A soldier from the 48 Engineer Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), who was under investigation for alleged fraud, has been discovered deceased.
The lifeless body of the soldier, identified as a Lance Corporal, was found in the unit’s guardroom at 5:30 a.m. on Friday, October 13, 2023.
A press statement, signed by Brigadier General Eric Aggrey Quashie, Director General of the Public Affairs Directorate, confirmed that the deceased soldier’s body had been transported to the 37 Military Hospital Mortuary.
The statement indicated that initial inquiries revealed that the soldier, who was the subject of several fraud cases, had been placed in closed custody on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at around 7:30 pm, following a report of fraud by a civilian staff member at his Regiment.
It further stated that a team comprising members of the Ghana Military Police and CID personnel from the Teshie Divisional Police Headquarters had been dispatched to the scene to conduct investigations.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has strongly criticized Frontiers Healthcare, the company responsible for COVID-19 testing at Ghana’s Kotoka International Airport during the pandemic, describing their gains as a “complete exploitation” of the state.
This reaction comes in response to data provided by the Ghana Airport Company Limited to JoyNews, which revealed that Frontiers received a substantial $84 million from testing international travelers arriving at the airport and an additional GH₵29 million ($3.5 million) from departure testing.
In stark contrast, Ghana received only a meager sum of less than $7 million from arrival testing and GH₵1.5 million ($180,000) from departure testing during the period Frontiers conducted the tests.
This disproportionate distribution of revenue indicates that Frontiers retained over 90% of the earnings, with 92% coming from arrival testing and a significant 94% from departure testing.
On the other hand, Ghana’s share was meager, representing less than 10% of the total revenue, with just 7% coming from arrival testing and a mere 6% from departure testing.
The significant disparity in revenue allocation has sparked public outrage, leading Mr. Ablakwa to submit a motion to parliament, calling for an impartial audit of the contentious testing agreement between Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) and Frontiers.
This revenue information was only provided after GACL was fined GH¢200,000 by the Right to Information (RTI) Commission for failing to comply with directives to provide access to the information.
During an interview on Joy FM’s Top Story, Mr. Ablakwa commended JoyNews for its persistence in obtaining this information but expressed his disappointment that it took a fine to compel the release of this crucial data.
“First of all, we must condemn the conduct of officials at the Ghana Airport Company Limited, the board, the management.
“They should bow their head in shame. The Ghana Airport Company belongs to all of us, you are taking the decision on all of our behalf. If you are not proud of the decisions you take when it goes public then don’t take those decisions,” he said.
He added “Our understanding of the matter is that the Minister of Transport has spoken about this matter not on one occasion but on two occasions before parliament. It is found in parliament’s Hansard. At the minister’s vetting before the appointment committee, these questions came up and then he dealt with them. … so the matters were in the public domain.”
He mentioned that the Airport Company’s perspective was to reply to the RTI Commission, clarifying that the requested information was already publicly available and accessible to the media. However, the Commission held a different perspective on the issue.
He further explained that, following discussions with the RTI Commission, GACL ultimately decided to respond to JoyNews’ request by providing the information.
However, Raymond Acquah from JoyNews, who interrupted the discussion, contradicted Mr. Adom Otchere’s claim that the information was in the public domain, citing the response their team received as evidence to the contrary.
According to Mr Acquah, “Specifically, the response on September 19 was that it was exempt and then they proceeded to tell us some of the reasons it could not be given to us. Which includes that they were not the ones who did the testing and collection of money at the Airport.
“They didn’t say that the information was in the public domain. They also proceeded to say that they were not privy to that particular list of reasons.”
Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has called on members of the public to share in the feelings and experiences of former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, during her current challenging times.
Madam Cecilia Dapaah currently has her domestic staff in court over stolen cash. Following this incident, she is being investigated for corruption-related activities by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).
On the matter, Mr Kpebu has consistently supported the OSP’s decision to investigate Madam Dapaah, seize money found in her residence, and freeze her bank accounts based on suspicions of their being connected to illicit activities.
According to Mr Kpebu, he has the right to comment on public discourse and has only made remarks based on the facts available.
“We comment based on the facts and we use the law, you know, public interest. We have to do it. It is part of our job as citizens. We have to contribute to the public debate and all that. That was what she was asking about. I said yes, Madam it is part of our job and I will continue.
“I know it can cause pain and all that but I will continue to do it,” he continued.
However, he has entreated Ghanaians to show the former Minister empathy as she goes through a tough time.
“Let’s not forget she is going through a lot, so she needs empathy. You can’t run away from it. If it were you or I, it would happen that I would need empathy. Where you have almost everybody in the nation baying for her blood. It can be that tough.”
He made the plea while refuting claims that he had a confrontation with former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, over her stolen cash case and the seizure of her assets by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).
On October 11, former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, engaged private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu following the High Court’s consideration of arguments for expediting the confirmation of the freezing and seizure orders.
Martin Kpebu was present in court to represent his client in a separate case in Financial Court 2, where the proceedings for the Cecilia Dapaah case were being conducted.
Mr Kpebu says Madam Dapaah was polite to him. He explained that Madam Dapaah only asked about the “commentaries I have been running.”
“To be very honest with you, considering what she is going through, as against the conversation we had, she was very cordial. She was a bit very polite. Polite is a better word. No, she wasn’t fighting me,” he added.
Cecilia Dapaah vs Martin Kpebu: Lawyer opens up after 'confrontation' with former Sanitation Minister at Accra High Court.#GhanaTonight pic.twitter.com/DCMFjpEF9y
Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has refuted claims that he had a confrontation with former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, over her stolen cash case and the seizure of her assets by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).
On October 11, former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, engaged private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu following the High Court’s consideration of arguments for expediting the confirmation of the freezing and seizure orders.
Martin Kpebu was present in court to represent his client in a separate case in Financial Court 2, where the proceedings for the Cecilia Dapaah case were being conducted.
The outspoken lawyer has consistently supported the OSP’s decision to investigate Dapaah, seize money found in her residence, and freeze her bank accounts based on suspicions of their being connected to illicit activities.
In response to these comments, Dapaah, who appears to be affected by the remarks, is said to have accused Martin Kpebu of making unfair and biased statements.
But Mr Kpebu says such claims are false as Madam Dapaah was polite to him. He explained that Madam Dapaah only asked about the “commentaries I have been running.”
“To be very honest with you, considering what she is going through, as against the conversation we had, she was very cordial. She was a bit very polite. Polite is a better word. No, she wasn’t fighting me,” he added.
According to Mr Kpebu, he has the right to comment on public discourse and has only made remarks based on the facts available.
“We comment based on the facts and we use the law, you know, public interest. We have to do it. It is part of our job as citizens. We have to contribute to the public debate and all that. That was what she was asking about. I said yes, Madam it is part of our job and I will continue.
“I know it can cause pain and all that but I will continue to do it,” he continued.
Cecilia Dapaah vs Martin Kpebu: Lawyer opens up after 'confrontation' with former Sanitation Minister at Accra High Court.#GhanaTonight pic.twitter.com/DCMFjpEF9y
Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has expressed shock over photographs in reports that claim former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah confronted him over his comments on her stolen cash case, which has now led to a corruption-related case being investigated by the Office of the Special Prosecutor.
On October 11, former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, engaged private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu following the High Court’s consideration of arguments for expediting the confirmation of the freezing and seizure orders.
Martin Kpebu was present in court to represent his client in a separate case in Financial Court 2, where the proceedings for the Cecilia Dapaah case were being conducted.
The outspoken lawyer has consistently supported the OSP’s decision to investigate Dapaah, seize money found in her residence, and freeze her bank accounts based on suspicions of their being connected to illicit activities.
In response to these comments, Dapaah, who appears to be affected by the remarks, is said to have accused Martin Kpebu of making unfair and biased statements.
But according to Mr Kpebu, that was not the case as Madam Dapaah was “polite”. According to him, the pictures in circulation misconstrue what happened. He noted that due to Madam Dapaah’s hand gestures, it painted the picture that she was aggressive.
For Mr Kpebu, he is surprised such pictures got to the public as he did not sight any journalist taking a picture.
A shell-shocked Kpebu noted that the actions of journalists are now surprising.
“I can imagine the picture was taking while her hand was in motion. So it portrays a lot of force more than what really happened. I am even surprised. I didn’t see anybody snapping us, in taking a full picture. So I’m like ei journalists are now doing wonders. It means that somebody had a hidden camera because I didn’t see any journalist posing, coming near to take a picture.”
Cecilia Dapaah vs Martin Kpebu: Lawyer opens up after 'confrontation' with former Sanitation Minister at Accra High Court.#GhanaTonight pic.twitter.com/DCMFjpEF9y
Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, Leader of Ghana’s Delegation to the 2023 IMF/World Bank Annual meetings in Marrakech (Morocco), held a press conference today.
Meanwhile, Ken Ofori-Atta, has characterized the IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings as an opportunity to initiate a fresh start for the global financial structure.
Addressing a Roundtable Discussion on “IMF Policy Priorities,” Mr. Ofori-Atta urged the IMF to bolster the global financial safety net by implementing substantial reforms to the global financial framework, stressing that “we need to stretch the IMF to do more.”
President Akufo-Addo has set up an inter-ministerial team to coordinate the government’s response to the flooding of some communities following spilling from the Volta dam.
This committee, according to the Ministry of Information in a press statement dated October 13, is headed by the Chief of Staff, Frema Opare.
The controlled spillage of water from the Akosombo Dam has triggered extensive flooding in the Tongu districts of the Volta Region in Ghana. This has led to the displacement of thousands of people from their homes and the destruction of numerous businesses, including resorts and hotels along the Volta Lake.
The situation has become particularly worrisome as the Sogakope Bridge, situated downstream of the Akosombo Dam, is on the brink of submersion. The Volta River Authority (VRA) had previously issued a warning in September, advising residents downstream of the dams to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures due to the impending controlled spillage.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament (MP) for the North Tongu Constituency, has called on the VRA to reduce the discharge of water from the Akosombo Dam. His primary concern is to ensure the safe evacuation of all residents affected by the flooding.
Ablakwa has expressed his deep concerns about the devastating impact of the discharge and has requested immediate relief supplies for the affected individuals.
Similarly, the MP for the Central Tongu Constituency, Alexander Roosevelt, has described the situation within his constituency as extremely precarious.
