023 Book and Research Allowance.

    Since CETAG initiated its strike in June, academic activities across Colleges of Education have been suspended. The strike is in protest of the government’s delay in implementing the agreed-upon arbitral award and service conditions.

    At a press conference in Kumasi, CETAG President Prince Obeng-Himang emphasized that the strike will persist until all issues are resolved.

    He warned that any attempt to unlawfully freeze salaries would lead to legal action, affirming that the strike is a legitimate measure against the government’s inaction.

    The Association also denied accusations that its members are conducting quizzes and tests during the strike.

    CETAG clarified that, according to the attendance policy of affiliated universities, students are not permitted to take exams if they miss more than 21 days of lectures or classes.

    The Association urged students, principals, and universities to adhere to this policy and warned of legal repercussions for any violations.

    “The first of such misinformation was put across by GTEC two weeks ago that the Government had paid CETAG members an amount of GH¢199 million as arrears for Book and Research Allowance for the 2022/2023 academic year.

    The fact is that as of today Monday 22nd July 2024, the Government has not paid any such money to members of CETAG.”

    “The second misinformation being peddled by some principals of colleges of education to students is that the affiliate universities shall conduct quizzes and examinations for the students whether the students are taught by the lecturers or not.

    This information is completely false because per the attendance policy of all the affiliate universities, a student cannot take an examination if he or she forfeits lectures/classes for more than twenty-one (21) days.”

    “CETAG is using this medium to advise students, principals and affiliate universities that any attempt to violate the class attendance policy shall be met with legal action by any stakeholder in the education space.”

    “We are by this press statement informing the public that CETAG’s strike action is legitimate since the Union followed all lay down processes before declaring the action.

    The Union wishes to notify the Employer that until it complies with all the outstanding arbitration awards by NLC, the Union shall never call off its ongoing strike action.”

    “Lastly, we want to caution that any attempt to illegally freeze salaries of our members who are on a legal a strike shall be met with a legal action against whoever takes such an action.

    CETAG will no longer tolerate injustice against its members because Ghana is a country governed by the rule of law.”

  • Ferdinand’s persuasion finalized Yoro’s signing with Man Utd

    Ferdinand’s persuasion finalized Yoro’s signing with Man Utd

    Manchester United enlisted the help of legendary defender Rio Ferdinand to persuade highly-rated Leny Yoro to join the club.

    Yoro was pursued by several of Europe’s top teams, including Real Madrid, this summer.

    Ultimately, he chose United, signing a five-year contract following a £52m move from French club Lille.

    Ferdinand reached out to Yoro via social media, welcoming him to Old Trafford. The 18-year-old, speaking to the club’s in-house media, noted that the former England star had already taken a more direct approach in his mentorship.

    “Two weeks ago, he called me,” said Yoro.

    “We spoke for 10 minutes about Man United, so he helped me a lot to make my choice.”

    “He mainly spoke about the club and what it’s like. That this is a historic club with a big story, and if I go there I need to fight for the club, to be ready, because this is the biggest club in the world.

    “It was really good to speak about this.”

    Yoro made an impressive debut in the pre-season victory against Rangers at Murrayfield.

    Based on his self-assessment, Yoro’s style shows similarities to that of Ferdinand, who was signed by United for £29.1m from Leeds 22 years ago.

    “The football of today, you need to read the game,” he said.

    “You need to understand the opponent and I try really to be focused on that. After that, I’m really comfortable with the ball. You know, I’m not afraid to play.”

  • Aston Villa finalizes £50m transfer for Everton’s Onana

    Aston Villa finalizes £50m transfer for Everton’s Onana

    Aston Villa have secured the signing of midfielder Amadou Onana from Everton in a £50m deal.

    The 22-year-old, who played every minute of Belgium’s Euro 2024 campaign, will now have the chance to compete in the Champions League with Villa this season.

    Onana, who joined Everton from Lille for £33m in 2022, made 72 appearances and scored four goals for the Toffees. He was linked with Arsenal in 2023, and numerous top clubs expressed interest in him this summer.

    Villa manager Unai Emery was in search of a new defensive midfielder following the club’s sale of Douglas Luiz to Juventus for £42.35m in June.

    Villa, who finished fourth in the Premier League last season, are bolstering their squad for the upcoming Champions League campaign, their first since the 1982-83 season, the year after they won the European Cup.

    With Onana’s arrival, Villa’s summer spending has reached approximately £140m.

    The club has also invested £35m in signing Ian Maatsen from Chelsea, £18.6m for the dual acquisition of Samuel Iling-Junior and Enzo Barrenechea from Juventus, £18m to bring back Jaden Philogene from Hull, £5m for Ross Barkley’s transfer from Luton, and £9m for Lewis Dobbin’s move from Everton.

    Villa’s Premier League season will kick off at West Ham on Saturday, 17 August.

  • Suspected poisoning as police find 6 people found dead in Thai hotel

    Suspected poisoning as police find 6 people found dead in Thai hotel

    Six people, including two Vietnamese Americans, have been found dead inside a luxury hotel room in central Bangkok, with Thai police exploring the possibility that they were poisoned.

    The bodies were discovered by staff in a fifth floor room at the Grand Hyatt hotel, after the guests missed check out time by more than 24 hours, according to Thiti Saengsawang, Bangkok’s Metropolitan Police commissioner.

