Information coming in is that some young girls in the coastal community of Half Assini in the Jomoro district are offering their bodies to unscrupulous men in exchange for fish.
In a report by JoyNews sighted by The Independent Ghana, girls from poor backgrounds who try to support their families financially reach out to fishermen who make significant catch for some fish. There, some men are said to propose sex for fish and due to the current status of their families, the girls accept the terms and conditions.
According to indigenes, this practice is termed as “fish for sex”.
As such, teenage pregnancy and single-parenting are prevalent in the Jomoro District
Deputy Manager of the Jomoro Fisheries Commission, Irene Obeng, confirmed the practice in the district.
“The girls are young so the fishermen take advantage 9f the situation and have sex with them. Fish for sex happens here a lot,” she said.
Semenyo Maxwell, a fisherman with over a decade experience told JoyNews “everybody will be struggling for the fish so if you can assist the one who is there and you add something, he will also give. The batter system. Give me fish, I give you sex.”
‘Fish For Sex’: Some girls in the coastal community of Half Assini in the Jomoro district beg for fish and return the favour with sex. #JoyNewspic.twitter.com/zIwAR62WSd
On Saturday, February 10, 2024, a dramatic firefighting operation unfolded in the Asante Akim South Municipality as the Konongo-Odumasi Fire Station responded promptly to a distress call reporting a fire outbreak at Pra Junction.
Under the leadership of StnO II Odjer Jonathan, the firefighting crew arrived swiftly at the scene to find wooden beams ablaze near an Electricity Company Ghana (ECG) high tension pole.
Despite the intensity of the flames, the skilled firefighters launched an aggressive attack, successfully extinguishing the fire and preserving essential infrastructure, including the ECG high tension pole and a portion of the wooden beams.
While the cause of the fire remains unclear, investigations are underway to determine its origin.
Disappointed fans took their frustration to extreme lengths as they witnessed Nigeria’s loss to Ivory Coast in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. In a fit of anger and disbelief, a group of approximately five young boys resorted to destroying their television set.
The tense match saw Ivory Coast emerge victorious, securing a historic win as the first host nation since Egypt in 2006 to claim the AFCON title. Sebastien Haller, once again the hero for the Elephants, orchestrated a thrilling comeback to seal a 2-1 victory over Nigeria.
Despite the Super Eagles’ valiant efforts, the defeat proved too much for some fans to bear. In an act of frustration, the group of disappointed supporters tore apart their television set, which they had forcibly ripped from the wall.
The victory for Ivory Coast was particularly poignant, considering the challenges they had overcome throughout the tournament, including the departure of their coach following two early defeats in the group stage.
However, their resilience paid off, as they secured their third continental title, adding to their previous Nations Cup victories in 1992 and 2015.
They destroyed their TV because Nigeria lost to Côte d'Ivoire in the AFCON 2023 Final #AFCON2023#INDAfica
Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of Asogli State, is reportedly prepared to step down from his traditional stool to assume the role of the running mate for the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, according to sources.
Ivan Tsidi Akrobortu, a lead advocate for the Change Makers Forum, is reported to have made this claim.
According to a report by Ghanaweb, citing graphic.com.gh, Togbe Afede XIV’s name has emerged as a potential contender to partner with John Dramani Mahama for the upcoming 2024 elections.
Tsidi Akrobortu, as reported, has advocated for the selection of the Agbogbomefia as Mahama’s running mate, citing Togbe Afede’s extensive expertise in finance, economy, banking, and entrepreneurship.
Mr Akrobortu believes that Togbe Afede’s inclusion would greatly impact the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and enhance their prospects of winning the election.
“Togbe is ready to abdicate his stool in fulfilment of the constitutional requirement once he is selected as the running mate to the NDC flag bearer,” Akrobortu is quoted to have said by graphic.com.gh, according to Ghanaweb.
The selection of a running mate for John Dramani Mahama in the upcoming 2024 elections is a crucial decision for the National Democratic Congress (NDC). According to reports, the party is seeking a candidate who possesses the ability to understand the president’s mindset, offer honest feedback based on data and facts, and effectively analyze government policies.
Togbe Afede meets Mahama
The pool of potential candidates has reportedly been narrowed down to three individuals representing different regions: Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang from the Central Region, Julius Debrah from the Eastern Region, and Kwame Awuah-Darko from the Ashanti Region.
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang previously served as Mahama’s running mate in the December 2020 general election. However, she faced criticism for allegedly not adding value to the ticket and failing to secure victory in her home region of the Central Region.
Julius Debrah, a former chief of staff during Mahama’s administration, is being considered as another potential candidate. Hailing from the Eastern Region, Debrah brings a wealth of experience from his time in government.
Kwame Awuah-Darko, a former Managing Director of BOST and TOR under the Mahama administration, is also under consideration. Known for his contributions to the transformation of these institutions, Awuah-Darko is a businessman and banker with roots in the Ashanti Region, where he hails from a prominent traditional family.
The selection of Mahama’s running mate will be a strategic decision for the NDC, as they aim to bolster their chances in the upcoming elections and present a strong and cohesive leadership team to the electorate.
The Wenchi Municipal Assembly, in collaboration with the Wenchi Traditional Council in the Bono Region, has established a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with cashew-buying companies to pay rates and levies on every bag of Raw Cashew Nuts (RCNs).
This initiative was unveiled during an engagement with stakeholders in the cashew value chain aimed at enhancing cashew production, marketing, and transportation within the Wenchi municipality.
The gathering, which included representatives from the Cashew Buyers Association, Processors, and their agents, focused on devising strategies to boost revenue generation for the assembly.
Key topics discussed during the meeting included the framework for rate payment, registration procedures for cashew buyers and companies, calibration standards for cashew weighing scales, and transportation logistics managed by the Wenchi Cargo Transport Union and Cashew Buyers.
Chaired by the Paramount Chief of Wenchi, Osagyefo Ampem Anye Amoanpong Tabrako III, the stakeholders unanimously agreed on the necessity for all cashew weighing scales to be calibrated and certified by the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA).
Additionally, it was decided that all cashew companies and affiliated agents must undergo registration and obtain a business operating permit from the municipal assembly.
Furthermore, cashew buying companies are mandated to obtain certification from the Tree Crop Development Authority.
In his address, Osagyefo Tabrako pledged to eradicate the menace of nomadic herdsmen and their cattle, which have been responsible for the destruction of cashew farms, thereby impeding cashew production and agricultural development in the Municipality.
He assured stakeholders of the Wenchi Traditional Council’s collaboration with the Wenchi Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) to address this issue effectively.
“The traditional council and MUSEC are serious about this cattle-herdsmen issue, so we will find a way to peacefully get them removed from our land immediately to protect crops,” he stated.
The Paramount Chief reiterated the importance of adding value to cashew production to enhance export earnings and generate employment opportunities for residents in the Wenchi municipality.
He pledged to allocate land for the construction of cashew warehouses, aiming to establish an industrial hub dedicated to cashew processing in the region.
Bono East Regional Verification Officer for the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), Eric Akoto, provided insights into the calibration process for weighing scales and emphasized the importance of adhering to standards to ensure accurate results in the weighing of Raw Cashew Nuts (RCNs).
James Kwasi Oduro Asare, the Presiding Member of the Wenchi Municipal Assembly, called upon cashew purchasing companies and agents operating within the area to collaborate with the assembly to foster growth in the cashew industry.
He urged all stakeholders in the cashew value chain to uphold the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding, emphasizing its significance in advancing the cashew sector and increasing revenue generation for the assembly.
Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), Dr. John Kwakye, has criticized the characterization by New Patriotic Party flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the GH¢60.81 billion losses posted by the Bank of Ghana for the year 2022 as merely “technical losses.”
According to the economic researcher, these losses will inevitably result in cuts to essential operations of the Bank as it seeks to mitigate costs.
In a piece titled “Dr. Bawumia’s Speech: Turning an Impossibility into the Possibility?”, Dr. Kwakye highlighted the immediate effects of these losses, particularly noting the fluctuating inflationary figures experienced by the country.
“Dr. Bawumia said BoG’s action was responsible and that it was temporary, as the Bank had advanced money to Government in only two of the past seven years. The Minister of Finance had expressed similar sentiments in the past, which was not surprising because Government was the direct beneficiary of the monetary financing.
“However, as central bankers, we know that the most inflationary source of financing the budget is high-powered money coming directly from the central bank vault. It is not the fact that BoG advanced money to Government that is the issue, for the Bank’s Act provides for such advances up to 5% of the previous year’s revenue. It is the magnitude of the advance—over 50% of the previous year’s revenue—that is disturbing. It is no wonder inflation peaked at 54.1% in 2022—and depreciation ballooned to 54.2% in November 2022, before falling bank to 30.0% in December 2022. Meanwhile, as Government debt to BoG was also discounted under the DDEP, the Bank made a whopping loss of GHS61 billion and a record negative equity of GHS54 billion in 2022.”
Dr. Kwakye contended that despite attempts by Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and the Bank of Ghana to downplay the significance of the loss, the country’s balance sheet has been significantly affected.
“Both the Minister and the Governor seem to have played down the loss as only a technical loss. However, the fact is that the Bank’s balance sheet has been severely impacted, and this would force it to cut back on some of its important operations so as to save costs.”
The Ghana Police Service has expanded its investigation into the murder of Eric Johnson, the Chief Executive Officer of the Cosy Hill Hotel (Jirapa Dubai) in Jirapa, Upper West Region.
Mr Johnson was found brutally murdered in one of the hotel rooms on Sunday, February 11, triggering a thorough investigation.
In a recent development, two additional suspects, identified as Charles Tuoze and Favour Nuobe, both employees of the Cossy Hill Hotel, have been detained by the police. They are currently assisting with ongoing investigations.
With the latest arrests, the total number of suspects in custody has risen to seven. Previously apprehended individuals include Dookuuri Fausta, Braimah Kasim, Beyuo Felix, Michael Klugey, and Kumbata Kwaku.
Following the tragic incident, Inspector General of Police, George Akuffo Dampare, deployed a team of investigators to collaborate with the Upper West Regional Crime Scene Management Team. Their joint efforts aim to swiftly apprehend the perpetrators and ensure justice is served.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has rejected Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s claim that the Akufo-Addo government successfully resolved Ghana’s power crisis, commonly known as dumsor.
