The Ghana Legal Council’s (GLC) recent decision to decline the application of Ghanaian social media influencer Elomi Ababio, known as Ama Governor, to be admitted to the Bar has sparked mixed reactions among social media users. Some have commended the Council’s action, while others have criticized it.
In a letter dated October 13, the GLC cited concerns related to Ama Governor’s public behavior before her application for admission.
Prominent figures such as Ghanaian actress Lydia Forson and #FixTheCountry Convener, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, have voiced their opposition to the GLC’s ruling and cautioned against online harassment of Ama Governor.
There is a segment of social media users who argue that Ama Governor’s affiliation with the LGBTQ+ community disqualifies her from being called to the Bar. They express satisfaction with the GLC’s decision and call on Ama Governor to reconsider her actions.
In response, Oliver Barker-Vormawor noted that these individuals who are parading themselves morally upright fail to be moral themselves when it comes to abuse against the LGBTQ community.
“Particularly since there are so many of you, that will happily justify this abuse of power because it is Ama Governor! And as I have come to understand slowly your moral superiority looks the other way when persons perceived to be gay suffer abuse.”
He continued: “But truly, this has nothing to do with Ama Governor’s perceived sexuality. It is not! It is something more insidious; and explains why this country continues to fail to rise above its station!”
Oliver Barker-Vormawor, rebuked the GLC for the “abuse of power”. He noted that the Council seeks to impose a culture of silence and encourages the culture of exploitation.
What the GLC has done is really about it’s role in enforcing a culture of silence and observience that protects this system and culture of exploitation. They need conformity, control and the need for you to remember from time to time that they can control your life and take away your ambitions and future. That’s how they keep the system protected from attack from their own corner. That is what has made many law students and lawyers cockholds; and disempowered many of them as agents of change,” he wrote.
We need to put what the General Legal Council has done into its proper context. Particularly since there are so many of you, that will happily justify this abuse of power because it is Ama Governor! And as I have come to understand slowly your moral superiority looks the other… pic.twitter.com/ukFPsFFxR2
— Osagyefo Oliver Barker-Vormawor (@barkervogues) October 19, 2023
The government has issued a fifteen-year mining lease to Barari DV Ghana Limited, a subsidiary of Atlantic Lithium Limited, enabling them to commence lithium mining in Ewoyaa, within the Mfantseman Municipality of the Central Region.
This lease comes with updated and enhanced terms designed to ensure the optimal benefit of the country from the extraction of this mineral. These terms encompass an increased royalty rate, the participation of the state and Ghanaian stakeholders, and value addition to the mined mineral.
The issuance of this mining lease follows the completion of prospecting and feasibility studies by the company, along with extensive negotiations between the government and the company.
The mining lease covers an approximate area of 42.63 square kilometers, granting the company exclusive rights to exploit and produce lithium and associated minerals in accordance with the country’s mining regulations.
Lithium is a primary mineral used in the production of lithium-ion batteries, which are advocated as an alternative to fossil fuels as the world grapples with climate change. The burning of fossil fuels by internal combustion engines is a major contributor to the climate crisis.
To address this issue, global leaders are promoting a transition to green energy to reduce and ultimately eliminate carbon emissions. Some countries have already enacted legislation to phase out fossil fuel-powered vehicles, creating a growing market for the battery industry and the minerals essential for battery production, often referred to as green minerals or critical minerals. Currently, many African countries that mine lithium export the mineral in its raw form.
Barari Ltd. began exploring for lithium in the country in 2017 and discovered high-grade lithium in commercial quantities in Ewoyaa. Geological investigations also indicate deposits in various parts of the country, from the south to the north, predominantly around Cape Coast, Kumasi, Sunyani, Bole, and Wa. However, the country has not yet begun mining this mineral.
During a brief ceremony to sign a mining lease for Barari DV Ltd., the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, explained that the government decided not to treat lithium the same way as other minerals have been treated. As a result, a special policy for the exploitation and management of this mineral was deemed necessary before granting any mining lease.
After extensive consultations and approval by Cabinet, a policy for the exploitation and management of green minerals, including lithium, was endorsed by Parliament and integrated into the mining lease issued to the company.
“The lease we are signing today differs from our standard mining lease in that, it incorporates the agreed terms we have concluded with the company, based on the policy approved by Cabinet,” the minister explained.
Mr. Jinapor emphasized that the agreed terms provide the Government and the people of Ghana with greater value in the mining of lithium. He highlighted key aspects of the lease, including:
An increased royalty rate from the standard 5% to 10%.
An increase in the state’s free-carried interest in the mining operation from 10% to 13%.
The acquisition of an additional 6% in the mining operation by the government through the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF).
The government will also secure a 3.06% stake in the company’s parent entity, listed on the Australian and London Stock Exchanges.
The requirement for the company to list on the Ghana Stock Exchange to allow Ghanaian entities, such as pension funds and individuals, to participate in the business.
The commitment of the company to contribute 1% of its revenue to a Community Development Fund, which will be used for the development of communities affected by its operations.
The company’s obligation is to establish a chemical plant for lithium processing. If the company is unable to establish such a plant, it will provide its lithium to third-party chemical plants in the country, promoting job creation and development in mining communities and across Ghana.
Mr. Jinapor emphasized the government’s recognition of the impact of mining on local communities and its commitment to ensuring that these communities, as well as Ghanaian citizens who legally own these minerals, benefit from their exploitation.
He urged the Company to strictly adhere to the country’s mining laws and the agreement with the government, engaging in responsible, sustainable, and environmentally sound mining practices.
The Executive Chairman of Atlantic Lithium Limited, Mr. Niel Herbert, expressed gratitude to the Minister and the Government for their collaboration in reaching this milestone.
He stressed the significance of the Ewoyaa project to the company and its willingness to work with the government to ensure the effective utilization of this mineral for the benefit of Ghanaians. Mr. Herbert pledged the company’s commitment to abiding by Ghana’s laws and ensuring a safe mining environment.
The Ghana Legal Council’s (GLC) decision to reject Ghanaian social media influencer Elomi Ababio’s request to be called to the Bar has met divided opinions, with a section of X users lauding the Council, while others condemn the resolution.
In a letter dated October 13 to Elomi Ababio, popularly known as Ama Governor, the Council noted that its rejection was based on account of elements noted in your public conduct prior to the application.
The likes of Lydia Forson, a Ghanaian actress, #FixTheCountry Convener, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, have opposed the GLC’s decision and warned against the trolling of Ama Governor.
A number of X users have noted that Ama Governor’s affiliation with the LGBTQ+ community makes her unfit to be called to the Bar. For many, they are elated by the Council’s decision and have called on Ama Governor to mend her ways.
Reacting to this, Lydia Forson has jabbed these critics, noting that they would not be remembered in history as they would be forgotten for failing to stand against the system.
“Ama Govenor will be fine, she may suffer a lot of pain, hurt, and frustration, but eventually she will be fine. History never remembers the silent, but those who challenged the system and made their voices heard. You and your trolling on the other hand will be forgotten,” she wrote.
Oliver Barker-Vormawor, on the other hand, rebuked the GLC for the “abuse of power”. He noted that the Council seeks to impose a culture of silence and encourages the culture of exploitation.
“Particularly since there are so many of you, that will happily justify this abuse of power because it is Ama Governor! And as I have come to understand slowly your moral superiority looks the other way when persons perceived to be gay suffer abuse. But truly, this has nothing to do with Ama Governor’s perceived sexuality.
“It is not! It is something more insidious; and explains why this country continues to fail to rise above its station! What the GLC has done is really about it’s role in enforcing a culture of silence and observience that protects this system and culture of exploitation. They need conformity, control and the need for you to remember from time to time that they can control your life and take away your ambitions and future. That’s how they keep the system protected from attack from their own corner. That is what has made many law students and lawyers cockholds; and disempowered many of them as agents of change,” he wrote in an X post.
We need to put what the General Legal Council has done into its proper context. Particularly since there are so many of you, that will happily justify this abuse of power because it is Ama Governor! And as I have come to understand slowly your moral superiority looks the other… pic.twitter.com/ukFPsFFxR2
— Osagyefo Oliver Barker-Vormawor (@barkervogues) October 19, 2023
Interestingly, the Independent Ghana while reporting on the recent matter, discovered that Barker-Vormawor and Ama Governor do have some sort of relationship.
It cannot be said that the two are allies, but one can say they do have a cordial relationship.
On October 1, Ama Governor, shared images of her conversation with Barker Vormawor.
The conversation begins with Ama Governor asking if Oliver sides with the National Democratic Congress (NDC). This question was premised on the allegations that Oliver is an NDC member due to his stern criticism of the NPP government.
Oliver denied siding with the NDC. “Never have been. Never will be” he wrote.
In response, Ama wrote: “Oh Lord. Why are these people lying?. Tsw. Love you forever Oliver.”
Oliver then informs Ama that he a staunch supporter of the Convention People’s Party (CPP).
“Never even voted for either the NDC or NPP. Always voted CPP and only ever people to vote the CPP.”
Oliver then told Ama that on social media “people say all kinds of things”.
Later, Ama asked for Oliver’s permission to share their conversation to the public. An unperturbed Oliver said “Sure. Nothing out”.
Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has confirmed the establishment of a monitoring desk jointly operated by the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to oversee the financial matters of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).
The purpose of this initiative is to instill financial discipline in COCOBOD’s expenditure.
COCOBOD, tasked with supervising cocoa production and exports in the country, has been facing substantial annual losses, which the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has identified as a significant threat to both the sector and the government’s fiscal endeavors.
Per reports from JoyNews, the Minister emphasized that the procurement of fertilizers and the construction of cocoa roads will be closely monitored to ensure strict adherence to budgetary constraints.
“Both the Governor of the Central Bank and the Minister of Finance – myself, will now be on the Board and we also setting up a desk at the Finance Ministry that will interact with the finance division of COCOBOD to make sure the issues of fertilizers, cocoa road are all brought into an ambit of discipline. Those begin to tell you how we are getting into the issue of expenditure,” he said.
The Finance Minister is in London for negotiations with the nation’s external creditors, seeking their agreement to a 40 percent reduction in the planned restructuring of Ghana’s $10 billion debt.
A successful outcome of these negotiations would pave the way for the disbursement of the second tranche of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Mr. Ofori-Atta expresses his optimism that a favorable agreement will be reached before the year’s end.
“I am sure most people were expecting to be sometime next year but I think we will be able to do it before next year.”
In the meantime, President Akufo-Addo remains hopeful that the Ghanaian economy is on a path to recovery, even in the face of the challenges his administration has encountered.
He points out that inflation, a significant contributing factor, is steadily decreasing, signaling a favorable economic outlook.
As a result, he is confident in achieving a single-digit inflation target before the conclusion of his term in 2024.
A Senior Research Fellow of the Kumasi Technical University, Professor Smart Sarpong, has called on Ghanaians to be temperate in their criticism of President Akufo-Addo over his recent remarks when he visited victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage.
In his words on October 19, the president said: “I came here because Ghanaians are having difficulties and suffering. And it is my responsibility to try and help.
“Because if it is the question of counting who votes for me and who doesn’t vote for me, I shouldn’t be here because you don’t vote for me. But that is not my concern. And in any event, one day you would vote for me and my party.”
Since his comments, the president has been chided by some members of the general public who believe the president’s utterances do not correlate with the sad situation of citizens who have lost their properties to flooding.
Reacting to the development, Professor Smart Sarpong admitted that the president’s remarks were not the best considering the situation, however, he called for tempers to quieten as the president was exhibiting the kind of politics practiced in the continent.
“For the golden issue, you can say he (President Akufo-Addo) should have avoided it but then those who are being mischievous must be moderate with it because you understand that type of politics very well. You have even said worse. It is on the internet. We who are listening, let’s relax. What kind of difficult politics are we doing. We overstretch the politics in Africa too much,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the Queen Mother of Mepe, Mamaga Adzo Srako IV, has criticised the media for taking President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s recent remarks, made during his visit to console flood victims, out of context.
During a media engagement, she mentioned that the humorous comment he made about not gaining many votes from the region was merely a lighthearted comment that the media milked 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.
She went on to express her regret that the media’s focus on these minor remarks had overshadowed the real issue: the dire situation faced by the flood-stricken people, who are currently grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis.
“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.
For about a week, a section of the Volta Region has had to bear the consequences of the Akosombo Dam spillage, where several people have been displaced and farms destroyed.
Akosombo Dam is a hydroelectric power plant that generates electricity from the Volta River. The dam has a reservoir that can store water up to a maximum level of 276 feet.
