TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • Cedi depreciated by 14.2% as of May 2024

    Cedi depreciated by 14.2% as of May 2024

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

    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.

    The minister attributed this stability to various government initiatives, including the Oil for Gold programme, the Bank of Ghana’s Gold for Reserve programme, and the Cocoa syndicated funds.

    He expressed confidence that the cedi will continue to show resilience against external pressures.

    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.

  • The cedi is still strong – Finance Minister reacts to depreciation of local currency

    The cedi is still strong – Finance Minister reacts to depreciation of local currency

    Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, has responded to concerns about the recent depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi, stating that despite recent pressures, the currency remains strong.

    Dr. Amin made these remarks in light of the cedi’s performance against the US dollar, noting that while there has been a noticeable depreciation, the currency’s stability has been maintained.

    He pointed out that the cedi’s depreciation against the US dollar has halved from 54% in November 2022 to 27.8% by the end of December 2023.

    The minister highlighted that the cedi’s stability has continued into 2024, with a cumulative depreciation of 14.2% as of May 20, 2024, compared to 20.7% recorded in the same period in 2023.

    Engaging the press on Friday on the state of the economy, the Minister said, “People may see the cedi depreciating fast recently. Based on that comparison, we can say that the cedi is still strong.”

    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.

    Against the Pound Sterling, the Cedi stood at a buying rate of GH17.6437 and a selling rate of GH17.6628.

    In another forex bureau in Accra, the pound sterling was bought at GH18.50 and sold at GH19.20.

    For the Euro, the rate showed a buying price of GH15.0608 and a selling price of GH15.0745.

    At a different forex bureau in Accra, the Euro was acquired at GH15.85 and sold at GH16.45.

  • Ghana’s Gross International Reserves stand at $6.2bn – Finance Minister

    Ghana’s Gross International Reserves stand at $6.2bn – Finance Minister

    Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, has announced that Ghana’s Gross International Reserves have reached $6.2 billion, covering 2.7 months of import cover as of the end of February 2024.

    This marks an improvement from $5.9 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2022.

    Dr. Amin, while engaging the media on Friday on the current state of the economy, further stated that Ghana’s Gross International Reserves are expected to continue improving, reaching a level that covers 4.4 months of import cover in the medium term.

    This improvement is anticipated to be supported by external inflows from institutions such as the IMF, World Bank, and other development partners.

    The minister highlighted various initiatives contributing to this positive trend, including the government’s Oil for Gold programme, the Bank of Ghana’s Gold for Reserve programme, and the Cocoa syndicated funds.

    Despite recent pressures on the exchange rate, Dr. Amin noted that the cedi has shown stability, with the depreciation against the US dollar decreasing from 54% in November 2022 to 27.8% by the end of December 2023.

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

    While acknowledging recent concerns about the cedi’s depreciation, Dr. Amin emphasized that the currency remains strong when compared to previous rates of depreciation.

    “People may see the cedi depreciating fast recently. Based on that comparison, we can say that the cedi is still strong,” he said.

  • Mother and her baby trapped in their home at Apam-Mumford after Wednesday’s rain rescued

    Mother and her baby trapped in their home at Apam-Mumford after Wednesday’s rain rescued

    At Apam-Mumford in the Gomoa West District of the Central Region, a woman and her baby have been rescued after being trapped in their home after the recent rainstorm that hit the country.

    The rainstorm observed over southern Togo that drifted westward and affected areas in southern Ghana on Wednesday left several locations flooded.

    A group of residents managed to move the mother and her baby from their home to a mango tree that had not been submerged by the flood water.

    The affected areas include Aflao, Keta, Anloga, Ho, Akatsi, Somanya, Tema, Accra, Koforidua, and Begoro.

    In several videos shared on X, citizens documented the harrowing experiences they encounter whenever there is a relatively heavy rainstorm.

  • VIDEO: Cow carried by flood water at Achimota during Wednesday’s downpour

    VIDEO: Cow carried by flood water at Achimota during Wednesday’s downpour

    The rainstorm observed over southern Togo that drifted westward and affected areas in southern Ghana on Wednesday left several locations flooded.

    The affected areas include Aflao, Keta, Anloga, Ho, Akatsi, Somanya, Tema, Accra, Koforidua, and Begoro.

    In several videos shared on X, citizens documented the harrowing experiences they encounter whenever there is a relatively heavy rainstorm.

    As a result, individuals were left stranded as portions of the roads were submerged by water, and vehicles were broken down in the middle of the street.

    A recent video shows that animals were not spared from the downpour. A helpless cow was carried by flood waters at Achimota. It is unknown if the livestock managed to survive or not as well as its current location.

  • VIDEO: Man beaten for stealing socks at a market

    VIDEO: Man beaten for stealing socks at a market

    In a video gone viral, a young man was beaten on the streets for allegedly stealing socks.

    It is unknown the exact location where the incident happened.

    A group of men surrounded the accused, who was shirtless. As he sought to make his case, one of the bystanders slapped him. The suspect attempted to defend himself.

    Others intervened and prevented any further casualties. It is unknown the current state of the suspect.

  • A-G is plotting to jail Ato Forson – Sammy Gyamfi on Ambulance case

    A-G is plotting to jail Ato Forson – Sammy Gyamfi on Ambulance case

    The National Communications Officer of the NDC, Sammy Gyamfi, has alleged that the Attorney General, Godfred Dame, is plotting to imprison the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, by all means.

    Sammy Gyamfi made this claim following revelations during the cross-examination of the third accused person, Richard Jakpa, in the ongoing ambulance case on Thursday, May 23.

    In a statement to the media after Thursday’s court session, Mr. Gyamfi revealed the efforts being made by the A-G, including contacting the third accused person at unusual hours, all in an attempt to obtain incriminating testimony against the Minority Leader.

    “We have times without number explained why we think that Hon Ato Forson is innocent. And that this case is needless. The minority leader has opened his case and closed it. Currently, the 3rd accused is being cross-examined by lawyers for a minority leader who is the first accused.

    “We were all in court to monitor the proceedings, but we were shocked to the marrow when the 3rd accused under cross-examination disclosed to the court that the Hon Attorney General has been reaching out to him, calling him over the phone that he has reached out to him and met him in person.

    “That the Attorney-General has been asking to give false testimony to the court and skew his testimony in such a way that corroborates the AG, against the first accused so that the first accused can be convicted and jailed. He said this in open court.”

  • The New Force will work with TUC for progress – Cheddar

    The New Force will work with TUC for progress – Cheddar

    Leader of the New Force Movement, Nana Kwame Bediako, has expressed his intention to collaborate with the Trades Union Congress (TUC) to drive substantial economic and social progress for Ghana if elected President.

    Nana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as Cheddar, believes that a strong partnership with the TUC will ensure the successful implementation of his proposed policies for the country.

    Mr. Bediako made these remarks during a meeting with the TUC leadership in Accra, where he outlined his industrial policies for Ghana.

    His plan includes initiatives to combat corruption, improve agriculture, enhance education and healthcare, and address climate change, among other areas.

    Dr. Anthony Yaw Baah, Secretary-General of the TUC, urged Ghanaians to reevaluate the flagship policy of the New Force Movement regarding the dredging of the sea to Kumasi in the Ashanti region.

    He clarified that the policy had been misrepresented and emphasized its practicality and potential benefits.

    Dr. Baah encouraged support for political leaders whose policies have the potential to transform the country, stating that Organized Labour is prepared to support initiatives that lead to significant developmental outcomes.

    “If you look at the river systems, when you dredge the Pra, Tano, Bia and the rest, it easily links to Cape Coast. And his point was that why should we use our roads to cart things?  

    “We can use our river systems, once we dredge properly, the vessels can use it and transport it from Accra to the North. 

    “God has given us a huge river that we are not using because many people don’t really understand that policy,” he said. 

  • There is no judgment debt, we must chase SML for monies it didn’t earn – Manasseh Azure

    There is no judgment debt, we must chase SML for monies it didn’t earn – Manasseh Azure

    Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has stated that Ghana would not incur any financial obligations if it terminates the revenue mobilisation transaction between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML).

    Instead, he suggests that the country should pursue SML for funds it did not earn, as well as officials responsible for significant financial losses due to the contract.

    While audit firm KPMG has noted that the contract between the GRA and SML can be terminated by either party, it also stated in its full report on the contract that such termination could have financial implications for the Government of Ghana (GoG) and the GRA.

    “Upon termination, GoG and GRA remain liable to settle SML for services already completed but not yet paid. GoG and GRA are not entitled to a refund of any compensation already paid to SML, regardless of the termination cause.”

    “If GoG or GRA terminates without a cause, it becomes liable to pay SML an ROI equivalent to the fair value of SML’s investment in the contract,” it stated.

    But Mr Awuni in an Eyewitness News interview on Citi FM on Thursday said “I don’t see where there is judgment debt. The liability comes when the company is able to demonstrate how much they have spent and how much they are losing.

    “The SML report even before the full one came out, the presidency said the KPMG tried to get SML to actually tell us or give evidence of its investments into this contract, the company couldn’t justify that. We also know that over a billion cedis has already been paid to this company. So if there is any money to be taken, Ghana should be chasing SML for money the company did not earn and not the other way round.”

    “SML takes revenue from fuel that is [taken] from all the depots in this country, a percentage. But the report said their metres are not yet working in some of the depots.

    “Ghana should rather go to SML and chase them for money and the state and public officials that caused these huge losses to the state should be facing the court.”

  • Olivier Giroud to hang his boots after Euro 2024

    Olivier Giroud to hang his boots after Euro 2024

    Olivier Giroud has announced his intention to retire from international duty with France after Euro 2024.

    The AC Milan striker holds the record for being France’s all-time top scorer, with 57 goals in 131 appearances, and was part of the squad that won the World Cup in 2018.

    Giroud, formerly of Arsenal and Chelsea, has been included in Didier Deschamps’ provisional squad for the upcoming Euros, scheduled to begin next month in Germany.

    “This will be my last competition with Les Bleus. I’m going to miss it a lot,” Giroud told L’Equipe., external

    “We need to make way for the youngsters. You also have to be careful not to have one season too many. You have to find the right balance.”

    Despite playing 465 minutes across six matches during France’s victorious 2018 World Cup campaign in Russia, Olivier Giroud did not score or have a shot on target.

    However, he made a significant impact at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, scoring four goals, including a crucial late winner against England in the quarter-finals. France ultimately reached the final but were defeated by Argentina on penalties.

    Giroud is expected to make his final appearance for AC Milan on Saturday when they host bottom club Salernitana on the last day of the Serie A season.

