TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • Cantonments road closed for 2 months for drainage and traffic management works

    Cantonments road closed for 2 months for drainage and traffic management works

    The Ministry of Roads and Highways, through its Department of Urban Roads, has announced a substantial disruption to traffic flow on Cantonments Road in Accra, effective from Sunday, May 26th, until Monday, July 29th, 2024.

    This interruption is necessary for drainage and traffic management enhancements along the section of Cantonments Road stretching from the Police Station to Danquah Circle.

    Part of a broader initiative, these improvements aim to upgrade the drainage system and ensure safer pedestrian access near the Police Hospital.

    In collaboration with the Ministry of the Interior, the project is being undertaken with support from the International Hospitals Group Ltd (IHG). Its objective is to bolster infrastructure and safety measures around the Police Hospital, thereby creating a safer and more efficient environment for both pedestrians and drivers.

    During this period, motorists and all road users intending to utilize Cantonments Road are urged to adhere to traffic management signs placed along the route. The Police Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) will be strategically positioned to assist motorists as needed.

    The Department of Urban Roads acknowledges any inconvenience resulting from these necessary development works. Ing. James Amoo-Gottfried, Director of the Department, assures the public that these enhancements will yield significant long-term benefits for the community.

  • There have been numerous pleas to discontinue ambulance case involving Ato Forson – AG

    There have been numerous pleas to discontinue ambulance case involving Ato Forson – AG

    The Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice has revealed that there has been intense pressure from various individuals to discontinue the ambulance purchase trial involving Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

    Richard Jakpa, the third accused, alleged in open court that Attorney General Godfred Dame approached him multiple times, seeking his assistance in implicating Dr. Ato Forson.

    During cross-examination, Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe admonished Jakpa to provide direct answers instead of evading questions and wasting the court’s time.

    In response to the judge’s caution, the Attorney-General accused Jakpa of defending the Minority Leader. This prompted a fiery reaction from Jakpa, who claimed the AG had repeatedly contacted him at odd hours to build a case against Dr. Forson.

    The Attorney-General, in a statement, said that the third accused had, in fact, requested plea bargaining in a series of letters, which has not been accepted.

    “It is rather the third accused who, by various letters dated 27th April 2023, 16th May 2023, 30th May 2023 and 12th June 2023, has proposed to the Republic through the Attorney-General to engage in plea bargaining or plea negotiations. This plea bargaining proposal has, to date, not been accepted by the Attorney-General.

    “Even though the law on plea bargaining passed by Parliament permits a prosecutor to negotiate with an accused person after a plea proposal has been made, the Attorney-General has not engaged the third accused person to give false testimony in the matter.”

    The Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice stated that the latest allegation is part of a grand scheme by the NDC to pressure him into discontinuing the prosecution or to divert attention from the real issues.

    “The Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice considers the latest allegation levelled against the Attorney-General as part of a grand scheme by the NDC to put more pressure on him to discontinue the prosecution or to divert attention from the real issues regarding the actions of the accused persons which have caused enormous financial loss to the State.

    “The Attorney-General has also come under enormous pressure from all manner of persons for him to discontinue the prosecution of the 1st accused person, Cassiel Ato Forson, but has not yielded.”

    The Attorney-General stated that neither he nor any officer from the Office of the Attorney-General has approached any of the accused persons with the intention of obtaining evidence from them.

  • Man United beat City to win FA Cup

    Man United beat City to win FA Cup

    Manchester United have claimed the FA Cup for the 13th time in the club’s history after defeating Manchester City 2-1 in the 2024 final at Wembley Stadium.

    This victory secures the Reds a spot in the Europa League next season, as a reward for winning English football’s most prestigious knockout competition for the first time since 2016.

    First-half goals from two United Academy graduates, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo, in the 30th and 39th minutes respectively, put the Reds in control of the match.

    Although City substitute Jeremy Doku pulled one back for the Premier League champions in the 87th minute, Erik ten Hag’s men defended valiantly through the remainder of the game, securing a triumph that some pundits had considered unlikely in the build-up.

    Sir Jim Ratcliffe said: “It is a glorious feeling to win the FA Cup final at Wembley. Manchester United clearly were not the favourites to win today but they played with total commitment and skill and overcame one of the great teams in football. We are all very proud of the players and the staff who work tirelessly to support them.”

    Erik ten Hag commented: “After a year with so many setbacks and injuries, the team showed so much resilience and I am so proud of them. I am proud of the fans too. They are incredible. We have the best fans in the world.”

    Bruno Fernandes held the FA Cup aloft as United captain and said afterwards: “It was our last chance to get something positive from the season.

    “Last year, we were not good enough go up the stairs and lift the trophy, so we had to see them doing that. This season is the other way around.

    “We had to suffer, we had to sacrifice, but we also had to put some quality into the game. And we did great things.”

  • Ghanaian students in Morocco to be evicted over delayed stipends

    Ghanaian students in Morocco to be evicted over delayed stipends

    Ghanaian students studying in Morocco under a government scholarship program have urgently appealed to President Akufo-Addo for the prompt release of their overdue stipends.

    The students voiced their concerns during a peaceful demonstration. Currently enrolled in various universities across Morocco, they have been facing significant challenges due to the delay in their stipend payments.

    The students reported that they are on the brink of eviction from their apartments due to unpaid rent. They also mentioned struggling to afford basic necessities, forcing them to rely on the generosity of friends.

    A male student expressed his distress, stating, “…it is not our fault. We were sent to this place by the government on a scholarship. Brilliant but needy students…It has been more than 10 months, we are going to the 11th month without our stipends. We live in a country where rent is 120 per month. That’s the cheapest you can get at a place without security.”

    He further warned of dire consequences if their pleas were not addressed promptly, saying, “…Our lives are in danger. We are begging you wherever you are, Mr President, If you don’t come in there will be blood on your hands. We are begging you. If we don’t get paid in less than one week. There will be blood on your hands.”

    A female student also echoed these sentiments, pleading, “We are pleading with the government of Ghana to come to our aid. As ladies here in this country, we are not even able to afford the basic needs, sanitary pads and the worst of it all is your parents will send you money and its gets here, it’s nothing.”

  • The biggest single purveyor of corruption in the public service is GRA – Sam George

    The biggest single purveyor of corruption in the public service is GRA – Sam George

    Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam George, has declared the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) the “biggest single purveyor of corruption in the public service.”

    According to him, the GRA, which is supposed to act as a watchdog ensuring that no one evades taxes, failed in this duty in the Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) deal, neglecting to retrieve owed taxes.

    His comments follow the release of a full KPMG report by President Akufo-Addo on Wednesday, May 22. The report revealed that Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) owes the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) GH¢ 31.88 million in unpaid taxes for eight months of service provision.

    This outstanding amount includes accrued interest, estimated at GH¢ 18.50 million as of January 31, 2024.

    The MP noted that several institutions have appeared before the public accounts committee due to the Auditor General’s findings of untaxed transactions.

    “Infact sometimes we impose penalties on them to pay with interest. The withholding tax is not supposed to be withheld by SML, its by GRA in making the payment. So when GRA was making payment to SML, they ought to know, that they ought to have withheld taxes.”

    “It appears as though the GRA itself is under duress in this deal. Officers of the GRA, because of the overwhelming influence of the patriarchs of SML and the relationship with the GRA, people are under so much duress that they are failing to even carry out the basic things. You have created loot, and you are sharing.

    “So, when the police man is involved in armed robbery, who arrests him?”

  • Freemasons visit Asantehene to commemorate Golden Stool anniversary

    Freemasons visit Asantehene to commemorate Golden Stool anniversary

    Freemasons from across the globe gathered in Kumasi to honor Most Worshipful Brother, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, on two significant milestones: his 25th anniversaries on the Golden Stool and in Freemasonry.

    The celebration, held at the Sir Agyemang Prempeh II Masonic Hall on May 25, paid tribute to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who serves as the Grand Patron of the Grand Lodge of Ghana.

    The ceremony was attended by brethren from various grand lodges, including Grand Lodge of Liberia, led by MWB Anthony W. Deline, United Grand Lodge of England, represented by Most Worshipful Bro Charles William Stanley-Pierre and Grand Master designate of the Grand Lodge in Nigeria, High Chief Osiobe Eric Okotie.

    Also present were current Grand Master, Most Worshipful Bro Nana Osei Atwene Bonsu, Most Worshipful Bro Otwasuom Osae Nyampong VI, Most Worshipful Bro N/Capt Kwadjo Adunkwa Butah and Bro Nana Kwaku Boateng all, Omanhene of New Juaben.

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu II ascended to the Golden Stool in 1999 and has been a steadfast supporter of Freemasonry throughout his reign. Following the formal Masonic ceremony, festivities continued at the Jubilee Hall in Manhyia, fostering a sense of unity and brotherhood among attendees.

    Established on January 24, 2009, the Grand Lodge of Ghana serves as a “Sovereign Masonic Body.”

    The Grand Lodge of Ghana oversees numerous subordinate lodges and is organized into four provincial Grand Lodges: South West (Cape Coast), South East (Accra), North (Kumasi), and East (Lome & Volta). The United Grand Lodge of England was the first to recognize the newly constituted Grand Lodge of Ghana.

    Most Worshipful Brother Charles William Stanley-Pierre was installed as the inaugural Grand Master, succeeded by Most Worshipful Brother Otwasuom Osae Nyampong VI in 2013, and Most Worshipful Brother N/Capt Kwadjo Adunkwa Butah in 2017.

