TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • Are you no longer a ‘dead goat’? – Nana Akomea jabs Mahama

    Are you no longer a ‘dead goat’? – Nana Akomea jabs Mahama

    Chief Executive Officer of the InterCity State Transport Corporation, Nana Akomea, has questioned former President John Mahama about the role he will play should he be re-elected into office after the abysmal performance he showed during his tenure.

    Mr Akomea noted that he is concerned as the former president, while in office, compared himself to a dead goat in response to some strike actions.

    “Was it not the same Mahama who when was hit by strike by teachers and organized labor, said he was a dead goat. And he will no longer listen to their pleas. Is that not what he said when he was president?” he quizzed during an interview on Peace FM.

    Nana Akomea noted that Mahama cannot be given the nod after his concerning administration and his inability to be candid about the factors that have contributed to the worsening of the Ghanaian economy under the Akufo-Bawumia government.

    “One of the things that hurts me about the NDC and Mahama is that, when we gave him the opportunity to be president from 2012 to 2016, didn’t you see things were difficult? During that period, he noted that one of the major reasons for the economic crisis was because Chinese economy had challenges.

    “This time around, there are challenges, and you say we should blame Akufo-Addo and Bawumia when we have been hit with two major incidents: COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war.

    “When he goes to the international body, he makes mention of COVID, but when he comes to Ghana, he only blames Bawumia. So which of the two should we believe?” he said.

    In 2015, the former president said he had become impervious to threats of strikes and demonstrations in Ghana and would not yield to any of such threats in the then-upcoming election year.

    Adopting what he calls a “dead-goat syndrome”, the former president said he would not be hoodwinked by such strategies by workers.

    “I have seen more demonstrations and strikes in my first two years. I don’t think it can get worse. It is said that when you kill a goat and you frighten it with a knife, it doesn’t fear the knife because it is dead already.

    “I have a dead goat syndrome,” he told a Ghanaian population in Botswana where he was on a three-day official state visit.

    Seven years down the line, Mahama has explained why he said he had dead goat syndrome. According to him, he used the idiomatic expression due to the frustration associated with the deregulation of petroleum prices.

    This, he stated, is because he knew that if the fuel prices went up, the leadership of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and other unions will not leave him in peace.

    Mr. Mahama said he could not bear the mass labour unrest that was prevailing at the time.

    “I am the only government in the Fourth Republic where all organised labour came together and went on strike and shut down the country.

    “I was one of the most harassed Presidents by Organised Labour. That is what led to the dead goat syndrome… because when you kill a goat, you cannot frighten it with the knife again, really!… I don’t know why I said that, but of course our opponents took it out of context. They said I have said that I won’t listen to anybody,” he explained during a lecture at Academic City University College.

  • Kofi Adomakoh is now President of Ghana Association of Banks

    Kofi Adomakoh is now President of Ghana Association of Banks

    Managing Director of GCB Bank Plc, John Kofi Adomakoh, has been elected as the President of the Ghana Association of Banks (GAB), with his term effective from January 2024.

    He takes over the position from Mansa Nettey, the Chief Executive of Standard Chartered Bank, who successfully served a three-year term from January 2021.

    Mr. Adomakoh is set to lead the Ghana Association of Banks for the next three years, bringing his experience and expertise to the role.

    In a parallel process, Hakeem Ouzzani, the CEO of Societe Generale Ghana, was elected as the Vice President, while Henry Chinedu Onwuzurigbo, the CEO of Zenith Bank Ghana Limited, assumes the position of Treasurer for the Association.

    Commenting on her term, Mrs. Nettey said, “Despite the economic challenges and issues faced by the industry, we have navigated the obstacles to ensure a recovery of the banking sector and to increase its resilience to future shocks. At this point, I’m pleased to hand over to Kofi Adomakoh, confident that he can continue making significant strides in the industry”.

    Upon his election, Mr. Adomakoh extended his gratitude to the outgoing President and members of the Governing Council for their dedicated efforts in effectively managing the Association, especially during challenging times.

    He pledged to collaborate closely with his fellow executives and the new Governing Council to fulfill the broad objectives of the Ghana Association of Banks (GAB).

    Mr. Adomakoh emphasized his commitment to working alongside other Managing Directors to pursue an agenda aimed at enhancing the resilience and safety of the banking sector.

    The incoming Governing Council of GAB comprises the Managing Directors of several prominent banks, including GCB Bank, Ecobank, Stanbic Bank, ABSA Bank Ghana, GTBank Ghana, SG Bank Ghana, Standard Chartered Bank Ghana, Zenith Bank Ghana, Republic Bank Ghana, and the CEO of GAB.

  • There’s nothing wrong with GRA/SML deal, govt will be exonerated – Charles Owusu

    An aide to the former Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Charles Owusu, is of the firm belief that there is no shady business going on between the government and Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML).

    An international audit and accounting firm, KPMG, has been appointed to audit contract between the Finance Ministry and SML, following revelations by investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni about false claims made by SML regarding an earlier contract for revenue assurance in the downstream petroleum sector.

    The SML contract entitled the company to over $100 million annually for a five-year period, with the possibility of renewal for another five years.

    Despite admissions by GRA officials in the investigative documentary that they do not use SML’s figures to calculate taxes and revenue, GRA claimed that SML’s operation had resulted in a significant increase in volumes.

    However, the Africa Centre for Energy Policy and IMANI Africa countered the GRA’s claim, stating that the available data on the Ministry of Finance’s website for statutory reporting under the Energy Sector Recovery Act (ESLA) and on the National Petroleum Authority’s (NPA) website did not support the GRA’s assertion of significant revenue increment.

    In reaction to the ongoing controversy, Charles Owusu vouched for SML, arguing that it has engaged in activities that have profited the country.

    “The SML contract is all about working for government but you will only be paid based on the work you do. I don’t see what corruption issue there is. GRA has come to show the effects of work of SML which has profited the country.

    “Presently, if you get fuel from the depot, with the introduction of SML, the government will get hold of its revenue. You can never run away with it because they have set their meters on all the depots in Ghana and are monitoring in their offices.”

    In an interview on Peace FM, he further noted that “One thing I even like is the fact that they are able to monitor even at night. They have stopped certain individuals. When you try to temper with it, their alarm blows at their office and this allows GRA officers to arrive at the scene to arrest the individuals. It has happened before.”

    According to the Africa Centre for Energy Policy and IMANI Africa, “In the year SML commenced operations (2019/2020), GRA’s data indicates a 5% growth in refined petroleum product consumption relative to the previous year (19.38 million litres). In the same period, the NPA reports a 7% growth (24.71 million litres) in product consumption. In the subsequent year (2020/2021), both GRA and NPA data align, indicating an 11% and 10% growth in product consumption, respectively.”

    They added: “The actual growth between 2018/2019 and 2020/2021 was about 62.95 million from NPA data and 60.15 million from the GRA Data. In the 2021/2022 year, the total consumption of refined products in the country declined by 5% and 7% according to NPA and GRA respectively.”

    SML had also stated on its website that its operations had stopped “under-reporting, diversion and dilution of fuel products and general non-compliance in the petroleum industry sector.”

    When The Fourth Estate team pointed out that services preventing anomalies were performed by other companies contracted by the NPA, SML management admitted the claim was false and promptly deleted it from the company’s website on the same day.

    Despite this, in June 2023, the Ministry of Finance instructed the GRA to expand the scope of SML Ghana’s work.

    A Ministry of Finance letter said the “Honourable Minister [Ken Ofori-Atta] has determined that there is the need to monitor the production and shipment of oil and gold out of the country.

    “To this end, he will like to expand the Revenue Assurance work being performed by SML to include upstream oil drilling by the production companies and the gold mining companies,” the letter, dated June 22, 2023, said.

    Due to the controversy, the SML contract, awarded by the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), has been suspended by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

    Meanwhile, Charles Owusu believes that “the company and the government will be exonerated” at the end of investigations.

  • How? Chamber and Hall at Pantang cost GHC1,700 monthly – Netizen fumes

    How? Chamber and Hall at Pantang cost GHC1,700 monthly – Netizen fumes

    An aggrieved citizen is upset about the surging cost of rental spaces in the country, particularly in the country’s capital.

    In a video shared by X user, @SecureNation, an adult male bemoaned the amount of money one has to spend for shelter. According to the young bloke, a single room is going for GHC800 while a chamber and hall residence is being rented for GHC1,700 at Pantang.

    He noted that this unfortunate incident is currently happening due to the ineffectiveness of the Rent Control Department mandated to co-operatively work with landlords and tenants to promote optimum peaceful co-existence through education and reconciliation while also providing on rent matters in compliance with the Rent Act 220.

    “Is there no elder in this country? A chamber and hall at Pantang cost GHC1,700.

    “If you want a 2-bedroom house in Accra, you must have GH2,500 or GH3,000 plus. For what reasons. How much does the ordinary Ghana earn at the end of the month? A single room is now going for GHC800, GHC1,000. If you will bath outside, it’s GHC500.

    “And nobody is talking about it. Rent Control, what are you doing? You are suffocating us. Wake up. It is getting out of hand. Nobody, the government is not talking about it,” he lamented.

    The issue of the high cost of rental spaces in Accra is not new news, and much has not been done by the government and other relevant authorities to finally address the matter.

  • NDC Northern Regional Vice Chair suspended for assault of Treasurer

    NDC Northern Regional Vice Chair suspended for assault of Treasurer

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has suspended its Northern Regional Vice-Chairman, Alhaji Gbewaa, following discussions between national and regional executives in Accra.

    The suspension comes in the wake of reported aggression by Alhaji Gbewaa towards Hajia Shamima Yakubu at the party’s regional secretariat. The altercation allegedly stemmed from heated disagreements over party finances during the weekend.

    Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande, speaking on Joy FM’s Midday News, clarified that Alhaji Gbewaa “has been suspended for three months.”

    Mr Gbande said this is “pending investigations and all other processes that will enable the party to look into the issues properly for a final redress.”

    Following a heated altercation during a pivotal stakeholder meeting last weekend, the Northern Regional Vice-Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Alhaji Gbewaa, was involved in an incident that resulted in injuries to the Northern Regional Treasurer’s face.

    Subsequently, Gbewaa was arrested but later released on bail. The aftermath of this incident saw his supporters expressing discontent by locking up the regional party office in protest.

    In response to the escalating tensions and as part of urgent efforts to address internal divisions, NDC executives held a meeting in Accra to deliberate on the matter.

    This meeting resulted in the decision to suspend Alhaji Gbewaa, reflecting the party’s commitment to managing internal conflicts and maintaining discipline within its ranks.

  • Old video of hen and a cock business story by Cheddar causes controversy

    Old video of hen and a cock business story by Cheddar causes controversy

    Ghanaian real estate tycoon and aspiring presidential candidate, Nana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as Cheddar, is currently facing scrutiny and controversy over conflicting accounts of the source of his wealth.

    During a recent interview with Bernard Avle, Cheddar asserted that he made his first million pounds at the age of 21 by selling scraps in the United Kingdom. However, this claim has been met with skepticism and criticism from some Ghanaians who have consistently questioned the authenticity of his wealth.

