Coach of the Black Challenge team, Richard Obeng,has condemned the National Sports Authority (NSA) and the Ministry of Youth and Sports for their neglect of the team upon their return from the African Amputee Football Cup of Nations (AAFCON) in Egypt.
Despite successfully defending their title, the national amputee football team encountered significant challenges upon returning home.
During an exclusive interview in Kumasi, Coach Obeng detailed the team’s hardships and highlighted the lack of recognition from the authorities.
He also disclosed that their initiative to seek support elsewhere prompted a delayed response from the Ministry.
“We have not been going around begging for alms after winning the tournament,” Obeng said.
“We first went to the NSA and inquired why no one met us to receive our trophy. We were told they were not aware of our return. This was false because the date for our return tickets was known to them.”
The coach also recounted their visit to Pastor Adom Kyei, who had previously purchased the jerseys for the team.
“We went to him because he purchased the jerseys we wore at the tournament for us. We had no jerseys. We went there just to show our appreciation,” Obeng explained.
The turning point came after the team met with former President John Mahama. This meeting seemed to prompt the Ministry to finally reach out.
“We were only called after we visited Ex-President Mahama. Prior to that, we had made a request to present the trophy to the Minister on the 3rd of June or any date that might be appropriate for the Minister. But we didn’t get any response. We only got his attention after we visited the ex-president,” Obeng stated.
The Black Challenge team won the AAFCON 2024 in Egypt,for the second time after beating Morocco in the final.
Cristiano Ronaldo has secured his spot in the Portugal squad for Euro 2024 “on merit,” according to head coach Roberto Martinez.
Ronaldo, set to become the first player to participate in six European Championships, was previously benched by former coach Fernando Santos during the 2022 World Cup, sparking speculation about his potential retirement from international football.
Since then, Ronaldo has moved from Europe to play for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. After netting 50 goals for Al Nassr last season, the 39-year-old has been selected for Euro 2024 in Germany. Martinez affirmed that Ronaldo’s selection is well-deserved.
“Cristiano is in the national team on merit,” Martinez told a news conference on Monday ahead of Portugal’s opening Group F game against Czechia. “Nobody gets into the national team by just having a name. Cristiano scored 50 goals in 51 games—consistent with his club in his league—and he scored nine goals in our qualification rounds.
“He’s a goal scorer and for us, he’s someone who can make that final move. He can stretch defences and open spaces. Over the years, he has changed his way of playing slightly, but I can only say that Cristiano is in the national team on merit and the numbers are there to back that up.”
Ronaldo, Portugal’s captain, is poised to start against Czechia in Leipzig after showcasing his fitness with a full 90-minute performance in the final warm-up game against Ireland.
He scored twice in a 3-0 victory, bringing his international goal tally to 130 in 207 appearances for the national team.
“He represents inspiration; he represents that everything is possible,” teammate Rúben Dias said of Ronaldo. “He represents that you can dream and you can achieve it. He represents a lot of things, but mainly, I would like to say that it’s a pleasure to have him with us.
“More than all these little things, his being with us in this moment of his career shows that he reallywants to win again. He’s our captain and we follow him until the end.”
The desire, ambition, and drive for power have instilled in Ghanaian political parties a level of animosity and dissatisfaction towards each other that they are willing to set the country ablaze just to gain power, according to former Chief of Defence Staff, Joseph Nunoo-Mensah.
Speaking on TV3’s Hot Issues on June 17, 2024, the former Chief of Defence Staff fumed at the attitude of politicians of opposing political parties as they raced for the Jubilee House.
“And now we hate ourselves so much so that, if I say we, I mean the people of Ghana, especially our political parties, hate each other so much that they can burn; in fact, they are prepared to burn the country; it means securing power rather than letting their opponent win,” he opined.
Our political parties are prepared to burn the country just to secure power. Politics in Ghana is just to make money – Joseph Nunoo-Mensah#HotIssuespic.twitter.com/Fe1ATyffhO
General Secretary of the Federation of Labour, Abraham Koomson, has accused organised labour of failing to act to stop the sale of the hotels belonging to the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT).
Mr Koomson says the effort of the lawmaker for North Tongu to get the sale halted is a welcome move.
“Organised Labour lost the battle; that’s why the intervention of the MPs was critical,” he said on the Ghana Tonight show on TV3 Monday, June 17.
Mr Ablakwa had said he wants President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to halt the sale of the hotels, hence the Hands Off Our Hotels Demonstration’ today, Tuesday, June 18.
Mr Ablakwa told the media on Monday, June 17, that “President Akufo-Addo must immediately stop the sale of our SSNIT hotels.
“We want an immediate declaration from the president because since we started, all he has done is tell Organised Labour to go and meet the Employment Minister at which meeting Organised Labour told us that they tried to convince them to allow the sale, so clearly, the president and his appointees don’t want to stop the sale, and we are going to insist that they back out.”
The Minority in Parliament hasthrown its support behind the demonstration. The Minority in a statement, also urged the public to join the demonstration.
“We, therefore, want to use this opportunity to indicate the Minority’s strong opposition to the sale of these hotels to the Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Bryan Acheampong, and urge the public to join Tuesday’s “Hands Off Our Hotels Demonstration” to send a strong signal to the government that the people of Ghana take exception to this shady deal. Enough is enough!
“The attempt to sell off profitable state-owned hotels to Hon. Bryan Acheampong is wrong, unacceptable and must not be condoned,’ their statement said.
Special aide to formerPresident John Dramani Mahama,Joyce Mogtari, stated that the 24-hour economy proposal by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer will generate sustainable employment opportunities. She added that this initiative would also invigorate Ghana’s economy, fostering growth and prosperity for all.
In a post on her X platform, Bawah Mogtari said, “The Mahama 24 Hour Economy is a real game-changer, it will create sustainable jobs, open up our economy and create growth and prosperity for all.
“That’s why we need the extra hours to expand businesses and create growth for the economy. This will be done for the first time with support from the incoming Mahama administration to ensure that companies, including government and the private sector, can fully implement the Mahama24HourEconomy to introduce the three-shift approach for jobs and to reset the economy.”
Earlier, Mr. Mahama emphasised once again the transformative potential of his 24-hour economy initiative for Ghana’s development.
During his address to the nation on Sunday, June 9, he underscored that the 24-hour concept is not only a solution for the present but also a blueprint for the future.
According to him, this strategy will establish a conducive environment with tailored policies enabling businesses, companies, and government institutions to operate continuously using a three-eight-hour shift system.
Mr. Mahama also highlighted his administration’s plan to introduce two additional work shifts alongside the traditional 8-hour system.
He believes this move will substantially increase employment opportunities in both the public and private sectors, potentially doubling or even tripling current job participation levels.
“This is the 24-hour economy optimisation strategy: giving more to society, providing efficient service delivery, and generating decent and well-paying jobs.
“The benefits of this system will include, but are not limited to, 24-hour port and harbour services, 24-hour customs services,24-hour DVLA services, 24-hour agro-processing factories, 24-hour manufacturing industries, 24-hour construction companies and many more.”
According to him, “the consequences of the invasion go far beyond the confines of Europe.
Indeed, in many ways, Africa has been the greatest victim,” he said in his remarks.
He called for Russia and China to join in the talks process “if we’re ever going to arrive at a definitive settlement.”
Akufo-Addo said that Ghana opposes “great power hegemony and the bullying of small states by big powers. It is in this context that we view and continue to view Russia’s invasion and acts of aggression.”
Eighty countries, including Ukraine, and four European institutions signed the final joint communiqué at the Switzerland peace summit on June 16, as reported by a Kyiv Independent journalist present at the event.
Ghana’s presidency noted that over 100 countries and organisations participated in the summit.
However, several countries were notably absent from the list of signatories, including India, Armenia, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Indonesia, Bahrain, Colombia, South Africa, Thailand, Mexico, and the United Arab Emirates.
China did not send representatives. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged China to join in the development of the peace proposals.
“China could help us,” Zelensky told reporters, adding that though it had close ties with the Kremlin, “Ukraine never said that China is our enemy. I always say that Ukraine has only one enemy: Putin.”
Throughout the full-scale invasion, sales of oil and other hydrocarbonsto China and India havebecome the primary source of funds for Russia’s state budget and war effort.
A German YouTuber claimed he infiltrated the European Championship (Euro 2024) opening ceremony by disguising himself in a mascot costume, highlighting security vulnerabilities at the tournament.
Marvin Wildhage posted a video demonstrating how he accessed the Munich stadium last Friday while dressed in the faux costume. He was able to dance on the corner of the field before eventually being escorted away by a UEFA staff member.
UEFA said in a statement, “We can confirm that there was an incident with a fake mascot costume at the match in Munich… between Germany and Scotland. Three people have gained unauthorised access.
“UEFA has assessed the situation and initiated the necessary organisational measures. Three individuals have been banned from entering stadiums hosting UEFA Euro 2024 matches.
Please understand that we cannot provide any further information due to the ongoing proceedings of the investigating authorities.”
Marvin Wildhage revealed that he purchased his bear costume online from China for €3,200 ($3,400) and crafted fake tournament credentials by replicating designs seen in social media posts from Euro 2024 employees.
Despite the credentials failing a scan at the Allianz Arena entrance, Wildhage and an accomplice were allowed entry by a security guard who was swayed by a counterfeit parking pass, as depicted in his video.
After participating in the opening ceremony, Wildhage was detained by security and held in a facility within the arena until well after Germany’s 5-1 victory over Scotland had concluded.
