TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • Less than half of the population regularly wash their hands with soap – Sanitation Minister

    Less than half of the population regularly wash their hands with soap – Sanitation Minister

    Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Dr. Freda Prempeh, has stated that only 48 percent of Ghanaians consistently practice handwashing with soap.

    She referred to a scientific report (MICS 2018 Report) that was provided to the Ministry, which revealed these statistics.

    The report highlighted that 24 percent of households had designated places or equipment for handwashing but lacked soap and water. Additionally, approximately 28 percent of households lacked any facilities for handwashing when their hands came into contact with germs.

    Furthermore, the report indicated disparities in the availability of basic handwashing facilities, with coverage ranging from 42 percent in rural areas to 56 percent in urban areas.

    These inequalities in handwashing facilities and the effectiveness of handwashing promotion programs could expose individuals to a higher risk of diseases that can impact their health, education, and economic well-being.

    Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Freda Prempeh

    Dr. Prempeh shared these findings during the 2023 national media launch of Global Handwashing Day in Cape Coast, held under the theme “Saving lives through handwashing with soap.” The global theme for the celebration is “Clean hands are within reach.”

    Organized by the Ministry of Sanitation, the engagement was aimed at equipping media personnel with information on the National Hand Hygiene For All (HH4A) strategy and roadmap for Ghana (2022-2030). 

    HH4A is an initiative by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF that came on the heels of the onset of COVID-19.  

    It is a call for all to achieve universal access to hand hygiene through a three-R approach, namely responding to COVID-19, rebuilding after the COVID-19 pandemic, and re-imaging hand hygiene to become part of the people’s culture. 

    The initiative also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6.2, aimed at achieving access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all, ending open defecation, paying special attention to the needs of women and girls and those in vulnerable situations. 

    The goals identify 12 settings where handwashing facilities are expected to be available. 

    They are households or homes; schools; childcare homes; healthcare facilities; workplaces; markets; transport terminals; correctional centres; worship centres; refugee camps; eateries and events or recreational centres. 

    Dr. Prempeh stressed the need for Ghanaians to inculcate the habit of regular handwashing, given its significant part in preventing diseases. 

    Washing hands with soap regularly is an effective way to prevent infections and communicable diseases such as cholera, hepatitis, typhoid, and respiratory infections. 

    Dr. Prempeh said the importance of regular handwashing was brought to the fore more strongly, following the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic globally and has since proven as the most cost-effective and effective way of dealing with a disease outbreak. 

    Mrs. Marigold Assan, the Central Regional Minister, reiterated the essence of handwashing with soap which helped remove germs from hands to prevent infections because people frequently touched their eyes, nose, and mouth without even realizing it. 

    “Regular handwashing is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others.  

    “Whether you are at home, at work, travelling, or out in the community, regularly wash your hands to prevent any unpleasant consequences,” she advised. 

    Later, a durbar was held at the Kotokuraba market, where the traders were enlightened on the essence of handwashing and the processes involved. 

  • Akufo-Addo is genuinely committed to fighting corruption – Pius Hadzide

    Akufo-Addo is genuinely committed to fighting corruption – Pius Hadzide

    Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Youth Authority (NYA) Pius Enam Hadzide, has refuted claims that President Akufo-Addo does not walk the talk when it comes to the country’s fight against corruption.

    Speaking on TV3’s NewsDay programme, Mr Hadzide noted that contrary to reports, the president has heavily invested in institutions set up to fight corruption.

    “Akufo-Addo is not fighting corruption in the studios or with his slogan. He is committing resources to the antigraft institutions. Check the budget allocations.

    “The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) was introduced by him, and he appointed a known NDC member who rose to the status of running mate of the NDC,” he added.

    According to Mr Hadzide, such a man cannot be labelled as the’mother serpent of corruption’ and also be blamed for the actions of some individuals.

    He also lashed out at individuals who have accused NPP officials of corruption-related activities but have failed to provide any form of evidence.

    “This cannot be someone who is interested in corruption. He appointed an NDC man because he is genuinely at heart and committed to fighting corruption and that is Akufo-Addo for you. He has made sure everything is investigated. Why will you blame him when you people run around and make baseless allegations and when they are investigated and it has no merit, you say he is a clearing agent? What should he do? Because of your baseless allegations he should jail people?” he quizzed.

    A prominent member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Kobina Arthur Kennedy, has sided with former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu’s description of President Akufo-Addo as the “mother serpent of corruption.”

    The US-based medical practitioner believes that the president has shown no dedication to the anti-corruption cause. According to him, the president’s posture and actions towards sensitive issues prove him right.

    “The problem is not forming new institutions; it is in our hearts. The president’s body language, his temperament and attitude is not geared towards fighting corruption, and Martin Amidu was right that he is the mother serpent of corruption…” he told JoyNews during an interview.

    He added: “It is a very fair assessment, look at who he appointed as head of the Public Procurement Authority, the person he appointed as head of Public Procurement Authority to begin with had ethical challenges under the Kufuor administration, so, it is not like people didn’t know who he was.

    “But he got the job anyway. Then the president along the line of course is talking about it, he says that this time around we even have a Minister for Public Procurement.

    “Not only that, we have a board of directors for the Public Procurement Authority. In spite of that, the head of Public Procurement Authority forms a private company on the side, that bids for contracts and gets them and sells them on the side, and he did that for years under the very noses of his board of directors and the minister who was supposed to take care of procurement.

    “And all what it took was Manasseh Azure, one journalist, to expose them. So where was the security agencies? Where was the police? Where was the Attorney General’s Department? Where was anybody?” he questioned.

  • Akufo-Addo was just joking at Mepe – Yiadom Boakye

    Akufo-Addo was just joking at Mepe – Yiadom Boakye

    One Boakye Yiadom has defended President Akufo-Addo over his comment at Mepe during his visit to Akosombo Dam spillage victims, which has generated controversy.

    During his visit, President Akufo-Addo asserted that he had visited to sympathize with the residents, regardless of whether they voted for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) or not.

    “I need everybody here (to understand) and I hope you take the message all across… that when these things happen and the government acts, politics does not come into the matter at all.

    “When I took the oath of office as president, I took the oath of office as president for every single individual in Ghana, of all the people in Ghana, all districts.

    And whether they voted for me or not, once I have taken the oath of office, I am the president of all the people. So Togbe, I want the people here, beginning with you and the elders to understand that when something like this happens and the government acts, the government is acting for Ghanaians, all Ghanaians,” the president said.

    But his comments did not sit well with many, including the Minority in Parliament who stated that the president’s comments show his resentment for the people of the Volta Region.

    However, Mr Yiadom believes otherwise. According to him, the vote-comment made by the President was in jest.

    “I do believe that he was cracking a joke, that you don’t even vote for me but because I’m the father for all, I will be available whenever there is trouble. The comment was a jest as he made his submission. If he hadn’t said it, it wouldn’t make any difference. The President spoke very lengthy and then you quote just a few portions,” he said while speaking on Hello FM.

    On the matter, Mamaga Adzo Srako IV, the Queen Mother of Mepe, criticised the media for taking President Akufo-Addo’s recent remarks, made during his visit to console flood victims, out of context.

    She expressed in an interview that the president’s statement, in which he humorously mentioned not receiving many votes from the region, was merely a light-hearted comment that the media sensationalised unnecessarily.

    “The president made promises that immediately he’ll see to us, and in the long term he’ll see to us. However, the little joke the president told, that if it were because of votes, he would not have come here, has rather become the news,” she lamented.

    “That’s what you [the media] are circulating instead of talking about the disaster that has befallen us. You chose to rather make a big deal out of the harmless joke by the president. We were not pleased with you journalists,” she declared.

    Reacting to the Queen Mother’s response, Mr Yiadom said” the woman did extremely well. Very intelligent.”

  • Take absolute control of all the processes – NPP tells Police ahead of presidential primaries

    Take absolute control of all the processes – NPP tells Police ahead of presidential primaries

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the Ghana Police Service have come to an understanding regarding the election procedures for the upcoming NPP presidential elections set for November 4, 2023.

    The NPP has consented to entrust the police service with full authority over security arrangements during the elections.

    At a meeting involving representatives from both parties, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, the Chairman of the Presidential Election Committee for the NPP, urged the police to address any individuals who might engage in misconduct during the elections.

    “We are authorising you to take absolute control of all the processes that you regulate during normal elections in this republic. We have made a number of guidelines which are a matter of common consent and we have worked out the dynamics in such a way that we are working together and we are saying this to assure you that the regulations that the candidates have all signed are going to be the blueprint of the process, and anyone who disregards this should be dealt with and we want to establish that this country is a lawful nation,” Mr Oquaye said.

    In the meantime, the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has also emphasized the importance of collaboration to ensure the effective discharge of their responsibilities.

    He assured the NPP of enhanced security during the primaries.

    “We want to assure you that on November 4, we are going to give you an overdose of security and it will be excellent and awesome and all we require from you is your support to ensure that the police will do their work.”

    On the other hand, Samuel Tetteh, the Deputy Commissioner in charge of Operations at the Electoral Commission, also indicated that preparations are well underway to guarantee a smooth election process.

    “We know that this is an important election, not only for the NPP but also for the EC and the country as a whole, and we need to prepare adequately to make sure that the elections are conducted successfully and so far the engagements gone well and we expecting a successful election on November 4 and we are not leaving any stone unturned.”

  • We will ensure K.T Hammond, Afenyo-Markin, others who opposed Ken Agyapong lose their seat – Campaign team

    We will ensure K.T Hammond, Afenyo-Markin, others who opposed Ken Agyapong lose their seat – Campaign team

    Kennedy Agyapong‘s campaign team has declared its intention to ensure that all Members of Parliament (MPs) who supported Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the presidential primaries lose their seats if Kennedy Agyapong emerges as the victor.

    The campaign team believes that this is the only way to ensure that they have a cooperative group to collaborate with in executing their agenda for change.

    Kwame Owusu, the Chairman of the Kennedy Agyapong Campaign team, questioned why individuals who are close associates of Mr. Agyapong, such as Alexander Afenyo-Markin and KT Hammond, have not publicly endorsed his candidacy.

    Chairman of the Kennedy Agyapong Campaign team, Kwame Owusu

    “Honourable K.T Hammond is the best friend of Kennedy Agyapong, Minister of Trade, he has not been able to endorse him. Afenyo-Markin is the best friend of Kennedy Agyapong, he has not been able to endorse him,” Mr Owusu said.

    “It is because they are psychologically intimidated and we knew because of that and to protect their jobs they are going to go to the other side. When we get the chance to win, most of these MPs will be cleaned up. We will campaign against them,” he added.

    Meanwhile, Mr. Owusu has acknowledged that his campaign team has opted to provide financial incentives to certain delegates in preparation for the forthcoming presidential primaries on November 4.

    He clarified that their choice to incentivize delegates was a response to the significant amounts of money being distributed to delegates by other contenders.

    “He has given some inducements which are far too high and people look at it and they are very dissatisfied as to things that we have not been able to pay, such as NABCO. Recently we were even owing so much money as regards to school feeding and the rest…so when people see the amount of money that is moving that they claim they don’t have, people become suspicious,” Mr Owusu said.

    The NPP is set to hold its presidential primaries on November 4.

    Four individuals are competing for the flagbearer position. They are Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Assin Central MP, Ken Agyapong, former Agric Minister, Dr Afriyie Akoto and former Mampong MP, Francis Addai-Nimoh.

  • Road contractors refute Prof Adei’s contracts-bribery claim

    Road contractors refute Prof Adei’s contracts-bribery claim

    A group of road contractors has firmly refuted the claims made by the former Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Prof. Stephen Adei, that bribery influences the selection of contractors for road projects.

    Expressing their displeasure, the aggrieved road contractors argue that the remarks made by the respected professor cast unwarranted aspersions on their hard-earned reputation.

    Per reports, they, in a press release, emphatically asserted that they do not engage in corrupt practices to secure contracts from the Ministry of Roads.

    The road contractors have consequently welcomed the prospect of investigations into these allegations, with the belief that it will serve to restore their tarnished image.

    “We have followed with keen interest discussions in the media space in respect of an allegation made by Professor Stephen Adei, a former Rector of GIMPA, to the effect that some contractors make upfront payments of upfront payments of GH¢1 million before the award of road contracts.”