  • KK Fosu, Bless involved in deadly accident on Accra-Apam Highway

    KK Fosu, Bless involved in deadly accident on Accra-Apam Highway

    Two prominent Ghanaian highlife musicians, K.K. Fosu and Bless of ‘Chocho Mu Cho’ fame, are in critical condition following a severe accident while traveling to Apam in the Central Region.

    The car carrying the two artists was involved in a head-on collision on the Accra-Apam highway after a failed overtaking attempt. Both musicians sustained significant injuries, with one suffering a broken leg among other injuries.

    After the accident, they were initially taken to a health facility in the Central Region and are now set to be transferred to Accra for further medical treatment.

    Bless and K.K. Fosu were on their way to Apam in the Gomoa West District to perform at a wedding when the incident occurred.

    This unfortunate event follows closely on the heels of another accident involving actor Kwadwo Nkansah Lilwin, who also sustained injuries in a serious crash.

  • Tema residents force suspected thief to carry cement blocks as punishment

    Tema residents force suspected thief to carry cement blocks as punishment

    A man deemed to be a serial thief was subjected to corporal punishment at Tema by some residents.

    It is unknown if the suspect stole any valuable item, but in a video gone viral, the residents could be heard reprimanding the suspect for being present at the vicinity despite several warnings.

    The suspect was made to kneel and carry several cement blocks on his head.

    Ghana’s laws frown on what is mostly referred to as instant justice by civilians. It is the responsibility of every citizen to report suspected offenders to the security agencies for the appropriate actions to be taken.

  • Rooney given Plymouth Argyle head coach role

    Rooney given Plymouth Argyle head coach role

    Plymouth Argyle, a Championship side, has appointed former England captain Wayne Rooney as their new head coach.

    The 38-year-old takes over from Ian Foster, who was sacked on 1 April following a string of poor results.

    Rooney’s appointment comes after his recent stint at Birmingham City, where he was dismissed on 2 January after a brief and disappointing tenure of less than three months, losing nine out of 15 games. Birmingham, previously in the Championship play-off places when Rooney assumed the role, was relegated to League One earlier this month.

    This marks Rooney’s fourth head coach role, following his time as Derby County boss amidst the club’s financial struggles. He managed to secure Championship survival in May 2021 but left a year later after Derby’s relegation due to a points deduction for financial issues.

    Rooney also spent 15 months as the boss of DC United in the United States but departed last October without achieving the MLS play-offs. His coaching staff at Plymouth will include first-team coaches Kevin Nancekivell and Simon Ireland, along with goalkeeping coach Darryl Flahavan, with more additions expected.

    Rooney has already encountered Home Park and the club’s ‘Green Army’ fanbase during Plymouth’s 3-3 draw with Birmingham in December, the team’s first game following former boss Steven Schumacher’s departure for Stoke City.

    “Taking this role at Plymouth Argyle feels like the perfect next step in my career – and I would like to thank the chairman and board for the faith they have shown in me,” Rooney said.

    “This is an opportunity to be part of an exciting project. I look forward to helping to build a squad of players to play expansive football – and to entertain the Green Army.

    “I have experienced first-hand how talented the existing group of players is here – and also the incredible atmosphere at Home Park.

    “The club is on an exciting long-term journey, with a progressive plan in place. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of it.”

    Argyle chairman Simon Hallett said Rooney approached the club when they began the process of recruiting their next head coach having ensured survival on the final day of the season.

    “Throughout the interview process, Wayne showed himself to be a passionate, intelligent, and knowledgeable candidate with an appetite to prove himself and develop his managerial career,” added Hallett.

    “So much so, that he reached out to the board when we started this process and was attracted by the project at hand and showed a real plan on how to lead the football club forward.

    “His ambitions and aims match ours perfectly and we feel he is the perfect candidate to provide the exciting and attacking brand of football that we all like to see and help us achieve the club’s mission.”

  • Kompany set to become Bayern Munich head coach

    Kompany set to become Bayern Munich head coach

    Burnley manager Vincent Kompany has reached an agreement in principle to become the new coach of Bayern Munich.

    The German club pursued Kompany after facing rejections in their search for a successor to Thomas Tuchel.

    Kompany has reportedly agreed to a deal until 2027, with Bayern set to pay Burnley £10.2m in compensation. However, his assistant at Burnley, Craig Bellamy, will not accompany him to the Allianz Arena. Instead, Floribert Ngalula and Bram Geers will be part of his backroom staff.

    Bayern had initially targeted several coaches, including Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso and former manager Julian Nagelsmann, but faced rejection from all. Tuchel, who held talks with Bayern earlier in May, also failed to reach an agreement.

    Kompany’s appointment meets Bayern’s preference for a German-speaking coach, as he has played for Hamburg during his career. The 38-year-old has gained recognition as a manager during his time at Anderlecht and Burnley.

    As a four-time Premier League winner with Manchester City, Kompany transitioned into coaching, initially as player-manager at Anderlecht in 2020 before moving to Burnley. He guided Burnley to the Championship title in 2023 but was unable to prevent their relegation from the Premier League this season.

  • SML-GRA deal which is to loot and share was approved by Ofori-Atta – Sam George

    SML-GRA deal which is to loot and share was approved by Ofori-Atta – Sam George

    Ningo-Prampram Member of Parliament, Sam George, has added his voice to the criticism surrounding the controversial contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).

    He described the deal as a classic example of what former Supreme Court Justice, Jones Dotse, famously termed “create, loot, and share.” Mr. George believes the agreement was designed to siphon funds from the state coffers, portraying it as a mechanism for facilitating embezzlement.

    Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, May 25, the outspoken politician emphasized the importance of not overlooking the involvement of former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, in the controversial arrangement.

    Mr. George believes Ofori-Atta played a significant role in the deal and should not be allowed to evade responsibility.

    “The SML or SMEL deal is a clear example of what Justice Dotse described as a create, loot and share. One thing Ghanaians must bear in mind is that all of these happened with the tacit approval of the then Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta.”

    “As usual, he is trying to run under the radar and people are failing to realise, the key cardinal role he played in this entire arrangement,” he stated.

    Mr. George also characterized the GRA as a “crime scene”.

    “The Ghana Revenue Authority in my humble opinion is a crime scene and is the biggest single purveyor of corruption in our public service. I suggest the dissolution and reconstitution of the whole GRA. The GRA is supposed to be the watchdog in ensuring that nobody evades taxes and in this SML deal, the GRA itself failed to retrieve tax,” he added.

    President Akufo-Addo released the KPMG audit report on the contentious contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) on Wednesday, May 22. This followed weeks of pressure from Ghanaians, including civil society organizations, demanding transparency regarding the numerous infractions in the contract.

    The audit findings revealed that SML owes the GRA GH¢31.88 million in unpaid taxes for eight months of service provision. This debt includes accrued interest, estimated at GH¢18.50 million as of January 31, 2024. It was also discovered that all these contracts lacked approval from both the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) and Parliament.

    Furthermore, the report disclosed that the GRA had six service contracts with SML, contradicting the presidency’s initial claim of only three contracts. This discrepancy sharply contrasts with information previously stated in a press release by the Communications Director of the Presidency, Eugene Arhin, on April 24.

    These revelations have sparked significant public outrage, with many Ghanaians calling for the immediate cancellation of the deal and the prosecution of those responsible.

  • A bag of tomatoes is GHC8K, do something about it – Trader cries out to gov’t

    A bag of tomatoes is GHC8K, do something about it – Trader cries out to gov’t

    A female trader in Ghana has expressed concern over the escalating prices of tomatoes.

    In an interview, she mentioned that a bag of tomatoes now costs GHC8,000, while a basket is sold at GHC1,500.

    Currently, a bucket is priced at GH200.

    Due to the high cost, she stated that a single tomato is now sold for GHC5, meaning that with GHC20, one can purchase four tomatoes.

    She also mentioned that some of her customers are opting for tomato puree as an alternative due to affordability issues.

    She called on the government to intervene and help control the rising cost of tomatoes.

  • GHC20 is now worth 4 tomatoes – Trader reveals

    GHC20 is now worth 4 tomatoes – Trader reveals

    A Ghanaian female trader has lamented the rising cost in purchasing tomatoes.

    In an interview, the trader noted that a bag of tomatoes now goes for GHC8,000 while a basket is sold at GHC1,500.

    Currently, a bucket goes for GH200. Due to the high cost of purchasing tomato, the trader noted that a tomato is now sold for GHC5, as such with GHC20, one can get 4 tomatoes.

    She noted that some of her customers are no longer able to purchase the fruit, as such use tomato puree as an alternative.

    She called on the government to intervene to curtail the surging cost of tomatoes.

  • Ghana’s public debt surges by GHC46.4bn in 2 months to hit GHC658.6bn

    Ghana’s public debt surges by GHC46.4bn in 2 months to hit GHC658.6bn

    Ghana’s public debt increased by GH¢46.4 billion in the first two months of 2024, reaching GH¢658.6 billion ($53.1 billion), according to data from the Bank of Ghana.

    This total public debt stock is equivalent to 62.7% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    The Central Bank’s May 2024 Summary of Economic and Financial Data revealed that the country’s debt, which ended 2023 at GH¢611.2 billion, increased to GH¢626.0 billion in January 2024 and further to GH¢658.6 billion in February 2024.