More than 30 communities have been severely affected by the dam spillage, resulting in submerged houses, disrupted electricity supply, and widespread food shortages.
Roosevelt is currently visiting each affected community to assess the extent of the damage and develop strategies to address the urgent needs of the affected residents.
On Friday, October 13, firefighters from the Mamponteng Municipal Fire Station successfully extinguished a fierce fire that consumed the upper floor of a two-story dormitory building at SIMMS SHS in Fawoade, within the Kwabre East Municipality.
These skilled and courageous firefighters managed to prevent the spread of the fire to nearby structures, as well as safeguarding one room on the top floor and all the rooms on the ground floor, along with their contents, from any damage due to the fire.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, and fortunately, no casualties among the firefighters or students were reported.
The fire resulted in significant damage to three out of the four upper-floor rooms, causing destruction to items such as student mattresses, metal bunk beds, books, and other personal belongings of the students.
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) in collaboration with its partners in health service delivery, held an eye screening exercise in commemoration of the 2023 National World Sight Day.
As part of activities to mark the day, an eye screening exercise was held for staff at the Graphic Communications Group Limited, commuters and traders at the Neoplan Station, and pupils of the All Saints Anglican Basic School, Adabraka.
This year’s theme is “Love Your Eyes at Work”. The program brought stakeholders together to create awareness about the need for quality eye health, ways to improve eye health, and the importance of taking care of the eyes at work.
World Sight Day is a global event that falls on the second Thursday in October every year.
The day is set aside by the World Health Organization and the International Agency for Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) to raise awareness and draw the world’s attention to global blindness and visual impairment as a major international public health issue.
To our valued readers and the individuals involved:
1. In our previous article titled “ATO FORSON HAS REQUESTED FOR PLEA BARGAIN IN €2.3M AMBULANCE CASE – DEPUTY AG CONFIRMS,” published on Friday the 13th day of October 2023, we reported that Hon Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson had sought a plea bargain deal through a third party. We also attributed statements to Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah-Yeboah in support of this claim.
2. We now acknowledge that our original story contained inaccuracies. It has come to our attention that Hon Ato Forson did not seek a plea bargain deal as initially reported, and that our report was incorrect. We deeply regret the widespread embarrassment that this may have caused Hon Ato Forson.
3. We also wish to extend our sincere apologies to Hon Tuah-Yeboah for misrepresenting his interview with Citinewsroom.com. We understand the importance of accurate reporting and the potential harm that inaccurate information can cause to individuals and their reputations.
4. Citinewsroom.com remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of journalism and integrity. We have, therefore, taken immediate steps to rectify this error and ensure that such inaccuracies do not occur in the future.
5. Once again, we sincerely apologize to Hon Ato Forson and Hon Tuah-Yeboah for any inconvenience and harm our previous report may have caused. We appreciate your understanding and will continue to strive for excellence in our reporting.
Mfantsipim School has advanced to the next round of the 2023 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), showcasing a successful revenge against Kumasi Academy.
In the 2020 NSMQ, Kumasi Academy eliminated Mfantsipim School during the one-eighth stage. However, in the 2023 competition, the tables turned in favor of Mfantsipim, popularly known as Botwe.
Botwe proved to be a formidable opponent, amassing 53 points while Kumasi Academy trailed behind with 35 points.
Although Kumasi Academy put up a tough fight in 2023, the final round of the contest, featuring riddles, was particularly intense. At certain points, the two schools were tied, but Botwe’s brilliance shone through as they correctly answered two riddles, securing the lead with 55 points. Kumasi Academy finished with 45 points.
Mamfe Methodist Girls’ SHS, the third school in the competition, ended with a total of just 13 points.
Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has once again refuted claims by the Attorney General’s Department that he has sought plea bargain over the ambulance procurement deal in court.
Earlier, the Attorney General’s Department confirmed that lawyers representing Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson have taken steps to initiate a plea bargain, and they did so through an intermediary.
This disclosure came in response to a challenge issued to the Attorney General’s department by Dr. Ato Forson’s legal team, who requested the release of any correspondence indicating that their client had initiated plea bargain discussions.
The challenge arose in light of media reports suggesting that the Minority Leader had reached out to the Attorney General’s department regarding a plea bargain arrangement.
Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah-Yeboah clarified that his office initially received two separate letters from a third party offering to cover the cost of the ambulances in exchange for the case being dropped.
“I think last year someone who was not a party to that prosecution offered to make a refund and take the ambulance back and in lieu of that we withdraw the case,” Tuah-Yeboah noted.
“There was a second letter and we said we don’t even know those of you who have written this letter. If you want those who are being prosecuted to take advantage of your proposal, they should rather come up with that proposal,” the deputy Attorney General said.
“The accused persons, some of them through their lawyers wrote that they actually endorse the letter written by the third party seeking to return the money.”
On the specific question of whether the Minority Leader made such a move, the Deputy Attorney General indicated that “Mr. Forson’s lawyers also wrote a letter seeking to say they were also siding with the third party who had offered to pay that money.”
But Dr Ato Forson says this claim “is false, wicked and evil and is intended to incite public prejudice against me and undermine my the right to fair trial.”
According to Dr Ato Forson, he has not, “at any point in time, approached any one or authority to consider or discuss the said plea bargain that has been attributed to me.”
He therefore has requested that the Deputy Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, and CitiNewsroom.com, take appropriate steps to correct this “false reportage immediately.
Dr. Ato Forson, along with two others, is facing criminal charges related to causing financial loss to the state in connection with a flawed ambulance procurement deal. The accused individuals are alleged to have committed criminal acts in the purchase of 50 defective ambulances, costing 2.3 million Euros.
Dr. Ato Forson, who was the Deputy Finance Minister at the time of the purchase, specifically faces accusations of issuing letters of credit for the ambulance purchase without proper authorization, allegations he has vehemently denied.
The state has completed its case, and the court has instructed Dr. Ato Forson, the primary accused, to present his defense. He has called two witnesses so far and plans to call four more, including his former superior, Seth Terkper, and former Health Minister Alex Segbefia.
The Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Freda Prempeh, has refuted claims that her ministry received $125 million from the World Bank for a five-year program aimed at training environmental inspectors to pursue sanitation offenders.
She issued this statement in Kumasi during the inauguration of 38 institutional toilet facilities spanning eight district assemblies in the Ashanti Region on Friday.
The minister clarified that the reports misrepresent what her ministry officials conveyed during the training of environmental prosecutors in Tamale the previous month.
In her clarification, she pointed out that the $125 million represented the entire budget for the four-year Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA) Sanitation and Water project, which commenced in 2021.
Furthermore, she elaborated that the training of environmental prosecutors was merely one component within the capacity-building aspect of the four-year project.
“Recently, we saw a viral video, a publication going around indicating that the World Bank had given the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources $125 million. Let me put on record here that the World Bank has not dumped any money in my office as is being speculated around that 125 million has been given to the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources,” she said.
“Indeed, they have a project that together has about four components which sum up to $125 million which was started years ago, some being taken in Kumasi and some in Accra. And yet somebody somewhere decided to do his own story that $125 million had been given to the Minister of Sanitation. No such monies have been dumped in my office,” she stated.
The objective of the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA) Sanitation and Water Project for Ghana is to increase access to improved sanitation and improved water supply in the GAMA, with emphasis on low income communities and to strengthen management of environmental sanitation in the GAMA.
The project has four components. The first component is provision of environmental sanitation and water supply services to priority low income areas of the GAMA.
The second component is improvement and expansion of the water distribution network in the GAMA. The third component is planning, improvement and expansion of GAMA-wide environmental sanitation services.
The fourth component is institutional strengthening. This component will provide technical assistance (TA) to municipal, metropolitan and national institutions, including the promotion of private sector initiatives.
St. Augustine’s College has secured a spot in the quarter-finals of the 2023 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) with a convincing victory over St. Peter’s SHS and Aburi Girls SHS.
At the beginning of the competition, the two-time champions appeared to be in a precarious position, trailing with only 17 points compared to their opponents’ 19 points.
Nevertheless, in true NSMQ fashion, they mounted a comeback starting from the second round and continued their strong performance through the fifth round.
By the end of the second round, St. Augustine’s College had taken the lead with 26 points, while St. Peter’s SHS had 23 points, and Aburi Girls’ SHS had 14 points.
Even when confronted with the challenging “problem of the day” in the third round, which proved difficult for many contestants, these schools managed to earn eight, seven, and seven points, respectively.
Realizing that the subsequent rounds could determine their fate, St. Augustine’s College substituted one team member, Joshua, for another, Benedict. This strategic move paid off as they concluded the fourth round with 50 points, while Aburi Girls had 31 and St. Peter’s had 43.
Sustaining their lead throughout the entire contest, St. Augustine’s College secured victory in the fifth round with a total of 56 points, surpassing St. Peter’s SHS and Aburi Girls SHS, who scored 43 and 34 points, respectively.
The Central Regional team will face formidable opponents in the upcoming quarter-finals.
Their challengers include Tamale SHS, who achieved a strong 51 points in their one-eighth contest, and Keta SHTS, which scored an impressive 70 points – the highest score in the competition so far.
This sets the stage for a highly anticipated and exciting matchup.
The 2023 National Science and Maths Quiz is produced by Primetime Limited and sponsored by the Ghana Education Service in partnership with Goil PLC.
The broadcast of the National Science and Maths Quiz on JoyNews and Joy Prime is supported by Vitamilk, NASCO, German Ozone Medical Center, Royal Foam, Jamaa Soap, Heritage Christian College, Virtual Security Africa, Ace Medical Insurance, Chopbox Technologies, Sintex Tank, DBS, Built Financial Technologies, Beta Malt, and Family Health University College.
The trial of Daniel Asiedu, also known as “Sexy Dodon,” who is facing charges of allegedly murdering the former Member of Parliament for Abuakwa North, J.B. Danquah Adu, was temporarily halted due to the absence of a juror.
The court was notified that one of the seven jurors had given birth the previous day, and as a result, was not present.
The court, under the leadership of Mrs. Lydia Osei Marfo, was informed that the jury foreman had attempted to contact the absent juror, but she purportedly declined to answer the calls.
The judge said, later: “I called her to give me a date which she believes she can join the trial. From my engagement with her which lasted for about 15 minutes, she was unable to tell me when she can come to court.”
The juror maintained that her doctor had advised her to take three months to recover, despite having a normal delivery.
