Opposition leader Rached Ghannouchi has been sentenced to one year in prison by a Tunisian court.
The Ennahda party leader, known for his strong criticism of President Said Kaies, has been in custody since last month, following accusations of plotting against state security and incitement.
Mr. Ghannouchi has dismissed these allegations as politically motivated and refused to appear before the judges.
On Monday, he was sentenced in absentia. This year has witnessed a series of arrests targeting prominent figures who oppose President Saied, who assumed full executive powers nearly two years ago.
Since February, 20 political opponents and public figures, including former ministers and business personalities, have been detained.
The recent arrest of Mr. Ghannouchi and others has drawn international condemnation from the United States, the European Union, and human rights organizations.
Sheffield Wednesday has swiftly imposed a ban on the individual who threw a racist abuse at manager Darren Moore on social media after Friday’s match against Peterborough.
The person behind the offensive account is now prohibited from attending club fixtures and events.
The club is collaborating with the police regarding the message, and they have expressed their solidarity with Moore, pledging their complete support.
A statement said: “Sheffield Wednesday are appalled by a repulsive racist message directed at Darren Moore posted on a social media platform following our game against Peterborough United on Friday evening.
Sheffield Wednesday are appalled by a repulsive racist message directed at Darren Moore posted on a social media platform following our game against Peterborough United on Friday evening#swfc
“We distance ourselves absolutely from this kind of abhorrent behaviour and have taken the appropriate steps by issuing an immediate ban on the individual in question from all SWFC fixtures and events.
“Sheffield Wednesday stand shoulder to shoulder with Darren, the football family and wider society in condemning all forms of discrimination.
“The club will offer our full support to Darren and we are working together with the authorities in ensuring this individual faces the full force of the law as a result of such a cowardly and despicable act.”
Moore was appointed Wednesday boss in March 2021 when they were in the Championship but could not prevent their relegation at the end of that season.
His team face Posh in the second leg at Hillsborough on Thursday looking to overturn a 4-0 deficit as they bid to end their two-year stay in the third tier.
It is reported that Ghanaian Influencer, Mona Faiz Montrage, also known as Mona4Real took money worth over $2 million from several victims of her romance frauds.
Among the many alleged acts she undertook was to receive payments to assist a fake United States army officer in receiving funds from Afghanistan.
She also received money to resolve a fake FBI unemployment investigation and also transport gold to the United States from overseas.
Montrage is also alleged to have sent another victim a tribal marriage certificate purporting to show that she and the victim had been married in Ghana.
“The victim sent MONTRAGE approximately 82 wire transfers totaling approximately $89,000 to purportedly help with costs associated with MONTRAGE’s father’s farm in Ghana.
In total, MONTRAGE controlled bank accounts that received over $2 million in fraudulent funds from the Enterprise,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of New York wrote in a press statement.
It is believed that she has been engaging in such activities from at least in or about 2013 through in or about 2019.
The 30-year-old is currently facing six counts and might end up spending close to a century in prison.
She is charged with 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.
Montrage 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.
The charges against Mona4Real are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mitzi Steiner and Kevin Mead are in charge of the prosecution.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of New York today, May 15, 2023, released a press statement on its website announcing the extradition of a Prominent Ghanaian Influencer, Mona Faiz Montrage aka Mona4Real from the United to Kingdom to the United States over her involvement in a romance scheme.
The influencer is said to be a member of a criminal conspiracy that specifically targeted older Americans through romance scams worth over $2 million.
Mona4Real was arrested in the United Kingdom on November 10, 2022, and was extradited from the United Kingdom on May 12, 2023.
There is a six-count indictment charging MONA FAIZ MONTRAGE for her role in a series of romance schemes and for laundering the proceeds of those schemes.
She is charged with 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.
Montrage 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.
This implies that the influencer could spent about 95 years in prison.
She is said to have received money from several victims of romance frauds whom members of the Enterprise tricked into sending money.
Among the false pretenses used to induce victims to send money to MONTRAGE were (i) payments to transport gold to the United States from overseas; (ii) payments to resolve a fake FBI unemployment investigation; and (iii) payments to assist a fake United States army officer in receiving funds from Afghanistan.
“As to one victim, MONTRAGE used her real name and spoke to the victim several times by phone. MONTRAGE sent the victim a tribal marriage certificate purporting to show that MONTRAGE and the victim had been married in Ghana. The victim sent MONTRAGE approximately 82 wire transfers totaling approximately $89,000 to purportedly help with costs associated with MONTRAGE’s father’s farm in Ghana.
“In total, MONTRAGE controlled bank accounts that received over $2 million in fraudulent funds from the Enterprise,” the statement added.
Per the Attorney’s Office, the maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of MONTRAGE will be determined by a judge.
The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mitzi Steiner and Kevin Mead are in charge of the prosecution.
Los Angeles authorities are grappling with the alarming proliferation of the flesh-eating drug called xylazine, commonly referred to as the “zombie drug,” in the city.
Although originally a veterinary tranquilizer for cows and horses, it has made its way into the illicit drug market in the US.
Dealers often mix it with cocaine, heroin, or particularly dangerous, the potent synthetic opioid fentanyl, which is responsible for thousands of American deaths annually.
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s officials are facing a challenge as xylazine is technically a legal substance.
The county is now making urgent efforts to monitor and track the presence of xylazine across the city in collaboration with local authorities.
Disturbing footage captured by news crews shows individuals in a hunched and incapacitated state after consuming the drug.
The DEA and the county’s health department have both issued urgent warnings against the use of the drug.
‘When combined with opioids like fentanyl, as is frequently the case, xylazine enhances the life-threatening effect of respiratory depression (slowing or stopping breathing) caused by opioids, increasing the risk of overdose and death,’ county officials said.
Tracking the drug, officials say, will allow them to get a sense of just how bad the problem is and the best practices to cut it out.
Nurses have described the wounds caused by xylazine as appearing as though something is ‘eating away your flesh from the inside out’.
Various liberal politicians and city leaders have attempted to implement numerous policies to curb the many issues that have arisen due to the swelling homeless and drug-addicted population.
One specific harm reduction policy that failed was the opening of the Tenderloin Center in San Francisco last year – a facility that was meant to help alleviate the city’s drug and homelessness crisis.
It cost taxpayers a whopping $22million and was meant to be a ‘safe place’ for addicts to ‘get high without getting robbed’ and without fear of fatally overdosing.
Users were also meant to be directed to help centers, though during its first four months of operations, it referred just 18 people of the more than 23,000 who were welcomed to the site.
There is a possibility that a number of financial institutions who suffered shutdown during the banking sector-cleanup exercise that occurred between 2017 and 2020 may be able to bounce back.
This is so because 2024 flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) John Dramani Mahama has pledged to restore the licences of financial businesses who were run out of business unjustifiably should he win the next poll.
Speaking at the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale today, May 15, 2023 to formally accept his role as flagbearer, the former president said: “We will restore indigenous Ghanaian investments in the finance and banking sector and we will create a tier banking system that will serve various segments of the market.”
“We will give the opportunity to experience banking hands who were laid off needlessly to secure their careers once more and move away from the menial jobs that they were compelled to take.
“As far as practicable, the banking licenses that were unjustly canceled by this government will be restored,” he added.
The banking crisis in Ghana led to the revocation of the licenses of more than 400 financial institutions that were licensed under Act, 2016 (Act 930) by the Bank of Ghana (BoG).
The Bank of Ghana conducted an Asset Quality Review of banks in 2015 and 2016, which identified several indigenous banks facing significant challenges. These challenges included high levels of non-performing loans, undercapitalization, and weak corporate governance.
