TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • I did not pay disbarred Chief State Attorney bribe – Woyome

    I did not pay disbarred Chief State Attorney bribe – Woyome

    Businessman Alfred Agbesi Woyome is contesting the General Legal Council’s (GLC) decision to disbar Chief State Attorney Samuel Nerquaye-Tetteh over the transfer of GH¢400,000 into his wife’s bank account.

    Mr. Woyome stated to the media on Friday, February 16, that he has never paid and will never pay a bribe, emphasizing that the state attorney is being unfairly treated.

    “I want you to understand one thing that I have been law-abiding in this country. I’ve never given a bribe or taken a bribe because I’ve never been in a government position neither have I benefited from any government money whatsoever in any government,” he said.

    Mr. Woyome’s comments follow the disbarment of Mr. Nerquaye-Tetteh by the GLC for receiving GH¢400,000 from him in 2011. The GLC’s notice dated January 31, 2024, stated that while defending the state against a suit by Mr. Woyome in 2011, Mr. Nerquaye-Tetteh facilitated the transfer of GH¢400,000 from Mr. Woyome to his wife’s bank account.

    The GLC found that Mr. Nerquaye-Tetteh could not provide a reasonable explanation for this transfer. However, Mr. Woyome contends that the money was a loan he gave to Mrs. Nerquaye-Tetteh.

    He argues that it is unfair to mistreat the Chief State Attorney, who has contributed significantly to the country’s development.

    “Well, that’s the statement they [GLC] had made and that is the cost for which somebody’s son, somebody’s higher working individual who has worked for all the political parties including Nana Addo and other people.

    “He has worked very hard for Ghana and has saved Ghana a lot of money by going outside to fight against judgment debt and winning them. This is what is said when to punish this gentleman for nothing he has done.”

    Mr. Woyome emphasized that the GLC’s statement regarding Mr. Nerquaye-Tetteh’s conduct is regrettable. He acknowledged that the GLC is a statutory body responsible for regulating the conduct of practicing lawyers, including those on the bench.

    “But to say anything further I will say that the General Legal Council is not a law court. It’s a civil judicial body which has equivalence to the High Court of Ghana.

    “And its decisions can be challenged and its decisions ought to be challenged to make sure that the law and our own freedom and justice, which is the basis on which the Constitution is written, is respected,” he said.

    He also disclosed that he tried to participate in the GLC case against Mr. Tetteh, but his request was denied.

  • SML sues Manasseh Azure for GHC10m in damages

    SML sues Manasseh Azure for GHC10m in damages

    Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) has filed a lawsuit against the media outlet Fourth Estate, which released “The GH¢3bn Lie Documentary,” accusing SML of receiving a controversial 10-year contract from the Finance Ministry.

    In the suit filed on Thursday, February 15, SML claims that the publication has severely damaged its reputation in the public domain, leading to detrimental effects on its operations.

    SML is seeking ¢10 million in damages, with one million for defamation and nine million for exemplary damages due to what it describes as reckless and malicious reporting by Fourth Estate.

    “Plaintiff says that the onslaught of backlash from the public which has arisen from the Defendants’ false reportage has adversely impacted Plaintiff’s operations.”

    “Plaintiff says that although it published rejoinders to the Defendants’ false reportage, the Defendants have failed and/or refused to retract and apologise to the plaintiff for the false information they have consistently peddled.”

    Additionally, SML is seeking a perpetual injunction against the publication of further defamatory material, a retraction and apology, and any other orders deemed appropriate by the High Court.

    The Fourth Estate’s December 2023 investigative report implicated Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML), the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the Ministry of Finance. The report alleged that GRA had granted SML a purported 10-year contract with an annual payment of $100 million, raising concerns about possible irregularities.

    SML refuted the claim, asserting that it had a five-year contract instead. The GRA, in a statement on December 20, 2023, maintained that proper procurement procedures were followed.

    On January 3, 2024, SML welcomed President Akufo-Addo’s directive to suspend its ongoing revenue assurance operations and undergo an audit of its contract with the GRA and the Ministry of Finance. President Akufo-Addo appointed KPMG, an audit, tax, and advisory services firm, to conduct the immediate audit. SML expressed confidence that the audit would provide a clear and accurate depiction of its operations.

    However, President Akufo-Addo extended the deadline given to audit firm KPMG to complete its audit following its request.

  • I can work better in Parliament to support gov’t – Kwaku Kwarteng on rejecting ministerial appointment

    I can work better in Parliament to support gov’t – Kwaku Kwarteng on rejecting ministerial appointment

    The Member of Parliament for Obuasi West, Kwaku Kwarteng, has defended his choice to decline an appointment during President Akufo-Addo’s recent Ministerial reshuffle.

    In a letter dated February 16, the former Deputy Finance Minister outlined two key reasons for his decision.

    Firstly, he stressed the crucial role of Parliament in overseeing finance and economic matters. He expressed confidence in his ability to more effectively support the government’s efforts from his position in Parliament.

    “The role of Parliament in the work of the Executive, especially in matters relating to finance and economy, is critical. It is my humble belief that I can better support the work of government from Parliament,” he said.

    Also, Mr. Kwarteng expressed his intention to concentrate on developing messages and governance strategies for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), particularly in anticipation of the forthcoming 2024 general elections.

    He argued that he could better fulfill this role as a non-ministerial Member of Parliament. Despite declining the appointment, he conveyed his appreciation to the President for considering him for such a significant role in the country’s administration.

    “I am eternally grateful to the President for his fatherly influence on my political career and will always stand ready to support his vision in whatever ways I can,” a portion of the statement read.

    SUPPORTING-GOVT-FROM-PARLIAMENTDownload

    On Wednesday, February 14, President Akufo-Addo announced a significant ministerial reshuffle, the first major overhaul since assuming office in January 2017. The reshuffle involved the removal of several ministers from their posts, including Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, Roads Minister Kwame Amoako-Atta, and Health Minister Kwaku Agyemang Manu.

    In addition to these changes, the President also accepted the resignation of other ministers, including deputy ministers, and appointed new individuals to some ministries.

    One of the notable changes was Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah moving to the Housing Ministry, with his deputy Fatimatu Abubakar taking over as the substantive Minister of Information. Interior Minister Ambrose Dery was reassigned as Minister of State at the office of the President.

    Overall, the reshuffle impacted around 13 ministers of state, including 10 cabinet ministers and two regional ministers. The presidency released a press statement detailing the sacked ministers, those reassigned, and the newly appointed individuals.

  • Mamponghene chides gov’t for poor decentralisation system

    Mamponghene chides gov’t for poor decentralisation system

    The Paramount Chief of Mampong in the Ashanti region, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, has expressed concerns about the effectiveness of the current decentralization system in Ghana.

    Speaking at a durbar, he highlighted issues with the delegation of power and authority from the central government to local authorities.

    Daasebre Osei Bonsu II questioned the decentralization process, particularly in terms of funding, control, and management. He emphasized that decisions that should be made at the local level are often sent to regional and national authorities for approval, leading to delays and inefficiencies.

    The chief emphasized the need for local authorities, such as Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), to have more autonomy in decision-making. He called for a review of the decentralization system to empower local leaders and streamline the decision-making process.

    Daasebre Osei Bonsu II’s comments reflect broader concerns about the effectiveness of decentralization in Ghana, with many advocating for reforms to ensure that local authorities have the resources and authority they need to serve their communities effectively.

  • Nigerian woman allegedly collapses husband’s businesses after 3 years of marriage

    Nigerian woman allegedly collapses husband’s businesses after 3 years of marriage

    Uchechukwu Orji, a Nigerian businessman, has narrated in court how his wife has collapsed all the businesses he set up and made her director of.

    They got married on September 25, 2017, and ever since the marriage, he said it “was a total toxic thing”.

    They did not court, and he was introduced to her by her cousin and they later got married.

    “I lost my peace of mind. I lost my business, my finance,” he said, while lamenting the pain he has gone through in his marriage.

    He is a distributor with British American Tobacco and according to him, the business he set up collapsed.

    “We lost it with claims that there are no profits but this is a company that is so organized.

    “I meet my peers, I see what they are doing. I don’t make profit in my own business. She is the Director,” he said.

    According to him, the excuse given him was some sales gales make away with some of the revenue generated.

    He then decided to set up an electrical shop.

    “There are no sales girls. I know the importers I collect from and the people that collect from them like I do. The entire business collapsed.”

    https://twitter.com/UGOOTWEETS/status/1758088413641666803?s=20
  • Sam George listed among 2023 50 Most Influential Young Ghanaians

    Sam George listed among 2023 50 Most Influential Young Ghanaians

    Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Samuel Nartey George, has been named one of Avance Media’s 50 influential young Ghanaians, recognizing his significant contributions as a lawmaker.

    Known for his efforts in improving human capital and fostering development in his constituency, George’s inclusion in the list reflects his dedication to positively impacting lives across the country.

    Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Mr. George sees it as validation of his work and a motivation to continue his efforts.

    He joins other notable individuals such as Gary Al-Smith from the Multimedia Group, Ibrahim Mahama, Efua Asantewaa, Abubakar Fatimatu (Minister-designate for Information), Official Starter, Jordan Ayew, and Inaki William, all recognized for their achievements and influence in various fields.

    Avance Media’s mission focuses on driving innovation and transformation, empowering brands with confidence through practical strategies.

  • Paul Adom-Otchere revisits origin of Rawlings’ “Babies with sharp teeth” comment

    Paul Adom-Otchere revisits origin of Rawlings’ “Babies with sharp teeth” comment

    At the 2012 Special National Delegates Conference of the NDC, Mr. Jerry John Rawlings issued a challenge to then-President John Dramani Mahama. He urged President Mahama to remove certain individuals from his government, whom Rawlings referred to as ‘babies with sharp teeth.’

