A collaborative meeting took place on Thursday, August 31, 2023, between the Ghana Air Force School of Trade Training (S of TT) and Aerojet Aviation Training Academy at the Air Force Headquarters.
The primary purpose of this meeting was for the two institutions to engage in discussions regarding a proposal aimed at enhancing the training curriculum at the School of Trade Training.
The objective was to identify strategies to provide students from both organizations access to state-of-the-art training facilities, specialized training programs, expertise, and qualified instructors, with a continual commitment to improving the school’s educational offerings.
This collaboration promises mutual benefits, including the utilization of S of TT facilities by students from Aerojet Aviation Training Academy.
Established in 2016, Aerojet Aviation aims to address a significant gap in Africa for aircraft maintenance, repair, and aviation training services.
Commissioner of Police, George Alex Mensah, provided insights into how clandestine activities can potentially result in adverse political consequences during elections.
During his testimony before Parliament on Thursday, August 31, 2023, regarding the leaked tape concerning a political plot to remove Inspector-General of Police, George Akuffo Dampare, COP Mensah was directed to specific segments of the recording where he mentioned “mafia work” in the context of elections.
In the course of questioning, National Democratic Congress lawmaker James Agalga inquired further on this topic.
“When you give indication in the audio that as for election it is about mafia work, can you tell us what you mean by that?”
COP Mensah responded: “Honourable, I never said election is about mafia work. I said in elections, there is always some mafia work. I never said election is mafia work.
“What do I mean by that? During elections, if you don’t provide the needed security for persons to come out and vote peacefully and you allow people to come and disturb, snatch boxes at your strongholds, then you are ending in opposition, that is what I meant,” he stressed.
Regarding the aforementioned recording, Commissioner of Police George Alex Mensah acknowledged that he could recognize his own voice in certain sections of the tape. However, he also suggested that certain portions of the audio might have been tampered with or forged.
“I identify some voices that resemble mine but I cannot state specifically that these are my voices. I hear a voice that represents my voice but I can’t accept everything in the conversation.
“… the audio that I listened to here today is an edited version of the conversation that we had. And because of that, wholly this audio that we have listened to is not genuine,” he said.
Member of Parliament for Kwadaso constituency, Dr. Kingsley Nyarko, has entreated the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential aspirants with the exception of Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, to throw in the towel.
The other four presidential aspirants are Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen, former Agric Minister, Dr Afriyie Akoto and former MP for Mampong, Francis Addai Nimoh.
In an interview on Hello FM, Dr. Kingsley Nyarko noted that none of the contenders can be compared to Dr Bawumia when it comes to support from the grassroot.
He further argued that the results of the just-ended Super Delegates Conference is testament to the Vice President’s vast support.
He therefore submitted that the four contenders brace themselves for defeat at the party’s primaries slated for November 4 and must not be moved by false reports by political pundits.
“I heard some political pundits say that those who placed second, third can win November 4. Those political pundits they have to be realistic, they have to say the truth to the candidates that the game is over. They have to be bold. Nothing will change.,” he said.
Dr Mahamudu Bawumia won the super delegates conference on August 26, with a total of 629 votes, representing 68.15% of the total valid votes.
Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong came in second with 132 votes, or 14.30% while former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen placed third with 95 votes, or 10.29%.
Following the tie between Boakye Agyarko and Francis Addai-Nimoh, a run-off election was to be held for both of them on Saturday, September 2, 2023, to decide which of them would join the primaries, but Mr Agyarko has withdrawn from the race, citing legal breaches by the leadership of the party.
Former Bristol Rovers defender Nick Anderton has shared the uplifting news that he is now free from bone cancer.
At the age of 27, Anderton faced a challenging journey, enduring 28 weeks of chemotherapy and undergoing surgery to remove a portion of his femur and knee following his diagnosis with the illness in July 2022.
In April of this year, he made the difficult decision to retire from professional football. However, the latest medical scans have brought positive tidings, indicating that the cancer is no longer active.
Anderton said in a social media post: “Not how I imagined my mid-20s to pan out but it is what it is. Never did I think a sore knee would turn out to be bone cancer. I don’t think it’s really possible to put into words how the last year has been but I’m blessed to still be here battling on.
“Full knee, along with 12cm of my femur replaced with metal, I got to keep my knee cap though! Twenty-eight weeks of chemotherapy and 36 weeks of another drug which is classed as an antibiotic. Close to 70 nights stayed in hospital, a few infections thrown in there just to keep me on my toes.
“My first lot of scans have come back with the best possible news I could have hoped for, no sign of active disease. This journey is by no means over as the cancer can return and I’m going to be checked every few months for the foreseeable.
“I just wanted to let people know and more importantly thank everybody for everything over the last year. The messages I’ve received, the donations to the Go Fund Me and the all-round support has been unbelievable.
“I’m going to try and enjoy some normal life with my family now and make the best memories whilst trying to figure out what’s next.”
Bradley Barcola has completed a permanent transfer to Paris Saint-Germain from Olympique Lyonnais, marking a significant move for the French striker.
Barcola has inked a five-year contract with Les Rouge et Bleu, extending his commitment to the club until 2028. He will don the number 29 jersey for his new team.
Hailing from Lyon, Barcola’s football journey commenced at AS Buers Villeurbanne in 2008, eventually leading him to join Olympique Lyonnais in 2010 at the age of eight.
Whether playing as a striker or a winger, Barcola steadily progressed through Lyon’s academy ranks, ultimately making his breakthrough into the club’s professional squad during the 2021-2022 season.
The young talent, also representing France at the U21 level, marked his debut with the OL first team against Sparta Prague in the UEFA Europa League group stage on November 4, 2021.
In that game, he made an impactful appearance as a substitute, earning recognition with an assist. Known for his versatility in playing across the entire front line, Barcola notched his maiden professional goal against FC Metz in the Coupe de France’s round of 64 on January 7, 2023.
The versatile forward became an established starter for Les Gones over the course of the 2022–2023 season, racking up five goals and nine assists in 26 Ligue 1 games.
His performances also paved the way for him to join up with France’s U21s, with whom he took part in this summer’s UEFA Under-21 Championship in Georgia and Romania, scoring two goals in four games.
“I’m really happy and proud to be joining such a great club. It’s a club with a lot of ambition, that plays in major competitions and I’m going to give it my all”, said Bradley Barcola.
COP George Alex Mensah, one of the individuals being investigated for a leaked tape plotting the ousting of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, has reiterated his assertion that the Police service is well off without its current boss.
COP George Alex Mensah, who reappeared before the parliamentary committee tasked by Speaker Alban Bagbin to probe the leaked tape, emphatically stated that in the history of IGPs, Dr George Akuffo Dampare is the worst.
“What I said yesterday, if you give me a chance, I’ll say so again. He is not managing the police service well.
“And for me, for the 31 years that I’ve been in the service, I can tell you that he is the worst IGP we have ever had in this country,” he said.
COP George Alex Mensah, however, did not provide justification for his assertion as the committee noted that it would be unfair on the part of Dr George Dampare to be accused without his presence to agree or refuse.
As such the committee decided to hear such claims against the IGP in camera.
On Thursday, COP George Alex Mensah claimed that majority of officers in the Police Service are dissatisfied with the IGP.
In October 2021, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, was sworn in as Ghana’s 23rd Inspector General of Police.
Dr. George Akuffo Dampare is the youngest Inspector–General of Police (IGP) to be appointed in the Fourth Republic and the eighth youngest since Ghana gained independence.
Ghana is currently the highest exporter of yam on the globe, and this is according to the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.
Speaking on Citi TV’s The Point of View, Mr Acheamong indicated that such achievement is ridden on the government’s Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) programme.
He noted that the programme has ensured that commodities such as maize and plantain are in excess supply.
“Today, we produce more maize than we consume, and we produce more yam than we consume, indeed, we are the largest exporter of yam in the world. We also produce more plantain than we consume.”
“I am saying on authority that we produce more maize in this country than we consume and the fact that the poultry farmers are unable to buy the feed does not mean the programme has failed.”
Meanwhile, the country is recording a decline in the importation of rice. According to the Agric minister, rice importation has been trimmed to 500,000 metric tons of rice per year from 950,000 metric tons per annum.
“We were importing 950,000 metric tons of rice per annum, and today, it is about 500,000 metric tons of rice and so PFJ has halved the importation of rice,” he said.
"Ghana is now highest exporter of yam in the world. Planting for food and jobs program halved the country's rice importation" – Minister for Food and Agriculture Dr. Bryan Acheampong refutes claims Government's Planting for Food and jobs program has failed.
The Parliamentary Ad-Hoc Committee, assigned to investigate the alleged plot to remove the Inspector General of Police (IGP), has resumed its public hearing today, September 1.
Currently before the committee is COP George Alex Mensah, Director of Operations at the Ghana Police Service.
On Thursday, August 31, two key figures implicated in the alleged plot, COP George Alex Mensah, Director of Operations at the Ghana Police Service, and Superintendent Emmanuel Gyebi, appeared before the committee to respond to inquiries.
In his submission, COP George Alex Mensah accused former New Patriotic Party (NPP) Northern Regional Chairman, Daniel Bugri Naabu of falsehood during his appearance before the committee.
On Thursday, August 31, 2023, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II conducted the enstoolment ceremony of Nana Bona Kessetare II as the Abirahene, the chief of the Abira Traditional Area.
This significant event took place at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
It’s worth noting that this marks the second enstoolment carried out by the Asantehene in recent months, following the destoolment of five chiefs in the Ashanti Kingdom.