Dr. Bawumia made these remarks during his address on Wednesday, February 7, as the presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
He touted the current administration’s achievements, including the purported resolution of dumsor, attributing this accomplishment to a decisive and intentional government program.
“We started with a clear, decisive and deliberate program to, among other things, stabilise the economy, fix dumsor, fix the NHIS, fix the roads, clear the arrears, make education free and accessible, significantly enhance social protection for the vulnerable in society, industrialize our economy, tackle youth unemployment and empower farmers,” he stated.
In response, the NDC issued a press statement contesting Dr. Bawumia’s claims, insisting that the power crisis was actually addressed during the tenure of former President John Mahama.
They hailed Mahama as a nation builder, attributing the resolution of the power crisis to his administration.
Dismissing Dr. Bawumia’s assertion, the NDC urged Ghanaians to disregard it, stating that it is inaccurate.
“The visionary and experienced Nation Builder, President Mahama accepted responsibility for the problem and promised to fix it. Indeed, by 2016 he had comprehensively fixed DUMSOR and ended load shedding.”
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Independent Power Producers (IPPs), Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor, has indicated that the implementation of the Emissions Levy, which came into effect on February 1, 2024, will lead to a rise in the cost of electricity.
According to his assessment of the Emissions Levy, set at GH₵100 per tonne of carbon dioxide (CO2), Dr. Apetorgbor cautioned that this levy will translate to increased expenses in electricity generation, thereby raising the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and subsequently resulting in higher tariffs for consumers.
“Every change in law that has cost implications on power generation will definitely have a consequential impact on end-users through the tariff.
“It is therefore important for our decision-makers to foresee effect of the economic consequences before implementing such laws,” he admonished.
Dr. Apetorgbor further elaborated on the complexities involved in determining the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted by a 1MW gas-fired power plant, noting various factors such as plant efficiency, gas type (typically natural gas), and operational load.
For instance, he explained that a 1MW natural gas-fired power plant, operating at 50 percent efficiency, emits approximately 362 kg of CO2 for every megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity generated.
Applying the GH¢100 per tonne of CO2 levy, Dr. Apetorgbor highlighted that this would result in an increase in the cost per kWh for energy consumers by approximately GH¢0.0362. This cost increment resonates across the energy sector.
Breaking down the levy per kg of CO2, which is GH¢100 per 1,000 kg (or 0.1 GH¢/kg), he calculated that the levy for 362 kg of CO2 amounts to GH¢36.2 for 1MWh of generated electricity, factoring in the CO2 content in the natural gas volume required for 1MWh.
Translating this to consumer units, he indicated an additional cost per kWh of GH¢0.0362, calculated as GH¢36.2 / 1,000 kWh.
However, Dr. Apetorgbor cautioned that these calculations are simplified and rely on average values for numerous variables. The actual emissions and costs could vary significantly based on specific plant characteristics, natural gas quality, and operational efficiency.
Additionally, he shared the annual CO2 emissions determination formula, demonstrating how much CO2 a gas-fired power plant emits each year.
“Assuming the plant operates at full capacity for 24 hours a day over a year (which is 8,760 hours annually), and using the rough estimate of 0.231kg CO2/kWh, as emission factor, for natural gas: Multiply the power output in megawatts (MW) by the number of hours in a year (8,760), and by the emission factor of 0.231 kg CO2/kWh.”
Meanwhile, in an earlier statement, the Chamber lamented that per the Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) the legislation “is a political risk (an increased cost event) mitigated by an increased costs clause in the agreements, which suggests a pass-through mechanism whereby economic consequences go to the end-user”.
Dr. Apetorgbor highlighted that the recent change in law imposing a legal obligation on power producers is expected to result in an increase in the cost of generating electricity. He emphasized that the management and operation of power plants are highly sensitive to costs, akin to the downstream petroleum sectors.
“Specifically, the levy will be added to the operational costs build-up of the power plants,” he stated, adding that: “Implementing the Emissions Levy Act, 2023 necessitates an equal measure of review for the electricity generation tariff to ensure predictability of cash flow for the power producers.”
This adjustment, he noted, is essential to cover the increased operational costs induced by imposition of the Emissions Levy, Act 2023 (Act 1112) to ensure operational reliability and sustainability.
Vice President of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons, has suggested that businesses in the country will transfer the burden of the Emissions Levy to customers.
This means that the additional costs incurred due to the levy will likely be reflected in the prices of goods and services.
“Ghana’s private electricity generation companies are finally waking up to the likely impact of the emissions levy on their business. They have made it clear that they will pass all the costs on to consumers,” he wrote in a post on X.
This comes at a time when Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Independent Power Producers (IPPs), Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor, indicated that the implementation of the Emissions Levy, which came into effect on February 1, 2024, will lead to a rise in the cost of electricity.
According to his assessment of the Emissions Levy, set at GH₵100 per tonne of carbon dioxide (CO2), Dr. Apetorgbor cautioned that this levy will translate to increased expenses in electricity generation, thereby raising the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and subsequently resulting in higher tariffs for consumers.
Ghana's private electricity generation companies are finally waking up to the likely impact of the emissions levy on their business. They have made it clear that they will pass all the costs on to consumers. More here:https://t.co/V3RVs0ViLehttps://t.co/kACtiHVXsn
In a dramatic turn of events following Nigeria’s heartbreaking loss to Côte d’Ivoire in the 2023 AFCON finals, a harrowing scene unfolded on the pitch as a woman collapsed.
A video circulating on social media captured the distressing moment when the woman fell to the ground, seemingly overcome by emotion or perhaps a medical condition exacerbated by the intense match.
As she lay unconscious on the field, a team of health experts rushed to her aid, swiftly attending to her. With concern etched on their faces, they worked diligently to assess her condition and provide immediate medical assistance.
In a bid to aid her breathing and ensure proper ventilation, the woman was carefully fanned as part of the emergency response measures.
😳😳😅 Nigeria’s loss was really a big deal for many including musician Teni |#GhanaTrends follow for more | | | Sabinus Your Papa Blacko Dr. Bawumia Ghana and Nigeria Cote D'Ivoire No Light Lonely Sabinus Kessie Rey Mysterio Nzema Kennedy pic.twitter.com/sDthKCynXh
Ivory Coast made history by becoming the first host nation since Egypt in 2006 to clinch the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, following their thrilling victory over Nigeria on Sunday night.
Sebastien Haller emerged as the hero once again for the Elephants, orchestrating a remarkable comeback to secure a 2-1 win.
This triumph marked a remarkable turnaround for the Ivorians, who overcame adversity, including the departure of coach Jean-Louis Gasset after two defeats in the group stage, to claim their third continental title. Building on their previous Nations Cup victories in 1992 and 2015, Ivory Coast cemented their status as champions and became the first host nation to lift the trophy since Egypt in 2006.
The GJA’s directive targeted specifically the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Hawa Koomson, and the MP for Yendi, Farouk Mahama, both of whom are alleged to have assaulted journalists.
However, Yaw Boadu Ayeboafo, the Chairman of NMC, has taken a different stance, labeling the directive as “dysfunctional and unproductive” to the public interest. He advocates for the utilization of legal avenues to address acts of impunity against journalists.
During an interview on Breakfast Daily with David Kwaku Sakyi on February 12, 2024, Mensah Thompson expressed disappointment with the Chairman’s comments.
Mr Thompson characterized Ayeboafo as a failed journalist who has neglected to acknowledge the assaults against his former colleagues.
He said, “So you people, they are beating you, they are not paying you well, they are disrespecting you, you rise to the position when you can take decisions to protect your fellow members, look at the ridiculousness of the things he is saying.
“That I should sit down for somebody to come to my house, come and attack me, come and beat me to a pulp, the following day I should give the same person a platform to come and talk, according to this man, a former journalist, he should be ashamed of himself.”
In Takoradi, the bridge connecting Takoradi and Agona in Ewusiejo, is on the brink of collapse.
The current challenge was made public by Ghanaian blogger, Kobby Kyei, who is distraught by the happenings.
In the video shared by the blogger, one can see the crumbling bridge. With regards to the bridge, the metal rods are exposed, and the cement bar on a portion of the bridge is loose.
He notes that the Ghana Highway Authority stands as a beacon of hope, tasked with the urgent responsibility of addressing this pressing issue.
According to some X users who have reacted to the video, the sad state of the bridge “caused a one week traffic and made people travel from Takoradi to Agona on foot if you don’t have money for okada.”
Its deteriorating state poses a formidable challenge to both drivers and pedestrians alike, casting a shadow of uncertainty over their daily commute.
#ATTENTION ||| Ewusiejo, a suburb in Takoradi, reflects the impact of galamsey with a deteriorating bridge causing challenges for both drivers and pedestrians.
It’s heartbreaking, particularly considering the region’s abundant resources such as oil, gold, and Numerous natural… pic.twitter.com/dxGH3VRYt2
Presidential staffer, Miracles Aboagye, has opposed views claiming that Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is distancing himself from the current NPP administration due to the current challenges with the economy.
National Communications Officer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has raised concerns over Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s attempts to distance himself from certain government policies.
In his view, both President Akufo-Addo and the vice president should be held accountable for the current challenges facing the country.
“How can Kabiru in one breath say that Bawumia was a mere agent and hence can not take liability or blame for the failures of Principal, yet in another breath they give Bawumia credit for the success of the Principal?
“Why is Bawumia being credited for one constituency one ambulance, agenda 111, why? Why is that the case? They are not saying that the credit should go to Akufo-Addo because Bawumia was a mere agent. Hypocrite, that is what they are,” he said on Joy FM’s Top Story on February 8.
Sammy Gyamfi’s remarks come in response to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s call for Ghanaians to elevate him from the role of a “driver’s mate” to that of a “driver.”
In reaction, Mr Aboagye in a post on X wrote, “No where and at no time has @MBawumia disassociate himself from his government. That assertion only exists on NDC Platforms. Mahama says I wasn’t the Driver but the spare Driver. Bawumia says I am not the Driver but the Mate.”
He also criticised former President John Mahama by comparing him to a spare driver who is essentially idle and inactive.
This comes after an old video featuring former President John Dramani Mahama describing himself as a “spare driver” resurfaced, adding fuel to the ongoing debate sparked by Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia’s analogy of being a “driver’s mate”in the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government.
Dr Bawumia, in a recent statement on his plans for Ghana as a presidential candidate, likened his role as vice president to that of a driver’s mate but emphasized that if elected President in 2024, he would be in the driver’s seat with constitutionally mandated authority.
