Member of Parliament for Afigya Kwabre North Constituency, Collins Adomako-Mensah, has hinted that the flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has selected Energy Minister Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh as his running mate.
According to him, Ghanaians had expressed a preference for a running mate from the Ashanti region, and in response, someone from Manhyia has been chosen—Matthew Opoku Prempeh.
Reports from Ghanaweb reveal that the MP made this known this during an interview with Angel FM: “We say we want a running mate from the Ashanti region and isn’t the Ashanti region Manhyia, so what’s the problem? If you want a typical Ashanti, who is an Ashanti, and who is his nephew?”
The host then suggested that all fingers pointed to Napo. Collins Adomako in response said, “Do we have any better car than Rolls-Royce, and now we have someone who has a Rolls-Royce engine within him (Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh) what else will you want.”
He also addressed the perception of the Energy Minister being rude and arrogant, saying, “Matthew Opoku Prempeh is different; I don’t know why people think he is arrogant. Get close to him, and you will love him; he is a giver and does everything.”
The names of three prominent members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who are all cabinet ministers and sitting Members of Parliament, have emerged as potential candidates for the position of running mate to the NPP’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in the December 2024 general elections.
All three potential running mates bear the title Doctor (Dr). They are Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe Constituency in the Ashanti Region and Minister for Education; Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (Napo), Member of Parliament for Manhyia South Constituency also in the Ashanti Region and Minister for Energy; and Dr. Bryan Acheampong, Member of Parliament for Abetifi in the Eastern Region and Minister for Food and Agriculture.
On May 21, 2024, President Akufo-Addo announced that the flagbearer would reveal his running mate in June.
An X user believed to be a Ghanaian has expressed displeasure with President Akufo-Addo over his recent remarks that laud his government’s work for close to eight years.
President Akufo-Addo stands firm amid criticism, praising his administration’s track record.
In a video gone viral, the president said, “In all modesty, I am exceedingly proud of my record in office and the considerable achievements that have been recorded in all sectors of national life these seven and half years.”
“Whether it is in the management of the national economy, education, healthcare, roads and railways, digitalisation, infrastructure development, agricultural and industrial transformation, the protection of Ghana’s territorial integrity, and security, the fight against corruption, battle against environmental degradation, the response of the COVID-19 pandemic, entrenching the tenets of good governance and law, contributing to the attainment of regional and continental integration in unity, being at the forefront of the great demand for the reform of global governance institution, or in advocating respect….. the record is there for all to see. I believe it is one in all humility, isat the least the equal of any in the history of the fourth republic,” he added.
But according to X user, @Oh_Menua, it is unacceptable for the president to pat himself on the back when Ghanaians continue to suffer.
“Ghanaians are suffering in hardship, but our President @NAkufoAddo says he’s proud of his achievements, could anyone be more wicked?”
Reacting to the same video, Ghanaian media personality Bridget Otoo has heavily criticized President Akufo-Addo describing him as suffering from dementia.
“Dementia is very common among persons of his age bracket,” Otoo stated.
Ghana continues to tackle inflation, corruption, lack of infrastructural development in the education sector among others.
Dimentia is very common among persons of his age bracket
Some symptoms of Dimentia are: •Inappropriate emotional outbursts(asking chiefs to stand and greet him) •Memory loss •Apathy •Lack of empathy (i shouldn't be here cos you don’t vote for me)
The organisers of the #Dumsormuststop vigil have strongly condemned the Ghana Police Service for seeking a court injunction against their planned demonstration, describing it as an act of bad faith.
Despite initial discussions between the organisers and the police, the police have filed a writ at the High Court to block the event.
In an interview with JoyNews, lead organiser Selorm Dramani argued that the police’s actions are an attempt to curtail their constitutional right to protest.
Mr Dramani emphasized that protesters are required to notify the police about such events, facilitating a collaborative approach to ensure a peaceful assembly.
He explained that while the organisers agreed to modify the timing of the vigil, they insisted on maintaining the location at Revolution Square due to its historical significance and proximity to the seat of government.
“We stood our ground and told the police that we would not do anything about the venue. The venue would not be changed because if the venue were to change, that would even affect the principles behind holding the vigil. We chose the Revolution Square for its historical significance and its proximity to the presidency or the seat of government. So, we told the police and made it clear that it does not even lie in the mouth of the police to relocate our venue to the Independence Square”.
He disagreed with the police’s assertion that Revolution Square, the planned location for the protest, is a security zone.
Mr. Dramani highlighted the absence of any reference to the area as a security zone in the police affidavit submitted to the court.
He noted that if Revolution Square were indeed a security zone, the police should be capable of effectively managing protesters within the vicinity of such installations.
“If the police continue to extend these threat-bare excuses that the sub-region is in turmoil because of acts of terrorism, even in countries that are going through these acts of terrorism, there are demonstrations and protests going on there successfully.
“If there is a paranoia hanging over the presidency regarding their incompetent management of the energy sector, which is resulting in this devastating effect of dumsor, the president should admit that. He should not be using the police as their strong arm to be coiling our right to demonstrate,” he noted.
Leader of the New Force Movement, Nana Kwame Bediako, has pledged to eliminate excessive taxes imposed on Ghanaian traders if elected President in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
He believes these taxes are severely hindering the wealth generation potential of traders, leaving them in hardship.
The meeting aimed to understand the current challenges faced by the union and explore how both parties could collaborate to develop meaningful policies to address issues within the Ghanaian business landscape.
“I can’t stand here and say that I’ll create free taxes once you start trading, but definitely I’ll look into it and make it reasonable overnight. Because there’s no point if that’s the only job we have as part of the nation, thus, importing from other countries then at the end of the day, we spend 60 or 70% and by the time we sell, the 30% profit we’re supposed to make is gone either by interest from what we borrowed or by just living the hard life. So, I would definitely revise the taxes.”
Some affected students have managed to pay off outstanding fees, but the university is now unable to intervene in the Home Office process, the BBC understands.
A university spokesman said: “Teesside University is proud to be a global institution with a diverse student population but is also very aware of its obligations regarding visa issuance and compliance.
“These strict external regulations ensure that the university fully supports a robust immigration system and is outside of the university’s control.”
The spokesman added it was “aware of the challenging financial situation faced by some students” and had “actively offered bespoke payment plans where requested”.
“This option has been taken up by many of our international students; however, some students have still defaulted on these revised payment plans,” he said.
The Home Office said a decision to offer or withdraw visa sponsorship rested with the sponsoring institution.
A spokesman said wherever a visa was shortened or cancelled, individuals should “take steps to regularise their stay or make arrangements to leave the UK”.
He also mentioned plans to impose embargoes on foreign traders operating within the country, aiming to ensure that the wealth generated remains within Ghana.
“I want to infuse industrialization into your trading, that a lot of things that you go to China to bring would be made here and you would be able to distribute it. But before I implement that plan, I’d have to place an embargo for you traders by stopping the outsiders who are invading your trading in the country,” he said.
“Our major concern as businesses now are with exchange rates. If there’s no stability in your currency, you cannot even industrialize because the products of your industry is not going to be competitive in the sub-region. So, there’s a need therefore that we do everything to stabilize our currency. Our capital is being spirited away and now we have crossed the threshold of 15 cedis to a dollar.
“We are also proposing that our tax and duty system be simplified and thrown down to the barest minimum to make tax payment affordable and that will definitely ensure compliance”.
Former Railways Minister and NPP presidential aspirant, Joe Ghartey has been appointed by President Akufo-Addo to chair the newly reconstituted Board of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
The 9-member board, chaired by the Member of Parliament for Essikado Ketan Constituency, includes Dr. Alex Ampaabeng, a tax and fiscal policy enthusiast representing the Finance Ministry, Elsie Addo Awadzi, the Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, and Julie Essiam, the Commissioner General of the GRA.
Other members are Michael Okyere Baafi, the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, representing the Trade Ministry, Susan Akomea, the Immediate Past Municipal Chief Executive of Asante Akim, and Araba Bosomtwe, both representatives of the President. Additionally, Kwabena Abankwah Yeboah, a fellow of the Ghana College of Pharmacists, will join the board.
The board was inaugurated today, May 22, 2024, by the Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, who charged the members to work diligently to enhance Ghana’s revenue mobilization efforts.
“We must improve revenue mobilization to achieve our medium-term revenue target of 18%-20% tax/GDP ratio and we must meet all indicative targets and structural benchmarks related to revenue under the Fund programme”, he said.
He urged the members to leverage their experience to help reduce waste in the system while enhancing revenue collection.
“Given your extensive backgrounds and professional expertise, I am confident that each Board member will meet the expectations of government, and the general public”, he stressed.
Dr. Adam pledged to support the board members’ efforts through an open-door policy.
“I am available to meet at short notice and also want to see more regular updates on revenue performance to ensure we remain aligned and focused as we advance”
The Finance Minister reminded the 9 member board that; “We must leave the inauguration with a dedicated resolve to change the narrative and eclipse a 20% threshold of revenue to GDP within the shortest possible time”.
Dr. Adam encouraged the board members to remember the country’s obligations under the International Monetary Fund-supported Post-COVID Programme for Economic Growth. He also charged the nine-member board to immediately address fundamental human resource issues, particularly promotions, capacity development, and sub-optimal physical working conditions.
Background
The Board of the GRA is being reconstituted after the former Board Chairman, Dr. Tony Oteng-Gyasi, resigned from his position, leading to the dissolution of the entire board. In response, President Akufo-Addo appointed Ms. Julie Essiam as the new Commissioner-General of the GRA, succeeding Rev. Dr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah.
Dr. Oteng-Gyasi became the Board Chair of the GRA in August 2021, taking over from Professor Stephen Adei.
Members of the dissolved board included Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah, Adelaide Ahwireng, Prof. Peter Ohene Kyei, Kwabena Boateng, Dela Obeng-Sakyi, Maxwell Opoku-Afari, and Nana Ama Dokua Asiamah-Adjei.
Dr. Rashid Tanko, Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the opposition NDC has called for the dismissal of the team responsible for generating and publishing infographics of data in the ongoing limited voter registration exercise.
This comes after the Electoral Commission (EC) announced a change in the team.
According to the Commission, this change aims to prevent the dissemination of erroneous figures.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Deputy Commissioner in Charge of Operations, Mr. Samuel Tettey, stated that rigorous mechanisms have been implemented to avoid future errors.
“The Commission apologises for the error,” he added.
However, Dr. Rashid Tanko expressed dissatisfaction with the assurances provided by the Commission. He argued that individuals found complicit should be dismissed rather than reassigned.
“It is not enough for us. Heads should roll at the Electoral Commission. Changing the team is not enough. It is not the answer. What is the quality assurance going on at the Electoral Commission that led them to churn out those fake figures?
“The one who presided over all that should step aside. That is what a serious country should be built on, not just asking that people should be changed. What is the meaning of that?”
Meanwhile, the EC reports that the Volta region has recorded the highest number of challenged cases, while the Ashanti region leads in overall registered voters.
The Minister for Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Abetifi Constituency, Bryan Acheampong, who is the owner of Rock City Hotels Limited, has refuted allegations made by North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, suggesting wrongdoing in Rock City’s proposal to purchase 60% of shares in SSNIT’s four hotels.
