Fidelity Bank has informed its customers of its agreements with its partner banks to aid in seamless completion of foreign exchange transactions on its behalf.
This comes after the Bank of Ghana (BoG) has suspended its forex licence as well as that of First National Bank Ghana Limited for violating the rules of the Ghana Interbank Forex Market.
The two banks will not be able to engage in any forex transactions from 29th June 2023 to 28th July 2023, according to a press statement signed by Sandra Thompson, the Secretary of the BoG.
They have also been fined 1000 penalty points each, for breaching sections 3.4, 3.5, and 3.9 of the Ghana Interbank Forex Market Conduct.
Fidelity Bank Ghana statement on the temporary suspension of our FX license by the Bank of Ghana. pic.twitter.com/NoJFrgBeFj
— Fidelity Bank Ghana (@fidelitybankgh) June 29, 2023
Section 3.4 indicates that LFXDs are required to update indicative quotes for buying and selling US dollars at regular intervals, on the Reuters and Bloomberg information systems. Indicative quotes shall be updated at intervals of no more than 30 minutes. (This will show the price at which a market-maker is prepared to buy and sell at the minimum traded lots).
Trade Reporting on Platforms captured in 3.5 requires that all interbank FX trades must be booked on the Reuters platform and appropriately confirmed within five (5) minutes after the trade is concluded. These trades must also be reported in the daily FX report submitted to the Bank of Ghana.
Section 3.9 on the other hand, mandates the Bank of Ghana to publish the Ghana Cedi reference rate with respect to the US dollar on the Bank of Ghana website by 16:30 hours GMT daily except on holidays.
“The reference rate shall be computed using the weighted average exchange rate of all eligible US dollar transactions that are reported to the Bank of Ghana by the cut-off time of 15:30 hours GMT. The Bid and Offer reference rates are calculated by taking a +/- 0.05% bid/ask spread around the weighted average exchange rate. The reference rate will also be published on Reuters and Bloomberg by 16.30 hours GMT,” it adds.
Following this, Fidelity Bank has apologised to its customers and assured that “we are actively engaging the Bank of Ghana to resolve the issue as soon as possible.”
Source: The Independent Ghana | Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey
The Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Tanker Drivers, after four days of withdrawal of service, have suspended their strike action.
The decision was taken following a crucial meeting with the Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwasi Amoako-Attah, the Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Tanker Drivers on Thursday, June 29, 2023.
Members of the two unions are expected to return to their work post on Friday, June 30.
The Ghana National Tankers Drivers’ Union withdrew their services on Monday, June 26, over the government’s failure to rehabilitate roads in the petroleum enclaves in Tema, Takoradi, Kumasi, and Buipe.
The National Chairman of the Tanker Drivers Union, Mr George Nyaunu, in a statement dated June 24, revealed that requests to get the government to fix the aforementioned roads have fallen on deaf ears.
As such the Union vowed to continue its strike until the authorities commit themselves firmly to a timeline for repairing the roads in the petroleum enclaves. But the government and the Union have reached an agreement.
Earlier this week, the Tema Petroleum Company reported that more than 7.6 million liters of petroleum are stuck in its tanks.
According to the Head of Finance and Stock at the Tema Petroleum Company, Nana Adwoa Kumi Duah, the company’s operations may grind to a halt should the strike continue.
Meanwhile, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) outlets nationwide are currently facing gas shortage owing to the strike action.
Vice President of the LPG Marketers Association, Gabriel Kumi, revealed to the media that many outlets are unable to meet increased demand by consumers, with the majority currently out of stock.
Mr Gabriel Kumi warned that the situation will exacerbate should the government fail to address the concerns of petroleum tanker drivers.
The situation will have an adverse effect on Ghana’s campaign for clean energy, where citizens will opt for coal instead.
Source: The Independent Ghana | Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has acknowledged that it is actively addressing the issues brought on by brain drain, which has a significant impact on the health sector.
Brain drain refers to the emigration or migration of highly skilled or educated individuals from one country to another, often leading to a significant loss of human capital and expertise in the home country. It occurs when talented professionals, such as scientists, doctors, engineers, and academics, seek better opportunities, higher salaries, improved working conditions, or greater career prospects abroad.
Recently, more than 1,200 Ghanaian nurses reportedly joined the nursing register in the UK last year, and 150 experienced nurses and healthcare workers from Pantang Hospital have reportedly looked for work abroad, all in search of greener pastures.
Director General of the GHS, Dr Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, explained that brain drain is a significant challenge while speaking at the 2023 Joseph Siaw Agyapong distinguished lecture on public health in Africa, which was held in honour of the University of Ghana’s 75th anniversary.
“Brain drain remains a key challenge for us and there are usually ways when there are shortages in the developed countries, there is also the drift of people going there. So what we are doing is first, trying to encourage as many to stay. We are also ensuring that those who are staying are also being trained rapidly.
Elaborating further, he said, “We are recruiting to replace those we can replace while we ensure that we are giving more people, especially the nurses, study leave allocations so that we can convert some of the nonprofessional nurses into professional ones because it is the majority of professional nurses who are leaving,”
Dr Kuma-Aboagye further expressed his concerns regarding the rise in non-communicable diseases in recent years and urged the general public to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
“There are statistics that the number of hypertension are going up, diabetics are going up. We don’t think that a sedentary lifestyle is good, not many people are exercising. There is a lot of junk foods coming in, we need to ensure that we eat proper foods, look at the timing of eating, the use of alcohol, cigarette smoking and aphrodisiac,” he stated.
Taking advantage of the occasion, he urged the media to support efforts to educate the public about the diseases.
Brain drain can have detrimental effects on the development and progress of the home country, as it depletes its intellectual and skilled workforce and hampers its ability to innovate and grow.
It is important to note that addressing brain drain requires a comprehensive approach that combines efforts from governments, educational institutions, businesses, and the society as a whole.
Deputy Energy Minister and MP for Afigya Kwabre South, William Owuraku Aidoo, has emphasized the importance of discipline for students.
During the 71st anniversary speech and prize-giving day of Opoku Ware School in Kumasi, he urged them to embrace discipline as a fundamental aspect of their school lives, as it plays a vital role in determining their future success.
The occasion served as the pinnacle of a homecoming weekend organized by the school’s alumni, known as Akatakyie. It provided an opportunity for past students to reconnect with their alma mater and celebrate its rich history and achievements.
This year’s event was led by this year’s silver jubilee group, the AW group, whose turn it was to host it, having graduated from the school 25 years ago.
The theme for this year’s celebrations was ‘Building our human resources through individual and institutional discipline”.
The Deputy Minister, an old boy of the school with school number Z111, recalled his fond memories at the school and noted that Opoku Ware School has become what it is today because the founding fathers saw the importance of combining academic instruction with moral conduct and discipline.
“It does not matter how academically gifted you are, if you are not disciplined in all your endeavours, you will not amount to much.”
He urged the students to get involved in extra-curricular activities on campus, make great friends and obey school rules. He thanked members of the school administration for their challenging work in managing adolescent students.
He also congratulated the AW class for undertaking a landscaping project in the school to mark their silver jubilee, and also the BN and BU groups for marking their 10th and 5th anniversaries respectively by donating gifts to the school.
In his welcome address, the headmaster of the school, Rev. Fr. Stephen Owusu Sekyere expressed the deep appreciation of school management for the immense support Akatakyies have provided over the years in several ways, following which he reiterated some of the school’s successes and challenges.
The chairman for the event, Katakyie Prof. Ing. Mark Adom-Asamoah (AG79), immediate past Provost of the KNUST College of Engineering, noted in his remarks that over the years, senior high school alumni had made so many contributions towards their alma mater in the country.
“I believe this is because our secondary school years, and particularly the boarding system associated with it, coincided with our teenage and most impressionable years and therefore on our values and world view. As alumni, this love for our schools has translated into actual, tangible support for the schools in respect of infrastructure and personal development of the students.
“This is primarily because government is unable to meet all these needs and therefore alumni feel a sense of moral duty to step in,” he stated.
The Guest of Honour, Kat. Dr. John Oduro Boateng, CEO of Emmanuel Eye Centre, Accra, emphasized the importance of making Christ the foundation of students’ lives as part of their training.
In a speech delivered on his behalf, the Guest Speaker, Kat. Kevin Okyere, CEO of Springfield Oil Ltd., highlighted the abundance of opportunities for new ideas in the 21st century. He stressed the need to equip the youth with the necessary educational tools to venture into the world and foster innovation.
The President of the Akatakyie AW group, Kat. Dr. Kofi Busia Anane, announced that after extensive consultations, the group had decided to gift the school with a landscaping project at the front of the assembly hall in celebration of their silver jubilee.
“The project included the construction of a retaining wall and underground culverts to divert the path of the dining hall waste which had been an albatross around the neck of the school for many years.
It also included the landscaping of the area previously used as a refuse dump into terraces to beautify the environment around the assembly hall. The cost of the project is estimated to be GHS700,000”, Dr. Busia noted.
Other speakers at the event included the Global President of the Akatakyie fraternity, Kat. Mike Adu Domfeh (AB146) and the Board Chairman of the school governing board, Kat. Kwasi Ofori-Kuragu (C10) who formally commissioned the AW project after the event.
This year’s Akatakyie homecoming weekend event included a debate by the school’s Debaters and Writers’ Club, a mentoring session with the Form Three students, and a football gala, and was rounded up with a thanksgiving mass.
The AX group of the fraternity, whose turn it will be to deliver a silver jubilee project and host the speech and prize-giving day next year, also attended the event and declared their preparedness to live up to expectation.
The Ledzokuku Municipal Assembly in Accra has initiated a dredging project at the Sango Lagoon in Teshie.
Over the course of three months, the project aims to remove accumulated sediment, debris, and vegetation from the lagoon, thereby restoring its original depth and capacity.
Chief Executive of the Assembly, Mordecai Quarshie, highlighted that the project will not only improve the lagoon’s condition but also alleviate the challenges faced by fisherfolk in the area given its susceptibility to flooding.
“We broke ground for the dredging of the Sango Lagoon because it has not been dredged in a long time, and nobody around seems to remember the last time it was dredged. But it is important for it to be dredged to reinforce our flood prevention measures,” he said.
