TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • 10-member COP28 Committee inaugurated by Lands Minister

    10-member COP28 Committee inaugurated by Lands Minister

    Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, has established a 10-member committee responsible for orchestrating Ghana’s effective engagement in the upcoming 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference, commonly referred to as COP 28. 

    The Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC aims to address climate change on a global scale.

    Heading the committee is the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Benito Owusu-Bio. 

    The committee has been assigned several key responsibilities, including identifying funding sources for acquiring a pavilion, facilitating the attendance of government representatives at COP28, organizing a preliminary Natural Resource and environmental sector event ahead of COP28, and curating a series of events at Ghana’s designated pavilion during the conference.

    During the committee’s inauguration on August 9, 2023, Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor emphasized Ghana’s prominent role in global climate change discussions. He expressed high expectations for the country to contribute significantly to policy ideas and initiatives surrounding climate issues at COP28. 

    Mr Jinapor highlighted that due to these expectations, he proactively established the committee to ensure Ghana’s meaningful and successful involvement in COP28.

    Furthermore, he revealed that Ghana, serving as the co-chair of COP28 alongside the United States of America, holds both an esteemed honor and a considerable challenge in delivering a successful conference. 

    The committee’s diligent execution of its defined tasks is essential to safeguard Ghana’s reputation and image as it takes on this role.

    “For very good reasons, Ghana has become a leading country when it comes issues of climate action. For COP28, expectations are very high and our ambitions are also high and I felt that very early on, I put together a team of competent and capable people which will be chaired by Benito Owusu-Bio” he said.

    The Lands Minister also proffered some suggestions to the committee on some the events that they can draw up to ensure that Ghana is well-represented at the conference.

    He said, “the Second Lady has become an iconic figure when it comes to climate action and I think that we should have a high-level event which will be dedicated to her where she can address audience at the event. I also think that you should have a panel discussion of high-level people. You can get John Kelly and other Ministers from forest countries to join me and the president.”

    Emphasizing the significance of conveying the African perspective in relation to climate change and climate action, the Minister underscored a concern regarding the unexplored narrative within this domain. He emphasized Ghana’s responsibility to delve into this uncharted territory.

    The committee’s Chairperson, Benito Owusu-Bio, welcomed the challenge extended by the Minister to him and his team, affirming their commitment to achieving flawless outcomes. He assured that the committee would provide the essential leadership to ensure Ghana’s successful engagement. Mr Owusu-Bio stressed the pivotal role of COP28 in shaping Ghana’s climate action strategies.

    Among the committee’s members are Mr. John Allotey, CEO of the Forestry Commission; Mr. Sulemana Koney, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines; Mr. Martin Ayisi, CEO of the Minerals Commission; Mr. Joseph Osiakwah, Technical Director of Forestry; Ms. Roselyn F. Adjei, Director of Climate Change at the Forestry Commission; the Head of the Climate Change Unit at the EPA; Mr. Emmanuel Okang; Head of the Protocol Unit; Mr. Cletus Alengah; and Mrs. Juliet Osei-Wusu.

    COP28, scheduled to take place from November 30 to December 12, 2023, will be hosted at Expo City in Dubai.

  • West Ham captain announces second pregnancy

    West Ham captain announces second pregnancy

    Dagny Brynjarsdottir, the captain of West Ham, has revealed that she is anticipating the arrival of her second child.

    The 31-year-old, hailing from Iceland, became a part of the Hammers in January 2021. She had previously given birth to her son Brynjar in June 2018 while she was actively playing for Portland Thorns in the United States.

    Brynjarsdottir told West Ham TV: “From growing up supporting West Ham to becoming the club captain and then bringing my son, Brynjar, into the West Ham family, I’m delighted to announce that there will be a new addition to the West Ham family next year.

    “I think it’s amazing how much the club supports me with my son. Not every club would let their kid come to the training ground and on to the pitch. I’m very grateful that he gets to have all of these experiences with me and, because of that, he is a big West Ham fan today and will be the rest of his life.

    “When Brynjar comes to the training ground it just feels like extended family. Everyone is so nice and calm and it’s just one big family – and I’m excited to be adding to that family.”

    Having made 65 appearances and netted 17 goals for the Hammers, Brynjarsdottir has contributed significantly to the team’s performance. The Hammers secured an eighth-place finish in the Women’s Super League in the previous season.

    However, it’s been confirmed that she will not be participating in the upcoming season. The club has also conveyed their congratulations, stating, “Everyone at West Ham United would like to congratulate Dagny and her partner Omar on their fantastic news.”

  • Mohammed Kudus’ move to Brighton in limbo 

    Mohammed Kudus’ move to Brighton in limbo 

    Brighton & Hove Albion, a team in the English Premier League, is encountering challenges in reaching an agreement on personal terms with Mohammed Kudus for his potential signing.

    Over the recent weekend, the club successfully negotiated a deal with Dutch giants for the acquisition of the prominent Black Stars player.

    Since Monday, officials from Brighton have been in discussions with Mohammed Kudus and his representatives, aiming to finalize the agreement within this week.

    Presently, the situation appears to be unfavorable for the English Premier League team.

    According to Footballghana, Mohammed Kudus has requested the inclusion of a release clause in his contract.

    However, Brighton & Hove Albion is uncomfortable with this request and is unwilling to comply.

    This particular point of contention has become a major obstacle in the negotiation process, with reports suggesting that the much-anticipated transfer is now in a state of uncertainty and might ultimately fall through.

    Meanwhile, Mohammed Kudus remains focused on his plans to participate for Ajax on Saturday, August 12, as the team kicks off the new Eredivisie season.

    The opening weekend will see Ajax hosting Heracles.

  • Delegates reportedly left stranded after Alan’s Besoro cluster campaign

    Delegates reportedly left stranded after Alan’s Besoro cluster campaign

    Delegates from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) who had gathered to meet the party’s presidential candidate hopeful, Alan Kyeremanten, reportedly found themselves stranded following their meeting with him in Besoro.

    According to the delegates who were left stranded, Mr. Kyeremanten and his campaign team departed from the campaign grounds immediately after the session concluded.

    Several of the delegates have voiced their disappointment with Mr. Kyeremanten’s failure to arrange transportation for their return to their respective constituencies.

    In a media interview, one of the delegates remarked that this incident suggests that this is how Mr. Kyeremanten might treat dedicated party members if he were to become the party’s flagbearer.

    “This is what Alan has done to us. After his campaign, he has left us stranded here. He has moved with his V8s and left without seeing to our return.”

    “See how we are stranded here like people who don’t have anything to do. We are delegates from Kumawu and Drobonso,” one of the delegates said.

  • Cashier jailed 6 years for misappropriating funds

    Cashier jailed 6 years for misappropriating funds

    A 25-year-old cashier named Georgina Mensah has been sentenced to six years of imprisonment for dishonestly appropriating GHS 145,053.50 that belonged to Nana Pokua Saka.

    This action is in violation of Section 124 (1) of the Criminal Offences Act 1960 (ACT 29).

    She was sentenced by the Tema Circuit Court B.

    The court proceedings, overseen by Ms. Bertha Aniagyei, resulted in a conviction for Georgina. She received the six-year prison sentence following a full trial.

    The prosecutor, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mrs. Stella Odame, presented the case’s details to the court. The complainant, Nana Saka, is the General Manageress of MJ Comet Enterprise, a building materials supplier situated at P/S Global Estate Community 25, Tema.

    Georgina, the accused, formerly held the position of a Sales Girl and cashier at the aforementioned company.

    The incident unfolded when, on July 3, 2020, Nana Saka reviewed the inventory from January 10, 2019, to July 1, 2020, only to discover a discrepancy of GHS 145,053.50 for which the accused could not account.

    Promptly, Mensah was apprehended on the same day, and a statement was obtained from her during the investigative process.

    As the investigation proceeded, a search was conducted at her residence, resulting in the discovery of 21 invoices bearing the names of various customers, all signed by the accused. Contact details for these customers were also found in her living quarters.

    Further into the investigation, the accused brought forward a sum of Ghc10,000.00, a Dell Laptop, and an Apsonic Tricycle with registration number M-19-GT 2773, along with valid documentation for the tricycle, all of which she claimed were procured with funds from the stolen money.

    An accounting firm was engaged to audit the accused’s financial records. Following a thorough investigation, the accused was charged with the respective offenses and subsequently presented in court.

  • Kwame Nkrumah set a bar none of our following presidents can meet – Sam George

    Kwame Nkrumah set a bar none of our following presidents can meet – Sam George

    Ningo-Prampram Member of Parliament, Sam Nartey George, is of the view that the legacy left by late former President Dr Kwame Nkrumah cannot be matched by any of his successors.

    While contributing to the subject of coup d’etats in Africa on JoyNews on Monday, Mr George noted that Dr Nkruamh proved to the world, particularly the West, that the black man is capable of managing his own affairs.

    However, he noted that after his passing, all the leaders Ghana has encountered have failed to fill the shoes once worn by the country’s first president and prime minister following its independence from British colonial rule on 6th March 1957.

    Ghana’s founding father, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah

    “Look, a black man, Kwame Nkrumah, showed that it is possible.

    “Over the weekend, I took my kids across about three regions and showed them a few things Nkrumah did and you know what my soon to be 8-year-old son said to me, he said ‘Nkrumah did a lot for Ghana and he wasn’t President for a very long time.’ And I said yes, he set a bar that nobody can meet.

    “None of our following Presidents have been able to meet,” he said.

    According to the Ningo-Prampram legislator, Ghana has not seen such impressive development as the current crop of leaders are more interested in serving themselves than the citizens.

    “So it is possible if you have the leadership, the desire to serve your people and not to serve yourself,” he said.

    Mr Nartey George is of the view that Ghana and Africa as a whole need “a crop of young leaders who are afrocentric in their thinking and will say to the West and Europe, ‘we will stay, hold our own, trade among ourselves, and we will only trade with you if you are willing to come and negotiate with us as equals.’”

    The MP stressed that the older generation have failed the current generation. Citing President Akufo-Addo as reference, he noted that the president cannot demand a return to democratic governance in Niger when he failed to criticize the likes of Alassane Ouattara, who attempted to run for a third term by altering Ivory Coast’s constitution.

    “This whole talk by Akufo-Addo that the hunter must withdraw and allow democratic institutions. What did he say when his friend Alhassan Wattra attempted to change the constitution of Ivory Coast. What did he say when his friend in Senegal tried to do it? It is that hypocrisy of African leadership that is leading to a revolution in the younger generation of Africans to say these old folks have had their day, and it is time for us to take our destiny into our own hands,” he stated.

    Ouattara reversed an earlier commitment and announced his intention to participate in the October 31 election, prompting allegations that he is emulating the actions of other African leaders who have manipulated constitutional rules to retain control.

    Although Ivory Coast’s legislation restricts presidential terms to two, Ouattara argues that the adoption of a new constitution in 2016 effectively reset the counter, thereby permitting him to seek re-election.

  • Your office is nicer than every Ministers’ – Bryan Acheapong to Kwame Sefa Kayi

    Your office is nicer than every Ministers’ – Bryan Acheapong to Kwame Sefa Kayi

    Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, has given an indication that much more work can be done to ensure the office spaces of Ministers of State are modern and aesthetically mesmerizing.

    Interacting with the host of the Kokoroko Show on Peace FM, Kwame Sefa Kayi, Bryan Acheampong could not restrain himself from admiring the office space of the seasoned journalist. He was in awe as he punned his head to appreciate the space.

    To the utter surprise of Kwame Sefa Kayi, the Agric Minister noted that the offices occupied by Ministers come nowhere close to his. Although the minister made the statement in jest, he repeated it several times.

    “Have Ghanaians seen your office? I have not seen a Minister whose office is as beautiful as yours.

    You go to the Ministries. The ones you have visited, is this what they look like,” he said in the local dialect.

    Kwame Sefa Kayi

    The host responded in pidgin saying; “Everybody and ein own” to wit, everyone has it differently.

    The Agric minister then commended Mr Sefa Kayi. “You have lived a good life,” he said.

    Mr Sefa Kayi noted that “it is the grace of God.”