    The rise in public debt was attributed to the cedi’s depreciation and increased government borrowing on the domestic market.

    In the first two months of 2024, domestic debt increased by GH¢18.5 billion, while external debt rose by GH¢28.9 billion, primarily due to the cedi’s depreciation.

    The Central Bank data showed that the external component of the total public debt stood at $30.6 billion (GH¢350.3 billion) in February 2024, representing 36.1% of GDP.

    Domestic debt was GH¢278.7 billion in February 2024, also about 36.1% of GDP.

    The report also indicated that the government’s fiscal operations were on target, with the deficit-to-GDP ratio standing at 2.6% in the first quarter of 2024, compared to a deficit of 1.8% of GDP during the same period the previous year.

    Additionally, the primary balance recorded a deficit of 1.4% of GDP in March 2024.

    In December 2022, Ghana halted interest payments on loans to its external creditors due to economic difficulties.

    Subsequently, the country received a Memorandum of Understanding from its bilateral creditors regarding the restructuring of a portion of the external debt.

    After successfully negotiating a deal with the bilateral creditors in January 2024, Ghana is currently in negotiations with bondholders.

  • Why Chief Justice Tokornoo is a “strict” judge

    Why Chief Justice Tokornoo is a “strict” judge

    Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has said that she has had to be strict in her roles to effectively manage her office.

    She says it comes with the challenging nature of the job, for being a judge requires firmness in decision-making.

    In an exclusive interview with JoyNews, Chief Justice Torkornoo explains; “I am strict. I think that you can hardly be a judge without being strict because on a daily basis, a judge is handling something like 20 cases minimum.”

    She noted that judges must contend with assertive lawyers on both sides—some prepared, some unprepared, some with questionable motives, and others who are rarely present to do their work. Judges must navigate all these different personalities and attitudes.

    “If you don’t come to the bench with rules, you can hardly get your work done. Being a judge on the bench is about being strict. Strict with managing time, process, the different submissions, and managing the courtroom,” she said.

    Commenting on her practice directions and administrative guidelines aimed at expediting the wheels of justice during her short tenure as head of the judiciary, Chief Justice Torkornoo emphasized that her entire career has been dedicated to the practice of law.

    She noted that she has served as an external lawyer for various institutions and has been actively engaged in legal practice. This extensive experience, she stressed, has provided her with firsthand knowledge of the frustrations that come from attending court without achieving results.

    “I have known the pain of inefficient court staff, I have known the pain of processes that leave either a lawyer or party confused.

    “……Therefore, in becoming Chief Justice, all that was left was for me to implement those things that were already in the pipeline,” she added.

  • I only felt good at Man Utd after 6 months – Onana

    I only felt good at Man Utd after 6 months – Onana

    Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana revealed that it took him six months “to feel good” at Old Trafford.

    United signed Onana from Inter Milan for £47.2m in July, replacing four-time club player of the year David de Gea.

    Despite high expectations, the Cameroon international struggled initially, being chipped from 50 yards on his Old Trafford debut against Lens and making several errors that contributed to the club’s poor Premier League performance and Champions League group-stage elimination.

    Onana’s form only began to improve significantly after returning from the Africa Cup of Nations in February. While he has made the occasional mistake, he is now considered one of the more dependable members of manager Erik ten Hag’s squad as they prepare for Saturday’s FA Cup final against rivals Manchester City (15:00 BST).

    “I arrived as the best goalkeeper in the world and ‘boom’ it went down. It was like ‘what happened?’,” said the 28-year-old.

    “But that is how difficult football is sometimes. It depends if you want to stay down there or stand up and fight. I know what I did to arrive here. I know who I am. I decided to stand up and fight.”

    Onana points to team-mate Marcus Rashford as an example of why players should avoid extreme judgments.

    Last season, Rashford scored a career-high 30 goals. This term, he has managed eight and didn’t even make England boss Gareth Southgate’s provisional 33-man European Championship squad, let alone the final cut.

    “We are talking about the same player,” said Onana. “So now he’s a bad player? No. You can have a bad season or a bad start but the most important thing is how you end.

    “Rashy, for me, is one of the best players in the world. But he is facing difficulty. It’s not only him and me but the whole club.

    “But he will come back. I know my killer will score some important goals for us. Hopefully against City he will score two and we win the FA Cup.”

    ‘I don’t mind facing 20 or 30 shots’

    Man United keeper Andre Onana
    Image caption,United faced the second-highest number of shots of any Premier League team this season (667) – and Onana’s 14

    The apprehension among some United fans about a second consecutive FA Cup final showdown with Manchester City stems from the sheer number of chances their team concedes.

    Between March and April, there was a seven-game streak where the opposition had at least 20 shots per match on Onana’s goal.

    In their last encounter with City in March, United had just three shots compared to their opponents’ 27 in a 3-1 defeat.

    Onana believes this is largely due to the changes Ten Hag has had to make to his defense.

    The partnership between Casemiro and Lisandro Martinez that started against Brighton on May 19 was the 15th different central defensive combination United have used this season. No partnership has started more than four consecutive games.

    “I don’t mind facing 20 or 30 shots,” said Onana. “I am very happy with what my team-mates are doing because a lot of them make sacrifices for the team.

    “It would be nice to have everyone back but what can we do? Hide? We are a big club. We have to go on the front foot and deal with difficulties. I am positive. I know things will get better. If not today, tomorrow.”

    Onana pays little attention to the overwhelming odds favoring City to repeat their triumph from 12 months ago when United conceded the fastest goal in FA Cup final history after just 12 seconds.

    Having been part of the Inter Milan side that made life exceptionally difficult for City in last season’s Champions League final, Onana knows what it takes to challenge them. Inter were the better team for periods before ultimately losing to Rodri’s decisive strike.

    Saturday’s match holds significant importance for Ten Hag, whose future at United remains uncertain.

    Onana, familiar with the Dutchman from their five-year tenure together at Ajax, understands Ten Hag’s strategies well. Both left Ajax in the same summer, with Ten Hag joining United as Onana headed to Italy.

    “I’m not here to back him because he’s big enough to back himself,” said Onana. “But he’s a really good guy, a positive coach and tactically he is good.

    “If he had all his squad together, it would probably be different for him, for us, the club and the fans.

    “We know how good City are. They are the best team at the moment and we lost twice to them already.

    “But we are motivated. Beating them wouldn’t make it a successful season. Playing for this club, I don’t think winning the FA Cup is enough.

    “But it would make things look better. We go there to win.”

  • Richard Ahiagbah must be arrested for voting in 2020 polls without Voter ID – NDC tells police

    Richard Ahiagbah must be arrested for voting in 2020 polls without Voter ID – NDC tells police

    The Volta Regional Executives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have called on the Ghana Police Service to take action against Richard Ahiagbah, the Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), for allegedly violating the country’s electoral laws.

    This call stems from an incident during the 2020 general elections, where Mr. Ahiagbah, despite acknowledging that his name was not found in the voter register for the Ketu South constituency, was permitted to cast his ballot.

    The NDC’s demand for action comes in the wake of the recent arrest of Hopeson Adorye, a prominent member of the Movement for Change, on charges related to claims of detonating dynamite in the Volta Region during the 2016 general elections.

    In an interview with Accra-based TV3 on Friday, May 24, the Volta Regional Secretary of the NDC, James Gunu, emphasized that, similar to Hopeson Adorye, Richard Ahiagbah should be arrested for alleged involvement in electoral fraud.

    “Richard Ahiagbah, a stalwart of the NPP confessed that though he was not a registered voter in 2020, he voted. That is another confession and that is criminal just as the throwing of dynamites. Now Hopeson has been arrested and granted bail, but we cannot leave the other person who has confessed because we cannot live in a selective justice system.”

    “If Hopseson Adorye is guilty, Richard Ahiagbah is equally guilty of electoral fraud and I expect the Ghana Police Service to pick him up and investigate him because he personally confessed this,” he stated.

    He stressed the importance of thorough investigations into all allegations to ensure electoral justice, asserting that law enforcement should not only apprehend individuals but also conduct comprehensive inquiries into the matter.

  • Negotiations are ongoing – GNAT assures teachers agitated over conditions of service

    Negotiations are ongoing – GNAT assures teachers agitated over conditions of service

    The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has called on its members to remain calm amid ongoing protests over delays in finalizing their conditions of service agreements with the government.

    Despite government efforts to address issues such as the scheme of service, teachers remain discontented due to unresolved concerns about allowances and other benefits.

    In an interview with Citi News, GNAT General Secretary Thomas Musah expressed optimism, indicating that negotiations are progressing well and an agreement is expected soon.

    “We want to assure them that the negotiations are ongoing. We are still engaging the government; it has not broken down yet, so we want them to be reassured that we are working around the clock together with the government to ensure that the agreement is concluded as soon as possible.”

    Teachers have issued multiple ultimatums and staged numerous protests nationwide to pressure the government into paying their allowances.

    GNAT, the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT) have been leading these demands.

    Although recognizing progress in negotiations, GNAT has urged the government to proactively address their concerns.

    “When the whole thing started from the labour commission, we had six items. Three were addressed instantly. The OSP matter was addressed, and the scheme of service matter was also addressed because they were told to provide us with the scheme of service by April. From there, other changes have been made.”