    Adding to the controversy, a resurfaced video on social media shows Cheddar offering a different narrative in an interview with Serwaa Amihere.

    In this interview, he stated that his initial business venture was a poultry farm that began with just a hen and a cock. Cheddar elaborated on how the poultry farm became successful through the sale of eggs, and he emphasized that the profits were used by his mother to cover his school fees and that of his brother.

    The conflicting stories have intensified the scrutiny surrounding Cheddar’s wealth, leaving many questioning the consistency and credibility of his accounts regarding the origins of his financial success.

    In response, a user said “2024: he started with scrubs. So which is which?” but another user wrote “Maybe this be before he moved to the UK.”

  • Wake up Rent Control, your inaction is suffocating us – Netizen fumes over overpriced rental spaces

    Wake up Rent Control, your inaction is suffocating us – Netizen fumes over overpriced rental spaces

    An aggrieved citizen has lashed out at the Rent Control Department for failing to check the surging cost of rental spaces in the country, particularly in the country’s capital.

    In a video shared by X user, @SecureNation, an adult male bemoaned the amount of money one has to spend for shelter. According to the young bloke, a single room is going for GHC800 while a chamber and hall residence is being rented for GHC1,700 at Pantang.

    He noted that this unfortunate incident is currently happening due to the ineffectiveness of the Rent Control Department mandated to co-operatively work with landlords and tenants to promote optimum peaceful co-existence through education and reconciliation while also providing on rent matters in compliance with the Rent Act 220.

    “Is there no elder in this country? A chamber and hall at Pantang cost GHC1,700.

    “If you want a 2-bedroom house in Accra, you must have GH2,500 or GH3,000 plus. For what reasons. How much does the ordinary Ghana earn at the end of the month? A single room is now going for GHC800, GHC1,000. If you will bath outside, it’s GHC500.

    “And nobody is talking about it. Rent Control, what are you doing? You are suffocating us. Wake up. It is getting out of hand. Nobody, the government is not talking about it,” he lamented.

    The issue of the high cost of rental spaces in Accra is not new news, and much has not been done by the government and other relevant authorities to finally address the matter.

  • Man buys Ford Ranger after quitting smoking for 3 years

    Man buys Ford Ranger after quitting smoking for 3 years

    A Nigerian man recently amazed many when he posted a photo on the microblogging platform X showcasing the luxurious car he acquired three years after successfully quitting smoking.

    In his post, he disclosed that the funds for this extravagant purchase were accumulated during the period he refrained from smoking.

    Sharing images of his new vehicle, a Ford F-150, the young man expressed gratitude for his decision to quit smoking, asserting that without this lifestyle change, he wouldn’t have had the financial means to buy his impressive new car.

    The new starting prices for the Ford F-150 Lightning will range from $54,995 for an entry-level Pro model to $92,995 for a Platinum Black trim.

    He also pledged to share a detailed update on his journey to quitting smoking, potentially inspiring others to make positive changes in their lives.

    Encouraged by his revelation, Twitter users flooded his comment section with congratulations, expressing admiration for his accomplishment.

    Meanwhile, some users inquired humorously about the “secret” substance he might have been saving money on to afford such a high-end car within just three years.

  • Mineral Commission runs away from stinking SML contract

    Mineral Commission runs away from stinking SML contract

    The Minerals Commission has stated that it did not play any role in the award of the contract to Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) for revenue assurance services in the gold production sector.

    The CEO of the Minerals Commission, Martin Kwaku Ayisi, responded to a Right to Information (RTI) request, stating that the Commission had no involvement in awarding the contract to SML.

    Additionally, the response mentioned that the Minerals Commission has no reports of losses resulting from deliberate or accidental miscalculations in revenue within the mining sector.

    The SML contract, awarded by the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), has been suspended by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

    An international audit and accounting firm, KPMG, has been appointed to audit the contract, following revelations by investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni about false claims made by SML regarding an earlier contract for revenue assurance in the downstream petroleum sector.

    The SML contract entitled the company to over $100 million annually for a five-year period, with the possibility of renewal for another five years.

    Despite admissions by GRA officials in the investigative documentary that they do not use SML’s figures to calculate taxes and revenue, GRA claimed that SML’s operation had resulted in a significant increase in volumes.

    However, the Africa Centre for Energy Policy and IMANI Africa countered the GRA’s claim, stating that the available data on the Ministry of Finance’s website for statutory reporting under the Energy Sector Recovery Act (ESLA) and on the National Petroleum Authority’s (NPA) website did not support the GRA’s assertion of significant revenue increment.

    “In the year SML commenced operations (2019/2020), GRA’s data indicates a 5% growth in refined petroleum product consumption relative to the previous year (19.38 million litres). In the same period, the NPA reports a 7% growth (24.71 million litres) in product consumption. In the subsequent year (2020/2021), both GRA and NPA data align, indicating an 11% and 10% growth in product consumption, respectively,” the statement by the CSOs indicated.

    They added: “The actual growth between 2018/2019 and 2020/2021 was about 62.95 million from NPA data and 60.15 million from the GRA Data. In the 2021/2022 year, the total consumption of refined products in the country declined by 5% and 7% according to NPA and GRA respectively.”

    SML had also stated on its website that its operations had stopped “under-reporting, diversion and dilution of fuel products and general non-compliance in the petroleum industry sector.”

    When The Fourth Estate team pointed out that services preventing anomalies were performed by other companies contracted by the NPA, SML management admitted the claim was false and promptly deleted it from the company’s website on the same day. Despite this, in June 2023, the Ministry of Finance instructed the GRA to expand the scope of SML Ghana’s work.

    A Ministry of Finance letter said the “Honourable Minister [Ken Ofori-Atta] has determined that there is the need to monitor the production and shipment of oil and gold out of the country.

    “To this end, he will like to expand the Revenue Assurance work being performed by SML to include upstream oil drilling by the production companies and the gold mining companies,” the letter, dated June 22, 2023, said.

    The award of contracts to SML has faced scrutiny from members of parliament, civil society groups, and anti-corruption campaigners. Questions have been raised about the basis for awarding contracts to SML, particularly as the upstream and gold mining sectors already had existing systems in place to protect the government’s interests.

    The Minerals Commission, which was set up by an Act of Parliament as “the Government agency with the primary responsibility of developing and coordinating mineral sector policies and monitoring their implementation” says it was not involved in the contract with SML to monitor gold production in the country.

    The Minerals Commission said it was not involved in the award of the contract and does not have reports of revenue losses in the gold mining sector.

    “The Commission does undertake regular or special audits from time to time as per its mandate to deal with such issues and we do collaborate with other Government or public institutions to do that,” the CEO added in the RTI response.

    The response from the Minerals Commission follows a similar response from the Petroleum Commission, the regulator of the upstream petroleum sector in Ghana.

    The Petroleum Commission, in an earlier response to an RTI request, stated that it was unaware of the contract awarded to SML for monitoring oil production in the upstream petroleum sector. Similar to the Minerals Commission, the Petroleum Commission also indicated that it had no information or reports on losses in the sector, which was the purported reason for contracting SML.

    The Ministry of Finance, which declined to provide a copy of the contract, stated in response to the RTI request that it did not have reports on revenue losses from agencies in the sectors where SML was contracted to monitor.

    “We do not have direct information on purported reports from agencies in the petroleum and mining sectors about losses in the downstream, upstream and mining sectors,” the ministry said.

  • We played no role in contract awarded to SML – Minerals Commission

    We played no role in contract awarded to SML – Minerals Commission

    The Minerals Commission has stated that it did not play any role in the award of the contract to Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) for revenue assurance services in the gold production sector.

    The CEO of the Minerals Commission, Martin Kwaku Ayisi, responded to a Right to Information (RTI) request, stating that the commission had no involvement in awarding the contract to SML.

    Additionally, the response mentioned that the Minerals Commission has no reports of losses resulting from deliberate or accidental miscalculations in revenue within the mining sector.

    The SML contract, awarded by the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), has been suspended by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

    An international audit and accounting firm, KPMG, has been appointed to audit the contract, following revelations by investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni about false claims made by SML regarding an earlier contract for revenue assurance in the downstream petroleum sector.

    The SML contract entitled the company to over $100 million annually for a five-year period, with the possibility of renewal for another five years.

    Despite admissions by GRA officials in the investigative documentary that they do not use SML’s figures to calculate taxes and revenue, GRA claimed that SML’s operation had resulted in a significant increase in volumes.

    However, the Africa Centre for Energy Policy and IMANI Africa countered the GRA’s claim, stating that the available data on the Ministry of Finance’s website for statutory reporting under the Energy Sector Recovery Act (ESLA) and on the National Petroleum Authority’s (NPA) website did not support the GRA’s assertion of significant revenue increment.

    “In the year SML commenced operations (2019/2020), GRA’s data indicates a 5% growth in refined petroleum product consumption relative to the previous year (19.38 million litres). In the same period, the NPA reports a 7% growth (24.71 million litres) in product consumption. In the subsequent year (2020/2021), both GRA and NPA data align, indicating an 11% and 10% growth in product consumption, respectively,” the statement by the CSOs indicated.

    They added: “The actual growth between 2018/2019 and 2020/2021 was about 62.95 million from NPA data and 60.15 million from the GRA Data. In the 2021/2022 year, the total consumption of refined products in the country declined by 5% and 7% according to NPA and GRA respectively.”

    SML had also stated on its website that its operations had stopped “under-reporting, diversion and dilution of fuel products and general non-compliance in the petroleum industry sector.”

    When The Fourth Estate team pointed out that services preventing anomalies were performed by other companies contracted by the NPA, SML management admitted the claim was false and promptly deleted it from the company’s website on the same day. Despite this, in June 2023, the Ministry of Finance instructed the GRA to expand the scope of SML Ghana’s work.

    A Ministry of Finance letter said the “Honourable Minister [Ken Ofori-Atta] has determined that there is the need to monitor the production and shipment of oil and gold out of the country.

    “To this end, he will like to expand the Revenue Assurance work being performed by SML to include upstream oil drilling by the production companies and the gold mining companies,” the letter, dated June 22, 2023, said.

    The award of contracts to SML has faced scrutiny from members of parliament, civil society groups, and anti-corruption campaigners. Questions have been raised about the basis for awarding contracts to SML, particularly as the upstream and gold mining sectors already had existing systems in place to protect the government’s interests.

    The Minerals Commission, which was set up by an Act of Parliament as “the Government agency with the primary responsibility of developing and coordinating mineral sector policies and monitoring their implementation” says it was not involved in the contract with SML to monitor gold production in the country.

    The Minerals Commission said it was not involved in the award of the contract and does not have reports of revenue losses in the gold mining sector.

    “The Commission does undertake regular or special audits from time to time as per its mandate to deal with such issues and we do collaborate with other Government or public institutions to do that,” the CEO added in the RTI response.

    The response from the Minerals Commission follows a similar response from the Petroleum Commission, the regulator of the upstream petroleum sector in Ghana.