    Rawlings criticized these individuals for using their influence destructively, causing divisions within the NDC. He claimed they had attacked party members who had worked tirelessly to bring the NDC to power.

    Speaking at the NDC’s National Delegates’ Congress at the Baba Yara stadium in Kumasi, Rawlings expressed concern that these divisive elements were undermining the principles of probity and accountability upon which the NDC was founded. He believed that restoring integrity to the presidency, the government, and the NDC was crucial for electoral victory for John Mahama.

    Rawlings emphasized the need to rein in these divisive elements to restore unity and integrity to the NDC.

    “…It is often said that we should not throw out the baby with the bathwater…but then what do we do when some of the babies in the tub don’t look like babies?

    “They are babies with hard teeth … (which they can use to) bite hard (and) spill some very horrible invectives,” the former president claimed.

    “…Should they not be lowered even if we don’t want throw them out with the dirty water…?” Mr Rawlings queried, insisting that “one bad nut is all it takes to spoil the taste in your mouth”.

    Twelve years down the line, host of Good Evening Ghana show on Metro TV, Paul Adom-Otchere, has revisited the delicate subject when he touched on a book, ‘Working with Rawlings’, Prof Kwamena Awhoi chronicled.

    Mr Adom-Otchere noted that the individuals being referred to by the late President Rawlings were North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, former aide to ex-president Mahama, Felix Kwakye Ofosu and Dr Edward Omane Boamah.

    “Sammy Gyamfi was not there. Can you imagine, he was not there at the time. He must have been in JHS. But Sammy Gyamfi has come into a culture and it is a culture created by Kwamena Ahoi and Totobi Kwakye,” Mr Adom-Otchere said as he registered displeasure against the current actions by the NDC Communications Director.

    “These are the men Rawlings called babies with sharp teeth because he felt they were insulting,” he added.

    Meanwhile, a former Minister of Communication, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has denied a narration by former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Prof Kwamena Awhoi, that he (Omane Boamah) was part of a group of young party stalwarts purposefully groomed to attack former President Jerry John Rawlings any time the founder of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) attacked President John Atta Mills before his death.

    “I have read excerpts of the Prof. Kwamena Ahwoi’s book, ‘Working with Rawlings’ that appear to suggest I was among a group of young politicians, who were purposely engaged by him and others to respond to and ‘talk back’ at former President Rawlings for the latter’s attacks on the personality of the late President of Ghana, His Excellency John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills.

    “Respectfully, I need to place on record that this claim is wholly and completely inaccurate and untrue”, the former presidential spokesperson said.

    “As a young man and politician with core convictions”, Dr Omane Boamah said: “I was never engaged nor could I have allowed myself to be used by anyone to talk back at former President Rawlings”.

    He continued: “My principled stand in defending the late President Atta Mills, without insults, against attacks I thought were underserved was borne out of my respect and appreciation of the personality of the late President Mills – the Asomdwehene, his pureness of heart and other sterling and unique qualities that he possessed to a fault”.

    “The suggestion that my defence of the late President was part of a deliberate ‘strategy’ by elders is irksome to me”, he said.

    “It does not reflect my personality as a politician of conviction and not of convenience”, he noted.

    “For the record, I state emphatically and unequivocally that any claim that I was a recruited participant in any such grand agenda could only be the result of an inadvertent error in recollection and not founded on anything that remotely resembles the truth”, Dr Omane Boamah stressed.

  • We don’t mind if Ofori-Atta has been given another position – Appiah-Kubi

    We don’t mind if Ofori-Atta has been given another position – Appiah-Kubi

    Asante Akim North’s Member of Parliament, Kwame Andy Appiah-Kubi, who was among the New Patriotic Party (NPP) lawmakers advocating for the removal of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta two years ago, clarified that their intention was not to prevent Mr. Ofori-Atta from serving in government altogether.

    He explained that their concern was that Ghana’s economy could have performed better without Mr. Ofori-Atta as the Finance Minister.

    Mr. Appiah-Kubi made these remarks in response to reports that Mr. Ofori-Atta has been assigned a new role after his removal from the Finance Ministry.

    Sources indicate that Mr. Ofori-Atta is expected to be appointed as a Senior Presidential Advisor to President Nana Akufo-Addo, focusing on all matters related to the economy.

    Speaking on the Ghana Tonight show on TV3 on Thursday, February 15, Mr Appiah-Kubi said: “Sometimes when you make a call it is subject to certain urgencies of the time. It has come a little late but better late than never because if it had come at the time we made the call, it would have been much greater than it is now.”

    He added, “we will take it as it is and say thank you Mr President for listening to us. Indeed it is the prerogative of the President to appoint persons to to positions depending upon his vision and the strategy of achieving the vision so I will give that to him.

    “He has the constitutional mandate to do what he has done but we were complaining about the performance in the Finance Ministry and we thought that if he wanted the Finance Minister we would perform better so if he has listed to us and transferred him from one office where we thought that he needed a transfer we will take it as it is. But we did not say that  Mr. Ofori-Atta should not be given any opportunity to work with the government at all, we were saying that  we thought if he wanted the Finance Minister our situation would be better.”

    He continued, “If this is a position that will be superior to the Finance Minister then I should be worried but I am not sure it is. The Finance Ministry has always worked independently of others, just that there is a collaboration, I don’t think there will be another portfolio that will be bigger than the  Finance Minister and that the Finance Minister will submit to that newly created portfolio, I do think so. As long as the Finance Minister is not supplicated to the new portfolio  I don’t have any problem, unless it becomes clear that the Finance Minister will have to work under  the new portfolio, we will have problems.”

    President Akufo-Addo relieved Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta of his portfolio in government, with immediate effect, replacing him with Mohammed Amin Adams.

    The other ministers who have also been removed include Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Works and Housing Minister Francis Asenso Boakye, Kwaku Agyemang Manu, Health, Kwasi Anoako Attah, Roads and Highways, Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Hon. Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, Gender, Children and Social Protection Hon. Lariba Abudu, Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Devt Hon. Dan Botwe, Sanitation and Water Resources Hon. Freda Prempeh, Tourism, Arts and Culture Ibrahim Mohammed Awal, Greater Accra Region Hon. Henry Quartey, Oti Region Mr. Joseph Makubu.

  • VIDEO: GFA’s Kurt Okraku arrives at Raphael Dwamena’s funeral

    VIDEO: GFA’s Kurt Okraku arrives at Raphael Dwamena’s funeral

    Today, the final funeral rites for the late Ghanaian footballer, Raphael Dwamena, took place at the Adjiriganor AstroTurf.

    People from Ghana’s football community and beyond gathered to pay their last respects to the former Black Stars player, standing alongside Dwamena’s grieving family.

    Among the attendees were Kurt Okraku, President of the Ghana Football Association, and several other association executives. The solemn occasion was a time for reflection and remembrance of Dwamena’s life and contributions to Ghanaian football.

    During the ceremony, Raphael’s widow delivered a touching tribute, describing him as her confidant and light. She expressed comfort in the cherished memories they shared.

    “Rapha, your name still echoes in my heart with warmth and melody. Reflecting on our shared years of bliss, I find solace in precious memories of the laughter, wisdom and the love that defined us. You were more than a husband. You were my confidante, guide and the source of irreplaceable love,” she said.

    In a separate development, Raphael’s sister, Yvonne Dwamena, announced a second funeral date on Onua TV during an interview with Captain Smart. She explained that the family would hold a separate funeral service on Saturday, distinct from the one organized by the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

    This decision arose from a dispute between the wife and the deceased’s family over the provision of a shroud for the corpse. The family objected to the wife and her family’s involvement in providing the shroud, leading to the decision to hold a separate funeral service.

  • VIDEO: Widow’s tribute to late husband, Raphael Dwamema

    VIDEO: Widow’s tribute to late husband, Raphael Dwamema

    The final funeral rites for former Ghanaian international Raphael Dwamena were held today at the Adjiriganor AstroTurf.

    People from the football fraternity in Ghana and beyond gathered at the venue to bid farewell to the former Black Stars forward alongside Dwamena’s family.

    During the ceremony, Raphael’s widow delivered a touching tribute, describing him as her confidant and light. She expressed comfort in the cherished memories they shared.

    “Rapha, your name still echoes in my heart with warmth and melody. Reflecting on our shared years of bliss, I find solace in precious memories of the laughter, wisdom and the love that defined us. You were more than a husband. You were my confidante, guide and the source of irreplaceable love,” she said.

    In a separate development, Raphael’s sister, Yvonne Dwamena, announced a second funeral date on Onua TV during an interview with Captain Smart. She explained that the family would hold a separate funeral service on Saturday, distinct from the one organized by the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

    This decision arose from a dispute between the wife and the deceased’s family over the provision of a shroud for the corpse. The family objected to the wife and her family’s involvement in providing the shroud, leading to the decision to hold a separate funeral service.

  • You have our full support – IMF tells Finance Minister designate Amin Adam

    You have our full support – IMF tells Finance Minister designate Amin Adam

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has congratulated Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam on his appointment as Finance Minister.

    In a congratulatory message, Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the IMF, urged Dr. Adam to spearhead efforts to restore stability to Ghana’s economy.

    Georgieva also assured him of the Fund’s unwavering commitment to fostering constructive engagement and providing support.

    “Your leadership will be essential in sustaining Ghana’s reform effort and in further extending the current momentum of compelling program performance and gradual economic stabilization. I would like to assure you of the International Monetary Fund’s continued commitment to support you in these endeavors,” the note read in part.

    Dr. Adam assumed the position on Wednesday, February 14, succeeding Ken Ofori-Atta as the head of the Ministry of Finance.

