Following a devastating fire that engulfed a seven-storey heritage building in central Sydney, two 13-year-old boys have voluntarily surrendered to the police.
The inferno, which broke out on Thursday afternoon, necessitated the efforts of approximately 100 firefighters to bring it under control.
Law enforcement authorities suspect the involvement of other teenagers in the incident and have appealed for their cooperation, urging them to come forward.
While 13 of the 15 individuals who were homeless and sheltering in the building have been located, the blaze has resulted in the displacement of around 70 residents from nearby structures.
As a precautionary measure, an exclusion zone is expected to remain in effect for seven days.
The police have confirmed that the two teenagers who turned themselves in are currently assisting with the ongoing investigation.
Fire and Rescue New South Wales said the fire reached a “10th” alarm status on Thursday – the most severe level.
The building was heritage-listed and formerly home to the Henderson Hat factory. It had sat vacant for many years, but there were plans to redevelop it into a hotel.
After it caught fire, a thick column of smoke could be seen across Sydney. Video showed the top level of the building falling on to the nearby street.
Fire and Rescue NSW said they were able to contain the fire to prevent damage to nearby residential blocks.
The organisation also said investigations into the cause of the blaze had been taken over by NSW Police Arson Squad.
The building is located in inner-city Sydney, across the road from the city’s central station.
Transport to and from the central area had to be stopped on Thursday as firefighters worked to extinguish the fire.
Singer Celine Dion has postponed the remaining shows of the Courage World Tour.
In an Instagram post, Celine noted that she continues to be treated for a diagnosed medical condition that prevents her from performing.
“Celine is working hard on her recovery, but this time is unable to successfully prepare for an perform the remainder of the tour, which was scheduled to run from August 26, 2023 in Amsterdam through October 4, 2023, in Helsinki; then continuing from March 6, 2024 in Prague through April 22, 2024 in London,” her management revealed.
“I’m so sorry to disappoint all of you once again. I’m working really hard to build back my strength, but touring can be very difficult even when you’re 100%. It’s not fair to you to keep postponing the shows, and even though it breaks my heart, it’s best that we cancel everything now until I’m really ready to be back on stage again. I want you all to know, I’m not giving up… and I can’t wait to see you again!” said Celine.
Tickets purchased for the forty-two cancelled dates will be refunded via the original point of sale. For further ticket inquiries or options, ticketholders should reach out to their original point of purchase.
Celine had completed the first 52 dates of the Courage World Tour in North America before the pandemic emerged and paused the tour in March 2020.
In early 2021, when the entertainment industry was still working under tight COVID restrictions, Celine filmed her first motion picture, Love Again, co- starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Sam Heughan.
Since then, Celine has revealed that she has been diagnosed with a rare condition called Stiff Person’s Syndrome, which causes severe and persistent muscle spasms, and which has prevented her from performing.
Celine’s medical team continues to evaluate and treat the condition.
In a 1993 interview with Vanity Fair, Tina Turner was asked about what she had stood up for, to which she responded succinctly, “I stood up for my life.”
As a rock and feminist icon, Turner’s candidness about the violence she endured from her ex-husband and musical partner, Ike, was revolutionary. By openly addressing the issue, she became one of the first prominent figures to shed light on domestic abuse, giving a voice to countless others facing similar situations.
Her bravery initiated a transformative shift in the discourse surrounding domestic violence and the treatment of survivors. Importantly, Turner refused to let her experiences define her.
Image:Tina Turner on stage with Ike Turner in 1966
After first revealing the abuse to People magazine in 1981, in her memoirs and when asked subsequently in interviews, she spoke of the “torture” of her 16-year marriage; about the broken bones and the humiliation, the beatings before she would have to dazzle audiences alongside him on stage.
“I was living a life of death,” she said in the 2021 documentary about her life. “I didn’t exist. But I survived it. And when I walked out, I walked. And I didn’t look back.”
Turner was already a star. But after her marriage, she would later become an icon: the Queen of Rock’n’Roll.
“When a survivor who is in an abusive relationship hears a woman like Tina Turner talk about her experiences, talk about her survival journey, and then can see the success and recovery that she’s achieved – it really does give survivors and those experiencing domestic abuse the courage and the hope to reach out and seek help,” Women’s Aid chief executive Farah Nazeer told Sky News.
“[Turner shows] it is possible to move away from these harmful relationships, which can feel all-encompassing, which can feel like imprisonment. It’s incredibly powerful to have a woman like Tina Turner, an iconic woman, a celebrity, speak out in this way.”
When Turner first revealed the abuse she had endured, it was “revolutionary”, Ms Nazeer says. “It provided a voice to those women who felt that they could not talk about it; it wasn’t something that was societally acceptable to talk about.
“It began that transformation where we now do talk about these issues, and we now do accept more and more that domestic abuse is the crime of the perpetrator and survivors shouldn’t feel guilt, they shouldn’t feel shame. But that was very much the culture in those days.”
Boney M singer Liz Mitchell, who was friends with Turner, praised the star’s courage in overcoming the struggles she faced in life. “Today, her whole image is a testimony for many women to realise that things can go wrong in your life, but if you can find a way out of it, take the way, and move on like she did. She just stayed strong.”
JP Morgan Chase, the prominent Wall Street institution, is implementing job cuts at recently acquired First Republic Bank, which faced financial difficulties. Approximately 1,000 positions, equivalent to 15% of First Republic’s workforce, will be eliminated, according to sources familiar with the matter.
This week, First Citizens, the buyer of another struggling financial institution’s US unit, also announced job reductions.
Earlier this year, concerns arose about a potential broader crisis when problems emerged within US regional banks.
JP Morgan confirmed the job cuts but did not disclose the exact number of positions affected. Affected employees will receive 60 days of pay and benefits, along with a comprehensive severance package including a lump sum payment and other perks.
JP Morgan further expressed its commitment to assisting affected employees in finding new roles either within the company or externally.
“Since our acquisition of First Republic on May 1, we’ve been transparent with their employees and kept our promise to update them on their employment status within 30 days,” a JP Morgan spokesperson said in a statement.
“We recognise that they have been under stress and uncertainty since March and hope that today will bring clarity and closure,” the spokesperson added.
First Republic, which was known for its big home loan business and stable of wealthy clients, was the 14th largest lender in the US at the end of last year. It was worth more than $20bn (£16.2bn) at the beginning of April.
However, it came under pressure after the collapse of several lenders in the US, including the technology-focused Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), sparked fears about the state of the banking system.
Later in April, First Republic said it had lost around $100bn in deposits as customers moved to withdraw their funds.
Earlier this month, JPMorgan said it would pay $10.6bn to take over First Republic in a deal brokered by regulators.
In the wider market, there were also concerns about the value of bonds held by banks as rising interest rates made those bonds less valuable.
The failure of First Republic is the second-largest in US history. Earlier this month, the bank’s 84 offices in eight states reopened as branches of JP Morgan Chase Bank after regulators seized control and sold it to the Wall Street institution.
Meanwhile, SVB’s US operations were taken over by First Citizens, as its business in the UK was bought by by London-headquartered banking giant HSBC.
First Citizens is also planning to cut around 500 roles held by former SVB workers, the BBC understands.
In an email seen by the BBC this week, First Citizens’ chief executive Frank Holding highlighted the problems faced by SVB earlier this year and said the cuts will affect: “select SVB corporate functions and do not include any personnel in client-facing positions.”
The family of Aderrien Murry, an 11-year-old boy who was shot by a police officer after calling for help, has stated that he has been discharged from the hospital.
The incident occurred in Mississippi when police responded to a domestic disturbance call made by the boy and allegedly shot him in the chest, as reported by his mother.
After being shot, the boy reportedly asked his mother, “What did I do?” The officer involved has been placed on leave pending an investigation into the shooting, which is being conducted by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation.
Following treatment for a collapsed lung, fractured ribs, and a lacerated liver at a local hospital, the boy is now recovering at home. His mother, Nakala Murry, has demanded that the officer be fired and charged.
During a press conference held on Monday outside Indianola City Hall, Nakala Murry explained that the father of one of her other children had arrived at their house early on Saturday morning and was behaving aggressively, leading her to instruct her son to call the police.
When the Indianola officer arrived, Ms Murry later told CNN, he “had his gun drawn at the front door” and asked everyone inside to exit.
As her son turned the corner of the hallway, the officer opened fire, striking Aderrien in the chest, she said.
“His words were: ‘Why did he shoot me? What did I do?’ and he started crying,” Ms Murry said. “This cannot keep happening. This is not OK.”
She said she had covered her son’s wound with her hand and applied pressure, blood pooling beneath her palm. The officer also assisted her in rendering aid, she said, until medics arrived.
Aderrien was rushed to the University of Mississippi Medical Centre, where he was given a chest tube and placed on a ventilator.
Ms Murry and her family’s lawyer, Carlos Moore, have called on officials to take further action. Mr Moore said the officer has been placed on paid administrative leave.
“What are you waiting on? Someone to actually die?” Mr Moore said during the Monday press conference.
According to him, the officer allegedly involved had been named the department’s “best officer”.
“If he’s your best, Indianola, you need a clean house from top to bottom,” he said.
At a sit-in protest outside City Hall on Thursday, Ms Murry, Mr Moore and about a dozen protesters said they were “demanding justice”.
At a rally planned for Saturday, the group will demand the firing of the officer and the release of body-camera footage from the incident.
Police have so far denied the footage request due to the ongoing investigation, according to Mr Moore.
The Indianola Police Department told BBC News it is not currently commenting on the case.
Over the weekend, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation said it is “currently assessing this critical incident and gathering evidence”, and will submit its findings to the state attorney general’s office.
US President Joe Biden has expressed optimism regarding the ongoing discussions with top Republican Kevin McCarthy concerning the US debt ceiling, despite Congress going on a holiday weekend recess.
Their objective is to strike a deal to raise the government borrowing limit for a two-year period, ensuring that the nation can continue meeting its financial obligations.
The urgency stems from the approaching 1 June deadline for a potential US debt default, which would have severe repercussions on the economy and create a global impact.
President Biden mentioned “several productive conversations” with McCarthy, highlighting the positive momentum in their negotiations.
If an agreement is reached, both parties could claim victories. Republicans could secure spending curbs, while Democrats could protect important domestic programs.
Speaking at a White House event on Thursday, President Biden affirmed that his team was maintaining communication with McCarthy’s team, emphasizing that progress was being made in the discussions.
He added: “I made clear time and again defaulting on our nation debt is not an option.” He said Americans deserved certainty over issues such as social security payments.
The debt ceiling is a spending limit set by Congress which determines how much money the government can borrow – an issue on which Democrats and Republicans disagree.
With no deal yet struck, the Treasury has warned that the US will not have enough money to pay all of its bills as soon as 1 June.
Analysts say there could be severe economic consequences if the US fails to honour its obligations.
‘Two-year deal’
A US official told Reuters that the White House was considering scaling back an increase of the Internal Revenue Service to hire more auditors, which was intended to target wealthy Americans.
The Times reported negotiators were closing in on a deal that would raise the debt limit for two years while imposing strict caps on spending, with the military and veterans’ budgets protected from caps.
Republicans are seeking spending cuts in exchange for raising the $31.4tn (£25tn) cap on government borrowing.
Mr McCarthy – who leads Republicans in the House and has been the most high-profile public face of the talks for his party – earlier said Democrats and Republicans had worked past midnight on Wednesday and would continue to negotiate.
“There’s a couple of issues still hanging out there that we’ve got to get done,” he said. “We’re gonna work 24/7 to try to make that happen.”
Another key Republican said he believed a deal to raise the nation’s debt-ceiling deal was “likely” by Friday afternoon.
“We are inching closer to a deal. I think it’s some of the finer points they are working on right now,” Rep Kevin Hern told Reuters news agency. “You are likely to see a deal by tomorrow afternoon.”
“Neither side is going to get exactly what they want,” White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said.
The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq were trading higher at midday on Thursday, lifted by positive updates on earnings from some companies, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down about 0.6%.
That followed several days of declines. Any agreement formed between the two sides will need to be turned into a legislative text to be approved by Congress.
Mr McCarthy has promised to give lawmakers 72 hours to review the bill, and at least 24 hours’ notice if they have to return to Washington early. If a deal is reached this week, a vote could happen early next week.