“We have dredged the entire length of the Sango stream and now at the lagoon, and we are restoring the boundaries of the lagoon to let it hold rain waters. But there is also another reason, which is to enable the fisherfolk to anchor their canoes,” Mr Quarshie added.
The MCE added that the contractor on the project is Blessed Field and it is expected to be completed in the next three months.
Vice President of the LPG Marketers Association, Gabriel Kumi, revealed to the media that many outlets are unable to meet increased demand by consumers, with the majority currently out of stock.
Mr Gabriel Kumi warned that the situation will exacerbate should the government fail to address the concerns of petroleum tanker drivers.
The Ghana National Tankers Drivers’ Union withdrew their services on Monday, June 26, over the government’s failure to rehabilitate roads in the petroleum enclaves in Tema, Takoradi, Kumasi, and Buipe.
The National Chairman of the Tanker Drivers Union, Mr George Nyaunu, in a statement dated June 24, revealed that requests to get the government to fix the aforementioned roads have fallen on deaf ears.
As such the Union has vowed to continue its strike until the authorities commit themselves firmly to a timeline for repairing the roads in the petroleum enclaves.
Earlier this week, the Tema Petroleum Company reported that more than 7.6 million liters of petroleum are stuck in its tanks.
According to the Head of Finance and Stock at the Tema Petroleum Company, Nana Adwoa Kumi Duah, the company’s operations may grind to a halt should the strike continue.
The situation will have an adverse effect on Ghana’s campaign for clean energy. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Roads is expected to engage the leadership of the National Tankers Drivers’ Union today to address their grievances.
Source: The Independent Ghana | Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey
American singer-songwriter, Madonna, has rescheduled her world tour following her hospitalization in the intensive care unit (ICU) for a severe bacterial infection.
Her manager, Guy Oseary, confirmed that the infection was serious, resulting in a multi-day stay in the ICU. However, he reassured fans that Madonna is expected to fully recover.
In a statement, Oseary stated that while Madonna’s health is improving, she is still receiving medical care.
The 64-year-old pop icon had been preparing to kick off her 84-date tour next month, which was intended to commemorate the 40th anniversary of her breakout single, “Holiday.”
Reports indicate that Madonna is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in New York City, and her tour plans have been put on hold.
The Celebration Tour was set to mark her return to arenas and stadiums after her previous theater-based Madame X shows in 2019 and 2020, some of which were canceled due to the artist’s knee and hip injuries.
“Sorry I had to cancel tonight,” the star wrote on Instagram after cancelling a 2020 performance in Lisbon, “but I must listen to my body and rest!”
Madonna’s latest tour was due to start in Vancouver, Canada, on 15 July and end on 30 January in Mexico City.
But the singer-songwriter’s manager said Madonna developed a “serious bacterial infection” on Saturday 24 June and all commitments would need to be paused as a result.
She was due to begin the UK and Europe portion of her tour on 14 October, scheduled to begin and end at London’s O2 Arena.
Image caption,Madonna celebrated the 2022 release of her compilation album at a roller disco in New York
In announcing the tour back in January, she told fans: “I am excited to explore as many songs as possible in hopes to give my fans the show they have been waiting for.”
Madonna’s greatest hits span several decades – including Into The Groove (1985), Like A Prayer (1989), to Vogue (1990) and Hung Up (2005) to name a few.
It is likely that Madonna – who is intensely private about health matters – was in the final stages of a rehearsal regime in preparation for the tour.
In 2009, she was awarded a Guinness World Record for the highest-grossing music tour by a female artist after completing her Sticky & Sweet Tour.
American magazine Forbes lists her as the 45th richest self-made woman in the US with an estimated wealth of $580m (£460m) and says she has earned an estimated $1.2bn from tours.
She has six children. Last week, she posted to her 18.9m Instagram followers to congratulate her twin 10-year-old daughters for completing elementary school.
Madonna Louise Ciccone grew up in the city of Detroit, Michigan. In 1978, she moved to New York to pursue a career in dance and music.
Earlier this year, her older brother Anthony Ciccone died aged 66 after struggling with alcoholism and homelessness.
A total of 88 hospitals are under government’s Agenda 111 programme are currently under construction, according to Information Minister, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah.
Mr Kojo-Oppong Nkrumah provided updates on the Agenda 111 programme which is to see the construction of 111 health facilities during a press briefing in Trede, Ashanti Region, on Thursday, June 29, where the project was launched two years ago.
“The brief I have is that 88 are currently under construction and it is grouped into eight zones and in those eight zones, you will find 54 projects. We have visited 33 sites so far and we thought that coming to Trede, where it all began, it is important to showcase from Trede all that has gone on so far.”
“We have also provided you with the reports of the sites that we have visited so far, the majority of them that are doing well, the few of them that are behind schedule,” he said.
Mr Oppong-Nkrumah stated that some of the hospitals which are behind schedule have been terminated.
During the launch of the Agenda 111 programme on August 17, 2021, President Akufo-Addo vowed to complete work within 18 months, but government has failed to fulfil its promise due to challenges in acquiring land for construction, among others.
This has led to doubts about the government’s commitment to the projects, however, the government remains confident that all the hospitals will be completed before the end of President Akufo-Addo’s second term.
Also addressing the press, the Presidential advisor on health, Dr. Anthony Nsiah Asare, assured that there is sufficient funding available for the completion of the project.
Government secured US$100 million start-up fund through the Ghana Investment Infrastructure Fund (GIIF) for the commencement of works on ‘Agenda 111’ district, specialised and regional hospitals across the country.
Dr Nsiah Asare reiterated the benefits of the programme, which include more health facilities, creation of employment opportunities for nurses which will contribute to the overall economic growth of Ghana.
Source: The Independent Ghana | Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey
The ongoing drama between Yvonne Nelson and Sarkodie seems to be reaching new heights, captivating fans and onlookers alike.
Yvonne Nelson has now taken a stand against Sarkodie’s alleged insinuations in his latest song, which appear to reference her recently released memoir, “I Am Not Yvonne Nelson.”
She wrote that Sarkodie drove her to an abortion clinic and encouraged her to terminate the pregnancy because he was in a serious relationship with another woman who would later become his wife.
She also claimed that he was not supportive of her decision and that he did not believe that she was pregnant in the first place.
Sarkodie is a popular Ghanaian rapper
“I had gone for a pregnancy test to confirm what becomes the obvious conclusion for a sexually active young woman who missed her monthly flow. I was in the company of Karen. And when the test result was ready, I wasn’t strong enough to open it. She did and declared the verdict,” she wrote in Chapter 8 titled ‘Abortion’.
“On an ordinary day, I would have laughed out loud and that would trigger a string of jolly conversations and jokes. But this was no laughing matter. It was a grim piece of information that was capable of turning my world upside down. I wasn’t the only one responsible for the situation, so I called the man whose potent seed had germinated in me. His name is Michael Owusu Addo, a renowned Ghanaian musician who is better known as Sarkodie.”
Her revelations sparked a lot of reactions from fans of both celebrities. Some were sceptical and thought it was a publicity stunt to boost her book sales, while others were sympathetic and blamed Sarkodie for being insensitive and irresponsible.
Sarkodie, who is known for being silent on controversies, surprised many when he released a song 11 days after the book launch that seemingly responds to Yvonne Nelson’s allegations.
The song, titled “Try Me”, features some lyrics that hint at their past relationship and dispute some of her claims.
He rapped: “First few hours heard the book is doing well. Who is really shocked Cos everybody can tell. So it’s not because your book is really good but we living in a world where negativity sells. I pray you get the healing that you need. M3n be claimi good girl, you are for the streets. Strategy na hot obaahemaa gye wo 2. Meaa ma gye one copy sharp I’m about to read.”
He also denied that he pushed her for an abortion and said that he told her to keep the baby but she refused.
“Yes I wasn’t ready but then I told you to keep it. Wo kyer3 me s3 wo school na wo ko gotto complete it. To be very honest till today I don’t believe it .Cos me kaas3 Meaa me doctor Mb3 wh3 wo you said you don’t need it. After conversation naa then you sent me a text. S3 wadanfo bi wo doctor bi hut you know he’s the best. So don’t you make it seem like I was the one pushing you for abortion. Cos that b the only part wey make I vex.”
Ghanaian Actress, Yvonne Nelson
Yvonne Nelson, who was not amused by Sarkodie’s song, took to Twitter to clap back at him and defend herself.
She wrote: “Michael , you claim I was desperate to abort because I needed to complete school….would you have readily agreed for me to keep a pregnancy when you were in a serious relationship with another lady who would become your wife? Your street line is played out.”
And would you have readily agreed for me to keep a pregnancy when you were in a serious relationship with another lady who would become your wife? Your street line is played out.. #thetruthsetsyoufree#theyouthislearning
The drama between the two stars has left many wondering what will happen next and how this will affect Sarkodie’s family, especially his wife and two children.
A Presidential hopeful for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, has emphasized the importance of Ghana having a leader who embodies the Christian faith in Ghana’s development.
According to Mr Kyerematen, popularly referred to as “Alan Cash”, it is not enough for a president to merely identify as a Christian in name.
Instead, he believes that the country needs a leader who will demonstrate the qualities and values exhibited by Jesus Christ, the Lord and Saviour of Christians.
During the ‘Mpaebo Kesie’ prayer session organized by the Parliament Chapel International (PCI) on June 28, 2023, Kyerematen expressed his belief that Ghana’s progress and development will be significantly enhanced with a leader who is guided by Christian principles.
“When I was starting (my presidential bid) I called all the church leaders for a breakfast meeting. After that, I also did a thanksgiving service.
“… I did this because I have come to realise that Ghana needs not just a Christian leader but a Christ-like leader. There is a difference between a Christian leader and a Christ-like leader,” he said.
He therefore entreated electorates to assign a Christ-like individual the role of governing the country in the 2024 general elections.
Security expert and safety analyst, Adam Bonah, has expressed concerns over the possibility of violence during the 2024 elections if adequate security measures are not put in place.
Mr Bonah emphasized the need for the government to prioritize election security as a means to prevent potential bloodshed.
In an interview with GhanaWeb’s George Ayisi, Mr Bonah highlighted the intense rivalry between Ghana’s two main political parties, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), as a significant factor contributing to the tense atmosphere in the country.