A video capturing the moment of Nana Bona Kessetare II’s enstoolment, shared by Kumasi-based Opemsuuo Radio, depicted him taking an oath of allegiance to the Asantehene, holding a sword as a symbol of his commitment to selflessly serve his people.
Before the oath-taking, the Asantehene offered counsel to the newly enstooled chief, emphasizing the values of truthfulness and loyalty to the Ashanti land.
Additionally, he called upon the Abirahene’s kinsmen to provide support in his new role, working together to enhance the well-being of the people of Abira.
Dean Henderson has officially completed a permanent transfer from Manchester United to fellow Premier League outfit Crystal Palace.
At 26 years old, Henderson’s departure marks the conclusion of a twelve-year tenure with Manchester United.
During his time with the club, he amassed a wealth of experience, including loan spells with five different teams, including Stockport County, Grimsby Town, Shrewsbury Town, Sheffield United, and Nottingham Forest.
Henderson’s journey with Manchester United began when he joined their youth system at the age of 11, eventually rising through the ranks to become one of the many Academy graduates who earned a place in the first team.
Dean in action for the Reds during our FA Cup fourth-round tie against Middlesbrough in 2022.
Henderson made his United debut against Luton Town in our 3-0 Carabao Cup fourth-round triumph back in September 2020 and stated after the game: “I dreamt about this my whole life.”
Subsequently, he followed up his debut performance for the Reds with a second appearance in our Carabao Cup fifth-round match against Brighton. Once again, he maintained a clean sheet in a convincing 3-0 victory over Brighton.
Dean Henderson’s overall contributions included a total of 22 appearances for the club, encompassing six matches in European competitions, spanning both the UEFA Champions League and Europa League.
A viral video circulating on social media has drawn attention to a disturbing incident involving the assault of a journalist, underscoring the dangers faced by journalists in the country.
On Thursday, August 31, an online journalist from MSTV Ghana fell victim to an attack carried out by a group of local residents in Nima.
The video, shared by Twitter user @SikaOfficial, shows men assaulting the journalist while police officers are present at the scene.
The motive behind the attack remains unknown at this time.
An altercation ensued in Nima as an MSTV reporter got assaulted.
Midfielder Cole Palmer has officially completed his transfer from Manchester City today, putting pen to paper on a seven-year contract with the option of an additional year at Stamford Bridge.
Palmer, a talented young player who has represented England at youth levels, played a pivotal role in Manchester City’s triumphant campaign last season, helping the team secure the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup titles.
However, he is now set to don Chelsea blue in the coming years.
Palmer will wear the No.20 shirt
The club has assigned Palmer the No. 20 shirt, previously worn by loanee Denis Zakaria and Callum Hudson-Odoi.
Excitement is brewing as Cole looks forward to making his debut for Chelsea, and fans can anticipate his first appearance when Chelsea takes on Nottingham Forest this weekend.
The match is scheduled for 3 pm on Saturday at Stamford Bridge, with high hopes for a stellar performance from the new signing.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has expressed its disagreement with the high court’s decision to reject the application for the seizure and freezing of Cecilia Dapaah’s assets.
The high court’s refusal was based on several grounds, including that the confirmation of the seizure application was submitted beyond the stipulated time frame. Additionally, the court found fault with the OSP’s failure to disclose transaction details related to the accounts in question. Furthermore, the court deemed the freezing order as being motivated by public sentiment rather than a result of proper investigations.
As a result, the Financial and Economic Division of the Accra High Court has instructed the Office of the Special Prosecutor to return all seized funds from the former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah.
The court has provided a seven-day deadline for compliance with this ruling and has refrained from confirming the freezing of her bank accounts and other properties.
In response to this decision, the OSP has issued a statement acknowledging its respect for the court’s ruling but asserting its disagreement with the court’s conclusions.
Explaining his disagreement, he said, “First, the OSP believes that the court’s computation of the time limitation is, with respect, erroneous. The OSP searched three (3) private residences associated with Ms. Dapaah over the course of two (2) weeks. The searches and discovery were ongoing during that period. There is little doubt that the OSP filed its application within the statutory window once the search and discovery window is considered.”
“Second, the seizure by the OSP and the Special Prosecutor’s freezing order was effectuated on the very firm basis of reasonable suspicion that the amounts and bank balances were tainted property as Ms. Dapaah prevaricated as to the source(s) of the amounts she reported stolen from the her residence, the amounts discovered by the OSP in her residence, and the volume of transactions in her bank accounts and investments.”
— Office of the Special Prosecutor-Ghana (@ospghana) August 31, 2023
The OSP refuted the court’s claim that the actions of the office were triggered by public sentiments.
“Third, the freezing order was not based on public sentiments. Rather, it was based on court processes filed in a criminal matter before the Circuit court, Accra involving Ms. Dapaah as the complainant.”
He stressed that the freezing order was effected to aid the investigation, as required by law, not on the basis of the investigation, as indicated by the court.
“Therefore it cannot be said that the OSP did not carry out proper investigations to warrant the freezing order. The investigation has only commenced and it is ongoing,” he said.
He assured the general public that he will take “all necessary legal steps to ensure that the seized amounts and the balances in Ms. Dapaah’s accounts and investments are neither concealed, lost, or otherwise dissipated.”
The draw for the 2023-24 Champions League group stage has been announced, and it presents some intriguing matchups.
Defending champions Manchester City will face RB Leipzig once again, a team they convincingly defeated 8-1 on aggregate in the round of 16 last season.
Joining City in Group G are Crvena Zvezda and Young Boys, making it a relatively favorable draw for the Treble winners.
In contrast, Newcastle United has been handed a challenging group. They are set to take on football giants Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund, and AC Milan in Group F.
Eddie Howe’s squad faces tough competition, but they can count on the passionate St James’ Park supporters to create a fortress atmosphere when some of Europe’s top clubs visit.
In other matchups, fans will witness Harry Kane‘s return to England as Bayern Munich squares off against Manchester United in Group A. The England captain will be eager to find the net against FC Copenhagen and Galatasaray as well.
Arsenal’s highly anticipated return to the Champions League promises to be thrilling in Group B. The Gunners will face stiff competition from Europa League champions Sevilla, PSV Eindhoven, and Ligue 1 side Lens.
Last season’s finalists, Inter Milan, have the task of overcoming Benfica in Group D, while Spanish giants Real Madrid will clash with Napoli in Group C.
Scottish champions Celtic face a challenging start to their campaign, locking horns with Feyenoord, Atletico Madrid, and Lazio. Meanwhile, LaLiga holders Barcelona must navigate their way past Porto, Shakhtar Donetsk, and Antwerp in Group H.
Group A
Bayern Munich, Manchester United, Copenhagen, Galatasaray
Group B
Sevilla, Arsenal, PSV Eindhoven, Lens
Group C
Napoli, Real Madrid, Braga, Union Berlin
Group D
Benfica, Inter Milan, FC Salzburg, Real Sociedad
Group E
Feyenoord, Atletico Madrid, Lazio, Celtic
Group F
Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan, Newcastle
Group G
Manchester City, RB Leipzig, Crvena Zvezda, Young Boys
Group H
Barcelona, Porto, Shakhtar Donetsk, Royal Antwerp
Each team will play six group games, facing each opponent both home and away.
The first round of fixtures will commence in the middle of September and end three months later in December.
A seasoned journalist, Kwesi Pratt Jr., has advocated for a reevaluation of the autonomy of constitutional institutions within the nation.
Speaking during a public forum on Thursday, hosted by Arise Ghana, the Pan Africanist emphasized that constitutional bodies, including the Electoral Commission, Bank of Ghana, and National Commission for Civic Education, should operate in alignment with the desires of the Ghanaian populace.
For this reason, he noted that “their independence does not matter. Their independence does not give them powers above those that express in the sovereignty of Ghana.”
In everything we do, he continued, the will of the people matters, not the interests of some elites.
“We elect a government, the leader of that government then decides to appoint somebody to go to the BoG to serve the interest of the people of Ghana and all of a sudden, we are told that those who were elected and mandated by the people of Ghana cannot tell the Governor what to do? What nonsense is that?
“This absolute nonsense of the independence of the Bank of Ghana and his governor and so on must be thrown into the dustbin. It has no relevance to us,” he said angrily.
This statement coincides with the recent demand by the Minority for the resignation of Dr. Ernest Addison, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), along with his two deputies, due to issues of insolvency and mismanagement within the bank.
Mr. Pratt suggests that the current situation at the central bank is merely an outward sign of a more fundamental underlying issue.
“So much has been said about the conditions in which all of us as Ghanaians find ourselves today and the conditions are dire. If we fail to do something now – today, this time all of us are going down so we need to see this as an emergency,” he said.
“The statistics have been thrown at us, we know that today, we need 128% of total national revenue to repay debt, to pay interest on debt and pay public sector workers. What else paints the picture of the situation in which we find ourselves today? We are in debt – broke. When we repay debt, service debt and pay public sector workers, we cannot buy a bottle of water – that is the state of the Ghanaian economy,” he posited.
The forum was on the theme; “The collapse of Bank of Ghana; a classical case of reckless leadership.”
Minority Leader, Dr Ato Forson, has noted that the Central Bank is currently not operating as mandated per the Bank of Ghana Act, 2002 (Act 612).
One of the functions of the Central Bank is to institute measures that are likely to have a favourable effect on the balance of payments, the state of public finances, and the general development of the national economy, and according to the Minority, this has been compromised.
