TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • Why Asamoah Gyan thought he was not the father of his children

    Why Asamoah Gyan thought he was not the father of his children

    In February 2019, news broke that Ghanaian footballer, Asamoah Gyan, had initiated a DNA test for all three children born during his relationship with Gifty Gyan, now known as Gifty Oware.

    The news quickly spread across various media outlets, sparking discussions and criticisms from many Ghanaians who saw Gyan’s actions as doubting his wife and seeking to annul their marriage.

    When the DNA test results conducted at Medilab were released, it confirmed that Asamoah Gyan was indeed the biological father of all three children.

    Four years after the DNA test, and following the Accra High Court’s ruling on the marriage annulment case, lawyer Kusi Appiah, representing Asamoah Gyan, has revealed the reasons behind his client’s decision to request the DNA tests.

    In an interview with Asempa FM, lawyer Kusi Appiah explained that Asamoah Gyan ordered the DNA tests due to pressure from Mr. Oware, the husband of his ex-wife, Gifty Appiah.

    Mr. Oware, who resides in the UK, had repeatedly insisted that Gifty gave birth to the children during her marriage to Asamoah Gyan. Per reports, he expressed doubts about the children’s paternity and threatened to deny Gyan access to them based on his belief that he was their biological father.

    “When the DNA test proved that all kids were his, Asamoah Gyan was extremely happy. He was happy because he had been challenged by someone that his wife wasn’t his and that at the time they married, the wife was also married to another person. The person even told Asamoah Gyan that he suspects some of the children were his.

    “The right thing for Gyan to have done was to make sure that he conducted a DNA test to prove the paternity of the children. When people were criticizing Gyan for being irresponsible, he was jubilating because he had been vindicated.”

    On October 31, 2023, an Accra High Court issued its verdict in the protracted three-year divorce case.

    The court ruled in favor of dissolving the marriage, which was initially contracted in 2013 between Gyan and Gifty. As part of the divorce proceedings, the court also made determinations regarding the paternity of the three children born to the couple.

    Gyan had previously contested his paternity of the children, leading the court to order a Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) test to establish their parentage. The DNA test results conclusively confirmed that Gyan was indeed the father of the children.

    Dennis Law, wrote of the paternity issue in their report: “Initially, Asamoah Gyan had denied paternity of their three children, seeking an annulment of their marriage. However, the court, in its decision on October 31, 2023, established that the three children are indeed the progeny of Asamoah Gyan.”

    Other consequential directions relative to the upkeep of the kids after the dissolution of the marriage included that “Asamoah Gyan is obligated to pay Gifty Gyan a monthly sum of 25,000 Ghana cedis.

    “This stipend is allocated for the upbringing and welfare of the three children, excluding expenses such as school fees, medical and dental care, flight tickets, and various other childcare-related costs,” the law firm added.

  • I’ll change my name to Martha if Bawumia doesn’t win NPP primaries – Techiman South MP

    I’ll change my name to Martha if Bawumia doesn’t win NPP primaries – Techiman South MP

    Techiman South Member of Parliament (MP), Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, has expressed strong confidence in Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s prospects for victory in the New Patriotic Party’s presidential primaries scheduled for Saturday, November 4.

    He firmly believes that Dr. Bawumia will secure a decisive triumph, asserting that none of his competitors have a realistic chance.

    The Deputy Minister for Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development even went to the extent of playfully wagering that he would change his name from Martin to Martha if Dr. Bawumia fails to emerge as the winner.

    He stated in an interview on Onua TV on Tuesday, October 31, that “Bawumia’s win is a given, right away when Bawumia set his mind to contest the election, he had been a big winner but of course, democracy as it is, who would have left it for him on a silver platter? No… Right from day one when he decided to contest he has been the best bet for our fortunes going forward, he would win big.”

    When asked if he would be surprised if Dr Bawumia doesn’t emerge victorious, he said “I will change my name from Martin to Martha.
    If Bawumia doesn’t win, call me Martha.”

    Adjei-Mensah Korsah emphasized that the Vice President represents the strongest contender to lead the ruling New Patriotic Party in the 2024 general elections and highlighted Dr. Bawumia’s widespread popularity within the party.

    The NPP is gearing up to hold its primaries on Saturday, November 4, 2023.

    With the competition for the party’s presidential nomination reaching its final stages, the outcome of the upcoming primaries will play a critical role in shaping the NPP’s prospects of clinching a third consecutive term in office.

  • Alan only resigned from NPP because he was 3rd in Super delegates conference – Bawumia’s camp

    Alan only resigned from NPP because he was 3rd in Super delegates conference – Bawumia’s camp

    A member of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign team, Frederick Opare-Ansah, has suggested that Alan Kyerematen’s resignation from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was primarily driven by his disappointment with his third-place finish in the party’s super delegates conference.

    In an interview with Citi TV on Tuesday, October 31, the former Suhum MP emphasized that Alan’s claims regarding unfairness in the organization of the race leading to his resignation were overstated.

    Opare-Ansah also highlighted reports indicating that agents representing Alan Kyerematen were allegedly involved in causing disruptions at one of the conference centers.

    According to him, “From what I heard, he was unhappy about the position he received, but that, in my opinion, shouldn’t have been the way he chose to exit the NPP.”

    He added, “I have also listened to what happened, and in fact, the attack was initiated by his agent going out of his way to take on a function that is not his own.”

    During the New Patriotic Party’s super delegates conference, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia emerged victorious with 629 votes, securing 68.15% of the votes. Kennedy Agyapong came in second with 132 votes, while Alan Kyerematen finished third with 95 votes, accounting for 10.29% of the total.

    Alan announced his resignation from the NPP on September 25, citing concerns of skewed and unfair processes. However, Opare-Ansah asserted that Alan’s concerns lacked substantial merit and suggested that he could have waited for a proper investigation before taking further action.

    In the meantime, the party is gearing up for the upcoming polls on Saturday, November 4, 2023, to elect a flagbearer for the 2024 Election.

  • Fitch projects Ghana’s debt to GDP to fall to 87% by end of the year

    Fitch projects Ghana’s debt to GDP to fall to 87% by end of the year

    Fitch, the rating agency, forecasts that Ghana’s public debt will decrease to 87% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by the close of 2023, down from 89% in 2022.

    Fitch had previously projected that Ghana’s gross public debt for 2023 would amount to 99% of GDP.

    This reduction will primarily be influenced by the 50% debt reduction agreed upon for the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) nonmarketable debt holdings, equivalent to 4.2% of the estimated 2023 Gross Domestic Product.

    Fitch anticipates that this decline will be somewhat offset by a 33% year-on-year depreciation of the cedi, as compared to the end of 2022, and the primary deficit.

    “Assuming a 30% haircut on external debt considered for the restructuring, year-on-year cedi depreciation of 20% in 2024 and 9% in 2025 and a GDP deflator of 21% and 10% respectively, public debt would fall to 78% by 2025, although there is a high degree of uncertainty surrounding the definitive external debt restructuring parameters”, it added.

    Under the IMF program, Ghana has pledged to carry out a primary fiscal adjustment, based on commitments, amounting to 5.1 percentage points of GDP by 2026 when compared to the levels in 2022.

    Fitch estimates that the primary fiscal adjustment will reach 3.1 percentage points in 2023, leading to a decrease in the primary deficit from 3.7% in 2022 to 0.6% of GDP. This reduction is expected to be driven by cutbacks in capital expenditure, the wage bill, and other current expenditure, including transfers to the energy and financial sectors.

  • NPP Primaries: Vote for me, I am not part of Akufo-Addo’s government – Francis Addai-Nimoh

    NPP Primaries: Vote for me, I am not part of Akufo-Addo’s government – Francis Addai-Nimoh

    Presidential aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer position, Francis Addai-Nimoh, has called upon delegates participating in the upcoming presidential primary not to cast their votes in favor of a candidate currently occupying a government position.

    He is of the opinion that selecting a candidate from the current government would pose a risk to the party’s prospects in the upcoming election.

    Mr Addai-Nimoh, positioning himself as an experienced contender, highlighted the significance of departing from this established practice.

    He emphasized that, as a candidate not presently associated with the ruling government, he brings a fresh and different perspective to the table.

    “The trend is if after eight years you go for someone who was in government to be your flagbearer, then that Party is signing its opposition warrant.”

    “So, if you vote for Addai-Nimoh, you know that among the four candidates, the only person who is not part of the ruling government led by Nana Akufo Addo is Addai-Nimoh.

    “So, this trend is there. The only thing to do is to depart from the trend,” he said.

    Approximately 200,000 NPP delegates are poised to participate in the primary scheduled for November 4, 2023.

    The list of contenders includes Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Francis Addai-Nimoh, and Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto.

  • Parents have refused to allow their children come to school – GES on tribal conflict in Nkwanta

    Parents have refused to allow their children come to school – GES on tribal conflict in Nkwanta

    The Municipal Director of Education for Nkwanta South, Jonathan Korsinah, says parents in Nkwanta are preventing their wards from attending classes due to the recent tribal conflict happening in the area.

    “Schools in town were not officially closed, but for the safety of teachers and children, parents refused to allow their children to come to school,” he said to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview.

    According to him, they are currently awaiting official correspondence from the Ghana Education Service (GES) Head Office, which will be transmitted through the Regional Office to officially declare the school closures.

    He noted that when parents are reluctant to send their children to school, it implies a certain level of parental awareness, causing fear and anxiety that ultimately leads to school closures.

    In particular, communities like Gekron, Shaire, and other strong Akyode communities have witnessed students and teachers unable to attend school due to fears of potential attacks.

    As of Friday, October 27, parents continued to relocate from Nkwanta with their children. Jonathan Korsinah added that he was working in coordination with the security agencies to determine the next steps.

    It’s important to note that schools in the Ntrubo areas of the Municipality remained unaffected.

    The region recently experienced renewed conflict between the Adele, Challa, and Akyode tribes, resulting in thousands of residents fleeing their homes to neighboring districts and municipalities in the Oti Region.

    The clashes originated from differences related to the performance of ritual rites for the 2023 annual Yam Festival of the Akyode group, leading to the destruction of numerous homes and shops, and causing Nkwanta to become a deserted town.

  • Members of Board of Trustees threatening to resign over source of funding for National Cathedral project – Secretariat

    Members of Board of Trustees threatening to resign over source of funding for National Cathedral project – Secretariat

    Executive Director for the National Cathedral Secretariat, Dr. Paul Opoku Mensah, has indicated that there are divided opinions among members of the Board of Trustees with regards to the source of funding for the National Cathedral Project.

    Dr. Paul Opoku Mensah, while engaging the press today, November 1, noted that four suggestions have been put out on the source of funding. They are; allowing the state to fund the project, no funds from the state, acquiring a loan, and only fundraising.

    According to Dr. Paul Opoku Mensah, members of the Board of Trustees are bent on resigning should their proposal be sidelined.

    “To give you one scenario, fund-raising, there are four opinions on this. Namely, let the state fund it, no state funding, loan and no loan, only fundraising.

    “All of these are entrenched positions, with their proponents threatening to resign if their positions are not adopted. So one group says the church has done enough for the country. The state should build this project with state funds, and there are board members who agree that the church has contributed enough before independence and after independence.