To address these issues, the Bank of Ghana implemented interventions, resulting in the merger of five banks: BEIGE, Sovereign, Construction, uniBank (owned by former Finance Minister Kwabena Duffuor), and Royal Bank. This merger led to the formation of a new entity known as Consolidated Bank of Ghana.
Also more than twenty financial institutions including UT Bank which was owned by Prince Kofi Amoabeng, had their licenses being revoked and given to a receivership.
Following the recapitalization of the banks and a new capital requirement, the number of banks in the country reduced from thirty-six to twenty-three.
Ghana invested more than twelve billion Ghana cedis for this clean-up exercise in the banking sector.
In March 2021, Parliament received petitions from Prince Kofi Amoabeng and Dr Kwabena Duffuor, owners of the UT Bank and uniBank respectively.
The two asked Parliament to investigate the conduct of the Bank of Ghana and the Ghana Stock Exchange in revoking the licenses of their financial institutions.
On March 23, 2021, the Speaker referred to petitions to a seven-member committee of Parliament to investigate and report to the House. The Bank of Ghana was invited over the matter but declined the invitation to appear before the House.
The BoG explained that its decision was taken according to its statutory powers under the Banks and Specialised Deposit Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930). It added that the probe “flies in the face of the Constitution.”
With the promise to investigate what happened five years ago, Ghana may see an increase in the number of financial institutions.
According to Mr Mahama, among his many objectives is to “promote robust, local participation in our banking and financial, telecommunication, tourism, mining and agric and manufacturing sectors to grow our economy and create sustainable employment for our youths.”
Per reports, the students went on rampage after being refused from holding an inter-ethnic football match.
Municipal Chief Executive for Navrongo Municipality Joseph Adongo who confirmed the incident noted that the school sought police intervention.
The Police clashed with the students and this led to some four officers sustaining injuries.
Among the victims is Navrongo Municipal Police Commander ASP Kingsley Kanda. The quartet are reportedly receiving treatment at the Wa Memorial Hospital in Navrongo
Chairman of Groupe Nduom, Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom, has waded into the conversation on the amendment of the dual citizenship law in Ghana that currently bans individuals with dual citizenship from holding some public offices.
According to Dr Nduom, it is immature to hold the assertion that individuals who hold allegiance to another country aside from Ghana will derail the growth of the country.
He argued that, the destruction of the currently, is being executed by individuals who have sworn allegiance to Ghana.
“The people who have let the country down, committed treason by overthrowing the government, destroying our institutions and messing up our economy are not dual citizens. Most of them had never set one foot outside the Ghanaian borders. Yet a number sold the country’s assets to foreigners,” Dr Nduom said.
He argued that the law in its current form is needless and needs to be amended as he stressed that “Many dual citizens know the ways of a foreign land and the benefits of living in those countries and yet choose to come back home to Ghana to serve the nation. They send valuable cash home. They build homes and even start companies that give jobs to Ghanaians”.
Dr Nduom wondered why dual citizens are recruited to play in the National Football Team for Ghana and hold national flags in support of the country, yet are restricted from holding public offices to contribute to the development of the country.
“We go and recruit footballers born in other countries to come and play for the Black Stars. For many people, nothing can be more of a sensitive national position than being a member of the Black Stars. Yet we trust foreign-born people to carry the national flag in the sports arena.
So if tomorrow, Papa Kwesi Nduom becomes a dual citizen by taking on American citizenship in addition to the Ghana one, someone will question my loyalty to Ghana? Me? Tell me, who can say they love Elmina more than I do and have a more vested interest in the town than this man?” He quizzed.
The conversation around the amendment of the law came up strongly after former President John Dramani Mahama promised to get the law amended when he becomes President again.
The 1992 Constitution in Article 94 (2A) states that “a person shall not be qualified to be a Member of Parliament if he – (a) owes allegiance to a country other than Ghana”.
The royal family has released official portraits marking the coronation of King Charles III.
The photos feature the King alongside his direct heirs, Prince William and Prince George.
One image shows the King and Queen with the participants of the coronation ceremony.
The succession to the throne follows a specific order based on old and new laws.
After the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince William became the next in line. Prince George, his son, is second in line, followed by Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
The released images capture King Charles in regal attire, seated on his throne with his heirs by his side, symbolizing the continuity of the monarchy.
The King’s second son, Harry, Duke of Sussex, is fifth in line to the throne.
Pages of honour and ladies in attendance with King Charles III and Queen Camilla on coronation day.(Reuters: Hugo Burnand/Royal Household 2023/Handout)
The second image features the two ladies in attendance on the day of the coronation — the Marchioness of Lansdowne and Queen Camilla’s sister Annabel Elliot — standing either side of the royal couple, while Prince George stands with other pages including Ralph Tollemache, Lord Oliver Cholmondeley, Nicholas Barclay, the Queen’s grandson Freddy Parker Bowles, the Queen’s great-nephew Arthur Elliot, and the Queen’s grandsons Gus Lopes and Louis Lopes.
This image was also taken in the Throne Room on the day of the coronation.
The photographs were taken by royal photographer Hugo Burnand, who also took the King and Queen’s wedding portrait in 2005.
The full-length portrait of King Charles III with his two heirs taken by royal photographer Hugo Burnand.(Reuters: Hugo Burnand/Royal Household 2023/Handout)
Following the burial, the Electoral Commission (EC) will hold a by-election for the Kumawu constituency on May 23, 2023.
Philip Basoah passed away on March 27 at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital after being hospitalized for a serious illness.
He was one of three absent MPs during a crucial vote to confirm President Akufo-Addo’s ministerial appointees.
According to his brother, Solomon Basoah, Philip Basoah was discovered unconscious in his room on March 24 and was subsequently taken to the hospital where he passed away four days later.
The Ministry of Finance has revealed that Ghana has met the necessary requirements to obtain a bail out from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Board.
The Paris Club and China last week announced that it would financing assurances to allow Ghana receive the facility.
“The Paris Club has today established the OCC (co-chaired by China & France). With the granting of Financing Assurances, Ghana is now ready to go to the IMF Board,” the Ministry wrote.
The Finance Ministry further expressed appreciation to its bilateral partners for helping Ghana reach this “significant milestone!”
Ghana struggled to get IMF Board approval despite getting a Staff-Level Agreement in place since late last December.
A domestic debt restructuring deal dragged on for months before the external restructuring also experienced challenges.
Former President John Dramani Mahama officially delivered an acceptance speech at the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale today, May 15, 2023 after the just-ended NDC primaries.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected Mr John Dramani Mahama as flagbearer to lead the party in the 2024 general elections.
On Saturday, May 13, 2023, 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 his only contender, former Mayor of Kumasi, Kojo Bonsu, who garnered 1,381 votes, representing 1.1%.
Hailey Bieber, the stunning model and wife of Justin Bieber, recently spilled the beans in an interview with The Sunday Times about her burning desire to start a family. She admitted, with a touch of vulnerability, that the thought of having children brings her to tears on a regular basis.
“I want kids so bad, but I have my worries,” the 26-year-old confessed. “Dealing with people’s opinions about my husband or friends is challenging enough. I can’t fathom having to defend my child against hurtful remarks,” she added.
Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber attend super bowl
However, Hailey remains optimistic about parenting, stating, “We’ll do everything we can to raise them right, ensuring they feel loved and protected.”