According to the Minority Leader, the alleged inefficiency of the Bank of Ghana lies on the shoulders of the BoG Governor, Dr Ernest Addison.
“In its present form, the Bank of Ghana exists merely in name under the leadership of Governor Addison and his deputies; we are talking about a central bank which has been so mismanaged that it has recorded an unprecedented loss,” Dr Ato Forson said.
Highlighting issues of mismanagement, the Minority Leader noted that in 2022, the Bank of Ghana recorded a colossal loss of over GHS60.8 billion and negative equity of over GHS55.1 billion.
In defence, the Central Bank has noted that it is not a profit-making establishment while stressing that it had to step in to prevent the destruction of the economy.
“The Bank of Ghana, as we all know, is not a typical profit-making institution, and the extent of its capitalization doesn’t necessarily determine its policy solvency—meaning its ability to deliver on its mandate of price stability, and in addition, promote financial stability,” a statement from the institution read.
This response has been shot down by the Minority Leader, who questioned whether the Central Bank is a loss-making establishment.
“As if that mismanagement was not bad enough, its officials have the sheer audacity and temerity to look Ghanaians in the face and tell us that the Bank was not set up to make profit. If I may ask, ladies and gentlemen, was the Bank of Ghana set up to make losses?” he asked.
The Minority Leader is firm in his assertion that the Bank of Ghana is in major financial distress and bankrupt, which requires urgent attention.
Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Junior, has noted that the will of the people will prevail irrespective of actions that may seem to undermine the power of the electorate.
Addressing the public at the NDC’s public forum on the operation of the Bank of Ghana on Thursday, August 31, he stressed that the selection of Ghana’s leader will not be determined by the Electoral Commission (EC) but by the average Ghanaian.
“In the final analysis, we are the only people who can choose our leaders, not an Electoral Commission. We will choose our own leaders, and I’m absolutely sure that what we have started in Parliament under the leadership of the Minority and what is continuing in this room today will be successful, no matter the machinations of anybody,” he said.
His comments follow several complaints by the Minority in Parliament over some decisions taken by the EC ahead of the 2024 general elections.
The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced its decision not to add any other identity documents apart from the Ghana Card as the sole identity document for its voter registration exercise.
Speaking to JoyNews, the Director of Electoral Services of the EC, Dr. Serebour Quaicoe insisted that his outfit will not heed the unanimous decision of Parliament to amend the proposed Constitutional Instrument (C.I).
Minority Leader, Dr Ato Forson, noted that Dr Serebour Quaicoe’s statement is most “unfortunate and reckless.” According to the Minority, such an action will disenfranchise many Ghanaians unjustly; hence, they will fight such an attempt.
COP George Alex Mensah, one of the police officers implicated by former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Daniel Bugri Naabu, in a leaked tape on the ousting of Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, has denied having any personal contention with his superior.
COP George Alex Mensah noted that he only has professional disagreements with the IGP in areas he deems fit. He made this comment when Okaikwei Central Constituency MP, Yaw Boamah, a member of the adhoc committee set up by Speaker Alban Bagbin to probe the matter, asked whether he had any bad blood with the IGP.
In response, he said: “As I sit here, I don’t have any dad blood but what I do is, I speak my mind whether you like it or not.”
He added: “You are my boss and you do what I don’t like, I’ll tell you and you decide to hate me for that, that is your matter.”
COP Alex Mensah, however, accused Dr George Akuffo-Dampare of not carrying out his duties efficiently within the service.
According to him, the majority of officers are dissatisfied with the IGP over his alleged inefficiency.
“Dampare is not managing the Police Service well and the majority of police officers are not happy. You can call the police officers underground and they will tell you,” COP Mensah told the committee on Thursday, August 31.
COP George Alex Mensah, who has been accused of plotting the ousting of Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampre in a tape leaked to the public, has cast aspersions on the credibility of the audio currently in circulation.
Appearing before a parliamentary committee tasked by Speaker Alban Bagbin to probe the intended ousting of the IGP on Thursday, August 31, COP George Alex Mensah confirmed being a part of the conversation captured on the tape. However, he rejected some comments being attributed to him.
COP Mensah claimed that the tape has been doctored and does not accurately reflect the content of the original conversation with former NPP Northern Regional Chairman, Bugri Naabu.
“This tape that was played today, to me was an edited tape, I have not heard any unedited tape for me to talk about as I sit here.”
He therefore called on the committee chaired by Member of Parliament of Akim Abuakwa South, Samuel Atta Akye to furnish his counsel with the original audio.
“When we were coming here, we were going to ask that we needed the original tape to go and listen before we come and speak to the committee,” he said.
The committee noted that it only has in its possession the tape presented by former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chief Daniel Bugri Naabu.
Chair of the Committee, Samuel Atta Akyea said: “We don’t have the original tape because it will be bad as Committee to withhold evidence from you. If you know one, we will be glad and you bring it to us. This is what we have, no more.”
COP Mensah then reminded the committee of some comments by Chief Bugri Naabu on him sending the audio to the president.
Chief Bugri Naabu is quoted to have said: “The reason for recording this tape is that they are coming to tell me to go and tell the President something that they know what they are saying, and it is either I don’t go to tell the President and then I and my party suffer for it and if I also go to talk to the President, it is good to tell him the right thing and since I cannot keep everything they were telling me at that point, it was very good to record, and I know the President I go and tell him something, and it turns not to be true, next time he won’t give me respect.”
COP Mensah therefore drew the attention of the committee to the fact that the original tape of his conversation with Chief Bugri Naabi is with President Akufo-Addo.
“We know this Committee doesn’t have any original tape but when we listened to Alhaji Bugri Naabu, when he appeared before the committee, he stated that after he taped it, he sent the tape to the President. The indication is that the original tape is with the President,” he stated.
COP George Alex Mensah, who has been accused of plotting the ousting of Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampre in a tape leaked to the public, has cast aspersions on the credibility of the audio currently in circulation.
Appearing before a parliamentary committee tasked by Speaker Alban Bagbin to probe the intended ousting of the IGP on Thursday, August 31, COP George Alex Mensah confirmed being a part of the conversation captured on the tape. However, he rejected some comments being attributed to him.
COP Mensah claimed that the tape has been doctored and does not accurately reflect the content of the original conversation with former NPP Northern Regional Chairman, Bugri Naabu.
“This tape that was played today, to me was an edited tape, I have not heard any unedited tape for me to talk about as I sit here.”
He therefore called on the committee chaired by Member of Parliament of Akim Abuakwa South, Samuel Atta Akye to furnish his counsel with the original audio.
“When we were coming here, we were going to ask that we needed the original tape to go and listen before we come and speak to the committee,” he said.
The committee noted that it only has in its possession the tape presented by former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chief Daniel Bugri Naabu.
Chair of the Committee, Samuel Atta Akyea said: “We don’t have the original tape because it will be bad as Committee to withhold evidence from you. If you know one, we will be glad and you bring it to us. This is what we have, no more.”
COP Mensah then reminded the committee of some comments by Chief Bugri Naabu on him sending the audio to the president.
Chief Bugri Naabu is quoted to have said: “The reason for recording this tape is that they are coming to tell me to go and tell the President something that they know what they are saying, and it is either I don’t go to tell the President and then I and my party suffer for it and if I also go to talk to the President, it is good to tell him the right thing and since I cannot keep everything they were telling me at that point, it was very good to record, and I know the President I go and tell him something, and it turns not to be true, next time he won’t give me respect.”
COP Mensah therefore drew the attention of the committee to the fact that the original tape of his conversation with Chief Bugri Naabi is with President Akufo-Addo.
“We know this Committee doesn’t have any original tape but when we listened to Alhaji Bugri Naabu, when he appeared before the committee, he stated that after he taped it, he sent the tape to the President. The indication is that the original tape is with the President,” he stated.
Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Shatta Wale, is worried over the surge in military takeovers on the continent.
Gabon’s President, Ali Bongo Ondimba is the most recent head of state to be hit by a military takeover.
He was recently declared winner after Saturday’s election by the Electoral Commission, garnering 64.27% of the vote with his main challenger, Albert Ondo Ossa taking 30.77%.
On Wednesday morning, August 30, twelve soldiers appeared on television, announcing that they were cancelling the results of the election and dissolving “all the institutions of the republic”.
Many tweeps have shared their opinions on the matter, and in a tweet, Shatta Wale described the current phenomenon as “scary” while christening the trend “Francophone Spring”.
“The francophone spring is getting scary!!! A strong wind is blowing oooo. Ayooo!!!!! Don’t say I didn’t tell you!!” he stated in the social media post asking his followers to “save this tweet”.
Shatta Wale’s coined term “Francophone Spring” draws inspiration from the Arab Spring or uprising.
The Arab Uprising began in Tunisia in December 2010 when a street vendor named Mohamed Bouazizi set himself on fire in protest of police harassment and government corruption. His act of self-immolation ignited mass protests and demonstrations, eventually leading to the downfall of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali in January 2011.
The success of the Tunisian uprising inspired similar movements in other Arab countries, including Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Syria, and Bahrain, among others. Each country’s circumstances and outcomes varied, but the common thread was the demand for political reform, human rights, and improved living conditions.
The Arab Uprising had varying degrees of success in different countries. In Egypt, protests led to the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak in February 2011. However, the transition to democracy was complicated, and political turmoil persisted. In Libya, the uprising escalated into a civil war, with international intervention leading to the eventual overthrow of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi’s regime. Syria’s uprising evolved into a protracted and devastating civil war that continues to this day.