  • ‘Africa Games 2024’ saved Mustapha Ussif’s job as Sports Minister – Report

    ‘Africa Games 2024’ saved Mustapha Ussif’s job as Sports Minister – Report

    Reports from inside Jubilee House suggest that one minister who narrowly escaped the 14th February reshuffle was the Minister of Sports, Mustapha Ussif.

    Close advisors of President Nana Akufo-Addo suggested that the embattled Minister and the Ministry be allowed to focus fully on the 13th African Games, which Ghana is hosting, showcasing the country’s commitment to hosting a world-class tournament with all preparations completed.

    President Akufo-Addo agreed, especially since a week ahead of the reshuffle, he had officially commissioned the Borteyman Sports Complex, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s preparations for the games.

    During the commissioning, the Sports Minister appeared jittery and somber around the President, leading to suggestions that he should be sacked after the abysmal performance of the Black Stars at the just-ended African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    The Minister supervised the spending of more than US$3 million on the Stars’ doomed campaign that lasted less than two weeks, with local camping in Kumasi and flights to Ivory Coast borne by CAF.

    The Yagaba Kubore lawmaker was seen following the President around without focus during the commissioning of the Borteyman Sports Complex, which has state-of-the-art facilities and will host seven competitive sports: table tennis, handball, tennis, volleyball, swimming, badminton, and the triathlon.

    Notably, four of these disciplines – table tennis, tennis, triathlon, and badminton – will serve as qualifiers for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, adding an extra layer of excitement and importance to the event.

    The complex boasts a 1,000-seater capacity aquatic center featuring a 10-lane competition swimming pool alongside a 10-lane warm-up pool, as well as a 1,000-seater multi-purpose sports hall ready to host a myriad of events.

    Additionally, a temporary dome accommodating 500 spectators adds further flexibility to the venue. Tennis enthusiasts will be thrilled by the five-court complex, which includes a prestigious 1,000-seater Centre Court.

    Moreover, the Borteyman Sports Complex features a six-lane warm-up athletics track and a FIFA-standard football training field, ensuring athletes have access to top-notch training and competition venues.

  • Media blackout against Hawa Koomson revoked – GJA announces

    Media blackout against Hawa Koomson revoked – GJA announces

    The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), in consultation with its media partners, has lifted the media blackout imposed on Member of Parliament (MP) for Awutu-Senya East, Mavis Hawa Koomson.

    The decision was made after a meeting on Thursday, February 15, 2024, to review the situation.

    The blackout was initially imposed in response to the assault of a Cape FM morning show host by individuals allegedly linked to the MP.

    However, after Ms. Koomson engaged with the GJA and promised to address the issue, the blackout was lifted. The GJA has urged journalists and media houses to comply accordingly.

    She was accompanied by the Minister-designate for Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, for the meeting, which was attended by the President of the Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG), Edwin Arthur, the Executive Secretary of the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), Gloria Hiadzi, and the Programme Manager for Freedom of Expression at the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), Muheeb Saeed.

    Also present were the Dean of the Parliamentary Press Corps, Simon Agianab, the President of the New Media Association, Eugene Nkansah; the Executive Secretary of PRINPAG, Jeorge Wilson Kingson, and Gabriel Asante Bosompem, who is one of two GJA representatives on the National Media Commission (NMC).

    The Association stated that after extensive deliberations, Ms. Koomson expressed her commitment to providing the necessary support to ensure justice for David Kobenna.

    Ms. Abubakar added that the Awutu-Senya East MP was willing to collaborate with the GJA to resolve the issue and that the Ministry of Information would also support in this regard.

    “On behalf of the media partners, the GJA President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, commended the Fisheries Minister for taking such positive steps to help find a solution to the problem and expressed the hope that she would live by her pledge,” it added.

    Meanwhile, the GJA and its media partners have urged all media houses to continue enforcing the blackout imposed on the MP for Yendi, Farouk Aliu Mahama.

    This decision was made in response to allegations that Mr. Mahama assaulted Mohammed Aminu M. Alabira, the Northern Regional correspondent of Citi FM/TV, during the NPP parliamentary primaries on January 27, 2024.

  • VIDEO: Raphael Dwamena’s wife arrives at funeral grounds in tears

    VIDEO: Raphael Dwamena’s wife arrives at funeral grounds in tears

    The somber procession of late Ghanaian footballer Raphael Dwamena‘s mortal remains arrived at the Adjiringanor Astro-Turf in a black hearse, setting the stage for a heartfelt farewell.

    As his body was laid in state, friends, family, and fans filed past, paying their respects to the talented athlete whose life was tragically cut short.

    Amidst the mourners, Raphael Dwamena’s wife arrived at the funeral grounds, her eyes filled with tears as she was comforted by loved ones. Her profound grief mirrored the deep sense of loss felt by all who knew the footballer.

    Raphael Dwamena’s untimely passing occurred after he suffered a heart seizure on the pitch during a game, leaving the football community devastated. Despite his short time at Egnatia Rrogozhine, where he joined in January 2023, he had already made a significant impact, scoring goals and providing assists, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport.

    His achievements on the field, especially during the 2023/2024 season, highlighted his skills and passion for football.

    His legacy will endure, remembered not only for his sporting prowess but also for the joy and inspiration he brought to fans worldwide.

  • Suspected robbers stab man to death at Ashaiman

    Suspected robbers stab man to death at Ashaiman

    In the early hours of Thursday, February 15, 2024, a yet-to-be-identified man was fatally stabbed by suspected armed robbers in Ashaiman, Greater Accra Region.

    His lifeless body, bearing stab wounds and blood-soaked clothes, was discovered near the Goodness filling station at Ashaiman Main Trotro Station around 4:30 am.

    According to eyewitnesses, the victim, who was carrying a bag containing money and a phone, was approached by the criminals who demanded his belongings.

    Despite resistance, he was overpowered, leading to a struggle during which he was stabbed in the stomach.

    The incident has sparked fear among residents, particularly due to its resemblance to a previous event in the area. Last year, on March 4, 2023, Private Imoro Sherrif, a soldier, was killed in Ashaiman Zongo Laka, leading to a retaliatory invasion by soldiers on March 7, 2023.

    The police in Ashaiman, when contacted, declined to provide further information on the case, according to Graphic Online.

  • Watch Raphael Dwamena’s wife bid him a tearful goodbye

    Watch Raphael Dwamena’s wife bid him a tearful goodbye

    The late Ghanaian footballer Raphael Dwamena was honored with a solemn arrival at the Adjiringanor Astro-Turf, as his mortal remains were transported in a black hearse.

    His body rested in state, allowing loved ones and fans to pay their respects.

    Heart-wrenching scenes unfolded as Raphael Dwamena’s wife, overcome with emotion, tearfully watched his body for one last time.

    The Ghanaian striker tragically passed away after suffering a heart seizure on the pitch during Egnatia Rrogozhine’s game against Partizani Tirana on November 11, 2023.

    Raphael Dwamena was experiencing his best season in football since 2017/2018, showcasing his talent with 12 goals and one assist in 12 games of the 2023/2024 season before his untimely passing.

    His impact extended beyond statistics; he was a cherished member of the Egnatia team, having joined in January 2023 on an initial one-and-a-half-year deal and making a significant mark with 12 goals and 9 assists in 24 games in his first six months at the club.

  • Black Queens to receive unpaid bonuses before Zambia qualifier 

    Black Queens to receive unpaid bonuses before Zambia qualifier 

    Gifty Oware-Mensah, Chairperson of the Black Queens Management Committee, has assured players that they will receive their due bonuses before their upcoming game against Zambia this month.

    Ghana is set to face Zambia in the third round of qualifiers for the 2024 Olympic Games in a two-legged match, with the first meeting scheduled for February 23.

    The Black Queens are striving to qualify for the Olympics for the first time, following their return to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

    Despite their achievements, the players are yet to receive their promised bonuses from the qualifiers, with each player reportedly owed between $7,500 and $10,000.

    Oware-Mensah, who is also a GFA Executive Council member, revealed in an exclusive interview with Joy Sports that discussions have been held among the stakeholders to ensure the players are paid before the game.

    “For some time now, they [the Black Queens] have been getting their due. The difference is that we are owing Black Queens and Black Princesses and we have already spoken to them,” she said.

    “Myself, the President of GFA, Kurt Okraku, the Minister [Mustapha Ussif] and the Ministry of Youth and Sports have spoken and they have made promises to us that we are going to get these monies for these girls before we go into our next match.

    “We are very hopeful and we believe what the Ministry has said.”

    Since Nora Hauptle took over as head coach of the Black Queens in 2023, the team has won all but one of their games.

  • Ameyaw-Cheremeh takes Speaker’s chair during Friday’s proceedings

    Ameyaw-Cheremeh takes Speaker’s chair during Friday’s proceedings

    Kwasi Ameyaw-Cheremeh, the Member of Parliament for Sunyani East, has been nominated as the Presiding Speaker for Friday’s parliamentary proceedings.

    This nomination arose due to the absence of the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, and his two Deputies, Joseph Osei Owusu and Andrew Asiamah Amoako.

    The nomination of Kwasi Ameyaw-Cheremeh as the Presiding Speaker was conducted by the Clerk of Parliament in accordance with the new standing orders.

    The proposal was made by the Majority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, and seconded by the Minority Chief Whip, Governs Agbodza.

  • Kumasi: Akufo Addo ‘kills’ mother; gets caught on radio

    Kumasi: Akufo Addo ‘kills’ mother; gets caught on radio

    A young boy named Akufo Addo has been caught on live radio fabricating the death of his mother just to rip money off strangers and sympathisers.

    The Nhyira FM radio presenter asked if he had any living relatives, and in response, he said, “My mother, while alive, did not show me any of my relatives. I am alone in this world.”