  • We have not endorsed you, retract your statement – Ashanti NPP Founding Fathers to Dr Afriyie Akoto

    Founding Fathers of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti Region have denied the claims suggesting their endorsement of Dr. Afriyie Owusu Akoto, a presidential contender.

    Recent media reports stated that the ex-Minister of Food and Agriculture had secured the support of the NPP’s founding figures earlier this week.

    “The six are NPP founding fathers.” They were among those who helped create the party in 1992. They informed me that they would like to interact with me whenever I visited the Ashanti Region. They arrived as promised, and following our conversation, they offered their support for me. They probed me and asked about my vision for Ghana and the party.

    They believed in my ideas and said I was still the greatest choice to represent the NPP. They stated that I have proved that I am a results-oriented individual capable of leading the party in the 2024 general elections,” Dr Afriyie Akoto is said to have stated in response to the gesture.

    But in a statement dated August 7, the Chairman of the Founding Fathers, Kofi Obiri Yeboah, noted that as custodians of the party, they have not “openly declared support for any one particular candidate.”

    “We therefore find that news item unfortunate, and we refute it as untrue,” the statement added.

    Meanwhile, the Founding Fathers have called on Dr. Akoto to retract his statement with the urgency it deserves.

    Ashanti NPP Founding Fathers on endorsement of Dr Afriyie Akoto
  • Bank of Ghana printed GHC80 billion – Sammy Gyamfi

    Bank of Ghana printed GHC80 billion – Sammy Gyamfi

    Communications Officer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has accused the Bank of Ghana of printing an amount of GHC80 billion for the government of Ghana.

    In an interview on Onua TV, he noted that despite the “unlawful” funding to the government, there is currently nothing to show.

    “More than 50 percent of the total revenue. They are living like there is no law. The impunity. After supplying the government over GHS80 billion, let’s ask ourselves what government used the money for,” he said,

    He noted that the amount of money printed by the Central Bank for the Akufo-Addo-led government comes nowhere close to the loans that were taken by the erstwhile Mahama government.

    “He (John Mahama) borrowed GHS54 billion. This does not even include the accumulated debt of this government,” he added.

    The Bank of Ghana has recently come under intense scrutiny after it posted a loss of GH¢60.8 billion in its audited financial statement for the 2022 fiscal year.

    This loss, according to the Bank of Ghana, is largely due to the government’s debt restructuring activities.

    Speaking at a press briefing in Accra on August 8, 2023, the NDC leveled a series of allegations against Dr Addison, including claims that his actions and inactions have amounted to significant financial loss to the state.

    In view of this, Minority Leader Dr Cassiel Ato Forson notes that Dr Ernest Addison ,whom he claims has recklessly mismanaged the Central Bank and brought it to its knees, cannot remain at the helm of affairs of the bank without being held accountable.

    The Minority has therefore issued a 21-day ultimatum for the resignation of the governor of the Bank of Ghana.


  • OSP freezes Cecilia Dapaah’s bank accounts, assets

    OSP freezes Cecilia Dapaah’s bank accounts, assets

    The assets and bank accounts of former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, have been frozen by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), reports indicate.

    Reports from Ghanaweb indicate that millions of dollars and cedis are lodging in several bank accounts of the former minister.

    The OSP is said to have filed a motion of seizure of monies it retrieved from the search at Madam Cecilia Dapaah’s various residences.

    The authority of the OSP (Office of the Special Prosecutor) enables it to temporarily suspend the accounts of an individual under investigation. However, to extend this account freeze, the approval of the court is required.

    The hearing to formalize the continuation of the account and asset freezing is scheduled for the upcoming week.

    Former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, was the arrested by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) on July 24, 2023, by suspicions of corruption and corruption-related offences, revolving around the alleged theft of significant amounts of money and valuable items from her residence in Accra.

    Currently, seven people are standing trial in the looted cash case.

    They are Patience Botwe, 18, hairdresser; Sarah Agyei, 30, unemployed; Benjamin Sowah, 29, plumber; Malik Dauda, 34, unemployed; Christiana Achab, a trader; Job Pomary, a mechanic; and Yahaya Sumaila, an excavator operator. They are facing 14 counts of conspiracy, stealing, and dishonestly receiving.

    They are alleged to have stolen $1 million, €300,000 and millions of Ghana cedis from the former minister’s residence at Abelemkpe in Accra between July and October 2022.

    Sarah Agyei and Christiana Achab, who are said to be nursing mothers, have been granted bail of GH¢1 million each with three sureties. The sureties are required to deposit their Ghana Cards with the court registrar and not travel outside the jurisdiction. The rest of the accused have been remanded in custody pending further investigations.

    The prosecution has indicated that the Attorney General’s office will take over the case after full investigations are concluded. The defence lawyers have argued that their clients are innocent until proven guilty. The court has also asked the lawyers of the accused mothers to provide proof of their claim and shown a six-month-old baby who is under the care of a caregiver.

    The eighth accused person, Franklin Sarakpo, is still on the run. The father of Patience Botwe, Kweku Botwe, who was among the five initially arraigned, has been discharged following the Attorney General’s advice on the case.

    The case has been adjourned to August 22, 2023, by Her Honour Afia Owusuaa Appiah.

  • Bank of Ghana could not account for over GHC287m – Ato Forson

    Bank of Ghana could not account for over GHC287m – Ato Forson

    It is claimed that the Central Bank spent a total of GHS287.833 million in 2022 and is currently unable to show what the money was spent on.

    Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, made this claim on August 8, while addressing the press from the headquarters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    He cited the 2022 Annual Report and Financial Statement of the Bank as the basis for his assertion.

    According to Dr Ato Forson, the report manifests “mismanagement, ineptitude and potential corruption at the Bank of Ghana.”

    In the said report, the Central Bank noted that GHS287.833 million was spent on “Other administrative expenses,” for which it failed to provide specifics.

    In 2021, “Other administrative expenses” cost the Bank of Ghana GHS108,661 million. This is a difference of GHS179,172 million.

    Per the 2022 Annual Report and Financial Statement of the Bank, the Central Bank incurred GHS1,620,636 as personnel costs; GHS97,437 million on foreign and domestic travel, spent GHS131,586 million on Motor vehicle maintenance/running.

    Following the unexplained expenditure, coupled with the loss of GH¢60.8 billion, the Minority in Parliament has called for the removal of Governor Dr Ernest Addison and his deputies; Dr. Maxwell Opoku-Afari (1st Deputy Governor) and Mrs. Elsie Addo Awadzi. (2nd Deputy Governor.)

  • BoG Directors increased their salaries by 87% – Minority Leader

    BoG Directors increased their salaries by 87% – Minority Leader

    Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has accused the Bank of Ghana of spending a total of GHS8.6 million on salaries for its Directors.

    According to him, this represents about 87 percent increase in expenditure incurred by the Central Bank in a year.

    Dr Ato Forson while engaging the press on August 8, expressed disappointment in the Central Bank, noting that such a huge amount could not motivate the leaders to prevent the colossal loss recorded by the institution.

    The Annual Report and Financial Statement of the Bank of Ghana reveals that the institution incurred a loss of GH¢60.8 billion from its audited financial statement for the 2022 fiscal year.

    This loss according to the Bank of Ghana is largely due to the government’s debt restructuring activities.

    For the Minority Leader, “Ghanaians were charged a ‘Mismanagement Fee” to deliver the
    collapse of the Bank.”

    He also claimed that the Central Bank spent a colossal GHS357.9 million on Banking Supervision Expenses; a whooping GHS67.9 million on computer expenses while communication expenses amounted to GHS32 million.

    Undisclosed expenses, Dr Ato Forson said, amounted to GHS287.8 million of the taxpayer’s money.

  • ‘We cannot as politicians preach one thing and do another’ – Kwabena Agyepong on Cecilia Dapaah’s ‘looted’ cash

    ‘We cannot as politicians preach one thing and do another’ – Kwabena Agyepong on Cecilia Dapaah’s ‘looted’ cash

    Flagbearer hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Kwabena Agyepong, has faulted former Sanitation Minister Cecelia Dapaah for keeping a colossal amount of money in her home, which she is currently unable to account for.

    In an interview on JoyNews, Mr Agyepong noted that under the dispensation of the digitalization agenda drive, the former minister should have known better to store her funds with a financial institution rather than her residence.

    Expressing his disappointment, he noted that Madam Cecilia Dapaah swayed away from the very ideas her government has been propagating.

    “What for me I worry about, especially with this case, was the fact of the amount of money that was found in the household…Suffice it to say I was disappointed that that amount of money was in the household. It’s important that we realise that we cannot, as politicians, preach one thing and do another,” he said.

    “So when you’re encouraging everybody to be part of the formal economy, the least we can do as leaders is to lead by example. So I was disappointed that she would keep that amount of money in the household. It is important that as political leaders, we should have the political will to do the right thing for our country,” he stated.

    However, Mr. Agyepong noted that he would refrain from making judgments about the former minister as relevant state agencies are currently conducting investigations into the origin of the money.

    “I’m not prepared to pass judgment on her. Like others are doing, not at all. It is not my duty now. The state has agencies that have to look out for how she came by that money.”

    The police have amended the charge sheet against the seven accused persons who are standing trial for the theft case.

    They are Patience Botwe, 18, hairdresser; Sarah Agyei, 30, unemployed; Benjamin Sowah, 29, plumber; Malik Dauda, 34, unemployed; Christiana Achab, a trader; Job Pomary, a mechanic; and Yahaya Sumaila, an excavator operator. They are facing 14 counts of conspiracy, stealing, and dishonestly receiving.

    They are alleged to have stolen $1 million, €300,000 and millions of Ghana cedis from the former minister’s residence at Abelemkpe in Accra between July and October 2022.

    Sarah Agyei and Christiana Achab, who are said to be nursing mothers, have been granted bail of GH¢1 million each with three sureties. The sureties are required to deposit their Ghana Cards with the court registrar and not travel outside the jurisdiction. The rest of the accused persons have been remanded in custody pending further investigations.

    The prosecution has indicated that the Attorney General’s office will take over the case after full investigations are concluded. The defence lawyers have argued that their clients are innocent until proven guilty. The court has also asked the lawyers of the accused mothers to provide proof of their claim and shown a six-month-old baby who is under the care of a caregiver.

    The eighth accused person, Franklin Sarakpo, is still on the run. The father of Patience Botwe, Kweku Botwe, who was among the five persons initially arraigned, has been discharged following the Attorney General’s advice on the case.

    The case has been adjourned to August 22, 2023 by Her Honour Afia Owusuaa Appiah.

  • Inflation rises to 43.1% in July

    Inflation rises to 43.1% in July

    In July 2023, the year-on-year inflation witnessed a slight increase, climbing to 43.1% from the previous month’s 42.2%, as indicated by data from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS).

    The overall inflationary pressure was primarily driven by a notable increase in Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages Inflation, which surged to 55.0%.

    Conversely, Non-Food Inflation stood at 38.3% in the same period.

    In terms of regional disparities, the North East Region posted the highest inflation rate at 64.0%, whereas the Greater Accra Region recorded the lowest inflation at 31.8%.

    In recent times, Government statistician, Prof. Samuel Kobina Annim, has counseled decision-makers to critically examine the issues causing the rise in food inflation.

    He emphasized that compared to non-food inflation, food inflation has regularly increased by around 20 percentage points.

    Speaking to journalists after revealing that June’s inflation rate jumped slightly to 42.5 percent from 42.2 percent in May, Prof. Annim stated that prices for everyday staple foods like vegetables and seafood have been rising over the past few months.

  • Niger Coup: Onion prices skyrocket, sellers worried of imminent scarcity

    Niger Coup: Onion prices skyrocket, sellers worried of imminent scarcity

    Onion prices are now up in Ghana as a result of the border closure imposed by ECOWAS on Niger following a coup d’état last week.

    This has affected the supply of onions from Niger, which accounts for about 70 per cent of Ghana’s imports.

    Onion sellers in Ghana are worried about the potential shortage and have appealed to the government to create conditions that enable large-scale onion farming in the country to avert such situations in the future.

    Onions are not only a popular and versatile vegetable, but also a nutritious and beneficial one. They are rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, manganese, copper, and antioxidants. They may help lower the risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.