Considering the circumstances, the court had no alternative but to reschedule the trial.
As a result, the case was adjourned to November 7, 2023.
Daniel Asiedu is facing charges of murder and robbery, while his accomplice, Vincent Bossu, is charged with conspiracy to commit robbery. Both have pleaded not guilty to the charges and have been remanded in prison custody.
The charges against them are related to their alleged involvement in the murder of the former Member of Parliament at his residence in Shiashie in 2016.
The Accra High Court has scheduled December 4, 2023, as the date for delivering its verdict in the case involving En Huang, also known as Aisha Huang, who stands accused of illegal mining activities.
During the court session, both the defense counsel and the prosecution informed the court that they had submitted their written arguments for consideration.
Aisha Huang is facing charges related to conducting unauthorized mining operations, facilitating the involvement of individuals in illegal mining, and re-entering Ghana after deportation.
She has consistently denied these charges and is currently in custody. The prosecution has identified the complainants as security and intelligence officers.
According to the prosecution, Aisha had gained a reputation for engaging in various small-scale mining activities, commonly known as ‘galamsey,’ throughout the country.
In 2017, Aisha was arrested for a similar offense, but she reportedly managed to leave the country, thus avoiding prosecution. Following her return, she allegedly resumed small-scale mining activities without the required license.
Ghanaian journalist and pollster, Benjamin Emmanuel Ephson, claims that a number of ministers appointed by former President John Agyekum Kufuor had their positions stripped off owing to their allegiance to Nana Akufo-Addo (Ghana’s current president) back in 2007.
In an interview on Hello FM, Mr Ephson noted that these ministers, whose identities he failed to disclose, reportedly lost their jobs for not supporting Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen 15 years ago.
“15 years ago, Alan was an establishment candidate. Now Akufo-Addo was the victim of establishment candidate . So now if Bawumia is the establishment candidate, Akufo-Addo has been discrete. Ministers of State 15 years ago, under Kufuor, who supported Akufo-Addo, were dismissed. In 2007, Ministers of State, who supported Akufo-Addo and did not support Alan Kyerematen were dismissed,” he stressed.
According to King Edward De Slave, a journalist of Hello FM, these claims have been refuted by the Office of Kufuor and affiliates.
But Mr Ephson stood his ground, noting that “there are other names that I don’t want to drag in.”
Former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen has however refuted the claims that he had the support of former President Kufuor during the said period.
According to Mr Kyerematen, in 2007, formerPresident John Agyekum Kufuor made it clear that he would not support Alan’s bid for the party’s flagbearership.
Alan Kyerematen made this revelation in an interview with Bernard Avle, the General Manager of Citi News, on Tuesday, September 26, 2023. He was responding to a question about whether he was a favourite of Kufuor, who appointed him as an ambassador and a trade minister.
Mr. Kyerematen said that he informedPresident Kufuorof his intention to contest for the NPP flagbearership in 2007, but he was advised to wait and focus on his work as the Trade Minister.
“In 2005, all the people who eventually contested, they had started doing underground moves and operations. I had made up my mind at that time, post-2004, 2005, that I would contest. When I went to him to inform him that I have an interest and that my other colleagues have started moves under cover, if he sees that I’m also operating, he should not be surprised about that. His advice to me was, ‘Wait, do your work. If people feel that you are the right person, they themselves would promote you,” he said.
“[President Kufuor] said, if there are any people that I will support, there are four people: Nana Akufo-Addo – he was the first person he mentioned, Aliu Mahama, Papa Owusu Ankomah and then yourself. Any of you, if you win, bless my soul. I’ll be happy.’ So, it was on that basis that we all carried on,” Alan told Bernard Avle.
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has called on members of the general public, particularly males, to have their breasts checked to prevent the contraction of breast cancer.
In a circular, the GHS noted that “both men and women can get breast cancer,” hence “let’s take the opportunity to get our breasts checked this Pinktober.”
“Both males and females can get breast cancer, but the disease mostly (99%) affects females. Some people also have greater chances of getting Breast Cancer due to the exposure of certain risk factors,” it noted.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), approximately 0.5–1% of breast cancers occur in men.
The Service stressed the fact that early detection saves lives.
Breast cancer
Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal breast cells grow out of control and form tumours. If left unchecked, the tumours can spread throughout the body and become fatal.
Breast cancer cells begin inside the milk ducts and/or the milk-producing lobules of the breast. The earliest form (in situ) is not life-threatening. Cancer cells can spread into nearby breast tissue (invasion). This creates tumours that cause lumps or thickening.
Invasive cancers can spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs (metastasize). Metastasis can be fatal.
Treatment is based on the person, the type of cancer and its spread. Treatment combines surgery, radiation therapy and medications.
The treatment of breast cancer in men follows the same principles of management as for women.
According to the WHO, “In 2020, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685 000 deaths globally. As of the end of 2020, there were 7.8 million women alive who were diagnosed with breast cancer in the past 5 years, making it the world’s most prevalent cancer.”
Certain factors increase the risk of breast cancer including increasing age, obesity, harmful use of alcohol, family history of breast cancer, history of radiation exposure, reproductive history (such as age that menstrual periods began and age at first pregnancy), tobacco use and postmenopausal hormone therapy.
Approximately half of breast cancers develop in women who have no identifiable breast cancer risk factor other than gender (female) and age (over 40 years), the WHO adds.
The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, launched their seven-year strategic plan at the Alisa Hotel in Accra.
The 7-year strategic plan is expected to move the Service towards becoming a model organisation for Migration Management and the Security of Ghana.
It would also provide a roadmap for the Ghana Immigration Service to operate an efficient, fair and firm immigration system that meets the social and economic needs of the country.
The plan also provides an effective monitoring and evaluation system which will guide in gauging the performance of the Ghana Immigration Service and the impact of the implementation of the Plan.
At the official launch of the 2023-2029 Strategic Plan for the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) in Accra, the Minister for Interior, Ambrose Dery, reiterated the government’s unwavering support and dedication to achieving the plan’s objectives, particularly in enhancing border security management in the country.
The Minister expressed his confidence in the direction set by the GIS’s seven-year Strategic Plan, which is designed to guide the service’s operations. He noted that the Plan comprehensively outlines the strategies that the Service will adopt to fulfill its mandate over the next seven years.
Mr Ambrose Dery emphasized that the 2023-2029 Strategic Plan focuses on four critical components: Border Management, Transnational Crime Prevention, Enforcement, and Organisational Drivers. Each of these components provides a clear roadmap for realizing the transformational goal of making the Ghana Immigration Service a model agency for Migration Management and the security of Ghana.
He pointed out that the 2018-2022 Strategic Plan led to advancements such as infrastructure improvements, capacity building, recruitment, and the development of GIS officers’ capabilities.
The Minister called upon stakeholders involved in the realm of migration management to collaborate and support the implementation of the activities outlined in the Strategic Plan. This collaboration is expected to enhance the management of migration in Ghana and on a global scale.
Present at the function were also the Ga Mantse, HRM King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Henry Quartey, Chief Director of the Ministry for the Interior, Mrs. Adelaide Annor-Kumi, Heads of the various Security Agencies, the Clergy, past Comptroller-Generals and officers of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) as well as officers of the other Security Agencies.
The Attorney General’s Department has confirmed that lawyers representing Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson have taken steps to initiate a plea bargain, and they did so through an intermediary.
This disclosure comes in response to a challenge issued to the Attorney General’s department by Dr. Ato Forson’s legal team, who requested the release of any correspondence indicating that their client had initiated plea bargain discussions.
The challenge arose in light of media reports suggesting that the Minority Leader had reached out to the Attorney General’s department regarding a plea bargain arrangement.
Dr. Ato Forson, along with two others, is facing criminal charges related to causing financial loss to the state in connection with a flawed ambulance procurement deal. The accused individuals are alleged to have committed criminal acts in the purchase of 50 defective ambulances, costing 2.3 million Euros.
Dr. Ato Forson, who was the Deputy Finance Minister at the time of the purchase, specifically faces accusations of issuing letters of credit for the ambulance purchase without proper authorization, allegations he has vehemently denied.
The state has completed its case, and the court has instructed Dr. Ato Forson, the primary accused, to present his defense. He has called two witnesses so far and plans to call four more, including his former superior, Seth Terkper, and former Health Minister Alex Segbefia.
However, the state has reported that it received letters from Dr. Ato Forson’s legal representatives in support of a plea bargain request brought to their attention by a third party.
Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah-Yeboah clarified that his office initially received two separate letters from a third party offering to cover the cost of the ambulances in exchange for the case being dropped.
“I think last year someone who was not a party to that prosecution offered to make a refund and take the ambulance back and in lieu of that we withdraw the case,” Tuah-Yeboah noted.
Due to the Attorney General’s department’s reluctance to engage with individuals who were not directly indicted in the case, the accused individuals were prompted to respond to the proposal.
“There was a second letter and we said we don’t even know those of you who have written this letter. If you want those who are being prosecuted to take advantage of your proposal, they should rather come up with that proposal,” the deputy Attorney General said.
Following this, legal representatives of some of the accused individuals, as explained by Tuah-Yeboah, sent letters to the department in support of the proposal.
“The accused persons, some of them through their lawyers wrote that they actually endorse the letter written by the third party seeking to return the money.”
On the specific question, of whether the Minority Leader made such a move, the Deputy Attorney General indicated that “Mr. Forson’s lawyers also wrote a letter seeking to say they were also siding with the third party who had offered to pay that money.”
Meanwhile, the Attorney General’s Department is yet to make a decision on the request.
On October 10, 2023, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), specifically the Ghanaian Battalion 10 (GHANBATT 10), demonstrated their commitment to goodwill by making a charitable donation to the Arakan Medical Centre located in Burma Camp.
The donation included various items such as 3 digital blood pressure machines, 3 infrared thermometers, 4 digital auxiliary thermometers, 3 sets of Samsung air conditioners, 3 sets of 43-inch televisions, a refrigerator, and a lawn mower.
These items were part of GHANBATT’s Corporate Social Responsibility program.
Colonel (Col) Prince Tandoh, the Commanding Officer of GHANBATT 10, presented the donated items and expressed optimism that they would significantly enhance the medical services offered to troops and their families at 5 Garrison and the surrounding areas.
In response, Col Josephine Kumordjie, the Nursing Officer in-Charge (NOIC) of the Centre, conveyed her gratitude on behalf of the Senior Medical Officer.