    “There are others who are saying absolutely not. The state should not have in it at all. If the state provides more money, they are going to resign. I’m talking about the same thing with different opinions. There is one who says there is no way you can raise money to build this. We will go for a loan and later repay it. Some will say, when God called them to Ministries, he told them never to rake loans and so if this project takes loans, they are going to resign,” he revealed.

    Dr. Paul Opoku Mensah did not disclose which member of the board subscribes to the four proposals he listed.

    The members of the Board include Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah, former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost – Chairperson, Most Rev. Charles Palmer Buckle, Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra – Vice-Chairperson, Most Rev. Bishop Justice Ofei Akrofi, Anglican Archbishop Emeritus – Member, Rt. Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey, former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church – Member, Most Rev T. K. Awotwi Pratt, Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church – Member, Rev Dr Joyce Aryee, Executive Director, Salt and Light Ministries – Member, Rev Victor Kusi-Boateng, Founder of Power Chapel Worldwide – Member/Secretary, Rev Dr Frimpong Manso, General Superintendent, Assemblies of God – Member and Kingsley Ofosu Ntiamoah, Executive Director, Ghana Museums and Monuments Board.

    Currently, the state is providing financial assistance for the construction of the state-owned project. Also, the Christian community is partnering with the state to build the project.

    In November 2022, the Finance Ministry revealed that an amount of GH¢339,003,064.86 has been released for the construction of the National Cathedral so far.

    The Ministry also added that a total amount of GH¢113,040,654.86 has been paid to the consulting firm for the construction of the cathedral, Messers Sir David Adjaye and Associates.

    This was contained in a document from the Ministry to the parliamentary Adhoc Committee based on a request for the total amount spent by the government on the National Cathedral.

    As of June 2022, major donors to the project include the Church of Pentecost, which has donated a total of GH¢700,000 through the Church of Pentecost Headquarters (GH¢200,000), and the Church of Pentecost (General Headquarters) which has contributed GH¢500,000, making it the single largest donor.

    Other major donors are the Southern Ghana Union of SDA, the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, and Action Chapel International, which have contributed GH¢200,000 each.

    The Methodist Church Ghana, Triumphant Baptist Church-Kwadaso, Christ Apostolic Church International, the Breaking Yoke Ministry Church, and the Christian Action Faith Ministry have also donated GH¢100,000 each.

  • Police grab two Ghanaians for swindling foreigner of $1,250,000

    Police grab two Ghanaians for swindling foreigner of $1,250,000

    Two individuals have made an appearance before an Accra Circuit Court, facing charges of defrauding an American of $1,205,000 by falsely claiming to provide the victim with seven 20-foot containers filled with money.

    The accused, Dzam Abotsi, a car dealer, and Nana Kwame Yanka, a businessman, have been charged with conspiracy to commit fraud and defrauding under false pretenses.

    Abotsi reportedly charged the complainant, Gary Bernsten, $100,500, along with an additional $200,000 for container rent and security services. The exact amount taken by other individuals involved in the scheme remains unclear.

    Both Abotsi and Yanka have pleaded not guilty to the charges. The court, presided over by Mr. Samuel Bright Acquah, granted bail to the accused persons in the amount of GHC1 million cedis, with three sureties, one of which must be justified. An accomplice, identified as Alhaji Tanko, who is also facing similar charges, is currently at large.

    The case has been adjourned to November 23, 2023.

    According to the prosecution led by Superintendent of Police Augustus Yirenkyi, the complainant, Gary Bernsten, is an American Asset Recovery Officer. Bernsten was led to a warehouse in Sowutuom, where he inspected seven containers supposedly filled with United States dollars.

    The prosecution informed the court that a forensic examination of the dollars in the containers confirmed their authenticity.

    Abotsi purportedly charged Bernsten $100,500, in addition to $200,000 for container rent and security services, with the funds being transferred through cryptocurrency and wire transfers.

    Bernsten engaged the services of Skynet Logistics to transport the seven containers filled with money to Tema, Community 12, based on Abotsi’s recommendation.

    However, a few days later, when Bernsten returned to move the containers to Tema Harbour, he discovered the warehouse was empty.

    A report was filed with the police, leading to the arrest of Abotsi and Yanka. The prosecution stated that efforts were underway to apprehend Alhaji Tanko and other individuals who remain at large.

  • It is not unlawful for govt to spend on National Cathedral project – Secretariat

    It is not unlawful for govt to spend on National Cathedral project – Secretariat

    The National Cathedral Secretariat has refuted claims suggesting that it is illegitimate for the government to spend taxpayers’ money on the national cathedral project.

    Engaging the press today to update the public on the status of the project, Executive Director for the National Cathedral Secretariat, Dr. Paul Opoku Mensah, noted that the project is state-owned, hence any funds from the government to support its development are lawful.

    According to him, Parliament had been briefed by the Minister of Finance on government’s financial commitment to the project as far back as 2018.

    “One of the current complaints is that the state was not to put in any money for the national cathedral project. This is not true, as the national cathedral project was conceived as a partnership between the state and the Ghanaian Christian community. The expected role of the state was communicated to Parliament in November 2018,” he said.

    Dr. Paul Opoku Mensah added, “As part of the budget statement read in Parliament on November 15, 2018, the Minister for Finance indicated that the state role in the national cathedral project will be ‘providing the land, Secretariat and seed money for the preparatory phase. Subsequent budgets have used to update Parliament on the development of the project.”

    He stressed “the Attorney-General’s opinion of January 6 to confirm the National Cathedral as a state-owned rather than a personal project, and so legitimate to receive state funds.”

    All these documents have been submitted to Parliament, he iterated, while announcing the Secretariat’s willingness to present them to the political parties outside Parliament, “who once again are critical mediating actors for us.”

    In November 2022, the Finance Ministry revealed that an amount of ¢339,003,064.86 has been released for the construction of the National Cathedral so far.

    The Ministry also added that a total amount of ¢113,040,654.86 has been paid to the consulting firm for the construction of the Cathedral, Messers Sir David Adjaye and Associates.

    This was contained in a document from the Ministry to the parliamentary Adhoc Committee based on a request for the total amount spent by the Government on the National Cathedral.

  • 600,000 SIMs blocked by NCA re-registered by MTN

    600,000 SIMs blocked by NCA re-registered by MTN

    MTN Ghana has successfully re-registered 600,000 SIM cards that were initially blocked by the National Communications Authority (NCA) as part of the SIM card re-registration initiative.

    These re-registered SIM cards account for approximately 11% of the total number of SIMs subject to this process, according to reports from JoyNews.

    As of the end of September 2023, the remaining disconnected SIMs amount to 4.9 million.

    In adherence to the NCA’s directive for SIM re-registration, Ghana’s leading telecom provider took the action of blocking 5.4 million SIMs that had not been registered with the Ghana card by May 31, 2023.

    By the end of September 2023, MTN Ghana had successfully re-registered approximately one-eleventh of these SIM cards, resulting in a 9.3% reduction in its subscriber base, which now stands at 25.8 million.

    The telecom company emphasized its commitment to ensuring that all customers requiring re-registration receive support to complete the process seamlessly as part of the national SIM re-registration effort.

  • We have not signed any contract to fumigate areas affected by dam spillage – VRA, Zoomlion

    We have not signed any contract to fumigate areas affected by dam spillage – VRA, Zoomlion

    Both the Volta River Authority (VRA) and Zoomlion Ghana Limited have denied entering into any contract for the fumigation of the Lower Volta regions affected by the recent spillage from the Akosombo Dam.

    Initially, the VRA had informed JoyNews that they had signed a contract with the sanitation company for the fumigation operation. Ing. Kwame Osei Mensah Darkwa, the VRA’s Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, had emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety and livability of homes, public spaces, and the entire community in the aftermath of the floods.

    However, in separate press releases dated Monday, October 30, 2023, both Zoomlion and VRA refuted any contractual arrangements for fumigation in the flooded areas.

    Zoomlion’s Communication Directorate, while denying any contract with VRA, clarified that on October 23, 2023, Zoomlion had voluntarily donated relief items valued at over GHȼ500,000 to assist the spillage victims. Furthermore, Zoomlion expressed its intention to conduct fumigation operations as soon as the receding waters allowed for such measures.

    The company reaffirmed its commitment to upholding corporate social responsibility standards and continuing to support the communities in the Volta Region and other regions across Ghana.

    In contrast, the VRA stated that they had not awarded any such fumigation contract.

    “We wish to state that VRA has not awarded any contract to Zoomlion for the fumigation of communities impacted by the controlled spillage.

    “VRA acknowledges the assistance being offered by institutions, companies, groups, and individuals, and will continue to work with all stakeholders in our relief efforts for the communities impacted by the controlled spillage from the Akosombo dam,” it said.

  • Vodafone Ghana sold on credit for less than $100m? – Haruna Iddrisu quizzes govt

    Vodafone Ghana sold on credit for less than $100m? – Haruna Iddrisu quizzes govt

    The Member of Parliament for Tamale South, Haruna Iddrisu, is calling for transparency regarding the reported sale of the Ghanaian government’s 30 percent stake in Vodafone Ghana.

    He has raised concerns that this billion-dollar asset, owned by Ghana, has been sold on credit for a mere US$100 million.

    Haruna Iddrisu expressed further dismay over the telecom sector’s decline, which was once a significant source of revenue for the government. He is demanding an explanation from the Minister of Communications, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, and insists that she must appear before the House to clarify the matter.

    “Mr. Speaker on my own accord, I want the Hon. Minister of Communications to come and respond to this House, whether it is true that Ghana’s 30 percent stake in Vodafone Ghana has been sold to the majority holder, on credit for less than US$100 million and what the state of that transaction is, as an economic transaction within the meaning of Article 185 of the 1992 Constitution and probably also to update this House on the withering away of Ghana’s telecom landscape and this trend,” he said while speaking on the floor of Parliament.

    He pointed out that the sector, which had once been a significant source of state revenue, has been mismanaged by the government.

    In 2016, Ghana’s telecoms regulator, the National Communications Authority (NCA), granted approval for Vodafone International Holdings (VOD.L) to sell its 70% stake in Vodafone Ghana to Telecel Group. This decision came after Telecel submitted an improved financial and technical proposal in December. The NCA had initially rejected Vodafone Ghana’s earlier sale plan as it failed to meet the necessary regulatory standards.

    The NCA stated that the revised proposal offered more clarity on the financial requirements for the transaction and complied with regulatory criteria.

  • We will give you a showdown if 2024 budget worsens lives of Ghanaians – Minority warns govt

    We will give you a showdown if 2024 budget worsens lives of Ghanaians – Minority warns govt

    The Minority in Parliament has issued a strong caution ahead of the forthcoming presentation of the 2024 Annual Budget Statement and Economic Policy, set for November 15, 2023.

    The NDC MPs have declared that they will resist the budget if it does not adequately tackle the immediate issues confronting everyday Ghanaians during the ongoing economic difficulties.

    Addressing the Parliament following the recess, the MP for Ajumaka-Enyan-Essiam and Minority leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson underscored their commitment to easing the hardships experienced by the Ghanaian public rather than exacerbating them.