Speaking on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show on Tuesday, May 21, the Abetifi MP expressed his disappointment in his colleague’s stance, which is that Ghanaians are being short-changed in the transaction.
Mr Ablakwa hinted at sending a new petition to the Speaker of Parliament, as he believes the MP violated sections of the Constitution by failing to seek the Speaker’s permission to engage in a profit-making venture.
But according to Mr Acheampong, he does not receive salary or benefits from the company he owns as a non-Executive Director.
“There is a big difference between Bryan Acheampong and Rock City Hotel. Rock City has its own boss, management who make decisions on the day-to-day running of the company. I own the company, proudly.
“I am a non-Executive Director of Rock City. But if you are registering at Registrar General, they don’t give you this qualification. You just have to bring two Directors and so definitely I am one of the directors but in terms of the functions, I am not a part of it.
“I don’t take any salary or emoluments. I don’t participate in anything. I am the vision-bearer. I don’t receive any salary or benefits, they pay SSNIT of close to about 500 staff, you can check if I am one of them,” he said.
He cautioned the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, against defaming his company.
“You are just adding things together and trying to destroy me and trying to destroy Rock City. It is most unfair, it is ‘un-Ghanaian’ and you should stop it,” he told Mr Ablakwa who was also on the Super Morning Show.
This development follows days after the NDC MP petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to halt the sale of four hotels to RockCity, of which Mr. Acheampong is one of the two directors.
Mr. Ablakwa, in his petition, alleged that intercepted documents indicate that negotiations to sell 60% of the shares of the six SSNIT hotels to the minister’s RockCity Hotel Limited “are far advanced.”
He is seeking an investigation into various allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.
The hotels under scrutiny in the petition include Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and the Trust Lodge Hotel.
Mr. Bryan Acheampong has dismissed all the claims made by his colleague. He explained that he is separate from Rock City as a corporate entity and that as a non-executive director of the hotel, he does not need to seek a certificate of clearance from the Speaker, as he has always been in business before becoming a public official.
“If you have issues with a corporate entity, ask questions. I will never stop you and nobody will stop you from asking questions but in the tangent that you [Okudzeto Ablakwa] are going, it has nothing to do with that.
“I am a politician and I can be okay with it… but note that you are not speaking the truth and CHRAJ will confirm all this to you,” he told the outspoken MP.
Mr. Ablakwa is confident that he will be vindicated and the matters will be fairly settled after the investigations by CHRAJ.
He also mentioned that his suspicion is further strengthened by the fact that Rock City Hotels purchased 25% of SSNIT shares in the Regency Hotel in Kumasi in 2022 at a lower amount.
However, Mr. Bryan Acheampong disagreed with this claim, insisting that Rock City got the shares for a good value that benefited his business and the state.
“Rock City tells me and SSNIT has also confirmed that they had several negotiation meetings. One of the minutes is what Mr. Okudzeto has. In the final negotiations that they reached an agreement, the agreement is what Rock City fulfilled and for an asset that for 30 years has not returned one cedi to SSNIT pensioners, it is of value to SSNIT that they check out of that transaction,” he explained.
"I don't receive any salary or benefits [from Rock City Hotel], they pay SSNIT of close to about 500 staff, you can check if I am one of them"
The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced a change in the team responsible for generating and publishing infographics of data in the ongoing limited voter registration exercise.
According to the Commission, this change aims to prevent the dissemination of erroneous figures.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Deputy Commissioner in Charge of Operations, Mr. Samuel Tettey, stated that rigorous mechanisms have been implemented to avoid future errors.
“The Commission apologises for the error,” he added.
However, Dr. Rashid Tanko, Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the opposition NDC, expressed dissatisfaction with the assurances provided by the Commission.
He argued that individuals found complicit should be dismissed rather than reassigned.
“It is not enough for us. Heads should roll at the Electoral Commission. Changing the team is not enough. It is not the answer. What is the quality assurance going on at the Electoral Commission that led them to churn out those fake figures?
“The one who presided over all that should step aside. That is what a serious country should be built on, not just asking that people should be changed. What is the meaning of that?”
Meanwhile, the EC reports that the Volta region has recorded the highest number of challenged cases, while the Ashanti region leads in overall registered voters.
The accusations were leveled by a group named Election Watch Ghana, alleging that the EC was covertly registering voters with stolen BVR kits.
Samuel Tetteh, the Deputy Commissioner in charge of Operations at the EC, addressed these claims during a press conference in Accra on Tuesday.
He vehemently denied the allegations and urged the public to disregard them.
“The attention of the commission has been drawn to a press conference organised by a group called Election Watch Ghana during which one Mark Ewusi alleged that the EC was using stolen BVR kits to register people secretly. The commission urges the public to ignore these baseless and unfounded allegations as they are without merit,” he stated.
Mr. Tetteh clarified that the commission had reported five missing laptops, which are components of the BVR kits, to the security agencies, not the entire kits.
He suggested that referring to the missing laptops as BVR kits was a deliberate attempt to mislead the public.
“…The commission has never reported that BVR kits have been stolen. The Commission reported to the security agencies that five laptops were missing. The commission informed all stakeholders about the missing laptops.
“Describing the missing laptops as BVRs is a deliberate attempt by certain groups to deceive the public in order to sustain their unfounded allegations…the five missing laptops on their own cannot be used to register voters,” he stated.
The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued a weather advisory indicating that a rainstorm observed over southern Togo is expected to drift westward and affect areas in southern Ghana.
The storm, which is currently moderate to heavy, is forecasted to impact the southeast of Ghana in the morning and move towards the southwest later in the day.
Additionally, another rainstorm over Burkina Faso is expected to bring cloudiness over parts of the upper west region of Ghana, with varying intensities of rain.
Areas likely to be affected by these weather conditions include Aflao, Keta, Anloga, Ho, Akatsi, Somanya, Tema, Accra, Koforidua, and Begoro.
The GMet advises residents in these areas to take precautionary measures to ensure their safety during the expected rainstorms.
In September last year, Lawyer Martin Kpebu announced his intention to sue President Akufo-Addo for alleged corruption once he leaves office in 2024, asserting that presidential immunity does not protect a former President from corruption charges.
In an interview on TV3/3FM’s “The Keypoints” on Saturday, September 16, Mr Kpebu expressed concerns about the delay in the removal of the former Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection and Dome-Kwabenya Member of Parliament (MP) Sarah Adwoa Safo.
He suggested that this delay indicated potential corruption within the government.
“The immunity is for the things that he has done and not for acts like corruption,” Kpebu explained, highlighting his determination to hold President Akufo-Addo accountable for any alleged corrupt practices.
However, Richard Ahiagbah, the Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), criticized Kpebu’s persistent criticism of the president, describing it as “unexemplary.”
Lawyer Martin Kpebu has Promised to File a Petition for the Prosecution of the President @NAkufoAddo after the expiration of his term of Office pic.twitter.com/lzprPpP0dx
COPEC contends that failure by the relevant authorities to resolve the drivers’ issues will result in dire consequences.
Members of the Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union declared an indefinite sit-down strike on Tuesday, May 21, demanding improved conditions of service.
Commenting on the strike, the Executive Secretary of COPEC, Duncan Amoah, stated that if the strike lasts for 72 hours, petroleum consumers may soon have to queue at fuel pumps for the product.
“The oil marketing companies cannot get you the products without those tanker drivers and what that adds to the woes of the Ghanaian is that if that strike is not called off within the next 48 to 72 hours, we may soon have to queue to get fuel because the supply at the various fuel stations is likely to run out.”
Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has announced his intention to file a motion for an inquiry into the recruitment practices of the security services since 2017 when Parliament resumes from recess.
Dr. Forson emphasized that the integrity of Ghana’s security services and the public’s trust in these institutions depend on a collective commitment to transparency and justice.
In a post on X on Tuesday, May 21, he affirmed that the NDC MPs are dedicated to ensuring fairness and transparency for the Ghanaian people.
“Mr. Minister, I can assure you that we will bring a motion to Parliament to demand an enquiry into the recruitment into security services since 2017.”
“The integrity of our security services and the trust of the Ghanaian people in our institutions depend on our collective commitment to transparency and justice.”
Additionally, Dr. Forson has denied allegations that members of his caucus submitted names for recruitment into various security agencies.
He dismissed the claims made by Interior Minister Henry Quartey as baseless and deceitful, arguing that they are an attempt to counter his own revelations about the government’s clandestine and illegal recruitment into the security services ahead of the December elections.
According to Dr. Forson, the Ayawaso Central MP is attempting to divert attention from the substantive issues at hand.
“I find the recent statements by the Interior Minister, Henry Quartey, both alarming and baseless. His insinuation that members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have participated in improper recruitment practices without providing any evidence is a clear attempt to divert attention from the substantive issues at hand.”
“I challenge the Interior Minister to name the individuals he claims were brought forward by NDC MPs for recruitment. Let us move away from rhetoric and towards accountability. If the Minister cannot provide these names, then his statements must be seen for what they are: an attempt to distract from the substantive concerns we have raised.”
I find the recent statements by the Interior Minister, Henry Quartey, both alarming and baseless. His insinuation that members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have participated in improper recruitment practices without providing any evidence is a clear attempt to divert…
— Cassiel Ato Forson(PhD) (@Cassielforson) May 21, 2024
North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has accused Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong of violating the constitution and abusing his power as a state official.
Mr Ablakwa argues that state officials should not be permitted to purchase any state assets.
This accusation follows the revelation that Acheampong’s business, Rock City Hotel, is in the process of acquiring a 60% stake in four hotels owned by SSNIT.
According to Mr Ablakwa, this constitutes unethical conduct and breaches Articles 78(3) and 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution, which are designed to prevent MPs and Ministers from abusing their office, taking advantage of their position, and using their influence for private gain to avoid conflicts of interest.
Speaking on PM Express on JoyNews, Mr Ablakwa noted that while the Agriculture Minister claims he is not involved in the day-to-day management of Rock City Hotel, he remains the sole beneficiary owner of the company and its profits.
“You (Bryan Acheampong) are sitting in the Cabinet privy to insider information. Nobody can convince me that SNIT, taking such a major decision, would not go to Cabinet for approval.
“There will be discussions at Cabinet. You have your colleague ministers and government appointees on the SSNIT board. Look, it’s untidy. This is a conflict of interest. This doesn’t happen anywhere else,” Mr Ablakwa said.
Mr. Ablakwa also pointed out that Rock City Hotel is focused solely on pursuing profits, having opted out of acquiring stakes in two underperforming hotels while maintaining interest in the profitable ones.
“It is a conflict of interest. It is an abuse of power, unethical and reprehensible and I have always maintained this. Remember 16 years ago, I took Jake Obetsebi Lamptey to court when I discovered he was in the process of purchasing his official bungalow, my position has not changed.”
“No Minister of State or state official The attempt to say that he is not involved in day-to-day management, the issue is about the profits, the proceeds, it is not going to do to workers of Ghana or MPs, he is the sole beneficiary owner.”
Last week, North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa lodged a formal petition with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate allegations surrounding the sale of six hotels to Rock City Hotel, owned by Bryan Acheampong.