    “We have also read a press statement from the Ministry of Roads and Highways indicating that the Minister has requested the Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to investigate the allegation.”

    “We wish to state clearly that none of us have had such experience. Road contracts go through a process until the award is given.”

    During an interview, Prof. Adei expressed his concerns about corruption in the road contract awarding process. He claimed that he had information indicating that individuals seeking road contracts were told they must pay an upfront fee of 1 million for the contract to be awarded to them.

    In response, the Ministry of Roads and Highways found these allegations surprising and baseless. A statement released on October 23, by the Ministry clarified that the procedures leading to the award of road contracts are open, transparent, competitive, and conducted in compliance with the law.

  • Boyfriend reportedly butchers student girlfriend, cuts off body parts for rituals

    Boyfriend reportedly butchers student girlfriend, cuts off body parts for rituals

    A final year student of Physics at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), identified as Collins, allegedly killed his girlfriend, Justina Otuene Nkang, a 300-level Biochemistry student of the same university, for ritual purposes.

    The incident happened on October 22, 2023, at the suspect’s residence on Road 15, NTA Road, Port Harcourt. The suspect was caught by the estate security when he was trying to dispose of the victim’s body in a wheelbarrow. The security alerted the police, who arrested the suspect and recovered the body.

    The victim’s body was mutilated and wrapped in bloody sacks. It was alleged that the suspect plucked out her eyes and cut off her breast. The suspect claimed that the victim slept and did not wake up, but he did not explain why he butchered her.

    The victim was reported missing on October 20, 2023, after she boarded a bolt ride from her workplace at Prestige Specialist Hospital. She was last seen by her colleagues and friends on that day. Her family and friends launched a search for her on social media, but their efforts were in vain.

    The suspect is currently in police custody assisting in investigations. The state’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Grace Iringe-Koko, said the Commissioner of Police (CP) would address the press on the development by 12 p.m. on October 26, 2023.

    The murder case has sparked outrage and condemnation on social media, with many users calling for justice for the victim and an end to ritual killings in the country. Some users also expressed sympathy and condolences to the victim’s family and friends.

    This is a tragic and shocking case that has shaken the UNIPORT community and the nation at large. I hope that justice will be served and that the victim’s soul will rest in peace.

  • ‘We will protect you and all your belongings’ – IGP promises ‘double overdose of security’ ahead of Christmas festivity

    ‘We will protect you and all your belongings’ – IGP promises ‘double overdose of security’ ahead of Christmas festivity

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has promised members of the general public an upgrade in security as the country prepares for the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

    During a meeting with the leadership of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) at the Police Headquarters on Wednesday, October 25, the IGP noted that this year’s festivity will be memorable as the crime rate will be brought to its bear minimum.

    “We want to assure you that this Christmas will be awesome. I assure you that the police will give you a double overdose of security,” Dr Dampare said.

    Confident in the efficiency of his officers, Dr Dampare made a clarion call to international and local tourists to find their way to the various tourist sites across the country to be abreast of the Ghanaian culture.

    “So Ghana is ready, to all the tourists I want to assure you that Ghana is ready, the police is ready, come and enjoy our hospitality,” he added, while emphasising that “we will protect you and all your belongings.”

    On his part, the Secretary General of the Trade Unions Congress (TUC), Anthony Yaw Baah, expressed his appreciation for the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), George Akuffo Dampare, and the police service’s leadership. He commended their ongoing efforts to engage with pertinent stakeholders in Ghana.

    He further noted that the police service’s new leadership approach is exemplifying the institution’s motto: “Service with Integrity,” in a meaningful way.

    He said, “The approach that the new police leadership has adopted is giving real meaning to service with integrity motto of the police. With this approach, everyone will see Ghana police service as a service with integrity.”

    “We are happy that you keep engaging all stakeholders. We are informing our members of the relationship you’re building with us,” Baah added.

    Wednesday’s meeting was part of the police administration’s ongoing efforts to engage with key stakeholders in preparation for ensuring security during the holiday season.

    Earlier in the week, the IGP and the Police Management Board (POMAB) had meetings with Muslim leaders on Monday, October 24, and engaged with members of the Ghana Private Roads Transport Union and the Creative Arts industry on Tuesday, respectively.

  • You are ‘ill-informed’ on $140m Trafigura judgement debt – Boakye Agyarko tells Kwabena Donkor

    You are ‘ill-informed’ on $140m Trafigura judgement debt – Boakye Agyarko tells Kwabena Donkor

    Former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko has vehemently expressed his disapproval of remarks made by former Minister of Power, Dr. Kwabena Donkor. Dr. Donkor with regards to the recent $140 million judgment debt the country is dealing with.

    The termination of an agreement between Ghana Power Generating Company (GPGC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, led by then-Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko has resulted in a judgment debt of $140 million awarded to Singaporean firm Trafigura, the majority owner of GPGC.

    Dr Donkor, in his comments, suggested that a thorough investigation should be conducted into all officials from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration who played a role in the termination of the power purchase agreement with the Ghana Power Generating Company (GPGC).

    “It was very avoidable as I have always said. Let me quickly say this. This was the cheapest of all the emergency power plants in terms of cost. It was also the shortest because it was for four years. There was no requirement for the government of Ghana to put down a guarantee, and then again the total capacity charge made of capital recovery, fixed ONM, and non-fuel variable ONM came to 4 cents per kilowatt hour. It was the cheapest at the time of all the emergency power plants we brought in, and so it couldn’t have been on the basis of cost.”

    Dr. Kwabena Donkor further clarified that the government’s assertion that GPGC failed to obtain siting and construction permits is not a valid argument. He explained that the responsibility for obtaining these permits was shared between the state and the company, as outlined in the contract.

    Reacting to his statements, Mr Agyarko expressed his disappointment with Dr. Donkor’s comments, deeming them “unfortunate and ill-informed.”

    Mr Agyarko clarified the circumstances surrounding the decision to review the Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), emphasizing that “Upon assumption of office, the newly elected NPP government decided to take all the necessary actions to contain the cost of power generation and distribution in Ghana. It became necessary to review the implementation of the many Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) because should all of them be implemented as originally scheduled, it would result in the production of excess energy with its attendant cost, which would worsen the financial situation of the power sector. The review was therefore to help cut back on losses that would be incurred.”

    In a statement, he added: “An Inter-Ministerial Committee was set up under the chair of the Energy Commission to review the fiscal and legal implications of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) executed by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). The eighteen (18) member committee was chaired by Dr. Alfred Ofosu Ahenkora, Executive Secretary of the Energy Commission. Its report was submitted on 5th April, 2019 under ref EC/MOE/17.

    “The report was subsequently put before Cabinet for consideration and action. Cabinet directed that the report be further reviewed by the Attorney-General. This was done. Cabinet subsequently gave its approval for the recommendation of the report to be implemented.”

  • Your reward is not in heaven but in the western world – Lecturer urges colleague teachers to flee Ghana

    Your reward is not in heaven but in the western world – Lecturer urges colleague teachers to flee Ghana

    A Senior Lecturer in Political Science at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Dr. Akwasi Amakye Boateng, is campaigning for Ghanaian teachers to flee the country in search of better working conditions abroad.

    His advice comes at a time when the Registrar of the National Teaching Council (NTC), Dr. Christian Addai-Poku, has voiced concerns about the high attrition rate in Ghana’s education sector, emphasizing the potential threat it poses to the nation’s future development.

    Dr. Christian Addai-Poku revealed that over 10,000 Ghanaian teachers, all possessing Ghana Teacher Licenses, have been granted certification to work in the United Kingdom (UK).

    He pointed out that the majority of teachers leaving the country due to the deplorable working conditions are specialized in science and maths, underscoring the demand for Ghanaian educators in the global job market and raising questions about the impact on Ghana’s education system due to the migration of qualified teachers.

    Reacting to the exodus of teachers, Dr. Akwasi Amakye Boateng believes eloping is the best solution, as other countries in the West provide better remuneration and working conditions for teachers.

    He noted that it would be absurd to suffer and die in Ghana when one has the opportunity to travel abroad.

    “Years ago, people said the reward for a teachers was in heaven, but I tell you, their reward is in the western world. Other countries need the service of the Ghanaian teacher badly. They are now hard to find, so if you are a teacher, don’t stay here and die.”

    He is said to have made the comment during a discussion on Kumasi-based Angel FM.

  • Shandong Gold Group to build airport in Bolgatanga to ease transportation during gold production

    Shandong Gold Group to build airport in Bolgatanga to ease transportation during gold production

    General Manager of Shandong Gold Group, the parent company of Cardinal Namdini Mining Ltd., Mr Hang Li, has announced the company’s plan to construct an airport in Bolgatanga to ease transportation to and from the Upper East region.

    He noted that discussions are already underway with the relevant stakeholders, and hopefully, the project will come on stream.

    Mr Hang Li made this known on Wednesday, October 25, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, paid a working visit to the head office of the Shandong Gold Group in Jinan, a city in the Shandong Province of China.

    Mr Jinapor is in China at the invitation of China’s Minister for Natural Resources, Wang Guanghua, to participate in the 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition, to be held in Tianjin, from October 26th to October 28th, 2023.

    The Conference, said to be one of the largest mining events, brings together government’s investors and other industry players to discuss developments in the mining industry, including mining investment, green and innovative mining, as well as emerging practices in the industry.

    Ahead of the conference, the Lands Minister called on the senior leadership of Shandong Gold Group to engage them on their operations in Ghana.

    Shandong Gold Group has a project in Ghana, the Cardinal Namdini project, which is currently at the construction stage, following a relocation of affected communities last year.

    It is projected that the mine will produce some 1.1 million ounces of gold in the first three years, becoming the third largest mine in the country.

    Mr. Hang Li, while engaging the Lands Minister, assured of the company’s commitment to pouring its first gold at the Namdini project in Talensi, in the Upper East Region, before the end of next year.

    He said the company’s strategic plan has always been to pour gold by the fourth quarter of 2024, and its management in China is working with the team in Ghana to ensure that they deliver on this commitment.

    On his part, Mr. Jinapor said the government was willing to provide all the support the company needs to ensure that gold is poured early enough next year.

    The minister said the Namdini project is crucial for the country to maintain her position as the leading producer of gold on the continent.

    He added that the impact the project will have on the economy of the northern part of the country makes it imperative for the company to start production as soon as possible. He called on the management to give the necessary support to the team in Ghana to deliver on their promise.

    Touching on the proposed airport at Bolgatanga, Mr. Jinapor said it will make the work of the company and the transportation of gold easy and urged them to expedite action on it.

    He also called on the company to invest in other mining projects in the country, including investment in value addition, and work to become an example for Chinese investment in Ghana.

    Ghana’s Ambassador to China, Dr. Winfred Hammond, lauded the commitments made by the company and pledged the Embassy’s unflinching support to ensure that the first gold is poured next year at the Namdini mine.

    The Minister was also accompanied by the Chairperson of the Minerals Commission Board, Barbara Oteng-Gyasi, the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Mines and Energy, Samuel Atta-Akyea, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Mr. Martin Ayisi.

    Cardinal Namdini Mining Ltd. is the largest mining company in China and has been ranked among the top ten global gold enterprises for two consecutive years, according to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.

  • Barker-Vormawor’s ‘absence’ forces Kan Dapaah to apply for substituted service in defamation suit

    Barker-Vormawor’s ‘absence’ forces Kan Dapaah to apply for substituted service in defamation suit

    National Security Minister, Albert Kan-Dapaah, has submitted an application to the High Court seeking permission for substituted service to serve the #FixTheCountry activist, Oliver Barker-Vormawor.

    This request comes after multiple unsuccessful attempts by bailiffs to serve him, according to the minister.

    The ex-parte motion was officially filed on Thursday, October 19, and is scheduled to be presented in court on Friday, October 27.

    In the affidavit in support of his motion, Kan-Dapaah asserts: “It has not been possible to effect service personally on the defendant (Oliver Barker-Vormawor) with the writ of summons and statement of claim and it has become impracticable to do so as I do not know the place of abode of the defendant and attempts to effect service on him at his place of work as I know, has also proved unsuccessful.”

    Prior to this, Barker Vormawor in a post on X on October 25, jabbed the National Security Minister over claims that he had been avoiding the court’s baillif.