The romance between the founder of Rhode and the Grammy-winning artist began in 2009, but it wasn’t until 2016 that they confirmed their relationship, putting an end to the speculations. Two months after their engagement, the pair quietly exchanged vows at a New York City courthouse in September 2018.
Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber stare at each other
Just three months into their marriage, Hailey expressed her eagerness to have children in an interview with Vogue Arabia, eagerly anticipating the day she could call someone her own. She even hinted that starting a family was becoming a “closer reality.”
Justin, known for his hit song “Peaches,” also showcased his baby fever in a heartfelt Instagram tribute to his wife in November 2019. In his post, he gushed, “The way you live your life is so attractive… ps you turn me on in every way. Next season: BABIES.” However, Hailey had a change of heart, realizing that she is still young and has plenty of time before diving into parenthood.
Justin and Hailey hold hands on the streets
Reflecting on her shift in perspective, Hailey shared, “I had this idea ingrained in my mind that I should have kids right away and at a very young age. But then I turned 25, and I thought, ‘Hey, I’m still super, super young!’”
While Justin has expressed his willingness to have as many children as Hailey desires, he fully supports her decision to focus on personal goals before embracing motherhood. During an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, he lovingly said, “Hailey still has things she wants to achieve as a woman, and she’s not ready just yet. And that’s perfectly fine.”
Justin being affectionate with Hailey
Last September, the adorable couple celebrated four blissful years of marriage by sharing precious moments from their journey on social media. Their love story continues to unfold, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the day when their family expands and fills their lives with even more joy.
Former President John Dramani Mahama exhibited sportsmanship at the just-ended National Democratic Congress (NDC) primaries that took place on Saturday, May 13, 2023.
The party elected the former President as flagbearer to lead the party in the 2024 general elections.
Mr Mahama secured 297,603 of the votes cast, representing 98.9% to beat his only contender, former Mayor of Kumasi, Kojo Bonsu, who garnered 1,381 votes, representing 1.1%.
Former Finance Minister Dr Kwabena Duffuor did not contest as he withdrew from the race due to alleged inaccuracies with the party’s voter register.
For many, Mr Mahama’s win comes as no surprise as he was tipped to win, however his comment after was not expected.
Aside from thanking the delegates for the support, he extended his appreciation to his only competitor, Kojo Bonsu and former contender, Dr Duffuor.
He said “I also want to thank Dr. Kwabena Duffuor and Mr. Kojo Bonsu for their contest. My appreciation also goes to Mr. Ernest Kobea who pulled out to support me in this contest.”
According to him, “their taking part in this primary has cemented our party’s enviable record as the most democratic political tradition in the country.”
Below is his full statement…
Fellow Akatamansonians, and the good people of Ghana.
A while ago, the results of the 2024 presidential primaries was officially declared.
I am humbled by the overwhelming vote of confidence reposed in me by the party.
I want to thank God for bringing the NDC this victory. Traversing the country for all these days, weeks and months without any fatalities can only be by God’s special grace.
My profound gratitude goes to the delegates of our party for their warm welcome, active engagement, and participation during my tour.
In your usual astute manner, you turned up in your numbers, across the country, to vote in our party’s presidential and parliamentary elections.
I also want to thank Dr. Kwabena Duffuor and Mr. Kojo Bonsu for their contest. My appreciation also goes to Mr. Ernest Kobea who pulled out to support me in this contest. Their taking part in this primary has cemented our party’s enviable record as the most democratic political tradition in the country.
Let us disagree to agree, but let us keep our collective sights firmly on the supreme objective of the NDC leading Ghana out of the current abyss the country is in.
I also ask for cooperation among all elected parliamentary candidates and their respective aspirants and supporters in the constituencies. Our party is the winner because there are no individual winners and losers in this intra-party contest.
I want to thank my campaign and operational teams for keeping their focus and delivering a clean campaign.
I thank our donors and financiers for your support; the media for propagating our message and all our religious and traditional leaders who prayed on our behalf for the peace and success we have achieved today.
On Monday, at the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale, I will join a teeming number of the rank and file of the NDC and Ghanaians in general, to deliver my formal acceptance speech.
I feel sad seeing so many youths engaging in this shisha smoking. It is rather unfortunate that as young men and women, most of us leave life in the present and do not consider the future.
I read a Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association(2019) that report that about 4.8 percent of high school students and 13.6 percent of adults 18 to 24 years old participate in shisha smoking.
Rates of shisha smoking among those ages 18 to 24 are more than 50 percent higher than in adults 25 to 44 years old, and nearly 200 percent higher than adults ages 45 to 64. About 1.2 percent of middle school students smoked shisha in 2018, King noted.
Among adults, hookah smoking is the fifth most commonly used tobacco product behind cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco, King added. People who use a hookah are more likely to start smoking cigarettes compared to those who have never smoked hookah, the study authors say.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also found that up to 17 percent of high school senior boys and 15 percent of high school senior girls in the United States have used a shisha.
The CDC notes that shisha smoking is slightly higher among college students, with about 22 percent to 40 percent having tried it. This might be because it’s typically a group event and done in special cafes, tea houses, or lounges.
Some also believe that shisha is less harmful as compared to smoking cigarettes because the tobacco is filtered through water, but there is no scientific evidence that supports that claim. However, there is evidence to suggest that hookah smoking is addictive and can lead to the use of other tobacco products such as cigarettes.
The report further explained people who smoke from a water pipe, also known as hookah, narghile, or shisha, can inhale more toxic chemicals than if they smoked a cigarette.
Each hookah smoking session lasts for about 30 or more minutes. Burning charcoal is placed on top of a bowl filled with tobacco, which is connected with a water base and hose that attaches to a mouthpiece. The tobacco often includes dried fruit, flavored tobacco, and other substances so the tobacco does not dry out.
Users inhale many liters of smoke that are filled with large quantities of particulate matter. One hookah session results in more carbon monoxide exposure compared with smoking one cigarette.
Hookah smoke includes other chemicals that can impair the cardiovascular system such as nicotine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, acrolein, lead, cadmium, and arsenic. Again, most of the toxin levels are higher in hookah than in cigarette smoke.
Also, a study by Rezk-Hanna et al.(2018) found that people’s heart rates went up by 16 beats per minute after 30 minutes of shisha smoking. Also, their blood pressure rose. Smoking also stiffened arteries to a degree similar to the damage that can be caused by having one cigarette.
“Hookah smoking has many of the same health risks as cigarette smoking, and hookah smoke contains several toxic chemicals known to cause lung, bladder, and oral cancers,” Brian King, PhDTrusted Source, deputy director for research translation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Office on Smoking and Health, told Healthline. “Because of the way a hookah is used, including the number of puffs over a longer period, smokers may even absorb more of these toxic chemicals than cigarette smokers.” In this article, I explore the scientific aspect of shisha.
Shisha can make you high
Shisha is made up of a rubber hose, pipe, bowl, and smoke chamber. Tobacco is heated on coals or charcoal, and it may have flavors added to it, like apple, mint, licorice, or chocolate. A common myth is that hookah smoking is safer than cigarette smoking. This isn’t true. Though shisha smoking won’t get you high, it does have other health risks and can be addictive. The tobacco in it can give you a buzz. You may feel lightheaded, relaxed, dizzy, or wobbly.
Shisha smoking can also make you feel sick to your stomach. This is more common if you smoke too much or smoke on an empty stomach. The coals used to light a hookah might make some people feel nauseous. Fumes from the coals can cause other side effects, including slight headache pain. Shisha tobacco is the same tobacco found in cigarettes. This means that when you smoke shisha, you’re breathing in nicotine, tar, and heavy metals, including lead and arsenic. Smoking one shisha for 45 to 60 minutes is about the same as smoking a pack of cigarettes. Nicotine is the chemical that causes addiction when you smoke or chew tobacco. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), nicotine is as addictive as heroin and cocaine.