    According to the presenter, Akufo Addo informed him that he met his mother lying on the ground, dead. He said the police arrived at his home and carried her corpse away.

    Unbeknownst to Akufo Addo, the staff of the radio station had gotten in touch with Nana Addo’s mother, Ma Adwoa.

    Later, Ma Adwoa phoned in and refused reports about her death made up by her son.

    “It is not true. Akufo-Addo is a bad boy. You are such a bad boy. You tell people that I am dead,” she said.

    Akufo Addo was asked if he recognised the voice and he said “that is my mother.”

  • VIDEO: Alan Kyerematen visits Bantama Market

    VIDEO: Alan Kyerematen visits Bantama Market

    John Alan Kyerematen, leader of the Movement for Change, surprised traders at the Bantama market in Kumasi with an unannounced visit.

    The atmosphere was electric, with excitement spreading through the busy market stalls as the former Trade Minister greeted everyone with a warm smile and a firm handshake.

    Each interaction seemed to strengthen the connection between Kyerematen and the traders. They eagerly shared their stories and concerns, expressing hope for a brighter future and a desire for change.

    Chants of his name filled the market, echoing the traders’ enthusiasm and optimism.

    “It was humbling to see such overwhelming support from the heart of Kumasi, my birthplace. As I walked through the maze of stalls, I listened intently to the voices of the people, their hopes and dreams becoming the fuel for my determination.”

    “Together, we envisioned a brighter tomorrow, where every trader had the opportunity to thrive and prosper. Leaving Bantama market, I carried with me the spirit of unity and determination that filled its bustling corridors.

    “With the support of these hardworking individuals, I knew that together, we could build a nation where every voice would be heard and every dream would be within reach,” the former Trade Minister wrote on X.

  • Watch white woman in Germany speak fluent Twi, ‘mep3 fufuo ne abenkwan paa’ she says

    Watch white woman in Germany speak fluent Twi, ‘mep3 fufuo ne abenkwan paa’ she says

    A video of a German woman impressively speaking Twi has surfaced on social media, showcasing her remarkable linguistic skills.

    The woman, whose identity remains unknown, was captured in the video confidently conversing in fluent Twi, a language widely spoken in Ghana, with a Ghanaian lady, Mame Sika.

    In the video, the Ghanaian inquired about her journey to Ghana, and the German lady revealed that she has been to the Ashanti Region of Ghana, specifically Asuabua Kwadaso in Kumasi.

    The German lady then revealed that she enjoys beans and plantains, known in the local parlance as “Gobe”, as well as fufu, and palm nut soup.

    “Wow, I am proud. You speak good Twi,” Maame Sika remarked. She then encouraged Ghanaians to take pride in learning their indigenous languages.

    @mamesika10 🤣🤣🤣#fyp ♬ original sound – Mame sika

    Recently, X users were shell-shocked over a video capturing an Asian man working as a driver’s conductor, in the local parlance known as ‘trotro mate’.

    He was working on transporting commuters to Bantama and Kejetia in Kumasi.

  • 87% of cocoa road contracts since 2020 were awarded through a non-competitive process – Auditor-General

    87% of cocoa road contracts since 2020 were awarded through a non-competitive process – Auditor-General

    The Auditor-General has disclosed that a significant portion, 87%, of road contracts within the Cocoa Road Improvement Programme (CRIP II) between 2015 and 2021 were awarded through “non-competitive routes.”

    This approach led to higher construction costs compared to contracts awarded through competitive tendering, as outlined in the June 2023 Performance Audit Report on Cocoa Road Construction during the specified period.

    During CRIP II, the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) awarded a total of 266 road contracts, covering a combined length of 4,100km for rehabilitation, upgrading, and construction in cocoa-growing areas. Among these contracts, only 33 underwent competitive bidding, while 175 were awarded through single-source procurement, and 58 through restricted tendering, indicating a significant reliance on non-competitive procurement methods.

    The report highlighted that the reasons provided by COCOBOD for utilizing these procurement methods did not align with the requirements of the Public Procurement Act. Additionally, it noted that while some positive outcomes were achieved with completed cocoa roads, there were areas requiring improvement to ensure the Programme’s sustainability.

    One key issue identified was the lack of prioritization of road projects under CRIP II to match the available funding. Although COCOBOD sought input from subsidiaries and the Department of Feeder Roads to identify critical roads, proper prioritization processes were not evident. As a result, more road projects were implemented than the budget for CRIP could support.

    Furthermore, the estimates used by COCOBOD for cocoa road projects were deemed inadequate for implementation, being based on line diagrams rather than detailed designs. This led to significant variances between estimated costs and contract sums, ranging from 4.68% to 99.7%.

    Inspections revealed defects in completed roads, such as potholes, disintegrating surfaces, and cracks in concrete drains. Consultants failed to visit project sites regularly and issued only a few defect notices to contractors without adequate follow-up for rectification, as noted in the report.

    “The consultants cited non- payment of fees by COCOBOD as the reason for their inadequate supervision,” it said.

    The delays in road works under CRIP I and CRIP II were attributed to COCOBOD’s failure to make timely payments to contractors, according to the audit report. Additionally, the Board did not have alternative funding plans to address payment gaps, nor did it ensure contractors worked diligently to meet project deadlines.

    To address these issues, the report recommended that COCOBOD develop and implement a detailed plan and strategy to prioritize road projects based on factors such as budget, road conditions, and cocoa production areas. It also suggested that the General Services Department of the Board consult with the Ghana Highway Authority and the Department of Feeder Roads to make appropriate adjustments to estimates when budgeting for the program to ensure adequate resource allocation.

    Furthermore, the report recommended that COCOBOD seek expert advice to analyze procurement options and ensure better value for money. It also advised prioritizing supervision of road works and providing necessary resources to consultants for active supervision and rectification of defective works.

    “COCOBOD should suspend awarding new contracts until all existing contracts are completed and paid for,” it added.

    To address the challenge of poor road conditions in cocoa-growing areas, the Government initiated the Cocoa Road Improvement Programme (CRIP) in 2015.

    This collaborative effort involved the Ministry of Roads and Highways, with COCOBOD serving as the implementing agency and financier. The primary goal of the program is to enhance 2,900km of roads to facilitate the efficient and rapid transportation of cocoa beans from farms to purchasing centers and seaports.

    This initiative aims to minimize post-harvest losses in the cocoa sector.

  • Bawumia’s brother unlawfully awarded GHC83.7M cocoa road contract – Ablakwa

    Bawumia’s brother unlawfully awarded GHC83.7M cocoa road contract – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has provided documents that he believes implicate Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the violation of Ghana’s procurement laws.

    According to Mr Ablakwa, recent reports by Auditor-General, Mr. Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu, brought to Parliament shockingly reveal how a frightening 87% of cocoa road contracts since 2020 were awarded through a non-competitive process, and how there was no value for money with some of the contracts awarded at three-times the actual cost.

    “The Auditor-General depressingly discovers that under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration, COCOBOD non-competitively awarded 266 contracts valued at a staggering GHS13 billion which was 9.9 times more than the GHS1.3billion it budgeted for,” he wrote in a Facebook post.

    According to him, one of the beneficiary companies is Resources Access Limited, owned by Abraham Bawumia (Bawumia’s brother) and Aneta Kaminska Bawumia who have familial ties with Vice President Bawumia.

    Public Procurement Authority (PPA) documents he shared on the X platform reveal that on July 2, 2020, Resources Access Limited was handed two lucrative single-sourced cocoa road contracts valued at a fantastic GHS83.7 million.

    The details of the two contracts are as follows: 1. Contract for upgrading of Effutu – Abrem Agona and Effutu – Sorodofo Feeder Road (21.39km – Central Region) awarded at GHS 54,262,878.84

    2. Contract for upgrading of Kyiboso Hasowodze Bungalow, Feeder Road (14.50km – Central Region) awarded at GHS29,468,546.54.

    For Mr Ablakwa, it is hypocritical on the part of Dr Bawumia to attack former President John Mahama when he is directly benefiting from “loot and share schemes.”

    “Who could ever have predicted that after Vice President Bawumia launched his scathing and vicious attacks on President John Mahama, the Bawumia family would one day be caught neck-deep directly benefiting from multiple over-priced, single-sourced, “create, loot and share schemes?” he quizzed.

    On 23rd August, 2016, then NPP Presidential Candidate, Nana Akufo-Addo put out a tweet declaring that: “the era of sole sourcing will come to an end.” Later, Dr. Bawumia followed on September 8, 2016, stating emphatically: “overpricing of contracts through the use of sole sourcing is very typical of this John Mahama NDC government.”

    He assured that Parliament is going to soon have an “explosive session” deliberating on the Auditor-General’s report.

  • Putin supports second term for Biden

    Putin supports second term for Biden

    Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed a preference for a Joe Biden presidency over Donald Trump ahead of the US election in November.

    Putin stated that Biden is the more experienced and predictable candidate, remarks that are likely to surprise many. This is a shift from Putin’s previous praise of Trump before his 2016 election campaign.

    Biden has been a vocal critic of Putin for years, even referring to him as a “killer” before the invasion of Ukraine. Putin also commented on his recent interview with US journalist Tucker Carlson, expressing disappointment that the questions were not sharp enough.

    Speaking to Russian TV in an on-camera interview on Wednesday, Mr Putin said Mr Biden’s leadership would be better for Russia because he was a “more experienced person, he is predictable, he is a politician of the old formation”.

    Putin dismissed questions about Joe Biden’s age and mental health, stating that when they last met in 2021, he had not noticed anything peculiar.

    “Even then [three years ago] people were saying that he was incompetent, but I did not see anything of this sort,” he said.

    “Yes, he kept looking at his papers, but to be honest I kept doing the same. So there was nothing peculiar.”