The hotels under scrutiny in the petition include Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and Trust Lodge Hotel.
Ablakwa’s petition to CHRAJ seeks an investigation into various allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.
The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has denied any foul play in its decision to sell a 60% stake in its hotels to Rock City Hotel. SSNIT insisted that the process of selecting a buyer was transparent and strictly adhered to the Public Procurement Act, and that Rock City Hotel submitted the best and strongest technical and financial proposal among the bids received, meeting the criteria set out in the Request for Proposals (RFP).
In a statement issued on Sunday, May 19, SSNIT assured the public that it will cooperate fully with CHRAJ throughout the investigation process.
On Tuesday, Bryan Acheampong responded to the allegations, stating that the claims made by Ablakwa suggesting any wrongdoing in Rock City’s proposal to purchase 60% of shares in SSNIT’s four hotels are false and baseless.
Speaking on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show, the Abetifi MP expressed his disappointment in the stance taken by his colleague.
“You are just adding things together and trying to destroy me and trying to destroy Rock City. It is most unfair, it is ‘un-Ghanaian’ and you should stop it,” he told Mr Ablakwa who was also on the Super Morning Show.
But, Mr Ablakwa is not relenting. He told Evens Mensah that he will make a petition to the Speaker of Parliament to address the issue.
“I have obtained the full list of 47 ministers and MPs diligently and I know for a fact that indeed, Bryan Acheampong confirmed this morning that he has not complied with the provisions of the Constitution. So I certainly will bring this to the attention of the Speaker as soon as the house resumes.”
Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has denied claims that members of his caucus submitted names for recruitment into various security agencies.
Dr. Forson refuted the allegations made by Interior Minister Henry Quartey, describing them as baseless and deceitful.
He asserted that the minister’s claims are an attempt to counter his own revelations about the government’s clandestine and illegal recruitment into the security services ahead of the December elections.
According to Dr. Forson, the Ayawaso Central MP is trying to divert attention from the substantive issues at hand.
He has therefore challenged his parliamentary colleague to name the NDC MPs who allegedly submitted names for recruitment, as well as the names of those individuals.
“I find the recent statements by the Interior Minister, Henry Quartey, both alarming and baseless. His insinuation that members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have participated in improper recruitment practices without providing any evidence is a clear attempt to divert attention from the substantive issues at hand.”
I find the recent statements by the Interior Minister, Henry Quartey, both alarming and baseless. His insinuation that members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have participated in improper recruitment practices without providing any evidence is a clear attempt to divert…
— Cassiel Ato Forson(PhD) (@Cassielforson) May 21, 2024
I challenge the Interior Minister to name the individuals he claims were brought forward by NDC MPs for recruitment. Let us move away from rhetoric and towards accountability. If the Minister cannot provide these names, then his statements must be seen for what they are: an attempt to distract from the substantive concerns we have raised,” he stated.
During a news conference on Monday, May 20, Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson alleged that all NPP parliamentary candidates have been allocated 30 slots each to select NPP loyalists and supporters for positions within the security services, including the police and army.
Dr. Forson urged President Akufo-Addo and the government to halt what he described as undemocratic behavior. He emphasized the need for transparency and fairness in the recruitment processes within the security sector.
In response to these allegations, Mr. Quartey addressed the matter during an interview, dismissing the Minority’s claims as baseless and regrettable.
“It is rather unfortunate that MPs and of course a leader, Minority Leader and a former deputy minister of Interior could actually spew this falsehood into the public. MPs currently are about 137…it cannot be possible, it is not and it cannot be possible. I am rather disappointed in this approach…Yes, we are recruiting but it is not a secret recruitment. We haven’t even started. The agencies are going to send the eligibility criteria. I am sure by this week they will do that.”
“What we are saying rather is that look in the last couple of years people have gone to buy forms. And for some reasons, they could not gain admission into the security and intelligence agencies. So we thought it wise that we don’t have to advertise anymore for people to continuously pay monies because you have a certain number of people that per the clearance you have to recruit.”
“But I want to say on authority and I want to say again on authority that giving 30 slots to MPs is false. It is not true. It has never happened before and I am surprised that they want to go on this tangent,” he stated.
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 Tuesday, May 21, 2024, one US dollar was selling for GH¢15.20 at Forex Bureaus.
The Executive Secretary of COPEC, Duncan Amoah, stated that oil marketing companies are struggling due to exchange rate volatilities.
Mr. Amoah revealed that although some oil marketing companies are exploring innovative ways to minimize the impact of the cedi’s depreciation on their operations, the instability is making it difficult to plan.
“Once you have a currency that you can’t predict its performance in the next two to three months, then you are forcing the importers to determine what values to set their pricing”, he said.
He argued that business owners will always react to market expectations and make their forecasts based on the performance of the currency.
“If the importer is done selling his fuel, he has to pay the suppliers. He needs more cedi than he did when he was setting the price. A certain overrun may have occurred”, he said.
Mr. Amoah stated that importers are burdened with higher costs because they now need more cedis to purchase the same amount of dollars initially used to import the product.
“So clearly, something must be done and government has a duty to ensure stability of the cedi”, he said.
He further indicated that the performance of the cedi and the international market prices of various finished petroleum products have been major factors in determining fuel prices at the pumps.
However, most oil marketing companies decided to leave the prices unchanged since last Thursday due to the cedi’s depreciation.
Another major player in the industry, Allied Oil, informed Joy Business that while they will also review their prices upwards, they intend to keep them below the 14 cedi mark.
Special Aide to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer for the 2024 elections, Joyce Bawa Mogtari, has commended the former president for his swift handling of corruption during his administration.
Joyce Bawa Mogtari stated that John Mahama was significantly ahead in the fight against corruption, given the country’s efforts in this area.
In an interview with JoyNews on Tuesday, May 21, she noted that despite the criticisms directed at Mr. Mahama, anti-corruption advocates have widely praised the transparency with which he addressed corruption issues during his tenure.
“I have not doubted him – I remember in some cases where the Attorney General was asked to report on a matter to generate a report, Mr Mahama handled corruption very swiftly.
“He allowed himself to be investigated by CHRAJ at the time and we were all witnesses to this matter. Did you ever recall Mr Mahama tried to hide any report that came from the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice, no,” Mrs Mogtari said.
She contrasted this with the current administration, arguing that despite the Akufo-Addo-led government passing the Right to Information Act and the Special Prosecutor’s Act as part of its anti-corruption measures, there have been persistent concerns about corruption.
The Special Aide to Mr. Mahama asserted that the current government has frustrated the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, who is now facing impeachment proceedings based on a petition from his predecessor.
“Mr Mahama has indicated that his administration was not perfect and also admitted that the criticisms that were directed at his administration were unfair,” she added.
According to the station’s management, the reporter was violently attacked on Thursday, May 16, 2024, while attempting to video record an altercation between some NPP supporters and a police officer.
During the process of capturing this incident, the reporter was brutally set upon by four individuals suspected to be NPP supporters.
In a statement signed by the Northern Regional Chairman of the GJA, Yakubu Abdul-Majeed, dated Monday, May 20, the association called on all leaders, particularly politicians, to join the GJA in unreservedly condemning attacks on journalists.
It further called on the police to take urgent action on the matter. “The GJA hereby urges the Northern Regional Police Command to employ all legitimate means at their disposal to apprehend the culprits behind this assault on our colleague and ensure they face the full consequences of the law.”
The association has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding journalists in the region and enabling them to discharge their duties without fear or intimidation.
The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has opened an office in Techiman, the capital of the Bono East Region, to ensure high-quality service delivery and protect the interests of stakeholders.
This new office, the first to be established by the Commission following the creation of the six new regions, has been operational since March 1, 2024. It becomes the eleventh regional office as part of the Commission’s efforts to decentralize its operations.
Since its opening, the office has engaged in several activities, including complaint management, public education, and outreach to raise awareness and increase visibility. Activities have included street walks, leaflet distribution, education sessions for associations and groups, and mass media campaigns.
The office has received a total of 112 complaints, ranging from overbilling, delayed service connections, power outages, water flow issues, colored water, rotten poles, faulty meters, illegal connections, and non-payment of bills against providers in the region. Out of these, 103 complaints have been satisfactorily resolved, with nine pending.
Through the efforts of the office, an amount of GHC2,710.00 has been paid as an adjustment in favor of two customers. Additionally, the office is facilitating the recovery of a substantial GHC2,954,040.00 owed to the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) Techiman Area Office by some customers in the region.
During his two-day working visit to the region, the Director of Regional Operations and Consumer Services (ROCS) of the PURC, Alhaji Jabaru Abukari, emphasized the importance of bringing utility regulation closer to consumers to ensure high-quality service delivery.
The Director held meetings with utility service providers, including NEDCo and Ghana Water Limited (GWL), to officially inform them about the new office and seek their cooperation in serving the people of Bono East Region.
Speaking on Techiman-based Bonokyempem Radio, he called on the public to maintain a harmonious working relationship with the Regional Office and urged them to seek clarifications on utility issues. He encouraged consumers to report any difficulties and challenges they face in obtaining safe, adequate, reliable, reasonable, and non-discriminatory utility services to the regulator.
The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) was established in October 1997 under the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission Act, 1997 (Act 538) as a multi-sector regulator for electricity and water utility services. The Commission was part of Ghana’s utility sector reform process and, by virtue of the Energy Commission Act, 1997 (Act 541), also regulates the transportation of natural gas services. PURC operates as an independent body, not subject to control by any authority in performing its functions.
Ashanti Port Services Limited (APSL), a private consortium previously involved in the construction of the Boankra Inland Port Project, has initiated legal action against the Ministry of Transport for terminating their contract.
The consortium is seeking US$3,683,720,785 in damages, which they claim represents the projected profit margin over the project’s 27-year operating period.
APSL asserts that the Ghana Shippers Authority, acting through the Ministry of Transport, terminated the contract despite the consortium’s efforts to fulfill their obligations under the Build, Operate, and Transfer agreement.
APSL alleges that the termination was unlawful and resulted from various interferences and breaches by the Ministry.
The CEO of the consortium, David Affum, is seeking a declaration that the termination was unlawful, an interim injunction to halt any work at the project site, general damages for breach of contract, and reimbursement of expenses incurred.
Additionally, APSL is requesting a refund of funds paid by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Association for shares in APSL and the projected income for the operating period of the project.
APSL is hopeful for a favorable ruling from the Court of Arbitration, which would include the restoration of the contract in their favor and an award of legal fees.
The Ghana Police Service has filed an injunction at an Accra High Court to prevent the #DumsorMustStop demonstration from taking place.
The organizers, led by Ghanaian actress, Yvonne Nelson, scheduled the protest for Saturday, May 25, 2024.
During a meeting held at the Regional Police Headquarters on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, discussions between the Accra Regional Police Command and the organisers centered around the notification of the public protest and its potential impact on public order and safety.
The Police Command expressed concerns regarding the proposed venue, Revolution Square, due to its proximity to the Jubilee House, the seat of government, which is designated as a security zone.
Recognizing potential risks to public defense, order, and safety, the Command recommended relocating the protest to Independence Square.
Additionally, they highlighted concerns about the proposed timing for the conclusion of the protest, set for midnight.