    The 37-year-old, whose contract at the San Siro expires next month, has agreed to join Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC after Euro 2024. He has signed an 18-month deal with the option of a further year.

  • A-G releases plea bargain details of 3rd accused in Ambulance case

    A-G releases plea bargain details of 3rd accused in Ambulance case

    Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame has released the full details of the plea bargain letters sent to his office by the 3rd accused, Richard Jakpa, in the ambulance purchase case.

    This move comes in response to claims made by Richard Jakpa in open court that Godfred Dame approached him multiple times, seeking his assistance to implicate the first accused person, Dr. Ato Forson.

    Dr. Forson, a former Deputy Finance Minister and current Minority Leader, is facing charges in court for his alleged role in the procurement of faulty ambulances for Ghana.

    The Attorney-General dismissed the claims by the 3rd accused, stating instead that Richard Jakpa had sent several letters requesting a plea bargain in an attempt to have all charges against the accused persons dropped. He clarified that the proposal has not yet 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.”

    Attached are the letters released by the Attorney General’s office.

    A3-Plea-Bargaining-letter-dated-30th-May-20231Download
    Document-961Download
    A3-Plea-Bargaining-letter-dated-12th-June-20231Download

  • Armed robbers bolt with GHC1m after attack on fuel station in Ashanti Region

    Armed robbers have raided the IBM fuel station at Pakyi Number 2 in the Amansie West district of the Ashanti Region.

    Eyewitnesses stated that the armed men broke into the station’s office, disconnected the CCTV, and took away the digital video recorder.

    Sources indicated that five fuel attendants and a security guard had their hands tied by the gang, who made away with one million Ghana cedis.

    In an interview, the Director of IBM fuel station, Kwabena Tawiah, appealed for intensified police patrol in the area.

  • Fuel tanker drivers union calls off strike after meeting with stakeholders

    Fuel tanker drivers union calls off strike after meeting with stakeholders

    Fuel tanker drivers in Ghana have ended their sit-down strike over poor conditions of service.

    The Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union declared an indefinite sit-down strike on Tuesday, demanding improved conditions of service, particularly regarding remuneration.

    Following a meeting with all stakeholders, the tanker drivers issued a communique to call off the strike.

    The communique stated that a framework for their remuneration had been adopted, and the implementation was expected to begin by the end of June 2024.

    During a press conference, union members expressed frustration that despite an agreed policy framework aimed at enhancing their salaries and working conditions, which had been pending since November 2023, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) and the sector Ministry had failed to implement the policy.

  • Godfred Dame has not forced anyone to falsely testify against Ato Forson – Dep. A-G on ambulance case

    Godfred Dame has not forced anyone to falsely testify against Ato Forson – Dep. A-G on ambulance case

    The Attorney General’s office has denied allegations made by one of the accused persons in the trial of Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

    In a statement released this evening, the office stated that Attorney General Godfred Dame has never required the third accused person, Richard Jakpa, to contribute falsehoods to help convict the NDC MP.

    This response follows claims by Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the ambulance purchase trial, that the Attorney General had previously approached him to help build a case against Minority Leader and former Deputy Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

    “The A-G has on several occasions engaged me at odd hours to help him make a case against A1 and I have evidence for that.. If he pushes me, I will open the Pandora’s box. I don’t understand why the A-G will accuse me of defending A1 when I’m here to defend myself,” Mr Jakpa said in court.

    “If he pushes me, I’ll open the Pandora’s box. I have evidence to all this,” he added on Thursday, May 23.

    The NDC has expressed concern, viewing the situation as a clear case of persecution against Dr. Forson, a prominent figure opposing the current government’s policies.

    The Attorney General in the statement insisted that “The Republic has never required or desired the cooperation of any of the accused persons in the matter, in which it has already succeeded in establishing a prima facie case against all the accused persons.”

    “Neither the Attorney-General nor any officer from the Office of the Attorney-General has approached any of the accused persons with the view to obtaining evidence from them.”

    In the statement signed by Deputy Attorney-General, Alfred Tuah Yeboah, the office rather pointed to Mr Jakpa of being the one who “by various letters” on multiple occasions “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 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.”

    In the earlier press release, the NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah posited that this incident confirms the “legitimate and long-held suspicion of the devious modus operandi of Godfred Dame and the government he represents.”

    “The NDC is deeply scandalised by this clear case of persecution against the Leader of the party’s Caucus in Parliament who has been at the forefront of our struggle against the misrule of the oppressive and despotic Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP regime,” the statement said.

    The NDC’s statement criticized the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration, accusing it of lacking integrity and perverting the course of justice.

    “It further shows the desperate lengths the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP government will go to manipulate judicial processes to unjustly victimise political opponents for cheap political goal-scoring.”

    Mr Nketia added that “It also confirms the lack of integrity of the dishonourable Attorney-General and the extent to which he goes to pervert the course of justice.”

    The party has announced its intention to hold a press conference, during which it plans to present evidence supporting its claims.

  • KPMG report never indicated SML was paid GHS1.4bn – Akufo-Addo’s lawyer

    KPMG report never indicated SML was paid GHS1.4bn – Akufo-Addo’s lawyer

    President Akufo-Addo’s lawyer, Kow Essuman, has refuted claims that the KPMG report indicates Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) was paid GHS 1.4 billion by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

    Mr Essuman described these assertions as misleading and clarified that the report’s findings have been misinterpreted by some individuals and media outlets, thereby misleading the public.

    “The assertion that the KPMG report indicates SML was paid GHS 1.4 billion is misleading.”

    “Upon careful review, one will notice that the KPMG report does not state that SML received GHS 1.4 billion. On page 31, the report lists a gross amount of GHS 1.4 billion, but it also specifies the net amount paid to SML as GHS1,061,054,778.00. A note at the bottom of page 31 explicitly clarifies that the net amount is ‘net of taxes.’ Therefore, the conclusion that SML was paid GHS 1.4 billion is incorrect because no business is ever paid the gross amount. The accurate figure actually paid to SML is GHS 1,061,054,778.00,” he posted on X on Thursday, May 23.

    The lawyer urged the public and media to thoroughly examine the KPMG report and understand the context of the figures presented.

    He stressed that the government’s commitment to transparency remains unwavering and that misleading interpretations of the audit’s findings only serve to distort the facts and undermine public trust.

    The report highlights various aspects of the transactions, including unpaid taxes and interest owed by SML, which have been conflated with the payments made by the GRA.

    President Akufo-Addo commissioned the KPMG audit to ensure transparency and accountability in government contracts, particularly following public concerns and an investigation by The Fourth Estate. The audit was meant to address these concerns and clarify the contractual arrangements between SML and the GRA.

  • Final-year student at Ebonyi State University commits suicide after repeatedly failing one course

    Final-year student at Ebonyi State University commits suicide after repeatedly failing one course

    A final-year student of Ebonyi State University (EBSU) in Abakaliki, identified as Miss Favour Ugwuka, has committed suicide.

    The incident occurred in her hostel at the Ishieke Campus of the university in Abakaliki.

    Further investigations revealed that Favour, a final-year student in the Department of English, had passed all her courses except for one, which she repeatedly failed. The lecturer of this particular course had allegedly vowed she would never pass.

    In a video circulating online, a woman identified as the deceased’s mother blamed the lecturer for driving her daughter to commit suicide.

    According to the woman, who was seen lamenting in the video, “Dr Enyi said he is the best, that nobody can teach like him. He should come and carry my daughter who has committed suicide.”

    The Ebonyi State Police Command confirmed the incident on Thursday.

    The accused lecturer, Dr. Enyi C. Enyi of the Department of English at Ebonyi State University, has refuted the claim made by Rex Nwomeh that his actions or inactions were responsible for the death of Miss Favour Ugwuka.

  • Gov’t, Tullow sign Emissions Reductions Purchase Agreement to check deforestation

    Gov’t, Tullow sign Emissions Reductions Purchase Agreement to check deforestation

    The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Forestry Commission have signed a groundbreaking Emissions Reductions Purchase Agreement (ERPA) with Tullow.

    This significant event, held in Accra on Thursday, 23rd May 2024, marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s fight against deforestation and forest degradation.

    The agreement, celebrated at a ceremony in Accra, signifies a major advancement in Ghana’s dedication to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. This partnership aims to promote sustainable land use and forest conservation while generating revenue for local communities and supporting Ghana’s climate change mitigation efforts.

    Samuel A. Jinapor, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, praised the agreement as a “bold and ambitious” initiative that showcases Ghana’s leadership in addressing the global climate change challenge. He emphasized the importance of fair carbon credit pricing, highlighting that Ghana’s partnership with Tullow sets a new standard for carbon pricing in the region.

    The ERPA is a crucial component of Ghana’s comprehensive efforts to promote sustainable forest management and curb deforestation and forest degradation. The country has made significant strides in recent years with initiatives such as the Ghana Cocoa Forest REDD+ Program and the Ghana Shea Landscape Emission Reductions Project.

    The partnership with Tullow is expected to generate substantial revenue for local communities and bolster Ghana’s climate change mitigation efforts. This agreement underscores the country’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection, setting an example for other nations to follow.

    Julia Ross, Tullow’s Director for People & Sustainability, elaborated on the project’s scope, indicating that over two million hectares of land in Ghana will be used for tree planting and other carbon credit innovations.

    She noted that Tullow has invested significantly in the pursuit of zero carbon emissions, with over $40 million committed to date.

    Ross also highlighted the socio-economic benefits of the project and affirmed Tullow’s ongoing engagement with the commission and relevant stakeholders to ensure its success.

    In a solidarity statement, Her Excellency Harriet Thompson, the British High Commissioner, expressed pride in Ghana’s dedication to combating forest degradation and mitigating climate change. She noted that the British Government views this as the beginning of many more successes, given Ghana’s enthusiasm and commitment.

    She congratulated the team at Tullow and the Forestry Commission for the height achieved and encouraged other organisations to follow this example as she said “doing this is good for the business, good for the Climate and good for the people”

    Mr. John Allotey, Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, provided further details about the agreement, noting that it will span a decade and position the Forestry Commission as a major source of approved and reliable carbon credits.

    He explained that the official announcement marks the culmination of intensive, dedicated, and sustained engagements between the Forestry Commission and Tullow Ghana.

    Mr Allotey also emphasized the Commission’s commitment to producing high-integrity carbon credits that will be appealing to the international market.

    Mr John Kwabena Abbam Aboah Sanie, Deputy Minister for Energy and Member of Parliament for Mpohor Constituency of the Western Region, commended the Forestry Commission and Tullow on behalf of the Minister for their efforts in achieving this milestone. He expressed hope that the Forestry Commission & Tullow REDD+ Project will yield outstanding results.