In the course of shisha smoking, the body absorbs nicotine. It gets into the brain in about 8 seconds. The blood carries nicotine to the adrenal glands, where it triggers the production of adrenaline, the “fight-or-flight hormone.”
Adrenaline raises your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate. It also makes you feel more awake and less hungry. This is why nicotine makes you feel good for a little while. In the long run, nicotine can confuse the brain, causing you to feel sick and anxious if you don’t have it. As a result, smoking cigarettes or other tobacco products with nicotine may make you feel better. This is known as nicotine addiction.
Shisha smoking is often done in social situations. A study by Jawad et al.(2013) of 32 people who smoke shisha found that they believed they had a “social addiction” to it. They didn’t believe they were addicted to nicotine.
Even, an “herbal” hookah may still contain tobacco. Though tobacco-free shisha exists, they’re not as common. Besides, even if you’re not smoking tobacco, you’re still inhaling chemicals from coal and other substances. In a shisha, the smoke passes through water before it reaches the hose and mouthpiece. A common myth is that the water filters out harmful substances. This isn’t true.
A study by Strulovici-Barel et al.(2016) compared respiratory (breathing) health in shisha smokers compared to nonsmokers. They found that young people who smoked from a shisha only sometimes had several lung changes, including more coughing and sputum, and signs of inflammation and fluid buildup in the lungs. In other words, even occasional shisha smoking can cause health effects. Like cigarettes, shisha also gives off harmful secondhand smoke.
Strulovici-Barel et al.(2016) study also found that shisha smokers also had some of the same chemicals as cigarette smokers. They found other harmful chemicals, like carbon monoxide. These chemicals likely come from the coal that’s used to burn tobacco.
Another study by Kadhum et al.(2014) tested 61 people, including 49 men and 12 women, immediately after shisha smoking in London cafes. They found that shisha smokers had levels of carbon monoxide that were about three times higher than those of cigarette smokers.
Carbon monoxide can lower how much oxygen the body absorbs. This is because it can bond to the red blood cells 230 times stronger than oxygen. Breathing in too much carbon monoxide is harmful, and it might raise your risk of heart disease and other illnesses. The researchers also found that study participants had higher blood pressure after shisha smoking. The average blood pressure rose from 129/81 mmHg to 144/90 mmHg. Over a period, shisha smoking may cause chronic high blood pressure, which can also increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Infection risk
Healthline.com explained that shisha smokers normally share one shisha in a group. Smoking from the same mouthpiece can cause infections to spread from person to person. Additionally, some bacteria or viruses may stay in a shisha if it isn’t cleaned properly.
Infections that can spread from sharing a shisha include:
A 2013 review by Aslam et al. established that shisha smoking may also be linked to some cancers. Tobacco smoke has more than 4,800 different chemicals, and more than 69 of these are known to be cancer-causing chemicals.
Moreover, shisha smoking may lower the body’s ability to fight some cancers. That 2013 review also highlights research in Saudi Arabia that found that shisha smokers had lower levels of antioxidants and vitamin C than nonsmokers. These healthy nutrients may help prevent cancer. Several other studies mentioned in the review link tobacco use to mouth, throat, pancreas, bladder, and prostate cancers.
Other risks
Healthline also found that shisha smoking causes other health effects, including:
low birth weight of babies whose mothers smoked during pregnancy
higher blood sugar levels, which can increase one’s diabetes risk
larynx (voice box) swelling or damage
changes in blood clotting
stained teeth
gum disease
loss of taste and smell
Shisha is Dangerous
A study by Primack et al.(2016) compared shisha with a single cigarette and found that smoking shisha for “one session” delivers 25 times the tar, 125 times the smoke, 2.5 times the nicotine, and 10 times the carbon monoxide.
The danger is that the smoking of shisha goes beyond those who smoke alone. For instance, one study by Zhou et al.(2015) confirmed that secondhand shisha smoke is damaging as well. Another issue is that employees at shisha bars are exposed to “elevated concentrations of indoor air pollutants,” which may cause “adverse health effects,” concluded the authors.
So comparing cigarettes to shisha is not an apple-to-apple comparison. Cigarette smokers generally smoke at least several cigarettes throughout the day, whereas someone who likes to smoke shisha, may only do so on the weekends or a few times a week but the health implications are the same. Some studies confirmed the health implications of shisha surpass that of cigarettes.
Take Home
Shisha smoke comes in many aromatic flavors, the evidence shows that one smoke session delivers more tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide than a handful of cigarettes.
I recommend that our universities and schools have to start raising awareness of these dangers to correct the many misconceptions surrounding shisha.
After reviewing studies on shisha, I feel there is a pretty good chance that the young adults who smoke shisha lack clarity on what exactly they’re doing to their bodies. I also feel the majority of them have been misinformed and led into this without knowing the future implications.
Parents must take the responsibility to educate their children that shisha is more than smoking cigarettes. I also believe that it is the responsibility of everyone and the Food and Drugs Authority(FDA) has to act on this issue to save the youth. It is a call for National Action.
NB: Prof. Nyarkotey has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations to justify his write-ups. My articles are for educational purposes and do not serve as Medical advice for Treatment. I aim to educate the public about evidence-based scientific Naturopathic Therapies.
Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu is a Professor of Naturopathic Healthcare, a Medical Journalist, and a science writer. Regina Adu Safowaah is a Celebrity and Enterprenuer. E. mail: professor40naturopathy@gmail.com
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
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has received massive endorsement in his bid to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2024 elections.
He has been described as a man of integrity and substance by the rank and file of the party and those not affiliated with the NPP.
For many, his win is assured due to his cordial relationship with both Christians and Muslims. This, has however led to the Vice President being accused of feigning love for the Christian community and vice versa.
But this not the case as research shows that some men of God as far back as 2018, extoled Dr Bawumia for his good virtues.
Preacher and Founder of Fountain Gate Chapel Rev. Eastwood Anaba described Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as a man who is patient, prudent and purposeful.
At a 31st December night service in 2018, Rev. Eastwood Anaba could not hold back his administration and praises for the Vice President who was present at the service to climax the year 2018 and usher in 2019.
“I was thinking about him and I said how can I describe this man; and one scripture came to mind. 1st Samuel 16:18 came to mind, which reads ‘Behold I have seen the son of (Bawumia), that is astute in playing, and a mighty valiant man, a man of war, and prudent in matters, and a comely person and the Lord (is with) him’.
He added that “When I read this scripture, it is like I have taken a piece of fabric and sown a nice garment and fitted it on our Vice President from the crown of his head to his feet. I said this is the description that aptly describes the man”.
In what was prescribed as a prophesy on the life and future of the Vice President in the ensuing year, Rev. Eastwood said “First of all we have in the Vice President of Ghana a prudent man; no question about that. A patient man. Anybody who can stay in opposition and remain faithful in opposition until he gains position is a patient man. And if u look at the way his training and mere passion for life drives him, you would know he is also a purposeful man”.
Freitas, Donna (2013), a book, titled “The End of Sex: How Hookup Culture is Leaving a Generation Unhappy, Sexually Unfulfilled, and Confused About Intimacy,” struck me after reading the abstract. In reading the book and others, one would notice that the media, alcohol, and drug usage featured extensively in the engagement of sexual misbehavior. The big question is whether engaging in Hookup leaves one unhappy, sexually unsatisfied, and confused. Additionally, are the media or alcoholic beverages blamed for the recent hook-up business in the country? I herein explore more in this article from the literature available.