There is little wiggle room for objections to be raised, as the Senate would also have to vote on the bill, which would then go to the White House for signing.
Lawmakers could also temporarily lift the debt cap to give the talks more time.
Justice Gertrude Torkonoo, who has been nominated by President Akufo-Addo to assume the position of Chief Justice will be vetted by Parliament today.
The Supreme Court judge is set to replace the recently retired Chief Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah.
President Akufo-Addo officially communicated his decision to Parliament in April and urged for a prompt approval of Justice Gertrude Torkonoo’s appointment.
The President’s objective is to prevent any potential gap or vacuum in leadership following the retirement of Chief Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah.
“Chief Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah is due to retire from the bench on May 24, 2023, his seventieth birthday. In order to avoid a vacuum and ensure that a new Chief Justice is immediately in office after his retirement.
“I have decided to begin the process of appointment now. Article 144 (1) of the constitution, which governs the appointment of a Chief Justice, requires that I consult with the Council of State before seeking the approval Parliament.
“Consequently, I am nominating Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo, a member of the Supreme Court, as the new Chief Justice. I hereby enclose a copy of her curriculum vitae for your attention,” excerpts of the letter said.
Justice Mrs Torkornoo per this nomination, will be vetted by Parliament and approve her nomination or otherwise.
She will become the third female Chief Justice in the history of Ghana after Justices Georgina Theodora Wood and Sophia Akuffo.
A medical clinic in Dnipro, located in eastern Ukraine, was targeted by a missile strike, resulting in the death of at least one person and the injury of 15 others.
Among the wounded are two young boys, aged three and six, according to Serhiy Lysak, the regional governor.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the attack and assured that authorities were actively engaged in rescuing any remaining individuals trapped in the hospital.
Prior to this, on Thursday night, Dnipro experienced an assault, as stated by Governor Lysak.
“It was a very difficult night. It was loud – the enemy launched a mass attack on the region with missiles and drones,” he said. “Dnipro has suffered.”
⚡️1 killed and 15 injured in Dnipro after a supposed Russian missile struck a hospital. pic.twitter.com/KnjjJkPZee
Mr Zelensky posted a video of the damaged clinic building that showed firefighters at the scene and smoke billowing from the building.
“Russian terrorists once again confirm their status of fighters against everything humane and honest,” he said.
Another 🇷🇺 missile attack, another crime against humanity as such. The buildings of a psychological clinic and a veterinary clinic in the city of Dnipro were destroyed. As of now, one person was killed and 15 were wounded. The shelling aftermath is being eliminated and the… pic.twitter.com/D0bYBPByjn
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) May 26, 2023
Overnight, Ukrainian authorities claimed to have successfully intercepted and downed 17 missiles along with 31 drones that were launched from Russia. The attacks targeted various locations, including Dnipro and Kharkiv in eastern Ukraine, where an oil depot was hit.
Ukraine’s capital city, Kyiv, also experienced attacks, resulting in intercepted drone fragments falling on the roof of a shopping center and causing damage to a house and multiple cars.
In recent weeks, Russia has escalated its assaults on Ukraine, specifically targeting critical infrastructure in anticipation of an expected Ukrainian counteroffensive.
On Thursday, Ukraine reportedly launched a rocket and a drone towards two regions in Russia’s south. However, Russia’s air defense systems claim to have successfully shot down the missile.
A blast in the southern Russian city of Krasnodar caused damage to a residential and office building, although the cause remains unclear. Russian media sources have suggested that it was the result of a drone attack.
Manchester United ensured their qualification for the Champions League next season with a resounding 4-1 triumph over a wasteful Chelsea side under the guidance of manager Erik ten Hag.
This season has been promising for the Dutchman, as he led the Red Devils to victory in the Carabao Cup and secured a spot in the upcoming FA Cup final. Despite encountering a recent stumble, Ten Hag successfully steered the team back on course.
In their match against Chelsea, United dominated, with goals from Casemiro, Anthony Martial, Bruno Fernandes, and Marcus Rashford, leaving the toothless Chelsea squad unable to respond effectively.
This victory sealed United’s return to the pinnacle of European football with a game to spare.
Frank Lampard’s Chelsea suffered their record-breaking 16th defeat in a 38-match Premier League season as they fell to a 4-1 loss against Manchester United. The Blues’ early missed opportunity by Mykhailo Mudryk was punished by a sixth-minute header from Casemiro.
Chelsea had several chances throughout the game, with Conor Gallagher’s miss just before halftime and Anthony’s injury later on. Manchester United capitalized on their opportunities, with Bruno Fernandes converting a penalty and substitute Marcus Rashford scoring his 30th goal of the season in all competitions.
Manager Erik ten Hag maintained faith in the same lineup that defeated Bournemouth. United took an early lead when Christian Eriksen delivered a free-kick from the left, and Casemiro rose above the defense to head the ball into the net.
The Brazilian midfielder celebrated enthusiastically as the VAR confirmed the goal after checking for offside. However, the match could have taken a different turn if Mudryk had shown composure just moments before, but he failed to convert a clear chance created by Lewis Hall’s assist.
The game continued with back-and-forth action, and United had an excellent opportunity to extend their lead when Eriksen played three teammates through against a lone defender.
Fernandes’ smart run opened a lane for Antony to play in Martial, but the dithering forward was caught by Cesar Azpilicueta.
It proved Antony’s last impact of note as soon the winger left the field on a stretcher having pulled up in agony during an innocuous-looking coming together.
Rashford replaced him and when play resumed Chelsea were again ruing another wasted chance, with Kai Havertz heading a Hall cross wide.
Fernandes saw penalty claims against Wesley Fofana overlooked and Gallagher bent wide as a helter-skelter half headed towards a conclusion.
The Chelsea midfielder would go closer still in stoppage time. Put behind by Enzo Fernandez’s fine pass, Gallagher dragged across the face of goal.
It proved another costly miss as Casemiro played an exceptional pass through to Jadon Sancho, who delivered a low ball for Martial to turn in at the back post.
That gut punch was nearly followed by another blow with moments of the second half getting under way.
United, who replaced Luke Shaw with Tyrell Malacia, won the ball through Victor Lindelof and Sancho teed up Fernandes to crash a strike off the woodwork.
Like the first half, this was an entertaining back and forth.
De Gea stretched to tip a deflected Mudryk shot behind before the slightest deflection meant Eriksen could not tap in a low Malacia cross. Kepa got back to claw off the line and Casemiro curled the follow-up just wide.
Hall was denied by De Gea, as was Mudryk’s deflected follow-up, and Chelsea saw penalty claims ignored as they looked to reduce the deficit.
But hope of a comeback was ended once and for all in the 73rd minute.
Fofana caught Fernandes with a lazy recovery challenge after being nutmegged by the Portuguese, who stepped up to coolly to convert in front of the Stretford End.
Rashford bent wide as United pushed for a fourth, which he would get in the 79th minute.
Fernandes cut out a lax Fofana pass and teed up the returning forward to put into an empty net after Kepa’s first save only slowed the ball.
Alejandro Garnacho hit the bar and was denied by Kepa either side of a fine Chelsea consolation, with Felix running through the centre and ending a fine solo run with a thumping drive.
A textbook for Primary students titled ‘History of Ghana for Basic Schools’ has vilified Christianity and religion as a whole, attributing them to the many sufferings in the world.
‘History of Ghana for Basic Schools’ published by Excellence Publications noted that Christianity has led to hike in the number of impoverished individuals as they have become inert due to no interest in resolving issues practically but with hope and faith.
“Christianity has led to an increase (in) poverty; There is a direct link between religion and laziness which contributes to poverty in Ghana and Africa as a whole. Religion makes people lackadaisical in their attitude towards finding practical ways to improve their undesirable living conditions,” part of the textbook read.
Also, it noted that religion has served as a catalyst for fraud, which many people, particularly paupers fall victim to.
“Religion creates an avenue for many tricksters or charlatans to parade as men of God to fleece the poor or their meagre resources.”
“Religion in Ghana does not encourage creativity, invention or critical thinking because of its conservative or static nature,” it added.
On the issue of togetherness, the textbook accused Ghanaian politicians of riding on religion to foster disunity “in a bid to advance their political interests.”
In view of this, it holds the assertion that “religion is a major cause of physical conflicts and doctrinal disputes in Ghana and the world as a whole.”
Other controversial assertions in the textbook include: “Some religious doctrines brought by missionaries create sense of fear or timidity in their adherents” and “most religious groups discriminate against women in so many ways.”
Due to the derogatory point of the view the textbook teaches, social media users believed to be religious have called for its immediate withdrawal as well as sanctions for institutions responsible for its use in schools.
Already, the Deputy Education Minister, John Ntim Fordjour, has sternly condemned Excellence Publications for publishing the textbook. He holds the position that the book is “obnoxious and misconceived.”
Due to the raging concerns, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) has recalled the books on the market.
Mr Ntim Fordjour who is pleased by NaCCA’s swift action noted that it is only right as “Ghana is most peaceful for a reason, and the important place of religion cannot be undermined.”
Newly released FBI documents reveal that Queen Elizabeth II was potentially at risk of assassination during her visit to the United States in 1983.
The files, released after the Queen’s passing last year, shed light on the concerns of the FBI, which played a role in ensuring the monarch’s safety during her trips, particularly regarding threats from the IRA.
The threat of assassination was reported to a police officer based in San Francisco.
The documents state that the officer, a regular visitor to an Irish pub in the city, alerted federal agents about a phone call he received from an individual he had encountered at the establishment.
The officer said the man told him he was seeking revenge for his daughter who “had been killed in Northern Ireland by a rubber bullet”.
The threat came on 4 February 1983 – about a month ahead of Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip’s visit to California.
“He was going to attempt to harm Queen Elizabeth and would do this either by dropping some object off the Golden Gate Bridge onto the Royal Yacht Britannia when it sails underneath, or would attempt to kill Queen Elizabeth when she visited Yosemite National Park,” the document says.
In response to the threat, the Secret Service had planned to “close the walkways on the Golden Gate Bridge as the yacht nears”. It is unclear what measures were taken at Yosemite, but the visit went ahead. No details of arrests were published by the FBI.
The 102-page cache was uploaded to the Vault, the FBI’s information website, on Monday, following a Freedom of Information Act request submitted by US media outlets.
Image caption,Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip spoke with National Park rangers during the visit to Yosemite
The recently released FBI documents highlight the fact that several of Queen Elizabeth II’s state visits to the United States, including her trip to the West Coast in 1983, took place during a period of heightened tensions related to the Troubles in Northern Ireland. During America’s Bicentennial celebrations in 1976, the late Queen visited New York City.
According to the files, a pilot was summoned for flying a small plane over Battery Park with a sign that read “England, Get out of Ireland.” This incident occurred during one of the Queen’s visits.
The documents also reveal the FBI’s continued vigilance regarding perceived threats to the late Queen. The assassination of her second cousin, Lord Mountbatten, in 1979 off the coast of County Sligo, Republic of Ireland, in an IRA bombing, further underscored the potential risks.
Overall, the released files shed light on the FBI’s dedication to ensuring the safety of Queen Elizabeth II during her visits to the United States, especially considering the context of the Troubles and the ongoing IRA threats.
Ahead of a personal visit by the late Queen to Kentucky in 1989, an internal FBI memo read “the possibility of threats against the British Monarchy is ever-present from the Irish Republican Army (IRA)”.
It continued that “Boston and New York are requested to remain alert for any threats against Queen Elizabeth II on the part of IRA members and immediately furnish same to Louisville,” in Kentucky.
The late Queen, who owned racehorses, is known to have visited Kentucky several times during her life to enjoy the state’s equestrian highlights, including the Kentucky Derby.
On a state visit in 1991, the late Queen was scheduled to see a Baltimore Orioles baseball game with President George H Bush.
The FBI warned the Secret Service that “Irish groups” were planning protests at the stadium and “an Irish group had reserved a large block of grandstand tickets” to the game.
The bureau told NBC News there might be “additional records” that exist besides the ones released this week, but it did not set out a timetable for their publication.
A Communication Team Member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Margaret Ansei, has asserted her right to hold President Akufo-Addo accountable due to her contributions as a taxpayer.