The emergence of the old video has intensified the debate, with both Mahama and Bawumia being presidential candidates for the 2024 elections. Critics argue that Bawumia’s analogy was an attempt to distance himself from the failures of the current government, while Mahama’s supporters contend that Mahama took responsibility for his role in the Mills-led government.
In the 2012 video taken during a presidential debate organised by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), Mahama, who succeeded late President John Atta Mills, urged Ghanaians to vote him as president for his second and final term, portraying himself as the “spare driver” completing Mills’ unexpired term.
“The NDC government has done a lot in four years. Our constitution gives our president two terms, take it that I am the spare driver, caretaker or whatever; Prof. Mills of blessed memory started the process, and I am finishing his unexpired term. I believe that the NDC government deserves a second term to be able to build on the foundation it has laid in these four years, and I am certain that Ghanaians would vote for me and turn me from the spare driver that I’ve been described as, into the actual driver of the bus leading us into the destination that we want to go to,” he stated.
GUESS WHAT – MAHAMA SAYS HE WAS A SPARE DRIVER? AND ADMITS AS VICE PRESIDENT HE WASN’T THE MAIN DRIVER?
Our former President, John Mahama came to us in 2012 with his usual lies and sweet talk and basically told us about how he was a spare Driver and needed the country to make… pic.twitter.com/tRhV6Bvgw4
In reaction, Mr Aboagye in a post on X wrote, “A spare driver is that back up driver who does nothing but whose role is only to wait for the moment the driver is indisposed/unavailable then he can take the driver’s place. This understanding is basic and doesn’t need further explanation.
“A Drivers mate cannot drive the car for the journey. Like we experience in our Ghanaian setting, the best the mate can do in terms of touching the steering wheel is to park it well or take it to the washing bay close by.”
He noted that Mahama has corroborated the surmise that the Vice President role is not as effective as being assumed.
“Clearly, Mahama supports the constitutional view that, the Vice President’s is never the Driver. Mahama has just been caught in the usual double standards and that explains your plenty twists. But we understand , we don’t need your explanation.”
I will continue to choose to engage in a civil matter and eschew the needless insults. No one in the NPP is dumb as you put it, neither do I think NDC is dumb. We only have differing views on issues.
Your plenty explanation, insults and attempt to explain the difference between… https://t.co/hbH9ijOwnk
Presidential staffer, Miracles Aboagye, has criticised former President John Mahama by comparing him to a spare driver who is essentially idle and inactive.
This comes after an old video featuring former President John Dramani Mahama describing himself as a “spare driver” resurfaced, adding fuel to the ongoing debate sparked by Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia’s analogy of being a “driver’s mate”in the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government.
Dr Bawumia, in a recent statement on his plans for Ghana as a presidential candidate, likened his role as vice president to that of a driver’s mate but emphasized that if elected President in 2024, he would be in the driver’s seat with constitutionally mandated authority.
The emergence of the old video has intensified the debate, with both Mahama and Bawumia being presidential candidates for the 2024 elections. Critics argue that Bawumia’s analogy was an attempt to distance himself from the failures of the current government, while Mahama’s supporters contend that Mahama took responsibility for his role in the Mills-led government.
In the 2012 video taken during a presidential debate organised by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), Mahama, who succeeded late President John Atta Mills, urged Ghanaians to vote him as president for his second and final term, portraying himself as the “spare driver” completing Mills’ unexpired term.
“The NDC government has done a lot in four years. Our constitution gives our president two terms, take it that I am the spare driver, caretaker or whatever; Prof. Mills of blessed memory started the process, and I am finishing his unexpired term. I believe that the NDC government deserves a second term to be able to build on the foundation it has laid in these four years, and I am certain that Ghanaians would vote for me and turn me from the spare driver that I’ve been described as, into the actual driver of the bus leading us into the destination that we want to go to,” he stated.
GUESS WHAT – MAHAMA SAYS HE WAS A SPARE DRIVER? AND ADMITS AS VICE PRESIDENT HE WASN’T THE MAIN DRIVER?
Our former President, John Mahama came to us in 2012 with his usual lies and sweet talk and basically told us about how he was a spare Driver and needed the country to make… pic.twitter.com/tRhV6Bvgw4
In reaction, Mr Aboagye in a post on X wrote, “A spare driver is that back up driver who does nothing but whose role is only to wait for the moment the driver is indisposed/unavailable then he can take the driver’s place. This understanding is basic and doesn’t need further explanation.
“A Drivers mate cannot drive the car for the journey. Like we experience in our Ghanaian setting, the best the mate can do in terms of touching the steering wheel is to park it well or take it to the washing bay close by.”
According to him, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has not distanced himself from the results this government has churned out, be they positive or negative.
“No where and at ano time has @MBawumia disassociate himself from his government. That assertion only exists on NDC Platforms. Mahama says I wasn’t the Driver but the spare Driver. Bawumia says I am not the Driver but the Mate.”
He noted that Mahama has corroborated the surmise that the Vice President role is not as effective as being assumed.
“Clearly, Mahama supports the constitutional view that, the Vice President’s is never the Driver. Mahama has just been caught in the usual double standards and that explains your plenty twists. But we understand , we don’t need your explanation.”
I will continue to choose to engage in a civil matter and eschew the needless insults. No one in the NPP is dumb as you put it, neither do I think NDC is dumb. We only have differing views on issues.
Your plenty explanation, insults and attempt to explain the difference between… https://t.co/hbH9ijOwnk
Nigeria’s unexpected loss in the finals of the 2023 African Cup of Nations to Ivory Coast has sparked diverse reactions on social media platforms.
While Nigerians are expressing their frustrations over the defeat, a group of Ghanaian entertainers have seized the opportunity to engage in friendly banter with their West African neighbors.
Prominent figures such as Kidi, Kofi Kinaata, John Dumelo, M.anifest, Bridget Otoo, Black Sherif, Kwadwo Sheldon, and Lydia Forson have taken to their social media pages to humorously taunt Nigerians.
Had Nigeria emerged victorious, it would have brought them level with Ghana’s Black Stars in terms of AFCON wins.
However, their failure to overcome Ivory Coast on Saturday night means that Ghana, despite not clinching the trophy since 1982, maintains a total of four AFCON titles, while Nigeria currently holds three.
Dear Nigerians, don't mind my fellow Ghanaians. You have won. We used your eagle to make Indomie Chicken. We even added onions for flavour. One carton for each player! It's all love. 🦁🇬🇭 pic.twitter.com/01Znw5CaDb
Award-winning Gospel musician, Diana Hamilton, has voiced her discontent with Ghana’s taxation system for events during an appearance on the United Showbiz on Saturday, February 10, 2024.
Hamilton highlighted her experience of organizing events both in the UK and Ghana, noting a significant disparity in how the two countries tax event organizers.
She noted that in the UK, the tax system is very conducive and feasible since she is only taxed on her profits, and should she run at a loss, there is no tax.
“I have the privilege of hosting events in the UK and Ghana. If I hold an event in the UK, all the monies accrued will go into my account. I make all my withdrawals, and at the end of the year, I get taxed on my profits. And if I make a loss, I do not get taxed.
However, that is not the same in Ghana. She bemoaned the ineffectiveness of officials of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) whom she says fail to properly apply taxes.
“But in Ghana, when I am hosting an event, the GRA officials won’t check anything; all they do is stand at the entrance and count the number of people entering the hall and they tax you. With or without complimentary tickets, as long as anyone enters the hall, they will count everyone and tax you on that without taking into consideration the venue, cost of production, and all that.”
Diana is calling for decisive measures to ensure a more respectable and competent tax system in Ghana to save businesses.
“I’ve had the privilege of doing both, and I hope we look into this and a solution will be found,” she said.
Award-winning Gospel musician, Diana Hamilton, has voiced her discontent with the taxation system governing events organized in Ghana.
During an appearance on the United Showbiz on Saturday, February 10, 2024, Hamilton highlighted her observations regarding the stark contrast between the tax regulations for event organizers in Ghana compared to those in the United Kingdom, where she has also hosted events.
Hamilton expressed her belief that there is a significant disparity in how the two countries approach taxing event organizers, indicating her dissatisfaction with the current system in Ghana.
Diana Hamilton highlighted the favorable tax system in the UK, where she is only taxed on her profits from events. She emphasized the flexibility of this system, noting that if she were to operate at a loss, no taxes would be levied. However, she lamented the disparity in Ghana, where the taxation process is less conducive.
Hamilton criticized the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), stating that officials often fail to accurately apply taxes. She expressed frustration with the inefficiencies within the tax system in Ghana, indicating a need for improvement and proper enforcement by GRA officials.
“I have the privilege of hosting events in the UK and Ghana. If I hold an event in the UK, all the monies accrued will go into my account. I make all my withdrawals, and at the end of the year, I get taxed on my profits. And if I make a loss, I do not get taxed.
“But in Ghana, when I am hosting an event, the GRA officials won’t check anything; all they do is stand at the entrance and count the number of people entering the hall and they tax you. With or without complimentary tickets, as long as anyone enters the hall, they will count everyone and tax you on that without taking into consideration the venue, cost of production, and all that,” she told show host MzGee.
Award-winning Gospel musician, Diana Hamilton, has voiced her discontent with Ghana’s taxation system for events during an appearance on the United Showbiz on Saturday, February 10, 2024.
Hamilton highlighted her experience of organizing events both in the UK and Ghana, noting a significant disparity in how the two countries tax event organizers.
She noted that in the UK, the tax system is very conducive and feasible since she is only taxed on her profits, and should she run at a loss, there is no tax.
“I have the privilege of hosting events in the UK and Ghana. If I hold an event in the UK, all the monies accrued will go into my account. I make all my withdrawals, and at the end of the year, I get taxed on my profits. And if I make a loss, I do not get taxed.
However, that is not the same in Ghana. She bemoaned the ineffectiveness of officials of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) whom she says fail to properly apply taxes.
“But in Ghana, when I am hosting an event, the GRA officials won’t check anything; all they do is stand at the entrance and count the number of people entering the hall and they tax you. With or without complimentary tickets, as long as anyone enters the hall, they will count everyone and tax you on that without taking into consideration the venue, cost of production, and all that.”
Diana is calling for decisive measures to ensure a more respectable and competent tax system in Ghana to save businesses.