They cautioned that this timing could compromise security measures, escalate tensions, and potentially lead to violence.
Failure to reach a common ground, the police service, in a fresh motion filed on May 20, is requesting the court to order the organizers to halt the event entirely.
The case has been scheduled for a hearing on May 24, 2024.
The 2023 Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC) Annual Report has revealed the total proceeds from the Jubilee Oil Holdings Limited (JOHL) liftings received in 2023, amounting to US$70,456,718.93, were not paid into the Petroleum Holding Fund (PHF) for the second consecutive year.
This brings the cumulative proceeds of unpaid revenue into the PHF by JOHL to US$343,108,927.88 as of the end of 2023.
PIAC maintained its position that proceeds from liftings of JOHL and other subsidiaries of GNPC constitute petroleum revenues within the meaning of Section 6(e) of the Petroleum Revenue Management Act, 2011 (Act 815) and Section 2 of the Petroleum Revenue Management (Amendment), 2015 (Act 893) and therefore must be paid into the Petroleum Holding Fund.
The report further indicated that crude oil production in Ghana has declined for the fourth consecutive year in 2023.
The report revealed that crude oil production dropped from a high of 71.44 million barrels in 2019 to 48.25 million barrels in 2023, representing an annual average decline of 9.2 percent.
Of the 48 million barrels, 63% came from the Jubilee Fields, 23% from SGN and 14% from TEN.
“For the year 2023, a total of 48,247,036.61 barrels (bbls) was produced from the three producing fields; Jubilee – 30,444,217 bbls (63%); TEN – 6,716,278 bbls (14%) and SGN 11,086,541.61 bbls (23%).”
For raw gas, a total of 255,171.97 MMSCF was produced in 2023 from the SGN Field (127,203.02 MMSCF, 50%), Jubilee (77,900.05 MMSCF, 30%) and TEN Fields (50,068.90 MMSCF, 20%). The average achieved price by the Ghana Group for all three (3) producing fields during the period under review was US$78.067/bbl.
PIAC expressed concern over the decline and urged that the government and the relevant regulatory bodies take the appropriate steps to reverse the production decline in existing fields and ensure investments in unexploited fields.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has assured that the Wa-Kumasi highway will see significant improvements before the December 2024 general election.
He mentioned that he has been in discussions with the Minister of Roads and Highways to enhance the road by tarring and asphalting it.
“Before the end of this year, fingers crossed, the Sunyani (Kumasi) all the way to Wa, the road, we are going to see some major improvement in this major road. … and I want to see a dramatic improvement. Not only just coal tar, I want to see asphalt all the way,” Dr Bawumia stated.
The Vice President made this promise in Wa during a meeting with the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs as part of his campaign tour of the region.
This commitment came in response to a request from Naa Dikomwine Domalae, the President of the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs and the Paramount Chief of the Daffiama Traditional Area, who urged Dr. Bawumia to consider rehabilitating the Wa-Bamboi-Kumasi highway, currently in a deplorable state.
Naa Domalae highlighted that rehabilitating this road would greatly facilitate the movement of people and goods, thereby boosting commerce in the region.
Emphasizing his determination to see the project completed, Vice President Bawumia assured the esteemed chiefs and queen mothers that the road would be constructed before, not after, the 2024 general election.
“I do not want to say, vote for me and I will make it happen. I want it to be done so that you will see that it is done before we even get to the election. So, we are going to do it,” the NPP flagbearer stressed.
Additionally, the Chief appealed to Dr. Bawumia to expedite the construction of other critical roads in the region, such as the Sabuli-Hain-Tumu and Kajekperi-Tumu roads. The Vice President assured that these requests would be considered.
He also highlighted the importance of the Tumu-Chuchulga road as another critical stretch that required immediate attention.
“So, there are quite a few roads, even though we have done some roads, there are some critical roads that we need to get done in the region,” Dr Bawumia indicated.
During a visit to the Upper West Region, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia highlighted the achievements of the current NPP-led government, citing the completion of 531 projects in the region. He expressed his commitment to further developing the region if elected President in the upcoming December 7, 2024, general elections. One of his proposed interventions includes the development of the Kambaa Irrigation project in the Nandom Municipality.
Dr. Bawumia appealed to the Chiefs for their support and prayers in his quest to implement his development agenda for the region. Paramount Chief Naa Alhaji Seidu Tungbani Salimbile II urged both Dr. Bawumia and former President John Mahama to refrain from engaging in politics of insults and instead focus on issues-based campaigns to maintain peace and unity in the country.
In a meeting with the Christian clergy, Dan Botwe, Senior Campaign Aide to Dr. Bawumia, emphasized the need for the clergy’s guidance to help the electorate make an informed choice in the upcoming election. He stated that Dr. Bawumia had committed himself to being an instrument for the transformation and development of the country and should be supported as the best option to lead Ghana.
Apostle George Apasera, General Overseer of the Christ Frontiers Mission in Wa, appealed to Dr. Bawumia to separate the National Cathedral project from politics and allow the Christian community to lead its construction, as it would benefit both them and the country.
During his tour, Dr. Bawumia also interacted with traders at the Wa central market and engaged with the youth in Wa.
Richard Jakpa, the businessman and third accused in the trial involving former Deputy Minister of Finance Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson over the purchase of ambulances, asserted that the deal was approved by then Minister for Health, Sherry Ayitey, of beloved memory
Mr. Jakpa stated that Minister Ayitey approved the deal in a letter dated July 19, 2013, which has been tendered in evidence and marked as Exhibit 14.
In his witness statement, Mr. Jakpa disclosed that his company, Jakpa Business Limited, was copied on the letter because it served as Big Sea’s agent at the time.
He emphasized that the minister’s approval was a crucial part of the process, highlighting the legitimacy of the transaction.
“By a letter dated 19th July 2013, Big Sea wrote to the then Minister for Health who at the time was the Honourable Sherry Ayitey [May Her Soul Rest In Peace] and notified the government that the first twenty [20] ambulances were ready for shipment. Because JBL was Big Sea’s agent, JBL was copied in this letter.”
“Big Sea, therefore, requested that as provided for by the contract, the government visit Dubai to inspect the ambulances before shipment. This letter as already stated was tendered in evidence and marked exhibit 14,” an excerpt of his witness statement said.
He also testified that the letters of credit in question bore the seal of then Finance Minister Seth Terkper.
Mr. Jakpa emphasized that without the minister’s authentication seal, the letters of credit would have been ineffective.
He further explained that this authentication seal was crucial and that its presence legitimized the letters of credit. Jakpa noted that the Bank of Ghana only opened the letters of credit after receiving authorization from the then Deputy Controller and Accountant General.
Mr. Jakpa highlighted the procedural importance of the authentication seal, asserting that it was an essential step in the process. He reiterated that this seal validated the letters of credit and ensured their effectiveness.
“It is after the documents marked as page 2 and 3 of Exhibit AK that the Former Minister for Finance [Hon. Seth Terkper] wrote to Big Sea assuring and informed it that he was in the process of finalising the establishment of the Letter of Credit. Thereafter, the Bank of Ghana [BOG] was requested to open the LC with the authentication seal of the Minister for Finance.”
“This is confirmed by exhibit A. Later the Deputy Controller and Accountant’s General finally authorised the BOG to establish the LC by exhibit B,” he added.
“Oh Mr X is dead. Oh, we saw him yesterday. Oh, he called me this morning.
What killed him suddenly? They say his death is attributable to a spiritual cause. African electronics. Oh, who killed him?” Most often when a loved one dies a sudden death in a Ghanaian community, we hear the above expressions that demonstrate shock and attribution of the cause of the death to a spiritual mischief.
Consequently, someone in the family or community is directly accused of having killed the deceased spiritually. Medically, some sudden deaths are caused by undiagnosed disease conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and embolism, which are one of the silent killer conditions that send people into their early graves.
The impetus of this article is to add to public education regarding DVT and embolism and the need for people to do regular health screenings or medical check-ups even when they feel healthy.
Deep vein thrombosis and embolism
DVT or thrombosis occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins or blood vessels in the body, usually in the legs. An embolism occurs when a thrombus (clot, fat, air bubble or other feature) travels through blood vessels, with a risk of lodging elsewhere. If an embolus becomes stuck and severely blocks the flow of blood, it is called an embolism.
As such, both DVT and embolism can block blood flow and increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke and sudden death. Consequently, DVT is known as a “silent killer”. According to clinicians, it is the single largest cause of mortality in hospitals in patients admitted with another diagnosis; and it is the greatest cause of maternal mortality in pregnancy.
“Silent killer” refers to the fact that the affected person does not feel any pain or discomfort and there may be minimal to no swelling. A clot in the leg or pelvis often occurs after an abdominal, pelvic or orthopaedic operation, trauma or stroke.
For emphasis, the clot can break off and pass through the heart to block the flow of blood to the lungs- pulmonary embolism (PE), resulting in shortness of breath, and/or chest pain with breathing.
Pulmonary embolism can cause sudden death if the clot is large enough. This is one of the reasons why you can see someone healthy in the morning then you hear of his or her sudden demise later in the same day.
As such, it is not every sudden death that might be attributable to a spiritual cause. Any blockage in a vein or artery can cause life-threatening complications and sudden death.
A clot or thrombus can form because the blood is more prone to clotting or because the patient is sedentary or on bed rest. Also, those with cancer or long trips are vulnerable.
What Causes DVT?
DVT occurs for a variety of reasons. Some people inherit a tendency to clot, referred to as thrombophilia. Several other factors can lead to blood clots in the legs (DVT). For example, cancer, obesity, pregnancy, prolonged travels, sedentary lifestyle (lack of exercise) and trauma to the leg, among others.
Susceptibility
People who have recently had a surgical operation have a higher risk of developing blood clots in the legs, especially if it was an orthopaedic operation, such as a back, knee, or hip procedure.
Abdominal and pelvic procedures also raise the risk of blood clots, as well as people who have experienced physical trauma, especially to the legs. Those who have recently taken a long trip are also at an elevated risk for DVT. Long trips with little movement, especially with constricting garments or dehydration, increase the risk of developing clots.
Symptoms
A blood clot in the legs may be completely asymptomatic or “silent” within the affected vein, with no symptoms and minimal signs. Sometimes, there are visible signs or feelings in the leg, including Sudden or unexpected leg swelling, Pain, aching, fullness or pressure in the leg, Warmth or coolness in the lower leg and Skin discolouration of the lower leg. Prevention
DVT prevention involves early mobilisation after an operation, pneumatic compression of the legs during and after the operation, and the use of anticoagulants, especially in those with a previous history of clots or a family history of clots, and in patients with cancer.
Compression stockings, hydration, and frequent movement or flexing of the foot can help when on long trips. This is especially important in overweight or obese people and pregnant women, due to their elevated risk for clots.
Advisedly, therefore, DVT risk can be reduced by: Maintaining a healthy body weight, staying active and exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, knowing your potential risk factors and discussing them with your healthcare provider and avoiding dehydration with long-distance travel.
Treatment
Clots in the deep veins require medical therapy. Doctors may prescribe an anticoagulant or “blood thinner” for the patient. The affected person must try to stay active, wear compression stockings, and elevate the legs when sitting.