However, due to heavy rainfall in the upstream areas, the water level in the reservoir has been rising steadily, threatening to overflow the dam.
To prevent this, the Volta River Authority (VRA), which operates the dam, has been spilling excess water from the dam into the downstream areas.
With the support of the World Bank, the government has successfully concluded the process of rationalizing certain social intervention programs, including the Free Senior High School (SHS) initiative.
Some of these programs have drawn increased attention from the nation’s development partners due to concerns about rising expenditures.
The primary objective is to encourage the government to reduce the country’s growing debt burden and create additional fiscal space. As part of this rationalization, certain programs may undergo reviews regarding their funding.
Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta will provide further insights into this development during an upcoming episode of the PM Express Business Edition, scheduled to air on Thursday, October 19, 2023.
“These are parts of the structural benchmarks that were needed for the (IMF) approval,” he said.
Mr. Ofori-Atta emphasized the importance of reviewing these programs to facilitate the disbursement of approximately $500 million by the World Bank under the IMF program for Ghana by December 2023.
He further revealed that a total of around 17 programs were evaluated and will be included in the 2024 budget, with comprehensive information provided.
Characterizing the forthcoming funds from the World Bank as well-timed, Mr. Ofori-Atta underscored that this development underscores the government’s commitment to meeting all the necessary benchmarks for fully restoring the economy to a path of recovery.
“If you look at everything, it continues to show the favour that we have found and the hard break that we have done”, he said.
Additionally, Mr. Ofori-Atta mentioned that the Ghana Financial Stabilization Fund will lead to an injection of approximately $250 million from the World Bank to bolster this financial institution.
He expressed optimism that this funding will contribute to the reinforcement of bank recapitalization efforts, especially local banks that have been significantly impacted by the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme.
The Accra High Court has ruled that it does not consider the Minister of Trade, Kobina Tahir Hammond (also known as K.T. Hammond) guilty of contempt concerning certain statements made regarding the verdict of the James Gyakye Quayson trial.
Justice Mary Yanzuh, the presiding judge, explained that the legal team representing Assin North MP, James Gyakye Quayson, failed to provide the complete interview necessary to establish the accused’s guilt.
“It was incumbent on the applicant to exhibit the full interview. Without the full complement of the interview, the court is deprived of the opportunity to know exactly what was said.
“The court cannot rely on the manifestly incomplete publication to rule on a man who denies the content of the publication. There is no room for conjecture. Evidence was required,” Justice Yanzuh said.
Mr. Quayson’s legal representatives had requested the High Court to take action against Mr. Hammond, citing his comment that James Quayson might as well vacate his parliamentary seat as he could ultimately face imprisonment.
This request stemmed from an interview the Minister conducted with Oyerepa TV, during which he drew parallels between the Quayson case and that of former legislator Adamu Sakande.
“There is something we call precedence at the court. This is the same thing that happened with Adamu Sakande. He came to this House…the same NDC (National Democratic Congress) members were the ones who sacked him from Parliament and took him to court. He was imprisoned and he eventually died and was buried. It is the same matter,” he said.
“They are making all kinds of noise about his swearing-in. I prompted the former Deputy Attorney General, Dominic Ayine to tell the gentleman that we have seen this before in this House. He should leave this House before he would be jailed,” he added.
In July 2012, an Accra High Court convicted Adamu Dramani Sakande, a Member of Parliament for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) representing Bawku Central. He was found guilty of perjury and forgery after he did not renounce his UK citizenship before running for the Bawku seat.
Sakande was sentenced to two years in prison, serving concurrently on all counts.
Achimota School and its supporters are elated after securing their position at the grand finale of the 2023 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ).
Wesley Girls’ High School, Achimota School, and St. Louis SHS competed in the first semifinal round of the NSMQ today.
These schools from various contests proved to be formidable and as such the assumption was guessing the victor today will be a herculean task.
But Achimota School made sure that was not the case. Right from the get go, Motown, as popularly called took the lead position and managed to maintain that till the end of the race.
It was not an easy venture as Wesley Girls’ High School trailed Motown. But their arsenal was not enough to emerge victorious at the end of the contest.
With 41 points, Achimota School catapulted themselves to the final contest of this year’s NSMQ.
End of Round 1:
Achimota School: 22pts St. Louis SHS: 15pts Wesley Girls’ High School: 08pts
End of Round 2:
Achimota School: 20pts Wesley Girls’ High School: 17pts St. Louis SHS: 16pts
Problem of the Day:
Wesley Girls’ High School: 4/10 Achimota School: 2/10 St. Louis SHS: 0/10
End of Round 4:
Achimota School: 38pts Wesley Girls’ High School: 31pts St. Louis SHS: 23pts
End of contest:
Achimota School: 41pts Wesley Girls’ High School: 31pts St. Louis SHS: 26pts
Meanwhile, at 1:30pm, Opoku Ware School, Pope John SHS & Seminary and Prempeh College will slug it out.
The last contest for today at 5:30pm will feature Keta SHTS, Mfantsipim School and PRESEC Legon.
The victors will join Achimota School for the much-anticipated grand finale.
It is alleged again that some personnel at the Scholarship Secretariat are offering foreign scholarships for sale at exorbitant prices.
X user @GhanaCrimes noted that its attention has been drawn to a bribery incident were “a foreign scholarship was allegedly offered for sale at an amount of $10,000 or its cedi equivalent.”
The X user noted that, per information gathered, this is the habit of some personnel at the Secretariat “but the Secretariat uses the excuse of ‘unscrupulous people are behind it’ to hoodwink the public.”
“Whereas there are sale of foreign scholarships, local scholarships slots are also given out to undeserving party people who in turn sell it out to third parties as they themselves don’t need it,” @GhanaCrimes further noted.
🚨SCANDAL: Scholarship Secretariat allegedly sells foreign scholarship for Gh¢70,000+
A scandal is brewing at the Scholarship Secretariat in which a foreign scholarship was allegedly offered for sale at an amount of $10,000 or its cedi equivalent. pic.twitter.com/7Le8fwBQDe
This post has garnered immense reaction from other users on X who say they have fallen victim or are aware of individuals who have been victims.
Here are some testimonies from users.
This is not the first time such allegations have been levelled against the Secretariat. Such claims surfaced in 2021
Also, on September 24, policy analyst and Vice President of Imani Africa, Selorm Branttie, made the same allegation and called on the Office of the Special Prosecutor, headed by Kissi Agyebeng to probe the matter urgently to bring perpetrators to book.
“Dear OSP: There is someone at the scholarships secretariat who charges GH¢70k to approve scholarships,” he wrote on his Facebook page.
Meanwhile, the Scholarship Secretariat is yet to comment on the matter.
Some users of X (formerly known as Twitter) have criticised the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMeT) over its advice to the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) on the need for victims of the dam spillages to be relocated.
According to the Agency, this has become imperative due to additional rainfall expected in the lower Volta Basin, an area already severely affected by the release of water from the Akosombo Dam, in the coming days.
Head of Central Analysis and Forecasting at GMeT, Felicity Ahafianyo, stressed that promptly relocating would mitigate the risks associated with the ongoing and expected rainfall in the region.
She further elaborated that the weather forecast indicates the likelihood of rain in the North Tongu area and its environs until October 23rd.
“Rain is still in the forecast for North Tongu and its environs. Between now and the 23rd of October, rain is still in the forecast over the lower Volta basin area,” she said.
“I think from our point, we will also add our voice for our brothers and sisters to relocate, and listen to the authorities, NADMO, VRA, and all other authorities. They should relocate to a safer place,” she added.
But this advice, according to some X users, is insufficient, as possible areas for relocation have not been suggested.
— anna-maria the hopeful romantic (@heyannamaria) October 18, 2023
A user suggested the use of the Saglemi Housing Project which has been abandoned. This suggestion has also been made by some Civil Society Organisations (CSOs).
Presently, residents in Mepe, situated in the North Tongu district, and various areas of the Volta region are contending with the aftermath of the recent release of water from the Akosombo Dam, leading to the inundation of their homes and resulting in substantial losses.
The Volta River Authority (VRA) decision to discharge excess water from the Akosombo and Kpong hydroelectric dams, while crucial for dam safety, has posed a multitude of challenges for the affected communities.
Dwellings, farmlands, and even burial grounds have been submerged in floodwaters, disrupting vital services like water and electricity supply and compelling the relocation of residents to higher ground for their safety.
The VRA has defended the controlled spillage due to the rapid filling of both dams to full capacity, primarily due to upstream precipitation.
Engineers at the VRA have underscored the pivotal importance of maintaining water levels within the dams to avert the potential risk of dam failure, emphasizing the necessity of this controlled discharge to safeguard the structural integrity of the dams.
The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMeT) has urged the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) and other relevant authorities to take immediate action to relocate victims of the dam spillages to safer areas.
According to the Agency, this has become imperative due to additional rainfall expected in the lower Volta Basin, an area already severely affected by the release of water from the Akosombo Dam, in the coming days.
Head of Central Analysis and Forecasting at GMeT, Felicity Ahafianyo, stressed that promptly relocating would mitigate the risks associated with the ongoing and expected rainfall in the region.
She further elaborated that the weather forecast indicates the likelihood of rain in the North Tongu area and its environs until October 23rd.
“Rain is still in the forecast for North Tongu and its environs. Between now and the 23rd of October, rain is still in the forecast over the lower Volta basin area,” she said.
“I think from our point, we will also add our voice for our brothers and sisters to relocate, and listen to the authorities, NADMO, VRA, and all other authorities. They should relocate to a safer place,” she added.
Presently, residents in Mepe, situated in the North Tongu district, and various areas of the Volta region are contending with the aftermath of the recent release of water from the Akosombo Dam, leading to the inundation of their homes and resulting in substantial losses.
The Volta River Authority (VRA) decision to discharge excess water from the Akosombo and Kpong hydroelectric dams, while crucial for dam safety, has posed a multitude of challenges for the affected communities.
Dwellings, farmlands, and even burial grounds have been submerged in floodwaters, disrupting vital services like water and electricity supply and compelling the relocation of residents to higher ground for their safety.
The VRA has defended the controlled spillage due to the rapid filling of both dams to full capacity, primarily due to upstream precipitation.
Engineers at the VRA have underscored the pivotal importance of maintaining water levels within the dams to avert the potential risk of dam failure, emphasizing the necessity of this controlled discharge to safeguard the structural integrity of the dams.
Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, has stated that the Youth in Agriculture Programme (YIAP) has been integrated into the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) program to facilitate the entry of the younger generation into agriculture with minimal challenges.
Under this initiative, the government will be providing about 200,000 youths with an average farm size of 10 acres as part of efforts to boost agriculture in the country and ensure food security.
The Agric Minister made this known during his speech at the conference regarding YIAP, which took place on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at the Cedi Conference Centre, University of Ghana.
“Our invitation to young people to go into agriculture is not a hole and cutlass business. Through the collaboration between the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the YEA under the banner, “PFJ 2.0 Youth in Agriculture,” we are going to put 200,000 youth into permanent work in agriculture with each individual cultivating an average farm size of 10 acres,” Bryan Acheampong said.
He further explained that “this will mean putting 400,000 hectares of arable land under cultivation. The target commodities under this intervention would include maize, rice, and vegetables.”
“However, if we put all the 400,000 hectares of land under rice cultivation alone, we will exceed our food self-sufficiency production target of 1.8 million metric tonnes in two years instead of the five-year plan under the Planting for Food and Jobs Programme,” he added.
Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo has emphasized that the future of Ghana’s agriculture hinges on the youth.
According to the president, the government is reliant on the youths’ energy, novel concepts, and inventive approaches to enhance the overall prosperity of Ghana.
In light of this, he issued a passionate appeal to all young Ghanaians, regardless of their educational background, to unite in support of the government’s latest flagship program, “Youth in Agriculture.” He encouraged them to consider agriculture as a lifelong career choice.
“Sustaining Ghana’s agriculture is dependent on the youth. The youth are the future of this country, and we count on their vibrancy, fresh ideas, and innovation to improve our collective fortune,” President Akufo-Addo said.
He added: “Agriculture, a major sector of the economy awaits the participation of the youth both educated and uneducated. This dialogue, this platform is a valuable step towards harnessing the potential of the youth to address the challenges in the agriculture sector. Realized, this will ensure the sustainable development of agriculture for the overall benefit of our country.”
YIAP
The Youth in Agriculture Programme (YIAP) represents an agricultural sector initiative by the Government of Ghana (GOG) designed to inspire and encourage young individuals to view farming and food production as viable commercial enterprises, thereby choosing agriculture as a lifelong career.
