Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • Chelsea taste victory against Newcastle as Mudryk nets late goal

    Chelsea taste victory against Newcastle as Mudryk nets late goal

    Mykhailo Mudryk scored a stunning solo goal as Chelsea kept their slim hopes of qualifying for Europe via the Premier League alive with a 3-2 victory over Newcastle at Stamford Bridge.

    With the score at 2-1 late in the second half, the result was still in the balance. However, a moment of brilliance from substitute Mudryk tilted the game decisively in Chelsea’s favor.

    He intercepted Conor Gallagher’s pass at top speed, dribbled past defender Fabian Schar, rounded the goalkeeper, and calmly finished to secure the win for Chelsea.

    The victory marked a significant step forward for Mauricio Pochettino’s side, who have struggled to close out balanced games in the past.

    Nicolas Jackson opened the scoring for Chelsea with a clever backheeled goal, before Alexander Isak equalized for Newcastle at the end of the first half.

    Cole Palmer restored Chelsea’s lead with a brilliant strike from distance, before Mudryk’s goal looked to have sealed the win. Jacob Murphy’s superb 90th-minute goal made for a nervy ending, but Chelsea held on for a deserved victory.

    Chelsea, currently in 11th place, are still in the running for European qualification through the league. Victory over Newcastle took them to within four points of seventh-place West Ham with a game in hand. However, consistency has been a challenge for Chelsea this season under Pochettino.

  • Athletic Club forward Nico Williams on Tottenham’s radar

    Athletic Club forward Nico Williams on Tottenham’s radar

    Tottenham Hotspur, an English football club, has joined the race to sign Nico Williams, a talented forward of Ghanaian descent from Athletic Club in Spain.

    Williams is a sought-after transfer target for several European clubs ahead of the summer transfer window.

    Chelsea, Liverpool, and Aston Villa from the English Premier League have also shown interest in the attacker, as reported by Footballghana in recent weeks. However, Chelsea seems to have dropped out of the race, with Liverpool now leading in the pursuit of Williams.

    FC Barcelona is another club interested in signing Nico Williams and is expected to make a move for him in the summer. Any club serious about signing Williams will need to meet his €50 million release clause in his contract with Athletic Club.

    Recent reports suggest that Tottenham Hotspur has also expressed interest in Nico Williams. The club is planning to reinforce its squad next summer and sees Williams as a valuable addition.

    Athletic Club can expect several inquiries and offers for their young sensation in the coming months as clubs vie for his signature.

  • NDC to unveil manifesto for 2024 election before mid-year

    NDC to unveil manifesto for 2024 election before mid-year

    Presidential Candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has announced plans to unveil the party’s manifesto for the 2024 general elections before the middle of the year.

    The manifesto launch will showcase key policies, including the establishment of a 24-hour economy, the discontinuation of ex-gratia payments, and the deployment of nurses abroad to address unemployment among healthcare professionals.

    Speaking during his ‘Building Ghana Tour’ in Accra on Monday, March 11, Mr. Mahama expressed confidence in the manifesto’s ability to drive socioeconomic progress. He emphasized the importance of engaging stakeholders in discussions to refine the party’s objectives.

    “Once we have done that fleshing out, and we’ll finish the ‘Building Ghana Tour’, we’re going to put all the points together, and we are hoping that before the middle of the year, we will be able to launch the manifesto and after that, I will launch the campaign officially…and we’re going to go all out.

    “We’re going to go door to door. We are going to go from kitchen to kitchen,” he added.

    Following the manifesto launch, the NDC will formally commence its campaign to garner support for its vision. Mr. Mahama outlined the party’s outreach strategy, highlighting the significance of community engagement in effectively communicating their agenda.

  • Ghana’s economy to worsen due to energy sector debt – Minority

    Ghana’s economy to worsen due to energy sector debt – Minority

    The Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has raised serious concerns about the debt burden affecting Ghana’s energy sector, stating that it poses a significant threat to the country’s economy.

    Dr. Ato Forson warned that if left unaddressed, this debt could potentially lead to a complete collapse of the nation’s economy.

    Speaking after President Akufo-Addo’s 2024 State of the Nation Address on Monday, March 11, the leader of the NDC Caucus in Parliament emphasized the urgent need for action to prevent further deterioration in the situation.

    He expressed concern that the Ghanaian population is already suffering from the current economic crisis and cannot afford additional disruptions in the energy sector.

    “The reality, Mr Speaker, is that this crippling indebtedness and the mess in the power sector, created by the Akufo Addo/Bawumia government, remains the biggest threat to the Ghanaian economy,” he said.

    “This Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP government owes in excess of $1.5 billion to Independent Power Producers (IPPs),” he added.

    Dr. Ato Forson criticized the Akufo-Addo government for its mismanagement of the energy sector since assuming office in 2017.

    He highlighted the upcoming 2024 general elections as an opportunity for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to address these issues and restore stability to the sector.

  • Uganda beats Senegal to book semifinal slot in 2023 African Games

    Uganda beats Senegal to book semifinal slot in 2023 African Games

    In a thrilling Group B clash at the 13th edition of the African Games, Uganda’s men’s U20 football team secured a remarkable 1-0 victory over Senegal.

    The match, held at the Accra Sports Stadium, saw Allan Oyirworth emerge as the hero with a crucial goal just before the hour mark, sealing the fate of the highly fancied Senegal side.

    This victory propelled Uganda to six points after their earlier win against Nigeria, surprising many and sending shockwaves through the tournament.

    Despite Senegal’s formidable reputation, Uganda’s determined performance proved decisive, earning them a spot in the semi-finals and at least second place in the group.

    With this unexpected triumph, Uganda’s young talents have showcased their prowess and established themselves as a formidable force in the competition.

    In another intense match, Nigeria secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Sudan. The deadlock was broken in the 80th minute when Nigeria was awarded a late penalty, expertly converted by Sadiq Isiyaka, securing a crucial win and keeping their semi-final hopes alive.

  • Ramadan: Your commitment to faith, charity, and service inspires us all – NDC to Muslim community

    Ramadan: Your commitment to faith, charity, and service inspires us all – NDC to Muslim community

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has extended warm greetings and sincere blessings to Muslims observing the Ramadan fasting period.

    Recognizing Ramadan as a time for spiritual reflection, fasting, prayer, and unity, the party emphasized the importance of supporting Muslims during this sacred time.

    In a press release issued on Tuesday, March 12, and signed by General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the NDC celebrated Ghana’s cultural and religious diversity.

    The party expressed solidarity with its Muslim brothers and sisters, reaffirming its commitment to advocating for policies that promote equality and inclusivity.

    “As Muslims around the world observe the sacred fast of Ramadan, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) extends warm wishes and heartfelt blessings to our Muslim brothers and sisters in Ghana and beyond. Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, fasting, prayer, and unity embodying values of compassion, empathy, and solidarity.”

    “During this sacred month, we acknowledge and celebrate the rich cultural and religious diversity of our nation. The Muslim community’s steadfast commitment to faith, charity, and service inspires us all to strive for greater harmony and understanding in our society,” an excerpt of the statement said.

  • My husband defecates on himself anytime he ejaculates during sex – Wife cries out

    My husband defecates on himself anytime he ejaculates during sex – Wife cries out

    A woman bravely shared her distressing ordeal of experiencing an unusual occurrence every time she engages in sexual intercourse with her husband.

    Speaking on TV3’s Confession Show, she revealed that whenever her husband ejaculates during intercourse, he also defecates on himself.

    The woman explained that her husband admitted to being unable to control this bodily function when he reaches climax due to overwhelming excitement. Despite her husband’s attempts to use the restroom before intercourse, the problem persists, albeit in smaller amounts.

    Feeling helpless and exhausted by unsuccessful attempts to resolve the issue, the woman admitted to considering leaving her husband. However, her hesitation stems from her commitment to their two children.

  • Ken Agyapong helps attendant serve Bawumia food at Wofa KK’s one-week observance service

    Ken Agyapong helps attendant serve Bawumia food at Wofa KK’s one-week observance service

    During the one-week observance service for the late radio presenter of Oman FM, Kwabena Kwakye, also known as Wofa K.K., Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Ken Agyapong, was seen assisting an attendant in serving food to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    In a light-hearted moment, Ken Agyapong directed the attendant to a large piece of chicken that would complement Dr. Bawumia’s rice dish.

    As the Vice President was being served, the NPP bigwigs were engaged in a conversation and, at a moment, burst into laughter.

    Kwabena Kwakye, a well-known broadcaster at Oman 107.1FM, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, August 14, 2024. He had arrived for work but fell ill, leading to his untimely demise.

    Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia paid tribute to the late Martin Kwabena Kwakye, acknowledging him as a staunch supporter of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and a respected figure in the media industry who served his country diligently.

  • KATH doctors allegedly issued one-week ultimatum to exit bungalows at Danyame

    KATH doctors allegedly issued one-week ultimatum to exit bungalows at Danyame

    Consultants and specialist doctors at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in the Danyame enclave are reportedly facing harassment and threats to vacate their accommodations, which are conveniently located near the hospital, allowing them to respond swiftly to emergencies.

    According to a petition seen on X platform by The Independent Ghana, private developers are leading this effort, claiming ownership of the lands from the Land Commission/Manhyia/Regional Coordinating Council.

    The petition reveals that some consultants, who have resided in these accommodations for over a decade, have been given a one-week ultimatum to relocate or risk being forcefully evicted by thugs.

    “They are incessantly being harassed by phone calls, threats of cutting their electricity and water supply rendering them living in constant fear and panic.

    “The rest of the consultants and Specialist living in this enclave have been instructed to get ready for ejection since the developers are eager to take possession. Some of these consultants have served the hospital for almost 3 decades,” the petition added.

    The affected health professionals are hence appealing to the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association (KADA) and the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) to intervene on their behalf to “bring a lasting solution to this stressful and mentally draining situation.”

    “Especially in the wake of Heal Komfo Anokye we believe that consultants who are vital stakeholders in the improvement of health service delivery in KATH should not be shamefully treated like this,” the petition concluded.

  • GNPC Board increased hotel allowance to $1000, gave Freddie Blay $850 per diem in 2022 – Ablakwa

    GNPC Board increased hotel allowance to $1000, gave Freddie Blay $850 per diem in 2022 – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disclosed documents that highlight an increase in allowance for Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) Board members.