    Additionally, traditional authorities and civil society representatives present at the program offered congratulatory statements, applauding the Forestry Commission and Tullow for their efforts in bringing this worthy cause to fruition.

  • Gov’t is selling Labadi Beach Hotel, others to loot and share – Yayra Koku

    Gov’t is selling Labadi Beach Hotel, others to loot and share – Yayra Koku

    A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Yayra Koku, is wondering why the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) is working on selling one of its hotels, Labadi Beach Hotel, to Rock City Hotel, owned by Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

    According to Mr Koku, such a move is questionable when Labadi Beach Hotel is able to pay GHC25 million as dividend to its sole shareholder.

    He believes that SSNIT’s plan to sell the facility and three others more is one of the many mechanisms by the government to loot and share among themselves.

    “How can a company that is able to pay GHc25m as dividend to its sole shareholder be described as not doing well? This is a CREATE, LOOT & SHARE for Bryan Acheampong and NPP,” he wrote in a post on X.

    The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has been petitioned by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to investigate allegations surrounding the sale of four hotels: Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel.

    Rock City Hotel is in negotiation with SSNIT to buy a 60% stake in each of the four hotels.

    Mr. Ablakwa’s petition to CHRAJ calls for an investigation into several allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.

    But both SSNIT and Mr Bryan Acheampong say nothing untoward has taken place since Rock City Hotel submitted the best and strongest technical and financial proposal amongst those received by SSNIT.

    Labadi Beach Hotel

    In 2023, Ghana’s premier five-Star hotel, Labadi Beach Hotel, declared GH¢25 million in dividends for 2022 to its sole shareholder, the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT).

    The financial windfall comes on the heels of the GH¢10 million in dividends declared by the hotel to SSNIT in February this year for the 2022 financial year.

    At an event in Accra where the company’s latest profits were announced, the Managing Director of the hotel, David Eduaful, said “as we honour our obligation of declaring dividends to the shareholder today, it is important to acknowledge the overwhelming support and patronage of our valued customers who continue to make us number one”.

    Mr Eduaful attributed the “historic payout to the unwavering support from the Board of Directors, the hard work of the management and entire staff, and recently implemented cost-cutting and waste-minimisation measures”.

  • Madina Zongo Junction, Oxford Street, Lapaz among areas with highest levels of air pollution

    Madina Zongo Junction, Oxford Street, Lapaz among areas with highest levels of air pollution

    Madina Zongo Junction, Agbogbloshie, Makola, Tudu, Oxford Street, Lapaz, and Kaneshie Market are the communities in Accra with the highest levels of air pollution.

    This alarming data comes from the monitoring network of the Breathe Accra Project and was discussed during a recent roundtable at the SunLodge Hotel in Tesano, Accra.

    The discussion, part of the maiden Air Quality Awareness Week organized by the Ghana Urban Air Quality Project, focused on policy interventions to address the growing air pollution problem in Accra and other metropolitan areas of Ghana.

    The communique issued after the roundtable outlined several measures for the government and other stakeholders to tackle air pollution effectively. Here are the sector-specific recommendations from the experts:

    Waste Management Sector

    Open burning of waste is a major source of air pollution in Ghanaian cities due to limited and irregular waste collection services. The following recommendations were made to curb this practice:

    • Adopt Circular Economy: The government should adopt a model that involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling existing materials and products for as long as possible.
    • Regulate ‘Aboboyaa’ Operators: Assemblies should engage operators of tricycle waste collectors to form cooperatives for better regulation and streamlining of their activities.
    • Promote Waste Segregation: Encourage the separation of waste to enable the recycling of plastics, metals, and composting of organic waste.
    • Performance-Based Contracts: Assemblies should ensure waste collection contracts are performance-based, with annual evaluations by households and termination of non-performing companies.
    • Punitive Measures: Consider punitive measures for individuals and households engaging in open burning of waste.
    • Strategic Waste Transfer Stations: Ensure strategic placement of waste transfer stations and secure appropriate waste disposal sites.
    • Link Waste Collection to Property Rates: Integrate waste collection services with property rate payments.
    • Streamline E-Waste Operations: Regulate e-waste sector operations to stop open burning.

    Transport Sector

    Vehicular emissions significantly contribute to air pollution in Ghanaian cities due to the growing number of vehicles, many of which do not meet emission standards. Recommendations to curb vehicular emissions include:

    • Enforce Vehicle Emission Standards: Expedite the use of vehicle testing results by the DVLA and EPA to enforce emission standards.
    • Improve Public Transport: Increase and maintain clean public transport vehicles running on scheduled timetables to encourage car owners to use public transport.
    • Introduce Electric Buses: Replace intra-city fleets with electric buses.
    • Promote Active Travel: Incorporate walking and cycling lanes in road infrastructure projects.
    • Expand Traffic Management Centre: Cover all major traffic intersections and integrate them with actuated signal systems to reduce congestion and emissions from idling vehicles.
    • Consider Bicycle Share System: Promote park-and-ride bicycle systems.
    • Sensitize on Vehicle Maintenance: GRPRTU and PROTOA should educate vehicle owners on maintenance practices.
    • Introduce Remote Working: Encourage corporate organizations to implement remote working to reduce city travel.
    • Support New Vehicle Acquisition: Invest in private transport operations through vehicle leasing or hire purchase schemes to replace old, polluting vehicles.
    • Encourage Local Manufacturing: Provide a conducive environment for local vehicle manufacturing and assembly at competitive prices.
    • Reduce Dust Pollution: Water roads under construction regularly to prevent dust pollution.
    • Set Speed Limits on Untarred Roads: Reduce speed limits to prevent dust pollution in residential neighborhoods.

    Household Energy Sector

    The use of biomass fuels for cooking generates high levels of Household Air Pollution (HAP) and contributes to ambient air pollution. Recommendations to reduce HAP include:

    • Support LPG Use: Sustain the National Petroleum Authority’s Cylinder Recirculation Model to improve LPG supply and access.
    • Remove LPG Taxes: Consider removing taxes on LPG to make it affordable for low-income households.
    • Promote Improved Cook Stoves: Encourage the use of low-emitting biomass fuels like briquettes.
    • Engage CBOs and NGOs: Sensitize households on clean cooking solutions and provide tax incentives for briquette producers to make their products affordable locally.

    Industrial Sector

    Industrial emissions are a major source of air pollution due to obsolete technologies and unregulated industries. Recommendations to curb industrial emissions include:

    • Regulate Factories: Ensure factories, especially those in residential areas, adhere to emission standards.
    • Enforce Prohibition Notices: Prevent factories from operating if they fail to meet emission standards.
    • Focus on Health and Safety: Prioritize air pollution issues in health and safety policies for workers.
    • Prohibit Vehicle Spraying in Residential Areas: Vehicle spraying should only be done in designated areas with appropriate equipment.
    • Minimize Dust Pollution at Construction Sites: Regulate activities to control dust pollution.

    Markets

    Market centers are hotspots for air pollution due to various activities. Recommendations to reduce pollution include:

    • Prohibit Fires in Markets: Implement byelaws to ban setting fires at market centers.
    • Promote Clean Cooking: Encourage the use of LPG and improved cook stoves among market vendors.
    • Encourage Electric Milling Machines: Prohibit gasoline-powered milling machines in favor of electric-powered ones.
    • Advise Against Vehicle Idling: Display posters in market centers advising drivers to avoid idling their vehicles.

    These comprehensive measures, if implemented, can significantly improve air quality in Accra and other parts of Ghana, addressing the urgent need for action against air pollution.

  • How can Labadi Beach Hotel pay GHC25m as dividend to SSNIT and not be doing well? – NDC’s Yayra Koku asks

    How can Labadi Beach Hotel pay GHC25m as dividend to SSNIT and not be doing well? – NDC’s Yayra Koku asks

    A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Yayra Koku, is wondering why the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) is working on selling one of its hotels, Labadi Beach Hotel, to Rock City Hotel, owned by Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

    According to Mr Koku, such a move is questionable when Labadi Beach Hotel is able to pay GHC25 million as dividend to its sole shareholder.

    He believes that SSNIT’s plan to sell the facility and three others more is one of the many mechanisms by the government to loot and share among themselves.

    “How can a company that is able to pay GHc25m as dividend to its sole shareholder be described as not doing well? This is a CREATE, LOOT & SHARE for Bryan Acheampong and NPP,” he wrote in a post on X.

    The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has been petitioned by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to investigate allegations surrounding the sale of four hotels: Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel.

    Rock City Hotel is in negotiation with SSNIT to buy a 60% stake in each of the four hotels.

    Mr. Ablakwa’s petition to CHRAJ calls for an investigation into several allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.

    But both SSNIT and Mr Bryan Acheampong say nothing untoward has taken place since Rock City Hotel submitted the best and strongest technical and financial proposal amongst those received by SSNIT.

    Labadi Beach Hotel

    In 2023, Ghana’s premier five-Star hotel, Labadi Beach Hotel, declared GH¢25 million in dividends for 2022 to its sole shareholder, the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT).

    The financial windfall comes on the heels of the GH¢10 million in dividends declared by the hotel to SSNIT in February this year for the 2022 financial year.

    At an event in Accra where the company’s latest profits were announced, the Managing Director of the hotel, David Eduaful, said “as we honour our obligation of declaring dividends to the shareholder today, it is important to acknowledge the overwhelming support and patronage of our valued customers who continue to make us number one”.

    Mr Eduaful attributed the “historic payout to the unwavering support from the Board of Directors, the hard work of the management and entire staff, and recently implemented cost-cutting and waste-minimisation measures”.

  • Gurugu community in darkness after heavy windstorm

    Gurugu community in darkness after heavy windstorm

    Residents of Gurugu electoral area in the Sagnarigu municipality are currently experiencing a power outage due to the breakage of electricity poles caused by a heavy windstorm.

    The windstorm, which lasted for approximately 15 minutes before the onset of rain, resulted in the breakdown of two poles and severe damage to two others due to the wind’s pressure.

    Areas from the Choggu roundabout through to Gurugu to Kamina Barracks have been without electricity since 4 pm on Wednesday. The outage was caused by the windstorm that preceded an hour-long rain, leading to the breakage of some electricity poles.

    An eyewitness speaking to Citi News described the incident and mentioned that some motorists were reluctant to change their route to avoid the fallen cables on the road.

    Paulina Ngmennasong, Pharmacist technician at Xerion pharmacy recounted the incident to Citi News in an interview stated that “We were in the pharmacy and heard a heavy sound and thought it was our roof, little did we know it was the two electricity poles in front of our pharmacy that fell with electrical cables and gadgets on it.

    “Due to that, it affected the whole area and the main road, so the road was blocked, and vehicles couldn’t pass, we tried stopping the riders, but some were adamant.”