The YIAP is entrusted with the role of mobilizing young people to embrace farming and its related activities as a lifelong pursuit. This approach offers several advantages, such as employment opportunities for the youth, the provision of tractor services, and the supply of agricultural inputs.
The overarching objective of the Youth in Agriculture Programme is to cultivate a mindset among the youth that views farming as a lucrative business endeavor. It aims to generate substantial income to address farmers’ personal and domestic needs, enhance the quality of life for young individuals through increased income, encourage them to remain in rural areas by providing inputs at their farm gates on a credit basis without interest, and employ modern techniques to produce an ample supply of food crops, meat, and fish.
The Youth in Agriculture encompasses four main components: Crops/Block Farm, Livestock and Poultry, Fisheries/Aquaculture, and Agribusiness. This initiative is open to individuals interested in farming, groups of young men and women within the community eager to engage in agriculture, and institutions dedicated to farmer training.
President Akufo-Addo has emphasized that the future of Ghana’s agriculture hinges on the youth.
According to the president, the government is reliant on the youths’ energy, novel concepts, and inventive approaches to enhance the overall prosperity of Ghana.
In light of this, he issued a passionate appeal to all young Ghanaians, regardless of their educational background, to unite in support of the government’s latest flagship program, “Youth in Agriculture.” He encouraged them to consider agriculture as a lifelong career choice.
He issued this call during his speech at the presidential conference regarding the “Youth in Agriculture” initiative, which took place on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at the Cedi Conference Centre, University of Ghana.
“Sustaining Ghana’s agriculture is dependent on the youth. The youth are the future of this country, and we count on their vibrancy, fresh ideas, and innovation to improve our collective fortune,” President Akufo-Addo said.
He added: “Agriculture, a major sector of the economy awaits the participation of the youth both educated and uneducated. This dialogue, this platform is a valuable step towards harnessing the potential of the youth to address the challenges in the agriculture sector. Realized, this will ensure the sustainable development of agriculture for the overall benefit of our country.”
The President underscored that the program’s design, centered on value-chain development, inherently presents expanded opportunities for the youth.
“To take advantage of this opportunity, I urge the youth to rally around this initiative (Youth in Agriculture) and form cooperatives and partnerships for the maximum benefit of the program.”
Regarding the state of the economy and the endeavors of his administration to restore economic stability and foster growth, President Akufo-Addo pointed out that there are evident indicators that the economy is progressing towards recovery. One of these signs is the downward trajectory of inflation.
“The prospects for the rebound are growing stronger and stronger. We are working hard to sustain this momentum. Inflation has reduced from 54.1% in December 2022 to 38.1% in September and there is every indication that by the end of the year, it will be around 27%. By the end of my tenure next year, 15%” the President stated.
On his part, the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, clarified that the “Youth in Agriculture” initiative, integrated into the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) program, is structured to facilitate the entry of the younger generation into agriculture with minimal challenges.
“Our invitation to young people to go into agriculture is not a hole and cutlass business. Through the collaboration between the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the YEA under the banner, “PFJ 2.0 Youth in Agriculture,” we are going to put 200,000 youth into permanent work in agriculture with each individual cultivating an average farm size of 10 acres” Bryan Acheampong said.
“This will mean putting 400,000 hectares of arable land under cultivation. The target commodities under this intervention would include maize, rice, and vegetables.
“However, if we put all the 400,000 hectares of land under rice cultivation alone, we will exceed our food self-sufficiency production target of 1.8 million metric tonnes in two years instead of the five-year plan under the Planting for Food and Jobs Programme” the Food and Agriculture Minister added.
The Youth in Agriculture Programme (YIAP) represents an agricultural sector initiative by the Government of Ghana (GOG) designed to inspire and encourage young individuals to view farming and food production as viable commercial enterprises, thereby choosing agriculture as a lifelong career.
The YIAP is entrusted with the role of mobilizing young people to embrace farming and its related activities as a lifelong pursuit. This approach offers several advantages, such as employment opportunities for the youth, the provision of tractor services, and the supply of agricultural inputs.
The overarching objective of the Youth in Agriculture Programme is to cultivate a mindset among the youth that views farming as a lucrative business endeavor. It aims to generate substantial income to address farmers’ personal and domestic needs, enhance the quality of life for young individuals through increased income, encourage them to remain in rural areas by providing inputs at their farm gates on a credit basis without interest, and employ modern techniques to produce an ample supply of food crops, meat, and fish.
The Youth in Agriculture encompasses four main components: Crops/Block Farm, Livestock and Poultry, Fisheries/Aquaculture, and Agribusiness. This initiative is open to individuals interested in farming, groups of young men and women within the community eager to engage in agriculture, and institutions dedicated to farmer training.
Today, Wesley Girls’ High School, Achimota School, and St. Louis SHS will compete in the first semifinal round of the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), vying for a place in the grand finale.
Don’t miss the action – watch the contest unfold in the video from the National Science and Maths Quiz.
President Akufo-Addo has instructed the Ministry of Health and the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to collaborate in devising a comprehensive strategy for the optimal funding of kidney treatment, according to Information Minister Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah
He made this announcement following a petition by a collective of medical doctors represented by the Private Health Facilities Association. The petition highlighted the pressing dialysis crisis that has affected the nation in recent times.
“When the matter came up the President instructed the Health Authorities to examine it and come to the table with various recommendations on how to deal with it and I do know those recommendations are due in the next couple of weeks. By both I mean the National Health Insurance Authority and the Ministry of Health.”
Vice President of the Association, Dr. Samuel Boakye Donkor, additionally urged the government to contemplate granting tax exemptions for all medical equipment, including dialysis machines, imported into the country to aid in the treatment of patients.
“The number of kidney cases is alarming, it keeps increasing daily. We want to get more machines so we can treat our Ghanaian people but it is really expensive to get the machine into our country. When they get to the port the amount of money you have to pay, the duties you have to pay, so we are pleading with the government if tax waiver will be granted so we can bring more.”
In Ghana, patients undergoing dialysis treatment were deeply disheartened when, on Wednesday, September 27, the Renal Dialysis Unit at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital announced a price hike from GH¢380 to GHS¢765.42 per dialysis session.
Just 48 hours after the public outcry over the increased renal dialysis costs, the hospital decided to reverse its decision. However, it’s worth noting that the renal unit at Korle-Bu has been inaccessible to outpatients since May. The closure was reportedly due to a shortage of essential consumables.
The Renal Patients Association of Ghana has issued a plea to the management of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) to reopen the renal unit to outpatients, emphasizing that the closure has resulted in fatalities among patients.
This call comes following the issuance of a 24-hour ultimatum by the minority caucus of the Health Committee of Parliament, demanding the unit’s reopening. Unfortunately, the hospital’s management did not comply with this ultimatum.
On Wednesday, October 18, 2023, GOIL PLC conducted an official inauguration of five Auto Gas stations simultaneously, with a vibrant ceremony held at the GOIL service station in Burma Camp, Accra.
These five locations encompass the Cape Coast By-Pass in the Central region, the GOIL Burma Camp and Kpeshie service stations in the Greater Accra Region, the Paco Gas station in Takoradi, Western Region (pending NPA approval), and Kentinkrono, Kumasi, Ashanti Region.
This strategic move by GOIL is part of its preparations for the comprehensive implementation of the government’s Cylinder Recirculation Module (CRM) policy.
The CRM’s primary objective is to ensure that, by 2030, 50 percent of the Ghanaian population gains access to safe, environmentally friendly, and clean liquefied petroleum gas.
During the inauguration of the new gas stations in Accra, the Group CEO of GOIL PLC, Kwame Osei-Prempeh, emphasized GOIL’s commitment to meeting all the supply chain requirements specified by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA).
This commitment is exemplified by the construction of two Cylinder Bottling Plants in Kumasi and Tema, as well as the establishment of these five state-of-the-art Auto Gas stations.
Mr. Osei-Prempeh further elaborated that the selection of these sites was based on various criteria, including approvals from the Land Use & Spatial Planning Authority, adherence to National Petroleum Authority (NPA) regulations, profitability, and the aim of providing modern and secure gas facilities to customers in different regions.
“The Modern Auto Gas Stations are designed based on current construction procedures and international safety standards. The technical experts used Gas Leakage Detection Alarms, Loading Arms, Sprinkler Systems, Automated and Emergency Shut-Off Valves coupled with underground LPG storage tanks fitted with standard equipment. The reason for the choice is to ensure the risk of LPG leaks with the resultant fire accidents and explosions are reduced to the barest minimum. The Modern Auto gas Stations will reduce manual handling of the opening and closing of valves, which makes them a safer option for dispensing of LPG into vehicles in Ghana,” Mr. Osei-Prempeh stated.
He also noted that discussions between GOIL’s Technical and Special Products Department and the NPA emphasized the significance of incorporating cylinder filling stations into the project.
This step is essential to guarantee that GOIL can sustain its provision of secure cylinder filling services to its LPG customers until the full implementation of the CRM.
Mr. Osei-Prempeh added that the commissioning of the facilities will further strengthened and widen the company’s portfolio and consolidate gains already made in the LPG business, saying, “as an indigenous company, GOIL will continue to do its business in the national interest and ensure that the interest and safety of our consumers always come first”.
In representation of the Minister of Energy, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Deputy Minister for Energy, Andrew Kofi Egyapa Mercer, extended his congratulations to GOIL Plc for reaching this remarkable milestone, an achievement that fills the nation with pride.
He underscored that the inauguration of the modern Auto Gas station at Burma Camp, along with the other four stations in Kpeshie, Cape Coast, Takoradi, and Kumasi, constitutes a momentous stride in the implementation of energy policies relating to the transport sector in Ghana.
He further emphasized that the establishment of these facilities is a substantial accomplishment in the country’s energy policy, particularly in its endeavor to embrace natural gas as a transitional fuel for both power generation and transportation.
“GOIL’s opening of these modern autogas stations is therefore in full alignment with Ghana’s just energy transition pathway to net-zero status. The expectation is that the increased access to safe outlets for the sale and purchase of auto gas in the country will translate into a gradual increase in the usage of gas-powered vehicles nationwide,” he stated.
“It is also the expectation that the association of a trusted indigenous brand like GOIL with auto gas will enhance confidence in the use of gas for vehicle fueling and dispel any existing negative safety-related notions on the use of gas for transportation purposes,” he added.
Mr. Mercer emphasized his strong belief that the proliferation of additional Autogas stations will serve as a catalyst for the emergence of businesses and services like specialized retrofitting and servicing garages. These entities are vital in providing essential support for the incremental shift towards utilizing gas as a fuel source for vehicles.
“The attendant increase in employment opportunities in the space will be a significant benefit to Ghana’s economy. GOIL PLC has indeed blazed a trail which all OMCS operating in Ghana must follow,” he said.
Esther Anku, a Senior Programme Officer at the NPA, underscored that these facilities will enhance the nation’s endeavors to achieve the goal of providing 50 percent of Ghanaians with access to safe, clean, and environmentally friendly liquefied petroleum gas by 2030.
“I am very excited to see these facilities come into fruition, But, how they are operated and maintained is crucial”, she added.
She, therefore, encouraged GOIL’s management to embrace technological innovations, ensuring the delivery of an unparalleled customer experience while upholding the safety measures integrated into these facilities.
The construction of these stations was undertaken in collaboration with South Korea’s Yooju Engineering and Construction Limited.
Aretha Barkers Woode, the Dealer of the Burma Camp GOIL service station, expressed her delight and extended her gratitude to GOIL for selecting her station to host the simultaneous commissioning of all five Auto Gas stations. She urged motorists, household consumers, and the general public to choose the station for a top-tier service experience in Gas and other fuels at the Burma Camp GOIL service station.
The ceremony was attended by high-ranking military officers, industry leaders, former GOIL Managing Director Patrick Akorli, GOIL’s Brand Ambassador Prof Azumah Nelson and Faustina Nelson, former Board Members of GOIL, current Board members and management of GOIL Plc, former NPA CEOs Moses Asaga and Alhassan Tampuli, OMC boss Kwaku Agyeman Duah, COPEC’s Executive Secretary Duncan Amoah, officials from NPA, GSA, EPA, GNFS, FID, and several GOIL Dealers.
The Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL) is anticipating that the 2024 Budget will place a significant emphasis on generating employment opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
The organization underscores the government’s responsibility to implement practical measures aimed at strengthening the economy.
GFL is advocating for the enactment of robust economic policies designed to bolster revenue collection, foster job creation, and promote private sector growth.