    A deficiency of onions in one’s diet may lead to reduced immunity, increased inflammation, impaired blood sugar regulation, and decreased bone density. Therefore, it is important to ensure adequate consumption of onions for optimal health.

    The onion sellers hope that the political situation in Niger will be resolved peacefully and that the border restrictions will be lifted soon. They also hope that the government will support them to increase their local production and reduce their dependence on imports.

  • Niger Coup: Onion shortage looms in Ghana

    Niger Coup: Onion shortage looms in Ghana

    Ghanaian onion sellers are facing the prospect of a supply crunch and a price hike as a result of the border restrictions imposed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Niger following a coup d’état last week.

    The coup, which ousted President Mohamed Bazoum and put Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane in charge of a military junta, has triggered international condemnation and sanctions from ECOWAS, which include closing land and air borders, suspending commercial and financial transactions, and instituting a no-fly zone.

    Niger is a major source of onions for Ghana, accounting for about 70 per cent of its imports. The other suppliers are Nigeria (20 per cent), Burkina Faso (five per cent), and local production (five per cent).

    Mr Ali Umar, Public Relations Officer of the Onion Sellers Association of Ghana, told the Ghana News Agency that the border closure would have a negative impact on their business.

    “If Niger’s borders remain closed for long, it will really affect our onion business. It will lead to hikes in prices,” he said.

    He added that onion was a perishable commodity and that he hoped there would be some exemptions for it to be imported into Ghana amid the restrictions.

    Niger is a major source of onions for Ghana

    He said that in previous instances of border closures, especially in Burkina Faso, some commodities, especially onions, were allowed to move across.

    He also said that Ghana was the largest exporter of salt to Niger and that the border closure would affect that trade as well.

    “The countries should be able to negotiate so that foodstuffs can be distributed between Niger and the rest of the West African sub-region because people will need to eat to survive. If there is no movement of goods, there is going to be hardship,” he said.

    Mr Emmanuel Doni-Kwame, Secretary-General of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Ghana, said the border closure meant that other producers of onions would have to increase their output to fill the gap.

    He said it was an opportunity for Ghana to boost its local production of onions and reduce its dependence on imports, and that if the gap was not filled, it would result in increased prices for consumers.

    He expressed concern about the political situation in Niger and its implications for regional stability and security.

    “The most important thing is to make sure there is enough security, there is respect for rule of law and human rights, and to make sure the economic system is not disrupted,” he said.

    Niger is a key ally of the West in the fight against Islamist militancy in West Africa. It faces two insurgencies from groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and Islamic State in its south-eastern and south-western regions.

    President Bazoum, who was democratically elected in 2021, is a close friend of France and other Western nations.

    He has received support from the United States, the United Nations, the African Union, and the European Union.

    However, some of Niger’s neighbours, such as Mali and Burkina Faso, which have also experienced coups in recent years, have defended the coup in Niger and even hinted at war.

    They have also aligned themselves with Russia’s Wagner Group, a private military contractor that has been accused of human rights violations.

    Niger has experienced four coups since independence from France in 1960. The latest coup attempt comes two days before Bazoum’s inauguration. His whereabouts are unclear, but he has tweeted that he is well and that his supporters will safeguard democracy.

    Source: The Independent Ghana | P.M. A Roberts

  • Nigerian comedian, Josh2Funny, cracks up Simon Cowell at America’s Got Talent 

    Nigerian comedian, Josh2Funny, cracks up Simon Cowell at America’s Got Talent 

    Nigerian comedian Josh2Funny, also known as Josh Alfred, renowned for his uproarious #DontLeaveMe skit, sprang an unexpected surprise on judges in a recently released video documenting his appearance on America’s Got Talent.

    In the newly unveiled video, the Nigerian humorist skillfully donned the personas of the “Fastest Rapper in the World,” the “Fastest Reader in the World,” and even added a dash of being the “Best Magician in the World.”

    After these playful introductions, he delivered a comedic performance that initially left the judges befuddled, struggling to grasp the underlying essence of his jest.

    Yet, as his performance unfolded, their comprehension took root and blossomed, transforming initial perplexity into hearty laughter. Simon Cowell, known to be controversial, was the first to unravel Josh2Funny’s talent. He unanimously gave him four Yes’ despite the decisions the other judges took, such as Sophia Vergara.

    Hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, the versatile Chibuike Josh Alfred, widely acknowledged as Josh2Funny, boasts not only comic prowess but also strides as an actor and musician.

    His mission entails harnessing his multifaceted talents and thriving online presence to leave an indelible mark on the judges of ‘America’s Got Talent’.

    The comment section teemed with engaged viewers from Nigeria, offering resounding applause and commendation for this Nigerian comedian’s captivating performance.

  • Ghanaians to pay BoG recapitalisation levy soon – Ato Forson

    Ghanaians to pay BoG recapitalisation levy soon – Ato Forson

    Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, claims that the government has plans to implement a Bank of Ghana (BoG) recapitalization levy, which Ghanaians will be required to pay.

    He explained that this measure aims to safeguard the central bank from potential collapse resulting from its recent financial losses.

    He made this known during the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) ‘Moment of Truth’ address on Tuesday, August 8 at the party’s headquarters.

    “The IMF has made offers to assist the Government to develop a plan for the recapitalization of the Central Bank.

    That is why paragraph 18 of Ghana’s Memorandum of Economic and Financial Policy (MEFP) sent to IMF stated this fact.”

    “Let me assure you that very soon, Ghanaians will be made to pay for Bank of Ghana recapitalization levy, a tax to recapitalise the Bank of Ghana, because the central bank has collapsed virtually,” the Minority Leader claimed.

    The legislator representing Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam therefore strongly criticized the Governor of the Bank of Ghana for allocating $250 million towards constructing a new headquarters, especially when the central bank is grappling to maintain its stability.

    “Perhaps the more troubling fact is that having brought the Bank of Ghana to this terrible financial state, the Governor and his deputies have found it prudent and expedient to invest $250 million (¢2.8 billion) on another Head Office building somewhere at Ridge. In our circumstances, this is the height of insensitivity in the management of the finances of a troubled country.”

    Meanwhile, the NDC MPs have called for the immediate resignation of the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr Ernest Addison and his deputies.

    “We call for the immediate resignation of the Governor of the Central Bank and his deputies within 21 days from today,” the Minority Leader demanded.

  • Two granted GHS1m bail in Cecilia Dapaah’s ‘looted’ cash case

    Two granted GHS1m bail in Cecilia Dapaah’s ‘looted’ cash case

    An Accra Circuit Court has granted bail to two out of the seven individuals on trial in the case involving the theft from the residence of former Minister for Sanitation, Madam Cecilia Dapaah.

    The court has set the bail amount at GHC1 million, requiring each of the two accused persons to provide three sureties.

    Notably, the two accused individuals who were granted bail are lactating mothers. Conversely, the court has remanded the remaining five accused persons into Police custody.

    The charges against the accused individuals encompass eleven counts of alleged theft of a substantial sum of money from the former Minister’s residence. Specifically, six counts pertain to theft, while five counts involve the dishonest reception of the stolen assets.

    The presiding judge, Mrs. Afia Owusuaa Appiah, has mandated the sureties to undergo validation. Additionally, the defense attorneys for the lactating mothers are required to furnish documented evidence substantiating their status as lactating mothers.

    The prosecution, led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Emmanuel Nyamekye, informed the court that both fact and charge sheets have undergone amendments.

    In related developments, Kwaku Botwe, father of Patience Botwe, has been discharged by the court. One of the accused individuals, Franklin Sarakpo, remains at large.

    The court has adjourned the case to August 22, 2023. The complainants in the matter are Mr. Daniel Osei Kufour and his wife, Madam Cecilia Abena Dapaah, residing in Abelemkpe, Accra.

    The first accused person, Patience Botwe (alias Maabena), previously served as a househelp for the complainants. The second accused person, Sarah Agyei, is unemployed and was previously a house help for the complainants.

    The third accused person, Benjamin Sowah, is the boyfriend of Patience Botwe, while the fourth accused person, Malik Dauda, was previously in a relationship with the first accused.

    The fifth accused, Christiana Achab, is a trader. The sixth accused, Job Pomary, is the husband of the fifth accused. The seventh accused, Yahaya Sumaila, is an excavator operator residing in Sagnarigu, Tamale.

    The eighth accused, Franklin Sarakpo, the son of the fifth accused, is currently evading arrest.

    As of June 2023, the complainants reported the theft of cash and personal belongings. In response, the Police initiated an investigation. Subsequently, the arrest of the first and third accused persons in Tamale led to the discovery of USD40,000 and GHC7,619.70 during a search of their rooms.

    Further investigations unveiled that the stolen funds were used for various purposes, including property purchases, vehicle acquisitions, and rentals. The case remains under investigation.

  • You want money, why hold on to identity of Minister with mansions in East Legon – Maurice Ampaw goes after Martin Kpebu

    You want money, why hold on to identity of Minister with mansions in East Legon – Maurice Ampaw goes after Martin Kpebu

    Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has come under intense scrutiny for failing to reveal the identity of a Minister he claims owns several mansions in East Legon.

    Martin Kpebu is reported to have made such an allegation while contributing to discussions surrounding missing cash from the home of former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah.

    But the lack of full details has triggered Lawyer Maurice Ampaw to lash out at his colleague.

    According to Lawyer Ampaw, he suspects Martin Kpebu deliberately withheld the identity of the said Minister in order to siphon money from him or her.

    He described Martin Kpebu as a blackmailer and dared him to reveal the identity of the individual in question.

    Speaking on his Mmra Ne Abrabo Mu Nsem on Wontumi TV on August 6, 2023, Maurice Ampaw said: “A blackmailing lawyer like you, you are a blackmailer, I want you to take me on…you want to blackmail some of the MPs…you know a minister who has four houses why didn’t you mention his name? You want to go the Anas way, so that they come and beg you, bring it on, Martin Kpebu, NDC bring it on, because of Cecilia Dapaah…you people don’t know where she got her money from… You have labeled all NPP appointees and ministers as individuals amassing wealth illegally because of the upcoming elections,” he said.

    He claimed that Martin Kpebu has connections with the opposing National Democratic Congress (NDC) and was employing these accusations to advance his party’s interests in the upcoming elections.

    “You Kpebu you speak for the NDC… Charity begins at home. You are trying to make NPP ministers and appointees look as if they are the only one’s building houses, but start from your party, Lawyer Kpebu, start from your party, your own party that you have turned yourself like a hypocrite who doesn’t want to be associate with them but you are with them.”

    He questioned the credibility of Kpebu by raising concerns about his lack of commentary regarding alleged questionable projects and constructions that occurred during the tenure of the previous government.

    “Let me deal with Lawyer Kpebu, where is Lawyer Kpebu? Lawyer Kpebu has said that we have to go after politicians who are amassing wealth and building houses, and he said he is going to expose a politician who has built four houses, Martin Kpebu, Lawyer Martin Kpebu, hello, you have a miss call?

    “Are you there, you are not serious, Martin Kpebu you are not serious, you have never been a serious politician and I am saying it on authority, because if you are a serious politician when did it cross your mind that politicians were building houses, when? Is it this government’s time?” he quizzed.

  • Kyiri Abosom threatens to sue Akufo-Addo over National Cathedral project

    Kyiri Abosom threatens to sue Akufo-Addo over National Cathedral project

    Founder and leader of the Ghana Union Movement (GUM), Reverend Kwabena Andrews, intends to file a class action against the President of the Republic, Nana Akufo-Addo, over the National Cathedral project.

    According to Reverend Kwabena Andrews popularly known as Osofo Kyiri Abosom, he will take up this action at a time when President Akufo-Addo no longer steers the affairs of the country.

    In an interview on UTV, Kyiri Abosom said this would be part of his initiatives when he is elected president one day. He explained that the president would have to answer for the destruction of judges’ residence just to make way for a cathedral.

    “If I become the president one day, I will take him (Akufo-Addo) to court over the National Cathedral issue, because why will he go and demolish the judge’s building to build the said Cathedral, Cathedral for what?

    “All the churches will collapse very soon because we have waited upon the Lord for long and there are no benefits to that effect.”