Conclusion
Blood clots formed in arteries and deep veins of the legs are called venous clots. This is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Venous clots often break off and travel through the blood to another area of the body, often the lungs.
Apart from blood clot embolus, there are other emboli made up of fat, amniotic fluid and air bubbles. DVT is the most common cause of a pulmonary embolism (PE) and it is mostly asymptomatic. A PE damages the lungs and other organs, leading to sudden death, which most Ghanaians attribute to a spiritual cause.
The writers are a Hospital Administrator and Assistant Registrar, UHAS-Ho, respectively. Emails: afetikorto@yahoo.com and ragbefu@uhas.edu.gh
A businessman and the third accused in the trial involving former Deputy Minister of Finance Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson over the acquisition of ambulances that allegedly caused financial loss to the state, Richard Jakpa, has testified that the letters of credit in question bore the seal of former Finance Minister Seth Terkper.
Mr. Jakpa told the court that without the Minister’s authentication seal, the letters of credit would have been ineffective. He further explained that this seal was crucial for legitimizing the letters of credit.
Mr. Jakpa noted that the Bank of Ghana only opened the letters of credit after receiving authorization from the then Deputy Controller and Accountant General.
During his testimony, Mr. Jakpa highlighted the procedural importance of the authentication seal, asserting that it was an essential step in the process. He reiterated that this seal validated the letters of credit and ensured their effectiveness.
Mr. Jakpa’s statements aimed to clarify the chain of authorization and the role of the Finance Minister’s seal in the issuance and opening of the letters of credit by the Bank of Ghana.
“It is after the documents marked as page 2 and 3 of Exhibit AK that the Former Minister for Finance [ Hon. Seth Terkper] wrote to Big Sea assuring and informed it that he was in the process of finalizing the establishment of the Letter of Credit. Thereafter, the Bank of Ghana [BOG] was requested to open the LC with the authentication seal of the Minister for Finance.”
“This is confirmed by exhibit A. Later the Deputy Controller and Accountant’s General finally authorised the BOG to establish the LC by exhibit B,” an excerpt of his witness statement said.
The businessman also asserted that none of the accused individuals were responsible for causing financial loss to the state. He explained that the state had accepted the possession of the ambulances without any intention of terminating the contract.
Furthermore, Mr. Jakpa noted that the government had fulfilled its commitment by making the necessary payment for the ambulances. He emphasized that all required accessories were delivered in accordance with the contract specifications.
He refuted any allegations of deliberate or malicious intent to cause financial loss to the state by the accused persons.
“It is clear from the particulars of the offence charged against me that the government has itself admitted that the ambulances were supplied to Ghana. The point here I make is that since it is admitted that the ambulances were indeed supplied to the government of Ghana, it cannot be honestly said that the government sustained financial loss when government: has accepted or taken possession of the ambulances and not indicated no intention whatsoever of terminating the contract.”
“The government actually committed itself to performing the contract by paying for the ambulances as confirmed in the negotiated addendum to the contract,” his statement added.
The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a strong warning to the National Identification Authority (NIA) regarding the registration of illegal voters in Pusiga during the ongoing limited voter registration exercise.
The party asserts that such actions are against the country’s best interests and has promised to vehemently oppose any such attempts.
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the NDC’s Director of Elections and IT, expressed these concerns in a Facebook post on Tuesday, May 21.
He questioned the timing and location of the NIA’s current registration activities, particularly targeting border areas during the limited voter registration period.
In his post, Dr. Boamah challenged the rationale behind the NIA’s decision to register individuals at the borders concurrently with the voter registration exercise. He suggested that this move could be politically motivated and aimed at unfairly influencing the voter rolls.
“Stop this National Identification Authority’s last-minute manoeuvre to aid illegal voter registration in Pusiga. The National Identification Authority (NIA), headed by Bawumia’s bosom friend Ken Attafuah, has strangely chosen this voter registration period to embark on a special pilot program to issue Ghanacards to ‘Ghanaians living along the borders of Ghana and Burkina Faso in Pusiga’.”
The former Communications Minister called on the NIA to uphold fairness and impartiality in its operations as a state agency.
He emphasized that the NIA should not show favoritism toward any political party, ensuring that its activities do not compromise the integrity of the voter registration process.
Thousands of natives of the Akyem Abuakwa State, along with friends and well-wishers of the Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, are expected to visit the Akyem Abuakwa traditional area from May 2024 to December 2024.
This period marks the celebration of the Okyenhene’s 25th anniversary of his accession to the Ofori Panin Stool.
The Okyenhene’s silver jubilee celebration is themed “25 Years of Sustainable Leadership and Service to Humanity.”
At a press launch of the 25th-anniversary celebration in Kyebi, Okyeman Twafohene Okatakyie Boakye Danquah praised Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin as a paragon of innovative traditional leadership with few rivals. He highlighted the Okyenhene’s achievements, including a successful advocacy for increased funding and the rekindling of parental interest and involvement in their children’s education.
Under Osagyefo’s leadership, ten basic schools, christened the Amoatia Ofori Panin Model Schools, have been established in ten locations within Okyeman to complement the government’s efforts in the education sector. The University College of Agriculture, Environment, and Science (UCAES) at Bonsu, established by Osagyefo, is also growing into a first-class destination for agriculture and ecological studies despite earlier challenges.
The Okyenhene has initiated numerous conversations and projects addressing climate change and global warming. He is a world-acclaimed conservationist.
To mark the 25th anniversary, the planning committee has outlined several events, including an initiative to plant 1 million trees as part of the Green Ghana Project on Monday, June 3, 2024. There will be five durbars in all the five divisions in Okyeman: Adonten – Kukurantumi, Benkum – Begoro, Nifa – Asiakwa, Oseawuo – Wenkyi, and Gyase – Kwaben, culminating in the grand durbar at Kyebi on Saturday, July 20, 2024.
Other events include the 25th Anniversary Football Gala, Asona Reunion, Okyeman Congress and Awards Night, Okyeman Fun and Food Fair at the Kyebi Community Center, a Golf Tournament, a non-denominational birthday thanksgiving service, a mega musical concert in Kyebi in December 2024, and a children’s party.
The Member of Parliament for North Tongu has stated that his petition to probe the sale of Social Security and National Insurance Trust’s (SSNIT) 60% stake in hotels to Abetifi MP, Bryan Acheampong, is not motivated by personal vendetta.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized that the interest of the nation and its citizens is the supreme reason for his actions.
“It is not about Bryan Acheampong as a person. We are colleagues in parliament, worked on committees together, and went to PRESEC we are all Ɔdadeɛ so it is nothing personal but the principles,” he said.
During an appearance on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem on Tuesday, he clarified that the petition has nothing to do with the Minister for Food and Agriculture personally but rather concerns the entire decision, which he considers to be wrong.
“I don’t mind if it was going to an NDC person, whoever or even someone from North Tongu; I don’t care. I am questioning the rationale and policy decision. How is that in national interest?
“These hotels are doing well; Labadi beach pays dividends; strategic fixed assets which appreciates every year. You will weep for Ghana when you hear what they want to do at Elmina. Why are you diversifying yourself of 60% from these profitable hotels. All I am saying is that the decision is not strategic and not in the national interest,” he explained.
Mr. Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate and halt the sale of the hotels to Mr. Acheampong. The hotels in question include Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, and Ridge Royal Hotel.
His petition calls for an investigation into various allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, and cronyism.
Additionally, Mr. Ablakwa stated his intention to bring the issue to the attention of the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, citing violations of the constitution by his colleague MP.
The Minister for Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Abetifi Constituency, Bryan Acheampong, has cautioned the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, against defaming his company.
Mr. Acheampong, who is also the owner of Rock City Hotels Limited, refuted allegations made by Mr. Ablakwa suggesting wrongdoing in Rock City’s proposal to purchase 60% of shares in SSNIT’s four hotels, calling these claims false and baseless.
Speaking on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show, the Abetifi MP expressed his disappointment in his colleague’s stance.
“You are just adding things together and trying to destroy me and trying to destroy Rock City. It is most unfair, it is ‘un-Ghanaian’ and you should stop it,” he told Mr Ablakwa who was also on the Super Morning Show.
This development follows days after the NDC MP petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to halt the sale of four hotels to RockCity, of which Mr. Acheampong is one of the two directors.
Mr. Ablakwa, in his petition, alleged that intercepted documents indicate that negotiations to sell 60% of the shares of the six SSNIT hotels to the minister’s RockCity Hotel Limited “are far advanced.”
He is seeking an investigation into various allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.
The hotels under scrutiny in the petition include Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and the Trust Lodge Hotel.
Speaking on the Joy SMS on Tuesday, May 21, Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that Ghanaians are being short-changed in the transaction.
He hinted at sending a new petition to the Speaker of Parliament, as he believes the MP violated sections of the Constitution by failing to seek the Speaker’s permission to engage in a profit-making venture.
However, Mr. Bryan Acheampong has dismissed all the claims made by his colleague.
He explained that he is separate from Rock City as a corporate entity and that as a non-executive director of the hotel, he does not need to seek a certificate of clearance from the Speaker, as he has always been in business before becoming a public official.
“If you have issues with a corporate entity, ask questions. I will never stop you and nobody will stop you from asking questions but in the tangent that you [Okudzeto Ablakwa] are going, it has nothing to do with that.
“I am a politician and I can be okay with it… but note that you are not speaking the truth and CHRAJ will confirm all this to you,” he told the outspoken MP.
Mr. Ablakwa is confident that he will be vindicated and the matters will be fairly settled after the investigations by CHRAJ.
He also mentioned that his suspicion is further strengthened by the fact that Rock City Hotels purchased 25% of SSNIT shares in the Regency Hotel in Kumasi in 2022 at a lower amount.
However, Mr. Bryan Acheampong disagreed with this claim, insisting that Rock City got the shares for a good value that benefited his business and the state.
“Rock City tells me and SSNIT has also confirmed that they had several negotiation meetings. One of the minutes is what Mr. Okudzeto has. In the final negotiations that they reached an agreement, the agreement is what Rock City fulfilled and for an asset that for 30 years has not returned one cedi to SSNIT pensioners, it is of value to SSNIT that they check out of that transaction,” he explained.
Despite joining in the last lap of his administration, President Akufo-Addo has expressed confidence in his newly sworn in ministers’ ability to make a remarkable impact on the government’s achievements.
On Monday, May 20, President Akufo-Addo swore in 24 ministers and deputy ministers, urging them to make significant contributions as his administration enters its final seven months.
During a brief ceremony at the Jubilee House on Monday evening, he congratulated them on their appointments.
President Akufo-Addo emphasized the importance of upholding the interests of the Ghanaian people and dedicating themselves to their duties.
“You have joined the government with only seven months to go, but I am confident that there is enough time for you to make a difference and significant contribution.
“Indeed, anyone who has something to do can make a point within a short period and I am sure with your various competences, experiences, and talents, make this distinctly possible.“
Akufo-Addo swears into office new ministers and deputies
The appointees, whose portfolios were approved by Parliament last Friday, took the oaths of allegiance, office, and secrecy administered by the President.