He further emphasized that the discontent among a section of Ghanaians regarding the state of the economy has added to the gravity of the situation.
Mr Bonah noted that the president himself has acknowledged the dissatisfaction with the country’s economic performance. He believes that these factors, combined with heightened political tensions, have raised concerns about the potential for violence during the upcoming 2024 electoral process.
“This election (Assin North) is a precursor to 2024 if measures are not put in place, 2024 elections will be bloody, as for that I want to repeat it, if measures are not put in place 2024 elections will be bloody.
“If the executives led by the president, does not resource the security agencies led by the police to make sure that things are in order…you know the right resources are given to them to police 2024 elections, I am telling you that 2024 will be bloody, and my reason is that …you have the NPP who wants to break the 8, you have the NDC who also says that you have done enough, you have a section of Ghanaians saying that the economy hasn’t been good of which the president himself has admitted, so it tells you that all is not well.”
He then called on the government to prioritize the security of the nation and provide the security agencies with the necessary resources.
He emphasized that the police must be adequately equipped to handle any potential threats and ensure a safe and peaceful voting environment.
A third-year Real Estate female student was found dead on June 28, at the Ultimate Hostel, Bomso, where she resided. Her demise was announced on KNUST’s Twitter page.
Per the announcement, her colleagues had cause to worry after they received a message that read “I Quit” from her.
They then prompted the hostel authorities who broke into her room and found her lying unconscious.
📍📍BREAKING NEWS📍📍
Sad News Hits KNUST as a Third-Year Female Real Estate student passes on at Ultimate Hostel, Bomso.
The student is said to have been found dead after her room was broken into and the last message she sent to a close friend is said to have read “I Quit”💔🕊️
The number of death cases recorded by KNUST raises several concerns. While some of the incidents have been accidental, others have been deemed to be deliberate.
In February this year, a second year Industrial Arts student fell from the third floor of a private hostel at Bomso in Kumasi.
In April 2022, level 200 student with the Biological Science department was killed his friend at Sewua in an attempt to avoid payment of GH¢300 debt.
Source: The Independent Ghana | Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey
MP-elect for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson will be sworn in today in Parliament following the just-ended by-election.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban S.K. Bagbin, disclosed the information to the media during a visit to the office of Graphic Communications Group Limted (GCGL) to meet with management and the editorial staff.
Parliament resumes sitting today after the abrupt end of proceedings on Tuesday due to the Assin North by-election.
Gyakye Quayson is expected to proceed to Parliament after first appearing in court for the perjury and forgery case against him over his participation in the 2020 Assin North parliamentary election.
Mr Gyakye Quayson on Tuesday, June 27, beat his closest contender, Charles Opoku of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Assin North by-election by obtaining 17,245 votes out of the total valid votes of 29,962, representing 57.56 per cent.
Mr Charles Opoku, on the other hand, garnered 12,630 of the votes cast, representing 42.17 per cent while Bernice Enyonam Sefenu of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) secured 87 votes.
Tuesday’s election was marked by electoral malpractices such as bribery and vote-buying, as well as the arrest of some recalcitrant who posed as security officers.
Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo has congratulated the opposition National Democratic Congress for their victory in the just-ended election.
He however entreated the supporters of the NPP not to lose hope despite their defeat.
“I urge members of my party, the New Patriotic Party, to keep their heads up, recognising that, in a democracy, there are winners and losers, and that we live to fight another day. We once held the Assin North seat, and I am confident that, sooner rather than later, Assin North will be blue again,” he wrote in his message.
Source: The Independent Ghana | Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey
President Akufo-Addo has congratulated the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for their victory in the just-ended Assin North by-election.
The NDC’s Gyakye Quayson on Tuesday, June 27, beat his closest contender, Charles Opoku of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Assin North by-election by obtaining 17,245 votes out of the total valid votes of 29,962, representing 57.56 per cent.
Mr Charles Opoku, on the other hand, garnered 12,630 of the votes cast, representing 42.17 per cent while Bernice Enyonam Sefenu of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) secured 87 votes.
Despite the defeat, President Akufo-Addo urged the rank and file of the ruling New Patriotic Party “to keep their heads up.”
He highlighted that in a democratic government there are winners and losers. The President however entreated NPP supporters not to lose hope as “we live to fight another day.”
“We once held the Assin North seat, and I am confident that, sooner rather than later, Assin North will be blue again,” he added.
Yesterday, Tuesday, 27th June 2023, Ghana’s democratic credentials were strengthened even further, following the conduct of peaceful and credible elections in the Assin North by-election.
I congratulate warmly the Chairperson and Members of the Electoral Commission, again, for… pic.twitter.com/4uSCpGNHWQ
Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo has described the just-ended by election as peaceful and credible. He praised the Electoral Commission (EC) and the Ghana Police Service for a job well-done.
“The security services are to be commended for maintaining law and order during the holding of the elections; as is the media for providing extensive coverage before, during and after the elections,” he wrote.
Source: The Independent Ghana | Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey
Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has attributed the ongoing debt crisis in the country’s energy sector to mismanagement by the government.
He expressed concern that this mismanagement could lead to an energy crisis with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) already demanding substantial payments owed to them.
Mr. Dafeamekpor emphasized that the operations of IPPs are financially demanding, and they require timely payments to sustain their operations. The failure to settle these debts puts the viability of these power producers at risk.
“Where we are, the government has mismanaged the energy sector and running us into a crisis if we’re not careful. So I’m not surprised that the IPPs are demanding blood.
“They need these payments. If you look at the nature of their operations, the operations are very cost intensive. So they need these monies,” he said on JoyNews’ AM show on Thursday.
The politician expressed that the economy the current government inherited from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is one that could have seen their progress doubled in the present year if they had followed the trajectory.
According to him, the blame on the Covid-19 pandemic for the economic challenges extending to the energy sector is not substantial.
This, he expressed is because, in the wake of the pandemic, the government received huge sums of “free monies” from international bodies. “So how did you expend it?” he questioned.
The IPPs are threatening to cut power supply to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) should the debt owed them not be paid. Should this happen, many companies, businesses, and government institutions could cease operations.
Government owes these power producers about $1.5 billion, an amount accumulated between January 2022 and March 2023.
Meanwhile, the IPPs have said that government should at least by July 1, pay 30% of the total debt in order to avoid power outages.
Ministry of Finance and the African Development Bank (AfDB) are set to provide Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) with a grant worth $31.34 million to cater for its operations across the country.
The ADB is donating a $28.5 million grant with the government coming in with $2.84 million. The funding aims to enhance women’s access to credit, financial literacy, and information sharing, particularly focusing on women-led Micro, Small, and Medium-Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) which will also strengthen MASLOC’s activities and help fulfill its mandate of providing micro loans to SMEs in the country.
The facility will provide affordable interest rates of 12% per annum under its project dubbed ‘post-Covid-19 Skills Development and Productivity Enhancement Project’ (PSDPEP). It will be implemented in seven regions of the country namely Greater Accra, Ashanti, Eastern, Bono, Northern, Central and Upper West.
With this funding, MASLOC is set to complete its loan management software (LMS), training and capacity building of over 550 staff members, and networking of all regional and district offices with the Head Office.
As part of government’s digitalization drive, a robust digital infrastructure that streamlines loan applications, processing, disbursements, and recoveries will be set up by MASLOC to create around 20,000 indirect jobs through skills training, self-employment opportunities, and improved access to credit facilities.
The project comprises three components: skills development in higher education for strengthening the health sector, rebuilding youth and women’s livelihoods through entrepreneurship and job creation, and project management.
The implementation of the project involves institutions such as the Social Investment Fund (SIF), Ghana News Agency (GNA), University of Ghana (UoG), and the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre.
Source: The Independent Ghana | Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey
The Pensioner Bondholders Forum has decided to suspend its planned picketing at the Finance Ministry in light of the government’s resumption of coupon payments on June 27.
The forum had initiated the picketing on June 22 to demand the payment of seven outstanding coupons, which the government has now started to address.
The pensioner bondholders in a statement expressed their appreciation for the government’s commitment and therefore suspended their scheduled protest on June 29.
However, they cautioned that if the government fails to consistently pay the remaining coupons due in July 2023, they will resume their picketing at the Finance Ministry.
The Pensioner Bondholders Forum commenced their protests earlier this year after the government included them in the controversial Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).
This programme was a prerequisite to secure a $3 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund. Following pressure from various affected groups, including the pensioner bondholders forum, the government eventually exempted the pensioners from the program.
However, there have been multiple instances of the government defaulting on the payment of matured coupons, leading to the ongoing protests.
A 17-year-old driver, identified as Nahel M., was initially pulled over by two policemen in France on Tuesday for violating traffic regulations, according to prosecutors’ statement.
Initially, the police claimed that one officer had fired at the teenager because the car was being driven towards him. However, this narrative was contradicted by a video that surfaced on social media and was authenticated by AFP.
The video shows the two policemen standing next to the stationary car, with one officer pointing a weapon at the driver. A voice can be heard saying, “You are going to get a bullet in the head.”
At point-blank range, the police officer appears to shoot at the driver as the car abruptly drives off, moving a few dozen meters before crashing.
On voit bien qu’ils lui ont administré des coups de crosse au ralenti tu m’étonnes qu’il fuit face à la violence des actes + paroles #Nahel#nanterrepic.twitter.com/ed3iKer2Ea
The driver succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter. The 38-year-old policeman responsible for the fatal shot has been placed in custody and is currently under investigation for voluntary manslaughter.
Regarding the incident, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed on Wednesday that the shooting was “inexplicable” and “unforgivable.”
“Nothing can justify the death of a young person,” said Macron on the third day of a visit to Marseille.
Macron said the incident had “moved the entire nation”.
Nahel M.’s lawyer, Yassine Bouzrou, said he would file a legal complaint against the policeman for voluntary manslaughter and against his colleague for complicity in the shooting.
Bouzrou also said he would file a complaint against the policemen for giving false testimony for claiming that Nahel M. had tried to run them over.
There were two passengers in the car at the time of the shooting. One ran off and the other, also a teenager, was briefly detained.
Protests erupt
News of the incident sparked protests in Nanterre, a western Paris suburb. Bins were set alight and a fire broke out at a music school while police tried to disperse the protesters with teargas. Protests then spread to neighbouring suburbs.
Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin said Wednesday that 31 people had been arrested overnight, 24 police were slightly injured and around 40 cars torched.
Celebrities and politicians voiced outrage at the shooting. Initial reports referred to the victim as Naël.
“I am hurting for my France,” tweeted Kylian Mbappé, captain of the French men’s national football team and star player at Paris Saint-Germain.
“An unacceptable situation. All my thoughts go to the friends and family of Naël, that little angel who left us far too soon,” Mbappé said.
J’ai mal à ma France. 💙🤍💔💔💔 Une situation inacceptable. Tout mes pensées vont pour la famille et les proches de Naël, ce petit ange parti beaucoup trop tôt.
Actor Omar Sy, famous for his role in the film “The Intouchables” and the “Lupin” TV show, said on Twitter: “I hope that justice worthy of the name will honour the memory of this child.”
Interior Minister Darmanin – who has previously backed the police in similar situations – called the video footage “extremely shocking” in parliament.
He said Wednesday that the officer would be suspended “if the charges against him are upheld”.
He also announced that 2,000 police would be deployed to deal with any further violence later in the day.
A former Rwandan police officer, Philippe Hategekimana, has been sentenced to life imprisonment by a court in France.
He was found guilty of genocide and crimes against humanity committed during the 1994 Rwandan genocide, where Hutu militias massacred hundreds of thousands of Tutsis and moderate Hutus.
Prosecutors presented evidence showing Hategekimana’s significant involvement in the killings, both through direct acts of murder and by inciting others to commit atrocities.
After the genocide, Hategekimana, who held a senior position as a gendarme in Nyanza, a town in southern Rwanda, fled to France. He obtained refugee status and later acquired French nationality under the name Philippe Manier.
He worked as a security guard at a university in France until 2017 when he fled to Cameroon upon learning that a complaint had been filed against him. He was arrested in Yaoundé and extradited to France the following year to face trial.
This trial marked the fifth instance in France where an alleged participant in the Rwandan genocide was prosecuted.
The genocide, which lasted for 100 days in 1994, resulted in the killings of approximately 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus.
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has suspended the forex licences of Fidelity Bank Ghana Limited and First National Bank Ghana Limited for violating the rules of the Ghana Interbank Forex Market.
The two banks will not be able to engage in any forex transactions from 29th June 2023 to 28th July 2023, according to a press statement signed by Sandra Thompson, the Secretary of the BoG.
They have also been fined 1000 penalty points each, for breaching sections 3.4, 3.5, and 3.9 of the Ghana Interbank Forex Market Conduct.
Section 3.4 indicates that LFXDs are required to update indicative quotes for buying and selling US dollars at regular intervals, on the Reuters and Bloomberg information systems. Indicative quotes shall be updated at intervals of no more than 30 minutes. (This will show the price at which a market-maker is prepared to buy and sell at the minimum traded lots).
Trade Reporting on Platforms captured in 3.5 requires that all interbank FX trades must be booked on the Reuters platform and appropriately confirmed within five (5) minutes after the trade is concluded. These trades must also be reported in the daily FX report submitted to the Bank of Ghana.
Section 3.9 on the other hand, mandates the Bank of Ghana to publish the Ghana Cedi reference rate with respect to the US dollar on the Bank of Ghana website by 16:30 hours GMT daily except on holidays.
“The reference rate shall be computed using the weighted average exchange rate of all eligible US dollar transactions that are reported to the Bank of Ghana by the cut-off time of 15:30 hours GMT. The Bid and Offer reference rates are calculated by taking a +/- 0.05% bid/ask spread around the weighted average exchange rate. The reference rate will also be published on Reuters and Bloomberg by 16.30 hours GMT,” it adds.
Fines and Suspension of Forex Licences of Fidelity Bank Ghana Limited and First National Bank Ghana Limited pic.twitter.com/WjGVpIeDme
Meanwhile, the Central Bank has cautioned forex market players including banks, forex bureaus, forex brokers, and money transfer operators (MTOS) to adhere strictly to the applicable forex market regulations and guidelines.
The BoG is the regulator and supervisor of the banking and non-banking financial institutions in Ghana. It is also responsible for ensuring the stability and soundness of the financial system. The BoG has recently clamped down on forex activities in the country to curb illegal transactions and protect the local currency.
In May 2023, the BoG revoked the licences of five forex bureaus for various offences including operating without authorisation, failure to comply with anti-money laundering requirements, and falsification of documents. The affected forex bureaus were Ocean Drive Forex Bureau, Kafsons Forex Bureau, Fatcoms Forex Bureau, Nabrim Forex Bureau and Sears Forex Bureau.
The Ministry of Roads and Highways has scheduled a meeting with the aggrieved National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union today.
The purpose of the meeting is to address the ongoing issues arising from the union’s indefinite strike, which began on Monday, June 26.
The strike was initiated due to the poor condition of roads leading to depots in Takoradi, Tema, and Kumasi, managed by the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company Limited (BOST).
Although the government has assured that the roads will be repaired, the drivers remain steadfast in their stance, asserting that they will not resume work until the deteriorating roads are restored to a satisfactory state.
Sunday Alabi, Vice Chairman of the Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union, emphasized in an interview with Citi News that the safety of their members is of utmost importance, further underlining their insistence on road improvements before returning to their posts.
“In this situation, there is nothing we can do because we are rather helping the government not to incur any debts again. But as we speak our safety is the most important, so we want to hold it in our own hands. That is why we want it to be fixed before we continue the work in this situation,” he is quoted by citinewsroom.com.
Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, has reiterated calls for support for global financial system reform as advanced by the V20 Group of Finance Ministers of the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF) through the recently launched Accra-to-Marrakech Agenda.
Speaking at a summit organized by the French government on the New Global Financing Pact in France on June 25, Mr Ofori-Atta noted that “it is Important to develop powerful coalitions that are willing to fight for our common humanity as we coordinate our efforts to respond positively to the need for the development of a fit-for-climate global financial system.”
The review, the Minister noted, could revolutionize how countries who were in debt due to their efforts to rebuild after climate events had wrought devastation in their economies or countries that were seeking funds to build resilience and adapt to the ongoing climate events could be supported.
Mr Ofori-Atta, who represented Ghana, the Chair of the V20, called for “the kind of leadership the world saw that led to the abolishment of apartheid, the drive behind the civil rights movement and the development of the Bretton Woods institutions”.
The French government organized a summit on the New Global Financing Pact in order to facilitate the resolution of global challenges like global warming, loss of biodiversity, debt, pandemics, and the return of extreme poverty since the current state of cooperation between states has been satisfactory.
The summit brought together heads of state and government, leaders of major international organizations, representatives of global financial institutions, and private sector and civil society representatives.
Very engaging panel by the @V20Group on the sides of the #ParisSummit. Leadership of today has to develop enlightened self interest to ensure that the world speeds up towards action & real solutions, for a global financial architecture that works for climate vulnerable countries. pic.twitter.com/AUjxkkLDk5
— Office of the Finance Minister-Ghana (@oofmghana) June 25, 2023
The discussions over the two-day period centred on addressing the financing required to meet the global challenges and to build solidarity amongst countries and all the critical stakeholders as governments work in solidarity towards a just green transition exploring a change of scale and methods.
Representing the Government of Ghana were the President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Minister for Finance, Hon. Ken Ofori-Atta and Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Kwaku Afriyie.
The V20 Group is a dedicated cooperation initiative of economies systematically vulnerable to climate change.
The V20 membership stands at 58 countries representing some 1.5 billion people from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Barbados, Benin, Bhutan, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Chad, Colombia, Comoros, Costa Rica, Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominican Republic, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Fiji, The Gambia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Guyana, Haiti.
The remaining countries are: Honduras, Kenya, Kiribati, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mongolia, Morocco, Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Palau, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Rwanda, Saint Lucia, Samoa, Senegal, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Tunisia, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Viet Nam, and Yemen.
A presiding officer of the Electoral Commission (EC) has been caught engaging in electoral malpractice in his line of work during the Assin North by-election on Tuesday.
He is believed to have been found out by an agent in his attempt to bribe an officer of the Ghana Police Service.
In a viral video on Twitter, the male EC officer attempted to take back his cash believed to be in GHS5 notes.
But he was compelled to complete the task and hand over the money to the security officer. In the said footage, the culprit was asked to sit for interrogation.
Things are happening in the Assin North by-election.
An Electoral Commission Presiding officer who was bribed has been caught by the Police. pic.twitter.com/UwOdY03boI
Unfortunately, several electoral malpractices and other crimes have been uncovered in Assin North today.
There was buying of votes by both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and National Democratic Congress (NDC). Also, some individuals have been arrested for posing as security personnel.
Some bigwigs of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) are displeased with the arrest of some party faithful at Assin North in the ongoing by-election.
The party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua (JFK), Deputy Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin and private legal practitioner, Gabby Otchere-Darko argued with the police over the arrest of a party agent and three supporters.
It is yet to be established the reason for the arrest but in a video circulating on social media, one of the police officers noted that “We are very busy, trying to ensure that there is law and order for this operation.”
In response, the NPP’s General Secretary argued that the Police are not being fair as “it is going against our people.”
Mr Justin Frimpong Kodua also suspects foul play as he believes “all this tension is happening in the stronghold of the NPP”.
The npp leadership and members are arguing over the arrest of their thugs/ members yet they earlier said the NDC is lying that those arrested are npp thugs/members. *Oh did I see Gabby Okyere Darko, Hon Markins Afenyo, etc arguing with the police for the arrest of the npp thugs?* pic.twitter.com/QqES0HEWEL
Two executives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) were attacked on Tuesday in Assin Praso amidst the Assin North by-election.
Per reports, NDC Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, and his deputy, Malik Basintale were victims of an attack allegedly orchestrated by members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In a viral video on social media, the vehicle said to be that of Sammy Gyamfi’s had its rear window damaged in what looked like a gunshot. Mr Malik Basintale’s vehicle was in a far more devastating state.
As usual they are on a attacking spree because they know they are losing.. Sammy Gyamfi, George Opare Addo and Malik Basintale entourage are victims of their attacks.. NPP never again pic.twitter.com/MMaD3glhtF
— John Mahama Is The Solution❤️🇦🇪 (@Royal1Kingly) June 27, 2023
The Assin North by-election has not been devoid of violence and indiscipline by some electorates.