    “Hear this. Last week, the Minister for National Security was asked why he has still not served me with this lawsuit. He answered that he has not been able to find me. So he will be going to court for an order that he can’t find me.

    Ah! Anokwa! This is the person you guys claim is in charge of your security?” he quizzed.

    Mr. Kan-Dapaah has initiated a defamation lawsuit against Oliver Barker-Vormawor, the prominent convener of the #FixTheCountry Movement.

    The lawsuit was prompted by Mr. Barker-Vormawor’s assertion that he and his associates had rejected a proposal during a clandestine meeting with the Minister of National Security. According to his claim, they were offered $1 million to cease their ‘activism.’

    In a legal document filed on Tuesday, September 26, the minister’s legal representatives have requested ¢10 million as compensation for general damages.

    This action stems from allegations made by Mr. Barker-Vormawor, claiming that the Ministry tried to thwart his “activism” by offering a $1 million bribe.

    Additionally, Mr. Kan-Dapaah is seeking an apology from Mr. Barker-Vormawor and a retraction of the statements made.

    He also demanded that there should be a “Perpetual injunction restraining the defendant from repeating similar or other defamatory words against the plaintiff.”

  • The devil worked against God’s works – Adwoa Safo on long absence

    The devil worked against God’s works – Adwoa Safo on long absence

    The Member of Parliament representing the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has provided an explanation for her extended absence from parliament during a meeting with traders and market women in the Dome market area.

    Facing public criticism for her absence from her parliamentary duties for over a year, the MP conveyed that she had to attend to various challenges, including matters concerning her children, as any responsible woman would do.

    According to her, the devil had a hand in her long absence, as this was not the handiwork of God.

    “I’ve already met a lot of you at home and explained why you didn’t hear from me for over a year and a half. I know that being my mothers, sisters and aunties; you understand certain things.

    “As women there are times you need to go through what women go through or do what women do. What really accounted for my absence, I know it is slanted but not broken.

    “Along the line, my first male child suffered a certain illness and I had to leave, which in my thinking was supposed to be for a short time to go and fix my home. But the devil who had other plans against God’s work, did not allow things to go that way,” she explained.

    During a period of intense political turmoil in Ghana’s currently evenly divided parliament, Adwoa Safo, who was serving as the Minister for Children, Gender, and Social Protection, was notably absent from her post. This absence resulted in a critical shortage of a single vote for the ruling party in advancing government initiatives within the legislative body.

    Accusations emerged suggesting that she was undermining her own party, prompting fervent calls for her removal from both parliament and her position within the executive branch of government.

    However, her prolonged absence was attributed to a series of distressing circumstances, one of which involved threats from the US government to assume custody of her two children.

    Seth Kofi Osei Kissi, the spokesperson for Adwoa Safo, revealed these details during an interview with Kwabena Mensah Abrompah on Radio Universe on September 20, 2023.

    Kissi explained that one of the reasons for Adwoa Safo’s absence was a threat she had received concerning the potential loss of custody of her children.

    He also disclosed that another contributing factor to Adwoa Safo’s absence was the tragic loss of her newborn child shortly after giving birth.

    According to Kissi, when Adwoa Safo traveled to the US, she was confronted with the threat that her children, a boy and a girl, would be taken away from her if she did not take appropriate measures. It was her son who had a medical condition that was of particular concern.

    “You see, the white culture and ours are two separate things, they have a way of taking care of children, ladies, and animals, but when you come here, it is different, so the whites were serious about that.

    “The issue overpowered her, she thought it was something minor but when she went and realized the severe nature of it, and how her child had been going to the hospital to-and-fro, her own father and her family even lost communication with her.

    “The issue took over her life to the extent that she didn’t know what to do because going to give birth and losing your child and your other one is also having a problem but God was able to intervene on her behalf, so, it is all about pleading with everybody for forgiveness.”

    In the meantime, the Member of Parliament, who has now returned to the country and resumed her parliamentary duties, albeit without her ministerial role, has declared her intention to seek re-election to parliament.

    She has also offered her apologies to her constituency members and her political party for her previous absence and is currently conducting stakeholder consultations in preparation for the NPP’s upcoming parliamentary primaries.

  • Schools will be opened on Thursday and Friday – GES over Ga Manye’s funeral

    Schools will be opened on Thursday and Friday – GES over Ga Manye’s funeral

    The Greater Accra Regional Directorate of the Ghana Education Service (GES) has provided assurance that schools will remain open on Thursday and Friday in the region.

    This decision comes in light of the updated directive regarding the closure of shops, offices, and schools during the funeral ceremonies for the late Ga Manye Naa Dede Omardru III.

    Originally, it was planned to have a closure from Thursday to Saturday, but the recent modification limits the closure to only Saturday.

    The GES has entreated Head teachers and teachers in the Metro/Municipal/District Education Directorate to take note of the changes.

    In December 2022, Ga Manye, Naa Dedei Omaedru III, passed away. On June 19, 2023, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo inaugurated a book of condolences in her honor.

    The final funeral rites for the late Ga Manye were originally scheduled to occur between October 15 and October 31, 2023.

    Recently, the Ga Traditional Council made adjustments to its guidelines concerning the closure of businesses in preparation for the late queen, Naa Dedei Omaedru III’s final funeral rites. Initially, the Council had decreed a three-day shutdown of all offices and shops in the Central Business District of the Greater Accra Region, spanning from October 26 to October 29.

    However, in a recent statement, the Council revised its instructions, specifying that offices and businesses should only close on Saturday, October 28, as opposed to the previously announced three-day closure.

    Meanwhile, the family of Ga Manye has obtained an interim injunction that suspends the funeral originally planned for Saturday, October 28.

  • ‘I think in a broad sense, yes’ – Atuguba responds to politically inclined judiciary claim

    ‘I think in a broad sense, yes’ – Atuguba responds to politically inclined judiciary claim

    Retired Supreme Court Justice William Atuguba has acknowledged that former President John Dramani Mahama’s concerns about the perceived political influence within the judiciary are valid in a general sense.

    In September of this year, Mahama voiced his criticism of the judiciary during the New Patriotic Party’s administration, alleging that the courts had been filled with judges favoring the NPP to sway decisions in their favor.

    He went on to encourage NDC lawyers to prepare themselves to assume positions on the bench with the aim of creating a more balanced composition.

    Addressing the comments on JoyNews’ Upfront programme, Justice William Atuguba said, “I think in a broad sense, yes. The courts belong to the public, and that thing should never be lost sight of.

    “Everything in the state belongs to the people. Every other person in any position is a trustee for the people, and that’s why court proceedings are held in public for the public to follow the proceedings to assess things for themselves to see how justice is administered, whether it’s fair or not.”

    Justice Atuguba stressed the importance of not ignoring public perceptions and apprehensions regarding the judiciary’s credibility.

    He highlighted the substantial public discontent regarding the composition of the Supreme Court, with many perceiving it as having political inclinations favoring the NPP. This perception has grown to the extent that the court has been disparagingly dubbed “Unanimous FC.”

    The former senior member of the apex court criticized the prevalent practice in Ghana where critical issues are often pushed aside. He pointed to past public concerns about judicial corruption that came to light before investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas exposed instances of corrupt judges.

    However, he does not concur with Mahama’s suggestion of achieving a fair balance of appointments based on partisan affiliations on the bench.

    He emphasized that this approach would not be beneficial and that the primary focus should be on guaranteeing fair and impartial judgments, rather than engaging in political maneuvering.

  • Wendy Shay ‘shades’ Cecilia Dapaah in new track ‘African Money’

    Wendy Shay ‘shades’ Cecilia Dapaah in new track ‘African Money’

    Ghanaian singer and songwriter, Wendy Shay, on October 25, released her new track, “African Money.”

    “Africa Money” which is now out on all platforms, has garnered massive attention due to the theme of the song.

    The music focuses on how government officials in Africa are embezzling state funds against engaging in developmental initiatives that would better the wellbeing of citizens.

    Wendy Shay, known to play with sensitive words and controversial topics, has done it again. This time, she went for the jugular.

    She references former Sanitation and Water Resources Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, as one of the individuals who is surrounded by huge sums of money but is unable to state exactly the source of the funds.

    Part of the song sings, “African money na everyone dey chop oh nyafu nyafu.
    Our money na everyone dey chop oh nyafu nyafu.
    President dey chop oh nyafu nyafu. Governor dey chop oh nyafu nyafu.
    African money na everyone dey chop oh nyafu nyafu.
    Me ma ye dwuma Kora nanso onni sika (my mum works but she has no money)
    Aunty Cece nso da pahn, osore a sika nkoa (Aunty Cece sleeps al ot, when she wakes up, it is just money)”.

    Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, and her husband, Daniel Osei Kuffour, are reported to have been robbed by two of their househelps in their home in Abelemkpe, Accra.

    The two, 18-year-old Patience Botwe and 30-year-old Sarah Agyei are said to have undertaken their operation between July and October 2022.

    At an Accra Circuit Court, Patience and Sarah are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit a crime and five counts of stealing, which include amounts of US$1 million, €300,000, and millions of Ghana Cedis.

    Clothes valued at GH¢95,000, handbags, perfumes, and jewelry worth US$95,000 were reportedly stolen as well.

    Three other individuals have also been charged in connection with the theft being investigated.

    29-year-old plumber, Benjamin, is accused of dishonestly receiving GH¢180,000, whereas Kweku Botwe, a 65-year-old trader, has been charged for dishonestly receiving GH¢50,000.

    The third, Malik Dauda, 23, who is unemployed, is said to have dishonestly received GH¢1 million.

    It is alleged that the accused used the stolen funds to finance various properties and purchases, including renting a 3-bedroom apartment and a store in Tamale, buying vehicles, and funding other personal expenses.

  • Engage right technical personnel for mine operations – Deputy Lands Minister urges mining Companies

    Engage right technical personnel for mine operations – Deputy Lands Minister urges mining Companies

    Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources responsible for Mining, George Mireku Duker, has urged mining companies in Ghana to ensure they employ highly skilled technical experts to guarantee the success of their mining activities.

    During an interview with the press following his visit to the Gold Team Mining Company on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, he emphasized that the recruitment of personnel possessing the appropriate technical knowledge and experience is a critical factor in the achievement of mining companies.

    The Deputy Minister’s call came after his tour of the company, during which he identified several shortcomings in the company’s operational capacity. Some notable issues included the absence of a security and safety plan, power supply challenges, difficulties in ore recovery, and a lack of Ghanaian representation in the company’s management team.

    To address these challenges, Mr. Duker urged the company’s management to hire a reputable security expert who could formulate an effective and enforceable plan for safeguarding the company and its assets.

    Regarding ore recovery, he expressed confidence that there is abundant technical expertise within the country to resolve the issue.

    He also advised the company to share information and knowledge with other firms and industry stakeholders who have successfully addressed similar challenges in their operations.

    Mr. Duker highlighted that the Ministry, in collaboration with the Minerals Commission, will provide engineers and experts who can offer essential technical guidance to the company.

    “We have spotted a few things that internally we will discuss with them and find ways of helping them. The Minerals Commission also has engineers who can help them so we engage more”, he said.

    The Deputy Minister expressed his satisfaction with the company’s dedication to environmental protection and its adherence to the principles of its legitimate operating license. He was pleased to discover that the company employed over 300 Ghanaians and commended their positive relationship with the local community in their operational area.

    He believes that with some technical assistance and additional personnel, the company has the potential to significantly increase its productivity.

    On his part, the Managing Director of Golden Team Mining Company, Michael Lee, outlined several significant corporate social responsibility initiatives undertaken by the company and pledged their ongoing commitment to delivering more. He also highlighted some challenges and appealed to the Deputy Minister for assistance in addressing these concerns.

  • NAELP, Mundo Verde Climate discuss partnership in carbon credit devt and trade

    NAELP, Mundo Verde Climate discuss partnership in carbon credit devt and trade

    The management team of the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme (NAELP) for illegal miners, led by the National Coordinator, Dr. Louise Carol Serwaa Donkor, on October 25, hosted Mundo Verde Climate, a Swiss-based company, at their Cantonment Office in Accra.

    This meeting was part of NAELP’s ongoing efforts to establish partnerships in carbon credit development by reclaiming and reforesting degraded lands, providing alternative opportunities for the targeted beneficiaries.