    Police said the incident doesn’t appear to be a robbery, and none of the bodies showed any signs of suffering physical violence. Police also believe “they didn’t harm themselves.”

    But Thiti said cups with traces of a white powder were located in the room, along with untouched food that had been ordered earlier. Poisoning has not been ruled out, Thiti said.

    Authorities are currently searching for the seventh person who was part of the hotel booking, and is now a possible suspect.

    The other four deceased are Vietnamese nationals. Thiti said police believe one member of the party tried to reach the door but fell before they were able to do so.

    Police were pictured guarding the entrance of the five-star hotel on Tuesday, after the bodies were discovered.

    A handout photo made available by the Royal Thai Police shows police officers escorting a suspect Thai Sararat Rangsiwuthaporn, who is accused of killing at least twelve victims with cyanide, to the criminal court in Bangkok, Thailand, 26 April 2023.

    Thai policeman’s wife investigated over alleged murder and a dozen other poison cases
    The US State Department said it was “aware of reports of the deaths of two US citizens in Bangkok.”

    “We offer our sincere condolences to the families on their loss. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand ready to provide consular assistance to those families,” State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told a briefing Tuesday.

    “Whenever a US citizen dies in a foreign country, local authorities are responsible for determining the cause of death. We do reach out to local authorities often to communicate with them when it involves the death of a US citizen and we will certainly be doing so here,” Miller said.

    Miller said he did not know if the deaths came up during Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s call with his Thai counterpart, as the call may have taken place before the agency was aware of the deaths.

    Last year Sararat Rangsiwuthaporn, a Thai woman who was arrested on suspicion of murdering her friend with cyanide, was charged with at least 13 counts of premeditated murder, in a separate poisoning case that stunned the country.

  • Ten Hag admits former Utd boss’ assessment of club needing an “open-heart” surgery

    Ten Hag admits former Utd boss’ assessment of club needing an “open-heart” surgery

    Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has affirmed that former interim boss Ralf Rangnick was “absolutely right” in stating the club needed “open-heart” surgery.

    Ten Hag, who took over in 2022 after Rangnick’s seven-month tenure, has acknowledged the German’s assessment.

    Rangnick, now managing Austria, had steered United to a sixth-place finish in the Premier League but secured only 11 wins out of 29 matches.

    Rangnick had asserted that United’s issues required more than just “minor changes” and called for significant intervention. Ten Hag, who extended his contract by another year this month, agrees with Rangnick’s evaluation.

    “Rangnick was absolutely right,” Ten Hag said in an interview with Dutch newspaper AD Sportwereld., external

    “We have been working very hard on this for two years, but he said it exactly right: it is a thorough, very complex operation. And I knew when I started that it was going to be a tough job.”

    Since Sir Jim Ratcliffe acquired a 27.7% stake in United last December, the club has undergone significant changes off the pitch.

    This year, Omar Berrada, Dan Ashworth, Jason Wilcox, and Christopher Vivell have all been appointed to board-level positions. Additionally, the club has committed £50 million to upgrade the training ground.

    In the past week, forward Joshua Zirkzee and defender Leny Yoro have been signed from Bologna and Lille, respectively. Manager Erik ten Hag has also confirmed interest in Bayern Munich and Netherlands center-back Matthijs de Ligt.

    “It remains to be seen whether De Ligt will come,” said Ten Hag.

    “Of course I know Matthijs well, I’m not going to deny that. I wanted to sign him two years ago, but he had already gone a long way with Bayern Munich.”

    Despite working with De Ligt at former club Ajax, Ten Hag says it was United’s scouting department that suggested the centre-back as a transfer target.

    Ten Hag also confirmed that forward Jadon Sancho, who last appeared for the club in August 2023 and spent the second half of last season on loan at Dortmund after falling out with the manager, is available again for selection.

    “Everyone can make a mistake,” said Ten Hag.

    Sancho and Yoro both started as goals from Amad Diallo and Joe Hugill saw United beat Rangers 2-0 at Murrayfield in a friendly on Saturday.

    “The standard was much better, we were much more on the front foot,” Ten Hag told MUTV. “It was enjoyable to watch.”

  • Video: Ho Sports Stadium in a sorry state as weeds take over with faulty lights, seats

    Video: Ho Sports Stadium in a sorry state as weeds take over with faulty lights, seats

    The newly commissioned Ho Sports Stadium, which opened in 2023, is now in a troubling condition, raising questions about its upkeep.

    Sports journalist Saddick Adams shared a video on X showing the pitch overrun with weeds, nearly obscuring most of the field. The stadium also has several removed or damaged seats, contributing to a neglected and rundown appearance.

    The stadium’s roofing and other structural elements appear fragile, making it unsafe for hosting events.

    This deterioration has led to concerns about the level of care provided by the government and sports authorities since the stadium’s inauguration.

    Previously, the Ho Sports Stadium was the venue for the 2023 Independence Day celebrations.

    In response to the video’s revelations, Saddick Adams criticized local officials for allowing the stadium to fall into disrepair despite the substantial investment made in the project.

    “Ho Sports stadium today. It was completed in March 2023 and hosted Independence Day celebrations. If you’re a DCE or MCE and they build this in your community and you allow it to rot to this state, you should be held responsible,” he wrote on X.