    He additionally put forth the idea of enacting regulations that would confine church services to particular days, with Sundays being the primary focus, in order to strengthen the religious observance.

    In his own words, “If it is possible, we should make laws that nobody should go to church on any other day except Sundays. If you will choose Friday, then only Fridays. So, we know that definitely Saturdays and Sundays belong to Christians.”

    He further suggested that restricting church activities to specific days would reduce noise levels on other days and contribute to a more peaceful environment.

    Meanwhile, North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that despite the suspension of work on the National Cathedral of Ghana project due to a lack of funds, the project’s debt continues to grow. As of early August 2023, the accumulated debt has reached a staggering US$52 million.

    Ablakwa emphasized that even though construction activities are not currently ongoing, certain contractual obligations are responsible for the ongoing debts. Notably, a concept known as “suspension claims” requires the Ghanaian government to make monthly payments of US$500,000, even during the period of suspended construction. This practice has significantly contributed to the substantial debt that has accrued.

    Breaking down the sources of the debt, Ablakwa provided the following information:

    • A certified claim of US$29 million from Ribade, the company responsible for the construction, arising from their decision to halt work and lay off staff in March 2022.
    • An interest claim amounting to US$13 million on the aforementioned US$29 million, as reported by the contractors.
    • An additional debt of US$10 million attributed to the suspension of work itself.

    This information underscores the intricate financial challenges associated with managing large-scale infrastructure projects. It highlights the potential financial consequences that can persist even when construction activities are temporarily put on hold.

  • Kumawu NDC Women’s Organiser sacked for siding with ‘Alan Cash’

    Kumawu NDC Women’s Organiser sacked for siding with ‘Alan Cash’

    A member affiliated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Kumawu, Madam Akua Afriyie, has faced expulsion due to her public declaration of support for Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, a hopeful candidate from the opposing New Patriotic Party.

    Despite her membership within the National Democratic Congress, Afriyie openly expressed her admiration for Alan Kyerematen’s bid for the NPP presidency. Her bold proclamation was captured in a viral video during the Kumawu by-election.

    Afriyie disclosed that she was relieved of her position shortly after the video gained widespread attention. In the video, she did not hesitate to state her willingness to back Alan as the NPP’s flagbearer in the upcoming 2024 elections.

    Her rationale was that she believed Alan possessed a visionary outlook that could positively impact the nation and instill hope among the younger generation.

    This revelation propelled her into the center of political discussions, a development that did not sit well with her NDC associates.

    Consequently, the party chose to dismiss her from her role. In the aftermath of her removal, Akua Afriyie has embraced the status of a floating voter, indicating that her allegiance is now unattached and her political preferences up for consideration.

    “I am currently not a member of the NDC or a member of the NPP but l am a strong supporter of Mr. Kyerematen”.

    She strongly cautioned that if the NPP were to deny Mr. Kyerematen the opportunity to lead the party, she, Akua, would opt to abstain from participating in the 2024 elections altogether.

    Simultaneously, the constituency delegates gathered at the Durbar for the Kumawu, Afram Plains, and Effiduase Asokore constituencies in remarkable numbers. During the event, these delegates expressed their determination that Alan’s victory would not be obstructed this time around.

    In a unanimous chorus, the delegates assured that the Ghanaian populace is now exceptionally vigilant and will not allow themselves to be caught off guard. They argued that it is undeniably Alan’s moment to guide the party, and no obstacle should hinder his path this time.

  • Tano North constituents reportedly reject toilet facility commissioned by MP

    Tano North constituents reportedly reject toilet facility commissioned by MP

    The Member of Parliament for Tano North, Freda Prempeh, encountered a challenging situation on Tuesday as her constituents expressed their reluctance to utilize a toilet facility that she had overseen the commissioning of.

    According to local chiefs and residents of the area, there is a perception that the parliamentarian declined to inaugurate the facility, which had been completed for a period exceeding three years.

    The alleged reasoning behind this hesitance is linked to the election outcome for the District Assembly, where her preferred candidate did not emerge victorious.

    Despite community appeals directed at Freda Prempeh, who now serves as the Minister of Sanitation, the request to commission the facility was reportedly declined. This decision resulted in an uncomfortable incident during the project’s official unveiling.

    As the facility’s commissioning took place today, the constituents expressed their dissatisfaction by making vocal disapprovals, generating an awkward and unanticipated moment for the MP and her accompanying delegation.

    “There are wicked people in the world. Honourable Freda Prempeh, go and commission the funeral grounds and your poor market that you constructed without any iron rod.

    “The people who are giving you ill advises that you’re also listening to, they are also wicked just as yourself. You think you can come and deceive us with this nonsense facility,” one of the angry constituents said.

    They claim that her actions are driven by the fact that someone else has initiated the construction of a toilet facility for the community.

    They maintain that this is the sole underlying reason behind the MP’s choice not to commission the facility.

  • I am waiting for GREDA to take me to court so I can expose their rots – Sam George

    I am waiting for GREDA to take me to court so I can expose their rots – Sam George

    Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam Nartey George, has challenged the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association to execute their threat of lawsuit over money laundering claims he leveled against stakeholders .

    Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, July 22, the MP stated that the real estate industry in Ghana is a hoax used to cover up money laundering activities happening in the country.

    “The real estate business in Ghana is money laundering. The cost of real estate in Ghana is not justifiable by any stretch.

    “You keep seeing all these new high-rise buildings going up and they are selling them for half a million dollars, and they keep buying among themselves,” he said.

    Explaining how alleged money laundering works in the real estate business, he stated that several parties in the industry engage in buying and selling in order to convert their “dirty money” into “clean money.”

    His comments did not sit well with stakeholders in the real estate industry.

    The Executive Council of the Ghana Real Estate Association (GREDA) demanded an apology and a retraction of the allegation within seven days in a letter dated  July 25, 2023.

    In response to the letter, Mr Nartey George refused to render an apology. He stood by his words.

    “Let me start by stating that I have absolutely no intention to render an apology, qualified or not, nor make any retraction. As a public office holder, I am minded first by my fidelity to the truth, my conscience and the general wellbeing of the Ghanaian people. These considerations in my opinion supersede the whims of any individual or specific grouping,” he noted in a release dated July 26.

    It was expected that following the expiration of the ultimatum, Mr Sam George would be in court, however that is not the case.

    Calling the bluff of GREDA in an interview on JoyNews on August 8, the Ningo-Prampram legislator, dared the Association to come after him as promised. The MP threatened to let the cat out of the bag should GREDA make an attempt to fight his claims.

    “I’ve spoken about money laundering in this country and I am still waiting for GREDA, Ebo Bournful and his people. It has been more than 7 days. You said you were taking me to court. I am waiting for you. Whether court or Privileges Committee.

    “I am waiting for you so that I will expose and the rot that is going on there since you people say you want to fight me. I’ve spoken about money laundering in real estate and don’t forget you are having Ministers of state who have millions of dollars sitting in their houses. They need to clean up the money,” he said.

  • Coup d’etat: Africa needs a crop of young leaders – Sam George

    Coup d’etat: Africa needs a crop of young leaders – Sam George

    Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Samuel Nartey George, has asserted that Africa’s misfortune being ridden by the West can only be overturned by a set of new young African leaders.

    According to Mr Nartey George, examples of the leaders he talks about began to surface during the recent military takeovers recorded in the West African sub-region.

    He cited the new crop of leaders that have emerged from some Francophone countries, such as Burkina Faso, Mali and Guinea, as those he believes have what it takes to make Africa self-reliant.

    In an interview on JoyNews on August 8, the MP said: “What is happening in Francophone Africa. People are waking up. We can no longer be taken for stooges.

    “It is this awakening in the next generation of Africans that we are capable of managing our own Affairs and that we must unite. We must have a new cadar.

    “Look across the landscape of Francophone Africa, with the exception of the Niger (leader), who is a bit elderly— I think about 61 or so. All the other guys – Burkinabe, Guinean, Malian, they are young soldiers,” he said.

    According to Mr Sam Nartey George, the set of individuals who must take the helm of affairs are those “who are afrocentric in their thinking and will say to the West and Europe, ‘We will stay, hold our own, trade among ourselves, and we will only trade with you if you are willing to come and negotiate with us as equals.’”

    Despite regarding the military juntas as daring and bold, the Ningo-Prampram MP noted that he stands against autocracy. He, however, clarified that he supports the kind of democracy that suits the African way of living and not those of the West.

    “I am student of democracy. I believe democracy must strive. I believe Africa must develop its own version of democracy. The western democracy is not suitable for Africa.

    “Look at Rwanda. Rwanda is celebrated by the West but what they practice in Rwanda is not the western democracy,” he said.

    Military takeover in Burkina Faso, Mali and Guinea

    In Mali’s case, President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta was ousted from power by a military coalition in August. Subsequently, Mali’s former Defense Minister, Bah Ndaw, assumed the presidency of the new transitional government, with Colonel Assimi Goita appointed as vice president. However, they were both removed from power a year later in May by Colonel Assimi Goita, a 42-year-old.

    On September 5, 2021, Guinea experienced a coup d’état as the armed forces captured President Alpha Condé, who had extended his stay in power through a constitutional amendment. Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, 43-year-old, was sworn in as transitional leader in October. 

    In Burkina Faso, President Roch Kabore was ousted from power on January 24, 2022, following a coup led by Colonel Paul-Henri Damiba. However, eight months later, military rule was reestablished, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, 35.

    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Colonel-Assimi-Goita.jpg
    Colonel Assimi Goita

    In Burkina Faso, President Roch Kabore was ousted from power on January 24, 2022, following a coup led by Colonel Paul-Henri Damiba. However, eight months later, military rule was reestablished, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Captain-Ibrahim-Traore.webp
    Captain Ibrahim Traoré

    Actions after takeover

    Mali

    Mali has embraced a new constitution that marks a departure from its previous status quo. The country has shed its official language, French, which had held that position since 1960.

    The fresh constitution, endorsed with an impressive 96.91% of the vote during a referendum on June 18, brings about a change where French is no longer the designated official language.

    Instead, French will transition into a working language, while recognition as official languages will be granted to 13 other native languages spoken within the nation.

    Burkina Faso

    In January of 2023, the junta government of Burkina Faso issued an order for several hundred French troops to depart the West African nation within a month.

    This decision by Burkina Faso’s leadership followed France’s withdrawal from Mali in the prior five months, ending a nine-year engagement in combatting Islamic extremists alongside regional military forces.

    A significant portion of these troops have since established new bases in Niger and Chad.

    In April 2023, the military junta expelled the correspondents from two prominent French daily newspapers, namely Le Monde and Liberation.

    This action served as a fresh indication of the decline in both press freedom and diplomatic relations with France in a country that has been deeply affected by jihadist violence.

    The expulsions of Sophie Douce from Le Monde and Agnès Faivre from Liberation were executed, with both journalists arriving in Paris. These events followed the suspension of the France 24 television channel five days prior, and Radio France Internationale (RFI) being suspended four months earlier.

  • Resign now or we occupy your space in 21 days – Ato Forson to BoG Governor

    Resign now or we occupy your space in 21 days – Ato Forson to BoG Governor

    The Minority in Parliament has demanded the immediate removal of the Central Bank Governor, Dr Ernest Addison.

    Engaging the press on Tuesday, Minority Leader, Dr Ato Forson accused Dr Addison of economic mismanagement and financial recklessness.

    He blamed the Central Bank Governor for the staggering loss of GHS60.8 billion, equivalent to $6 billion in the financial sector.

    He also held Dr Addison responsible for the writing-off of a whooping GHC 48.4 billion, about half of the Ghana Government’s indebtedness to the Central Bank, without parliamentary approval.

    According to the Minority Leader, this is illegal and criminal, and the NDC Members of Parliament will not allow this to pass.

    In this regard, the Minority wants Dr Addison and his deputies out of office in the next 21 days.

    Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr Ernest Addison

    “We call for the resignation of the Governor of the Central Bank and his deputies within 21 days from today,” he said.

    According to Dr Ato Forson, the Minority MPs are resolved to embark on popular action to occupy the Central Bank and drive out the “team of inept, callous and criminal mismanagers of the finances of this country and save the Bank of Ghana.”