Other countries experienced varying levels of government responses, from limited reforms to violent crackdowns on protests. The Arab Uprising brought attention to long-standing grievances and sparked discussions about political change and social justice across the region.
While the outcomes of the Arab Uprising were mixed and often complex, the movement highlighted the power of people’s voices in demanding change and pushed the Arab world into a period of significant transformation and uncertainty.
Strong wind is blowing
The phrase “strong wind is blowing” used by Shatta Wale in his recent tweet can be traced to the General Overseer of the Action Chapel International ministry, Archbishop Duncan Williams, who warned of a series of takeovers.
In an interview with broadcast journalist, Paul Adom-Otchere in 2021, the revered man of God announced an uprising by the youth in West Africa.
According to Archbishop Duncan Williams, the revolt coming like a “wind” can be likened to the Arab uprising – anti-government protests, demonstrations, and uprisings that swept across several countries in the Arab world, primarily in North Africa and the Middle East, starting in late 2010.
“There is a wind coming. And it’s not 2019, it will begin after 2020. The Arab uprising is coming. It’s coming not just to Ghana – West Africa, all over if we don’t do something,” he said.
The only way to avert such a calamity, he said, is to provide the youth with hope of a better tomorrow.
During the period he conducted the interview, the Archbishop noted that the youth have no will to live, hence will give up their life to fight the current system – a matter he found concerning.
“If we don’t give them hope, that’s why I am going back to the schools, speak to them. I am engaging the youth again because if we don’t give them hope and a sense of direction…”
He stressed: “The most dangerous thing in life is to fight somebody who has nothing to lose. They don’t have wives, children, cars, lands. They have no hope, nothing to live for. They don’t mind dying.”
Economist and Associate Professor at the Institute of Statistical, Social, and Economic Research (ISSER), Prof. Charles Ackah, has highlighted the substantial revenue potential that the Greater Accra region holds.
He made the revelation while emphasizing the need for a more ambitious approach to property tax collection.
Prof. Ackah expressed his views during a special discussion on Joy Business with the theme “Ghana’s High Tax Regime: Causes and Remedies.”
As per data from the Ghana Statistical Service, there are approximately GH¢8.5 million completed residential structures in Ghana, with 1.7 million of them located in Accra. Notably, the Greater Accra region accounts for roughly 21% of all completed residential structures in the country.
Currently, the Ghana Revenue Authority and municipal assemblies have set a goal of generating approximately ¢165 million from property tax across the country.
However, Prof. Ackah contends that this target lacks ambition, especially when considering the revenue potential of the Greater Accra region alone.
“If you do the analysis and you decide to raise GH¢165 million target in Accra alone, divide 165 million by the structures in Accra and each property is likely to pay just about 97 a year. This means that the target is quite low.”
“According to my analysis, we could raise as much as GH¢12 billion in property taxes alone. So property tax holds a huge potential to boost the country’s tax revenues. Even if we focus on high-earned communities and the increasing luxury real estate, we can do more”, he added.
He further called for a more accountable way of setting revenue targets with constant monitoring from the legislature.
“What we need to do is to mandate parliament to set revenue targets and apply punitive measures for failure to meet targets.”
Prof. Ackah also emphasized that the sluggish growth of Ghana’s economy plays a pivotal role in the country’s relatively low tax revenue. He pointed out that as the economy experiences more substantial growth and becomes more formally structured, the government’s capacity to broaden the tax base also increases.
The GDP-to-tax ratio, as a metric, gauges the proportion of tax revenue collected over a specific period in relation to a nation’s total GDP. It is worth noting that research findings suggest that countries with higher GDP per capita often exhibit lower tax revenues. This phenomenon is closely linked to the size and robustness of the economy, as it directly influences effective tax compliance and collection.
The Attorney General (AG) has brought forth fresh charges in the High Court against Nana Appiah Mensah, commonly known as NAM 1, who serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Menzgold Ghana Limited, along with two other individuals.
This new charge sheet comprises 39 counts of defrauding by false pretense, with NAM 1, Menzgold Ghana Limited, and Brew Marketing Consult Limited listed as the accused parties.
The charge sheet, dated August 30, 2023, was signed by Mrs. Yvonne Atakora Obuobisa, the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP). This development came after the Attorney General filed a nolle prosequi in the case against NAM 1.
The facts presented indicate that Menzgold Ghana Limited and Brew Marketing Consult Limited were sibling companies owned by NAM 1. The inception of Menzgold can be traced back to 2013 when it operated under the name Menzbank Ghana Company Limited, while Brew Marketing Consult Ghana Limited was incorporated in December 2016.
NAM 1 held positions as a Director and Chief Executive Officer of Menzgold and Brew Marketing Ghana Limited, in addition to being a majority shareholder in both entities.
It was alleged that NAM 1 operated Menzgold as a deposit-taking business disguised as gold trading, despite lacking the necessary license to do so. In response to a public notice by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) on March 11, 2015, which declared Menzbank an unlicensed deposit-taking institution, NAM 1 changed the company’s name from Menzbank to Menzbanc in an attempt to circumvent BoG’s notice.
Sometime in 2017, NAM 1 further changed the company’s name from Menzbanc to Menzgold Ghana Company Limited. This shift in nomenclature was part of NAM 1’s strategy to avoid BoG’s directives.
Mrs. Obuobisa explained that NAM 1’s business model involved Brew Marketing Consult Ghana Limited selling gold and gold collectibles to the public for investment in Menzgold, even though Brew Marketing lacked the necessary license to sell gold.
In August 2016, the Minerals Commission issued Menzgold a three-year license for gold purchase and export. However, the terms of this license only permitted the purchase of gold from small-scale miners for export purposes.
Menzgold and Brew Marketing Consult Ghana Limited breached their restricted gold purchase and exportation license by selling gold to individuals within Ghana.
Additionally, in 2016, Menzgold and NAM 1 established a gold vault market, providing the public with a platform to trade in gold and gold collectibles. To navigate legal requirements, NAM 1 and Menzgold set up A3 to sell gold to the public, acting as a conduit for gold deposits.
Between 2017 and 2018, NAM 1 and Brew Marketing actively encouraged the public to purchase gold and gold collectibles from Brew Marketing Consult Ghana Limited and deposit these assets with Menzgold. Investors were promised profits ranging from seven to ten percent.
Responding to this enticing offer, around 16,000 individuals deposited significant sums of money under the belief that they were engaging with an authorized deposit-taking company, expecting the returns as advertised by the accused parties.
Menzgold and Brew Marketing Consult Ghana Limited continued to operate despite repeated engagements and warnings issued by regulatory agencies. As time passed, members of the public began facing issues such as delayed payments or reduced dividends, and several cheques issued by Menzgold bounced.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) ordered Menzgold to halt its operations on September 7, 2018, for failing to obtain an SEC license.
Between November 2016 and March 2019, numerous customers of the accused parties reported their investments to the police, asserting that they had invested substantial amounts in Menzgold but were unable to recover their investments.
Investigations disclosed that the accused parties collected a total of GH$1,680,920 from depositors through false pretenses, which remained unrecovered.
The DPP further revealed that between 2017 and 2018, the accused parties transferred substantial amounts of depositor’s funds from Menzgold Ghana Company Ltd. and Brew Marketing Consult Limited to Zylofon Media, a company affiliated with NAM 1.
NAM 1 subsequently withdrew or transferred large sums of money into his bank account for personal use.
Following investigations, various vehicles were recovered from the accused individuals and subsequently auctioned, with the proceeds placed in an exhibit account. Additionally, some gold bars were also recovered from the accused parties.
Onga has marked this year’s World Jollof Day with yet another delightful edition of the Onga Jollof Battle, dubbed the “Influencers’ Edition”.
The event, which generated a lot of conversation amongst members of the online community, came to a successful end after six content creators and online influencers battled it out for culinary supremacy in Jollof preparation.
Popular comedian and online content creator SDK presenting his Jollof dish to the Judges.
Dr Akosua Ellen Kyei Baffour, known online as “Akosua Tasty Recipe”, emerged the ultimate winner of the competition after showcasing her cooking artistry in the preparation of a Vegan Jollof dish with Onga Soya Bean Chunks, to the delight of judges and blind tasters.
She took home the mouth-watering grand cash prize of GHS15,000 and a 6-month Onga brand influencership deal.
Ultimate winner of the competition, Dr Akosua showcasing her prize.
Renowned Tiktoker, brand influencer, and founder of Kesse Cooks, Wesley Kesse secured the second position, taking home a cash prize of GHS 10,000.
1st Runner-up Wesley Kese excited about his prize.
The 3rd position went to Mawuena, who won a cash prize of GHS 5,000. All contestants were presented with products and souvenirs from the brand.
In 2019, Onga commenced the annual Onga Jollof Battle, a competitive jollof cooking event amongst selected groups/individuals to commemorate World Jollof Day.
Blind tasting session with participants after the cook-off.
The maiden edition hosted a Nigerian chef who represented the Onga brand in Nigeria and a Ghanaian chef representing the Onga brand in Ghana, in a heated competition that saw Ghana adjudged the winner.
Subsequent years were followed by a series of other events on World Jollof Day, including the 2022 edition of the competition, which featured alumni of eight popular senior high schools in the country contending for the bragging rights of Jollof Champions.