    Some residents took action by using empty drums and sticks to block the road until the electricity company arrived to take over, according to an eyewitness.

    Alhassan Illiasu, the assemblyman for the Gurugu electoral area, commended the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) for their prompt response and presence on-site to address the situation. He also mentioned that the contractors have assured residents of their commitment to restoring power as soon as possible.

  • Dredging the sea to Kumasi is possible – Organized Labour backs Cheddar

    Dredging the sea to Kumasi is possible – Organized Labour backs Cheddar

    Organized Labour has urged Ghanaians to reconsider the proposed flagship policy of the New Force Movement, which aims to dredge the sea to Kumasi in the Ashanti region.

    They emphasized that the policy, presented by the leader of the New Force Movement, has been misunderstood and should be viewed in terms of its practicality and potential benefits.

    Speaking at a meeting between the New Force Movement and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Ghana to present the Movement’s 16 industrial policies, the Secretary-General of the TUC, Dr. Anthony Yaw Baah, expressed support for political leaders whose policies can bring about transformative change in the country.

    He highlighted that Organized Labour is ready to support initiatives that promise significant developmental impacts.

    “If you look at the river systems, when you dredge the Pra, Tano, Bia and the rest, it easily links to Cape Coast. And his point was that why should we use our roads to cut things? We can actually use our river systems, once we dredge properly, the vessels can use it, and they can transport it from Accra to the North.

    “God has given us a huge river that we are not using because many people don’t really understand that policy.”

    The leader and founder of the New Force Movement, outlined the key points of the Movement’s sixteen industrial policies plan to the Trade Union Congress (TUC).

    Addressing issues such as Corruption, Agriculture, Education, Health, and climate change, Nana Kwame Bediako emphasized the need for a robust partnership with the TUC to ensure the effective implementation of these initiatives. He stressed the significance of collaboration in driving substantial economic and social advancement for Ghana.

  • PHOTOS: Check out 4 SSNIT hotels being sold to Bryan Acheampong

    PHOTOS: Check out 4 SSNIT hotels being sold to Bryan Acheampong

    The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has been petitioned by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to investigate allegations surrounding the sale of four hotels: Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel.

    These hotels belong to Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) and they are being sold to Rock City Hotel, owned by Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

    The establishment is in negotiation with SSNIT to buy a 60% stake in each of the four hotels.

    Mr. Ablakwa’s petition to CHRAJ calls for an investigation into several allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.

    But both SSNIT and Mr Bryan Acheampong say nothing untoward has taken place since Rock City Hotel submitted the best and strongest technical and financial proposal amongst those received by SSNIT.

    Below are images of the establishments SSNIT seeks to sell to Rock City Hotel.

    Labadi Beach Hotel

    La Palm Royal Beach Resort

    Elmina Beach Resort

    Ridge Royal Hotel

  • Bright Simons exposes Akufo-Addo

    Bright Simons exposes Akufo-Addo

    Bright Simons, Vice President of IMANI Africa, has responded to the recently released KPMG audit report on the controversial contracts and transactions between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).

    The over 300-page report was made public on May 22, 2024, after weeks of the presidency withholding its release, citing provisions of the Right to Information (RTI) law.

    Mr Simons, who has been vocal about the need for the full report to be disclosed, highlighted major findings that revealed the deal to be even worse than initially reported based on the documentary that first brought the matter to light.

    In a series of posts on X, Simons noted that the earlier summary by the Presidency had major gaps while outlining bombshell findings from his initial analysis of the report.

    a. SML received close to 1.5 Billion cedis in payments not 1 Billion per the presidency.

    b. KPMG saw the impact of taxes on increasing revenue. Clearly, that wasn’t SML’s work.

    c. SML’s magical flowmeters never worked as specified throughout anyway.

    d. SML refused to pay taxes on its fees from GRA.

    e. Ministry of Finance deliberately refused to do Value for Money evaluation

    On April 24, 2024, President Akufo-Addo received a request from the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) under section 18 of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989) (RTI Act), for a copy of the KPMG report.

    The President had commissioned KPMG on December 29, 2023, to conduct an inquiry to gain a clear understanding of the matters in controversy and to be properly advised in making necessary decisions.

    Initially, the presidency refused to release the report, citing that the KPMG report contained opinions, advice, deliberations, and recommendations integral to the President’s deliberative process, and thus qualified as exempt information under section 5 (1) (a) and (b) (i) of the RTI Act.

    However, a detailed press statement outlining KPMG’s findings and recommendations, as well as the President’s directives to the Ministry of Finance and GRA, was published at the time.

    After initially deciding not to release the full audit report by KPMG, the presidency announced in a statement dated May 22 that the report had been released despite earlier exemptions raised under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

    “The President, in the interest of full transparency in governance, openness, and honesty with the public, has decided to waive the privilege under section 5 of the RTI Act and has directed the publication of the KPMG report in full,” the statement signed by Communications Director, Eugene Arhin read in part.

  • Ambulance case: 3rd accused tells court A-G pressured him at odd hours to incriminate Ato Forson

    Ambulance case: 3rd accused tells court A-G pressured him at odd hours to incriminate Ato Forson

    During cross-examination in the ambulance purchase trial, Richard Jakpa, the third accused, alleged that Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame had approached him to implicate Minority Leader and former Deputy Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

    Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe cautioned Jakpa to be direct in his responses to avoid wasting the Court’s time.

    In response, Attorney-General Dame accused Jakpa of defending the Minority Leader, prompting Jakpa to retort that the Attorney-General seemed aggrieved because he had previously engaged Jakpa to help the state build a case against Dr. Ato Forson.

    “The A-G has on several occasions engaged me at odd hours to help him make a case against A1 and I have evidence for that.. If he pushes me, I will open the Pandora’s box. I don’t understand why the A-G will accuse me of defending A1 when I’m here to defend myself,” Mr Jakpa said in court.

    “If he pushes me, I’ll open the Pandora’s box. I have evidence to all this,” he added.

    As the proceedings continued, the expression on Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s face shifted to one of shock and anger.

    To diffuse the tension, Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe instructed Richard Jakpa to lower his voice and requested water for him.

    Despite accepting the bottle, Mr. Jakpa declined to drink the water, stating he was too upset.

    Following this, the judge adjourned the case for a brief period and convened a discussion with the Attorney-General and Dr. Ato Forson’s lawyers.

  • The cedi is becoming weak like ‘kontomire’ – Ayawaso West Wuogon NDC Chair

    The cedi is becoming weak like ‘kontomire’ – Ayawaso West Wuogon NDC Chair

    The Chairman of the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Bismark Aborbi-Ayitey, has likened the fast-paced depreciation of the Ghana Cedi to ‘kontomire’ — the leaf of the cocoyam plant.

    Mr Aborbi-Ayitey attributes the Cedi’s depreciation against major foreign currencies to rampant corruption and gross mismanagement by the government.

    “All these monies that you are paying to foreign companies are in dollars, and if no tangible benefits are derived, the cedi will automatically depreciate, leaving it to become as weak as kontomire,” he said.

    He highlighted numerous instances of financial misconduct that he believes have significantly weakened the nation’s currency.

    “Our money is being mismanaged,” he asserted. “Eleven million dollars were paid for the construction of the Pwalugu Dam, yet we haven’t seen anything resembling that project.”

    He also highlighted other questionable financial decisions, alleging, “$2 million and $2.5 million were paid to a South African company and a Portuguese company respectively for the construction of a sky train and the reconstruction of the Accra-Tema Motorway. None of these projects have materialized.”

    Mr Aborbi-Ayitey emphasized that these corrupt practices place substantial pressure on the cedi, leading to its devaluation.

  • Man injured after tree fell on his tricycle in Kumasi

    Man injured after tree fell on his tricycle in Kumasi

    A tricycle rider sustained injuries when a weak tree in the Central Business District of Kumasi fell on his tricycle during the busy hours of Wednesday morning.

    The injured rider, believed to be in his early thirties, has yet to be identified.

    Eyewitnesses reported that the tree, which had been observed as weak for weeks, fell on a van, with parts of its branches landing on the tricycle.

    The incident occurred while the tricycle was negotiating a curve.

    A section of the tree’s stem fell on the windscreen of the tricycle, causing injury to the rider.

    Eyewitnesses informed Luv News that the tree had been leaning to one side of the road since the onset of the rains, showing signs of danger.

  • SML meter data on fuel deliveries to BDC depots unreliable – KPMG

    SML meter data on fuel deliveries to BDC depots unreliable – KPMG

    A comprehensive report by the renowned auditing and advisory firm KPMG has revealed concerning findings regarding the data provided by Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

    The audit firm stated that the volumes of products measured by SML were unreliable and, therefore, could not be reported to the GRA. This unreliability was attributed to the presence of water in the pipes used by SML.

    In the full KPMG report, released by President Akufo-Addo on Wednesday, May 22, it was disclosed that SML, in consultation with the GRA, had implemented the Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG) system to address data reliability issues.

    However, KPMG highlighted on page 129 of its report that, at the time of issuance, ATGs had not been deployed at 19 depots.

    The audit added that the delay in deploying these ATGs presented challenges in ensuring accurate and reliable data reporting by SML.

    “However, due to the presence of water in the pipes, the volume measured with the inlet flow Meter is unreliable and therefore not reported to GRA.”

    “As a result of the water issue identified, SML after consultations with GRA implemented ATG systems to monitor the volumes of products received into tanks at the depot,” the report said.

    Meanwhile, the report also indicated that SML owed 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.

    According to the accounting and advisory firm, SML has failed to fulfill its statutory obligations by neglecting to file its tax returns or remit the owed taxes to the GRA. This deviation from standard practice occurred between June 1, 2020, and August 31, 2023, during which the GRA typically deducts taxes for payments made to SML.

    “During the period from 1 September 2020 to 30 April 2021, a bulk payment to SML covering invoices for an eight (8) month period, did not have VAT and WHT deductions, amounting to GH¢13.38 million. This contradicts GRA’s standard practice of deducting such taxes for payments to SML between 1 June 2020 and 31 August 2023.”

    “Additionally, SML failed to fulfil its statutory obligations by neither filing returns nor remitting these taxes to GRA. Pursuant to Section 71(1) of the RA Act, the accrued interest on the tax liability is estimated at GH¢18.50 million owed by SML to GRA as of 31 January 2024. Consequently, the total liability incurred by SML amounts to GH¢31.88 million.”

    “At the time of our review, we noticed the discrepancy and informed GRA, leading to their subsequent communication with SML, demanding a settlement of the outstanding amount,” an excerpt of the report said on page 14.