She appreciated GHANBATT for selecting the Centre as the beneficiary of their Corporate Social Responsibility initiative and acknowledged the substantial improvement these items would bring to the quality of services provided at the Centre.
The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Presidential Elections Committee has announced that the presidential primaries scheduled for November 4th will take place in the party’s constituencies throughout the country.
Professor Michael Oquaye, who chairs the Committee, stated that each constituency will have a designated polling center for the elections.
With over 200,000 NPP delegates set to participate, the November 4th election aims to select the party’s Presidential Candidate for the 2024 election. Professor Michael Oquaye offered assurance that the elections will be conducted in a free and equitable manner.
“The Electoral Commission will also be fully in charge of the process, in fact, it’s going to be like any other national election. Every constituency, there will be a centre in it and for that matter, the EC will go about the process of conducting the elections. What this means in effect is that no authority, no person, whether by way of a party person will be part of the process of conducting the elections,” Professor Michael Oquaye said.
On September 22, the Presidential Elections Committee of the party unveiled the guidelines for the upcoming November 4 primaries. These primaries are set to occur in all 276 constituencies across the nation, as well as at the Party Headquarters in Asylum Down, Accra.
In a statement released in Accra, the committee detailed the procedures and regulations governing the primaries, which will determine the party’s presidential candidate for the 2024 general election.
Four individuals are contending for the presidential candidacy, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, former MP for Mampong Francis Addai-Nimoh, and former Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Akoto Afriyie.
Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah Yeboah has engaged in a public dispute with the former chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, regarding his dissatisfaction with the guidance provided by his committee on his controversial report on galamsey.
The Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice has categorically dismissed Prof. Frimpong-Boateng’s claims in his report on illegal mining activities in the country, deeming them unsubstantiated. The Attorney-General’s office further stated that there is insufficient evidence to pursue legal action against the individuals named in the report.
This response came after a comprehensive review of a docket submitted by the Police concerning the allegations outlined in a 36-page document authored by Prof. Frimpong-Boateng, titled “Report on the work of IMCIM so far and the way forward.”
The Attorney-General’s guidance, issued on Tuesday, September 12, and conveyed to the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service on Thursday, September 14, bore the signature of Chief State Attorney Evelyn Keelson. In this advice, the Attorney-General indicated an inability to recommend the prosecution of any individuals named in the report.
Consequently, the Attorney-General has instructed the police to exonerate the persons implicated in the report, with the exception of those who are still subjects of ongoing investigations.
Alfred Tuah-Yeboah, Deputy Attorney General
In response to the Attorney General’s characterization of his report on illegal mining as hearsay and devoid of substance, Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng remains undisturbed. The distinguished surgeon expressed his conviction that the gravity of the issue will become apparent to all in the near future.
“I am not at all surprised with that characterization by the Attorney General.”
“We can all close our eyes and trivialize the destruction of the environment and its biodiversity, but the reality of these criminal actions by people who have no conscience and love for the country will be evident in the near future if not soon,” he stated in a press release on Thursday, October 12.
The Deputy Attorney General has called upon the distinguished surgeon to substantiate his claims with concrete evidence. He emphasized that the Office of the Attorney General bases its legal actions on solid proof, not mere hearsay.
He maintained that without substantial evidence, prosecution cannot be pursued. Consequently, he urged the esteemed professor to collaborate with his office in addressing the issue effectively.
“Advice has been offered, an opinion has been offered. Anyone who thinks that he has evidence that will also support us to review our opinion, why not?
“But we will not in any way take a matter to court, where we will be seriously bruised and embarrassed. As prosecutors, you go to court with hard evidence, not with speculations.”
“So you can say Mr. A has stolen. That is the allegation. What has he stolen? Then you come with evidence. Mr. A is engaged in galamsey. That is the allegation. What is the evidence?
“It’s possible that you may go to a forest and realise that people have engaged in illegal mining, but you may mention my name as the one who did it. That is not enough.”
“You should be able to get evidence to show that yes I was there, and I was the one who engaged people to do that. We do this work based on evidence, not on conjectures,” Alfred Tuah-Yeboah said.
President Akufo-Addo has reaffirmed Ghana’s steadfast support for Israel and Ukraine during what he described as “difficult moments of their national survival.”
He pointed out that the consequences of Hamas’ aggressive actions in Israel, along with their wider impact on peace in the Middle East, have added to the already complex global development challenges.
“Ladies and gentlemen, there should be no disagreement about the intensity and scale of the challenges that confront our world, and the urgent need to address them,” the President stated.
Speaking at the headquarters of the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) in Washington D.C., the President emphasized the imperative for nations to champion freedom, democracy, and security.
Ghana, a long-standing democratic nation in West Africa, holds a prominent role as a regional leader and a vital member of the West African regional bloc, ECOWAS.
In light of the growing wave of extra-constitutional movements and increasing political instability in sub-Saharan Africa, the United States and its partners are exploring strategies to offer the best possible support to Ghana and other established democracies in the region, with the aim of fostering and sustaining democracy as a governance model.
The discussions with President Nana Akufo-Addo at USIP will also delve into Ghana’s crucial role as a regional leader in promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development. The meeting will address a range of topics, including Ghana’s contributions to peace in West Africa, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and regional security matters in the Pacific Islands, among other subjects.
President Nana Akufo-Addo, in his address, pointed out that the world was in turmoil, and “we are confronted with perilous situations”.
“Terrorism and violent extremism, climate change, food insecurity, political instability in parts of Africa, post-election violence, health pandemics energy crises, rising commodity prices, geo-political tensions, the conflicts in the Middle East, and the needless war in Ukraine, amongst others, have weakened the foundational pillars of multilateralism,” he lamented.
He argued that the world was operating in the most challenging and difficult of times.
“The interlocking challenges and the convergence of crises we face post existential threats that require our immediate solidarity and collective actions,” he advised.
Following a year-long legal battle triggered by JoyNews using the Right to Information Act, the extent of the revenue disparity in favor of Frontiers Healthcare Services has been disclosed.
Initially, in response to JoyNews’ inquiry about the revenue distribution between the involved parties, the airport company cited that they couldn’t provide the information, stating that “passengers paid directly to Frontiers Healthcare, providers of the service.”
However, the Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL) has now furnished JoyNews with data, revealing that Frontiers received a substantial $84 million from arrival testing and an additional GHS 29 million ($3.5 million) from departure testing.
In stark contrast, Ghana itself received a meager amount of under $6 million from arrival testing and GHS 1.5 million ($180,000) from departure testing over the same period.
This substantial imbalance in revenue allocation highlights that Frontiers claimed over 90% of the earnings, with a retention of 92% of income from arrival testing and a notable 94% from departure testing.
In stark contrast, Ghana’s portion was minimal, representing less than 10% of the overall revenue, with a mere 7% stemming from arrival testing and a mere 6% from departure testing.
The significant revenue disparity has ignited public outcry, prompting Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the ranking member on the foreign affairs committee of parliament, to present a motion in the legislature. The motion calls for an impartial audit of the contentious testing agreement between Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) and Frontiers.
Critics argue that Ghana’s meager share signifies missed opportunities to allocate resources that could have bolstered the nation’s response to the pandemic, especially considering the economic hardships brought about by COVID-19.
A visually impaired political activist, Duodu Bulgaria, says he has been compelled to relocate owing to threats to his life.
Duodu has been vocal ahead of the New Patriotic Party Presidential primaries and the 2024 general elections.
He has criticised several political figures such as former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen and Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong.
It appears that his unsavory commentary has won him some enemies.
In an interview on Yes Ghana, Duodu noted that he had spotted one WeareforKen TV reporting news of death threats received by him and a ploy to blame it on Mr Ken Agyapong.
According him, he did not give much attention to it until he saw other media houses making similar reports.
“On Friday, I saw that WeareforKen TV, they had done a certain story that people want to kill me and blame Ken Agyapong for it. When I saw it, I thought WeareforKen TV are just doing politics. So I didn’t take it seriously. But on Sunday, I saw Eko)Naba TV had done an interview where they engaged Mr Oheneba Ntim, my own father who was also saying same. Then I realized that the matter has gone viral. My relatives were not comfortable with the issue so they decided that I should relocate from my place.
“I want to thank the people of Asiakwa. Those from abroad, and in Accra asked that I relocate. So I had to relocate,” he narrated.
According to him, he cannot confirm whether such death threats being reported and the said individual being accused are true.
“But that is what they are saying. But as to whether it is true or not, I cannot say and cannot confirm. I think it could be a strategy and yes, maybe somebody has planned this, but those who put this information out, where did they get it and when they got it, what have they done about it.
“And it cannot be that those who want to commit this act are the same people announcing it and later say that we earlier relayed this information. That is also possible. Those announcing this are suspects.”
To protect his life, Duodu has made a complaint to the Ghana Police Service.
“Yes, I have reported the issue to the police. I went to our Divisional Commander but he told me it is now a national issue due to the names involved so he said I should report at the headquarters, so I am looking for to those who took me to him to go to the headquarters, so I lodge a complaint,” he stated.
During the interview, Duodu was asked if he has personally received death threats. His response was affirmative.
“I have had someone call me to threaten my life. I have also had a WhatsApp message,” he said.
He further explained that: “The call was private and the person said my case has been drawn to their attention. I asked what case, then the person started insulting me and hanged up. I was at Legon and I had not completed. That was 15th August 2023, just a day before I completed.”
“It was a WhatsApp message. The person insulted me and said may God forgive me for insulting Kennedy Agyapong. The person said a lot. Lots of curses,” he continued.
Duodu used the opportunity to dispel claims of being bought by the Bawumia camp to derail the reputation of Mr Ken Agyapong prior to the NPP presidential primaries.
According to him, his criticism stems from controversial comments made by the legislator in the past. He notes that death statements pronounced by Mr Agyapong make him unfit to lead the country as its president.
“I criticize a lot but to deliberately sit and insult him, I have not but maybe some of the things I say could be too harsh but I don’t deliberately sit to insult him. No, I only criticize him for things he has said in the past as he campaigns to be president. For me, I say because of some things he has said in the past, he is not fit to be president of the land.
People criticize Bawumia for the collapse of the economy despite studying economics so why can’t I criticize someone who has called tor the death of Gas and Ewes. Such a person cannot become president. Why can’t I say that? It is unfortunate that they say I have been paid to tarnish the image of Ken Agyapong. I am a Ghanaian I am entitled to assess and scrutinize anybody who wants to become my leader to determine if the person is fit,” he added.