    “The prevailing economic conditions have already made it very difficult for the ordinary Ghanaian and businesses, and therefore, we can’t be a party to any policy or measure which makes things even more unbearable for the already suffering Ghanaian and businesses.”

    “Mr. Speaker, let me be blunt; the upcoming budget statement will encounter resistance if it does not prioritize the needs of people and businesses. That is our bottom line.

    “So, if the government knows that its upcoming budget does not prioritize the needs of the people, then they should get ready for a SHOWDOWN!” he said.

    Nonetheless, the former Deputy Finance Minister clarified that the Minority’s stance is not aimed at obstructing the government’s policy implementation.

    “Mr. Speaker, the position taken by the Minority Caucus is not intended to frustrate the government; far from that.

    We have taken the position to be on the side of the people of Ghana as we have always done in the life of this Parliament, and Parliaments before this one.”

    The Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, is scheduled to deliver the government’s 2024 Annual Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament on November 15, 2023.

    This announcement was made by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, during the parliamentary session on Tuesday. He underscored the significance of thoroughly reviewing the budget to ensure it meets the requirements of all Ghanaians.

    “I believe this house will adopt a consultative and consensus-building approach throughout this process. We have demonstrated enough capacity and experience in budget approval deliberations, and this will be no different,” he said.

  • Live-biblical-sized statues for National Cathedral currently at the Tema port – Secretariat

    Live-biblical-sized statues for National Cathedral currently at the Tema port – Secretariat

    The Executive Director for the National Cathedral Secretariat, Dr. Paul Opoku Mensah, has announced the arrival of some live-biblical-sized statues meant for the National Cathedral project.

    According to Dr. Paul Opoku Mensah, these artifacts are currently at the Tema Port, and the Secretariat is working to redeem them.

    He made this known on November 1, when the Secretariat and Board of Trustees held a press conference to provide the public with fresh details on the current status of the National Cathedral Project.

    “Our first set of statues, religious statues for the museum and gardens has just been shipped to us from the Abba Anointing Company in Houston, Texas. When we take them from the harbour, we will also bring the media to see,” he said.

    Dr. Paul Opoku Mensah made it known that the Secretariat is on a daily basis engaging stakeholders who can provide artifacts to turn the National Cathedral project into a world-class site.

    “We are already engaging those who can give us artifacts because if you want to turn this into a world-class site, you need historical artifacts and those you can’t buy these things. So you negotiate it. Some will give it to you as gift or permanent exhibition,” he added.

  • No new property was given, 4-bedroom house, cars already belong to Asamoah Gyan’s ex – Baffour Gyan

    No new property was given, 4-bedroom house, cars already belong to Asamoah Gyan’s ex – Baffour Gyan

    Baffour Gyan, the brother of former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan, has reportedly commented on the discourse surrounding the annulment of the ex-footballer’s marriage to his former wife.

    This development follows the Accra High Court’s ruling on the legal dispute between Asamoah Gyan and his ex-partner, Gifty Gyan. Baffour Gyan has characterized the annulment as a victory, as it aligned with Asamoah Gyan’s petition for the court to invalidate the marriage.

    Baffour has also emphasized that the court’s decision confirmed through a DNA test that Asamoah Gyan is the biological father of all three of Gifty Gyan’s children.

    He added that the court, presided over by Hafisata Ameleboba JA, determined that Gifty is entitled to a portion of Asamoah Gyan’s assets, which include a house in the United Kingdom, a four-bedroom house in Spintex, Accra, a gas station, and two vehicles.

    However, Baffour clarified that these properties were already registered in her name prior to their marriage in 2013.

    In an audio recording purported to feature Baffour Gyan, the former Ghanaian professional footballer asserted that all the assets transferred to Gifty Gyan had already been in her name.

    ”It’s our victory … the court ordered Asamoah Gyan to give the property already in Gifty’s name. No new property were added,” says Baffour Gyan.

  • Contractor for phase 2 of Kejetia market has abandoned the site – Ashanti Regional Minister

    Contractor for phase 2 of Kejetia market has abandoned the site – Ashanti Regional Minister

    Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah, has confirmed that the the contractor responsible for the phase 2 of the Kejetia Market has abandoned the site.

    In an interview on Hello FM, Simon Osei Mensah explained that the contractor is no longer at the site due to financial constraints.

    He made this known while revealing why he holds the assertion that President Akufo-Addo has not failed the citizenry.

    According to Simon Osei Mensah, he is unhappy the project is at a standstill, but not much can currently be done due to the “hardship” in the country.

    “So I will not stand anywhere and say President Akufo-Addo has failed. Because if he has failed, so have I. I am a Regional Minister. I am supposed to chase projects for the region, so now that there is hardship and the contractor for Kejetia Market Phase 2 has left the site, which I am not happy about, but due to circumstances, then I say I am the cause of the problem. Am I the one who brought the hardship?” he added.

    Traders in Kumasi are growing increasingly agitated over the seemingly abandoned phase two of the Kejetia Central Market redevelopment project.

    They have thus warned of an imminent demonstration to compel authorities to resume work on the project.

    Emilia Kwofie, secretary of the combined Kumasi Central Market Traders Union, in an interview with Citi News, stated that they are demanding authorities to prioritize this project, adding that they will embark on the demonstration once they finish going through the process with the police.

    “We have been to the mayor’s office a couple of times to inquire, because you just can’t demonstrate when you don’t have any concrete information. We were assured that if the IMF money comes, work will commence. Unfortunately, we have realized that even though the IMF money is in, no work is done. There are quite a number of us who were evacuated from the place.

    So our people keep pushing that if we want to go diplomatically and the government is not listening to us, then we will have to take it to the streets. So that somebody sees us and nobody hears us. As we talk to you now, we are still talking with the police to give us a date when we can demonstrate. All we want is for work to resume so that we can start our businesses; we can’t stay in the house forever.”

    They are also asking the government to provide clear timelines for the project.

    Since December last year, several critical projects in Kumasi, including phase two of the Kejetia Central Market redevelopment, the Mother and Baby Unit at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), phases two and three of the Kumasi International Airport expansion, and some Sinohydro projects, have all been put on hold due to lack of funding.

  • PLAYBACK: National Cathedral Secretariat updates public on status of project

    PLAYBACK: National Cathedral Secretariat updates public on status of project

    The National Cathedral Secretariat held a press conference to provide the public with fresh details on the current status of the National Cathedral Project.

    The Executive Director, Dr. Paul Opoku Mensah, moderated the presser.

    Presently, the project has come to a standstill due to lack of funds. The Secretariat had planned to import iron rods for the next phase of the project, but that has not been possible due to financial constraints.

    Recently, the Founder and General Overseer of United Denominations of Action Chapel Churches Worldwide, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, and President of Eastwood Anaba Ministries, Rev. Eastwood Anaba, resigned from the Board of Trustees overseeing the construction of the National Cathedral in Ghana.

    In a statement signed by both Archbishop Duncan-Williams and Reverend Anaba, they explained that the decision to resign was due to the failure of the government to appoint an independent accounting firm to audit all public funds contributed to the National Cathedral.

    But this claim has been refuted by the Secretariat.

  • Akufo-Addo has not failed and disappointed Ghanaians – Ashanti Regional Minister

    Akufo-Addo has not failed and disappointed Ghanaians – Ashanti Regional Minister

    Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah, is of the assertion that President Akufo-Addo has not let Ghanaians down in his seven years of government.

    OccupyGhana and other CSOs and individuals have expressed their concern during these challenging times when Ghana’s economy is facing significant challenges, leading to considerable hardships for the population.

    They have voiced their disappointment, stating that President Akufo Addo has not demonstrated effective leadership in managing the country’s affairs.

    But when asked during an interview on Hello FM whether he believes that President Akufo-Addo has failed Ghanaians, Simon Osei Mensah said, “No.”

    He argued that the government is not to blame for certain happenings such as COVID-19, but has done its best to check the problem.

    “If you are there, and all of a sudden you fall ill. Everyone knows that this is your size and structure and you fall ill and as a result of the sickness, the person has lost weight. Do you say it is the person’s fault that he or she is sick.”

    “Not everything is faith and it is not everything you can avoid. I don’t think China even knew how they contracted the virus. As we speak, there are several theories.”

    According to Simon Osei Mensah, admitting that the president failed would be tantamount to his own failure.

    “So I will not stand anywhere and say President Akufo-Addo has failed. Because if he has failed, so have I. I am a Regional Minister. I am supposed to chase projects for the region so now that there is hardship and contractor for Kejetia market phase 2 has left the site, which I am not happy about, but due to circumstances, then I say I am the cause of the problem. Am I the one who brought the hardship?” he added.

    Former President John Dramani Mahama, on this matter, has said he is not happy that President Akufo-Addo’s government has failed to deliver.

    He said this government “has been clueless and, in many ways, callous.”

    “We are saddled with debt, and we have been downgraded by every rating agency, and inflation has gone off the roof, sending people into abject poverty,” he added whilst launching his campaign bid to contest for the flagbearer position of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Ho in the Volta Region on March 2, 2023.

  • Parliament to be briefed on limited registration exercise by EC next week

    Parliament to be briefed on limited registration exercise by EC next week

    The Electoral Commission’s (EC) Chairperson, Jean Mensa, is set to make an appearance in Parliament on November 8 to deliver an update regarding the recently completed limited voter registration exercise.

    The Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, made this announcement and also revealed that the EC chief would address the House next week concerning electoral issues.

    Furthermore, he emphasized the significance of hearing from the EC before passing judgments on these matters.

    “Mr Speaker, [Alban Bagbin] pursuant to order 44, the leadership of the business committee proposed that the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, be invited to attend upon the house [on] November 8, 2023, at a close sitting to brief members of the house on matters arising from the recently held limited voter registration exercise undertaken by the commission and other related matters.

    “Of course, it wasn’t necessary to castigate the EC when you have not heard from them, it was unnecessary,” the Majority Leader said.

    The voter registration process, which commenced on September 12 and concluded on October 2, resulted in the registration of over 600,000 new voters.

    The Minority in Parliament voiced their disapproval of the Electoral Commission’s choice to restrict registration to district offices. They argued that this decision imposed an additional financial burden on Members of Parliament.

    The EC’s decision to confine registration centers to district offices faced backlash from the public, including the opposition NDC and civil society organizations, who advocated for more accessible registration locations.

    Despite the calls for a change in approach, the Electoral Commission adhered to its original plan and successfully concluded the registration at district offices by October 2, 2023, without granting an extension.

  • 7 Ghanaian Bawku residents arrested in Burkina Faso – Mahama Ayariga

    7 Ghanaian Bawku residents arrested in Burkina Faso – Mahama Ayariga

    Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has asserted that some seven (7) residents of the communities of Bador and Tampizua in Bawku Municipality have been arrested by the military authorities in Burkina Faso.

    In a letter to the Foreign Affairs Ministry dated October 30, he noted that efforts to locate them have proven futile.

    He has therefore entreated the ministry to help locate such individuals and secure their return into the country.

    The identities of the said arrested Bawku residents are as follows: Abdulai Bagare, Mumuni Seidu, Issaka Nyikabo, Abdu_Kadir Salifu, Jebrilu Braimah, Bande Mamudu, and Bande Shaibu.