    Maintaining stadiums in the country has been a major issue, drawing criticism from both footballers and fans directed at the National Sports Authority and the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

  • India on high alert after Nipah virus fatality in Kerala

    India on high alert after Nipah virus fatality in Kerala

    Health officials in Kerala, India, have issued a warning following the death of a 14-year-old boy from the Nipah virus.

    The state’s health minister, Veena George, reported that 60 additional individuals have been classified as high-risk for the disease. The deceased boy was from Pandikkad, and those who had close contact with him are now in isolation and undergoing testing.

    Residents in the area have been advised to take preventive measures, including wearing masks in public and avoiding hospital visits.

    What is Nipah virus?

    The Nipah virus infection is a “zoonotic illness” transmitted from animals like pigs and fruit bats to humans, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

    The WHO has described the virus as a priority pathogen because of its potential to trigger an epidemic.

    What are the symptoms of Nipah virus?

    Initial symptoms may include:

    • Fever
    • Headaches
    • Muscle pain
    • Vomiting
    • Sore throat

    In some people, this can be followed by:

    • Dizziness and/or drowsiness
    • And/or altered consciousness
    • And/or altered acute encephalitis
    • And/or atypical pneumonia
    • And/or other severe respiratory problems

    How deadly is it?

    The Nipah virus can sometimes be asymptomatic, while others may experience severe respiratory issues. In more severe instances, it can lead to encephalitis, a serious condition impacting the brain.

    The virus has a high mortality rate due to the absence of specific treatments or vaccines. Care is currently focused on managing symptoms and providing supportive treatment.

    How does the Nipah virus spread?

    It can be transmitted through contaminated food and through contact with an infected person.

    Experts say that due to habitat loss, animals are living in closer proximity to humans and this helps the virus jump from animals to humans.

    The Kerala state government recently announced that it was creating an action plan to prevent a Nipah outbreak.

    Last year, authorities in the state closed schools and offices after confirming five cases.

    Where in India has Nipah virus been found?

    The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that the initial outbreaks of the Nipah virus occurred in West Bengal in 2001 and 2007.

    In 2018, an outbreak in Kerala’s Kozhikode and Malappuram districts resulted in 17 deaths. Since then, the virus has been associated with numerous fatalities in Kerala.

    The 14-year-old who recently died was confirmed to have the virus just one day before his death, according to reports from Indian media.

    Kerala is considered one of the highest-risk regions globally for the Nipah virus. A Reuters investigation last year highlighted that the state’s tropical climate, coupled with rapid urbanization and deforestation, creates “ideal conditions for the emergence of a virus like Nipah.”

    What are fruit bats?

    Fruit bats, also called “megabats”, are a grouping that contain some of the largest bats in the world. These mammals, usually found in tropical and sub-tropical regions, are natural hosts for the Nipah virus.

  • Uganda protest: Organisers are “playing with fire” – President Yoweri Museveni

    Uganda protest: Organisers are “playing with fire” – President Yoweri Museveni

    Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has cautioned protesters that they would be “playing with fire” if they proceed with their planned anti-corruption march to parliament on Tuesday.

    Young Ugandans, driven by a desire to combat corruption in government, have been organizing the march via social media.

    They have drawn inspiration from similar demonstrations in neighboring Kenya, where mass protests forced President William Ruto to abandon his tax hike plans and eventually led to calls for his resignation.

    In a televised address, President Museveni warned that the planned protest would not be tolerated by the government.

    “We are busy producing wealth… and you here want to disturb us. You are playing with fire because we cannot allow you to disturb us,” he said.

    Critics accuse President Museveni of ruling Uganda with an iron fist since he assumed power in 1986, while his supporters commend him for maintaining stability in the East African nation.

    Museveni also alleged that some of the protest organizers were “always working with foreigners” to incite unrest in Uganda, though he did not provide further details.

    Earlier, the police had announced that they had denied permission for the march to proceed. Despite this, one of the leading figures of the protest told AFP news agency that they plan to move forward with the demonstration.

    “We don’t need police permission to carry out a peaceful demonstration. It is our constitutional right,” Louez Aloikin Opolose was quoted as saying.

    Earlier this year, both the UK and US governments imposed sanctions on Uganda’s parliamentary speaker, Anita Annet Among, following accusations of corruption. Among has denied these allegations. The sanctions prevent her from traveling to the UK and the US, and the UK has also imposed an asset freeze on her.

    The UK has previously enacted similar sanctions against two ministers who were dismissed by President Museveni over corruption claims. Mary Goretti Kitutu and Agnes Nandutu are facing charges related to a scandal involving the theft of metal roofing sheets meant for vulnerable communities in the north-eastern Karamoja region. Both have pleaded not guilty.

    In Kenya, President William Ruto has called for an end to the widespread protests against his administration, declaring “enough is enough.” These protests, the largest since Ruto’s election in 2022, are scheduled to continue on Tuesday with demands for his resignation and an end to what activists describe as poor governance.

    At a rally in western Bomet County, Ruto challenged the anonymous protest organizers to reveal their motives, questioning what their violence would accomplish. Last month, some protesters stormed the parliament, setting parts of it on fire and stealing the mace, a symbol of legislative authority.

    While organizers claim their protests have been largely peaceful, they accuse police and military forces of responding with excessive force, resulting in at least 50 deaths and 413 injuries since the protests began on June 18, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.