Additionally, it is urging the government to take actions to reduce the cost of living and eliminate taxes that hinder the growth of businesses, regardless of their size, be it small, medium, or large enterprises.
In a document addressed to the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, titled “GFL’s Inputs for the Formulation of the 2024 Budget Statement and Government Economic Policy,” the federation highlighted the persistent issue of unemployment, emphasizing that it poses a significant national security concern, especially with the ongoing rise in youth unemployment in Ghana.
The paper, co-signed by Caleb Nartey and Abraham Koomson, President and Secretary General of GFL, respectively, pointed out that the local textile manufacturing industry once provided employment for over 25,000 individuals.
However, it has faced severe challenges, resulting in the reduction of its workforce to less than 2,000 employees. The main difficulties cited were related to unfair competition from imported pirated and smuggled printed fabrics.
The Federation said the Finance Ministry granted zero VAT to the sector to help revive the local manufacturing companies, but “unfortunately, the VAT exemption would be terminated by December 2023.
“The recovery of the sector is gradual and yet to overcome the debilitating challenges to improving employment capacity.
“The GFL submits that an extension of the zero VAT regime for seven years is critical to saving the ailing industry from collapse. The industry currently provides jobs for over 3,000 Ghanaians”.
The GFL has suggested a revision of the Minerals and Mining Act of 2006, with a specific focus on Section 25, which currently mandates a royalty rate increase from 6 percent to approximately 15 percent.
In line with GFL’s recommendations, this review should extend to the existing taxation structures for mining concessions, with the aim of boosting government revenue.
“It is the GFL’s honest position that a proper fiscal assessment of the natural resource sector will offer better insight into what opportunities exist for the government to leverage to mobilise the required revenue to prosecute government business.
“The government must be committed to the review of its flagship programmes, such as the Free SHS, Planting for Food and Jobs, One-District, One-Factory, Infrastructure for Poverty Eradication Programme, Ghana School Feeding Programme, Railways Development, Agenda 111, and Coastal Fish Landing Sites.
“Is it the firm position of the Federation that a critical assessment is conducted to determine the viability of these projects with respect to the size of the resources invested and the corresponding short-term benefit to the state?
“Further, the outcome of such a comprehensive assessment should offer some suggestions on protecting the vulnerable in society, creating jobs, and promoting a sound economic and fiscal outlook”.
In preparation for the forthcoming presentation of the 2024 budget and in accordance with Section 21(1) of the Public Financial Act 2016 (Act 921), the Ministry of Finance has formally requested labor unions and specific interest groups to provide their input for inclusion in the 2024 Budget and Economic Policy.
Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia has urged the Volta River Authority (VRA) and other relevant stakeholders to consider the re-engineering of the Akosombo Dam to better control spillage and mitigate its destructive impacts on local communities.
He noted that such an initiative will protect the dam, the well-being of the people, their livelihoods, and their properties in light of the challenges posed by climate change.
Dr. Bawumia made these remarks while visiting the flood-affected communities in the South and Central Tongu Districts caused by the overflow from the Akosombo Dam.
“10 years ago, our worry was about the low level of water in the dam, today we are worried about the high level of the water in the dam. So climate change is bringing in new situations that we have to handle, and so I want to challenge the VRA and NADMO, let us start thinking of long-term solutions to this spillage from the dam. Is there a way we can manage the spillage?
Of course, I am not an engineer, so I want you the engineers to handle it. But one thing I have thought of is why can’t we have pipelines to the sea. But this is just someone who is not abreast in your field. Can we manage this spillage in a way that does not flood the immediate areas, divert the water as far as into the sea?”, he quizzed.
He noted that the previous instance of dam spillage resulting in such widespread devastation occurred six decades ago, prompting certain riverine communities to relocate to their current settlements.
Dr. Bawumia expressed sympathy for the more than 26,000 residents who were forced to evacuate their homes in the eight affected districts due to the overflow.
He stated that the government’s efforts extend beyond simply providing relief supplies, as they are committed to offering sustainable livelihood assistance to help the affected individuals rebuild their lives.
“As you know, an inter-ministerial committee has been set up. VRA and NADMO are fully engaged in providing relief and the Ministry of Agriculture has also been tasked to start looking at how we will restore the livelihoods of the farmers along the banks of the river who have been displaced. And so beyond just providing temporary relief, we are looking at a more sustained approach to the victims so that they can restore the livelihoods that they have”, he said.
The Manklalo of Bakpa Traditional Area, Torgbi Kofi Tosu III, revealed that approximately 40 households in 30 communities within the region have been inundated.
As a result, he made a heartfelt plea for the allocation of relief materials to aid those affected during these challenging times. These items would serve as a crucial support for the victims as they grapple with the difficulties of securing water, food, clothing, and medical provisions for themselves.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has refuted claims that it has 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.
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. The freezing order is still in force and effect in respect of the other bank accounts and financial assets of Ms. Dapaah.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has updated the public on the current status of two of its cases against former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah via a notice on social media.
Republic V Cecilia Abena Dapaah (criminal case) CR/0006/2023
The case involves the refusal of Madam Dapaah to declare her property and income as demanded by the OSP. According to the Office, the case has been adjourned sine die (no definite date or period to resume) awaiting the Chief Justice’s directive.
OSP V Cecilia Dapaah & Daniel Osei Kuffuor (civil case) FT/0074/2023
This case entails the freezing and seizure orders by the Special Prosecutor of bank accounts and large sums of money from the home of Cecilia Dapaah.
The case has been adjourned indefinitely, pending guidance from the Chief Justice, the OSP noted.
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. The freezing order is still in force and effect in respect of the other bank accounts and financial assets of Ms. Dapaah.
Meawhile, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), has refuted claims that it has 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 OSP added.
Genescis, a Ghanaian-owned digital platform that runs background checks and provides detailed information about individuals, employees, employers, tenants, landlords, and businesses, will be launched on October 20, 2023.
The grand launch, which will be held at the La-Palm Royal Beach hotel in the Greater Accra Region, will have key players in Ghana’s digital ecosystem in attendance.
This intelligence-based digital platform aims at eliminating the shadows of mistrust and misinformation while ushering in an era where every professional relationship thrives on authenticity.
Additionally, Genescis envisions a seamless solution for employers’ businesses and property owners; and to build a robust online Digital Referencing System that helps in acquiring authentic data/ information on individuals and organizations across the African regions
By intensifying business referencing, Genescis seeks to fortify business-to-business ties, ensuring each partnership is rooted in verified credibility. Revolutionizing Employment Systems: With accountability as our watchword, we’re committed to ensuring that every employee stands by their actions, fostering a culture of responsibility.
Born out of a need to eradicate unproductive employee-employer dynamics and to bring authenticity into referencing, Genescis stands as a testament to the belief that transparency can revolutionize industries.
As we gaze into the future, our vision remains steadfast—to be the cornerstone of trust, ensuring every interaction is built on a foundation of verified truth.
Download the Genescis app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
The Ghana Legal Council has rejected Ghanaian social media influencer Elomi Ababio’s request to be called to the Bar.
The rejection was announced in a letter to Elomi Ababio, popularly known as Ama Governor, dated October 18, 2023.
“At the meeting of the General Legal Council held on Tuesday, 17th October 2023, your application to be called to the Bar was declined on account of elements noted in your public conduct prior to the application.
“You may complete the appropriate forms for application to be called to the Bar, any time there is a scheduled enrollment ceremony after the 20 October 2023 enrollment ceremony. In the meantime, Council will continue to monitor your conduct,” the letter read.
This comes after the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) representative’s report to the General Legal Council at the 2022/2023 bar conference held in Cape Coast disclosed that Elomi Ababio has been granted the opportunity to complete the application process for her bar call, scheduled for the October/November 2023 sessions.
She filed the appropriate forms to be called to the Bar, scheduled for October 20, 2023.
Prior to this, Ama Governor, faced a temporary setback in aspiring lawyer’s journey to the fraternity when a complaint was filed by a concerned citizen in November last year.
This complaint alleged that Ama Governor had engaged in conduct that was deemed “unbecoming of a bar applicant.”
As a result of this complaint, the General Legal Council decided to pause the process of calling Ama Governor to the bar.
This decision ignited significant reactions on both social media and in broader public discourse, sparking debates about the behavior of law students in Ghana.
Ama Governor vehemently rejected the allegations of misconduct, asserting that she had been treated unfairly throughout the ordeal.
Glory is within reach, and the aspiration to emerge as the 2023 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) Champions has left 11 of Ghana’s regions as mere spectators, with the competition approaching its climax.
The lineup of nine schools competing for the three final spots has been determined after intense and often demanding encounters during the quarter-finals held on Tuesday.
The Ashanti Region is well-represented with three contenders: St. Louis SHS, Opoku Ware School, and Prempeh College. The Greater Accra Region has two representatives: Achimota School and defending champions, PRESEC Legon.
In the Central Region, there are two contenders: Wesley Girls’ High School and Mfantsipim School, while the Volta and Eastern regions each have one representative – Keta SHTS and Pope John SHS & Seminary, respectively.
The 2023 NSMQ semi-finals, taking place on Thursday, October 19, at the Saarah-Mensah Auditorium, KNUST, will determine which three schools will advance to the finals.
9:30am Wesley Girls’ High School, Achimota School and St. Louis SHS will lock horns.
1:30pm Opoku Ware School, Pope John SHS & Seminary and Prempeh College will be doing battle, and at;
5:30pm Keta SHTS, Mfantsipim School and PRESEC Legon will seal the deal.
Here is how they made it from the quarter-final stage.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called on President Akufo-Addo to take immediate action to disband the National Cathedral Board of Trustees.
He also calls for a comprehensive forensic audit of the controversial project.
This appeal comes in the wake of the recent resignations of Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams and Rev. Eastwood Anaba from the National Cathedral Board of Trustees.
Their resignations were based on the board’s failure to appoint an independent accounting firm to audit all public funds contributed to the National Cathedral project.
This development marks the departure of four clergymen from the board, including Pastor Mensa Otabil and Bishop Dag Heward-Mills. In light of these events, the North Tongu MP emphasizes that there is no better time than now to dissolve the Board of Trustees and initiate a forensic audit of the project.
“Let me be honest with you, in an ideal situation, the Board should be dissolved and we should be having a full-scale probe. There should be a forensic audit into the activities of the project,” he said on JoyNews.
Anti-corruption advocate, Edem Senanu, stresses that any action taken regarding the National Cathedral Board of Trustees should be handled with caution due to the presence of high-profile individuals on the board.
Nonetheless, he underscores that the National Cathedral project is grappling with substantial credibility concerns.
“…obviously, there is a crisis situation when you have four members existing. It is time to pause and do a critical review of where this whole project stands,” he stressed.
The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has identified multiple buildings situated near the Densu River, the source of the Weija Dam, for potential demolition.
These structures are located in the Weija-Gbawe municipality within the Greater Accra region.
A notice has been issued indicating the intent to demolish these properties. The Weija Dam is a vital source of clean drinking water for numerous households in the capital city, and the action is reportedly aimed at safeguarding it from encroachment.
Nevertheless, residents living in these structures have expressed deep distress over the prospect of losing their properties, particularly during these challenging economic times. They have appealed to the government to intervene in this situation.
“My husband has been crying since our building was marked for demolition. He invested all his savings in the construction of the property and the thought of losing it is giving him sleepless nights,” a resident, Naana Ofori lamented.
Another resident, Mavis Boateng who lives in a one-storey building says her structure is not close to the Densu River and so she is surprised her building has been marked too.
“I don’t know where I would take my family to. I have invested a lot in the project and so we haven’t slept ever since they pasted the notice on the property,” she added.
Semey Philip Edem, a resident, emphasized that the challenging economic conditions in the country have already placed a heavy burden on residents. He finds it difficult to comprehend how people will manage the impending demolition exercise.
“We are very much worried and at the same time frightened. This is my brother’s house and some of us acquired loans to build the house, there are others who used their pension pay to build their houses so we are having sleepless nights.”
Meanwhile, the Ghana Water Company Limited has refused to comment on the issue, according to JoyNews.
On October 14, some robbers attacked a block factory in Appolonia City, a suburb of Oyibi in Accra.
During their operation, the gang, numbering about five, murdered an individual.
The body of the deceased has since been deposited at the Police Hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy, according to the Ghana Police Service in a post on social media.
The robbers managed to make away with an unspecified amount of money and mobile phones belonging to the victims.
According to the Police, it has commenced an investigation, and its intelligence operation will continue until the culprits are “arrested to face justice.”
