TIG Post

Author: aejay_wp

  • Government provides 3,000 school uniforms to Basic Schools in Jomoro

    The government of Ghana has distributed three thousand (3,000) school uniforms to the Basic Schools in the Jomoro Municipality of the Western Region to enhance quality education.

    Additionally, two hundred and ten (210) English Dictionaries and also fifteen (15) boxes of chalk were distributed to the schools.

    Read: Nigerian Polls: ‘John Mahama donated $1.5 million to PDP’s Atiku Abukakar’ – Abronye DC alleges

    Presenting the items on behalf of the government to the Jomoro Municipal Education Directorate at Half Assini, the MCE, Hon. Ernest Kofie noted that the gesture will go a long way to facilitate effective teaching and learning in the schools in his area.

    He added it will also help needy but serious-minded students to participate actively in school.

    Read: Dr Afriyie donates 600 dual desks to schools in Effiduase-Asokore constituency

    The MCE reminded the Directorate that government and the assembly were fully aware of their responsibilities towards quality education and revealed that the government has put up a lot of strategic interventions to match up with the task.

    He seized the opportunity to commend President Akufo-Addo for making education a priority and also hailed him for implementing Free SHS.

    The MCE promised to distribute 800 mono and dual desks to some selected needy schools in the area.

    Read: Krowor MP donates to KROMA schools

    “A lot of 800 mono and dual desks would also be delivered by the middle of March this year, for distribution to selected needy schools in the Municipality”, he hinted.

    He also said the Assembly has completed the renovation of a 6-unit classroom block at Ehoaka and construction of a new 3-unit classroom block at Mpeasem.

    He explained, “These projects would soon be handed over for use”.

    He concluded “A lot is being done to improve the quality education for our children, but there is a lot more to be done. I, therefore, call on all stakeholders in education delivery, to play their respective roles well. I believe with effective collaboration and cooperation we can do more for education and others in the Municipality”.

    The Municipal Education Director of the area, Mr. George Effah thanked the government for the kind gesture and pledged to use the items to achieve its intended purposes.

    He used the opportunity to appeal to the Assembly to provide a duty post for the renovated education office complex.

    The MCE was accompanied by the Assembly Member for the area, the Municipal Coordinating Director, some youth leaders, NPP Constituency Executives, the media among others.

    Source: Daniel Kaku

  • Asec, ES Setif in tug-of-war over signature of Moro Salifu

    Ghanaian midfielder Moro Salifu has emerged on the radar of Africa heavyweight Asec Mimosa and ES Setif.

    Moro Salifu, who is currently a member of the Ghana U-23 team has impressed both clubs following his performances in the domestic league and in the national jersey.

    According top reports, it is like the Medeama midfield kingpin with opt for neighboring Ivory Coast to join Asec Mimosa.

    However, GHANASoccernet.com understands, there is a mouthwatering deal from the Algerians that will make it difficiult for the versatile midfielder to turn down.

    The 20-year old was an integral member of the Ghana Olympic Team currently chasing a slot to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

    Moro has previously played for the Ghana U-17 Team, the Black Starlets and Bechem United.

  • Aduana Stars to face Berekum Arsenal on Sunday

    Aduana Stars will face regional rivals Berekum Arsenal on Sunday 3rd March at the Nana Agyemang Badu Park.

    The game is being used by both clubs in preparations for the possible start of the new season.

    Aduana Stars beat Ivory Coast 2006 stars 5-1 in a charity game last Saturday and will be looking to add their regional neighbours to their victims.

    Berekum Arsenal will be playing their first game since the appointment of new coach Solomon Odwo.

    Kick off for the game is 3:00pm.

  • Ambulance Service appeals for help: U/ER has one vehicle for emergencies

    The Ghana National Ambulance Service office in the Upper East region is appealing for more vehicles as it has only one working vehicle for emergencies.

    Read: Ambulance Service refuses to transport accident victims over cash

    According to them, the situation is negatively affecting quality service delivery particularly the response to accident cases and referrals to tertiary healthcare facilities outside the region.

    Upper East Regional Administrator of the Ghana National Ambulance Service, Ali Baba Awuni disclosed this when the Health Minister Kwaku Agyemang Manu paid a two-day working visit to the region.

    Out of seven ambulances in the region, six have broken down for months ago leaving only one ambulance serving the entire region.

    Read: Government procures 275 ambulances

    He appealed to the government to help put the faulty vehicles on road.

    “Unfortunately, we started with one vehicle and went up to seven vehicles positioned at Sandema, Navrongo, Chiana, Bolga, Tongo, Zebilla and Garu. As we speak, Garu, Zebilla, Navrongo, Sandema, Tongo, Chiana are all grounded. The only vehicle working now is the Bolga ambulance and this is affecting our response to urgent accident cases and referral of emergency cases outside the region for treatment”.

    Read: Terkper, Sherry Ayitey conspired to deny Ghana ambulances?

    Mr. Awuni said, the situation is hindering swift response to emergency cases in the region and thus needs attention to save lives.

    He appealed to corporate bodies and government to come to their aid to put the broken-down vehicles back on road.

    For his part, Health Minister, Kwaku Agyemang Manu assured that every municipal and district will receive an ambulance by June this year, 2019.

    He added that the government will within the year procure more ambulances to improve service delivery.

    “We are buying 275 ambulances for every district and municipality. We have finished with the procurement and we are anticipating that we will get these ambulances into the country but through clearance, registration and insurance, latest by May/June every district and municipal will receive an ambulance.”

    “We are also trying to procure 100 more ambulances within the year so that, some areas where we have concentration over needs will not have only one ambulance but might get a few more to further enhance service delivery,” he added. 

    Source: citinewsroom.com

  • Mahama, top NDC officials attend one week memorial service of late Lee Ocran

    Former President John Mahama and other top NDC executives on Thursday, February 28, joined family of the late Lee Tandoh Ocran to celebrate the one week of his passing, held at St. James Catholic Church in Osu, Accra.

    The former High Commissioner to South Africa and ex-MP for Jomoro passed on before midnight at his residence in Accra on Thursday, February 21, 2019.

    Read: Lee Ocran was a ‘fighter’ Mahama

    Mr Ocran was said to have battled with ill health for some days leading to his passing away

    He served as Minister for Education of Ghana from 2012 to 2013. Ocran was appointed Minister by President John Atta Mills in February 2012 in a cabinet reshuffle following the resignation of Betty Mould-Iddrisu from the government and the sacking of Martin Amidu.

    Read: Lee Ocran passes on

    In 2000 he was Deputy Minister of Environment Science and Technology. Since January 2005 as a candidate from the National Democratic Congress, he was Member of Parliament for the Jomoro Constituency until he lost his seat to the daughter of Kwame Nkrumah, Samia Nkrumah of the Convention People’s Party in the December 2008 parliamentary election.

    In February 2014, Ocran was sworn in as board chairman of the Volta River Authority. On May 13, 2015 he described the Bui Dam as a White Elephant (extravagant but burdensome gift).

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Rashid Sumaila set to leave Red Star Belgrade

    Ghana defender Rashid Sumaila is set to bud farewell to Serbian giants Red Star Belgrade after joining them last summer.

    The Al Qadsia defender joined the European side on loan for an initial period of six months subject to renewal.

    Read: Rashid Sumaila handed late Ghana call up for Kenya qualifier

    But the Ghana international is likely to bid farewell to his new side as many European suitors are knocking on his doors.

    Sumaila signed a five year deal with the Kuwaiti side Al Qadsia which expires next year but has kept faith with his employers despite moving on loan to Al Gharafa in Qatar who wanted to make his deal permanent.

    The workaholic defender after moving to Red Star Belgrade started so well until a delay from his national team assignment rendered him with limited playing time.

    The Ghanaian is not happy and is set to leave Serbia for another European country with many suitors showing up.

    Source: Footballmadeinghana.com

  • Dead bodies will be left in wards, emergency centers – Mortuary workers declare strike

    The Association of Mortuary workers says dead bodies will be left in wards and emergency centres of hospitals from next week Tuesday, March 5, 2019, as they threaten to embark on a strike.

    Read: Apau Wawase: The community where corpse are sent to mortuary on motorbikes

    According to the General Secretary of the Association, Richard Jordan:”Nobody will come to work, no mortuary worker will be present to attend to dead bodies, they will be left in wards and emergency centres”.

    The Secretary of the Association also stated that the Ministry of health has not been positive with them since they have failed to honour on the numerous promises to address their grievances.

    Read: Mortuary workers in Ghana declare indefinite strike

    ”The Ministry has not been positive with us and we cannot allow this continue, they keep tossing us up and down and this time around we think that its proper for us morally and legally to embark on a strike. Nothing truthful has come out, all the things we put on paper; we have not seen any of them materialize. We realize they want to play games with us we cannot allow this anymore”, Richard Jordan.

    The Association of Mortuary Workers in 2018, suspended a plan action strike to demand better conditions of service and improved working conditions. They are now accusing the Ministry of Health of failing to honour on the numerous promises to address their grievance.

    Read: Mortuary man explains why more youth die lately

    Also, General Secretary of Mortuary Workers Association, Richard Jordan, in November 2018 made a sarcastic statement to the general public to postpone their deaths till their strike is over.

    He said: “Those who intend to die during that period should wait when mortuary men are back to work they die.”

    The mortuary workers at the time released a statement confirming their intention to embark on a strike after they accused the Ministry of Health of neglect over their concerns.

    The mortuary workers said they overwork but are not paid for their overtime services.

    Source: primenewsghana.com

  • Were not here to joke Nkana FC warns Asante Kotoko

    Nkana FC defender Ben Adama has fired warning at Asante Kotoko, insisting his outfit are not in Ghana to talk as Kotoko did prior to the first leg in Zambia.

    According to him, Nkana will do their talking only on the pitch but not on radio.

    “We are not here to brag like Asante Kotoko did on radio when they arrived in Zambia.

    Read: CAF Confed Cup: Kotoko can beat Nkana – Steve Pollack

    “We will do our talking on the pitch of the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday.

    “We are very poised and determined for the game on Sunday,” he told Sikka FM.