“As a leader in the food seasoning category and the seasoning of choice for the preparation of Jollof, Onga continues to provide unique, exhilarating brand experiences to patrons and consumers while delivering in the pot with great taste and aroma. World Jollof day is a very important day in the activity calendar of the brand, the preparation of Jollof is not complete without a touch of Onga. We are happy to mark this day with the Onga Jollof Battle as has been the case for the past 5 years”, Assistant Brand Manager, Sandra Anoff said in a media interview.
“We want to re-emphasize the importance of this delicacy in the Ghanaian food basket, leverage its prominence to promote our local cuisine, which is a strong pillar in our tourism sector. We equally want to use this year’s edition of the Jollof Battle to encourage entrepreneurship and capacity development for online content creators,” she further added.
World Jollof Day is an international day dedicated to the celebration of Jollof rice as an important dish in the food culture of the West African community.
In Ghana, the day is commemorated with a series of competitive activities and culinary events by brands, institutions, families, and friends. Onga Jollof Battle has taken center stage in the World Jollof Day conversation since its commencement in 2019.
The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, has announced a significant reduction in the importation of rice by the government.
According to Mr Acheampong, rice importation has been trimmed to 500,000 metric tons of rice per year from 950,000 metric tons per annum.
In an interview on Citi TV’s The Point of View, he noted that this has been possible due to the government’s Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) programme.
“We were importing 950,000 metric tons of rice per annum, and today, it is about 500,000 metric tons of rice and so PFJ has halved the importation of rice,” he said.
He added: “Today, we produce more maize than we consume, and we produce more yam than we consume, indeed, we are the largest exporter of yam in the world. We also produce more plantain than we consume.”
“I am saying on authority that we produce more maize in this country than we consume and the fact that the poultry farmers are unable to buy the feed does not mean the programme has failed.”
According to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, the country’s rice imports hit a staggering US$8 billion between 2010 and 2020.
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture says rice is the second most consumed staple food in the country, following maize.
Rice production has shown remarkable growth, surging from 48,800 metric tons in 1970 to 925,000 metric tons in 2019, representing an average annual growth rate of 9 percent.
The Planting for Food and Jobs initiative launched on April 19, 2017, by President Akufo-Addo features five distinct implementation modules.
The initial module, known as PFJ (Crops), is designed to enhance food security and ensure the prompt availability of specific food crops in the market. Additionally, it seeks to create employment opportunities.
On Monday, August 28, 2023, President Akufo-Addo launched the second phase of the government’s PFJ at the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale.
According to the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, the initiative aims to achieve food self-sufficiency for the country within the next five years.
Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, is holding President Akufo-Addo accountable for remarks he made during the New Patriotic Party (NPP’s) Super Delegates Conference on August 26.
During that event, President Akufo-Addo openly acknowledged the existence of an ongoing economic crisis in the nation.
In a brief interaction with the media, President Akufo-Addo conveyed his confidence that the party would choose a new leader who possesses the capability to navigate the country through these challenges.
“It’s difficult, I’m the first to admit it. I have said it several times, but at the end of the day I believe when the moment comes, the light will reflect on who best to get us out of this difficulty,” he said.
However, Martin Kpebu contends that there is no need for the president to wait another year to step down, allowing for fresh elections.
During an appearance on Joy FM, he pointed out that the 1992 constitution offers a mechanism for a new electoral process to be conducted and a new leader to be chosen within a span of three months.
“If he has admitted it this early please let us have this election. In the next three months let’s have new leadership. That is what our constitution says.
“The Constitution has not said that when you are not up to the task, you can just continue in office for 4 years. No, it says we can have early elections, that is why the framers put it in there.”
He urged the President to back his statement by triggering that law for that new figurehead to be voted in to trigger efforts towards reducing the hardships suffered by Ghanaians.
“Let’s have early elections. Let us decide. We are tired of this kakistocracy,” he told the host.
The Resident Representative of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Ghana, Dr. Leandro Medina, has expressed his approval of the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) decision to adopt a stricter monetary policy stance and eliminate the practice of financing the budget through monetary means.
He noted that both the government and the IMF team have reached a consensus on the importance of prioritizing the avoidance of monetary financing for the budget.
“In fact, the authorities, under the IMF-supported programme, have decided to eliminate such financing; and they intend to strengthen the BoG Act to tighten the conditions under which such financing is allowed. That said, looking at 2022, we need to remember that the economy faced unprecedented challenges”, he told an Accra based newspaper.
“The large budget deficit could not be financed anymore as the government had lost access to both international and domestic capital markets. Under these circumstances, the choice was between BoG providing crucial financing to enable the government to meet its obligations or a very disruptive and possibly much more abrupt crisis”, he explained.
In reference to the impact of the Domestic Debt Restructuring on the balance sheet of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Medina emphasized that the restructuring of the nation’s debt constitutes a crucial component of the government’s strategy to reestablish macroeconomic stability and ensure the sustainability of public debt.
“And BoG participated in the restructuring to share some of the burden the domestic debt exchange places on government debt holders, along with banks, other financial institutions, pension funds and individuals. Indeed, this contributed to reducing its net equity to a negative value, but crucially, we conducted analysis that indicated that this situation does not hinder the BoG from effectively executing its policy mandates, including the vital task of guiding inflation back to its 8-percent target in a gradual manner”.
In essence, his conclusion points towards an anticipated improvement in the net equity of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) over the course of time, leading to an eventual return to a positive financial position.
Parliament’s committee has begun interrogating the police officers implicated by former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Daniel Bugri Naabu, in a leaked tape on the ousting of Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare.
The three officers are COP George Alex Mensah, the Director General of Operations for the Ghana Police Service, Superintendent Asare, and Superintendent Emmanuel Gyebi.
While defending his recording of the conversation during an investigation by an adhoc committee set up by Speaker Alban Bagbin, Bugri Naabu mentioned that Commander Asare, COP Mensah, and Supt. Gyebi were the personnel who had the discussion with him about removing the IGP from office ahead of the 2024 elections.
The Accra High Court has ordered the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to expeditiously return seized funds to former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, within a seven-day timeframe, according to reports.
On August 9, it was reported that the former minister’s cedi and dollar accounts had been frozen by the (OSP) pending further investigations into corruption and corruption-related activities.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) is conducting a corruption investigation into Madam Dapaah and related offenses. This inquiry was initiated following the disclosure that she had over $1 million stored in her residence.
These developments are occurring concurrently with the police and the Attorney General’s efforts to prosecute individuals accused of stealing the alleged funds from the former minister’s home.
In July 2023, Madam Dapaah attracted considerable attention when the Chronicle Newspaper reported that her domestic staff were facing court charges for purportedly embezzling $1 million, 300,000 euros, as well as several million cedis and personal belongings belonging to the former minister and her husband, all valued at thousands of Ghana Cedis and dollars.
Following a public outcry, Cecilia Dapaah subsequently resigned from her position she had held for the last five years.
She noted that she did not want to disrupt the work of the government. She added that she was sure that any investigation would show she had acted with integrity.
She was subsequently detained by the OSP but later granted bail. On Monday, July 24, 2023, officials from the Office of the Special Prosecutor conducted a search at the former Minister of Sanitation’s residence.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a warning to the government, urging it to avoid actions that might lead the country into a coup.
The coup in Gabon is the most recent in a series of coups that have occurred in recent years, following closely on the heels of a military takeover in Niger just a month ago.
The NDC emphasized the underlying causes of coups and advised the government to be attentive to the needs and concerns of the citizens.
General Secretary of the NDC, Fiifi Fiavi Kwetey, speaking to journalists in Accra, said, “Let the people decide who should be in charge. As opposed to this primitive obsession we have, that as soon as you have access to power, you must corrupt institutions, you must turn them into appendages.”
“You must destroy the businesses that support your opponents, you must create conditions that make it impossible for any other person to have a possibility of power. Yet at the same time, when you hear about a coup in another country, you jump into sending the military. Meanwhile, you are creating a situation that could lead to the same situation in your country.”
Certain individuals involved in coup attempts have cited governance shortcomings, unmet citizen entitlements, and widespread public frustration, among other factors, as reasons for their actions.
Meanwhile, thousands of Gabonese citizens and residents have taken to the streets in jubilation to mark the military coup in their nation.
As previously reported by Sahara Reporters, a group of Gabonese soldiers made a televised announcement on Wednesday morning, declaring their intent to “terminate the existing regime” and nullify the results of an election that, according to official reports, President Ali Bongo Ondimba had won.
Videos of Gabonese marching through the streets showed jubilant residents waving their national flag and thanking their military for liberating them.
However, Gabon’s president on August 30, called on “friends all over the world” to “make noise” over the coup in Gabon, in a clip that’s been circulating on social media.
Ali Bongo said: “My son is somewhere, my wife is in another place. Nothing is happening. I don’t know what is going on.”
President Akufo-Addo has entreated members of the general public to join in prayers to safeguard Ghana’s peace.
According to the President, it is his hope to see his government’s successful completion of its full 4-year term on January 7, 2025.
The president made the appeal during a valedictory ceremony for the outgoing chairperson of Akyem Abuakwa Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Rev. Dr. Seth Kissi, held in Kyebi in the Eastern region on August 29
“Pray for Ghana that it remains united in peace and continues to thrive for progress and prosperity. I continue to abide in faith in the Almighty God to help advance the fortunes of our nation accompanied by appropriate policies, determination, and hard work on our part,” he said.
He continued: “Pray for me and the people I have appointed to various positions with responsibilities that we will continue to exercise our responsibilities with humility and integrity.