    According to Mr Ablakwa, in 2022, when Ghana’s economic crisis exacerbated, approved new rates as per diem and hotel rates for the Board Chairman, Freddie Blay, the Chief Executive, Board Members and External Committee Board Members

    “When a government asks everyone to take financial haircuts due to the effects of their economic mismanagement, we don’t expect its officials to be approving for themselves fat increments in allowances.

    “Intercepted memos from GNPC reveal that the Freddie Blay-led board and management have increased their allowances by up to 150% despite Ghana’s economic crisis and contrary to government’s assurances to Parliament of a general pay-cut,” he wrote in a post on X platform.

    The daily hotel rate allowance has been raised from $400 to $1000, €400 to €1000, or £400 to £1000, depending on the travel destination.

    Per diem for the Board Chairman has increased from $500 to $850, €500 to €850, or £500 to £850, and from $500 to $700, €500 to €700, or £500 to £700 for the CEO and other board members, also based on the travel location, Mr Ablakwa added.

    Mr Abalkwa expressed deep dismay over the prospect of doubling the CEO’s salary, stating, “It is even more depressing to read other memos requesting that the salary of the CEO is doubled.”

    He highlighted the frustration among insiders, who are reportedly angry over the perceived favoritism towards the CEO, Mr. Opoku Ahweneeh Danquah, who happens to be President Akufo-Addo’s nephew. According to sources, there is a prevailing sentiment that the CEO consistently receives preferential treatment and has his demands met without question.

    “I believe it is time to regulate the incestuous discretion of boards and CEOs of State-Owned Enterprises to determine their own salaries and allowances without parliamentary approval — particularly when most SOEs are being terribly mismanaged and making huge losses. I shall in the coming days be proposing new private member’s legislation to end this detrimental practice,” he added.

  • Our economy has forced BIC to relocate pen production business to Ivory Coast – Ato Forson

    Our economy has forced BIC to relocate pen production business to Ivory Coast – Ato Forson

    Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has disclosed that renowned pen manufacturer BIC has shifted its production operations to Ivory Coast due to Ghana’s prevailing economic challenges.

    Dr. Ato Forson attributed this relocation to Ghana’s ongoing economic downturn, stating that neighboring countries are now reaping the benefits of Ghana’s crisis as companies opt to move their manufacturing operations elsewhere.

    Following President Akufo-Addo’s 2024 State of the Nation address on Monday, March 11, Dr. Ato Forson, who represents Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam, urged the Akufo-Addo administration to swiftly implement measures to address the situation.

    “Mr Speaker, I am sad to point out that the almighty BIC, the pen-producing company, has stopped producing its pens in Ghana. It has relocated its production to Ivory Coast.”

    “By relocating BIC pen’s production to Ivory Coast, we have exported those jobs. This is bad news for Ghanaian employees!”

    “Again, Mr Speaker, Unilever Ghana, which has for a very long time been producing its famous Lipton tea in Ghana, has stopped its tea production here. Unilever has relocated its tea production to Nigeria.”

    He also highlighted the growing discontent among Ghanaian youth with the country’s management, emphasizing that this should be a significant concern for all individuals in positions of authority.

  • Sexy Don Don’s lawyer accuses investigators of ‘hiding’ Ursula Owusu’s involvement in JB’s murder trial

    Sexy Don Don’s lawyer accuses investigators of ‘hiding’ Ursula Owusu’s involvement in JB’s murder trial

    In the ongoing murder trial of Joseph Boakye Danquah-Adu, Defence lawyers cross-examined the investigator regarding the involvement of Madam Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, the Minister for Communications and Digitization.

    Yaw Dankwah, Counsel for Daniel Asiedu, also known as Sexy Don Don, questioned why the Police Investigators had not disclosed the Minister for Communications and Digitization’s involvement.

    Prosecution Witnesses detailed how Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful allegedly drove two of the Prosecution Witnesses, mobile phone repairers from Dansoman, to Kanda and handed them over to the police. The witnesses, identified as PW3 and PW4, are crucial to the case.

    Sexy Don Don has pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder and robbery, while Vincent Bossu, alias Junior Agoogo, has also pleaded not guilty to the charge of conspiracy to rob and is standing trial in lawful custody.

    During further cross-examination on Monday, March 11, Defence Counsel Yaw Dankwah questioned why Madam Ursula Owusu-Ekuful did not provide a statement to the Police. Dankwah asked ASP Augustus Nkrumah if he had come across the name Ursula Owusu during his investigation, to which Nkrumah responded in the negative.

    “Per your investigations did it become very clear that it was Ursula Owusu who poked PW3 (Kenneth Koranchie) & PW4 (Mobile Phone repairer) in her car and she drove all the way from Dansoman to Kanda Highway and handed them over to the police officers,” Lawyer Dankwah enquired.

    He was quick to ask the Investigator whether his investigation revealed that.

    But the Witness in his response said, “that was the briefing we got from the regional CID.”

    Lawyer Dankwah again went on further to put to the Investigator that, it was true that, “you never ever when you took over the investigation with your team invited Ursula Owusu to give a statement.”

    In his response, the Investigator said, “as I have told the Court, it was an investigation team and I don’t take decisions on my own.”

    “It is also true that when you and your team and likewise your bosses whom you take instructions from never disclose the involvement of Ursula Owusu who took your witnesses (PW3 and PW4) to hand them over to a police officer at Kanda Highway,” lawyer Yaw Dankwah put to the Investigator.

    The Investigator in his response said, “that fact had been cleared in this court that during the briefing she was the one that took them to the police (at Kanda) and I have told this Court.”

    The case has been adjourned to March 12, 2024, for further proceedings.

  • We have been running and vomiting after eating Marwako food – Barker-Vormawor

    We have been running and vomiting after eating Marwako food – Barker-Vormawor

    Leader of the #FixTheCountry and #OccupyJulorbiHouse movements, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has accused the Abelemkpe Branch of Marwako Restaurant of selling contaminated food to him over the weekend.

    In a post on X platform on Sunday, March 10, Oliver Barker-Vormawor noted he and his family who took a 1-liter watermelon juice he bought from the restaurant suffered from running stools.

    He noted that the family had been throwing up as well.

    “My household’s vomitting and running this weekend was proudly sponsored by Marwako Abelemkpe Branch. 1 litre Water Melon Juice don do me dirty!” he wrote.

    Other X users who reacted to his post corroborated facing similar symptoms after purchasing food from the eatery.

    “Then Marwako do me dirty too eiiiii. Last week no bi small running and vomitting,” @abbeyemmanuelgh wrote.

    This is not the first time Marwako Restaurant has been accused of food poisoning.

    In May 2022, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) closed down Marwako Restaurant’s East Legon branch, after some customers reported food poisoning.

    Multiple Twitter users, including one Edward Elohim, reported the same symptoms after visiting the eatery. Edward Elohim said that he is one of 70 patients being treated at Nyaho Clinic following a meal at Marwako.

    For this reason, some users expressed shock over the fact that Mr Barker-Vormawor continued to patronise the services of the restaurant.

    “Ah Bossu after we all decided to boycott Marwako you still went ahead to put your family’s health at risk,” @Deborah_Scombel wrote.

  • Meet the 27-year-old Zaila Alhassan breaking the gender bias in welding industry

    Meet the 27-year-old Zaila Alhassan breaking the gender bias in welding industry

    Alhassan Zaila Tiyumba, a 27-year-old entrepreneur, is defying gender norms and breaking barriers in Ghana. Her journey to success is one of resilience and determination.

    Starting with a cosmetics and soap-making business, Zaila sought to expand her skills and opportunities. Despite facing rejection in the northern region due to her gender, she refused to be deterred.

    “The people in the Northern Region didn’t want to accept me because I am a female. They didn’t even test me. They said our work is very hard. We cannot take you, it is not for women,” she shared.

    She made the bold decision to move to the Greater Accra Region, where she found a mentor in Samuel Kwame Lartey, who has been training her in welding for the past six months.

    Samuel recognized Zaila’s potential and determination, stating, “She has gone to school. I can’t sack her. Maybe that is her talent. If I drive her away, it could have a lot of implications for the future. So we have decided to test her to see if she can really do the work.”

    Zaila’s story is not just about learning a new skill; it’s about challenging stereotypes and paving the way for other women in male-dominated fields. “The world is moving forward,” she says, “and I have the idea to make a positive impact. I also like the fact that I will be able to work in a male-dominated field where I can challenge the status quo, breaking barriers for women.”

    Zaila’s story is an inspiration to women everywhere, showing that with determination and perseverance, any obstacle can be overcome.

  • Shama Hospital must be constructed, allocate funds – Minority tells gov’t

    Shama Hospital must be constructed, allocate funds – Minority tells gov’t

    The Minority in Parliament has urged the government to promptly allocate funds for the construction of the hundred-bed Shama Government Hospital.

    The project, funded by a 32 million euro loan facility approved by Parliament in March 2020, has faced delays in funding allocation.

    Despite President Akufo-Addo‘s sod-cutting ceremony for the hospital’s construction on August 19, 2020, progress has been hindered by the lack of funding.

    During a media engagement after visiting the construction site, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Ranking Member of the Health Committee of Parliament, stressed the need to prioritize the health sector.

    He reiterated the Minority’s commitment to advocating for the completion of the hospital project to enhance healthcare delivery in the community.

    Mr Akandoh expressed disappointment that the Minister of Health had not provided updates on the Shama district hospitals in Parliament for the past four years, describing it as disrespectful.

    ,r Akandoh warned the President and Vice President that the Minority would continue to push for the completion and utilization of the Shama district hospital until it becomes operational. He reaffirmed the Minority’s dedication to ensuring that the hospital project comes to fruition and emphasized the government’s responsibility to build hospitals for the community’s benefit.

    “For the past 4 years, the minister of health has not come on the floor of parliament to give us the state of the Shama district hospitals and for me, that is quite disrespectful, and so we are sending a clear signal, a clear warning to the president, the vice president, that not until they commence, complete and put to good use the Shama district hospital, we will be here on several occasions,” he said/

  • Minority set to furnish Parliament private member’s bill for removal of betting tax, E-levy

    Minority set to furnish Parliament private member’s bill for removal of betting tax, E-levy

    The Minority in Parliament has announced its plan to introduce a private member’s bill aimed at repealing the E-levy, emissions tax, and betting tax.

    This decision follows the recent proposal by the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who promised to eliminate these taxes if elected in the 2024 polls.

    The e-levy, emissions tax, and betting tax have been subjects of debate, and the Minority intends to address them through legislative action. The bill aims to compel the government to reconsider these taxes, which are viewed as nuisance taxes.

    Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader, highlighted in his concluding remarks on the State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered by President Akufo-Addo that these taxes impose a heavy burden on businesses in the country.

    He expressed hope that the Majority in the House, which supported Dr. Bawumia’s stance on removing the e-levy, would also support this bill.

    “The unemployment situation in our country is at a crisis point. Mr Speaker the high cost of living has become a nightmare for many people. This has significantly deteriorated during the depreciation of our currency, especially Mr Speaker food inflation.

    “Sadly a recent World Bank report on food security released on the 13th of November 2023 cited Ghana among the top five countries in the world with the highest food inflation. Many families in Ghana today cannot put food on the table,” he stated.

  • Ghana’s economic crisis has forced Unilever Ghana to move tea production to Nigeria – Ato Forson

    Ghana’s economic crisis has forced Unilever Ghana to move tea production to Nigeria – Ato Forson

    The Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has revealed that Unilever Ghana has decided to relocate its tea production operations to Nigeria due to the ongoing economic challenges in Ghana.

    During his response to President Akufo-Addo’s 2024 State of the Nation address, Dr. Ato Forson expressed concern that other companies might also relocate due to the country’s current economic downturn, emphasizing the need for Ghanaians to be worried about this trend.

    “Again, Mr Speaker, Unilever Ghana, which has for a very long time been producing its famous Lipton tea in Ghana, has stopped its tea production here. Unilever has relocated its tea production to Nigeria.”

    “We have lost jobs by exporting the Lipton tea production to Nigeria. This is bad news for Ghanaian employees!.”

    “Again, Mr Speaker, Unilever Ghana has not been able to commence its Pepsodent production in Ghana after President Akufo-Addo commissioned the plant, five years ago. This is as a result of the worsening business environment.”

    As a former Deputy Finance Minister, Dr. Ato Forson’s remarks highlight the growing apprehension about Ghana’s economic stability and its impact on local businesses.

    Dr. Ato Forson expressed disappointment with the government’s performance and predicted that it would be remembered as the least successful in Ghana’s history.

    “Never in the history of Ghana was a government so hyped up, with massive goodwill and huge fiscal space enough to transform our country as this Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government. Yet, this government and the NPP have gone down as the worst-performing government in the history of Ghana!

    “Mr Speaker, I can say without any doubt that President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Bawumia who promised to transform Ghana within 18 months have been a monumental failure. They promised heaven but delivered hell! Mr Speaker, deep down in the hearts of members of the NPP, including my colleagues on the opposite side, they accept that the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government has been an unmitigated disaster!”

    He criticized the government for the chaos it has caused, highlighting that the nation’s economic situation is vastly different from the positive image portrayed by the President during the SONA.

    “Each time President Akufo-Addo gets the opportunity to tell the people of Ghana about how he and his government got us into this mess, he chooses to bury his head in the sand, like the proverbial ostrich. President Akufo-Addo and Alhaji Bawumia pretend not to see the mess that they have created. They still live in a bubble of denial over the true state of Ghana today.

    “Hon. Speaker, Parliament remains a House of record, and the record must reflect nothing but the true state of our nation. Our reality today stands in sharp contrast with the glossy picture the President depicted to the people of Ghana.”

  • We are living in hell although Akufo-Addo promised heaven – Ato Forson

    We are living in hell although Akufo-Addo promised heaven – Ato Forson

    Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, during a parliamentary debate on President Akufo-Addo’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), criticized the administration for not fulfilling its promise to transform Ghana within the first 18 months of assuming office.

    Dr. Ato Forson expressed disappointment with the government’s performance and predicted that it would be remembered as the least successful in Ghana’s history.

    “Never in the history of Ghana was a government so hyped up, with massive goodwill and huge fiscal space enough to transform our country as this Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government. Yet, this government and the NPP have gone down as the worst-performing government in the history of Ghana!

    “Mr Speaker, I can say without any doubt that President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Bawumia who promised to transform Ghana within 18 months have been a monumental failure. They promised heaven but delivered hell! Mr Speaker, deep down in the hearts of members of the NPP, including my colleagues on the opposite side, they accept that the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government has been an unmitigated disaster!”

    He criticized the government for the chaos it has caused, highlighting that the nation’s economic situation is vastly different from the positive image portrayed by the President during the SONA.

    “Each time President Akufo-Addo gets the opportunity to tell the people of Ghana about how he and his government got us into this mess, he chooses to bury his head in the sand, like the proverbial ostrich. President Akufo-Addo and Alhaji Bawumia pretend not to see the mess that they have created. They still live in a bubble of denial over the true state of Ghana today.

    “Hon. Speaker, Parliament remains a House of record, and the record must reflect nothing but the true state of our nation. Our reality today stands in sharp contrast with the glossy picture the President depicted to the people of Ghana.”

  • Cover every single polling station with eagle eyes – Mahama tells NDC electorates

    Cover every single polling station with eagle eyes – Mahama tells NDC electorates

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has emphasized the need for heightened vigilance among party members in the Greater Accra Region ahead of the 2024 general elections.

    During his ‘Building Ghana Tour’ in Accra, Mahama highlighted that the NDC’s loss in the 2020 elections was attributed to various irregularities. He emphasized the importance of addressing these issues to ensure a fair electoral process.

    Following their defeat in the 2020 polls, the NDC pursued legal action at the Supreme Court to address their concerns about electoral irregularities.

    Speaking to NDC executives and key stakeholders, Mahama underscored the significance of strengthening efforts to secure victory in the upcoming 2024 elections.

    Mahama highlighted the critical role of vigilance, stating, “One of the key things in this election is vigilance, we can do all the campaigning we want, but if we are not vigilant on the day, and we don’t cover every single polling station with eagles’ eyes. You can do all the beautiful things you can, razzmatazz and in the end, you don’t achieve the target you want.”

    He urged executives to carefully select capable agents to represent the party during the polls.

    “So Greater Accra Region, we want you to cover all the polling stations with the best party agents. The election directory, you are aware, is conducting some exercises. They’ve been conducting exams for election directors in their constituencies and the regions because we need the best people who understand the electoral system to be able to monitor the elections in the region.

  • Bawumia only resolved Ghana’s economic challenges at lectures – Ato Forson

    Bawumia only resolved Ghana’s economic challenges at lectures – Ato Forson

    The Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has once again faced criticism from the Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, over the ongoing economic challenges in the country.

    Despite Dr. Bawumia’s reputation for economic expertise, Dr. Forson criticized his performance, stating that he has not lived up to expectations since taking office alongside President Akufo-Addo.

    Representing Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam, Dr. Forson described Dr. Bawumia’s tenure as abysmal and called for accountability from Ghanaian voters in the upcoming 2024 elections.

    During his contribution to the 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, March 11, 2024, Dr. Ato Forson accused Dr. Bawumia of mismanaging the fiscal space inherited from the previous John Mahama government.

    Dr. Forson condemned the Akufo-Addo administration’s management of the country, alleging that it has led to significant hardships for the Ghanaian populace.

    “Mr Speaker, those who held various lectures on textbook management of the economy have been in charge of Ghana’s economy for the last seven years.”

    “Despite “resolving” all issues of the economy at those lectures, the reality is that the economy has collapsed on the watch of Dr. Bawumia, the chief lecturer,” he said.

  • We are ever ready for Ejisu by-election – EC

    We are ever ready for Ejisu by-election – EC

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced its readiness to conduct a by-election for the Ejisu Constituency in the Ashanti region following the passing of Member of Parliament, John Kumah.

    Speaking on Morning Starr with Francis Abban, the Director for Electoral Services at the Electoral Commission, Dr. Serebour Quaicoe, stated that the Commission is prepared to organize the by-election as required.

    “Article 112 of the Constitution says that when a vacancy occurs the Clerk of Parliament will inform the Electoral Commission seven days after the incident. When we are informed and it is an ordinary incident the Commission has thirty days but if it is a result of death we have sixty days to conduct a by-election.

    “If the vacancy occurs less than three months to a General Election there will not be an election, so as far as the Commission is concerned and in our budget we always prepare for by-elections. So as and when we are informed officially we will kick start the process and we are ever ready,” Mr. Quaicoe explained. 

    Dr. John Kumah, who had been battling an undisclosed illness and sought treatment in Germany, returned to Ghana to ensure the passage of critical revenue measures in the 2024 budget after the minority threatened rejection.

    His sudden demise has deeply affected Parliament, with Deputy Finance Minister and MP for Atiwa East, Mrs. Abena Osei-Asare, breaking down upon hearing the news.

  • John Kumah used the military to grab lands from Ejisu residents – Computer Man alleges

    John Kumah used the military to grab lands from Ejisu residents – Computer Man alleges

    Prophet Nana Akwesi Amponsah, also known as Computer Man, founder and head pastor of Hope Generation Ministries International, has alleged that the land housing the Disciple of Christ Ministries Worldwide, founded by the late John Kumah’s wife, Apostle Mrs. Lilian Kumah, was acquired illegally.

    According to him, the piece of land was forcefully taken from mechanics for the benefit of the deceased MP’s wife. He claimed that over 40 military officers were brought in, allegedly on the orders of the late John Kumah, to intimidate the workers.

    “Where John Kumah’s wife’s church is located, it used to be a working space for mechanics. We were one day and all of a sudden, these mechanics were running. Some were injured. Some had been beaten. Over 40 soldiers were brought in.”

    “The boys came to inform me so I called John Kumah. But when I called him, he told me he was busy,” he said.

    Computer Man noted that he called President Akufo-Addo to have a word with the deceased MP to restore calm.

    “So I called Peace FM to intervene otherwise things would escalate I also called the president to speak to John Kumah because even if there are issues with land documentation, you cannot use brute force to intimidate,” he said.

    Computer Man known to be a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) also alleged that he fell victim to the actions of John Kumah.

    According to Prophet Nana Akwesi Amponsah, John Kumah reportedly sent some military officers to confiscate his own land.

    “I was heading to Kumasi, I was at Konongo then my security personnel called me. He said some 19 soldiers are on your land. They have placed sand and blocks and are building. I asked why, he said John Kumah and his wife have bought the land. My own land that I have had for close to 20 years. Who doesn’t know it is mine.”

    He recounted, “I called John Kumah and he said it wasn’t him. We are all in the NPP so this can’t happen.. So I asked the security man to go and check it out. He told me John Kumah’s wife was on the land.”

    “I spoke to her and she said okay. I thought that would be it, the following morning, they kept working. I called the Police, Kofi, the president’s nephew and told him he should tell him this is what John Kumah has done to his boy, Kwasi Amponsah.”