“We wish to assure the public that we will surely get them,” the Police added.
The Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has condemned the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for its stance on the government’s handling of illegal mining, known as galamsey.
He argues that the NDC lacks the moral authority to complain about the damage caused by this issue.
According to Mr. Yeboah Dame, the NDC’s past efforts to combat galamsey were ineffective and should not serve as a basis for criticism of the current government.
He described the NDC’s track record in addressing the problem as “wretched and miserable”, asserting that they did not manage to apprehend or prosecute any major figures involved in illegal mining during the Mahama administration.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, October 18, he emphasized that during the previous Mahama administration, the NDC was unable to apprehend or bring to justice a single influential figure involved in illegal mining activities in the country.
“I consider it ironic for the NDC, whose record in the fight against Galamsey can be described at best, as wretched and miserable, to mount personal attacks on me for the brave efforts in the fight against Galamsey.”
“The record shows that the NDC woefully failed and/or neglected to arrest and prosecute a single kingpin of Galamsey, including the touted Galamsey queen, Aisha Huang.”
Additionally, in response to the party’s call for his resignation due to the guidance provided by his office to the CID regarding Professor Frimpong-Boateng’s report, Mr. Dame highlighted his success in the arrest and prosecution of Aisha Huang.
He asserted that his exemplary efforts led to the apprehension and ongoing prosecution of Ms. Huang.
“It is noted that all acts committed by Aisha Huang for which she gained notoriety, took place between 2014 and 2016.”
“However, remarkably, it was the current NPP administration which commenced the prosecution of Aisha Huan in 2018.”
Mr. Dame remained unimpressed with the NDC’s actions against the menace, citing their inadequate penalties for galamsey operators during their time in office.
Despite this, he maintained that “no significant convictions for Galamsey offences were recorded in the regime of the NDC when that political party had the opportunity to govern.”
“Their Flagbearer before the 2020 General Elections, openly declared amnesty for all those arrested for engaging in Galamsey activities in communities affected by the heinous environmental hazard.”
Host of Metro TV’s Good Evening Ghana, Paul Adom-Ochere is ready to unleash his wrath on a social media user whom he says has threatened his life due to his line of work.
In a viral video on social media, Paul Adom-Ochere in one of his shows, broadcast a Facebook message by one Amorse Blessing Amos which read: “Now that we know the fine for invading studio is GHS2, 400, Paul Adom Otchere should continue fooling.”
Amos Blessing Amorse, per reports is the Regional Deputy Youth Organizer of the opposition National Democratic Congress in Greater Accra Region.
This message comes after the 16 accused persons who invaded the United Television (UTV) studios at Tesano in the Greater Accra Region on October 7, 2023, were convicted and sentenced to a fine by the Achimota District Court.
The group trooped in to demand the removal of musician Kwame A-Plus, from the programme for tearing up a letter said to be from the communication wing of the NPP.
The accused persons pleaded guilty to the charge against them. They were, therefore, convicted on their own pleas and sentenced to a fine of 200 penalty units each which amounts to GH₵ 2,400.00, and in default 3 months imprisonment.
They were also ordered by the Court to sign a bond to be of good behaviour for 6 months in default 6 months imprisonment.
Responding to the message directed at Paul Adom Otchere, Mr Adom-Otchere noted that he would file a complaint with the police over the threat to his life.
“Amorse Blessing Amos, I am going to tell the police. Get ready; you will pay legal fees because you will take a lawyer. You will come and stand in the court and explain what you mean by you know the price is, you can pay for it. You are so rich you can pay for it so Paul Adom Otchere should continue fooling.”
According to the journalist, he will go through the democratic processes to ensure Amorse understands that the laws of the country do work.
He advised Amorse against deleting the message, as he has disseminated it to several individuals who are encouraging him to take the matter up.
“Amorse, I am coming for you. You will hear that this is a democracy. You will understand that Ghana is a democracy. You can’t be fooling like this. They think we are joking becuase it is (close) to election. I am going to invoke the democratic tenants of Ghana. Next time you watch Good Evening Ghana and you have an opinion to express, you will express opinion without threatening. This is a threat. He should go and read the Criminal Procedure Code.
“They get promoted when they insult and threaten. He thinks that he can threaten and he is okay. People have sent this to me. Everybody is encouraging me that this one you have to deal with it. I am going to deal with it. He shouldn’t run away. Don’t delete your Facebook account. You have Ghana card, we will catch you. I’ve sent it out so they are monitoring you,” he said.
It has emerged that a new member has been added to the list of the National Cathedral Trustee Board.
Executive Director for Ghana Museums and Monuments Board, Kingsley Ofosu Ntiamoah, has joined the Trustee Board per the data on membership provided by the National Cathedral Secretariat on October 18, 2023.
The addition of Kingsley Ofosu Ntiamoah to the Board was not publicised by the Secretariat or the many media houses or tabloids in the country.
In 2017, President Akufo-Addo inaugurated a 13-member Board which was chaired by Most Rev Dr. Samuel Asante Antwi up until his demise in 2020.
The other original members were the Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, the Most Rev. Charles Palmer Buckle, Vice-Chairperson, Founder and General Overseer of Power Chapel Worldwide, Prophet Kusi Boateng, Secretary, Chairman of the Church of Pentecost and President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council, Apostle Dr Opoku Onyinah; the Founder of Salt and Light Ministries, Rev. Joyce Aryee; the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Right Rev. Prof. Cephas Omenyo; the Archbishop of the Church of the Province of West Africa and Bishop of Accra, the Most Rev. Dr Justice Offei Akrofi; the Founder of Action Chapel International, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams; the Founder and President of Fountain Gate Chapel, Rev. Eastwood Anaba; the Founder and Presiding Bishop of the Lighthouse Chapel International, Bishop Dag Heward Mills; the Founder of the International Central Gospel Church, Pastor Mensa Otabil, and Rev. Dr Yaw Frimpong Manso and Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey, both former Moderators of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana.
Following Most Rev Dr. Samuel Asante Antwi’s demise, Most Rev T. K. Awotwi Pratt found his name on the list of Board Members, making the list 13 once again. This addition was not publicized per searches on the internet.
Most Rev T. K. Awotwi Pratt’s name was only found in the list of Board Members after MP for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa claimed that Dr Otabil had resigned due to illegalities.
The Executive Director of the National Cathedral project, Dr. Paul Opoku-Mensah, refuted this report, clarifying that prior to the registration of the members of the Board of Trustees in 2019, Dr. Otabil opted out since, “he could not give the needed attention to the project.”
This meant that the 13-member Board was now a 12-member Board.
As of June 2022, the members of the Board of Trustees were:
1. Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah, former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost – Chairperson
2. Most Rev. Charles Palmer Buckle, Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra – Vice-Chairperson
3. Most Rev. Bishop Justice Ofei Akrofi, Anglican Archbishop Emeritus – Member
4. Rt. Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey, former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church – Member
5. Most Rev T. K. Awotwi Pratt, Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church – Member
6. Rev Prof Cephas Omenyo, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church – Member
7. Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, Presiding Archbishop and General Overseer of Action Chapel International – Member
8. Rev Dr Joyce Aryee, Executive Director, Salt and Light Ministries – Member
9. Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, Presiding Bishop, Lighthouse Group of Churches – Member
10. Rev Eastwood Anaba, Founder and President of Eastwood Anaba Ministries – Member
11. Rev Victor Kusi-Boateng, Founder of Power Chapel Worldwide – Member/Secretary
12. Rev Dr Frimpong Manso, General Superintendent, Assemblies of God – Member
Kingsley Ofosu Ntiamoah was nowhere to be found on the list.
But in the most recent data that reflects the resignation of Bishop Dag Heward-Mills; who left in August 2022, due to his unresolved concerns about the cost of the National Cathedral and other pertinent issues, Rev Prof Cephas Omenyo, who is said to have resigned from the Board due to bad health when the news became public in August 2022, Kingsley Ofosu Ntiamoah’s name can be found on the list of members.
This list of Board members however does not reflect the resignations of Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams and Rev Eastwood Anaba.
This suggests that the addition was made before the two men of God announced their resignation on October 12, 2023, which became public on October 17, 2023.
Following the resignation of Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams and Rev Eastwood Anaba, Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, Rev Prof Cephas Omenyo and Dr Mensa Otabil, the Board has nine members remaining instead of eight due to the addition of Kingsley Ofosu Ntiamoah.
The current members are:
1. Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah, former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost – Chairperson
2. Most Rev. Charles Palmer Buckle, Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra – Vice-Chairperson
3. Most Rev. Bishop Justice Ofei Akrofi, Anglican Archbishop Emeritus – Member
4. Rt. Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey, former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church – Member
5. Most Rev T. K. Awotwi Pratt, Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church – Member
6. Rev Dr Joyce Aryee, Executive Director, Salt and Light Ministries – Member
7. Rev Victor Kusi-Boateng, Founder of Power Chapel Worldwide – Member/Secretary
8. Rev Dr Frimpong Manso, General Superintendent, Assemblies of God – Member
Former Central Regional Minister, Kwamena Duncan, has alleged that a male District Chief Executive (DCE) took his own life after being relieved of his position.
Mr Duncan made this disclosure in an interview on Peace FM when he recounted the traumatic experience he encountered after losing his ministerial position during the second term of President Akufo-Addo’s government.
He did not disclose the identity of the said DCE, who purportedly took his own life after losing his job. He also didn’t indicate under whose government this unfortunate incident unfortunately happened.
“I know of a situation where someone in one of the administrations, a DCE, was sacked, and somewhere he took his life. He took his own life,” he said.
Opening up on some of the difficult changes a government official has to undergo after losing his or her position, Mr Duncan noted that it starts off with immense tension, accompanied by dizzy spells that last for days.
“Truth be told, initially when it happens you get tensed for a number of days…you will be having dizziness.
“All of a sudden there is a whole change of architecture. What plans do you do? Maybe you have not even thought of all of those. They come plain, facing you in reality. Face to face. But you have to hold yourself together, then you try to let the man in you also take control,” he added.
He noted that despite the struggles one would have to endure, one has to be at peace with him or herself and then begin anew.
“It is not a lying down matter but that is what life has for you. Hold yourself up for it. then re-order your steps…I have overcome this long ago,” he said.
Kwamena Duncan was replaced as the regional minister during President Akufo-Addo’s second term, having completed a full term from 2017 to 2021. He was succeeded by Justina Marigold Assan, who at the time was the Municipal Chief Executive for the Agona West Municipality.
The High Court in Accra has instructed banker Ernest Kwasi Nimako to submit his written arguments for his application to dismiss the sexual harassment case filed by former National Service Personnel Deborah Sayram Adablah within seven days.
In May 2023, Mr. Nimako filed a motion seeking to have the court dismiss the case brought by Ms. Adablah, which alleges sexual harassment among other claims.
Ms. Adablah had taken Mr. Nimako, who was then the Chief Finance Officer (CFO) of First Atlantic Bank, to court in January of the same year.
However, on July 21, 2023, the bank was cleared of any wrongdoing and removed from the lawsuit by the court, following a counter application by the bank’s lawyers. This left Mr. Nimako as the sole defendant in the case.
The court awarded costs of GHc6,000 against Ms. Adablah, who is the plaintiff, and a vehicle that was part of the dispute was surrendered as per the court’s order.
During the court session on Monday, October 16, 2023, lawyers representing Kwasi Nimako requested that the application seeking to have the lawsuit dismissed be given priority.
Counsel for Deborah Sayram Adablah, who is the respondent in this application and the plaintiff in the main case, agreed with the submission by the banker’s legal team.
Justice John Bosco Nabarese, who now presides over the case following the transfer of the previous judge, Justice Olivia Obeng Owusu, set timelines for the parties.
The court ordered Mr. Nimako to submit his written arguments by October 23, while Ms. Adablah’s legal team was given seven days to respond upon being served with the submissions.
Justice Nabarese emphasized that there would be no allowances for delays in adhering to the set timeframes.
The case has been adjourned to October 31 for the court to schedule a date for ruling. Both Ernest Nimako and Deborah Sayram Adablah were present.
Two other pending applications in the case include a Contempt application filed on June 6 and another filed by the plaintiff challenging the court’s orders to have the disputed vehicle surrendered, which was filed on June 16.
The plaintiff contends that despite the assurances from Mr. Nimako that he would leave the bank and not accept a contract, he made representations and assurances to her that he would provide her with the following:
“Lump sum working capital to start a business, pay for her accommodation/Rent for 3 years, buy her a car, Pay her GHc3,000.00 a month, buy plaintiff a ring and pay her medical and other bills including paying for her to undergo a family planning treatment so that she will not give birth in the short term.”