This incident isn’t the first time Wildhage has highlighted security vulnerabilities around the tournament. In a previous video, he managed to access the field dressed as a player during a Germany training session last month.
The tournament draw in December also faced disruption when moaning sounds were played during the ceremony at a Hamburg concert hall.
UEFA is currently investigating an alleged incident of racist abuse during England’s 1-0 victory over Serbia in Gelsenkirchen, according to a source familiar with the matter.
The complaint did not originate from the Football Association or any England players, as they have indicated they lack further details on the incident when approached.
In a statement issued on Monday, UEFA mentioned that the Football Association of Serbia faces charges related to objects being thrown and the transmission of a provocative message deemed inappropriate for a sporting event.
Additionally, UEFA stated that an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will conduct an investigation into alleged discriminatory behaviour.
The source confirmed that this investigation pertains to a racist incident, reportedly identified by an observer inside the stadium.
During the Group C match, England secured a 1-0 victory through Jude Bellingham’s header in the 13th minute.
The individual involved in the incident is not believed to have been removed from the stadium during the match.
England’s next match is against Denmark in Frankfurt on Thursday, coinciding with Serbia’s game againstSlovenia on the same day.
Man City are reportedly planning to retain their current squad for the upcoming season unless there are requests from players to leave, according to a source.
Despite uncertainties surrounding the futures of key players such as Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, and Ederson, City’s management is maintaining flexibility regarding their summer transfer strategy.
According to reports, unless a player expresses a desire to depart Etihad Stadium and a suitable offer meets the club’s valuation, Pep Guardiola may opt to proceed into the new campaign with the same roster as the previous season.
Sources indicate that there have been no indications from De Bruyne, Silva, or Ederson about their intention to seek transfers away from City.
City is reportedly focused on securing permanent deals for João Cancelo and Kalvin Phillips, both of whom had loan spells at Barcelona and West Ham United, respectively, last season.
While City remains open to loan arrangements, their preference is for permanent transfers.
Everton is reportedly keen on Phillips.
Additionally, sources have revealed that City is eyeing Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães as a potential target if any midfielder, such as De Bruyne, Silva, or Matheus Nunes, requests to leave the club.
Santos is contemplating filing a complaint withFIFA against Juventusand Cruzeiro concerning the transfer of their former player, Kaio Jorge.
Juventus officially transferred the Brazilian striker to Cruzeiro on June 11, announcing a permanent deal, while on the same day, Cruzeiro issued a statement confirming Jorge’s signing on a five-year contract.
Santos claims that when they sold Jorge to Juventus in August 2021 for €3 million, the contract included a clause giving Santos a preference in any subsequent negotiations involving the player.
A statement from Santos said: “Santos Futebol Clube, through its Legal Department, officially notified Juventus, from Italy, and Cruzeiro Esporte Clube, from Belo Horizonte, about the negotiation involving striker Kaio Jorge … Santos FC awaits the parties’ response to present a possible claim to FIFA.
“At no time were Santos informed about the transaction information or consulted about their interest in reacquiring the player. Kaio Jorge was trained in the youth divisions of Santos FC.“
Juventus is reportedlywilling to entertain offers for winger Federico Chiesa during this summer’s transfer window, as per information from Fabrizio Romano.
Negotiations regarding a new contract have not advanced, prompting the 26-year-old to plan discussions about his future with his representatives after his return from the UEFA European Championship with Italy.
Juventus is reportedly willing to entertain offers for winger Federico Chiesa during this summer’s transfer window, as per information from Fabrizio Romano.
Negotiations regarding a new contract have not advanced, prompting the 26-year-old to plan discussions about his future with his representatives after his return from the UEFA European Championship with Italy.
Chiesa will soon enter the final year of his current contract with Juventus, having featured in 37 matches across various competitions for the Serie A club last season.
Bayern Munich is among the clubs closely monitoring Chiesa, according to Sky Sports Deutschland’s Florian Plettenberg, who has included him on their transfer shortlist.
It is rumoured that a bid ranging between €30 million and €40 million could potentially secure his services.
Chiesa showcased his talent with Italy, playing a pivotal role in their 2-1 triumph over Albania in their opening match of the European Championship.
Award-winning sports journalist Saddick Adams has strongly criticised referee Joseph Kwofie for his controversial officiating during the crucialHearts of Lions vs. Berekum Chelsea match on June 16, 2024.
Kwofie’s decision to award two contentious penalties to the Lions, which allowed them to secure a 2-2 draw against Chelsea and avoid relegation on the final day of the 2023–24 Ghana Premier League season, has sparked widespread controversy.
Adams described the second penalty decision as particularly questionable, asserting that in a more stringent jurisdiction, such officiating could lead to a referee serving a lengthy prison sentence, possibly up to seven years.
“In any serious country, the referee would have been in jail for seven years because what he did was a complete scandal,” he said on his YouTube channel, Saddick Adams TV.
In the 55th minute of the match, the referee awarded a penalty to the Lions, which Ebenezer Abban successfully converted, narrowing the score gap.
In stoppage time, the referee controversially awarded another penalty to the visiting team, despite questionable circumstances where it appeared there was no contact with the player.
Abban stepped up again to take the penalty and scored, ensuring the draw and his team’s retention in the league.
A video capturing the incident of thesecond penalty has gone viral, sparking widespread debate and outcry among football enthusiasts on social media.
Russian President Vladimir Putinis scheduled to make his first visit to North Korea in 24 years on Tuesday. During this trip, he will hold talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang.
The last time the two leaders met was in September at Russia’s Vostochny cosmodrome, but this visit marks Putin’s first official visit to Pyongyang since the year 2000.
The United States has expressed apprehension about the growing relationship between Russia and North Korea.
According to the Kremlin, this visit is categorised as a “friendly state visit,” and there are expectations that Putin and Kim may sign a partnership agreement covering various aspects, including security issues.
They are also expected to issue joint statements to the media.
A parade is anticipated in Kim Il Sung Square during Putin’s visit, and he is scheduled to attend a concert as well as visit the Orthodox Church of the Life-Giving Trinity in Pyongyang, which is the only orthodox church in North Korea.
Reports indicate that Putin will be staying at the Kumsusan guesthouse, where Chinese leader Xi Jinping stayed during his state visit to North Korea in 2019.
Accompanying Putin will be his new defence minister, Andrei Belousov, along with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak.
Ahead of his visit, Putin praised North Korea for its support of Russia’s actions in Ukraine, emphasising his intent to establish economic and security partnerships with Pyongyang independent of Western influence.
He expressed solidarity with North Korea in its efforts to protect its interests amid what he described as pressure and military threats from the United States.
Kim Jong Un recently characterised the relationship with Russia as one of “unbreakable comradeship.” During their previous meeting, Putin mentioned the potential for military cooperation with North Korea, while Kim expressed his support for Putin amidst the conflict in Ukraine.
The White House has stated its concerns about the deepening ties between Russia and North Korea.
“We’re not concerned about the trip” by Mr. Putin, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Monday. “What we are concerned about is the deepening relationship between these two countries.”
John Nilsson-Wright, head of the Japan and Koreas programme at Cambridge University’s Centre for Geopolitics, said Mr Putin is “strengthening ties with its old Cold War partner” in an effort to “counter any suggestion that the US and its allies have been able to isolate Moscow.”
“He is bolstering relations between authoritarian regimes at a time when democratic governments are in a defensive position, confronting global security challenges” in the Middle East, East Asia and Ukraine, he added.
In 2000, early in his presidency, Vladimir Putin met with Kim Jong Il, then the supreme leader of North Korea.
Relations between these two isolated nations have grown stronger in recent years, particularly since Russia’s extensive invasion of Ukraine.
North Korea is seeking assistance with space technology following its recent failure to successfully launch a second spy satellite, as well as support with food, fuel, and foreign currency.
Meanwhile, Russia continues to face challenges in procuring weaponry for its ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Washington and Seoul have accused Pyongyang of providing Moscow with artillery and other military equipment, likely in exchange for food, military aid, and technological assistance. Both North Korea and Russia deny any formal arms deal.
Following his visit toNorth Korea,Putin is anticipated to travel to Vietnam, a longtime Communist ally. During this visit, discussions are expected to cover various issues, including trade.
Chelsea legend Michael Essienhas expressed surprise at the club’s decision to part ways with Mauricio Pochettino, the Argentine coach.
Speaking in an interview, Essien expressed his belief that Pochettino was beginning to achieve success with the team and deserved the opportunity to continue.
He highlighted Chelsea’s history of frequent managerial changes, noting that during his nine-year stint at the club, there were eight different coaches.
From Essien’s viewpoint, Pochettino’s dismissal is regrettable because it means the players will now need to adapt to yet another new coach.
“Chelsea is a challenging environment for both players and managers. The team was coming together, playing good football towards the end of the season, but Poch was unlucky. I believe the new boss will lead them to where they want to be.
“I was at Chelsea for almost nine years, and we had eight managers, so it’s not an easy place for managers. Our era was different; we achieved great success, but this generation is different, and we must give them time to build and elevate the club to where it belongs.
“Everything the former manager implemented is now irrelevant, so they must start fresh. Luckily, the new manager will guide them through the pre-season. Chelsea deserves to be in the top three because of their historical achievements.
“We had tremendous success, so everyone expects to see us there. Securing a top-four finish would be a successful season for them, as it would give them the chance to compete in the Champions League. However, when you play for Chelsea, the goal is to win the tournament,” he said.