Two individuals who posed as a security personnel have been apprehended.
Founder and leader of Glorious Word and Power Ministry International, Prophet Isaac Owusu Bempah, has distanced himself from a leaked audio tape that implicates him and President Akufo-Addo of Ghana in a murder conspiracy.
In mid-June, a social media audio tape surfaced, allegedly featuring Prophet Owusu Bempah’s voice, making damning revelations about President Akufo-Addo, the 2016 general elections, and issuing a strong warning to Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.
The audio tape claimed that some people died or suffered accidents and amputations as part of a deliberate plot for President Akufo-Addo to assume power.
“Let him know that if it wasn’t for me Akufo-Addo couldn’t have become president. Tell him because Akufo-Addo became president, someone’s leg has been amputated… Someone’s car somersaulted on Tema Motorway, ask him if the time I met with Akufo-Addo he was there. Ask him if he knows the relationship I have with Akufo-Addo.
“Because of Akufo-Addo, a young guy named Albert who gathered NPP supporters to approach me had his car somersaulted on the Tema Motorway. It was so severe that they had to cut the car before retrieving his body,” a part of the audio said.
Addressing the Tema Motorway incident, Prophet Isaac Owusu Bempah in his latest sermon, described the claim as spurious.
The man of God stated that “The part of the audio that indicated that I took President Akufo-Addo to Tema to kill someone is false. It is not my voice.”
Prophet Isaac Owusu Bempah, however, acknowledged that “I was the one who made the remarks regarding the IGP.”
In the said audio tape, Prophet Owusu Bempah noted that Dr Akuffo Dampare would deeply regret assuming the position of IGP and hinted at retaliating for the alleged mistreatment during his arrest and an alleged plot to assassinate him.
“Let him know that the two of us cannot be contained in Ghana. And tell him that I will show him that I made Akufo-Addo a sitting president before he was appointed as the IGP. Also, inform him that he cannot kill me or harm me in any way. Let him joke around, and he will see what I am capable of.”
“Tell him that I will never forgive him on this earth… the way he and Victor Kusi Boateng were coming to kill me in Kumasi. I have all the information. So, I am giving you this message. Inform him that I have already told Ernest Owusu Bempah and Chairman Wontumi. Chairman Wontumi doesn’t even pick up my calls. If you don’t pass on this message to Dampare, I will be disappointed in you. Tell Dampare that he will regret his position as IGP,” he added.
Background
Reverend Isaac Owusu Bempah was arrested on September 12, 2021, with four accomplices by the Ghana Police Service.
He was arrested for allegedly storming the home of converted fetish priestess Nana Agradaa, now referred to as Evangelist Patricia.
He was charged with offensive conduct conducive to breach of peace, threat of death, and assault of public officers.
He was later granted a GH¢200,000 bail on health grounds on September 15, 2021, with two sureties.
The Ghana Water Company Ltd’s Water (GWCL) Treatment plant in Bonsa, located in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality, has been impacted by a flood, resulting in water shortages in various parts of the Tarkwa township.
Persistent heavy rainfall has caused flooding in the Bonsa community, leading to the displacement of approximately forty households and the collapse of numerous houses, rendering people homeless.
The entire Bonsa highway has been inundated with floodwater. With the assistance of local youth, drivers cautiously navigate through the flooded road to avoid getting stuck, offering a token of appreciation to the boys for their help.
The flood has affected the water treatment plant responsible for providing water to Tarkwa and surrounding areas, which has resulted in a disruption of water supply to several communities in the Tarkwa township.
Communities affected by the water shortage include Bonsa, Ahwetieso, Akyempim, Bankyim, Jerusalem, Tamso, and others.
In an interview, Wisdom Doe Akoto, the Tarkwa District Manager of the Ghana Water Company, explained the significance of a pump house located near the river. This pump draws water to the treatment plant for purification before distribution to consumers.
Mr. Akoto emphasized the importance of the pump in the water distribution system, noting that its damage would have significant consequences for the company and consumers. To prevent further damage, the pump was removed from its location.
He assured that once the flood subsides, the pump will be reconnected, and water distribution to the affected communities will resume.
The leader of Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Muhammad Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), has declared a unilateral ceasefire in the conflict with the Sudanese army.
The ceasefire is scheduled to begin today, coinciding with the Muslim holiday of Eid-al-Adha, which starts on Wednesday.
In an audio recording broadcast on Al Arabiya television, Hemedti announced the temporary pause in the conflict, stating that it would be in effect on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Notably, Hemedti also expressed condemnation for the abuses committed against civilians, including those carried out by his own forces.
The RSF has faced accusations of involvement in violations in the Darfur region.
Preparations are currently underway for Wagner, a private military company, to hand over its heavy military equipment, as stated by Russia’s defense ministry. This comes in the aftermath of a failed rebellion that took place on Saturday.
Russian media reports indicate that the Federal Security Service (FSB) has closed the criminal case against the mutineers from Wagner.
Fighters associated with Wagner have been given three options: they can choose to join the Russian military, return to their families, or relocate to Belarus.
During an address to military personnel on Tuesday, President Putin praised their efforts in “halting a civil war” and called for a minute of silence to honor pilots who lost their lives in clashes with Wagner troops.
Wagner’s leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, stated on Monday that the short-lived rebellion was in response to government plans to assume direct control over the mercenary group. He later agreed to leave Russia for Belarus after calling off his troops. On Tuesday, a plane connected to Prigozhin landed in the capital city of Minsk.
Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, also in Minsk, described the mutiny as “painful to watch” and stated that he had ordered his country’s army to be “combat ready” during the incident.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that the counter-offensive had made progress on all fronts.
Peaceful voting at Assin Bereku in the Assin North Constituency nearly got marred due to a melee between two electorates from the major political parties, New Patriotic Party (NPP) and National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Per reports, the two men got into a heated argument over vote-buying said to be happening at the voting ground.
In a viral video on social media, a man in black attacked and electorate in a red shirt with a stick. In retaliation, the man in red picked up a brick to launch his attack.
But for the timely intervention of a police officer and some other voters, a bloody election process was forestalled.
Meanwhile, voting continues in Assin North to elect an MP. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, Charles Opoku, is number one on the ballot paper, with the Liberal Party of Ghana’s (LPG) candidate, Bernice Enyonam Sefenu, occupying the second position on the ballot and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, James Gyakye Quayson, on number three.
The Prosecution in the Saglemi Housing trial involving Alhaji Collins Dauda, a former Minister of Water Resources, Works, and Housing, along with four other individuals, plans to present five witnesses to testify in the case.
The expected duration of their evidence, including cross-examination by the defense, is estimated to be 1,952 hours.
Justice Ernest Owusu Dapaah, a Justice of the Court of Appeal serving as an additional High Court judge, announced this following the completion of the Case Management Conference (CMC) and Case completion plan. The trial is scheduled to commence on July 10, 2023, with proceedings taking place on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.
The other accused persons in the case are Dr. Kwaku Agyeman-Mensah, also a former Minister of Water Resources, Works, and Housing, Alhaji Ziblim Yakubu, a former Chief Director, Mr. Andrew Clocanas, Executive Chairman of Construtora OAS Ghana Limited (4th Accused), and Nouvi Tetteh Angelo, Chief Executive Officer and owner of Ridge Management Solutions Ghana Limited (5th Accused).
They are facing a total of 70 charges related to the Saglemi Affordable Housing Project. All of the accused have pleaded not guilty and have been granted bail.
The charges against them include willfully causing financial loss to the state, amounting to over $200 million, which was approved for the project.
Madam Hilda Craig, the Principal State Attorney, informed the Court that the first witness would submit 113 documents as evidence on behalf of the prosecution. Rev. Osei, who is expected to provide evidence for about an hour and a half, will undergo cross-examination by the defense counsel, which is estimated to take over 720 hours.
Mr. Eric Amankwah Junior, an Officer of the Ministry of Finance, will be the second prosecution witness and is expected to present 31 documents as evidence, requiring approximately an hour and a half.
The Defense has indicated that they will need over 50 hours to cross-examine the witnesses.
Other prosecution witnesses are Ms. Lucy Tetteh Akuetteh from Bank of Ghana, who is expected to tender in evidence six documents, and would be cross examined for an estimated 45 hours.
Meanwhile Kofi Ohene Oyirebi, the fourth prosecution witness, is estimated to use an hour and would tender a report.
He will also face an estimated 87 hours of Cross-examination from the Defence lawyers.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Charles Nyarko, the investigator in the case, will testify for hours and would be subjected to a cross examination for about 170 hours.
Investigative journalist with The Fourth Estate, Manasseh Azure Awuni, has slammed a colleague in the media industry, Paul Adom-Otchere, for spreading spurious remarks with regards to his departure from Multimedia Group Limited.
In 2019, Mr Azure Awuni parted ways with the Kokomlemle-based media house and due to the lack of sufficient reasons for the decision, speculations were birthed. This was shortly after Mr Azure produced a documentary titled ‘Militia in the Heart of the Nation’ which the National Media Commission, in its ruling following a complaint by government, described as sensational, unethical and misrepresentation of facts.
Ghanaian broadcast journalist and the host of Good Evening Ghana, Paul Adom-Otchere, matter, pinned the blame on Manasseh, accusing him of being a quack media practitioner, hence his sacking.
“He (Manasseh) doesn’t put across any story unless there is whispering, there is some gossip. That is not what journalists do. There are so many things happening. So many analysis that a journalist can put across. Those of us who build news programs every day, those who are reading news on Joy FM, every hour they have to do the news, if they were just waiting for whispering and gossip, will they have work to do? That is why they sacked him. That is why he lost his job because this is the kind of journalism he was doing.”
“He doesn’t have any analysis to present, he doesn’t have any real things to look at. He is not doing anything intellectual. His cameras are gone off so he is sitting down and he is waiting for whisperings before he can write a story. He has not written a story forever. His first story is whisperings we need to pray for this guy because he has too much hatred within him. He has too much bitterness from his exit from Multimedia. He thinks everyone is responsible for it. You put out your work, your work goes to the National Media Commission, NMC ruled against you because you did a bogus documentary animated by hatred,” Mr Adom-Otchere said in 2021.