Hookups?
Freitas, Donna (2013), defines Hookup culture as one that accepts and encourages casual sexual encounters, including one-night stands and other related activities, without necessarily including emotional intimacy, bonding, or a committed relationship.
Wolfe, Tom’s (2013) article explained that the term has been widely used in the U.S. since at least 2000. It has also been called nonrelationship sex,or sex without dating.
Two studies (Armstrong et al. 2010; McKay, Brett, 2013) established that most of these studies on hookups have been focused on U.S. college students, but hookups are not limited to college campuses as adolescents and adults also engage in hookups for a variety of reasons, which may range from instant physical gratification to fulfillment of emotional needs, to using it as a means of finding a long-term romantic partner.
Risk of Hooking up
Wade, Lisa. (2017) study found the many negative aspects associated with hooking up. For instance, the effect can range from “emotional and psychological injury, sexual violence, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and/or unintended pregnancy. Downing-Matibag and Brandi(2009) reported that those who engage in hookups are aware of the numerous risk but are not bothered.
Downing-Matibag and Brandi’s (2009) survey focused on how students perceive the risk of contracting sexual diseases, only half of a group of 71 students reported having concerns about STI contraction while they engaged in sexual intercourse.
Further analysis of the survey determined that many students claimed to trust their sexual partners and communities too much and that they were misinformed about sexual risks in general.
Other, Freitas, Donna (2013), also found that those who engage in this act normally use drugs or alcohol which makes them forget about those health risks. Two studies; (Freitas, 2013; Elizabeth et al. 2002) found that engaging in hook-ups can have negative effects on a person’s mental health as well, including feelings of anxiety or discomfort.
Elizabeth et al. 2000; Elizabeth et al. 2002) suggest that nearly 35% of surveyed students described feeling regretful or disappointed after a hookup.
Two studies (Donna, 2013; Melissa et al. 2011) attempted to answer the types of regret after engaging in hooking up and established feelings of embarrassment, emotional issues, and an overall lack of respect from their peers.
Garcia’s et al. (2012) review established that hookups can result in emotional and psychological injury, sexual violence, sexually transmitted infections, and/or unintended pregnancy.
Garcia notes that there can be much pressure when it comes to hooking up, which can contribute to discomfort, performance anxiety, and stress.
Garcia et al. (2012) also found that students, both men, and women, overwhelmingly regret their hookups. For instance, 77% of students regretted their hookups, and in another, 78% of women and 72% of men who had uncommitted sex regretted the experience(Garcia et al. 2012; Elizabeth and Kristen, 2002). Cambell, A (2008), study established that intercourse that happened less than 24 hours after a meeting and those that took place only one time are the most likely to be regretted.
Men were more likely to be sorry for having used another person, and women regretted the experience because they felt they had been used(Cambell, 2008).
Freitas 2013, p. 111, found that though women normally felt worse after a hookup than men do, 39% of men expressed extreme regret, shame, and frustration with themselves about their hookup experiences.
Garcia et al. (2012) study of 832 college students, 26% of women and 50% of men reported positive emotional reactions following a hookup, and 49% of women and 26% of men reported negative reactions following a hookup.
There are at least four explanations for why women may regret hookups more than men. Natalie Kitroeff ( 2013) found different attitudes towards relationships, hooking up, and sex; there may be differences in sexual initiation and agency within hookups; there may be differences in the frequency of orgasm within hookups; and there may be differences in perceived inequality in orgasms during hookups(Uecker and Martinez, 2016).
Other studies, such as Vrangalova and Ong(2014), found no gender difference. Regretting from hooking up may be linked to negative emotional outcomes, especially in women. According to an article by Steven E. Rhoads, Laura Webber, et al., (2010) “the more partners women have in the course of their lives, the more likely they are to be depressed, to cry almost every day, and to report relatively low satisfaction with their lives.” In Premarital Sex in America: How Young Americans Meet, Mate, and Think About Marrying, Mark Regnerus and Jeremy Uecker(2011) report that having more sexual partners is associated with “poorer emotional states in women, but not in men.”
The American Psychological Association also states that hookups can result in guilt and negative feelings. In a study by Edward and Dawn‐arie, (1993), of 169 sexually-experienced men and women surveyed in singles bars, when presented with the statement, “I feel guilty or would feel guilty about having sexual intercourse with someone I had just met,” 32 percent of men and 72 percent of women agreed.
In Paul and Haye’s (2002) qualitative study, only 2% felt desirable or wanted after a hookup. More than a third, on the other hand, felt regretful or disappointed, and others reported feeling nervous or uncomfortable as well.
Drugs, Alcohol, and Hook up connection
It appears that drugs and alcohol use have a strong link in engaging in hook up(Garcia et al. 2013). Most students confessed that their hookups occurred after drinking alcohol. Frietas stated that in her study, the relationships between drinking and the party scene and between alcohol and hookup culture were “impossible to miss.”
Hookups “almost always” occur when at least one participant is drunk, according to Kimmel(2008).
Kimmel(2008) further notes that on average, men have five drinks when they hook up and women three. Gelder et al.(2014) also found that students who reported using marijuana or cocaine in the past year were also more likely than their peers to have hooked up during that period.
Fisher et al. (2012) also found that almost a third of the students who reported engaging in sex during a hookup reported being very intoxicated, and another third reported being mildly intoxicated.
Two studies, ( Kimmel 2008; Paul and Hayes, 2002) found that alcohol may act as a cue regarding sexual availability, as a disinhibitor, and as a rationalization or an excuse for their behavior, poor sexual performance, premature ejaculation, and other sexual dysfunctions.
(Kimmel 2008, p. 2000) also held that is the “liquid courage,” which allows them to make a sexual advance in the first place. Elizabeth et al. (2000) suggest that the degree of alcoholic intoxication directly correlates with the level of risky behavior.
Garcia and Kruger(2010) study found, 33% of those who had hooked up indicated that it was “unintentional” and likely from the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
Fielder and Carey, (2010) survey of first-year students, women said that 64% of their hookups came after drinking alcohol. This is similar to Lewis et al. (2011)study, which found that 61% of all undergraduates reported drinking alcohol before their last hookup.
Owen and Fincham,(2011) showed that greater alcohol use is associated with more sexual activity throughout a hookup.
The students who reported consuming the least amount of alcohol were also the least likely to hook up. At the other end of the spectrum, the greatest alcohol consumption was associated with penetrative sex, and less alcohol consumption with non-penetrative hookups.
Finally, Taylor, Kate ( 2013) found that of those who took part in a hookup that included sexual activity, 35% were very intoxicated, 27% were mildly intoxicated, 27% were sober, and 9% were extremely intoxicated.
Hook up and the Media
It is now common on the airwaves to see media houses promoting sexual activities. Studies have established the media is a contributing factor in promoting sexual promiscuity. For instance, The American Academy of Pediatrics argues that media representations of sexuality may influence teen sexual behavior(Bar-on et al. 2001). More studies support this assertion. For instance, Humphries, Linda (2012) suggest that teens who watch movies with more sexual content tend to become sexually active at an earlier age and engage in riskier sexual behaviors.
Jones, Sam ( 2006) explained that the idea is that the media may serve as a “super peer” for youth, who then seek to develop a sexual identity that is in line with popular portrayals. Aubrey and Siobhan(2016) found that Cable television is filled with reality shows that depict an image of partying and glorified hookups, one of the most well-known shows being MTV’s Jersey Shore.