Chelsea and Mauricio Pochettino parted ways after just one season at Stamford Bridge, where the club finished sixth in the Premier League.
A statement from Chelsea released in May 2024 said, “Thank you tothe Chelsea ownership group and sporting directors for the opportunity. The club is now well-positioned to continue progressing in the Premier League and Europe in the years to come.”
Austrian defender of Ghanaian descent, Kevin Danso, made his mark at the2024 European Championshipon Monday, featuring prominently in Austria’s 1-0 loss to France.
Starting as a full-back for RC Lens, Danso played a pivotal role in Austria’s Group D opener at the Euros. Throughout the match, he displayed exceptional performance, engaging aggressively in every aspect.
His tenacious play was particularly effective against France’s star player, Kylian Mbappe, ensuring the new Real Madrid recruit had a challenging day on the field.
Les images de Kylian Mbappé quittant le stade pour se rendre à l'hôpital
Health Ministry has urged theMedical Laboratory Professional Workers’ Union (MELPWU) to end its strike and return to negotiations.
The Ministry recognised the union’s demands for better working conditions and expressed readiness to address them through dialogue.
In a press release signed by the Public Relations department, the Ministry noted that the government’s negotiation team had already reached agreements on most of the items proposed by MELPWU.
As such, the statement read, “The Ministry can confirm that negotiations are ongoing and therefore appeal to MELPWU leadership to reconsider its decision to strike and return to the negotiation table with the Government Negotiation Teams, which include the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission.”
The release also urged the union’s patience with the government’s negotiation team as they work to expedite the process. This will allow MELPWU to call off the strike sooner.
Meanwhile, the ministry assured the union government’s “utmost cooperation and respect for your dedication to your members’ welfare.”
On June 3, the MELPWU announced the commencement of a nationwide strike on Monday, June 17, 2024.
According to the union, the strike will affect services provided by their members in medical laboratories, blood banks, pathology laboratories, and selected mortuary facilities across the country.
This decision comes as a response to prolonged delays by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission and the Ministry of Finance in concluding negotiations with the union.
Read full release:
The Ministry of Health acknowledges the strike notice issued by the Medical Laboratory Professional Workers’ Union (MELPWU), indicating that the strike will commence on Monday, June 17, 2024, to urge the Government to approve and implement their proposed Conditions of Service.
MELPWU has requested continued negotiations to finalise their proposed Conditions of Service with the Government.
The Government Negotiations Team, led by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has had extensive engagements with MELPWU since 2023 and is guided by both internal and external relativities. Majority of the items proposed by MELPWU have been agreed upon by the Government Negotiations Team.
However, Uniform, Special Project, Unsociable, and Communication allowances proposed by the Union are still under various stages of negotiation.
The Ministry can confirm that negotiations are ongoing and therefore appeal to MELPWU leadership to reconsider its decision to strike and return to the negotiation table with the Government Negotiation Teams, which include the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission.
We appeal to the Medical Laboratory Professional Workers to exercise patience as the Government Negotiation Team, supported by the Ministry, expedites the negotiations to enable MELPWU to call off its strike.
To the Union (MELPWU), please be assured of our utmost cooperation and respect for your dedication to your members’ welfare. We hope that, in the spirit of cooperation, this strike will be called off as soon as possible. Thank you.
Prominent member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Adum Bawuah, has criticised Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s administration as the most corrupt since Ghana’s independence.
During a media interaction, Bawuah expressed deep concern over the widespread corruption within the current government.
He asserted that the NPP is ten times more corrupt than the main opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“In a country where people are stashing money under their beds and in polytanks, Akufo-Addo’s government stands out as the most corrupt ever in the history of Ghana,” Adum Bawuah declared.
“I am part of the party, but I speak for Ghana first. Ofosu Ampofo recently had to seek healthcare in America, and I had a friend who was part of those who collected funds to pay for his bills.
The NDC is corrupt, but the NPP is ten times more corrupt,” he stated.
“The construction of a cathedral has been riddled with corruption, which has led to the project being stalled. At the Pwalugu Dam site, not even a bulb has been installed, yet we have spent $12 million on it, while Ato Forson is in court for $2.7 million,” he added.
Adum Bawuah warned that members of the current government involved in corruption will face consequences when power shifts in 2025.
Bawuah, who ran unsuccessfully for theNew Patriotic Party chairmanship in the Ashanti Region during the party’s regional executive election in May 2022, expressed his concerns during a media appearance.
North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa,is spearheading a protest today, Tuesday, June 18, against the sale of four Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to Rock City Hotel Limited, owned by Ghana’s Minister of Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.
The NDC MP explained that the protest aims to pressure the president into halting the sale of these hotels.
At a news conference on Monday, June 17, he confirmed that all preparations for the demonstration were complete.
Mr. Ablakwa stressed the expectation for a peaceful protest and assured that the Ghana Police Service would handle anyone attempting to cause disorder.
He also mentioned that he expects officials from the presidency to meet the demonstrators and receive their petition to deliver to the president.
During the press conference, the former Deputy Education Minister highlighted the urgency and significance of their cause, underscoring the importance of the demonstration in stopping the sale.
“We have agreed with the police on the condition that the representatives of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will walk from the Jubilee House and meet us at the Christ the King Catholic Church to receive our petition.”
“We are very peaceful protestors and law-abiding as well. So we can give the Ghanaian people the full assurance that this agreement with the Ghana Police Service will be adhered to,” he said.
Mr. Ablakwa has already petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate the transaction.
However, he feels compelled to take additional action because, despite widespread opposition, the information he has obtained indicates that the process to finalise the deal is still ongoing.
While acknowledging CHRAJ’s history of conducting thorough investigations, Mr. Ablakwa expressed concern that the deal could be completed before the Commission concludes its inquiry.
Prominent member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP),Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, has voiced his disagreement with the government’s decision to require mandatory registration with the National Health Insurance Scheme for foreigners entering the country.
Starting July 1, 2024, non-resident visitors to Ghana will need to have a health insurance policy before being allowed entry.
Reacting to this development on X, Otchere-Darko expressed his reservations about the policy on Sunday, June 17, 2024.
Ghana introduced the mandatory health insurance policy to ensure that all visitors receive the necessary healthcare services during their stay.
The policy mandates that all non-resident visitors entering Ghana must enrol in a scheme that provides them with free healthcare access.
The policy applies to visitors who enter through airports with a visa or visa on arrival, and it is dependent on their duration of stay in Ghana.
In February 2024, the Ministry of Health, in partnership with the National Health Insurance Authority and other stakeholders, launched the “National Non-resident Visitors Health Insurance” policy.
This initiative targets non-residents visiting Ghana for less than six months within a 12-month period.
Dr. Isaac Morrison, Vice Chairman of the Technical Working Group on the Visitors Health Insurance Scheme and a member of the NHIA Board, highlighted the importance of this policy at a media briefing before its implementation.
“The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the vulnerability of foreign nationals without insurance, necessitating the activation of Section 2b of the National Health Insurance Act, 2012 (Act 852), which calls for a health insurance policy for foreigners.
Countries like Sierra Leone and Egypt in Africa have already implemented similar schemes.
The policy ensures that visitors are covered, reflecting lessons learnedfrom the pandemic and fulfilling a legal requirement,” he explained.
West African Examination Council (WAEC) has warned that the upcoming Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in July 2024 might be cancelled due to significant funding shortages.
The council has attributed this dire situation to the government’s failure to release essential funds needed for the preparation and administration of the exams.
WAEC stated that the government’s outstanding debt has hindered their ability to procure necessary examination materials for the exams scheduled to commence on July 8, 2024.
In an interview with JoyFM, John Kapi, WAEC’s Director of Public Affairs, disclosed that the council is owed a total of GH₵95,837,306 by the government, of which only GH₵2,284,618 has been paid, leaving a balance of GH₵93,552,688.
Kapi emphasised that the GH₵2 million received is insufficient for the comprehensive planning and preparation required for the examinations, which are now less than a month away.
Earlier, the Minority Caucus in Parliament called on the government to release a payment schedule.
Ranking Member on Parliament’s Education Committee, Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, suggested a meeting with the Finance Minister, the Education Minister, and WAEC to create a plan for fund disbursement.
He asserted that this would allow WAEC to conduct the BECE and secure the necessary funds.
Nortsu-Kotoe also highlighted that the upcoming West African Secondary School Examination (WASSCE) in August requires funding, emphasising the importance of developing a payment plan to avoid any disruptions in the examination schedule.
However, Dr. Prince Hamidu Armah, the Vice Chairman of the Committee, dismissed these concerns, noting that successive governmentshave always owed WAEC.
He reassured me that the government’s debt to the council would not impede the examinations.
Armah stated that the government is committed to settling its debts with WAEC promptly and has established mechanisms for swift payment.
Some members of the Peoples National Convention (PNC)vying for the party’s flagbearer position have strongly opposed the newly imposed filing fee of one hundred thousand cedis.
Former General Secretary Bernard Mornah and Sampson Asaki Awingobit are perplexed by the decision to drastically increase the fees, which they argue could deter potential candidates from participating in the party’s internal elections.
The PNC’s National Executive Council (NEC) recently convened to open nominations for various party positions, marking its first meeting since the party’s former General Secretary split to revive the People’s National Party (PNP).
During this session, the NEC set the filing fee for the flagbearer position at GHC 100,000. This fee represents a 100% increase from the previous GHC50,000 fee.