    These individuals, he said, crossed over into Burkina Faso on Friday, October 13, 2023, to Bittou District in Burkina Faso with the assistance of the Assembly Member for Kanyere a suburb of Mogande also in Bittu District in Burkina Faso, Adamah Bidigah.

    Background of how the individuals were arrested per Mr Mahama Ayariga’s letter

    Fulani herdsmen grazed cattle belonging to the missing persons in a village called Kanyere in the Bittu District on the Burkina Faso side of the border between Bawku in Ghana and Burkina Faso. Military men came to the area and fired warning shots and the Fulani men run away and left the cattle. Two Fulani men are reported to have died in the incident. The Burkina Faso military drove the cattle to Bittu District capital (Bittu).

    Subsequently, announcements were made that the owners of the cattle should come and identify them so they will hand the cattle back to them. The Assembly Man for Kanyere, Adamah Bidigah, conveyed the message of the announcement across to the Ghana side.
    The missing persons took a letter of introduction from the Municipal Chief Executive of Bawku Municipality and took along to Bittu to claim the animals.

    The Assembly Member for Kanyere directed them to the location of the animals. The location was identified as Nohow, a village also in the Bittu District.

    The missing persons set off to the said location with the aim of identifying their cattle for retrieval. They were last seen standing with Burkina Faso military personnel on the road to Noaho village. Other claimants of cattle headed to Noaho have said they saw them standing with the Burkina Faso military personnel under circumstances that appeared as if they were being interrogated by the military personnel but everyone was afraid to interfere so they all passed them by.

    According to Mr Ayariga, he has asked senior Ghanaian military personnel to look into the matter but all efforts have yielded no results.

    “I have tried using former Burkina Faso Members of Parliament in the ECOWAS Parliament where I served with them and there has not been any positive results.

    “I therefore request the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to activate the diplomatic channels with the military authorities in Burkina Faso to locate and return the missing persons,” the letter added.


    letter-to-Foreign-Affairs-MinistryDownload
  • Mahama Ayariga calls on Foreign Ministry to rescue 7 Bawku residents arrested by Burkina Faso military

    Mahama Ayariga calls on Foreign Ministry to rescue 7 Bawku residents arrested by Burkina Faso military

    Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration to help rescue some seven (7) residents of the communities of Bador and Tampizua in Bawku Municipality who have been arrested by the military authorities in Burkina Faso.

    In a letter to the Foreign Affairs Ministry dated October 30, he noted that efforts to locate them have proven futile.

    The identities of the said arrested Bawku residents are as follows: Abdulai Bagare, Mumuni Seidu, Issaka Nyikabo, Abdu_Kadir Salifu, Jebrilu Braimah, Bande Mamudu, and Bande Shaibu.

    These individuals, he said, crossed over into Burkina Faso on Friday, October 13, 2023, to Bittou District in Burkina Faso with the assistance of the Assembly Member for Kanyere a suburb of Mogande also in Bittu District in Burkina Faso, Adamah Bidigah.

    Background of how the individuals were arrested per Mr Mahama Ayariga’s letter

    Fulani herdsmen grazed cattle belonging to the missing persons in a village called Kanyere in the Bittu District on the Burkina Faso side of the border between Bawku in Ghana and Burkina Faso. Military men came to the area and fired warning shots and the Fulani men run away and left the cattle. Two Fulani men are reported to have died in the incident. The Burkina Faso military drove the cattle to Bittu District capital (Bittu).

    Subsequently, announcements were made that the owners of the cattle should come and identify them so they will hand the cattle back to them. The Assembly Man for Kanyere, Adamah Bidigah, conveyed the message of the announcement across to the Ghana side.
    The missing persons took a letter of introduction from the Municipal Chief Executive of Bawku Municipality and took along to Bittu to claim the animals.

    The Assembly Member for Kanyere directed them to the location of the animals. The location was identified as Nohow, a village also in the Bittu District.

    The missing persons set off to the said location with the aim of identifying their cattle for retrieval. They were last seen standing with Burkina Faso military personnel on the road to Noaho village. Other claimants of cattle headed to Noaho have said they saw them standing with the Burkina Faso military personnel under circumstances that appeared as if they were being interrogated by the military personnel but everyone was afraid to interfere so they all passed them by.

    According to Mr Ayariga, he has asked senior Ghanaian military personnel to look into the matter but all efforts have yielded no results.

    “I have tried using former Burkina Faso Members of Parliament in the ECOWAS Parliament where I served with them and there has not been any positive results.

    “I therefore request the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to activate the diplomatic channels with the military authorities in Burkina Faso to locate and return the missing persons,” the letter added.

    letter-to-Foreign-Affairs-Ministry-1Download
  • Navy officer who plotted foiled 2022 Gambia coup jailed 12 years

    Navy officer who plotted foiled 2022 Gambia coup jailed 12 years

    A junior navy officer accused by The Gambia’s government of orchestrating a thwarted coup plot in December of the previous year has been found guilty of treason.

    The high court’s ruling on Tuesday sentenced Lance Corporal Sanna Fadera to 12 years in prison, deeming him responsible for planning and attempting to unlawfully overthrow the democratically elected government led by President Adama Barrow.

    The charges against Fadera and seven other soldiers included treason, conspiracy, and incitement to mutiny for their alleged involvement in the 2022 coup attempt.

    However, the court acquitted three other military officers on Tuesday. One soldier implicated in the foiled coup attempt remains at large and is considered a fugitive.

    Additionally, the court cleared a police officer and two civilians who had been charged with concealing treason and conspiring to commit a felony.

    The Gambia experienced a significant political transition when President Barrow assumed office, ending two decades of rule by Yahya Jammeh, who had taken power in a coup in 1994 and successfully thwarted several coup attempts before losing the 2016 election.

  • Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods to launch new league in 2024

    Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods to launch new league in 2024

    Golf legends Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods are poised to introduce their groundbreaking league in January 2024.

    They’ve named this new competition the TGL, which is designed to infuse modern technology into the traditional golf calendar and will be held indoors.

    Currently, the inaugural season has attracted participation from 15 of the world’s top 20 players, and it will be hosted in a purpose-built arena located in Florida.

    The TGL concept has garnered substantial support from both players and investors, with tennis stars Serena and Venus Williams, basketball icon Stephen Curry, and the Fenway Sports Group, owners of Liverpool FC, among the current shareholders.

    TGL events will be managed by TMRW Sports, the tech-focused sports company co-launched by McIlroy and Woods in August 2022. The league will feature six teams, each consisting of four players, competing in a league format. Five teams have already been announced ahead of the launch.

    In each league session, two points will be at stake, with two sessions played during every match. The first session will involve nine holes of ‘triples,’ where all three players take part in an alternate-shot format over nine holes.

    Following this, the second session will comprise six holes of ‘singles,’ featuring a head-to-head competition where each golfer plays two holes.

    Teams will earn points for winning each hole, and the match’s winner will be determined by the side with the most points at the end of the two sessions. In the event of a tie, a nearest-the-pin shootout will decide the victor.

    Once all teams have faced each other, the top four will qualify for a semi-final, with the winners advancing to a best-of-three final.

    Every hole will commence on a golf simulator, but for short-distance shots, players will transition from the simulator to hitting on adaptable greens where the putting surface’s slope for each hole can be adjusted.

  • US couple fined $26,000 for torturing 10-year-old foster child

    US couple fined $26,000 for torturing 10-year-old foster child

    A Ugandan court has ruled that a US couple, who were facing charges of torturing their foster child, must pay him $26,000 (£20,700) in compensation.

    This decision was the outcome of a plea deal, which also resulted in the court dropping the more severe charges of aggravated trafficking and torture against the couple. These initial charges could have potentially led to life imprisonment or even the death penalty.

    The accused couple, Nicholas and Mackenzie Spencer, had been arrested the previous year and were charged with subjecting a 10-year-old boy to two years of torture.

    These allegations arose after the child’s nanny filed a police report, claiming that the couple had repeatedly exposed the child to inhumane treatment.

    On Tuesday, the Spencers pleaded guilty to charges of cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment, working without the necessary permits, and staying in Uganda unlawfully. As a result, they were fined 4.86 million Ugandan shillings.

    But Tuesday’s ruling has angered child rights activists who termed it “a mockery of justice”.

    Activist Proscovia Najjumba questioned how the court allowed the couple to “walk away” after accepting they “mistreated a child”, the AFP news agency reported.

    Court documents showed that the couple served the child cold food, made him sleep on a bare wooden platform without bedding and forced him to squat “in an awkward position”.

  • England’s clash with Belgium leaves Greenwood with a head injury

    England’s clash with Belgium leaves Greenwood with a head injury

    During England’s Nations League match against Belgium in Leuven, defender Alex Greenwood was stretchered off following a head collision with Belgian forward Jassina Blom approximately 20 minutes into the game.

    Both players were left on the ground after the match.

    Greenwood received on-field medical attention for approximately 10 minutes before being stretchered off, while Jess Carter was substituted in as her replacement. Blom, wearing a head bandage, was able to continue playing.

    A subsequent post on the Lionesses’ official X account read: “Alex Greenwood is conscious and talking, and is being monitored by our medical staff.”

    Despite trailing 1-0 after Laura De Neve’s free-kick, the Lionesses managed to stage a comeback. Goals from Lucy Bronze and Fran Kirby gave them a 2-1 lead as the first half entered stoppage time.

    However, Tessa Wullaert later equalized in the additional period, leveling the score once again.

  • National Cathedral will be the highest civic building in Accra – Secretariat

    National Cathedral will be the highest civic building in Accra – Secretariat

    The National Cathedral project, once completed, will be the tallest civic building in the country’s capital, according to the Executive Director for the National Cathedral Secretariat, Dr. Paul Opoku Mensah.

    During a press conference to update the public on the current status of the project on Wednesday, November 1, he revealed that the cathedral comprises seven levels, two basement levels, and five upper levels, “making it the highest civic building in Accra with a height of about 50 meters.”

    “If you compare it to the Parliament of… That is 45 metres. The cathedral will be 50 metres. As a stand-alone structure with the bell tower, when it’s included, it goes to about 60 metres so that it will define the skyline of Accra,” he added.

    The National Cathedral project has an internal area of 86,000 square metres and an external civic realm including gardens, driveways, and walkways,

    Works executed on site

    The National Cathedral site office establishment is complete. Five cranes were purchased and delivered to the site. Three out of the five have been installed. A concrete batching plant has been set up in the East Gardens. A bending yard has also been set up.

    “Offices, staff canteen, wash and toilet plugs, warehouses, and storage areas have all been set up.

    “Further establishment items like management, site staff security, technical equipment, machinery generators have all been provided.
    About an area of 70,000 sq.m have been cleared. About a 120 trees within the construction perimeter have been returned,” Dr. Paul Opoku Mensah added.

    According to Dr. Paul Opoku Mensah, construction work has stalled, but the project has not been suspended due to financial constraints.