“I’ve had the privilege of doing both, and I hope we look into this and a solution will be found,” she said.
The Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union, in collaboration with organized labor, has opted to postpone its planned strike scheduled for February 13, 2024.
This decision comes in response to the government’s commitment to temporarily halt the implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity, with the aim of engaging in discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The General Secretary of the ICU-Ghana, Morgan Ayawine, said at a press briefing, “We are equally suspending our action, and we will be on red alert.”
“The message we are sending to our members out there is that it is a victory, a victory not only for our members but for Ghanaians,” he said.
The Union emphasized its belief that the government’s choice to suspend the taxation on electricity should be definitive and not subject to further changes or reconsideration.
“We want to believe that it is a suspension in perpetuity. So our members should not feel that we have been defeated,” he said.
Organized Labor convened on Friday, February 2, to deliberate on their ultimatum to the government regarding the withdrawal of the tax on electricity, set to expire in January 2024.
The purpose of the planned demonstration was to pressure the government into retracting the introduction of the electricity tax, which has exacerbated the financial struggles of Ghanaians and heightened their challenges within the country.
In a bid to convey a resolute stance to the government, the leadership of Organized Labor urged all workers across the nation to wear red attire to work starting Monday, February 5.
This symbolic gesture was intended to send a powerful message indicating their unwavering commitment to resist the imposition of VAT on electricity until the government relented on its decision.
Renowned entertainment pundit, Arnold Asamoah Baidoo, has stepped forward to defend Professor Peter Twumasi, the head of the National Sports Authority (NSA), amidst the controversy surrounding the fee paid by Stonebwoy for utilizing the Accra Sports Stadium for his 5th Dimension concert in December 2023.
During an appearance on the United Showbiz show on UTV, Asamoah Baidoo expressed his view that Professor Twumasi had been unfairly targeted by the public, particularly by MP Sam Nartey George. George had scrutinized Twumasi’s actions during a session of the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament on Monday, February 5, 2024.
Asamoah Baidoo suggested that Sam George’s focus wasn’t on the actual fee paid by Stonebwoy but rather on the allocation of funds to the Kumasi chapter of the NSA instead of the Accra chapter. He implied that Twumasi had been unjustly singled out for criticism in this matter.
“I think we, as Ghanaians, have been very unfair to the NSA boss, especially Sam George. Anyone can go back and watch that video.
“Sam George was referring to a specific document. Sam George’s focus was never on Stonebwoy. He was focused on the monies that were paid to the accounts of the Kumasi chapter of the NSA instead of the Accra chapter,” he told show host MzGee.
Arnold elaborated further, explaining that Stonebwoy had made payments in installments, with the initial payment of GH¢70,000 being deposited into the Kumasi account.
However, he clarified that while the NSA boss acknowledged this payment into the Kumasi account, it did not necessarily mean that Stonebwoy’s total payment for utilizing the stadium amounted to only GH¢70,000.
“Stonebwoy had paid his first GH¢70,000 into that account. So when Sam George asked about that money, the NSA boss admitted that Stonebwoy had paid GH¢70,000 cedis into that specific account. There was no further inquiry into how much Stonebwoy paid. It didn’t mean Stonebwoy had paid only GH¢70,000,” he stated.
Arnold voiced his disappointment with the National Sports Authority (NSA) for not addressing the controversy and clarifying the situation. He highlighted that Stonebwoy’s manager had already disclosed the amount paid for utilizing the stadium, suggesting that the NSA should have followed suit to provide transparency and resolve any lingering doubts or misconceptions.
“I am disappointed with the NSA since they could not come up with a statement to clear the air on the issue. Even Stonebwoy’s manager, when he saw the heat the issue was generating, had to accept an interview to explain that he had paid more than GH¢100,000.
“So we have treated the NSA boss unfairly,” he said.
Ghanaians and Sam George have been unfair to the NSA boss- Arnold
The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has dismissed allegations of neglecting to provide essential medical care to its contracted mass cocoa sprayers in response to concerns raised by the Ghana National Association of Cocoa Farmers regarding the adverse health effects of agrochemical exposure.
Addressing these concerns, the head of the Public Relations Department at COCOBOD, Fiifi Boafo, clarified in an interview with Citi News that the board regularly conducts medical check-ups for contracted farmers engaged in cocoa spraying.
Contrary to the claims made by the cocoa farmers’ association, Boafo refuted the allegations, asserting that the Cocoa Clinic has not encountered any cases exhibiting symptoms such as blindness or impotence among the contracted sprayers.
“We find it a bit surprising to hear these complaints because these are not complaints that we are aware of.”
“Let me put on record that for the spraying of cocoa farms, COCOBOD hires over 57,000 people every year who help the farmers with the spraying of their farms across the country. These persons, at the end of every session, apart from the fact that COCOBOD Research Institute goes round the country and takes samples and does an evaluation of the spraying that is done for the farmers, we also take some of them to the Cocoa Clinic for examination.
“So allegations that some people are suffering impotency and blindness are not things that the Cocoa Clinic has identified,” Mr Boafo said.
Following Nigeria’s loss to Ivory Coast in the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, Ghanaians took to social media to seek revenge in the ongoing banter.
Despite the Super Eagles reaching the finals, they were defeated 2-1 by the host nation. Ghanaians swiftly seized the opportunity to mock their Nigerian counterparts for their recent setbacks.
One of the entities joining in the teasing was DSTV Ghana, with the channel’s administrator delivering some strong jabs.
On the X platform, DSTV Ghana referenced Nigeria’s Burna Boy’s Last Last song to mock the Super Eagles. Just like the song, they came “last” and got their breakfast.
DSTV had a lesson for the flightless Super Eagles and it was that “no one remembers the one who comes second”.
In response to the fact that Ghana was knocked out of the group stages and could not get a medal like Nigeria did, DSTV Ghana said “You can’t shame the shameless.”
DStv Ghana teases Nigeria after their 1-2 loss to Cote d'Ivoire in the 2023 AFCON Final. pic.twitter.com/LXOqlXHMwN
Five individuals are currently in Police custody for the murder of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cossy Hill Hotel at Jirapa in the Upper West Region, Eric Johnson, popularly called Jirapa Dubai.
The deceased was found on 11th February, 2024 lying in a pool of blood in one of the rooms at the hotel, according to reports from the Ghana Police Service.
The Regional Crime Scene Management Team has visited the scene of the incident, and the Inspector-General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare has deployed a team of investigators and experts led by the Director-General/CID to work with the Upper West Regional Police Command to ensure a thorough investigation into the incident.
Upon arrival at the scene, one, Kumbata Kwaku, was detained to assist the investigation. Following the initial arrest, the Police have arrested four others, Dookuuri Fausta, Braimah Kasim, Beyuo Felix and Michael Klugey who are all workers at the Cossy Hill Hotel; bringing the tally to five.
The Police have assured a thorough investigation into the incident.
Expressing his shock and disbelief at the tragic event, he questioned the motives behind such a heinous act.
“What at all would we gain from this evil act?” Raphius said.
Amigos emphasized that such acts of violence are inherently evil and should not be tolerated or encouraged in any society.
He called for collective efforts to condemn and prevent such occurrences from happening again, emphasizing the importance of promoting peace and harmony within communities.
Mr. Eric Johnson was tragically murdered in his room at the Royal Cosy Hills Safari Resort on Saturday, February 10th, 2024.
Chief Executive Officer of Royal Cosy Hills Safari Resort, Eric Johnson.
The incident has prompted swift action from law enforcement, with five suspects apprehended by the police in connection with his murder.
Currently, the suspects are under investigation as authorities work to unravel the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.
Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has firmly declared the party’s stance against the proposal to shift the date of the 2024 elections from December to November.
“We [NDC] do not believe that this is being proposed in good faith,” he maintained.
During the opening of the Minority caucus meeting in Ho on Saturday (February 10), the NDC flagbearer, Mr. Mahama, asserted that the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) was displaying signs of anticipating defeat.
He accused the NPP of initiating strategies to discredit the upcoming elections, such as the sudden push by the Electoral Commission to change the election date from December 7 to November 7.
Mr. Mahama highlighted the Electoral Commission’s apparent lack of readiness to conduct the general elections, citing the District Assembly elections held in December last year. He pointed out elementary errors and significant logistical deficiencies, indicating a commission ill-prepared for managing elections.
“All indications point to a resounding victory for the NDC in the 2024 elections and an unmistakable rejection of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government by the people of Ghana upon whom they have heaped very poor governance,” Mr Mahama added.
Expanding on his remarks, Mr. Mahama emphasized that the upcoming elections marked an opportunity to put an end to corruption, maladministration, nepotism, arrogance of power, incompetence, and wasteful use of state resources under the current government.
He suggested that the NPP, sensing its impending defeat, was resorting to fraudulent tactics to manipulate the election results in their favor.
“Regarding the issue of continuous registration, as canvassed by the Electoral Commission, we demand that the process must necessarily include a system that enables all political parties and relevant stakeholders to possess the capacity to monitor that exercise in real time, to avoid fraud and exploitation to the undue advantage of any party,” the NDC flag bearer insisted.
Mr Mahama commended the Minority in Parliament for living up to expectation by putting in valiant efforts to check the excesses of this government.
“The composition of this eighth Parliament under the Fourth Republic placed you at the centre of history and brought in its wake, a unique responsibility and burden of expectation never witnessed.
Mr Mahama reminded the caucus members not to lose sight of the fact that they, as the Minority in Parliament, had become the last bulwark between an overbearing, desperate and non-performing government, and the people.
“Ghanaians are counting on you to secure them against poor governance and keep this government in check” said Mr Mahama.
Mr. Mahama highlighted the recent trend in Ghanaian politics where the electorate has chosen to create a hung Parliament, where neither of the major parties holds a dominant position. He portrayed this as a significant shift reflecting the populace’s long-standing demand for a robust and independent legislative branch capable of effectively scrutinizing the executive. He underscored the importance of such oversight functions in ensuring good governance.
Regarding his policy agenda, Mr. Mahama pointed to the widespread support for his proposed 24-hour economy policy and other policy initiatives aimed at improving living standards and revitalizing the economy. He emphasized that these measures were designed to benefit all citizens, not just a privileged few.