Similarly, potential parliamentary candidates must pay GHC10,000 for nomination forms, also doubled from previous amounts.
The announcement of these increased fees has sparked controversy within the party, with several members expressing concern that such steep fees could restrict participation in internal party processes.
Bernard Mornah, in particular, voiced his dismay over the decision, arguing that the PNC, which faces financial constraints, should not deter potential contenders by setting exorbitant filing fees.
He asked, “over the years, it is not filing fees that have been used to finance the activities of the party so why this huge increment?”
He further indicated that, “If left with me alone, I can afford GH¢110k, but the situation is that we are seeking to make the party attractive and we expected that things will be right for everybody who could contest without money becoming a barrier.”
Sampson Asaki Awingobit, another member of the party, has also raised objections to the National Executive Council’s decision to increase the filing fees.
According to him, the decision by the NEC to raise the filing fee was inappropriate.
The People’s National Conventionaims to establish itself as a viable third political force in the country’s political landscape, but significant efforts are still required to achieve this goal.
Member of Parliament for the Asante Akim-North Constituency, Andy Appiah-Kubi, expressed confidence that Attorney-General (AG) and Minister of Justice Godfred Dame would heed the trial judge’s advice and step aside from the ambulance purchase trial.
During the court proceedings on Tuesday and Thursday, Attorney-General Godfred Dame was absent.
However, Deputy Attorney-General Alfred Tuah-Yeboah, present in court on Thursday, declined to confirm whether the Attorney-General had complied with the judge’s strong recommendation to stay away from the case.
Justice Efia Serwah Asare-Botwey, the trial judge, strongly advised Attorney-General Godfred Dame to recuse himself from the ongoing case in the interest of justice and public perception.
After the court ruling on Thursday, June 6, Attorney-General Godfred Dame, speaking to reporters, disregarded the judge’s advice and indicated his intention to continue prosecuting the case.
However, NPP lawmaker Andy Appiah-Kubi, speaking on The Key Points on Saturday, June 15, emphasised that the Attorney-General should have recused himself even before receiving the judge’s advice.
He argued that due to Mr. Dame’s dual role as Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, his continued involvement in the case could be viewed as being a judge in his own case.
“This is a criminal trial and knowing yourself as not only the Attorney-General but Minister of Justice… I’m sure you don’t want to be a judge in your own court,” he said.
The Asante Akim-North lawmaker also expressed satisfaction with the trial judge’s advice to the A-G, saying, “That is what any good judge will do.”
He continued, “Indeed, he [Godfred Dame] should not have waited for the judge to advise him to do that. Once you are in a case like that and you have been singled out for the decisions of the court, then it means that you are not as competent as you were before.”
“The best thing for him to have done and I’m sure that the Attorney-General will heed this advice and I’m grateful that the judge also gave the advice.
“In fact, I would have been grateful at that point in time to come to court and say that because of the proceedings, the way the evidence is coming the implications that are bringing me into the matter in person, I recuse myself and then let somebody else come and continue.
“I would have done that but all be it that he didn’t do it and the judge called his attention to it… I am positive he will adhere to that advice and recuse himself,” he stated.
Additionally, Mr Appiah-Kubi criticised the Deputy Attorney-General about his comments on the significance or otherwise of the admissibility of the leaked audio recording between the third accused Richard Jakpa and Godfred Dame.
He described the comments as “unnecessary”, stressing that the admissibility of evidence is based on its relevance; if the trial judge thinks it is relevant, he or she is supported by law to admit it.
Experts withinGhana’s cancer treatmentsector have raised alarms over the country’s alarming cancer patient mortality rates due to inadequate care and treatment.
Health professionals, academics, and policymakers highlighted significant concerns including poor data collection, the absence of a cancer registry, and insufficient healthcare facilities nationwide.
Ghana records an overall cancer incidence rate of 120.4 per 100,000 people annually, with a mortality rate of 82.6 percent, according to the International Research Agency for Cancer.
These issues were underscored at the Trust Hospital Cancer Care Academy in Accra, themed “Closing the Care Gap: Advancing Cancer Care through Education and Collaboration.”
The three-day event convened key stakeholders from Ghana’s cancer care sector to address critical challenges and foster collaboration.
Dr. Florence Dedey, a senior lecturer at the University of Ghana Medical School’s Department of Surgery, emphasized the urgent need for updated policies and data in Ghana’s cancer care and treatment strategies.
“Currently, the existing policy used in cancer care and treatment in Ghana is the National Cancer Control Plan, which was supposed to span a period of time from 2012 to 2016. This policy is out of date, as there has not been any review in recent years. There is also a challenge of limited data, and the probability of the figures for cancer is being underestimated,” she said.
Dr. Florence Dedey stressed the critical need for an effective cancer registry in Ghana to bridge the information gap among cancer patients, enabling more targeted and cost-effective interventions, research initiatives, and enhanced surveillance.
Dr. Wallace Odiko-Ollenu, representing the Ghana Health Service, also highlighted several shortcomings in the country’s cancer care and treatment infrastructure.
He pointed out deficiencies in financing, healthcare personnel, education, and information dissemination, which often lead cancer patients to seek treatment from unqualified practitioners.
Dr. Wallace emphasized the importance of education and collaborative efforts in enhancing cancer care and treatment in Ghana, underscoring the necessity of raising awareness and providing essential insights into cancer management for patients.
“Every successful health-care system relies heavily on education. For the patient, this includes having access to full information about their diagnoses, treatment options, and available support services. It also empowers patients to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts across disciplines within the healthcare sector to enhance early detection and intervention in cancer cases.
Dr. Ollenu also emphasized the necessity for healthcare professionals to stay abreast of advancements in cancer treatment technologies and emerging trends.
CEO of the Trust Hospital, Dr. Mary Efua Commeh, highlighted the significance of organizing the three-day conference, emphasizing that it offered a platform for both healthcare and non-healthcare professionals to expand their knowledge base.
Member of Parliament for Assin North, Kennedy Agyapong,during a recent visit to the Ashanti Region to help in Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign, had a confrontation with New Patriotic Party (NPP) members.
In a widely circulated video on social media, Agyapong can be seen seated in the front of his car in the Kwabre East constituency, while individuals believed to be his backers expressed discontent over the region’s developmental shortcomings.
“Since 1992, we have voted for the NPP but haven’t benefited in any meaningful way,” one said before another joined: “You are the very one that we want.
We will die of hunger if you leave us behind; we will suffer.”
Members of NPP in kwabre East angry with Kennedy Agyapong for campaigning for Bawuliar pic.twitter.com/3xe23z9i6k
“If we vote NDC and they don’t develop this area, it is no news; but to vote NPP and suffer such neglect is unfair for an area said to be a municipality; what is the evidence?” another asked.
The NPP considers the Ashanti Region a stronghold crucial for securing sufficient votes to surpass the 8.
Vice President Bawumia, the NPP’s 2024 presidential candidate, concluded a successful three-day campaign tour of the region.
Bawumia emerged victorious in theNPP flagbearership contest late last year, prevailing over Agyapong and other contenders.
Vice presidential candidate for the oppositionNational Democratic Congress (NDC), Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has been honoured by the chiefs and people of Sankana in the Upper West Region.
This recognition is due to her significant contributions to the area through her academic work, which has helped uncover and preserve the history, culture, and traditions of the Sankana people.
On June 15, 2024, the Paramount Chief and Traditional Council enskinned her as the Queen Mother of Sankana, bestowing upon her the title Pagnaa Piirima (Mother of Rocks).
They also made her an honorary member of the Sankana Traditional Council. These honours were part of the celebrations for the Kalibi Tigri Festival of the Sankana people.
“Sankana holds sentimental value to me because some of my earliest research was done here. Later, under President Mahama, we improved the educational facilities in the area. I have been given the honorary title of Pognaa Piirima (Mother of the Rocks), a position I hold dear.
“I look forward to contributing even more to the progress of Sankana,and I invite everyone to join me to celebrate these wonderful people,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang wrote in a statement after her enskinment.
The annual Kalibi Tigri Festival of the people of Sankana is celebrated in recognition of the sacrifices of its founders, who went through thick and thin to ensure that Sankana survived and thrived as a polity.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang has done considerable research about the people of Sankana.
An example is her work on slave trade in Sankana and Gwollu: “The Living Experience of the Slave Trade in Sankana and Gwollu-Literary Manifestations and Implications for Tourism” in J. R. Anquandah and N.J. Opoku-Agyemang, Eds.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has stood firm against Freddie Blay, former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, challenging him to pursue legal recourse over allegations linking him to the acquisition of Labadi Beach Hotel’s front space.
Blay, also serving as GNPC Board Chair, has issued a one-week ultimatum to Ablakwa, TV3’s management, and Johnnie Hughes, demanding a retraction of what he views as baseless claims against him and his family.
Blay asserts that his children obtained sections of the beachfront legally from the LA Council, separate from the management of the Labadi Beach Hotel.
Ablakwa alleges a broader scheme of state capture involving Blay and his sons, accusing them of gaining interests in the beachfront traditionally under the hotel’s control.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0BbPNMmEpEo
He claims this acquisition has left the hotel uniquely unable to fully manage its beachfront compared to other hotels globally.
Blay maintains that while discussions with the hotel occurred, no agreement was reached. Subsequently, his sons approached the La Traditional Council to formalise their business interests on the beachfront.
He defends the legitimacy of his son’s property rights and questions why the hotel has not pursued legal action to contest it.