  • Cyber Security Authority warns public over WhatsApp account takeover

    Cyber Security Authority warns public over WhatsApp account takeover

    The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has noticed an increase in incidents of individuals falling victim to social engineering and unwittingly sharing their WhatsApp verification codes with malicious actors, leading to unauthorised access and account takeover.

    According to the Authority, at least 64 such reports have been recorded starting in April this year. The CSA noted as part of their modus operandi, malicious actors after compromising an existing WhatsApp group begin to target members of groups that the initial victim is part of.

    They craft persuasive messages designed to lure their targets to disclose their verification code. Some of these methods are:

    • Notifying the victim through text messages about an ongoing upgrade on their group platforms and requesting the victim to share the code that will be sent to them.
    • Calling the victim to inform them that a security code has been sent to prevent their account from being hacked and requesting the victim to share the code that will be sent to them.
    • Informing the victim that they have received a mobile money transfer, and that they are required to reveal the code sent by the perpetrator to access the funds.
    • Sharing URLs in WhatsApp groups and instructing group members to click on them to update their information by providing the code that will be sent to them.

    The CSA noted that once the code is shared, the victim’s account is compromised, opening the door to unauthorised access and account takeover. The malicious actors may then go on to impersonate the victims and defraud their contacts, resulting in reputational damage as well as monetary losses.

    To avert this, the CSA has made the following recommendations:

    • Never Share Verification Codes: Treat your verification code like a password; keep it confidential and share it with no one.
    • Enable Two-Step Verification: Two-step verification adds an extra layer of security to your WhatsApp account. To enable it, open WhatsApp > Settings > Account > Two-step verification > Enable. This will prompt you to create a six-digit PIN that will be required periodically and whenever you register your phone number with WhatsApp again.
    • Verify Unexpected Requests: If you receive a message requesting your verification code unexpectedly, verify the sender’s identity through a different communication mode/platform before taking any action.
    • Educate Friends and Family: Share this information with your friends and family, especially those who might be less familiar with online scams. Awareness is crucial in preventing such incidents.

    Meanwhile, it is important to note that the CSA has a 24-hour Cybersecurity/Cybercrime Incident Reporting Points of Contact (POC) for reporting cybercrimes and for seeking guidance and assistance on online activities

    Call or text: 292, WhatsApp: 0501603111 or email: report@csa.gov.gh

  • Shatta Wale cancels Nov 4. concert in Wolverhampton

    Shatta Wale cancels Nov 4. concert in Wolverhampton

    Dancehall artiste, Shatta Wale, has cancelled his upcoming concert originally slated to be held at The Hangar in Wolverhampton on November 4, 2023.

    Shatta Wale’s management released a statement explaining that the event’s cancellation was a result of the promoters’ inability to fulfill some of the artist’s extravagant requirements.

    According to the artiste’s management, refunds will be automatically issued to all ticket holders for the Shatta Wale concert.

    “Please allow up to some days for the refund process to be completed, and we appreciate your patience in this matter.”

    “We would like to extend our sincere apologies to all the fans who have been eagerly looking forward to this event. We understand the disappointment this cancellation may cause, and we share in that disappointment,” the statement added.

    Below is the full statement

    We regret to announce the cancellation of the highly anticipated Shatta Wale concert scheduled to take place at The Hangar in Wolverhampton on November 4th, 2023. This decision has been made due to unforeseen circumstances concerning the artist’s demands that the promoters have been unable to meet.

    Shatta Wale, the celebrated and accomplished musician with numerous chart-topping hits to his credit, has set the gold standard in the music industry. As a result, his rider and contractual requirements are equally grand, reflecting his status as a wealthy and successful artist and a business mogul.

    Over the past two weeks, we have been diligently working to bring Shatta Wale’s electrifying performance to the people of Wolverhampton.

    The Hangar, known for hosting world-class events, was chosen as the venue for this remarkable night of music and entertainment. We believed that this concert would not only celebrate the incredible talent of Shatta Wale but also offer an unforgettable experience for his dedicated fans.

    However, we regret to inform the public that despite best efforts, the promoters have not been able to meet the luxurious demands and requirements specified by Shatta Wale’s management.

    These demands, while fitting for an artist of his stature, have proven to be logistically and financially challenging for the organization, making it impossible for us to proceed with the event as planned.

    Our primary concern is always to provide an outstanding experience for concertgoers, and we believe it would be unfair to compromise the quality of the show by attempting to cut corners or reduce our preparation value.

    We would like to extend our sincere apologies to all the fans who have been eagerly looking forward to this event. We understand the disappointment this cancellation may cause, and we share in that disappointment.

    Refunds will be automatically issued to all ticket holders for the Shatta Wale concert. Please allow up to some days for the refund process to be completed, and we appreciate your patience in this matter.

    We remain committed to delivering top-tier entertainment events in the future, and we will continue to bring you memorable experiences that showcase incredible talent. We thank the public, financiers, and supporters for their understanding in this matter, and we look forward to providing you with outstanding live entertainment in the near future.

  • PLAYBACK: Barefooted Dumelo walks backwards to Presec campus

    PLAYBACK: Barefooted Dumelo walks backwards to Presec campus

    Ghanaian actor John Dumelo embarked on his barefoot walk from Ayawaso West Wuogon to the Presec campus following Presec’s victory in the 2023 National Science and Maths Quiz.

    John Dumelo, who is an alumnus of Achimota, had previously declared on October 22 that if Presec won the NSMQ against Achimota Senior High School, he would undertake a barefoot walk from Ayawaso West Wuogon to the Presec campus.

    Presec Legon secured their eighth NSMQ championship and achieved a consecutive victory in the recently concluded competition, where they competed against Opoku Ware School and Achimota School. The announcement of his walk had garnered significant attention and pressure from netizens.

  • Court confirms Asamoah Gyan is father of 3 children with ex-wife

    Court confirms Asamoah Gyan is father of 3 children with ex-wife

    An Accra court handling the case involving Asamoah Gyan and his ex-wife Gifty Gyan has ruled in favor of the ex-wife, confirming that the three children between the former couple belong to Asamoah Gyan. The court has also awarded substantial costs in favor of Gifty Gyan.

    This decision comes after a lengthy three-year legal battle during which Asamoah Gyan denied being the father of their three children and sought to annul their marriage. However, on October 31, 2023, the court ruled that the three children indeed belong to Asamoah Gyan.

    As part of the court’s ruling, Asamoah Gyan has been ordered to pay Gifty Gyan GHS25,000 per month for the upkeep of the three children, excluding school fees, medical and dental care, flight tickets, and other child care expenses.

    Furthermore, the court has awarded several properties to Gifty Gyan, including Asamoah Gyan’s mansion in the United Kingdom, a 4-bedroom house located at Spintex in Accra, and two luxury vehicles (a BMW and an Infiniti) owned by the football star. Additionally, a parcel of executive land acquired by Asamoah Gyan for a filling station has been awarded to Gifty Gyan.

    Regarding the marriage between the two, the court annulled the marriage based on a technicality presented by Asamoah Gyan’s lawyers. They argued that Gifty Gyan was already married to someone else before marrying Asamoah Gyan, rendering her marriage to Asamoah Gyan null and void.

    The court’s ruling acknowledged that, at the time of the supposed “first marriage” by Gifty Gyan, she was clearly a minor and couldn’t legally enter into a marriage. Nevertheless, the court annulled the marriage between Asamoah Gyan and Gifty Gyan while confirming that the children, whose paternity was disputed by Asamoah Gyan, are indeed his, as confirmed by court-sanctioned DNA tests. Asamoah Gyan’s claims of infidelity were dismissed by the court.

  • Charles Adu Boahen: How is influence peddling not corruption? – Martin Kpebu quizzes OSP

    Charles Adu Boahen: How is influence peddling not corruption? – Martin Kpebu quizzes OSP

    Prrivate legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has voiced his concerns and expressed skepticism over the characterization of Charles Adu Boahen’s influence peddling case as not constituting corruption.

    In his view, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) should reevaluate the case, as the allegations against Adu Boahen, when examined more broadly, could be seen as a form of corruption, aligning with the common understanding of the term.

    These remarks come in response to the OSP’s decision to clear former Minister of State at the Ministry of Finance, Charles Adu Boahen, of the charge of Influence Peddling, which typically involves a person of authority or influence acting on behalf of someone else in exchange for money or favors.

    Speaking on TV3, Martin Kpebu pointed out that the definition of corruption, especially when it involves using a public office for personal gain, should encompass the actions of Adu Boahen. Adu Boahen had reportedly received $40,000 in the case under investigation, and when considering his role as a political appointee, it raises significant concerns regarding potential corruption.

    “When you look at the common definition of corruption being using public office for private gains, you would see that from the findings made by the OSP, Charles Adu Boahen took $40,000. If you multiply that, you get the minimum of GH¢500, 000. What for, to be able to help facilitate the meetings, etc., if that is not corruption, I don’t know what will qualify as corruption. So, that particular part is influence peddling, and so it is not corruption. I am struggling to understand it.

    “It is influence peddling, but that does not mean it is the only characterisation to be given to it. Let’s use the ordinary meaning of corruption, which is that a public servant uses his office for private gain. Adu Boahen was not given the money because he was Adu Boahen, but because of where he is placed as a political appointee and he is paid from the consolidated fund, he being a public officer is not in doubt,” he said.

    Furthermore, the legal practitioner emphasized the subtle distinction between influence peddling and the wider concept of corruption.

    He stressed that although the OSP has concluded its investigation into the influence peddling allegation, this does not preclude the potential for future legal proceedings if new evidence surfaces.

    “In the first place, the OSP report itself makes it clear that they are not closing the docket, so, in the future, it can be reopened, or if further evidence is discovered, they can be considered the same, and then they could be charged. So, it’s not been closed; it was explicitly stated in the report that that is not the end of the matter, but they are just closing it for now.

    “I am thinking that, from the way the OSP has done the report, it should be going to the Attorney General for him to also look at it, but perhaps the OSP should look again. I’m struggling to understand how this isn’t corruption,” he added.

  • We shall investigate Charles Adu Boahen in next govt – NDC

    We shall investigate Charles Adu Boahen in next govt – NDC

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has noted that it will take up another investigation into the alleged commission of corruption and corruption-related offenses involving former Deputy Finance Minister, Charles Adu Boahen, in Tiger Eye P.I.’s Galamsey Economy documentary.

    The party’s decision to probe the matter comes after the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) directed the closure of investigation in respect of allegations of corruption and corruption-related offences involving Charles Adu Boahen.

    Undercover agents of Tiger Eye P.I., posing as businessmen who were interested in investing in Ghana, met with Mr. Adu Boahen and tabled their investment plans and proposals to him.

    It was reported that sensing an opportunity to cash-in on his position as a Deputy Minister of Finance, Mr. Adu Boahen demanded twenty per cent (20%) of the value of the proposed initial investment or ten per cent (10%) upfront payment of the value of the proposed initial investment and post-investment sharing of the proceeds of the investment.

    In its findings, the OSP found out that Mr. Adu Boahen politely accepted the cash gift in order not to offend the sensibility of a potential wealthy investor looking to invest half a billion United States dollars in Ghana.