    The Petroleum Commission, in an earlier response to an RTI request, stated that it was unaware of the contract awarded to SML for monitoring oil production in the upstream petroleum sector. Similar to the Minerals Commission, the Petroleum Commission also indicated that it had no information or reports on losses in the sector, which was the purported reason for contracting SML.

    The Ministry of Finance, which declined to provide a copy of the contract, stated in response to the RTI request that it did not have reports on revenue losses from agencies in the sectors where SML was contracted to monitor.

    “We do not have direct information on purported reports from agencies in the petroleum and mining sectors about losses in the downstream, upstream and mining sectors,” the ministry said.

  • Chairman Wontumi curses Otumfuo’s Kokosohene with ‘Antoa’ deity

    Chairman Wontumi curses Otumfuo’s Kokosohene with ‘Antoa’ deity

    Embattled Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, has been accused of cursing the Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Duah, with the ‘Antoa’ deity.

    The alleged incident is said to be in response to accusations about Chairman Wontumi making derogatory remarks about Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene.

    The situation unfolded when Justin Kodua, concerned about reports of Chairman Wontumi’s alleged attack on Otumfuo, called the Kokosohene to verify the news. During the phone conversation, Justin Kodua added Chairman Wontumi on a conference call to get his input on the controversial issue.

    Unexpectedly, Chairman Wontumi, upon hearing the voice of Kokosohene, became angry and started to curse him. In his alleged curses, Wontumi reportedly invoked the powerful ‘Antoa‘ deity and other river gods, praying for harm to befall the Kokosohene without any apparent provocation.

    The Kokosohene has confirmed the incident, stating that Wontumi cursed him, praying for the river deities to strike him dead.

    “I’m extremely surprised about Wontumi’s arrogant and weird behaviour. He just started to rain curses on me when he heard my voice on the phone.

    “Justin Kodua had called me on phone to verify the authenticity of Wontumi’s attack on Otumfuo and also ask what steps he should take to plead on behalf of Wontumi at the Manhyia Palace. Surprisingly, Wontumi rather started to curse me with river deities when he heard my voice on the phone.

    “He cursed me with about seven river deities, including ‘Antoa’ to strike me dead and use my wife and children as thanksgiving”, Nana Kwaku Duah claimed, adding “even Justin Kodua was speechless about Wontumi’s actions”.

    Meanwhile, Chairman Wontumi has refuted allegations that he made derogatory remarks about Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene. 

    He says that these reports are orchestrated by his opponents, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to create public discontent towards him. 

    In a press statement released on Thursday, January 11, Chairman Wontumi called on Ghanaians and NPP supporters to dismiss the propaganda. 

  • We received $400 to support Black Stars at AFCON – Ghana Supporters Union

    We received $400 to support Black Stars at AFCON – Ghana Supporters Union

    The Ghana Supporters Union currently in Ivory Coast to support the senior national team at the 2023 AFCON tournament, has confirmed that its members received $400 each.

    Abraham Nkansah, a member of the Union, clarified during a press conference held in Abidjan that it wasn’t due to threats to boycott their support for the Black Stars.

    According to reports from Abidjan, the fans were left stranded following their arrival in Ivory Coast to support the Black Stars. They are said to have threatened to boycott the rest of the games.

    Over 400 supporters were transported to the neighbouring country by the Sports Ministry, with the intention of backing the national team to success.

    However, after the 2-1 defeat to Cape Verde on Sunday, fans have become frustrated by their living conditions in Abidjan.

    A select side from the Sports Ministry is expected to arrive in Core d’Ivoire on Thursday to meet the fans of the Black Stars.

    “I am particularly when I heard that the traditional team of supporters who will always travel with the team across the globe, the main supporters union, are also as we speak part of the people that are stranded. Well I deem it speculative for now but I will be there to get all the details,” said Wisdom Kobena Woyome, ranking member of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Parliamentary Select Committee, to Citi Sports.

    Ghana will train later today for their game against Egypt on Thursday.

  • Beware, Akufo-Addo is planning another “lootocratic” scheme – Ablakwa warns

    Beware, Akufo-Addo is planning another “lootocratic” scheme – Ablakwa warns

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa, has told Ghanaians to be alert and monitor the undertakings of the incumbent government led by President Akufo-Addo this year as the country nears the polls.

    Mr Ablakwa, in a Facebook post, noted that President Akufo-Addo is planning a “lootocratic” scheme through single-source procurement regime just as he reportedly did four years ago.

    “The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia single-source-procurement-regime will be planning similar “lootocratic” schemes,” he warned.

    The MP sounded the alarm when he made public documents shedding light on the government’s spending patterns during the 2020 election year.

    On January 17, Mr. Ablakwa shared a document from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) detailing the procurement process for the construction of a 50-bed guest house in Tamale.

    The document indicated that approval was granted to the Bank of Ghana to employ single sourcing, engaging Messrs De-Simone Limited for the final works on the project at a cost of GHC139 million.

    Mr. Ablakwa raised concerns about what he perceives as an unhealthy inclination toward restricting tendering by the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison.

    “The fresh documents in my possession show that Dr. Addison appears to have a hooliganistic appetite for single-source and restricted tendering so much so that NONE of the procurements under his watch have been competitive,” Mr Ablakwa wrote.

    He added, “The venerable Togbe Afede XIV was obviously right when he wrote in his latest op-ed that the BoG has failed us.”

    He recalled the times when President Akufo-Addo during his time in opposition condemned “single source procurements and argued that it was a veritable conduit for corruption.”

    “Without principle and scruples, they are now the all-time champions of grand single source procurements.

    “It is most instructive to note that payments for other infamous wasteful Akufo-Addo-legacy projects such as the US$450million National Cathedral fiasco and the US$222.7million BoG Head Office all commenced during the electioneering campaign of 2020,” he added.

  • Akufo-Addo’s “wasteful” National Cathedral, BoG Head Office projects began during 2020 election year – Ablakwa raises red flag

    Akufo-Addo’s “wasteful” National Cathedral, BoG Head Office projects began during 2020 election year – Ablakwa raises red flag

    Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has alleged that President Akufo-Addo began the infamous projects; National Cathedral and Bank of Ghana Head Office, in 2020 to enable him to siphon funds should he lose the 2020 elections.

    Mr Ablakwa has made public documents shedding light on the government’s “wasteful” spending patterns during the 2020 election year.

    Among projects that saw huge sums of money being spent on were the National Cathedral, that cost US$450million and the Central Bank Head Office, at the cost of US$222.7million.

    According to Mr Ablakwa, he does not believe in sheer coincidence after finding faults in the procurement processes of the government’s projects.

    “It is most instructive to note that payments for other infamous wasteful Akufo-Addo-legacy projects such as the US$450million National Cathedral fiasco and the US$222.7million BoG Head Office all commenced during the electioneering campaign of 2020,” he added.

    The construction of the National Cathedral and the Central Bank Head Office has met stern reactions from a section of the public who believe the government’s expenditure priorities are misplaced.

    On January 17, Mr. Ablakwa shared a document from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) detailing the procurement process for the construction of a 50-bed guest house in Tamale.

    The document indicated that approval was granted to the Bank of Ghana to employ single sourcing, engaging Messrs De-Simone Limited for the final works on the project at a cost of GHC139 million.

    Mr. Ablakwa raised concerns about what he perceives as an unhealthy inclination toward restricting tendering by the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison.

    “The fresh documents in my possession show that Dr. Addison appears to have a hooliganistic appetite for single-source and restricted tendering so much so that NONE of the procurements under his watch have been competitive,” Mr Ablakwa wrote.

    He added, “The venerable Togbe Afede XIV was obviously right when he wrote in his latest op-ed that the BoG has failed us.”

    He recalled the times when President Akufo-Addo during his time in opposition condemned “single source procurements and argued that it was a veritable conduit for corruption.”

    “Without principle and scruples, they are now the all-time champions of grand single source procurements,” he added.

    Meanwhile, Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa has told Ghanaians to be alert and monitor the undertakings of the incumbent government led by President Akufo-Addo this year as the country nears the polls.

    Mr Ablakwa noted that President Akufo-Addo is planning a “lootocratic” scheme through single-source procurement regime just as he reportedly did four years ago.

    “The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia single-source-procurement-regime will be planning similar “lootocratic” schemes,” he warned.

  • You condemned in opposition but are now all-time champion of grand single-source procurements – Ablakwa chides Akufo-Addo

    You condemned in opposition but are now all-time champion of grand single-source procurements – Ablakwa chides Akufo-Addo

    The North Tongu legislator, Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa, has criticised President Akufo-Addo for failing to walk the talk with respect to his fight against the single-source procurement regime.

    He noted that President Akufo-Addo during his time in opposition, condemned “single source procurements and argued that it was a veritable conduit for corruption,” but has engaged in such action more than any other government Ghana has seen.

    “Without principle and scruples, they are now the all-time champions of grand single source procurements.”

    “It is most instructive to note that payments for other infamous wasteful Akufo-Addo-legacy projects such as the US$450million National Cathedral fiasco and the US$222.7million BoG Head Office all commenced during the electioneering campaign of 2020,” he added.

    Mr Ablakwa registered his sentiments when he publicly disclosed documents that provide insight into the government’s spending patterns during the 2020 election year.

    In a Facebook post, Mr Ablakwa shared a document from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) that provided details on the procurement process for the construction of a 50-bed guest house in Tamale.

    The letter noted that approval was given to the Bank of Ghana to employ single sourcing to engage Messrs De-Simone Limited for the completion of final works on the project at a cost of GHC139 million.

    Mr. Ablakwa raised concerns about what he perceives as an unhealthy inclination toward restricting tendering by the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison.

    “The fresh documents in my possession show that Dr. Addison appears to have a hooliganistic appetite for single-source and restricted tendering, so much so that NONE of the procurements under his watch have been competitive,” Mr Ablakwa wrote.

    Meanwhile, Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa has told Ghanaians to be alert and monitor the undertakings of the incumbent government led by President Akufo-Addo this year as the country nears the polls.

    “The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia single-source-procurement-regime will be planning similar “lootocratic” schemes,” he warned.

  • BoG has failed us, Addison’s “hooliganistic appetite” for restricted tendering is to blame – Ablakwa

    BoG has failed us, Addison’s “hooliganistic appetite” for restricted tendering is to blame – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa, has made public documents shedding light on the government’s spending patterns during the 2020 election year.

    In a Facebook post on January 17, Mr. Ablakwa shared a document from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) detailing the procurement process for the construction of a 50-bed guest house in Tamale.

    The document indicated that approval was granted to the Bank of Ghana to employ single sourcing, engaging Messrs De-Simone Limited for the final works on the project at a cost of GHC139 million.

    Mr. Ablakwa raised concerns about what he perceives as an unhealthy inclination toward restricting tendering by the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison.

    “The fresh documents in my possession show that Dr. Addison appears to have a hooliganistic appetite for single-source and restricted tendering so much so that NONE of the procurements under his watch have been competitive,” Mr Ablakwa wrote.