Additionally, she claimed that Mr. Nimako vowed to marry her after divorcing his wife, citing the irreconcilable differences in his relationship with his wife and the breakdown of their marriage as the reasons. This commitment was made during their intimate relationship that began in the living room.
The Plaintiff per her claims is seeking the following reliefs;
a) An order that the 1s defendant transfers the title of car No. GC -7899-21 into the name of the plaintiff and or an order directed at DVLA to Register Car No.GC-7899-21 into the name of the Plaintiff as the owner.
b) A refund of the cost of repairs of Ghc10,000.00 which 1s Defendant promised to refund to the plaintiff but failed.
c) An order that the Defendants pay to the Plaintiff the following: (i) 1st Defendant pays lump sum money to the plaintiff to enable the plaintiff to start a business to take care of herself as agreed by the plaintiff and the 1st Defendant.
(ii) 1st Defendant pays the remaining two (2) years rent for Plaintiff’s accommodation or to pay the same amount for the remaining two (2) years at the same rate at an alternative accommodation.
(iii) 1st Defendant to pay the outstanding arrears of Plaintiff’s monthly allowance from July 2022 to the date of Judgment and pay all medical expenses as a result of the side effects of the Family Planning treatment.
(iv) General damages against the Defendants. (d) Any other reliefs) the Court deems necessary including legal costs.
Former Central Regional Minister, Kwamena Duncan, has shared his experience of the emotional distress he endured after being removed from his ministerial post.
During a panel discussion on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo show on October 16, 2023, he emphasized that the aftermath of such a situation is far from straightforward.
He cited the tragic case of a District Chief Executive (DCE) who took his own life after losing his appointment.
He described the initial shock and emotional turmoil as something that can significantly disorient individuals, as they grapple with a multitude of thoughts and emotions.
“Truth be told, initially when it happens you get tensed for a number of days…you will be having dizziness.
“All of a sudden there is a whole change of architecture. What plans do you do? Maybe you have not even thought of all of those. They come plain, facing you in reality. Face to face. But you have to hold yourself together, then you try to let the man in you also take control,” he said.
He added “I know of a situation where someone in one of the administrations, a DCE, was sacked, and somewhere he took his life. He took his own life.
“It is not a lying down matter but that is what life has for you. Hold yourself up for it. then re-order your steps…I have overcome this long ago.”
Kwamena Duncan was replaced as the regional minister during President Akufo-Addo’s second term, having completed a full term from 2017 to 2021. He was succeeded by Justina Marigold Assan, who at the time was the Municipal Chief Executive for the Agona West Municipality.
Former Commissioner of the Ghana Police Service, COP George Alex Mensah, has challenged the notion that the current Inspector General, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, enjoys widespread public support.
COP Mensah argues that the IGP’s popularity and approval ratings are primarily confined to social media, where algorithms can be manipulated to promote a specific narrative.
“I will urge you the media to do your own investigation, not on the social media. Go down there. Not on social media, public view is not on social media… social media can be hacked by people and those people can know that you are going to put this question there and they will tell their people to come and respond to it,” he challenged in a recent interview on JoyNews.
COP Mensah is currently at the center of a leaked audio recording in which he was suggested as a potential replacement for Dr. George Akuffo Dampare as the Inspector General of Police.
In the leaked audio, which has sparked a parliamentary committee investigation, COP Mensah and two other police officers are accused of attempting to garner political support for the removal of the IGP.
While advocating for COP Mensah as a suitable replacement for Dr. Dampare, these officers presented him as a dedicated supporter and member of the ruling New Patriotic Party, emphasizing his potential role in furthering the party’s 2024 electoral agenda.
They also raised doubts about Dr. Dampare’s competence and accused him of having affiliations with the opposition National Democratic Congress.
However, in his interview, COP Mensah asserted that his actions did not violate the police code of conduct for officers.
“The police service cannot do anything to me. If the committee come out to say that I have committed a crime then the state can deal with me. I have nothing to do with the police service as I speak to you now,” he stated.
On a separate note, COP Alex Mensah has confirmed his intention to compete for the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary nomination in the Bekwai Constituency.
Nigerians on Twitter, now under the X platform, have expressed their frustration with their government following a recent visa waiver agreement between Ghana and South Africa.
These concerned citizens widely shared Ghana’s foreign ministry statement, which announced the agreement with South Africa, and questioned why their government has not been able to secure similar arrangements.
While some Nigerians on social media mocked the situation, others attributed it to a lack of seriousness on the part of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu government.
For some, Nigerians believed that the situation was a consequence of actions they had taken, particularly crimes that had been reported, especially in South Africa, Africa’s most industrialized nation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration made an announcement last week regarding a visa waiver for individuals holding ordinary passports in both Ghana and South Africa.
In their statement, the ministry highlighted that this agreement would lead to substantial improvements for travelers between the two countries.
The Visa Waiver Agreement is slated to come into effect on November 1, 2023.
“Travellers may transit through, depart from and stay in the territory of both countries for a cumulative period of up to ninety (90) recourse to work. The travelling public is thereby advised to take note,” the statement concluded.
Here are tweets from some Nigerians.
Most Nigerians don't know or have an mind how gone their beloved ex"Giant of Africa" is,Like no country takes Nigeria serious. The world even sees the citizens as criminals or drug dealers
Do you know what it means for South Africa to grant Ghana visa free & kicking out Nigeria?
Nigeria should asked itself, why is South Africa not extending this same visa regime to Nigeria? What has our fellow country done in the past that South Africa is not extending this 90 days free entry visa to Nigeria. We need to look at the mirror to answer this question. https://t.co/XlQlLxdVY5
Ghana and South Africa have concluded agreement so that their citizens can inter-travel VISA-free . Nigeria is concentrating on mass weddings pic.twitter.com/Hqi8HA9l5e
Michael Tetteh, also known as “Brother” and employed as a factory worker, has been handed a life sentence for a severe assault that led to the tragic demise of Patrick Gyasi, an Okada Rider.
This judgment follows a unanimous guilty verdict delivered by a seven-member jury on the charge of murder against Tetteh.
The incident took place on June 16, 2017, in the vicinity of Oduman, near Amasaman, within the Greater Accra Region, as reported by Graphic.com.gh.
Both the defendant and the victim resided in Oduman, and on that ill-fated day, Gyasi made a stop at a location known as Otumfour Spot in Oduman.
According to the prosecution’s account of the events, at approximately 11:00 PM, the accused, accompanied by an individual identified as Taller, confronted the late Patrick Gyasi.
Tetteh allegedly accused Gyasi, stating, “the other day while I was disciplining my child, you insulted me, and now you are here.”
In response, Gyasi affirmed that he had no disputes or conflicts with Tetteh. Nevertheless, Tetteh made an attempt to strike Gyasi with a wooden log, which happened to belong to a nearby fried yam vendor. Taller, an onlooker, promptly intervened, disarming Tetteh and separating the two individuals.
However, undeterred by the initial intervention, Tetteh returned to his residence and retrieved a bottle, concealing it in his pocket. Upon his return to the scene, and without any apparent provocation or reason, he viciously struck Gyasi on the head and proceeded to stab him in the neck and arm with the broken bottle.
Gyasi suffered severe bleeding and was immediately rushed to the Oduman Health Centre. Later, he was transferred to the Amasaman Government Hospital, but tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Five days after the incident, on June 21, 2017, Tetteh reportedly fled to Asuboi in the Eastern Region, where he was eventually apprehended.
A post-mortem examination conducted on the deceased by Dr. Owusu Afriyie at the Police Hospital in Accra revealed that Gyasi’s cause of death was attributed to haemorrhagic shock and the injuries sustained during the attack.
The Volta River Authority (VRA) has revealed that it conducted simulation exercises in collaboration with the affected communities prior to the commencement of the Akosombo Dam spillage.
VRA, entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining the world’s largest man-made lake and ensuring the integrity of one of the most potent dams, plays a crucial role in securing Ghana’s electricity needs and supporting the communities within its vicinity. Controlled spills are a vital aspect of safeguarding the integrity of hydroelectric dams worldwide, and on certain occasions, they can result in flooding if the actual rainfall patterns significantly deviate from expectations.
In order to protect lives and livelihoods, VRA consistently engages in community interactions, training, and support systems for potential flood situations. Over the past 13 years, VRA has maintained an ongoing dialogue with communities and key stakeholders regarding emergency response protocols. This year was no exception, as VRA conducted workshops on Emergency Preparedness in various communities.
These workshops emphasized the probable impacts of a dam break or planned spill and instructed individuals on the actions they should take when notified of such an event. Before making the decision to conduct the spill, VRA executed a simulation exercise called “Exercise Da Wo Ho So 2023” in May 2023. The goal was to ensure that all relevant stakeholders were well-prepared for flood-related events, testing the effectiveness of emergency response procedures and the capabilities of concerned parties. The insights gained from this exercise were used to enhance response readiness.
Recognizing the significance of these simulations, the Chief Director of the Ministry of the Interior, Mrs. Adelaide Anno-Kumi, and a delegation from the US Embassy, North Dakota National Guards, were invited to provide technical support and validate the Emergency Preparedness Plan.
Other key stakeholders who played diverse roles in the emergency simulation exercise included the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), Ghana Police Service, Ghana Navy, Armed Forces, Ambulance Service, Fire Service, Planning Officers, District Chief Executives such as Hon. Divine Osborne Fenu and Hon. Sarah Pobee, and several traditional leaders.
The simulation exercise was conducted, concurrently at the three (3) District Assemblies namely Asuogyaman, Ada East and North Tongu while complementary simulations took place in the six remaining districts. The main objective was to “Test response to (excessive) spillage of 5,000 to 10,000 m3/s of water from the Akosombo dam resulting in extensive flooding of downstream districts.”
A dry run was conducted from the established National and District Emergency Operation Centers (EOCs) to assess the emergency communication channels. Vital information about the exercise was communicated to the pertinent Relief Agency personnel.
Community members were trained on home evacuation procedures, as well as basic first aid and safety responses for early warning and notifications. They collaborated with relief agency personnel to understand the search and rescue process for individuals trapped in flooded areas during a potential spillage event.
Simulations included the evacuation of trapped individuals to designated safe havens from communities at higher risk of flooding. Mepe, identified as a high-exposure community, had an EOC set up within it, with the District Chief Executive, Hon. Divine Osborne Fenu, leading the simulation exercise. Relief Agency personnel explained all communication and evacuation protocols to Mepe’s residents.
Realistic simulations covered voluntary evacuations, first aid, search and rescue activities, among others. Selected members of the Mepe community participated, while other residents observed and posed questions.
As part of its Emergency Preparedness Plan, VRA allocated funds to support the purchase of relief items by NADMO, ensuring financial support for immediate evacuation and relief efforts in flood scenarios.
The controlled spilling from the Akosombo dam has been incrementally carried out since September 15, 2023, starting from 20,000 cubic feet per second and currently at 180,000 cubic feet per second. This increase was necessary due to significant changes in the rainfall pattern, filling the dam to critical levels.
The Akosombo dam’s geographical footprint represents approximately 3% of the country’s total land area, more than twice the size of the Greater Accra Region. The increased spilling was vital to prevent dam breakage and catastrophic floods.
As the controlled spill continues, VRA is committed to aiding the affected communities. In addition to funds allocated to NADMO, they have supplied essential relief items, including rice, canned food, legumes, cereals, nuts, provisions, oil, sachet water, and medical supplies to target various diseases. Distribution of these items to designated safe havens is ongoing, with Sogakope serving as the Medical Supply Distribution Depot.
VRA, in collaboration with NADMO, is providing potable water to affected communities in tankers and is in the process of restoring the water supply system in Aveyime in the North Tongu District.
VRA remains dedicated to providing the necessary support to the affected communities, vowing not to leave anyone behind.
Five renowned men of God have left the National Cathedral Trustees Board, which originally stood at 13.
This means the Board should have just eight members. However, there are nine members per data from the National Cathedral Board Secretariat due to a new addition, Kingsley Ofosu Ntiamoah, Executive Director, Ghana Museums and Monuments Board.