During an appearance on TV3’s New Day on Thursday, May 25, 2023, Ansei criticized the president for not meeting the expectations of the Ghanaian people.
She specifically highlighted the president’s allegedly irresponsible statements on international platforms when addressing significant matters.
According to Ansei, her role as a taxpayer entitles her to voice her concerns and hold the president responsible for his actions.
“Why? Don’t I pay him? If he’s not doing the work well, can’t I say it? I take care of President Akufo-Addo and if he is not getting the job done, why should I pamper him?” she said.
“I am saying it that, from the way this president looks and the way he talks, and the way he answers questions when he is caught unawares. The way he cannot answer questions properly, the gentleman does not read.
“The gentleman doesn’t read and he is causing us a lot of embarrassment especially when he goes out there; our international image. Branding is very important as a country, top of the mind awareness, the president always goes to sit on international platforms, making utterances so ignorantly and you don’t want us to talk about it?” she stated.
The NDC communicator’s comments come on the back of the president’s recent comments about borrowing from the international market.
Speaking at a Qatar-Africa Economic Forum in Doha, the president said that his government has positioned itself to be able to “go back to the international market which had been a source of funding” for the country during the first three or four years in government.
According to him, it makes sense to take advantage of the market now and make some savings.
But reacting to this, Margaret Ansei noted that the country’s economic fundamentals do not support what the president said.
“He has a term and by 2024, he will exit so if he is saying that we are going back to the international market to borrow, even if it is on December 2024, we still do not have access according to the macroeconomy, the fundamentals do not support what he is doing,” she said.
A man has been taken into custody following an incident where a car collided with the main gates of Downing Street.
The police have reported that there were no injuries resulting from the incident.
According to the PA news agency, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was present at Downing Street when the car crashed into the front gates. However, Sunak had planned to depart No. 10 at that time and left after the collision occurred.
Video footage captured the incident, revealing a small silver Kia that emerged from a nearby car park next to the Ministry of Defence building.
The vehicle proceeded across Whitehall, near the Cenotaph, before suddenly stopping and then accelerating directly into the gates of Downing Street.
Furthermore, it has been understood by Sky News that Chancellor Jeremy Hunt was also present at Downing Street during the incident.
Officers were pictured searching the vehicle’s boot and removing a large white sheet.
Large sections of Whitehall were closed to the public and vehicles following the incident, but is now fully open.
“At around 4.20hrs a car collided with the gates of Downing Street on Whitehall,” Metropolitan Police said in a statement.
Image:Car that crashed into Downing Street gates
“Armed officers arrested a man at the scene on suspicion of criminal damage and dangerous driving.
“There are no reports of any injuries.”
The incident is being dealt with by local police in Westminster and counter terrorism police are not involved, Sky News understands.
Witness Simon Parry, 44, said: “I heard a bang and looked up and saw loads of police with Tasers shouting at the man.
“A lot of police vehicles came very quickly and were very quick to evacuate the area.”
Image:Police remove large white sheet from vehicle
Vice president of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons, has expressed worry over the diminished power of the Judiciary in checking the actions of the president and his appointees.
Mr Simons remarked that the expectations for the new Chief Justice of Ghana, who will be replacing Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah following his retirement, have been set disappointingly low.
He stated, “Whether fair or not, the Ghanaian Judiciary in the last few years saw its reputation for checking abuse of power by the Executive sink to its lowest level in the 4th Republic. The bar has thus been set very low for the new Chief Justice.”
In a separate tweet, Simons advocated for a judicial system that empowers citizens in the country. This response was prompted by a GhanaWeb publication announcing the appointment of Justice Jones Dotse as the Acting Chief Justice (CJ) after Chief Justice Anim Yeboah’s retirement on May 24, 2023, without returning to the bench.
In an earlier tweet, Simons called for a more citizen-empowering judicial in the country.
His call was contained in a tweet to a GhanaWeb publication that announced the appointment of Justice Jones Dotse as Acting Chief Justice (CJ) after Chief Justice Anim Yeboah retired on May 24, 2023, and did not return to the bench.
Whether fair or not, the Ghanaian Judiciary in the last few years saw its reputation for checking abuse of power by the Executive sink to its lowest level in the 4th Republic. The bar has thus been set very low for the new Chief Justice. https://t.co/MkZIBD1kJK
In a tweet, he wrote “Ghana’s Chief Justice retires. The activist CSOs I work with recall his rejection of our amicus brief against the EC’s decision to refuse birth certs as proof of citizenship. His reason?”
He continued by adding “We had been criticizing the EC on the radio. We look forward to a more citizen-empowering judiciary.”
Background:
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo nominated a Supreme Court judge, Gertrude Torkornoo, as the next Chief Justice of Ghana.
The president indicated that it is important that he begins the processes for the replacement of the outgoing Chief Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah now, so as not to create any vacuum.
If approved by the Parliament of Ghana, Justice Torkornoo will be the third appointment to the office of Chief Justice since Akufo-Addo became president in 2017.
She will also be the third female Chief Justice in the history of Ghana, following in the footsteps of Justices Georgina Theodora Wood and Sophia Akuffo.
Approximately 40 traditional caterers and kente weavers in the Ashanti region have recently undergone training in social media and digital marketing.
The training program was organized by the Africa Tourism Research Network (ATRN) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), recognizing the significant role that digitization plays in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
The aim of this initiative is to enhance the informal sector and assist artisans in leveraging the digital economy to create better employment opportunities.
During a four-day workshop, Emmanuel Frimpong, President of ATRN, emphasized the importance of promoting craftsmanship as it plays a vital role in generating decent jobs for the youth. Frimpong encouraged handicraft workers to harness the advantages of social media marketing to enhance the creative arts sector.
Frederick Adjei-Rudolph, Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority, highlighted the participants’ need to acknowledge and embrace the role of digitization and social media in their work.
This recognition is crucial for staying relevant and maximizing the benefits provided by these digital platforms.
He, however, urged them to take advantage of the workshop to improve on their work while at the same time benefiting from the opportunities available on social media platforms.
He stressed “if you sit back and watch without taking advantage of digitisation, your jobs will be gone in no time.”
On his part, Frank Kwasi Adetor, the National Project Coordinator of ILO’s Global Program on Skills and Lifelong Learning reiterated the pivotal role digital marketing and social media skills play in promoting and sustaining businesses.
He admonished the two trade associations to take advantage of the training by imparting the knowledge and skills acquired to others.
“You can only succeed in transcending the borders of Ghana by conforming to and upholding international standards in your business operations,” Mr. Adetor further advised the participants.
The training workshop forms part of the Global Program on Skills and Lifelong Learning/SKILL UP Ghana Project. It is an ILO initiative in collaboration with the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training and funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation.
Lewis Hamilton has dismissed reports claiming he has received a contract offer from Ferrari and anticipates signing a new deal with Mercedes “in the coming weeks.”
As his current £40 million-a-year contract nears its expiration with just six months remaining, there has been speculation about Hamilton’s future in the sport.
Leading up to the Monaco Grand Prix this week, there were reports suggesting that Ferrari was preparing a substantial offer to secure Hamilton in a high-profile transfer.
But when asked on Thursday if the Italian giants had been in touch, Hamilton replied: “No. When you are in contract negotiations there is always going to be speculation, and unless you hear it from me that is all it is.
“My team is working closely behind the scenes with [Mercedes team principal] Toto [Wolff], and we are almost at the end of having a contract ready.
“This is the first time that I have not been negotiating myself. I have a great team in the background that does the work and I focus on the job on hand.
“I say what I want and that is what we are working towards so hopefully in the coming weeks [it will be decided].”
Hamilton, 38, will get his first taste of a major Mercedes upgrade in practice on Friday which the seven-time world champion hopes will haul him up the grid.
Hamilton qualified 13th at the last race in Miami before driving well to finish sixth, but he is already 63 points behind Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in the championship standings.
However, Hamilton insisted Mercedes’ dethroning as kings of the Formula One road will not impact his decision to re-sign with the Brackley side.
“We are still a championship-winning team,” added the British driver. “We have just had the wrong car, and there have been decisions that have been made over the past two years that have not been ideal. We are working our way through that.
The long-awaited upgrades have arrived for Mercedes 🙌
“We have a new upgrade this weekend. The team have worked incredibly hard to bring this upgrade to this race after we decided that was the direction we wanted to take.
“Although this is not the best track to see it come to fruition, we will hopefully get a better experience of that at the next race.”
Both Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz are under contract with Ferrari until the end of next season.
Addressing the speculation surrounding Hamilton, Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur said: “We are not sending an offer to Lewis. We didn’t do it, and we have not had discussions.
“Every single team on the grid would like to have Hamilton at one stage, and it would be bulls*** to not say something like this.
“But if I have had discussions with Hamilton, it is because I have had discussions with him for the last 20 years.
“I have discussed things almost every single weekend with Hamilton, and I don’t want to have to stop having discussions with him because you are chasing me (about a contract offer).”
A group of 2006 dismissed workers from the Ghana Railway Corporation has filed an injunction on the accounts of the company due to its failure to settle their arrears for over 17 years.
Chairman of the retrenched workers, John Kojo Appiah, noted that they resorted to this measure after their attempts to recover their long-overdue funds proved unsuccessful.
The injunction granted by the Sekondi High Court serves as a means to ensure that the Ghana Railway addresses the outstanding payments owed to the retrenched workers, who have been waiting for compensation for nearly two decades.
“The Cape Coast Appeals Court ordered the payment of our money in 2015. Since then, the company has refused to pay the money to us and all efforts have proven unsuccessful. Our lawyer led us and an injunction has been placed on the accounts where salaries of workers are paid from,” he indicated.
Out of the 674 retrenched workers, 111 have died and the rest are above fifty years. Most of them are currently battling one sickness after the other.
Secretary of the retrenched workers, 76-year-old Edward Roberts is blaming the Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Otchere Darko-Mensah, Former Railways Minister, Joe Ghartey, and John Peter Amewu, for refusing to act.
“We have informed all of them about our plight, they are all aware of the Court ruling but have failed to act. I’m 74 years and very sick, I don’t even have money to buy drugs but they are refusing to pay us. Most of our members have died and the rest of us are very sick,” he added.
With the assistance of their lawyer, Joseph Abakah, an injunction has been secured on the Ghana Commercial Bank Account of the Company in Takoradi, Kumasi, and Accra.
According to them, the company currently owes them GH₵56 million and until their money is paid, the workers cannot receive their salaries.
American actor Ice Cube has made it unequivocally clear that he will take legal action against anyone who utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) to create a song featuring his likeness without his consent.
During an interview on the Full Send podcast, the renowned West Coast rap icon expressed his thoughts on the emerging trend of individuals employing artificial intelligence to produce songs that incorporate an artist’s image or persona without obtaining proper consent.
Cube emphasized that he is unafraid to pursue legal measures if someone were to create a track utilizing his likeness without seeking his permission.
“I don’t wanna hear an AI Drake song,” he said. “Yeah, I don’t wanna hear that bullshit. He should sue whoever made it.”
The topic eventually turned to what would happen if he found himself in a similar situation, and that’s when Cube went off.
“And I’mma sue the muthaf**ka who made it and the people and the platform who play it,” he said. “It’s like a sample, you know what I mean? Somebody can’t take your original voice and manipulate it without having to pay. I think A.I. is demonic [and] I think A.I. is going to get a backlash from organic people.”
Ice Cube is not alone in expressing concerns about the potential risks of AI in the music industry. Young Guru, a renowned engineer, has also spoken out about the issue and called out Timbaland for his praise of using AI to incorporate music from deceased artists.
In recent months, Timbaland has shown enthusiasm for the possibilities presented by AI-generated music, as it creates various opportunities within the industry.
The discussions surrounding AI in music continue to raise important questions and elicit differing opinions from artists and industry professionals.
However, Guru was not having it, and called the legendary producer “corny” for supporting the technology.
“Timbaland, I love you, my brother. You know I do. But this ain’t it,” he said on Instagram. “This is dangerous at a basic level and it’s corny. I will be on the side of the Luddites.”
A man in his fifties tragically lost his life while fishing in a galamsey pit at Kofikurom, near Aboso in the Prestea Huni Valley Municipality.