    Opposition leader Raila Odinga has shown support for the protesters, demanding justice for the victims before engaging in talks with the government.

    His stance could potentially hinder Ruto’s efforts to include opposition members in his cabinet, a strategy aimed at resolving the ongoing youth-led protests.

  • If Mahama doesn’t call me himself, he won’t be president again – Popular Zimbabwean pastor

    If Mahama doesn’t call me himself, he won’t be president again – Popular Zimbabwean pastor

    British-Zimbabwean Prophet and businessman Uebert Angel has issued a warning to the National Democratic Congress’ flagbearer and former president John Mahama regarding a prophecy he made about the 2024 elections.

    In a tweet shared by @eddie_wrt on July 22, 2024, Angel, the leader and founder of the Good News Church, stated that Mahama had 10 days to contact him directly if he wished to secure a victory in the upcoming polls.

    However, Angel claims that Mahama missed this deadline by allowing his entourage and officials to address the prophecy instead of responding personally.

    “The Ghana one sent another person to talk to me. They joke with me. If he himself doesn’t call me they will not get it. So they are calling everyone I’m this I’m the brother, I’m the cousin, I’m the secretary and the this and the others.

    Heeee! Me I tell you 10 days you don’t respond. You call some… your office is responding” he said during one of his church service ministrations.

    However, he added that, he received a call from the former president but the timeline had already passed so he had to speak to God about it again.

    “So they called me yesterday and I said look I told you 10 days.So I need to think again. You play with me. I don’t need anything from anyone. I have total immunity. What do you want money degrees I have.

    The guy is good he talks well, can I come over and all that but I said listen I need to talk to God now. He said within 10 days you yourself not your office” he revealed as his congregants cheered him on.

  • He is “our best striker” – Nico Williams on Asamoah Gyan

    He is “our best striker” – Nico Williams on Asamoah Gyan

    Spain forward Nico Williams has revealed that Ghanaian icon Asamoah Gyan was his childhood hero.

    The Athletic Bilbao winger, who has Ghanaian heritage, mentioned that he admired the former Black Stars captain during his youth.

    Williams, who is the younger brother of Ghana striker Inaki Williams, made a notable impact at the recent European Championship, where he scored and was named Man of the Match in the final against England.

    In an interview with 3 Sports during his visit to Ghana, Williams expressed his admiration for Gyan, saying, “When I was young, around six years old, I liked Asamoah Gyan.

    He is our best striker. He scored a lot of goals. I loved Asamoah Gyan.”

    Gyan, Ghana’s all-time top scorer with 51 goals in 109 matches, also holds the record for the most goals scored by an African player at the World Cup.

    He retired from football last year at the age of 38.

    Williams, whose future at Bilbao is uncertain, is on the path to a legendary career himself, having helped Spain secure their fourth European Championship title.

  • South African police discovers huge meth lab worth millions of dollars on a farm

    South African police discovers huge meth lab worth millions of dollars on a farm

    South African police have arrested four individuals, including two Mexican nationals, following the discovery of a multimillion-dollar drug manufacturing operation on a farm in the country’s northern region.

    The South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, conducted a raid in Groblersdal after receiving tips about suspicious activities at the site, according to an SAPS statement.

    During the raid, authorities searched four buildings on the farm and uncovered large quantities of chemicals used in producing illicit drugs, such as acetone and crystal meth, with an estimated street value of 2 billion South African rand ($109.4 million).

    Among those arrested on Friday were the farm owner and two Mexican nationals. The police have indicated that further arrests could be possible as the investigation continues.

    “What makes this different from other [seizures] is the involvement of Mexican citizens,” Katlego Mogale, national spokesperson for the Hawks told Reuters, adding: “It means that our task has just become very difficult.”

    Police found large quantities of chemicals used to make illicit drugs including acetone and crystal meth

    It remains unclear whether the drugs seized were intended for the South African market or for export.

    The Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that its embassy in South Africa has “not received the respective consular notification” and is working with local authorities to gather more information about the case and the involvement of the Mexican nationals.

    The suspects are set to appear in Groblersdal Magistrate’s Court on Monday, facing charges related to the manufacturing, distribution, and possession of illicit drugs, according to the police service.

    Since 2019, police have reported shutting down approximately 131 drug laboratories nationwide. Last year, more than 19,000 individuals were arrested for drug possession during the festive season.

    This year, the Hawks have identified 10 clandestine drug labs and made 34 arrests as part of their ongoing crackdown on drug-related crimes, the statement noted.

    South Africa is dubbed as potentially one of the “largest meth consumer markets in the world,” researchers at the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime highlighted in a 2021 report.

    It was also described by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) last year as “an attractive drug transit country.”

    The UNODC attributed the nation’s growing market for synthetic drugs to its “porous borders,” as well as its geography and international trade links.

  • Nigeria imposes $220m fine on Meta for breach of consumer, data protection laws

    Nigeria imposes $220m fine on Meta for breach of consumer, data protection laws

    Nigeria fined Meta Platforms $220 million, as announced by its competition watchdog on Friday, after investigations revealed that data-sharing on social platforms violated local consumer, data protection, and privacy laws.

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) of Nigeria stated that Meta used Nigerian users’ data on its platforms without their consent, abused its market dominance by enforcing exploitative privacy policies, and subjected Nigerians to discriminatory treatment compared to other regions with similar regulations.