    The Zambian club arrived in Ghana on Wednesday and headed straight to Kumasi.

    They are currently pitching camp at Golden Tulip Hotel.

     
     
    Source: sportsworldghana.com

  • GEPA engages farmers and exporters

    CEO of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Madam Afua Asabea Asare, interacted with some farmers, exporters and craft artisans in the Eastern Region to find possible ways of exploiting opportunities in the export industry.

    The tour forms part of a two day visit to the Eastern Region by the CEO to ascertain the performance of her staff and to identify some of the challenges confronting exporters in the region.

    Read: MoFA sensitizes farmers on rice production

    The visit, also afforded her the opportunity to meet with exporters, producers, farmer based organisations and out growers to put her in a better position when formulating policies and programmes for the authority and their stakeholders.

    The tour, took the CEO and her team to Maagrace Garment Industries in the New Juaben North Municipality, where they sew in large quantities for both local and international markets.

    Read: Empower local farmers to feed beverage industry with raw materials Food Sovereignty Ghana

    The facility was established under the Hackman Foundation in 2003 and currently have 350 permanent and non-permanent staff and has the capacity to employ 650 workers.

    At Abompe, GEPA has constructed a facility to house over 100 bead makers in the community and also support them with working tools to improve their production capacity to meet international standards.

    The visit then continued to Golden Riverside Limited, a pineapple production and exporting firm in the Akuapem South District, where, GEPA as part of its mandate has supported some farms with pineapple suckers, coconut seedlings and Golden Riverside Limited happens to be a beneficiary with 750,000 pineapple suckers.

    Read: Cocoa farmers plead for the release of cocoa money

    Other beneficiaries of the free pineapple suckers and coconut seedlings where the team visited include Green Span Farm at Nsakye, which benefited from 3,000 coconut seedlings.

    The rest are Lovely Farms which benefited from 890,000 pineapple suckers and Ohu Farms Limited at Mpemehuasem also receiving 1 million pineapple suckers.

    In an interview with the media, Madam Asabea Asare said her outfit have the mandate to encourage people to discover new ways of doing what they do, so that they can produce to meet international standards and break into the export market.

    She indicated that, there is the need to continue supporting businesses to produce in commercial quantities and look for available market for the products.

    Source: goldstreetbusiness.com

  • 60 struggling businesses receive government’s stimulus package

    About 60 economically viable but struggling businesses in both private and public sector have received financial and technical support as part of stimulus package under the National Industrial Revitalization Program.

    According to Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Carlos Ahenkora, the program has been successful over the two years but hoping to bring more businesses on board by the end of the year.

    Read: President announces stimulus package for textile industry

    The National Industrial Revitalization Programme is an initiative by the government to revive struggling businesses with the potential to expand if given support.

    Carlos Ahenkora spoke with JoyBusiness after addressing members of the Ghana South African Business Chamber at a breakfast meeting in Accra on Thursday.

    Read: CPC bemoans delay in US$3m stimulus package

    “We have received about 84 of the applications but upon going through the process, our investigations and getting support from some consultants, we have identified about 60 of them which have received support and are doing well now,” he said.

    Sectors that benefitted from the program include manufacturing, agribusiness, textile and among others.

    Carlos Ahenkorah assured that besides the 60 businesses that received support, the government will be working to support other smaller industries that need some intervention.

    Read: We are determined to become prosperous Akufo-Addo

    He said “Government will not stop these kinds of interventions because the industrial sector is very crucial to the growth of the economy. I can point at Akosombo Textile Limited, ATL and other related agencies in the textile industry”

    The government in the 2018 budget and policy statement committed to reviving struggling industries and SMEs in the country.

    President of the South African Business Chamber, Ashley Rix believes that the various industrial reforms introduced by the government will yield positive outcomes.

    The meeting was aimed at helping the members of the chamber take advantage of the good business outlook for 2019.

    Source: Myjoyonline.com

  • Akua Donkor needs to be caged like a monkey Afia Schwarzenegger

    Self-Acclaimed Queen of Comedy, Afia Schwarzenegger has called on Ghanaians to help cage leader of the Ghana Freedom Party, Akua Donkor.

    It could be remembered that during the reign of John Dramani Mahama, Akua Donkor supported him by jabbing Nana Akufo-Addo, then flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party on every platform she was given the opportunity to express herself.

    Read: Akua Donkor threatens Akufo Addo with a gun

    However, tables have turned and now Akua Donkor seem to have fallen out of favour with the rebranded John Dramani Mahama.

    In an interview this week, Akua Donkor mentioned that she regrets campaigning for wicked John Mahama adding that the former President is seeking the mandate of Ghana to amass wealth and not because of the betterment of the Ghanaian.

    In a post on her Instagram page responding to Akua Donkor, Afia Schwarzenegger disclosed that she is attacking John Dramani Mahama because he denied her entry into his house.

    Read: Afia Schwarzenegger joins the ongoing resurrection challenge

    According to Afia Schwarzenegger, John Mahama asked Akua Donkor not to come to his house to beg for money hence the public outcry of the old women Afia says has just one week to live.

    She called on Ghanaians to cage Akua Donkor because she is a threat to the safety of Ghanaian.

     

    Source: mynewsgh 

  • Adofoli warns young men and women not to marry people and expect them to change later

    Popular relationship counsellor, Frank Edem Adofoli has advised individuals looking to settle to be wary of marrying men and women who constantly like to flirt. 

    In his recent write-up, the popular counsellor wrote: “The fact that I am not married to you does not mean you can be sleeping around with anyone and think you will stop or can stop when we get married.” 

    He added that if one is not faithful in their relationship or during the period of dating, they have no reason to be faithful when they are married. 

    Read: My early experience with sex is destroying my beautiful marriage – Woman

    Adofoli added that a man or a woman does not change because they got married.

    “The ring on your finger doesn’t metaphor you into a different creature because you married.”, he wrote. 

    He added that the parts of one’s body that excited or drove them will still be the same when they get married. 

    He wrote: “The memory in your head which recorded the [excitement] doesn’t crash or get replaced or damaged when you get married. They are still intact, active and will play back to you from time to time in your marriage.” 

    Read: Lack of romance collapses many christian marriages Mavis Asante

    Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported Adofoli preached that it would be dangerous for anyone to consider settling with people who cannot accept mistakes and reform. 

    For him, people of that nature do not see rooms for improvement. He added that people in love and want their partners to be happy consider small changes about partners in the relationship.

     

    Source: yen.com.gh 

  • 26% teachers fail first licensure exam

    Seven Thousand, Four Hundred and Thirty Two (7,432) representing 26% out of the 28,757 teachers who wrote the licensure examination have failed. The larger number, 21, 287, representing 74% has however passed the exams.

    This was contained in the results of the maiden teacher licensure examination released by the National Teaching Council (NTC). Meanwhile, the results of 26 candidates have been withheld pending the completion of investigations into their alleged involvement in examination malpractice, while 12 have had their entire results cancelled.

    All candidates who sat for the examination to can check their results from the NTC online portal at www.exams.ntc.gov.gh, using their personal identification numbers (PINs) and the serial numbers used during the registration for the examination. Candidates can also obtain their results at the colleges of education where they sat for the examination.

    Dr. Oduro expressed delight over the result and said, “even though there were failures, the outcome of the examination was encouraging, particularly so when it was the maiden edition”.

    Statistics of the NTC indicates that, out of the 15,647 males who wrote the exams, 3,532, failed, while 3,938 among the 13,110 females, failed.

    She explained that those who failed would be required to join the next batch to write the examination in March this year. She said the licensure examination had come to stay and that those without the license would not be allowed to enter classrooms to teach, be it in public or private schools.

    The Executive Secretary explained that all newly trained diploma students from the various colleges of education who wanted to teach would be required to write the examination in their respective colleges.

    She explained that those who were already teaching, both in public and private schools, would not be required to write the examination but would undertake a number of in-service professional training program to upgrade themselves to enable them to obtain the license.

    She, therefore, asked teachers already in the classroom to disregard social media reports that those already teaching would be sacked because they did not have the license.

    Targeted candidates for the exams were those who completed colleges of education last year or those who read Education in the various universities and colleges who were desirous of seeking employment with the Ghana Education Service (GES). The examination was written between September 10 and September 12, 2018. Papers written included Essential Professional Skills, Literacy and Numeracy Skills.

    The reason behind the teacher licensure examination according to the National Teaching Council is to enable qualified teachers to acquire a professional license to ply their trade and to also improve the state of teaching as well as to improve the quality of teachers in the country.

    Source: Ghanacrusader.com

  • Ayawaso Probe: Political interference blocking police from cracking down on vigilantes – DSP Kwasi Ofori

    Director of Operations of the Ghana Police Service (GPS), DSP Kwasi Ofori, has stated that the service is facing difficulties in cracking down on the various vigilante groups due to political interferences.

    He was testifying on Thursday in Accra before the Emile Short Commission of Inquiry probing the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency by-election shooting incident.

    The police chief mentioned the Kandahar Boys, Azorka Boys, the Hawks, among others, as being the vigilante groups the police have had to deal with in recent times.

    According to him, each time a police officer effects an arrest of a vigilante group, they are called by politicians whose party the vigilantes are linked to apparently to have them released.

    He urged “the political class” to take a second look at the vigilantism menace.

    It was his opinion that vigilantism would not help the country and so should not be allowed to persist.

  • CAF Confed Cup: Kotoko can beat Nkana – Steve Pollack

    Ex-Asante Kotoko coach Steve Pollack says the Porcupine Warriors can beat Nkana FC on Sunday in Group C CAF Confederation Cup game at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium if they adopt an attacking strategy

    Pollack who was in charge of the team in last season’s Confederation Cup game against CARA Brazzaville said, “Kotoko should go all attacking keeping their balance to overcome Nkana FC on Sunday.

    “They have got the best supporters in Ghana so hopefully when most of them troop into the stadium and cheers them up, definitely victory would be assured.