    Mr Putin clarified that Russia would work with anyone who “gains the trust of the American public” and wins the presidency.

    It wasn’t all glowing feedback for Mr Biden, however: Mr Putin described the US president’s condemnation of the war in Ukraine as “extremely harmful and erroneous”.

    In the lead-up to the 2016 US election, Mr Trump had suggested he and Mr Putin would “get along very well”.

    Mr Trump recently sparked outrage when he suggested that he would “encourage” Russia to attack any NATO member that did not meet the alliance’s financial contribution target of 2% of their GDP.

    In response, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg urged Mr Trump not to “undermine” the alliance’s collective security guarantee.

  • Japan’s economy falls into a recession

    Japan’s economy falls into a recession

    Japan unexpectedly entered a recession as its economy contracted for two consecutive quarters.

    The country’s gross domestic product (GDP) shrank by 0.4% in the last three months of 2023, following a 3.3% contraction in the previous quarter.

    This decline caused Japan to lose its position as the world’s third-largest economy to Germany. Economists had anticipated a GDP growth of over 1% for the fourth quarter of the year.

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) had forecasted Germany’s likely overtaking of Japan as the world’s third-largest economy, based on US dollar measurements.

    However, Japan’s economy could regain its position if the yen strengthens against the dollar. The yen’s weakness has benefited Japanese exporters by making their products cheaper in international markets.

    Despite the economic downturn, Tokyo’s main stock index, the Nikkei 225, reached its highest level since 1990.

    The Bank of Japan may postpone raising interest rates further due to the recession, as negative rates have helped boost spending and investment in the past.

  • WHO utilizes Africa’s booming mobile money sector

    WHO utilizes Africa’s booming mobile money sector

    Since 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has successfully automated payments for over two million African health professionals, transitioning from cash payments to mobile money.

    The WHO Digital Finance Team has implemented digital payment systems in 24 African countries, including Benin, Botswana, Madagascar, Rwanda, Togo, and Zimbabwe.

    This move aligns with WHO’s participation in the Better Than Cash Alliance, a UN alliance aimed at enhancing payment digitisation and advancing financial inclusion.

    “With these inspiring results, WHO is clearly taking a leadership role in accelerating the digital transformation in the provision of health outcomes globally,” said Tidhar Wald, managing director of the Better Than Cash Alliance.

    According to the WHO’s Digital Finance Team, more than 80% of workers surveyed in several countries prefer digital payments. Studies funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation have shown that timely compensation improves morale and staff retention.

    Maria May, senior program officer for Inclusive Financial Systems at the Gates Foundation, stated that over the last four years, WHO has leveraged the increasing presence of mobile money in Africa to ensure that frontline healthcare workers are paid quickly and securely.

  • GAF’s A-29 Super Tucano static and flight demonstration begins on Feb. 19

    GAF’s A-29 Super Tucano static and flight demonstration begins on Feb. 19

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has announced the new date for the much-awaited A-29 Super Tucano static and flight demonstration.

    The new dates for the 2-day display are Monday, February 19, and Tuesday, February 20, 2024. The demonstration will take place at Air Force Base Accra.

    This event is open to all. However, do note that security protocols will be strictly observed.

  • Korle-Bu Renal Unit shutdown imminent as management struggles to pay GHC2m debt

    Korle-Bu Renal Unit shutdown imminent as management struggles to pay GHC2m debt

    The renal dialysis unit at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) is at risk of shutdown due to its inability to raise funds for purchasing consumables needed for service delivery.

    Prof. Vincent Boiman, the Head of the Unit, revealed that the unit incurs a loss of GH₵380 with every dialysis session, leading to accumulating debt.

    This situation is now impacting service delivery and could potentially result in the unit’s closure.

    Speaking to JoyNews, he said, “Each time, we dialyse one person at GH₵380, we lose another GH₵380 because the actual cost is more than double what the patients are paying now. We are actually incurring costs which is not being paid for.”

    “In terms of improving their quality of life, in terms of prolonging their treatment in the long term or giving them a chance of surviving for a long time and good treatment satisfaction. Probably, we may not be able to provide all these things because we are not charging at the rate that will help us to buy the consumables needed.

    “For instance, what if this unit closes in the next one or two months because we are running out of consumables and we are dialysing at the rate that we can’t buy enough?.”

    On February 9, Dr. Owusu Sekyere, the Director of Medical Affairs at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH), announced that the facility had accumulated an additional debt of GH₵2 million for treating kidney patients.

  • 11 months after Imoro Sherrif, another soldier killed in Ashaiman

    11 months after Imoro Sherrif, another soldier killed in Ashaiman

    Another military officer is said to have been killed near the Ashaiman Kuffour Station.

    The incident, which occurred on Thursday, February 15, 2024, has caused apprehension in the community as details of the brutal attack continue to emerge.

    Initial reports suggest that the officer was robbed and killed while trying to withdraw money from an ATM in the early hours of the morning. Rumors in the town indicate that the officer’s pregnant wife was hospitalized, requiring urgent financial support for her treatment.

    It is believed that the officer, seeking funds for his wife’s medical expenses, went to a nearby ATM belonging to his bank, where he was ambushed and attacked by unknown assailants, leading to his death.

    Despite the incident happening recently, information about it has only started to spread in the town, causing widespread fear among residents.

    The possibility of military intervention in response to the murder has further heightened tensions, leaving many residents anxious about potential further violence.

    This reported unfortunate incident follows approximately 11 months ago, reports emerged of soldiers allegedly conducting a violent operation in Ashaiman, a suburb of Accra, since midnight.

    This incident occurred shortly after their colleague, Imoro Sherrif, was stabbed to death by unknown assailants in the area in March 2023.

    Videos circulating on social media showed a young man screaming amidst sounds of flogging, while a neighbor quietly filmed from a nearby window.

    On March 9, 2023, the funeral service for soldier Imoro Sherrif, who was allegedly stabbed to death in Taifa, a suburb of Ashaiman, took place. It was a poignant morning as military officers, unable to conceal their emotions, gave their 21-year-old colleague his final journey.

    The body was prepared for burial at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra, where Islamic rituals were performed before the National Chief Imam, Sheik Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, prayed for his soul.

    Meanwhile, information reaching our news desk indicates that Ernest Henry Norgbey, the Member of Parliament for Ashaiman, is en route to the constituency to curb any tension.

    Additionally, the Deputy Minister of Defense plans to visit Michel Camp to meet with commanders and discuss the situation.

    Imams in Ashaiman have advised male residents to stay indoors or seek refuge.

  • MP heads to Ashaiman after murder of military officer to halt retaliation – Report

    MP heads to Ashaiman after murder of military officer to halt retaliation – Report

    Information reaching our news desk indicates that Ernest Henry Norgbey, the Member of Parliament for Ashaiman, is en route to the constituency following the murder of a military officer near the Ashaiman Kuffour Station on Thursday, February 15, 2024.

    Additionally, the Deputy Minister of Defense plans to visit Michel Camp to meet with commanders and discuss the situation.

    Imams in Ashaiman have advised male residents to stay indoors or seek refuge, indicating a heightened sense of caution in the area. There is a possibility that stores will close within the next few hours, reflecting the community’s apprehension.

    https://twitter.com/GhanaCrimes/status/1758412250698658005?s=20

    The murder of a military officer has plunged the community into shock and fear.

    Initial reports suggest that the officer was robbed and killed while trying to withdraw money from an ATM in the early hours of the morning.

    Rumors in the town indicate that the officer’s pregnant wife was hospitalized, requiring urgent financial support for her treatment.

    Approximately 11 months ago, reports emerged of soldiers allegedly conducting a violent operation in Ashaiman, a suburb of Accra, since midnight.

    This incident occurred shortly after their colleague, Imoro Sherrif, was stabbed to death by unknown assailants in the area in March 2023.

    Videos circulating on social media showed a young man screaming amidst sounds of flogging, while a neighbor quietly filmed from a nearby window.

  • Bawumia to reveal 2024 campaign team to NPP’s NEC on Feb. 19

    Bawumia to reveal 2024 campaign team to NPP’s NEC on Feb. 19

    The presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and current Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is set to present his campaign team list to the National Executive Committee (NEC) on Monday, 19 February 2024, for consideration and approval.

    Sources from Asaase News indicate that Dr. Bawumia has been conducting extensive consultations within the party’s rank and file for the composition of his campaign team.

    “The list to be presented to NEC during its scheduled meeting on Monday will reflect the philosophy, strategy, and focus of the NPP’s 2024 campaign,” one source at the party headquarters in Asylum Down said.

    Following the presentation of the list to the NEC, “Team Bawumia” is expected to be announced, with a mix of political heavyweights and dynamic individuals. This comes after President Akufo-Addo announced a significant reshuffle, reducing the average age of his government to 47.

    Key personalities expected to be named in Dr. Bawumia’s campaign team include Dan Botwe, Justin Frimpong Kodua, Frederick Opare-Ansah, Kwabena Agyepong, Nana Akomea, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, Anthony Karbo, and Krobea Asante. The team is expected to blend experience with youth, reflecting the challenges ahead and the dynamism required for the campaign.

  • GES working to kill some languages – Sam George bemoans shortage of Ga Dangbe teachers

    GES working to kill some languages – Sam George bemoans shortage of Ga Dangbe teachers

    The Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam Nartey George, expressed concerns about the shortage of Ga Dangbe language teachers in his constituency.

    Sam George highlighted the impact of technological advancements and the influence of certain religions on eroding cultural values, leading to a decrease in support for indigenous languages, particularly Dangbe.

    “Today, with the advent of technology and Judeo-Christo religions, many of the things that we refer to as our culture have been termed demonic practices,” he lamented.

    “And so we’re actually walking away from our culture, and Mr. Speaker, as a Dangbe boy from the Ga-Dangbe ethnic group, I am very worried.”