President Akufo-Addo charged them to uphold the principles of these oaths in carrying out their duties.
“Your appointment has come at a critical moment in the history of our country and your success in this endeavour would be a consequence of your respect to the oaths you have solemnly sworn to uphold the interest of the republic, defend its constitution and promote the interest of the citizenry.”
The President reminded them of the solemn commitment that the governing New Patriotic Party had made to serve the Ghanaian people with honesty and competence.
He emphasized the importance of integrity in their work and urged them to remain above reproach in their public dealings.
“In these remaining months, I urge you to work tirelessly for the realization of my mandate, which is to help ensure that every citizen has access to opportunities for growth and prosperity… the quality of your integrity which would permeate your work in these last few months is extremely important.”
President Akufo-Addo urged them to work tirelessly to fulfill the mandate of providing access to quality life for citizens. He emphasized the need to focus on carrying out the mandate of their offices to improve the country’s fortunes.
The President expressed gratitude to members of Parliament, particularly the majority caucus, for approving the ministers. However, he expressed regret over the minority’s decision to walk out of the approval process.
“It was a pity that at the last moment, the minority, which participated in all the prior processes, found it necessary to walk out of parliament and the formal approval stage.
“We thank God that the walk out was not fatal to the vote of approval. We learn every time more and more about the vagaries of Parliamentary life,” he said.
The appointees comprised eight ministers, 14 deputy ministers, and two regional ministers.
The ministers included Mrs. Abena Osei-Asare, Minister of State for the Ministry of Finance; Mr. Andrew Kofi Egyapa Mercer, Minister for Tourism, Art and Culture; Madam Lydia Seyram Alhassan, Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources; and Mr. Martin Kwaku Adjei-Mensah Korsah, Minister for Local Government, Rural Development, and Decentralisation.
Others were Madam Ophelia Mensah Hayford, Minister for Environmental, Science, Technology, and Innovation; Madam Darkoa Newman, Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection; Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, Minister for Health; and Madam Fatimatu Abubakar, Minister for Information.
The Regional Ministers were Mr. Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus Glover, Greater Accra Regional Minister; and Mr. Daniel Machator, Minister for Oti Region.
Among the Deputy Ministers were Dr. Benjamin Sekyere Yeboah, Deputy Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection; Mr. Sylvester Tetteh, Deputy Minister for Information; Mr. Charles Acheampong, Deputy Minister for Communications and Digitisation; and Madam Adelaide Ntim, Deputy Minister for Health.
Others included Mr. Alexander Akwasi Acquah, Deputy Minister for Health; Mr. Vincent Ekow Assafuah, Deputy Minister for Local Government, Rural Development, and Decentralisation; Mr. John Kobina Abbam Aboah Sanie, Deputy Minister for Energy; Mr. Collins Adomako Mensah, Deputy Minister for Energy; Dr. Prince Hamidu Armah, Deputy Minister for Works and Housing; Professor Kingsley Nyarko, Deputy Minister for Education; and Dr. Festus Awuah Kwofie, Deputy Minister for Employment, Labour Relations, and Pensions.
The remaining appointees were Mr. Akwasi Konadu, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources; Mr. Musah Abdul Aziz Ayaba, Deputy Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development; and Dr. Alexander Ampaabeng, Deputy Minister for Finance.
Speaking on behalf of the ministers, Mr. Glover expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in them and pledged that they would discharge their responsibilities to the best of their abilities.
On Monday, May 20, President Akufo-Addo swore in 24 ministers and deputy ministers, urging them to make significant contributions as his administration enters its final seven months.
During a brief ceremony at the Jubilee House on Monday evening, he congratulated them on their appointments.
Despite joining in the last lap of his administration, he expressed confidence in their ability to make a remarkable impact on the government’s achievements.
President Akufo-Addo emphasized the importance of upholding the interests of the Ghanaian people and dedicating themselves to their duties.
“You have joined the government with only seven months to go, but I am confident that there is enough time for you to make a difference and significant contribution.
“Indeed, anyone who has something to do can make a point within a short period and I am sure with your various competences, experiences, and talents, make this distinctly possible.“
The appointees, whose portfolios were approved by Parliament last Friday, took the oaths of allegiance, office, and secrecy administered by the President.
President Akufo-Addo charged them to uphold the principles of these oaths in carrying out their duties.
“Your appointment has come at a critical moment in the history of our country and your success in this endeavour would be a consequence of your respect to the oaths you have solemnly sworn to uphold the interest of the republic, defend its constitution and promote the interest of the citizenry.”
The President reminded them of the solemn commitment that the governing New Patriotic Party had made to serve the Ghanaian people with honesty and competence.
He emphasized the importance of integrity in their work and urged them to remain above reproach in their public dealings.
“In these remaining months, I urge you to work tirelessly for the realization of my mandate, which is to help ensure that every citizen has access to opportunities for growth and prosperity… the quality of your integrity which would permeate your work in these last few months is extremely important.”
President Akufo-Addo urged them to work tirelessly to fulfill the mandate of providing access to quality life for citizens. He emphasized the need to focus on carrying out the mandate of their offices to improve the country’s fortunes.
The President expressed gratitude to members of Parliament, particularly the majority caucus, for approving the ministers. However, he expressed regret over the minority’s decision to walk out of the approval process.
“It was a pity that at the last moment, the minority, which participated in all the prior processes, found it necessary to walk out of parliament and the formal approval stage.
“We thank God that the walk out was not fatal to the vote of approval. We learn every time more and more about the vagaries of Parliamentary life,” he said.
The appointees comprised eight ministers, 14 deputy ministers, and two regional ministers.
The ministers included Mrs. Abena Osei-Asare, Minister of State for the Ministry of Finance; Mr. Andrew Kofi Egyapa Mercer, Minister for Tourism, Art and Culture; Madam Lydia Seyram Alhassan, Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources; and Mr. Martin Kwaku Adjei-Mensah Korsah, Minister for Local Government, Rural Development, and Decentralisation.
Others were Madam Ophelia Mensah Hayford, Minister for Environmental, Science, Technology, and Innovation; Madam Darkoa Newman, Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection; Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, Minister for Health; and Madam Fatimatu Abubakar, Minister for Information.
The Regional Ministers were Mr. Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus Glover, Greater Accra Regional Minister; and Mr. Daniel Machator, Minister for Oti Region.
Among the Deputy Ministers were Dr. Benjamin Sekyere Yeboah, Deputy Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection; Mr. Sylvester Tetteh, Deputy Minister for Information; Mr. Charles Acheampong, Deputy Minister for Communications and Digitisation; and Madam Adelaide Ntim, Deputy Minister for Health.
Others included Mr. Alexander Akwasi Acquah, Deputy Minister for Health; Mr. Vincent Ekow Assafuah, Deputy Minister for Local Government, Rural Development, and Decentralisation; Mr. John Kobina Abbam Aboah Sanie, Deputy Minister for Energy; Mr. Collins Adomako Mensah, Deputy Minister for Energy; Dr. Prince Hamidu Armah, Deputy Minister for Works and Housing; Professor Kingsley Nyarko, Deputy Minister for Education; and Dr. Festus Awuah Kwofie, Deputy Minister for Employment, Labour Relations, and Pensions.
The remaining appointees were Mr. Akwasi Konadu, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources; Mr. Musah Abdul Aziz Ayaba, Deputy Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development; and Dr. Alexander Ampaabeng, Deputy Minister for Finance.
Speaking on behalf of the ministers, Mr. Glover expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in them and pledged that they would discharge their responsibilities to the best of their abilities.
The drivers are advocating for the implementation of a policy framework aimed at enhancing their salaries and overall working conditions, which has been pending with the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) board since November 2023.
The drivers allege that the NPA board has repeatedly failed to vote on the policy framework, preventing its implementation despite numerous efforts to secure approval.
This persistent inaction has led to growing frustration and the decision to strike.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, May 21, Sunday Alabi, Vice President of the Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union, emphasized that a petition for the policy framework’s approval was sent to the Presidency, but they have yet to receive a response.
“We wrote a petition to the presidency last week to have the framework approved but we have not heard anything yet and that is why we are embarking on the sit-down strike because the living conditions of our drivers is so bad.”
“The petroleum downstream sector does not have legs, it is the tanker drivers that carry it and so we cannot be suffering and the rest will be enjoying, and so for as long as they refuse to approve the framework, we will not resume work.”
Mr. Alabi stressed the drivers’ determination to continue the strike until their demands are met and the policy framework is approved. He underscored the union’s commitment to improving the working conditions of its members through this action.
Deputy Chairperson of the Campaign Team for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Nana Akomea, has criticized the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, over his recent comments on the sale of state-owned Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.
Nana Akomea pointed out that while Mr Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate Bryan Acheampong regarding the transaction, he is making statements as if the minister has already committed a crime.
“Sammy Okudzeto has already pronounced on the matter. He is calling it sleazy and all kinds of accusations, which I don’t think is right.
“You must be careful with these matters. You’re calling people out for what you call engaging in sleazy acts, but you have called for an investigation by CHRAJ,” he chided the MP.
Mr. Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate and halt the minister from acquiring the following hotels: Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and Trust Lodge Hotel.
He argued that the minister’s actions not only constitute an abuse of power but also indicate a lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, graft, and a violation of the Constitution of Ghana.
SSNIT has also clarified that it is selling 60% shares of the six hotels to Bryan Acheampong’s company because they presented the best offer. The shares of the hotels were advertised for all interested parties to bid on.
Nana Akomea also made some startling revelations, which are yet to be confirmed, in reaction to the concerns that have stemmed from the sale of state-owned Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.
The Managing Director of Intercity STC Coaches Limited indicated that some properties of SSNIT have been sold to politicians including leading members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), in the past.
The STC boss, who is a former MP and former Minister of Information, went on to list properties of SSNIT that were sold to leading members of the NDC without mentioning names, which were sent to him by a staff member of SSNIT.
“The minority owner of the SSNIT hotel in Cape Coast is a high-ranking NDC member. When this person bought it, the NDC was in power. The catering rest house in Tamale was also bought by somebody who is a high-ranking NDC member.
“The catering rest house in Sunyani was also bought by a high-ranking NDC member. The catering rest house in Kumasi was also bought by a high-ranking NDC member,” he stated.
Nana Akomea made these remarks during a panel discussion on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana programme on May 17, 2024.
He further mentioned that unlike the NDC bigwigs who purchased SSNIT properties while they were in power, Bryan Acheampong has demonstrated his ability to revitalize hotels that are not profitable.
“Now these people are not even known to be hoteliers, unlike Bryan Acheampong, who has put up what people call the biggest hotel in Africa on his own, and so he is eminently qualified to run hotels that are failing,” he emphasised.
He also suggested that the CHRAJ investigation should be broadened to encompass all SSNIT properties that were sold to politicians, including members of the NDC.
Deputy Chairperson of the Campaign Team of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Nana Akomea, has made some startling revelations, which are yet to be confirmed, in reaction to the concerns that have stemmed from the sale of state-owned Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.
The Managing Director of Intercity STC Coaches Limited has indicated that some properties of SSNIT have been sold to politicians including leading members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), in the past.
The STC boss, who is a former MP and former Minister of Information, went on to list properties of SSNIT that were sold to leading members of the NDC without mentioning names, which were sent to him by a staff member of SSNIT.