On the issue of the Ghana Card and its potential impact on elections, Mr. Mahama cautioned the Electoral Commission against disenfranchising sections of the population through a rigid insistence on its use as the sole means of identification for voter registration. He criticized the politicization of the Ghana Card and advocated for a more inclusive approach, allowing adequate time for its integration into the lives of Ghanaians.
Mr. Mahama concluded by expressing his concern over what he described as the current government’s poor performance, labeling it as arguably the worst in Ghana’s history under the leadership of Akufo-Addo/Bawumia.
“They have been so bad; their own poster boy is attempting an inexplicable and contriving separation between himself and happenings in the very government he was touted as the brain behind, for purely electoral purposes,” observed Mr Mahama.
Mr. Mahama criticized the NPP government’s handling of the economy, highlighting that they inherited a stable economic situation following a period of temporary challenges. However, he lamented that the NPP had mismanaged the economy to the point where recovery seemed impossible without inflicting significant hardship on the populace.
The Nkwanta South Traders Association has urged the Interior Ministry to reassess the curfew imposed on their township, citing adverse effects on their businesses.
Mr. Richard Owusu Ansah (Paa Rich), the Secretary of the Association, expressed concerns over the current curfew schedule, which runs from 1700 to 0600 hours, attributing it to the ongoing ethnic conflict.
He highlighted the significant impact on business activities in Nkwanta South and neighboring areas since November 2023, with approximately 14 fatalities and extensive property damage recorded.
The traders emphasized the necessity of revising the curfew to facilitate a return to normal business operations, noting the stark transformation of the once bustling business center into a desolate environment.
During their presentation of food items to security agencies as a gesture of support for peacekeeping efforts in the Nkwanta South Municipality, the traders voiced their appeal for a reconsideration of the curfew.
Chief Superintendent Michael Asiedu, the Divisional Police Commander, received the donation and lauded the traders for their contribution. He reiterated the commitment of the police and other security forces to diligently work towards restoring peace in the area.
Chief Supt. Asiedu also urged residents to collaborate with law enforcement by providing essential assistance to mitigate the conflict’s escalation in the region.
The National Youth Wing of the ruling New Patriotic Party is advocating for their Presidential Candidate for the 2024 elections, H.E. Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to select Energy Minister and Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, commonly known as NAPO, as his running mate.
In an article penned by Deputy National Youth Organizer of the NPP, Isaac Jay Nii Amahtey Hyde, titled “Ensuing Debate of Who Best Pairs DMB,” he asserts that it’s imperative for the NPP to choose NAPO as the running mate to their Flagbearer.
According to Mr Hyde, the challenging task of #Breakingthe8 demands not only a candidate who adds to the numbers of the flagbearer but one with a proven track record and the ability to deliver results.
“One that answers the concerns of Ghanaians today, just like our current flagbearer resonated with voters in 2016 and 2020 on matters of the Economy. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh has demonstrated overtime is ability to cause change and deliver when it matters most. As a National Officer of the party, I’ve touched base with the grassroots and there’s no one in the NPP today, whose charisma energizes the base than Napo” he wrote.
“Bold and Decisive; His assertive nature makes him unconventional to what is ordinarily perceived of our politicians “sweet talkers”. Napo is blunt and very trustworthy. Engagement and Negotiation Skills; Napo’s ability to listen well and engage extensively has endeared him to various stakeholders. Throughout my service with him as NUGS President and as far as I remember there was never a strike by any group within the sector.
“He successfully delivered our major policy headliner in the last two National elections ie. Free SHS. He has something relatable to account for his stewardship. The implementation of the Double Track concept to ensure that no Ghanaian child was left behind in the FSHS agenda was a master stroke. He led the successful transition of in-person classroom teaching to online successfully in the advent of the COVID pandemic, at a time when online infrastructure and capacity of lecturers in most schools was almost nonexistent.
“His ingenuity led the GETFUND securitization that provided the needed funds for infrastructure development to mitigate facility user challenges that initially bedeviled this brilliant initiative. Napo is simply a doer!” he said
Herbert Wigwe, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, is currently in the news following his tragic passing in a helicopter crash near the California-Nevada border.
Reports from The Will state that Wigwe, along with his wife, son, and three others, were aboard the helicopter at the time of the accident on Friday night.
The Federal Aviation Administration has verified that the Eurocopter EC130 helicopter crashed around 10 p.m. local time near Nipton, Calif., an unincorporated community approximately 60 miles south of Las Vegas in eastern San Bernardino County.
According to updates from the New York Times, as of Saturday morning, authorities have not located any survivors. Sources have indicated that the US government has confirmed all individuals on board to be deceased.
Prior to his unfortunate demise, Mr Herbert, aged 57, contributed meaningfully to the world’s financial sector.
Profile of Herbert Wigwe
Mr. Wigwe started his professional career with Coopers & Lybrand Associates, an international firm of Chartered Accountants. He spent over 10 years at Guaranty Trust Bank Plc where he managed several portfolios, including financial institutions, large corporates and multinationals.
He left Guaranty Trust Bank as an Executive Director to co-lead the transformation of Access Bank Plc in March 2002 as Deputy Managing Director. He was appointed Group Managing Director/CEO effective January 1, 2014 and served in that capacity till May 2022. He was subsequently appointed a Non-Executive Director of the Bank effective May 2022.
Mr Wigwe was an alumnus of the Harvard Business School Executive Management Programme. He held a master’s degree in Banking and International Finance from the University College of North Wales, a master’s degree in Financial Economics from the University of London and a B.Sc. degree in Accounting from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
He was also a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). Mr Wigwe is the Chairman of The Access Bank (UK) Ltd and a Non-Executive Director of Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Company Plc; FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange; Shared Agents Network Expansion Facilities Ltd and Agri-Business/ SME Enterprises Investment Scheme.
He was also a member of the Governing Council of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria.
According to The Will, Wigwe, along with his wife, son, and three others were on board the helicopter at the time of the accident on Friday night.
The Federal Aviation Administration has confirmed that the Eurocopter EC130 helicopter crashed around 10 p.m. local time near Nipton, Calif., an unincorporated community situated approximately 60 miles south of Las Vegas in eastern San Bernardino County.
Reports from the New York Times indicate that as of Saturday morning, authorities have not located any survivors. Sources say the US government has confirmed all onboard dead.
Profile of Herbert Wigwe
Mr. Wigwe started his professional career with Coopers & Lybrand Associates, an international firm of Chartered Accountants. He spent over 10 years at Guaranty Trust Bank Plc where he managed several portfolios, including financial institutions, large corporates and multinationals.
He left Guaranty Trust Bank as an Executive Director to co-lead the transformation of Access Bank Plc in March 2002 as Deputy Managing Director. He was appointed Group Managing Director/CEO effective January 1, 2014 and served in that capacity till May 2022. He was subsequently appointed a Non-Executive Director of the Bank effective May 2022.
Mr Wigwe was an alumnus of the Harvard Business School Executive Management Programme. He held a master’s degree in Banking and International Finance from the University College of North Wales, a master’s degree in Financial Economics from the University of London and a B.Sc. degree in Accounting from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
He was also a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). Mr Wigwe is the Chairman of The Access Bank (UK) Ltd and a Non-Executive Director of Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Company Plc; FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange; Shared Agents Network Expansion Facilities Ltd and Agri-Business/ SME Enterprises Investment Scheme.
He was also a member of the Governing Council of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria.
Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has underscored the importance of maximizing the benefits derived from Ghana’s abundant natural resources to foster job creation, enhance livelihoods, and strengthen the domestic economy.
In light of Ghana’s significant gold reserves, Dr. Bawumia has proposed a legislative initiative that would ensure areas with confirmed gold deposits are exclusively owned by Ghanaian entities.
This policy, if enacted under his government’s leadership, aims to empower local ownership and control over valuable natural resources, thereby driving economic prosperity within the nation.
Furthermore, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the potential of this policy to bolster Ghana’s gold reserves substantially. By increasing these reserves, Ghana can achieve a level of financial stability that supports robust and sustainable external payments.
“My government will provide the Geological Survey Department and our universities with resources annually to undertake a mapping of areas where we have gold reserves.
“As a matter of policy, we will legislate that concessions in these areas with proven reserves will be 100% Ghanaian owned since with proven gold reserves, we can easily raise the capital required and hire the expertise,” Dr Bawumia said when he delivered a public lecture on February 7, 2024, at the UPSA.
Additionally, Dr. Bawumia highlighted his government’s intention, if elected, to collaborate with exploration experts from universities and geological institutions.
This partnership aims to harness the expertise of these professionals in exploring seven significant gold belts spanning from Axim and Winneba to Nangodi and Lawra.
“However, even if only 5% of this 5-billion-ounce estimate materializes, it will be a game changer for Ghana,” Dr Bawumia added.
According to data from the Geological Survey Department, Ghana boasts seven gold belts spanning an area of 43,000 square kilometers. Remarkably, approximately 50% of this area, totaling 21,000 square kilometers, remains unexplored.
Conservative estimates suggest that these unexplored belts hold a significant potential quantity of gold, estimated at around 5 billion ounces. This substantial reserve translates to a staggering market value of $10 trillion dollars at current market prices.
The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has issued a warning about the intensified harmattan conditions prevailing across the country, characterized by dusty weather conditions.
According to the association, the heightened dust levels and overall dry weather conditions, as confirmed by both the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Meteorological Services, are significantly impacting human health, leading to an increase in respiratory conditions.
In a press statement released on Friday, February 9, the GMA highlighted the risk for individuals with asthma and other chronic respiratory conditions, who may experience acute attacks or exacerbation of their symptoms due to the dusty conditions.
Additionally, the GMA emphasized concerns regarding reduced visibility on the roads, particularly during nighttime, as a result of the dusty weather conditions.
“People are also predisposed to dehydration due to the increased dryness of the air. Additionally, the dry weather condition is a risk factor for the outbreak of bushfires,” the statement read.
In order to mitigate the effects of these weather conditions, the GMA has provided several recommendations to the public:
Wear face masks to minimize exposure to the dust particles.
Limit outdoor activities, especially for children, during periods of heightened dust levels.
Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly throughout the day.
Individuals living with asthma should ensure they carry their inhalers and take all prescribed medications as directed by their healthcare providers.
“Anyone who experiences signs and symptoms of respiratory conditions, e.g., cough, painful swallowing, runny nose, chest pain, or difficulty in breathing should report to the nearest health facility immediately.