  • VIDEO: “I am talking to my lawyer, what is this?” Hopeson Adorye clashes with a police officer

    VIDEO: “I am talking to my lawyer, what is this?” Hopeson Adorye clashes with a police officer

    A video has surfaced showing Hopeson Adorye, a prominent figure in the Movement for Change and a former leading member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), arguing with a police officer as he was being prepared for transport from the Ministries’ Police Station on Wednesday, May 22, 2024.

    In the video, the police officer was attempting to get Adorye into a vehicle while he was speaking with his lawyer, Ken Korankye. Mr Adorye became increasingly frustrated with the officer’s persistence and snapped at him.

    “I’m talking to my lawyer, please. I’m talking to my lawyer. What is this? I’m talking to my lawyer, and you are interrupting me. Please, let me speak with my lawyer. What is the meaning of this? Are you the only police officer?” a visibly angry Adorye shouted.

    Despite his anger, Hopeson eventually entered the vehicle with the police officer, who was in plain clothes, as he continued to express his frustration.

    Adorye, who was detained for his remarks about detonating dynamite to intimidate non-Ghanaians from voting in the Volta Region during the 2016 election, has been granted bail of GH₵20,000 with two sureties.

  • Ofori-Atta, others must be prosecuted for monies lost in scandalous SML-GRA deal – Martin Kpebu

    Ofori-Atta, others must be prosecuted for monies lost in scandalous SML-GRA deal – Martin Kpebu

    Private legal practitioner and anti-corruption campaigner, Martin Kpebu, has called for the immediate prosecution of former finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta for causing financial loss to the state in the controversial Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML) deal.

    In an interview on JoyNews, Kpebu stated that officials of SML should also be included in the prosecution.

    He emphasized that the damning findings in the KPMG audit report necessitate the prosecution of those involved in drafting and executing the contract.

    “I have seen parts of the [audit] report which states that SML didn’t deliver so we need to quantify how much we lost and hold Ofori-Atta and the other officials involved for this loss,” he said.

    The lawyer further emphasized the need to terminate the revenue mobilisation deal between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Finance Ministry, and SML.

    He noted that since SML failed to fulfill its mandate as stipulated in the contract, the deal should be canceled.

    “We need to terminate this agreement, because in law, when an agreement is void, public agencies shouldn’t pay money,” he said.

    In April this year, an investigation by The Fourth Estate, a project of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), uncovered numerous irregularities in the contracts between Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML), the Ministry of Finance, and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

    The investigation revealed discrepancies in SML’s claims regarding its services aimed at tackling revenue losses in the downstream petroleum sector. President Akufo-Addo subsequently instructed KPMG to conduct a comprehensive audit.

    Despite SML’s assertions that its services were effectively addressing issues such as under-declaration, dilution, and diversion of petroleum products, evidence presented by The Fourth Estate showed that these functions were being carried out by other companies and the National Petroleum Authority (NPA).

    Managing Director of SML, Christian Tetteh Sottie, admitted to the inaccuracies and promptly removed the false claims from the company’s website.

    Despite these revelations and other admitted falsehoods, Minister of Finance Ken Ofori-Atta initiated a process in 2023 to expand SML’s contracts to include the gold and oil-producing sectors. This decision significantly increased the annual contract sum to over $100 million.

    Following the investigation by The Fourth Estate and subsequent public outcry, President Akufo-Addo suspended the contracts and commissioned KPMG to conduct an audit and submit a report.

    While the president released a press statement regarding the findings, the full report provides even more damning revelations about SML’s operations within its contracts with the Ministry of Finance and the GRA.

  • Gov’t released KPMG report to take Ghanaians’ attention from sale of SSNIT hotels – Bridget Otoo

    Gov’t released KPMG report to take Ghanaians’ attention from sale of SSNIT hotels – Bridget Otoo

    Prominent social media personality, Bridget Otoo, has alleged that the release of the KPMG audit report by President Nana Akufo-Addo over the deal between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) is meant to distract the public from the ongoing sale of SSNIT hotels to Member of Parliament for Abetifi Constituency, Bryan Acheampong.

    The release of the KPMG audit report by President Nana Akufo-Addo comes in response to weeks of mounting pressure from the public and civil society organizations for transparency regarding the contentious contract.

    The President commissioned KPMG to audit the contract on January 2, 2024, with an initial deadline of January 16, 2024, later extended to February 23, 2024.

    In reaction, Bridget Otoo noted that since the labour unions have threatened a strike over the SSNIT deal with Rock City Hotel, the government has found it prudent to release the KPMG report.

    “The government doesn’t care about anything! It’s either their way or nothing… As @lordcudjoe puts it “all crooked deals are cooked at the “ #JulorbiHouse They didn’t want to release the SML report, now that Labour unions are threatening strike over this heartless deal of handing over 60% stake in 6 hotels to a sitting MP and minister, they have found it necessary to release the report. #SSNITStopTheSaleNow,” she wrote.

    SSNIT

    Organised Labour has voiced concerns over the ongoing divestiture of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) shares in four hotels to Rock City Hotel, owned by Bryan Acheampong, the Minister of Agriculture.

    The group has urged the government to halt the process, warning of a potential nationwide strike by workers if the divestiture proceeds.

    SSNIT is close to finalizing the sale of 60% of its shares in Labadi Beach Hotel, LA Palm Royal Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, and Elmina Beach Resort to Rock City Hotel.

    This move has sparked widespread criticism, prompting North Tongu MP Okudzeto Ablakwa to file a petition with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ).

  • JoyNews, JoyPrime and Adom TV go off-air

    JoyNews, JoyPrime and Adom TV go off-air

    In an unexpected turn of events, three major television platforms, JoyNews, Joy Prime, and Adom TV, have gone off-air due to power fluctuations.

    The technical glitch has disrupted the broadcasting services of these popular channels, leaving viewers without access to their regular programming.

    Multimedia Group Limited, the parent company of these stations, has issued an official statement acknowledging the disruption. According to the statement, the technical team is working diligently to resolve the issue and restore normal service as soon as possible.

    “We regret to inform you that due to power fluctuations, our three TV platforms—JoyNews, Joy Prime, and Adom TV—are currently off-air. Our technical team is working diligently to resolve the issue and restore service as soon as possible,” the statement read.

    The company also expressed its apologies for the inconvenience caused and thanked viewers for their patience. To ensure that the audience remains informed, Multimedia Group Limited has encouraged viewers to visit their online platforms for the latest news updates.

    “We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience. Please visit myjoyonline.com and adomonline.com for the latest news updates,” the statement added.

    The power fluctuations have impacted the transmission capabilities of the channels, causing a temporary blackout. The technical team is investigating the cause and implementing solutions to prevent future occurrences.

  • Stop talking about Ama Governor until she graduates – Bridget Otoo tells public

    Stop talking about Ama Governor until she graduates – Bridget Otoo tells public

    Prominent social media personality, Bridget Otoo, has entreated Ghanaians to be circumspect in their discussions revolving around Elorm Ababio, also known as Ama Governor, who has finally been called to the bar after several failed attempts.

    She noted that several activities can happen from now until she graduates, hence, she must be allowed the time as she begins a new chapter in her life.

    In a post on X, she wrote, “If you really love Ama Governor, kindly stop talking about her until she graduates. I beg you, a lot can happen from now till graduation day…. We’ve seen it b4… I’m begging you, now is not the time to give your hot takes.. let her graduate in peace and then after you can open the flood gate and sing … whatever song.”

    Ms. Elorm Ababio who has publicly disclosed her affiliation with the LGBTQ community joins 181 other individuals qualified to be called to the Bar on May 31, 2024.

    According to a notice issued by the Director of the Ghana School of Law, the list of qualified individuals is not exhaustive and may change if the General Legal Council is made aware of any irregularities.

    In October 2023, the Ghana Legal Council rejected Ghanaian social media influencer Elomi Ababio’s request to be called to the Bar.

    The rejection was announced in a letter to Elomi Ababio, popularly known as Ama Governor, dated October 18, 2023.

    “At the meeting of the General Legal Council held on Tuesday, 17th October 2023, your application to be called to the Bar was declined on account of elements noted in your public conduct prior to the application.

    “You may complete the appropriate forms for application to be called to the Bar, any time there is a scheduled enrollment ceremony after the 20 October 2023 enrollment ceremony. In the meantime, Council will continue to monitor your conduct,” the letter read.

    This comes after the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) representative’s report to the General Legal Council at the 2022/2023 bar conference held in Cape Coast disclosed that Elomi Ababio has been granted the opportunity to complete the application process for her bar call, scheduled for the October/November 2023 sessions.

    She filed the appropriate forms to be called to the Bar, scheduled for October 20, 2023.

    Prior to this, Ama Governor, faced a temporary setback in aspiring lawyer’s journey to the fraternity when a complaint was filed by a concerned citizen in November last year.

    This complaint alleged that Ama Governor had engaged in conduct that was deemed “unbecoming of a bar applicant.”

    As a result of this complaint, the General Legal Council decided to pause the process of calling Ama Governor to the bar.

    This decision ignited significant reactions on both social media and in broader public discourse, sparking debates about the behavior of law students in Ghana.

    Ama Governor vehemently rejected the allegations of misconduct, asserting that she had been treated unfairly throughout the ordeal.

  • My faith in your principles is badly shaken – Asiedu Nketia tells Martin Amidu over OSP saga

    My faith in your principles is badly shaken – Asiedu Nketia tells Martin Amidu over OSP saga

    The National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has expressed his loss of faith in the principles of the esteemed legal luminary and former Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu.

    He stated that he once believed Mr. Amidu to be a very principled man until his recent petition to President Akufo-Addo, seeking the removal of Kissi Agyebeng as Special Prosecutor.

    Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on May 23, he said, “The Martin Amidu I know, until this thing was done, I trusted that he was a very principled person. My faith in his being principled is badly shaken.”

    This comment follows a petition, dated April 30, 2024, which Mr. Amidu sent to President Akufo-Addo and was subsequently forwarded to Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo on May 6, 2024.

    In his petition, Mr. Amidu alleged procurement breaches in the purchase of vehicles for the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and abuses involving judges and the administration of justice.

    He also cited violations of citizens’ rights through arrests and detentions, violations of the right to information, and improper appointments of personnel to the office.

    According to the National Chairman of the NDC, the motive behind Mr. Amidu’s petition remains unclear to him.

    He expressed surprise that Mr. Amidu, who once referred to President Akufo-Addo as the “Mother serpent of corruption,” would petition him to address perceived corrupt acts.

    The NDC Chairman stated that Mr. Amidu’s decision to petition the President has weakened his credibility and undermined his previous efforts to fight corruption.