    “The March to Ensure Accountability will begin in 21 days if the Governor of the Bank of Ghana does not do the needful and pack bag and baggage out of that sacred institution that he has so desecrated.

    Dr Ernest Addisson Must Go! There has to be an end to impunity and it is NOW!”, he added.

  • Investing $250m on head office construction amid GHS60bn loss insensitive – Ato Forson to BoG

    Investing $250m on head office construction amid GHS60bn loss insensitive – Ato Forson to BoG

    Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has slammed the Bank of Ghana for its decision to invest in the construction of a new head office at a time when it has plunged the financial sector into severe crisis.

    Per reports, the Central Bank is set to spend an amount of $250 million (GHC2.8 billion) on another Head Office building at Ridge.

    Engaging the press on Tuesday, August 8, Dr Ato Forson described this action as the height of insensitivity in the management of the finances of a troubled country.

    He noted that it is unacceptable for such a project to take place when the Bank of Ghana recorded a staggering loss of GHS60.8 billion, equivalent to $6 billion.

    “This is twice the amount we are to receive from our recent IMF bailout. This means the recklessness and mismanagement of the Governor of the Bank of Ghana has cost the nation twice what we are struggling and sacrificing to receive from the IMF amid major conditionalities,” he said.

    The Central Bank has been accused of writing-off a whooping GHC 48.4 billion, about half of Ghana Government’s indebtedness to the Central Bank, without parliamentary approval.

    According to the Minority Leader, this is illegal and criminal, and the NDC Members of Parliament will not allow this to pass.

    Following the trend of issues, the Minority in Parliament has called for the removal of the Central Bank Governor, Dr Ernest Addison.

    Meanwhile, Dr Ato Forson has issued a 21-day ultimatum for the removal of the BoG Governor.

    “In this regard, we call for the resignation of the Governor of the Central Bank and his deputies within 21 days from today.”

    “We are resolved to embark on popular action to occupy the Central Bank and drive out the team of inept, callous, and criminal mismanagers of the finances of this country and Save the Bank of Ghana,” he said.

    “The March to Ensure Accountability will begin in 21 days if the Governor of the Bank of Ghana does not do the needful and pack bag and baggage out of that sacred institution that he has so desecrated. Dr Ernest Addisson Must Go! There has to be an end to impunity, ” he added.

  • Savannah Regional Fisheries Commission Director attacked, car snatched

    Savannah Regional Fisheries Commission Director attacked, car snatched

    A daring incident unfolded in Tamale on Monday evening, where the official vehicle of the Savannah Regional Director of the Fisheries Commission was forcefully taken at gunpoint.

    The unsettling event occurred right outside the Director’s residence in the Bi-water suburb of the Northern Regional capital, leaving both the local community and authorities deeply concerned.

    The victim had barely arrived home when the distressing situation rapidly unfolded. In a brazen display, two armed robbers approached the Director, brandishing their firearms and taking control of the scene.

    The Savannah Regional Director was left with no choice but to surrender his Toyota Hilux double cabin Pickup, identifiable by its license plate GV 301-22.

    Responding swiftly, the Tamale Police have launched an extensive manhunt to locate the suspects, leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to apprehend them and reclaim the stolen vehicle. This incident unfortunately contributes to a distressing pattern of vehicle theft and armed robberies that have been afflicting the region.

    Recalling a similar event from July 2019, when a Toyota Hilux pickup belonging to the then Savannah Regional Minister, Salifu Adam Braimah, was also forcibly seized at gunpoint, underscores the troubling persistence of such criminal activities in the area.

  • OB Amoah declares Bawumia as best choice for Akuapem South constituents

    OB Amoah declares Bawumia as best choice for Akuapem South constituents

    Member of Parliament for Akuapem South Osei Bonsu Amoah has endorsed Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s candidacy to lead the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) into the 2024 general elections.

    He said the mood and the harmony within his constituency show clearly that it is Dr Bawumia the party needs to retain power.

    Addressing the party faithful on Monday, August 7, during Dr Bawumia’s campaign visit to his constituency, Mr Amoah said he and his executives would not disappoint him.

    According to him, they will ensure that Dr Bawumia tops the August 26 Special Delegates Conference votes.

    “Now the time has come again for us to elect the next flagbearer for our great party and you (party faithful) are sending me as your MP and our constituency chairman to go to Koforidua to elect the five that will proceed to the main elections and mostly elect the one that will lead.”

    “But if I look at the energy, the zeal, the chemistry, and preparations and all that is ongoing, the message you have given to us is to go and elect Dr Bawumia.”

    “So we will not disappoint you and on August 26, the news will not be that only Akuapem South that has elected Dr Bawumia but the whole Ghana,” he said.

    Already, other bigwigs within the party, have endorsed Dr Bawumia’s candidature for the flagbearer position.

    Okere MP and current Minister for Local Government and Rural Development, Daniel Botwe, is among these persons.

    He insisted that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is the best strategic choice for the NPP in the 2024 elections. 

    Dan Botwe made this declaration during a gathering of party members in Okere on Sunday, August 6.

    Reflecting on his extensive experience within the party, Mr Botwe emphasised his deep knowledge of the NPP and its key figures.

    “When it comes to the future of our beloved country, Ghana, the NPP is the only party that can guarantee progress,” Dan Botwe declared, rallying the crowd.”

    “After much thoughtful consideration and careful analysis, I am confident that the best strategic decision for the NPP is to elect Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as our flagbearer,” Botwe asserted, prompting applause from the attendees.

    He further highlighted what he said was Bawumia’s record of competence and unwavering loyalty to the NPP as the reasons behind his choice.

    Notably, this public endorsement from an influential party member like Dan Botwe gives Bawumia’s candidacy a significant boost.

  • Ghana Card is not the only requirement for Cylinder recirculation model – NPA

    Ghana Card is not the only requirement for Cylinder recirculation model – NPA

    Communications Manager of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Mohammed Abdul-Kudus, has clarified the requirements for individuals and households to take part in the upcoming Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM) Programme scheduled for September.

    It was earlier reported that the Ghana Card is the only document needed for one to purchase gas under the yet-to-be launched programme.

    Speaking on the matter, Mr Abdul-Kudus highlighted that relying solely on the Ghana card as the national identification isn’t necessary for enrollment.

    During an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News in Accra, he emphasized that although the Ghana card remains an accepted ID, alternative identification methods will also be utilized during registration.

    “It was only said among other things as part of the process of the implementation. Currently what pertains to the system is that the individual or household owned cylinders, you take your cylinder to the fuel station, you go and fill it and take it back. CRM is changing ownership and maintenance of cylinders to the bulk filling company. Individuals or households will not own cylinders anymore. So the bulk filling companies will have the responsibility of procuring the cylinders and putting them in the system for use.”

    “How do you ensure successful implementation? That is where there is going to be a registration process for individuals and individuals who will be part of the programme…And there will be a need for a national ID. It does not mean any other ID card cannot be used…That particular narrative of the Ghana card or nothing else is absolutely not true,” he explained.

    The primary goal of the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM) is to optimize the distribution of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) while also bolstering safety protocols in cylinder handling and distribution.

    In this novel approach, individuals and households will transport their empty cylinders to designated fuel stations for refilling. Subsequently, the refilled cylinders will be returned to bulk filling companies for further utilization.

    The implementation of the CRM will be led by the NPA and its collaborators, operating under the Ministry of Energy’s guidance.

    Meanwhile, the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Marketers Association has called on the National Petroleum Authority to suspend the implementation of the Cylinder Re-circulation Model.

    According to the Association, an immediate implementation will present several challenges as members of the general public have not been properly briefed over the programme.

    Speaking to Citi news, Vice President of the LPG Marketers Association, Gabriel Kumi, said there is already some sort of confusion on how the initiative can proceed effectively.

    “NPA has set next month for the implementation, and so we have less than a month and the public confusion indicates that consumers are not ready and so there is a need to educate the public on the model so that we don’t confuse the public in the roll-out of the model.”

    “The current system is so entrenched that if you want to introduce a new system, you just don’t throw the old one out and suddenly introduce the new one, we have to do that slowly. Our initial discussion was that we should buy back all cylinders in the system because there are a lot of them out there that are obsolete and need to be changed, and it will be difficult to tell them to simply discard them and get new ones in anticipation of the model’s roll-out,” he said.

  • Intensify public education on Cylinder Re-circulation Model before implementation – LPG Marketers to NPA

    Intensify public education on Cylinder Re-circulation Model before implementation – LPG Marketers to NPA

    The Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Marketers Association has called on the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) to suspend the implementation of the Cylinder Re-circulation Model in September.

    According to the Association, an immediate implementation will present several challenges as members of the general public have not received adequate briefing on the programme.

    Speaking to CitiNews, Vice President of the LPG Marketers Association, Gabriel Kumi, said there is already some sort of confusion on how the initiative can proceed effectively, hence the need for more time for clarification.

    “NPA has set next month for the implementation, and so we have less than a month and the public confusion indicates that consumers are not ready and so there is a need to educate the public on the model so that we don’t confuse the public in the roll-out of the model.”

    “The current system is so entrenched that if you want to introduce a new system, you just don’t throw the old one out and suddenly introduce the new one, we have to do that slowly. Our initial discussion was that we should buy back all cylinders in the system because there are a lot of them out there that are obsolete and need to be changed, and it will be difficult to tell them to simply discard them and get new ones in anticipation of the model’s roll-out,” he said.

    The aim of the policy, Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM), is to ensure that at least 50 per cent of Ghanaians have access to safe, clean and environmentally-friendly Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) by 2030.

    It is also meant to improve safety standards, reduce gas leakage and explosion risks, and create more jobs in the LPG sector.

    Under this initiative, LPG Bulk Distribution Companies will sell LPG in bulk to Bottling Plants, where empty cylinders are filled and tested for quality and safety.

    Filled cylinders will be transported in specialised trucks from Bottling Plants to Exchange Depots, where they are sorted and stored for distribution.

    Exchange Depots will then supply filled cylinders to Cylinder Exchange Points (CEPs), where consumers can register with their Ghana Card and pay for any quantity of LPG they want.

    The final stage involves consumers exchanging their empty cylinders for filled ones at CEPs, without owning or maintaining the cylinders.

  • Man jailed 8 years for operating microfinance with forged BoG license

    Man jailed 8 years for operating microfinance with forged BoG license

    An Accra Circuit Court has sentenced to eight years a 34-year-old man for forging a Bank of Ghana (BoG) license to operate a microfinance company at Suhum in the Eastern region and its environs.

    Kofi Asante pleaded guilty to operating a microfinance company without a license, receiving a four-year sentence, and also to forging an official document, resulting in an eight-year sentence.

    Both sentences will be served concurrently, as determined by Judge Joojo Amoah Hagan.

    The prosecution, led by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Emmanuel Haligah, revealed that Asante had fraudulently established microfinance business centers named KM Community Bank and Prym Capital in Suhum and surrounding areas.

    He illicitly collected deposits from individuals without the necessary licenses.

    KM Community Bank reportedly had branches in Anum Apapam, Akorabo, and Amanase, while Prym Capital was headquartered in Suhum.

    On June 30, 2023, Asante was apprehended for investigation. During a search of his offices, copies of documents claiming to be issued by the Bank of Ghana under the name of KM Community Bank were discovered.

    Subsequent investigations disclosed that Asante had forged the Bank of Ghana license, creating fake documents between April and January 2023.

    He had employed approximately 24 individuals to operate within Suhum and its surroundings.

  • Dismissal calls justified, but I had “a duty to serve” – Ken Ofori-Atta

    Dismissal calls justified, but I had “a duty to serve” – Ken Ofori-Atta

    Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, has acknowledged that the calls for his removal from office were valid within the context of the nation’s democratic structure.

    In an interview with GTV over the weekend, Mr. Ofori-Atta emphasized that, as a public figure, people possess the right to voice their demand for his dismissal.

    However, he noted that he was incapable of abandoning the country when it mattered most.

    “In the period of censure, in which Parliament then voted against it, but more importantly, you were in a situation where you were battered and broken. [But] you do not leave a ship at that time. And given the urgency of ensuring the IMF programme goes through, for me, it was a duty to serve, and there was no running away from it,” the Finance Minister said.