    He added, “The venerable Togbe Afede XIV was obviously right when he wrote in his latest op-ed that the BoG has failed us.”

    He recalled the times when President Akufo-Addo during his time in opposition condemned “single source procurements and argued that it was a veritable conduit for corruption.”

    “Without principle and scruples, they are now the all-time champions of grand single source procurements.

    “It is most instructive to note that payments for other infamous wasteful Akufo-Addo-legacy projects such as the US$450million National Cathedral fiasco and the US$222.7million BoG Head Office all commenced during the electioneering campaign of 2020,” he added.

    “The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia single-source-procurement-regime will be planning similar “lootocratic” schemes,” he warned.

  • Ablakwa ‘exposes’ Akufo-Addo’s “lootocratic schemes” during 2020 elections, warns public ahead of next poll

    Ablakwa ‘exposes’ Akufo-Addo’s “lootocratic schemes” during 2020 elections, warns public ahead of next poll

    North Tongu Member of Parliament, Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa, has publicly disclosed documents that provide insight into the government’s spending patterns during the 2020 election year.

    In a Facebook post, Mr Ablakwa shared a document from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) that provided details on the procurement process for the construction of a 50-bed guest house in Tamale.

    The letter noted that approval was given to the Bank of Ghana to employ single sourcing to engage Messrs De-Simone Limited for the completion of final works on the project at a cost of GHC139 million.

    “The fresh documents in my possession show that Dr. Addison appears to have a hooliganistic appetite for single-source and restricted tendering so much so that NONE of the procurements under his watch have been competitive,” Mr Ablakwa wrote in reaction to this information.

    He recalled the times when President Akufo-Addo during his time in opposition condemned “single source procurements and argued that it was a veritable conduit for corruption.”

    “Without principle and scruples, they are now the all-time champions of grand single source procurements.

    “It is most instructive to note that payments for other infamous wasteful Akufo-Addo-legacy projects such as the US$450million National Cathedral fiasco and the US$222.7million BoG Head Office all commenced during the electioneering campaign of 2020,” he added.

    “The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia single-source-procurement-regime will be planning similar “lootocratic” schemes,” he warned.

  • NCA’s 5-year strategic plan from 2024 outdoored

    NCA’s 5-year strategic plan from 2024 outdoored

    On Tuesday, January 16, 2024, the Communications Minister, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, officially launched the National Communications Authority (NCA) Five-Year Strategic Plan (2024-2028) at the NCA Tower.

    The development of the Five-Year Strategic Plan aligns with Section 3(b) of the NCA Act, 2008 (Act 769), with the primary goal of establishing clearly defined objectives and measurable steps for the Authority.

    In her keynote address, the Honorable Minister underscored the importance of the NCA’s regulatory efforts over the years. She emphasized the need for the Authority to remain vigilant and focused, especially in dealing with emergent disruptive technologies and the swiftly evolving technological landscape.

    Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, Minister for Communications and Digitalisation

    In her keynote address, the Honorable Minister emphasized the importance of the National Communications Authority’s (NCA) regulatory efforts over the years. She urged the Authority to maintain vigilance and focus, especially in the face of emergent disruptive technologies and the rapidly changing technological landscape.

    She further commended the strategies outlined in the plan, expressing her satisfaction, “I am impressed with the strategies aimed at flourishing and contributing to a globally competitive and rapidly changing environment.

    “This means we will create the enabling environment for Ghanaian solutions to compete with other global solutions”.

    Dr. Joe Anokye, Director General of the NCA

    Dr. Joe Anokye, the Director General of the Authority, highlighted that the Electronic Communications Industry is fast-paced, necessitating continuous innovations and strategies to keep pace.

    He emphasized that the development of strategies is crucial in seizing new opportunities and effectively overcoming challenges within the industry.

    He said, “The Five-Year Strategic Plan marks a significant milestone on our path to innovation, growth, and a long-lasting impact.”

    Dr. Anokye also expressed confidence that the Strategic Plan will enhance productivity, align goals with resources, improve communication and collaboration, and enhance staff welfare.

    Board Chairman of NCA, Okatakyie Ababio Boakye Danquah II

    In his remarks, Okatakyie Ababio Boakye Danquah II, the Board Chairman of the NCA, known in private life as Isaac Emmil Osei-Bonsu Jnr, expressed that the launch of the Five-Year Strategic Plan is a realization of the need envisioned by the Board during its inauguration in 2021.

    “It is evident that we are at a critical point as we launch the Strategic Plan for 2024–2028, which will serve as our blueprint for the forthcoming five years. It is an exciting moment for the NCA, as the creation of this document has unveiled numerous untapped opportunities within the communications sector”, he said.

    The Board Chairman further urged all stakeholders to collaborate with the NCA to ensure the full realisation of the objectives of the Strategic Plan by the end of 2028.

    Prof. Ezer Osei Yeboah-Boateng, Deputy Director-General for Technical Operation

    During the launch, Prof. Ezer Osei Yeboah-Boateng, Deputy Director-General for Technical Operations, shared some highlights of the Strategic Plan. He emphasized that the plan is a testament to the National Communications Authority’s (NCA) dedication to excellence, innovation, and inclusivity.

    Prof. Yeboah-Boateng highlighted that the plan reflects the Authority’s commitment to fostering a communications environment that empowers individuals, promotes economic growth, and strengthens the social fabric of the nation.

    He outlined the four Strategic pillars of the Strategic Plan as follows:

    1. Pillar 1 – Structure and reposition research, innovation, and process improvement throughout NCA to be abreast with industry development by 2028
    2. Pillar 2 – Build coordination and collaborative structures for enhanced engagement by 2028
    3. Pillar 3 – Develop and Empower human resource by 2028
    4. Pillar 4 – Optimise current resources, diversify and develop new areas of growth, including revenue

    With the launch of the Five-Year Strategic Plan, the Authority, among other things, has recast its mission statement as ‘Moving from Good to a Great Regulator; An innovative, agile, professional, and proactive Regulator, adaptive to emerging changes in the communication and digital eco-system and delivering optimally to all its stakeholders.’

    Prior to this event, the Authority held an internal launch of the Plan for its Staff Members on Friday, January 12, at the Head Office in Accra.

  • Mali launch AFCON campaign on a good start, South Africa suffer defeat

    Mali launch AFCON campaign on a good start, South Africa suffer defeat

    Hamari Traore and Lassine Sinayoko scored second-half goals as Mali secured a 2-0 victory over South Africa in their Africa Cup of Nations campaign.

    Captain Traore tapped in the opening goal in the 60th minute of the Group E encounter, and striker Sinayoko quickly added a second for Mali. South Africa had the better of the first half but missed a penalty when Percy Tau’s attempt went high over the crossbar.

    Despite Tau’s missed opportunity, South Africa had more chances in the opening period. However, Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra denied Tau twice.

    Mali had a near chance to take the lead just before halftime when poor defending from South Africa’s Siyanda Xulu and Mothobi Mvala almost allowed Sinayoko to score.

    Mali improved in the second half, and Traore scored the opening goal after a free-kick from Sekou Koita was initially saved by South Africa’s goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.

    Sinayoko extended Mali’s lead six minutes later, securing the victory. South Africa tried to salvage the game in the closing stages but hit the left post with a long-range free-kick in added time.

  • Public transport fares to hike by 30% effective Jan. 22

    Public transport fares to hike by 30% effective Jan. 22

    Commercial Transport Operators in Ghana have announced a 30 percent hike in transportation fares across the country, effective Monday, January 22.

    This decision comes as a response to the operators’ concerns about substantial increases in the costs of lubricants, spare parts, and DVLA service charges.

    In an official statement, the operators emphasized the rising expenses within the public transportation sector, highlighting the challenges they face in maintaining their operational activities.

    “The continuous surge in lubricant prices, driven by fluctuations in global oil markets, has resulted in a considerable burden on drivers who rely heavily on oil to keep our vehicles running efficiently,” the drivers said in a statement.

    Furthermore, the Transport Operators in Ghana underscored the mounting expenses related to spare parts, particularly those for maintenance and repairs. These rising costs have significantly impeded their ability to keep their vehicles in optimal condition.

    The challenging situation has resulted in reduced operational efficiency and increased periods of vehicle downtime, negatively impacting both drivers and the general commuting public.

    Recognizing the adverse effects of these challenges, the Transport Operators Association disclosed that they have engaged in extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including relevant state agencies and other transport associations.

    They clarified that the proposal for a fare increase is driven by the need to address the financial hardships faced by drivers and to ensure the sustainability of Ghana’s public transportation industry.

    This decision also comes at a time when fuel consumers are told to anticipate relief at the pumps with a decrease in diesel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) prices, marking the second consecutive drop in January.

    COPEC Executive Secretary Duncan Amoah pointed to current international market trends as the reason for the decline.

    “Diesel prices dipped by roughly 2.8% per metric ton on the global market, while petrol experienced a slight increase of 3.6%. The cedi has remained relatively stable overall, although we’ve seen a 0.47-point dip in exchange rates,” Amoah said.

    He added, “Overall, what our expectation is that prices of petrol are likely to remain stable with a 1 percent upward adjustment.

    “Diesel is likely to see some reduction while LGP is also likely to see some reduction effective Wednesday which is the second window for January.”

  • Justice Anin-Yeboah (Chief Justice): GLC yet to update website with information of current members

    Justice Anin-Yeboah (Chief Justice): GLC yet to update website with information of current members

    Ghana inaugurated its 15th Chief Justice more than six months ago. However, the Ghana Legal Council (GLC), the primary regulatory body overseeing the conduct and administration of legal education and the legal profession in the country, has not yet refreshed one of its key communication platforms with updated information on its members.

    An overview of the GLC on its website reveals that “the serving Chief Justice is the Chairperson of the Council, and the Judicial Secretary is its Secretary together with other appointed members including the three senior most Supreme Court Justices, the Attorney-General and her nominee, the President, Vice and Secretary of the Ghana Bar Association and the Ashanti Regional Bar President.”

    Checks by the Independent Ghana show that as of January 17, 2024, the Ghana Legal Council identified retired Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah as the incumbent Chief Justice and the Chairperson of the Council.

    Former Chief Justice Anin-Yeboah

    Per official records, Justice Gertrude Araba Essaba Torkornoo is Ghana’s Chief Justice and, rightly so, the Chairperson of the Council.

    On its website, the General Legal Council indicates that “the serving Chief Justice is the Chairperson of the Council.”

    The Chief Justice, Justice Kwasi Anin-Yeboah, on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, officially retired from active service. Justice Anin-Yeboah served for 21 years as a judge, serving three years as the Head of the Judiciary. Following his retirement, Justice Jones Dotse, the then most senior Justice on the Supreme Court bench, assumed the position of Acting Chief Justice.

    On June 12, 2023, Justice Gertrude Araba Essaba Torkornoo was sworn into office as the new Chief Justice of Ghana, taking over from Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah.

    This makes her the third female Chief Justice in the history of Ghana after Justice Georgina Theodore Wood and Sophia Akuffo.

    Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo is Ghana’s Chief Justice

    Another anomaly

    Also, the GLC has in its records Justice Victor Jones Dotse as an active Justice of the Supreme Court and still a member of the Council.

    But Justice Victor Jones Dotse is now a retired Supreme Court Judge and cannot be a member based on being one of the three senior-most Supreme Court Justices as mandated.

    A valedictory ceremony was held for Justice Dotse on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at the Supreme Court to honour him as he resigned.

    former Supreme Court judge, Justice Jones Dotse

    Justice Dotse was elevated to the Supreme Court in 2008 after former President John Agyekum Kufuor appointed him to the High Court in 2002 and subsequently promoted him to the Court of Appeal in 2003.

    On what he intends to do on retirement, Justice Dotse said he would continue to be active and contribute to the promotion of justice by working with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the justice space.

  • Resign and let Ghanaians have peace of mind – Atta Akyea tells Ken Ofori-Atta

    Resign and let Ghanaians have peace of mind – Atta Akyea tells Ken Ofori-Atta

    Member of Parliament for Akim Abuakwa South, Samuel Atta Akyea, has entreated Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to step down from his position, expressing the belief his resignation would bring peace to the country.

    Mr Atta-Akyea underscored the need for self-reflection on Ofori-Atta’s part, urging him to consider stepping down for his personal well-being and the overall benefit of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    During an interview with Citi TV on Tuesday, January 16, the lawmaker from Abuakwa South appealed to the Finance Minister to prioritize the nation’s interests and contemplate resigning from his position.

    “For me, what is very frightening is the fact that you have a whole army of people saying look you’ve had enough…I think that that could be a way for him to relax. Look at all the burdens on one man. So it is his individual decision to make as to whether he should go or he should continue.”

    “He should look at himself and look at the troubles that everybody believes, I mean when he is not there then the nation will have peace…He should save himself and save the government and have his peace because he needs it,” Mr Atta Akyea said.

    Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Samuel Atta Akyea (R)

    Calls for the resignation of Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta have been growing for several months, primarily from within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been particularly vocal, consistently holding the Finance Minister responsible for the prevailing fiscal challenges.

    In response to these demands, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta expressed deep emotional distress and disappointment. Calls for his dismissal or resignation were met with a strong commitment to remain in office during an exclusive interview with GTV on Sunday, August 6, 2023.

    Despite feeling battered and broken by the protests, Ofori-Atta underscored his dedication to a singular duty – to continue serving his beloved country in its efforts to recover from economic challenges.

    He emphasized that such challenging times demand bold and courageous individuals who are willing to stay on and fight for the nation’s well-being.

    “In the period of censure, in which Parliament then voted against it, but more importantly, you were in a situation where you were battered and broken.”

    “And do not leave a ship at that time, and given the urgency of ensuring the IMF programme will get through, for me it was a duty to serve, and there was no running away from it,” Mr Ofori-Atta said.

  • Provide more funding for paediatric services – Govt told

    Provide more funding for paediatric services – Govt told

    Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Evelyn Arthur Health Foundation, Evelyn Arthur, has urged the government to enhance funding for paediatric services and address issues affecting children’s healthcare.

    She emphasized the importance of prioritizing access to preventive services, timely medical interventions, and specialized care for chronic conditions concerning children’s health.

    ‘’We must focus on promoting overall well-being and early intervention to address disparities in paediatric healthcare and ensure that all children receive the medical attention they require,’’ she stressed.

    She is therefore advocating policies that support children’s healthcare. ”The policies must look at increased funding for paediatric services, improved insurance coverage for children and initiatives to address social determinants of health that impact paediatric well-being,” she added.

    Miss Arthur made these remarks during a health screening event organized by her foundation as part of its Health Aid Program for children at the New Life Orphanage Home in Nungua, Greater Accra Region.

    She emphasized the importance of broadening the reach of paediatric healthcare services in underserved communities, emphasizing the necessity for children to have access to primary care, paediatric specialists, and mental health support.

    ‘‘Our outfit is making frantic efforts through educational campaigns to increase awareness among parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers about the importance of early intervention and preventive care for children,’’ she added.

    Miss Arthur, who also serves as a health professional, advocated for collaboration between the Ghana Health Service and Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) to collectively address social and environmental factors impacting children’s health.

    She further said, “the collaborative effort should address access to nutritious food, safe housing, and opportunities for physical activity in children’’.

    She emphasizes the critical importance of enhancing children’s access to healthcare for their long-term health and well-being.

    “We can set the stage for a healthier future for our children if we fix the barriers to care and promote early intervention,” Miss Arthur explained.

    She made an appeal to private organizations and pharmaceutical companies, urging them to collaborate with her foundation through partnerships and sponsorships to extend assistance to vulnerable individuals in deprived areas.

    In addition to the health screening, Bridget Sedinam Nyadeka, a lab technician, took the opportunity to educate the public on the importance of knowing their blood group. She highlighted that being aware of one’s blood type is crucial for personal health and medical treatment in emergencies. Nyadeka further explained that understanding one’s blood type is particularly essential during pregnancy, as certain blood types can lead to complications such as haemolytic disease of the newborn.

    As part of their charitable efforts, the Evelyn Arthur Health Foundation donated toiletries and food items worth GH₵ 15,000 to the New Life Orphanage Home.

  • Kudus trains with team ahead of Egypt clash

    Kudus trains with team ahead of Egypt clash

    The Ghana Football Association’s Communications Director, Henry Asante Twum, has provided an update on Mohammed Kudus’ fitness ahead of the Black Stars’ second group game against Egypt in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

    Kudus, who missed the opening game against Cape Verde due to a slight knock, is reportedly making good progress in his recovery.

    According to Twum, Kudus has been actively working with the physiotherapists and has already participated in full-team training with the squad.

    While the medical team is still evaluating his condition, Twum expressed optimism that Kudus will be ready for the crucial match against Egypt, with expectations for him to be available by Wednesday or Thursday.

    Given the importance of the upcoming game and the need for a victory, Kudus’ potential return is seen as a positive development that could bolster the Black Stars’ chances of advancing to the next round in the tournament.

  • Koji Miyoshi’s stoppage-time goal secures victory for Birmingham

    Koji Miyoshi’s stoppage-time goal secures victory for Birmingham

    Birmingham secured a 2-1 victory over Hull in their FA Cup third-round replay, with Koji Miyoshi’s stoppage-time goal proving decisive.

    This win marked Tony Mowbray’s first victory as manager of Birmingham, succeeding Wayne Rooney.

    Hull took an early lead with Jason Lokilo’s goal in the 12th minute, but Birmingham fought back. Mowbray’s strategic move of making five substitutions just past the hour mark proved pivotal, as two of those substitutes, including Jay Stansfield, scored to level the game.

    Despite differing line-ups for the match, with Birmingham making seven changes and Hull making 11, the teams were evenly matched. Hull’s Lokilo capitalized on a well-executed move, but Birmingham’s Stansfield equalized after a rebound from Miyoshi’s shot.

    The game remained tense, but Miyoshi’s late goal, supplied by Stansfield, secured Birmingham’s victory and a spot in the fourth round with a trip to face Leicester.

  • Fitch Solutions projects 8% decline in BoG’s policy rate

    Fitch Solutions projects 8% decline in BoG’s policy rate

    Fitch Solutions has projected that the Bank of Ghana (BoG) will initiate a significant monetary easing cycle, resulting in a cumulative reduction of the policy rate by 800 basis points to 22.00% by the end of 2024.

    The UK-based firm attributes this anticipated move to a substantial moderation of headline inflation in the country.

    “With inflation moderating substantially through 2024, we anticipate that the BoG will embark upon a sizeable monetary easing cycle, cutting the policy rate by a cumulative 800bps to 22.00% by year-end.”

    Fitch Solutions also noted that there is typically a 12-month time lag for interest rate adjustments to impact the real economy, owing to delays in monetary transmission mechanisms.

    Consequently, the firm believes that the Bank of Ghana’s dovish monetary policy stance is unlikely to lead to a sudden increase in real loan growth, a factor that has remained in contractionary territory from January to August 2023.

    Since 2021, the Bank of Ghana has raised the benchmark policy rate by 1,150 basis points to 30.00%, thereby restricting access to corporate credit.

    Additionally, the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of Ghana is scheduled to conduct its 116th regular meetings from Tuesday, January 23 to Friday, January 26, during which it will assess developments in the economy.

  • Fuel prices to fall by over 2.5% today

    Fuel prices to fall by over 2.5% today

    Fuel consumers can anticipate relief at the pumps with a decrease in diesel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) prices, marking the second consecutive drop in January.

    The decline expected to take effect today, Wednesday, January 17, is a projection made by the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC).

    While the exact adjustments are pending, COPEC anticipates a reduction in diesel and LPG prices due to a global decline in finished product prices, despite a slight depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against the dollar.

    Petrol prices are expected to remain relatively stable, with a possible minor upward adjustment of around 1%, reflecting current international market trends.

    COPEC Executive Secretary Duncan Amoah pointed to current international market trends as the reason for the decline.

    “Diesel prices dipped by roughly 2.8% per metric ton on the global market, while petrol experienced a slight increase of 3.6%. The cedi has remained relatively stable overall, although we’ve seen a 0.47-point dip in exchange rates,” Amoah said.

    He added, “Overall, what our expectation is that prices of petrol are likely to remain stable with a 1 percent upward adjustment.

    “Diesel is likely to see some reduction while LGP is also likely to see some reduction effective Wednesday which is the second window for January.”

  • Extra time gives Wolves upper hand over Brentford

    Extra time gives Wolves upper hand over Brentford

    Wolves have secured a place in the FA Cup fourth round and set up a derby clash with West Brom following a hard-fought extra-time victory over Brentford. Matheus Cunha’s decisive penalty in extra time sealed a 3-2 replay win for Wolves at Molineux.

    Brentford had twice taken the lead through Nathan Collins and Neal Maupay, but Wolves responded with goals from Nelson Semedo and substitute Nathan Fraser in normal time. The enthralling match ended 2-2 in regular time, leading to extra time.

    Cunha’s successful penalty kick ultimately booked a Black Country derby against West Brom at the Hawthorns on January 28, marking the first such encounter in three years. The victory allows Wolves to progress to the next round of the FA Cup.

    Brentford, despite being left with a free weekend, will have Ivan Toney available for selection after completing his eight-month ban for betting breaches. The Bees had drawn 1-1 in the initial tie, ending a five-game losing streak, and the confidence boost was evident as they initially took the lead in the replay.

    Collins opened the scoring for Brentford, but Wolves responded with Semedo’s equalizer. Maupay restored Brentford’s lead early in the second half, only for Fraser to level the score again for Wolves.

    The match saw additional drama in extra time, with Cunha converting a penalty to secure Wolves’ victory after Pedro Neto was fouled. The result sets the stage for an exciting local derby in the upcoming round of the FA Cup.

  • Bawumia will soon make known his vision to all – Nana Akomea

    Bawumia will soon make known his vision to all – Nana Akomea

    Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the 2024 presidential candidate for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), is poised to unveil his vision in the upcoming weeks, as confirmed by the Director of Communications for the Bawumia Campaign Team, Nana Akomea.