The deceased, identified as Michael Nartey, set out on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, in the afternoon to the nearby river with the intention of catching fish.
According to a local resident named Kofi Mensah, it was initially assumed that Nartey had proceeded to his farm after fishing.
However, when he failed to return by Wednesday, May 24, 2023, concern grew among the community, prompting them to initiate a search for him.
He explained: “Michael didn’t come home after several hours, so we all thought he after hanging his net, he had moved to one of his farms and that he would come back later in the night, but he didn’t come.
“So yesterday, Wednesday morning, May 24, 2023, a search party was dispatched to look for his whereabouts. After several hours of search, the team found Michael Nartey’s footwear, dress, and the fishing net close to a pit, but the body could not be found”, he said.
According to him, Upon further search, the team noticed something in one of the pits that resembled a human hair; they drew closer and realised it was a human head.
They called on some elders and committee members of the community who came to pour libation then some divers went in to remove the body.
He added that the community folks were surprised to see Michael’s body standing in the pit when they expected a drowned body to be lying under the water or floating at the surface of the water.
The Aboso Police Command has been informed about the incident and have begun their investigation.
Meanwhile, the mortal remains have been deposited at the morgue in Tarkwa.
Standard Bank Group’s 160-year history in Africa makes the Group more than a financial services organization. The Group has become a core and an indispensable member of the African community, offering not just integrated financial services and superior value, but also supporting the continent in varied and distinct ways.
In all the years that the bank has been in operation, we have been guided by the creed that Africa is our beating heart, and we are committed to creating shared value for our clients, our people, and society to help our continent realise its potential as part of the global economy.
Our vision to become the leading financial services organisation in Africa, delivering exceptional client experiences and superior value has found expression in our work on the continent over the years. Through the ever-changing expectations and needs of clients and businesses on the continent, Standard Bank has remained resolute in being the bank that continuously drives Africa’s growth.
Our obligation has been to help our clients navigate the diverse African landscape to realise their dreams through our reach, deep insight and expertise about Africa, and innovative thinking. We are a critical catalyst for economic change in all countries where we operate.
This lies at the core of our purpose to develop commercially sound ways to address the environmental and social challenges experienced in our countries of operation, thereby accelerating economic growth, human development and making a better life for all Africans.
Our purpose for driving Africa’s growth also means courting the right investments that provide the continent the impetus for growth. The bank has been consistent in working with multinationals seeking to make inroads in Africa to develop strategies, based on our expertise and experience on the continent, that make it easier for them to operate effectively on the continent. We believe we can make meaningful, positive impact on Africa’s growth by partnering with institutions that share this commitment.
This year’s theme for the AU Day celebration, ‘Accelerating the Implementation of the AfCFTA’ brings into sharp focus what we at the Standard Bank Group have always acknowledged and supported.
In our 160 years of existence, the Standard Bank Group has been driven by a desire to see Africa grow. That is why we say Africa is our home and we drive her growth. In linking up the continent for trade, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement presents an opportunity to grow Africa’s economy.
For decades, Africa has been characterized by fragmented markets that inhibit the acceleration of economic growth of countries on the continent. Available statistics show that Africa trades 85 per cent with the rest of the world and only 15 percent within.
The introduction of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a long-awaited intervention that promises to defragment the continent and boost the productivity of its economies.
When fully ratified by all African countries, the AfCFTA will become the largest free trade area by membership established under World Trade Organization (WTO) rules integrating 55 African economies.
The AfCFTA, will establish a single continental market for goods and services, facilitated by movement of capital and persons. Immediately, 1.3 billion people across 55 countries with a combined gross domestic product (GDP) valued at US$3.4 trillion (World Bank, 2020) will be connected.
Beyond its ground-breaking size, the AfCFTA promises to be a paradigm shift and a deeper commitment to the integration of the continent by negotiating goods and services simultaneously.
The agreement is a potential economic game-changer for Africa’s development not only because of its potential to enhance intra-African trade but also to provide an opportunity for countries in the region to competitively integrate into the global economy, reduce poverty, and promote inclusion.
Many analysts are of the opinion that increasing trade through the AfCFTA will provide the impetus for reforms that activates productivity and job creation, thereby decreasing the incidence of poverty on the continent.
Indeed, the World Bank suggests that by 2035, implementing the agreement could help to lift an additional 30 million people from extreme poverty and 68 million people from moderate poverty.
It is estimated that implementing the AfCFTA will increase the volume of intra-African trade by 81% by 2035, and increase the volume of total African exports by 29% (World Bank, 2020).
By boosting intra-African trade and fostering regional value chains and production networks, the AfCFTA is expected to drive Africa’s structural transformation. Under the AfCFTA, Africa’s people, including entrepreneurs, professionals, workers and consumers, will be able to move across the continent, allowing them and the businesses they represent, to take advantage of opportunities to trade goods and services.
What remains critical, however, is the agility of entrepreneurs and business people to recognize these vast opportunities and take advantage of them thereof.
As the AfCFTA beckons, business people and entrepreneurs must position themselves strategically to leverage the opportunities provided by the agreement. As a starting point, entrepreneurs must arm themselves with as much information as possible about the agreement to be able to navigate through the nuances of the agreement.
Beyond learning about the agreement, value addition must be a preoccupation of businesses if the AfCFTA would be of any benefit to them. Value addition comes with capacity building that enables African businesses to progress from local players to regional players. The business community must adopt modern operations and business strategies and systems to ensure competitiveness.
The Bank has played a central role in the development of African economies for over a century and half. We have done this by constantly aligning our presence in the market-place with the evolving needs of the region’s economies – and by delivering relevant banking and financial services.
When we say Africa is our home and we drive her growth, it is not mere rhetoric. It is a belief by which we live and conduct our business. Our presence in 20 African countries and our unique value to Ghanaian and African companies planning to export to other countries on the continent coupled with our understanding of the local markets and our expertise in international trade, give us the opportunity to help facilitate the operationalization of the AfCFTA.
As we mark AU Day, Stanbic Bank would like to remind all Ghanaians that the dream of a Ghana with capable men and women managing the affairs of the country to achieve prosperity for all its people is still very possible.
By Farihan Alhassan Head, Business and Commercial Banking -Stanbic Bank
DISCLAIMER: Independentghana.com will not be liable for any inaccuracies contained in this article. The views expressed in the article are solely those of the author’s, and do not reflect those of The Independent Ghana.
President Akufo-Addo has lauded the success of the Planting for Food and Jobs policy, which he attributes to Ghana’s abundant food supply.
Despite facing significant economic challenges, Ghana has managed to avoid the food shortages experienced by other West African nations.
President Akufo-Addo credits the implementation of effective policies, particularly the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative, for playing a crucial role in ensuring an ample food production in the country.
During his speech at the 7th African Leadership Forum held in Accra, the President acknowledged the government’s successful management of the agricultural sector.
However, Mr. Akufo-Addo cautioned that providing continued subsidies for agriculture may not be sustainable in the long term.
“There is a whole programme we call Planting for Food and Jobs, where we subsidize our smallholder farmers. It has yielded some results, and we have seen that even in these difficult times economically, the availability of foodstuff on the market has not been an issue. It isn’t as if in this period of difficulty we have also witnessed a shortage of food.
“On the contrary, access to food has been the more robust response that our economy has had and it is so because the system we have put in place has been relatively successful but clearly there is a limit to how far we can go down that road of public subsidy for agriculture.”
Dr. Michael Kpessa-Whyte, an unsuccessful National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary hopeful for Shai Osudoku and a lecturer at the University of Ghana, has been summoned by the Supreme Court to provide a valid reason why he should not be held in contempt.
This summons comes in response to allegations that he denigrated the nation’s highest judicial body by referring to it as “a stupid court.”
In a recent Twitter post, Dr. Kpessa-Whyte stated, “The Supreme Court is being turned into a ‘Stupid Court’.” He further expressed his dissatisfaction with the current state of Ghana’s judiciary, accusing it of displaying partisanship and lacking common sense.
These tweets were made shortly after the Supreme Court ordered Parliament to remove the name of NDC MP James Gyakye Quayson from its records, citing procedural breaches during his nomination and election in 2020.
Three days after his tweet, the academic cum politician posted two tweets pointing out that people had been reaching out to him over the content of his tweet apparently linking it to the Ghanaian judiciary.
He clarified that his tweets were not in reference to Ghana’s judiciary.
“Thanks to all who have asked questions about my May 19th, 2023 tweet. For the avoidance of doubt, I follow judicial decisions in many countries and so the said tweet cannot be pinned to Ghana. It has more to do with developments elsewhere including the US. We live in a global village.”
Board Chairman of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), Freddie Blay, has described as “regrettable and unfortunate” the calls for his dismissal by some Civil Society Organisations.
About 29 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) want the Board Chair sacked over his decision to sell a 50% stake in Jubilee Holdings Limited (JOHL) to PetroSA.
In response, Mr Blay noted that the issue has been misconstrued and lack of interest to verify information by the CSOs has led to misinformation of the public.
“CSOs are expected to protect the interests and rights of civil society, seek the public good, and prioritize national interest. However, instead of seeking the facts and acting responsibly, these 29 CSOs have hastily engaged in this matter and have chosen to misinform the public, driven by ulterior motives and vested interests,” Mr Blay further added, emphasizing his disappointment.
He asserted his right to pursue legal action against these organizations and anyone involved in what he described as a malicious campaign aimed at damaging his name and reputation.
“I have taken due note of the libellous statements against me by my detractors including the said CSOs, and reserve the right to take legal action against these organizations and anyone engaged in this diabolic exercise of destroying my name and reputation.”
The call for Mr Blay’s resignation comes in the wake of GNPC’s intention to sell a 50% stake in Jubilee Holdings Limited (JOHL) to PetroSA, despite the substantial revenue potential this interest holds for the state.
Addressing the press on Tuesday, May 23, the Coordinator for the coalition, Abdul Karim Mohammed said the continuous presence of Mr Blay and Mr Ahweneeh Danquah, closely associated with petroleum operations, poses significant risks to Ghana’s interests.
The CSOs are made up of the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers Ghana (COPEC), Imani Centre for Policy and Education and 25 others.
The CSOs also accused the two men of working against the interest of the state.
But Mr Blay claims the allegations surrounding the supposed “surreptitious,” “clandestine,” and “scandalous” sale of so-called GNPC shares are unequivocally false.
“There is no intention by GNPC or me as its Chairman, to divest 7% shareholding in JOHL nor has there been any claim by PetroSA to acquire shareholding interests in JOHL. Such claims can only stem from an uninformed and malevolent mind.”
Below are details of Mr Freddie Blay’s statement
PRESS RELEASE RE: “PRE-EMPTION OF JOHL ACQUISITION OF ANADARKO INTEREST”
Recently, Ghana’s media landscape has been inundated with unfounded and malicious allegations surrounding Freddie Blay, the Chairman of GNPC. These baseless claims, propagated through statements attributed to a purported group of 29 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), have gone so far as to demand my resignation as Board Chairman.
My detractors, without verifying the facts with GNPC, make baseless claims suggesting my involvement in a supposed “scandalous” transaction aimed at offloading 50% of GNPC’s existing stake in the Deepwater Tano Contract Area (DWT). Furthermore, they assert that this action constitutes a divestment of the State’s beneficial interest.
Interestingly, there are others who assert, quite sadly, that they have uncovered a secretive and covert endeavour by GNPC and its board chairman to sell the 7% shares acquired by the Republic of Ghana from Anadarko West Cape Three Points Company (Anadarko) to Petroleum Oil and Gas Corporation of South Africa (Petro SA). To present the truth, I provide the following information for those seeking accurate insight.
Sale and Divestment of 7% “Shares” Acquired from Jubilee Oil Holdings Limited (JOHL)
Ghana is a country of law, and there are laws and procedures governing the sale and transfer of shares, under Ghana’s Companies Act 2019 (Act 992), even for private companies. I encourage all my accusers, and the public to Google “what is the procedure for share transfers in Ghana”, educate themselves, and draw their own conclusions on the veracity or duplicity of the allegations. Shares of a company are not a pack of cigarettes anyone, and for that matter, the Chairman of GNPC can keep in his or her pocket and vend by the street!