  • Mahama signs book of condolence as he mourns Iran’s Raisi

    Mahama signs book of condolence as he mourns Iran’s Raisi

    Former President John Mahama visited the Iranian Embassy in Accra on Friday, May 24, to sign the book of condolence for the late President of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi, who tragically died in a helicopter crash.

    During his visit, the former president conveyed his heartfelt condolences and stood in solidarity with the people of Iran during this difficult period of mourning.

    Ghana and Iran share a longstanding and robust relationship, and Mr. Mahama worked diligently to enhance these ties during his presidency. His visit to Iran in 2014 aimed to bolster economic cooperation and trade between the two nations.

    At the embassy, Mahama reiterated Ghana’s commitment to strengthening relations with Iran and expressed optimism for continued cooperation upon his anticipated return to office in 2025.

    Mr. Mahama extended his deepest sympathies to the people of Iran and the late president’s family, offering his support during their time of grief.

  • Rooney likely to get Plymouth job

    Rooney likely to get Plymouth job

    Wayne Rooney is poised to be officially announced as the head coach of Championship side Plymouth Argyle on Saturday following discussions regarding the vacant position.

    At 38 years old, Rooney is eager to rebuild his coaching reputation after a challenging stint at Birmingham last season, where he suffered nine losses out of 15 matches.

    Plymouth Argyle has been in search of a new manager since the departure of Ian Foster towards the end of the previous season. Director of football Neil Dewsnip and coach Kevin Nancekivell assumed interim roles for the remainder of the campaign, successfully steering Plymouth to safety, ironically at the expense of Birmingham.

    Dewsnip’s familiarity with Rooney from their time together at Everton‘s academy likely played a role in the decision-making process.

    Rooney boasts an extensive playing career, amassing 763 appearances for clubs such as Everton, Manchester United, MLS side DC United, and Derby County.

    Transitioning into coaching, Rooney took on a player-coach role at Derby in November 2020, eventually assuming the permanent managerial position. However, he announced his retirement just two months later.

    During his tenure at Derby, Rooney oversaw 85 matches before returning to the United States to manage his former club, DC United. Subsequently, he took the helm at Birmingham in October 2023 but was dismissed less than three months later.

  • KATH CEO’s job hangs in the balance over mismanagement claims

    KATH CEO’s job hangs in the balance over mismanagement claims

    Private legal practitioner Kwame Adofo has submitted a petition to President Akufo-Addo, seeking the removal of Professor Addai Mensah, the current Chief Executive Officer of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).

    Mr. Adofo claims to have substantial evidence indicating financial mismanagement and incompetence by Professor Addai Mensah during his tenure as CEO of KATH.

    In an interview with Asaase Radio, Mr. Adofo alleged that Professor Addai Mensah had misappropriated GHC300,000 without proper accountability and had also violated procurement processes.

    These accusations, according to Mr. Adofo, raise serious concerns about the management, competence, and integrity of Professor Addai Mensah as the CEO of KATH.

    “My petition was written to the President because he is the appointing authority,” Mr Adofo stated.

    “I made specific allegations against the said Chief Executive Officer [of KATH] because I have evidence to firmly back the claims. The first allegation concerns GHC300,000 in cash that the CEO has not been able to account for. And as a concerned citizen, I petitioned the President because he said we should not sit idle when we see people committing offences,” he added.

    Mr. Adofo expressed optimism that President Akufo-Addo would promptly address these serious allegations by removing Professor Addai Mensah from his role.

    The legal expert emphasized that his efforts are driven by a commitment to fostering accountability and transparency within government institutions.

  • Dynamite wasn’t used, I used fire crackers – Hopeson Adorye on 2016 election manipulation

    Dynamite wasn’t used, I used fire crackers – Hopeson Adorye on 2016 election manipulation

    Hopeson Adorye, a former member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) who defected to the Movement for Change, has retracted his previous claim of using dynamite to scare voters in the Volta Region during the 2016 election, now stating that he used firecrackers instead.

    Presenting the case, Chief Inspector Christopher Wonder informed the court that on May 2, 2024, the Police Administration’s attention was drawn to a viral video on social media.

    In the video, the accused was seen and heard stating that before the 2016 general elections, he took it upon himself to prevent Togolese from coming to vote in Ghana. This statement was made on the Accra-based radio station, Accra FM.

    In his investigative caution statement, Mr. Adorye admitted to the video’s content but clarified that it was firecrackers, not dynamite, that were used.

    Mr. Adorye has been charged with the publication of false news, contrary to section 208(1) of the Criminal Offences Act 1960 (Act 29). On Thursday, he was granted bail of GH¢20,000.00 by a Dansoman Circuit Court, presided over by Her Honour Alima El Lawah Basit, after pleading not guilty to the charge.

    He has been ordered to execute the bail bond with two sureties, one of which should be justified, and to report to the police station once a week.

    Mr. Adorye was arrested 20 days after making the statement. The court hearing attracted members of the Movement for Change, including Patricia Christabel Kyerematen, wife of the founder, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen.

  • AG will not sue 3rd accused in ambulance case for defamation – Spokesperson

    AG will not sue 3rd accused in ambulance case for defamation – Spokesperson

    The Office of the Attorney General has decided not to pursue charges against individuals spreading false information about Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame in the ongoing ambulance case.

    Godfred Yeboah Dame has firmly denied allegations from individuals associated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), who claimed he sought cooperation to secure a conviction against the first accused, Cassiel Ato Forson.

    In a statement released by Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah Yeboah on Thursday, May 23, the AG’s office clarified that it was actually the third accused, Richard Jakpa, who had suggested plea bargaining or negotiations through various letters, which the Attorney General did not accept.

    Furthermore, the Attorney-General has disclosed the existence of video evidence showing the first accused, Cassiel Ato Forson, approaching him to request the discontinuation of the prosecution.

    The Attorney-General’s Office and Ministry of Justice have interpreted these recent allegations against the Attorney General as part of a broader effort by the NDC to pressure him into halting the prosecution or to divert attention from the substantive issues related to the accused persons’ actions, which have resulted in significant financial losses to the state.

    In an interview with Asaase Radio on Friday, May 24, spokesperson Isaac Wilberforce Mensah emphasized that the Attorney General has chosen not to pursue defamation lawsuits in response to the allegations.

    “Defamatory suit, once again I would say now is not necessary. I mean these are political discussions and the first accused person or the first accused person has been charged with a criminal offence..”

    ” So if the defence in this case is that the Attorney General had negotiations with the third accused person, if that’s the defence then it will be a bit difficult in court for the defence I should say,” he said.

  • Inaki Williams undergoes operation to remove 2-year-old glass fragment from foot

    Inaki Williams undergoes operation to remove 2-year-old glass fragment from foot

    Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde has disclosed that Inaki Williams is currently sidelined following surgery to remove a two-centimetre piece of glass from his foot.

    This development casts doubt on the 29-year-old striker’s participation in Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic (CAR).

    During a press conference, Valverde explained that Williams had been playing with the glass in his foot since an accident two years ago.

    Although he had initially recovered from the injury, it was recently discovered that a portion of the glass was still embedded in his foot, necessitating the surgical procedure.

    “We did a scan after the final, and we discovered that he still had some glass in his foot. When they stitched him up the first time, they left the glass in there,” Valverde said, as quoted by Football Espana.

    “In addition, it’s not a small piece, it’s about 2cm. It was next to a bone or a tendon, but we had to extract it. The truth is that myself and the doctor were laughing because we couldn’t believe it.”

    Williams, renowned for his impressive injury-free streak of 251 consecutive matches for Athletic Bilbao, has recently missed several games for both club and country. He will also be absent from Athletic Bilbao’s final match of the season against Rayo Vallecano.

    The Ghanaian forward now faces a tight timeline to recover in time for Ghana’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

    The Black Stars are set to travel to Bamako to face Mali on June 6, followed by a home game against the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi on June 10.

  • Matron, bursar at Somé SHS arrested for ‘stealing’ food items

    Matron, bursar at Somé SHS arrested for ‘stealing’ food items

    The matron and bursar of Somé Senior High School (SHS) in Agbozume, located in the Ketu South Municipality, have been arrested for allegedly stealing food products meant for feeding students in the boarding house.

    According to Citi News sources, the two have been involved in these illegal activities for many years.

    Ibrahim Ayuba, the assembly member for the Logove Electoral Area, facilitated the arrest after intercepting the stolen items.

    Among the stolen goods were tin tomatoes, mackerel, detergents, and insecticide spray. Some of these items were discovered in the matron’s bag and others in the bursar’s car.

    The suspects are currently in police custody at the Agbozume police station.

  • Fella Makafui appears before Nungua Traditional Council over land document saga

    Fella Makafui appears before Nungua Traditional Council over land document saga

    Actress and entrepreneur Precious Fella Makafui has responded to an invitation from the Nungua Stool concerning land documents that recently surfaced on social media.

    Accompanied by Ghanaian actress Habiba Sinare and others, Fella Makafui made an appearance to address the matter.

    Earlier this week, the Office of the Gborbu Wulomo-Shitse, Overlord of the Gadangme State, issued formal invitations to Fella Makafui and her ex-husband, Medikal, requesting their presence at the palace for document verification.

    The summons, issued by Rev. Dr. Gyasi Ankrah, Director of Administration at the Office of the Gborbu Wulomo-Shitse, required Fella Makafui and Medikal, whose real name is Samuel Adu Frimpong, to present their complete documentation at the palace on Friday, May 24, 2024, at 11:00 am for verification purposes.