Their visit was to express condolences and offer their support to him following the passing of his wife, Theresa Kufuor, who succumbed to a long-standing illness on Sunday, October 1.
Joining Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings were her daughters, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, who serves as the Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle, and Amina Agyeman-Rawlings.
They were accompanied by former Minister and Member of Parliament Fritz Baffour, along with Madam Sylvia Ahorlu and Mr. Kobina Andoh Amoakwa.
Speaking on behalf of Nana Konadu, Fritz Baffour conveyed to President Kufuor that the delegation’s purpose in making the courtesy call was to offer their condolences for the unfortunate passing of his beloved wife.
Former President Kufuor expressed gratitude to Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings and her accompanying delegation for their sympathetic gesture. He also took the opportunity to recount the series of events that led to the loss of Mrs. Theresa Kufuor.
President Kufuor also shared a nostalgic journey with the delegation, recounting the events that led to his initial encounter with his wife back in 1961.
Accompanying President Kufuor at the meeting were Mr. Kwabena Taylor, who headed Mrs. Theresa Kufuor’s family; Nana Kwabena Mensah, the Chief of Dabaa, President Kufuor’s hometown, and Mr. Kwabena Osei Adubofour and Mr. Adu Acheampong.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Bagbin and a large parliamentary delegation who called on President Kufuor before Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings, exchanged pleasantries with the former First Lady before departing the premises.
Amina Agyeman-Rawlings also signed the condolence bookFritz Baffoe signs the condolence bookMP Kweku Ricketts Hagan with the former First Lady
Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Ernest Addison, has advocated for an expedited debt restructuring process for vulnerable members of the G20, which includes countries such as Ghana, Ethiopia, and Malawi.
This call follows recent agreements made between Zambia, Chad, and their respective creditors, highlighting the importance of shielding these nations from potential domestic financial market instability.
Dr. Addison made these remarks during an African Caucus Meeting focused on the theme of “Leveraging Public Debt for Sustainable Growth in Africa” held at the ongoing International Monetary Fund (IMF)/World Bank Group (WBG) Annual Meetings in Marrakech, Morocco.
“While welcoming the latest developments on Zambia and Chad, we underscore the need to revamp the G20 Common Framework (CF) to ensure timely, orderly, equitable, inclusive, and transparent debt restructuring for distressed members in the region (including, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Malawi),” he said.
“We also call for a carefully designed debt resolution mechanism, especially, for vulnerable members with large-domestic creditors (as in the case of Ghana) to help avert domestic financial market instability,” the BoG Governor added.
The Governor emphasized the significance of enhanced engagement between debtors and creditors, emphasizing the need for an improved Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable (GSDR) and enhanced technical support. These measures are essential to facilitate a more efficient, proactive, and systematic debt restructuring process.
“We also reaffirm the request for debt standstill during times of negotiations to offer immediate relief to debtors and restate our request for multilateral debt cancellation for the most vulnerable members facing acute debt challenges,” Dr Addison said.
He emphasized the need for improved cooperation between the IMF and Multilateral Development Banks/Regional Development Banks to ensure the prompt delivery of financial aid to G20 member countries grappling with substantial debt and growth difficulties.
“In this context, we restate the call for new SDR allocation through the MDBs/RDBs’ (including the African Development Bank – AfDB), given their multiplier effects in achieving climate and development goals,” he said.
“Given the fragmented global financial architecture, we urge the IMF to remain steadfast and adapt its lending toolkits to changing global conditions to serve its G20 vulnerable membership better,” Mr Addison advocated.
Speaking on this issue at a press briefing on Thursday, Kristalina Goergieva, Managing Director, IMF, said: “The Common Framework has been slow to deliver to countries that turn to it for support.”
She noted, however, that: “We see an encouraging sign that the time taken to reach an agreement among creditors is short with every step.”
She pointed out that the process took varying durations, with Chad’s creditors taking 11 months to provide the necessary financial assurances to the Fund, followed by nine months for Zambia, six months for Sri Lanka, and five months for Ghana.
The Managing Director of the IMF elaborated that the complexity of creditors and the unique arrangements in each case made debt restructuring an arduous task since it necessitated unanimous agreement from all creditors.
She suggested adopting a case-specific approach to identify creditors and establish a Creditors’ Committee, with the IMF and World Bank outlining the key parameters that require agreement.
“This is the way that today, debt restructuring is delivered, ” Goergieva said, adding that “my plea is, pressure for speed and efficiency, but don’t throw the towel on the Common Framework, because if we lose it, then we’re back in a much less predictable environment.”
Numerous African economies find themselves confronted by severe debt issues, accentuated by the growing demands for social and infrastructure investments. These challenges are exacerbated by the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic, the conflict in Ukraine, tightening global financial conditions, and climate-related disasters.
In light of these circumstances, it has become imperative for these nations to regain control over their debt situations and foster inclusive, sustainable growth across the continent. Achieving these goals hinges on effective debt management, particularly concerning external creditors.
In the heart of Kumasi’s Central Business District, a significant haul of unregistered and potentially hazardous medicines, valued at over GH¢850,000, has been confiscated.
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) is actively conducting an operation aimed at curbing the illegal sale of pharmaceutical products within the retail market.
This endeavor not only involves enforcement actions but also includes educational outreach efforts targeting both merchants and consumers.
The Kejetia Market in Kumasi, known for its burgeoning trade in unwholesome herbal products and unapproved medicines, served as the focal point for these seizures.
The seized items encompass a range of products, including aphrodisiacs, body enhancement items, unregistered herbal remedies, conventional pain relievers, and cosmetics.
The Food and Drugs Authority periodically conducts market surveillance to deter unlicensed drug vendors and ensure public safety.
The Ashanti Regional Manager, John Laryea Odae-Tettey in an interview with JoyNews said, “The confiscated products will go through our safe system of disposal. We advise all manufacturers and importers to get in touch with the Food and Drugs Authority. We are there to ensure and assist them to register and sell on the Ghanaian market,” he assured.
The proliferation of unwholesome medicines through social media marketing is a concerning trend. The FDA has disclosed its intentions to eliminate such advertisements and the sale of these questionable products from the internet.
“Punitive measures are there. The law mandates us to prosecute you or fine you. This goes to you, if you want to indulge in these illegal businesses, you will have a price to pay. Join hands with FDA to ensure that products there are safe for consumption,” he revealed.
Mr. Odae-Tettey said the FDA will continue to engage consumers to desist from patronising unlicensed drug peddlers.
Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah Yeboah has made it clear that the State remains unwavering in its determination to recover the ¢53 million from the former CEO of the now-defunct Capital Bank, Ato Essien, despite his incarceration.
Mr. Yeboah firmly asserted that this sum will not be relinquished under any circumstances, as it holds significant importance for the state.
During an interview with JoyNews, the Deputy AG outlined plans to identify and confiscate the encumbered assets of the convicted individual. He detailed that this process would be carried out through a civil action initiated against the convict.
“If he serves this sentence, the State will still pursue him and get the remaining amount and so it is not as if he is going to serve his sentence and then the amount will be forfeited.”
“We are going to trace his encumbered properties and go after that in a civil action,” Mr Tuah-Yeboah said.
Former Chief Executive Officer of the defunct Capital Bank, Ato Essien, has been sentenced to 15 years of hard labour.
This ruling comes as a consequence of his failure to fully satisfy the GH¢90 million debt he had agreed to pay to the state, despite multiple opportunities provided to him.
Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah Yeboah
In May 2023, the court granted him a two-month window to make the initial payment of GH¢20 million out of the GH¢60 million he owed. Regrettably, Ato Essien was unable to meet this directive.
Ato Essien had previously been convicted in December 2022, having reached an agreement with the state under section 35 of the Courts Act to avoid serving a custodial sentence.
In lieu of imprisonment, he had been tasked with a GH¢90 million debt obligation by the court. This sum was agreed upon to be paid by the end of 2023, with an initial payment of GH¢30 million made in December 2022, and the remaining amount divided into three equal instalments due in 2023.
The first instalment was expected to be paid by the end of April 2023, failure of which would result in a jail sentence. However, by the end of April, Ato Essien had only paid GH¢6 million of the GH¢20 million instalment.
The state subsequently filed an application requesting the court to impose a custodial sentence, as the terms of the agreement stipulated that a failure to adhere to the payment plan would lead to imprisonment.
Upon request by Ato Essien’s legal team, Judge Justice Eric Kyei Baffour deferred the hearing of the application to impose a custodial sentence.
Ato Essien’s lawyers argued that agreements had been made with a company for the liquidation of some of his properties to cover the debt. However, it was revealed that only an additional GH¢2 million had been paid, bringing the total of the first instalment to GH¢8 million, with a remaining GH¢12 million.
In summary, out of the GH¢90 million debt, Ato Essien had paid only GH¢38 million, leaving a balance of GH¢52 million unpaid.
A former Member of Parliament (MP) for Amasaman, Emmanuel Nii Okai Laryea, has officially submitted his nomination to participate in the NDC primaries in the Odododiodio constituency.
Mr. Laryea expressed his commitment to serving the people of his hometown and fulfilling their aspirations.
Speaking to the media after submitting his nomination on Wednesday, October 11, the former legislator emphasized his desire to contribute to the development of the constituency.
He, therefore, appealed to the delegates to cast their votes in his favor during the upcoming elections set for Tuesday, October 31.
“With regard to my message to the delegates, my campaign was on three thematic areas which are education, empowerment of the youth and women and resourcing the party at the constituency level, and I have already started the implementation of some of these policies that I intend to introduce.”
“I believe that the good works that I have already started will speak for me on the 31st of October during the primaries. I am very positive that the delegates will give me the nod.”
In the meantime, the current Member of Parliament (MP) for the constituency, Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has opted not to seek reelection once his current term concludes.
Mr. Vanderpuye did not submit his candidacy for the primaries.
Blackshield Fund Management Limited, previously known as Gold Coast Fund Management, has contested the explanations provided by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding the delay in disbursing funds owed to customers of the now-defunct company.