    Dr. Bawumia secured his candidacy by obtaining 61.43% of votes from nearly 200,000 NPP delegates during the November 2023 elections.

    Since his election, Dr. Bawumia has embarked on various nationwide tours to express gratitude to the party’s delegates and members for their support in choosing him as their leader.

    In an interview with Asaase Radio on Tuesday, January 16, Nana Akomea acknowledged that the Vice President cannot distance himself from the government’s shortcomings.

    However, he highlighted that Dr. Bawumia possesses his own set of ideas and is preparing to share them with the government in the near future.

    “Bawumia will not distance himself from the performance of the economy, I can imagine Bawumia going to stand somewhere to say I am not part, it is a collective responsibility, but the important thing is that he gives us the chance for a different experience.”

    “When the campaign starts, Bawumia should be speaking to the nation pretty soon … he hasn’t really spoken to the nation.”

    “But I can assure you that very soon, in the next few weeks, he is going to speak to the nation to outline his vision. I can tell you the conversation is going to be more powerful than what we saw with 2015/2016,” he said.

  • Money-doubling: Wa youth assault self-proclaimed fetish priest for duping them

    Money-doubling: Wa youth assault self-proclaimed fetish priest for duping them

    A group of young individuals from Wa in the Upper West Region took action against a self-proclaimed fetish priest, commonly known as Nana Godspower, accused of swindling numerous people in and around Wa over the years.

    The incident unfolded when Nana Godspower allegedly accepted GHS 5,000 from an individual, promising to double the amount but failing to deliver. In response to this, angered youths stormed his residence.

    Upon reaching his location, they physically assaulted him with multiple ear-damaging slaps, compelling him to open his shrine.

    Nana Godspower was then instructed to gather all his deities, which were subsequently set on fire by the enraged group.

  • KNUST, UG induct 42 veterinary medicine doctors

    KNUST, UG induct 42 veterinary medicine doctors

    A cohort of 42 veterinary medicine doctors from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and the University of Ghana, under the auspices of the Ghana Veterinary Council, have been officially inducted.

    This group, comprising 17 doctors from the University of Ghana and 25 from KNUST, solemnly took the veterinary oath guided by Dr. Jonathan Amakye-Anim, the chairman of the Ghana Veterinary Council.

    The newly inducted professionals, consisting of 28 men and 14 women, pledged their commitment to utilizing their expertise and scientific knowledge for the betterment of society.

    The induction ceremony, held in Accra, featured commendations from Dr. Amakye-Anim, who praised both the students and the schools of veterinary medicine for their significant collaboration.

    Dr. Amakye-Anim emphasized that this achievement marked a transformative era in Ghana’s veterinary medicine field, foreseeing the invaluable contributions these trained professionals would make to animal health and welfare.

    He commended the partnership between the two esteemed institutions, citing it as a testament to their dedication to excellence in education and the advancement of veterinary science not only in Ghana but also beyond its borders.

    During the ceremony, Prof. William K. Ampofo, a board member and Chief Executive Officer of the National Vaccine Institute, delivered a keynote address.

    He highlighted the vital contributions of veterinary medicine to human health, explaining its focus on the prevention, control, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting both domestic and wild animals. Additionally, he underscored the role of veterinary medicine in preventing the transmission of animal diseases to humans.

    “We hope that our new inductees will understand the very important role that they are going to play in our society here in Ghana and also in the sub-region and ensure that they broaden their knowledge,” he added.

    In addition to their roles in veterinary hospitals, Professor Ampofo elaborated that veterinary medicine doctors are also actively engaged in the pharmaceutical industry. Their contributions extend to the development of drugs, safety testing of medications, and the evaluation of vaccines and antibiotics.

    Highlighting the broader spectrum of responsibilities, Professor Ampofo emphasized that pharmaceutical companies leverage the expertise of veterinary medicine professionals to ensure the safety and efficacy of various medical products.

    Furthermore, he shed light on Ghana’s ongoing program, which involves the continuous surveillance of animal populations. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana Veterinary Services.

    “Every year, there is active surveillance in various backyards, in the military barracks, and also in some private farms looking for the presence of avian influenza,” he said.

    He urged the new doctors not to use their acquired knowledge just to look after animals, stating, “You can help prevent transmission of disease from animals to humans, and you can help us control diseases in animals by working towards more efficient vaccines.”

    Adding, “You can help us to make human vaccines better human vaccines, and then help in a significant contribution to public health and one health.”

    Speaking to the Ghana News Agency in an interview, Dr Samuel Anganmwin Doozie, a newly inducted veterinary medical doctor, applauded the joint induction event as it harmonised efforts of the two schools of veterinary medicine for the advancement of the veterinary profession and make its practice have a greater impact on the country’s economy.

    Referencing recent medical research, Dr Doozie stated that about 70 to 80 per cent of diseases that affected humans were of animal origin, and that it had also been found that over 75 per cent of new or emerging infectious diseases were of animal origin.

    “And so, the one health concept that has existed since its inception has been amplified and encouraged among medical professionals as the means to solving medically related problems in humans, animals, and the environment,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the Ghana Veterinary Council had indicated that several bills had been introduced and at various stages for passage into law towards reforming the practice of veterinary medicine in Ghana in line with global standards.

  • 37 lives lost due to road carnages during Christmas, New Year celebrations – Report

    37 lives lost due to road carnages during Christmas, New Year celebrations – Report

    During the festive period spanning December 24 to December 26, 2023, and December 31, 2023, to January 1, 2024, a total of 37 lives were tragically lost in road crashes, as reported in the National Road Traffic Crashes and Casualties report.

    This represents a 21.28% decrease compared to the 47 deaths recorded during the same period in 2022.

    The breakdown reveals that 29 out of the 37 deaths occurred between December 24 to December 26, 2023, while December 31, 2023, and January 1, 2024, accounted for eight deaths.

    The victims were predominantly male, with 30 males (81%) and seven females (19%) losing their lives. Additionally, 19% of those killed were below 18 years old, while 81% were adults above 18 years.

    A total of 236 cases were reported during the period, involving 417 vehicles and 50 pedestrian knockdowns. This signifies a 16.26% increase in reported cases compared to the 2022 Christmas festivities, which recorded 203 cases.

    Private vehicles constituted the largest proportion of vehicles involved in crashes (46%), followed by commercial vehicles (31%) and motorcycles (23%).

    The Greater Accra Region had the highest number of crashes (83) and reported nine deaths, while the Ashanti Region came second with 66 cases and 15 deaths.

    Specific locations in the Greater Accra Region, such as Kaneshie, Kpeshie, Madina, Odorkor, Weija, Baatsona, Ayimensah, and Amanfrom, experienced fatalities during this period.

  • Ofori-Atta to be in China on Jan. 23 to discuss external debt restructure

    Ofori-Atta to be in China on Jan. 23 to discuss external debt restructure

    Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, along with other government officials, is scheduled to visit China on January 23 with the aim of restructuring Ghana’s $5.4 billion bilateral debt, a significant portion of which is owed to China.

    China, along with France, co-chairs Ghana’s Official Creditor Committee. The agreement reached with this committee is crucial for accessing additional funds from a $3 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout package.

    Simultaneously, Ghana will resume discussions with its international bondholders next week, building on the momentum generated by a recent deal to restructure $5.4 billion of bilateral debt. The country seeks to continue talks after engaging with Eurobond holders in October 2023.

    Restructuring negotiations last year was a “very difficult, painful process,” but Ghana has “built pretty good momentum”, Mr. Ofori-Atta told Reuters.

    The IMF board is scheduled to convene on Friday, January 19, 2024, to decide on a $600 million disbursement as part of Ghana’s bailout program. Approval from the IMF would open the door for funding from other multilateral lenders.

    Additionally, the World Bank is expected to make a decision on providing $550 million in funding on January 25, 2024, according to Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.

    Ghana is actively engaged in restructuring its debts under the Common Framework, a G20-established process designed during the COVID-19 pandemic to address debt challenges.

    The country, facing a default in December 2022, is working to restructure around $20 billion of its external debt, which stood at approximately $30 billion at the end of 2022.

  • “God will kill you” – Street preacher curses blogger

    “God will kill you” – Street preacher curses blogger

    One of the many street preachers that can be located along the roadside at Adum-Kumasi has cursed Ghanaian content creator Big Scout, for calling him out.

    Big Scout while driving, called out the male pastor for not finding himself in another occupation instead of preaching by the roadside.

    “Go and find work to do. The Bible says, “the hand that finds no work to do does not eat”, why don’t you go and find work to do? Your colleagues are here working,” he told the pastor after he drew near his car.

    The male preacher did not take his criticism lightly and proclaimed death to the content creator’s life.

    “God will kill you. I said God will kill you. Try it and see. You are in a car, you are going to drive through a gutter,” he said.

    The preacher’s strong words did not deter Big Scout from dishing it out to other preachers he sighted on the road.

    “Every hundred meters, you will find these people with a microphone saying, God says, God says.”

    Briefly after this comment, he told another male preacher to find another work to do and in response, the preacher said, “It is not your fault.”

  • Fighting Francis Ngannou may prove Anthony Joshua is UK’s best heavyweight

    Fighting Francis Ngannou may prove Anthony Joshua is UK’s best heavyweight

    Anthony Joshua is set on establishing himself as the top heavyweight in the UK as he prepares to take on Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia on March 8.

    Coming off a recent knockout victory against Otto Wallin, Joshua is gearing up for the showdown with the 37-year-old Ngannou, who controversially lost a split decision to WBC champion Tyson Fury in October.

    Initially heading towards a potential bout with Deontay Wilder, plans changed after Wilder’s surprising defeat to Joseph Parker.

    Now, Joshua is enthusiastic about the opportunity to face former UFC heavyweight star Ngannou and solidify his position as the leading heavyweight in the UK.

    Speaking at the launch press conference in London, the two-time champ said: “I’ve seen people like him many times before. It’s just his mind I will have to conquer in the ring.

    “You have to take someone’s soul and their spirit — and I’m looking forward to the challenge.

    “It’s going to be good. It’s going to be explosive, there’s many ways to skin a cat.

    “I can counterpunch, he can counterpunch. We can both box, as he’s proven. We can both trade and it’s going to be a good, good fight.

    “Shout out to my promoter and my team for getting me in this position to showcase why I’m the top heavyweight in the UK.

    “I’m not really too concerned about the world. I’m trying to conquer where I live and make everyone know I’m the one who puts boxing on the map.”

    Ngannou was also in high spirits and claimed he will put Joshua’s defences to the test.

    He said: “I have the tools and it starts against AJ. I’m going to look for his chin. “In a fight you try to hit them in the chin, I’ve heard he doesn’t have a chin but we’re going to find out.”

    Anthony Joshua’s upcoming fight against Francis Ngannou is set to be the main attraction of an exciting card in Riyadh. The event will also feature a significant heavyweight clash between Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang for the WBO’s interim belt.