    While Meta has not yet commented, the FCCPC mentioned in a statement that the company had submitted some documents and retained legal counsel, who have met and engaged with the agency.

    FCCPC Chief Adamu Abdullahi explained that the investigations, conducted jointly with Nigeria’s Data Protection Commission, spanned over 38 months.

    The findings indicated that Meta’s policies do not allow users the option or opportunity to self-determine or withhold consent for the collection, use, and sharing of personal data, according to Abdullahi.

    Continuing infringements

    “The totality of the investigation has concluded that Meta over the protracted period of time has engaged in conduct that constituted multiple and repeated, as well as continuing infringements… particularly, but not limited to abusive, and invasive practices against data subjects in Nigeria,” Abdullahi said.

    “Being satisfied with the significant evidence on the record, and that Meta has been provided every opportunity to articulate any position, representations, refutations, explanations or defenses of their conduct, the Commission has now entered a final order and issued a penalty against Meta,” Abdullahi said.

    The final order outlines the steps and actions Meta must take to comply with local laws, according to Abdullahi.

    In May, Turkey’s competition board fined Meta 1.2 billion lira following investigations into data-sharing practices on its Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and WhatsApp platforms.

    Meta has faced opposition in Europe and other regions due to alleged breaches of data protection laws.

    In Europe, Meta’s plan to use personal data to train its artificial intelligence models without obtaining consent has been heavily criticized.

    Additionally, South Africa’s competition watchdog has announced plans to investigate whether digital platforms, including Meta, are unfairly competing with news publishers by using their content to generate ad revenue.

  • Jack Grealish fears his house burglars will never be caught after £1m raid on Cheshire home

    Jack Grealish is “absolutely distraught” and “on edge” following a £1 million burglary at his Cheshire home, with fears that the culprits may never be apprehended.

    In December 2023, the Manchester City forward became the target of an organized criminal gang. At the time of the incident, the England international was traveling for a Premier League match against Everton.

    Ten members of his family were present at his £5.6 million property when the break-in occurred.

    Among those at home was Grealish’s girlfriend, Sasha Attwood, who is now pregnant with their first child and helped raise the alarm. Despite her efforts, the burglars made off with over £1 million worth of jewellery, watches, and other valuables.

    Cheshire Police have yet to detain any suspects, leaving Grealish worried during a crucial period in both his personal and professional life.

    A source has told The Sun: “Jack fears they will never be caught. This left him absolutely distraught — it impacted him and his family badly. Seven months on and no arrests have been made.

    Police say they are still investigating it, but there’s a real fear they have fled the country. Jack is worried they’ll never be caught and will do it again.”

    Grealish said at the time: “I can’t begin to explain how devastated I am over the burglary that took place at my home. My family means the world to me and nothing is more important than ensuring their safety.

    This has been a traumatic experience for all of us, I am just so grateful that nobody was hurt.”

    The 28-year-old winger, who did not make the cut for England’s Euro 2024 squad, is currently in pre-season training with Manchester City ahead of the new Premier League season.

    The team has departed for their summer tour of the United States, where they will face Celtic, AC Milan, Barcelona, and Chelsea.

  • PSG rekindle transfer interest in Man Utd’s Bruno Fernandes

    Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has reportedly expressed interest in Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes as they seek to compensate for the departure of Kylian Mbappe.

    This summer, PSG lost Mbappe, who fulfilled his long-time ambition of joining Real Madrid as a free agent.

    According to L’Equipe, Les Parisiens are now aiming to bolster their attacking options by bringing Fernandes to Parc des Princes.

    Fernandes, who joined Manchester United from Sporting in the winter of 2020, has been a pivotal player for the Red Devils, delivering impressive performances despite the team’s struggles in recent years.

    There have been rumors of Fernandes contemplating a move away from Manchester United, with links to clubs like Bayern Munich and Al-Nassr this summer.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BO2fIMJXX_M

    A TEAMtalk report earlier this month indicated that United had given the Portuguese midfielder the ‘green light’ to initiate discussions with Saudi clubs.

    In 2021, then-PSG manager Thomas Tuchel highly praised Fernandes, despite the midfielder having only been with the Red Devils for a little over a year. Tuchel even revealed that he had urged the club to attempt signing Fernandes before his move to Old Trafford.

    He said: “With my first sporting director in Paris, Antero Henrique, a Portuguese sporting director, and he knew [Fernandes] very well.

    “We fought hard to have a connection to him and to bring him to our team. I got made aware of him more in detail, so we watched more and more games about him and followed him and tried to be in touch with him to make it happen.

    “Obviously, he decided [to sign for Man Utd] and I was never personally in touch with him, but we tried and he went another way. [It is] bad for us that we have to play against him.”

    At the moment, it seems highly unlikely that a move away from Erik ten Hag’s side is possible for the Manchester United captain. However, considering the squad overhaul being conducted by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, the Portugal international could be allowed to leave if the club feels like it.

  • Nico Williams’ family, close associates advise him against Barca move – Reports

    Nico Williams’ future is in limbo as the talented winger ponders his next move following his recent Euro Cup victory with the Spanish national team.

    The 22-year-old is currently enjoying a well-deserved break and weighing two main options: remaining with Athletic Club or transferring to Barcelona.