They further noted that about 35% of sexual behavior on cable television is with people “who are not in established committed relationships.”
Kim et al.(2007) study also explained that in television, sexual monogamy differs by gender, which suggests men stray away from commitment, and women desire it.That further suggests that masculinity is equal to sex and possibly leads male viewers to be more accepting of hookup culture.
As the cost of personal computers dropped and online access has increased, Heldman and Wade, along with others, argue that internet pornography has “emerged as a primary influence on young people’s, especially men’s, attitudes towards sex and their sexuality.” Heldman and Wade(2010) believe that the increase in access to pornography via the internet is what “spurred” hookup culture, in part by challenging the idea that “good sex” takes place in a monogamous relationship. Feminist Gail Dines has opined that pornography is “a cultural force that is shaping the sexual attitudes of an entire generation” and a “major form of sex today for boys-Don Aucoin (2010).
In conclusion, alcohol and drug usage are highly associated with the modern trend of hooking up in our society. It is prudent for parents and educational institutions to start providing education on the dangers of alcohol and drugs especially to young ladies to reduce the high involvement of hook up. Religious organizations should as well use their mediums to provide education on this public health menace.
Finally, the media must tone down on the promotion of sexual programs on the airwaves as studies have linked the media as one of the major factors in promoting hooking up or sexual promiscuity.
Also, Teachman, Jay (2003) peer-reviewed found that women who have more than one premarital sexual relationship have a higher likelihood in the long run of disruptions if ever married, with this effect being the “strongest for women who have multiple premarital coresidential unions”. Kahn and London (1991) found that premarital sex and divorce are positively correlated. According to a 2014 report, couples that began as hook-ups tended to have lower marital quality than couples who had not begun as hookups.
NB: Prof. Nyarkotey has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations to justify his write-ups. My articles are for educational purposes and do not serve as Medical advice for Treatment. I aim to educate the public about evidence-based scientific Naturopathic Therapies.
Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu is a Professor of Naturopathic Healthcare, a Medical Journalist, and a science writer. Regina Adu Safowaah is a Celebrity and Enterprenuer. E. mail: professor40naturopathy@gmail.com
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
An Accra High Court has ordered for the demolition of a set of apartments and a glass factory owned by investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas at Tse-Ado in Accra.
This is after Justice Kwame Gyamfi Osei, who presided over a land dispute case between the journalist and one Adolf Tetteh Adjei ruled that the former illegally built on the piece of land at Tse-Ado.
Anas in 2017 went ahead with his construction on a 2 acre disputed land despite a court order urging him to put the project on hold until the land dispute is resolved.
After examining the evidence provided by Adolf Tetteh Adjei, the court found the journalist guilty of trespassing and illegally restricting its owner of use by “using police and land guards”, an awarded the plaintiff GHS100,000 which is to be used to cover the cost of demolition.
Following the court ruling, Anas Aremeyaw Anas is said to have made several attempts to negotiate with the land owner and pay for the full cost of the land. However, Adolf Tetteh Adjei is said to have refused the request.
What transpired in court
The land owner, the said Adolf Tetteh said the disputed parcel of land is covered by Land Title Certificate No. GA. 464555 and dated 26 February 2015 and added a copy of the Title Certificate and the indenture covering the land to the court.
Adolf Tetteh informed the court his Sub-lessor has also always been in effective possession of the land and had registered it in 2007 under Land Title
Certificate No. GA26393. The Sub-lessor also acquired the land with Title Certificate No. GA 19310 with photocopies of the said Land Title
Certificate No. GA 19310 and Land Title Certificate No. GA 25462 all presented in court.
Adolf Tetteh said Anas Aremeyaw Anas’ claim of customary grant of the land to him by a certain Ga family was “a merely a ploy to deceive the court”.
The Plaintiff told the court that Anas showed up one day and “caused a signpost to be erected on the land with the inscription “Tiger Eye Property. Keep off” and also employed the services of land guards to purportedly provide security for his unlawful construction works.”
Two individuals, Ahmed Abdul Fatawu Yamba (32 years old) and Nana Yaw Yeboah (25 years old), have been charged with two counts related to disrespecting the court by the Tamale District Court.
The charges include conspiracy to commit a crime, specifically insulting the court, and contempt of court.
The legal document reveals that these offenses took place on December 21, 2022.
They are alleged to have held up placards with the inscription “Free The Youth” and “Activism Is Not A Crime” in the presence of the district court judge and the whole staff of the court.
The document also added that whiles Mr Yamba is a student, his accomplice Nana Yaw Yeboah is an Operation Manager.
A reported case of food poisoning in the farming community of Agou, located in the Nkwanta South of the Oti Region, has led to the hospitalization of twenty-two individuals.
These individuals experienced symptoms of acute diarrhea and other related ailments after consuming food at a funeral on Sunday morning.
Thirteen of the victims have been admitted to Nkwanta South Municipal Hospital, while the remaining nine are receiving treatment at Nkwanta St. Joseph Catholic Hospital.
Dr. Theophilus Amoatey, the Medical Superintendent of Nkwanta Municipal Hospital, stated in an interview that all the affected individuals presented symptoms of vomiting and acute diarrhea.
According to reports, the victims were served food including porridge, rice, Banku, Meat and Pito a locally brewed drink made from wheat and maize.
He said their samples have been taken to the laboratory for examination whilst a team of disease control management has been deployed to the community for proper investigation.
At St Joseph Catholic Hospital’ the nursing officer, David Amenudzi, and colleagues who were on duty when the victims were admitted, said most of them were not in any life-threatening situation at the time of admission.
However, some of the patients and relatives interviewed from the two hospitals said they ate rice, banku and meat, after which they had diarrhea and severe stomach pain.
The bank accounts of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) group and its affiliated companies have been frozen by Sudan’s army chief Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.
This happened due to a directive issued by chief Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan on Sunday. He also retired some four military officers affiliated to the RSF.
Among the victims is Brig Gen Omar Hamdan Ahmed, a relative of RSF commander Gen Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, and who is currently heading a delegation of the paramilitary force for peace talks with Sudan’s army’s in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Gen Burhan also sacked central bank governor Hussain Yahia Jankol and appointed Borai El Siddiq in his place.
He did not provide a reason for Mr Jankol’s sacking.
Meanwhile, state-run channel Sudan TV resumed its satellite broadcasts on Sunday, a week after going off air.
The station’s transmission has been cut several times since the fighting between the army and the RSF began on 15 April.
It continues to give prominence to the army’s claims against the RSF.
Following a devastating 3-0 home defeat to Brighton, Mikel Arteta expressed his frustration and issued an apology to the Arsenal supporters, as their hopes of clinching the Premier League title were virtually extinguished.
Second-half goals from Julio Enciso, Deniz Undav, and Pervis Estupinan led Brighton to a well-deserved victory at the Emirates Stadium.
Manchester City now only need one more win from their remaining three matches to secure their championship reign. Should Arsenal lose to Nottingham Forest, City could be crowned champions on Saturday night.
With a four-point gap and a game in hand, Pep Guardiola‘s team holds a significant advantage over the Gunners, who have struggled, winning only two of their last seven matches.
“A really different feeling to the feeling that we all had last Sunday (at Newcastle) when we felt proud and we felt that we really did what we needed to win in certain moments. Today is completely the opposite,” Arteta admitted.
“We have to apologise to our people, especially for the second half.
“What I have to accept first is what happened in the second half and digest it.