But in an X post on Sunday, Ablakwa declared, “I cannot retract the truth, Mr. Freddy Blay. Since you are getting no retraction from me, please go to court now; don’t wait for one week.”
I cannot retract the truth, Mr. Freddy Blay.
Since you are getting no retraction from me, please go to court now — don’t wait for one week.
After our Tuesday, 18th June, 2024 ‘Hands Off our Hotels Demonstration’ — Ghanaians should expect more unimpeachable exposés on how the… pic.twitter.com/i04n3Hu0yK
— Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa (@S_OkudzetoAblak) June 16, 2024
He further announced an upcoming demonstration on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, titled‘Hands Off Our Hotels,’ promising further revelations on the issue and affirming a commitment to combating state capture, concluding with a patriotic call to action: “For God and Country. Ghana First.”
Former Legon Cities goalkeeperWilliam Essu has tragically passed away at the age of 22 at the University of Cape Coast Hospital in the Central Region.
Essu died on Saturday evening at around 7pm after being rushed to the hospital the previous Friday. Despite undergoing extensive tests upon admission, doctors could not determine the cause of his illness.
He was later transferred to Cape Coast Teaching Hospital for further evaluation, but the results remained inconclusive.
On Saturday afternoon, Essu’s condition seemed to be improving, but he experienced a sudden deterioration later that evening and was pronounced dead by medical personnel.
Essu had been a member of Ghana’s U-23 team that qualified for the AFCON in Morocco the previous year.
During his illness, he had appealed to the Ministry of Youth and Sports to release his outstanding bonuses to assist in covering his medical bills.
Unfortunately, he passed away before receiving the funds owed to him for his service to the nation.
This is the second heartbreaking loss of a goalkeeper for Legon Cities in less than a year. In September 2023, their goalkeeper,Sylvester Sackey also passed away.
Effutuakwa Traditional Council has found officials of the oppositionNational Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Assin Central Constituency guilty of breaching the council’s customary rules in the Fosu Municipality, Central Region.
As part of their penalty, they have been instructed to provide ten sheep, six boxes of Heineken Aromatic Schnapps, and GH¢10,000.00 within two weeks for the necessary rituals to revoke curses.
According to Kasapa News’ Yaw Boagyan, they are also mandated to visit the towns of Antoa and Assin Nyankomasi, where they invoked powerful deities, to perform rituals to nullify the curses.
The directive, issued by Assin Fosu Queenmother Nana Afranse IV and Okumaneng Baffuor Asare Kyeahene II on behalf of the Traditional Council, serves as a stern warning to others.
The NDC had accused the NPP’s parliamentary candidate of busing individuals from Kasoa to transfer their votes to the Assin Central Constituency.
In response, aggrieved party members slaughtered sheep to invoke the river gods, Antoa Nyama and Betinsin, against anyone planning to manipulate the December general election in Assin Central Constituency.
The invocation of curses by Assin Central NDC Women’s Organiser Agartha Yawson and her group prompted community reports, leading to the party’s summons before the traditional authorities.
Chiefs and elders expressed dismay over the party officials’ curse invocation, stressing that such actions are forbidden in the community.
“Invoking curses is not allowed on Effutuakwa land; the act of invoking curses should not have happened. It is an act that the traditional authority strongly disapproves of. If you invoke a curse and slaughter a sheep, causing blood to spill onto the ground, it signifies a call for blood. It is taboo to call for the blood of any inhabitant of this community.
There are severe consequences for invoking curses, and we, as leaders of this community, do not wish to experience any calamity. That is why we have summoned you here to reverse the curses you have cast. We must appease the gods and other spirits on Effutuakwa land for what has transpired.
“As politicians, you dine together and socialise together, but when you appear on radio and TV, you act like enemies, yet we know you are friends. So why is it that, in your quest for political power, you wish to harm the people of this land?
We have never heard John Mahama, Bawumia, Asiedu Nketiah, orNPP General Secretary Justin Frimpong Koduainvoke a curse. So why is it that those lower down the political ladder are the ones invoking curses, willing to harm each other to gain political power?” Chief Okumaneng Baffuor Asare Kyeahene II inquired.
Ace broadcaster Adakabre Frimpong Manso has disclosed the possession of a significant audio recording featuring the late Chief Executive Officer of Labianca Company Limited, Eunice Jacqueline Buah Asomah-Hinneh.
According to Adakabre, the audio originates from an interview conducted with Eunice Buah in August 2023.
He recalled being contacted by her for a meeting at her residence while he was at home.
Adakabre honoured her request to arrive without his car and upon arrival, he was escorted to her bedroom. There, Eunice Buah confided in him and shared various details for over an hour.
After the recording session, Adakabre stated that Eunice Buah instructed him not to broadcast the tape but to keep it until after her demise.
Following her passing on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, Adakabre expressed uncertainty about the appropriate course of action regarding the audio he has safeguarded since their meeting.
“In August 2023, I received a call from La Bianca, who asked me to visit her home. Heeding her request, I went without my vehicle. She led me to her bedroom and inquired if I had brought a recorder, to which I replied negatively.
“She intended to share something with me for the sake of posterity. She did not specify whether to broadcast the tape or not; she merely requested that I keep it until she was no longer alive.
“The contents of the audio are substantial and incendiary. In the recording, which lasts over an hour, my voice is heard only twice—at the start and the end. I have preserved the recording but now face a dilemma. I am uncertain about whether to release it and, if so, when,” he explained.
Eunice Jacqueline Buah Asomah-Hinneh,the owner of Labianca Company Limited,a prominent importer of frozen foods in West Africa, passed away on Tuesday, June 11, 2024.
According to a report from citinewsroom.com, Eunice Buah, who also served as the Western Regional Representative on the Council of State, died following a short illness.
Further reports indicate that she returned to Ghana recently after undergoing medical treatment abroad.
In a message circulated within the police group, officers ofNigeria were reportedly instructed to handle Harrison Gwamnishu with extreme caution if he approached any police station, describing him as a “green snake under the green grass.”
The message accused him of past criminal activities and alleged that he has been undermining police efforts.
However, Harrison Gwamnishu has denied these allegations, stating that his advocacy work has led to police retaliation.
Gwamnishu has urged the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) to investigate the individuals responsible for the message and hold them accountable.
He expressed concerns for his and his family’s safety, calling for protection from the authorities.
“If anything happens to me or my family, the entire @PoliceNG should be held responsible. They know the officers who issued the threat,” he stated.
Gwamnishu’s involvement in the high-profile case of the missing Ghanaian woman has seemingly intensified tensions, resulting in recent threats against him.
Since his initial report on the Afiba Tandoh and Celine case, he has continuously provided updates, drawing nationwide attention to the situation.
Real Tamale United (RTU) has apologised to the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and their supporters for fielding unregistered players in their league game against Dreams FC in Dawu.
Despite suffering an 8-1 defeat, the main issue was RTU’s decision to use players who were not registered for the match.
Due to six months of unpaid salaries, the club’s registered players boycotted the game, prompting the management to take Division Two players to Dawu.
The GFA has charged the club and is currently investigating the situation, while Dreams FC has also lodged a protest.
The Dawu-based team stated they played the match under protest after their captain and team manager raised concerns about RTU’s use of incorrect players.
In their statement, RTU mentioned they had responded to the GFA’s charge andemphasized that it was not their intention to undermine Ghana football.
“The action was never deliberate and was never intended to ridicule our beautiful game. The club has gone through some difficult moments this year, a situation that is culminating in our exit from the Premier League.
“The club, however, appeals for mercy and sympathy from the general public and the GFA as we strive to reorganise and build a team that all of us will be proud of. We express our regret once more and assure you that this will never happen again. The club is sorry,” the statement read.
In manyAfrican countries, a substantial part of the economy operates within the informal sector, encompassing small-scale trading, subsistence farming, and various unregistered economic activities.
Consequently, the average income can be low due to the inability to fully capitalize on market opportunities.
Although GNI per capita doesn’t completely reflect the income levels of a country, it effectively highlights economic issues and serves as a strong indicator of an economy’s income level.
African economies frequently grapple with additional challenges such as insufficient infrastructure, limited access to education and healthcare, and weak governance.
These factors contribute to low cash flow within the economy, subsequently affecting the GNI per capita.
Gross National Income (GNI) per capita is a widely used measure for evaluating a country’s economic performance.
It represents the average income of a nation’s citizens and is often used to compare living standards across different countries.
However, relying predominantly on low-income earnings to measure GNI per capita may not present an entirely accurate picture for African countries.
For instance, in some African nations, a small elite may control a significant portion of national revenue, leaving the majority of the population impoverished.
Despite this, GNI per capita remains a crucial indicator for assessing the health of any economy worldwide.
According to the World Bank’s World Development Report 2024, there are currently 26 low-income, 108 middle-income, and 83 high-income economies globally, as represented by their GNI per capita.
The report also provides GNI per capita figures in dollars for various regions, categorised by income levels. Below are 10 African countries with the lowest GNI per capita.
Following Argentina’s victory over Guatemala in their final Copa América warm-up match on Friday, Lionel Messi cautioned his teammates that the road ahead would be far from easy.
Messi and Lautaro Martínez both netted twice in the 4-1 win at Fedex Field, Washington, D.C., overturning an early own goal by Lisandro Martínez that initially gave Guatemala the lead.
Reflecting on the match, Messi acknowledged the tough task ahead of defending the title they clinched in 2021. “It’s going to get harder and harder for us, nothing is going to be easy for us,” he said.