Two years later, Multimedia Group Limited on June 20, clarified that Manasseh was not sacked from the company.
“He resigned of his own accord at the end of July 2019 after serving the necessary notice and going through all exit protocols per company policy,” a statement from the media house explained.
Following the elucidation, Mr Manasseh Azure in a Facebook post on June 26, called out Paul Adom-Otchere for being a liar.
He jeered Mr Adom-Otchere for being unable to realise that “The Multimedia Group would not dismiss a journalist for unethical works and still work closely with him, publishing his freelance stories and his works as the leader of The Fourth Estate.”
“I know you’re intelligent enough to know this,” he added.
Since Mr Paul Adom Otchere informed a pool of audience of what has now been described as a lie, the victim, Mr Azure, has entreated him to share the company’s letter with those “who may not have the benefit of knowing what you know.”
“And after sharing this letter with them, you may proceed to tell them every day that I was dismissed,” he stated.
As part of his concluding remarks, the investigative journalist announced his intention to permit Mr Paul Adom-Otchere to “constantly lie” about him if that is “what will put food on your table.”
“You have a job to do and…… I’m kind enough to permit you to continue,” he wrote.
Mr Azure however clarified that he has no bad blood with Mr Adom-Otchere, but for cancellation of a $74million fraudulent contract awarded to Jospong which was uncovered in his documentary, he has been attacked.
“As an employee and longtime defender of Jospong, I don’t expect you to praise me. So keep up your “good work” for Elder Agyepong, but kindly let your audience see this letter,” he added.
Pastor Nana Yaw Boakye of Royalhouse Chapel International, popularly known as MOGmusic, a Ghanaian gospel musician, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming a member of the Recording Academy, the prestigious organization behind the Grammy Awards.
MOGmusic’s admission into the Recording Academy makes him the first Ghanaian gospel artist from Ghana to receive this honor. His application was approved by the Grammy Board, granting him membership into the esteemed organization.
Upon receiving the news, MOGmusic expressed his elation, describing it as a dream come true.
This is the pinnacle every musician wishes to get to,” he said. “I am glad to be putting Ghana on the map once again.”
He further noted that his admission into the academy is motivation for him to do more as a gospel musician.
MOGmusic has taken his music career to new heights with the release of his latest album, ‘Koinonia Phase II.’
This follows the success of his previous album, ‘Koinonia Phase I,’ which garnered international acclaim with hit songs like “Grace,” “Mala,” “Your Presence,” “Almighty God,” “Choral Praise,” “Glory to the Lamb,” and “There’s Power.”
The highly anticipated new album features eight tracks and includes collaborations with esteemed gospel musicians such as Pastor Donnie McClurkin, Pastor Kojo Frimpong, Ps Shadrack Mensah Kwesi, Joey Saff, and Kobby Salm.
The songs on the album include “Nyankopong,” “Glorious,” “Holy Chant,” “We Cry Yahweh” featuring Pastor Kojo Frimpong, “Be Lifted Medley” featuring Donnie McClurkin, “Covenant Keeper,” “Yesu” featuring Joey Saff and Kobby Salm, and “African Praise” featuring Ps Shadrack Mensah Kwesi.
MOGmusic, a two-time winner of the VGMA Male Vocal Performance category, has gained global recognition for his soul-stirring music.
His notable tracks, including the award-winning “Be Lifted,” “Elohim,” and “Living God,” have solidified his position as a prominent figure in the gospel music industry.
The electoral commission has noted that with 60% of polling stations counted, the incumbent Julius Maada Bio currently holds a 56% share of the votes.
Samura Kamara, from the All People’s Congress (APC), trails behind with 42%. To secure victory in the first round, a candidate needs more than 55% of the votes.
The main opposition candidate has denounced the early results of Sierra Leone’s presidential election as “daylight robbery.” He claims that his electoral agents were denied the opportunity to verify the ballot counting process.
Bio’s success can be attributed to strategic electoral alliances he formed during the campaign, even in opposition strongholds. However, European Union observers have criticized the electoral commission for a lack of transparency and have reported incidents of violence in some regions during the voting on Saturday.
The APC had previously raised concerns about the election’s conduct and the electoral commission. Kamara reported that live ammunition was fired into his party’s headquarters during a press conference, resulting in the injury of a woman whose life is now in danger.
Furthermore, the APC alleged that one of its supporters was shot dead by the police, although the police have denied these claims. Supporters of both major parties have been accused of attacking their opponents.
Accusations of election irregularities, including ballot stuffing and voter suppression, have been made by Kamara, intensifying the controversy surrounding the election.
However, the electoral body had insisted, in a press conference, that it had mechanisms in place to ensure a fair vote. Local media reports that arrests were made.
Saturday’s vote saw a high turnout, with voters telling the BBC the process was smooth despite polling stations opening hours late in many areas.
The election took place against the background of a troubled economy, the rising cost of living, and concerns about national unity.
The voters were choosing a president, MPs and councillors in the West African country’s fifth election since the civil war ended in 2002.
The 11-year conflict cost an estimated 50,000 lives, but since then the country has a tradition of largely peaceful, free and credible elections, according to Marcella Samba Sesay, chairperson of the NGO National Elections Watch.
With strong party loyalty among the 3.3 million registered voters, the campaigns have focused on shoring up their parties’ bases rather than articulating and debating policy issues.
However, voters have told the BBC they want to see concrete change in the country.
“I want a responsible government that will provide jobs, education, improve healthcare and also ensure food security. I expect the new president to work for the nation,” Solomon Beckley from Freetown said.
US media has obtained an audio recording in which Donald Trump appears to acknowledge retaining a classified document after his departure from the White House.
However, it should be noted that the recording has not been independently verified by the BBC or other sources.
In the approximately two-minute clip, the former president can be heard going through papers and stating, “This is highly confidential.” Mr. Trump has entered a plea of not guilty to federal charges related to the mishandling of sensitive files.
CNN was the first to publish the recording, stating that it originates from a July 2021 interview Mr. Trump conducted with individuals involved in the writing of a memoir by his former chief of staff, Mark Meadows.
During the recording, Mr. Trump can be heard mentioning “these are the papers” and making reference to a document he describes as “highly confidential.” This aligns with an audio recording cited by federal prosecutors in their indictment of the former president.
Prosecutors allege he showed classified documents to people without security clearance on two occasions, including a writer and two members of staff, in one instance in July 2021 at his golf club in New Jersey.
Mr Trump is facing 37 counts of illegally retaining classified documents and obstructing the government’s efforts to get them back.
He has denied any wrongdoing and has said that all documents he took with him from the White House were declassified.
During the exchange, released by CNN and the Washington Post on Monday, Mr Trump is heard describing a document that he alleges is about possibly attacking Iran.
“He said that I wanted to attack Iran. Isn’t it amazing?” Mr Trump says near the beginning of the clip.
“I have a big pile of papers, this thing just came up. Look,” he says.
“See as president I could have declassified it,” he says. “Now I can’t, you know, but this is still a secret.”
In an interview last week with Fox News, Mr Trump denied that he provided secret documents to people unauthorised to view them.
“There was no document. That was a massive amount of papers and everything else talking about Iran and other things,” Mr Trump said.
To tackle the challenges faced by small-scale farmers in rural areas of Ghana, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is partnering with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to allocate approximately US$7 million in crucial assistance.
The funding will be distributed in two installments through a specially designed cash transfer program, benefiting around 17,000 farming households in selected districts within the northern regions of Ghana.
Barbara Clemens, the Representative and Country Director of the World Food Programme in Ghana, emphasized the significance of this initiative in addressing the needs of the targeted beneficiaries.
“Starting in June, 17,000 targeted productive smallholder farmers in 163 communities and 17 districts in Northern Ghana will be assisted with MoMo cash transfers to mitigate the risks of shocks and loss of productive assets due to input prices caused by inflation,” she said.
“During this lean season, from June to August 2023, farmers will use these transfers to buy the inputs and food they need, when they need them,” she added.
“Let me emphasize the who and where of this initiative. Productive ( and the key word is productive) smallholder farmers in Northern, Northeast, Upper East and Upper West were targeted to receive this assistance because they are in USAID’s zone of influence,” she noted.
On his part, the Deputy Minister for Ministry of Food and Agriculture in charge of Crops, Yaw Frimpong Addo indicated that the Farmer Support Activity project is in line with government phase two of the planting for food and jobs which seeks to shift agriculture activities from the subsistence to commercial terrain.
“This project we are launching today there’s a component in the new PFJ chapter two which will be launched latest by early next month. It is a 5 year program and it is about commercial agriculture which focuses on from input subsidy to input credit,” he said.
Fitch Solutions, in its analysis titled “Positive Shift in Ghana’s Political Risk Profile Following IMF Programme Approval,” has suggested that the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the opposition party, is highly probable to emerge victorious in the upcoming 2024 presidential elections.
The UK-based firm predicts that the combination of deteriorating economic conditions in 2022 and limited advancements in combating perceived corruption will amplify the prevailing anti-incumbency sentiment among the electorate.
“The rapid deterioration of economic conditions in 2022 and slow progress in the fight against perceived corruption – in a July 2022 Afrobarometer study, 85.0% of Ghanaians believed the government was doing a poor job in tackling corruption – will exacerbate anti-incumbency sentiment among the electorate”.
“In addition, the IMF has voiced concerns over President Nana Akufo-Addo’s flagship Free Senior High School (free SHS) programme (introduced in 2017), labelling it as “poorly targeted”. Potential modifications to the programme in order to rein in spending could weaken the NPP’s campaign agenda, increasing the chances of an NDC win”, it added.
Fitch Solutions, while acknowledging the likelihood of a change in government after the 2024 general election, has expressed confidence in the stability of Ghana’s IMF program.
The firm noted that previous National Democratic Congress (NDC) administrations have sought IMF loans, including the 2015-2019 program initiated under an NDC government, and the current NDC leadership has shown support for Ghana’s re-engagement with the IMF. This assessment has led Fitch Solutions to revise Ghana’s ‘policy continuity’ score in the Short-Term Political Risk Index (STPRI) to 70.0 out of 100, up from the previous score of 62.5.
Despite the ongoing fiscal consolidation efforts under the IMF program, Fitch Solutions predicts that the country’s economic stabilization measures and decreasing inflation will have a positive impact on Ghanaian households.