    “He shouldn’t have done that at all. I am still trying to understand why. Comrade Martin, have you abandoned your view that Nana Akufo-Addo is the mother serpent of corruption? Or you still hold that view? If you still hold that view, when you came to a roadblock that I want to do this thing against finance minister and the president said no way, you resigned and came to open up.

    “If your successor has come to a similar road block and the president is demanding his resignation, won’t you show solidarity? But you are rather making yourself the tool for the president to be able to achieve his objective of fighting those who are fighting corruption.”

    Mr. Asiedu Nketia stated that he cannot support either Amidu or the Special Prosecutor until ongoing investigations are completed and more information is made available.

  • Court grants Hopeson Adorye GHC20K bail, charged with publication of false news

    Court grants Hopeson Adorye GHC20K bail, charged with publication of false news

    A member of the Movement for Change, Hopeson Adorye, has been granted bail following his arrest for admitting to detonating dynamite in the Volta Region during the 2016 elections to favor the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    The Dansoman District Court set Mr. Adorye’s bail at GH¢20,000 with two sureties, one of which must be justified.

    Mr. Adorye was charged by the police with the publication of false news. Nana Ohene Ntow, a key member of the Movement for Change, provided this update in an interview with the media.

    According to him, Mr. Adorye has been taken to the Ministries Police Station to complete the necessary procedures for his release from custody.

    “He was put before the Dansoman District Court this [Thursday] morning and was charged with publication of false news. He has been granted bail and has been taken to the Ministries Police Station with our lawyers to secure his release,” Mr Ntow said.

    The case has been adjourned to June 26, 2024. Hopeson Adorye was apprehended following his appearance on Accra FM on May 10, where he confessed to being part of a plot that detonated dynamite in the Volta Region to scare voters in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) stronghold, thereby favoring the NPP.

    “Prior to the elections, we blasted dynamite in parts of the Volta Region, and that scared a number of people. When I finished casting my ballot in Tema, I drove to the Volta Region, and when I asked for the number of people who had voted and the expected number of voters, it turned out people did not come out to vote.”

    Meanwhile, Yaw Buaben Asamoa, a former Member of Parliament for Adentan who has parted ways with the NPP and is now a member of the Movement for Change, has claimed that the arrest is politically motivated.

    Following a visit by presidential aspirant and leader of the movement, Alan Kyerematen, Mr. Buaben Asamoa stated that the allegations against Hopeson Adorye are false and unjust.

    “Hopeson Adorye is not about to run away from Ghana or his home because the police intend to charge him with the publication of false information. So to go to the extent of keeping him all day in the police station and bringing him over to the Ministries to detain him, you point fingers backwards at yourself that there is something political at play and it is not fair,” he said.

  • Gov’t paid SML $4M yearly instead of $5,000 to verify prices of imported goods – Bright Simons

    Gov’t paid SML $4M yearly instead of $5,000 to verify prices of imported goods – Bright Simons

    Vice President of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons, has revealed that the government paid Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) $4 million annually to verify prices of imported goods when the same service could have been obtained for as little as $5,000.

    External Price Verification involves validating the prices for goods, services, or assets by leveraging globally recognised standard databases.

    The recently released KPMG audit report on the contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and SML highlighted several discrepancies and inefficiencies in the pricing structure of these services.

    In assessing the fairness of SML’s pricing, KPMG compared the contract with leading practice firms offering similar services in other jurisdictions. Their observations include:

    • Comparators typically operate a subscription model with fees structured annually or monthly, rather than a fixed percentage of the overall transaction value per month (0.07% of the monthly CIF value).
    • The fee paid under External Price Verification from November 1, 2019, to December 31, 2023, totaled GHC 131,589,863.41 (US$ 15,952,367.59), averaging GHC 2,631,797.27 (US$ 319,047.35) per month.

    SML’s variable pricing structure and the inclusion of data collection significantly influenced the service’s cost. KPMG recommended that GRA consider alternative options, such as subscribing directly to databases, which may offer more favorable terms.

    Alternatively, renegotiating the payment terms with SML to ensure the pricing structure is equitable and reflects the value received from the Transaction Value Assessment System (TVAS) was also suggested.

    GRA is advised to conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis to determine the most economically viable and efficient approach to external price verification, ensuring fiscal responsibility and maintaining the integrity of the pricing validation process.

    SML’s role in external price verification required them to provide an external pricing database and conduct market research to assist the GRA in accessing current prices of imported goods. SML claimed to have granted access to TVAS and stationed two staff members at the Customs Technical Services Bureau (CTSB) in January 2020.

    However, due to COVID-19, these staff members were withdrawn in April 2020. Concerns were raised regarding the reliability of SML’s pricing information, which was perceived as inflated or deflated by CTSB.

    In May 2020, GRA implemented the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), which includes external price verification capabilities. This created a duplication of the services provided by SML. From April 1, 2019, to December 31, 2019, and April 2020 to January 2, 2024, there was no evidence of external price verification services being offered or utilized by SML and GRA, respectively.

    On May 23, 2023, SML provided TVAS system training for CTSB officials and delivered computers in December 2023 to aid GRA’s external price verification activities.

    Based on KPMG’s analysis, SML partially delivered on the service requirements, and GRA may not have obtained all the expected benefits from the service. The audit report underscores the need for the government to review and optimize its contracts to ensure value for money and effective service delivery.

    https://twitter.com/BBSimons/status/1793391485947158861/photo/2
  • SML-GRA deal: Company gov’t contracted to help collect taxes is owing GHC32m tax

    SML-GRA deal: Company gov’t contracted to help collect taxes is owing GHC32m tax

    The KPMG report on the contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) has uncovered significant tax discrepancies, with SML found owing the government over GHC31 million.

    The GRA and SML entered into a number of contracts to enhance revenue assurance in the downstream and upstream petroleum sectors, as well as the minerals and metals resource value chain.

    But it has been observed that during the period from 1 September 2020 to 30 April 2021, a bulk payment to SML covering invoices for an eight-month period lacked VAT and WHT deductions, amounting to GHC13.38 million. This departure from GRA’s standard practice contradicted previous deductions made for payments to SML between 1 June 2020 and 31 August 2023.

    Furthermore, SML failed to meet its statutory obligations by neither filing returns nor remitting these taxes to GRA. Pursuant to Section 71(1) of the RA Act, the accrued interest on the tax liability is estimated at GHC18.50 million owed by SML to GRA as of 31 January 2024.

    Consequently, the total liability incurred by SML stands at GHC31.88 million.

    Upon review, the discrepancy was brought to the attention of GRA, prompting their subsequent communication with SML, demanding settlement of the outstanding amount.

    The release of the KPMG audit report by President Nana Akufo-Addo comes in response to weeks of mounting pressure from the public and civil society organizations for transparency regarding the contentious contract. The President commissioned KPMG to audit the contract on January 2, 2024, with an initial deadline of January 16, 2024, later extended to February 23, 2024.

  • 6 GRA/SML contracts had no PPA, Parliamentary approvals – KPMG audit report confirms

    6 GRA/SML contracts had no PPA, Parliamentary approvals – KPMG audit report confirms

    The KPMG audit report on the contracts between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) has revealed several breaches in the country’s laws regarding procurement processes.

    According to the report, six contracts between GRA and SML were executed without the necessary approvals from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) and Parliament, as required by law.

    The contracts included transaction audit services, external price verification services, consolidation services agreements, and measurement audits of downstream petroleum products.

    The audit report highlighted that GRA sought PPA approval for single-source arrangements with SML on three separate occasions in 2017 but was declined due to SML’s lack of capacity and prior experience in providing the services.

    Despite this, GRA went ahead to engage SML as a subcontractor to West Blue Ghana Ltd without PPA approval.

    Furthermore, after the expiration of West Blue’s contract and SML’s subcontract agreement, GRA entered into a new agreement with SML for transaction audit services without obtaining PPA approval. This agreement was extended on a monthly basis without the necessary approvals.

    GRA entered into six (6) service agreements with SML, utilising the single-source method without obtaining approval from PPA, as outlined below:

    a) Transaction Audit Services — 1 June 2018

    b) Contract Extension — 1 January 2019

    c) External Price Verification Services — 1 April 2019

    d) Consolidation Services Agreement (Transaction Audit & External Verification Services) — 3 October 2019

    e) Measurement Audit of Downstream Petroleum Products — 3 October 2019

    f) Addendum to Measurement Audit for Downstream Petroleum Products Agreement — 29 July 2020.

  • SML owes gov’t GHC31.88 million in taxes – KPMG report

    SML owes gov’t GHC31.88 million in taxes – KPMG report

    The KPMG report on the contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) has revealed that SML owes the government over GHC31 million in taxes.

    During the period from 1 September 2020 to 30 April 2021, a bulk payment to SML covering invoices for an eight (8) month period did not have VAT and WHT deductions, amounting to GHE13.38 million.

    This contradicts GRA’s standard practice of deducting such taxes for payments to SML between 1 June 2020 and 31 August 2023.

    Additionally, SML failed to fulfil its statutory obligations by neither filing returns nor remitting these taxes to GRA.

    Pursuant to Section 71(1) of the RA Act, the accrued interest on the tax liability is estimated at GHC18.50 million owed by SML to GRA as of 31 January 2024. Consequently, the total liability incurred by SML amounts to GHC31.88 million.

    The release of the report comes after weeks of increasing pressure from the public and civil society organizations calling for transparency due to reported issues with the contract. President Nana Akufo-Addo commissioned KPMG to audit the contract on January 2, 2024, with an initial deadline of January 16, 2024, which was later extended to February 23, 2024.

    The report has raised concerns about the management of taxpayer funds and has prompted calls for accountability and reforms within the GRA. The government has stated that it will take appropriate action based on the findings of the report to ensure that such lapses do not occur in the future.

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  • Hopeson Adorye’s arrest is politically motivated – Buaben Asamoa

    Hopeson Adorye’s arrest is politically motivated – Buaben Asamoa

    Former Adentan Member of Parliament Yaw Buaben Asamoa has alleged that the detention of Hopeson Adorye on May 22 amounts to a political witch hunt by the administration.

    Mr Adorye, who has made recent statements about setting off dynamite during the 2016 general elections in opposition areas, has faced calls for his arrest.

    News of his arrest broke late on Wednesday night, with Buaben Asamoa confirming in an interview with Joy FM that Adorye was being held at the Ministries Police Station on accusations of disseminating fake information.

    “Hopeson Adorye is not about to run away from Ghana or from his home because the police intend to charge him with the publication of false information.

    “So, to go to the extent of keeping him all day in the police station and bringing him over to the Ministries to detain him, you point fingers backward at yourself that there is something political at play and it’s not fair,” he said.