    He also advised CK Akunnor to work tirelessly on the defensive system up of the team so they can avoid conceding more goals in their subsequent matches

    Read: CAF CC: Kotoko players lack experience Joe Hendricks

    “CK Akunnor should tirelessly work the defense wholeheartedly because it could cost them going forward in the competition”

    Pollack also revealed that Asante Kotoko’s lack of competitive matches at home is also contributing to their inconsistent form in Africa club competition

    “Asante Kotoko not getting much matches to play has also contributed to their inconsistent form in the Africa competition”

    Pollack failed to qualify Kotoko to the group stages of the CAF Confederation Cup in the 2017/18 season as they were eliminated on penalties by CARA Brazzaville.

    source: GHANAsoccernet.com

  • Catherine Afeku out, Barbara Gyasi now Tourism Minister

    Catherine Ablema Afeku has been axed as the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

    The decision to move her from the Tourism Ministry was made known as part of changes President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is making to his government Thursday.

    In a statement signed by Eugene Arhin, Director of Communications at the Presidency, Catherine Afeku is now a Minister of State at the Office of the President, assigned to the Office of the Senior Minister.

    The Minister-designate for the Tourism, Arts and Culture is Barbara Oteng Gyasi, Member of Parliament for Prestea Huni-Valley constituency.

    She was the former Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources.

    Read: Catherine Afeku appointed Chairperson of UNWTO Leadership Taskforce Group

    Below is the release

    PRESIDENT AKUFO-ADDO MAKES CHANGES TO HIS GOVERNMENT

    The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has made the following changes to the composition of his government, with immediate effect:

    Hon. Barbara Oteng Gyasi, Member of Parliament for Prestea Huni-Valley constituency and former Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, is now the Minister-designate for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts;

    Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih is now Upper West Regional Minister-designate. The former Regional Minister, Sulemana Alhassan, has been reassigned;

    Hon. Catherine Afeku, Member of Parliament for Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira constituency and former Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, is now a Minister of State at the Office of the President, assigned to the Office of the Senior Minister;

    Hon. Gifty Twum Ampofo, Member of Parliament for Abuakwa North constituency and former Deputy Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, is now Deputy Minister for Education;

    Hon. Freda Prempeh, Member of Parliament for Tano North constituency and former Deputy Minister for Works and Housing, is now Deputy Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection;

    Hon. Barbara Ayisi Asher, Member of Parliament for Cape Coast North constituency and former deputy Minister for Education, is now Deputy Minister for Works and Housing;

    Hon. Naana Eyiah, Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central constituency, is now Deputy Minister-designate for Lands and Natural Resources;

    Hon. Alex Kodwo Kom Abban, Member of Parliament for Gomoa West constituency, is now Deputy Minister-designate for Health;

    Hon. Yaw Afful, Member of Parliament for Jaman South, is now Deputy Minister-designate for Aviation.

    President Akufo-Addo is hopeful that Parliament will expedite the vetting of the Minister-designate for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, the Regional Minister-designate for Upper West, as well as the deputy Ministers-designate for Aviation, Lands and Natural Resources, and Health so they can assume their respective offices as quickly as possible.

    Eugene Arhin

    Director of Communications

     

    Source: Myjoyonline.com

  • Normalization Committee members lack ‘football knowledge’ – Takyi Arhin

    Techiman Eleven Wonders senior official Takyi Arhin affectionately known as “Thunder” has expressed a strong censure of the members of the GFA Normalization Committee.

    According to the outspoken football administrator, the works of the Normalization Committee so far have exposed their shallow knowledge of the game. The former Black Satellites management committee member who has been an ardent critique of the NC since its inception is still sticking by his earlier posture.

    Addressing the works of the Committee so far, Takyi Arhin questioned the football knowledge of the members serving on the committee, comparing their depth of football expertise to that of Veteran football administrator and owner of King Faisal , Alhaji Karim Grusah.

    Read: Normalization Committee assures Ghanaians of good work

    “The NC members knowledge in football combined does not come any where near Alhaji Grusah“. He told Kumasi based Metro Fm.

    Takyi Arhin is of the view that the NC have failed woefully in their quest to repair Ghana football.Meanwhile, the Committee has less than a month to accomplish their mandate giving to them by FIFA.

    source: ghanacrusader.com

  • Akufo-Addo reshuffles ministers; Afeku reassigned

    President Akufo-Addo has announced a reshuffle of his government.

    Among the changes, is the removal of Catherine Afeku as the Minister for Tourism, Creative Arts and Culture. She will now be a minister of state at the presidency assigned to Senior Minister.

    Sulemana Alhassan, the Upper West Regional Minister has been reassigned with his position taken over by Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih.

    A statement signed by the Director of Communications at the Presidency, Eugene Arhin said the Member of Parliament for Jaman South, Yaw Afful will now be the Deputy Minister-designate for Aviation.

    28th February, 2019

    For Immediate Release

     

    PRESIDENT AKUFO-ADDO MAKES CHANGES TO HIS GOVERNMENT

    The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has made the following changes to the composition of his government, with immediate effect:

    Read: President names Ministers for 6 new regions

     
    1. Hon. Barbara Oteng Gyasi, Member of Parliament for Prestea Huni-Valley constituency and former Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, is now the Minister-designate for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts;
    1. Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih is now Upper West Regional Minister-designate. The former Regional Minister, Sulemana Alhassan, has been reassigned;
     
    1. Hon. Catherine Afeku, Member of Parliament for Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira constituency and former Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, is now a Minister of State at the Office of the President, assigned to the Office of the Senior Minister;
    1. Hon. Gifty Twum Ampofo, Member of Parliament for Abuakwa North constituency and former Deputy Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, is now Deputy Minister for Education;
    1. Hon. Freda Prempeh, Member of Parliament for Tano North constituency and former Deputy Minister for Works and Housing, is now Deputy Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection;
    1. Hon. Barbara Ayisi Asher, Member of Parliament for Cape Coast North constituency and former deputy Minister for Education, is now Deputy Minister for Works and Housing;
    1. Hon. Naana Eyiah, Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central constituency, is now Deputy Minister-designate for Lands and Natural Resources;
    1. Hon. Alex Kodwo Kom Abban, Member of Parliament for Gomoa West constituency, is now Deputy Minister-designate for Health;
    1. Hon. Yaw Afful, Member of Parliament for Jaman South, is now Deputy Minister-designate for Aviation.

    President Akufo-Addo is hopeful that Parliament will expedite the vetting of the Minister-designate for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, the Regional Minister-designate for Upper West, as well as the deputy Ministers-designate for Aviation, Lands and Natural Resources, and Health so they can assume their respective offices as quickly as possible.

    Eugene Arhin

    Director of Communications

     

     

    Source: citinewsroom

  • Bawumia marks Christiansborg crossroads shooting anniversary

    Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia joined the Veterans Association of Ghana (VAG), to mark the 71st anniversary of the Christiansborg crossroad shooting.

    The ceremony involved a simulated re-enactment of what took place on February 28, 1948.

    Unarmed ex-servicemen were marching to the seat of government to present a petition to the then governor of Gold Coast, Sir Gerald Creasy when they were shot at by the police.

    Sergeant Adjetey, Corporal Attipoe, Private Odartey Lamptey were killed.

    Read: Gov’t unveils packed activities to mark this year’s Independence Day celebrations

    Find the pictures of the ceremony below

    Source: Adomonline 

  • Tourism minister axed as President rings 9 changes

    President Nana Akufo-Addo has announced nine changes in his government, the second reshuffle since he was sworn into office in 2017.

    The biggest change is the removal of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Minister Catherine Afeku, who now moves to the Office of the President as a Minister of State.

     

    28th February, 2019

    For Immediate Release

     

    PRESIDENT AKUFO-ADDO MAKES CHANGES TO HIS GOVERNMENT

    The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has made the following changes to the composition of his government, with immediate effect:

    Read: President names Ministers for 6 new regions

     
    1. Hon. Barbara Oteng Gyasi, Member of Parliament for Prestea Huni-Valley constituency and former Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, is now the Minister-designate for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts;
    1. Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih is now Upper West Regional Minister-designate. The former Regional Minister, Sulemana Alhassan, has been reassigned;
     
    1. Hon. Catherine Afeku, Member of Parliament for Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira constituency and former Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, is now a Minister of State at the Office of the President, assigned to the Office of the Senior Minister;
    1. Hon. Gifty Twum Ampofo, Member of Parliament for Abuakwa North constituency and former Deputy Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, is now Deputy Minister for Education;
    1. Hon. Freda Prempeh, Member of Parliament for Tano North constituency and former Deputy Minister for Works and Housing, is now Deputy Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection;
    1. Hon. Barbara Ayisi Asher, Member of Parliament for Cape Coast North constituency and former deputy Minister for Education, is now Deputy Minister for Works and Housing;
    1. Hon. Naana Eyiah, Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central constituency, is now Deputy Minister-designate for Lands and Natural Resources;
    1. Hon. Alex Kodwo Kom Abban, Member of Parliament for Gomoa West constituency, is now Deputy Minister-designate for Health;
    1. Hon. Yaw Afful, Member of Parliament for Jaman South, is now Deputy Minister-designate for Aviation.

    President Akufo-Addo is hopeful that Parliament will expedite the vetting of the Minister-designate for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, the Regional Minister-designate for Upper West, as well as the deputy Ministers-designate for Aviation, Lands and Natural Resources, and Health so they can assume their respective offices as quickly as possible.

    Eugene Arhin

    Director of Communications

     

    Source: myjoyonline 

  • John Paintsil vows to strip Don Bortey naked

    Former Ghana defender, John Paintsil has urged former Hearts of Oak star, Bernard Don Bortey to apologize for the defamatory statements made against him or will be exposed.

    His comment comes after Bortey accused the former West Ham right-back of ruining his career during his stay in Isreal 15 years ago.

    Bortey’s trial with the Israeli side ended after he was accused of theft and deported back to Ghana at a time when his career was peaking.

    The former Aduana Stars winger claims the controversy-infested former Ghana defender falsely accused him of stealing a watch.

    Read: Don’t create tension between Ayews and Kwadwo Asamoah – John Painstil

    However, Paintsil has warned Bortey to confess to the world the actual crime he committed in Israel that led to his inability to secure a contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv.