    Promoter Eddie Hearn is optimistic that Joshua will emerge victorious, positioning himself for a potential showdown with either Tyson Fury or Oleksandr Usyk. Fury and Usyk are scheduled to face each other, putting all four major heavyweight titles on the line in their upcoming bout.

    Hearn said: “I truly believe he will finish his career as undisputed heavyweight champion.”

  • Sanitize media space for our collective good ahead of 2024 elections – Communication Minister tells NCA, NMC

    Minister for Communication and Digitalization, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, has called on the National Communications Authority (NCA) and the National Media Commission (NMC) to strengthen their supervisory roles in overseeing the media landscape as the country prepares for the 2024 polls.

    The minister, while speaking at the launch of the NCA’s 5-year strategic plan in Accra, highlighted the importance of media freedom but also emphasized the need for regulated content to prevent the dissemination of potentially inflammatory material.

    She called for sanctions against media houses that fail to sanitize their airwaves to serve as a deterrent to others and not compromise the peace the country currently enjoys.

    “Two key regulators in this sector are the NCA and the NMC. I know the NCA has set up a broadcast monitoring centre here, which the NMC is using to monitor the content that is put out by all broadcasters, and those who fall foul of their own guidelines are sanctioned. I expect them to deepen that collaboration to ensure that together, we work to sanitize the airwaves, and we don’t see an upsurge in fake news, media publications, defamatory material, and things that will tend to disturb or threaten the peace and security of our nation.”

    “So I am expecting the two regulators to work closely together this year to monitor what’s put out and work with the Ghana Journalists Association and Independent Broadcasters Association to sanitize the space for our collective good,” she stated.

    In November last year, the National Media Commission (NMC) wrote to the National Communications Authority (NCA), to withdraw the licenses of Onua TV and Onua FM for becoming “the soundtrack to hateful rhetoric carefully orchestrated to incite ethnic division, provoke mutiny in the armed forces and prey upon the youth for insurrection against the state.”

    According to the NMC, the two stations have “systematically sought to subvert critical national institutions including the Council of State and the Ghana Armed Forces in a manner that constitutes clear and present danger to the public interest.”

    Despite this move, the two media houses continue to operate.

    Meanwhile, several distinguished individuals and reputable organizations, such as the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Natioanl Peace Council have called on the public to ensure the 2024 election is devoid of any electoral violence.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) and the Police Service have been encouraged to up their game to curtail any electoral malpractice and disturbance during voting and counting of votes.

  • We will employ use of cameras, other forms of technology to maintain order on the road – NRSA

    We will employ use of cameras, other forms of technology to maintain order on the road – NRSA

    The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) plans to leverage technology for road management and safety enforcement across Ghana.

    The Director-General of NRSA, David Osafo Adonteng, attributes the decline in road crashes over the last three years to various campaigns aimed at raising awareness about road safety.

    “This year, Ghana is going to see a lot of technology deployed for road safety management. For example, the police are coming up with what we call the traffictech. You are going to see fewer policemen on the road. Rather, you are going to see cameras being deployed in vehicles and also fixed along the roads to be monitoring the roads 24/7,” he stated.

    The Authority plans to employ electronic means to detect road users, especially drivers, who violate traffic laws in Ghana.

    The Director-General, David Osafo Adonteng, highlighted that tickets and notices would be issued to individuals who flout road traffic laws, and they would be required to pay penalties or fines.

    This move is part of the NRSA’s efforts to utilize technology for road management and safety enforcement to enhance order on major roads across the country.

    Additionally, the Ghana Police Service has introduced an automated system called Traffictech-GH to capture images and videos of vehicles disregarding traffic laws, streamlining the enforcement process.

  • NPP Primaries: “I don’t have anything in my cupboard” – COP Alex Mensah (rtd)

    NPP Primaries: “I don’t have anything in my cupboard” – COP Alex Mensah (rtd)

    Parliamentary candidate hopeful COP George Alex Mensah (Rtd), running for the New Patriotic Party in the Bekwai constituency, has vehemently denied any wrongdoing that might negatively impact his chances of winning the polls.

    He was implicated in a leaked audio scandal that allegedly revealed a plot to remove the Inspector General of Police to manipulate the 2024 elections in favor of the governing party.

    COP George Alex Mensah (Rtd) is one of four candidates competing for the seat, along with Ralph Poku-Adusei, Henry Opoku-Ware, and Kingsley Opoku Agyemang, all vying to replace the current Bekwai MP, Joe Osei-Owusu.

    In an interview on Eyewitness News, COP Mensah (Rtd) emphasized that he has not been involved in any fraudulent activities that would disqualify him from becoming a Member of Parliament.

    Asked if he could clear things in his cupboard before going to the polls on January 27, he retorted, “I don’t have anything in my cupboard.”

    COP George Alex Mensah (Rtd) asserted that his involvement in an alleged attempt to oust the Inspector General of Police (IGP), George Akuffo Dampare, would not tarnish his credibility or hinder his chances of winning the parliamentary seat.

    “No, it will not,” he said.

    The parliamentary aspirant stated that he was the most competent person among his contenders to win the primaries.

    “I’m more competent among other aspirants; none of them has the experience and qualifications I have. I’m going to win,” he underscored.

    The committee assigned to investigate the leaked tape has not yet released its report.

  • Court yet to decide on releasing Sylvester Anemana’s passport upon request as Ambulance case continues

    Court yet to decide on releasing Sylvester Anemana’s passport upon request as Ambulance case continues

    The judge presiding over the criminal trial involving Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and two others, Justice Afia Serwaa Asare-Botwe, is facing a dilemma regarding the release of the passport of the second accused, Dr. Sylvester Anemana.

    Dr. Anemana, a former director at the Ministry of Health, applied to the court to release his passport for medical reasons.

    The court is torn between refusing the application, potentially harming his health, and granting it, which may impact the trial.

    Dr. Anemana, who is in a wheelchair and battling a serious illness, will have the court make a decision next week after completing his cross-examination.

    The judge has adjourned the case to January 23 to complete the cross-examination before deciding on the passport release.

  • Don’t look at the messenger but the message – Cheddar

    Don’t look at the messenger but the message – Cheddar

    Nana Kwame Bediako, known as “Cheddar,” recently revealed himself as the ‘Man in the Mask’ and declared his political ambitions, causing a stir among Ghanaians.

    Some have questioned his transition from a real estate player to a political figure, pointing out his interactions with celebrities.

    In response, Bediako urged Ghanaians to focus on the substance of his message rather than the peripherals, emphasizing the importance of his ideas for Ghana’s future during an interview on Kofi TV.

    He said, “God has told me he will put the crown on my head. I am not paying attention to whatever man has to say. They have to listen to what I have to say. They have to focus on the message and the messenger. I have been sent and I am not here to kid around.”

    Nana Kwame Bediako has also announced his bid to contest the presidential elections on December 7, 2024.

    Faced with challenges in registering his political party, he revealed plans to run as an independent candidate during an interview on The Point of View on Citi TV.

    Criticizing the government’s economic management, Bediako pledged to rescue the country from further hardships.

    He emphasized his commitment to building a middle-income nation, generating job opportunities for the youth and fostering their active involvement in governance.

    “We wanted to register a political party, but they didn’t give us a license. We are still moving with our movement. I’m running in the December polls as an independent presidential candidate. Because they didn’t give us any license or even provisional license. You will see me on the ballot on December 7. The governance of the country is poor, the government is the problem. We need to be responsible for the leaders we choose.”

    “In the last 4 decades, between the National Democratic Congress and the New Patriotic Party, there hasn’t been any young person who has dared to stand up and say he’s coming. I’m the unifier between the youth and the government. I’m for the people who need change; I’m for the neutral people, and I don’t belong to any political party. We aim to build a middle-income nation by creating jobs for the youth,” he promised.

  • COPEC predicts fall in fuel prices by over 2.5% effective Jan. 17

    COPEC predicts fall in fuel prices by over 2.5% effective Jan. 17

    Fuel consumers can anticipate relief at the pumps with a decrease in diesel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) prices, marking the second consecutive drop in January.

    The decline expected to take effect on Wednesday, January 17, has been projected by the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC).

    While the exact adjustments are pending, COPEC anticipates a reduction in diesel and LPG prices due to a global decline in finished product prices, despite a slight depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi.

    Petrol prices are expected to remain relatively stable, with a possible minor upward adjustment of around 1%, reflecting current international market trends.

    COPEC Executive Secretary Duncan Amoah pointed to current international market trends as reason for the decline.

    “Diesel prices dipped by roughly 2.8% per metric ton on the global market, while petrol experienced a slight increase of 3.6%. The cedi has remained relatively stable overall, although we’ve seen a 0.47-point dip in exchange rates,” Amoah said.

    He added, “Overall, what our expectation is that prices of petrol are likely to remain stable with a 1 percent upward adjustment.

    “Diesel is likely to see some reduction while LGP is also likely to see some reduction effective Wednesday which is the second window for January.”

  • Hourihane’s stoppage-time strike seals dramatic win for Derby

    Hourihane’s stoppage-time strike seals dramatic win for Derby

    Derby secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Burton at Pride Park, thanks to Conor Hourihane’s stoppage-time strike.

    Despite throwing away a two-goal lead and allowing Joe Hugill to equalize on his Burton debut, Hourihane’s late goal rescued Derby from a potential setback.

    The match saw Burton goalkeeper Max Crocombe making key saves, but Derby’s dominance eventually paid off with goals from Tom Barkhuizen and James Collins.

    Steve Seddon and Hugill’s goals for Burton posed a threat, but Hourihane’s late heroics sealed the win for Derby.

  • More time should be devoted to doing the right thing from day one – Economist tells NDC

    More time should be devoted to doing the right thing from day one – Economist tells NDC

    Lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) and Economist, Godfred Bokpin has advised the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to promptly address key issues if they emerge victorious in the upcoming elections.

    He emphasized the need for a reduction in the size of the government and a limitation on the number of ministers to 40 as one of the primary actions to be taken.

    Mr Bokpin highlighted the urgency of addressing pressing national issues promptly upon assuming power.

    “Some time can be devoted to reviewing the past. Yes, we will do that but more time should be devoted to doing the right thing from day one. There cannot be any longer honeymoon.”

    On JoyNews’ AM Show, Godfred Bokpin expressed that given former President John Mahama’s previous experience as president, he should be capable of implementing changes and improvements swiftly.

    He cautioned against blaming the current government for the country’s problems, as it could lead to disaffection among the people.

    “So we will need to court both the opposition and then your own people along a certain path. Without that, you may not be able to carry through the structural reforms, which will be very painful. There will be too much division.”

    He added that, the development of Ghana should be a unifying force, rather than something that divides the people

    “Development must be about people, preserve our planet earth and peace. So the development that divides Ghanaians is not development. We want development that brings Ghanaians together as one people regardless of our tribal affiliations.”

  • APN partners AfCFTA to hold Africa Prosperity Dialogues in Ghana from Jan. 25-27

    APN partners AfCFTA to hold Africa Prosperity Dialogues in Ghana from Jan. 25-27

    The Africa Prosperity Network (APN) is partnering with the Africa Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat to organize the Africa Prosperity Dialogues in Ghana from January 25-27, 2024.