Customers of the defunct firm staged a protest earlier this week at the Finance Ministry’s offices, seeking the release of their trapped investments.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, the SEC said, “We wish to state that the delay in payment of bailout funds to affected customers is not due to the refusal of the Ministry of Finance to provide funds. The delay is principally due to the legal action by Blackshield/Gold Coast contesting the liquidation petition brought by the Official Liquidator (Office of the Registrar of Companies) at the request of SEC following the revocation of licenses. The SEC will continue to support the Official Liquidator in pursuing the liquidation petition in court.”
However, Blackshield Fund Management Ltd has asserted that the SEC declined to aid them in recovering an outstanding amount of over GH¢5 billion in principal and interest, owed by government institutions to the company and its affiliated entities. The SEC is said to have cited that it is not involved in debt collection.
“SEC knows that Parliament did not impose any conditions for the payment of validated funds due to customers of fund management companies including BlackShield,” it said in a rejoinder issued on Thursday.
“We will not go further than this. We will respect the judiciary processes still going on with the belief that our rights will eventually be restored. We urge those responsible to pay what is due to BlackShield Capital Management Limited and related companies so that what is due to our customers per our records, can be paid to them,” it added.
READ THE FULL STATEMENT FROM BLACKSHIELD HERE
PRESS RELEASE
It has come to our attention that on 11 October 2023, the Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) put out a public release, “Update on implementation of bailout program for affected clients of Blackshield Fund Management Ltd (formerly Gold Coast).
In the release, SEC wrote, “We wish to state that the delay in payment of bailout funds to affected customers is not due to the refusal of the Ministry of Finance to provide funds. The delay is principally due to the legal action by Blackshield/Gold Coast contesting the liquidation petition brought by the Official Liquidator (Office of the Registrar of Companies) at the request of SEC following the revocation of licenses. The SEC will continue to support the Official Liquidator in pursuing the liquidation petition in court.”
Nothing could be further from the truth.
There are related matters in court. So, as law law-abiding organization, we choose not to wrestle with SEC where it has descended. Our response will be brief, for now. SEC did not allow due process to play out per their regulations before deciding to withdraw the BlackShield Capital Management Limited’s (BlackShield) license. SEC refused to assist BlackShield in collecting what is now over GHS5 billion in principal and interest owed to the company and its related companies by government institutions, saying that “…it is not a debt collector”. SEC knows that Parliament did not impose any conditions for the payment of validated funds due to customers of fund management companies including BlackShield. We ask, why is the SEC using “liquidation” as a condition for payment?
We will not go further than this. We will respect the judiciary processes still going on with the belief that our rights will eventually be restored.
We urge those responsible to pay what is due to BlackShield Capital Management Limited and related companies so that what is due to our customers per our records, can be paid to them.
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has issued a warning to the public, urging them to refrain from the unauthorized use of military-style uniforms and equipment.
This directive comes in response to instances of individuals wearing military-pattern uniforms and gear during protests and demonstrations.
“Despite the continuous education and warnings issued to the general public to desist from these practices, the trend rather appears to be on the increase,” the GAF complained in a statement issued on Thursday.
During the recent demonstrations in Accra organized by Democracy Hub and other groups, it was noticed that certain protesters and individuals claiming to offer private security to certain dignitaries were seen wearing military-style camouflage uniforms and related equipment.
“The probability for these individuals being wrongly perceived to be GAF personnel has the propensity of drawing the image of GAF into disrepute,” it added.
The GAF said that these unauthorised acts were in contravention of the National Liberation Council Decree (NLCD) 177 of 1967, which is still in force.
“This Decree in part states that; ‘no person shall wear or use any military uniforms, equipment, or accoutrements or other material unless he or she is a member of the Armed Forces of Ghana,” it added.
Furthermore, the GAF emphasized that in addition to the unauthorized use of military attire and equipment by these protesters, there are individuals with criminal intentions who exploit these items to impersonate and deceive unsuspecting members of the public, facilitating the commission of unlawful acts.
As such, individuals caught will be arrested.
“Noting that these acts create a sense of insecurity in the country and tarnish the image of the military, GAF would not allow this situation to persist and will henceforth effect the arrests of culprits to face the full rigours of the law. GAF therefore seeks the cooperation of the general public to curb the use of military uniforms and accoutrements, especially during future protests. Those who continue to violate this law would be arrested,” it added.
It used the opportunity to assure the general public of its commitment to protecting the citizenry and territorial integrity of Ghana at all times.
“It therefore requires the support of all to enforce measures in the interest of the needed peace and security,” GAF added.
Former Chief Executive Officer of the defunct Capital Bank, Ato Essien, pleaded guilty in December 2022 to various counts of conspiracy to steal, stealing, and money laundering.
But instead of being jailed, an Accra High Court re-took his plea to make effective a plea bargain agreement.
It accepted the agreement reached between Essien and the state under Section 35 of the Courts Act, which binds him to refund GHS90 million in three installments.
The first installment was expected to be paid by the end of April 2023, failure of which would result in a jail sentence. However, by the end of April, Ato Essien had only paid GH¢6 million of the GH¢20 million installment.
The state subsequently filed an application requesting the court to impose a custodial sentence, as the terms of the agreement stipulated that a failure to adhere to the payment plan would lead to imprisonment.
Upon request by Ato Essien’s legal team, Judge Justice Eric Kyei Baffour deferred the hearing of the application to impose a custodial sentence.
Ato Essien’s lawyers argued that agreements had been made with a company for the liquidation of some of his properties to cover the debt. However, it was revealed that only an additional GH¢2 million had been paid, bringing the total of the first installment to GH¢8 million, with a remaining GH¢12 million.
In summary, out of the GH¢90 million debt, Ato Essien had paid only GH¢38 million, leaving a balance of GH¢52 million unpaid.
Due to the breach of the agreement, the Accra High Court today sentenced Ato Essien to 15 years of imprisonment with hard labor.
Former Chief Executive Officer of the defunct Capital Bank, Ato Essien, has been sentenced to 15 years of imprisonment with hard labor.
This ruling comes as a consequence of his failure to fully satisfy the GH¢90 million debt he had agreed to pay to the state, despite multiple opportunities provided to him.
In May 2023, the court granted him a two-month window to make the initial payment of GH¢20 million out of the GH¢60 million he owed. Regrettably, Ato Essien was unable to meet this directive.
Ato Essien had previously been convicted in December 2022, having reached an agreement with the state under section 35 of the Courts Act to avoid serving a custodial sentence.
In lieu of imprisonment, he had been tasked with a GH¢90 million debt obligation by the court. This sum was agreed upon to be paid by the end of 2023, with an initial payment of GH¢30 million made in December 2022, and the remaining amount divided into three equal installments due in 2023.
The first installment was expected to be paid by the end of April 2023, failure of which would result in a jail sentence. However, by the end of April, Ato Essien had only paid GH¢6 million of the GH¢20 million installment.
The state subsequently filed an application requesting the court to impose a custodial sentence, as the terms of the agreement stipulated that a failure to adhere to the payment plan would lead to imprisonment.
Upon request by Ato Essien’s legal team, Judge Justice Eric Kyei Baffour deferred the hearing of the application to impose a custodial sentence.
Ato Essien’s lawyers argued that agreements had been made with a company for the liquidation of some of his properties to cover the debt. However, it was revealed that only an additional GH¢2 million had been paid, bringing the total of the first installment to GH¢8 million, with a remaining GH¢12 million.
In summary, out of the GH¢90 million debt, Ato Essien had paid only GH¢38 million, leaving a balance of GH¢52 million unpaid.
This led to his 15-year imprisonment with hard labor sentence.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has established a fund with seed money of GHS30,000 to assist victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage.
The MP embarked on a tour of the affected area on Thursday, October 12, to ascertain the severity of the disaster as well as commiserate families affected.
In a Twitter post, Mr Ablakwa shared photos of his interactions with victims he also provided free life jackets. The MP has made relocation transportation arrangements for the displaced individuals.
“Together, we shall survive this and bounce back happier and stronger,” he noted while commending all his courageous constituents for the outstanding show of solidarity, compassion, and community spirit in helping each other survive this unprecedented disaster.
“I wish to render special praise to the youth who volunteered night and day to rescue the vulnerable and salvage properties — you are true heroes,” he added.
Pictures from my tour of VRA spillage affected communities in my beloved constituency.
I commend all my courageous constituents for the outstanding show of solidarity, compassion, and community spirit in helping each other survive this unprecedented disaster.
Meanwhile, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has urged the Volta River Authority (VRA) to facilitate the relocation of individuals impacted by the floods resulting from the Akosombo and Kpong Dam spillage to higher ground before another round of spillage is carried out.
Due to the ongoing controlled spillage of the Akosombo Dam by the Volta River Authority (VRA), the Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) has been forced to carry out an emergency shutdown of its substation in Sogakope. This decision was made in the interest of safety to prevent the risk of electrocution, loss of life, and related hazards.
The flooding in the vicinity of the substation is a direct result of the controlled spillage, as announced by the VRA last month. The spillage plan includes both the Akosombo Dam and the Kpong Dam due to the consistent increase in the inflow pattern. Residents living along the Volta River and downstream were previously alerted to take necessary precautionary measures.
As a consequence of this situation, residents in Sogakope and nearby areas have experienced power outages. However, GRIDCo has assured the public that power will be restored once the situation improves.
Currently, more than 500 households are grappling with the inundation as residents desperately attempt to salvage their belongings.
The floods have already claimed properties valued at thousands of Ghana Cedis, including numerous buildings.
The VRA, in a press release says it has collaborated with the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) to offer support to communities affected by the ongoing spilling of water from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams through the presentation of relief items.
The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has urged the Volta River Authority (VRA) to facilitate the relocation of individuals impacted by the floods resulting from the Akosombo and Kpong Dam spillage to higher ground before another round of spillage is carried out.
Ablakwa’s constituency has been adversely affected by the flooding caused by this spillage, resulting in substantial property damage estimated to be worth millions of dollars.
In a tweet, he wrote, “I urge VRA to ensure all those in affected areas are relocated to higher ground before carrying out another round of discharge.”
I urge VRA to ensure all those in affected areas are relocated to higher ground before carrying out another round of discharge. /2
Due to the ongoing controlled spillage of the Akosombo Dam by the Volta River Authority (VRA), the Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) has been forced to carry out an emergency shutdown of its substation in Sogakope. This decision was made in the interest of safety to prevent the risk of electrocution, loss of life, and related hazards.