The current members are:
1. Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah, former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost – Chairperson
2. Most Rev. Charles Palmer Buckle, Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra – Vice-Chairperson
3. Most Rev. Bishop Justice Ofei Akrofi, Anglican Archbishop Emeritus – Member
4. Rt. Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey, former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church – Member
5. Most Rev T. K. Awotwi Pratt, Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church – Member
6. Rev Dr Joyce Aryee, Executive Director, Salt and Light Ministries – Member
7. Rev Victor Kusi-Boateng, Founder of Power Chapel Worldwide – Member/Secretary
8. Rev Dr Frimpong Manso, General Superintendent, Assemblies of God – Member
The five who have left the National Cathedral Trustee Board are as follows:
Founder of the International Central Gospel Church, Dr Mensa Otabil
Dr Mensa Otabil
Dr Mensah Otabil left because “he could not give the needed attention to the project.”
Founder of LightHouse Chapel International, Bishop Dag Heward-Mills
Bishop Dag-Heward-Mills
Bishop Dag-Heward Mills left in August 2022, due to his unresolved concerns about the cost of the National Cathedral and other pertinent issues.
Rev Prof Cephas Omenyo, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church
Rev Prof Cephas Omenyo, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church, resigned from the Board due to bad health.
Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, the Founder and General Overseer of the United Denominations of Action Chapel Churches Worldwide
Archbishop Duncan-WIlliams
Rev. Eastwood Anaba, Founder of Eastwood Anaba Ministries
Rev Eastwood Anaba
The two men of God have resigned due to the National Cathedral Secretariat’s failure to engage an independent accounting firm to conduct a thorough audit of all public funds contributed to the National Cathedral project.
Five renowned men of God have departed the National Cathedral Trustees Board.
Founder of the International Central Gospel Church, Dr Mensa Otabil, is the first among the four to have denied being a part of the Board.
News on this information surfaced in June 2022 after MP for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa claimed that Dr Otabil resigned due to illegalities.
The Executive Director of the National Cathedral project, Dr. Paul Opoku-Mensah, refuted this report, clarifying that prior to the registration of the members of the Board of Trustees in 2019, Dr. Otabil opted out since, “he could not give the needed attention to the project.”
Founder of the International Central Gospel Church, Dr Mensa Otabil
“So, Dr. Mensa Otabil did not resign from the Board as being alleged, but excused himself at the point of registration of the Directors in July, 2019. For the avoidance of all doubt, Dr. Otabil has not been a member of the Board of Trustees since July, 2019,” he further explained in a statement.
Two months later, after this brouhaha, the founder of LightHouse Chapel International, Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, became the first member of the Trustees Board to officially resign.
Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, in August 2022, did not assign any specific reason for his departure; leaving the public to rely on their own conjectures. But in January 2023, he provided his justification in a letter available to Accra-based Citi TV.
In the ‘leaked’ letter, he noted that his unresolved concerns about the cost of the National Cathedral and other pertinent issues triggered his exit.
“I feel that the treatment of the issues I have raised in my several letters has been unfortunate. My letters have been ignored in the past; not attended to for years, and at best addressed flippantly”, Dag Heward-Mills said.
“You may recall I have spoken passionately and written extensively about the costs, the design, the location, the fundraising, the mobilization of the churches, and the role of the trustees.
“These, if heeded, would have made our project more achievable. Generally speaking, my inputs, my opinions, and my letters have been trivialized and set aside”, portions of the letter further disclosed.
He went on to clarify that despite his six-year tenure on the Board, his official designation as a Director of the National Cathedral had not been formally acknowledged.
Founder of LightHouse Chapel International, Bishop Dag Heward-Mills
Bishop Heward-Mills expressed the view that even if the omission of his name was initially an administrative oversight, it could have been rectified during his lengthy tenure on the Board.
In his opinion, this was not a mere oversight, and as a result, he opted to resign.
“I do not believe this is an oversight but a deliberate exclusion from the Board. Six years is a long time to correct this failure to register me if it was indeed an administrative lapse.
“l have therefore accepted for some time now that I am not a trustee of the National Cathedral, but I have still sought to help with the Cathedral because I believe in the President’s vision and I do not have to be a legally registered trustee to do so”, Dag Heward-Mills explained.
He continued, “I refer to myself in this letter as a trustee because even though l am not privy to most of the weighty decisions of the Board I am referred to as such”.
The resignation letter added: “I have been a reachable and available trustee and attended every single meeting of trustees since the pandemic began, in person and by zoom, and the records will show that.
“If I say that I, as a trustee, do not know many of the financial and technical issues concerning the Cathedral, it means the discussions about the National Cathedral were held by some people outside the trustees’ meeting or perhaps in a forum that I was not present or invited to”.
In that same month, reports emerged that Rev Prof Cephas Omenyo, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church, had resigned from the Board due to bad health.
Spokesperson for the Presbyterian Church, Rev. George Larbi who spoke to the media explained that the former Moderator resigned long ago due to ill health.
Past moderator of the Presbyterian Church, Rev. Professor Cephas Omenyo
“When he was elected, per his position as a moderator of the church, he was appointed a trustee of the National Cathedral. So, when he fell sick and could not function again and later on a new moderator was elected. In fact, he refused to be a member of the trustee.
“So, I remember I drew the attention of the public relations officer of the National Cathedral, that in this case they should take away Rev. Prof. Cephas Omenyo’s photo. Because, one of our former moderators, in the person of Very Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey already sits on the trustee. So, the current moderator is not even a member of the trustee because we already have Very. Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey there,” Mr. Larbi added.
Now, the talk of town is the resignation of two other prominent members of the Board.
Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, the Founder and General Overseer of the United Denominations of Action Chapel Churches Worldwide, and Rev. Eastwood Anaba, Founder of Eastwood Anaba Ministries, in a letter on October 12, 2023, announced their resignation.
Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, the Founder and General Overseer of the United Denominations of Action Chapel Churches Worldwide
This stemmed from unresolved challenges they raised to the Secretariat.
They announced the Secretariat’s failure to engage an independent accounting firm to conduct a thorough audit of all public funds contributed to the National Cathedral project.
In January 2023, as Trustees of the Board of Trustees, they submitted a draft Resolution to the said Board resolving that current activities, advancing the construction of Ghana’s National Cathedral, be deferred until the findings of an audit. This deferment included a cessation of activities by the Board of Trustees.
“In the spirit and cause of transparency and accountability to the Ghanaian people, the current Board of Trustees of The National Cathedral shall appoint an independent accounting firm to audit all public funds contributed to The National Cathedral. This appointment of an auditor shall take place before the deferment of the activities of the Board of Trustees,” the Resolution stated.
Rev. Eastwood Anaba, Founder of Eastwood Anaba Ministries
However, according to the clergymen, the Board failed to act on its request.
Government’s inaction, they said, would affect their conscience and faith should they remain adamant and support such an initiative.
It is their aim that the project be “built on a foundation of integrity, efficiency and quality while gamering and maintaining public trust and support.”
This statement indicates that the project currently lacks these virtues and a lot more as alleged by Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
Meanwhile, the National Cathedral Secretariat is yet to respond to the recent resignations of the two men of God.
The Board of Trustees, which stood at 13, is currently at 8.
1. Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah, former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost – Chairperson
2. Most Rev. Bishop Justice Ofei Akrofi, Anglican Archbishop Emeritus – Member
3. Rt. Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey, former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church – Member
4. Most Rev T. K. Awotwi Pratt, Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church – Member
5. Rev Dr Joyce Aryee, Executive Director, Salt and Light Ministries – Member
6. Rev Victor Kusi-Boateng, Founder of Power Chapel Worldwide – Member/Secretary
7. Rev Dr Frimpong Manso, General Superintendent, Assemblies of God – Member
Note that during the inauguration of the Board, Most Rev Dr. Samuel Asante Antwi, was appointed Chairman by President Akufo-Addo in 2017, but he passed away in 2020.
A 2017 report by Graphic Online announcing the inauguration of the Board read: “The board is chaired by a former Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church of Ghana, the Most Rev. Samuel Asante Antwi, with the Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, the Most Rev. Charles Palmer Buckle, as Vice-Chairperson, and the Founder and General Overseer of Power Chapel Worldwide, Prophet Kusi Boateng, as Secretary.
The other members are the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost and President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council, Apostle Dr Opoku Onyinah; the Founder of Salt and Light Ministries, Rev. Joyce Aryee; the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Right Rev. Prof. Cephas Omenyo; the Archbishop of the Church of the Province of West Africa and Bishop of Accra, the Most Rev. Dr Justice Offei Akrofi; the Founder of Action Chapel International, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams; the Founder and President of Fountain Gate Chapel, Rev. Eastwood Anaba; the Founder and Presiding Bishop of the Lighthouse Chapel International, Bishop Dag Heward Mills; the Founder of the International Central Gospel Church, Pastor Mensa Otabil, and Rev. Dr Yaw Frimpong Manso and Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey, both former Moderators of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana.”
Per the report, Most Rev T. K. Awotwi Pratt, Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church, was the newly added member as of 2022, as his name was absent from the list in 2017.
Black Stars head coach, Chris Hughton, has acknowledged that the team will encounter challenging moments, exemplified by the 4-0 loss to the USA, with the aim of emerging stronger.
During the international friendly at the Geodis Park in Nashville, Ghana endured a comprehensive dismantling within a mere 39 minutes, primarily due to subpar defending and individual errors. This marked their second defeat in the October international break.
Hughton, reflecting on the game, drew upon his extensive experience in the sport and asserted his confidence in the team’s potential to rebound with favorable results following disheartening losses like this.
“It is my responsibility to build this team. I have to work around some of the issues we’ve always had regards some players missing from the squad, trying to get consistency in the team and we will continue to strive to get the right formulas,” he told the press.
“I’ve also been involved in the game long enough to know that sometimes you go through what we regard as bad periods to come out better.”
The USA surged ahead in the 10th minute when Giovanni Reyna seized on a subpar clearance, and shortly after, Christian Pulisic extended their lead by converting a penalty awarded due to a foul by Gideon Mensah.
The third goal for the USA, which arrived in the 22nd minute, was handed to Florian Balogun on a silver platter, courtesy of another string of defensive lapses.
Ghana’s woes deepened as they conceded a fourth goal in the 39th minute, the result of a cleverly executed indirect free kick converted by Reyna, marking his second goal of the match.
President Akufo-Addo has expressed optimism about a decline in the country’s inflation rate by the end of 2023.
He conveyed that the government is implementing measures to rejuvenate the economy and curb inflation during a meeting with the Christian Council of Ghana at the Jubilee House.
His government is working to ensure the country ends the year with an inflation rate of 26.7 percent.
“The signs are becoming clearer and clearer, the very high rate of inflation that we suffered last year is coming down. By the end of this year, we will be looking at 26.7 percent.”
“By the end of next year, we will bring it down to 15. We have to go down to the single digits,” he stated.
In September 2023, the inflation rate declined, decreasing to 38.1% from the August 2023 figure of 40.1%, according to statistics provided by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS).
The data revealed that both food and non-food categories experienced decreases in inflation. Food inflation retreated from 51.9% in August 2023 to 49.4%, while non-food inflation also saw a decline from 30.9% to 29.3% during the same period.
Furthermore, the inflation rate for domestically produced items stood at 37.3%, while imported products carried a slightly higher inflation rate of 39.9%.
For a more short-term perspective, the month-on-month inflation between August 2023 and September 2023 was recorded at 1.9%, indicating a relatively stable inflation trend in the near future.
Professor Samuel Kobina Annim, the Government Statistician, attributed the decline in inflation to the stringent monetary policy measures implemented by the Bank of Ghana.
Four specific divisions recorded inflation rates higher than the national average, which included:
Alcoholic Beverages, Tobacco, and Narcotics at 49.4%.
Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages at 49.4%.
Personal Care, Social Protection, and Miscellaneous Goods and Services at 49.2%.
Furnishings, Household Equipment, and Routine Household Maintenance at an unusually high 544.9%.
Chris Hughton, the head coach of the Black Stars, remains resolute in his belief that he is the suitable candidate for the coaching role with the Black Stars, even after the sobering experience against the USA on Wednesday.
Ghana suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat at the Geodis Park in Nashville, Tennessee, during an international friendly. This loss marked Hughton’s second consecutive defeat, following the 2-0 setback against Mexico the previous Sunday.
Speaking at the press conference after the USA loss, Hughton said, “If you ask me if I feel like I’m the right person for this job, the answer is yes.”
The USA seized the lead in the 10th minute, courtesy of Giovanni Reyna, who capitalized on a subpar clearance. Shortly after, Christian Pulisic secured the second goal from the penalty spot, as a result of a foul on Gideon Mensah.
The third goal for the USA was a gift, coming in the 22nd minute due to a series of defensive blunders. Finally, in the 39th minute, Ghana fell further behind when Giovanni Reyna completed a well-executed indirect free kick to achieve his brace.