    Barcelona has expressed strong interest in acquiring Williams, with Deco meeting his agent, Félix Tainta, in Zaragoza this Wednesday to negotiate a potential transfer.

    The meeting, strategically held between Barcelona and Bilbao, focused on discussing and potentially finalizing the terms of Williams’ contract with the Blaugrana.

    Despite this, Williams is under pressure from his family and close associates to stay at Athletic Club.

    According to David Ibañez on the ElDesmarque Twitch channel, his entourage is advocating for him to remain, especially since Athletic Club will host the Europa League final at San Mamés next year.

    Moreover, Barcelona’s financial difficulties, which might hinder their ability to register new players, add another layer of complexity to Williams’ decision.

  • Rawlings role in how Ghana won a trophy in 1991 – Odartey Lamptey recounts

    Rawlings role in how Ghana won a trophy in 1991 – Odartey Lamptey recounts

    Former Black Stars player Nii Odartey Lamptey recounted how former President Jerry John Rawlings played a pivotal role in securing a trophy for one of Ghana’s national teams in 1991.

    Lamptey explained that the team, which featured notable players like Abedi Ayew Pele, had a disappointing performance in an international tournament, failing to progress beyond the group stage.

    Upon their return, there were talks of disbanding the team. However, Rawlings stepped in and directed the team’s management to keep the squad together for a while longer.

    Lamptey highlighted that this decision proved beneficial, as the team, learning from their past mistakes, went on to win the trophy in the following tournament in 1991, bringing pride to the nation.

    “In the 1989 tournament, our first game against Scotland ended in a goalless draw. We drew the second match and lost the last game, leading to our exit.

    When we returned home, former President Rawlings advised the management to keep the team together because we had performed decently and to prepare us for the next tournament.

    “As a result, we worked hard and were able to win the trophy in 1991,” he told Dan Kwaku Yeboah in Twi during the interview.

    However, Lamptey did not specify which national team achieved this feat, whether it was the Starlets, Black Meteors, or the Black Stars, nor did he provide details about the specific tournament.

  • Black Stars retains spot in the latest FIFA rankings

    Black Stars retains spot in the latest FIFA rankings

    Black Stars of Ghana have maintained their position in the latest FIFA Coca-Cola rankings.

    Ghana, four-time African champions, continue to hold the 64th spot globally and are ranked 12th on the continent as of July.

    Following victories against Mali and the Central African Republic in June’s World Cup qualifiers, Ghana saw an improvement in their ranking, which has remained stable in recent weeks.

    During July, the Black Stars were inactive, unlike many European and South American nations that participated in the European Championship and Copa America, respectively.

    At the top of the FIFA rankings, Argentina retains their position after winning the Copa America, while Spain rises to third place globally following their success in the Euros.

    In Africa, the top five positions are occupied by Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, Cote d’Ivoire, and Nigeria.

    Looking ahead, Ghana will resume action in September for the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The Black Stars are set to play Angola in Kumasi before heading to Niger for their second match in Group F.

    The former African champions are determined to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to be hosted in Morocco next year.

  • Democracy Cup: Agyemang Badu labels Hearts-Kotoko game as the most exciting in the past two years

    Democracy Cup: Agyemang Badu labels Hearts-Kotoko game as the most exciting in the past two years

    Former Ghana international Emmanuel Agyemang Badu has commended Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko for their outstanding performance in the Democracy Cup.

    The Porcupine Warriors emerged victorious over their rivals, Hearts of Oak, in a thrilling match to claim the inaugural Democracy Cup on Wednesday night at the Accra Sports Stadium.

    This event was held to commemorate 30 years of parliamentary democracy in Ghana.

    With this victory, Kotoko has earned a trip to the United States to face Major League Soccer team DC United, with the date to be announced by the organizers.

    Justice Blay scored the opening goal for Kotoko with a penalty after 30 minutes, giving them the lead at halftime. Hearts of Oak equalized in the second half with a header from their new signing, Asamoah Boateng Afriyie.

    However, Kotoko regained the lead when Peter Amidu took advantage of a defensive error by Hearts of Oak, securing a 2-1 win for the Kumasi-based team.

    In an interview, Badu described the Democracy Cup game as the most exciting Hearts-Kotoko match he has witnessed in the past two years.

    “For the past two years, this is the most exciting Kotoko-Hearts game I have watched. In terms of passing, aggressiveness, and composure, I think everything was on point.

    Kotoko played well, especially in the first half. The likes of Emmanuel Antwi, Samba, Blay, and others took control in the middle,” he said.

    Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak will continue their preparations for the new season, aiming to make a significant impact after a disappointing performance last term.

  • Boys freed in Zambia following circumcision kidnappings

    Boys freed in Zambia following circumcision kidnappings

    Forty-eight boys have been rescued from a male circumcision camp in Zambia following urgent complaints from parents about their children being abducted.

    Officials confirmed to the BBC that one of the boys, who was on HIV medication, had not taken his anti-retroviral (ARV) drugs for two weeks.

    These secretive traditional rite-of-passage ceremonies involve boys aged 10 to 17 spending up to six months in seclusion in the bush. Authorities revealed that the site, located on the outskirts of Livingstone town near a national wildlife park, was established without permission.

    They alleged that the children were “caged” in unsanitary and hazardous conditions.