    “This is obviously politically motivated, there is no doubt about that,” he emphasized.

    Followers of Hopeson Adorye and Yaw Buaben Asamoa’s party, the Movement for Change (M4C), gathered at the police station demanding Adorye’s release or the detention of all supporters present.

    Adorye was reportedly detained by the police following his claim of detonating dynamites in the Volta Region during the 2016 General Elections. This allegation made during an Accra radio broadcast has since gone viral, leading to his arrest.

    “Mr. Adorye will appear before the court but is now under serious investigation,” a trustworthy source informed Peacefmonline.

    Hopeson Adorye disclosed details about an operation he led to prevent purported Togolese nationals from voting in the 2016 general elections.

    In an interview with Onua TV on May 16, 2024, Adorye clarified that the operation involving the use of explosives occurred entirely within Togo’s borders, not Ghana’s.

    He explained that he assembled a team and drove them to Togo to engage with traditional leaders of Ghanaian border areas.

    The objective was to persuade them to communicate with their people to discourage them from crossing into Ghana to vote in the 2016 elections.

  • Eugene Arhin accused of paying Kwanyako SHS students GHC100 each to register

    Eugene Arhin accused of paying Kwanyako SHS students GHC100 each to register

    Presidential Staffer and New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate for Awutu Senya West Constituency, Eugene Arhin, has been accused of bussing students from Kwanyako Senior High School in Agona West to the Electoral Commission (EC) Office of Awutu Senya West.

    It is alleged that the politician paid them GHC100 each to register.

    The unconfirmed report has sparked reactions from several netizens, with some questioning whether it was unlawful to organize transportation for eligible students to register.

    “R they qualified to vote in the said constituency or not? N is this d first time u r hearing of ppl schooling in a district but r resident n vote in another? What’s yours point exactly?” an X user wrote.

    As of now, Mr. Arhin has not responded to these allegations. It remains to be seen how this situation will unfold and if any official statements will be made regarding the matter.

    In an unrelated event, two Togolese nationals are currently in the custody of the Jasikan Municipal Police Command for attempting to participate in Ghana’s ongoing voter registration exercise.

    The arrests were made by National Security officers on Sunday, May 19, and the suspects were subsequently handed over to the police for further processing in court.

    According to National Security officers, leaders of a political party in the area allegedly brought the suspects to the Jasikan Municipal Registration Centre. They further alleged that political leaders in the Buem Constituency attempted to secure bail for the two suspects at the police station but were unsuccessful.

    This incident follows a similar arrest last week at Asokore Mampong in the Ashanti Region, where two Nigeriens were apprehended. These individuals were unable to convince Electoral Commission officers and the police of their eligibility to register as they were not Ghanaians.

  • SML received GHC1.5bn and not GHC1bn as Akufo-Addo stated – Bright Simons cites KPMG report

    Bright Simons, Vice President of IMANI Africa, has responded to the recently released KPMG audit report on the controversial contracts and transactions between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).

    The over 300-page report was made public on May 22, 2024, after weeks of the presidency withholding its release, citing provisions of the Right to Information (RTI) law.

    Mr Simons, who has been vocal about the need for the full report to be disclosed, highlighted major findings that revealed the deal to be even worse than initially reported based on the documentary that first brought the matter to light.

    In a series of posts on X, Simons noted that the earlier summary by the Presidency had major gaps while outlining bombshell findings from his initial analysis of the report.

    a. SML received close to 1.5 Billion cedis in payments not 1 Billion per the presidency.

    b. KPMG saw the impact of taxes on increasing revenue. Clearly, that wasn’t SML’s work.

    c. SML’s magical flowmeters never worked as specified throughout anyway.

    d. SML refused to pay taxes on its fees from GRA.

    e. Ministry of Finance deliberately refused to do Value for Money evaluation

    On April 24, 2024, President Akufo-Addo received a request from the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) under section 18 of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989) (RTI Act), for a copy of the KPMG report.

    The President had commissioned KPMG on December 29, 2023, to conduct an inquiry to gain a clear understanding of the matters in controversy and to be properly advised in making necessary decisions.

    Initially, the presidency refused to release the report, citing that the KPMG report contained opinions, advice, deliberations, and recommendations integral to the President’s deliberative process, and thus qualified as exempt information under section 5 (1) (a) and (b) (i) of the RTI Act.

    However, a detailed press statement outlining KPMG’s findings and recommendations, as well as the President’s directives to the Ministry of Finance and GRA, was published at the time.

    After initially deciding not to release the full audit report by KPMG, the presidency announced in a statement dated May 22 that the report had been released despite earlier exemptions raised under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

    “The President, in the interest of full transparency in governance, openness, and honesty with the public, has decided to waive the privilege under section 5 of the RTI Act and has directed the publication of the KPMG report in full,” the statement signed by Communications Director, Eugene Arhin read in part.

  • Akufo-Addo did not ask Kissi Agyebeng to resign as Special Prosecutor – Kow Essuman

    Akufo-Addo did not ask Kissi Agyebeng to resign as Special Prosecutor – Kow Essuman

    Counsel to President Akufo-Addo, Kow Essuman, has publicly refuted a claim by private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu that President Akufo-Addo asked Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng to vacate his post.

    In a post on his X platform, Mr Essuman challenged Mr Kpebu to provide evidence to support his claim.

    Kow Essuman said “I really hope that my learned friend, Martin Kpebu, did not make this statement. But in the event that my hope is dashed and he actually made this statement, then I dare him to name his supposed source at the Presidency that provided him with this false information.

    “He should provide evidence of this allegation. Given his standing as a lawyer, it is simply not enough for him to say, ‘I have my sources at the Presidency.’ He should provide cogent evidence to support this allegation rather than putting out speculations and conjectures.”

    Martin Kpebu, while making the claim, also stated that Kissi Agyebeng refused to comply with the President’s order. Kpebu further asserted that former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu provided President Akufo-Addo with an opportunity to remove Kissi Agyebeng through his petition for Agyebeng’s removal.

    Speaking on the Key Points on TV3 Saturday, May 18, Kpebu said “Martin Amidu has served as an opportunity for President Akufo-Addo to get Kissi Agyebeng out, Akufo-Addo had asked Kissi to resign a few months ago.”

    When asked about the source of this information, he said “I have my sources at the presidency, and they told me that President Akufo-Addo asked Kissi to resign but Kissi said no, he is not going anywhere. Because Akufo-Addo is scared that the way Kissi is showing a bit of independence, a bit of steam, if he leaves Kissi in office, Kissi is likely to prosecute him and his appointees.”

    Mr Kpebu further suggested that the petition is an effort to replace Kissi with a more compliant individual in that office. He accused President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of being behind this petition.

    “It is an attempt to push Kissi out and get a very malleable special prosecutor, it is a serious blow to the fight against corruption, we would have thought that at this time Akufo Addo would think about how to resource the Office of the Special prosecutor yet he is rather more interested in removing the SP.

    “There have been several petitions in the past that Akufo-Addo never acted on. Oliver Barker Vormawor petitioned Akufo-Addo to remove Jean Mensa but Akufo-Addo never acted on it. This one, for him to have acted swiftly, it shows he is happy and I am sure he is behind this. Because Kissi is showing a bit of independence Akufo-Addo is afraid that when he leaves office he will be prosecuted,” Kpebu said on the News Central on TV3 on Friday May 17.

    Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo wrote to Kissi Agyebeng, requesting his comments on the petition filed by his predecessor, Martin Amidu, for his removal.

    The Chief Justice’s letter stated that Agyebeng’s comments are needed to establish a prima facie case or otherwise.

    In a letter dated Thursday, May 16, addressed to Mr. Agyebeng, the Chief Justice requested his comments to help ascertain if a prima facie case had been established.

  • Cheddar promises to restrict activities of foreign traders in the local market

    Cheddar promises to restrict activities of foreign traders in the local market

    Leader of The New Force, Nana Kwame Bediako, also known as Cheddar has pledged to place an embargo on foreign traders who have infiltrated local markets.

    He believes this measure will help prevent the depreciation of the local currency.

    During an interactive session with members of the Ghana Union of Traders as part of his manifesto compilation, Nana Kwame Bediako expressed concerns about the free fall of the Ghana cedi against the dollar and emphasized the need to stabilize the currency.

    He announced plans to introduce an embargo on foreign goods to protect Ghanaian businesses, following engagements with the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) to incorporate their concerns into his manifesto.

    Mr Bediako outlined a comprehensive industrialization plan aimed at driving economic growth, creating opportunities for the youth, and supporting local businesses.

    He stressed the need for innovative business ideas and a shift from traditional reliance on natural resources. Highlighting the struggles of local companies facing collapse due to high taxes, he promised to implement reasonable tax policies to protect and promote indigenous companies.

    Mr Bediako lamented that the depreciation of the cedi is a consequence of not creating value within the country. He urged GUTA members to position themselves strategically in the marketplace.

    “GUTA, start thinking about how you can take the position of the foreign traders here. Let us focus on creating distribution channels. The supply chain will launch us into great wealth.”

    The GUTA President, Dr. Joseph Obeng, also highlighted several challenges facing traders and businesses, including high inflation and excessive taxes, which are affecting their operations.

    He asserted that meaningful economic reform in Ghana can only be achieved through greater representation of business interests in politics.

    “Business leaders have to take over the governance of Ghana in order to stimulate economic growth,” Dr. Obeng declared. He expressed concern over the growing disillusionment within the business community towards mainstream politicians, stating, “People are tired of mainstream politicians. It is time for business-minded people to take over the leadership of this nation.”

    Dr. Obeng also noted the high cost of doing business in Ghana, exacerbated by steep taxes and import duties. He warned mainstream politicians that the upcoming election might be their last chance to redeem themselves in the eyes of the business community.

    “Mainstream politicians should pay attention to conversations going on and take Ghanaians seriously by handling matters of the economy more seriously,” he urged.

    Nana Kwame Bediako echoed these sentiments, highlighting the critical impact of economic instability on businesses.

    “When the currency is not doing well, businesses will not do well. The rising inflation rate is killing businesses,” he said.

    He called for a governance model that fosters progress and prosperity, advocating for internal wealth creation.

  • No more ‘money rituals’, smoking scenes in Nollywood films

    No more ‘money rituals’, smoking scenes in Nollywood films

    Shaibu Husseini, the CEO of Nigeria’s National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), announced that the federal government has approved the prohibition of money rituals and the glamorization of vices in Nollywood films.

    Mr. Husseini disclosed this at an event in Enugu on Wednesday, organized by the NFVCB in collaboration with Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA).

    The event was attended by movie producers, directors, actors from various parts of West Africa, and leaders of various guilds and associations in the Nigerian film industry.