    The meeting served as a follow-up to previous discussions held between the two parties in Nairobi, Kenya, during the recent Africa Climate Summit (ACS) the previous month, as well as other online interactions. Its purpose was to explore the framework for a potential partnership.

    The visit of Mundo Verde to NAELP in Accra focused on elaborating due diligence requirements, community benefits, sustainable governance structure and environmental impact assessment.

    During the discussion, the Business Development Director at Mundo Verde Climate-Carbon Projects, Can Erenberk, asked for the state of landownership structure to enable easy engagements.

    Responding, Dr. Carol Donkor took the team through an elaborate landownership system in Ghana.

    Managing Partner of Mundo Verde, Gediz S. Kaya, also reiterated their interest in natured-based climate solutions partnerships and the accompanying investments they make in communities.

    Upon enquiry from Mundo Verde, Dr. Carol Donkor spoke extensively about our lands database which is able to support project development of a minimum of 500,000 hectares. She mentioned the work NAELP has done with geoscientists to make sure a pipeline of projects can be developed from identified lands to benefit from carbon development investments.

    Dr. Carol Donkor mentioned the areas NAELP has already undertaken our pilot projects and where further projects may be developed to include the Eastern, Western, Western North and Ashanti Regions.

    The meeting was very fruitful and positive and ended with high anticipation of a possible partnership.

  • We will give you a showdown if you don’t cool down – Frances Essiam cautions Kennedy Agyapong

    We will give you a showdown if you don’t cool down – Frances Essiam cautions Kennedy Agyapong

    A member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) communications team, Frances Essiam, has issued a warning to Kennedy Agyapong, a hopeful candidate for the NPP’s flagbearer position.

    She expressed concerns about Agyapong’s statements potentially damaging the party’s reputation.

    During an interview on Wontumi TV on October 25, 2023, she emphasized the need for decorum in his public remarks, as any failure to do so could lead to a direct confrontation.

    She further cautioned those close to Kennedy Agyapong to avoid conveying false information to him.

    “Akompreko, I am telling you, you are my younger sibling, if you open your mouth again and you do not seek the interest of the party… and those who have been speaking lies to him should be very careful because we know them,” Essiam warned.

    Additionally, Essiam called upon party members to actively participate in overseeing and holding flagbearer hopefuls accountable for their public statements, with the aim of safeguarding the party’s reputation.

    “So, he should cool down and I am telling Akompreko that I am fire woman like him and I can engage in a showdown like him, so, I plead with him he shouldn’t let some of us give him a showdown.

    “I am urging the party foot soldiers that regardless of the camp that you belong to, any candidate that will make utterances which will disturb the party’s image, we will deal with the person.

    “…honorable Akompreko you are responsible for what comes out from your camp, that is the same way that the vice president Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is equally responsible for anything that comes out from his camp but when we compare the heat at one camp it is higher than the other,” she added.

  • Genser Energy donates GHC250,000 worth of relief items to victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage

    Genser Energy donates GHC250,000 worth of relief items to victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage

    Genser Energy Ghana Limited, an independent power producer in Ghana, has shown its support for victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage by donating relief items worth GHC250,000.

    The spillage from the Akosombo Dam led to flooding in nearby communities, displacing many residents.

    A delegation from Genser Energy, led by Vice President of Operations Mr. Daniel Ayi and Sustainability Manager Mr. Issah Mohammed, made the donation to the affected communities in Sogakope, located in the Volta Region of Ghana.

    The relief items donated by Genser Energy include: 100 pieces of leather-covered student mattresses, 100 bags of rice, 500 bags of sachet water, 50 boxes of soap and washing powder, 50 boxes of mosquito nets and coils, 25 bags of maize, 50 boxes of sanitary items. Other supplies such as methylated spirit, First Aid kits, plaster and bandages, and other medical items.

    Mr. Daniel Ayi, representing Genser Energy Ghana Limited, expressed the company’s sympathy for the affected residents, stating, “Genser heard the sad news of how the spillage was affecting residents of the Volta and was touched. It is not much, but this can help ease the burden and pain of those affected. I hope these items reach those actually affected by the spillage.”

    The relief items were received by various dignitaries, including members of parliament, such as Hon. Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor (Member of Parliament for South Dayi), Hon. Wisdom Kobena Woyome (Member of Parliament for South), and Hon. Alexander Roosevelt Hottordze (Member of Parliament for Central Tongu). Chiefs and elders from the affected areas were also present to receive the items for distribution.

    The Genser Energy delegation had the opportunity to visit the affected communities to witness the extent of the displacement and the impact of the spillage.

    This included visits to the Sogakpe Hospital and the Power Substation, which had to be shut down due to the flooding. The donation of relief items by Genser Energy is a commendable effort to assist those affected by the unfortunate consequences of the Akosombo Dam spillage.

  • Gyakie to release official single ‘Rent free’ this Friday

    Gyakie to release official single ‘Rent free’ this Friday

    Ghanaian artist Jackline Acheampong, who goes by the professional name Gyakie, is gearing up for the release of her official song of the year.

    Titled “Rent Free,” this highly anticipated track is scheduled to drop this coming Friday, and fans are already expressing their excitement for this captivating release.

    Gyakie recently offered a preview of the song, and it’s nothing short of a masterpiece.

    “Rent Free” revolves around the theme of a romantic relationship, emphasizing the importance of trust and loyalty.

    “Don’t break me, don’t use me, don’t lose me, don’t leave me in the dark,” the intro goes.

    The chorus sings, “living inside my head rent-free, baby…..” The tempo is upbeat and will get many boogying.

  • Ga Traditional Council have refused to reason with us – Late Ga Manye’s family on injunction against funeral

    Ga Traditional Council have refused to reason with us – Late Ga Manye’s family on injunction against funeral

    The family of Ga Manye, Naa Dedei Omaedru III, has issued a stern warning, stating their intent to prevent the Ga Traditional Council from proceeding with the funeral service for their departed relative.

    They claim that the Traditional Council has excluded them from the funeral preparations, despite numerous appeals for their involvement.

    The family’s leader, along with six other individuals, has obtained an interim injunction that suspends the funeral originally planned for Saturday, October 28.

    During an interview on Eyewitness News at Citi FM with Umaru Amadu Sanda, a member of the Ga Manye family, Abdul Salam, acknowledged that the Ga Traditional Council has not yet been formally served with the injunction.

    He clarified that the injunction applies to both the handling of the remains and the actual funeral proceedings.

    “We decide who to sue, if the suit fails, it should come from the court. The people [Ga Traditional Council] don’t have respect for the family. We will serve them with the injunction. The injunction is not just on the body, but also the funeral.” he said.

    Abdul Salam explained that they turned to the law court after the Ga Traditional Council failed to partner with the family in the preparations for the funeral.

    “The choice to go to the court is that our elders at the Ga Traditional Council, the funeral committee, have refused to reason with us,” he said.

    “And it is, as though, people are using power rather than the law, and we have been told time without number that the remains of our mother and queen belong to the state. And continuously, we have been told of this, but the fact is the remains belong to the wider family, that is the position of the law. We are talking about Naa Dedei Omaedru III, it’s our job as a family to also invite the Traditional Council because it is from the family that we elected and enstooled our mother and gave her for service to the state.”

    He added, “It is our belief that it should be a partnership between the family and the Ga Traditional Council. However, they are pushing us aside. We have been cautioning them to slow down so that we can talk and find a way forward, but our calls have fallen on deaf ears. The body is with the family, and not with them. It is the family that sent the body to the morgue. Everyone knows that the body is with us, but they have said that with or without the body, they will continue with the funeral.”

    In December 2022, Ga Manye, Naa Dedei Omaedru III, passed away. On June 19, 2023, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo inaugurated a book of condolences in her honor.

    The final funeral rites for the late Ga Manye were originally scheduled to occur between October 15 and October 31, 2023.

    Recently, the Ga Traditional Council made adjustments to its guidelines concerning the closure of businesses in preparation for the late queen, Naa Dedei Omaedru III’s final funeral rites. Initially, the Council had decreed a three-day shutdown of all offices and shops in the Central Business District of the Greater Accra Region, spanning from October 26 to October 29.

    However, in a recent statement, the Council revised its instructions, specifying that offices and businesses should only close on Saturday, October 28, as opposed to the previously announced three-day closure.

  • Funeral of late Ga Manye on hold as family head secures injunction

    Funeral of late Ga Manye on hold as family head secures injunction

    A court has placed an injunction on the funeral of the late Ga Manye, Naa Dedei Omaedru III.

    Per reports from Citinews, “seven individuals with close ties to the family have taken legal action regarding the funeral proceedings.”

    The plaintiffs in the case are: Nuumo Emmanuel T. Antia We, Head of the Antie We of Kpone, Nii Addey Oba-Aasaa II, Ankobea of Antie We of Kpone, Shippi Antie I, Saduase Shippi Kpone, Charles Nii Kotey Kotey, Head of Naa Dedei Omaedru We Family of Faase, Accra, Asafoatse Nii Kotey Ga II, Oseahene of Ga Manye Stool and Principal Elder of the Naa Dedei Omaedru We of Faase Accra, Michael Nii Ofei Danso of unnumbered House Accra, Principal Elder of Naa Dedei Omaedru We of Faase Accra and Naa Yomofio, Linguist of Ga Manye Naa Dedei Omaedru We.

    The court order reads: “It is hereby ORDERED Defendants/Respondents or the Funeral Committee chaired by Nii Otintor II, all members of the committee, their privies, workmen, assigns and all persons working through them are restrained from handling, organizing, touching performing or dealing with the remains of the Late Queen Mother, Naa Dedei Omaedru III in any manner for a period of ten (10) days”.

    In December 2022, Ga Manye, Naa Dedei Omaedru III, passed away. On June 19, 2023, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo opened a book of condolences in her memory.

    The final funeral rites for the late Ga Manye were scheduled to take place from October 15 to 31, 2023.

    The Ga Traditional Council recently modified its instructions regarding the closure of shops in preparation for the late queen, Naa Dedei Omaedru III’s final funeral rites.

    Initially, the Council had announced a three-day closure of all offices and shops in the Central Business District of the Greater Accra Region from October 26 to 29.

    However, in a recent statement, the Council revised this directive to specify that offices and businesses should only be closed on Saturday, October 28, rather than the previously mentioned three-day period.

  • How can you investigate the IGP? – Prof Smart lambasts Atta Akyea-Committee

    How can you investigate the IGP? – Prof Smart lambasts Atta Akyea-Committee

    A Senior Research Fellow of the Kumasi Technical University, Professor Smart Sarpong, has criticised the ahdoc committee set up to investigate a leaked tape that plotted the removal of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, for failing to execute its mandate.

    COP Alex Mensah, now retired and two other officers; Emmanuel Gyebi and George Asare, have been accused of plotting the removal of the IGP over the alleged difficulty the New Patriotic Party (NPP) would face come the 2024 general elections should he remain in power.

    The matter caught national attention, and Speaker Alban Bagbin constituted a committee chaired by Samuel Atta Akyea.

    For over a month, the committee invited the suspects and subsequently invited the IGP in for questioning after COP Alex Mensah accused him of gagging the mouths of his subjects, which he said has led to mismanagement of the Service.

    The inclusion of the IGP and the probe into allegations made against him, which veers off the mandate to probe the ousting of Dr Dampare have been highlighted by Professor Smart.

    In his submissions on Peace FM, Professor Smart noted that the Committee was not prepared to holistically probe the matter, but was just interested in the subject of the conversation.

    According to him, instead of probing the claims that the IGP had to be removed for the NPP to win the 2024 elections, the committee got attracted to other subject matters.

    “I don’t think they cared about a good investigative process. They just started with interest. They said if we go and vote, the IGP will determine who wins – then let’s call the IGP for questioning.

    “No wonder, when it got to a certain point, we had to call the IGP. On a normal day, the IGP who is supposed to be protected because some people were plotting against him, how was he going to be a subject of investigation.

    “I just didn’t get the questions thrown at him. They didn’t make up their minds to make any proper investigation. They got interested in other passerby issues,” he said.

    During the investigations, the chairman of the ad hoc Committee responsible for investigating the leaked tape revealing a plot to oust Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare from his position, Samuel Atta Akyea, has refuted claims of bias.