“After that until it’s mathematically over… the second position is secure. That’s not going to change. We have to digest and that will take a few days.
“At the moment it’s just frustration. The feeling that we gave the game away in the second half. We fought really hard to be in the position that we are in and today we were in a critical moment to keeping hoping and digging for that dream.
“When you have to play in these moments you cannot do what we did in the second half.
“Then we have to look. If a team is capable of doing that when it comes to the biggest stage, there’s a lot of things to analyse and think about because it cannot happen.”
Despite losing Gabriel Martinelli to an ankle injury early on, Arsenal started the game strongly against Brighton.
Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard had chances, with Trossard hitting the crossbar and Bukayo Saka missing the target from 14 yards.
However, Brighton capitalized on Arsenal’s missed opportunities right after halftime. Pervis Estupinan’s blocked cross led to Julio Enciso heading in his third goal of the season.
Despite making several changes, Arsenal couldn’t regain control as Brighton sealed the victory. Deniz Undav lobbed the ball past Aaron Ramsdale in the 86th minute, and Estupinan added a close-range finish in stoppage time to further extend Brighton’s lead.
A reflective Arteta added: “Obviously what the team has done over the last 10 months is very different to what anybody expected and that generates a lot of expectation as well enthusiasm, happiness and joy.
— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) May 14, 2023
“That’s something that has to be managed in the right way and after we have the responsibility to make sure the team performs and I am responsible for that.
“So, I hate the feeling of letting people down when they are expecting something. That’s the biggest regret I have today and I have to apologise for that.”
It was a different set of emotions for Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi, who laughed off comparisons with Jose Mourinho after he wheeled off down the touchline to celebrate Undav’s goal.
He did insist, however, that nothing had been achieved by his sixth-placed side.
“Yes I am very delighted for the performances. I think we deserved to win but then really happy, really proud because the last five days were very difficult after the defeat on Monday (against Everton),” De Zerbi stated.
“We have 58 points and not enough to qualify for Europe.
“We have another four games, tough games, Newcastle, Southampton, City and last game Aston Villa and we have to fight to deserve to qualify because 58 points is not enough to play Thursdays next year.”
Ghana anticipates the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to approve a $600 million loan tranche by Wednesday, enabling disbursement within a week, according to Minister of State in the Finance Ministry Mohammed Amin Adam.
The West African country is seeking $3 billion from the IMF to strengthen its struggling economy.
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva stated on Friday that Ghana’s official creditors have provided the required financial assurances for the IMF Executive Board to consider approving the loan.
“We expect a deal on Wednesday. With the disbursement, there is going to be $600 million as a first tranche just immediately after the approval,” Adam said by phone, adding that Ghana hoped to receive the funds within a week of the board’s decision.
The Minister of State in Ghana’s Finance Ministry stated that a second loan tranche of $600 million is expected to be approved following a successful first program review, likely in November or December.
The remaining funds will be disbursed in equal tranches of $360 million after semi-annual reviews.
These funds will bolster Ghana’s reserves and support the goal of achieving foreign reserves equivalent to three months of imports by 2026.
Ghana, along with other smaller and riskier emerging markets such as Sri Lanka and Zambia, is confronting a debt restructuring process due to the economic challenges posed by COVID-19 and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Some $5.4 billion of debt to official creditors has been earmarked for restructuring, according to government data, as well as $14.6 billion of debt to private overseas creditors.
Adam said he expected negotiations with both sets of creditors to go well once the IMF signs off on the loan.
“Confidence is going to be restored and we expect that stakeholders will cooperate and will be encouraged to negotiate favourable terms with us,” he said, adding that the date for talks had not yet been set for either group.
Ghana has also turned to the World Bank as it fights to restore macroeconomic stability and end its worst economic crisis in a generation that has fuelled protests over the soaring cost of living.
Adam said the government was far along in talks with the World Bank to provide additional support of $900 million to be disbursed in three equal instalments of $300 million over three years.
“We are far advanced, almost concluding negotiations,” he said.
The World Bank has also agreed to support a financial sector stability fund with $250 million to help Ghana address the insolvency and liquidity challenges following a domestic debt exchange programme, which has affected some domestic banks.
Adam said the government was also in talks with the African Development Bank for over $100 million for the stability fund.
Alhassan Bashir Alhassan Fuseini, also known as ABA Fuseini, is one of this nation’s wittiest and loudest legislators.
The Member of Parliament for Sagnarigu has earned the moniker “king of proverbs” throughout his twelve years in office since practically every submission he has made contains a proverb.
However, Atta Issah defeated the incumbent MP for Sagnarigu in the recently held NDC parliamentary primaries on Saturday, May 13, 2023.
The defeat means that ABA Fuseini will not be returning to parliament in 2025 but Ghanaians will have a hard time forgetting this proverbial man.
Below is a list of 10 significant proverbs we would remember ABA Fuseini by:
1. When a Lion is fond of patronizing the market, it will be treated like a puppy.
2. My brother, tattered clothes are better than nakedness.
3. A man who has died in the market, needs no announcement for his funeral.
4. When you see a pregnant goat in the market, it means there are a lot of problems in the house.
5. A man floored in the market square by a pregnant woman, has no reputation to protect.
6. The testicle that will degenerate into a hernia, it will be spotted from the first day it is seen.
7. You have to chase the Hyena before you blame the goat.
8. The man who is supposed to do his nightly duties blames errant mosquitoes when he fails.
9. A man who can’t carry his load blames his headpan.
10. You will not see guinea fowl flying and its offspring will be walking.
A Deputy Director of Communications of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ernest Owusu Bempah has stormed Kumawu in the Ashanti Region to campaign for NPP parliamentary candidate in the byelection.
He was accompanied by Sekyere and Asawase women’s organizers as well as Andy Owusu, the adviser to NPP Chairman for the Ashanti Region Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Chairman Wutumi).
After visiting several drinking establishments and ghettos in Kumawu, Oyoko, and Besoro, he was greeted enthusiastically by the youth of Kumawu.
He later stormed the Kumawu community park to watch the finals football game organized by the parliamentary candidate.
The by-election to elect a new Member of Parliament (MP) for Kumawu Constituency in the Ashanti Region is slated for May 23, the Electoral Commission (EC) announced.
It followed the death of the former MP of the area, Philip Basoah at the age of 53 at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital on March 27.
An immigration officer is said to have saved two police officers who were in danger of being killed on Saturday in Sefwi Wiawso, Western North Region, after they were assigned to attend to a church’s distress call.
A man who was allegedly attacking worshipers at the Anglican Church in Sefwi Wiawso subdued the police officers.
An inspector and corporal might have been killed by a violent attacker who is currently being held by police if it weren’t for the quick action of AICOII Nurudeen Abul-Ganiew Takra, an immigration officer stationed at the Western North Regional Immigration Office.
The immigration officer reported to the office and was on his way home from town when he spotted some activity outside the Anglican Church Park close to the Wiawso District Police Stations, according to the Western Regional Immigration Service Commander ACI Augustus Acheampong.
He approached the situation out of curiosity and found a police officer with the rank of Inspector lying unconscious on the ground and a corporal being attacked with an AK-47 rifle. The attacker struck the corporal in the head before he could approach, knocking him out as well.
With both officers on the ground and onlookers scared to get closer, the attacker was emboldened to attempt to pick up the rifle to cause more havoc but Nurudeen was quicker to pick the AK 47.