    According to the OSP, the indices point to the conclusion that Mr. Adu Boahen’s principal motivation was his own personal gain though he intimated to the supposed sheikh that he was driven by the potential developmental benefits to Ghana of the proposed investment.

    The actions of Mr. Adu Boahen tantamount to trading in influence or influence peddling, the OSP said. This is the practice of using one’s influence or connections in public office or with persons in public office to obtain favours or preferential treatment for oneself or for another person, usually in return for payment.

    These acts have not been specifically prohibited in our jurisdiction as crimes per se, the OSP noted.

    “Though the conduct of Mr. Adu Boahen amounts to trading in influence or influence peddling, which is closely associated with corruption, there is no actual criminal prohibition of his acts in respect of which the OSP has a mandate to further act,” the report added.

    As such, the OSP has closed its investigation and may only be re-opened should the circumstances and further facts so dictate.

    In response to the report, the opposition NDC noted that the conclusion drawn by the OSP is “totally flawed and misconceived.”

    The party in a statement signed by Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, explained that Mr Adu Boahen’s conduct amounts to the offense of extortion as provided under section 247 of the Criminal and Other Offenses Act, 1960 (ACT 29)

    “Explanation as to Extortion. A public officer commits extortion who, under colour of office, demands or obtains from a person, whether for public purposes or for personal gain, or for any other person money or valuable consideration which the public officer knows is not lawfully authorised or at a time at which the public officer knows is not lawfully authorized to demand or to obtain that money or valuable consideration,” the statement read.

    According to the NDC, the OSP’s report “smacks of a coverup” and has the potential to dampen public confidence in the Office of Special Prosecutor if not reviewed immediately.

    “The conduct of Charles Adu Boahen constitutes corruption of monumental proportions and must not go unpunished,” the statement added.

    As a result, the NDC says “its next government shall institute criminal investigations into this matter with the objective of prosecuting all those found culpable.”

    NDC-Chides-SP-on-Charles-Adu-Boahen-Report-1Download
  • Charles Adu Boahen is guilty of extortion, your report is a coverup – NDC chides OSP

    Charles Adu Boahen is guilty of extortion, your report is a coverup – NDC chides OSP

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has condemned the report of the Office of Special Prosecutor (OSP) on investigations into the alleged commission of corruption and corruption-related offenses involving former Deputy Finance Minister, Charles Adu Boahen.

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has accused former Minister of State for Finance, Charles Adu Boahen of influence peddling after its investigations into allegations of corruption and corruption-related offences were visually recorded by Tiger Eye P.I. as part of its Galamsey Economy documentary.

    Undercover agents of Tiger Eye P.I., posing as businessmen who were interested in investing in Ghana, met with Mr. Adu Boahen and tabled their investment plans and proposals to him.

    It was reported that sensing an opportunity to cash-in on his position as a Deputy Minister of Finance, Mr. Adu Boahen demanded twenty per cent (20%) of the value of the proposed initial investment or ten per cent (10%) upfront payment of the value of the proposed initial investment and post-investment sharing of the proceeds of the investment.

    In its findings, the OSP found out that Mr. Adu Boahen politely accepted the cash gift in order not to offend the sensibility of a potential wealthy investor looking to invest half a billion United States dollars in Ghana.

    According to the OSP, the indices point to the conclusion that Mr. Adu Boahen’s principal motivation was his own personal gain though he intimated to the supposed sheikh that he was driven by the potential developmental benefits to Ghana of the proposed investment.

    The actions of Mr. Adu Boahen tantamount to trading in influence or influence peddling, the OSP said. This is the practice of using one’s influence or connections in public office or with persons in public office to obtain favours or preferential treatment for oneself or for another person, usually in return for payment.

    These acts have not been specifically prohibited in our jurisdiction as crimes per se, the OSP noted.

    “Though the conduct of Mr. Adu Boahen amounts to trading in influence or influence peddling, which is closely associated with corruption, there is no actual criminal prohibition of his acts in respect of which the OSP has a mandate to further act,” the report added.

    In response to the report, the opposition NDC noted that the conclusion drawn by the OSP is “totally flawed and misconceived.”

    The party in a statement signed by Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, explained that Mr Adu Boahen’s conduct amounts to the offense of extortion as provided under section 247 of the Criminal and Other Offenses Act, 1960 (ACT 29)

    “Explanation as to Extortion. A public officer commits extortion who, under colour of office, demands or obtains from a person, whether for public purposes or for personal gain, or for any other person money or valuable consideration which the public officer knows is not lawfully authorised or at a time at which the public officer knows is not lawfully authorized to demand or to obtain that money or valuable consideration,” the statement read.

    According to the NDC, the OSP’s report “smacks of a coverup” and has the potential to dampen public confidence in the Office of Special Prosecutor if not reviewed immediately.

    “The conduct of Charles Adu Boahen constitutes corruption of monumental proportions and must not go unpunished,” the statement added.

    Meanwhile, the NDC has noted that its next government shall institute criminal investigations into this matter with the objective of prosecuting all those found culpable.

    “Until then, we urge the Ghanaian public to treat this report with the contempt it deserves and demand a total reversal of this disappointing decision of the OSP,” the statement concluded.

    NDC-Chides-SP-on-Charles-Adu-Boahen-ReportDownload
  • Let’s go to Akufo-Addo’s house and ask how you became Fisheries Minister – Ken Agyapong to Hawa Koomson

    Let’s go to Akufo-Addo’s house and ask how you became Fisheries Minister – Ken Agyapong to Hawa Koomson

    Presidential aspirant of the NPP and Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, has claimed that he played a pivotal role in President Akufo-Addo’s appointment of Mavis Hawa Koomson as the Minister for Fisheries.

    During an interview on Kastle FM over the weekend, Kennedy Agyapong asserted that he and Chairman Kutin played a significant role in facilitating around 90% of ministerial appointments in the Central Region.

    Agyapong claimed that, despite his assistance in securing positions for individuals like Hawa Koomson and other ministers, they have distanced themselves from him.

    Madam Koomson and the Assin Central MP have engaged in disagreements ahead of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primaries.

    “He had finished sharing the positions already, and Hawa didn’t get some… to be honest with you, we were fighting for Alex Markin, but he had issues. They alleged some infractions with Agric bank, so President Akufo-Addo didn’t want to hear his name. So, the most senior was Hawa, and that’s how Hawa Koomson got her ministerial position.

    “The last time I met the president and asked him, ‘Wasn’t I the one who came to you and fought for Hawa Koomson to create a Special initiative for her? So, she should go and ask.’ I challenge all the ministers in this region who got their ministerial positions without my influence, I am challenging all of them,” he said.

    Reacting to the possibility of any challenge, Mr Agyapong expressed his willing to take Madam Koomson to the President to verify his statements.

    “Your choice is your choice, so long as you don’t go out to insult me like what Hawa Koomson has done but for me, I am just quiet and looking at her, today I want to tell her that if she likes the two of us should go to Akufo-Addo’s house and ask him how she got her ministerial position …how they created special initiative for her.”

    Agyapong further stated, “Hawa Koomson, who is now saying all sorts of things about me, should go and ask President Akufo-Addo and Chairman Butey. I challenge every politician in the Central Region if anyone can match up my contribution to the region.”

  • Health workers affected by dam spillage must be supported – NDC Volta tells govt

    Health workers affected by dam spillage must be supported – NDC Volta tells govt

    The Volta Region branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued an urgent appeal to the government to offer crucial assistance to the 145 healthcare professionals impacted by the flood event resulting from the Akosombo Dam’s water spillage.

    In their statement released on Monday, October 30, the party reported that the affected health workers consist of 76 individuals in South Tongu, 51 in North Tongu, and 18 in Central Tongu.

    “This imperative assistance is crucial at the moment to empower these workers and other such essential paramedics to effectively address the health crisis facing the other thousands of victims taking refuge in safe havens and temporary shelters.

    “In the wake of this catastrophic flooding incident, our health workers especially have shown unwavering dedication and commitment to the welfare and recovery of our fellow citizens who have become victims. They have since the disaster been conspicuous on the front lines, tirelessly working to provide medical care, essential services, and support to the affected individuals and communities,” portions of the statement read.

    The party also outlined four key areas where they believe the government should concentrate its efforts in responding to their request.

    • Provide financial assistance to the affected health workers and other essential public sector employees to help them recover from the flood-related losses they have incurred.
    • Ensure the availability of safe and suitable accommodations for these workers and their families to alleviate the burden they currently face.
    •  Facilitate access to psychological and emotional support services to those who require same now in order to help them cope with the trauma they have witnessed.
    •  Specifically provide an immediate assistance to the Richard Novati Catholic (Comboni) Hospital, which was submerged by the flood waters and had to be completely shut down. An urgent financial and logistical intervention will not only bring the facility back on its feet and as well save the jobs of some 51 employees whose livelihoods were badly affected by the flood, but will also help them fully resume service delivery to the people in South Tongu and beyond. The current pressure being witnessed on the District Hospital facilities will thus be drastically reduced.
  • Package yourself, get a wig because natural hair won’t help you – Nigerian Prophetess tells single ladies

    Package yourself, get a wig because natural hair won’t help you – Nigerian Prophetess tells single ladies

    Prophetess Olabisi Adamu from Ignite Prayer Ministry in Abuja has some advice for all single ladies out there. In one of her sermons, she highlighted the importance of getting out there and not spending all your time cooped up at home if you’re hoping to find Mr. Right.

    According to the prophetess, being a homebody won’t help you discover your soulmate. Her tip? Spruce up your appearance when you step out. She suggests that single women should make an effort to look their best whenever they’re on the go. Natural hair? Well, she gives it a thumbs-down, claiming it won’t catch a man’s eye.

    Instead, she’s a big fan of wigs! In fact, she insists that until you tie the knot, wigs are the way to go.

    “Friday night, you’re at home, Monday, you’re at home, Tuesday you’re at home. Instead of you to be smiling, be shining your teeth anywhere you are. When your friends are hanging out, say, ‘I’m coming’. When your colleagues are going to one say, ‘maybe that’s where my husband will be. Let me dress up and join them’.  Show yourself friendly and then you will have friends.”

    Speaking against natural hair, she said: ‘All of you will be carrying natural hair about. Who natural hair help? OK. Better wear your wig and be doing like this…”

    “Go and spend that money on hair. Draw your brows, buy lip gloss, look good.”

    “Natural hair is not selling market. When they marry you off your wig because you have entered, there’s nothing they can do about it. But before you enter, don’t be caught unfresh. Never. Package yourself well.”

  • We went to IMF for $3bn, we don’t have $800m to entice you – Ken Agyapong told

    We went to IMF for $3bn, we don’t have $800m to entice you – Ken Agyapong told

    Former Member of Parliament for the Okaikwei North constituency, Fuseini Issah, has refuted claims made by NPP presidential aspirant and Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, suggesting that he was offered $800 million to withdraw from the race.

    In an interview with Time FM, Mr Agyapong said, “Does he know the number of people who have approached me but for the love of Ghana and the delegates I have said I will never do it?

    “The money they offered is $800 million, if he doesn’t know. He should ask Mr Oppong Bio, if that is what they are saying but I said no I will not step down, Ghana first.

    “In 2016, you people were not able to buy pickups. How come today you are able to offer me $800 million? So I said I won’t step down…” he stated.