The flooding in the vicinity of the substation is a direct result of the controlled spillage, as announced by the VRA last month. The spillage plan includes both the Akosombo Dam and the Kpong Dam due to the consistent increase in the inflow pattern. Residents living along the Volta River and downstream were previously alerted to take necessary precautionary measures.
As a consequence of this situation, residents in Sogakope and nearby areas have experienced power outages. However, GRIDCo has assured the public that power will be restored once the situation improves.
The National Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Stephen Ntim, has issued an unequivocal apology to the management of UTV following the unauthorized intrusion of the station’s studios by a group of enraged party supporters.
On Saturday, October 7, 2023, during a live broadcast of the program “United Showbiz,” a faction of NPP members forcefully entered the UTV studios, demanding the removal of Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A Plus, who regularly appears as an analyst on the show.
Their discontent stemmed from A Plus tearing apart a letter from the NPP leadership to the management of UTV, which had requested a reform of the United Showbiz panel.
Chairman Ntim, clearly disapproving of the actions of the NPP youth, made a public appearance at the studios of Peace FM on Thursday, where he openly criticized their behavior.
In his apology, Chairman Ntim assured that the party’s leadership would take measures to prevent the recurrence of such regrettable incidents.
“On behalf of the party, I’m rendering an unqualified apology to the management of Despite media, to you Kwami Sefa Kayi and all Ghanaians for what happened. The NPP tradition does not countenance such misbehaviour as we are noted to be disciplined people.
“I want to assure you that going forward the party leadership will ensure that no such reprehensible act is repeated. We will be guided by discipline in our actions, you can count on us,” Chairman Ntim told Host Kwame Sefa Kayi in an interview.
He added: “You know me, there have been several incidents where I have been provoked but I never reacted and always maintained my cool and this is the sort of quality I want to transcend to party members from the National to polling station levels. I want everyone to have self-control in our political discourse.
“Internally, we will put measures in place to ensure that this sort of behaviour does not reoccur. This assurance goes to all media houses across the country.”
NPP National Chairman, Stephen Ntim, apologizes to Dr. Osei Kwame Despite and Despite Media following the invasion of UTV by NPP thugs#UTVGhanapic.twitter.com/GkUi6lmqNC
Lawyers representing Cecilia Dapaah have accused the Office of the Special Prosecutor of showing disrespect to the court in their handling of the petition to have Justice Edward Twum removed from the case.
On a scheduled court date, lawyers from the Office of the Special Prosecutor were absent on Thursday. Their absence was particularly notable as they were supposed to present an application for the confirmation of seizure and freezing orders, as well as initiate proceedings related to the charges of refusal to declare assets against Cecilia Dapaah.
The judge presiding over the case was left with no choice but to adjourn the proceedings to a later date, pending a response from the Chief Justice regarding the request to remove him from the case.
The request is grounded on the OSP’s well-founded belief that Justice Edward Twum appears to be highly prejudiced against the OSP and the person of the Special Prosecutor.
This development did not sit well with Cecilia Dapaah’s legal team, who expressed their disappointment in the Office of the Special Prosecutor for failing to notify them about the petition.
Victoria Barth indicated in court that “I am not aware of any law or rule of procedure that dispenses with the absence of a lawyer or prosecutor just because they have petitioned the Chief Justice in respect of a matter of which they have due notice and have even initiated.”
She insisted in court that the office of the special prosecutor has not treated the court with respect and fairness.
“As lawyers, we have an ethical duty to show respect to the court and to treat all persons we engage in the administration of justice fairly and that has not happened today. The OSP is not above the law,” Victoria Barth said in court.
They characterized the petition as a deliberate strategy aimed at obstructing the morning’s scheduled hearing for the confirmation application, and as an attempt to evade responsibility for their own flawed application.
Furthermore, the court was unable to proceed with the case against the former sanitation minister, who was charged with refusing to declare her assets. This was due to the absence of lawyers from the Office of the Special Prosecutor, which was a result of the ongoing petition to disqualify the judge from any of their cases.
Cecilia Dapaah’s legal representatives also raised concerns about the decision of the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s lawyers to abstain from court proceedings.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has requested the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkonoo to recuse and remove His Lordship Justice Edward Twum from all cases involving the Office pending before him.
“The request is grounded on the OSP’s well-founded belief that Justice Edward Twum appears to be highly prejudiced against the OSP and the person of the Special Prosecutor.”
“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 on Thursday read.
His Lordship Justice Edward Twum
The OSP has requested the Chief Justice to recuse and remove His Lordship Justice Edward Twum from all cases involving the OSP pending before him.
The request is grounded on the OSP’s well-founded belief that Justice Edward Twum appears to be highly prejudiced against the OSP… pic.twitter.com/XV4pxoaUkq
— Office of the Special Prosecutor-Ghana (@ospghana) October 12, 2023
On Wednesday, 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 Office of the Special Prosecutor (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 has decided that they cannot and should not be reasonably expected to participate in proceedings overseen by the aforementioned judge.
The Conference of Heads of Assisted Senior High Schools (CHASS) has voiced its apprehension regarding the profound deterioration of discipline in Senior High Schools (SHS).
During the 61st annual CHASS conference, the President of CHASS, Reverend Stephen Owusu Sekyere, noted that hooliganism, bullying, occultism, smoking, and drug abuse are among the many unhealthy activities students find themselves involved in.
He expressed his concerns about the damaging consequences of indiscipline within second-cycle schools.
“CHASS is concerned about the increasing rate of indiscipline that has bedevilled most of our Senior High Schools of late. Some of these misconducts such as hooliganism, bullying, occultism, smoking, and drug abuse, to mention a few, have their roots, we have detected them in the homes and communities of the culprits,” the President of CHASS lamented.
CHASS is therefore advocating for Senior High School principals to be granted the authority to enforce discipline among students.
In 2017, the Ghana Education Service (GES) formally prohibited all forms of corporal punishment for students in Ghanaian schools, as part of its efforts to create a secure and protective learning environment for children.
The GES stipulated that all teachers should implement a Positive Discipline Toolkit, offering alternatives to corporal punishment.
However, several teacher associations and civil society organizations, including the education think tank Africa Education Watch, have opposed this decision.
In 2021, Kofi Asare, the Executive Director of Africa Education Watch, urged the Ghana Education Service (GES), teachers, and teacher unions to engage in a dialogue regarding a potential review of the directive.
In recent times, there have been a number of disturbances in various second-cycle schools in the country.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has requested the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkonoo to recuse and remove His Lordship Justice Edward Twum from all cases involving the Office pending before him.
The request is grounded on the OSP’s well-founded belief that Justice Edward Twum appears to be highly prejudiced against the OSP and the person of the Special Prosecutor.
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 on Thursday read.
The OSP has requested the Chief Justice to recuse and remove His Lordship Justice Edward Twum from all cases involving the OSP pending before him.
The request is grounded on the OSP’s well-founded belief that Justice Edward Twum appears to be highly prejudiced against the OSP… pic.twitter.com/XV4pxoaUkq
— Office of the Special Prosecutor-Ghana (@ospghana) October 12, 2023
On Wednesday, 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 Office of the Special Prosecutor (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 has decided that they cannot and should not be reasonably expected to participate in proceedings overseen by the aforementioned judge.
Minister for Energy, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has expressed the government’s intention to give the late former First Lady, Theresa Kufuor, a befitting burial.
Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh made this known in a Facebook post following a one-week observance held for the late Theresa Kufuor at Peduase in the Eastern Region.
“We gathered earlier today at the Aburi residence of my grand-uncle and former President of the Republic, H.E. John Agyekum Kufuor, to observe the one week rites of the passing of his beloved wife, our former First Lady, H.E. Mrs. Theresa Aba Kufuor.
“We will miss dearly Aunty Aba and most definitely, we shall give her a befitting farewell; one that delineates the noble life she lived,” he said.
According to Dr Opoku Prempeh, Mrs Kufuor whom he affectionally referred to as “Aunty Aba” was a woman of substance who supported her husband through the various phases of his political career.
“As First Lady, she was keen on the welfare of women and children. She also advocated for men and women to see themselves as partners of growth,” he added.
The solemn ceremony was attended by a host of distinguished guests, including President Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, government ministers, family members, and friends.
Mrs. Theresa Kufuor, the wife of former President J.A. Kufuor, passed away at the age of 87 on Sunday, October 1, 2023.
President Akufo-Addo has announced that a state burial will be held for the late former First Lady Theresa Kufuor on Thursday, November 16, 2023.
The International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Mission Chief for Ghana, Stéphane Roudet, has commended Ghana’s economic growth.
During an interview on Citi TV’s “The Point of View,” Mr. Roudet expressed that Ghana’s rapid economic recovery is both remarkable and heartening, as the country has exceeded the IMF’s projections for the year 2023.
He noted that the IMF’s initial projection for Ghana’s economic growth in 2023 was 1.5 percent. However, the first-half report indicates that the country’s economy is expanding at a 3 percent rate, a development he finds highly encouraging. This positive trend is expected to facilitate the smooth release of the second tranche of the $3 billion credit facility from the IMF.
“Ghana’s economic activities, I have to say, have surprised us on the outside. You will remember that in the programme, we were projecting economic growth of 1.5 percent for this year, and now we have the outcome for the first half of the year, and we are about 3 percent and so you can see that there are signs that are encouraging.”
“We were assessing that growth will be above 1.5 percent for this year and what we are seeing now is above that, so we will have to revise our growth projection in the context of this review and this is very good news because it means that in spite of the challenges that the Ghanaian economy has faced; the high inflation, the loss of market access for the government, in spite of that, the economy is resilient and growth is still around 3 percent and that very good news.“
The Ghanaian economy has attained much-needed stability as major economic indices such as inflation and the exchange rate continue to fall, restoring investor confidence, Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, has said.
He said this at a joint press conference with the IMF on attaining a Staff Level Agreement (SLA) after the first review of the IMF-Supported Post-Covid-19 Programme for Economic Growth.
Sounding optimistic about the future of the economy, he among other things enumerated that, the GDP Growth had rebounded strongly averaging 3.2% in first two quarters compared to 3.0% in same period in 2022 mainly on the back of growth in services (avg. 6.3%) and in Agriculture (avg. 6.2%).
‘’Latest Price development in August 2023 indicated a fall in headline inflation, after consecutive upward trends since May 2023. Headline inflation dropped to 40.1 percent, from 43.1 percent in July and 42.5 percent in June 2023, respectively,” he revealed.