    This response comes in the wake of accusations of bias from Mr. Kwame Gyan, the lawyer representing the IGP.

    Mr. Gyan has expressed concerns about how Mr. Atta Akyea has been managing the committee’s proceedings, a sentiment he has held since the start of the investigation.

    During his client’s appearance before the committee, Mr. Gyan raised objections regarding the presence of COP Alex Mensah and Superintendent Asare, who had previously testified against the IGP.

    He requested that they be excused from the proceedings. However, Mr. Atta Akyea disagreed with the objection, despite a suggestion from Mr. James Agalga, the Ranking Member on the committee.

    Nevertheless, Atta Akyea dismissed the allegations of bias.

    Speaking to the media on October 10, at the end of an in-camera hearing by the committee, the Akim Abuakwa South Member of Parliament said “It is very disappointing for anybody to say I am biased. On the contrary, the generality of Ghanaians believe that I have steered the affairs of the committee well.

    “If anybody is having jitters, that I am going to manufacture evidence against the IGP, it does not accord with common sense.

    “Because what we are doing here is being recorded, so, Atta Akyea with whatever dexterity will not be able to improve upon the evidence,” he stressed adding that he was leading a fact-finding committee whose proceedings were being recorded and transcribed.”

    Meanwhile, the ad hoc Committee responsible for investigating the leaked tape revealing a plot to oust Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare from his position has suspended its sittings indefinitely.

  • Lands Minister, Shandong Gold Group hold working meeting in China

    Lands Minister, Shandong Gold Group hold working meeting in China

    The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor has paid a working visit to the head office of the Shandong Gold Group in Jinan, a city in the Shandong Province of China, where he urged the company to speed up work on the construction of its gold mine in the country.

    At the meeting, General Manager of Shandong Gold Group, the parent company of Cardinal Namdini Mining Ltd., said the Upper East region will benefit from the production of gold through the Namdini project in Talensi before the end of 2024.

    Mr. Hang Li said the company’s strategic plan has always been to pour gold by the fourth quarter of 2024, and its management in China is working with the team in Ghana to ensure that they deliver on this commitment.

    Mr Jinapor is in China, at the invitation of China’s Minister for Natural Resources, Wang Guanghua, to participate in the 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition, to be held in Tianjin, from October 26th to October 28th, 2023.

    The Conference, said to be one of the largest mining events, brings together Government investors and other industry players to discuss developments in the mining industry, including mining investment, green and innovative mining, as well as emerging practices in the industry.

    Ahead of the Conference, the Minister called on the senior leadership of Shandong Gold Group on Wednesday, 25th October 2023, to engage them in their operations in Ghana.

    The Company is the largest mining company in China and has been ranked among the top ten global gold enterprises for two consecutive years.

    Its project in Ghana, the Cardinal Namdini project, is currently at the construction stage, following a relocation of affected communities last year. It is projected that the mine will produce some 1.1 million ounces of gold in the first three (3) years, becoming the third largest mine in the country.

    Speaking at the high-level meeting, which had in attendance all the senior leadership of the company, Mr. Li, who doubles as the Deputy Secretary of the Communist Party Committee, said the Cardinal Namdini project is a very important project for the company, adding that the company is committed to replicating its green mining practices in Ghana, to make the mine a model mine to serve as a reference point for the rest of Africa.

    Mr. Li, also, said the company was engaging to construct an airport in Bolgatanga to ease transportation to and from the region. He said discussions are already underway with the relevant stakeholders.

    On his part, Mr Jinapor said the Government was willing to provide all the support the company needs to ensure that gold is poured early enough next year.

    The Minister said the Namdini project is crucial for the country to maintain its position as the leading producer of gold on the continent.

    He added that the impact the project will have on the economy of the northern part of the country makes it imperative for the company to start production as soon as possible. He called on the management to give the necessary support to the team in Ghana to deliver on their promise.

    Touching on the proposed airport at Bolgatanga, Mr. Jinapor said it will make the work of the Company and the transportation of gold easy, and urged them to expedite action on it. He, again, called on the company to invest in other mining projects in the country, including investment in value addition, and work to become an example for Chinese investment in Ghana.

    Ghana’s Ambassador to China, Dr Winfred Hammond, who was with the Minister at the meeting, lauded the commitments made by the Company. He pledged the Embassy’s unflinching support to the Company to ensure that the first gold is poured next year at the Namdini mine.

    The Minister was, also accompanied by the Chairperson of the Minerals Commission Board, Barbara Oteng-Gyasi, the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Mines and Energy, Samuel Atta-Akyea, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Mr. Martin Ayisi.

    Source: Lands Ministry

  • Fire destroys eight-bedroom house at Tesano

    Fire destroys eight-bedroom house at Tesano

    Fire has engulfed an eight-bedroom residence located near the Charleston Hotel in Tesano.

    The blaze, which began at approximately 9:30 a.m., swiftly consumed the house.

    The housekeeper on the premises initially heard an explosion but was unaware that it had originated from the house until a subsequent, more significant explosion occurred.

    The residents of the house safely evacuated, although the fire consumed all their possessions.

    Firefighters reached the fire site approximately half an hour following its ignition, but by that time, the house had already suffered substantial damage. Firefighters engaged in a lengthy battle with the blaze, eventually gaining control after several hours.

    The origin of the fire remains subject to ongoing investigation.

    Witnesses among the Tesano residents were deeply shocked and incredulous. Some mentioned that they had never before witnessed such a significant fire incident in the area.

  • Depreciation of cedi will push debt to reach 99% of GDP – Fitch projects

    Depreciation of cedi will push debt to reach 99% of GDP – Fitch projects

    Fitch anticipates that Ghana’s public sector debt will climb to 99% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by the end of 2023, up from 88% in 2022.

    This projection is attributed to the depreciation of the cedi against the US dollar. Thus far, the local currency has experienced a devaluation of approximately 11.80% against the dollar in the retail market and 22% on the interbank market.

    Fitch has noted that without a restructuring under the Common Framework, public sector debt is expected to decrease to 95% of GDP in 2024 and 94% in 2025. This would occur alongside ongoing fiscal consolidation efforts and stabilization of the cedi.

    In contrast, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) had initially projected a reduction in Ghana’s debt-to-GDP ratio for 2023, estimating it to be 84.9% compared to 92.4% in 2022.

    According to the October 2023 Fiscal Monitor by the IMF, the nation’s total debt-to-GDP ratio is predicted to progressively decline over the next five years.

    Ghana’s public finances faced challenges in the preceding year, leading to a prolonged inability to access the Eurobond markets, which subsequently impacted external liquidity.

    These difficulties resulted in Fitch downgrading Ghana to ‘CCC’ in the prior year, followed by additional downgrades, ultimately culminating in the country’s placement on restricted default (‘RD’) at the start of 2023. Fitch affirmed both the Long-Term Foreign-Currency (LTFC) and Long-Term Local-Currency (LTLC) Issuer Default Ratings (IDRs) at ‘RD’ on July 28, 2023.

    Nevertheless, Fitch pointed out that foreign-currency debt comprises less than 40% of Ghana’s total public debt, which is considerably below the ‘B’ median. Additionally, Ghana boasts superior levels of governance in comparison to the ‘B’ median and has a track record of democratic elections with peaceful transitions of power since 1992.

    Nonetheless, Fitch expressed concerns about the nation’s vulnerabilities, including its limited international liquidity position, low per-capita income, human development indicators, and a heavy reliance on exports of oil, gold, and cocoa, making it susceptible to fluctuations in commodity prices.

  • There has been no disease outbreak after flooding caused by Akosombo Dam spillage – GHS

    There has been no disease outbreak after flooding caused by Akosombo Dam spillage – GHS

    The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has conveyed contentment with the health status in the Tongu Districts, which were recently impacted by flooding and resultant water accumulation.

    Director-General of the GHS, Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, visited various affected regions within the three Tongu Districts and emphasized in an interview that they are gratified by the absence of any disease outbreaks over the past two weeks following the disaster.

    “We are quite satisfied that two weeks into this disaster, we have not had any outbreak of disease, which often happens in many countries and many places. So, we have simply come to support the districts in continuing the work they are doing,” he stated.

    Dr. Kuma-Aboagye added, “We have brought some relief items, as well as mental health experts and psychologists, to assess the situation and determine what needs to be done. In the long term, those who have been displaced will need psycho-social support, and we are also here to look at the plight of the 271 health workers who are part of the displaced community.”

    He also noted that any diseases currently present in the community are pre-existing.

    Earlier, the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) raised a concerning issue, revealing the presence of individuals displaying symptoms of diarrhea within the emergency shelters established for those impacted by the Akosombo and Kpong Dams’ spillage.

    Acting General Secretary of the GMA, Dr. Richard Selormey, made this revelation during an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News.

    He explained that the Association dispatched a team to assist in the rescue operations in the affected regions, and this team encountered several individuals afflicted with diarrhea and bilharzia.

    “We have noted that the most common thing being found is people having malaria as well as skin diseases and respiratory conditions because most of the centres are holding a lot of people at a go and people are in close contact. We have also noticed that there are a few people beginning to show signs of diarrhea diseases and about two people are also showing signs of bilharzia,” he added.

    Dr. Selormey further warned of an outbreak of waterborne diseases and urged the people to observe safety protocols while waiting for relief items.

    “Our concern is the breakout of diarrheal diseases. That can be a big problem because it can quickly spread. And then also because of the crowding, respiratory tract infections. So key is the protocols we highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic which has to do with handwashing practices and advising the people not to touch things and making sure that there is good water available,” said Dr. Selormey.

  • Shatta Wale set to thrill fans at Wolverhampton in UK on Nov. 4

    Shatta Wale set to thrill fans at Wolverhampton in UK on Nov. 4

    On November 4, 2023, the vibrant city of Wolverhampton will host one of Ghana’s most iconic music stars, Shatta Wale, in an eagerly awaited event.

    This event, scheduled to take place at Hanger, Wolverhampton, guarantees an electrifying night brimming with music, dance, and the unmatched energy that Shatta Wale is renowned for.

    The concert follows Shatta Wale’s recent accolade as Artist of the Year at the 2023 Ghana Music Awards UK, his extravagant birthday celebration, and the release of his latest single, ‘Incoming’.

    Hanger, Wolverhampton, a well-known venue that can accommodate up to 2,400 fans, has been chosen as the stage for this sensational performance.

    Shatta Wale’s recognition as Artist of the Year at the Ghana Music Awards UK underscores his significant impact on the music scene, not only in Ghana but also within the Ghanaian diaspora.

    This award acknowledges his remarkable contributions to the entertainment industry as a whole and the music sector in particular.

    Shatta Wale’s live performance in Wolverhampton is poised to be an unforgettable evening filled with sensational music and artistic brilliance.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EW_J2hEoEI
  • 63-year-old Ghanaian arrested for unlawfully living in Taiwan for 34 years

    63-year-old Ghanaian arrested for unlawfully living in Taiwan for 34 years

    A baffling story has emerged concerning a 63-year-old Ghanaian woman who has been residing in Taiwan for the past 33 years without proper immigration documents.

    According to a report by taipeitimes.com, the woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, initially arrived in Taiwan in June 1989 following a transit from Hong Kong.

    She left in March 1990. However, the authorities are currently perplexed about when and how she re-entered the country, allowing her to remain in Taiwan without valid immigration documents for such an extended period.

    “Police quoted the Ghanaian national as saying, through an interpreter, that she lives alone in a rented residence and works as a cleaner for a living.

    “Further investigation is needed to determine why there are no immigration records for her re-entry into Taiwan and how she was able to reside in Taiwan illegally for so long without being discovered, police said,” the report indicated.

    The 63-year-old woman came to the attention of the authorities when she was observed “acting suspiciously” by officers who approached her on October 14, 2023.

    This incident took place in New Taipei City’s Lujhou District and led patrol officers to keep a close watch on her.

    The report added that “when they spotted the woman, who tried to hide as they got closer to her,” they asked for an identity, which she failed to produce.

    She also could not produce a valid resident permit or a passport, the police added.

    Meanwhile, the police are investigating her on suspicion of contravening Taiwan’s immigration law, the report said.