    But Fuseini Issah believes it is highly improbable as the government, due to the economic crisis, went for a $3 billion External Credit Facility from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    According to him, it would be unwise for the government to make such a move when it is working assiduously to see the economy recover.

    “$800 million is a lot of money. This country is currently under an IMF programme. We went to the IMF for $3 billion and we are getting tranches of $600 million. Where are we going to get $800 million to give to Honourable Ken Agyapong,” Mr Issah said.

    Meanwhile, the campaign team of Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has outrightly rejected claims by Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, that their candidate offered him $800 million to withdraw from the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer race slated for November 4, 2023.

    Dr Gideon Boako, the spokesperson for the Vice President in a press statement noted that the Dr Bawumia, since he entered the NPP race, has not privately met Mr Agyapong and neither has he nor his camp met the Assin Central MP to “negotiate anything in respect of this contest.”

    “The Vice President and his team consider this $800 million claim as absolutely ridiculous, and it shows gross disregard for the intelligence of Ghanaians,” the statement added.

    According to the camp, this is so because “Dr. Bawumia is, and has always been confident that by the Grace of God, he will defeat Hon. Kennedy Agyapong quite well on November 4th” thus” has never entertained any wish for him to step down from the contest.”

    “It is instructive to note that the latest allegation by Kennedy Agyapong, is a rehash of a similar allegation he made about a month ago, claiming without proof, that he was offered money to step down and be a running mate to Dr. Bawumia – a baseless claim we publicly denied on September 30, 2023.”

    “The Vice President is a man noted for his modesty, and he remains committed to his life-long values of serving people with his intellect. While urging the public to disregard such outrageous lies, directed subtly at the Bawumia Campaign, we also reiterate Dr. Bawumia’s commitment to running a decent campaign devoid of personality attacks, lies, and insults to preserve the unity of our great party,” the statement added.

  • PRESEC already working towards 9th NSMQ trophy – Headmaster

    PRESEC already working towards 9th NSMQ trophy – Headmaster

    Headmaster of Presbyterian Boys SHS, David Odjidja, says preparations have already commenced to enable the school to defend the title of National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) champions for another year.

    Presbyterian Boys Senior High School (PRESEC) on Monday, October 30, beat Opoku Ware School (OWASS) and Achimota School to win the 2023 edition of the NSMQ.

    One would have thought that the school would take a break before commencing training once again, but according to the school’s head, that is not the case.

    He explained that “we take it as a project. Last year when we came with the 7th trophy, there were jubilations all over. But the next day, the boys started working towards this trophy. It took less than 24 hours for them to go back to start work.”

    In an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show, Odjidja explained that the contestants undergo nerve-wracking training for two years in order to prepare for the competition.

    “The boys were selected in Form 1, two years ago. They have been working throughout vacations.”

    The headmaster of PRESEC emphasized the importance of the trophy for the school’s 85th anniversary.

    “This trophy is badly needed for the celebration,” he said.

    Sharing his views of the 2023 grand finale, Mr Odjidja said his students were anxious when Achimota School caught up in round 4 with the True/False question segment.

    “It was quite a terrible experience, especially when you are sitting right in the hall,” he said. “But the comfort was before the start of round 4, we had a great gap, and we were still counting our hopes on the final round. Fortunately, we thank God Achimota School didn’t close the entire gap. We knew we could still trust God, but it wasn’t easy at all.”

    For being crowned champions, PRESEC was awarded GH¢70,000, with Achimota School receiving GH¢50,000, and Opoku Ware receiving GH¢35,000.

    The school is the only one to have won the title two consecutive times and holds the record with eight victories.

  • Robbers shoot dead fuel station security guard in Suhum

    A security guard at a Total fuel station in Suhum, located in the Eastern region, has tragically lost his life after being shot by a group of armed robbers on Monday, October 30.

    Five robbers, who were on foot, carried out the attack at approximately 6:43 p.m., taking advantage of rainy weather. They entered the fuel station’s store and confronted the security guard, Kwasi Agbeti, who was commonly known as “Killer.”

    The assailants resorted to physically assaulting Agbeti with sticks, and when he attempted to seek refuge away from the store, they shot him at point-blank range.

    Additionally, they shot the fuel station supervisor in his office and absconded with an undisclosed sum of money. The robbers also targeted a tanker driver who had just arrived to unload fuel, stealing his mobile phone and GH¢1000.

    Kwasi Agbeti was rushed to the hospital in a customer’s vehicle but, unfortunately, succumbed to his injuries upon arrival. The supervisor is currently undergoing treatment at the Eastern Regional Hospital.

    Notably, this marks the third robbery incident in the Suhum area within a span of two weeks. The police, along with personnel from the National Investigation Bureau, are at the scene to initiate an investigation into this criminal act.

  • Offinso Chieftaincy dispute: We are highly disappointed in you! – Elders tell Otumfuo

    Offinso Chieftaincy dispute: We are highly disappointed in you! – Elders tell Otumfuo

    Elders of Offinso have expressed their disappointment in Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II over his interference in who becomes the next Offinsohene.

    The demise of Nana Wiafe Akenten III, late Paramount Chief of Offinso has left a vacuum which has led to a litigation over who becomes his successor.

    A former Chief Executive Officer of Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), Dr K. K. Sarpong, who was selected by the Queen Mother of Offinso with the support of some elders has been rejected by Otumfuo.

    According to Otumfuo, it is rather wrong for the queen mother to present K. K. Sarpong as a candidate by virtue of royal bloodline while history and tradition tell otherwise.

    Otumfuo has thus warned Nana Ama Serwaa Nyarko and the elders of Offinso to put forth their candidate through the appropriate channel or risk having him rejected permanently.

    But the Otumfuo’s declaration has not sat well with the Kingmakers of Offinso.

    Opanyin Akwasi Afriyie, who engaged the press said “Offinso is highly disappointed in Manhyia over how the pending Chieftaincy dispute is being resolved by His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.”

    “Offinso has noticed that Asantehene has taken advantage of the respect our Queen Mother has for him and therefore overexercising his powers on our Queen to harass and make her powerless,” he added.

    Opanyin Akwasi Afriyie indicated that there were 18 contestants for the Offinsohene role and the Queen Mother finally settled on Dr K. K. Sarpong.

    According to him, the kingmakers unanimously accepted the nominee in good faith, stressing that “there was nothing like an objection from kingmakers.”

    He therefore told the Asantehene to back off as he, “Otumfuo has no power to enstool or destool any Omanhene” and “should allow the Offinsohemaa and her kingmakers to do their work as customs demand.”

  • Education Minister urges youth to invest in themselves

    Education Minister urges youth to invest in themselves

    Minister for Education in Ghana, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, has encouraged the country’s youth to follow their passions as a pathway to success.

    He delivered this message during the premiere of Season Seven of the popular TV series “You Only Live Once” (YOLO).

    Dr. Adutwum stressed the significance of investing in one’s passion as a fundamental element for achieving success. The YOLO series serves as a platform for promoting essential messages related to various topics, including good health, disability inclusion, family planning, nutrition, reproductive health, and child and adolescent health.

    Produced by Farmhouse Productions Limited in collaboration with partners such as the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), Ghana Health Service (GHS), Ghana Education Service (GES), and the National Population Council, the YOLO TV series plays a crucial role in conveying these important messages.

    During his keynote address, Dr. Adutwum shared his personal journey, recounting his upbringing as the son of a cocoa farmer and his determination to pursue his dreams despite the challenges he encountered. He underscored the notion that life presents a single opportunity and encouraged the audience to aspire for greatness, irrespective of their background.

    “You only live once, so you have to dream big. Dreams are possible, regardless of where you come from because you live this life once, invest in yourself, and don’t be an average person,” he stressed.

    He encouraged the youth to find inspiration in the YOLO series, emphasizing that it could offer valuable lessons on overcoming obstacles and making informed choices.

    Dr. Adutwum further urged them to follow their passions, cultivate a positive growth mindset, and seek guidance from individuals who have successfully navigated similar challenges.

  • Famous Nigerian actresses poses as Police officer, messes national anthem

    Famous Nigerian actresses poses as Police officer, messes national anthem

    During a conference and retreat for senior police officers in Imo State, Nigerian actress and singer Mercy Isoyip, popularly known as Descushiel, was assigned the task of reciting the National Anthem.

    The event, attended by dignitaries and politicians, including Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, was broadcast live on various TV stations on Monday, October 30.

    At a certain juncture in the proceedings, a policewoman was seen taking the stage to recite the National Anthem, but she encountered difficulties and made mistakes in her rendition.

    A video of this incident, showing the police officer singing incorrect lyrics, has since gone viral on social media platforms, with Nigerians sharing their perspectives on the matter.

  • I am sorry for messing up the national anthem – Nigerian actress

    I am sorry for messing up the national anthem – Nigerian actress

    Nigerian actress and singer Mercy Isoyip, popularly known as Descushiel, has issued an apology to the Nigerian police force and the citizens of Nigeria for a national anthem slip-up during the Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers in Imo State.

    The event on Monday, October 30, featured a collaboration between the police force and the entertainment industry, with actress Descushiel representing the police on stage.

    However, during her performance of the National Anthem, she sang the wrong lyrics, which has drawn criticism from viewers.

    In response via a post on Instagram, she has publicly apologized for the mistake.

    “I sincerely apologize for the error I made during the recital of the National Anthem; I know such errors are inexcusable.”

    “My good people of our country, please accept my apology, as well as my assurance that I will be more careful in the future to prevent such incidents from recurring. God bless the Nigerian police force God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she wrote.

    Find her apology video below.

  • Watch video of how armed men robbed Ghanaian Pentecost church in SA

    Watch video of how armed men robbed Ghanaian Pentecost church in SA

    A Church of Pentecost in South Africa for the Ghanaian community was attacked by armed robbers during church service.

    Prior to the operation, the pastor was delivering his sermon. In a video on social media, he dropped the microphone, lifted his hands, and proceeded to lie prostrate on the ground when the robbers arrived.

    Other members, including the organist, laid low. The video captures two robbers who made away with phones and other valuable objects they set their eyes on.

    It is reported that the incident occurred over the weekend. Per reports, a church elder was taken captive and is currently missing.

    https://x.com/independent_gh/status/1719287173298389251?s=20

    In the meantime, the Ghanaian High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa, has announced its collaboration with the Church of Pentecost (CoP) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to expedite the safe release and return of the CoP deacon who was abducted on Sunday, October 29, 2023.

  • Beautiful police officer forgets lyrics to national anthem at public event

    Beautiful police officer forgets lyrics to national anthem at public event

    During a conference and retreat for senior police officers in Imo State, a policewoman was assigned the task of reciting the National Anthem.

    The event, attended by dignitaries and politicians, including Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, was broadcast live on various TV stations on Monday, October 30.

    At a certain juncture in the proceedings, a policewoman was seen taking the stage to recite the National Anthem, but she encountered difficulties and made mistakes in her rendition.

    A video of this incident, showing the police officer singing incorrect lyrics, has since gone viral on social media platforms, with Nigerians sharing their perspectives on the matter.