“Drivers are also advised to avoid over-speeding, especially on dusty roads and at night. The public is advised to avoid burning bushes and activities that lead to bushfires.”
The GMA also advised that all roads under construction should be watered to reduce the dust.
The Renal Dialysis unit at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) has once again accrued a debt of GH₵2 million for treating kidney patients, despite the government settling an initial debt of GH₵4 million just three months prior.
Dr. Owusu Sekyere, the Director of Medical Affairs at KBTH, explained that the facility accumulated the new debt because renal patients only cover half of the cost of dialysis treatment, leaving the remaining expenses unmet with alternative funding sources.
Speaking in an interview on Joy FM’s Midday News on February 9, he said, “We are also a preview to the fact that the cost of Korle Bu Teaching hospital performing one dialysis is well over GH₵720 cedis, and patients are paying GH₵380, so there is a difference of about GH₵380 or GH₵400 that needs to be looked at.
“I think that is what led to the shutdown initially then we got consignment and there was a huge discussion about it. There was a bill of GH₵4 million cedis that have been accumulated because of the exchange rate and then other things that happened which have been cleared but the fact remains that we still haven’t tackled the difference in the cost.
“Since we opened, giving dialysis at that rate till now, I don’t think it is strange to know that we have accumulated another GH₵2 million bill.”
Dr. Sekyere is hopeful that Parliament will approve their proposed fees to alleviate the financial burden on the Renal Dialysis unit.
Baafour Kojo Ahenkora, the President of the Renal Patients Association of Ghana, disclosed that he visited the renal unit and underwent dialysis at a cost of GH₵380. He expressed concern that some members could not afford this fee and feared that any price changes might lead to loss of lives.
In May 2023, the Renal Unit was temporarily shut down due to a GH₵4 million debt incurred after the removal of tax and excise duty exemptions on medical consumables. However, after engagements with the Minister of Health, Kwaku Agyeman Manu, the center reopened on Monday, November 6.
An undisclosed amount of money and other valuable properties were reportedly destroyed in a devastating inferno that engulfed a 15-bedroom house in Meduma near Kumasi on Wednesday, February 7, around 3 pm.
The fire, which originated from one of the rooms in the house, quickly spread to other parts, resulting in extensive destruction.
According to a police report obtained by the paper, the house was largely empty at the time of the fire, with occupants outside. Eyewitnesses promptly alerted the Ghana National Fire Service, who swiftly responded to the scene to combat the blaze.
Two fire tenders from Mamponteng Municipal and Bremang fire stations rushed to the scene to put off the fire and also prevent it from spreading to the adjourning houses.
However, despite their efforts, the inferno had already caused significant damage, consuming a substantial amount of money and other valuable items within the affected residence.
Preliminary investigations, police said, revealed that “neighbours noticed smoke emanating from one of the rooms in the house, being occupied by a woman and her mentally-challenged mother, and spread to other rooms.”
The Diaspora Patriotic Forum (DPF), a think tank affiliated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) operating abroad, recently conducted an extensive week-long opinion poll regarding the NPP’s 2024 vice presidential candidacy.
Utilizing the secure Survey Monkey Polls tool, the survey garnered responses from 621 participants, revealing a clear preference for Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, commonly known as Napo, as the favored running mate to Dr. Bawumia.
Out of the 620 respondents, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh secured a commanding 42.42% of the vote, totaling 263 votes. This substantial support among NPP sympathizers, external branch members, and executives worldwide positions him as a leading candidate.
Following at a distance were Dr. Osei Yaw Adutwum (23.23%), Kennedy Ohene Agyapong (12.58%), and others, with 2.10% indicating a preference for none of the listed candidates.
The reasons behind the respondents’ preferences reflect their priorities. A significant 29.15% highlighted the need for a candidate who complements Dr. Bawumia, adding value to the ticket through political experience and innovative ideas. Additionally, 21.34% emphasized the importance of the candidate’s ability to attract floating voters.
Interestingly, religious and gender balance were not prominent factors among the diaspora NPP support base.
Empirical evidence from the poll, coupled with in-depth conversations with external branch executives and members, strongly suggests that Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the current Minister for Energy and Member of Parliament for Manhyia North, is the preferred NPP vice presidential candidate in the diaspora.
The survey underscores the Diaspora Patriotic Forum’s commitment to providing a platform for NPP members and sympathizers to voice their opinions on party matters and national development affairs.
While the ultimate decision rests with NPP presidential candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the overwhelming support for Napo expressed by the diaspora NPP community adds a significant dimension to the party’s considerations for the 2024 general elections.
The DPF serves as a voluntary think tank for the New Patriotic Party in the diaspora, providing credible and reliable information, education, policies, and research to support the broader political agenda of the NPP.
Prince Harry has denounced Piers Morgan following the resolution of the remainder of the royal’s lawsuit against Mirror Group Newspapers.
The prince said the then-Daily Mirror editor “knew perfectly well what was going on” when the royal’s phone was hacked for stories written about him.
The prince’s attorney confirmed that the duke received “substantial” additional damages from MGN, which would also cover legal expenses.
Mirror Group expressed satisfaction with the agreement and aimed to “move forward from events that took place many years ago.”
In December, the prince secured victory in 15 claims during his case, with the High Court determining the “widespread and habitual” use of phone hacking at Mirror newspapers.
The prince was not present in court today, having returned to America this week after visiting his father King Charles following his cancer diagnosis.
An 80-year-old retired engineer received a life sentence today for the murder of his wife, following his confession to an affair and secret lovechild during their 53-year marriage.
David Clarke, a church-goer, confessed to fatally battering his unsuspecting wife, Helen, 77, with a hammer and setting her on fire just days after revealing his betrayal. This revelation deeply devastated Mrs. Clarke, described as a ‘doting granny’, especially as the affair involved a woman she considered a friend.
The couple’s relationship took a dark turn after they traveled to Australia to meet Clarke’s former lover and her family. Upon returning to their cottage on the Gower Peninsula, tensions escalated, leading to arguments and physical altercations.
Four days later, Clarke texted family members, professing his love for them, before embarking on what seemed like an innocent morning drive with his wife. However, during the journey, Clarke stopped the car, brutally attacked his wheelchair-bound wife with a lump hammer, and then set her ablaze with paraffin inside their Honda Civic.
Despite a passer-by’s attempt to intervene, Clarke drove off, eventually crashing into a hedge as flames engulfed the car. Fortunately, Mrs. Clarke managed to inform firefighters about her husband’s culpability before succumbing to her injuries.
Clarke, a former international pistol-shooting champion and father of four, will now spend the rest of his life behind bars for this heinous crime, committed on September 22 of the previous year.
‘He hit me twice with a sledge hammer, covered me in paraffin and set me on fire,’ she said.
She was taken to hospital where she tragically died from her injuries two days later.
Questioned in hospital about a bruise on his head, the court heard Clarke told a paramedic: ‘My wife is not the forgiving kind.
‘We have been married 53 years, I had an affair 50 years ago she only found out a few days ago.’
Speaking later of the attack on phone from prison, Clarke told his son he ‘hit her with the hammer to make her go unconscious but she just wouldn’t go out.’
Mrs. Clarke suffered extensive burns across her body and sustained nine head wounds from the hammer blows, with medical professionals informing her family that her injuries were ‘unsurvivable’.
During the hearing, it was revealed that Clarke had engaged in an affair with a woman identified only as ‘L’ – a friend of Mrs. Clarke – while the couple resided in Zambia.
In 2003, while living in Zimbabwe, Clarke disclosed the affair and the existence of his secret daughter to his son, David Clarke Junior, instructing him not to divulge this information to his mother.
Mr Jones said: ‘He asked David Clarke Jnr to go for a drive with him, and during the drive the defendant started to cry and informed his son he had an affair with a woman in Zambia – a family friend referred to as ‘L’ – and he believed he had a daughter as a result of that affair.’
The son ‘believed there was no good that could come from his mother knowing’, Mr Jones said, although he did tell his own wife.
Three prominent unions, including the Senior Staff Association of Public Universities in Ghana (SSA-UoG), Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union (TEWU), and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff (FUSSAG), have announced the suspension of their industrial action.
In a statement signed by the National Chairman of SSA-UoG, Isaac Donkoh, the groups cited a successful meeting with their respective employers as the reason for suspending the strike.
This decision comes after the strike began on January 17, 2024, due to the government’s failure to pay Tier-2 members.
The unions arrived at this decision following an emergency National Executives Council (NEC) meeting held at KNUST on February 7, 2024, to assess the status of the strike.
“NEC passed a resolution to suspend the strike and engage Government on the roadmap for the payment of the three percent penalty and the recalculation of accrued interest from 2010 to 2016. Thus, we wish to announce that the ongoing industrial action is suspended with immediate effect,” the statement directed.
The strike by teacher unions, including the Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union (TEWU) of the Trades Union Congress, the Senior Staff Association of Public Universities, and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff, was initiated in protest against the government’s perceived negligence in issues related to pensions and the alleged unjust termination of their overtime allowances.
The National Labour Commission issued a directive on Thursday, January 25, instructing the Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union (TEWU), the Senior Staff Association of Public Universities, and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff to immediately halt their ongoing strike.
But their directive was ignored, insisting that they would only resume work if the government addressed their demands.
It has been over a week since members of the groups laid down their working tools.
A lecturer at Pentecost University, Dr. Christopher Ampadu, advocates for retaining the compulsory nature of the National Service Scheme, citing its numerous benefits for the youth.
According to Dr. Ampadu, the National Service Scheme serves as both a source of employment and a learning platform for many individuals. Additionally, he highlights its role in instilling patriotism among the youth.
In an interview on JoyNews’, Dr. Ampadu expressed his conviction that national service should remain mandatory, emphasizing its importance in shaping the character and fostering a sense of national pride among young people.
“When we did National Service, it was public service and it was some kind of experience that I think I enjoyed because it gave me an opportunity to work with a chairman and to know his source and ways of serving the nation. For me it was very dedicational,” he added.
Dr. Ampadu’s remark comes in response to a suggestion by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who also serves as the flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), to make national service optional for graduates if elected as President in the upcoming general elections.
At his public lecture on Wednesday where he spoke about his vision for the country, Dr. Bawumia indicated that his government “will propose that those who after completion of their education can secure jobs would be exempted from National Service”.
“National Service will no longer be mandatory and students will have the option to decide whether to do National Service. This will also encourage companies to go to campuses for recruitment annually,” he added.