“But we’re going to try again. “We are working with the same desire as always, with the same intensity in each training session and facing these games as we always do.”
Argentina announced their official squad for the tournament on Saturday.
“I have decided which players will be left out, but first I am going to inform them,” head coach Lionel Scaloni said. “The decision always involves looking for the best for the team. This is the most difficult list of all because we have had complications.”
Scaloni emphasized that Messi is aware he will feature in all of the team’s matches “provided he remains in good health.” The Copa América commences on June 20with Argentina taking on Canada at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Man Utd arereportedly considering a bid for Bayern Munich centre-back Matthijs de Ligt, according to reports.
Internal discussions have allegedly begun among the leadership at Old Trafford, with the 24-year-old Dutch defender included on their list of targets for the upcoming transfer window.
The club is said to be in the process of “gathering more information” about De Ligt, and a potential move could materialise if they decide to make an offer of around €50 million.
De Ligt played a pivotal role under manager Thomas Tuchel last season, appearing in 30 matches across various competitions for the Bundesliga outfit.
He is viewed as an alternative option to Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite.
While reports suggested that personal terms were recently agreed upon with Branthwaite, Team Talk notes that Manchester United still need to bridge a significant gap with Everton over the transfer fee.
Tesla shareholdershave approved a record-breaking pay package for CEO Elon Musk and the relocation of the company’s legal headquarters to Texas.
Earlier this year, a judge in Delaware had blocked the deal due to concerns about its fairness to shareholders.
The vote marks a significant win for the billionaire, who had vigorously advocated for the compensation package, potentially valued at up to $56 billion (£43.9 billion), contingent on Tesla’s share price.
“Hot damn, I love you guys,” he told a crowd of enthusiastic shareholders who had gathered in Texas for the firm’s annual meeting.
The deal exceeds 300 times what the highest-paid CEO in the US earned last year and is over 3,000 times the average CEO’s compensation.
However, the vote is non-binding, and legal experts have noted that it remains uncertain whether the court that initially blocked the deal will accept the re-vote and permit the company to reinstate the pay package.
“The vote changes nothing,” said Mathieu Shapiro, a managing partner at law firm Obermayer Rebmann Maxwell & Hippel.
“It only offers Tesla opportunities to try to use the vote to obtain a better decision going forward.
“It will be interesting to see if another court is willing to credit a vote taken after the trial court’s decision.”
The eye-popping sum had sparked criticism and raised concerns that the board of Tesla was too submissive and close to Mr Musk.
In the January court ruling, Delaware judge Kathaleen McCormick ruled the sum was “unfair” and the process for determining the package by a board dominated by Mr. Musk was “deeply flawed.”
Chancellor McCormick had pointed out that Antonio Gracias, who had been a board director at Tesla, had “the sort of personal relationship that had him vacationing with Musk’s family on a regular basis.”
She also highlighted Todd Maron, Tesla’s former general counsel, “who was Musk’s former divorce attorney and whose admiration for Musk moved him to tears during his deposition.”.
Elon Musk announced plans to move Tesla’s legal headquarters to Texas after a Delaware court, where Tesla is currently incorporated, voided his pay package following a lawsuit from a small investor. This conflict has raised concerns about Musk’s leadership, especially as Tesla’s share price has declined from its peak and its dominance in the electric vehicle market faces challenges.
Despite these issues, Musk rallied his fan base, particularly appealing to individual investors who represent a significant portion of Tesla’s shareholders.
The pay proposal received 72% of the votes cast, closely mirroring the 73% approval it initially received in 2018.
“It’s a pretty ringing endorsement,” said car industry analyst Karl Brauer.
Mr. Musk got more than enough shareholder support “to justify the package,” he added.
Mr. Musk had previewed the results in a post on his social media company, X, formerly known as Twitter.
Following Mr. Musk’s announcement, shares in the company saw a nearly 3% increase in closing.
The compensation plan grants Mr. Musk approximately 300 million shares, which equates to a 10% ownership stake in Tesla. This reward is contingent upon Tesla achieving specific objectives outlined in 2018, which are tied to sales, profitability, and the company’s stock price.
Tesla had acknowledged that Mr. Musk’s targets were ambitious. However, the lawsuit that led to the Delaware court’s decision to block the pay package alleged that these targets mirrored internal growth forecasts shared with banks.
“My understanding is that there’s been about 1,100% appreciation in Tesla stock. And that’s pretty, pretty impressive. Most chief executives have never done anything like that,” said Mr Brauer.
On whether Mr Musk deserved such a large pay, Georg Ell, former director of Western Europe at Tesla, told the BBC’s Today programme: “If I were an investor who put a substantial amount of money into this in 2018 and had held it throughout the period, I’d be very happy because I would have seen anywhere between… 13 and 16 times my money back.
“That’s a very, very good return,” he said.
Mr Ell disclosed that he has a small shareholding in Tesla, worth around £6,000.
Tesla’s board said Mr Musk deserved the package because the carmaker had achieved its targets under his leadership and that it was necessary to ensure he remains dedicated to the company.
Mr Ell said that the result of the vote gives Mr Musk “very strong validation.”
“At Tesla, of course, he doesn’t do it all alone but he definitely sets the agenda, he sets the pace and he is a relentless person to work for; there’s no doubt about that,” he said.
Tesla executives took to social media to voice their endorsement of the package, emphasising Mr. Musk’s pivotal role in the company’s achievements.
Simultaneously, Mr. Musk pledged to provide apersonal tour of Tesla’s Texas factory to certain shareholders who participated in the voting process.
During Thursday’s meeting, shareholders also sanctioned the re-election of two board members: James Murdoch, the son of media magnate Rupert Murdoch, and Kimbal Musk, Mr. Musk’s own brother.
South Sudan’s opposition and civil society groups, currently engaged in political negotiations with the government in Nairobi, are calling for the talks to result in a new constitution to reset the country’s governance framework.
This new demand, which adds to their initial goal of inclusion in the government of national unity, emerged as the discussions entered their second month this week.
Pagan Amum, a former minister in South Sudan and leader of the South Sudan Opposition Movement Alliance (Ssoma), joined other opposition factions on Thursday to present a four-point agenda for the negotiations.
He emphasized that the Nairobi talks should pave the way for a “constitutional conference,” starting in Nairobi and continuing in Juba.
“The expected outcome of the conference will be: the adoption of a new social contract; a constitutional text; interim governance arrangements with a rescue programme; and implementation modalities,” said a joint statement signed by other opposition groups and the PCCA (People’s Coalition for Civil Action), which represents civic movements.
“We strongly appeal to the region, the continent, and the international community to support the people of South Sudan in their search for peace and transition to stability and democracy.”
The collective call for peace and security has been a consistent demand among various opposition groups, initially opposed to the government, but consensus on the approach has remained elusive.
President Salva Kiir’s administration has advocated for general elections as a starting point and has pushed for necessary preparations. However, stakeholders argue that such preparations are currently unfeasible due to insufficient funds and the lack of required agencies to facilitate the elections.
Kiir’s coalition partners, including Riek Machar of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in Opposition (SPLM-IO), have recommended postponing the elections until the country’s transitional objectives are achieved.
Even the Revitalised Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (R-JMEC), established to oversee the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement, has cautioned that the country is not yet ready for elections.
South Sudan faces a critical dilemma: delaying the elections would extend the transitional government of national unity, formed under the 2018 peace deal, until February 2025. However, conducting elections in an unprepared nation risks inciting new armed conflicts.
“Our country is not prepared for elections and we believe that part of the outcome of the Tumaini Process will be to delay elections so that we can hold them under a new constitution,” the group said.
Amum told a press briefing that negotiating parties are on the same page and that the “country is in danger of collapsing from multiple crises.”
He was referring to the humanitarian toll from flooding and violent clashes, an economic downturn that has seen the country struggle to pay salaries and slow the implementation of transitional arrangements.
Kyle Walker has been appointed as England’s new vice captain ahead of the European Championship in Germany, according to sources.
The 34-year-old was informed of Gareth Southgate’s decision earlier this month, taking on a vital leadership role in a squad that has seen significant changes since the 2022 World Cup.
Southgate has revamped his squad, with only half of the 26 players who went to Qatar making the cut for Euro 2024.
Jordan Henderson, who was previously the vice captain, has been omitted from the squad after struggling to regain fitness following a muscular injury at Ajax.
Walker, who has 83 international caps, is now the second-most-capped player in the squad behind captain Harry Kane, who has 91 caps. Other notable absentees include Harry Maguire and Raheem Sterling.
Kieran Trippier and Declan Rice have been included in Southgate’s new leadership group, which aims to help integrate the 12 players new to senior tournaments into the squad for Euro 2024.
Trippier led England against Bosnia in their first warm-up game, and Rice was named captain in March on his 50th international appearance.
In other news, goalkeeper Jordan Pickford confirmed that John Stones, who had been dealing with an ankle issue and missed training due to illness, is fit and ready to play in Sunday’s Group C opener against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen. Stones participated fully in Friday’s training session.
England are considered favourites by many bookmakers to win their first major men’s trophy in 58 years, and Pickford has encouraged his teammates to embrace the challenge and perform under the spotlight.
“[In] Russia in 2018, there was no pressure on us,” he said. “But to be a top, elite team, you have got to have pressure. You have got to deal with it. To be one of the favourites, you have got to enjoy that pressure.
“That’s our goal [to win the tournament] but the most important thing for us is to win the first game, get out of the group, game-by-game focus on each game as it comes because you can’t look too far ahead.