    “He came to Israel and I took him as a brother but 15 years after that, he still goes about destroying my image. He knows what he came to do in Israel that led to his stay being terminated by the club,” he told Atinka TV Sports Court.

    “I give him up to Monday to come out and tell Ghanaians exactly the crime he committed or I will be forced to come and show to the world what he did back by evidence. It was not about a watch he stole.

    “There is a damning secret that I have decided to keep for the sake of his integrity as a Ghanaian but if he has decided to blame me, I will spit it out if he doesn’t apologize by Monday 4th March,” he added.

     source:  footballghana.com

  • John Paintsil vows to strip Don Bortey naked

    Former Ghana defender, John Paintsil has urged former Hearts of Oak star, Bernard Don Bortey to apologize for the defamatory statements made against him or will be exposed.

    His comment comes after Bortey accused the former West Ham right-back of ruining his career during his stay in Isreal 15 years ago.

    Read: Don Bortey explains how John Paintsil allegedly killed his football career

    Bortey’s trial with the Israeli side ended after he was accused of theft and deported back to Ghana at a time when his career was peaking.

    The former Aduana Stars winger claims the controversy-infested former Ghana defender falsely accused him of stealing a watch.

    Read: John Paintsil killed my football career – Don Bortey

    However, Paintsil has warned Bortey to confess to the world the actual crime he committed in Israel that led to his inability to secure a contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv.

    “He came to Israel and I took him as a brother but 15 years after that, he still goes about destroying my image. He knows what he came to do in Israel that led to his stay being terminated by the club,” he told Atinka TV Sports Court.

    “I give him up to Monday to come out and tell Ghanaians exactly the crime he committed or I will be forced to come and show to the world what he did back by evidence. It was not about a watch he stole.

    “There is a damning secret that I have decided to keep for the sake of his integrity as a Ghanaian but if he has decided to blame me, I will spit it out if he doesn’t apologize by Monday 4th March,” he added.

    Source: footballghana.com

  • Akufo-Addo drops Dr. Kwaku Afriyie; names ministers for new regions

    President Nana Akufo-Addo has nominated five new Ministers for five out of the six newly created regions. Seven Deputy Ministers have also been appointed by the president.

    Read: Naming of capitals of new regions: Former NALAG President lauds Akufo-Addo

    A correspondence signed by President Akufo-Addo dated 27th February 2019 to the Speaker of Parliament, nominated the Member of Parliament for Takordai, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, as the Minister-designate for Western region.

    Read: President names Ministers for 6 new regions

    Mr. Darko-Mensah who is the Deputy Aviation Minister replaces Dr. kweku Afriyie who hails from Sefwi Wiawso.

    The nominees are:

    Mrs. Evelyn Ama Kumi-Richardson, currently Municipal Chief Executive for Sunyani Municipality, is the Minister-designate for Bono Region. Hon. Siaka Stevens, Member of Parliament for Jaman North constituency, is the Deputy Minister-designate for Bono Region;

    Hon. Kofi Amoakohene, Member of Parliament for Atebubu/Amantin constituency, is the Minister-designate for Bono East Region. Hon. Martin Oti Gyarko, Member of Parliament for Techiman North constituency and former Deputy Minister for Brong Ahafo Region, is the Deputy Minister for Bono East Region;

    Read: My work not done after creation of new regions Dan Botwe

    Hon. Evans Opoku Bobie, Member of Parliament for Asunafo North constituency and former Minister for Brong Ahafo Region, is now Minister for Ahafo Region. Hon. Benjamin Yeboah Sekyere, Member of Parliament for Tano South constituency, is the Deputy Minister-designate for Ahafo Region;

    Hon. Salifu Adam Braimah, Member of Parliament for Salaga South, is the Minister-designate for Savannah Region. Samuel Yeyu Tika, former parliamentary candidate for Mankarigu Daboya constituency, is the Deputy Minister-designate for the Savannah Region;

    5. on. Solomon Namliit Boar, Member of Parliament for Bunkpurugu constituency and former Deputy Minister for Northern Region, is the Minister-designate for North East Region. Tahiru Tia Ahmed, an educationist from Gambaga, is the Deputy Minister-designate for North East Region;

    6. Hon. John Benam, former Member of Parliament for Zabzugu constituency, is the Deputy Minister-designate for Northern Region. Hon. Salifu Saeed remains the Minister for Northern Region;

    Source: 3news.com

  • Return ECG to profit making or face exit Energy Minister to PDS

    The Minister for Energy, John Peter Amewu has strongly indicated that government will waste no time in reassuming the operations of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) if the new managers, Power Distribution Services (PDS) fail to meet their key performance indicators.

    PDS is taking over the management and operations of the ECG after Meralco consortium, a major shareholder in PDS won a bid to manage the ECG.

    Read: ECG will resume operations if PDS fails to deliver Amewu

    Speaking at a handing over ceremony in Accra, Energy Minister Mr. Amewu stated that the operations of PDS will closely be monitored to ensure performance delivery.

    “I wish to ensure the concessionaire, PDS that I am going to keep my eagle eye on the key performance indicators set out on the transaction agreement, and for some reason all those challenges enumerated above on any single occasion during the that you are expected to deliver effective service will come undone, an exit to the door will clearly be an option “ he said.

    Read: PDS takes over ECG today after initial postponement

    Mr. Amewu stated that PDS is expected to improve the operations of ECG and return the company to profit in a short period.

    The ECG private sector participation activity is one of five key projects activities that make up the ECG Financial and operational turnaround project under the 498 million dollars Ghana Compact two programme. The project is designed to strengthen the governance and management of ECG as well as undertake infrastructural and foundational investments designed to reduce technical, commercial and collection loses while improving service quality.

    By this, PDS is expected to improve revenue collection, cut cost, and maintain stable power for two decades while injecting over 500 million dollars in to the power distributor.

    Read: PDS takes over ECG on February 27 after initial postponement

    On his part, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta was hopeful that with the takeoff of the PSP, government subvention in ECG will gradually reduce.

    “We expect that this agreement will slowly remove the government support for ECG to make the company strong enough to stand on its own”

    The Vice President of Meralco Philippines, Ireneo Acuna was of the view that the revision of shares from 20 percent local participation to 51 percent was is a laudable initiative taken by the Nana Addo government.

    “When the second bidding conference was done and the government said they want to increase the local participants, we were the only company that was excited because we believe in that,” Mr. Acuna said.

    PDS is a consortium of Ghanaian and two foreign companies. The Ghanaian component consists of TG Energy Solutions with 28 percent shares, Santa Power Ltd with 13 percent shares, and GTS Power with 10 percent shares. The others are Manila Electricity Company with 30 percent shares from the Philippines and Aenergia from Angola with 19 shares.

    Source: citibusinessnews.com

  • Emile Short C’ssion: Any group could have posed as National Security reps- Chief Supt. Ofori

    Regional Director of operations for Accra, Chief Superintendent Akwasi Ofori has stated that there is a possibility that any group could have posed as National Security Operatives just to cause mayhem at the various polling stations during the Ayawaso Wuogon elections.

    According to him, the police service had a challenge calming tensions during the Ayawaso West Wuogon polls because of the activities of the ‘National Security Operatives’.

    Read: Police have been ‘lethargic’ about serious Ayawaso case Emile Short

    “Even though it was captured in our operational order on the day that some aggrieved persons may snatch ballot boxes or terrorist groups may take advantage of the crowd to act, calling for backup to calm situations down because of the activities of the group in the police SWAT car was a challenge ” he narrated.

    Chief Superintendent Ofori further revealed that the hunter car used on the day by the men in masks neither belonged to the police service nor the Police SWAT team.

    Read: Emile Short Commission to visit polling station where violence struck

    He said this while giving his testimony before the three-member commission of Inquiry probing matters related to the violent clashes that occurred during the Ayawaso West Wuogon elections

    Source: Ghanaweb.com

  • Police have been ‘lethargic’ about serious Ayawaso case Emile Short

    Justice Emile Short has questioned the seriousness the Ghana Police Service has attached to the violence that happened during the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election.

    Read: More contradictions at Emile Short Commission

    Making the observation on Thursday when he cross-examined Chief Superintendent Kwasi Ofori, who was in charge of police operation during the by-election, Justice Emile Short said the police have been “lethargic” in attaching the seriousness deserving of the situation.

    Read: Emile Short Commission to visit polling station where violence struck

    Justice Short is the chairman of the Commission of Enquiry into the violence that rocked the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election on January 31, 2019.

    Justice Short wondered why considering the development which saw a crowd reportedly clashing with National Security operatives and leading to the outbreak of violence, the police havee not been able to effectively investigate the issue as of now.

    Source: Graphic.com.gh

  • Government to investigate Anas Galamsey fraud video

    Government has indicated that it is taking steps to carry out investigations into into the latest exposé of investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyew Anas.

    The documentary show deep-seated corruption by individuals put in charge of the fight against illegal mining popularly known as galamsey.

    Read: Talk to your boy Anas Wontumi cautions Kweku Baako

    Captured in part of the documentary titled Galamsey Fraud is a presidential staffer and secretary to the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining, Charles Bissiw, who allegedly took various sums of money from the undercover team posing as an illegal mining firm, to offer protection.

    Whilst a section of Ghanaians have been calling on the state to sanction persons captured taking alleged bribes in the exposé, Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah told journalists in Accra on Thursday that “Government will have the said tapes properly investigated using the raw unedited footage.”

    Read: We will sanction personnel in Anas exposé Military

    He said “If any persons are found to have solicited monies or taken bribes to bend rules the necessary action will be taken.”

    According to him, “Government welcomes any efforts aimed at assisting it succeed in its fight against illegal small scale mining.”

    Source: dailyguideafrica.com

  • Police storm Cecilia Marfo’s camp for allegedly duping a businessman

    A one minute video leaked to Ghanacreativearts.com suggests that Police officers numbering about four together with a businessman whose name has been given as Mr Bright and the main ‘sponsor’ behind renowned musician Evangelist Cecilia Marfo stormed her church in relation to duping allegations leveled against her by the said businessman.