    In 2022, the Finance Minister encountered criticism, with certain members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) advocating for his removal, holding him accountable for the country’s economic difficulties.

    Furthermore, the National Democratic Congress presented a censure motion aimed at his expulsion, citing reasons such as significant incompetence and potential conflicts of interest.

    The MPs cited the following reasons as justification to revoke Ken Ofori-Atta’s appointment:

    • Despicable conflict of Interest ensuring that he directly benefits from Ghana’s economic woes as his companies receive commissions and other unethical contractual advantage. particularly from Ghana’s debt overhang.
    • Unconstitutional withdrawals from the Consolidated Fund in blatant contravention of Article 178 of the 1992 Constitution supposedly for the construction of the President’s Cathedral;
    • Illegal payment of oil revenues into offshore accounts in flagrant violation of Article 176 of the 1992 Constitution;
    • Deliberate and dishonest misreporting of economic data to Parliament
    • Fiscal recklessness leading to the crash of the Ghana Cedi which is currently the worst performing currency in the world;
    • Alarming incompetence and frightening ineptitude resulting in the collapse of the Ghanaian economy and on excruciating cost of living crisis;
    • Gross mismanagement of the economy which has occasioned untold and unprecedented hardship.

    Amid the vote to remove the Finance Minister from his position, the Majority staged a walkout, preventing the Minority from forming the quorum needed for Mr Ofori-Atta to be removed from office.

    The proponents of the motion needed the votes of 183 legislators to have the motion passed against Mr. Ofori-Atta.

  • 3 ‘busted’ for stealing medicine at Bolgatanga Regional Hospital

    3 ‘busted’ for stealing medicine at Bolgatanga Regional Hospital

    The police, through an intelligence operation, have arrested three individuals for stealing some boxes of medicine at the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital.

    The accused are Raymond Asoke, Noeyelle Bridget and Raheem Fasilat.

    Raymond Asoke, a driver at the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital, was arrested on 4th August, 2023 when he was monitored loading boxes of medicines from a certain unmarked house into a saloon car with registration No. GE 1532 -21.

    A search in the car led to the retrieval of 12 boxes of various medicines. The search was extended into the house, where 22 additional boxes containing various kinds of medicines were discovered and retrieved.

    Further investigation led to the arrest of Noeyelle Bridget, the Assistant Dispensary Officer at the hospital’s pharmacy and Raheem Fasilat, the Regional store keeper at the Regional hospital who has admitted to giving the boxes of medicines to the driver.

    All three suspects are currently in custody and will be put before the court to face justice.

    Meanwhile, investigation is ongoing to identify and arrest any other accomplices as well as establish what the suspects did with the medicines stolen from the hospital.

  • Over 4,000 tertiary students awarded govt scholarship

    Over 4,000 tertiary students awarded govt scholarship

    Through the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), the government has granted new scholarships to 4,279 students enrolled in various universities and colleges across Ghana.

    These scholarship recipients encompass both undergraduate and postgraduate students, spanning diverse academic disciplines.

    This year’s count signifies a significant increase of sixty-three percent (63%) in successful applicants, in contrast to the 2,704 individuals who received scholarships in 2022.

    To break down the statistics, a total of 2,951 awardees are pursuing diploma or degree programs, while 1,328 beneficiaries are engaged in master’s or PhD programs, encompassing both private and public colleges/universities within Ghana.

    Furthermore, out of the awardees, 1,963 individuals, constituting 46%, have chosen to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) related programs. On the other hand, 2,316 recipients, making up 54% of the awardees, are pursuing programs in the field of Humanities.

    As of August 2, 2023, the Fund has successfully disbursed a total amount of GH¢25,278,029.39 in fees to the accounts of institutions where the awardees are enrolled.

    Recalling events from December 2022, the GETFund had extended an open invitation to the general public for prospective applicants to apply for local scholarships through its dedicated online portal, created both for receiving scholarship applications and their subsequent management.

    The response was overwhelming, with a total of 22,000 applications submitted. This enthusiastic interest led the Board of Trustees of the Fund to expand the available slots to accommodate the current significant number of 4,279 recipients.

  • 4 arrested over attempted exam malpractice in 2023 BECE

    4 arrested over attempted exam malpractice in 2023 BECE

    Four individuals have been apprehended by the West African Examination Council (WAEC) for their suspected involvement in exam misconduct during the commencement of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) on Monday, August 7, 2023.

    Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, John Kapi, made this known to the public during an interview on JoyNews. He noted that the suspects attempted to aid candidates in cheating.

    According to him, the arrests were made in the Ashanti Region, Central Region and Tema Central in the Greater Accra Region.

    “One individual was picked up in the Ashanti region when he was trying to approach the examination hall with some prepared materials for the candidates. We also picked somebody from Tema Central where the lady had a tablet that has some information she intended to pass on to candidates.

    “In the Central region, Dunkwa-On Offin to be specific, we picked up two people who were answering the questions in the middle of the paper that they intended sending to candidates who were writing,” he explained.

    On Monday, candidates sat for Religious and Moral Education 2 (Essay), Religious and Moral Education 1 (Objective), English Language 2 (Essay), and English Language I (Objective). Both Papers 2 & 1 for each subject were taken at one sitting without break. 

    John Kapi has stressed that exam malpractice in any shape or form cannot be condoned.

    Those arrested are expected to be charged and sent to court, Mr Kapi added.

    This measure is designed to effectively prevent unsuspecting individuals and students from participating in any form of malpractice.

    A total of 600,714 candidates are sitting for this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) for school and private candidates today.

    The figure comprises 300,323 males and 300,391 females from 18,993 participating schools.

    The 5-day examination will be undertaken under the supervision of the West African Examination Council (WAEC).

    The exam commences from 9am to 3pm and nine subjects will be written in total.  However, candidates with visual and hearing impairments are to be allowed an additional 50% of the time allotted to other candidates.

    On Tuesday, the candidates will be examined on Integrated Science and Ghanaian Language and Culture.

    Social Studies and Basic Design and Technology will be written tomorrow, August 8. On the fourth day, August 9, the candidates will sit for Mathematics and Information and Communication Technology.

    The last day, Friday, the candidates will sit for just one subject, French. The students will commence at 9am and conclude at 10:45am.

  • Kennedy Agyapong giving GHC200k, cars to constituency executives for vote – NPP executive alleges

    Kennedy Agyapong giving GHC200k, cars to constituency executives for vote – NPP executive alleges

    Administrator of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Communicators Directorate, Paul Kwabena Yandoh, has accused flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Agyapong of vote-buying in his campaign ahead of the party’s primaries.

    The Administrative Manager at Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s office noted that the camp of the Assin Central MP are reported to be giving delegates of the party GHS200,000 as well as cars in order to vote for Mr Agyapong.

    Paul Kwabena Yandoh made this claim while refuting reports of vote-buying against the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, by Lawyer William Kusi, the head of the communication team for Kennedy Agyapong in the Ashanti Region.

    “Why do you people accuse others from the opposing camp of sharing money? Sometimes, when you meet people, they claim that others are giving away two hundred thousand, plus cars. And now the lawyer is also saying that they are sharing GH¢50,000, which makes the ordinary Ghanaian worry that the NPP primaries is all about money. This is not true, do you understand?,” he said.

    According to him, he is certain of vote-buying by the Kennedy Agyapong camp, as their candidate had earlier boasted of being affluent and his willingness to use money to persuade delegates.

    “And in any case, aren’t you the same people who claim to have money? Kennedy Agyapong and his supporters, aren’t you the ones who boasted about having money? Now that the conqueror, the champion, the lion is here, you are complaining that someone else is using money to gain votes. You always campaigned for people to vote for someone with wealth; you urged them to vote for Kennedy because he has opened steel factories and achieved other accomplishments.

    “The vice president is diligently performing his job, so why is it that there have been so many allegations against him?” he quizzed.

  • 6 Police officers injured after scuffle with Tricycle operators in Kumasi

    6 Police officers injured after scuffle with Tricycle operators in Kumasi

    A confrontation between tricycle operators and the police in Kumasi has led to the injury of six police officers.

    On August 2nd, tricycle operators in the area heightened their protest against a directive aimed at limiting their mobility within specific sections of the Central Business District. The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly remains determined to enforce this policy.

    On Wednesday, August 2nd, these tricycle operators occupied the streets and obstructed a primary thoroughway leading to Kejetia. This action resulted in substantial traffic congestion and disruptions to daily routines.

    Officers of the Police Service were then summoned by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) to restore order, as the tricycle operators had gathered at the KMA offices to reclaim their confiscated tricycles.

    Tensions have escalated between the KMA and tricycle operators in Kumasi due to the KMA’s prohibition of tricycles, commonly known as “Pragya,” from operating within the central business district.

    Nana Afuah Konadu, the Head of Communications at the KMA, conveyed to reporters that despite the situation, the KMA remains steadfast in its decision.

    “If you go to the hospitals you will see various injuries they have sustained. We realised the situation was getting out of hand. They were not ready to comply, they were ready to hurt anybody that came their way. They just didn’t allow law or order to work, so the military came in, I think about seven or so came in to disperse the crowd. They have left. As you can see, we are continuing for one week, and it will continue again depending on the state of affairs,” the Head of Communications at the KMA said.

  • Sandra Bullock loses partner, Bryan Randall

    Sandra Bullock loses partner, Bryan Randall

    Photographer Bryan Randall, the longtime partner of actress Sandra Bullock, has passed away at 57 years old.

    His family has verified that he succumbed to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a condition he had been battling for the past three years.

    In a statement, Randall’s family said they were “immensely grateful to the tireless doctors who navigated the landscape of this illness”.

    Sandra Bullock’s sister commended the Hollywood actress for the exceptional care and support she provided to her husband during his last years.

    “ALS is a cruel disease but there is some comfort in knowing he had the best of caretakers in my amazing sister and the band of nurses she assembled who helped her look after him in their home,” Gesine Bullock-Prado wrote on Instagram.

    “I’m convinced that Bry has found the best fishing spot in heaven and is already casting his lure into rushing rivers teaming with salmon,” she added.

    The family said the photographer “chose early to keep his journey with ALS private”, adding: “Those of us who cared for him did our best to honour his request.

    “We are immensely grateful to the tireless doctors who navigated the landscape of this illness with us and to the astounding nurses who became our roommates, often sacrificing their own families to be with ours.

    Sandra Bullock and Bryan Randall pictured at the Ocean’s 8 premiere in 2018

    “At this time we ask for privacy to grieve and to come to terms with the impossibility of saying goodbye to Bryan.”


    Recognized for her roles in movies like Speed, Gravity, and Miss Congeniality, Sandra Bullock secured an Oscar in 2010 for her outstanding portrayal in The Blind Side.

    ALS

    Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s Disease in honor of the famed New York baseball player who succumbed to it, is a degenerative ailment devoid of any cure.

    It stems from the demise of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, governing the voluntary muscle movements.

    Commencing with muscle twitches and limb weakness, along with challenges in swallowing and speech articulation, the disease advances to severely hamper the capacity to move, communicate, and even breathe.

    The majority of individuals diagnosed with ALS typically face a lifespan of approximately two years post-diagnosis.

    Despite ongoing research, the precise origin of the disease remains elusive. While a minority of cases are hereditary, the majority arise sporadically.

  • 2023 BECE: 900,000 enrolled, 600,000 registered; where are the missing 300,000 students?

    2023 BECE: 900,000 enrolled, 600,000 registered; where are the missing 300,000 students?

    A total of 600,714 candidates sat for this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) for school and private candidates, which began today, August 7, 2023.

    Reports indicate that 906,000 students enrolled in kindergaten in 2012. It was expected that all things being equal, the exact would have progressed through the primary stages and present themselves as candidates for the BECE.

    However, just 67% of the total figure sat for this week’s exams. About 43% of the students are not accounted for.

    Executive Director of the Africa Education Watch EduWatch, Mr. Kofi Asare, in an interview on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, highlighted some issues that might have led to this.

    Prior to that, he clarified that “They (students) haven’t disappeared from the surface of the earth. Perhaps they have disappeared from the government education system.
    This is not the first time. Last year and two years ago, we asked similar questions.