  • How Mona4Reall’s father is involved in her fraud case in the US

    How Mona4Reall’s father is involved in her fraud case in the US

    Ghanaian socialite and influencer Mona Faiz Montrage, popularly known as Hajia4Reall, has been indicted in a romance scam in the United States of America.

    There is a six-count indictment charging Mona Faiz Montrage for her role in a series of romance schemes and for laundering the proceeds of those schemes.

    She is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, one count of wire fraud, one count of money laundering conspiracy, and one count of money laundering, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. 

    Montrage is also charged with one count of receipt of stolen money, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, and one count of conspiracy to receive stolen money, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

    Per reports from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of New York, on May 15, 2023, Hajia4Reall has gotten her father involved in the case.

    He is said to have been the beneficiary of work carried out on his farm by his daughter, who acquired the funds from a victim she sent a tribal marriage certificate purporting to show that they had been married in Ghana

    “The victim sent MONTRAGE approximately 82 wire transfers totaling approximately $89,000 to purportedly help with costs associated with MONTRAGE’s father’s farm in Ghana,” the report stated.

    She is said to have used her real name when dealing with this victim.

    Montrage is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, one count of wire fraud, one count of money laundering conspiracy, and one count of money laundering, each of which carry a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. 

    She is also charged with one count of receipt of stolen money, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, and one count of conspiracy to receive stolen money, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

    Meanwhile, according to court reports, Hajia4Reall maintained five foreign bank accounts where she accumulated funds from six victims. The court documents, obtained from Gossips24 Avenue, revealed that the socialite had established five bank accounts in Bronx, New York, under different non-existent business names.

    These accounts, known as the ‘Montrage Accounts,’ were labeled as Account 1 through Account 5. The court report outlined the details of these accounts and how Hajia4Reall operated them.

    Accounts 1 and 3 were designated as business accounts under the name ‘Mona Montrage DBA 4Reall Designs,’ allegedly a sole proprietorship beauty supply store. Hajia4Reall was the sole signatory on both Account 1 and Account 3, which were opened on May 23, 2018, and September 15, 2016, respectively. However, there were no transactions related to beauty supplies in these accounts.

    Accounts 2, 4, and 5 were bank accounts held in the name of ‘Mona Faiz Montrage.’ Initially, Account 2 had Hajia4Reall as the sole signatory, but another individual (Individual 2) was later added to the account.

    For Account 4, the sole signatory remained unchanged. Between December 31, 2013, and October 15, 2019, these Montrage accounts received total deposits of $2,165,000, with approximately $2,096,000 being withdrawn. Most of these deposits consisted of cash and international wire transfers to Ghana.

  • GAF petitioned to look into ‘unwarranted’ assault of Akyemansa FM journalist by its soldiers

    GAF petitioned to look into ‘unwarranted’ assault of Akyemansa FM journalist by its soldiers

    The Ghana Journalist Association (GJA) has filed a formal petition with the Military High Command concerning the assault of Nicholas Morkah, the morning show host of Akyemansa FM, by a group of five soldiers.

    The GJA submitted a three-point petition, signed by its President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, to the Chief of the Defense Staff (CDS) on October 23, 2023.

    The petition calls for an investigation into the assault incident and, if the soldiers are found culpable, the appropriate sanctions. Furthermore, it requests compensation for Mr. Morkah to cover his physical injuries and the material losses he sustained as a result of the attack.

    The assault took place during a joint military-customs operation aimed at seizing vehicles imported into the country without proper documentation on October 19, 2023.

    Mr. Morkah recorded the incident with his mobile phone, but the soldiers reacted by physically assaulting him. Subsequently, they transported him to the barracks, deleted all data from his mobile phones, including important correspondences, and subsequently handed him over to the police.

    The GJA in reaction to this, condemned the assault of the journalist; noting that “it was absolutely unwarranted.”

    Meanwhile, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has expressed sympathy to Nicholas Morkah and the GJA for the “unfortunate incident”.

    “We can assure you of our readiness to thoroughly and speedily investigate the alleged assault and anyone found culpable will be sanctioned as appropriate.

    “Once again, accept our assurance of ensuring a better and improved relations between the media and the military in the interest of our dear country,” GJA quoted the GAF in its letter dated October 24, 2023, and signed by Air Vice Marshall MK Appiah-Agyekum, Deputy Chief of Staff (Admin).

  • Don’t pay school fees of any woman in hopes of marrying her – Protestor advises men

    Don’t pay school fees of any woman in hopes of marrying her – Protestor advises men

    Ernest Birmeh, who single handedly embarked on a protest on October 24, 2023, has cautioned his fellow male colleagues against financing the education of a woman in hopes of getting betrothed to her.

    He also warned against male bosses providing women jobs in hopes of getting married to them.

    “Don’t go and pay a lady’s school fees thinking that when she completes you will marry her. Don’t put a lady in any position at your workplace thinking you will marry here after. All of these create problems,” he said.

    He also warned against peer pressured marriages. According to him, any activity that would bring problems should be avoided.

    “If you realize that getting married will give you problems, stay away. Anything you’ll do that will give you problems, stay away.
    Ghanaians listen to me, if you know that having children will give you problems, stay away,” he added.

    Ernest Birmeh took to the streets of Accra, marching through various parts of the capital, including a stop at the premises of Despite Media.

    He demonstrated against the numerous pressures faced by people in the country.

    He was dressed in a white long-sleeved polo neck with the inscription “IGP” (Inspector General of Pressure) which originally indicates Inspector General of Police, wore dark shades and a cap.

    He was accompanied by a police van with officers, including one senior officer in the front seat and two others in the back. While marching, he held a Ghanaian flag and a megaphone, while the police van’s siren blared.

  • Ablakwa sees to construction of damaged Aveyime-Agbetikpo-Tokpo road

    Ablakwa sees to construction of damaged Aveyime-Agbetikpo-Tokpo road

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has cut sod for road construction to immediately begin on the Aveyime-Agbetikpo-Tokpo road.

    In a post on X, Mr Ablakwa noted that the construction is being fully funded by Mawums Construction Company Limited.

    Currently, the roads damaged by flood waters are creating considerable transportation and logistical challenges.

    Mr Ablakwa believes that construction will be “completed in a few days” and this would facilitate the smooth distribution of relief items to displaced camps along the Agbetikpo and Fodzoku corridor.

    “We are ever indebted to the CEO, management and construction workers of Mawums,” Mr Ablakwa expressed gratitude.

    Since the initiation of the spillage process on September 15, the Volta River Authority has been releasing excess water due to the elevated water levels in the Akosombo and Kpong hydro dams. However, in the subsequent weeks, many residents along the Lower Volta Basin have witnessed their homes and farmlands submerged by the resulting floods.

    This intentional spillage has severely impacted several districts, including South, Central, and North Tongu in the Volta Region.

    Communities like Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo have been inundated.

    The consequences for the affected individuals have been significant, with over 26,000 people displaced and rendered homeless, according to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NaDMO).

  • Chief Justice denies OSP’s request to remove Justice Edward Twum from Cecilia Dapaah’s case

    Chief Justice denies OSP’s request to remove Justice Edward Twum from Cecilia Dapaah’s case

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has noted that its request to Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo to have Justice Edward Twum recused and removed from all cases involving the OSP pending before him has been denied.

    The OSP made the announcement in a public notice shared on X on October 25, 2023.

    According to the OSP, the Chief Justice’s decision was communicated via a letter by the Judicial Secretary.

    “By a letter dated 25 October 2023, the Judicial Secretary informed The Special Prosecutor that, the Chief Justice is unable to accede to the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) request for his lordship Justice Edward Twum to be recused and removed from all cases involving the OSP pending before him,” the notice read.

    On October 12, the OSP requested the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkonoo to recuse and remove His Lordship Justice Edward Twum from all cases involving the Office pending before him due to the well-founded belief that Justice Edward Twum appears to be highly prejudiced against the OSP and the person of the Special Prosecutor.”

    His Lordship Justice Edward Twum

    “Consequently, as it stands, the OSP would not and cannot be reasonably expected to be parties to proceedings before the said judge,” a post from the OSP read.

    A court granted a request from Cecilia Dapaah’s legal team to reschedule the confirmation hearing for an earlier date, rather than the initially set date of October 18, however, the OSP asserted that they could not have Justice Edward Twum preside over the request since they believed he displayed significant bias against the OSP and the Special Prosecutor personally.

    In light of these concerns, the OSP decided that they cannot and should not be reasonably expected to participate in proceedings overseen by the aforementioned judge.

    But on Wednesday, October 18, it was reported that the High Court has been informed by the OSP that the petition asking for a new judge for the Cecilia Dpaah case is still pending barely minutes after the judge stated that he had been notified that it had been withdrawn.

    This claim has been rejected by the Office.

    In a public notice, the OSP noted: “The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), has not withdrawn its request to the Chief Justice for the recusal and removal of his Lordship Justice Edward Twum from all cases pending before him involving the OSP.”

    “The public is urged to disregard all reports to the contrary,” the notice added.

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) commenced investigation in July 2023 in respect of suspected corruption and corruption-related offences regarding large amounts of money and other valuable items involving Ms. Cecilia Abena Dapaah, a former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources.

    The Special Prosecutor took measures, including issuing a freezing order in respect of the bank accounts and other financial assets of Ms. Dapaah to facilitate the investigation.

    Subsequently, the investigation has eliminated five (5) of the bank accounts of Ms. Dapaah from suspicion of being tainted property.

    On October 16, 2023, the Special Prosecutor revoked the freezing order in respect of the eliminated five (5) bank accounts of Ms Dapaah.

  • Police manhunt 19-year-old boy who allegedly attempted to kill 10-day-old son with weedicide at Assin-Praso

    Police manhunt 19-year-old boy who allegedly attempted to kill 10-day-old son with weedicide at Assin-Praso

    Police in Assin-Praso are on a manhunt for a teenage father who is accused of poisoning his ten-day-old baby boy with weedicide.

    According to the baby’s mother, Ms. Esther Baah, aged 16, they both conspired to kill the baby after their attempts to terminate the pregnancy failed.

    This was a desperate measure to alleviate the burden they felt the baby had become, allowing them to focus on their academic pursuits.

    After giving birth, Ms. Baah abandoned the idea of harming the child, but the suspect, Godfred Nelson, also known as Paa Akwasi, aged 19, an SHS three student, unknowingly continued with his plan to poison the baby with weedicide.

    “We both planned to kill the baby to allow us to pursue our education. But the pain and trauma I endured during pregnancy and delivery made me change my mind, but little did I know that my boyfriend still haboured the intent to kill the innocent baby,” she is quoted to have said as she wept profusely.

    Mr. Kwaku Arkoh, the victim’s grandfather, explained that when Ms. Baah returned from the bathhouse, she found her baby crying uncontrollably.

    She attempted to breastfeed him but noticed a foamy substance in the baby’s mouth, liquid stains on the child’s clothes, and signs of vomiting.

    Concerned for the baby’s well-being, they rushed him to the hospital, where it was determined that he had been poisoned. Upon hearing about the situation, Nelson is said to have fled.

    The baby was receiving treatment at the Presbyterian Hospital in Assin-Praso as of Sunday, October 22.

  • Woman found dead in a container at Kasoa

    Woman found dead in a container at Kasoa

    An unidentified woman was discovered dead in America Town, a suburb of Kasoa in the Awutu East Municipality.

    Per reports, she was found partially unclothed, wrapped in a sack, and abandoned in a container.

    The grim discovery was made by local residents who detected a foul odor emanating from an abandoned container in the vicinity and reported it to Shacdrack Boakye Yiadom, the Assembly Member at Kasoa American Town.

    Upon investigation, they found the lifeless body of an unidentified woman, her identity not yet confirmed as a resident of the community, in an advanced state of decomposition, wrapped in a sack with her clothing inside.

    Shadrack Boakye Yiadom explained that the perpetrators of this heinous act likely committed the murder at a different location and chose to dispose of the body in his community.

    He further noted that the police arrived at the scene, collected the body, and have initiated an investigation into the matter.

  • One police van, 4 officers and an AK47 supervise solo protest in Accra

    One police van, 4 officers and an AK47 supervise solo protest in Accra

    On October 24, 2023, a solitary protester took to the streets of Accra, marching through various parts of the capital, including a stop at the premises of Despite Media.