“At the end of my tenure of office on 7th January 2025, I want with humility to be able to say just as St. Paul did in 2 Timothy 4:7-8 that I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”
President Akufo-Addo’s call for support comes at a critical time when the African continent, especially West Africa, has witnessed an alarming increase in military takeovers. Since 2020, eight successful coups have occurred, affecting countries such as Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, and Niger. The most recent incident took place in Gabon, where President Ali Bongo was placed under house arrest by the military on August 30.
This surge in military takeovers has drawn condemnation from organizations like the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Security experts have pointed to various factors for the removal of democratically elected leaders, including poor governance, attempts to extend presidential terms, and growing human insecurity.
Against this backdrop, there is a warning to the Ghanaian government to rectify its shortcomings to prevent a similar fate. President Akufo-Addo, who assumed office in 2017 with ambitious promises, did fulfill some commitments such as implementing the Free Senior High School program. However, a significant portion of the Ghanaian population remains dissatisfied with the economy’s lackluster performance and the increasing prevalence of corruption.
In January 2023, Ghana experienced a shocking surge in year-on-year inflation, reaching a record high of 54.1%. Food inflation soared to 59.7%, and transportation costs increased dramatically by 71.4%. Consequently, Ghana had to seek a $3 billion IMF bailout due to the unsustainable levels of debt the country had accrued. As part of the government’s commitment to meeting the IMF’s conditions, a domestic debt exchange programme was initiated.
President Akufo-Addo has called on Ghanaians to throw their support behind his government to complete its 4-year tenure successfully.
Addressing a valedictory service for outgoing chairperson of Akyem Abuakwa Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Rev. Dr. Seth Kissi, at Kyebi in the Eastern Region on August 29, the president noted that it is his dream to continue serving with integrity and humility.
According to President Akufo-Addo, his dream cannot be materialised should the peace the country enjoys be disrupted, thus entreated all to pray for Ghana’s peace.
“At the end of my tenure of office on 7th January 2025, I want with humility to be able to say just as St. Paul did in 2 Timothy 4:7-8 that I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing,” he said.
He added: “Pray for me and the people I have appointed to various positions with responsibilities that we will continue to exercise our responsibilities with humility and integrity.
“Pray for Ghana that it remains united in peace and continues to thrive for progress and prosperity. I continue to abide in faith in the Almighty God to help advance the fortunes of our nation accompanied by appropriate policies, determination, and hard work on our part.”
He made the comment at a time when the African continent, particularly West Africa, has witnessed an alarming number of military takeover.
Since 2020, eight coups have been executed successfully. Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, Niger have experienced military takeover. The most recent is Gabon, where President Ali Bongo, on August 30, was placed under house arrest by the military.
The trend of military takeover has been condemned by the African Union and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Some security experts have cited bad governance, extension of tenure, human insecurity as some factors for the removal of democratic elected leaders.
The government of Ghana has been cautioned to right its wrongs to prevent a military takeover.
President Akufo-Addo assumed office on January 7, 2017, with ambitious promises that included a transformation of the economy within 18 months and a robust stance against corruption. These pledges had played a significant role in his victory and the success of the ruling New Patriotic Party in the 2016 Presidential election.
While the administration did deliver on some of its commitments, notably the implementation of the Free Senior High School program, a substantial portion of the Ghanaian populace is disheartened by the economy’s lackluster performance and the escalating instances of corruption.
In January 2023, Ghana witnessed a startling surge in year-on-year inflation, reaching a record high of 54.1%. This was accompanied by a notable spike in food inflation, which stood at 59.7%, and a staggering 71.4% increase in transportation costs.
The country was eventually compelled to enter into a $3 billion IMF bailout program due to the unsustainable levels of debt the economy had accrued. As part of their commitment to the conditions set forth by the IMF, the government has initiated a domestic debt exchange programme.
The police officers implicated by former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Daniel Bugri Naabu, in a leaked tape on the ousting of Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, will appear before Parliament today, August 31, 2023.
The three officers are COP George Alex Mensah, the Director General of Operations for the Ghana Police Service, Superintendent Asare, and Superintendent Emmanuel Gyebi.
This information was revealed by the chairman of the adhoc committee set up by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, to probe the leaked audio tape, Samuel Atta Akyea in an engagement with the media last week.
“These are the three individuals who will appear on Thursday,” Mr Atta Akyea told Citi FM.
While defending his recording of the conversation during an probe by an adhoc committee set up by Speaker Alban Bagbin, Bugri Naabu mentioned that Commander Asare, COP Mensah and Supt Gyebi were the personnel who had the discussion with him about removing the IGP from office ahead of the 2024 elections.
“The reason for recording this tape is that they are coming to tell me to go and tell the President something that they know they are saying, and it is either I don’t go and tell the President and then I and my party suffer for it, or if I also go to talk to the President, it is good to tell him the right thing, and since I cannot keep everything they were telling me at that point, it was very good to record and I know the President, that if I go and tell him something and it turns out not to be true, next time he won’t give me respect,” he explained to the Committee.
According to Bugri Naabu, Commander Asare threatened his life when he reached out to find out how their conversation was leaked.
Bugri Naabu said he phoned the Commander, who on several occasions refused to make any comments.
“I called Mr Asare and asked him who sent the tape into the public domain, and he banged the phone on me. Then I called him again and he refused to talk to me,” Bugri Naabu is quoted to have said by Ghanaweb.
Bugri Naabu informed Parliament that he later received a message by Commander Asare from his son. Per his comments, the Commander threatened his life over the leaked audio tape.
“But rather, he sent a message through my son, that he will deal with me, he threatened me,” Bugri Naabu.
Meanwhile, the Committee is to submit its report on September 10.
The Minority in Parliament has expressed their unwavering determination to embark on a protest to demand the removal of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) Governor, Dr Ernest Addison, and his two deputies despite an injunction granted by a High Court.
The Accra Regional Police Command of the Ghana Police Service successfully obtained an injunction to halt a planned demonstration for September 5, citing disagreements over the intended route for the protest.
The planned demonstration involved a march from Parliament House to the headquarters of the Central Bank, but the Police say the Central Bank’s headquarters is a designated security zone, hence cannot be among the locations. The Police also noted that the intended route poses potential risks to public order and safety and therefore called for a change in route.
While engagements between the Minority and the Police were ongoing over the matter, the latter proceeded to the High Court to receive an order that would halt the Minority from taking its planned route.
Reacting to the recent development, Deputy Minority Leader Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah emphasized the National Democratic Congress (NDC) MPs disappointment with the Police.
He, however, assured that the protest will take place as scheduled by hook or crook.
“We received a letter on Wednesday from the Ghana Police Service accompanied by a bailiff from the Accra High Court who served a notice or motion for an order to prohibit our Bank of Ghana protest, and we must say that we are very disappointed with this development which is an attempt to scatter the protest which is intended to hold the governor and his deputies accountable for their mismanagement of the bank which resulted in an unprecedented and colossal loss of GH¢60.8 billion, an amount which has had serious consequences on the economy and pushed close to one million Ghanaians into poverty.”
“And let us assure the people of Ghana that, as representatives, we will keep our sacred duty and we will uphold the public interest in line with our constitutionally guaranteed right to publicly protest, and we want to assure the people of Ghana that we have resolved to embark on this protest and nothing will stop us.”
Meanwhile, the High Court has scheduled a hearing on this matter for Monday, September 4, 2023.
Reason for BoG demo
The Minority has expressed dissatisfaction over the unauthorized printing of over GH¢80 billion by the central bank for the Akufo-Addo government.
According to the Minority, the Central Bank by so doing, has pushed some 850,000 Ghanaians into poverty.
On the matter, the BoG Governor, Dr Ernest Addison has explained that the central bank did not provide funding for the government until 2020 and 2022, during the COVID-19 Pandemic and after investors in the capital market declined to lend to the government.
According to him at a press conference on Monday, August 21, the central bank strictly adhered to the zero financing of government expenditure until the economic difficulties set in last year.
Dr Addison said the financing of government policies last year was undertaken with prior consultation with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
A security analyst, Emmanuel Kotin, has emphasized that the most effective means of preventing military coups is through the establishment of good governance.
Kotin’s remarks come in the wake of a recent coup in Gabon, during which military officers took control and invalidated the results of the recent presidential election, which had been won by President Ali Bongo.
Kotin told Umaru Sanda Amadu in an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM in Accra on Wednesday that “if you look at the history of Francophone countries, it has always been a system where a family will rule for a long period of time, following the tenets of their colonial masters. In Gabon, for example, one family has been able to rule the country for over 50 years. So Francophone countries have a peculiar problem. But there is also a mix of factors at play, due to globalization and the export of culture.”
“People are increasingly becoming aware of their rights, and you see that we have older people who are ruling younger people… and not giving them the opportunity, and they don’t seem to get their way out, it goes through some form of triggers and when it explodes these are some of the things that happen. So it is a wake-up call that good governance, nothing but good governance is the panacea to stopping these military coups.”
Gabon’s President Ali Bongo has released a video on social media, urging his international allies to raise their voices against the coup.
In the video, President Bongo reassures the public that he and his family are safe. He expresses uncertainty about the situation unfolding in the country and calls on his friends worldwide to bring attention to the coup.
“Nothing is happening. I don’t know what is going on.”
He again urges his “friends” to speak up, before thanking them.
Boakye Kyeremateng Agyarko, a presidential aspirant from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has officially withdrawn from the upcoming run-off election, which was intended to determine the 5th aspirant.