    Three of the rescued boys were briefly hospitalized, some needing treatment for complications after circumcisions performed with razor blades.

    The Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) reported that one boy was suffering from bilharzia, a chronic illness caused by contaminated water that affects growth and brain development in children.

    The initiation site, which had been set up two weeks prior, has since been destroyed by fire, according to the national broadcaster. Organizers of these camps often search for uncircumcised boys to undergo the “mukanda” ritual, sometimes forcibly taking them from schools.

    Parents are not consulted, and teachers are often unable to prevent these actions. While some boys willingly participate, many are coerced and told they must adhere to the tradition.

    Mainga Kabika, the top civil servant in the gender ministry, reprimanded the individual who established the camp on Monday. She led a team of officials from various ministries to Livingstone, a tourist destination for visitors to Victoria Falls, to investigate the parents’ complaints.

    “We want to preserve our tradition but you have to follow regulations. You just don’t do things against the law like this,” Ms Kabika said.

    According to Zambia’s Daily Mail newspaper, some boys at the circumcision camp had been physically abused by those in charge after attempting to escape at night, including the boy who needed ARVs.

    Parents were reportedly contacted by phone and asked to pay up to $75 (£58) for expenses, despite not consenting to their child’s participation.

    While surgical male circumcision is available in both public and private hospitals in Zambia and is often promoted as a method to reduce HIV infection, certain ethnic groups prefer the traditional approach.

    This procedure usually takes place during the Southern Hemisphere winter to lessen the discomfort associated with healing, though the rite of passage is intended to test endurance.

    The boys are expected to endure pain and harsh living conditions, such as sleeping on the bare ground without blankets, to demonstrate their transition from boyhood to manhood.

    The initiation is shrouded in secrecy; discussing it is culturally taboo, and women are not permitted near the circumcision site.

    “How do you keep these children without their parents’ consent, is that what the tradition says?” Ms Kabika is quoted as saying.

    Billy Milimo, secretary of the Livingstone District Education Board, welcomed the move, saying the tradition was harmful to the community.

    “You do not know how excited we are. Our teachers will jubilate and dance,” he is quoted by the Daily Mail as saying.

    The owner of the camp was initially arrested but released on condition he burn down the site of the camp – mainly made up of rough wooden shelters – which not only bordered the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park but was also next to a cemetery.

  • Mbappe reveals relationship with Ronaldo in Bernabeu unveiling speech

    Mbappe reveals relationship with Ronaldo in Bernabeu unveiling speech

    Kylian Mbappe expressed his deep connection with Cristiano Ronaldo during his grand unveiling at Santiago Bernabeu, honoring the Real Madrid legend in a special way.

    Mbappe’s highly anticipated move to Real Madrid concluded with a spectacular presentation at the iconic stadium, ending a transfer saga that lasted over two years.

    At the event, Mbappe paid tribute to Ronaldo, who made a legendary transfer from Manchester United to Real Madrid in 2009 and wore the same jersey.

    The stadium was packed with an enthusiastic crowd, with around 85,000 fans in attendance, reminiscent of Ronaldo’s historic reception 15 years ago.

    To honor his football hero, Mbappe mimicked Ronaldo’s famous “uno, dos, tres, Hala Madrid!” greeting to the fans. This gesture was both a tribute to Ronaldo and a reflection of Mbappe’s profound admiration for the Portuguese star.

    After his presentation, Mbappe said at his first Real press conference: “Ending the presentation with ‘Un, dos, tres, Hala Madrid’ was a nod to Cristiano Ronaldo.

    He is a friend who has made history at this club. He has always given me advice on the game and on the ability to stay connected to your passion.”

    Mbappe added on being perceived as a ‘galactico’ signing: “I’m still a nobody at Real, I haven’t played a single match. Such a welcome when I haven’t done anything here yet is incredible.

    Thanks to the fans. I want to show on the pitch what I can do. There is no better place to win titles. If I fit in well, everything will work out. I will put my energy into that to adapt to the team, that is the No. 1 priority.

    The pressure is on for Mbappe as he takes over the No. 9 jersey previously worn by Ronaldo. The former Paris Saint-Germain star will be expected to make an immediate impact when Real Madrid kick off their new La Liga season against Mallorca on August 18.

  • Nico to Barca: Club’s sporting director Deco meets Spain & Athletic Club’s agent

    Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has taken steps to secure the signing of forward Nico Williams, meeting with his agent, Felix Tainta, in Zaragoza on Wednesday.

    The Blaugrana aim to finalize the transfer ahead of rivals Arsenal and Chelsea.

    Reports from Jijantes highlight that discussions between Deco and Tainta revolved around contract terms for the Athletic Club attacker, who has been on Barcelona’s radar for some time.

    Earlier in the week, The Athletic noted that both Arsenal and Chelsea remain interested in the young Spanish winger, who played a pivotal role in Spain’s recent European Championship victory, their fourth title in history.

    Barcelona supporters are optimistic that Williams, alongside Lamine Yamal, will bring their successful international partnership to club level in the upcoming 2024-25 season.

    Hansi Flick’s squad has already kicked off their pre-season preparations and is set to travel to the US for friendly matches against prominent clubs like Manchester City and Real Madrid later this month.