    The protester, known as Ernest Birmeh or Dr. Think Twice, was demonstrating against the numerous pressures faced by people in the country.

    He was dressed in a white long-sleeved polo neck with the inscription “IGP” (Inspector General of Pressure) which originally indicates Inspector General of Police, wore dark shades and a cap.

    He was accompanied by a police van with officers, including one senior officer in the front seat and two others in the back. While marching, he held a Ghanaian flag and a megaphone, while the police van’s siren blared.

    “Today, I am engaged in a one-man demonstration to combat unnecessary pressure, aren’t you going to get married? Why won’t you give birth? Are you sticking to only one child, is one not too little?

    “These undue pressures, I am protesting against that. If you will give birth or marry and get into a hard situation, stay away; as with anything that will put you in a tight corner, stay away. That is my one-man demo that has brought me to Peace FM today,” he stressed.

    He also addressed other sources of pressure, such as women pressuring men for marriage and men supporting women’s education or training with the intention of marrying them afterward.

  • Arthur Kennedy sides with Martin Amidu on Akufo-Addo’s ‘mother serpent of corruption’ tag

    Arthur Kennedy sides with Martin Amidu on Akufo-Addo’s ‘mother serpent of corruption’ tag

    A prominent member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Kobina Arthur Kennedy, has expressed agreement with former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu’s characterization of President Akufo-Addo as the “mother serpent of corruption.”

    In a 27-page response to the allegations made by the presidency after his resignation as Special Prosecutor in 2020, Martin Amidu accused President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of being deeply involved in corruption.

    Despite initially having trust in the president’s integrity and anti-corruption stance, Amidu claimed that Akufo-Addo’s actions revealed him as a leader who obstructed his efforts to fulfill his duties.

    “I resigned my position as the Special Prosecutor because of the traumatic experience I suffered from the reaction of the President who breached his Presidential oath by unlawfully obstructing me from taking any further steps on the Agyapa Royalties Transactions from 20th October 2020 to 1 November 2020.”

    “When I met the President on 23rd October 2020, I received the shock of my life when he demanded that I took no further action on the Agyapa royalties transaction anti-corruption assessment report for another week.

    “That was when it was divinely revealed to me that the President whom I trusted so much for integrity only looked like the innocent flower of anti-corruption but he was really the mother corruption serpent under the innocent-looking flower,” Martin Amidu wrote of the president.

    Dr. Kennedy, who is based in the United States, believes that the president has demonstrated a lack of commitment to the fight against corruption. He points to the president’s stance and actions on various critical issues as evidence supporting this claim.

    A prominent member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Kobina Arthur Kennedy

    “The problem is not forming new institutions; it is in our hearts. The president’s body language, his temperament and attitude is not geared towards fighting corruption, and Martin Amidu was right that he is the mother serpent of corruption…” he told JoyNews during an interview.

    He added: “It is a very fair assessment, look at who he appointed as head of the Public Procurement Authority, the person he appointed as head of Public Procurement Authority to begin with had ethical challenges under the Kufuor administration, so, it is not like people didn’t know who he was.

    “But he got the job anyway. Then the president along the line of course is talking about it, he says that this time around we even have a Minister for Public Procurement.

    “Not only that, we have a board of directors for the Public Procurement Authority. In spite of that, the head of Public Procurement Authority forms a private company on the side, that bids for contracts and gets them and sells them on the side, and he did that for years under the very noses of his board of directors and the minister who was supposed to take care of procurement.

    “And all what it took was Manasseh Azure, one journalist, to expose them. So where was the security agencies? Where was the police? Where was the Attorney General’s Department? Where was anybody?” he questioned.

    Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo has on several occasions refuted claims that he does not seek to fight corruption. He clarified that it is not his duty to investigate or sanction individuals accused of corruption, but that of the law enforcement agencies.

  • Akufo-Addo is indeed the mother serpent of corruption; his body language, temperament say it all – Arthur Kennedy

    Akufo-Addo is indeed the mother serpent of corruption; his body language, temperament say it all – Arthur Kennedy

    A prominent member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Kobina Arthur Kennedy, has sided with former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu’s description of President Akufo-Addo as the “mother serpent of corruption.”

    The US-based medical practitioner believes that the president has shown no dedication to the anti-corruption cause. According to him, the president’s posture and actions towards sensitive issues prove him right.

    “The problem is not forming new institutions; it is in our hearts. The president’s body language, his temperament and attitude is not geared towards fighting corruption, and Martin Amidu was right that he is the mother serpent of corruption…” he told JoyNews during an interview.

    He added: “It is a very fair assessment, look at who he appointed as head of the Public Procurement Authority, the person he appointed as head of Public Procurement Authority to begin with had ethical challenges under the Kufuor administration, so, it is not like people didn’t know who he was.

    “But he got the job anyway. Then the president along the line of course is talking about it, he says that this time around we even have a Minister for Public Procurement.

    “Not only that, we have a board of directors for the Public Procurement Authority. In spite of that, the head of Public Procurement Authority forms a private company on the side, that bids for contracts and gets them and sells them on the side, and he did that for years under the very noses of his board of directors and the minister who was supposed to take care of procurement.

    “And all what it took was Manasseh Azure, one journalist, to expose them. So where was the security agencies? Where was the police? Where was the Attorney General’s Department? Where was anybody?” he questioned.

    In a 27-page response to the allegations made by the presidency after his resignation as Special Prosecutor in 2020, Martin Amidu accused President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of being deeply involved in corruption.

    Despite initially having trust in the president’s integrity and anti-corruption stance, Amidu claimed that Akufo-Addo’s actions revealed him as a leader who obstructed his efforts to fulfill his duties.

    “I resigned my position as the Special Prosecutor because of the traumatic experience I suffered from the reaction of the President who breached his Presidential oath by unlawfully obstructing me from taking any further steps on the Agyapa Royalties Transactions from 20th October 2020 to 1 November 2020.”

    “When I met the President on 23rd October 2020, I received the shock of my life when he demanded that I took no further action on the Agyapa royalties transaction anti-corruption assessment report for another week.

    “That was when it was divinely revealed to me that the President whom I trusted so much for integrity only looked like the innocent flower of anti-corruption but he was really the mother corruption serpent under the innocent-looking flower,” Martin Amidu wrote of the president.

    But President Akufo-Addo has, on several occasions, refuted claims that he does not seek to fight corruption. He clarified that it is not his duty to investigate or sanction individuals accused of corruption, but that of the law enforcement agencies.

  • I can no longer eat fufu twice daily due to economic hardship – NPP member laments

    I can no longer eat fufu twice daily due to economic hardship – NPP member laments

    Ama Serwaa, who claims to be a member and delegate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has noted that the current economic conditions the country is facing have affected her nutrition.

    During an interview on TV3, Ama Serwaa revealed that she was able to eat fufu twice daily when she was financially sound, but due to hardships, she finds it difficult to eat fufu once a day.

    “I am hot, I used to eat fufu two times daily, but as of now, I am even struggling with one,” she said.

    For this reason, she has decided to auction her vote to the highest bidder. According to her, the decision stems from the low or no impact of interventions taken by government that are aimed at ensuring the wellbeing of citizens.

    “So for me whoever pays the highest has my vote because we don’t see them after elections. No one is ready to sacrifice for the country, all of us want something to survive on.”

  • NPP member auctions her vote to highest bidder in order to eat fufu twice daily

    NPP member auctions her vote to highest bidder in order to eat fufu twice daily

    Ama Serwaa, who claims to be a member and delegate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has announced that she is willing to sell her vote in the upcoming party’s flagbearership election set for November 4, 2023.

    During an interview on TV3, Ama Serwaa revealed that her financial hardships have become so severe that she can hardly afford to have one meal a day, in stark contrast to her previous situation when she enjoyed two meals daily, including fufu.

    “I am hot, I used to eat fufu two times daily, but as of now, I am even struggling with one, so for me whoever pays the highest has my vote because we don’t see them after elections,” she is quoted to have said.

    On the back of the disappearing act by politicians, she stressed: “no one is ready to sacrifice for the country, all of us want something to survive on.”

    The NPP flagbearership race features four contenders: Kennedy Agyapong, Member of Parliament for Assin Central; Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia; Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto; and Francis Addai-Nimoh.

    The NPP has scheduled the election to choose its new leader on November 4, 2023, as President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s successor.

  • Akosombo Dam-induced flood victims receive GHC10,000, other items from Dzata Foundation, Sam George

    Akosombo Dam-induced flood victims receive GHC10,000, other items from Dzata Foundation, Sam George

    The Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam George, and his wife, Vera George, who serves as the CEO of the Dzata Foundation, have made a generous donation of GHS 10,000, 400 kilograms of rice, and various other supplies to aid the victims of the Akosombo Dam-Induced flood.

    The items were presented to Citi FM for distribution to the affected individuals. During the handover of the items on Wednesday, October 25th, Mrs. Vera George expressed their commitment to offering support to those affected by this unfortunate situation as a modest gesture of care and compassion.

    “We heard about the situation, and we feel and understand the plight of the victims, and we needed to contribute something little to support them in this difficult time. We hope this will go a long way to help ensure some relief is brought to them,” she said.

    Dzata Foundation donates items to flood victims

    Since the spilling commenced on September 15, the Volta River Authority has begun releasing excess water due to the elevated levels in the Akosombo and Kpong hydro dams. Nonetheless, in the subsequent weeks, numerous residents along the Lower Volta Basin have watched their homes and farms overwhelmed by the floods resulting from this intentional spillage.

    Several districts, encompassing South, Central, and North Tongu in the Volta Region, have been at the forefront of this crisis. The communities of Battor, Tefle, Mepe, Sogakope, Adidome, and Anlo have been inundated.

    The impact on the affected individuals has been profound, with over 26,000 people rendered homeless and displaced, according to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NaDMO).

    Victims of the Akosombo dam spillage

    In solidarity, various organisations, institutions, and political leaders have offered relief items and support to the stricken communities.

    The Government, under the purview of the Ministry of Roads and Highways, has allocated a sum of GH¢5 million to address the road infrastructure in regions affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage. 

    This allocation encompasses maintenance activities, including any necessary repairs to the Lower Volta Bridge, commonly referred to as the Sogakope Bridge, in order to rectify any damage caused by the spillage.

    Also, Agric Minister, Bryan Acheampong, has directed that $40 million of World Bank support funding be given to farmers in the Volta Region who have lost their farmlands as a result of the spillage of the Akosombo Dam.

    Meanwhile, the Volta River Authority (VRA) says it has expended a total of GH¢9 million thus far to alleviate the suffering of the 36,000 individuals affected by the flood caused by the Akosombo Dam spillage.

    This sum is a portion of the GH¢20 million fund earmarked to address the challenges faced by residents in nine districts across the Volta and other regions.

  • Kwaprahene likely to be destooled over illegal sale of lands

    Kwaprahene likely to be destooled over illegal sale of lands

    Kwaprahene Baffour Adugyemfu Kumani has been instructed to appear before Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II within two weeks over illegal sale of lands.

    Years ago, Baffour Adugyemfu Kumani is said to have sold four plots of land to an individual in Kwaprah, where he serves as chief. The buyer obtained all the required documents for these four plots and then left for Australia, where he spent several years.

    Upon his return, Nana Kwaprahene, the chief, claimed two of the four plots, asserting that he had been developing the land. He issued new documents for these two plots. Subsequently, the chief took legal action against the landowner to claim the remaining two plots.

    In response, the landowner filed a formal traditional complaint against Kwaprahene during the Kumasi traditional council meeting, chaired by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II on October 20, 2023, at Manhyia Palace. The case was related to a dispute over land and an alleged violation of the Great Asante Oath (Otumfuo Ntamkese).

    There were also allegations of a double sale of lands. The landowner invoked Asantehene’s great oath, Otumfuo Ntamkese, against a private estate developer to prevent further development of the land. However, Kwaprahene instructed the estate developer to disregard the oath and proceed with the development, leading to the landowner’s formal complaint.

    Due to this, he has been summoned. Failure to comply with this summons will result in the chief’s removal from office.

    During a council session on October 20, 2023, the Asantehene accused the subchief of double-selling lands and violating the Great Asante Oath (Otumfuo Ntamkese). The final date for his appearance is expected to be on Friday, November 3, 2023, and he must present himself through the Akwamu division.