This decision comes in response to the NPP’s announcement that its National Council would form an electoral college to resolve the tie between Mr. Agyarko and his rival, Francis Addai Nimoh, both of whom secured the 5th position in the recently concluded super delegate conference.
In a press release issued by Mr. Agyarko, he has characterized this move as unconstitutional, arguing that the National Council’s selection of a few individuals to represent the 955 participants from the first round is not in line with the party’s democratic principles.
He further contends that the establishment of this electoral college also violates the party’s constitution, pointing to additional legal violations as well.
“It is totally unacceptable to me that such an unconstitutional act can be perpetuated on the altar of expediency. Am I to surmise that the party did not know the cost implication? It is unconscionable that the rules of the game will be changed midstream.
“Rules and regulations that are flip-flopped in such a manner is only detrimental to fair play and justice. It is a clear violation of the party’s constitution and the guidelines for the Special Electoral College. It is an unconstitutional act which | cannot allow myself to be associated with,” portions of his statement read.
In light of these concerns, the former Energy Minister asserts that he cannot, in good conscience, participate in an electoral process that disrupts an earlier mutually agreed-upon procedure.
“I, therefore, respectfully, serve this notice to refrain from such a contest. As always, I wish the party well.”
On Saturday, August 26, during the New Patriotic Party’s Super Delegates Conference, six presidential aspirants successfully advanced in the competition. Leading the pack was Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who garnered 68.15% (629) of the total votes. He was followed by Kennedy Agyapong, who secured 15.03% (132) of the total votes.
Alan Kyerematen secured the third position with 10.29% (95) of the total votes, while Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto came in fourth place with 3.90% (36) of the votes.
Interestingly, although the Super Delegates Conference was originally intended to select five candidates, it resulted in a tie for the fifth position, with both Francis Addai Nimoh and Boakye Kyeremateng Ayarko receiving nine votes each.
Ghana Football Association President, Kurt Okraku, has commended Medeama for their remarkable journey to championship glory.
In a vivid demonstration of unwavering dedication and commitment, Medeama has emerged as the undisputed champion of the 2022/23 Ghana Premier League.
This resounding victory not only cements their place in the annals of Ghanaian football history but also grants them the prestigious opportunity to represent the nation as the sole participant in the upcoming CAF Champions League.
Kurt Okraku delivered this statement during the official launch of the 2023/24 Ghana Premier League in Koforidua.
“Our meeting here today is the testament to the efforts the GFA is making to take the GPL and other products of the football association closer to the homes of Ghanaians who remain passionate about our football the passion of our dear nation,” he said.
“At this point I will like to say a hearty congratulations to Medeama Sporting Club on their remarkable victory in the 2022/23 Premier League season.
“Indeed your dedication, teamwork, and unwavering commitment has truly shown throughout the year resulting in a well deserved Championship,” he ended.
The launch event was graced by President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku and Mark Addo, the Vice President of the Association.
In attendance were Executive Council Members Nana Sarfo Oduro and Linford Asamoah Boadu. The special guest of honor for the occasion was Hon. Seth Kwame Acheampong, the Eastern Regional Minister.
English-born Ghanaian winger, Callum Hudson-Odoi, seems poised for an exciting reunion that could reshape his footballing journey.
The upcoming transfer window holds the promise of a significant shift for Hudson-Odoi as Nottingham Forest is on the verge of finalizing a deal to bring the talented Chelsea winger to their squad.
While the agreement between the two clubs is comprehensive, the negotiations now revolve around the finer details that will seal this highly anticipated move.
The conclusion of these negotiations appears imminent, paving the way for a partnership that has the potential to reinvigorate Nottingham Forest’s attacking prowess.
Nottingham Forest’s appeal and the potential under the astute management of Steve Cooper seem to have resonated with the winger.
However, what adds a unique dimension to this impending transfer is the history shared between Hudson-Odoi and Steve Cooper. The two previously collaborated as integral members of the England U17 World Cup-winning squad in 2017.
Hudson-Odoi’s journey began with Chelsea in 2007, and he made his under-18 debut in August 2016. He had a remarkable debut season, scoring eight times in twenty-five appearances and contributing significantly to the under-18’s eighth FA Youth Cup triumph.
On January 28, 2018, Hudson-Odoi made his debut for the Chelsea first team in an FA Cup match against Newcastle United.
Member of Parliament for Tamale South, Haruna Iddrisu, has expressed his pain at the relocation of Karela United from Anyinase, their original location.
He assumed control of the club following the December break last year.
The former minority leader of the National Democratic Party (NDC) conveyed his disappointment at having to shift the club’s home ground to a new venue for the upcoming 2023/24 Ghana football season.
He indicated that he is engaged in discussions with the club’s management to determine the way forward after the club licensing committee of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) rejected the Crosby Awuah Memorial Park as their designated home venue for the upcoming season.
“I have come to welcome Karela Football Club into Tamale for their preseason session and to discuss and consult with the management and technical team, where our venue for the 2023/24premier league may be,” he said.
“It is not my wish to have taken the team away from Anyinase from the people of Nzema, but regrettably the GFA have disqualified the Anyinase football pitch, as not being desirable or meeting their minimum standard.
“So, we have to look elsewhere and we will look elsewhere and satisfy the licensing requirement.”
Speaking to local media in Tamale, he shared his sentiments after welcoming the club to initiate their preseason preparations in his home region.
Since gaining independence from France in 1960, Gabon has seen three leaders at its helm.
The first leader was Leon M’Ba, who assumed the presidency in 1961. M’Ba was known for his conservative stance and strong pro-France inclinations. During his time in office, he gradually adopted a more authoritarian approach to governance.
Copyright: Getty Images Leon M’Ba held the presidency from 1961-67
In 1964, a coup d’état temporarily ousted him from power, but a French intervention swiftly reinstated him as president. Unfortunately, Leon M’Ba’s presidency was short-lived, as he passed away three years later.
Following his death, Omar Bongo assumed the presidency and ruled for an impressive period of over four decades until his passing in 2009.
Omar Bongo is Gabon’s longest serving leader, Credit: Getty Images
Throughout his tenure, Gabon maintained a remarkably close relationship with France, operating within a framework commonly referred to as “Francafrique.” This arrangement involved the Gabonese government receiving political and military backing in exchange for various business concessions and favors.
Tensions emerged in the relationship between the two nations when Ali Bongo, Omar Bongo’s son, secured a contested victory in the 2009 election. This contentious outcome led to a protracted investigation into allegations of corruption related to the Bongo family’s assets.
Ali Bongo is currently under house arrest after the country’s military launched a coup, Credit: Getty Images
In 2018, Bongo experienced a stroke that incapacitated him for nearly a year, prompting calls for him to consider stepping aside from leadership.
However, Bongo chose to disregard these calls and proceeded to run for re-election. Surprisingly, he secured re-election on a Saturday, but the army has since declared the results of this election null and void.
Ghana Premier League club Hearts of Oak secured a resounding 4-0 victory against lower-tier team Dolphins FC in a pre-season friendly held at the Pobiman Football Academy on Wednesday afternoon.
The Phobians’ dominance was evident as Seidu Suraj found the net twice, first at the 12-minute mark and then again at the 20th minute, propelling them into a comfortable lead.
Cameroonian import Elbert Eonde further extended Hearts of Oak’s advantage, making it 3-0 with a goal just one minute before the close of the first half.
Heading into halftime with a solid 3-0 lead, the 2000 CAF Champions League winners maintained control of the match.
The second half saw no let-up from Hearts of Oak as they added a fourth goal. Albert Eonde, who had already scored once, netted his second of the afternoon in the 50th minute.
A chance to further increase their lead came when former Real Tamale United loanee Issah Kukah had an opportunity to score from the penalty spot. However, his attempt went wide in the 79th minute, leaving the scoreline at 4-0.
No additional goals were recorded, securing a convincing win for Hearts of Oak. This victory marks their third consecutive success in pre-season friendlies, following previous wins against Miracle Land FC (11-1), Lazio Spot (4-1), and Attram De Visser (6-1), all played at the Pobiman Football Academy.
The seizure of power by the military in Gabon represents a clear breach of the African Union’s (AU) regulations, according to a prominent AU official.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, the Chairman of the AU Commission, is closely monitoring the situation and has expressed significant concern, as stated in a released statement.
He “strongly condemns the coup attempt in the country as a way of resolving its crisis current post-election”.
The statement further emphasizes the necessity for the military and security forces to ensure “the physical safety of the president of the republic,” as well as his family members and other government officials.
The commissioner refrains from explicitly advocating for President Bongo’s reinstatement, opting instead to urge “all political, civilian, and military stakeholders in Gabon to support peaceful political avenues that facilitate the swift restoration of democratic constitutional governance.”
Gabon has held membership in the AU, a coalition of 55 African nations, since 1963.
Ghanaian forward Nathaniel Opoku is set to make his return to the field in mid-September after being sidelined due to a groin injury.
Opoku was notably absent from OH Leuven’s recent match against KAS Eupen over the weekend, resulting in a disappointing 3-1 defeat for the team in the fifth round of the Belgium Jupiler Pro League.
OH Leuven keenly felt Opoku’s absence as they struggled to find their rhythm against KAS Eupen.
The spotlight in the match shifted to Opoku’s compatriot, Isaac Nuhu, who scored a goal for the home side and played impressively for 84 minutes.
Club management confirmed that Nathaniel Opoku missed the recent game due to a groin injury, although the specific details of the injury remain undisclosed.
Opoku’s last appearance for OH Leuven was in a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Royal Antwerp, where he played for 60 minutes.