“The minority owner of the SSNIT hotel in Cape Coast is a high-ranking NDC member. When this person bought it, the NDC was in power. The catering rest house in Tamale was also bought by somebody who is a high-ranking NDC member.
“The catering rest house in Sunyani was also bought by a high-ranking NDC member. The catering rest house in Kumasi was also bought by a high-ranking NDC member,” he stated.
Nana Akomea made these remarks during a panel discussion on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana programme on May 17, 2024.
He made this known when he criticized the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, over his recent exposé on the sale of state-owned Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.
Nana Akomea pointed out that while Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate Bryan Acheampong regarding the transaction, he is making statements as if the minister has already committed a crime.
“Sammy Okudzeto has already pronounced on the matter. He is calling it sleazy and all kinds of accusations, which I don’t think is right.
“You must be careful with these matters. You’re calling people out for what you call engaging in sleazy acts, but you have called for an investigation by CHRAJ,” he chided the MP.
He further mentioned that unlike the NDC bigwigs who purchased SSNIT properties while they were in power, Bryan Acheampong has demonstrated his ability to revitalize hotels that are not profitable.
“Now these people are not even known to be hoteliers, unlike Bryan Acheampong, who has put up what people call the biggest hotel in Africa on his own, and so he is eminently qualified to run hotels that are failing,” he emphasised.
He also suggested that the CHRAJ investigation should be broadened to encompass all SSNIT properties that were sold to politicians, including members of the NDC.
Mr. Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate and halt the minister from acquiring the following hotels: Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and Trust Lodge Hotel.
He argued that the minister’s actions not only constitute an abuse of power but also indicate a lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, graft, and a violation of the Constitution of Ghana.
SSNIT has also clarified that it is selling 60% shares of the six hotels to Bryan Acheampong’s company because they presented the best offer. The shares of the hotels were advertised for all interested parties to bid on.
Techiman residents took justice into their own hands after catching a thief who had stolen a bicycle.
As a unique form of punishment, they tied a long rope around his waist and assigned him the task of cleaning the town’s choked drains.
During his new duty, the thief, while still cleaning, was interviewed by a local TV station.
He admitted to stealing the bicycle and took the opportunity to advise other thieves to abandon their criminal ways.
“Those stealing, please stop and find some work to do,” he pleaded during the interview.
As the interview was ongoing, an unexpected incident occurred. One of the men present, without any apparent reason, slapped the suspect, adding to the thief’s public humiliation.
Other bystanders expressed their disapproval of the unwarranted action displayed.
Techiman residents t!ed a long rope around the waist of a thief who stole a bicycle and gave him tools to clean the entire choked drains in Techiman.
While performing his new duty, he granted an interview with a local TV station and was asked to advise his fellow thieves against… pic.twitter.com/SB8Yj4kL8M
The spokesperson for the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Aremeyaw Shaibu, has called on politicians to refrain from inciting the youth towards violence ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Speaking at a National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) press briefing, which announced the commencement of work for its Inter-Party Dialogue Committees, Sheikh Aremeyaw appealed to the youth to remain vigilant and resist being manipulated by politicians to instigate unrest.
“I speak to the youth of our country. No politician is worth the blood of another. This year, let no blood spill on our land because of politics. Politicians, make sure you avoid preparing the minds of our young people for violence. The recent voter registration gives credence to our fear and anxiety of possible violence in December,” he admonished.
Sheikh Aremeyaw expressed deep concern over the numerous violent incidents recorded during the ongoing limited voter registration exercise, noting that these acts contribute to widespread fear and anxiety regarding the upcoming December elections.
He highlighted that the recent spate of violent incidents in the voter registration process has alarmed stakeholders, raising concerns about the feasibility of conducting peaceful elections.
He urged politicians to stop conditioning the youth for violence and emphasized the need for a non-violent approach to the electoral process.
He stressed the importance of maintaining peace and stability during the electoral period.
President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has commended the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) for its decision to divest its stake in six hotels, calling it a prudent move.
Mr Cudjoe praised SSNIT’s strategy to involve the private sector in co-investing in the hotels, which are currently fully owned by the trust but have been facing operational challenges.
He argued that this approach would lead to a more efficient allocation of resources, benefiting both SSNIT and the broader economy.
According to Mr Cudjoe, divesting from these hotels would not only provide liquidity for SSNIT’s operations but also reduce political interference in the management of these assets.
In a recent Facebook post on Tuesday, May 21, Mr Cudjoe reiterated his support for the initiative, emphasizing that the negotiated sale price for the four hotels is fair and reasonable.
“I think it is sensible for a state behemoth such as SSNIT, eternally abused by past and present politicians, to scale down its real estate business, which has never been profitable.”
“Similarly, SSNIT should seek private sector participation (co-investment) in wholly-owned hotels which are all not runnig efficiently. Not only will that free up some liquidity, but it will also amputate the long arm of the politicians, which tend to reach into the brick and mortar businesses over which SSNIT has control. That said, I will support any competitive divestiture that brings on board more money, technology, skills and preserves Ghanaian management.”
“I think the investment plan proposed and the price agreed for the 4 hotels is fair,” he stated.
Franklin Cudjoe’s comments come in response to a formal petition filed by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), requesting an investigation into the sale of six hotels.
The hotels listed in the petition are Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and the Trust Lodge Hotel.
However, SSNIT clarified that only four hotels, not six, have had successful bids, contrary to the MP’s claims.
Mr Ablakwa’s petition demands an investigation into various allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and corruption.
In his petition, Mr Ablakwa points out what he considers violations of constitutional provisions, specifically Articles 78(3) and 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution, arguing that these actions represent significant breaches of legal and ethical standards.
Additionally, in a Facebook post on Friday, May 17, Mr Ablakwa claimed that Bryan Acheampong’s alleged involvement in the hotel sale without the Speaker of Parliament’s permission constitutes a breach of parliamentary protocol regarding holding offices of profit.
Mr Ablakwa asserts that this is a serious violation that warrants thorough investigation and accountability.
“In my petition, I am inviting CHRAJ to investigate grave matters bordering on conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.”
“I have also drawn attention to blatant violations of Article 78(3) and 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution as diligent checks from Parliament’s Committee on Office of Profit reveal that Hon. Bryan Acheampong has not applied and does not have the permission of the Speaker of Parliament to hold an office of profit,” he said.
However, according to SSNIT, the strategy to partner with an investor to raise capital to invest in their hotels, and also assist in their management, started as far back as 2018 through International Competitive Tendering (ICT) processes as prescribed by the Public Procurement Act.
Energy Strategist Dr. Yusuf Suleiman is urging the government to utilize funds generated from the special petroleum tax to support consumers in the downstream sector as fuel prices rise.
Dr. Suleiman expressed concern that the continuous fuel price hikes would lead to inflation, resulting in higher prices for goods and services.
In an interview with Joy Business, he emphasized the government’s responsibility to shield the public from the adverse impacts of price increases.
“How come government introduced the special petroleum levy when the crude prices was dropping and we are losing on the upstream because government’s budget is being affected. This is the same call we are making that the reverse should happen so that the fund can be used to support the current situation as it is having a significant effect on inflation”, he argued.
Dr. Suleiman addressed attendees at the Second Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) summit and exhibition in Accra.
He emphasized that the government cannot claim ignorance of rising prices on the world market while the country benefits from oil sales, yet appear indifferent to the hardships faced by ordinary people at the pumps.
Dr. Suleiman attributed this situation to the Bank of Ghana’s failure to effectively control inflation, noting that fuel price increases impact all sectors of the economy.
“This is the reason government is unable to tame inflation to a sustainable level because we are not able to get a response on this policy. We must do better and help the public”.
Fuel prices have been steadily rising at the pumps since the start of the year due to the depreciation of the cedi and marginal increases in the global crude price.
This trend has had a notable impact on inflation in recent months, as the government works to stabilize the economy under an International Monetary Fund (IMF) program.
Dr. Suleiman emphasized the need for policymakers to intervene and provide relief to consumers, especially in light of the ongoing increases in petroleum product prices.
“It is about time that we trigger the use of the fund in the reverse because there is no way crude prices will drop anytime soon especially when our local currency is also not stable” he noted.
Despite projections by industry players like the Chamber for Petroleum Consumers Ghana of a price reduction for the second window of May, some Oil Marketing Companies have already begun adjusting prices at the pumps.
Former UFC flyweight Geane Herrera has died at the age of 33.
Herrera began his mixed martial arts (MMA) career in 2011, participating in 13 fights over seven years, including four in the UFC.
The Colombian reportedly died following a motorcycle accident in Tampa, Florida.
Herrera made his UFC debut in 2015 against Ray Borg, losing by unanimous decision. However, he went on to secure a victory against Joby Sanchez in his next fight in the octagon.
“He was a good guy, my prayers are with him and his family during this tough time,” Borg wrote on Instagram.
‘La Pulga’ went on to compete in the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) in 2021, winning his only bout via technical knockout.
Archbishop Nicholas Duncan Williams, the Founder and General Overseer of Action Chapel International (ACI), has called on all stakeholders in Ghana’s electoral process to prioritize peace, especially leading up to the 2024 elections.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace before, during, and after the elections to avoid a situation where Ghanaians might be forced to seek refuge in other countries.
Archbishop Duncan Williams made this appeal during a significant meeting with John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and members of the Christian Ecumenical Council in Accra on Monday, May 20.
Expressing deep concern over the current state of affairs in the country, Archbishop Duncan Williams lamented the exodus of medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, from Ghana due to prevailing challenges.
He issued a heartfelt plea for the effective management of the nation’s affairs, characterized by transparency and fairness, to avert the risk of Ghanaians being displaced from their homeland.
“There is too much pain and suffering in this country. All our doctors and nurses are leaving this country. And we just pray that things will be well handled and managed with transparency and fairness so that we will not end up being refugees in any other country.
“Because without proper fairness, honesty, and transparency, things may fall out of hand. And may I say this, that nobody should think that the Ghanaian is very gentle, I don’t like trouble human being, it is not true,” he stated.
He stressed the critical role of all political and religious leaders in fostering a peaceful electoral environment.
In his address, Duncan Williams underscored that the desire for a peaceful election is a collective responsibility, urging all Ghanaians to contribute to a harmonious and secure electoral process.
Australia striker Sam Kerr has officially been ruled out of the 2024 Paris Olympics as she recovers from an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear. The 30-year-old sustained the injury during a Chelsea training camp in January.
Announcing the squad for Australia’s pre-Olympics friendlies, Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson confirmed that Kerr would not be fit in time for the Games in July.
Kerr, arguably Australia’s biggest sporting idol and the nation’s all-time record goalscorer, is the latest in a long list of high-profile female footballers—including England captain Leah Williamson and Dutch striker Vivianne Miedema—to suffer an ACL injury. It typically takes at least nine months for professional athletes to return to fitness after surgery.
The Matildas have faced a challenging run-up to the Olympics, with several key players sidelined by injury. Midfielder Katrina Gorry has been out after ankle surgery, defender Clare Hunt has battled a foot fracture, and stalwart Aivi Luik has a hamstring injury. Young midfielder Amy Sayer also tore her ACL last month and has been ruled out of the Olympics.