The allegations surrounding the supposed “surreptitious,” “clandestine,” and “scandalous” sale of so called GNPC shares are unequivocally false. There is no intention by GNPC or me as its Chairman, to divest 7% shareholding in JOHL nor has there been any claim by PetroSA to acquire shareholding interests in JOHL. Such claims can only stem from an uninformed and malevolent mind.
The Matter of The Petroleum Oil and Gas Corporation of South Africa (“PetroSA”)
In March 2006, the Government of the Republic of Ghana (“The State”) represented by the Minister for Energy (“Minister”), the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (“GNPC”), executed a Petroleum Agreement (“PA)” in respect of the Deepwater Tano Contract Area (“DWT”), with Tullow Ghana Limited (“Tullow”), Sabre Oil and Gas Limited (“Sabre”), Kosmos Energy Ghana HC (“Kosmos”) and Anadarko Offshore Holding Company, LLC (“AOHC”). These companies are hereinafter collectively referred to as “Contractor”. GNPC as is mandatory in the PA holds a 10% carried interest in DWT.
PetroSA, in July 2012 completed the acquisition of the shares of Sabre after receiving the consent of the Minister of Energy, the Honourable Joe Oteng-Adjei, earlier in February of the same year. By the acquisition of the assets and liabilities of Sabre, PetroSA legally assumed the equity interests of Saber as a Contractor in the PA relating to the DWT.
Specifically, PetroSA bought out Sabre’s interest in three assets i.e., the producing Jubilee field (1.7%), the Deepwater Tano Block at (4.05%), and the West Cape Three Points Block at (1.854%). Also, and by virtue of becoming a Contractor under the PA, PetroSA also, became a party in the Joint Operating Agreement (JOA) relating to the DWT.
As a party to the DWT JOA, PetroSA like all other parties in the Agreement, is entitled to the benefits and rights granted in the said agreement. This includes the ability to exercise a right to pre-empt any divestments to any unidentified third party for any intended transfers of all or a portion of and Participating Interests, whether directly or indirectly by assignment, merger, consolidation, or sale of stock or shares or other conveyance.
In 2021, AOHC created and incorporated a new Company i.e., Jubilee Oil Holdings Limited (“JOHL”), in Cayman Islands. JOHL, and Anadarko assigned to JOHL (“JOHL Transfers”) a 7% Participating Interest in the DWT JOA and a 5.95% interest in the DWT Petroleum Agreement. It also entered into a sale and purchase agreement with Kosmos Energy for the sale of Anardarko, and with the GNPC for the sale of JOHL.
Post the acquisition of JOHL by GNPC, after serving a notice to pre-empt rights to purchase the 7% Participating Interest in the DWT JOA currently held by JOHL, PetroSA has since engaged GNPC to acquire said Interests.
As a compromise solution, we have proposed the option of a 50:50 split of the 7% shares GNPC was holding. It is important to note that we have yet to outline specifics for the finality on the matter, and this compromise is subject to confirmation, and subsequent advice of the Minister. We are still in the stage of ongoing discussions.
GNPC’s doors remain wide open to all Civil Society Organizations and individuals alike. I extend an invitation to investigate and ascertain the facts before succumbing to orchestrated and futile frenzies.
The call for my resignation, as well as that of the CEO, in relation to this matter is deeply regrettable and unfortunate. CSOs are expected to protect the interests and rights of civil society, and seek the public good and national interest. Instead, the 29 CSOs that have called for my resignation, chose to engage hastily in this matter without seeking the facts, and rather misinform the public, in pursuit of ulterior motives and vested interest. This is detrimental to the public good, and the national interest.
I have taken due note of the libellous statements against me by my detractors including the said CSOs, and reserve the right to take legal action against these organizations and anyone engaged in this diabolic exercise of destroying my name and reputation.
FREDDIE WORSEMAO ARMAH BLAY CHAIRMAN
Dated: Thursday, 25 May 2023 for release to all Media Houses and Relevant Internet Portals
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has decided to roll out of Professional Learning Community (PLC) sessions across all Senior High Schools (SHSs) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTSs) nationwide.
According to GES, the initiative is aimed at strengthening teachers’ comprehension and adherence to the National Teachers’ Standards (NTS) while preparing them for the introduction of the new secondary education curriculum to be rolled-out in the 2024/25 academic year.
In January 2022, the Service piloted the use of PLC weekly sessions in 12 SHSs and SHTSs in using structured handbooks developed in partnership with the National Teaching Council (NTC).
A recent evaluation by the GES, found that the weekly sessions had a significant impact on improving teaching and learning in these 12 schools, providing a strong evidence-base for the national scale-up of this approach.
Ghana Education Service (GES) has initiated plans for a national roll out of Professional Learning Community (PLC) sessions
To ensure the smooth institutionalisation of the PLC sessions across all schools, GES also organised a five-day training session for a 100-member National Training Team comprising representatives from GES, T-TEL, Senior High Schools, and Colleges of Education.
The training, which took place in Koforidua from Monday May 8 to Friday May 13 2023, focused on equipping the National Training Team with the necessary skills and resources to support teachers and officers across various regional and district education directorates to effectively implement PLCs in SHSs and SHTSs.
The sessions demonstrated how teachers can be supported and equipped with interactive and innovative approaches to make teaching and learning more engaging for students.
With a strong focus on leveraging technology and promoting Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI), the training also highlighted the importance of socio-emotional learning in the classroom.
All approaches used in the training were drawn from the National Teacher’s Standards (NTS), which sets out the values and attitudes, knowledge, and practices expected of all professional teachers in Ghana.
Broadcaster Blessed Godsbrain Smart popularly known as Captain Smart is alleging that Ghana could lose the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) and the Tema Harbour to China should it default on its loans.
He is said to have made the assertion while speaking on Maakye Thursday, May 25, 2023.
According to him, China has turned its attention from the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation as it is allegedly no longer profitable.
This comes after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) revealed that in the event that Ghana defaults in the payment of some four loans to China, the country will lose its sales of electricity and the revenue accrued from the exportation of its minerals.
Collateralized debt is any contracted or guaranteed debt that gives the creditor the rights over an asset or revenue stream that would allow it, if the borrower defaults on its payment obligations, to rely on the asset or revenue stream to secure repayment of the debt, the IMF defines.
The Fund revealed that collateralized debt, entirely held by China, accounts for only 2.0 percent of external debt. And this corresponds to 4 loan agreements signed in 2007-18 that amount to US$619 million (0.9 percent of GDP) to finance infrastructure projects.
“These are collateralized against commodity production (cocoa, bauxite and oil) and electricity sales,” the IMF report stated.
It is reported that Captain Smart made this projection three months before the IMF made the revelation.
As at the end of 2022, Ghana owed China $1.9 billion out of which $619 million were collateralized loans.
A 2022 report by the South China Morning Post disclosed that Uganda will be taking funds generated from its International Airport to pay China for defaulting its debt/
According to the report, the repayment terms on a $200 million loan to expand Uganda’s International Airport forced the Ugandan government to repay its debt before funding public services.
“Under the loan from China’s Exim Bank to modernise the Entebbe airport, the Ugandan government is required to channel all revenue from the country’s only international airport into an account held jointly with the lender, according to the contract published Monday by AidData,” reports the South China Morning Post.
For the third edition of the Ghana Investment and Opportunity Summit (GHIOS), scheduled for June of this year, more than 800 members of the business community are anticipated to gather in the UK.
For in-depth business discussions, it aims to bring together representatives from the global investor community, venture capitalists, and private equity fund managers, among others.
This event aims to connect regional firms with global partners as well as explore feasible bankable investment prospects within various sectors of the Ghanaian economy.
Over a hundred million agreements will be closed at the Business-to-Business sessions, which will feature 200 corporate industry leaders and about forty speakers.
This year’s summit is slated for two days at the London Hilton on Park Lane under the theme, “Post Covid Economic Recovery: Opportunities for the Investor”.
Vice President of Ghana, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is expected to lead a delegation of industry captains and business leaders to showcase why Ghana should be the number one choice for investors to consider doing business in Africa.
Key sectors of focus for the summit will be, Finance, Digitalisation, Agriculture, Energy, Manufacturing, Tourism, and Diaspora Mobilisation.
According to the 2020 World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Report, Ghana remains one of the best places to do business in West Africa.
As Ghana works to regain its position as one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, the EY African Attractiveness Index also reveals the country is one of the most resilient economies in West Africa.
“With its political stability, conducive business environment, committed and progressive government-private sector participation, adaptable workforce, excellent sea and air connections to Europe and the USA, transparent regulations, no-frills business processes, and a thriving private sector, Ghana, home to the headquarters of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCTFA) is an excellent hub for investors seeking to do business in Africa”, officials say.
Having grappled with the detrimental impacts of the global pandemic just like every other country, Ghana’s focus on maintaining a sustainable economy is now more important than ever, and one of the key ways to achieve this is to ensure a consistent attraction of foreign direct investment.
“As Ghana continues to make giant strides to solidify its status as the force to reckon with in Africa, it welcomes global investors to be a part of this journey and take advantage of the abundance of investment opportunities,” officials added.
The summit seeks to target international investors, various corporate organizations, government institutions, as well as the public in Ghana and Europe, and the diaspora.
Former President John Dramani Mahama is participating in the 2023 Korea-Africa Business Summit – a two day summit happening in Seoul, South Africa.
He is the keynote speaker at the summit, which coincides with the African Union Day celebration on May 25, 2023.
The summit according to the Korea-Africa Foundation provides a “valuable venue for enabling rich and in-depth discussion” around several key issues including Finance 4.0, Innovation and Youth Entrepreneurship, Trade, Industrialisation, Energy and Resources.
The Foundation will host an Africa Night to commemorate the Africa Day celebration as part of the Summit programme.
The Korea-Africa Foundation was established as an affiliate of the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs to serve as a platform for collaboration between the private and public sectors, and also to strengthen exchange and cooperation with African countries.
President of the Foundation, Ambassador Woon-Ki Lyeo, says the Foundation considers President Mahama’s presence and participation “a steppingstone for ennobling the partnership between Ghana and Korea.”
Ivory Coast has received a $3.5-billion loan agreement from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to help the country tackle financial challenges and assist with its economic transformation.
The IMF announced this on Wednesday. The 40-month arrangement will “help support the country’s transformation towards upper-middle income status” over the medium term while preserving macroeconomic stability, the IMF said in a statement.
Getting the loan in full will be contingent on the West African nation making structural changes to its economy, which is squeezed by a global downturn and the ripple effects of the war in Ukraine.
IMF Deputy Managing Director Kenji Okamura said “Consecutive global shocks have strained Cote d’Ivoire’s public finances as well as regional reserves.”
The program will help the country tackle the “triple shocks” of the Covid-19 pandemic, global monetary tightening, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, according to the statement from the IMF.
The key target of the program’s reform agenda, meanwhile, is domestic revenue mobilization, which the IMF said was central to preserving fiscal and debt sustainability, and would help generate the “fiscal space” needed to allow for deeper economic transformation.
The first tranche of the loan worth close to $500 million will be made immediately available to the Ivorian authorities to support the budget, the IMF said.
Recently, the IMF approved a $3 billion loan agreement for Ghana.
Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano at the Bernabeu, thanks to Rodrygo’s 89th-minute goal, marking their return to winning ways.
Despite Vinicius Jr’s absence due to a knee problem, his teammates displayed a powerful demonstration of solidarity for the winger, who had experienced racial abuse during the match against Valencia. They took to the field wearing Vinicius Jr’s shirt and held up a banner proclaiming, “racists, out of football.”
Karim Benzema opened the scoring for Real Madrid in the 31st minute. However, Rayo Vallecano thought they had salvaged a draw when Raul de Tomas equalized in the 84th minute.
Nevertheless, Rodrygo stole the spotlight as he cut inside onto his right foot and calmly slotted the ball past Stole Dimitrievski from the edge of the area, securing the crucial winning goal for Real Madrid.
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) May 24, 2023
Victory moved them back into second place in LaLiga as city rivals Atletico squandered a three-goal lead to draw 3-3 with second-bottom Espanyol.