In the current season of the Belgium Jupiler Pro League, Nathaniel Opoku has made a significant impact with four appearances, scoring one goal and providing an assist.
The head of Gabon’s presidential guard, says President Ali Bongo has been officially retired, as reported by the French newspaper Le Monde.
Brice Oligui Nguema made the statement during an interview, according to the BBC.
“He is a Gabonese head of state. He is retired and enjoys all his rights. He is a normal Gabonese, like everyone else,” Gen Brice Oligui Nguema is quoted to have said.
Currently, President Ali Bongo is under house arrest. A video of him has gone viral on social media, where he confirms his confinement at the presidential residence.
He also reveals that his son has been detained, and his wife is being held at a different location.
Currently, it appears a leader has not been selected by the army junta.
Earlier, it was reported that Brice Oligui Nguema has been appointed transitional leader, but he has refuted such claims.
“I am not declaring myself yet, I am not considering anything at the moment,” he told the French newspaper.
“It is a debate we will have with all the generals.”
The spokesperson for the Alan Kyerematen campaign team, Yaw Buaben Asamoah, is allegedly doing a disservice to the presidential aspirant in his attempts to win more supporters.
A visually impaired political activist, Duodu Bulgaria, is of the assertion that the former Trade Minister is better off without his current crop of communicators.
In an interview with Paul Adom-Otchere on Good Evening Ghana, Duodu Bulgaria noted that Alan Kyerematen loses 2,000 votes anytime Yaw Boaben Asamoah speaks on his behalf. He stressed that the former Communication Director of the New Patriotic Party lacks good communication skills.
“My advice to him is to change his communication team because some of his communicators that speak for him, some of them when they speak you lose 2000 votes. One of them when he speaks, you lose 5,000 votes.”Someone like Yaw Boaben Asamoah speaks for Alan, Alan loses 2,000 votes.
“I don’t have anything against him but he has bad communication skills. He doesn’t communicate well.”
He cited a recent interview of Yaw Boaben Asamoah on JoyFM over the assault on a polling agent representing Alan Kyerematen in the North East Region.
According to him, the tone and manner in which Mr Asamoah addressed the matter is nothing home to write about.
“Saturday I was listening to an interview between him and Emefa Apawu on Joy FM, and how he was talking, angry. This is not even an election. This is just to select five people to go for the main election and an incident has happened in the North East Region and how he was reacting,” he noted.
He added: “Alan, if these are the people that are going to communicate for him, then I’m sorry. Look at somebody like Hopeson Adorye making wild allegations against the sitting Chief of Staff that she was sharing $5 million without giving any shred of evidence and you say this on air. If these people are going to communicate for Alan, then I’m sorry.”
Ali Zakaria, the coordinator for Kyerematen in the North East Region, was allegedly assaulted by unknown delegates during the Super Delegates Conference held on August 26, 2023.
Super Delegates Conference
Mahamudu Bawumia won the super delegates conference with a total of 629 votes, representing 68.15% of the total valid votes.
Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong came in second with 132 votes, or 14.30% while former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen placed third with 95 votes, or 10.29%.
Following the tie by Boakye Agyarko and Francis Addai-Nimoh, a run-off election will be held for both of them on Saturday, September 2, 2023, to decide which of them will join the primaries.
There was an impression that Nguema had been proposed by the leaders of the coup to assume the role of President, succeeding Ali Bongo, the ousted leader.
Video footage aired earlier on state TV depicted him being hoisted by troops while they chanted his name.
However, he has refuted any assertions that such an appointment has been confirmed or made.
“I am not declaring myself yet, I am not considering anything at the moment,” he told the French newspaper.
“It is a debate we will have with all the generals.”
Gabon’s President, Ali Bongo Ondimba has been ousted by Army officers.
President Ali Bongo was recently declared winner after Saturday’s election by the Electoral Commission, garnering 64.27% of the vote with his main challenger Albert Ondo Ossa taking 30.77%.
On Wednesday morning, August 30, twelve soldiers appeared on television , announcing that they were cancelling the results of the election and dissolving “all the institutions of the republic”.
They noted that there has irresponsible, unpredictable governance resulting in a continuing deterioration in social cohesion that risks leading the country into chaos.
The soldiers said they were from the Committee of Transition and the Restoration of Institutions and represent security and defence forces in the country.
Sounds of loud gunfire could be heard in the country’s capital, Libreville, following the broadcast.
The leader of a Gabonese opposition party expressed his satisfaction to the BBC, stating that he is “pleased” with the military’s removal of President Ali Bongo, whose family had governed Gabon for over five decades.
Nicolas Nguema, the head of Pour Le Changement (PLC), shared his views with the BBC’s Focus on Africa podcast.
He argued that the Bongo family’s prolonged stay in power necessitated a change, with military intervention being the only means to alter the “regime.”
Omar Bongo, Ali Bongo’s father, had assumed leadership in Gabon in 1967, and his son succeeded him in 2009.
“I am delighted with the situation, I am delighted that we have been able to put an end to this dictatorial regime which imprisons the youth,” Nguema said.
“The popular jubilation that we have been hearing in the streets since this morning shows that I am in line with history, with my time, with this thirst for change that we have all had for so long, if not forever,” he added.
It has emerged that the founder and leader of Ghana Freedom Party, Akua Donkor, marched to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Headquarters Asylum Down to cast her ballot during the party’s Super Delegates Conference.
On August 26, the ruling party held an election at 17 polling stations to trim the number of its presidential aspirants from 10 to 5.
About 956 super delegates were to partake. These delegates are members of the party, therefore, the presence of Akua Donkor on that fateful Saturday at the party’s headquarters raised eyebrows.
On Metro TV’s Good Evening Ghana Show, a journalist informed host Paul Adom-Otchere that Akua Donkor was shown the way out as she attempted to vote.
“Some videos that people didn’t have, Akua Donkor’s sacking or escorting out from the National headquarters. She told the police officers that she was coming to vote,” he said.
He noted that but for the limited number of delegates expected to vote at the party headquarters, Akua Donkor might have had her way.
“She went there to vote. The thing was that because the chosen number of delegates at the headquarters, just about 151, it was easy to pick her out,” he narrated.
At the end of the Super delegates conference, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia led the aspirants with a total of 629 votes, representing 68.15% of the total valid votes.
Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong came in second with 132 votes while former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen placed third with 95 votes.
Former Agric Minister, Dr Afriyie Akoto placed fourth.
The fifth slot is currently vacant as Boakye Agyarko and Francis Addai-Nimoh tied.
According to the party, a run-off election will be held on Saturday, September 2, 2023, to decide which of them will join the primaries.
In the Ashanti region, residents and traders along the Ahenema Kokoben-Anwiankwanta road are living in a state of fear due to an abandoned project that has become plagued with gullies.
Shockingly, this project has reportedly been linked to approximately 16 fatalities within the span of a year.
Contractors were initially tasked with demolishing structures along the single road to facilitate its transformation into a dual-carriageway. However, for reasons unknown, the contractors have abandoned the site.
In 2021, the government had made the decision to upgrade the Ahenema Kokoben-Anwia Nkwanta road into a dual carriageway, but progress on the project has since come to a halt.
Initially, buildings and makeshift structures along the road’s shoulders were removed to facilitate the road’s expansion.
Following several months of construction efforts that included road grading, the project has been left in a state of abandonment.
Now, mud and dust have enveloped both sides of the road, and sections of the once-tarred road have deteriorated significantly.
“I have to irrigate the stretch with my water tanker to reduce the dust on the road,” a water tanker driver said.
Gully eating into portions of Ahenema Kokoben – Anwiankwanta road
The road presents an even more hazardous sight due to the presence of extensive gullies that are eroding into it.
Residents have reported that these gullies have resulted in multiple fatalities and represent a significant threat to those using the road.
“My brother passed away after his car veered off the road into one of the gullies along the stretch. He perished with 16 others on board the car,” a resident recounted.
A driver, Nana Mensah, also recounted a near-death experience after an oncoming vehicle veered off the road at Pakyi No. 1 into a nearby gully.
“Since the project began, I’ve witnessed at least three accidents. It’s scary when you meet an articulated truck on the road. We’re pleading with government to continue the project,” he said.
Dominase lorry terminal occupied by petty traders after demolition of makeshift structures for road expansion
The neglect of the road has dealt a severe blow to economic activities in Dominase, a community situated along this route.
“Bread is the favourite of all, but people hardly buy ours due to the dust. They’re always complaining. Business isn’t booming. We deliberately put stones here to stop the drivers from over-speeding, but they move them away,” Maadwoa Achiaa noted.
The reasons behind the months-long delay in the project’s progress remain shrouded in uncertainty.
However, for the time being, residents, traders, and road users along this route continue to live in apprehension, holding onto the hope that the road project will be completed and the gullies addressed.
A viral video on social media has shown a frantic celebration by the military officers in Gabon following their successive ousting of President Ali Bongo Ondimba.
On Wednesday morning, August 30, twelve soldiers appeared on television, announcing that they were cancelling the results of the election and dissolving “all the institutions of the republic”.
Not long after, it was reported that President Ali Bongo Ondimba was under house arrest.
This confirmed reports that a coup had taken place in Gabon. Shortly after, a video emerged on social media showing the head of the presidential guard, Brice Oligui Nguema, being tossed by military officers.
They then chanted loudly, ‘Presido’ signifying his leadership.
Brice Oligui Nguema has been nominated as the transitional leader for Gabon.