    According to him, President Akufo-Addo reached out and sent a team that found out that John Kumah was behind the initiative.

    “The President got in touch with John Kumah and he denied the claims. The president sent some people and they found out that it was John Kumah and he told him that he doesn’t like that.”

    Prior to John Kumah’s death, an elderly woman, believed to be in her late 50s, screaming and labelling the late deputy minister a thief.

    She alleged that John Kumah acquired her land under the pretence of a government project, but instead, he is allegedly using it for his private business.

    The visibly upset woman passionately demanded the return of her land, expressing her outrage and determination to expose the deputy minister’s actions.

    But John Kumah refuted this claim.

    In a statement shared by The Chronicles, he wrote, “I would like to refute these baseless claims and set the record straight, regarding the true events surrounding the acquisition and use of the said land.

    As many of you are aware, during my campaign to become the MP for Ejisu, I made a solemn promise to the people that I would establish an asphaltic plant to address the road deficiencies in the constituency.

    To realize this vision and create job opportunities, the ‘EJISU Club 100’ was established to collaborate with Sogood Engineering and Construction Company to undertake this project, among several others.

    In the pursuit of fulfilling this commitment, I approached my family chief, Nana Kofi Agyei, for a piece of land for the construction of the asphaltic plant.

    Nana Kofi Agyei gifted me the land in the presence of other family members, after the Aseda custom were done.

    The intention behind this gift was never for personal gain, but to help uplift the community and improve the lives of its residents through job creation and enhanced infrastructure.

    The progress of the asphaltic plant construction, which has reached an impressive 90% completion stage, stands as a testament to my unwavering dedication to fulfilling the promises made to my constituents during my campaign.

    Regrettably, it has come to my attention that a few members of the family are expressing discontent over the gift of the land by the family chief.  A land they have no claim to.

    I acknowledge their right to have differing opinion but strongly oppose their unwarranted insults and attacks directed at me and wrongly claiming that I have forcefully taken over their lands.

    In a response to the claims, I have already taken the necessary steps by reporting the matter to the Ejisu Police Service for the arrest of the individuals involved.

    I have also notified the family chief about the very distasteful actions of the individuals involved, for the necessary customary actions to be taken against them.

    As is evident in the video, there are no private houses built on the land but rather heavy duty vehicles and quarters for workers working on the asphaltic plant, as well as equipment for the asphaltic plants among several others.

    It is very disheartening that in my quest to address a major challenge in the constituency, I have rather been attacked and vilified for an act I have not taken.

    I would like to urge the public to disregard the content of the video and I admonish the media against further spreading its defamatory content or face legal action.”

  • Akufo-Addo had to intervene in land dispute between John Kumah and myself – Key NPP member

    Akufo-Addo had to intervene in land dispute between John Kumah and myself – Key NPP member

    Prophet Nana Akwesi Amponsah, also known as Computer Man, who is a staunch member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has recounted the number of times he reached out to President Akufo-Addo to settle a land dispute between himself and the late Ejisu MP, the late John Kumah.

    The founder and head pastor of Hope Generation Ministries International, during an interview on Oman Channel, noted that his land was nearly taken away from him after the late John Kumah and his wife, Lilian Kumah, reportedly sent military officers to cease his land and see to the commencement of construction work.

    “I was heading to Kumasi, I was at Konongo then my security personnel called me. He said some 19 soldiers are on your land. They have placed sand and blocks and are building. I asked why, he said John Kumah and his wife have bought the land. My own land that I have had for close to 20 years. Who doesn’t know it is mine.”

    He recounted, “I called John Kumah and he said it wasn’t him. We are all in the NPP so this can’t happen.. So I asked the security man to go and check it out. He told me John Kumah’s wife was on the land.”

    “I spoke to her and she said okay. I thought that would be it, the following morning, they kept working. I called the Police, Kofi, the president’s nephew and told him he should tell him this is what John Kumah has done to his boy, Kwasi Amponsah.”

    According to Computer Man, he reached out to President Akufo-Addo, who then sent a team that found out that John Kumah was behind the initiative.

    “The President got in touch with John Kumah and he denied the claims. The president sent some people and they found out that it was John Kumah and he told him that he doesn’t like that.”

    He also alleged that the land housing the Disciple of Christ Ministries Worldwide, founded by the late John Kumah’s wife, Apostle Mrs. Lilian Kumah, was acquired illegally.

    According to him, the piece of land was forcefully taken from mechanics for the benefit of the deceased MP’s wife. He claimed that over 40 military officers were brought in, allegedly on the orders of the late John Kumah, to intimidate the workers.

    “Where John Kumah’s wife’s church is located, it used to be a working space for mechanics. We were one day and all of a sudden, these mechanics were running. Some were injured. Some had been beaten. Over 40 soldiers were brought in.”

    “The boys came to inform me so I called John Kumah. But when I called him, he told me he was busy,” he said.

    Computer Man noted that he called President Akufo-Addo to have a word with the deceased MP to restore calm.

    “So I called Peace FM to intervene otherwise things would escalate I also called the president to speak to John Kumah because even if there are issues with land documentation, you cannot use brute force to intimidate,” he said.

    Prior to John Kumah’s death, an elderly woman, believed to be in her late 50s, screaming and labelling the late deputy minister a thief.

    She alleged that John Kumah acquired her land under the pretence of a government project, but instead, he is allegedly using it for his private business.

    The visibly upset woman passionately demanded the return of her land, expressing her outrage and determination to expose the deputy minister’s actions.

    But John Kumah refuted this claim.

  • Majority of Ejisu residents are happy John Kumah is dead – Computer Man

    Majority of Ejisu residents are happy John Kumah is dead – Computer Man

    Not all Ejisu residents are in a state of mourning following the demise of its representative in Parliament and Deputy Finance Minister, Dr John Kumah.

    According to the founder and head pastor of Hope Generation Min. Int., Prophet Nana Akwesi Amponsah also known as Computer Man, some residents are elated that the legislator is no more.

    In an interview on Oman Channel, Computer Man noted that this is due to the many alleged injustices some residents faced under the hands of the late John Kumah.

    “After John Kumah’s death, if you see the messages, they are bad. They say he came to take someone’s lands, God is punishing him. Just a few Ejisu residents are sad about his death. It looks like the majority are jubilating,” he said.

    Dr. Kumah, who also served as the Deputy Finance Minister, tragically passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2024.

    Following this, residents were seen shedding tears, dressed in somber red and black attire as they mourned the loss of their beloved representative.

  • Police arrest 5 for attacking GNFS officers at Racecourse market

    Police arrest 5 for attacking GNFS officers at Racecourse market

    Five individuals have been arrested by police in the Ashanti Region following an alleged assault on fire officers who were responding to a fire outbreak at the Racecourse Market on Monday, March 11, 2024.

    The altercation resulted in one of the fire officers sustaining injuries.

    The suspects reportedly accused the fire service personnel of delayed response, which led them to retaliate by pelting stones.

    The fire, which started around 1 am on Monday, engulfed a section of the Racecourse Market where millers and traders of foodstuffs and ingredients operated.

    Approximately 180 container shops were affected, resulting in significant damage. Many traders were unable to salvage their belongings, and over twenty milling machines were destroyed in the blaze. The affected individuals are now assessing their losses.

    Fire Commander for the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital Fire Station, D.O 3 Simon Ben Boadu, attributed the fire’s rapid spread to the attack on the fire crew.

    “Our preliminary investigations revealed that the fire started from one of the corn mills, and because the shops are close, it spread to other shops, we have counted about 180 shops.

    “Investigations are still ongoing. We are going to pursue this to the latter. Whatever happens to them [arrested suspects] will, be a deterrent to others, that the attack on firemen must stop. The attack was a result they believe that we delayed in getting to the scene, and the spread of the fire was a result of the congested nature of the market.”

  • Lands were ‘stolen’ from mechanics for John Kumah’s wife to set up her church – Computer Man alleges

    Lands were ‘stolen’ from mechanics for John Kumah’s wife to set up her church – Computer Man alleges

    Founder & head pastor of Hope Generation Min. Int., Prophet Nana Akwesi Amponsah, also known as Computer Man, has made a startling revelation following the death of MP for Ejisu and Deputy Finance Minister, Dr John Kumah.

    In an interview on Oman Channel, Computer Man, noted that the land hosting, Disciple of Christ Ministries Worldwide, the church founded by the late John Kumah’s wife, Apostle Mrs. Lilian Kumah, was acquired illegally.

    According to him, the piece of land was forcefully taken away from mechanics for the deceased’s MP wife. He alleged that over 40 military officers were brought in to intimidate the workers.

    “Where John Kumah’s wife’s church is located, it used to be a working space for mechanics. We were one day and all of a sudden, these mechanics were running. Some were injured. Some had been beaten. Over 40 soldiers were brought in.”

    “The boys came to inform me so I called John Kumah. But when I called him, he told me he was busy,” he said.

    Computer Man noted that he called President Akufo-Addo to have a word with the deceased MP to restore calm.

    “So I called Peace FM to intervene otherwise things would escalate I also called the president to speak to John Kumah because even if there are issues with land documentation, you cannot use brute force to intimidate,” he said.

    Prior to John Kumah’s death, an elderly woman, believed to be in her late 50s, screaming and labelling the late deputy minister a thief.

    She alleged that John Kumah acquired her land under the pretence of a government project, but instead, he is allegedly using it for his private business.

    The visibly upset woman passionately demanded the return of her land, expressing her outrage and determination to expose the deputy minister’s actions.

    But John Kumah refuted this claim.

    In a statement shared by The Chronicles, he wrote, “I would like to refute these baseless claims and set the record straight, regarding the true events surrounding the acquisition and use of the said land.

    As many of you are aware, during my campaign to become the MP for Ejisu, I made a solemn promise to the people that I would establish an asphaltic plant to address the road deficiencies in the constituency.

    To realize this vision and create job opportunities, the ‘EJISU Club 100’ was established to collaborate with Sogood Engineering and Construction Company to undertake this project, among several others.

    In the pursuit of fulfilling this commitment, I approached my family chief, Nana Kofi Agyei, for a piece of land for the construction of the asphaltic plant.

    Nana Kofi Agyei gifted me the land in the presence of other family members, after the Aseda custom were done.

    The intention behind this gift was never for personal gain, but to help uplift the community and improve the lives of its residents through job creation and enhanced infrastructure.

    The progress of the asphaltic plant construction, which has reached an impressive 90% completion stage, stands as a testament to my unwavering dedication to fulfilling the promises made to my constituents during my campaign.