Mr. Ampadu further noted that in the current job market, companies increasingly prioritize hiring individuals with practical experience. He emphasized that making national service optional, as proposed by Dr. Bawumia, could exacerbate youth unemployment, particularly considering the existing challenges in job creation.
“If we don’t make it mandatory, some people will have jobs, while others may be unemployed. Why don’t you put them through national service, because it helps them to be patriotic,” he said.
During his address to the nation on February 7, Vice President and flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, made some pronouncements that some schools of thought believe were hints of registering his disagreement with the government he is a part of.
Prior to Dr Bawumia’s address, there were claims that there was some sort of friction between himself and some individuals in the NPP administration, including Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
Political analyst, Yaw Asani Tanoh claimed in an interview on Neat FM that the Finance Minister and other individuals who one way or the other are affiliated with the Akyems had ganged up on the Vice President, immobilizing him from carrying out any meaningful initiative or making any important decision.
Now, a scrutiny of Dr Bawumia’s vision for Ghana should he be elected President after the 2024 elections has given the indication that he did not agree with all the decisions which were taken by President Akufo-Addo, giving credence to reports of a rift in the ruling government.
Bloated govt – 50 ministers
Currently, President Akufo-Addo governs the country with over 60 ministers, including their deputies. There have been several calls for a lean government to cut down government expenditure. Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has pledged to work with 60 ministers in his next government.
To the surprise of many, Dr Bawumia has indicated that he will work with 50 ministers. It is fair to interpret that Dr Bawumia is not pleased with the number of ministers appointed by his boss, President Akufo-Addo.
“The move towards the private sector provision of many public services would create fiscal space of at least 3% of GDP.
“This represents a major paradigm shift. Additionally, an efficient system of governance will require even fewer ministers. Therefore I would have no more than 50 ministers and deputy ministers,’’ he said.
Scrap e-levy
The Electronic Transfer Levy Act, 2022, was passed by a Majority-sided Parliament with the aim of regulating and imposing a levy on all electronically transferred monies in Ghana.
This move was part of the government’s efforts to broaden the country’s tax base and increase revenue mobilization. Initially, the levy was set at 1.50% on all electronic transfers, but following criticism from the Minority in Parliament and the general public, the government revised the rate to 1 percent.
Many Ghanaians demanded that the Vice President make known his stance on the levy since he in the past, protested against taxing electronic transactions.
For over a year, Dr Bawumia was silent until February 7, 2024. Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia plans to scrap the e-levy if given the nod to become president, implying that he was never in support of its passing.
“To move towards a cashless economy however, we have to encourage the population to use electronic channels of payment. To accomplish this, there will be no taxes on digital payments under my administration. The e-levy will therefore be abolished,” he said.
Addressing the nation at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra today, the Vice President noted that the removal of the levy will aid government’s cashless economy agenda.
Praised governor of BoG and not Ken Ofori-Atta
In his address, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia called upon Ghanaians to commend and acknowledge the efforts of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), which has faced unwarranted criticism while undertaking essential measures to stabilize the economy.
Dr. Bawumia highlighted the pivotal role played by the central bank in extending crucial financial support to the government during a critical period, preventing the economy from veering towards collapse.
“What the Bank of Ghana did was very responsible, in putting the interest of the good citizens of Ghana first”, he said.
In his speech, Dr Bawumia only mentioned Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta when he disclosed his role, that of the Finance Minister and the Bank of Ghana Governor, Dr Ernest Addison.
“So, when we assumed office in 2017, as Vice-President, I made the decision, with the blessings and support of the President, to focus on the critical but underdeveloped systems that would expand the economy, improve systems, and create jobs through digitalisation.”
“Therefore, as the Minister of Finance oversees the budget (fiscal policy) and the Governor of the central bank also focused on monetary and exchange rate policy, I focused on the complementary data and systems improvement that would ensure the ease of doing business and change the fundamentals of the economy, making it more dynamic and responsive to modern trends, and the management of it more scientific and efficient,” he said.
Scrap excessive taxes
The current NPP government has been accused of working with current tax regime that represents the most severe and punitive in the nation’s history.
Parliament on Friday night [Dec 22] approved five tax bills aimed at helping the government to rake in additional revenue to the state as well as the Appropriation Bill, 2023.
They are the Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023, Excise Duty (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, 2023, Stamp Duty (Amendment) Bill, 2023 Emissions Levy Bill, 2023 and Exemptions (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
Later, government introduced the gambling tax of 10% on all winnings in 2023, emissions levy for engine vehicles which has motorists paying between GHC75 and GHC300. Government also announced a 15% VAT on electricity.
The last three taxes were heavily contended. Prior to his address, the Vice President had not commented on the implementation of these taxes.
Now, Dr Bawumia says he will scrap these taxes if he becomes president.
“Taxes on gambling will be scrapped under my administration. There will be no emissions tax under my administration. 15% tax on electricity will be abolished by 2025 if it’s still on our administration,” he said.
After the Vice President’s address, the Ministry of Finance noted that government has suspended the introduction of the 15% VAT on electricity.
Review NSS
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who is also the flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has pledged to make National Service optional if elected president.
The Scheme has been mandatory since 1973 and is being implemented by the current government. Government has had challenges paying National Service Personnel their allowances.
To address this challenge and the issue of unemployment, Vice President Bawumia says he will not make the scheme mandatory.
According to the Vice President, this will help the youth get jobs since companies will be encouraged to go to campuses for recruitment annually.
“National Service will no longer be mandatory. And students will have the option to decide whether to do national service or not,” the Vice President said.
Vice President of the think-tank IMANI Centre for Policy and Education, Bright Simons, has reported what he believes is the end of Tingo‘s operations in the country.
In a post on X, Mr Simons indicated that the company’s signage at what he describes as a “swanky Accra suburb” has been stripped off.
He is devastated about how things have punned out as “Tingo got the building even though some high street banks were also after it.”
Mr Simons did not provide the reason(s) behind the company’s decision to cease operations in the country.
According to Mr Simons, “the landlord now has to deal with a seriously depressed rental market.”
Tingo's foray into Ghana seems to have come to a sad end, with the company's HQ in a swanky Accra suburb stripped of its signage. Tingo got the building even though some highstreet banks were also after it. The landlord now has to deal with a seriously depressed rental market. pic.twitter.com/KueuFseMAY
In November 2022, Tingo Holdings Incorporated, a leading Agri-Fintech company in Africa, ventured into the Ghanaian market to expand its operations
At the official launch, President of Tingo Inc; Dr. Chris Cleverly, assured Ghanaian farmers and subscribers of top-notch services with cutting-edge technology.
In 2023, Hindenburg Research accused the Tingo Group of being an exceptionally obvious scam with completely fabricated financials.
In a rebuttal, Tingo Group said it stands by its commitment to transparency, ethical practices, and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of its business as the company’s growth and achievements are a testament to its dedicated team and visionary leadership.
For several years, Tingo Mobile Nigeria has been offering a comprehensive Agri-Fintech platform service through use of smartphones to empower the marketplace including farmers or subscribers.
Tingo supports the value chain from ‘seed to sale’ with services including airtime top ups, bill pay services for utilities, access to insurance services and micro finance.
Additionally, the company has introduced Tingo Media Limited to help Ghanaian businesses take advantage of their cutting-edge media technology and investments in innovative strategies.
Organised Labour has decided to suspend its planned demonstration against the 15 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) on Electricity, which was scheduled for Friday, February 9.
This decision comes following the government’s recent announcement to halt the implementation of the contentious tax policy.
During a press conference, Dr. Yaw Baah, the General Secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), warned that the demonstration would proceed if the government did not fully withdraw the policy immediately.
Dr. Baah emphasized that Organised Labour remains prepared to protest against any future unfavorable tax policies.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Finance has officially notified Organised Labour about the suspension of the policy’s implementation.
In a letter dated Thursday, February 8, the Ministry informed Organised Labour that it had instructed the Electricity Company of Ghana and NEDCO to cease the implementation of the controversial policy.
The government has directed ECG and NEDCO to suspend the imposition of the tax on electricity consumption by residential customers until further consultations are held with key stakeholders, including Organised Labour.
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has encouraged the youth in his domain to harness their strength and redirect it towards endeavors that contribute to the advancement and progress of Asanteman by abstaining from drug abuse.
He emphasized the importance of following in the footsteps of Asantes’ ancestors, who courageously fought to ensure the continuity and prosperity of Asante.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II emphasized that by emulating the noble actions of their forebears, the current generation can uphold the rich legacy of Asanteman and secure a brighter future for themselves and future generations.
“Stop drugs and use your strength for a better course. That was not how Asanteman was built. Our predecessors did it and we can do it too. Strive to retain Asanteman just as Nananom did. Young men and women must emulate our predecessors,” he said.
Otumfuo made this clarion call during the Kuntunkuni Durbar held at the Manhyia Palace on February 8, 2024.
The durbar was organized to mark the 150th anniversary of the Sagrenti War of 1874, a significant event that resulted in the destruction of Kumasi and the plundering of treasures from the Palace of Asantehene Kofi Karikari.
During the event, the Fowler Museum formally presented Otumfuo with seven artifacts that had been taken from the Palace to the United States of America (USA) and later returned. Notably among these items was a royal stool belonging to Asantehene Kofi Karikari, the 10th Asantehene.
In his submission, the Asantehene noted that no machinations could ever destroy the Ashanti Kingdom while the Golden Stool, which is the soul of the land, remains.
“Asante is alive. 150 years ago, the whites destroyed this city but the Golden Stool remained. All kinds of guns came here, but Golden Stool remained untouched. So far as the Golden Stool remains, no one can touch Asanteman. It is the soul of Asanteman and Nananom used their blood to protect it.
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, also the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, has articulated a comprehensive vision for the mining sector aimed at enhancing regulation, particularly for small-scale miners, and safeguarding the environment.
Addressing the nation in Accra on Wednesday to present his vision for Ghana, Dr. Bawumia highlighted that approximately one million Ghanaians are involved in small-scale mining.
He emphasized the necessity of transitioning these miners towards responsible mining practices to generate more wealth and ensure environmental preservation.
“About one million people are engaged in small-scale mining. Our goal would be to help small-scale mining companies to grow into large-scale companies with capacity building and skills to access financing to acquire equipment.
“We can create many millionaires in the small-scale mining industry if we support them,” Dr Bawumia said.