🗣️Chris Hughton says he feels like he is still the right man for the Black Stars coaching job.pic.twitter.com/1gk0mg9jjG
Ghana’s head coach, Chris Hughton, has expressed his deep disappointment, emphasizing that nobody feels it more keenly than he does, following the Black Stars’ 4-0 loss to the United States in an international friendly.
The four-time African champions conceded all four goals within just 39 minutes at the Geodis Park in Nashville during the early hours of Wednesday.
Hughton, who had previously guided the national team to an impressive unbeaten streak of five games, has now faced consecutive defeats, first to Mexico and now to the US.
During the post-match press conference, Hughton mentioned that poor performances such as the one against the USA can often serve as a catalyst for a winning streak.
“I’ve also been involved in the game long enough to know that sometimes you go through what we regard as bad periods to come out better.
“Sometimes the bad performances like today can be something that can kickstart something else or something that makes my mind up about the system we are playing. I understand that disappointment. I can tell you, nobody is more disappointed than I am.”
🇬🇭 10 GHANA BLACK STARS PLAYERS BEHIND ONE BALL AND USA STILL SCORED!
The National Media Commission (NMC) has emphasized that the recent events surrounding the arrest and prosecution of NPP individuals who disrupted the studios of United Television (UTV) should establish a new benchmark for evaluating government actions in the future.
The NMC specifically commended the role played by the Minister of Information, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, and the Attorney-General, Godfred Dame, in ensuring the apprehension and legal action against the NPP individuals involved.
The NMC noted that, despite the fact that the instigators of the UTV incident were affiliated with their own political party, these officials chose to safeguard media freedom through their actions.
The NMC sees their actions as groundbreaking and believes that they should serve as the prevailing standard for future actions and decisions.
“There is novelty in the courage of a sitting Minister, a Member of Parliament and an active politician in reporting members of his own party to the police for invading a TV station. This must signify a new beginning towards addressing questions of the safety of journalists.
“He and the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice had a choice. And they elected to exercise that in favour of media freedom. That behaviour sets a new standard by which government action must be judged into the future. We must hold the Ministers bound by this worthy precedent and define it as the standard by which we expect all future Ministers to act,” the NMC said in a statement.
Additionally, the NMC highlighted that the swift pace of the trial stands as evidence of the Chief Justice and the judiciary’s dedication to preserving press freedom.
The 16 culprits were each fined GHS2,400 by the court.
“It is also important to acknowledge the police for arresting, investigating and prosecuting the offenders. Perhaps one positive aspect of the police action that requires to be highlighted is the responsiveness and professionalism of the commander of the Tesano Police and his team,” the NMC added.
The commission stressed that the public outrage that followed the invasion “indicate to us the values Ghanaians cherish in our democratic space and the level of decency required of us all.”
The commission acknowledged that although there have been reservations about the relatively lenient punishment handed down to the individuals involved by the court, it signifies a step in the right direction in the country’s efforts to combat political impunity against journalists and the media at large.
“As a result, we call on all who care about the safety of journalists to see the conclusion of this case as the first step towards reversing impunity. We believe our collective commitment to the Coordinated Mechanism on the Safety of Journalists will ultimately create a safer space for the practice of journalism in Ghana,” the NMC concluded.
The Sampa Sector Command of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) in the Bono Region has carried out a rescue operation, saving 11 Nigerian nationals from alleged human trafficking agents near the Ghana-Ivory Coast border in the Jaman North District.
These individuals fell prey to a fraudulent online scheme known as “Q-Net,” which purportedly offered them overseas job opportunities but, in reality, swindled them of substantial amounts of money.
With the support of their families and relatives, all the victims have been safely repatriated to their home countries.
The victims had been trafficked and held against their will in Bondoukou, a city in northeastern Cote d’Ivoire, situated approximately 420 kilometers northeast of Abidjan, and they had been smuggled through unauthorized routes in the district with the assistance of unidentified commercial motorbike riders (Okada) in the area.
Assistant Commissioner of Immigration (ACI) John Morcher, the Sector Commander of the GIS, disclosed that preliminary investigations indicated the involvement of Okada riders who facilitated the movement of these unsuspecting victims across the border into Cote d’Ivoire through illicit routes.
The victims were identified by a sensitization team established by the International Centre for Migration and Policy Development (ICMPD) and CDD-Ghana as part of their Cross-Border Crime and Human Trafficking awareness initiative in the district.
ACI Morcher praised the project’s implementation for raising awareness about cross-border crimes in the region.
He also issued a stern warning to Okada riders engaging in these unscrupulous and illegal activities, stating that they would be prosecuted under the Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694).
Deputy Superintendent of Immigration (DSI) David Odoi Kpobi, who led the sensitization team, revealed that the victims had managed to escape from a camp in Bondoukou and had arrived at the Sampa border on Wednesday, October 11, 2023.
After thorough profiling by border security, it was uncovered that they had fallen victim to the “Q-Net” scheme, which had defrauded them of significant sums of money.
Some of the victims admitted to transferring substantial amounts of money from Nigeria to their captors through intermediaries before leaving Nigeria, journeying through Ghana to Cote d’Ivoire with hopes of working abroad, only to find themselves held hostage and mistreated.
The Functional Executive Committee (FEC) of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has referred the recent outbreak of violence at the Greater Accra Regional Office during the vetting of aspirants for the Odododiodio Constituency parliamentary primary to a dedicated special committee.
The party has revealed that all activities related to the primary election in the constituency have been temporarily suspended pending the results of the investigations conducted by the committee.
In a letter signed by General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, and as reported by JoyNews, the NDC confirmed that this decision was made during a meeting held by FEC on Tuesday, October 17, 2023.
The committee will include prominent members such as Rt. Hon. Edward Doe Adjaho, former Speaker of Parliament, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, the National Vice Chairman of the party, and George Loh, Deputy Director of Legal Affairs.
Meanwhile, the National Communications Officer of the NDC, Sammy Gyamfi, has conveyed the party’s deepest apologies to Ms. Otchere a journalist with Citi TV who was assaulted.
North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has made it known that when Parliament reconvenes after the recess, it will call upon officials from the Volta River Authority (VRA) to provide answers concerning the ongoing spillage that has triggered widespread flooding and the displacement of numerous residents in the Volta Region.
The flooding, arising from the discharge of water from the Akosombo and Kpong hydro dams, has compelled various communities in the North, South, and Central Tongu districts of the Volta region to evacuate their residences.
During an appearance on JoyNews’ PM Express, Mr. Ablakwa underscored the pressing need for deliberations regarding the relocation and compensation of flood victims, as many have seen their homes and livelihoods devastated by the deluge.
“Remember that even when the spilling stops, a lot of these people have had their homes destroyed. And so we need to have a discussion about resettlement; we need to have a discussion about compensation,” he said on Tuesday.
He firmly asserted his conviction that the VRA bore a responsibility to address inquiries regarding their management of the situation.
“We [MPs] don’t think they conducted themselves properly in this matter, and we expect that they announce plans for full compensation of the victims. They cannot be living in these camps for the rest of their lives. They cannot lose their farms, fish ponds, or businesses for the rest of their lives,” he said.
The Member of Parliament emphasized the necessity of tackling the situation through a multifaceted approach.
He highlighted the importance of providing immediate relief to those currently residing in temporary shelters due to the flooding. Simultaneously, he underlined the significance of looking ahead to the long-term aspects of resettlement and ensuring full compensation for those who have been impacted.
He also made it clear that there would be no concessions when it comes to safeguarding the rights and well-being of the flood victims. He indicated that Parliament would act swiftly to launch an investigation into the dam spillage and the ensuing floods, holding the responsible authorities accountable.
Reports indicate that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has allegedly confiscated two helicopters donated by PHI Century Limited to the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) over non-payment of taxes.
This information was put out by @Voice_of_KNUST known to be the social media handle of the tertiary institution.
According to the sources, “the GRA is demanding some thousands of Ghanaian cedis from KNUST before the helicopters are released”.
These helicopters are to assist with aeronautical studies at the aerospace engineering unit of KNUST.
Meanwhile, the management of KNUST and GRA are yet to officially comment on the matter.
📍📍BREAKING NEWS📍📍
Two helicopters to be delivered as a gift to KNUST by PHI Century Limited to assist with aeronautical studies at the aerospace engineering unit have been halted by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) over issues of taxation. 💔💔
The Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwasi Amoako-Atta, has provided assurance regarding the safety of the Sogakope Bridge as water levels continue to rise.
This increase in water levels is a result of the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong dams, which commenced on September 15. There have been concerns regarding the safety of Ghana’s longest bridge due to the inundation it is experiencing.
Accompanied by other high-ranking officials from the Ministry, the Roads Minister stated that the bridge, which was commissioned in 1967, has undergone consistent and effective maintenance over the years.
“This is the longest bridge over water in our country and the government will not allow anything to happen to the bridge. The government is working collaboratively with all key stakeholders to address the issue. The government is on top of the issues and the President is very particular on this issue,” he said.
The Minister highlighted that engineers have regularly visited and inspected the bridge. Additionally, plans are in place for the rehabilitation of the structure.
“This bridge is part of our program even before the advent of this disaster. The major activity on the bridge is to change all 18 expansion joints and we have entered an agreement with MC company based in Tema. We signed an MoU with them about three months ago. Work will start very soon,” he added.
He emphasized that the current water levels were within safe parameters. He also mentioned that efforts were being made to address issues such as aquatic weeds and other obstructions that affect the water flow.
Furthermore, Mr. Amoako Atta expressed his appreciation for the support provided by various stakeholders, including the leadership of the Canoe Fishermen Association.
Road Minister, Kwasi Amoako-Atta
The Minister gave the assurance that roads affected by the flooding would be fixed.
“At the end of this problem, the government will take a general look at all the roads affected. I want to assure the people on behalf of the government that at the end of this my ministry and its stakeholders will ensure the roads are fixed.”
The flood has impacted over 3,000 individuals in Central Tongu and forced more than 4,000 to seek refuge in North Tongu. The largest number of victims, exceeding 1,000, has found shelter at the safe haven located at St. Kizito Senior High School in Mepe, within the North Tongu District.
Relief efforts and support are being provided by the Volta River Authority (VRA), the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), and various security services to assist those affected.
Accra Academy had their game faces on, determined not to let Presec, Legon, pull off a double win in the same year. The Bleoo boys battled like champions in the NSMQ 2023 quarter-final match, but in the end, it was Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School, Presec Legon, who emerged as the victorious stars.
They had already triumphed over Accra Aca and Tema Methodist SHS to claim the Greater Accra Regional Championship. Despite their heroic efforts to dethrone Presec’s dominance, the Bleoo boys had to taste the bittersweet flavor of a second-place finish, racking up 58 points in this epic quiz-off.
The room was buzzing with emotions as the ever-graceful Quiz Mistress, Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufmann, paid tribute to Accra Academy. She couldn’t help but empathize, saying, “It’s tough to bid farewell to Accra Academy with just 58 points.”
The atmosphere grew even more poignant as she reminded everyone that in this quiz showdown, there can only be one ultimate winner, no matter how many points the runners-up rack up.
The closing scenes were a heartwarming spectacle. Both Presec students and their loyal fans joined forces in applause, saluting Accra Academy’s stellar performance.
Of course, Presec was destined to be the champs. None of the other semifinalists even came close to the 58 points that Accra Academy managed to score in their qualifying round, with the nearest competitor, Prempeh College, clocking in at 57 points. When we size it up, it’s clear that Accra Academy outshone all the other eighth semifinalists, even though they are exiting the competition with heads held high.
Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School, Presec Legon, is no stranger to NSMQ glory. In fact, they’re the heavyweights in the competition, boasting a trophy cabinet filled with unmatched achievements.
This year, as defending champions, Presec Boys didn’t hold back. Catchphrases like “Our God is gr8” and “We domin8” became their battle cries as they aimed for an incredible eighth win. These slogans aren’t just words; Presec backs them up with their quiz wizardry. Year after year, they pour their hearts and minds into training and preparing their participants for the NSMQ.
But one of Presec Boys’ secret weapons is their alumni network. They have a powerhouse alumni association called the Odade3 Global Association, and these alums are like the ultimate cheerleaders, offering both financial and moral support to the NSMQ contestants each year.
Presec’s stellar performance in the NSMQ is no stroke of luck; it’s a result of hard work, dedication, an unbreakable spirit, and pure brilliance.
Presec notched up a grand total of 64 points, outshining Accra Academy by a cool five (05) points.