    In a video shared by Opemsuo radio, a channel affiliated to Manhyia, a visibly angry Otumfuo states: “Kwaprahene knows why I’m looking for him. He knows I’m looking for him because of the land issue. That’s why he is dodging me with the excuse of sickness, he thinks he is smarter.

    “Go and bring him. I will not take any excuse from him. When he was young he sold my land without giving me my money. I forgave him, you see the issue has returned to me’’ he stated.

    On the deadline, the monarch stressed: “In two weeks, if he doesn’t show up, he should abdicate the throne and all the elders under him are also summarily sacked. Just two weeks, whatever his condition is, he should show up.

    “And you the elders too, I have always cautioned you against his excesses and that you should caution him to change his ways (but you have failed),” he added.

  • Liberia’s presidential election heads into run-off, George Weah competes Joseph Boakai

    Liberia’s presidential election heads into run-off, George Weah competes Joseph Boakai

    Liberia is heading for a run-off election next month after the initial round of voting resulted in a close race between President George Weah and his main rival, Joseph Boakai.

    In the first round held on October 10, Weah secured 43.83% of the vote, while Boakai, a former vice-president, received 43.44%. This election marks the closest presidential contest in Liberia since the end of the civil war nearly two decades ago.

    A run-off was anticipated due to neither candidate achieving over 50% of the vote in the first round. The run-off is scheduled for November 14, according to Davidetta Browne, the head of the electoral commission.

    Boakai, 78, performed better than expected, closely approaching Weah’s vote share. In the previous 2017 election, Boakai lost to Weah by a significant margin.

    In this election, Boakai campaigned under the slogan “Rescue,” accusing Weah, a 57-year-old former international football star, of leading Liberia into decline during his first term. Weah countered these allegations, citing achievements such as the introduction of free tuition for university students.

    At a press conference last week, Mr Boakai urged fellow opposition candidates to join the “rescue team for a resounding victory”.

    “We are reaching out to our brothers and sisters in the opposition and Liberians in general to join us in this noble mission of making our country breathe freely again.”

    Mr Boakai served as vice-president in the government of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who became president after the end of a brutal civil war about 20 years ago.

    He pledged that if he was elected president, he would form a “government of inclusion that truly reflects the political, social and religious diversity of the citizens”.

    None of the 18 other candidates received more than 3% of the vote.

  • Illegal sale of lands: Otumfuo orders Kwaprahene to appear before him in 2 weeks or lose position

    Illegal sale of lands: Otumfuo orders Kwaprahene to appear before him in 2 weeks or lose position

    Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has issued a summons to one of his subchiefs, Kwaprahene Baffour Adugyemfu Kumani, instructing him to appear before him within two weeks.

    Failure to comply with this summons will result in the chief’s removal from office.

    During a council session on October 20, 2023, the Asantehene accused the subchief of double-selling lands and violating the Great Asante Oath (Otumfuo Ntamkese). The final date for his appearance is expected to be on Friday, November 3, 2023, and he must present himself through the Akwamu division.

    In a video shared by Opemsuo radio, a channel affiliated to Manhyia, a visibly angry Otumfuo states: “Kwaprahene knows why I’m looking for him. He knows I’m looking for him because of the land issue. That’s why he is dodging me with the excuse of sickness, he thinks he is smarter.

    “Go and bring him. I will not take any excuse from him. When he was young he sold my land without giving me my money. I forgave him, you see the issue has returned to me’’ he stated.

    On the deadline, the monarch stressed: “In two weeks, if he doesn’t show up, he should abdicate the throne and all the elders under him are also summarily sacked. Just two weeks, whatever his condition is, he should show up.

    “And you the elders too, I have always cautioned you against his excesses and that you should caution him to change his ways (but you have failed),” he added.

    Years ago, Baffour Adugyemfu Kumani is said to have sold four plots of land to an individual in Kwaprah, where he serves as Chief. The buyer obtained all the required documents for these four plots and then left for Australia, where he spent several years.

    Upon his return, Nana Kwaprahene, the chief, claimed two of the four plots, asserting that he had been developing the land. He issued new documents for these two plots. Subsequently, the chief took legal action against the landowner to claim the remaining two plots.

    In response, the landowner filed a formal traditional complaint against Kwaprahene during the Kumasi traditional council meeting, chaired by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II on October 20, 2023, at Manhyia Palace. The case was related to a dispute over land and an alleged violation of the Great Asante Oath (Otumfuo Ntamkese).

    There were also allegations of a double sale of lands. The landowner invoked Asantehene’s great oath, Otumfuo Ntamkese, against a private estate developer to prevent further development of the land. However, Kwaprahene instructed the estate developer to disregard the oath and proceed with the development, leading to the landowner’s formal complaint.

  • Divinity and science: Why Kantanka did not receive government support up until now

    Divinity and science: Why Kantanka did not receive government support up until now

    Former President John Dramani Mahama has provided insights into why Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, the founder of the Great Kosa Company, faced challenges in securing essential support for his automotive firm from successive governments.

    During a discussion about why the automotive company struggled to secure capital investment, the former president noted that governments, including the one led by the late Jerry John Rawlings, faced difficulties in comprehending the precise nature of Apostle Kantanka’s work.

    Mahama explained that although the government expressed a desire to assist, Apostle Kantanka didn’t adequately demonstrate that his work was rooted in science. This lack of clarity hindered efforts to attract investors.

    “When you say God gave you a vision and you took an ant hill and built an engine, I mean no bank would give you money, you get my point. To build a car, you must build the car. You need metals, (sic), you must make the engine… if it is an electric car, you must do the circuiting and all that.

    “It is all science-based. I was in the first government of Rawlings and that was when a delegation was sent to see how he can be helped but he told us it is divine… If it is divine, then God would give that capital to do it – you get my point,” he said.

    Mahama, who also serves as the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2024 election, emphasized that Kwadwo Safo Kantanka Jnr, Apostle Kantanka’s son who now leads the company, has effectively articulated the company’s activities.

    “So, we could not get proof of what really to help him with but his son has taken over the business and his son says it is an assembling plant – we are importing the components and we are building the vehicle. And so now the government has started to buy Kantanka cars, I have seen the police using some of them and so on,” he said.

    Currently, the Ghana Police Service utilitises some vehicles made by Kantanka.

  • ‘It is divine’ – What Kantanka told delegation in Rawlings’ regime during investment visit

    ‘It is divine’ – What Kantanka told delegation in Rawlings’ regime during investment visit

    Former President John Dramani Mahama has noted that during the J. J. Rawlings administration, a delegation was sent to the founder of the Great Kosa Company, Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, to discuss how the government could support his local business.

    He disclosed this information when questioned about why successive government’s did not see the growth of the automobile company.

    According to Mr Mahama, the government expressed interest in assisting, but Apostle Kantanka failed to sufficiently demonstrate the scientific basis of his work, making it challenging to secure investors.

    He noted that during their interaction, Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka said he had a vision from God and worked on that. Capital is needed to see to the growth of the company, but when asked how government could support, Apostle Kantanka is alleged to have said, “it is divine.”

    “When you say God gave you a vision and you took an ant hill and built an engine, I mean no bank would give you money, you get my point. To build a car, you must build the car. You need metals, (sic), you must make the engine… if it is an electric car, you must do the circuiting and all that.

    “It is all science-based. I was in the first government of Rawlings and that was when a delegation was sent to see how he can be helped but he told us it is divine… If it is divine then God would give that capital to do it – you get my point,” Mr Mahama said.

    Currently, the automobile company is receiving assistance from the current government and according to the former president this is because Apostle Kantanka’s son, Kwadwo Safo Kantanka Jnr, who has now assumed control of the company, has effectively articulated the company’s activities.

    “So, we could not get proof of what really to help him with but his son has taken over the business and his son says it is an assembling plant – we are importing the components and we are building the vehicle. And so now the government has started to buy Kantanka cars, I have seen the police using some of them and so on,” he said.

    He indicated that the use of Kanatanka vehicles by state agencies is a good starting point to help the company grow.

  • $140m judgement debt could have been avoided – IMANI Africa

    $140m judgement debt could have been avoided – IMANI Africa

    A Senior Research Associate at IMANI Africa, Dennis Asare, believes that the $140 million Trafigura judgment debt could have been avoided.

    He also placed blame on the Attorney General’s office for advising the government to terminate the power purchase agreement with the Ghana Power Generating Company (GPGC), a subsidiary of Trafigura.

    In 2017, the government acted on the advice of the Attorney General and terminated the agreement due to high tariffs, which they claimed would have cost the state $115,480,000.

    Other reasons cited included alleged illegality, lack of capacity for GPGC to enter into a Power Purchase Agreement, failure to obtain necessary permits, and the installation of used plant contrary to policy.

    However, according to the IMANI Research Associate, with proper due diligence, the government could have avoided this debt, which now threatens to cost the country some of its assets in the UK.

    “You could see that at every point in time, the IPP was trying to find a way to ensure that this agreement went through but the government had already decided from the Power Purchase Agreement Committee’s report that this one must be terminated.

    “And so they were looking for opportunities right within the agreement to get off this deal. And you can say it is part of our poor planning as well as the ill advice from the Attorney-General’s office. I see that this is a cost that could have been avoided,” he told JoyNews in an interview.

    The Ghana High Commission building in the UK, which houses visa and other services, the commissioner’s residence, the Ghana International Bank building, and other properties are in jeopardy of being auctioned to settle a $140 million judgment debt awarded to Singaporean firm, Trafigura.

    Trafigura, the majority owner of the power company GPGC, obtained the award in January 2021 following a London arbitral tribunal’s finding that Ghana had unlawfully terminated a contract for the installation and operation of two power plants.

    While the government asserts that the Finance Ministry is taking steps to settle the debt, Ghana’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Papa Owusu Ankomah, attributes the default to the government’s financial constraints.

    Dennis Asare points out that since the ruling was made in 2021, the government had ample time to negotiate a payment plan with Trafigura. The government’s current denial puts several crucial assets of Ghana, including Regina House, which houses the International Bank of Ghana, at risk.

    “We had the opportunity to negotiate and plan how to pay out the debt and we’ve not been able to do that and currently there is no fund available in terms of mitigating some of the judgement debts that may arise out of the termination of contracts,” he stated.

  • You erred in preventing EC from mounting witness box in 2020 Election petition case – Former judge tells Supreme Court

    You erred in preventing EC from mounting witness box in 2020 Election petition case – Former judge tells Supreme Court

    Former Appeals Court judge, Justice Saeed Kwaku Gyan, has expressed his disappointment with the Supreme Court’s handling of the 2020 election petition.

    Justice Gyan accused the Court of shielding Electoral Commissioner, Jean Mensa, from being held accountable for her role in the election process.

    During a public lecture organized by Solidare Ghana in collaboration with the University of Ghana, Justice Gyan criticized the Court’s decision to prevent Jean Mensa from testifying. The event, held under the theme “Protecting Our Democracy: The Role of the Judiciary,” provided a platform for the former judge to voice his concerns.

    In his address at the University of Ghana, Justice Gyan emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in the democratic process.

    He argued that Jean Mensa should have been allowed to testify to provide an account of the electoral process to the people of Ghana.

    “The Electoral Commissioner was the returning officer. She was accountable to the people of this country. And the Supreme Court ought to have allowed her to go into the witness box and account for the people of this country. They shielded to the detriment of our country for today, and maybe for tomorrow,” he said on Tuesday, October 24.

    Justice Gyan condemned the Supreme Court’s unwillingness to hold institutions accountable and suggested that this decision might have lasting consequences for the nation.

    “And it is a very, very shameful situation. It doesn’t show that our Supreme Court is prepared to make our institutions accountable. If they cannot vote, even the EC, how can they hold the President accountable?”

    His comments provide valuable insights into the ongoing discussions surrounding the judiciary’s role in upholding democracy, emphasizing the crucial need for transparency and accountability within the electoral process.

    This particular case was initiated by John Dramani Mahama, the 2020 Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    He is a former President of Ghana who had previously lost the 2016 election and subsequently contested the 2020 polls with the aim of returning to power.

    In line with the established procedures for hearing petitions in Ghana, Mr. Mahama included Ghana’s electoral management body, the Electoral Commission, and Nana Akufo-Addo as respondents.