  • GMA calls for elimination of certificate and diploma courses in nursing

    GMA calls for elimination of certificate and diploma courses in nursing

    Ghana Medical Association (GMA) is advocating strongly for the discontinuation of certificate and diploma nursing programs, pushing for all nursing education to be elevated to the degree level.

    This proposed reform aims to address challenges within the country’s healthcare sector by ensuring a more qualified and professional nursing workforce.

    According to Prof. Ernest Yorke, Vice President of the GMA, as reported on myjoyonline.com, there is a pressing need for a highly skilled nursing population.

    He criticized the current system as “bizarre,” citing the existence of three different entry levels into the nursing and midwifery profession.

    Prof. Yorke emphasized the prevalence of auxiliary nurses, comprising nearly 60% of the workforce, and stressed the urgency of increasing the number of degree-prepared nurses to become the majority.

    “We think that the majority must be degree-prepared,” Yorke stated, stressing the need for a more skilled nursing population.

    “We have to cancel certificate programmes, we have to cancel diploma programs, and train nurses and midwives at the degree level,” he added.

    Drawing comparisons with Nigeria, where a first degree is mandatory for registered nurses and midwives, Prof Yorke argued that Ghana has the necessary resources and educational institutions to implement similar standards.

    “We have the human resources and the schools so we can do that. The diploma and degree-trained nurses and midwives are professional nurses,” he noted.

    The GMA’s recommendation to elevate nursing education to the degree level is a crucial step towards enhancing the quality of Ghana’s healthcare system.

    By prioritizing degree-prepared nurses, Ghana can improve patient outcomes, reduce maternal mortality, and align with international standards.

    The successful implementation of this proposal will require collaboration among stakeholders, but the potential benefits to the healthcare system and the nation as a whole make it a worthwhile endeavour.

  • Democracy Cup: Asante Kotoko thump Hearts of Oak in 2-1 win

    Democracy Cup: Asante Kotoko thump Hearts of Oak in 2-1 win

    Asante Kotoko emerged victorious over arch-rivals Hearts of Oak in the inaugural Democracy Cup, held at the Accra Sports Stadium on Wednesday night, July 17, marking 30 years of parliamentary democracy in Ghana.

    The match served as a platform for both teams to rejuvenate their fan base following a challenging season, with Asante Kotoko securing a 2-1 win.

    Justice Blay opened the scoring for Kotoko with a penalty in the 30th minute, maintaining their lead until halftime.

    Hearts of Oak equalized in the second half through a controversial header from new signing Asamoah Boateng Afriyie, which occurred amidst a contentious injury to Kotoko’s goalkeeper, Frederick Asare.

    However, Asante Kotoko reclaimed the lead when Peter Amidu capitalized on a defensive error, sealing the victory.

    The win not only grants Asante Kotoko a spot in an upcoming match against Major League Soccer side DC United in the United States but also boosts their morale ahead of the 2024/25 season.

    In contrast, Hearts of Oak faces a challenging period as they seek to address their recent struggles and regain their competitive edge.

  • 90 giant African snails confiscated by US border officials from Ghanaian traveller

    90 giant African snails confiscated by US border officials from Ghanaian traveller

    US Customs and Border Protection officials seized ninety giant African snails from a passenger arriving from Ghana at Detroit Metropolitan Airport last month.

    Agriculture specialists at the airport detected an unusual odor emanating from the passenger’s bag, prompting a secondary inspection after the traveler had declared fresh food items.

    The passenger reportedly declared other prohibited items like beef skin and fresh peppers but did not declare the giant snails.

    Believing the snails were intended for consumption, customs agents confiscated them. The snails, ranging from three to six inches in length, are considered a delicacy in many West African countries but are classified as invasive in the US and other Western nations.

    According to a previous CNN report, these gastropods consume over 500 types of plants and can even consume plaster and stucco from buildings for calcium.

    The US Department of Agriculture warns that giant African snails can pose serious health risks to humans, as they may carry the rat lungworm parasite, which can lead to meningitis.

    This incident follows a similar one in 2023 when live giant African snails were discovered in the luggage of another traveler arriving from Ghana at Detroit Metropolitan Airport.

  • CAF to pay $250k to Ghanaian music producer in copyright legal tussle

    CAF to pay $250k to Ghanaian music producer in copyright legal tussle

    Ghanaian music producer Kwabena Ofei-Kwadey Nkrumah, widely known as Kobby Spiky, has emerged victorious in a copyright infringement lawsuit against the Confederation of African Football (CAF), according to reports.

    In 2022, Spiky took legal action against CAF, alleging unauthorized use of his music beat, “Okomfo Anokye,” for promotional purposes.

    Justice Emmanuel Lodoh presided over the case, ruling in favor of Spiky after a two-year legal battle.

    Although CAF acknowledged using Spiky’s work for promotional activities, they denied any commercial exploitation.

    The court mandated CAF to remove all unauthorized materials from social media platforms and awarded Spiky damages amounting to USD 250,000 in Ghanaian cedis.

    In response to the verdict, Spiky underscored the broader implications of the victory for the creative arts industry as a whole.

    “This victory isn’t just for me; it’s a win, especially for all creatives and for young Ghanaians who have lost faith in the system. Our legal system works, and intellectual property rights are real and respected in Ghana.

    “Just as they say, ‘The wheels of justice turn slowly, but grind exceedingly fine,’” he said.