Goals from Cesar Montes, Joselu and Vinicius Souza cancelled out strikes from Saul Niguez, Antoine Griezmann and Yannick Carrasco and left Espanyol three points from safety with two matches remaining and still in danger of suffering a second top-flight relegation in four seasons.
Two goals from Nicolas Jackson secured a 2-0 win over Cadiz which guaranteed Villarreal fifth place, after Real Betis lost 1-0 to struggling Getafe who in turn boosted their survival chances, while already-relegated Elche drew 1-1 at home to Sevilla.
Inter Milan warmed up for their Champions League final with Manchester City by retaining the Coppa Italia courtesy of two goals from Lautaro Martinez in a 2-1 win over Fiorentina in Rome.
Nicolas Gonzalez had given Fiorentina a third-minute lead but Inter’s Argentina international struck twice before half-time to secure the club’s ninth victory in the competition.
Following the passing of Tina Turner at the age of 83, celebrities and fans alike have come forward to pay heartfelt tributes to the soul star renowned for her chart-topping hits such as “The Best” and “What’s Love Got to Do With It.”
Beyoncé, recognizing Turner’s unmatched prowess, described her as the “epitome of passion and power.” Sir Mick Jagger fondly remembered her as a “wonderful friend” and an incredibly talented performer.
Notable figures like Mariah Carey and Oprah Winfrey praised Turner’s resilience as a survivor who triumphed over years of domestic abuse. The Obamas expressed admiration for her ability to authentically convey her experiences of both joy and pain through her music.
Joining in commemorating Turner’s extraordinary legacy, President Joe Biden acknowledged her humble beginnings as a farmer’s daughter and hailed her as a “once-in-a-generation talent.”
IMAGE SOURCE,REUTERS Image caption, Beyoncé performed with Turner at the 2008 Grammy Awards
On Wednesday, the publicist for the legendary singer confirmed her passing. While no specific cause was disclosed, it was known that she had encountered various health challenges in recent years, including a stroke and kidney disease.
Recognized as the Queen of Rock and Roll, she commanded the stage with a fiery presence and left an indelible mark as an extraordinary vocalist of her era.
Her journey in the music industry began in the 1950s, gaining prominence as part of the Ike Turner Revue, and later achieving newfound success as a solo artist in the 1980s.
US singer Gloria Gaynor said Turner “paved the way for so many women in rock music, black and white”.
“She did with great dignity and success what very few would even have dared to do in her time and in that genre of music. “
Another contemporary, Diana Ross, said she was “shocked” and “saddened” by Turner’s death; while Dionne Warwick remembered her as an “eternal ball of energy”.
Mick Jagger, who often collaborated with Turner, wrote on Twitter: “I’m so saddened by the passing of my wonderful friend Tina Turner.
“She was truly an enormously talented performer and singer. She was inspiring, warm, funny and generous. She helped me so much when I was young and I will never forget her.”
Image caption,Turner and Jagger performed together at Live Aid in 1985
Sir Elton John called Turner a “total legend on record and on stage”.
He said: “We have lost one of the word’s most exciting and electric performers… She was untouchable.”
Welsh star Dame Shirley Bassey recalled how Turner “really gave it her everything and was a fantastic performer”.
Born in Tennessee and raised in the church, Turner basically elbowed her way into rock ‘n’ roll and rose to fame in the 1960s.
When Ike Turner refused to give her an audition, she waited for the intermission in his show, grabbed a drummer’s microphone and let rip.
She sang with the band for the rest of the night, and soon got equal billing with Ike – later marrying her co-star.
“When Ike heard me, he said, ‘My God!’” she told People magazine in 1981. “He couldn’t believe that voice coming out of this frail little body.”
They became one of the most watchable, combustible bands on the soul circuit; and many of their hits were covers of other people’s material.
From Proud Mary to Get Back, via Whole Lotta Love, Turner made the songs her own, bringing an unforgettable rasp and a powerful female perspective to those rock and roll standards.
John Fogerty, the former Creedence Clearwater Revival frontman who wrote Proud Mary, tweeted: “So deeply sad to hear about Tina Turner’s passing… I loved her version of Proud Mary! It was different and fantastic. I was also so happy because she chose my song and it was her breakthrough record.”
The star was left penniless after divorcing Ike Turner in the 1970s, but she went on to achieve even greater success as a solo artist, with hits including What’s Love Got To Do With It, Let’s Stay Together, The Best Steamy Windows, Private Dancer and James Bond theme GoldenEye.
A number of Wednesday night’s tributes referred to her escape from her husband’s abuse.
The charity Women’s Aid was among those to quote one of Turner’s songs, saying: “She will always be simply the best.”
TV presenter Oprah Winfrey cited Turner’s “courage”, adding: “Her life became a clarion call for triumph.”
In an effusive message, singer Mariah Carey called Turner not only an “incredible performer” but also a “survivor and an inspiration to women everywhere”.
Image caption,Tributes are being paid around the world
Beyoncé, another younger star who was influenced by Turner, wrote on her website: “My beloved queen. I love you endlessly.
“I am so grateful for your inspiration, and all the ways you have paved the way. You are strength and resilience. You are the epitome of passion and power.
“We are all so fortunate to have witnessed your kindness and beautiful spirit that will forever remain. Thank you for all you have done.”
Singer PP Arnold – who performed alongside Turner – told the BBC that the two women’s relationship had “changed my life” and saved her from an abusive teen marriage.
Numerous other musicians including Janelle Monáe, Dolly Parton, Blondie’s Debbie Harry and Sir Tom Jones were quick to hail the late performer’s achievements.
She won eight Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame in 2021 as a solo artist, having earlier been inducted alongside Ike.
Lands Minister Samuel Abu Jinapor has pleaded with the Forestry Commission in the Eastern Region to establish the necessary measures to protect the forest reserves and water bodies from the activities of illegal miners.
Speaking at the commissioning of an office complex for the Forestry Commission in the Eastern Region on Wednesday, he noted that Atiwa forest and others in the locality are under attack.
“Atiwa forest and various forests in the Eastern region are under attack from illegal miners, and galamseyers.”
“Please rid these forest reserves of illegal miners and illegal loggers and other activities which threaten the survival of forest reserves in our country,” he said.
Lands Minister, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor
However, the Damongo MP assured that the Forestry Commission would be provided with the needed tools to fight the menace.
Mr Jinapor insisted that no one would be spared regardless of their stature.
“You [Forestry Commission] have our full support, whether they are high people or low people, whether political leaders or not, your work is to ensure that all forest reserves in this country are protected.”
“Government will provide bulletproof vests and other weapons to aid your work,” he added.
The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has not put out any advertisement for recruitment as suggested on various social media platforms.
In a statement, EOCO noted that its attention has been drawn to fake recruitment offers being associated to its office.
According to EOCO, it does not engage the services of third parties in its recruitment process, hence the general public should be wary of such advertisements.
“We therefore advise the general public not to heed to, or pay monies to any individual or group of persons with the view of facilitating recruitment into the Office,” the statement read.
“EOCO shall not be responsible or liable in any way for claims, losses or liabilities,” it stated to individuals who may go ahead to engage such fraudsters.
In Accra, a zoophilist has expressed deep disappointment and a sense of betrayal after the Ghana Wildlife Society (GWS) took unexpected action regarding his plans to obtain a license for operating a mini zoo.
Solomon Dieudonné Ametepey, the affected individual previously mentioned in a published report, shared with GhanaWeb’s video journalist, Kwame Adzaho-Amenortor, that the GWS had initially assured him of their support in managing his animals and operating the zoo.
However, during a planned visit by the GWS team to the location where Ametepey keeps his caged animals, he was met with the most shocking revelation. The team informed him that their purpose was to shut down the facility.
According to Ametepey, the GWS cited safety concerns regarding the environment in which he houses the animals as the primary reason for their decision.
“I have always had a passion for keeping animals. These animals are all orphans. They were trapped by hunters and their mothers killed. Now, they need help and I cater for them.
“I have to sacrifice money I use for food to get food for the animals, and to keep them in good health.
“In Africa, if you want to do something concerning nature, you have to involve the government and so I went to Ghana Wildlife Society to assist me to get a pet license.
“They promised to assist me. They were supposed to come for a follow-up visit where they would inspect my place and grant me a pet license,” he explained.
Reports from Sudan indicate that a military fighter plane has crashed near the capital city of Khartoum in Omdurman.
The cause of the crash, whether it was due to being shot down or a technical failure, remains unclear.
Videos circulating on social media show the aircraft engulfed in flames before plummeting to the ground. Additionally, separate footage captures two pilots descending from the plane using parachutes.
Military plane crashed in Sudan
The aircraft crashed near the city of Omdurman near the capital Khartoum, Al Hadath reported. A video appeared on social networks of how 2 pilots, who managed to eject, descend by parachute. pic.twitter.com/DfuwsXWrHx
In another video, an injured man dressed in army uniform appears disoriented and is seen in the back of a car, seemingly held captive by armed individuals who are celebrating.
Local residents in the area have reported intense fighting, which has occurred on the second day of a ceasefire intended to reduce clashes, although it has not fully ceased the hostilities.
The ceasefire aims to facilitate the delivery of much-needed aid to the region, but its effectiveness has been limited thus far. Humanitarian workers are awaiting security permits and guarantees to commence their operations.
Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has commented on an alleged assault incident involving independent candidate Kwaku Duah during the recently concluded Kumawu by-election.
Kwaku Duah is accused of slapping an agent of the NPP. According to Mr Wontumi, but for turning a new leaf, he would have had the independent candidate dealt with.
“Do you know that the independent candidate has slapped someone? He is frustrated. He slapped someone at an Anglican school near the chief’s palace.
“If I was in my old ways, I would have ordered my boys to deal with him, but I have decided to hand him over to the police. Otherwise, I would have dealt with him severely,” he said in an interview with Adom TV on May 23, 2023.
Mr Wontumi asserted that Mr Duah’s declining popularity and dwindling number of supporters may have contributed to his frustration, which seemingly led to the reported act of assault.
“He is frustrated because what happens during a general election is different from a by-election. It’s a different game. The independent candidate is frustrated because he has lost all his followers,” he stated.
The late MP, Philip Basoah polled 14,960 to win the seat for the NPP in the 2020 parliamentary polls, representing 51.11% of valid votes cast.
The independent candidate, Duah Kwaku polled 11,698 votes (39.96%) to come in second whiles the NDC’s Bernard Opoku Marfo polled a paltry 2,439 votes (8.33%), the only other candidate was Nana Amoako of GUM who got 174 (0.59%).
But in this year’s by-election, Kwaku Duah, an independent candidate, garnered 2,478 votes, representing 11.51%.
Ernest Yaw Anim received 15,264 votes, representing 70.91% of the valid votes. Kwasi Amankwaa, running on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), secured 3,723 votes, representing 17.29%.
The Otumfuo Ahenenanom Hene, Nana Kwame Mensah-Bonsu, has strongly criticized President Akufo-Addo for the lack of developmental projects in the Ashanti Region.
Nana Mensah-Bonsu, who is a sub-chief of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, accused President Akufo-Addo and his political party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), of neglecting the Ashanti Region and taking it for granted.
During an interview on the ‘For The Records’ program aired on Sunday, May 21, 2023, Nana Mensah-Bonsu highlighted that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), despite receiving fewer votes in the Ashanti Region, has implemented more projects in the region compared to the NPP government.
This criticism emphasizes the perceived disparity between the promises made by the NPP and the actual development experienced by the Ashanti Region under President Akufo-Addo’s leadership.
He added that the Akufo-Addo government is the worst he has seen, asking “whether the president had any education”.
“I am here to fight for Ashanti. Akufo-Addo should come and point out all the development projects he has brought to the Ashanti Region and let Mahama also do same.
“… has Akufo-Addo gone to school since he came into politics, who is his classmate? Who did he go to law school with? Who did he go to the university with? He has not brought any project to the Ashanti Region.
“I beg you call the NDC and call the NPP for them to come and account for what they have done in the Ashanti Region. We’re not fools. If we were blind yesterday, today we can see that it is raining and the ground is wet,” he said in Twi.
The Otumfuo Ahenenana went on to list a number of projects started by the John Dramani Mahama administration, including the Sofoline Interchange in Kumasi, which the Akufo-Addo government has failed to complete in the over six years it has been in office.