“While the government has raised taxes including income taxes and VAT in first-half of 2023, a more stable exchange rate, easing inflation and a stronger external position will gradually normalise economic conditions”.
“We believe that this will lower protest activity in the second half of 223, after the number of protests and riots increased by 17.2% year-on-year in first-half of 2023. To reflect this, we have revised up the ‘social stability’ score in our Short-Term Political Risk Index (STPRI) to 47.5 out of 100, from 40.0 previously (a higher score implies lower risk)”.
Ghana’s headline STPRI score now stands at 63.1, from 59.4 before. The country remains a regional outperformer, with the average Sub-Saharan Africa STPRI score standing at 50.3, implying that political risks remain relatively contained in Ghana.
The Electoral Commission (EC) has affirmed its preparedness to conduct the Assin North by-election on June 27 with transparency, fairness, and credibility.
A total of 41,168 registered voters are expected to participate across 99 polling centers, with over 198 Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs) set to be deployed.
Mrs. Gladys Pinkrah, the EC’s Regional Director, stated that the Commission has received the necessary materials, including ballot papers, notices of poll, and biometric certification devices.
The EC has conducted training for its officials in anticipation of the highly anticipated by-election following the Supreme Court’s ruling that declared the previous MP’s election as unconstitutional.
The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) candidate, Charles Opoku, occupies the first position on the ballot paper, followed by Bernice Enyonam Sefenu of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) in the second position, and James Gyakye Quayson of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the third position.
Mrs. Pinkrah urged political actors to learn from past mistakes and ensure a successful by-election. She also called on the media to uphold journalistic standards and ethics to counter the spread of fake news.
As the campaigns of participating parties—NPP, NDC, and LPG—concluded, house-to-house and one-on-one campaigns were employed to sway voters.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, alongside the leadership of NPP and NDC, has called for peace before, during, and after the election. At a news conference attended by representatives of both parties, the IGP pledged to maintain law and order.
Aberdeen Football Club has confirmed the passing of former Scotland manager Craig Brown at the age of 82.
Brown, who also served as a director at Aberdeen, holds the distinction of being the last manager to guide the Scottish national team to a World Cup finals. He led the team to the tournament in France 25 years ago.
A statement from Aberdeen read: “Everyone at Aberdeen FC is heartbroken by the loss of our beloved former manager, director and club ambassador, Craig Brown.
Everyone at Aberdeen FC is heartbroken by the loss of our beloved former manager, director and club ambassador, Craig Brown.
A dear friend to us all, Craig will be sorely missed and our love and condolences are with his family at this terribly sad time.
“A dear friend to us all, Craig will be sorely missed and our love and condolences are with his family at this terribly sad time.”
The former schoolteacher also led Scotland to the European Championship in 1996 and was involved in a coaching capacity in three other major tournaments.
The Glasgow-born former Rangers and Dundee player managed Clyde before his international coaching career, which also included leading Scotland Under-16s to a World Cup final and the under-21s to a European semi-final.
— Scotland National Team (@ScotlandNT) June 26, 2023
Brown was manager of Scotland from 1993 until 2001. He later managed Preston, Motherwell and Aberdeen before becoming a director at Pittodrie.
Tributes immediately began pouring in for the popular character.
Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack said: “Since 2010 Craig performed the roles of manager, director, and ambassador at Aberdeen FC. Craig was a friend to all of us at the club, and a mentor and confidante to many.
“He was one of those rare individuals who was not only effective at what he did but universally loved by all who got to know him. A gentleman who loved his family, friends, and football.
“Personally, I’ll always be grateful for the support and encouragement he gave me as chairman, and I’ll miss his legendary stories that made all of us laugh.
“Sincere condolences to his family and friends from everyone at Aberdeen FC.”
Former Dons chairman Stewart Milne, who hired Brown as manager in 2010, said: “Craig was a very special individual. He always had time for people and if there was any way in which he could help them inevitably he was there with an abundance of support and guidance.
“During our time working together Craig became a close friend. He always had a story or two to tell, and I often became the butt of some of these stories, but he always meant it in a friendly way, I think.
“He will be sadly missed by many, and I feel grateful that he played such an important part in my life.”
The official Scotland national team Twitter account declared Brown a “true Scotland legend” and added: “Our thoughts are with Craig’s loved ones at this sad time.”
Former clubs including Clyde, Preston, Motherwell and Dundee also expressed their condolences to Brown’s family.
So sorry to hear that Craig Brown has died. I last saw him in March at my uncle’s retirement from @ayrracecourse. He was in fine form – full of laughs and anecdotes from his life in football. He was an outstanding manager of @ScotlandNT and a truly lovely man 🏴 RIP https://t.co/5vitZiWxxUpic.twitter.com/kPUIjfpLVa
Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon wrote on Twitter: “So sorry to hear that Craig Brown has died. I last saw him in March at my uncle’s retirement from @ayrracecourse. He was in fine form – full of laughs and anecdotes from his life in football. He was an outstanding manager of @ScotlandNT and a truly lovely man.”
Her successor, Humza Yousaf, wrote: “A towering figure of the Scottish game, Craig Brown & the Scotland team he managed gave us many good memories over the years. You would be hard pressed to find a man who loved Scotland as passionately as he did. My thoughts with his family & friends at this sad time.”
Ahead of the upcoming Assin North Constituency by-election in Ghana, the Ghana Police Service has increased its security presence in the area to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process.
A video circulating on social media shows uniformed police officers in a parade, demonstrating their readiness to maintain peace during the by-election.
With the by-election scheduled for June 27, 2023, the police authorities have taken proactive measures to prevent any potential disturbances or electoral malpractices.
The by-election is a result of a Supreme Court ruling on April 13, 2023, which ordered the removal of James Gyakye Quayson, the former Member of Parliament for Assin North Constituency, from parliament due to his dual citizenship status.
Despite the court ruling, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has chosen James Gyakye Quayson as their candidate for the by-election.
The highly anticipated by-election will witness a contest between Gyakye Quayson of the NDC, Charles Opoku of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and Bernice Enyonam Sefenu of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG).
Both the NPP and NDC have deployed prominent figures to campaign in the constituency. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and other NPP national executives have been actively supporting Charles Opoku, while former President John Dramani Mahama, Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, and other NDC leaders have campaigned for Gyakye Quayson.
Kofi Apkaloo, the founder and presidential hopeful of the LPG, has also been present in the constituency seeking votes for Bernice Enyonam Sefenu, the sole female candidate in the by-election.
The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has refuted claims regarding its alleged plan to impose a $7 fee for fumigating passengers’ luggage at Kotoka International Airport (KIA).
Recent media reports had suggested that the Ghana Health Service was urging airlines to include a $7 charge per passenger on international airline tickets and submit the amount to the government agency, KIA, as a luggage fumigation fee.
However, the management of GACL has released a statement clarifying that it has no intention of imposing such charges or taxes on passengers for luggage fumigation purposes.
“GACL wishes to assure the general public that it will not impose any such taxes or charges on passengers for luggage fumigation purposes as reported.”
“All reports to the contrary should therefore be disregarded,” the GACL added.
The Second Ghanaian Battalion (GHANBATT 2) serving with the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) has held its Consecration of the United Nations (UN) and the Battalion Colours as well as Induction Religious Parade for the Commanding Officer (CO) at the GHANBATT Headquarters at Athony Company Operating Base (COB), ABYEI.
The ceremony was held on Saturday 24 June 2023, under the theme “Duty Consciousness” to officially induct the CO of UNISFA GHANBATT 2 Lieutenant Colonel Edward Sarpong Appiah into office and to mark the successful insertion of the full compliment into Sector South of UNISFA Area of Operational Responsibility (AoR).
The induction religious parade was officiated by Rev Lieutenant (Lt) Solomon Aidoo and Imam Lt Yunus Abdallah.
The Clergy in their respective sermons expressed gratitude to the Almighty God for successful deployment of GHANBATT into the AoR and encouraged all ranks to discharge their duties diligently and consciously to help Command achieve UNISFA’s mandate.
Additionally, the Clergy urged all to be submissive, humble and conscious in the discharge of their duties so that GHANBATT would be victorious at the end of the tour of duty.
Lt Col ES Appiah in his remarks expressed his profound gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve as CO UNISFA GHANBATT 2 and reiterated his commitment to execute the mission of the GHANBATT.
He expressed his gratitude to Ghana Armed Forces High Command, the Mission Leadership at UNISFA HQ, Troop Contributing Countries, Chiefs, Local Authorities and Community Protection Committees in the ABYEI Box for their support over the period.
The CO also admonished all GHANBATT personnel to conduct themselves professionally throughout their stay in the mission area since discipline is the bedrock of every Armed Forces.
He urged all ranks to be cooperative, supportive and loyal to Command and UNISFA towards the achievement of peace in Sector South of the ABYEI Box.
The Guest of Honour, was the Sector South Commander of Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism, Colonel John Ishmael Yao Boglo who doubles as the Ghanaian Contingent Commander.
The Guest of Honour in his remarks stated that, Ghana has participated under the auspices of the UN since its first deployment in ONUC in 1960 and UNISFA was not an exception.
He said Ghanaian Soldiers have and would continue to fulfill their commitment to international peace and security in diverse ways to signify their nobility and call to serve humanity with dignity and professionalism.
He advised all to engage and cooperate with all stakeholders to cover all the gaps in security architecture of UNISFA Areas of Operation in order to promote peace.
Also present at the ceremony were CO Nepal Force Headquarters Support Unit, CO Nigerian Base Defence Company, Deputy Commanding Officer Indian Battalion and representatives from Level 2 Hospital (GHANMED).
Other dignitaries present were the UN Senior Civilian Staff from UNISFA headquarters, Military Observers/Staff Officers and United Nations Police, Staff of Troop Contributing Countries and Chiefs from the neighbouring communities.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has addressed the future of Wagner fighters operating in Africa.
While recent events involving Wagner and its leader Yevgeny Prigozhin have primarily focused on Russia and Ukraine, the mercenary group also has a presence in various African countries, including the Central African Republic and Mali, where they have faced allegations of committing atrocities and war crimes.
Concerns have been raised regarding the future of these African deployments, as they have been viewed by many as unofficial representations of Russia.