“My government will support the Minerals Commission and key stakeholders to formalise the Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) sector with the objective of ensuring that the activities of the entire value chain are sustainably and responsibly done.”
In line with that, he said his government “would license all miners doing responsible mining. District mining committees, including chiefs, will provide initial temporary licenses to the miners.”
“As long as miners mine within the limits of their licenses, there will be no mining in river or water bodies, there will no longer be any seizure or burning of excavators.”
“I will fully decentralise the Minerals Commission as well as Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and ensure that they are present in all mining districts.”
Dr. Bawumia stated that under his administration, every Ghanaian engaged in small-scale mining would be registered under the Ghana Small Scale Miners Association using their Ghana Card.
“We will, in collaboration with the large mining companies, convert abandoned shafts into community mining schemes and open more new community mining schemes.”
During a lavish birthday celebration for his wife, Kennedy Agyapong, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, took to the dance floor in high spirits.
The extravagant event, which occurred on January 1, 2024, saw the attendance of close associates and a diverse array of individuals from across the country.
In a video sighted on X platform, the lawmaker, clad in a white Lacoste shirt and blue trousers, was enthusiastically dancing to the rhythm of “Broda Broda” by Bisa Kdei.
Ken Agyapong appeared visibly elated as he joined several male companions on the dance floor, thoroughly enjoying the festivities.
Earlier in the evening, his wife, Christine, along with several of their children, are reported to have expressed gratitude to well-wishers with a brief ‘Thank You’ message.
Subsequently, Mr Agyapong and his family came together to cut the birthday cake, marking the joyous occasion.
Kennedy Agyapong’s body language says a lot in this video
Elsie, a Tanzanian woman grappling with a rare condition called hirsutism, which results in the growth of facial hair and a beard, has bravely shared her challenges.
She revealed that men often shy away from dating her, as they mistakenly perceive her to be transgender.
In an interview with Wasafi Media, Elsie noted: “I accepted myself because it’s natural. I was given by God. But there are a lot of challenges that I do face. Some people think I am transgender, but I would like to clarify that I am a woman…
“I have been blessed with one daughter and I am just okay. Many people wonder when they see me because I look different, but I am just like any other woman. Men fear me and they go around asking my friends if I am a real woman or transgender”.
Tanzania is among the many African countries against the activities of the LGBTQ community.
The Tanzanian government has warned against the dissemination of online messages and short videos promoting same-sex relationships.
It has also warned that it will take action against administrators of social media groups whose members share pro-LGBT messages.
Men Are Afraid To Date Me, They Think I'm A Transgender – Lady With Beard Cries Out
A Tanzanian woman, identified only as Elsie, with a rare condition known as Hirsutism which causes her to grow facial hair and beard has opened up about her struggle.
US President Biden expressed frustration and defiance in response to an investigation into his handling of classified files, which raised questions about his memory.
During an unexpected news briefing on Thursday evening, he emphatically stated, “My memory is fine.”
Biden addressed a specific allegation suggesting he struggled to recall when his son died, rebuking it by saying, “How dare he raise that?” Special Counsel Robert Hur ultimately chose not to pursue charges against Biden for mishandling files.
However, the report contained several critical remarks, including suggestions of “significant limitations” in the president’s memory.
It said that it would be difficult to convict the president of improper handling of files because “at trial, Mr Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory”.
Mr Biden responded that despite his age, he was the most qualified person to be president.
Referring to interviews he gave the special counsel late last year, he said: “I was very occupied. I was in the middle of handling an international crisis,” – referring to the 7 October attacks by Hamas in Israel which occurred a day before.
Concerns about Mr. Biden’s age have emerged as a prominent issue among voters leading up to November’s presidential election. During a Thursday evening news conference, when asked to comment on the latest developments in the Gaza war, he inadvertently mixed up the presidents of Mexico and Egypt.
“I think as you know initially, the president of Mexico, Sisi, did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in. I talked to him. I convinced him,” he said.
National Youth Organizer of the opposition NDC, George Opare Addo, also known as Pablo, has made mockery of the Vice President’s vision to take Ghana to a place of recovery, where the current NPP administration led by President Akufo-Addo failed to,
While addressing the nation, Dr Bawumia drew an analogy between his current role as Vice-President and that of a driver’s mate, emphasizing that with the constitutional authority vested in the president, he envisions assuming the proverbial “driver’s seat” to steer the nation towards progress.
Dr Bawumia therefore urged electorates to vote for him in the 2024 general to enable him obtain the position of president, where he can take an active role in Ghana’s transformation.
Reacting to this on CitiNews, remained skeptical of the role Vice President Bawumia could play to reverse Ghana’s economic challenges which have been exacerbated during his government.
Following Dr Bawumia’s anology, he noted that the driver, being President Akufo-Addo, has already given up in his quest to transform Ghana, hence, his “mate” could come no where close to fixing what has been broken.
“When the President of the Republic has already thrown in the towel is it the driver’s mate that will get us back on to the road? Akufo-Addo himself has told us it is game over,” he said.
In August 2023, Addressing the media after casting his vote at the New Patriotic Party’s Super Delegates Congress, President Akufo-Addo expressed his confidence in the Ghanaian people’s ability to choose a leader who can navigate the country through these difficult times.
“It’s difficult, I’m the first to admit it. I have said it several times, but at the end of the day I believe when the moment comes, Ghanaians will reflect on who best to get us out of this difficulty and take us to the next stage,” he said, implying that not much could be done by the current government.
George Opare Addo also known as Pablo, has also criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for not starting his address to the nation with an apology to Ghanaians for failing to deliver on numerous promises made prior to winning the elections in 2016.
Speaking at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra, Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the challenges faced by Ghanaians across various sectors.
He openly confessed to the hardships experienced by citizens, including soaring food prices, a sharp depreciation of the exchange rate, escalating fuel costs, and increased transportation fares.
Furthermore, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the adverse effects of the government’s debt restructuring program on bond holders, who suffered significant losses in their net worth.
On the country’s exchange rate depreciation, the Vice President noted that the loss of the local currency has slowed down sharply since February 2023.
George Opare Addo noted that the acknowledgment by the Vice President is not enough to assuage the hearts of many Ghanaians who cast their ballots for the NPP and the entire public.
“Our situation is worse and what I was expected Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to do was apologize to the good people of this country.
We deserve an apology from Bawumia. The kind of things he said, the lies he told, the promises he made. You make all these promises, you don’t fulfill them and you have the nerves and effrontery to stand before us,” he said.
The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia-led government promised to address Ghana’s currency depreciation and inflation, among others, but failed to do so.
National Youth Organizer of the NDC, George Opare Addo, believes that Vice-President @MBawumia should have started his address by apologizing to Ghanaians for failing to fulfill his numerous promises prior to winning the elections in 2016
National Communications Officer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has raised concerns over Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s attempts to distance himself from certain government policies.
In his view, both President Akufo-Addo and the vice president should be held accountable for the current challenges facing the country.
“How can Kabiru in one breath say that Bawumia was a mere agent and hence can not take liability or blame for the failures of Principal, yet in another breath they give Bawumia credit for the success of the Principal?
“Why is Bawumia being credited for one constituency one ambulance, agenda 111, why? Why is that the case? They are not saying that the credit should go to Akufo-Addo because Bawumia was a mere agent. Hypocrite, that is what they are,” he said on Joy FM’s Top Story on February 8.
Sammy Gyamfi’s remarks come in response to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s call for Ghanaians to elevate him from the role of a “driver’s mate” to that of a “driver.”
This analogy suggests a desire for increased responsibility and authority within the government. Additionally, Dr. Tiah Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, the Vice President’s Technical Advisor, has argued that Dr. Bawumia’s role is primarily advisory, implying limitations in his ability to effect substantial change as he is not the President.
On the back of this, Mr Gyamfi said “If the Vice President is a mere advisor, he is a mere agent, then my question is this, ‘how come in 2016, Dr Bawumia directed 170 questions to then Vice President and Chairman of the Economic Management Team, Paa Kwesi Amissah Arthur?
“Paa Kwesi Amissah Arthur was vice? Was he not a mere agent of John Mahama per their logic?”
Sammy Gyamfi expressed frustration at the National Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer’s apparent marginalization of President Akufo-Addo in his pursuit of political power.
“Akufo-Addo is looking like a lonely old man. I am just feeling pity for him. This is the time that his Vice President whom he entrusted with the management of the economy has to stand by him and say look we take collective responsibility. We have failed, we could have done things better, we have failed,” he added.
National Communications Officer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has expressed frustration at the National Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer’s apparent marginalization of President Akufo-Addo in his pursuit of political power.
He has raised concerns over Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s attempts to distance himself from certain government policies that have not been successful and pin them on his boss, President Akufo-Addo.
In his view, both the President and Vice President should be held accountable for the current challenges facing the country.
“How can Kabiru in one breath say that Bawumia was a mere agent and hence can not take liability or blame for the failures of Principal, yet in another breath they give Bawumia credit for the success of the Principal?
“Why is Bawumia being credited for one constituency one ambulance, agenda 111, why? Why is that the case? They are not saying that the credit should go to Akufo-Addo because Bawumia was a mere agent. Hypocrite, that is what they are,” he said on Joy FM’s Top Story on February 8.
Vice President Dr. Bawumia’s policies seem to shift all blame onto President Akufo-Addo, whom he believes has been abandoned.
According to him, “Akufo-Addo is looking like a lonely old man. I am just feeling pity for him. This is the time that his Vice President whom he entrusted with the management of the economy has to stand by him and say look we take collective responsibility. We have failed, we could have done things better, we have failed,” he added.
Sammy Gyamfi’s remarks come in response to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s call for Ghanaians to elevate him from the role of a “driver’s mate” to that of a “driver.”
This analogy suggests a desire for increased responsibility and authority within the government. Additionally, Dr. Tiah Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, the Vice President’s Technical Advisor, has argued that Dr. Bawumia’s role is primarily advisory, implying limitations in his ability to effect substantial change as he is not the President.
On the back of this, Mr Gyamfi said, “If the Vice President is a mere advisor, he is a mere agent, then my question is this, ‘how come in 2016, Dr Bawumia directed 170 questions to then Vice President and Chairman of the Economic Management Team, Paa Kwesi Amissah Arthur?
“Paa Kwesi Amissah Arthur was vice? Was he not a mere agent of John Mahama per their logic?”