    Regrettably, it has come to my attention that a few members of the family are expressing discontent over the gift of the land by the family chief.  A land they have no claim to.

    I acknowledge their right to have differing opinion but strongly oppose their unwarranted insults and attacks directed at me and wrongly claiming that I have forcefully taken over their lands.

    In a response to the claims, I have already taken the necessary steps by reporting the matter to the Ejisu Police Service for the arrest of the individuals involved.

    I have also notified the family chief about the very distasteful actions of the individuals involved, for the necessary customary actions to be taken against them.

    As is evident in the video, there are no private houses built on the land but rather heavy duty vehicles and quarters for workers working on the asphaltic plant, as well as equipment for the asphaltic plants among several others.

    It is very disheartening that in my quest to address a major challenge in the constituency, I have rather been attacked and vilified for an act I have not taken.

    I would like to urge the public to disregard the content of the video and I admonish the media against further spreading its defamatory content or face legal action.”

  • Okyeame Kwame schools Kofi Kinaata on marriage

    Okyeame Kwame schools Kofi Kinaata on marriage

    A video of celebrated Ghanaian musician Kwame Nsiah-Apau known popularly as Okyeame Kwame and Ghanaian musician and rapper Kofi Kinaata discussing marriage has emerged on social media.

    In the video, Kofi Kinaata poses some questions and shares some concerns he has noticed among married couples. Okyeame Kwame shares his views and further provides a piece of advice.

    One of the concerns Kofi Kinaata had to do with wives bringing up issues of the past at odd times. In response, Okyeame did not directly answer but noted that one cannot be selective; be okay with the good but shun the bad.

    He asked Kofi Kinaata if he would be upset if his wife called him in the afternoon to continue a romantic session they had started some time ago. They both burst into laughter.

    Also, doing what works for one’s marriage popped up. On the subject, Okyeame Kwame noted that it is always good for the couple to decide what works for them.

    He even noted that a couple could discuss having another partner outside the marriage. He said once there is agreement, it should not be a deal breaker.

    “You can be candid and say Akua, I have another girl aside from you. But if you marry I will not make it obvious. And if the girl is okay, she will agree,” he said.

  • It is unacceptable to cheat on your partner during marriage – Kofi Kinaata

    It is unacceptable to cheat on your partner during marriage – Kofi Kinaata

    Ghanaian musician and rapper Kofi Kinaata has made known his take on infidelity. For the “Fante” man, it is unacceptable to be unfaithful to your spouse.

    Kofi Kinaata made his stance known during a conversation on marriage with celebrated Ghanaian musician Kwame Nsiah-Apau known popularly as Okyeame Kwame.

    Prior to his view on infidelity, Okyeame Kwame noted that in the olden days, women were taught that it was okay for their husbands to be unfaithful to them and have concubines.

    According to him, this was practiced by the Akans and as such daughters were discouraged from divorcing their unfaithful husbands.

    “Some of the Muslim girls are taught that a Mallam can have two to three women. In the olden days, the Ashantis taught their daughters that you can’t leave your husband because he has cheated on you. If you are an Ashanti lady and you tell your mother that your husband has cheated on you, she will even slap you. He has cheated on you and so what? Did you die?” he said.

    After Okyeame Kwame’s submission, Kofi Kinaata said, “being unfaithful to your spouse is a no-no.”

  • Marriage is more spiritual than physical – Okyeame Kwame tells Kofi Kinaata

    Marriage is more spiritual than physical – Okyeame Kwame tells Kofi Kinaata

    Celebrated Ghanaian musician Kwame Nsiah-Apau known popularly as Okyeame Kwame, has shared his perspective on what marriage actually is.

    In a discussion with popular Ghanaian musician and rapper Kofi Kinaata on romantic relationships, Okyeame Kwame noted that although the physical attractiveness of ones spouse plays a role during the courtship stage of a relationship, it holds less significance during marriage.

    He noted that while partners can withdraw from each other owing to some hurtful words or actions said or done, the couple is still in a union since they are one in spirit.

    “Marriage is not about body. It is a spiritual matter. You can’t abandon the spirit but you can do that to the body. The body can insult you and you’d get pissed at the body and withdraw but for spirit, you can’t,” he told Kofi Kinaata.

    The two holding a discussion comes as no surprise as Kofi Kinaata featured Okyeame Kwame on his latest song ‘Sika’.

    After the release of the song on March 4, 2024, a lot of music fans have not just admired the synergy of the collaboration but have also wondered why the Rap Dacta would team up with the Fante Rap God for such a masterpiece.

    According to Okyeame Kwame, he had always wished to have a song with Kofi Kinaata, because he respects his creativity. Kwame was the only one who had won the Songwriter of the Year at the Ghana Music Awards (GMA) twice until Kofi Kinaata came to change the narrative, by winning it on three occasions.

    “I wanted to know what is in that head, and I called him for us to do a song together, and during the recording sessions, I realised why he is a great writer, ‘the boy get common sense period’. Very intelligent, very smart, he has learnt the trick and the trade,” he said.

    Okyeame Kwame further noted that it is a big opportunity for him to do a song with Kofi Kinaata, especially taking into consideration all his sterling artistic attributes.

  • Marwako Restaurant food poisoning surfaces again as Barker-Vormawor blows alarm

    Marwako Restaurant food poisoning surfaces again as Barker-Vormawor blows alarm

    Leader of the #FixTheCountry and #OccupyJulorbiHouse movements, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has accused the Abelemkpe Branch of Marwako Restaurant of selling contaminated food to him over the weekend.

    In a post on X platform on Sunday, March 10, Oliver Barker-Vormawor noted he and his family who took a 1-liter watermelon juice he bought from the restaurant suffered from running stools.

    He noted that the family had been throwing up as well.

    “My household’s vomitting and running this weekend was proudly sponsored by Marwako Abelemkpe Branch. 1 litre Water Melon Juice don do me dirty!” he wrote.

    Other X users who reacted to his post corroborated facing similar symptoms after purchasing food from the eatery.

    “Then Marwako do me dirty too eiiiii. Last week no bi small running and vomitting,” @abbeyemmanuelgh wrote.

    This is not the first time Marwako Restaurant has been accused of food poisoning.

    In May 2022, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) closed down Marwako Restaurant’s East Legon branch, after some customers reported food poisoning.

    Multiple Twitter users, including one Edward Elohim, reported the same symptoms after visiting the eatery. Edward Elohim said that he is one of 70 patients being treated at Nyaho Clinic following a meal at Marwako.

    For this reason, some users expressed shock over the fact that Mr Barker-Vormawor continued to patronise the services of the restaurant.

    “Ah Bossu after we all decided to boycott Marwako you still went ahead to put your family’s health at risk,” @Deborah_Scombel wrote.

  • Shut up, stay in the room and mourn John Kumah – ASEPA boss tells widow

    Shut up, stay in the room and mourn John Kumah – ASEPA boss tells widow

    Executive Director of the Alliance for Social Equity and Public Accountability (ASEPA), Mensah Thompson, has strongly criticized Apostle Lilian Kumah, the widow of the late Deputy Finance Minister, John Kumah, for her recent statements regarding her husband’s passing.

    In an interview with Asaase Radio, Mrs. Kumah refuted claims suggesting her husband died of food poisoning, stating instead that he had been battling a terminal illness for almost a year, as diagnosed by doctors in Germany.

    On Citi TV’s Breakfast Daily, Mensah Thompson expressed disapproval of Mrs. Kumah’s decision to discuss the details of her husband’s passing. He urged her to refrain from further comments and focus on mourning her husband.

    Mr Thompson emphasized the inappropriateness of Mrs. Kumah’s engagement in discussions about the cause of her husband’s death.

    He advised her to leave the investigation to professionals who would conduct an autopsy, stating that making claims about the cause of death is not within the widow’s purview.

    Lilian Kumah

    “I will plead with the wife to shut up and mourn her husband. And, in fact, as we speak, John Kumah’s wife is on Asaase radio granting an interview claiming that her husband was not poisoned. But is that what your focus should be as a widow?” he quizzed.

    Highlighting cultural norms in Ashanti tradition, Thompson pointed out that widows are expected to observe a period of mourning, refraining from making public statements about the cause of their spouse’s death.

    “In Ashanti culture, you can’t even come out, in our traditional culture, when you lose your husband, you can’t even come out for a certain amount of time.

    “You are supposed to be in the room and mourn. Whatever people are claiming killed or didn’t kill your husband is not up to you. That is why there are professionals who will do an autopsy and that is none of your business. People can claim whatever they want to claim, but focus on mourning your husband,” he said.

  • African Games: We sat in our coach’s pickup truck to Borteyman – Ghanaian badminton player laments

    African Games: We sat in our coach’s pickup truck to Borteyman – Ghanaian badminton player laments

    A member of Ghana’s badminton team, Leslie Addo, has shared the sad circumstances he and his teammates had to endure ahead of the 2023 African Games.

    The team crashed out of Day 3 at the ongoing African Games, with none of the events seeing a Ghanaian progress past the quarterfinals.

    According to Leslie Addo, the team had to be transported to the Borteyman Sports Complex, using their coach’s pickup van.

    Due to the limited space in the car for the players, about eight players had to perch in the bucket of the truck.

    “We had to sit in our coach’s vehicle on our way here and it was a pickup. Most of us had to sit in the bucket – about eight of us.

    “We didn’t get any transport to the venue. We’re the host nation so how could that happen,” he told Joy Sports. 

    Additionally, team members expressed dissatisfaction with the late arrival of their playing equipment. Many of them were unable to test the equipment before the competition, adding to the challenges they faced during the African Games.

  • NPP member slams Roland Walker for ‘attacking’ Bawumia on Mahama’s orders

    NPP member slams Roland Walker for ‘attacking’ Bawumia on Mahama’s orders

    A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Abdul Rauf Ibrahim, has accused broadcast journalist Roland Walker of bias and working to undermine the ruling party’s image.

    In a post on social media platform X, Ibrahim accused Mr Walker of allegedly attacking NPP flagbearer and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    Ibrahim claimed that Walker’s actions were orchestrated by former President John Mahama and NDC Communications Officer Sammy Gyamfi to tarnish Dr. Bawumia‘s image.

    And for undertaking such actions, Ibrahim alleges that Mr Walker has been appointed as the Director of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Social Media Team.