    During his address to the House, the MP highlighted the significant disparity in the availability of language teachers between Akan and Dangbe.

    He revealed that in 2017, there were 37 Akan language teachers in the Ningo-Prampram district, compared to only two Dangbe teachers. Despite efforts to address the shortage by sponsoring students to obtain degrees in Dangbe, the problem persists.

    “What did not solve the problem was the Ghana Education Service (GES) posting these Dangbe teachers to the north or to the Ashanti Region to teach social studies and Bible knowledge when they studied Dangbe,” he pointed out.

    The presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and current Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is set to present his campaign team list to the National Executive Committee (NEC) on Monday, 19 February 2024, for consideration and approval.

    Sources from Asaase News indicate that Dr. Bawumia has been conducting extensive consultations within the party’s rank and file for the composition of his campaign team.

    “Recently, the Ga Dangbe took a stance and said they thought that the Ghana Education Service was intentionally working to kill some languages,” he revealed.

    “Because if we have trained teachers in our local languages, and there’s a shortage of teachers in the region, why post them away to teach a different language? It makes absolutely no sense.”

  • Atlantic Lithium to channel 1% of mining revenue to develop Mfantseman communities

    Atlantic Lithium to channel 1% of mining revenue to develop Mfantseman communities

    Atlantic Lithium, an exploration and development company, has committed to allocating one percent of its mining revenue to support the development of the communities in Mfantseman.

    Mr. Aaron Monver, the Head of Operations at Atlantic Lithium, emphasized the company’s dedication to the well-being of its working environment, highlighting the importance of assisting local communities in improving their livelihoods.

    To achieve this goal, the company plans to establish a community development fund to finance development projects in the area.

    Mr. Monver made these remarks in the ‘scoping report and draft terms of the reference’ for the proposed Ewoyaa lithium mining and processing project by Barari DV Ghana Limited in Ewoyaa, Central Region.

    The meeting, facilitated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), aimed to allow Atlantic Lithium to engage with the communities on lithium mining as part of the environmental process to obtain operational permits. It also sought to gather views, feedback, and recommendations from the local communities on the proposed project to build consensus.

    Mr. Monver encouraged the communities to embrace the new opportunities created by the project, emphasizing Ghana’s commitment to local participation and content.

    Atlantic Lithium, he stated, is committed to responsible mining practices that benefit local communities and the country as a whole. He called on stakeholders to work together to support the project in achieving its objectives.

    The demand for lithium is expected to rise significantly with the increasing adoption of electric vehicles to meet global climate change goals.

    Ghana has granted a lithium mining license to Atlantic Lithium Limited, enabling the Sydney-based company to construct a lithium mine at a 42.6-kilometer site in Ewoyaa, Central Region, over a 15-year period. This follows nearly six years of exploration that has identified high-grade lithium deposits in commercial quantities, pending environmental permits from the EPA and Minerals Commission to commence full-scale mining.

  • Photos: Akosombo dam spillage victims – From refugee-like tents to dignity

    Photos: Akosombo dam spillage victims – From refugee-like tents to dignity

    Another set of 300 individuals displaced by the Akosombo Dam spillage have been relocated to a modern accommodation in Mepe as part of the Safe Alternative Housing Initiative.

    In December 2023, approximately 300 individuals were relocated to fully-furnished quarters.

    The spilling of excess water from the Akosombo and Kpong Hydro Dams commenced on September 15 due to rising water levels. Several weeks into the spillage, numerous residents in the Lower Volta Basin suffered the loss of their homes and farmlands due to the resultant floods. A total of nine districts were affected by this event.

    Heartbreaking stories emerged from the South, Central, and North Tongu districts of the Volta Region, where the devastation was particularly severe. Communities such as Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo found themselves submerged under water. According to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NaDMO), over 26,000 people were displaced and left homeless.

    Now, these individuals have a shelter thanks to the leadership of North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

  • 9 months not enough to turn around Ghana’s economy – Seth Terkper to Amin Adam

    9 months not enough to turn around Ghana’s economy – Seth Terkper to Amin Adam

    Former Finance Minister Seth Terkper has expressed skepticism about President Akufo-Addo’s decision to replace Ken Ofori-Atta with Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam as Finance Minister.

    Terkper believes that the timing of the change, coming at a critical juncture when Ghana is under an IMF program, may hinder Dr. Adam’s ability to make a substantial impact on economic policy.

    Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, upon his reassignment, has pledged to prioritize revenue mobilization efforts to strengthen the nation’s finances and achieve its expenditure goals.

    He has also reassured the IMF of the government’s commitment to the ongoing program, promising to adhere to the government’s policies and programs outlined in the 2024 budget.

    Terkper, in an interview with Citi News, noted that the budget and economic policy are ultimately under the President’s authority. Given the limited timeframe until the next general elections, he expressed concerns that Dr. Adam may face challenges in implementing significant policy changes.

    “We are a country where we could not do a turnaround of the economy, and we were preemptive, with everybody blaming it on COVID-19 and the Ukraine war, where some $6 billion flowed into the economy without the ability to turn it around.”

    “This administration is not the only one that has suffered global or domestic setbacks, from droughts or floods to the global financial crisis, and so I think the situation is dire, and so we have to ask ourselves if nine months is enough time to do a turnaround.”

  • Amasaman Court fines mistress GHC1200 for pouring hot soup on lover’s wife

    Amasaman Court fines mistress GHC1200 for pouring hot soup on lover’s wife

    Afia Agyeiwaa, a woman who threw boiling palm nut soup on her boyfriend’s wife, has been ordered by the Amasaman Circuit Court to pay a fine of 100 penalty units (GH₵1,200.00).

    Agyeiwaa admitted to causing harm to Madam Vida Ntiamoah when she was arraigned in November 2023, but her sentencing was deferred until February 15, 2024.

    Agyeiwaa, who was pregnant at the time and is now a two-month-old nursing mother, appealed for leniency from the Court presided over by Madam Enid Marfo-Sau. The court took into consideration her status as a nursing mother and the fact that the complainant, Madam Vida, had indicated that the matter had been resolved amicably at home.

    During the sentencing, it was revealed that the complainant wanted to discontinue the trial, but the Court ruled it was too late and committed to taking that into account in the sentence.

    Police Chief Inspector Frederick Awuah-Ansah informed the Court that Madam Vida, the complainant, is a trader residing in Mayera Dunyo, while Afia Agyeiwaa, the defendant, was unemployed and residing in the same area.

    The prosecution stated that the complainant’s spouse, Kwadwo Dwuma, is a fetish priest with whom Agyeiwaa had a relationship. The complainant and her spouse had previously managed his shrine, but had stopped due to circumstances.

    It was reported that in 2022, the complainant’s husband informed her that if she did not assist him with his work again, he would seek help from someone else, to which the complainant agreed. Later that year, he brought Agyeiwaa into the house where he lived with the complainant, and they all lived in the same compound but in different apartments.

    Since Agyeiwaa entered the house, she had been insulting the complainant, but the complainant had ignored her.

    On September 19, 2023, the complainant was cooking in front of her room when she went to retrieve something from the kitchen. At that moment, Afia Agyeiwaa, who was also cooking behind the kitchen, confronted the complainant after noticing her standing in one of the rooms and watching her through a window.

    Agyeiwaa insulted the complainant, calling her derogatory names such as “stupid woman” and “village woman.” The complainant retorted by saying that if she were a village woman, Agyeiwaa’s mother would also be considered a villager, and then she left.

    When the complainant returned to the kitchen to pick something, Agyeiwaa, in front of the complainant’s husband, took the hot palm nut soup she was preparing from the fire and poured it on the complainant’s back and neck.

    The complainant reported the incident to the police, who issued her a medical report form to seek treatment at the hospital and then report back. Agyeiwaa was subsequently arrested, and after an investigation, she was prosecuted and brought to court.

  • Amin Adam is not capable of handling Ghana’s economy – Jantuah

    Amin Adam is not capable of handling Ghana’s economy – Jantuah

    Former General Secretary for the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Nana Yaa Jantuah, has expressed her belief that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo harbors hatred for Ghana.

    She pointed to the recent ministerial reshuffle as evidence of this sentiment.

    In her view, President Akufo-Addo’s decision to replace Ken Ofori-Atta, a banker, with Mohammed Amin Adam, who she believes lacks financial expertise, indicates a disregard for the proper management of the economy.

    She believes that a more suitable candidate should have been appointed to manage the economy effectively.

    “This clearly shows the president’s hatred for Ghana. How can you remove Ken and bring Adam? We all know Anta has been an energy person all his life, so, what will he come and do at the Finance Ministry?

    “I think that if this is the replacement the president had, then he should have just allowed Ken to occupy his position because, after all, he has learnt from his mistakes,” she said.

  • Wassa Fiase Traditional authorities confirm death of Damanghene, Nana Amoakwa III

    Wassa Fiase Traditional authorities confirm death of Damanghene, Nana Amoakwa III

    The passing of Nana Amoakwa III, the Damanghene from the Damang Division of the Wassa Fiase Traditional area, has been officially announced.

    He passed away on June 5, 2023, at the age of 78. Nana Amoakwa III was installed as the Damanghene in April 2009.

    Before ascending to his chieftaincy position, Nana Amoakwa III had a distinguished career in law enforcement.

    He was one of the pioneer graduates recruited to form the Special Branch, which later became the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), now known as the National Investigations Bureau (NIB). He rose through the ranks to become the Director of the BNI from 2001 to 2005.

    In private life, Nana Amoakwa III was known as Commissioner of Police retired (COP) J. B. Amofa.

    The chiefs and people of Damang and Bosomtwi in the Wassa Fiase Traditional Area have announced that details of the funeral arrangements will be provided later, following the customs and traditions of the people of Wassa Fiase in the Western Region.