    The relationship between the businessman and the spirited singer is said to have gone sour resulting in the former asking Evangelist Cecilia Maafo to submit all his properties in her possession back to him.

    Read: Cecilia Marfo parts ways with manager after 10 years

    According to close sources, Cecelia Marfo after months of several calls and attempts by Mr Bright has refused to return the properties which caused him to storm the church with Police officers on Tuesday, 26th February, 2019.

    In the said video circulating online, Cecilia Marfo’s husband was captured telling the policemen to take the issue to court instead of attempting to use force to take the properties. 

    Read: I want to make amends with Cecilia Marfo Brother Sammy

    A close source to the businessman revealed to us that the main fight between Cecilia Marfo and Mr bright is more spiritual than physical.

    The source added that the businessman has enough evidence to prove that Evangelist Cecilia Marfo is not a real “woman of God” so he has decided to part ways with her.

    Source: Ghanacreativearts.com

  • 9000 ezwich transfers recorded since mobile money interoperability system phase 2 roll out

    There has been a rise in the transfer of funds from ezwich accounts to mobile money wallets since the roll out of the second phase of the mobile money interoperability system on Wednesday, November 28, 2018.

    Read: Mobile Money Interoperability ends 2018 with 2.2m transactions

    Since January 2019, there have been transfer from ezwich wallets 9000 times with values exceeding GHc1 million.

    The CEO of GhIPSS, Archie Hesse notes the third phase roll out of the mobile money interoperability platform will see merchants also being able to do transfers seamlessly.

    Between May and October last year, the mobile money interoperability platform had recorded 1.4 million worth of transaction with value of over 140 million cedis.

    Read: Bawumia launches phase II of mobile money interoperability

    The three uniquely interoperable platforms; bank accounts, mobile money platforms, bank account, ezwich, mobile money platforms, have been connected making Ghana one of the few in the world to achieve a full universal interoperability in the sub region.

    The phase two of the mobile money interoperability allows one to send and receive money from a mobile money account to an ezwich account.

    Source: goldstreetbusiness.com

  • Dangote now 64th world richest person with $16.6 billion

    President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote has emerged as 64th richest person in the world with an estimated $16.6 billion, as against his previous ranking of 103rd in the world.

    Read: Aliko Dangote still Africa’s richest man – Forbes

    Aliko Dangote Dangote, who remains the richest man in Africa for the 8th year running, was the only Nigerian on the list of the top 500 billionaires, as released last week by Bloomberg in its yearly billionaires list.

    Source: atinkaonline.com

  • University of Melbourne International Scholarship in Australia

    Scholarship Description: The University of Melbourne is glad to offer the Science Graduate International Scholarship. This scholarship is available for international students who are not being a citizen of Australia or New Zealand or a permanent resident of Australia.

    This scholarship offers a $ 10,000 tuition fee waiver to high-achieving applicants undertaking graduate study at the University of Melbourne.

    Scholarship Provider: The Melbourne Model is a globally competitive curriculum that combines broad undergraduate studies with a professional specialization at the graduate level.

    Degree Level: Scholarships are available to graduate coursework students.

    Available Subject: Scholarships are awarded in the environment and natural resources; Sciences and mathematics offered by the university.

    Scholarship Benefits: One-off tuition fee remission worth $10,000

    Number of Scholarships: Approximately 50-100

    Eligible Nationalities: Scholarships are available to international students

    Entrance Requirements: To be eligible for this scholarship, you need to:

    • Not a resident of Australia or New Zealand or permanent resident of Australia
    • have applied for full-time enrollment in a qualified undergraduate course
    • Any other tuition fee exemption is not in receipt of scholarship or sponsorship, which in combination with science graduates scholarship, is more than 100 percent of tuition fees
    • In order to be eligible for the scholarship, students must obtain admission scores of at least 80% (equivalent to Melbourne University) for all eligible programs, except for the Master of Science (Mathematics and Statistics), where the score of admission is at least 85 % (University of Melbourne equivalent) is required

    Eligible graduate coursework degrees are:

    • Master of Biotechnology
    • Master of Computational Biology
    • Master of Environmental Science
    • Master of Ecosystem Management and Conservation
    • Master of Geography
    • Master of Geoscience
    • Master of Urban Horticulture
    • Master of Science (Biosciences)
    • Master of Science (Chemistry)
    • Master of Science (Earth Sciences)
    • Master of Science (Ecosystem Science)
    • Master of Science (Mathematics and Statistics)
    • Master of Science (Physics)

    Application Procedure: No application is required. You will be automatically considered for this award. The selection of qualified candidates is done on the basis of academic qualification.

    Scholarship Link https://scholarships.unimelb.edu.au/awards/science-graduate-scholarships-international

    Deadline: Open

  • Oprah Winfrey hosting ‘After Neverland’ special

    Oprah Winfrey will sit down with the two men at the center of an already controversial Michael Jackson documentary set to debut on HBO next week.

    “Oprah Winfrey Presents: After Neverland” will be a conversation with Wade Robson and James Safechuck, the subjects of the two-part documentary “Leaving Neverland.”

    Read: US comedian, Kevin Hart, to buy piece by Nigerian artist

    The film examines disturbing claims by Safechuck and Robson that Jackson sexually abused them over a period of several years when they were children.

    The pair, along with the project’s director Dan Reed, will appear “before an audience of survivors of sexual abuse and others whose lives have been impacted by it,” according to HBO and Winfrey’s OWN network, who are partnering on the special. (CNN and HBO share parent company WarnerMedia.)
    “Leaving Neverland” first screened at the Sundance Film Festival and revived conversation about whether Jackson was a predatory pedophile.

    Jackson’s family has denied the allegations and condemned the documentary, calling it a “public lynching,” and Jackson’s accusers “admitted liars,” in reference to sworn statements made by both Safechuck and Robson while Jackson was alive that he did not molest them.

    Robson made statements in support of Jackson to investigators first in the ’90s and testified in support of Jackson at his 2005 trial, where he was acquitted of child molestation and related charges. Safechuck at one point also denied he was molested by Jackson to investigators.

    Read: Melissa McCarthy’s Oscars bunny dress criticised by top designer

    The two filed separate civil lawsuits against Jackson’s estate that were dismissed on technical grounds and remain under appeal.

    The Jackson estate has filed a suit against HBO over the documentary.

    In 2010, Winfrey broke ground when she, director Tyler Perry and 200 men came together as survivors of childhood sexual abuse on her daytime talk show.

    She also famously interviewed Jackson in 1993 at his Neverland ranch.

    The special debuts simultaneously on HBO and OWN at 10 p.m. EST on March 4, immediately following the conclusion of part two of “Leaving Neverland,” which will air on March 3rd and 4th on HBO.

     

    Source: CNN 

  • Jeremy Corbyn: Labour will support Brexit referendum

    Jeremy Corbyn says Labour will back another EU referendum after his alternative Brexit plan was again defeated in the Commons.

    But the Labour leader said he will also continue to push for “other available options” including a general election.

    John McDonnell said the party would table an amendment for a referendum when the “meaningful vote” on Theresa May’s deal returns to Parliament.

    The shadow chancellor also told ITV’s Peston show he would vote for remain.

    It came as MPs voted to endorse Theresa May’s Brexit strategy – but only after she made a series of concessions.

    Read: Tesla’s Elon Musk may be in contempt over tweet

    The PM also faced a Brexiteer rebellion, after 20 Tory MPs voted against proposals, backed by the government, to delay the UK’s 29 March departure date if there is a no-deal scenario.

    But Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg, who was not among the 20 Tory rebels, offered an olive branch to Mrs May, as she continues to seek concessions from the EU on the controversial Irish backstop clause.

    The chairman of the European Research Group of Brexiteer Tories said he disagreed with those who were demanding changes to the legal text of the withdrawal agreement and would accept an appendix to it.

    Writing in The Daily Mail, he said: “I really do not mind what form of words the Attorney General and the EU agree on regarding the backstop – as long as it expires before the next election and has the same legal status as the deal.”

    Other leading figures in the ERG, including deputy chairman Steve Baker, have previously dismissed the legal annex to Mrs May’s agreement being negotiated by Attorney General Geoffrey Cox.

    Labour’s Brexit proposals – which would see the UK join an EU customs union – were defeated by 323 votes to 240, a bigger margin than the last time MPs voted on them.

    Mr Corbyn confirmed to MPs on Monday he would back another public vote if such a defeat took place – after resisting calls to do so from pro-EU Labour MPs.

    ‘Full weight’

    After Wednesday’s vote, Mr Corbyn said: “We will back a public vote in order to prevent a damaging Tory Brexit or a disastrous no deal outcome.

    “We will also continue to push for the other available options to prevent those outcomes, including a close economic relationship based on our credible alternative plan or a general election.”

    Labour MPs Peter Kyle and Phil Wilson have put forward a compromise plan to back Mrs May’s deal with the condition that it is then put to a confirmatory public vote.

    Former shadow cabinet minister Owen Smith, a longstanding critic of Mr Corbyn, said: “Now that Labour’s version of Brexit has been rejected by Parliament, I expect Jeremy Corbyn to throw his full weight behind campaigning for a public vote.”

    Labour MP David Lammy, a supporter of the Best for Britain campaign for another referendum, said: “It’s become clear today that there is no majority in the House for May’s deal, but also that Labour’s alternative plan cannot command a majority either.

    “In the key votes ahead of us we must extend Article 50 to take a catastrophic no-deal off the table and use that time to put this decision back to the people to decide if they back the government’s botched Brexit deal or staying in our current EU deal.”

    Read: Theresa May facing revolt ahead of cabinet meeting

    But Labour former minister Caroline Flint said the party should not back a further referendum despite the defeat of Mr Corbyn’s plan.

    She said: “I think the British public want us to get on with this and sort out a deal that works.”

    She said Labour’s leadership should “engage in negotiation, to use the leverage you have got, to get a better deal”.

    Government concessions

    MPs also rejected an SNP motion saying the UK should not leave the EU without a deal “under any circumstances” – by 324 votes to 288.