He urged Ashanti chiefs to speak up and called on the people of the Ashanti land to make wise electoral choices for their own good.
Serving as a judge for 21 years, with three of those years as the Head of the Judiciary, Chief Justice Kwasi Anin-Yeboah has officially retired from active service today.
As per the constitutional provisions outlined in Article 144 (6) of the 1992 Constitution, Justice Jones Dotse, the most senior Justice on the Supreme Court bench, has assumed the role of Acting Chief Justice following Justice Anin-Yeboah’s retirement.
Justice Dotse will fulfill the duties of Acting Chief Justice until the nomination of Justice Gertrude Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo as the substantive Chief Justice is approved by Parliament.
Justice Torkornoo is scheduled to undergo vetting by the Appointment Committee of Parliament on Friday, May 26.
Chief Justice Kwasi Anin-Yeboah
Justice Anin-Yeboah Profile
Justice Anin Yeboah was born at Toase in the Ashanti Region in May 1953.
He attended Amaniampong Secondary School and Apam Secondary School and then moved to the University of Ghana and the Ghana School of Law, where he graduated in 1981.
He served as an Assistant State Attorney at the Attorney-General’s Office in Koforidua, where he was elected the Eastern Regional President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA).
He also served as a justice of the High Court between 2002 and 2003 and the Court of Appeal from 2003 to 2008, until his elevation to the Supreme Court by Former President John Agyekum Kufuor.
Justice Anin Yeboah was also the Chairman of the Appeals Committee of the Ghana Football Association from 2004 to 2008 and rose to become a member of the Adjudicatory Chamber of FIFA.
In May 2017, he was appointed Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee of the 67th FIFA Congress in Bahrain and was also Chairman of the FIFA Ethics Committee.
Justice Anin-Yeboah was appointed to the Supreme Court by former President Kufuor in June 2008.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has stated that despite the National Democratic Congress’ defeat in the Kumawu by-election, some gains were made.
New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Ernest Yaw Anim was elected Kumawu MP after polling 15,264 votes while NDC’s Kwasi Amankwaa, secured 3,727 of the total valid votes cast on Tuesday, May 23, 2023.
According to Mr Ablakwa, the NDC improved its number of votes in the NPP’s stronghold, hence Mr Amankwaa ought to be praised.
“The NDC’s Kwasi Amankwaa deserves lots of credit for improving our 2020 fortunes by securing 3,723 valid votes representing 17.29% as compared with 2,439 (8.33%) garnered by his predecessor.
Mr. Amankwaa thus moved from 3rd to 2nd position with an overall improvement from 2020 of 52.6% compared with a measly improvement of 2% by the NPP,” he wrote in a Facebook post today, May 24, 2023.
Mr Ablakwa believes the NDC’s significant gains in the NPP’s stronghold of Kumawu despite “the blatant abuse of incumbency manifested by overnight development projects and condemnable vote-buying” is both instructive and a cautionary tale to the NPP, particularly as turn-out still dropped by some 7,744 “regardless of the avalanche of inducements.”
The Tuesday polls saw heavy deployment of the police in several voting centres following reports of vote buying and electoral malpractice but there were no cases of violence.
The Kumawu seat became vacant following the death of former MP for the area, Philip Basoah, who passed away on March 23, 2023. He was laid to rest on Saturday, May 20, 2023.
The late MP, Philip Basoah polled 14,960 to win the seat for the NPP in the 2020 parliamentary polls, representing 51.11% of valid votes cast.
The independent candidate, Duah Kwaku polled 11,698 votes (39.96%) to come in second whiles the NDC’s Bernard Opoku Marfo polled a paltry 2,439 votes (8.33%), the only other candidate was Nana Amoako of GUM who got 174 (0.59%).
The residents of Denkyira Atobiase in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality of the Central Region have made an appeal to the government, specifically through the Ministry of Energy, requesting the provision of a new electricity transformer.
Their objective is to enhance the power supply in the area, as they have been facing issues such as low power voltage and frequent blackouts due to the absence of a reliable power source.
“We need a new transformer to access electricity in our community, in this 21 century do we have to beg for electricity?” they lamented.
The community has been plagued by frequent power outages and a lack of electricity supply, causing significant disruptions to daily activities and businesses in the area.
Due to the rapid growth of the town and the increasing demand for electricity for business purposes, the provision of a new transformer has become crucial.
Residents have accused the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) of neglecting their pleas to repair or replace the main transformer that caught fire a year ago.
Kwame Appiah, a resident, expressed dismay and frustration over the situation, highlighting the damage caused to their electrical appliances.
He described the current state as disheartening and unfortunate, stating that the community had endured this issue for a year but could no longer tolerate it. He warned that if the situation remained unresolved, they would take to the streets to express their anger towards the authorities.
Appiah pleaded with the ECG to come to their aid and help resolve the community’s ongoing hardships.
Thomas Oppong, a Unit Committee member, stated that previous letters and reports submitted to the Assembly and other bodies had yielded no results, necessitating a stronger appeal.
He explained that the situation had even led to nurses and teachers rejecting job postings in the community. Oppong revealed that workers would flee once they realized there was no electricity available.
“Many government workers posted to serve the community have either packed out or run away after noticing the problem”, he said.
He added that thieves have taken advantage of their predicament to step up activities since the community faces total darkness.
Denkyira Atobiase community has a population of over 600 where most of the residents are engaged in farming activities.
The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) has initiated an indefinite strike due to the government’s failure to approve revised salaries and other allowances for its members.
In a statement, JUSAG accused the government of consistently disregarding the welfare and entitlements of its members, displaying a lack of honesty in addressing their conditions of service.
The Association further highlighted that their proposals regarding the prompt implementation of approved cost of living allowances for members had not been given urgent attention by the government.
“Colleagues may recall that the Government of Ghana introduced the Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) in July 2022 for all public sector workers including staff of the Judicial Service due to the adverse economic condition the country was and is still undergoing.
“JUSAG submitted its proposal for review of salaries for 2023-2024 on 31st October 2022 to the Judicial Council for consideration in its advice to the President for determination in accordance Articles 149 and 158(2) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.”
The Association says the time has come when it can no longer take the mistreatment of its members and has resorted to strike effective May 24.
“We have suffered enough. We can no longer bear it. An empty sack cannot stand upright. The National Executive Council of JUSAG, upon consultations with the Judicial Service Ladies Association of Ghana, Senior Staff Association (SSAJUG), Driver Association, Finance Staff Association, and all stakeholders who matter, hereby declared an indefinite strike.”
In a 5-4 ruling, the Supreme Court has reaffirmed its stance that the legislation permitting the cultivation of cannabis (commonly known as weed) in Ghana was unconstitutionally passed by Parliament.
Chief Justice Dotse, presiding over the case, emphasized that the party seeking to review the court’s judgment had failed to meet the necessary threshold required for such a review.
Back in July 2022, the court had invalidated Section 43 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, Act 1019, which dealt with the cultivation of cannabis.
This provision stipulated that “the Minister on the recommendation of the Commission, may grant a licence for the cultivation of cannabis popularly referred to as “wee” in Ghana, which is not more than 0.3 % THC content on a dry weight basis for industrial purposes for obtaining fibre or seed for medicinal purposes.”
However, the apex court in a 4-3 majority decision annulled this provision and declared that it is a violation of Article 106 of the 1992 constitution.
This article reads;
“No bill, other than such a bill as is referred to in paragraph (a) of article 108 of this Constitution, shall be introduced in Parliament unless-
a. it is accompanied by an explanatory memorandum setting out in detail the policy and principles of the bill, the defects of the existing law, the remedies proposed to deal with those defects and the necessity for its introduction; and
b. it has been published in the Gazette at least fourteen days before the date of its introduction in Parliament.”
The private citizen, Ezuame Mannan argued that the explanatory memorandum that was laid in parliament did not sufficiently lay out the policy change that was being brought by the law, specifically by section 43.
This policy change he insisted was not debated enough before its passage into law. The Apex Court upheld this position.
The Attorney General however filed processes asking the court to review its decision. Mr Dame told the court the original panel committed an error of law.
“Fundamental and grave errors have occasioned a substantial miscarriage of justice. It is only at the beginning of the process that there must be a memorandum.
“There is no requirement for a memorandum to further accompany any amendment made by Parliament. Such a reading of the law imposes a further burden on Parliament and curtails its autonomy in passing laws, Mr Dame stated.
The lawyer for the private citizen Effiba Amihere disagreed.
“No miscarriage of justice has been occasioned by the decision of the court. We will respectfully talk about the amendment which is section 43, that was sneaked in at the time that the full debate had concluded.
“That it was contrary to the Constitution. The AG has said that in amending the law, there is no need for the memorandum, the issues as well as the departure from the national policy, the position do the plaintiff is that, at the time of the debate, this particular amendment that was sneaked in, was not part. The nation was not made aware of the clear change in the policy,” she stated.
Justice Jones Dotse ruled that the review threshold of the court had not been met. Justices Jones Dotse, Prof Kotey, Mariama Owusu, Prof Henrietta Mensah Bonsu, and Emmanuel Kulendi formed the majority while Justices Lovelace Johnson, Amadu Tanko, Samuel Asiedu and George Koomson formed the minority.
Over 30 schoolchildren have been hospitalized after inhaling tear gas discharged by anti-riot police during a morning drill in Osogbo, a city in Nigeria’s south-western Osun State.
The incident occurred at the opposition Fakunle Comprehensive School, but the tear gas fumes drifted onto the school campus.
Secondary school students who lost consciousness were quickly transported to two different hospitals for urgent medical attention.
The occurrence triggered panic among parents, prompting some to promptly collect their children from school as authorities advised closure for the day.
Osun police spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, issued an apology for the incident and assured that the officers would take necessary measures to prevent any future recurrences.
President Akufo-Addo has indicated the country’s readiness to head back to the International Capital Market where countries and companies trade and lend financial support.
Ghana has been denied access to funds from the international capital market owing to its high indebtedness and inability to pay back.
As such government sought financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) which has provided the country a $3 billion credit facility – a situation believed to paint Ghana in a good light to foreign investors.
Following the successful IMF deal, President Akufo-Addo has noted that “we have positioned ourselves to be able to go back into the International market which had been a source of funding for us during the first three or four years of our government.”
He stated that it is opportune for Ghana to return at a time of global savings while acknowledging the relevance of being prudent.
“There is no rush but obviously why not take advantage of global savings, it makes a lot of sense to me. We will try as much as possible to maintain the discipline which is required and the most important requisite for a successful programme.”
He made the comments while speaking at the Qatar-Africa Economic Forum in Doha on Tuesday, May 23, 2023.
But prior to the president’s remark, the Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta while engaging the press on May 18, 2023, also stated that “there is no rush in going back to the international capital market” adding that “our expectation is that, by managing our expenditure and increasing our revenue, we will have the resources to address our needs.”
Meanwhile, government is working on enhancing its domestic revenue mobilization drive as well as rationalizing its expenditure.
“Rationalisation of our expenditure, rationalisation of government expenditure is something that we have given the assurance. Domestic revenue mobilisation is absolutely critical for us and already we are seeing signs.
“We have a fiscal responsibility law in Ghana that has pegged our fiscal deficit at 5 percent but already we are way above that and the sooner we can bring that to more acceptable levels the better for us.”
As part of conditions set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a $3 billion credit facility, Ghana is to bolster its revenue generation measures and cut down its expenditure to check the alarming debt deficit.
A presidential aspirant in the just-ended primaries held by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Kojo Bonsu, is optimistic about the return of a former stalwart of the party, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings.
Wife of the late former President, Jerry John Rawlings, said to be the founder of the NDC parted ways with the party in 2012 after failing to secure the flagbearership position in 2008 in a contest against the late former President John Evans Atta-Mills.
Due to some internal issues with the leadership of the party, she left to form the National Democratic Party (NDP).
It has been over a decade since she left the NDC and has never made signs of ever returning, but Mr Kojo Bonsu, is however confident of her return.
In an interview with CitiTV’sUmaru Sanda Amadu on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, he said “she will be back. Oh yes, it is time. It doesn’t matter. She can be an elder in the party. Because she was part of it.”