    The former couple has been in the news for weeks following complications from their divorce.

  • Suit against commercialisation of GMOs thrown out by Court

    Suit against commercialisation of GMOs thrown out by Court

    The High Court in Accra has dismissed claims made by Food Sovereignty Ghana regarding the National Biosafety Authority’s work on genetically modified (GM) products.

    Justice Barbara Tetteh Charway ruled that the plaintiffs did not provide sufficient evidence to support their claims.

    Food Sovereignty Ghana, along with three other groups, sought declarations on whether the necessary processes and laws were followed in the plans to commercialize GMOs.

    They also sought clarification on whether the defendants adhered to domestic and international laws on risk assessment and management concerning the release and commercialization of Bt cowpea and rice.

    However, the court held that the Biosafety Authority had not yet released any GM products for commercialization, as they were still engaged in extensive research and community sensitization.

    Justice Tetteh Charway ordered the labeling of all genetically modified products on the market to inform consumers and requested relevant data on Bt cowpea imported from Nigeria and sold in Ghana.

    The detailed judgment on the case, which was initiated in 2015, will be provided by the court at a later date.

  • No GHC49bn has been released to contractors – Chamber of Construction Industry tells Finance Minister

    No GHC49bn has been released to contractors – Chamber of Construction Industry tells Finance Minister

    The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry, Emmanuel Cherry, has stated that he is unaware of the GH₵49 billion that Finance Minister Dr. Amin Adams claimed has been released to contractors.

    During a press briefing on Friday, Dr. Amin Adams explained that the current depreciation of the cedi was partly due to payments of approximately GH₵49 billion to contractors and $400 million to Independent Power Producers (IPPs), which contributed to speculative dollar accumulation.

    “We have paid contractors. I want to say that the complaints of no money and no money, and no money, we don’t hear that anymore because we have paid and paid contractors. As of now, to date I think we have spent some GH₵49 billion. Same time last year, we did GH₵41 billion and so this demonstrates there’s a lot of cedi liquidity in the market and we have seen some people looking for US dollars to buy with the cedis that we have put out there.

    “And so these are some of the reasons including the payment to IPPs (Independent Power Producers). You will recall that we started negotiating with them as a result of which we had to make a bullet, one-off payment amounting to some $400 million and so they all put pressure on the cedi,” Dr Adam said.

    However, Mr. Cherry stated that, to his knowledge, no such amount had been issued to the chamber for any construction work.

    He expressed surprise at the Finance Minister’s claim, insisting it came as a shock to him.

    “In the roads and the building sector, if we should lump together the amount the minister has mentioned now, I don’t know where exactly he is getting his figures from. So it is something that has hit us as a shock and a surprise,” he said on Joy FM’s Top Story on May 24.

    The CEO explained that the chamber was unaware of the mentioned amount and added that they would investigate the matter.

    “But as industry players we are also bent on doing our further checks into the books and to find out what exactly is the minster driving to. Because if it is about roads and that of building it is very outrageous for us to say that the Minister of Finance will come out and dangle these figures into the public space.”

    Mr Cherry added that if the minister’s claim was true, contractors would still be on site.

    “If the minister claims that such an amount of money has been paid to the contractors then why are contractors not on site? Why have they moved from site? Why are they not working? That is the question we need to ask ourselves because as we speak today, road fund, government is owing contractors GH₵6 billion as we speak today.

    “The GOG, five-point-something billion. Cocobod has paid some GH₵1 billion this month and we are hoping that they will continue. So therefore their portfolio also reduces a little bit. We are looking at barely GH₵4 billion in total.

    “So in fact the debt portfolio that you and I’ve been talking about, it is not up to that magnitude. Which means there is another leg of construction that is going on that the minister is trying to speak to that we don’t know. We need to interrogate the books properly and come out with the accurate figures accordingly because this is very outrageous to us,” he added.

  • NDC is not our enemy – EC

    NDC is not our enemy – EC

    The Director of Electoral Services at the Electoral Commission (EC), Dr. Serebour Quaicoe, has emphasized that the EC does not harbor any animosity towards the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    He noted that the NDC, being a key stakeholder in Ghana’s elections, frequently raises concerns when it perceives issues in electoral processes and procedures.

    In an interview on JoyNews Pulse on May 24, Dr. Quaicoe explained that once the EC addresses these concerns, the NDC moves past them and continues to engage constructively.

    He highlighted that such interactions are typical for political parties and should not be seen as personal attacks on individuals within the EC.

     “I want to put on record that the Electoral Commission and the NDC, we are not enemies. When you come and meet some of them, we all attended the same schools and we are nice….

    “Normally, they will come and make the allegations and we will come and refute them. Once we refute them, it ends the case. I believe some of them maybe, they don’t understand how  the system works, that is why they will make those allegations but we are not enemies with them,” he said.

    For weeks, the NDC and the EC have been engaged in intense exchanges over the NDC’s allegations of the theft of several Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) devices from the Commission’s offices.

    Initially, the EC denied these allegations but later admitted, albeit reluctantly, that some equipment was indeed missing.

    Despite this, the Commission assured the public that the incident would not impact the upcoming polls in any way.

  • Fixtures of regional qualifiers for 2024 NSMQ

    Fixtures of regional qualifiers for 2024 NSMQ

    The various contests for the regional qualifiers for this year’s edition of the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) have been released.

    The regional balloting exercise, which commenced on May 20, will end on May 29, 2024.

    Over three days and nine contests, the Greater Accra NSMQ Regionals will take place from June 10 to June 12, 2024.

    The Bono NSMQ Regionals will take place over two days and five contests on June 10 and 11, 2024.

    The upcoming qualifiers in the Ahafo Region, taking place on June 11, 2024, will feature three contests.

    Take note of the four contests lined up for the Bono East Region, scheduled for June 12, 2024.

    Take a moment to review the fixtures for the Upper West NSMQ Regionals, scheduled for June 17 and 18, 2024.

    The Western NSMQ Regionals will take place on June 17 and 18, 2024, featuring six contests.

    Three contests will be held on June 19, 2024, to determine which schools will represent the Western North Region at NSMQ 2024.

    The other contests for the remaining regions will be provided as and when they are made available.

  • Joyce Bawa donates a smart TV to Akuse RC Basic School

    Joyce Bawa donates a smart TV to Akuse RC Basic School

    Joyce Bawa Mogtari, a special aide to former President John Dramani Mahama, has donated a 55-inch TCL Smart TV to Akuse RC Basic School in the Lower Manya Krobo Constituency.

    The donation, which took place on Friday, May 24, aims to enhance teaching and provide entertainment for the students.

    Representatives of Madam Bawa Mogtari, Edem Agbana and Clement Amegatse, presented the TV to the school’s headmaster, teachers, the Assembly member of the electoral area, and some constituency executives of the Lower Manya Krobo constituency, who attended the event.

    The students expressed joy and gratitude for the gesture, wishing Madam Bawa Mogtari success in her future endeavors.

    Edem Agbana, NDC Parliamentary Candidate for the Ketu North constituency, praised Joyce Bawa Mogtari for her dedication to education. He emphasized the TV’s dual role in enhancing learning and offering recreational opportunities.

    The School Management Committee (SMC) chairman shared his excitement about utilizing the TV for educational programs and multimedia lessons. The students were thrilled by the prospect of more engaging classroom activities and enjoyable shows during their free time.

    This donation follows a previous contribution of desks to the school, further improving the learning environment.

  • Trump holds campaign rally in New York to win over black and Latino voters 

    Trump holds campaign rally in New York to win over black and Latino voters 

    Donald Trump held a campaign rally in New York’s South Bronx neighborhood, aiming to win over black and Latino voters ahead of November’s presidential election.

    Among those sharing the stage with him was Florida Republican Byron Donalds, a black congressman and rumored potential running mate.

    This rally marked Trump’s first in New York in roughly eight years, as he tries to make inroads with ethnic minority voters.

    A recent New York Times and Sienna poll suggests Democrat Joe Biden is losing support among this crucial voting bloc in key states.

    The Bronx, a mainly Hispanic and black neighborhood, is a Democratic stronghold. Trump spoke directly to the New York audience about his impact on the city, where he built much of his fortune and fame.

    He claimed that while the city once inspired the world, it is now spiraling into decline, citing crime and infrastructure issues.

    He blamed Biden and record levels of migrants crossing the US-Mexico border for having an economic impact on minority voters.

    “The biggest negative impact [of illegal immigration] is against our black population and our Hispanic population, who are losing their jobs, losing their housing, losing everything they can lose”, Mr Trump told the crowd.

    Before Mr Trump’s arrival, there was concern about how he would be received in the Bronx.

    “I wish he would just disappear,” one man told the New York Times ahead of the rally.

    “Nobody I know supports him.”

    Police presence was heavy at Crotona Park as counter-protesters gathered outside the rally.

    They were eventually removed by New York police, according to the BBC’s US media partner CBS.

    But people who spoke to the BBC said they appreciate Mr Trump’s willingness to step out of his comfort zone.

    “It’s a bold move right here, him coming to the Bronx,” Geoffrey Davis said. “What he’s done here is very respectful.”

    Mr Davis said he supports Mr Trump because “when he was president, there were no wars. No Ukraine-Russia. No Israel-Gaza”.