    Labour MP Yvette Cooper’s amendment, which the government supported, was backed by 502 votes to 20, with a small group of Tory Brexiteers voting against it.

    The amendment contained Mrs May’s commitment on giving MPs a vote on delaying Brexit if both her deal and no-deal are rejected by MPs.

    Mrs May announced this policy as she promised MPs a meaningful vote on her deal by 12 March – just 17 days before the UK is set to leave the EU.

    The move was designed to head off a possible defeat when MPs voted on Ms Cooper’s amendment.

     

    Source: BBC 

  • Govt urged to tighten border security to check fake products

    The Country Business Director of BOSCH is urging the government of Ghana to strengthen checkpoints at the various ports as well as entry points into the country to cut down on the influx of fake tools and equipment.

    According to Benjamin Ofori, the influx of these fake products on the market has a tendency to generate into a canker, cause injury to users and negatively affecting user confidence.

    Read: US states sue Trump over border wall

    In an interview with Citi News, Benjamin Ofori called on the government to adequately resource the Customs Exercise and Preventive Service and other relevant stakeholders with the needed structures to effectively carry out their duties to help stop fake products from entering the Ghanaian market.

    “Bosch was worried when we started our work in Ghana and we will continue to worry when people are trying to get their bad products into the market with our name on. We are a reputable company which has been around for more than 100 years and a trusted brand as well so we are not happy about the influx of fake products.”

    Read: Security sector agencies sign MoA on Integrated Border Management

    He added that: “It will be great if the government will have ways to check that goods that come into the ports are not unscrupulous products/”

    “Government works with the standards authorities to ensure efficiency but we still have these fake products find their way into the market crossing from sometimes neighbouring Togo or other countries so it will be good if we are able to check all these things and also allow Customs to check closely with us,” he added.

    Benjamin Ofori also advised the general public to do business with accredited dealers and rangers to avoid fake products.

    “The more reason we are worried is that when these fake products find their way into the market they have a way of injuring the user and we do not want that to happen to any Ghanaian. I want to assure and encourage users to only deal with us to get original products and save money”.

    Source: citinewsroom.com

  • Kepa Arrizabalaga still Chelsea’s No 1, insists Maurizio Sarri

    Maurizio Sarri says Kepa Arrizabalaga has “paid to the team” after he was dropped for Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Tottenham, but insists he is still his No 1 goalkeeper.

    Arrizabalaga was left on the bench after his show of dissent to the manager during Sunday’s Carabao Cup final defeat against Manchester City, where he refused to be subbed off, with Willy Caballero taking his place on Wednesday.

    The Spaniard was fined a week’s wages, and now Sarri says he has paid further for the incident in being left on the bench.

    Read: Chelsea: Kepa fined for refusing to be substituted

    Though he could not say if Arrizabalaga would be back for Sunday’s game with Fulham, Sarri insists the summer signing is still first choice, and will play one of the next two games, with Dynamo Kiev at Stamford Bridge next Thursday in the Europa League.

     

    Asked if he is still No 1 at Chelsea, Sarri said: “Of course.”

    He added: “I think it was the right decision, Kepa made a big mistake, he paid with the club, and then he had to pay with the team.

    “But now I have to think we have to stop, Kepa from tomorrow will be with us. He is back in the team for the weekend, I don’t know in the next match if he will be on the pitch or not, but one of the next two he will [start].

    “When you are young I think you can make mistakes, and the most important thing is that you need to understand very well after every mistake. For me, now the best thing is to close it.”

     

    Asked if his decision was behind Chelsea’s improved performance on Wednesday, Sarri was adamant it was similar to Sunday’s showing at Wembley, and praised his side’s aggression.

    Highlights of Chelsea’s win over Tottenham in the Premier League

    “No, I don’t think it was [related to dropping Kepa]. The performance in this match was really very good, but it was in line with the last one. The result was different, but the kind of performance is similar.

    “We hope [it is the turning point], but it is most important to think we need a consistency in performances, in results, and as you know very well in this championship it is not easy.

    “It is not easy to have consistency of results, but now we need points. It was really very important tonight. Maybe with this result we could involve Tottenham in this fight, because the gap is very large, seven points, but we have to play one match [in hand].”

    Pedro’s strike and an embarrassing Kieran Trippier own goal gave Chelsea three points, leaving them firmly in the hunt for the top four.

     

    It has eased the heat on Sarri somewhat, and the Italian revealed he had spoken to the club several times recently, and does not believe his job was under as much pressure as the media had suggested.

    “I spoke to the club two or three times in the last days, but the problem wasn’t so big as you write. I don’t know, maybe it wasn’t true, I don’t know, but it’s not a big problem for me, because in this job you are under pressure every week. I think it is normal for every coach.”

     

    Source: Skysports 

  • KAA Gent captain Nana Kwesi Asare pens two-year contract extension

    KAA Gent captain Nana Kwesi Asare has signed a two-year contract extension with the Belgian giants.

    The new deal will keep him at the GHELAMCO-arena (Gent) until June 2021.

    Asare, 32, has been playing for the Buffaloes since July 2013.

    Read: Alfred Duncan gets one-match ban

    He won the Jupiler League in the 2014/2015 season and Super Cup. 

    Asare has starred in UEFA Champions League and Europa League and tallied a total of 235 matches. 

    He was one of the first players to graduate from the then Gomoa Fetteh Feyenoord Academy ( now WAFA) and has been consistent abroad.

    Asare has also represented KV Mechelen and Dutch side FC Utrecht.

     

    Source: Ghanasoccernet 

  • Hearts supporters chief rallies “spiritual support” for Nkana FC ahead of Kotoko showdown

    Hearts of Oak supporters chief Paa Kofi Sunsum has thrown his weight behind Nkana FC ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup tie against their sworn local rivals Asante Kotoko on Sunday.

    The hard headed supporters chief is rallying “physical and spiritual” support for the Zambian side ahead of their reverse fixture against the Porcupine Warriors at the Baba Yara stadium.

    Kotoko are desperate to return to winning ways after losing 3-1 in Kitwe last week.

    Read: Gabonese referees appointed for Kotoko-Nkana game

    But Hearts of Oak’s National Chapters Committee chairman Paa Kofi Sunsum has confirmed his outfit support for the visiting team.

    “When Nkana FC arrived, they wanted someone who can lead and direct them so they called on me; because they have the likes of Ben Adama and Richard Okran who are Ghanaians, I accepted to lead them” he told Kobby Stone on Asempa FM

    “Ali Maradona in our champions league game in Obuasi did the same thing by leading officials of Eyimba FC. He advised them to the extent that, they rejected the bus which we gave them and defeated us in addition.

    Read: CK Akonnor pledges to fix defense as Kotoko returns home

    “For now I will be helping them [Nkana FC] with the spiritual aspect because, we don’t want to reveal our identity in Kumasi; we have been tasked to work underground.”

    “By all means NKana FC must qualify because Kotoko are playing in the CAF Confederations Cup by default. They are in Africa because we aren’t playing any competitive football in Ghana; so they they have to join us [Hearts of Oak] at home.

    “Every club is paying salaries so one club should not get that monopoly and raise shoulders, by all means Kotoko have to come home.”

     

    Source: Ghanasoccernet 

  • Short Commission to visit Ayawaso West Wuogon violence scene

    The Commission of Inquiry set up by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to probe the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election shooting incident is set to visit the violence scene on Friday, 1 March 2019.

    Read: More contradictions at Emile Short Commission

    A statement from the Commission said the visit is to “to apprise and furnish the Commission with corroborative evidence or otherwise relative to the testimonies given before it.”

    Read: Ofosu Ampofo confirms NDC deployed ‘Azoka Boys’ during Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election

    “The proceedings will be held on Friday, 1 March 2019, at 10.00am at the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency, La Bawaleshie Presby Basic 1 Cluster of Schools (East Legon),” the statement added.

    The three-member commission led by Justice Emile Short was formed after violence marred the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election on 31 January 2019.

    Some operatives of the national security fired multiple gunshots into a crowd that had gathered at the private residence Mr Delali Brempong, the NDC parliamentary candidate.

    The masked men also beat up unarmed civilians and assaulted Mr Sam George, a member of parliament for Ningo Prampram in the melee.

    Read: Emile Short Commission resumes sitting today

    Mr Brempong giving his testimony before the commission said there are evidence of bullet holes on a tree, a wall and a container close to his house.

    The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Mrs Jean Mensa, Minister of State in charge of National Security, Byran Acheampong, East Legon District Police Commander; National Security Minister, Kan Dapaah; Minister of Interior, Ambrose Dery, Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam George among others, have already appeared before the commission.

    Below is the full statement from the commission:

    Office of the Secretary

    Ayawaso West Wuogon Commission of Inquiry

    Osu Castle

    PRESS RELEASE

    Wednesday 27th February 2019

    Pursuant to its mandate and instrument of establishment contained under CI 111, the Ayawaso West Wuogon Commission of Inquiry will be conducting a locus visit to inspect and fully examine the scene of the impugned events and environment surrounding the conduct of the by-election on the 31st day of January, 2019.

    This is a fact finding exercise designed to apprise and furnish the Commission with corroborative evidence or otherwise relative to the testimonies given before it.

    The press are duly welcome to cover the process.

    The proceedings will be held on Friday 1st March 2019, at 10.00am at the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency, La Bawaleshie Presby Basic 1 Cluster of Schools (East Legon)

    Please note, press accreditation will commence from 0930hrs so do endeavour to be promptly represented.

    Katherine Woode

    Public Relations Officer

    Ayawaso West Wuogon Commission of Inquiry

    Christianborg Castle Osu

    Source: classfmonline.com

  • Kumasi Technical University student in urgent need of funds for Kidney Transplant

    Kidneys are important organs whose functions most of us take for granted, but when kidneys silently stop working this can create a life threatening situation.

    This is the predicament of, Kwadwo Bonsu, a 23-year-old student at the Kumasi Technical University, who is in urgent need of a Kidney Transplant.

    After several trips to the hospital for dialysis exercises, doctors said the transplant is needed for full recovery and life sustenance 

    He needs about 153,000 Ghana Cedis for Kidney transplant in India.