  • STU management investigates sex-for-grades scandal involving some lecturers

    STU management investigates sex-for-grades scandal involving some lecturers

    The Sunyani Technical University (STU) has formed a committee to investigate an alleged sex-for-grade scandal following a media report titled ‘Exposed sex hungry lecturers.’

    In a press release, Professor Kwadwo Adinkrah-Appiah, the Vice-Chancellor, stated that the university’s management is taking the allegation very seriously.

    “The attention of the Management of the University had been drawn to the series of media publications by Mr Owusu Agyekum, a former Student Representative Council President of the institution, alleging sex-for-grades scandal against some lecturers of the university,” it said.

    The university management has promptly established a committee to investigate the alleged sex-for-grade scandal. The committee will conduct an inquiry and provide recommendations for necessary action.

    Furthermore, the university has a strict zero-tolerance policy against all forms of sexual harassment or misconduct. The management is committed to upholding this policy and will not tolerate any violations.

    The release also assures stakeholders that any individuals found to be involved in the allegations will face sanctions according to the sexual harassment policy and the disciplinary code of the university.

    The university appeals to all stakeholders to remain calm as the investigation progresses. The outcome of the investigation will be made public, and the recommended actions will be implemented as appropriate.

  • I’ll pursue revenue collection aggressively – Amin Adam

    I’ll pursue revenue collection aggressively – Amin Adam

    Finance Minister-designate Mohammed Amin Adam has affirmed his dedication to vigorously pursue revenue mobilisation.

    He stated that this is aimed at fortifying the country’s finances to meet expenditure goals.

    Dr. Amin Adam stressed his commitment to working closely with revenue mobilization agencies to strengthen the country’s revenue streams.

    In an interview with Citi FM, he underscored the importance of solid financial foundations in tackling the economic challenges faced by citizens and ensuring sustainable development.

    “Revenue collection will be pursued aggressively, So you are going to see me moving around the revenue centres, the ports, the airport and the market areas to encourage the staff of GRA to collect more revenue but also to institute a friendly approach to collecting revenue.”

    “We have heard that people are being harassed, all these are going to be streamlined so that you have a friendly approach and also we will get the GRA to introduce a faceless assessment system to ensure that we maximise revenue collection…and to be able to meet our expenditure target.”

    President Akufo-Addo has nominated Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam as the new Finance Minister, replacing Ken Ofori-Atta, who served in the position for seven years.

    The announcement came as part of the latest ministerial reshuffle released by President Akufo-Addo on Wednesday, February 14.

    Despite facing significant challenges and calls for his dismissal from some members of Ghana’s Parliament, Ken Ofori-Atta served as Ghana’s longest-serving finance minister.

    On October 25, 2022, around 80 NPP MPs demanded Ofori-Atta’s resignation due to the country’s struggling economy. Similar calls were echoed by the NDC parliamentary caucus in February 2023.

    However, President Akufo-Addo rejected these calls for resignation, urging Parliament to wait until discussions with the IMF concluded.

  • Private sector should be given cheaper funds to save dwindling economy – Atuahene

    Private sector should be given cheaper funds to save dwindling economy – Atuahene

    Banking consultant Dr. Richmond Atuahene has called on the government to provide more affordable funds to private sector players to help stimulate the country’s economy.

    He stated that this approach would enhance the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and promote economic stability.

    During an Investment Dialogue on Citi TV, Dr. Atuahene pointed out that the government’s continued borrowing was risky, especially when the private sector was not competitive.

    He told the moderator, Bernard Avle, that following this path would not guarantee the country’s economic recovery and could potentially lead to an increase in the unemployment rate.

    “The governor said recently that credit in the private sector has declined in real terms by 10% because the government is just like a snake, this snake, I don’t know its name, it only swallows, swallows. He is taking money. What does he take the money for?”

    “Let the private sector have cheaper funds to turn the economy. That is when the GDPs or you are talking about the economy, the stability, and everything will come. But you see if the government is borrowing and the private sector cannot compete then we are crowding out the business. And it is a very dangerous thing. There will be no recovery. And if the economy does not recover, unemployment will be very high. There will be no job creation…The reality is that there is so much unemployment and non-job creation in the country at the moment.”

  • Samson Ahi blasts Akufo-Addo for neglecting Western North in ministerial reshuffle

    Samson Ahi blasts Akufo-Addo for neglecting Western North in ministerial reshuffle

    Bodi MP Sampson Ahi has accused President Akufo-Addo of violating constitutional provisions mandating regional balance within the cabinet composition.

    He expressed concern over the absence of representation for the Western North Region in Cabinet following the removal of Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation.

    In a press conference held in Accra on Wednesday, February 14, Mr. Ahi voiced his grievances, stating that this situation has ignited dissatisfaction among traditional leaders and residents of the Western North Region.

    “The Constitution urges the president to consider regional balance when composing his cabinet, so we are unhappy.

    “We thought that, having sacked Dr Kwaku Afriyie from the Western North, he would have appointed another person from the Western North to replace him, but that did not happen.

    “Also, when you go through the list of deputy ministers, we don’t have anyone from the Western North,” he stressed.

    President Akufo-Addo on Wednesday relieved 13 Ministers and 10 deputies of their duties immediately, in a massive government shake-up.

    The ministers affected are Finance Minister Ken Ofori Atta, Interior Minister Ambrose Dery, Health Minister Kwaku Agyemang Manu, Environment, Science, and Technology Minister Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, and Roads and Highways Minister Kwasi Amoako-Atta.

    The rest are Works and Housing Minister Francis Asenso Boakye; Gender, Children, and Social Protection Minister Lariba Abudu; Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Minister Dan Botwe; Sanitation and Water Resources Minister Freda Prempeh; Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Ibrahim Ahmed Awal; Greater Accra Regional Minister Henry Quartey; and Oti Regional Minister Joseph Makubu.

  • Don’t sleep with a man for a job – Nana Aba Anamoah advises unemployed women

    Don’t sleep with a man for a job – Nana Aba Anamoah advises unemployed women

    Media personality Nana Aba Anamoah has advised young women to avoid succumbing to sexual advances from men in exchange for job opportunities or career advancement.

    Speaking on 3Music TV, she emphasized that such compromises not only result in women being taken advantage of or exploited but also undermine their dignity and self-respect.

    “It’s just that some men think that is how they can exhibit power…If you are a young girl and you are caught up in that situation, I’ll say to you, do not have sex with a man,” the broadcast journalist said.

    “One girl told me if ‘I have sex with a man it’s not written on my forehead, nobody will know’. Yes, but it is your dignity. If you want to have sex with a man, have sex with a man but not because there is an opportunity at stake, that is your self-esteem gone,” she added.

    Although Nana Aba Anamoah has never experienced a man giving her such an ultimatum in the workplace, she strongly believes that it is in the best interest of any woman in such a situation to not risk it.

    Additionally, she noted that the blame cannot be placed on the young women in such situations, as many tend to do.

    Addressing the tendency to blame young women for these predicaments, she said “It is not their fault…if you say watch ‘how you carry yourself’ then you are apportioning some blame to the young women. There is an insane man who thinks that ‘this girl, even though she is competent, I must get into her pants before she gets the job.’ So it is not the young woman’s fault,” she said.

    Nana Aba Anamoah believes that it is acceptable for women to engage in consensual sexual relationships, but they should never do so because there is an opportunity at stake.

    “Of course, you will be confronted with so many challenges that at that point you need the job and the money…However I want to tell every young woman that exchanging sex for a job is not the way to go,” she said.

    The Ghana Statistical Service’s Quarterly Labour Statistics for 2022 have laid bare the persistent challenges faced by a significant portion of the population.

    Unemployment and food insecurity plagued at least a quarter of a million individuals throughout the entire year, peaking at 330,000 in the second quarter.

  • Prices of petrol, diesel to surge by over 6% from tomorrow – COPEC

    Prices of petrol, diesel to surge by over 6% from tomorrow – COPEC

    The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has projected an increase in fuel prices starting from tomorrow, February 16, 2024. According to COPEC, the price of petrol may rise by 6.63%, while diesel will increase by 8.18%.

    As a result, petrol is expected to be sold between GH¢12.02 and GH¢13.29 per litre, up from the previous GH¢11.87 per litre. Diesel is projected to be sold between GH¢13.21 and GH¢14.60 per litre, up from GH¢12.85 per litre.

    The projected retail price of Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) is expected to average at GH¢13.24 per kilogramme, within a ±5% margin of error.

    These increases are attributed to the depreciation of the cedi and the rising price of finished petroleum products on the international market.

    “The imminent increases are largely due to increases in price of petrol on the international market by about 1.75% whilst diesel goes up by 6.02% with crude price increasing by 1.39% from the mean price of $81.30/barrel to $82.43/barrel. The forex or dollar exchange rate has also increased by 2.16% from a previous average of GH¢12.01603 to GH¢12.4230 per $1”.

    In addition to the international price changes, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has increased local taxes on petrol and diesel. The UPPF, Primary Distribution Margin (PDM), and BOST margin have been increased by 20 pesewas on a litre of petrol and diesel.

    COPEC maintained that the government should desist from the practice of increasing taxes and margins on all petroleum products as it is currently doing, adding, “this practice of sneaking in tax increases on the price build up only further increases the economic pressure on Ghanaians”.

  • You are prepared and competent to be Finance Minister – Gabby to Amin Adam

    You are prepared and competent to be Finance Minister – Gabby to Amin Adam

    Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, the senior partner and co-founder of Africa Legal Associates (ALA), has commended President Akufo-Addo’s decision to appoint Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam as the replacement for Ken Ofori-Atta.