    Thamar Corniel, a Trump supporter who was born in the Dominican Republic, said: “He’s America first.”

    Mr. Trump has been increasingly trying to make inroads with minority communities, hoping to sway crucial swing states in his favor.

    The race between Mr. Biden and Mr. Trump is tight ahead of the November 5th election. In April, during a break from his criminal hush-money trial in New York, Mr. Trump visited a Harlem corner store. He also spoke at a gala for the Black Conservative Federation, an organization working to expand Republican support among black voters, and has hired a black media director, Janiyah Thomas.

    However, there have been missteps. In February, he was criticized for suggesting that his four criminal indictments boosted his appeal with black Americans because they see him as a victim of discrimination.

    According to a recent New York Times and Sienna poll, Mr. Trump is leading Mr. Biden in five battleground states, partly due to black and Latino voters drifting away from the Democratic Party. President Biden has taken notice, as that bloc was crucial to his win in 2020, and has spent millions of dollars on targeted advertising blitzes.

    Young and non-white voters appear to be losing faith in Mr. Biden and the Democrats, growing frustrated with issues like inflation and the White House’s support for Israel.

    During President Biden’s recent commencement address at Morehouse University, a historically black college, several graduates turned their backs on him in protest of his handling of the war in Gaza.

    Olive branch to Haley

    After the rally, Mr Trump extended an olive branch to his Republican primaries rival Nikki Haley, calling her a “very capable person” who he expected to serve on his team “in some form”.

    Earlier this week, Ms Haley said she would vote for the man who beat her in the race for the Republican presidential nomination – a race that saw the two sides trade bitter insults.

    “We have a lot of the same ideas, the same thoughts,” commented Mr Trump, acknowledging that their slanging match had been “pretty nasty”.

    She ultimately withdrew and challenged her adversary to win over the millions of voters who picked her in the contest. The Biden campaign has been looking to woo the same groups.

  • NHIA calls for reforms in Ghana’s health sector 

    NHIA calls for reforms in Ghana’s health sector 

    Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, has highlighted the urgent need for health sector reforms in Ghana.

    He expressed concern over certain hospitals refusing to accept NHIS cards and emphasized the necessity to eliminate illegal charges imposed by some healthcare providers on patients.

    Speaking on the JoyNews’ AM show on Friday, he stated, “When you look at other jurisdictions, they guarantee what we call… like what we do in the petroleum industry, the automatic price adjustment. But if you look at our act, our act stipulate that we should do a yearly review, but you see that that is not really helping because it is not realistic.

    “Because if we do a yearly review, it means when there is a spike in price, the pharmaceutical industry obviously they will still be complaining. So, I believe that it is time for reforms.”

    Dr. Dacosta Aboagye has proposed the introduction of automatic price adjustments as a means to stabilize the pharmaceutical industry.

    He believes this measure would provide the much-needed stability for the sector, ensuring that pharmaceutical companies can operate with the assurance of fair prices.

    “I am recommending a nation-wide tariff review committee when, obviously, prices go up. Depending on the economic situation, that committee would actually sit and review the tariff then we start to implement it.

    “That would be one of the solutions to curbing these illegal charges, so at the end of the day, it could be that that is happening, but we also need to put our house in order to make sure that we are meeting them in such a way that they would have no right to be charging the patient,” he noted.

  • EU condemns Russia’s removal of border markers

    EU condemns Russia’s removal of border markers

    The European Union (EU) has condemned Russia’s removal of buoys marking the border with Estonia on the Narva River.

    Estonian officials reported that 24 out of 50 buoys placed to mark sailing routes were removed in the early hours of Thursday.

    Tensions over the border have escalated since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stated that “such actions are unacceptable.”

    “This border incident is part of a broader pattern of provocative behaviour and hybrid actions by Russia, including on its maritime and land borders in the Baltic Sea region,” he said in a statement.

    Moscow has objected to the placement of floating markers, which are used to prevent boats from entering foreign waters, and has disputed the planned locations of approximately half of the 250 buoys, according to Estonia’s border guard service.

    Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas stated that she is seeking to clarify the situation with Russia.

    She said it appeared to be part of a “broader pattern” of action by Moscow to use “tools related to the border to create fear and anxiety”.

    Estonia’s foreign ministry said it had summoned Russia’s chargé d’affaires and said it was treating the move as a “provocative border incident”.

    In a statement, Estonia demanded the “immediate return” of the buoys. This development follows a brief publication by the Russian defense ministry proposing a revision of its maritime border in the Baltic Sea earlier this week.

    The proposal was deleted after causing concern among NATO members, including Estonia. Moscow has not yet commented on the matter.

  • A-G risks being dragged to GLC over alleged attempt to incriminate Ato Forson in ambulance case

    A-G risks being dragged to GLC over alleged attempt to incriminate Ato Forson in ambulance case

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has accused Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Godfred Yeboah Dame of breaching the code of conduct that regulates the legal profession in Ghana.

    This accusation stems from allegations made in court that Mr. Dame attempted to coerce an accused person to implicate the Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, in the ongoing ambulance purchase trial.

    The Attorney General’s department has swiftly denied these allegations.

    According to a state attorney and spokesperson for the A-G’s department, Isaac Wilberforce Mensah, the communication between Mr. Dame and the third accused in the ambulance purchase trial, Richard Jakpa, has been in pursuit of a plea bargain requested by the accused.

    “The question now is, if indeed what happened in court happened, has any wrongdoing been done? That is the question. Has the Attorney General acted unlawfully? If indeed he acted in the way that is being told in the media that he acted, has he acted unlawfully? The answer is no.” 

    He clarified that the Attorney General does not need to coerce anybody to build a case against an individual.

    “The Attorney General himself has denied this emphatically. All this is more or less much to do about nothing. The law is clear. Is it legal for the Attorney General or prosecution to engage an accused person? Yes, it’s lawful. 

    “There’s nothing wrong with that. It is allowed in law. Did the Attorney General make statements to the effect that go and make false statements against anyone? The answer is no,” he said. 

    However, the NDC insists that the allegation by the third accused cannot be dismissed. The party is, therefore, threatening to take the A-G to the disciplinary committee of the General Legal Council.

    The National Communications Officer of the party, Sammy Gyamfi, said they will pursue the matter to its logical conclusion.

    According to him, the conduct of the Attorney General in this matter is a breach of the ethics of the legal profession.

    “This is a man who, because of the position he occupies, is described as the leader of the bar. But this conduct of Dame is unbecoming of even an ordinary lawyer not to talk of the leader of the bar. 

    “It is also a breach of the prosecutor’s code of conduct. It amounts to witness tampering and constitutes a crime, that is the offense of fabrication of evidence provided under sections 213 and 214 of the Criminal and Other Offenses Act,” he said.

  • Gov’t to spend GHC2.3bn on restructuring and revitalizing NIB

    Gov’t to spend GHC2.3bn on restructuring and revitalizing NIB

    The government has approved GH¢2.3 billion for the restructuring and recapitalization of the National Investment Bank (NIB).

    The first tranche of GH¢400 million is set to be transferred to the bank before the end of May 2024.

    Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam announced this approval at the Ministry of Finance’s monthly briefing, stating that the process aims to strengthen the bank’s governance structure, operational efficiency, supervision, and risk management.

    These measures are intended to enhance and sustain the financial viability of NIB.

    “Ladies and gentlemen, as part of the implementation of the PC-PEG, the Cabinet has approved the plan for restructuring and recapitalization of the National Investment Bank (NIB). This will involve a programmed equity injection of about GH¢2.3 billion over the next 12 months, with the first tranche of GH¢400 million expected to be transferred to NIB before the end of this month.

    “The plan also includes measures to strengthen the governance structure and operational efficiency, enhance supervision, and improve risk management to improve and sustain the financial viability of NIB.”

    In September 2023, the Minority Caucus in Parliament alleged that the government planned to sell the National Investment Bank to its allies.

    This accusation came after the government announced intentions to either merge the bank with the Agricultural Development Bank or shut it down.

    “It is clear that this is not about the interest of NIB. This is the last step towards passing through the back door to acquire NIB and ABD for themselves in a state capture,” Isaac Adongo said at a press briefing.

  • Jachie community in darkness after heavy rainstorm over a week ago

    Jachie community in darkness after heavy rainstorm over a week ago

    The Jachie community in the Bosomtwi District of the Ashanti Region continues to be without electricity a week after a severe rainstorm struck the area.

    The storm, which occurred on Thursday, May 16, 2024, damaged the local transformer and displaced electricity poles, leading to power outages in most households.

    The aftermath of the storm has been challenging for residents and business owners, with many struggling to cope with the lack of electricity. The situation has not only disrupted daily life but also affected livelihoods in the area.

    One resident, who owns a grinding mill, lamented, “I have lost many customers. I typically get more businesses on Friday as it’s a market day in this community, and many people come to grind their items. However, the power outage that began last Thursday has persisted, leaving us without electricity to work. The situation has been challenging for us.”

    The Assembly Member for the Jachie East Electoral area, Richard Bimpeh, has been actively engaged in efforts to restore power to the community.

    He stated that he had visited the ECG branch in Bekwai and held discussions with the manager. The manager assured him that a memo was being prepared to request poles for the restoration of electricity.

    However, the specific timeline for when power will be fully restored remains uncertain.

    “Concerning the light, I’ve been to the ECG branch in Bekwai and spoke with the manager. He told me that they are now writing a memo for Poles. And as I’m talking to you, we don’t know when it’ll come.