    Friends and family have called on the general public to assist with funds for an immediate Transplant surgery on the Health Statistics.

    Below are details interested persons can donate.

    GCB: 6211010042295, Kwadwo Bonsu 

    Mobile money number with the same name: 0548981526

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com 

  • Sadio Mane: Liverpool forward’s house burgled during Champions League match

    Liverpool forward Sadio Mane’s house was burgled while he was playing in the Champions League last-16 tie against Bayern Munich on Tuesday.

    Items including watches, mobile phones and car keys were stolen.

    The incident happened at Mane’s house in Allerton, south Liverpool between 18:00 and 23:45 GMT – while the 26-year-old was at Anfield. No-one was in the property at the time.

    Forensic examinations are under way and a police investigation is ongoing.

    Read: Rampant Liverpool hit five against Watford to stay top

    Detective Inspector Phil Mahon, of Merseyside Police, said: “We are appealing for anyone with information in relation to this burglary to please come forward and assist our inquiries.

    “While the occupants were not present at the time of the incident this will no doubt be a distressing experience for them and I would ask the offenders to do the right thing and return the stolen items to the owner in any way possible.

    Read: Suarez double put Barce Past Real into dey Rel final

    “We know the watches in particular are of significant monetary value and I would also like to appeal to anyone who might have been offered the items for sale since the burglary to contact police.”

    Senegal international Mane was burgled in November 2017 while he was at Anfield for a Champions League game against Maribor.

    A gang was thought to have broken into his home first before smashing a patio door at the nearby address of team-mate Dejan Lovren before they fled when a woman shouted she was calling the police.

     

    Source: BBC 

  • Suarez double put Barce Past Real into dey Rel final

    Luis Suarez scored twice as Barcelona won at Real Madrid in a smash-and-grab El Clasico to reach a sixth consecutive Copa del Rey final.

    Real dominated with 14 shots to Barca’s four but the visitors were clinical when it mattered.

    Suarez smashed home Ousmane Dembele’s cross before Raphael Varane’s own goal put Barca in control.

    An audacious chipped penalty from Suarez after he was fouled by Casemiro put the game beyond any doubt.

    Both sides – who had drawn the first leg 1-1 – meet again at the Bernabeu on Saturday in La Liga.

    Read: Rampant Liverpool hit five against Watford to stay top

    The Copa del Rey final takes place on 25 May, when Barcelona will face either Real Betis or Valencia, with that tie to be settled on Thursday after the first leg finished 2-2.

    Clinical Barca leave Real reeling

    Suarez scored a hat-trick as Barca hammered Real Madrid 5-1 in El Clasico back in October, a result which cost Julen Lopetegui his job.

    While this was another thrashing, the scoreline was not an indication of how the game went.

    Ernesto Valverde’s side rode their luck at the Bernabeu to reach the final again as they look to win an unprecedented fifth successive Copa del Rey.

    Marc-Andre ter Stegen made several fine stops to keep out Real before Barca scored with their first shot on target.

    Read: Lukaku double helps injury hit Man Utd win at Palace

    Suarez netted his 10th Clasico goal as he blasted home from 14 yards and he was involved in their second as Varane put Dembele’s cross into his own net in a desperate bid to stop the ball reaching the Uruguayan.

    And Suarez scored again – with a Panenka penalty, a technique associated with Real captain Sergio Ramos this season – after he had won the spot-kick himself.

    It was a relatively quiet night for Lionel Messi, who had scored a hat-trick in Saturday’s 4-2 win over Sevilla.

    Now over to Saturday’s Clasico back in Madrid, with Barcelona looking to expand their seven-point lead at the top over Atletico Madrid.

     

    Source: BBC 

  • First Allied Savings customer shares how she nearly killed herself

    A distressed customer of the First Allied Savings and Loans, Madam Akua Yeboah, a trader at the Kumasi Central Market has shared a chilling experience about how she nearly killed herself.

    She said her frustration stems from the fact that she has about GHC120,000 locked up at the financial institution.

    Read: Intervene in 10 days or we demonstrate First Allied customers to Government

    The money, she sadly narrated amidst tears, happens to be an accumulated contribution of market women belonging to a group called “Onuado Ladies Association”.

    Narration

    As the leader for the group, it was agreed among members that the money GHC120,000 should be kept in her care.

    Read: No timelines for deposit repayments – First Allied Savings and Loans

    “The money was hidden in my house for some few days after which I considered the risk involved and decided to open an account and deposit it at First Allied Savings and Loans Limited,” she said.

    Madam Akua Yeboah broke into tears for 30 minutes and cried out that “…few days after depositing the money at the financial institution, I received a report that first Allied Savings and Loans limited is collapsing and that management has refused withdrawals of funds.”

    Read: Government to refer First Allied Savings and Loans impasse to economic management team

    She said since the news of the supposed collapse of First Allied Savings and Loans Limited broke out, she has tried everything possible to withdraw the money “…so that I will hand it over to respective members of the association and vindicate myself off the false embezzlement allegation peddled against me”

    Due to the excessive pressure exerted on her by members of the group who thought she has squandered the money and her frequent worry over the matter, she was months ago diagnosed of cardiac disease (swollen heart) by medics.

    “I at one time submitted my medical reports on the condition of my heart to the management of the institution so that they will sympathise with me and release my deposits”.

    She said management of First Allied Savings and Loans(Adum branch) didn’t give her a reception let alone to have a look at her medical report.

    Daily pressure exerted on her by members of the association to refund their contribution according to her became unbearable so she decided to end her life.

    She narrated to THE PRESS RADIO that she started contemplating suicide and nearly initiated the action but it took the counsel of her church Pastors before she could rescind her decision.

    Aside the 1.2 billion old Ghana Cedis her personal savings amounting GHC50,000 is also locked at the savings and loans company.

    She, therefore, appealed to the government to consider her situation and assist her to get her deposits back.

    Source: Thepressradio.com

  • Lukaku double helps injury hit Man Utd win at Palace

    Romelu Lukaku “grabbed his chance” by scoring twice to make light work of Manchester United’s injury crisis with a comfortable Premier League victory over Crystal Palace, says manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

    The Red Devils were missing eight first-team players at Selhurst Park, but claimed a club record eighth consecutive win away from home and extended their unbeaten league run under their interim boss to 11 games.

    Belgium striker Lukaku netted in each half, curling a well-placed shot into the corner for his first and scooping over goalkeeper Vicente Guaita for his second.

    Looking to respond, Palace winger Jeffrey Schlupp flicked a header wide of the far post, but Joel Ward did manage to convert a diving header from close range with 24 minutes remaining.

    Solskjaer said: “He [Lukaku] has done loads of running up and down the line, right wing, left wing. He’s had a different role because of Marcus Rashford’s form.

    “He got a chance up front. Two very good finishes could have had another one as well earlier on, so I am very pleased for Rom. He is a quality finisher.

    “It’s great to have him around the place, always happy, always working on his finishing. He’s played more than you think, but he’s played wide right, wide left, so it’s Rash’s form that has moved him out there.

    “Now with Rash’s injury, he grabbed his chance.”

    United were under pressure late on but Ashley Young drilled in a third for the victory as United stay fifth in the table, a point behind Arsenal who hammered Bournemouth 5-1, while Palace remain 14th.

    There were major concerns before the game that boss Solskjaer may have to field a significantly-weakened United side, having seen three players stricken by injury in the first half against Liverpool last Sunday.

    But the Norwegian managed to put out a fairly strong eleven, giving a start to £47m summer signing Fred for his first appearance since 5 January in the FA Cup.

    The former Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder was shaky early on, being outmuscled off the ball too often and playing loose passes, but his 84.5% pass accuracy was bettered only by defender Victor Lindelof.

    Solskjaer, who has repeatedly spoken about the traditions of Manchester United, took the opportunity to hand a debut to 17-year-old youth team midfielder James Garner for the final minute, replacing Fred. 

    Forward Alexis Sanchez failed to impress in another lacklustre showing, but striker Lukaku scored two well-taken goals, having missed a glorious chance in the opening 10 minutes when he volleyed over from close range.

    The former Chelsea, Everton and West Brom man moved into the Premier League’s top 20 all-time leading scorers, his 111 strikes drawing him level with Dion Dublin.

    At the back, full-back Luke Shaw followed up his excellent showing against Liverpool with another solid performance, while Young kept Wilfried Zaha quiet and capped his display with a goal.

     

    Source: BBC 

  • Rampant Liverpool hit five against Watford to stay top

    Jurgen Klopp feels Liverpool proved some doubters wrong after they turned on the style to crush Watford at Anfield and stay top of the Premier League.

    The Reds had dropped six points in their previous four top-flight games but two goals each by Sadio Mane and Virgil van Dijk, as well as another from Divock Origi, helped them to their biggest win of the season.

    “You know what was written and said about us. It is of course not right,” Klopp told BBC Sport afterwards.

    “These boys are outstanding and today they showed so much passion.”

    With 10 games of the league season left, Liverpool stay one point clear of nearest rivals Manchester City, who beat West Ham 1-0 on Wednesday.

    Read: Kolo Toure confirmed First Team coach at Leicester City under Brendan Rodgers

    Klopp’s side was 2-0 ahead in 20 minutes as Senegal forward Mane headed the first before doubling the lead with an outrageous backheel, Trent Alexander-Arnold providing both assists.

    Mohamed Salah hit the post before Divock Origi beat Ben Foster at his near post to make it 3-0.

    Van Dijk scored two late headers, including one from another Alexander-Arnold assist. 

    Rampant Reds back in the groove

    Klopp went on the pitch at the full-time whistle to applaud Liverpool’s fans and headed back to the dressing room with a huge smile and his arm draped around Alexander-Arnold’s shoulder.

    The 20-year-old England defender marked his return to the side, after being left out of Sunday’s draw at Manchester United, with an outstanding performance as poor Watford were put to the sword.

    Alexander-Arnold’s pace caused the Hornets’ defence all sorts of problems while Adam Masina had a torrid time at the hands of Salah.