    “We have been trying to establish the survival rate within our education system by trying to use the numbers that enter KG1 and numbers that complete by way of writing BECE for both private and public schools.”

    Branching to international programmes

    According to Mr Kofi, at such a tender age, some children are enrolled into international programme such as the International Baccalaureate.

    The International Baccalaureate is a highly regarded international education program that offers a comprehensive and balanced curriculum for students aged 3 to 19.

    It is known for its rigorous academic standards, focus on developing critical thinking skills, and emphasis on international-mindedness. The IB programme includes the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the Diploma Programme (DP), which is often referred to as the “IB Diploma.”

    Mr Kofi estimates that about “10,000 people per cohort (made the move). So that is like 3 or 4 percent of the number we are looking for.”

    Deaths

    There is also the issue of the loss of lives. The Executive Director of the Africa Education Watch EduWatch argues that is “less than 2 percent.”

    Migration

    Some parents send their wards outside the country, he noted. However, Mr Kofi noted that the number of parents who migrate their children is relatively less due to poverty.

    “Also, there is the idea that people may travel out of the country. I see that idea also to be realistic. If we have high number of the ‘dropout’ emerging from urban areas, but we should look at the statistics, you’d realize that although 33 percent are not making it to BECE at the national level, in the five northern regions, the percentage is more than 40 percent.

    “Which means that there is a correlation between poverty and the survival rate. So I don’t think that the argument that many have traveled outside the country would hold so much because this is the case that majority of them are coming from the poverty part of the county where traveling outside the county is a luxury,” he explained.

    Also, Mr Kofi is confident that majority of students “are subject of dropout.”

    He cited reports from United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), which touched on the cohort survival rate and this measures an education system’s holding power and internal efficiency.

    Rates approaching 100 percent indicate high retention and low dropout levels.

    According to Mr Kofi, UNICEF’s current rating for Primary 6 is 18 percent.

    “The meaning is that before these students got to primary 6, 18 percent had dropped out,” he stated.

    The cohort survival rate measures an education system’s holding power and internal efficiency. Rates approaching 100 percent indicate high retention and low dropout levels.

    Per Mr Kofi, data from the Ministry of Education indicates that between Primary 6 and Junior High School 1, the drop out rate in deprived areas is about 20 percent.

    He attributed this phenomenon to the lack of Junior High Schools in such areas. He pegs that about 25 percent of primary schools in rural areas do not have Junior High Schools.

    “Apart from that, you come to the the realization that in the northern regions alone, 60 percent of private schools do not have JHS. So when they graduate, many graduate back into the community due to long distance,” he added.

  • FLASHBACK: Ken Agyapong threatens to recover all his money before leaving NPP

    FLASHBACK: Ken Agyapong threatens to recover all his money before leaving NPP

    This article was first published in “December 2013.”

    A decade ago, New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful, Kennedy Agyapong, noted that he would only part ways with the party on one condition.

    Only after he has retrieved all the money owed him by the party over the 2012 general election will he bid farewell.

    He made this statement at a time when Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku, who called for a change in the party leadership, had been summoned before the highest advisory body in the party for questioning.

    One Iddrisu Musah Superior in a Facebook post, raised concern over the party leadership’s inability to question the Assin Central MP.

    The activist and patriot of the NPP based in the United Kingdom said it would come across as unfair should Mr Agyapong not be sanctioned.

    In response, Mr Agyapong noted that the party Elders would be “sorry” should they invite him for questioning.

    “I have not had any invitation, but if they start with that, they (the party Elders) would be sorry because I just spoke to my partner in China…who are those calling me? I will not honour the call of any of the National Executives. I want neutral people…. What would happen if I leave the party?…I will ensure I recover my monies before I leave”.

    “…tell them, if they are listening. They should make $1 million ready before they call me or else, I will not mind them…if they joke with me, they will see what I’ll do to them,” he further warned.

    He, however, said “I am ready to leave the party,” but noted that “I’ll reclaim my money before I leave” lest his business get destroyed.

    The NPP stalwart made these statements in an interview on NEAT FM.

  • 2013 FLASHBACK: Top NPP executives are thieves – Ken Agyapong

    2013 FLASHBACK: Top NPP executives are thieves – Ken Agyapong

    THIS ARTICLE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED IN 2013

    The First Vice Chairman for the New Patriotic Party, Mr. Fred Oware, has somewhat okayed Hon Kennedy Agyapong’s labeling of some top executives of the party as “thieves”.

    This latest development comes after the Assin Central MP threatened to retrieve all materials and monies he doled out to help the New Patriotic Party during the 2012 elections. Hon Agyapong, who is known to be a major financier of the party, revealed some days ago that certain top executives of the party, selfishly apportioned materials meant for the entire party to themselves.

    Fuming with rage, the NPP MP launched a verbal onslaught on the national executives; particularly Mr. Jake Obetsebi Lamptey (NPP National Chairman) and Lawyer Kwadwo Owusu Afriyie (NPP General Secretary).

    This generated an outcry within the party, and many called on the elders to sanction Kennedy Agyapong just like they have done to other senior members.

    But in an interview with Peacefm, Mr. Fred Oware posited that to put the matter to rest, it would be advisable for Ken Agyapong to name those he handed the materials to; for the executives to deal with the matter.

    “It is highly possible that Ken handed over the materials to certain specific people so he should be bold to name them… else he would push the innocent ones to come out answering questions they know nothing about,” he said.

  • Finance Minister says BoG’s GHS60.8bn loss is a technical loss

    Finance Minister says BoG’s GHS60.8bn loss is a technical loss

    Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has confirmed reports that the Central Bank registered a loss of GH¢60.8 billion in its audited financial statement for the fiscal year 2022.

    However, the Finance Minister noted that the loss recorded is technical, as “it is not monies that was given that will never be paid.”

    Mr Ofori-Atta made this known during an appearance on GBC’s Talking Point programme over the weekend.

    He further explained that these losses were accrued after the Central Bank failed to balance its assets, liabilities, and shareholders’ equity. According to the Finance Minister, some revenue as interest that should have been generated by the Central Bank could not come through.

    “The issue of debt exchange, in which certain interest was expected to be paid had been cut, resulting in those type of losses. Then you’ll have to impair the balance sheet because of expected revenue that was coming will not come. So that is what is happening”, he further explained.

    The BoG attributes this substantial loss primarily to the government’s actions in debt restructuring.

    Meanwhile, the Finance Minister, has expressed confidence in BoG’s ability to reclaim all its losses.

    “As I told you, the impairment on the banks was also quite dramatic. The first half year, we have seen a strong response from them. It’s the same way in which the balance sheet of restructuring is also occurring at the Central Bank and will build up towards reclaiming where we should be”, he concluded.

  • Palgrave Boakye-Danquah lauds Ofori-Atta; labels him “best Finance Minister in 4th Republic”

    Palgrave Boakye-Danquah lauds Ofori-Atta; labels him “best Finance Minister in 4th Republic”

    Government representative specializing in governance and security matters, Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, is against the assertion that Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is incapable of handling the country’s economy.

    The Finance Minister’s competence has been questioned by many as Ghana faces an economic crisis.

    Critics of Ken Ofori-Atta argue that had he effectively managed the country’s finances, there would have been no need for the nation to seek assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout.

    But according to Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, Mr Ofori-Atta has been more than helpful. He noted that the Finance Minister has been able to stabilise the economy despite the many challenges.

    “How can you label someone who was able to produce single digit for 2017, 2018 and 2019 as the worst Finance Minister in history? I must state emphatically that the honourable Ken Ofori-Atta is the best Finance Minister this country has ever had under this 4th republic…,” he said.

    He stated that under Ken Ofori-Atta’s leadership at the Finance Ministry, a process of scrutiny has been initiated, leading to the revelation of numerous instances of corruption previously perpetrated by former ministers in the same role.

    “His censorship at the Ministry helped to unearth the massive corruption at the ministry an how they badly negotiated the IPP deals. We have also seen how this has helped to renegotiate this deals and helped the country to save up to about US $4 million…,” he said.

    To him, critics of the Finance Minister are only just grateful and playing politics ‘because for me, he is one of the most wisest, smartest, most intelligent and more respectable finance minister under this fourth republic…,” he said.

  • Ghana’s first mattress company was built by a 26-year-old in 1959

    Ghana’s first mattress company was built by a 26-year-old in 1959

    United Mattress and Foam Company Limited was Ghana’s inaugural mattress factory, and this company was built by Edward Osei Boakye at the age of 26, some 64 years ago.

    Born in May 1933 to parents from royal lineages in Juaben and Bamang, Boakye encountered early hardships when his father passed away. Undeterred by this setback, he pursued higher education at Baldwin-Wallace College in Ohio.

    In 1959, he returned to Ghana and founded the United Mattress and Foam Company Ltd. at a mere 26 years of age.

    During those times, mattresses were a rarity in Ghana, imported at exorbitant costs. Boakye initiated his journey by assembling the highly sought-after Vono brand of mattresses, catering to state schools and hospitals.

    This innovative step alleviated the need for importing mattresses from Britain.

    Subsequently, he acquired the State Furniture and Joinery Centre, enabling him to produce mattresses at a lower cost under his own brand. The mattresses featured the iconic “Goodnight sleep well” emblem.

    Boakye Mattress’s expansion continued through partnerships with Vitafoam of Nigeria and West Africa Foam Company. Boakye’s business interests extended across West Africa, encompassing The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria, as well as European countries like the United States, the Netherlands, Poland, and Italy.

    In a notable achievement during the 1970s, Boakye Mattress erected Ghana’s first fully-serviced private hospital, later becoming the state-owned Police Hospital.

    Boakye’s ventures encompassed not only commercial property developments like the FC Cosmetics Building but also plans for a drive-in shopping mall at Holy Gardens – Kwame Nkrumah Circle, among other projects.

    Unfortunately, misfortune struck when Boakye fell victim to the PNDC coups. Amid the turmoil, he faced allegations of tax evasion and other infractions, leading to a trial held in absentia.

    This halted his grand visions, isolating him from his homeland, family, and businesses for nearly fifteen years.

    Boakye, however, exhibited unwavering resilience. He diversified into textiles, retail, wholesale, and property development. Even acquiring a British government grant to establish a mattress factory in Ireland and engaging in local politics as a member of the Conservative Party in the UK.

    In the early 1990s, Boakye returned to Ghana determined to clear his name, speaking out against injustices at the National Reconciliation Commission in the early 2000s.

    Despite enduring setbacks, Boakye’s indomitable spirit prevailed. In 2003, at the age of 70, he inaugurated a mattress factory in Kumasi, only to witness it razed by fire in an industrial mishap. Nevertheless, his determination remained unbroken, and production persisted in a limited capacity as he continued expanding his real estate interests.

    Throughout his life, Boakye was renowned for his unwavering work ethic, astute business acumen, and benevolence. His days commenced at dawn, demonstrating his relentless dedication. His legacy is a testament to his devotion to family, friends, and his country. Much of his estate was allocated to the E.O. Boakye Trust Fund, dedicated to charitable endeavors.

    Ultimately, Boakye crafted an empire through sheer determination, fueled by his love for his nation and family. He endured hardships and rebounded from setbacks that would have overwhelmed others. His legacy endures through his businesses and the philanthropic efforts upheld by the E.O. Boakye Trust Fund.

    Today, Ghana’s mattress industry thrives with numerous companies and brands. However, it all originated with Edward Osei Boakye – the visionary who recognized the demand for affordable, domestically produced mattresses and transformed that vision into a triumphant business realm.

    As we commemorate Boakye’s life and legacy, we draw inspiration from his tenacity and perseverance. His narrative reminds us that with diligence, resilience, and an unwavering spirit, we can accomplish remarkable feats and leave an enduring imprint on the world around us.

  • Ackah Blay-Miezah’s ‘Oman Ghana Trust Fund’ that duped hundreds in the 1970s

    Ackah Blay-Miezah’s ‘Oman Ghana Trust Fund’ that duped hundreds in the 1970s

    During the early 1970s, a Ghanaian fraudster attracted international attention for all the wrong reasons. Presenting himself as an ‘African prince’ pursuing education in Philadelphia, USA, John Ackah Blay-Miezah and his cohorts orchestrated a massive swindle, duping numerous Americans who were eager to capitalize on his fabricated narrative.