    “Congratulations to Roland Walker of TV3 for his appointment as the Director of the NDC Social Media Team. Man has truly worked hard for this appointment. He was tasked by John Mahama and Sammy Gyamfi to throw his profession to the Dogs and attack Dr. Bawumia and the NPP at any given opportunity for this appointment,” he wrote.

    Mr Walker has not publicly responded to the allegations, and there has been no official confirmation from the NDC regarding his reported appointment.

  • Roland Walker reportedly appointed Director of NDC Social Media Team

    Roland Walker reportedly appointed Director of NDC Social Media Team

    Broadcast journalist with Media General, Roland Walker, has reportedly been appointed as the Director of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Social Media Team ahead of the country’s upcoming elections.

    This information was disclosed by a communicator and social media activist for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Abdul Rauf Ibrahim.

    In what appeared to be a congratulatory message on the X platform, Abdul Rauf Ibrahim, alleged that Mr Walker managed to secure the role by deliberately making the ruling party unpopular and attacking NPP flagbearer, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia during his line of work.

    According to Abdul Rauf Ibrahim, the journalist was allegedly tasked by the NDC flagbearer, former President John Mahama and the opposition party’s Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, to tarnish the image of the Vice President.

    “Congratulations to Roland Walker of TV3 for his appointment as the Director of the NDC Social Media Team. Man has truly worked hard for this appointment. He was tasked by John Mahama and Sammy Gyamfi to throw his profession to the Dogs and attack Dr. Bawumia and the NPP at any given opportunity for this appointment,” he wrote.

    As it stands now, the seasoned journalist who has acted as a fixer for the BBC, DW-TV, VDF – Germany, CBS and ESPN has not come out to make any such announcement regarding his support for any political party.

  • VIDEO: Ambulance ‘ignores’ victims of Mankessim-Apam road accident

    VIDEO: Ambulance ‘ignores’ victims of Mankessim-Apam road accident

    An unfortunate incident occurred on Sunday, March 10, when two vehicles collided head-on, resulting in severe damage to the vehicles and injuries to the occupants along the Mankessim-Apam road.

    The devastating situation saw an unexpected twist when a government ambulance sped past the accident scene.

    In a video gone viral on social media, the ambulance can be seen approaching the accident scene but failing to stop and continuing to drive past the scene despite the presence of injured individuals and bystanders.

    It is unknown what the reason was behind the driver’s decision not to assist the victims of the road accident.

    The video has sparked outrage among netizens, with many expressing disappointment and frustration at the driver’s actions.

    Meanwhile, no deaths have been reported following the road accident.

  • Dani Alves hasn’t committed suicide – Family

    Dani Alves hasn’t committed suicide – Family

    Social media was abuzz on Saturday night when an alleged journalist in Brazil, Paulo Albuquerque, reported that Dani Alves may have taken his own life in the prison where he is currently incarcerated.

    However, the veracity of this information was difficult to ascertain, as it was unclear how Albuquerque could have obtained such information when Alves is in prison in Barcelona. Nonetheless, Dani Alves became the number one trending topic on X, formerly Twitter, in Spain for a moment.

    In response, Ney Alves, the brother of the former Brazilian footballer, took to social media to send a reassuring message and criticize those who spread false information online.

    “How cruel human beings are. He was already convicted for the words of a woman who went into a men’s room to do what only he and she know how to do. He has already been condemned, isn’t that enough?” the footballer’s brother wrote, accompanied by a photograph of the two of them together.

    Alves was convicted by a court in Spain of raping a woman in a Barcelona nightclub.

    The singer, also a professional, posted additional messages about his brother’s prison situation, reassuring fans who had been concerned by the news.

    “It’s not enough. Now the crazy thing is they want to see him dead. How can you be so cruel?” he continued. “My father is over 70 years old. My mother is over 60. They don’t have family, do they? These pages keep spreading these things,” he said.

    Dani Alves has been sentenced to between four and six months in prison, along with five years of supervised liberty and a nine-year, six-month restraining order prohibiting contact with the victim.

    Additionally, he has been ordered to pay 150,000 euros in compensation and cover trial costs. Alves has already served one year, one month, and 18 days in prison.

  • ‘Moral-less’ Ghanaians are intelligent criminals – Former Christian Council Secretary

    ‘Moral-less’ Ghanaians are intelligent criminals – Former Christian Council Secretary

    Former General Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG), Rev. Dr. Kwabena Opuni-Frimpong, has voiced deep concerns about the growing levels of greed, corruption, and mismanagement of public funds in both the private and public sectors of Ghana.

    He highlighted that these practices are becoming deeply rooted in society and are significant obstacles to the country’s progress and development.

    Speaking at a memorial lecture for Rev. Dr. Nkansah Kyeremateng at the Kibi Presbyterian College of Education, Rev. Dr. Opuni-Frimpong stressed the importance of promoting ethical conduct and behavior in public service as a national priority for Ghana’s socioeconomic development.

    Under the theme “Presbyterian Discipline: A Critical Tool For Reshaping The Youth For Ghana’s Socio-Economic Development,” Rev. Dr. Opuni-Frimpong called on the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Ghana Education Service (GES) to integrate moral education into the curriculum, alongside Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

    “We must pursue STEM with another M- Morality. STEM must have another M…We should not do STEM without morality…I am so proud of our Minister of Education and the wonderful things but if we don’t take morality into our STEM we may be producing intelligent criminals for the next 20, 30, 50 years for our dear nation.

    “People who know how to manipulate engineering systems, people who know how to manipulate medicine, pharmacy and all that,” he stated.

  • Tottenham’s penalty victory over Manchester City was no fluke – Vilahamn

    Tottenham’s penalty victory over Manchester City was no fluke – Vilahamn

    Robert Vilahamn has emphasized that Tottenham’s penalty victory over Manchester City was well deserved as his side secured their spot in the Women’s FA Cup semi-finals.

    This historic win marks Tottenham’s first-ever entry into the competition’s semi-final stage. The victory came after a tense shootout, which Spurs won 4-3 following a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes.

    Manchester City took the lead early with a deflected strike from Australian international Mary Fowler and appeared dominant in the first half. However, despite their early advantage, City failed to capitalize further, and Tottenham capitalized on a mistake from City’s goalkeeper Khiara Keating, with Bethany England equalizing in the sixth minute of injury time.

    In extra time, Tottenham took control of the game, leading to Amy James-Turner’s winning penalty kick.

    Vilahamn believed that his team’s victory was well-deserved, highlighting their strong performance throughout the match.

    Vilahamn said: “I actually think we deserved it. The game the girls played tonight was amazing.

    “All the players coming in, you could feel it. When we scored to make it 1-1 in the last second, we deserved that and in extra-time we were actually going for it.

    “To then win the penalties, it’s a wonderful feeling.

    “It was very frustrating to give them a goal so easily early on but that’s football. The character we showed after that was really good.

    “We pushed them down and showed we wanted to dictate this game. We won the duels, were very sharp with the ball.

    “I’m very proud of the girls because we show now that we not only compete but we can actually beat the top three teams.”

    Vilahamn added: “She’s been training very well the last few weeks and then she got her chance in the last game. I thought she was great against Arsenal.

    “She’s so calm in the goal with her feet, making her saves and then in the shootout. I’m so happy for her.”

    Spurs join holders Chelsea, Manchester United and Leicester in the semi-finals, with the draw set to be made on Tuesday morning.

  • Hastily work on drainage works – Oppong-Nkrumah charges Hydro Authority amid rainy season

    Hastily work on drainage works – Oppong-Nkrumah charges Hydro Authority amid rainy season

    Minister-designate for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, has instructed the Ghana Hydrological Authority to accelerate drainage projects nationwide.

    The Minister’s directive aims to lessen the potential impact of heavy rains on communities in flood-prone areas.

    He issued this directive while inspecting ongoing dredging operations in the Odaw River Basin and flood mitigation efforts in various communities including Alogboshie, Kasoa-Iron City, and Weija and its environs on Saturday, March 9, 2024.

    “For us, one of the key things is the speed of work. We want to be clear that our contractors need to ensure that they deliver on time or sometimes as quickly as possible ahead of schedule,” he stated.

    Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, along with key officials from the Ministry and its agencies, including Dr. Kwadwo Ohene Sarfoh, Project Coordinator at GARID, and Dr. John Kisi, CEO of the Ghana Hydrological Authority, inspected various drainage projects in Accra aimed at addressing perennial flooding issues.

    These projects, under the Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID) and the Ghana Hydrological Authority, are part of the government’s National Flood Control Programme (NFCP) to mitigate flooding in Accra. The government has committed approximately GH¢450 million to these efforts.

    Dredging works on the Odaw River have been ongoing for about two weeks, with Dredge Masters tasked with removing solid waste along a 10-kilometre stretch to improve flood risk and solid waste management. Additionally, storm drain construction is underway in various communities as part of GARID’s Community Upgrade Programme, aimed at enhancing resilience to flooding and improving infrastructure.

    During the inspection, Mr Oppong-Nkrumah emphasized the importance of adequate engagement with affected persons to ensure they are duly compensated for the construction works. He also stressed the need for beneficiary assemblies to take responsibility for the regular maintenance of the drainage systems to maximize their benefits and mitigate flooding risks.

    The Minister-designate announced plans to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry and local assemblies to ensure the regular maintenance of these drains, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and improving drainage infrastructure for community safety and well-being.

  • Man City’s Foden set to receive a new contract – Reports 

    Man City’s Foden set to receive a new contract – Reports 

    Manchester City are poised to commence negotiations with England international Phil Foden regarding a new contract.

    Foden, 23, has been delivering exceptional performances this season and is a crucial player as City aim to secure their fourth consecutive Premier League title.

    Football Insider reports that the Stockport-born talent is seeking a substantial increase on his current contract, which would elevate him to one of the club’s highest-paid players.

    In 2022, Foden signed an extension that tied him to the Etihad until 2027, reportedly earning ÂŁ200,000 a week. However, since then, the 31-cap international has emerged as one of Pep Guardiola’s most indispensable players and played a pivotal role in their Treble success last season.

    Guardiola recently praised Foden as the “best player in the Premier League right now,” further bolstering his case for improved terms.

    During his seven years with the champions, Foden has amassed over 250 appearances and secured 12 major trophies.

    While it’s unlikely that he would ever actively seek to leave his childhood club, a breakdown in contract talks would undoubtedly alert Europe’s top clubs.

  • Tom Cruise suits up for ‘Top Gun 3’

    Tom Cruise suits up for ‘Top Gun 3’

    Tom Cruise is preparing to return for a third installment of the iconic “Top Gun” franchise.