    This was a timely return to winning ways for Liverpool after one win in their previous five league and cup games.

    Mane’s header set them on their way but it was his second which showed Liverpool had their swagger back – a spectacular backheel past Foster.

    Origi has been a spectator for most of the season, but with Roberto Firmino missing because of an ankle injury, the Belgium forward marked his rare appearance with a right-foot finish in front of the Kop.

    Before this game, Van Dijk had scored one goal for his club this season but found the net twice in the space of three minutes as Watford caved in.

    Liverpool will face tougher opponents during the run-in, while they will be replaced at the top of the table on Saturday if City avoid defeat at Bournemouth as Klopp’s side are not in action until Sunday at Everton.

    However, there is fresh optimism at Anfield after a resounding win.

    “We have 69 points,” added Klopp.

    Read: FIFA President feels saddened by lack of stadiums in Italy

    “We could have had 75 but we are having a really good season. Let’s enjoy the ride and see where it takes us.”

    Another Anfield thrashing for Watford

    Watford has had a terrific season under Javi Gracia, the Spaniard guiding the Hornets to a ‘best of the rest’ seventh spot in the table and a place in the FA Cup quarter-finals.

    Yet they were blown away by Liverpool in such a manner that Wolves, who were not playing, moved ahead of them because of a superior goal difference.

    Watford’s last three visits to Anfield have resulted in 5-0, 5-0 and 6-1 defeats.

     

    Source: BBC 

  • Melissa McCarthy’s Oscars bunny dress criticised by top designer

    A leading Hollywood designer has described the wacky outfits worn by Melissa McCarthy and Brian Tyree Henry to present the Oscar for best costume design as “tasteless and insulting”.

    The actors wore spoof period costumes inspired by the film The Favourite.

    They included a group of fake rabbits on the train of McCarthy’s dress.

    Arianne Phillips, who has been nominated for two Oscars for best costume design herself, said it made a “mockery” of her profession.

    Read: Oscars 2019: Winners in full

    “I like to think I have a sense of humour. And I love Melissa McCarthy and Brian Tyree Henry,” she wrote on Facebook. “But… I honestly thought this was tasteless and insulting to costume design.”

    ‘Major steps backwards’

    Phillips received her Academy Award nominations for designing outfits for Reese Witherspoon, among others, in Walk the Line in 2006; and for WE, directed by Madonna, in 2012.

    On Sunday, McCarthy drew laughs by fumbling with a rabbit puppet while introducing the category. The Academy Award went to Black Panther’s Ruth Carter.

    “The Oscars are an opportunity to honour our craft(s),” Phillips wrote. “As costume designers we struggle with people in our own industry UNDERSTANDING our job.

    Read: Oscars 2019: Olivia Colman and Green Book spring surprise wins

    “On this one night where the work is supposed to be elevated (look at the international ratings) this is perhaps the most egregious misrepresentation not only of taste (which is subjective) but of value to the filmmaking process.

    “We are not just ‘shoppers’, as our job is so often misunderstood. We constantly have to explain our job, this kind of mockery only underscores frustration. Feels like major steps backwards.

    “SHAME on The Academy for allowing this to be broadcast.”

    The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences has been contacted for a response.

     

    Source: BBC 

  • Woman in labour crashed to death with her mother

    A pregnant woman who was in labour and being escorted to the hospital has been crashed to the death in an accident at Abrepo opposite the Kumasi Girls High School in the Ashanti Region.

    Read: Seven mourners crashed to death; 64 injured at Asamankese

    Her mother, Abena Antwea, who was taking her to the hospital was also killed in the crash Thursday dawn.

    Faustina, 40, and her mother were crossing the road to the other end as they look for a vehicle to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital when they were run over by a speeding driver.

    Read: Okada rider, passenger crashed to death at Kyekyewere

    The suspect is currently on the run.

    The Police have conveyed the bodies of the victims to the morgue.

    Source: Starrfm.com.gh

  • Kolo Toure confirmed First Team coach at Leicester City under Brendan Rodgers

    Kolo Toure is back in the English Premier League after being confirmed as first team coach at Leicester City.

    The Ivorian moves from Celtic alongside new Foxes manager Brendan Rodgers.

    Read: Brendan Rodgers set to quit Celtic for Leicester City

    The pair have formed a successful coaching partnership since joining forces in September 2017, winning the Scottish domestic treble last season.

    Toure, who won over 100 caps for Ivory Coast, has two Premier League titles to his name as a player for Arsenal and Manchester City.

    Read: Leicester City sacks Claude Puel

    He also won the African Cup of Nations in 2015, scoring a penalty in shootout win over Ghana. before working as an assistant coach with the Elephants in an ultimately unsuccessful World Cup qualification campaign for Russia 2018.

     

    Source: Ghanasoccernet 

  • Mahama must select Goosie Tandoh as running mate if he needs my support — Sekou Nkrumah

    Son of first President of the Republic of Republic of Ghana, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Dr Sekou Nkrumah has given elected National Democratic Congress ( NDC) flagbearer John Mahama a hint of what he should do if he needs his support in 2020. 

    Read: Mahama intends to lead NDC with extremism – NPP

    Sekou Nkrumah has said the only way NDC can inject hope into people like him is to select Goosie Tandoh, one of the defeated aspirants in the NDC race as his running mate.

    According to him, “That way some of us can still have hope in NDC!!!”

    Read: Selorm Adonoo writes: The second coming of Mahama, political masterstroke or gamble?

    Former President John Mahama was overwhelmingly endorsed by delegates of the party during their just-ended flagbearership contest. Mr Mahama polled 95.24% of the votes cast beating his contenders Prof Joshua Alabi, Alban Bagbin, Goosie Tandoh, Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, Sylvester Mensah and Nurudeen Iddrisu.

    MyNewsGh.com is reliably informed that while it is not conclusive on who will be selected to partner Mr Mahama in the upcoming 2020 elections, none of his contenders will be under consideration for the position which will be expected to be named before the end of the third quarter this year, or later

    Sekou Nkrumah clearly believes otherwise.

    Source: mynewsgh.com

  • Ghana reported to FIFA over governmental intrusion

    Ghana football is facing an international ban after a former FA Executive committee member reported the country to Fifa, claiming that the government is interfering in the administration of the sport.

    Kojo Yankah, who doubles as Western region football chief, wrote to the world governing body on Wednesday over the Ministry of Youth and Sports’ attempt to organise a special competition for local clubs.

    It has been confirmed that Fifa has received the letter.

    Read: NC confirms government interference in football, Quist rubbishes OB Amoah’s claims

    Kojo Yankah says the Sports Ministry’s decision to bypass the Normalisation Committee to organise competition for local clubs to keep players active is “unconstitutional and unwarranted”

    While refusing to give details on the content of the petition, the outspoken football administrator confirmed receiving acknowledgement  from the world governing body.

    “They are destroying our football and we’ll not sit down and allow that to happen,” he told Kwadwo Mensah ‘Moshosho’ on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Morning show Thursday.

    “Where in the world does a ministry organise competition for clubs? I have written to FIFA and copied the FA. FIFA has acknowledged receipt of my letter.

    “At the moment, I am waiting to the action of FIFA. We are destroying our game on the alter of normalising football. It’s unconstitutional.”

    The country’s sports minister has thus set-up a seven member committee chaired by his deputy Perry Okudzeto to resolve  the outstanding issues of regulations, financial package and the management of the competition.

    GHANAsoccernet.com predicted the move will be met with an opposition amid a potential FIFA ban over government interference. 

    The world governing body will view the latest development as direct government interference and may be forced to step in.

    There is anger within the ranks of the Normalisation Committee as they  view the setting up of the committee as governmental interference in their work.

    This shows that there is a big rift brewing between the Normalisation Committee and the Sports Ministry over who controls the game in the country but government is likely to win the tussle as it is providing the finance to get the tournament underway.

    Read: Amoah rubbishes supposed problem with Normalization Committee

    The contradictions by the stakeholders after Monday’s meeting has muddied waters and thrown the competition into a ditch.

    Normalisation Committee vice-president Lucy Quist rubbished claims highly experienced former sports minister Hon. OB Amoah on the standoff. 

    The latest decision is a massive slap on the competence of the four-member committee, who have been unable to reach an agreement with clubs over the competition.

    Massive power play and ego-infested machination could be triggered and deepened, with the interim body unlikely to let it slide as its dent their competences for the top job.

    The interim Ghana FA has been told to focus on reviewing status and activate the processes for elections, in what appears a damning assessment of their tenure so far.

     

    Source: Ghanasoccernet 

  • Akufo-Addo commissions ceramic tile manufacturing company under 1D1F

    Ghana President Nana Akufo-Addo has commissioned the Fujian Sentuo Ceramics Company in Kpone, in the Greater Accra Region as part of the One-District-One-Factory initiative. 

    The President commissioned the ceramic tile manufacturing company on Wednesday, February 27, 2018. 

    Read: 1D1F factory takes shape in Tano North

    The company employs about 1,500 persons and sources 90% of its raw materials locally, mainly from the Central and Western regions. 

    Speaking after commissioning the factory, Nana Addo thanked the owners of the company for taking advantage of the One-District-One-Factory Policy. 

    He indicated that his government aims to achieve a significant level of industrial development across the country. 

    Read: 1D1F: Brick factory in Tano North District takes shape

    “The industrial transformation agenda is anchored on a 10-point plan, confronting the private sector and its ability to spearhead the development of our country,” he opined. 

    “Some of those are the high cost of doing business, lack of access to medium- and long-term financing, poor infrastructure and logistics support for enterprises and commercial activities, inadequate skilled manpower and limited access to technology, innovation and research,” he said. 

    The President assured that all the aforementioned challenges are being addressed by the policies of government.

    Touching on what government is doing to encourage local businesses, Nana Addo said his government is working to bring down interest rates.

    President Akufo-Addo also assured the business community his government is working hard bring down interest rates and the cedi depreciation to improve the business environment. 

    “All efforts are being made to arrest the decline and restore the cedi to stability, in order to improve the competitiveness of Ghanaian industry.”

    Source: yen.com.gh