    “I’ve been to the Bosomtwe DCE office, I spoke with the PRO for ECG, and all they said was that there are no poles and there’s no water too. We are pleading with the authorities, especially ECG and NADMO, to come to our aid.”

    The community is calling on the authorities to expedite the restoration of power to alleviate their suffering.

  • EC agrees to extend limited voter registration exercise deadline

    EC agrees to extend limited voter registration exercise deadline

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has extended the ongoing voter registration exercise by two days.

    Originally scheduled to end on May 27, the exercise will now conclude on May 29. The EC announced this extension in a public notice, citing network challenges that caused delays as the reason for the extension.

    “The exercise will now end on Wednesday the 29th of May 2024. This arrangement has been put in place to make up for the network challenges experienced during the first two (2) days of the registration exercise,” the notice read.

    The notice reaffirmed the commission’s dedication to ensuring that all eligible individuals have the chance to register.

    “We urge all eligible citizens who are yet to register to visit the Commission’s office in the district where they reside to register to vote,” it added.

    The ongoing limited voter registration exercise, which commenced on May 7, is designed to enable first-time voters and other eligible individuals to obtain voter cards.

    Despite encountering challenges such as network issues and the registration of minors and foreigners, the Electoral Commission (EC) has remained transparent, keeping the public informed and taking corrective actions to mitigate these issues.

  • Dollar’s strength, seasonal demand for forex, payment of contractors: Gov’t’s reasons for cedi depreciation

    Dollar’s strength, seasonal demand for forex, payment of contractors: Gov’t’s reasons for cedi depreciation

    The government has revealed why the value of the Ghana cedi has been weakening in recent times.

    Engaging the press today, Minister for Finance, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, provided three reasons behind this unsatisfactory development that poses a threat to businesses in the country.

    He noted that the strengthening of the dollar on the international market, seasonal demand for forex and the recent payment of contractors worth over GHC40 billion has caused the value of the cedi to fall.

    The Ghanaian cedi has depreciated by 14.2% as of May 2024, according to Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Awal Amin.

    Despite this depreciation, Dr. Amin emphasized that the currency remains strong during an engagement with the media on the current state of the media on Friday.

    Dr. Amin highlighted that the cedi’s depreciation against the US dollar has decreased from 54% in November 2022 to 27.8% by the end of December 2023.

    He noted that the cedi’s stability has persisted into 2024, with the cumulative depreciation reaching 14.2% as of May 20, 2024, compared to 20.7% recorded in the same period in 2023.

    There have been numerous concerns from stakeholders in the financial sector over the weakening of the local currency.

    The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has alerted the public to anticipate higher fuel prices at the pumps in the coming weeks due to the depreciation of the cedi.

    This warning follows increases in fuel prices by some oil marketing companies, despite earlier projections that prices would decline from mid-May. The companies have attributed the price hikes to uncertainties in the exchange rate market.

    As of May 22, at a Forex bureau located in Accra, the dollar was purchased at a rate of GH15.00 and sold at GH15.30.

  • Video of Cheddar paying barber who flew from Ghana to US to trim his hair pops up

    Video of Cheddar paying barber who flew from Ghana to US to trim his hair pops up

    As Ghana readies itself for the December polls, netizens continue to bring up controversial videos of the presidential aspirants.

    An old video of the leader of The New Force, Nana Kwame Bediako, also known as Cheddar has popped up.

    This video shows the presidential aspirant paying a Ghanaian barber who flew from Ghana to trim his hair in the United States.

    In the footage, he hands over a number of 100 greenback notes to the barber he is impressed with.

    A pleased Cheddar could not stop admiring his good looks via the mirror he held.

  • Netizens in shock as woman buys a carton of eggs for GHC1.80 in Nigeria

    Netizens in shock as woman buys a carton of eggs for GHC1.80 in Nigeria

    Some netizens on X platform are reacting to a list of grocery items a woman in Nigeria got to purchase with GHC240.

    In a video, the unidentified lady noted that she managed to buy eggs, indomie, rice, oil, spices, corn beef, salt, onion, garlic, cabbage, carrots, pepper, ginger, malt and many more at a ShopRite mall at the aforementioned amount.

    She noted that the carton of eggs went for GHC1.80 and the iodized salt for GHC2.

    Getting all these items at that rate has left some netizens in disbelief. In Ghana, a full crate of eggs is over GHC50.

    It will not be possible to get the items she purchased at GHC240 in Ghana at the same rate due to inflation in the prices of goods and services.

    “Try getting the same stuffs when you come to Ghana and let’s see something,” a user wrote.

  • Ashanti Regional Director of Health laments non-operational, uncompleted healthcare projects

    Ashanti Regional Director of Health laments non-operational, uncompleted healthcare projects

    The Ashanti Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Emmanuel Tenkorang, has expressed his frustration over the stagnation of essential healthcare projects in the region.

    This phenomenon, he noted, is exacerbating the strain on the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) and other health facilities, hindering the provision of quality health care.

    Among the critical health projects that remain unused is the Sewua Regional Hospital. Despite being completed, the facility is non-operational due to the lack of an electricity connection and an accessible road network.

    Additionally, the construction of the Afari Hospital has been stalled for over four years.

    Speaking to JoyNews, Dr. Tenkorang described the situation as deeply frustrating.

    “Sewua Hospital is completed. It is just left with electricity connection and completion of the access road. The project itself is over GHS250 million and less than GHS5 million is needed to start operations.

    “Afari Hospital has about 500 beds sitting in weeds for over 4 years. The government needs to be committed to these projects. All we need is a commitment to the projects. Completing many of the uncompleted hospital projects will improve access to quality healthcare,” he said.

    Speaking at the Medico-Legal Symposium organized by Patient Rights Watch Ghana, Dr. Tenkorang attributed the increase in medico-legal cases in Ghana partly to the lack of logistics and proper infrastructure for healthcare providers. He emphasized that these deficiencies hinder efficient work and the provision of quality care.

    “Medico-legal cases are getting way too many and it is not all instances that, you can blame the health professional or the manager.

    “Hospitals and these health providers need logistics and facilities to work efficiently. If patients receive quality care from improved health facility, they won’t take us to court,” he said.

    Additionally, Dr. Tenkorang raised concerns about the brain drain in the health sector, noting that many skilled nurses have been unemployed for over four years.

    According to Dr. Tenkorang, these nurses are contributing to the increasing number of unemployed youth while their medical skills deteriorate over time. He urged the government to address the backlog of unemployed health officers in the country.

    “Most of them are leaving but most are also in the house. As far as I know 2020, 2021 and 2022 are still not posted. And the best ones are the ones leaving. So they are not just adding to the numbers but also getting their skills faded.

    “Employ them to fill the gap. We need to be committed to building a a robust health system and that is what I am entreating the government to do,” he said.

  • We are working to check the depreciation of the cedi – Finance Minister

    We are working to check the depreciation of the cedi – Finance Minister

    Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam has indicated that the Ministry of Finance is collaborating with the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to implement measures aimed at addressing the depreciation of the cedi.

    These measures include accelerating the fiscal consolidation process through spending rationalization and enhanced revenue mobilization, intensifying the gold-for-oil program, and deploying appropriate foreign exchange interventions by the Bank of Ghana.

    Additional strategies involve reinforcing the gold for reserve program, disbursing the third tranche under the second review of the International Monetary Fund-supported PC-PEG after the IMF Executive Board’s approval in June 2024, and securing funds from ongoing projects, including a $150 million World Bank loan.

    Furthermore, an expected disbursement of $300 million under the World Bank DPO2 is anticipated in the third quarter of 2024.

    Dr. Amin Adam highlighted the positive impact of the fiscal consolidation program, noting that the primary balance on a commitment basis improved by about 4 percentage points, resulting in a deficit of 0.3% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by the end of 2023.

    Preliminary fiscal data for the first quarter of 2024 indicated that the primary balance (on a commitment basis) was a deficit of 0.6% of GDP, compared to the target deficit of 0.2% of GDP.

    This shortfall was mainly attributed to delays in implementing some of the 2024 revenue measures approved for the budget.

    In light of these developments, Dr. Amin Adam reassured Ghanaians that the measures being taken would stabilize the cedi and maintain a healthy supply of foreign exchange, eliminating the need for any rush to buy forex.

  • There is no need to rush and buy forex – Finance Minister tells Ghanaians

    There is no need to rush and buy forex – Finance Minister tells Ghanaians

    Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam has assured Ghanaians that there is sufficient foreign exchange supply.

    He is therefore urging the public not to panic and rush into purchasing forex.

    Dr. Amin Adam emphasized that the Ministry of Finance is collaborating with the Bank of Ghana to implement measures aimed at addressing the depreciation of the cedi. ‘

    These measures include accelerating the fiscal consolidation process through spending rationalization and enhanced revenue mobilization, intensifying the gold-for-oil program, and deploying appropriate foreign exchange interventions by the Bank of Ghana.

    Additional strategies involve reinforcing the gold for reserve program, disbursing the third tranche under the second review of the International Monetary Fund-supported PC-PEG after the IMF Executive Board’s approval in June 2024, and securing funds from ongoing projects, including a $150 million World Bank loan. Furthermore, an expected disbursement of $300 million under the World Bank DPO2 is anticipated in the third quarter of 2024.