    A script for another chapter in the high-flying aviation series is currently in development at Paramount, according to a source close to the project.

    While the film is still in its early stages, plans are being made for the sequel to follow the 2022 release of “Top Gun: Maverick” and the original “Top Gun” from 1986.

    Although no deals have been finalized, the goal is to reunite the original film’s producers – Cruise, Jerry Bruckheimer, and director Joseph Kosinski. Additionally, it is expected that Miles Teller and Glen Powell, Cruise’s younger co-stars from “Maverick,” will also return.

    The script is currently undergoing development by writer Ehren Kruger, who co-wrote “Top Gun: Maverick.”

    Paramount has chosen not to comment on the news, and representatives for Cruise have not responded to requests for comment from CNN.

    The decision to develop another sequel comes as no surprise, considering the massive success of “Top Gun: Maverick.”

    The film became Cruise’s most successful film to date, earning nearly $1.5 billion worldwide and receiving six Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Adapted Screenplay, ultimately winning an Academy Award for sound.

  • Francis Ngannou floored by Anthony Joshua in just two rounds

    Francis Ngannou floored by Anthony Joshua in just two rounds

    Anthony Joshua defeated Francis Ngannou in two rounds, knocking out the Cameroonian hero with a powerful right hand that sent him crashing to the canvas.

    Ngannou was knocked down three times, all from right hands, before the fight was stopped at 2:38 of the second round.

    Joshua, aiming to reclaim his spot in the heavyweight title picture, expressed his desire to face the winner of the upcoming unified heavyweight title clash between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk.

    The fight began with Joshua looking composed and fluid, while Ngannou, known for his wide-armed defense, aggressively entered the fray. Joshua was caught circling to his left early in the fight and absorbed a heavy right hand on his glove with his left hand held high.

    Despite Ngannou switching to a southpaw stance early on, Joshua capitalized on the opening and landed a long right hand, sending Ngannou to the canvas for the first time.

    Although Ngannou managed to get back up, he appeared flustered. In the second round, Joshua continued to dominate, knocking Ngannou down once again with a right hand.

    Ngannou got up but was visibly shaken. Joshua seized the moment and unleashed a massive overhand right, knocking Ngannou out cold.

    The referee immediately waved off the fight as Ngannou lay flat on his back.

    After the fight, Joshua urged Ngannou to continue his boxing career, but it was clear that Ngannou was still reeling from the devastating loss.

    Joshua’s victory adds another dramatic knockout to his resume, solidifying his status as a top contender in the heavyweight division.

    “He can come again,” Joshua said. “I told him he shouldn’t leave boxing. He can do well. He’s fought two of the best and he can go a long way if he stays dedicated. It’s up to him.”

    Joshua has won four in a row since back-to-back defeats by Usyk, having overcome Jermaine Franklin, Robert Helenius, Otto Wallin and now Ngannou.

  • Sylvester Stallone, Megan Fox win top ‘prizes’ at Razzie Awards 2024

    Sylvester Stallone, Megan Fox win top ‘prizes’ at Razzie Awards 2024

    Every year, alongside the prestigious Oscars, an alternative awards ceremony takes place to honor the worst in cinema – the Razzie Awards.

    Established in 1981, the 44th edition of these infamous “honors” included nominees such as Jason Statham, Vin Diesel, and Ana de Armas for worst actor and actress.

    Nominations for worst film of 2023 included “Expend4bles,” “Meg 2: The Trench,” “Shazam! Fury of the Gods,” and “Exorcist: Believer.” In a surprising turn, the horror film “Winnie the Pooh: Blood & Honey” took home the Razzie for worst picture, a blow for the now-public domain figure Mickey Mouse.

    Jon Voight won worst actor for “Mercy,” while Sylvester Stallone snagged worst supporting actor for “Expend4bles.” Megan Fox, known for her role in “Transformers,” won two Razzies for worst actress and supporting actress for “Johnny & Clyde” and “Expend4bles.”

    The “Winnie the Pooh” horror film also won four other awards, including worst screen couple for Pooh and Piglet as “Blood-Thirsty Slasher/Killers.”

    While the Razzies, also known as the Golden Raspberry Awards, provide a humorous take on the year’s worst films, they have not been without controversy.

    Last year, they faced criticism for nominating a then-12-year-old Ryan Kiera Armstrong. Additionally, in 2010, Sandra Bullock attended the Razzie ceremony, where she accepted her worst actress award for “All About Steve” before winning an Oscar for “The Blind Side” the following weekend.

  • Ghana’s Abeiku Jackson wins silver medal in Swimming at African Games 2023

    Ghana’s Abeiku Jackson wins silver medal in Swimming at African Games 2023

    Abeiku Jackson, Ghana’s team captain, has made history at the 2023 African Games by securing the country’s first-ever swimming medal.

    Jackson won a silver medal in the Men’s 50m Butterfly event, clocking a time of 24.23 seconds. He was narrowly beaten by Egypt’s Ali Khalafalla, who took gold with a time of 23.93 seconds.

    This achievement is significant as it marks the first time a Ghanaian swimmer has won a medal at the African Games, ending a long drought in the sport for the nation.

    In the same event, Jackson’s teammate Stacey Harry put in a strong performance but finished fifth with a time of 24.56 seconds.

    In the 4x100m Medley Relay Mixed, the Ghanaian team finished fifth with a time of 4:03.39.

    Earlier in the day, Titus Ankrah Hector narrowly missed the final of the Men’s 100m Breaststroke despite leading in Heat 1 with a time of 1:18.69.

    Asampong Theodore, Christian Nii Nortey Duah, Snowden Ivan, Nubia Adjei, and Mensah Joselle faced tough competition in their respective events but did not secure medals.

    With the breakthrough achieved on Day 3 of the competition, Team Ghana is motivated and aims to build on this success, looking forward to more achievements in the days ahead.

  • African Games: Weightlifter Winnifred Ntumi secures three medals for Ghana

    African Games: Weightlifter Winnifred Ntumi secures three medals for Ghana

    Ghanaian weightlifter Winnifred Ntumi brought joy to her country by winning a gold and two silver medals on Sunday, marking Ghana’s first three medals in the competition.

    The 21-year-old excelled in the 49-kilogram Snatch and Clean and Jerk categories, earning two silver medals. Her gold came in the overall 49kg category at the GCB Hall of the University of Ghana.

    In the Snatch category, Ntumi secured second place with a lift of 63, just behind Mauritius’ Sheridane Pasnin (64) who took gold, and ahead of Madagascar’s Ny Hasina Andrimitantsoa Zo Lalainarinirina (60) who took third.

    Tunisia’s Wada claimed gold in the Clean & Jerk with a lift of 81, with Ntumi closely behind at 81. Zo Lalain (80) and Pasnin (75) secured third and fourth place, respectively.

    With a total of 144, Ntumi’s exceptional performance earned her the gold medal overall in the 49-kilogram category.

    Ntumi’s recent success adds to her impressive track record, including three bronze medals in the women’s 45kg events at the 2019 African Games in Rabat, Morocco. She also won a bronze medal in the women’s 49kg bodyweight at the Africa Seniors Weightlifting Championship in Cairo, Egypt, when she was just 16 years old in 2019.

    In December 2021, Ntumi won bronze in Uzbekistan during the World Championship/Commonwealth qualification in the 49kg category.

  • List of Academy Award winners 2024

    List of Academy Award winners 2024

    Ryan Gosling brought his A-game with his energy, John Cena made a bold statement in his birthday suit, and Jimmy Kimmel continued to impress as the host of the Oscars.

    Among the winners, “Oppenheimer” stood out, winning seven awards including Best Picture. “Poor Things” also had a successful night, walking away with four statues.

    Before the ceremony, “Oppenheimer” led with 13 nominations, followed by “Poor Things” with 11 and Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” with 10.

    While “Oppenheimer” and “Poor Things” had a triumphant evening, “Killers of the Flower Moon” failed to secure any wins, and “Barbie” only won in the Best Original Song category despite its success at the box office.

    Some of the other notable winners included Da’Vine Joy Randolph for Best Supporting Actress, “The Zone of Interest” for Best International Feature, and “The Boy and the Heron” for Best Animated Feature.

    Here’s the full list:

    Best picture

    “American Fiction”

    “Anatomy of a Fall”

    “Barbie”

    “The Holdovers”

    “Killers of the Flower Moon”

    “Maestro”

    “Oppenheimer” – WINNER

    “Past Lives”

    “Poor Things”

    “The Zone of Interest”

    Best actor in a leading role

    Bradley Cooper, “Maestro”

    Colman Domingo, “Rustin”

    Paul Giamatti, “The Holdovers”

    Cillian Murphy, “Oppenheimer” – WINNER

    Jeffrey Wright, “American Fiction”

    Best actress in a leading role

    Annette Bening, “Nyad”

    Lily Gladstone, “Killers of the Flower Moon”

    Sandra Hüller, “Anatomy of a Fall”

    Carey Mulligan, “Maestro”

    Emma Stone, “Poor Things” – WINNER

    Best actor in a supporting role

    Sterling K. Brown, “American Fiction”

    Robert De Niro, “Killers of the Flower Moon”

    Robert Downey Jr., “Oppenheimer” – WINNER

    Ryan Gosling, “Barbie”

    Mark Ruffalo, “Poor Things”

    Best actress in a supporting role

    Emily Blunt, “Oppenheimer”

    Danielle Brooks, “The Color Purple”

    America Ferrera, “Barbie”

    Jodie Foster, “Nyad”

    Da’Vine Joy Randolph, “The Holdovers” – WINNER

    Best director

    Justine Triet, “Anatomy of a Fall”

    Martin Scorsese, “Killers of the Flower Moon”

    Christopher Nolan, “Oppenheimer” – WINNER

    Yorgos Lanthimos, “Poor Things”

    Jonathan Glazer, “The Zone of Interest”

    Best cinematography

    “El Conde”

    “Killers of the Flower Moon”

    “Maestro”

    “Oppenheimer” – WINNER

    “Poor Things”

    Best international feature film

    “The Teachers’ Lounge,” Germany

    “Io Capitano,” Italy

    “Perfect Days,” Japan

    “Society of the Snow,” Spain

    “The Zone of Interest,” United Kingdom – WINNER

    Best adapted screenplay

    “American Fiction” – WINNER

    “Barbie”

    “Oppenheimer”

    “Poor Things”

    “The Zone of Interest”

    Best original screenplay

    “Anatomy of a Fall” – WINNER

    “The Holdovers”