‘’I am pleased to announce that the progress we sought to achieve is very much on course; the stability that the Ghanaian Economy was very much in need of has been achieved. We said we have ‘Turned the Corner’ and the major economic indicators such as inflation and exchange rate continues to drop and stabilise, and there is confidence returning in the economy,’’ Mr. Ofori-Atta added.
Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, a founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has expressed his deep disappointment with President Akufo-Addo, stating that he believes the President has let down the people of Ghana.
He emphasized that the President he once knew and engaged with on matters of national significance is not the same person occupying the presidential office today.
Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe pointed out that the President, who had a strong aversion to corruption in the past, is now presiding over blatant corruption and nepotism.
During a press conference organized by ex-military officers under the theme “The State of Ghana Today” on Wednesday, October 11, the former GFA President called upon the President to take more proactive actions.
“These are critical warning signs going to destroy the security of the state. We need to pay critical attention to this.”
“The Akufo-Addo I knew and had numerous dialogues and demonstrations with is not the Akufo-Addo who is now president.”
He strongly criticized government officials who are alleged to be hoarding substantial sums of money in their residences. Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe emphasized that failing to promptly address this issue could result in undesirable consequences.
He asserted that the youth are dissatisfied with the prevailing circumstances in the country, and it is imperative to acknowledge and respond to their concerns.
“In the old age of ours we don’t sleep soundly at night. Ghana has been riddled with perceived corruption of political public office holders amassing unexplained wealth, tribalism, nepotism and parochial in their interest, especially under this regime under President Akufo-Addo.”
“How do Ministers hoard stashes of cash in foreign and local currencies in their homes, acquire properties in prime areas of Accra and other parts of the country, drive the most luxurious cars and live extravagantly and expect our youth who remain largely without meaningful employment to be satisfied.”
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has clarified that the delay in disbursing bailout funds to customers affected by Gold Coast Fund Management Limited cannot be attributed to the Ministry of Finance.
The SEC has emphasized that the Ministry of Finance has not been unwilling to provide the necessary funds, dispelling any notion of blame directed at the Ministry for the delay in payments.
It rather said in a statement that “The delay is principally due to the legal action by Blackshield/Gold Coast contesting the liquidation petition brought by the Official Liquidator (Office of the Registrar of Companies) at the request of SEC following the revocation of licences. The SEC will continue to support the Official Liquidator in pursuing the liquidation petition in court.”
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) statement is in response to protests by clients of Blackshield/Gold Coast outside the Ministry of Finance.
On November 8, 2019, the SEC revoked the licenses of fifty-three (53) Fund Management Companies (FMCs) due to various regulatory violations, including their inability to return an estimated ¢8 billion to clients.
The revocation of licenses was executed in accordance with the SEC’s mandate to safeguard investors, uphold the integrity of the capital market, and mitigate financial stability risks.
Following the license revocations, the SEC implemented several measures to protect investors. These actions include notifying the Registrar of Companies/Registrar General to initiate the official liquidation of the 53 FMCs under relevant legal provisions, securing a government bailout package for affected clients of the FMCs under the condition that court-ordered liquidation is granted, and appointing an agent to secure assets, validate claims, and receive records from the affected companies in accordance with the Securities Industry Act.
The SEC has confirmed that, up to this point, ¢4.6 billion has been disbursed to clients of fund management companies. This includes ¢3.1 billion for Amalgamated Fund Tier 1 payments and ¢1.45 billion allocated to Amalgamated Fund Tier 2 payments. The partial bailout program also encompasses proactive payments of up to ¢50,000 to clients of Blackshield/Gold Coast and other companies whose claims were validated and hadn’t received winding-up orders from the Court by October 2020. A total of 73,541 claims amounting to ¢1.34 billion have been disbursed to Blackshield/Gold Coast clients under this partial bailout program, with 61,734 claims fully settled.
The SEC underscores that the complete disbursement of bailout funds is contingent upon claim validation and court-issued winding-up orders to guarantee that all claims are verified, and the companies’ assets and liabilities are transferred to the Office of Registrar of Companies.
According to the Corporate Insolvency and Restructuring Act, 2020 (Act 1015), as amended by the Corporate Insolvency and Restructuring (Amendment) Act 2020 (Act 1031), only a Court can grant a winding-up order. Therefore, the ongoing court process between the Office of the Registrar of Companies and Blackshield/Gold Coast is necessary.
As of now, the Office of the Registrar of Companies has received 44 winding-up orders from the Court, with only two outstanding, namely Blackshield/Gold Coast and Kron Capital Ltd.
The SEC further highlights that the liquidation petition is still pending in court, causing a delay in the government’s complete bailout program for affected clients.
A founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, is throwing his support behind the recent outcry from the youth regarding the challenges facing the nation.
He believes that the youth’s reactions are warranted, especially in light of the lavish lifestyles of some of President Akufo-Addo’s appointees. Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe contends that it’s unreasonable for ministers to amass significant amounts of foreign and local currencies in their residences while acquiring properties in affluent areas within the country, and simultaneously expect the youth to remain indifferent.
During a press conference organized by former military officers on the theme “The State of Ghana Today,” Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe emphasized the need for prompt action to address any potential repercussions.
“In this old age of ours we don’t sleep soundly at night. Ghana has been riddled with perceived corruption of political public office holders amassing unexplained wealth, tribalism, nepotism and parochial in their interest, especially under this regime under President Akufo-Addo.”
“How do Ministers hoard stashes of cash in foreign and local currencies in their homes, acquire properties in prime areas of Accra and other parts of the country, drive the most luxurious cars and live extravagantly and expect our youth who remain largely without meaningful employment to be satisfied.”
Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe further remarked that President Akufo-Addo has undergone a notable transformation from the individual he portrayed while campaigning for the presidency.
He went on to express his view that President Akufo-Addo has profoundly let down the Ghanaian people.
“These are critical warning signs going to destroy the security of the state. We need to pay critical attention to this. The Akufo-Addo I knew and had numerous dialogues and demonstrations with is not the Akufo-Addo who is now president.”
President Akufo-Addo has revealed that Ghana has dedicated a total of GHS114,500,612,135.00 to the education sector over the past seven years.
Of this amount, GHS12,961,284,548.00 has been allocated to Senior High Schools (SHSs).
During his speech at the 61st Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) in Accra, the President pointed out that this financial commitment has led to the completion of 1,105 projects at the second-cycle educational level.
These projects encompass various aspects, such as accommodation, teaching and learning facilities like classrooms, science laboratories, home economics blocks, dormitories, and model STEM schools.
Additionally, approximately 1,270 infrastructure initiatives at the basic level have been executed through the Ghana Education Trust (GET) Fund to enhance early childhood education standards.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted that school construction projects have incorporated cutting-edge technology, including SMART boards, to improve interactive learning experiences.
“I am pleased to report that a substantial number of these projects are nearing completion, and by early 2024, they will be fully operational,” he said.
In discussing the strides made in reshaping education at the Junior High School (JHS) level, President Nana Akufo-Addo highlighted the development of 11 model schools located throughout the nation. These schools are set to be equipped with contemporary facilities to create an ideal learning environment, with the goal of achieving significant educational outcomes upon their completion.
He also delved into the Ghana National Digital Literacy Project, underscoring its purpose, which is to ensure that every student is well-prepared to excel in the global digital economy.
“The heart of this endeavour lies in our primary schools – where the foundation of learning is laid,” he said.
Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, the Minister of Education, commended CHASS for being a valuable collaborator with the Government in the pursuit of the nation’s educational objectives.
He assured that the authorities would supply schools with the necessary incentives and resources to enhance academic performance.
Dr. Adutwum emphasized that for Ghana to actively participate in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, it was crucial to have dynamic and suitable educational policies in place.
Therefore, he praised the leadership of President Nana Akufo-Addo for implementing the ‘Free SHS’ program and their unwavering commitment to improving access to quality education.
The Conference was held on the theme: “61 Years of Shaping Second-Cycle Education in Ghana: The Challenges and Successes in Contemporary Times”. It discussed Ghana’s educational policies, successes and challenges.
The Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, has characterized the IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings as an opportunity to initiate a fresh start for the global financial structure.
Addressing a Roundtable Discussion on “IMF Policy Priorities,” Mr. Ofori-Atta urged the IMF to bolster the global financial safety net by implementing substantial reforms to the global financial framework, stressing that “we need to stretch the IMF to do more.”
During the Roundtable, hosted by US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, Mr. Ofori-Atta commended the transformative leadership of IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, which has resulted in the accomplishment of significant milestones.
Mr. Ofori-Atta also advocated for an IMF that can offer substantial resources on a large scale to enhance the global financial safety net.
“The need is great. And at these Annual Meetings, the developing world is asking the international community to do all it can to advance a reform agenda that ensures institutions like the IMF have the requisite mandates, financing, and governance models to deliver transformative impact,” he said.
He called for “reform of the available tools and lending instruments of the Fund to deal with global exogenous shocks.”
Ken Ofori-Atta exchanging pleasantries with a member of Kuwaiti Delegation after IMF High Level Event on Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust (PRGT) on 11th October 2023 in Marrakech
On Governance, Mr Ofori-Atta pushed for broad-based prosperity anchored on bold reforms to the global financial architecture, by calling for increased Sub-Saharan African representation on the IMF Executive Board, through the creation of a Sub-Saharan African seat at the IMF Executive Board Level.
The Marrakech gathering marks only the second time that Africa has hosted the Annual Meetings, the first time being fifty years ago in Kenya, in 1973.
A tragic incident has occurred in Atwima Boko, a town in the Ashanti Region, where a 33-year-old nurse named Rita Asamoah has been murdered by unidentified assailants.
According to sources within her family, Rita’s husband alerted the police during the early hours of Tuesday, October 10, reporting that his wife had not returned home after her previous day’s work.
Subsequently, law enforcement and members of the community launched a search operation to locate Rita. During the search, her sandals were discovered approximately one hundred meters away from her residence. Tragically, her lifeless body was later found in a nearby bush.
Beside her, authorities found a sum of money and various items she had purchased, including diapers and baby food.
The police promptly transported Rita’s body to the morgue and have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her tragic demise.
She left behind three children. Following the incident, residents in the community say they are living in fear.
“Due to the death of our neighbour, we are indeed living in fear,” said Samuel Afrifa, a neighbour of the deceased. “We want authorities to beef up security here.”