“Everyone’s goal is to lift that trophy but it takes a hell of a lot of hard work to get there. There’ll be nothing more proud than lifting that trophy and bringing it home for the fans but there is so much hard work to do first.
“I know all the England fans will be rooting for us. They are passionate; everywhere in the country will be rooting for us and they’ll be having a good few days on the booze so it’ll be good.”
Deputy Managing Director of theElectricity Company of Ghana (ECG),Mr. Kwadwo Obeng, has stated that the company is unable to provide a planned load-shedding schedule due to uncertainties in power supply.
He noted that strictly adhering to a timetable would be challenging, especially since not all outages stem from fuel supply issues.
Mr. Obeng further explained that outages can also result from planned maintenance, network faults, theft, and vandalism.
“We said that because information about how much was to be shared was erratic, we couldn’t really provide a timetable because, in the morning, we could say that we needed to shed just 40 megawatts at 8 o’ clock.
And imagine we prepared a table to shed 40 and by 12 pm, that situation changes.
“We realise that even if we prepare a timetable, there will be a lot of inconsistencies. And the worst we want to have as a nation would be for the utility provider to say you would go off and then you don’t go off, or your outage exceeds the stipulated period,” he said.
He was speaking at a public forum organised by Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on how to address the current power challenges facing the country.
Mr Albert Ayirebi-Acquah, a representative of the Independent Power Producers (IPP), who generate about 2339 megawatts, said the IPPs have in the past three years generated about 40 percent of the country’s power needs.
“Although we don’t have the 2024 power plan, we expect to contribute over 50 percent of the power generated in the country,” he said.
Mr. Ayirebi-Acquah highlighted the ongoing power crisis, attributing it to fuel shortages and the government’s failure to fulfil its financial obligations to Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
He pointed out that the Cash Waterfall Mechanism (CWM),designed to collect and distribute revenue to power generators, is not a comprehensive solution to the challenges faced by the power sector.
Ayirebi-Acquah acknowledged that while the IPPs regard the CWM as a temporary measure that offers some predictability and certainty of payment from the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), it is crucial for the current commitments under the CWM to be met promptly.
This timely honour would enable IPPs to fulfil their financial responsibilities.
He also advocated for the inclusion of IPP representatives on the CWM implementation committee to enhance transparency, improve efficiency, and ensure that their concerns are adequately addressed.
The forum was attended by other stakeholders, including the Public Utility Regulatory Commission, the Volta River Authority, and the Ghana Grid Company Limited.
National Democratic Congress (NDC)candidate for Essikado-Ketan, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has condemned Ernest Frimpong, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate for Wassa Amenfi East, for allegedly inciting violence against the military.
Frimpong allegedly encouraged illegal miners to resist enforcement of mining laws by security forces, which was captured in a viral video.
Despite Frimpong’s denial and explanation that his remarks were misconstrued, he was arrested and subsequently released on bail after questioning.
Dr. Ayensu-Danquah criticised Frimpong’s remarks during a media engagement, ” emphasising their potential harm to environmental conservation and national security.
“It is very sad and it is not good for our security… It is unconscionable and it should never happen again,” she stated.
Furthermore,Dr Ayensu-Danquahsuggested that the episode reflects a grave deficiency in leadership, stating, “It is a serious lack of leadership.”
Head of the Drainage Department at theGhana Hydrological Authority (GHA),Ing. Richard Amekor, has stated that more than $6 million is required to execute a comprehensive drainage master plan across the country.
The plan aims to construct significant storm drain systems aimed at reducing instances of flooding nationwide.
During a media engagement on June 13, he highlighted that the project has yet to commence due to insufficient resources allocated for its implementation.
“It is not a drainage master plan that has to end flooding, but it is about implementing what is in the drainage master plan. It will mitigate flooding in the city.
“It all boils down to resources and as you know, constructing storm drains is very expensive, and in places that are supposed to be reserved, people are living there. So with the resources that we have, we are not able to construct storm drains to that effect.
“It is quite expensive. We have an estimate for countrywide that is going over $6 million,” he noted.
Additionally, Ing. Amekor said that although the plan has yet to be implemented, people’s attitudes contribute to flooding. He pointed out that many individuals continue to build houses in waterlogged areas.
“It is true, but in some of the places where we have flooding or flooding is occurring, it is mostly because of attitudinal issues. People are still filling wetlands all around where water could stay or the flood waters when it over-tops the banks could stay for some time, so when the rain subsides it moves back into the stream, but these are places people are continuously filling.”
“When they do that, what happens is that the water cannot move anywhere but spread into people’s homes,” he said.
In contrast, he remains optimistic that by September of this year, funds from the $150 million designated for the Greater Accra Resilience and Integrated Development Project (GARIP) will be disbursed.
Health Ministry is preparing to roll out a new national health insurance policy aimed at covering short-term visitors from abroad.
Named the “National Non-Resident Visitors Health Insurance,” this policy, developed in collaboration with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and other stakeholders, is scheduled to commence on July 1, 2024.
It specifically targets non-residents who visit Ghana for less than six months within a 12-month period.
During the policy’s launch event in Accra earlier this year, Health Minister Kwaku Agyeman-Manu emphasized its alignment with the National Health Insurance Act of 2012 (Act 852).
He highlighted that the Act mandates the provision of quality healthcare accessible to both residents and non-residents alike, ensuring they are covered under a national health insurance scheme for equitable access to healthcare and improved quality of life.
Mr. Agyeman-Manu emphasized that the implementation of this policy will lead to the establishment of the National Non-Resident Visitors Health Insurance Scheme (NNRVHIS).
“The scheme will be the main vehicle for the delivery of robust healthcare services to non-residents who will be travelling to Ghana.
“Taking into consideration the peculiar characteristics and nature of the NNRVHIS, a special purpose arrangement may be required to minimise the potential for risks,” he said.
“In line with this, a National Non-Resident Visitors Health Insurance Technology Platform (NNRVHITP) will be established to enable non-resident visitors to remotely log into a digital platform and apply accordingly in the comfort of their respective countries without challenges, thereby improving the user experience.”
Presently, the policy consists of six tiers structured around the length of time individuals spend in the country. It specifically caters to foreigners holding visas, with arrangements in place to accommodate those who need visas upon arrival.
However, ECOWAS members are not covered under the current framework. Plans are underway to integrate them into the scheme at a later date.
South Africa has recorded itssecond death linked to the (Monkey POx) Mpox outbreak, health officials reported on Wednesday.
The viral disease, primarily affecting men, has prompted authorities to expand their efforts to trace the contacts of those infected.
The latest fatality was a 38-year-old man who passed away in a KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) hospital on the same day his Mpox infection was confirmed through testing.
Earlier this week, the country reported its first Mpox-related death, a 37-year-old man in Gauteng province, who died shortly after admission to the hospital.
South Africa has now identified a total of six confirmed Mpox cases this year, all requiring hospitalisation and involving men aged between 30 and 39.
None of these cases had a recent travel history to areas with known Mpox outbreaks, suggesting localized transmission.
Health Minister Joe Phaahla expressed concern over the severity of the cases and emphasised the need for intensified contact tracing efforts.
One confirmed case reported multiple recent sexual encounters with partners of different genders, raising concerns about their potential spread to females.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, spreads through close contact and starts with flu-like symptoms followed by a rash. Despite the World Health Organisation (WHO) ending its public health emergency declaration last year, countries like South Africa continue to face sporadic Mpox cases, reflecting ongoing challenges in containment efforts.
“One death is too many, especially from a preventable and manageable disease,” said the South African health minister.
“Its presentation is in the form of skin lesions or eruptions on the skin. “Those who have had chicken pox will know that chicken pox also presents as a skin eruption. For the fact that this is a disease that can be treated, anybody with suspicions or doubts should rather go to the nearest health facility so that it can be tested.”
The health minister revealed that all six identified Mpox patients since May suffered from underlying immunodeficiencies. However, two individuals have recovered and returned home, while two others are still admitted. One patient has been discharged, another is in home isolation and follow-ups are being made. Two cases are still admitted to the hospital.
“The cases have co-morbidities and have been identified as key populations, men who have sex with men (MSM). Thus, the department is reaching out to organisations working on HIV programmes and with key populations in addition to other stakeholders to implement targeted communication to intensify awareness about the outbreak and local transmission of the disease.”
As a precautionary measure, individuals who had contact with the deceased patient will undergo 21 days of monitoring, which is the standard incubation period for Mpox.
The South African health minister stated that Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), an orthopoxvirus transmitted through close contact between people and potentially from unknown animal reservoirs in East, Central, and West Africa.
This Mpox outbreak spans multiple countries and is marked by sustained human-to-human transmission through direct skin-to-skin and sexual contact, with a higher impact on individuals living with HIV.
“South Africa is amongst the countries currently experiencing the outbreak of Mpox, a viral infection which spreads between people and occasionally from the environment to people via objects and surfaces that have been touched by a person with Mpox.”
Staff of the National Identification Authority (NIA) are hopeful as they prepare for a crucial meeting with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) scheduled for today, June 14. The meeting aims to address their conditions of service.
Earlier, the union had launched a strike, which was halted following a directive from the National Labour Commission, allowing negotiations to proceed.
The strike had significantly disrupted operations at various NIA centres, affecting many individuals seeking services.
In an interview with Citi News, Kwabena Adu Kyeremeh, the secretary of the NIA staff, hinted that they might resort to another strike if today’s meeting fails to produce satisfactory outcomes.