    Blay-Miezah’s ruse involved feigning a close association with Ghana’s inaugural president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. He spun tales of a fictitious Trust supposedly entrusted to him by the late Pan-African leader.

    Initially met with skepticism, Blay-Miezah needed to craft an exceedingly convincing story, luring victims by guaranteeing substantial returns on their investments.

    As recounted in a book review of Yepoka Yeebo’s ‘ANANSI’S GOLD’, Blay-Miezah, together with his accomplice Reverend Robert Ellis, established an entity named the Bureau of African Affairs and Industrial Development. This front, mimicking an official government agency, birthed the concocted ‘Oman Ghana Trust Fund’.

    This fabricated fund promised investors access to concealed gold bars and substantial sums stashed in Swiss accounts, purportedly linked to Dr. Nkrumah. Although no records suggest any interaction between Dr. Nkrumah and Blay-Miezah, victims eagerly subscribed to the sham Trust Fund.

    An array of individuals, spanning business proprietors, attorneys, college students, and elderly widows, all bought into the illusion of lucrative contracts with the Ghanaian government as part of the proposed terms and rewards.

    Blay-Miezah’s associate, Reverend Ray Ellis, assured investors that their contributions would aid in overcoming obstacles preventing the repatriation of funds to Ghana. Allegedly, once these hurdles were overcome, they would reap returns exceeding their investments by tenfold or even twentyfold.

    As the victims were entrapped by this cautionary fable, payment deadlines elapsed without fulfillment, consistently accompanied by explanations and pledges of grander returns, coupled with appeals for additional funds from the defrauded individuals.


    Reverend Robert Ellis ran the Philly operations out of offices with Blay-Miezah [Image credit: Yepoka Yeebo’s book]

    “I think a lot of the people who ended up investing in the Oman Ghana Trust Fund did know about Ghana or West Africa… and initially it probably made perfect sense and dovetailed with what they’d heard.”

    “…But as they opened up to a wider and wider pool of investments, I think it was just something that sounded like a good bet to people, who were either feeling greedy or had the money to spare and didn’t mind potentially losing it. Or people who really, really, desperately or optimistically wanted to do something with that money. I think it just sounded like a grand adventure that would make people a great deal of money and that would let them put their name in lights in this very specific way,” the British-Ghanaian author said in the book.

    In actuality, the Oman Ghana Trust Fund was a complete fabrication. Over the span of 15 years, Blay-Miezah executed these fraudulent schemes, deceiving numerous individuals and accumulating millions in ill-gotten gains.

    His partner in the United States, Reverend Ray Ellis, reportedly swindled approximately 300 people out of a total of $15 million.

    Blay-Miezah’s deceptive activities caught up with him, landing him on the police’s most-wanted list. He faced multiple counts of wire fraud, and at that time, the Ghanaian government showed readiness to extradite him.


    John Ackah Blay-Miezah and his associates [Image credit: Yepoka Yeebo’s book]

    Upon his return to Ghana, the repercussions of his misdeeds followed him closely. One of his defrauded investors traveled to Accra with the intention of physically assaulting Blay-Miezah in a bid to recover his investment.

    John Ackah Blay-Miezah’s demise occurred in 1992 while he was placed under house arrest. His actions had deceived and embarrassed the government. Even after his passing, he managed to sow one final seed of confusion among his family members, persuading them to believe in the existence of a non-existent $15 billion held in a foreign bank.

  • Gold Fields Ghana pledges to grow gold production capacity

    Gold Fields Ghana pledges to grow gold production capacity

    Gold Fields Ghana has revealed its intentions to boost efficiency and capacity in gold processing through the acquisition of a cutting-edge comprehensive instrumentation rig. This rig is claimed to be the inaugural one of its kind in Ghana’s mining sector as well as the entire African continent.

    During the inauguration ceremony of the advanced processing rig in Tarkwa, Joshua Mortoti, the Head of Gold Fields West Africa, conveyed that the procurement of this high-tech rig, which surpasses €450,000 in value, represents another noteworthy achievement for Gold Fields as they endeavor to augment their operational capabilities.

    “This is a major investment that takes the skills development of our employees a notch higher because it adds to our solid technical training modules, equipment and infrastructure. The rig will offer intensive and practical training as it simulates real-world conditions in the process plant in a safe classroom environment. After training with this rig, our instrumentation engineers will be equipped with the technical know-how, which will enhance their competence,“ he said.

    Underlining Gold Fields’ commitment to enhancing employee capacity over the past decade, Joshua Mortoti emphasized that the acquisition of the €450,000 high-tech rig serves as a testament to the company’s dedication.

    Joshua Mortoti-Executive Vice President/Head Gold Fields West Africa

    “Considering the immense benefits and value of such a high-tech equipment, I can confidently say that spending over €450,000 on this instrumentation rig is a worthwhile investment. As a company, we prioritize enhancing the competencies of our employees as they are our most valuable asset. Our commitment to employee skills development aligns with our value of innovation, encouraging ideas, creativity, and changes that can drive our business forward.

    “Therefore, we continue to invest significantly in employee training and development. Since 2014, we have invested close to US$17 million in various competency-enhancement, leadership, and professional development programs for our employees and business partners. Some of these training programs cater to the specific needs of employees, allowing them to develop their individual potential,” he emphasized.

    Emmanuel Appiah, a staff member at the Gold Fields process plant, conveyed that the recently obtained rig is a transformative tool that significantly aids workers in the gold production process.

    Emmanuel Appiah-Worker, Gold Fields

    “There are a lot of things that we may have to experience or see for the first time or even troubleshoot in the field. Now we have this rig that can help us train and prepare adequately so that when we get into the field, we are familiar with the key instruments in operation. This will help us build stronger capacity and ensure that we deliver to the best of our ability. It is a good instrument, and we must use it well to build our strength and develop our capacity in producing our raw gold,” he said.

    The CEO of Automation Group Ghana, Ing Kweku Asmah, who played a key role in orchestrating the acquisition of the advanced rig, conveyed that the collaborative effort leading to the introduction of this high-tech rig is poised to have a beneficial impact on the productivity of the mining industry.

    “As the mining industry significantly influences economies and societies, it becomes imperative to equip its workforce with cutting-edge tools and knowledge. The rig we inaugurate today incorporates state-of-the-art technology, enabling comprehensive training in process instrumentation and automation. It embodies our shared vision of empowering the workforce with the necessary skills. Together, we have opened the doors to a world of possibilities for the mining industry, and we eagerly look forward to witnessing the transformative impact it will have on professionals and the sector as a whole,” he said.

    Gold Fields Ghana has additionally announced that the youth from its host communities will have the chance to undergo training with the rig. This opportunity will be facilitated through the Gold Fields Training School, which will introduce an instrumentation apprenticeship program tailored for the young individuals within these communities in the near future.

    Describing the rig as an “engineering masterpiece” equipped with cutting-edge technology, Simon Egloff, the Business Development Manager of Endress and Hauser, the rig manufacturers, highlighted that the rig’s advanced features will contribute to process enhancements and elevated productivity levels.

    “The possibilities which this powerful tool offers makes the Gold Fields’ Tarkwa Mine unique in Ghana and the entire West Africa. Smart sensors using heartbeat technology as a solid base will help move from reactive maintenance to preventive maintenance.”

  • Prosper Narteh Ogum appointed as Kotoko new head coach

    Prosper Narteh Ogum appointed as Kotoko new head coach

    Prominent team in the Ghana Premier League, Kumasi Asante Kotoko, has officially introduced Prosper Narteh Ogum as their new head coach for the upcoming 2023/24 season.

    The unveiling ceremony took place at the Baba Yara Stadium on Monday, August 7.

    Ogum is returning to the club after previously stepping down from his role before the commencement of the 2022/23 season, following a successful initial tenure with the team.

    During his previous stint, Ogum guided the Porcupine Warriors to clinch the league title in the 2021/22 season. Despite this accomplishment, disagreements between Ogum and the club’s board regarding certain decisions ultimately prompted his resignation from the position.

    Speaking at his unveiling, the former WAFA head coach said: “My first year is to put together a very formidable team that can compete both domestically and internationally. However, you can’t be at Kotoko and not think of bringing success.”

    Following his departure from Hearts of Oak at the conclusion of the 2022/23 season, David Ocloo is anticipated to take on the role of assistant coach at the club.

  • You can’t spend half a billion on National Cathedral and abandon Saglemi Housing project – Mahama fires Akufo-Addo

    You can’t spend half a billion on National Cathedral and abandon Saglemi Housing project – Mahama fires Akufo-Addo

    Former President John Dramani Mahama has strongly criticized President Akufo-Addo over his decision to abandon the Saglemi Housing Project while allocating over GHc500 million to the National Cathedral project.

    In a post on his Facebook account, the former President alleged that the government’s decision to abandon the Saglemi Housing project was solely motivated by the fact that it was initiated during his own administration.

    President Akufo-Addo conducted a sod-cutting ceremony on August 1st to launch the construction of 8,000 units of affordable houses with support from the private sector.

    During the ceremony, President Akufo-Addo defended the decision to halt the Saglemi Housing Project, citing concerns about increased national debt if it were to be completed.

    In response, former President Mahama criticized the government’s approach, asserting that the inability to secure funding for the Saglemi housing project while channeling significant funds into the National Cathedral project is a “stinging insult to Ghanaians.”

    He argued that the government’s priorities appear skewed, as it appears willing to invest in the grand National Cathedral initiative but neglects a housing project that aims to provide economical housing solutions for the people of Ghana.

    “It is unacceptable for Akufo-Addo to spend over half a billion cedis on a national cathedral project that has ultimately failed due to corruption and is now abandoned, yet refuses to commit funds to complete a housing project that will benefit thousands of Ghanaian families.

    “Knowing the NPP government, they did not want to complete the Saglemi housing project simply because it was initiated by John Mahama and an NDC administration.

    “Leaders must always prioritise the well-being of their citizens and ensure that they benefit from government resources and projects, regardless of who initiated them.

    “The misplaced priorities of a government that claim it is unable to raise money to complete the Saglemi housing project and yet is willing to spend half a billion cedis on the largest civil excavation in Africa is a humiliating slap in the face of Ghanaians who entrusted Akufo Addo with their mandate.

    “Just think about the countless number of Ghanaian families who could have had decent living conditions over the past 7 years and the individuals who could have had a place to truly call home in Saglemi.

  • You have the ‘worst goverment ever’ – Felix Kwakye Ofosu tells Akufo-Addo

    You have the ‘worst goverment ever’ – Felix Kwakye Ofosu tells Akufo-Addo

    Former Deputy Communications Minister, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has strongly criticized the management of the Ghanaian economy under the leadership of President Akufo-Addo.

    Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu maintains that the current administration has inflicted economic harm on the people of Ghana.

    In a tweet posted on Monday, August 7, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu stated that the government has “committed economic atrocities, the latest being forcing the Bank of Ghana to lend tens of billions of Ghana cedis to government against the law, and leading to the former’s insolvency.”

    He thus described the Akufo-Addo administration as “the worst government ever!”

    This practice, in his view, is severely impeding the government’s operations.

    He further cautioned that if this violation is not addressed, it could result in severe repercussions for the nation’s economy.

    As revealed in the Bank of Ghana’s Annual Report and Financial Statements, the year 2022 saw the institution registering a notable loss of ¢60.8 billion.

    This substantial deficit follows a contrasting scenario in 2021, when the Central Bank had posted a profit of ¢1.2 billion.

    The causes of this reported loss, as outlined in the Annual Report and Financial Statements, can be attributed to a decrease in the Group’s net worth due to the repercussions of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) and the devaluation of certain assets.

    Furthermore, the report discloses that the sum of its total liabilities and those of its subsidiaries surpassed its overall assets by ¢54.52 billion.

    In contrast, the Central Bank had managed to attain a surplus of ¢5.72 billion in the year 2021.

    The Central Bank, however, clarifies that the loss is not indicative of negligence on its part. Rather, it is attributed to the controversial Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).