    Mr Husseini said, “Today, we are facing an industry emergency requiring bold and ambitious actions from all parents, guardians, and stakeholders. When my predecessor approached the former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Muhammed, on the need to make subsidiary legislation to curtail the display of smoking in Nigerian movies, he saw the need to include money rituals.”

    “Others included in the regulation are ritual killings and glamorising other crimes in order to further sanitise the film industry. Today, I am delighted to announce to you that the  Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu  Musawa, pursuant to section 65 of the NFVCB Act 2004, has approved the regulation.”

    He added, “The minister has approved the ‘prohibition of money ritual, ritual killing, tobacco, tobacco products, nicotine product promotion and glamorisation display in movies, musical videos and skits regulations 2024’. We have also forwarded the approved copy to the Federal Ministry of Justice for Gazette.”

    Mr. Husseini stated that the sensitization program aimed to educate stakeholders about the dangers of depicting smoking in Nigerian movies.

    According to him, glamorizing smoking not only has severe health implications but also negatively influences teens and young adults, who make up the largest segment of Nigerian movie viewers.

    He added that the film board plans to implement extensive enlightenment programs in secondary schools, tertiary institutions, local communities, faith groups, and other institutions.

    he NFVCB boss said, “As you all know, the film industry occupies a central position in the entertainment and creative sector, and it is imperative that we continue to place the highest premium on the progress of the film industry.

    “The NFVCB supports smoke-free movies and supports smoke-free Nollywood, and we therefore seek your collaboration to develop creative content that discourages smoking and promotes positive health messages.”

    He noted that after a series of engagements, the NFVCB, in collaboration with the CAPPA, decided to make “subsidiary regulations” to address smoking in movies since this aspect was not expressly spelt out in the extant law.

    “The NFVCB is well prepared to take leadership in this regard and has planned and begun implementing innovative ways to achieve its mandate,” he said.

  • Ghana School of Law calls Ama Governor to the Bar

    Ghana School of Law calls Ama Governor to the Bar

    Social media influencer, Elorm Ababio, also known as Ama Governor, has finally been granted the opportunity to be called to the bar after several failed attempts.

    Ms. Elorm Ababio who has publicly disclosed her affiliation with the LGBTQ community joins 181 other individuals qualified to be called to the Bar on May 31, 2024.

    According to a notice issued by the Director of the Ghana School of Law, the list of qualified individuals is not exhaustive and may change if the General Legal Council is made aware of any irregularities.

    In October 2023, the Ghana Legal Council rejected Ghanaian social media influencer Elomi Ababio’s request to be called to the Bar.

    The rejection was announced in a letter to Elomi Ababio, popularly known as Ama Governor, dated October 18, 2023.

    “At the meeting of the General Legal Council held on Tuesday, 17th October 2023, your application to be called to the Bar was declined on account of elements noted in your public conduct prior to the application.

    “You may complete the appropriate forms for application to be called to the Bar, any time there is a scheduled enrollment ceremony after the 20 October 2023 enrollment ceremony. In the meantime, Council will continue to monitor your conduct,” the letter read.

    This comes after the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) representative’s report to the General Legal Council at the 2022/2023 bar conference held in Cape Coast disclosed that Elomi Ababio has been granted the opportunity to complete the application process for her bar call, scheduled for the October/November 2023 sessions.

    She filed the appropriate forms to be called to the Bar, scheduled for October 20, 2023.

    Prior to this, Ama Governor, faced a temporary setback in aspiring lawyer’s journey to the fraternity when a complaint was filed by a concerned citizen in November last year.

    This complaint alleged that Ama Governor had engaged in conduct that was deemed “unbecoming of a bar applicant.”

    As a result of this complaint, the General Legal Council decided to pause the process of calling Ama Governor to the bar.

    This decision ignited significant reactions on both social media and in broader public discourse, sparking debates about the behavior of law students in Ghana.

    Ama Governor vehemently rejected the allegations of misconduct, asserting that she had been treated unfairly throughout the ordeal.

  • Tony Lithur asks court to dismiss Nana Oye’s $1.5m suit

    Tony Lithur asks court to dismiss Nana Oye’s $1.5m suit

    Tony Lithur, a private legal practitioner, has filed a notice of appearance to challenge a libel action initiated by his former wife, Nana Oye Bampoe.

    She is seeking $1.5 million in damages.

    The notice of appearance filed on May 14, 2024, which would be moved on May 27, 2024, is seeking “an order dismissing or staying or striking out Plaintiff’s (Nana Oye) writ of Summons and Statement of claim.”

    Tony Lithur’s motion was filed in pursuance of order 11 rules 18(1)(a)/ (b)/(d).

    “Take Notice that Plaintiff shall move the Honourable Court for an order dismissing or staying or striking out Plaintiff’s Writ of Summons and Statement of Claim filed on April 25, 2024, on grounds (a) that they do not disclose a reasonable cause of action against Defendant; and or (b) that same are frivolous and vexatious; and/or (c) that they constitute abuse of process of the Court; “And for such further order(s) as the Court may deem,” he stated.

    On April 24, 2024, former Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, initiated a legal action against her former husband, Tony Lithur, for libel. She is demanding $1.5 million in damages.

    Nana Oye Bampoe claims her reputation has been damaged by her former husband, who had previously filed for divorce. The couple was customarily married on April 14, 1991, later converting their marriage to an ordinance marriage in January 1998 and again on May 2, 2018.

    Mr. Lithur, the defendant, filed a divorce petition against Nana Oye, the plaintiff. This petition, which is partially heard and yet to be concluded, contains what Nana Oye alleges are false statements that led to the publication of defamatory words.

    In response, Nana Oye is seeking the following relief from her former husband.

    “General damages of the Ghana Cedi equivalent forex bureau buying the equivalent of USD500,000.00 (five hundred thousand dollars) for libel contained in Divorce Petition filed on 2nd May 2018 and subsequent pleadings filed during the said Divorce Petition contained in paragraphs 8 and 9 of this Statement of Claim as follows:

    “Exemplary damages of the Ghana Cedi forex buying the equivalent of $1,000,000.00 (one million dollars) for libel particulars of which are contained in relief (a).

    “A perpetual injunction restraining the Defendant jointly and severally either by himself and or his assign(s) from further making any averments or publishing or causing to be published, the said defamatory words or similar words.

    “A retraction and apology to be published on social media including, on Defendant’s Facebook wall, the website of Lithurbrew & Company, the Twitter and Instagram handles of Defendant, and all his social media handles and on the website of the Ghanaweb together with the website of Joyfm, Peacefm and Citi FM.

  • 3 killed in Offinso-Anyinasusu road crash, scores injured

    3 killed in Offinso-Anyinasusu road crash, scores injured

    At least three people were killed and several others injured in an accident at Anyinasusu in the Offinso South Municipality of the Ashanti Region.

    The tragic incident occurred on Tuesday, May 21, shortly after 11 p.m., involving a Yutong bus traveling from Kumasi to Garu and a Rhino vehicle.

    The three fatalities were pronounced dead at the scene.

    Ibrahim Yogo, the Assemblyman for Anyinasusu, confirmed the incident to the media, attributing the accident to the absence of speed bumps on the road. He stated that speed bumps could have prompted drivers to reduce their speed at the location, potentially preventing the accident.

    Mr. Yogo also reported that the bodies of the deceased have been transported to a nearby hospital for preservation and identification. The survivors of the accident are currently receiving medical treatment for their injuries.

    “The speeding bus embarked on an overtaking, colliding with the truck which was carrying mangoes at the time. The three victims were discovered dead during a rescue mission while the others survived with various degrees of injury.”

    “They are currently receiving treatment at the St. Patrick’s Government Hospital. The bodies of the deceased have also been deposited at the same hospital for preservation and identification,” Mr Yogo narrated.

    “The accident occurred in a neighbouring town close to my electoral area. Our road in recent times has now become a death trap due to a lack of speed ramps. And so, we plead with authorities to build speed ramps on the adjoining communities to avoid such crashes”, he added.

  • Wednesday’s rainstorm leaves parts of Accra flooded; traffic jam looms

    Wednesday’s rainstorm leaves parts of Accra flooded; traffic jam looms

    The rainstorm observed over southern Togo that drifted westward and affected areas in southern Ghana has left several locations flooded.

    The affected areas include Aflao, Keta, Anloga, Ho, Akatsi, Somanya, Tema, Accra, Koforidua, and Begoro.

    In several videos shared on X, citizens have documented the harrowing experiences they encounter whenever there is a relatively heavy rainstorm.

    As a result, individuals have been left stranded as portions of the roads have been submerged by water, and vehicles have broken down in the middle of the street.

    It is anticipated that as night draws near, traffic congestion will build up as many people leave their workplaces, and schools for home.

    Motorists and pedestrians are urged to be cautious and extra vigilant as they commute to their respective destinations.

    Meanwhile, another rainstorm over Burkina Faso is expected to bring cloudiness over parts of the upper west region of Ghana, with varying intensities of rain.

  • Accra High Court jails Nigerian 10 years for drug trafficking

    Accra High Court jails Nigerian 10 years for drug trafficking

    A 32-year-old Nigerian national, Pascal Okafor Ezugwu, has been sentenced to a 10-year prison term by the High Court for attempting to smuggle 90 thumb-sized cocaine pellets weighing 1.54 kg.

    Mr. Okafor Ezugwu was sentenced on Friday, May 3, 2024, to a minimum of 10 years in hard labor and fined ten thousand penalty units. In the event of default, he will serve an additional three years in prison.

    The court also ordered the destruction of the exhibit, to be supervised by all interested stakeholders in the presence of the court registrar, state prosecutors, and the defense counsel.

    Mr. Okafor Ezugwu was arrested on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, by officers of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) at the Kotoka International Airport. He was going through pre-boarding formalities at the departure hall to board a flight to Hanoi, Vietnam.

    A urine test conducted on him revealed traces of narcotic substances. He later expelled a total of 90 thumb-sized pellets during observation by officers, and a field test of the pellets proved positive for cocaine.

    He was subsequently detained and later charged with three counts of narcotic offenses relating to unlawful possession, attempted exportation of narcotic drugs, and money laundering.

    Mr. Ezugwu was arraigned before the Criminal Court Division of the Accra High Court, where he pleaded guilty to all three counts and was consequently convicted on his own plea.

    In a meeting, NACOC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the public from the trafficking and use of illicit drugs, ensuring public safety.

    The Commission emphasized that the possession, usage, and transportation of illegal drugs without lawful authorization remain prohibited under sections 40 (1) and 41 (1) of Act 1019 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020. It urges the general public to be aware of the consequences and risks associated with such activities.