    The Nigerian national anthem has two stanzas. Here are the lyrics for both:

    First Stanza: Arise, O compatriots, Nigeria’s call obey To serve our fatherland With love and strength and faith. The labor of our heroes past Shall never be in vain, To serve with heart and might One nation bound in freedom, peace, and unity.

    Chorus: Oh God of creation, Direct our noble cause; Guide our leaders right; Help our youth the truth to know In love and honesty to grow And living just and true, Great lofty heights attain, To build a nation where peace and justice shall reign.

    Second Stanza (Rarely sung): O sons and daughters of Nigeria Now is the time to stand To serve and to build our nation With love and strength and faith The labor of our heroes past Shall never be in vain, To serve with heart and might One nation bound in freedom, peace, and unity.

  • We lose GHC25m whenever it rains – ECG MD

    We lose GHC25m whenever it rains – ECG MD

    The Managing Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Samuel Dubik Mahama, has disclosed the influence of weather patterns and seasonal variations on electricity sales and revenue.

    He stated that whenever it rains anywhere in the country, ECG experiences a loss of approximately GH¢25 million because electricity consumption tends to decline during cold weather.

    In an interview on JoyNews’ PM Express on Monday, he said: “Before the rainy season set in, ECG was averaging between GH¢40 and GH¢50 million a day. Now any day that you see rain, note that we’re down by GH¢25 million.”

    He added, “We plan all-year round with the same tariff. In certain parts of the world the tariff is not flat. When its cold, it varies from when it is hot and they find a way to balance it out. But we have a tariff that runs all year without considering the down periods.

    “So clearly consumption will be less during these periods and definitely revenue collected will not be adequate enough to cover the shortfalls. It is about how people live, and how buildings are constructed. With most people, they are comfortable with just the fresh air, they are fine and they are not going to consume a lot because everybody is actually on the path on conservation.”

    Mr Mahama made this revelation while discussing the topic “The Big Power Debate: The High Cost of Keeping the Lights On.”

    He revealed that rainfall disrupts revenue collection by making meter reading and other operational activities more challenging. Nonetheless, he offered assurance that ECG remains committed to eventually recovering the outstanding amounts from its customers.

    “The truth of the matter is whatever is consumed I’ll still collect it along the line, but that particular day that it has rained, I may be unable to collect monies owed me by customers,” he said.

    In recent days, Ghanaians have encountered intermittent power outages, with the most recent one attributed to a shortage of gas for the power facilities in Tema and Takoradi.

    The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), responsible for receiving gas from the West African Gas Pipeline Company for subsequent distribution to the power plants, has denied responsibility.

    Instead, it has pointed the finger at ECG, alleging that ECG’s failure to settle its debt with the West Africa Gas Pipeline Company is the cause of the gas supply issue.

  • VRA ends controlled spillage of Akosombo dam after 45 days

    VRA ends controlled spillage of Akosombo dam after 45 days

    On October 30, 2023, the Volta River Authority (VRA) officially ceased the spillage of the Akosombo Dam, as stated in a press release.

    “The Volta River Authority (VRA) wishes to inform the public, particularly residents living along the Lower Volta River and its environs that the controlled spillage from the Akosombo dam, which began on September 15, 2023, has ended,” the statement said.

    The Volta River Authority (VRA) has officially halted the spillage of the Akosombo Dam while maintaining its dedication to relief and rehabilitation efforts until the affected communities regain their normalcy. The VRA expressed gratitude to various government agencies and stakeholders for their support in assisting the impacted communities.

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

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

    In response, various institutions and individuals stepped forward to provide relief items to the affected residents. Prominent political figures, including President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahama Bawumia, visited the impacted communities. Both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) leadership and the Minority caucus extended their assistance to the flood victims.

    Additionally, the VRA initiated a significant disinfection and fumigation effort in the flood-affected communities. This operation is expected to cover areas like Mepe in the North Tongu District of the Volta Region, where floodwaters are gradually receding.

    In an interview with JoyNews, the VRA’s Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Ing. Kwame Osei Mensah Darkwa, emphasized the VRA’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and habitability of homes, public spaces, and the entire community in the aftermath of the floods.

  • Ghanaians must benefit from increased hydro generation, adjust tariffs – COSECA to govt

    Ghanaians must benefit from increased hydro generation, adjust tariffs – COSECA to govt

    COSECA, a think tank specializing in energy matters, has called upon the government to ensure that the current upsurge in hydroelectric power generation resulting from the efficient operation of the Akosombo Dam translates into tangible benefits for consumers.

    The organization argues that hydropower is a more economically efficient energy source when compared to other options, and therefore, the general public should be protected from unwarranted expenses.

    In a press statement released on Monday, October 30, COSECA has urged the government to contemplate a reduction in electricity tariffs.

    “Our recent evaluation has revealed some concerning findings: despite the plentiful rainfall this year, which has enabled optimal hydro generation, the benefits have not reached the citizens, even though they have borne the brunt of the excessive rains.”

    “The very rains that have led to flooding for everyday Ghanaians have ironically not improved the energy mix to include a higher hydro component, which could potentially lead to reduced tariffs for the benefit of Ghanaians.”

    “COSECA strongly believes that the energy mix needs to be optimized to ensure that the advantages of increased hydro generation are passed on to the people of Ghana, rather than being directed towards the export market.”

    Consequently, the organization has appealed to the government, via the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), to address this inconsistency by putting in place an automated adjustment mechanism.

    “This situation must be rectified using an automatic adjustment mechanism to redistribute any over and under-recoveries to the benefit of Ghanaians.”

    “We have also observed with concern that the performance of Distribution Companies is influenced not only by their internal operations but also by external factors beyond their control.”

    “For instance, the lack of a level playing field in the wholesale market among key players in the generation and transmission sector creates an uneven competition that puts distribution sector participants at a disadvantage.”

    COSECA-STATEMENT-VRAss-rvsdDownload
  • Mahama Ayariga petitions OSP to probe BOG’s over procurement of new headquarters

    Mahama Ayariga petitions OSP to probe BOG’s over procurement of new headquarters

    Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has petitioned the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to investigate the procurement of the new headquarters building of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) at Ridge in Accra.

    The MP wants the following individuals to be probed over their suspected corruption and corruption-related offenses: BoG Governor, Dr Ernest Addison, and his two deputies; the Board of Directors; the Chief Executive Officer of Messrs. Goldkey Properties Ltd and the project consultants supervising the work.

    In his petition dated October 30, Mr Ayariga accused the BoG Governor and his team of failing to justify the increase in price for the projects from USD121,807,8517.94 to USD222,799,760.55 (about 84%) when the scope of work rose by 36 percent.

    “In spite of a written request to the Governor of the Bank of Ghana under the Right to Information Act, the Governor and his team have not been able to explain to me how there was a price escalation from USD121,807,8517.94 to USD222,799,760.55 (about 84%) when the scope of work increased from 73,000 square meters to about 107,737 square meters (36.9%).”

    He noted that the Bank of Ghana had originally priced the project at USD100,857,924.48 for 73,000sq.m but got the project awarded to Messrs. Goldkey Properties Limited, in the same year, at a contract sum of USD121,807,8517.94.

    A subsequent variation in the scope of work of about 36.9% saw a project cost escalation of 84%, which has resulted in the about 107,737 sq.m building project now costing USD222,799,760.55, he said.

    According to Mr Ayariga, he wrote to the BoG Governor for an explanation, and received a response in a letter dated 22nd August 2023 and referenced SF/GEN/7/2023/75, to the effect that “he is unable to provide me with the full details of the project design variation which has led to the price escalation for reasons of “National Security”.”

    For the Bawku Central MP, “this refusal to explain the price escalation founds my suspicion of corruption in the procurement.”

    Mr Ayariga holds the assertion that the Office of Special Prosecutor has jurisdiction to investigate all cases of suspected “corruption and corruption-related offences” by public officers and private persons working with public officials under sections 2(a) and 79 of the Office of Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959).

    He therefore announced his willingness to testify “to all the facts I have come across in this matter and I believe your office will be able to obtain all the details of the variations of the project design and costing variations to arrive at a conclusion on this matter.”

    “I count on you to carry out a thorough investigation of this matter and brief the Ghanaian people appropriately and where necessary to carry out prosecutions,” the petition concluded.

    Letter-to-OSPDownload


  • Bibiani MP’s dollar comment annoying, money now running Ghana’s politics – Opanyin Agyekum

    Bibiani MP’s dollar comment annoying, money now running Ghana’s politics – Opanyin Agyekum

    A Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana’s School of Languages, Professor Kofi Agyekum, has condemned MP for Bibiani Anhwiaso, Alfred Obeng-Boateng, over his decision to persuade New Patriotic Party (NPP) delegates with money ahead of the party’s primaries.

    Member of Parliament (MP) representing the Bibiani Anhwiaso Constituency, Alfred Obeng-Boateng, has made it clear that he is fully willing to financially support delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to secure the party’s parliamentary ticket for the upcoming 2024 general election.

    In a widely circulated audio clip broadcasted by Sompa FM, the MP revealed that he had previously allocated substantial amounts, up to GHC3,000 per delegate, during the previous primaries.

    He further emphasized his readiness to match or exceed any financial offers made by his competitors to gain the favor of the delegates in the upcoming selection process.

    “I knew from day one that upon all the resistance I faced during my coming (into office), this time people will regroup more forces, pull their resources together and fight one person.

    “So knowing all this, I know everyone’s financial strength; I know everyone’s financial limit here. So I know how much they can easily pull without being worried about it. When you have say a million Ghana cedis, you can give away GHC1,000 each without flinching.

    “So we are about to go for primaries with about a thousand-two hundred delegates, the other time we paid around GHC3000 minimum per person and the primaries is coming again,” the MP said.

    He stressed that he has deliberately set aside funds in US dollars to shield himself from the effects of inflation and is ready to provide up to GHC20,000 to each of the 2,200 delegates within the constituency to ensure his nomination for the party’s parliamentary ticket.

    “I am telling you that the money I will use for the primaries is in dollars and that money has been secured long ago, I must be frank with you. That is money I am not touching under any circumstance.

    “So I laugh seeing all that they are doing, I have dollars there for that primaries. What I can tell my delegates is that I will pay more than double of what anyone who will contest me will offer them, they should take that from me. If they come together and decide to pay GHC10,000 per delegate I will pay more than that.

    “Whatever they pay, even if they pay GHC20,000 I will pay more than GHC20,000 because I know how much I have put there; I know how much I have reserved. That is why I saved in dollars so that the money will not lose value,” he noted.

    Reacting to his comments in an interview on Peace FM, Professor Kofi Agyekum noted that it is unwise for political ambitions to run on one’s ability to distribute money to electorates.

    According to him, such an unfortunate trend will only prevent credible people from running the affairs of the country.

    “The man who are we talking about, it found it very annoying. Oh yes. If you say that you have gathered dollars and that the some people paid 1,000 and I paid 3,000. This time round, I’ve heard they will pay 10,000. I will pay 20,000.

    So I asked, those who are going to vote, how many are they. So I asked Kwame and he was like the man will pay about GHS 40 million. So if you have wisdom, and you don’t have this money to share to people, you can’t enter politics,” he said.