According to the former Kumasi Mayor, it would be unfair to discredit the former First Lady of her work while with the party.
Mr Bonsu noted that it would be morally wrong should she be denied entry upon a request as “two wrongs don’t make a right.”
Touching on the relevance of her return, Mr Bonsu noted that her presence will boost the party’s numbers at a time they deem critical – ahead of the 2024 general elections.
“I believe we need numbers. In politics, it is numbers. Even if she comes with 20 people, it is still numbers because you win an election 50% plus one. She has numbers. She did well in 2020 or 2016 in the Volta Region. So why not. I believe if we all come together and unite, it makes our party stronger,” he stated.
Mr Bonsu revealed that he has had interactions with the former First Lady with regards to her return but never did they come to a conclusion.
“My hope…I am asking her to return. We have spoken about it, not into it fully. She is somebody is who is a bit hurt and we need to wash it off slowly, gradually and bring her back,” he added.
Ghanaians may be hit with more tax measures by the government and enhanced measures to ensure collection of revenue is robust before the end of the year.
The projection follows President Akufo-Addo’s admission to the fact that the country is “seeing signs” and that “domestic revenue mobilization is absolutely critical for us.”
Speaking at the Qatar-Africa Economic Forum in Doha, President Akufo-Addo noted that aside from widening the tax base, it is also working assiduously to rationalize government’s expenditure.
“We have a fiscal responsibility law in Ghana that has pegged our fiscal deficit at 5 percent but already we are way above that and the sooner we can bring that to more acceptable levels the better for us,” he added.
As part of conditions set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a $3 billion credit facility, Ghana is to bolster its revenue generation measures and cut down its expenditure to check the alarming debt deficit.
Government’s commitment to ensuring this was assured by the Finance Minister while speaking during a press conference on May 18, 2023.
“There is no rush in going back to the international capital market. Our expectation is that, by managing our expenditure and increasing our revenue, we will have the resources to address our needs,” Mr Ken Ofori-Atta, the Finance Minister is quoted by Citinewsroom to have said.
Prior to the IMF deal, three new taxes were approved by Parliament and passed into law. They are Excise Duty Amendment Bill 2022, the Growth and Sustainability Levy Bill, 2022, the Ghana Revenue Authority Bill 2022 and the Income Tax Amendment Bill 2022.
On the matter of additional taxation, Member of Parliament from the North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has predicted that government will soon introduce 50 new tax measures as a result of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal.
“The analysis we have shows that because of this (the IMF) bailout, there are going to be 50 new tax measures… income tax is coming to be progressive.
“There is going to be quarterly tariff adjustment. So, every quarter, electricity tariffs are going to go up, can you believe that, every quarter?” the MP asked.
Meanwhile, although Mr Ofori-Atta has announced government’s hesitation to head back to the international capital market for assistance, President Akufo-Addo notes that “we have positioned ourselves to be able to go back into the International market which had been a source of funding for us during the first three or four years of our government.”
Former Mayor of Kumasi, Kojo Bonsu, who was unsuccessful in his quest to become the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) flagbearer for the 2024 elections has revealed that he never stood a chance in the presidential race.
Mr Bonsu went up against former President John Dramani Mahama in the party’s primaries held on May 13, 2023.
Ahead of the elections, the former president was tipped as the winning candidate but this did not persuade Mr Bonsu from throwing in the towel.
Although Dr Kwabena Duffuor withdrew from the race due to some alleged inconsistences with the voters register, Mr Bonsu did not back down despite corroborating his claims.
After the elections, Mr Bonsu has finally admitted to the fact that he never considered himself a worthy opponent to Mr Mahama to begin with.
“To be honest, I didn’t believe I could beat former President Mahama from the start,” he said on Citi TV’s Face to Face.
But he quickly added that “I was hoping that maybe people would change their minds and vote for me.”
Over 356,000 delegates participated in the party’s primaries held in a total of 420 voting centres across the country.
After counting was done, Mr Mahama secured 297,603 of the votes cast, representing 98.9% to beat Kojo Bonsu, who garnered 1,381 votes, representing 1.1%.
Mr Bonsu in his interaction revealed why he decided to contest despite knowing the odds were not in his favor.
According to him, he had identified a challenge with Mr Mahama’s campaign strategy, and the only way for the former president to work on that deficiency was for him to contest.
“We would not have known that there are problems down there because there are areas that he [Mahama] wouldn’t have visited. But because of these primaries, he [Mr. Mahama] went everywhere. Normally, he would only focus on certain regions, but now he has been everywhere.”
The former Kumasi Mayor also registered his displeasure with Dr Duffuor over his decision to file an injunction against the party’s primaries.
He said: “I did agree with him on the photo album, but I didn’t think he should have taken the matter to court. It was an internal issue that we could have resolved internally. It wasn’t a serious problem.”
“He could have gone to court earlier, but waiting until the last minute gives the impression that you have ulterior motives to disrupt many things,” Mr Bonsu added.
Dr Duffuor eventually withdrew the injunction case from the court.
Meanwhile, Mr Bonsu has assured of his commitment to supporting the party at all levels to ensure it emerges victorious in the next polls.
Dr. Mark Assibey-Yeboah, a former Member of Parliament for New Juaben South has suggested that government should allocate a portion of the $600 million received from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to settle outstanding debts to bondholders and creditors.
Dr. Assibey-Yeboah asserts that such payments would play a crucial role in rebuilding confidence in the financial system. Furthermore, he believes it would aid in revenue mobilization and provide protection for the most vulnerable individuals affected by rising prices and the removal of electricity subsidies.
In summary, he recommends utilizing a portion of the IMF funds for debt payments, expanding the LEAP program, and addressing the impact of subsidy removals and price increases on the less privileged segments of society.
“With USD600 Million disbursed by the Fund, we could ringfence and apply part of the proceeds as follows:
Payment of Coupons/Principal of Bonds (and Cocoa Bills):
The Ministry of Finance projected an 85% Participation Rate in the Domestic Debt Exchange. This means that only 15% of individual bondholders, excluding Pension Funds and Cocoa Bills are ‘original’ bonds that have to be settled in the near term.
The government needs to prioritise the payment of coupons/principal of the aforementioned bonds to restore confidence in the financial system.
Currently, market players are interested primarily in 91-day Treasury Bills. Restored confidence will push investors to 182-day and 1-year Treasury Bills, giving the government some breathing space.
Servicing of Bilateral Debt: Following the suspension of interest payments on Eurobonds and Bilateral loans, almost all critical infrastructure projects have grounded to a halt. Contractors have demobilised from site. Turnkey projects like the KATH Maternity and Children’s Block (54% completion), Eastern Regional Hospital (50% completion), Obetsebi Interchange (90% completion), Nungua Beach Road (80% completion), Takoradi PTC Interchange (85% completion), Czech-Funded Bridges (70% completion) amongst others are all being discontinued. We should resume interest payments on these critical loans. Doing so will give the contractors impetus to remobilize and go back to site, albeit, at an increased project cost.
3. Enhanced LEAP:
The gradual removal of ‘subsidies’ on electricity is biting the poor very hard. With food and energy inflation persisting, LEAP, our social protection program that provides cash transfers to very poor people must be enhanced and expanded,” he wrote in reaction to the receipt of the bailout cash by Government.
The government has indicated that the money, which forms part of $3 billion expected from the IMF, will go into budgetary support to help bring down inflation according to Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
The Government sought a bailout from the IMF last year to enable the balance of payment challenges.
Ghanaian actress, Fella Makafui, has refused to speak about the romance scam worth over $2 million involving her companion, Mona Faiz Montrage, popularly known as Hajia 4Reall.
Blogger, Zionfelix raised the issue of the arrest of Ghanaian socialite and influencer in an interview with Fella but she evaded his querries.
According to Ghanaweb, Fella was asked if Hajia4Reall was her friend and how she feels about her scandal and she replied, “Oh yes, she is my friend but I really don’t want to talk about the issue, please. This is a very sensitive topic you know.”
Hajia4Reall is alleged to be a member of a criminal conspiracy known as the Enterprise that specifically targeted older Americans through romance scams which were both financially and emotionally devastating for vulnerable victims.
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of New York, she had been doing this from about 2013 through to 2019.
Under false pretense, she is alleged to have induced victims to send money for payments to transport gold to the United States from overseas, resolve a fake FBI unemployment investigation and assist a fake United States army officer in receiving funds from Afghanistan.
She is said to have received approximately 82 wire transfers totaling approximately $89,000 to purportedly help with costs associated with her father’s farm in Ghana.
In total, Hajia4Reall is believed to have controlled bank accounts that received over $2 million in fraudulent funds from the Enterprise.
She is currently facing six charges, one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, one count of wire fraud, one count of money laundering conspiracy, and one count of money laundering, each of which carry a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
She is also charged with one count of receipt of stolen money, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, and one count of conspiracy to receive stolen money, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. In total, she could see a possible 95-year jail term.
She has however pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Sadio Mane’s debut season at Bayern Munich has been filled with challenges and setbacks.
With a managerial change, a goal drought since October, and a reported dressing room altercation with teammate Leroy Sane, the former Liverpool star finds himself facing an uncertain future in Bavaria.
Adding to the difficulties, Bayern is poised to miss out on clinching the Bundesliga title for the first time since 2012, barring a significant stumble from league leaders Borussia Dortmund in their final match.
As Mane and his teammates prepare for their last league game against FC Cologne on Saturday, it’s worth examining the Senegalese forward’s turbulent year and contemplating the possibility of a potential transfer in the near future.
Bayern’s capture of Mane looked to be one of last summer’s most impressive signings.
The Senegalese star, 31, won everything there was to win during his six-year stint at Anfield but turned down a contract offer to explore pastures new.
And after seeing talismanic striker Robert Lewandowski leave for Barcelona, Bayern board member Hasan Salihamidzic was quick to hail Mane as the club’s new star attraction.
Salihamidzic said: “The fact that he’s joining Bayern Munich shows that our club and he have big aims.
“Sadio fits perfectly with the football that we play under Julian Nagelsmann.”
Change of plan
Unfortunately for Mane, Nagelsmann is no longer in charge at the Allianz Arena.
The ex-RB Leipzig boss, 35, was sacked two months ago with club CEO Oliver Kahn citing “fluctuation in performances since the World Cup” as the reason for his dismissal.
His departure has unquestionably impacted Mane’s form. Under Nagelsmann, the forward notched 16 direct goal involvements (11 goals, five assists) in 28 appearances across all competitions — a steady, if not outstanding, return.
But since ex-Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel took the reins, he has managed only a solitary goal and assist apiece in 10 outings.
What is more, six of those 10 appearances have been cameos from the bench lasting under half an hour.
Sadio Mane’s first campaign with Bayern Munich has been a frustrating one
Sane scrap
Sections of the German press have suggested that Mane’s April punch-up with Sane has lowered his stock among club chiefs.
The forwards came to blows after Bayern’s 3-0 Champions League loss at Manchester City and a bust lip for the former Citizens winger saw Mane internally disciplined with a fine and one-game suspension.
Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg said this week: “That situation with Sane was a shock for the management and his team-mates.
“My information is that he is seen critically inside from now because of his performances and that behaviour.
“A lot of players have distanced themselves from Mane. He is a candidate for sale in the summer because he has a high salary and Tuchel has no real plans to work with him next season.”
English return
Newcastle could target Sadio Mane after securing Champions League qualification
Though Mane has suggested he has no intention of departing, the decision may be taken out of his hands.
Sadio Mane may find a return to the Premier League appealing, although his substantial wage demands would likely deter most clubs, including his former team.
Reports suggest that Manchester United and Newcastle are the two clubs showing the most interest in securing a deal for Mane, although his association with Liverpool makes a move to Old Trafford highly improbable.
Nevertheless, Newcastle, backed by ambitious Saudi owners, are gearing up for their first Champions League campaign in two decades and are expected to pursue high-profile signings.
If Mane prioritizes a significant financial boost, an approach from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal could be his best option.
However, considering his apparent desire to continue performing at the highest level, a move to Newcastle seems to be the most plausible outcome this summer.
IMAGE SOURCE,REUTERS Image caption, Beyoncé performed with Turner at the 2008 Grammy Awards
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