    Otchere-Darko praised Dr. Amin Adam as both humble and competent, making him a suitable successor to his former boss.

    In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mr. Otchere-Darko emphasized that President Akufo-Addo’s choice could not have been better for the Finance Ministry.

    “Congratulations to Amin Adam. Ghana’s President couldn’t have found a more prepared, competent, humble and conscious, personable replacement to take control of the country’s finances than you. Reactions from the public suggest strong approval.”

    President Akufo-Addo has nominated Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam as the new Finance Minister, replacing Ken Ofori-Atta, who served in the position for seven years. The announcement was part of the latest ministerial reshuffle released by President Akufo-Addo on Wednesday, February 14.

    Despite facing significant challenges and calls for his dismissal from some members of Ghana’s Parliament, Ken Ofori-Atta served as Ghana’s longest-serving finance minister.

    On October 25, 2022, around 80 NPP MPs demanded Ofori-Atta’s resignation due to the country’s struggling economy. Similar calls were echoed by the NDC parliamentary caucus in February 2023.

    However, President Akufo-Addo rejected these calls for resignation, urging Parliament to wait until discussions with the IMF concluded.

  • 70 students receive scholarships worth GHC5.5m from Pecan Energies

    70 students receive scholarships worth GHC5.5m from Pecan Energies

    Pecan Energies has announced the awarding of full scholarships worth GH¢5.5 million to 70 students for the 2023/24 academic year.

    These scholarships, provided through the Pecan Inspire Scholarship Program (PISP), are specifically aimed at supporting outstanding students from low-income households. With the addition of these 70 new recipients, the total number of beneficiaries now stands at 141.

    The PISP covers various expenses, including full tuition and lodging fees, provision of a laptop for academic work, a semester stipend, and participation in student development programs such as career and skills training. Additionally, recipients will benefit from mentoring and academic advising to support their educational journey.

    “Our commitment at Pecan Energies to investing in education as a tool to unlocking prosperity remains unflinching.

    “We have new owners in Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) who share this commitment and are ready to make the necessary investments so more young people can get the skills they need to contribute to Ghana’s economic development.

    “We will continue to prioritise investments in building capacity in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

    “We do this knowing full well that we are yet to commence oil production. While we make good progress towards first oil, we remain acutely aware that the education of these brilliant young men and women cannot wait,” said Kadijah Amoah, CEO of Pecan Energies Ghana Limited. 

    The PISP remains the flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative for Pecan Energies and its license partners: Lukoil Overseas Ghana Tano Limited, the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), and Fueltrade Limited.

    This program is designed to enhance access to tertiary education for Ghanaians. It replaced the Pecan Energies Senior High School Scholarship program, which fully funded the education of over a thousand high school students at schools of their choice.

    For the 2023/2024 academic year, at least 40% of the selected beneficiaries are female. One such beneficiary is Jennifer Apingu, whose inspiring story went viral last year. Jennifer worked as a head porter (Kayayo) to fund her Senior High School education. The PISP aims to support individuals like Jennifer in pursuing their educational aspirations and achieving their full potential.

    Despite representing her school in the prestigious National Science and Maths Quiz and her excellent grades, she was forced to work in a “drinking spot” in Navrongo in Ghana’s Upper East Region with little hope of pursuing her dream of becoming a pharmacist.

    “I am exceedingly happy I can now pursue my dream. Pecan Energies has paid my fees, and I am now looking forward to working hard to earn a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Health and Allied Sciences,” noted Jennifer. 

  • Ghana’s democracy deteriorating – Economic Intelligence Unit report

    Ghana’s democracy deteriorating – Economic Intelligence Unit report

    Ghana’s democracy has once again been deemed flawed in the 2023 Democracy Index report by the Economic Intelligence Unit.

    According to the report, Ghana experienced a decline in both the Democracy Index and its global ranking. In 2022, Ghana had an index score of 6.43 out of 10 and ranked 63rd globally. However, in 2023, the country’s index dropped to 6.3 out of 10, and its global ranking fell to 65th place.

    Ghana also slipped from 4th to 5th place in Africa, trailing behind Mauritius, Cape Verde, South Africa, and Namibia. This decline reflects a deterioration in the practice of democracy in the country.

    Ghana’s index has been on a downward trend since 2015 and has been classified as a flawed democracy since 2010.

    The Democracy Index evaluates countries across five categories: electoral process and pluralism, functioning of government, political participation, political culture, and civil liberties.

    Ghana scored lowest in the functioning of government, with a score of 5.0 out of 10, and highest in electoral process and pluralism, with a score of 8.33 out of 10.

    In 2023, the global democracy index decreased from 5.29 out of 10 in 2022 to 5.23 out of 10. This is the lowest level since the index began in 2006, and the decrease is attributed to ongoing wars and conflicts worldwide.

    The Russia-Ukraine war, Azerbaijan’s conquest of Nagorno-Karabakh, the civil war in Sudan, and Israel’s conflict with Hamas are identified as leading threats to security and democracy globally.

    According to the 2023 Democracy Index, 74 of the 167 countries and territories covered by the model are democracies of some type. The number of “full democracies” (those scoring more than 8.00 out of 10) remained at 24 in 2023, the same as the previous year. The number of “flawed democracies” increased from 48 in 2022 to 50 in 2023.

    Of the remaining 95 countries in our index, 34 are classified as “hybrid regimes”, combining elements of formal democracy and authoritarianism, and 59 are classified as “authoritarian regimes”.

    Less than 8% of the world’s population live in a full democracy, while nearly 40% live under authoritarian rule—a proportion that has been steadily increasing in recent years.

    The rise in violent conflicts has significantly impacted the global democracy score and hindered any recovery following the pandemic years of 2020-2022.

    Most of the regression in democracy index occurred among the non-democracies classified as “hybrid regimes” and “authoritarian regimes”. Between 2022 and 2023 the average score for “authoritarian regimes” fell by 0.12 points and that for “hybrid regimes” by 0.07 points.

    The year-on-year decline in the average score of the “full democracies” and “flawed democracies” was modest by comparison, falling by 0.01 and 0.03 points respectively. This suggests that non-democratic regimes are becoming more entrenched, and “hybrid regimes” are struggling to democratize.

  • Rainfall to be experienced in Accra, Axim, other areas today

    Rainfall to be experienced in Accra, Axim, other areas today

    The Ghana Meteorological Service (GMet) has observed a rain-bearing cloud over the eastern coast of Ghana.

    This storm is expected to produce rain of varying intensity over Ghana’s marine space and is anticipated to bring cloudiness over coastal cities.

    Rain of varying intensities will be experienced in a few coastal areas. Additionally, a separate band of clouds over the west coast will induce cloudiness over parts of the western and central regions, with pockets of rain expected.

    Areas to be affected are Ada, Keta, Sege, Abor, Adidome, Sogakope, Prampram, Tema, Teshie, Accra, Nzulezu, Nkroful, Essiama, Axim and Takoradi.

  • Dr. Mohammed Amin is competent to lead Finance Ministry – Isaac Adongo

    Dr. Mohammed Amin is competent to lead Finance Ministry – Isaac Adongo

    The Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga Central, Isaac Adongo, is optimistic that Dr. Mohammed Amin will be able to lead the Finance Ministry due to his capabilities.

    Dr. Mohammed Amin has been appointed Finance Minister-designate by President Akufo-Addo and will take over from Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.

    In an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM, Mr Adongo noted that Dr Mohammed Amin is competent to lead the running of the country’s economy.

    “I do not doubt the competence and the abilities of Dr. Mohammed Amin. He was my former colleague on the Finance Committee, my senior at school. I have a very good respect for him,” he said.

    He however described President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s removal of Ken Ofori-Atta as Finance Minister as mere ‘window dressing.’

    Mr Adongo explained that ‘window dressing’ refers to making something appear deceptively attractive or favorable.

    President Akufo-Addo removed Ken Ofori-Atta in a major ministerial reshuffle on Wednesday, February 14, which affected a total of 13 current ministers of state, including 10 cabinet ministers and two regional ministers. Mohammed Amin Adam has been appointed as the new Finance Minister, while Ken Ofori-Atta has been made the Presidential Advisor on the economy.

    Mr Adongo expressed doubt about the effectiveness of the reshuffle, suggesting that Mohammed Amin Adam might have limited influence as long as Ken Ofori-Atta remains involved and influential in economic matters.

    “This is clearly window dressing. Because now he is the Minister and they have appointed the very person they are removing as the Senior Presidential Advisor on the Economy what that simply means is that for Mohammed Amin to get any policy through in cabinet or through executive approval of the president, the president has to go and consult Ken Ofori Atta. And so technically it means that Mohammed Amin cannot do anything if Ofori-Atta is not in agreement because he would advise the president against it,” he stated.

  • Afenyo-Markin blocks 3rd reading of anti-LGTBQ Bill over custodial sentencing

    Afenyo-Markin blocks 3rd reading of anti-LGTBQ Bill over custodial sentencing

    Deputy Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has blocked the third reading of the anti-LGBTQ bill, preventing its passage today.

    Despite this action, Mr. Afenyo-Markin clarified that he is not entirely against the principles of the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values bill and actually supports it.

    “The essence of this motion is to afford this august house the opportunity to thoroughly consider amendments that are proposed in the bill with the view of substituting community service for incarceration,” he said.

    According to him, the punitive actions outlined in the bill would not facilitate the rehabilitation of the individuals involved.

    “The issue before us is behavioral, and it is my humble view that in dealing with behavioural matters, incarceration is not the solution. It makes the matter worse.”

    “To jail a person for his/her sexuality will not be the solution in maintaining our Ghanaian family values and ensuring proper human sexual rights,” he added.

    Meanwhile, one of the sponsors of the bill, Sam George, indicated that Mr. Markin’s argument does not hold water.