Before the send-off matches against China, Gustavsson said selection for the 18-strong Olympics squad had become a complicated equation, with some hopefuls racing against time to return to the field. Kerr was expected to be an integral part of the Matildas’ medal campaign in Paris, after the team narrowly missed the podium at the previous Olympics in Tokyo and the World Cup in Australia last year.
Since joining Chelsea in 2020, Kerr has won five successive Women’s Super League titles, three Women’s FA Cups, two Women’s League Cups, and the Women’s Community Shield. She has scored 99 goals for the Blues and a further 64 for Australia, and has been nominated for the Ballon d’Or Feminin—the top prize in women’s football—every year since its inception in 2018.
However, it has been a difficult 12 months for Kerr. She spent much of the home World Cup on the bench with a calf strain, and shortly after her ACL injury, was charged in January with racially aggravated harassment of a London police officer, to which she has pleaded not guilty.
Despite the Minority’s strong opposition, Parliament approved an additional $150 million loan facility from the World Bank for the GARID project on Friday, May 17, 2024.
In an interview with Citi TV on Monday, May 20, Dr. Ato Forson stated that funds earmarked for COVID-19 expenditure were misappropriated. He criticized the Ministry of Works and Housing for failing to provide a detailed account of the expenditure to Parliament.
“Someone somewhere is trying to distort the facts, but there’s the need for us to correct the records and let Ghanaians be aware of what exactly the situation is. So far, they have drawn out almost $180 million out of the $200 million loan. Unfortunately, even though they had drawn out almost $180 million, the amount has been misappropriated or misapplied.
“For example, $65 million of the GARID loan that was supposed to be used for the purposes of killing the floods, was misapplied for the purposes of COVID-19 expenditure.
“Yet, we don’t have the breakdown of the COVID-19 expenditure. We were told that unlike a typical World Bank facility, where a project implementation unit would have been established, and payments made directly to the contractors, in this case, the amount was paid into the Ministry of Works and Housing’s account, and the Ministry has failed to account to Parliament how much money that they have spent from that account,” he said.
Dr. Forson expressed concern over the lack of transparency and called for a thorough investigation into the misappropriation of GARID funds.
He emphasized the need for accountability and urged the government to ensure that public funds are used for their intended purposes, particularly in projects aimed at improving the lives of Ghanaians.
Former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelovo has suggested that the Attorney-General’s Office and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) hesitated to investigate Madam Cecilia Dapaah for money laundering, knowing she could not account for the source of her funds.
He believes EOCO deliberately requested irrelevant documents despite having sufficient evidence to probe potential money laundering activities.
In an interview with JoyNews, Mr. Domelovo emphasized that such hesitation is unjustified, as state agencies are mandated to perform their duties independently and without bias.
“It is very clear to the AG and EOCO the likelihood of the inability of Cecilia Dapaah to explain the source of the money.
“If they commenced money-laundering investigation and she is not able to explain, she will fall foul of section 1 and section 3 of the anti-money laundering law. That is why they are reluctant to even commence any investigation relating to money laundering,” the anti-graft campaigner said.
Former Majority Leader Cletus Avoka also criticized EOCO’s handling of the investigation into the stash of money found in the house of the former Sanitation Minister, describing the state agency’s conduct as a travesty of justice.
The Member of Parliament for Zebilla East emphasized that the former Sanitation Minister must undergo a thorough investigation without any bias or preferential treatment.
“It is corruption for EOCO to say that there was nothing wrong with the incident. I think the government must do more about this incident. Frankly speaking EOCO’s treatment of the Cecilia Dapaah case is a travesty of justice,” he said.
A suspected phone thief in Kumasi-Adum PZ received an unusual punishment after being caught red-handed committing a crime.
Instead of being handed over to the police, the suspect was forced to clear the deep, choked, and stinking drains at Adum using only his hands.
Eyewitnesses noticed the thief’s suspicious behavior and began monitoring him. He was caught in the act with a stolen phone and admitted to the crime.
The stolen phone was recovered, and he was then tasked with desilting the drains until evening.
While some bystanders expressed concern about the health risks associated with the punishment, given the unsanitary conditions of the drains, others viewed it as preferable to mob justice.
A rainstorm in Jachie, Bosomtwi District of the Ashanti Region, has resulted in the death of a 16-year-old girl and injuries to several others.
The storm, which struck on Thursday, May 16, 2024, tore off the roofs of more than 50 houses and other structures, causing power outages in parts of the community.
Charles Osei Tutu, the grieving father, recounted the events that led to the death of his daughter, 16-year-old Abena Ofoda.
“The winds came very strong on Thursday. I was at the workplace but she was with her mother in the kitchen.”
“The roof ripped off and she was frightened by the movement of the roof by the wind. She told her mother she was not too comfortable with the strong winds. The mother took her to my other house nearby. The mother then returned to get some items only she realised my daughter had passed away when she went back to the house,” he said.
Following an assessment by officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), residents of Jachie are awaiting government assistance while working to repair their buildings damaged by the rainstorm.
The storm also caused damage to electricity poles, leading to power outages in some areas.
Residents and businesses are urgently appealing for power to be restored.
The Bosomtwi District Assembly, led by District Chief Executive Joseph Assuming, is taking steps to support the victims. They are collaborating with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to restore power to the affected areas.
According to the IEA, the Cedi has depreciated by 99.99% from 1983 to 2024, placing blame on successive economic managers for their failure to effectively address the Cedi’s challenges.
The IEA criticized policymakers for their reactive approach, waiting until the situation worsens before taking action, and emphasized the need for proactive measures to strengthen the Cedi.
In a press statement dated Monday, May 20, the IEA also raised concerns about Ghana’s reliance on the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and development partners for stabilizing the Cedi, describing this approach as “unsustainable.”
The IEA contends that Ghana’s multiple engagements with the IMF have not resulted in lasting stability for the Cedi.
They caution that the Cedi is confronted with a substantial threat, urging immediate measures to address this risk.
“Since Ghana adopted a flexible exchange rate regime from 1983 when the cedi was pegged to the dollar at a rate of 2.75, the currency has continued on a declining path with only short intermittent periods of stability-to May 16, 2024, when the official rate is quoted as GHS13.77=USD1.00 (or 137,700 old cedis=1 US dollar). On a cumulative basis, the cedi has depreciated by 99.99% from 1983 to 2024. It has to be noted that, mathematically, any quantity that depreciates (or devalues) by 100% falls to zero or virtually vanishes.
“…This tells us that the cedi is under an existential threat and requires urgent actions to rescue it from that threat. Unfortunately, over the years, our economic managers have failed to address the cedi problem head-on. The problem is that our policymakers have consistently failed to take the requisite measures to buttress the cedi. Almost invariably, they wait till the situation begins to get out of control before they adopt firefighting, albeit unsustainable, measures.
“For instance, presently, we seem to be waiting for the IMF’s and other developing partners’ funding before restoring some stability to the cedi. This approach, however, is not sustainable, as history has taught us. We have been to the IMF seventeen times, but that has not brought any lasting stability to the cedi.”
Professor of Finance & Economist at the University of Ghana, Professor Godfred Bokpin, has expressed concerns about the depreciation of the country’s currency.
According to Professor Bokpin, the over-dependence on imports and the lack of local content in the economy have significant repercussions for the exchange rate, impacting both consumers and businesses.
He highlighted that there are currently no sufficient measures in place to address these issues. Prof Bokpin stressed the importance of tackling these challenges to strengthen the economy and shield citizens from their adverse effects.
“In this country, we are okay to do everything wrong and expect the cedi alone to do the right,” he said.
He attributed part of the cedi’s depreciation to the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) programme with Ghana.
He said that under the IMF programme, the Central Bank was barred from intervening in the currency exchange market when the Cedi fell against major trading currencies.
That situation prevented the Bank of Ghana (BoG) from entering the foreign currency market to stabilise the Cedi.
“If it were not for the IMF, the Central Bank would not sit unconcerned in an election year. The Central Bank would want to fight it off and burn it through the reserves. But we have a mandate in the IMF programme to build our reserves,” he said.
Cedi depreciation: In this country, we want to do everything wrong and expect the cedi alone to do the right thing.
Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has alleged that President Akufo-Addo recently requested Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng to resign from his position.
However, Mr Agyebeng refused to comply with the President’s directive. Mr Kpebu noted that former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu’s petition for Agyebeng’s removal provided President Akufo-Addo with an opportunity to dismiss him.
Speaking on the Key Points on TV3 Saturday, May 18, Mr 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 aims to remove Kissi Agyebeng to install a more pliable individual in his place. He accused President Akufo-Addo of orchestrating 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 News Central on TV3 on Friday, May 17.
Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has written to Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, requesting his comments on a petition filed by his predecessor, Martin Amidu, seeking his removal.
The Chief Justice’s letter indicates that Mr. Agyebeng’s comments are needed to determine whether a prima facie case can be established. In the letter dated Thursday, May 16, the Chief Justice specifically asked for his input to assist in making this determination.
“This is to forward to you a copy of the petition dated 30th April 2024 sent to the Office of the President which was forwarded to the Office of the Honourable Lady Chief Justice on 6th May 2024. Kindly provide your comments on the matters raised to enable the Honourable Chief Justice to determine if a prima facie case has been made out.”
Former Attorney-General Martin Amidu has filed a petition against Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, alleging procurement breaches in the purchase of vehicles for the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and abuses involving judges and the administration of justice.
The petition includes further accusations of rights violations through arrests and detentions, breaches of the right to information, and improper personnel appointments within the OSP. Additionally, Amidu claims that Agyebeng violated the right to information by refusing to provide him with appointment letters and salary details of all OSP staff on a pen drive.
The trial of #FixTheCountry convener, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, for treason has once again been postponed.
Scheduled to commence on Monday morning, May 20, 2024, this trial has been delayed for over two years since the charges were filed against him.
Barker-Vormawor was arrested in February 2022 for a social media post that the state deemed treasonous.
On April 29 of this year, Barker-Vormawor’s lawyers filed an application challenging the constitutionality of the offence and requested that the case be referred to the Supreme Court.
During the court session on Monday, the judge was expected to rule on these issues to pave the way for a possible trial. However, it was revealed that the state had only responded to the application by Barker-Vormawor’s lawyers that morning.
In an interview with JoyNews at the courthouse after the adjournment, Barker-Vormawor expressed his frustration.
Mr. Vormawor described the state’s posturing as a “charade” and questioned why it has failed to promptly respond to the application, delaying the long-awaited trial.
“You continue to see the charade and what has happened so far. For them who paraded over 50 armed individuals and snipers, for those who believed that we were a threat to this republic, for so long they have not been able to match those words with the evidence that is required in this trial “Mr Barker-Vormawor fumed.
“If they, in fact, believe that we were intending to overthrow this government then they should show up in court and prove that to the everyday Ghanaian,“ he argued.
He also questioned the type of democracy being practiced in Ghana and challenged the state to present evidence to commence the trial.
The judge is expected to rule on the constitutionality of the offense and the issue of jurisdiction when the court reconvenes on May 27, paving the way for the trial to commence.