    Dr. Amin Adam highlighted the positive impact of the fiscal consolidation program, noting that the primary balance on a commitment basis improved by about 4 percentage points, resulting in a deficit of 0.3% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by the end of 2023.

    Preliminary fiscal data for the first quarter of 2024 indicated that the primary balance (on a commitment basis) was a deficit of 0.6% of GDP, compared to the target deficit of 0.2% of GDP.

    This shortfall was mainly attributed to delays in implementing some of the 2024 revenue measures approved for the budget.

    In light of these developments, Dr. Amin Adam reassured Ghanaians that the measures being taken would stabilize the cedi and maintain a healthy supply of foreign exchange, eliminating the need for any rush to buy forex.

    “We wish to assure Ghanaians that there is enough foreign exchange supply. Hence, there is no need to rush and buy forex”, the Minister said.

  • MTN Ghana’s scratch cards to be phased out by July

    MTN Ghana’s scratch cards to be phased out by July

    MTN Ghana will phase out the use of scratch cards introduced in 2020 starting from June 30, 2024.

    This means that customers holding unused MTN scratch cards will not be able to recharge them after July 1, 2024.

    In a statement released on Thursday, May 23, 2024, Samuel Addo, Chief Sales and Distribution Officer, mentioned that customers can redeem the value of their scratch cards through Credit transfer at any MTN Customer Experience Centre.

    The company’s decision aligns with MTN’s strategy to lead digital solutions in Ghana and beyond, in line with the Government of Ghana’s digitalization agenda.

    Mr Addo also highlighted that phasing out scratch cards is part of their efforts to protect the environment, encourage digital usage among customers, and enhance customer service delivery efficiency.

    “The phasing out of the scratch cards is one of the avenues to help us protect the environment, empower customers to drive digital usage and make customer service delivery more efficient”.

    In a statement, MTN encouraged customers to continue using existing digital channels including MoMo, Ayoba and myMTN app to recharge.

    “As part of our commitment towards a clean environment, customers enjoy 50% bonus on all recharges done via Mobile Money.”

  • I am more popular, my arrest has been a blessing – Hopeson Adorye

    I am more popular, my arrest has been a blessing – Hopeson Adorye

    Director of Special Operations for the Movement for Change, Hopeson Adorye, has described his recent arrest and subsequent court appearance as a blessing in disguise, stating that it has provided him with significant political mileage.

    After being granted bail by the Dansoman Circuit Court on Thursday, May 23, for charges related to publishing false news, Adorye released a viral video expressing his perspective.

    He mentioned that his fame had increased as a result of the arrest.

    “I am doing fine.  In fact, I was so happy, What happened yesterday, [Thursday] it will take someone 25 to 30 years to get this glory. You are the one who thinks it was the other way around. It gave me a political mileage and it will take someone 30 years to get such a mileage.

    “In fact, the whole world was discussing me,” he added.

    Hopeson Adorye, a prominent figure in the Movement for Change, was granted bail at GH¢20,000 with two sureties by the Dansoman court.

    His arrest stemmed from claims made on an Accra-based radio station, which subsequently went viral, alleging that dynamites were detonated in the Volta Region during the 2016 General Elections.

  • NHIA is not broke – CEO Dacosta Aboagye

    NHIA is not broke – CEO Dacosta Aboagye

    Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, has dismissed claims suggesting that the NHIA is financially insolvent.

    Dr. Aboagye emphasized the strong financial standing of the NHIA, pointing out that the authority disburses between GH₵180 million and GH₵250 million every month.

    He asserted that such a substantial level of expenditure would not be feasible if the NHIA were truly bankrupt.

    Speaking on the JoyNews’ AM show, he stated that, “It can never be bankrupt; a scheme paying between one-hundred-and-eighty and two-hundred-and-fifty million can never be bankrupt, but there is also the case that the Ministry of Finance should release the funds to the NHIS: once we have constant release, then we would not have problems, and it is sustainable.”

    In response to host’s inquiry about how often the Finance Ministry releases funds for its operations, Dr. Dacosta Aboagye stated that… “I was conferred about some few weeks ago, but I think…… we are waiting for them to do the releases, but I think they will; the Minister has actually assured me that.”

    Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, the CEO of NHIA, has reassured the public that the funding for the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) will remain stable despite Ghana’s engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the upcoming election year.

    Dr. Aboagye clarified that the NHIA’s resources are not dependent on the IMF’s financial support and that the NHIS is safeguarded under the IMF’s social protection programme.

    “At the end of the day, you are paying, and I am paying, so all we know is that our father does have money, and our father should release the money. I think social protection is very important; we cannot put the vulnerable in distress, and I believe that the ministry of finances would do the needful by releasing the funds to us. I have no doubt, obviously to doubt. I do not have any doubt that they would obviously release the funds to us to make the payments.”

  • Barcelona sacks head coach Xavi Hernandez

    Barcelona sacks head coach Xavi Hernandez

    FC Barcelona has officially announced the dismissal of head coach Xavi Hernandez in a statement released on Friday afternoon in Spain.

    Xavi had previously announced in January that he would be stepping down from the high-pressure head coach role on June 30.

    However, in April, he reversed this decision following a meeting with Laporta, and it was announced that he had agreed to see out his contract, which expires on the same date in 2025.

    Last week, Xavi reportedly angered the board with negative comments about how the club’s economic challenges affect its ability to compete with bitter rivals Real Madrid.

    “The president of FC Barcelona, ​​Joan Laporta, announced this afternoon to Xavi Hernández that he will not continue as coach of the first team in the 2024-25 season,” the statement began.

    “The meeting took place at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper and the sports vice-president, Rafa Yuste, and the sports director, Anderson Luís de Souza, Deco, as well as Xavi’s assistants, Òscar Hernández and Sergio Alegre, were present.

    ​​​​​​​”FC Barcelona would like to thank Xavi for his work as a coach, which adds to an unparalleled career as a player and captain of the team, and wishes him all the luck in the world.

    “Xavi Hernández will lead his last game as first team coach this Sunday in Seville.

    “In the coming days, FC Barcelona will inform about the new structure of the first team,” the statement concluded.

    The development is the latest of a series of twist and turns related to who mans the Blaugrana dugout.

    Hansi Flick is set to become new Barça head coach soon, according to reports.

  • Police withdraw injunction application against #DumsorMustStop vigil

    Police withdraw injunction application against #DumsorMustStop vigil

    An Accra High Court has deemed moot an application for an injunction aimed at preventing the organizers of the #DumsorMustStop vigil from gathering at the Revolution Square, opposite the Jubilee House.

    This decision followed information that the organizers had already changed their gathering point and route for the vigil, which was one of the reasons the police, in a motion filed on May 20, requested the court to halt the event entirely.

    Earlier, the conveners had disagreed with the Greater Accra Regional Police Command on the starting point for their protest.

    During a meeting at the Regional Police Headquarters on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, the Accra Regional Police Command expressed concerns to the organisers regarding the proposed venue, Revolution Square, due to its proximity to the Jubilee House, the seat of government, which is designated as a security zone.

    The Command recommended relocating the protest to Independence Square and also expressed concerns about the proposed timing for the conclusion of the protest, set for midnight.

    In court on Friday, May 24, the case was withdrawn to accommodate the new amendment to the venue, which is yet to be made public.

    One of the conveners of the vigil, Selorm Dramani Dzramado, told the media that they have decided to amend the venue for the vigil in accordance with the Public Order Act.

    He added that the court has yet to give the green light for the vigil and that “there is going to be a meeting with the police, so this thing [processes for the vigil] is going to start afresh.”

    “We told the public why we chose the Revolution Square because it holds a certain historical significance and its proximity to the Presidency so the police insistence on us changing the venue, we complied with Article 41(i) of the Constitution which says that the citizens of Ghana must always cooperate with the lawful agencies in the maintenance of law and order to write a letter to the police to announce the change of venue and date,” he added.

  • Accra FM presenter invited by CID over Hopeson Adorye’s dynamite detonation interview

    Accra FM presenter invited by CID over Hopeson Adorye’s dynamite detonation interview

    The Accra Regional Police Command has requested the management of Class Media Group’s Accra FM to release its host, Nana Otu Darko, for questioning.

    This request is part of ongoing investigations into statements made by politician Hopeson Adorye during an interview on the station’s political talk program.

    During the interview, Mr. Adorye alleged that the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) had directed him to detonate dynamites in the Volta Region to intimidate supporters of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and deter them from voting in the previous elections.

    As a result of these allegations, Mr. Adorye, a prominent member of the Movement for Change, was arrested and subsequently arraigned in court. He was charged by the police with the publication of false news.

    On Thursday, May 23, the Dansoman District Court granted Mr. Adorye bail, set at GH¢20,000 with two sureties, one of which must be justified.

    Following Mr. Adorye’s court appearance, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) issued a request to Class Media Group, asking them to release the host, Nana Otu Darko, to aid in their investigations. The request from the CID was delivered to the media organization on the same day, Thursday, May 23, highlighting the urgency and importance of the investigation.

    According to the CID, the involvement of Nana Otu Darko, the host of the show, is crucial in uncovering the context and veracity of the statements made by Mr. Adorye, as the police continue their probe into the potentially inflammatory allegations.

    “It would be appreciated if the host could be released to report at Accra Regional CID on Friday, 24 May 2024 at 10 am with a copy of the audio and video recording of the aforementioned programme to facilitate investigations”, the letter said.