    The event aims to provide a platform for top business leaders, heads of international development institutions, and social change makers to discuss and propose comprehensive policies to boost intra-Africa trade.

    The organizers emphasize the need to rewrite colonial-era commercial arrangements, ensuring that Africa’s resources contribute to the continent’s development through actionable and bankable value-added pathways.

    Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, Founder and Executive Chairman of Africa Prosperity Network, highlighted the importance of investing in key sectors and prioritizing trade to unlock Africa’s global potential.

    “The idea about the single market is about what. It is about the economy, and who are the drivers of the economy? Is the private sector. So we thought that it was important to find a way to let the private sector on the continent own the AfCFTA and drive it”.

    “In order for us to move on, we need to find a way to aggregate our resources, human strength, and natural resources to build linkages across the continent”, he added. 

    The establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) not only provides a robust policy framework for boosting intra-African trade but also elevates Africa’s economies, according to Silva Ojakol, Chief of Staff at AfCFTA.

    The three-day Africa Prosperity Dialogues event is expected to strengthen the vision and mission of the Partnership for African Prosperity and Trade (PACT).

    “Our contribution to industrial growth is only 2.0%. Why, because we allow our resources to be taken away and value elsewhere when we could actually add value here. We need to rise above this. This disparity highlights the urgent need for industrialisation for improved infrastructure and energy solution to enhance competitiveness and reduce the production cost”. 

    The theme for the 2024 Africa Prosperity Dialogues is “Delivering Prosperity in Africa-Produce, Add Value, Trade.”

    The event will be hosted by the President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo.

    As part of the program, there will be the Africa Prosperity Champions Awards and a Presidential gala dinner on the night of January 26, 2024, at Kempinski Hotel in Accra. The Presidential Dialogues will take place at Peduase Presidential Lodge, Aburi Hills, on Saturday, January 27, 2023.

  • AFCON 2023: Cameroon held to a frustrating 1-1 draw in opener

    AFCON 2023: Cameroon held to a frustrating 1-1 draw in opener

    Cameroon faced a frustrating 1-1 draw against resilient 10-man Guinea in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) opener in Yamoussoukro.

    Guinea took a surprise lead through Mohamed Bayo, but their captain Francois Kamano was sent off in the first half.

    Cameroon’s Frank Magri equalized early in the second half, but they couldn’t find a winner against Guinea’s well-organized defense.

    The match ended with Guinea holding out despite being a player down. In an earlier match, defending champions Senegal defeated Gambia 3-0 to top Group C.

  • Why don’t you grill NPP guests the same way? – Netizens ask Bernard Avle

    Why don’t you grill NPP guests the same way? – Netizens ask Bernard Avle

    Citi TV General Manager and journalist, Bernard Avle, is facing public scrutiny following his interview with Nana Kwame Bediako, also known as Cheddar, founder of The New Force, on the Point of View show aired on Monday, January 15, 2024.

    The interview became intense as Bernard Avle and Nana Kwame Bediako engaged in an intellectual debate. The classification of Ghana as a middle-income country emerged as a controversial topic, with the two participants expressing divergent views on the matter.

    Bernard Avle held the position that Ghana is indeed a middle-income country, but Mr Bediako argued otherwise, stating that Ghana is a low-income country.

    Mr Bediako argued that since the government run to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for economic assistance through a credit facility worth $3 billion, it is a low-income country.

    “They went to beg to save the economy, but you are sitting in front of me, and I know you know a lot about economics, and you are telling me this country is a middle-income country.

    “How then do we go so broke that we lost all the cash in our central bank and we had to go to IMF to save us? Ghana is a low-income country,” he stressed.

    A much more composed Bernard Avle insisted that “Ghana is a middle-income country.”

    Also, Bernard claimed that Mr Bediako said he planned to make Ghana a low-income country, an assertion he refuted.

    For some netizens, Mr Avle came off as brusque and “dripped with condescension.” They accused him of being impartial. They alleged that guests from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) who appear on the show were not interviewed intensely as Cheddar was.

    “That Bernard Avle interview with FJC is dripping with condescension. I get that the guy is highly ignorant and comically incompetent, but the interviewer’s posture borders on badgering and belittling,” a user, @enyonvm wrote.

    Another user, @cole__xy said, “Now they’re attacking Bernard Avle. Crazy world.”

    But some others noted that Mr Avle has always been an individual who puts his guests on a hot seat, questioning their intellect on issues they plan to resolve or address.

  • Why Bernard Avle is trending after Cheddar interview

    Why Bernard Avle is trending after Cheddar interview

    Citi TV General Manager and journalist, Bernard Avle, is currently under public scrutiny following his interview with founder of The New Force, Nana Kwame Bediako, widely recognized as Cheddar, on the Point of View show on Monday, January 15, 2024.

    The interview got heated as the duo engaged in an intellectual debate. Ghana’s classification as a middle-income country became a controversial topic, and the duo presented opposing views.

    Bernard Avle held the position that Ghana is indeed a middle-income country, but Mr Bediako argued otherwise, stating that Ghana is a low-income country.

    Mr Bediako argued that since the government run to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for economic assistance through a credit facility worth $3 billion, it is a low-income country.

    “They went to beg to save the economy, but you are sitting in front of me, and I know you know a lot about economics, and you are telling me this country is a middle-income country.

    “How then do we go so broke that we lost all the cash in our central bank and we had to go to IMF to save us? Ghana is a low-income country,” he stressed.

    A much more composed Bernard Avle insisted that “Ghana is a middle-income country.”

    Also, Bernard claimed that Mr Bediako said he planned to make Ghana a low-income country, an assertion he refuted.

    Following the interview, netizens have shared their thoughts on how the journalist, Mr Avle, interviewed Mr Bediako, who plans to contest the 2024 general elections to become Ghana’s president.

    While others believe Mr Avle was a bit too stern and brusque, others noted that Mr Avle has always been an individual who puts his guests on a hot seat, questioning their intellect on issues they plan to resolve or address.

    “That Bernard Avle interview with FJC is dripping with condescension. I get that the guy is highly ignorant and comically incompetent, but the interviewer’s posture borders on badgering and belittling,” a user, @enyonvm wrote.

    Another user, @cole__xy said, “Now they’re attacking Bernard Avle. Crazy world.”

  • Meet policeman with one of the longest names in Ghana

    Meet policeman with one of the longest names in Ghana

    As part of his security tour of the Ashanti Region, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare got the rare opportunity to meet one of his subordinates, believed to have one of the longest names in the country.

    The police officer in question has nine names. Many surmise that he hails from the northern part of the country. The male General Constable is called Mbatimgba Batikrikri Boyoo Baya Baba Basua Eric Azuma Abdulai.

    In a video shared by Graphic Online, the police officers present during the interaction between the IGP and General Constable burst into laughter when he mentioned his name.

    The IGP also teased Azuma Abdulai, comparing his name to chapters of a book.

    The police leadership, headed by Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, paid a courtesy call on Friday, January 12, 2024, on Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene at the Manhyia Palace, during a security tour in Kumasi.

    Also, at the Emergency Command Center at the National Police Headquarters, members of the Police Management Board (Pomab) debriefed personnel on security operations during the festive season.

  • Labour expert urges govt to hold consultation over 15% VAT on electricity

    Labour expert urges govt to hold consultation over 15% VAT on electricity

    Labour and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) expert, Austin Gamey, has urged the government to swiftly engage with labor representatives to address concerns regarding the recent imposition of a 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity.

    He emphasized the need for urgent discussions to devise strategies that could alleviate the impact on workers, promoting stability in labor relations.

    “Petrol has been increased by three per cent and the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) is threatening to increase fares by 60 per cent.

    “We have just imposed a tax on electricity and so obviously, people would like you to cushion them.

    “If the government is smart, it should invite them to a national tripartite committee meeting and use the tax thresholds to give everybody something,” Mr Gamey told the Daily Graphic in an interview.

    Austin Gamey emphasized that the Labour Law mandates the tripartite body—comprising representatives from the government, employers, and labor—to regularly convene, at least quarterly, to discuss matters crucial to the national economy.

    He highlighted that the recent imposition of a 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity was a concern for unions, and engaging in discussions would allow them to address the potential impact on their members and raise pertinent concerns.

    “So the government would have to be sharp and be forthcoming and invite experts who have a better appreciation of how these things are done to assist them,” he said.

    Austin Gamey serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pulse Institute Africa.

    Austin Gamey emphasized the importance of the government tapping into the expertise of the entire Ghanaian population, which consists of around 30 million people. He stressed that the country does not belong to any single political party, and leveraging the collective knowledge and skills of its citizens is crucial. Failure to do so, he warned, could result in the government facing increased pressure from labor issues.

    Gamey argued that labor would be justified in making demands to cushion its members in response to the recent 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity. He cited a precedent in 2015 when former President John Mahama invited all labor unions, including chiefs, to a meeting in Ho. During this meeting, information about the country’s situation was shared with the unions, helping them understand the potential consequences of extreme actions.

    The Ministry of Finance announced the implementation of the 15% VAT for residential customers of electricity as part of the government’s Medium-Term Revenue Strategy and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Supported Post Covid-19 Programme for Economic Growth. The VAT applies to residential customers with electricity consumption above specified levels, effective January 1, 2024. The move aims to enhance revenue collection.

  • Ghana, Zambia likely to emerge from default on foreign-currency debt in 2024 – Fitch

    Ghana, Zambia likely to emerge from default on foreign-currency debt in 2024 – Fitch

    Ghana and Zambia are to emerge from default on their foreign-currency debt this year, according to the rating agency Fitch.

    In its Regional Sub-Saharan African Sovereigns Outlook for 2024, Fitch stated that both countries are anticipated to successfully restructure their debts during the year.

    “We forecast gradual fiscal consolidation due to financing constraints and fiscal reform efforts, which, in many cases, are linked to IMF [International Monetary Fund] programmes. This consolidation will help government debt/GDP to broadly stabilise”.

    “We expect Ghana and Zambia to emerge from default on their foreign-currency debt in 2024, although, in both cases, the debt restructuring process under the Common Framework is vulnerable to further delays”, it added.

    The UK-based firm continued to highlight that the macroeconomic outlook for sub-Saharan Africa in 2024, including Ghana, suggests stable median real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth and lower average inflation. However, it noted that inflation remains high across several sovereigns in the region.

    “The macro outlook for sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) in 2024 points to stable median real GDP growth and lower average inflation, which nonetheless remains high across a number of sovereigns”. 

    Ghana’s inflation rate stood at 23.2% at the end of 2023. Despite the positive outlook on economic indicators, Fitch anticipates that financing challenges will persist for many Sub-Saharan African sovereigns.

    The report notes that most of these countries lack affordable access to international capital markets without credit enhancements. Fitch emphasized that multilateral funding will continue to be a crucial support mechanism across the region. However, the report also highlighted that risks remain tilted to the downside.