    “Maestro”

    “May December”

    “Past Lives”

    Best live action short film

    “The After”

    “Invincible”

    “Knight of Fortune”

    “Red, White and Blue”

    “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar” – WINNER

    Best animated short film

    “Letter to a Pig”

    “Ninety-Five Senses”

    “Our Uniform”

    “Pachyderme”

    “War Is Over! Inspired by the Music of John & Yoko” – WINNER

    Best animated feature film

    “The Boy and the Heron” – WINNER

    “Elemental”

    “Nimona”

    “Robot Dreams”

    “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”

    Best documentary short

    “The ABCs of Book Banning”

    “The Barber of Little Rock”

    “Island in Between”

    “The Last Repair Shop” – WINNER

    “Nǎi Nai & Wài Pó”

    Best documentary feature film

    “Bobi Wine: The People’s President”

    “The Eternal Memory”

    “Four Daughters”

    “To Kill a Tiger”

    “20 Days in Mariupol” – WINNER

    Best original song

    “The Fire Inside” from “Flamin’ Hot”

    “I’m Just Ken” from “Barbie”

    “It Never Went Away” from “American Symphony”

    “Wahzhazhe (A Song for My People)” from “Killers of the Flower Moon”

    “What Was I Made For?” from “Barbie” – WINNER

    Best original score

    “American Fiction”

    “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny”

    “Killers of the Flower Moon”

    “Oppenheimer” – WINNER

    “Poor Things”

    Best makeup and hairstyling

    “Golda”

    “Maestro”

    “Oppenheimer”

    “Poor Things” – WINNER

    “Society of the Snow”

    Best costume design

    “Barbie”

    “Killers of the Flower Moon”

    “Napoleon”

    “Oppenheimer”

    “Poor Things” – WINNER

    Best editing

    “Anatomy of a Fall”

    “The Holdovers”

    “Killers of the Flower Moon”

    “Oppenheimer” – WINNER

    “Poor Things”

    Best sound

    “The Creator”

    “Maestro”

    “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One”

    “Oppenheimer”

    “The Zone of Interest” – WINNER

    Best production design

    “Barbie”

    “Killers of the Flower Moon”

    “Napoleon”

    “Oppenheimer”

    “Poor Things” – WINNER

    Best visual effects

    “The Creator”

    “Godzilla Minus One” – WINNER

    “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”

    “Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One”

    “Napoleon”

  • We struggled to beat Ethiopia – Black Princesses Coach

    We struggled to beat Ethiopia – Black Princesses Coach

    Ghana’s Black Princesses faced a formidable challenge in their opening match of the 2023 African Games against Ethiopia, acknowledged head coach Yussif Basigi.

    Despite securing a narrow 1-0 victory, Basigi admitted in a post-game interview that his team had encountered significant difficulties during the match. The solitary goal came in the second half when Comfort Owusu capitalized on a rebound from Mukarama Abdulai’s shot to secure the win.

    The match at the Cape Coast Stadium was not without its share of drama, as a blackout caused a 30-minute delay, highlighting Ghana’s ongoing power issues.

    Coach Basigi praised Ethiopia’s resilience, acknowledging their quality as tough opponents.

    He stated, “Ethiopia that I know, they are not a bad side so I anticipated that we will have a tough match and I’m not surprised we struggled to beat them.”

    Despite securing the victory, Ghana encountered their own challenges, finishing the game with 10 players after Abiba Issah’s dismissal in the 89th minute.

    Looking forward, Basigi stressed the importance of adapting for future matches, with Tanzania next on their schedule at the Cape Coast Stadium on Tuesday, March 12.

  • Captain Smart must be arrested to prove John Kumah was poisoned – Widow

    Captain Smart must be arrested to prove John Kumah was poisoned – Widow

    The widow of John Kumah, the late Deputy Finance Minister and Member of Parliament for Ejisu, Apostle Lilian Kumah has urged the authorities to swiftly take action against individuals such as Blessed Godsbrain Smart, commonly known as Captain Smart, who has publicly asserted that her late husband was poisoned.

    Despite making this bold claim, he has not been held accountable or required to provide any evidence to support his unsubstantiated allegations regarding John Kumah’s demise.

    “Why is it that someone (referring to Captain Smart) has been this bold to claim that he knows for a fact that a person like John Kumah who has served his country virtually all his life, was poisoned, while he was working for his country and party (New Patriotic Party, NPP), why should we sit down and not bring that person to book.

    “If it is true that a person who is not dead but alive claims that he knows how my husband (John Kumah) died and that he was poisoned, and that person is still moving around for the past three weeks, it hurts me, it saddens me and I do not know how best to express my frustrations about these false claims by Captain Smart,” Apostle Lilian Kumah said.

    “If there are laws in this country concerning such false claims, I think this is the time for the leadership of the land to bring that wicked person (Captain Smart) to book to prove his false claims and to point out the persons who were involved in the poisoning of my late husband,” Mrs. Kumah further stated in an interview on Asaase Radio.

    Contrary to circulating reports, the widow of John Kumah has stated that her husband did not pass away from food poisoning. Instead, she clarified that he bravely fought a severe illness for over a year.

    Apostle Lilian Kumah explained that her late husband had been struggling with a terminal disease for almost a year since it was diagnosed by his doctors in Germany.

    She emphasized that this illness is what ultimately led to her husband’s passing on Thursday, March 7, 2024, and not food poisoning.

    Dr. John Kumah passed away around 12:40 PM at the Suhum Government Hospital. He was being transported in an ambulance with his wife and a medical doctor from Ejisu to Accra when the doctor noticed his condition rapidly deteriorating and diverted to the Suhum medical facility.

    Upon their arrival at the hospital a little after 11:00 AM on Thursday, March 7, 2024, the medical team attempted to stabilize him for continuation of his journey to Accra, where he was scheduled to travel to Germany for ongoing treatment. Unfortunately, despite the efforts of the medical staff at the Suhum Government Hospital, he could not be saved.

  • 4 Comboni students apprehended for destroying SOGASCO property

    4 Comboni students apprehended for destroying SOGASCO property

    Four students from Comboni Vocational Technical School have been apprehended by the Sogakofe District Police Command for allegedly damaging the main gate of Sogakope Senior High School (SOGASCO) in the South Tongu District of the Volta Region.

    The incident is said to have taken place on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at around 1:00 AM. It was reported that the sliding glasses of the main entrance of SOGASCO were shattered, and mosquito nets in one of the classroom blocks were set on fire.

    Newman Dziedzoave, the Headmaster of SOGASCO, stated that although the situation has calmed down, four students and four individuals from the community have been detained by the police in connection to the vandalism.

    “Some arrests have been made this morning by the police and the NIB. So those who were actually behind the destruction, four of them have been picked, and others are on the run. So the four that have been picked are assisting the police with the investigation, together with four additional town boys who happened to be old students of Cambodia, which we suspect were hired to assist them. So the destruction is not only the gate, but one of the classroom blocks as well, “the headmaster confirmed to JoyNews.

    He explained that the conflict between the two schools began when a student from SOGASCO was admitted to Comboni Hospital a few weeks prior.

    “About two weeks ago, a student of ours fell sick, and then one of the officers in the cadet took him to Comboni Hospital. At the hospital, he came out to buy something at the hospital gate for his colleague who was inside the yard. So when he came out, three Comboni students accosted him that he should tuck in his shirt.”

    Mr. Dziedzoave explained that the SOGASCO student declined, stating that he was also a senior at another school and that they did not have the authority to instruct him to tuck in at their school. However, they allegedly threatened to assault him if he did not comply with their demands. Fearing for his safety, he decided to comply and knelt down.

    According to Mr Dziedzoave, “whilst kneeling, they took videos of him then later, these videos that they took of him, they posted it on their platform that they have conquered SOGASCO.”

    This, he said, infuriated the entire student body of SOGASCO. “So on 6th March 2024, when they came for the independence anniversary parade in our school, our students also asked them, those who put their shirts on, they asked them to tuck in, and they also refused.”

    The headmaster indicated that was the last straw that broke the camel’s back.

    “So that brought about an exchange. They were throwing stones here and there. And so one of the drivers from Convotech got injured during the process.”

    Mr Dziedzoave explained further that even though they could not establish who hit the driver with the stone, they decided to send him to the hospital for medical attention.

    However, when the driver was discharged, they took him to the Campus of Comboni only for him to be attacked again by the students.

    “So on Thursday, the driver was discharged. We sent him to his campus. When they realized that we were coming from SOGASCO, they started throwing stones at the vehicle, which we reported to the police and their principal. And this morning, this is what they have done to us again.”

     A District Security Council (DISEC) meeting is scheduled on Monday, March 11, 2024, to address the issue.

  • Local industry collapsing due to ‘heavy’ rice importation – GAWU

    Local industry collapsing due to ‘heavy’ rice importation – GAWU

    The General Agriculture Workers Union (GAWU) has expressed concern over the increase in illegal rice imports flooding the country’s markets.

    Despite official data indicating a decline in rice imports over the past three years, GAWU has noted a significant amount of foreign rice being smuggled into the country through unapproved routes.

    GAWU’s General Secretary, Edward Kareweh, stated that their market assessments and investigations in border communities reveal the presence of rice brands sourced from Togo, Cote D’Ivoire, and Burkina Faso.

    The illegally imported rice is priced between 20 to 30% cheaper compared to locally produced ones, creating an unfair advantage in the market.

    Mr. Kareweh cautioned that this situation threatens to undermine the local rice industry, as local producers struggle to compete effectively.

    “For those in the northern part of the country, much of their rice imports are now coming from Burkina Faso and Togo, and that is how it has flooded the system.

    “When we say that our import values are declining, it is because we are not able to capture the illegal entry of the rice and that is the one that is choking the system because they are cheaper,” Mr. Kareweh said.

    During his State of the Nation Address to Parliament on Tuesday, February 27, President Akufo-Addo highlighted a notable decrease of approximately 45% in rice imports between 2021 and 2023.

    The President stated that rice imports totaled 805,000 metric tonnes in 2021, 650,000 metric tonnes in 2022, and 440,000 metric tonnes in 2023.

    However, the General Agriculture Workers Union has expressed concern that despite the decline in imports, which coincided with an increase in rice consumption, the local rice industry did not experience the anticipated growth.

    “Farmers in the Northern part of the country have harvested their rice, but they cannot get market. A rice mill at Savelugu has been complaining that they will shut down because when they process the rice there is no market for it.

    “This is because the rice market is flooded with imported rice,” he added.