“It is reasonable and fair compared to what our colleagues in other public or government institutions are receiving comparing their degrees or certificates that we are holding from masters level and first degree and diploma up to SSCE, and then the number of years of experience against what is happening in NIA, then we are going to be okay.
“We are expecting the government to come home with a very good offer. Then we will also accept it in the interest of Mother Ghana. And they [the aggrieved staff] have also indicated to the general public that if today, they are not successful, they will declare the strike on our behalf.”
Annual Hajj pilgrimagestarted on Fridayin Saudi Arabia with authorities anticipating a turnout of about 2 million Muslims from across the globe despite scorching temperatures.
After circling the Kaaba, the revered cube-shaped structure within the Grand Mosque in Mecca, pilgrims proceeded to the nearby Mina Valley, where they would spend the night in a vast tent city.
On the following day, they journeyed to Mount Arafat, approximately 20 kilometres east of Mecca, where they will remain until sunset, marking the pinnacle of the Hajj pilgrimage.
With temperatures expected to soar to 43 degrees Celsius in and around Mecca, authorities advised pilgrims to carry umbrellas for protection during the rituals.
Hajj, one of Islam’s five pillars, is a mandatory religious duty for Muslims to undertake at least once in their lifetime, provided they are physically able and financially capable of travelling to the birthplace of Prophet Mohammed.
Men dress in seamless white garments and women in loose attire, performing identical rites in a display of religious solidarity, equality, and spiritual rejuvenation.
The pilgrimage occurs from the eighth to the twelfth day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
In an intentional effort to expedite the clearance of vital health supplies financed by the Global Fund, Health Minister Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye has convened meetings with the Ministry of Finance (MOF)and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to streamline clearance procedures at the Tema Port.
This initiative follows a Ministry of Health announcement confirming the receipt of GHC7,429,694.39 from the Ministry of Finance.
These funds are designated for settling demurrage fees and other third-party charges, aimed at facilitating the prompt clearance of all pending Global Fund containers.
The Ministry of Health emphasised the importance of this funding in its recent statement, stating, “It is expected that with the funds received, all outstanding containers will be cleared by the end of June 2024.”
During an interview with the media while inspecting the ongoing construction projects at La General Hospital and Weija Children’s Hospital, Health Minister Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye expressed personal dedication to the issue, emphasizing his determination to see the clearance through to completion.
Following a meeting held on Friday, June 14, involving the finance ministry and the GRA, it was decided to expedite the clearance process.
This decision aims to ensure prompt delivery of crucial medications, medical equipment, and other essential health supplies, crucial for safeguarding public health.
The minister’s proactive stance underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare services and ensuring timely availability ofvital health resources.
His concern comes in response to complaints from the Minority, alleging that many Majority members have been absent from parliamentary sessions due to campaign tours with the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, since the House resumed from recess.
During a media engagement Dr. Draman expressed serious concern about this issue, noting its persistent nature across multiple parliamentary sessions highlighting the current Parliament ineffectiveness in addressing absenteeism adequately.
Dr. Draman pointed out that existing constitutional sanctions and measures are not enforced, attributing this to a lack of accountability from Parliament’s leadership.
To combat this problem, Dr. Draman suggested that Parliament should explore alternative approaches to ensure members’ attendance and accountability.
He said , “Parliament has been very weak when it comes to dealing with this matter. Either because the kind of sanction and the measures put in the constitution and the standing orders are ones that a parliament cannot really implement, or the leadership of parliament is running away from its responsibilities.
“In the past, when some of these issues came up, I think some of us have found out that if parliament knows that they cannot punish our own for absenteeism,. Then perhaps they should consider other methods of dealing with absenteeism”.
He advised Members of Parliament to prioritise punctuality at parliamentary sittings, emphasising that MPs should join campaign activities during recess periods, not when parliamentary business is in session.
He said, ”They are doing work that is not supposed to be their work. Because Parliament is not in recess, during the recess, they could follow the Vice President, or, for that matter, any presidential candidate of their choice. But even then, it raises issues because, when they are on recess, that is when they are supposed to be with their constituents.
“For me, that brings me to the issue of absenteeism that we are grappling with as a country. And unfortunately, Parliament, that is, this Parliament, as well as all the seven Parliaments before this one have not been able to have a handle on this issue of absenteeism”.
To effectively deal with absenteeism by MPs without proper permissions, he recommended an adoption of European sanctions and penalties meted out to absentee MPs.
Examples of such penalties include fines or deductions from their salaries for unapproved absences, suspension of travel and subsistence allowances.
“Like what is done in some European countries where you absent yourself and you lose some benefits.
Otherwise, because there is no real sanction regime, people can just walk away from Parliament. And show up anytime, because they know nothing is going to happen to them, as has been the case over the years” he added.
“Like what is done in some European countries where youabsent yourself and you lose some benefits,. Otherwise, because there is no real sanction regime, people can just walk away from Parliament. And show up anytime, because they know nothing is going to happen to them, as has been the case over the years.”
Ranking Member of the Defence and Interior Committee, James Agalga, has called on the Speaker of Parliament to promptly facilitate the presentation of the Special Ad-hoc Committee’s report on the leaked tape involving IGPAkuffo-Dampare.
The tape, which surfaced on July 11, 2023, captures a conversation between a police commissioner, two other officers, and a former Northern Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bugri Naabu discussing plans to remove IGP Dampare from his position.
Speaker of Parliament on July 25, 2023 set up a seven member ad-hoc committee to probe the leaked tape involving IGP Akuffo-Dampare. After close to a year of investigations Agalga, also the MP for Builsa North and former vice chairman of the committee has announced its readiness to present its report before the house.
He voiced concern in Parliament about delays in the committee’s proceedings, citing potential public speculation. Emphasizing the public interest in the report, he urged the Speaker to expedite its presentation by June 18, 2024.
“Mr Speaker, that report is ready and before we went on recess, it was listed as one of the papers to be presented for the consideration of the House.
“Now, given the public interest character of that report, Mr Speaker, I want to use this medium to appeal to you to direct the business committee to list, as a matter of urgent importance, that particular report for us to deal with as a matter of urgency starting from next Tuesday,” Mr Agalga noted in Parliament on Friday, June 14th, 2024.
He stressed: “Because this thing (the report) has been on the ice, it has given room for all manner of speculation about the report, so it’s high time we bring closure to that report.”
Chaired by Samuel Atta Akyea,MP for Abuakwa South, the committee was assigned to probe a leaked audio involving senior officers discussing the removal of the IGP in conversation with former Northern Regional Chairman of the NPP, Chief Bugri Naabu.
In the recording, the officers cited the IGP’s professionalism made him resistant to compromise, among other issues.
The facility has received significant praise on social media, particularly after serving as a key referral center for public figures like Kuami Eugene and KK Fosu following their separate accidents.
Additionally, a video recently circulated showing a lady who visited the UGMC and shared a positive review about its services and staff.
In a post on X dated June 14, 2024, Mahama expressed his excitement upon seeing these positive reviews.
“Whenever I visit patients in hospitals or read reviews on people’s lived experiences at the UGMC, I feel proud of our work in government. I am poised to do more.
“My track record in infrastructure development is well acknowledged. We shall provide more. It is a track record that built the Ghana National Gas Company and many power plants to fix dumsor.
“It is a solid track record of building ultramodern hospitals such as the UGMC, the Ridge Hospital, the Bank Hospital, the Maritime Hospital, the Dodowa Hospital, and several others across the country,” the post concluded.
About UGMC:
The establishment of the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) was initiated by the Education, Finance, and Health Ministries, with the Ministry of Health ultimately signing the commercial contract in November 2012.
Construction of the Centre began under the late former President of Ghana, Professor John Evans Atta Mills, in April 2013.
Phase I of the UGMC project, which involved the Sheba Medical Centre from Israel as the medical planning consultants, was inaugurated by former President John Mahama in 2017.
While waiting for the commercial agreement to commence Phase II, the Centre started partial operations in 2018 during the tenure of the current president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Former Arsenal and Evertonstriker Kevin Campbell has passed away at the age of 54 following a brief illness.
Throughout his career, Campbell netted 148 goals in 542 matches across eight different clubs.
Earlier this month, Everton announced that he had fallen ill in May and was “very unwell” in the hospital.
“We are devastated to learn that our former striker Kevin Campbell has died after a short illness,” said Arsenal.
“Kevin was adored by everyone at the club. All of us are thinking of his friends and family at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Kevin.”
Everton said: “Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the death of our former striker Kevin Campbell at the age of just 54.
“Not just a trueGoodison Park heroand icon of the English game, but an incredible person as well – as anyone who ever met him will know. RIP, Super Kev.”
Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif has expressed dissatisfaction with the Ghana Amputee Football team, the Black Challenge, for accepting external donations without prior consultation with his office.
This criticism arose after the team received a $10,000 donation from former President John Mahama on July 12, 2024. The donation was in recognition of the team’s consecutive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) titles.
Ussif stressed the importance of team coordination through the Ministry of Youth and Sports (MoYS) before engaging with external donors.
“When you come after the successes and there’s anything, the first point of call is this office [MoYS]. We’re not going to tolerate you using the state for your personal benefits,” he stated.
He further criticised the team’s approach this year compared to the previous year.
“Unlike last year, this time when you landed and you came here directly, this year you started going from one place to another without any records to the government who sponsored you, and that cannot be tolerated,” Ussif added.
The Black Challenge recently clinched their second consecutive AFCON title bydefeating Morocco in the final.