However, in an interview on the state-owned RT channel, Mr. Lavrov stated that the Wagner operations in Africa will continue, as reported by the AFP news agency.
Wagner members “are working there as instructors. This work, of course, will continue,” the minister said.
He said the aborted rebellion would not change Russia’s relationship with “partners and friends”, AFP quotes him as saying.
North Tongu, Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has accused the secretary to the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral of Ghana, Rev Victor Kusi Boateng, of providing false information under oath.
Ablakwa alleges that Rev Victor Kusi Boateng misled the court through a Statutory Declaration in which he declared a change of name and date of birth.
In the Statutory Declaration, Rev Kusi Boateng claimed that his original name at birth was Kwabena Adu Gyamfi and that he adopted the name Victor Kusi Boateng during his tenure as a pastor.
“The name given to me at birth is Kwabena Adu Gyamfi and that is the name that close family and friends know me by. In the course of my work as Preacher of the Gospel, I became known as Victor Kusi Boateng, in honour of my late father.
“I have since been referred to as Victor Kusi Boateng in my public life for which reason some documents of mine have referred to me as such. I am the same person referred to as Kwabena Adu Gyamfi and Victor Kusi Boateng,” parts of Rev Kusi Boateng’s declaration reads.
He also indicated that the September 7, 1971 date of birth on his documents bearing the name Victor Kusi Boateng was a mistake.
“In processing some documents bearing the name Victor Kusi Boateng, my date of birth was stated as 7th September 1971 instead of 30th December 1969 as reflected in my passport,” it added.
But according to Mr Ablakwa, the information provided by Kusi Boateng to the court was false as the records from the West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) indicate that the pastor was referred to as Victor Kusi Boateng during his school years and not during his time as a pastor, as he claimed.
“We write to confirm that, in respect of the GCE ‘O’ Level examination conducted in 1989, T. I. Ahmadiyya Secondary School, Kumasi, presented a candidate by the name BOATENG, KUSI VICTOR.
“We are however unable to report on the Date of Birth of the said candidate because the Council does not have information pertaining to the date of birth for all GCE ‘O’ Level candidates,” parts of a response WAEC gave to Ablakwa after his request for information reads.
On Rev Kusi Boateng’s claim that his September 7, 1971 date of birth was wrong, the MP said that the pastor recently celebrated his 50th birthday on September 7.
He shared a post from Rev Kusi Boateng’s church, Power Chapel, celebrating the pastor on his 50th birthday on September 7, 2021.
Mr Ablakwa also shared pictures from Rev Kusi Boateng’s 50th birthday celebration which was attended by Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and his wife, Samira Bawumia and other notable Ghanaians.
Organized Labor has announced its intention to launch a nationwide strike starting from July 10, 2023.
This yet-to-be-effected action is in response to the termination of employment of three workers at Sunon Asogli Power who attempted to establish a labor union within the company.
The affected workers at Asogli had initiated efforts to form a union.
The Mineworkers’ Union at a press briefing on March 3, 2023, highlighted alleged violations of the fundamental rights of workers by the management of Sunon Asogli Power Ghana Limited, leading to the unfair termination of the engagement of three local union leaders.
On June 2, this year, Organised Labour gave a one month ultimatum to Sunon Asogli Power to reinstate the three union leaders dismissed by the company.
Dr Anthony Yaw Baah, the Secretary-General, Trades Union Congress, at a media briefing in Accra, said it was the right of every worker to join a union without intimidation or any form of abuse.
He expressed concerns about the entrenched position of the Company, saying the Union would legitimately ensure that the dismissed workers were reinstated.
The Union stated that stakeholder meetings and interventions by State actors, including, the Ministries for Energy, Employment and Labour Relations, Foreign Affairs, the National Labour Commission, the Labour Department, and His Royal Majesty, Togbe Afede IV, on the issue could not yield any positive outcome.
Due to the deadlock, Organized Labor has decided to withdraw their services beginning July 10.
One of the many individuals concerned about the activities of charlatan prophets in the country is former President and flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) John Dramani Mahama.
Mr Mahama, no longer able to bear the adverse effect such individuals pose, such as defrauding and endangering the lives of Christians through hazardous directives, has called on the Christian Council rise to the occasion and address the canker.
The former president, while delivering a speech at an induction service at the Tanoso Assemblies of God Church over the weekend, entreated the Council to take pragmatic steps which would weed out the false prophets.
He advocated for a stern scrutiny of practices in the Christian community to ensure ethical conduct within the church.
Until such imposters are gotten rid off, Mr Mahama fears the Christian community would continue to see a decline in its number.
Meanwhile, the former president has entreated Christians to remain vigilant in order to fish out the false prophets from the true men of God.
MobileMoney Limited (MML), also known as MTN MoMo, has achieved the prestigious Mobile Money certification from the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA).
This certification marks a significant milestone for the company and highlights its dedication to providing secure and reliable financial services to its global mobile money users.
The certification process, conducted from November 2022 to May 2023, involved a thorough assessment of MML against eight principles defined by the GSMA. These principles cover critical areas such as System Security, Data Privacy, Fund Safeguarding, and Operational Quality.
By meeting these rigorous standards, MML demonstrates its commitment to maintaining the highest levels of security, transparency, and resilience in its mobile money services.
The GSMA Mobile Money certification is a worldwide initiative that promotes trust and reliability in mobile money services. It is specifically designed to instill confidence among users and stakeholders by ensuring that certified providers meet stringent industry standards.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MobileMoney Limited, Shaibu Haruna, expressed his delight at the certification, emphasizing that it reinforces the company’s position as a global FinTech service provider.
He highlighted the substantial investments made in cutting-edge technology and expertise to drive FinTech transformation. Haruna also emphasized the importance of offering customers a globally accredited service that continues to push digital innovation forward.
As a market leader, MML remains committed to delivering high-quality financial services while building trust among stakeholders. The company aims to enhance financial inclusion by providing innovative products and services that are accessible to all.
In addition to the GSMA Mobile Money certification, MML has previously obtained the respected ISO certification (ISO/IEC 12007:2013) in 2016, which recognizes its dedication to security and adherence to international best practices for data management within corporations.
Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and former President, John Dramani Mahama, has called on the Christian Council to establish codes of conduct to regulate the actions of Christian leaders and combat the presence of false prophets.
During an induction service at the Tanoso Assemblies of God Church, Mr Mahama acknowledged that the Bible predicts the emergence of false prophets in the last days.
However, he emphasized the importance of scrutinizing their practices to ensure ethical conduct within the church.
Addressing the congregation, the NDC flagbearer expressed concern over the negative impact of false prophets, which has led some individuals to abandon their churches. Mahama urged Christians to remain resolute in their faith and not allow the actions of a few to deter them from attending church services.
He emphasized the need for Christians to serve God with sincerity, urging them to rely on discernment and a strong spiritual foundation to identify and eliminate false prophets.
He praised the Church’s leadership for their commitment, dedication, and devotion to humanity.
Also present was Osei- Kyei Mensah Bonsu, the Majority Leader of Parliament and MP for Suame, who said it’s terrible to see churches promoting consumerism rather than the essential ideals of religion.
Mr Mahama thanked the leaders of the Assemblies of God Church for their unwavering commitment to spreading the word of God.
He added that LGBTQ is repugnant to all Christian denominations, as well as the nation’s cultural beliefs and customs and that there is no way the country can tolerate it.
“Our traditions and cultures, conventions and practices do frown on this. We have Muslims and Christians in this country, fortunately for us the two major religions appeal this matter, so, however, people are trying to make it appear as if Ghana is on the brink of legislating to support this, I don’t know where this is coming from,” he indicated.
He urged the Assemblies of God Church and other clergy to pray for the country as it approaches an election year in order to build peace and togetherness.
Rev. Augustine Kofi Bempah, the newly inducted Ashanti West Regional Superintendent, thanked church leaders and members for their cooperation and support.
He promised to expand the Church’s activities, particularly by mentoring young people to become responsible Christian leaders, participating in Missions, and developing infrastructure, among other things.
Members of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers and Liquified Petroleum Gas Drivers (L.P.G) have resolved to embark on an industrial action to press home demands for the rehabilitation of the roads in the petroleum enclaves in Tema, Takoradi, Kumasi, and Buipe.
“We have been trying to convince the government to fix these roads for years, but all our pleads have fallen on deaf ears, and now we need to resort to this strike starting Monday, June 26, 2023,” says George Nyaunu, the National Chairman of the Tanker Drivers Union.
“From that day on, our members will not move any products from the petroleum enclaves.”
Mr. George Nyaunu added that he and his followers are hopeful that when the strike begins to affect the supply of petroleum products around the country, the authorities concerned will take action to fix “the deplorable roads” in the petroleum enclaves.
He pointed out that the bad roads are dangerous for moving petroleum products because there have been instances when some solid goods trucks have fallen over, let us assume it is a petroleum tanker with loads; it will be a disaster.
“We the drivers, are also affected a lot because repeatedly driving on such roads has taken a toll on our physical health and overall wellbeing. This cannot continue,” Mr. George Nyaunu said.
He warned that the strike will continue until the authorities commit themselves firmly to a timeline for repairing the roads in the petroleum enclaves.
The Supreme Court has cautioned the government against the practice where public service workers are directed to ‘proceed on leave’.
According to the apex court, it was not within the contemplation of the framers of the constitution that leave should be used as a form of punishment to get rid of unwanted workers and public service officials from their positions.
Thus, “We direct that the mantra ‘proceed on leave’ should from today be a thing of the past in this jurisdiction”.
This conclusion of the court is contained in its detailed judgment in the case filed by civil society organization, Ghana Centre for Democratic Governance and eight others challenging President Akufo-Addo’s directive to the Auditor General Daniel Domelevo to proceed on leave.
On May 31, the Supreme Court described the move as unconstitutional.
In 2020, Domelovo was compelled by the presidency to take 169 working days of accumulated leave.
The Centre for Democratic Development(CDD) and eight other Civil Society Organizations who described the move as an affront to the independence of the office applied to the Supreme Court for a declaration that the action by the President was unconstitutional and null and void.
The suit filed in October 2020 was necessitated by the failure of the president to rescind the directive after several appeals.
After a two-year hearing, the apex court delivered its judgment but deferred the release of its full judgment.