“The attacker advanced violently towards Nurudeen with a pestle. Sensing danger, he fired a warning shot but the attacker did not retreat and kept advancing and actually attempted to hit him with the pestle. With extreme caution, because the crowd was building up, he shot the attacker’s right thigh to immobilize him. The noise and commotion attracted a number of people including Police Officers to the scene who assisted to arrest the attacker. The items retrieved from him include a sharp knife, locally made catapult, and a pestle which he used to attack his victims,” a situational report from the Immigration Service said.
An attempt by the violent attacker to take hold of an AK 47 rifle belonging to the police was foiled by Mr Nurudeen in the scuffle.
“The two Police Officers and the attacker have since been taken to the Wiawso Municipal Hospital for medical attention.
A formal report has been made and the AK 47 rifle handed over to the Wiawso District Police for further action. You will be apprised of any new developments on the matter,” the report added.
On Monday, May 15, 2023, National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Dramani Mahama is scheduled to formally deliver his acceptance speech at the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale.
In the presidential primaries, the former president won convincingly. He received 297,603 votes, or 98.9% of the total number of votes cast, against Kojo Bonsu’s 3,181 votes.
In a statement, Mr. Mahama praised his rivals for their work and urged harmony and renewed vigor in the run-up to the 2024 elections.
“Let us disagree to agree, but let us keep our collective sights firmly on the supreme objective of the NDC leading Ghana out of the current abyss the country is in.
I also ask for cooperation among all elected parliamentary candidates and their respective aspirants and supporters in the constituencies. Our party is the winner because there are no individual winners and losers in this intra-party contest,” John Mahama said.
The former President disclosed that he shall officially deliver an acceptance speech on Monday.
“On Monday, at the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale, I will join a teeming number of the rank and file of the NDC and Ghanaians in general, to deliver my formal acceptance speech,” the statement announced.
Edem Kofi Kpotosu, the Ghana Education Service’s (GES) Volta Regional Human Resource Manager, has been chosen as the NDC’s parliamentary candidate for Ho Central in the next polls.
He outperformed six opponents, leaving Dr. Robert Doh, the closest rival, with a 42 vote deficit in the primary on Saturday.
Mr. Kpotosu spoke with the media and claimed that the reason the delegates chose him was because they wanted a candidate with experience who could carry out the party’s goals and “bring change.”
“The delegates of Ho Central have spoken, they need somebody who will do the work”, he stressed.
He, therefore, promised to increase the electoral fortunes of the NDC in his jurisdiction and ensure the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) records a decline in its voting pattern.
“I want to promise the Ho Central Constituency [NDC] and the entire country that the votes of the NDC are going to go up and the NPP’s votes will decline.
Even little children that you see in the corners are crying that Edem Kofi Kpotosu should be voted for and the masses have heard them and they have voted for me. It is going to reflect in the national elections”, he said.
He lauded the delegates for not allowing money to influence their voting decision and deciding to go for competence over money.
Mr Kpotosu assured of uniting the party ahead of the 2024 general elections to ensure a resounding victory for the NDC in the Ho Central Constituency.
He competed in the primary with Raphael Kobla Korda, Selorm Dey, Kasu Delali Kofi, Stanley Nelvis Glate, Emmanuel Kafui Dzamefe, and Dr. Robert Doh.
A scuffle broke out at the New Juaben South Constituency in the Eastern Region during the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) Primaries on Saturday, May 13, 2023.
This involved the party’s Eastern Regional Youth Organizer, Richard Etornam Nyarku and the New Juaben South Constituency Youth Organizer popular known as Rolex.
Rolex is said to have accused Richard of instructing delegates at the centre to vote for a particular candidate.
A verbal exchange between the Youth leaders escalated into a fist fight.
Richard sent a hefty blow which landed on the chin of Rolex making him fall flat and unconscious.
Rolex, subsequently, gained consciousness and attempted to retaliate but the police intervened and whisked both away.
He is said to have lost 2 of his teeth while the Regional Youth Organizer sustained minor injuries.
Both have detained at the Koforidua Central Police Station.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has expressed worry over the loss of lives and injuries recorded due to the rampant collapse of buildings in the country.
According to the Fire Service, two lives have been lost, with 62 injured persons in the past four months due to eight separate structural collapses.
The Greater Accra Region, it noted, recorded the highest number of cases, 6, while the Ashanti and Northern Regions recorded one each.
Per the GNFS’ observation, these incidents mostly happened with buildings under construction with “weak foundation, reduction in reinforcements, reduction in concrete strength.”
The Service further noted that failure to perform strength tests, supervision and the use of poor building materials are among the reasons for the recent accidents.
They have therefore called on the relevant stakeholders, especially the Engineering Council to look into the matter and address the worrying trend.
Already, the Engineering Council has announced that it will set up a team to look into the matter.
Meanwhile, the GNFS has called on land developers to desist from engaging the services of uncertified development practitioners and rather use the appropriate processes of securing building or construction permits with the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs).
8 separate accidents
With regards to the country’s capital, three out of the six incidents were recorded in about 8 days – from May 1 to May 9.
On May 1, an uncompleted three-storey building collapsed at SDA Junction near KPOGAS Furniture at Adenta. A life was lost as a result while two construction workers sustained critical injuries.
On May 4, another uncompleted three-storey building came tumbling down at Nanakrom within the Adenta Municipality where a life was also lost.
The Bortianor incident where a three-storey building collapsed, injuring seven occurred on May 9.
Prior to that, a storey building under construction at Ashongman Estate collapsed, injuring five on February 15 this year.
On March 1 and April 21, a three-storey building at the Royal Gospel Junior HIGH school at Sakura and a warehouse with an adjoining building at Taifa collapsed respectively.
The school incident recorded no casualty, however, two individuals sustained injuries in the latter.
In the Ashanti Region, the dinning hall of Ejuraman Senior High School in Ejura on February 7, collapsed on a group of students, trapping and injuring 45. They were rescued and transported to the Ejura Government Hospital.
On May 6, a six-storey building under construction at the Tamale-UDS City campus in the Northern Region collapsed. No casualty was recorded.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, a former deputy minister of communication, has been re-elected as the opposition National Democratic Congress’s parliamentary candidate in the Abura Asebu-Kwamankese seat for the 2024 elections.
In the NDC primaries that just took place on Saturday, May 13, 2023, the former Deputy Minister received 830 votes to emerge victorious.
His contender on the other hand, Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, received 571 votes.
Though Mr Kwakye Ofosu won the party’s 2019 parliamentary contest, he lost in the 2020 general elections.
He is however optimistic of winning in the 2024 elections on the ticket of the NDC.
With effect from Monday, May 15, 2023, members of the Pensioner Bondholders Forum will cease picketing at the Finance Ministry.
This follows an agreement made between the forum and the Finance Ministry over payment on outstanding principal and coupons to the former.
A statement issued by the convener of the forum, Dr. Adu Anane Antwi on Saturday said among other things, the parties agreed that the Ministry would give instruction for the payment of all outstanding coupons (including those due on 15th May 2023) to pensioners by 15th May 2023.
Other issues agreed on were that the Ministry would pay subsequent coupons to pensioners on due days. Also, the Ministry and Pensioner Bondholders will in the next few days, meet and reach agreement on the payment of all outstanding principals to pensioners.
Despite reaching a common ground, the pensioners have pledged to resume picketing once again should the ministry renege on its word as done previously.
Last week, dozens of aged citizens picketed at the Finance Ministry as part of efforts to get government pay what is due them. They chanted patriotic songs and held placards with inscriptions that communicated their displeasure with how they are being treated by the government.
Members of the Pensioner Bondholders Forum opted out of the government’s Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) to aid its debt restructuring and were promised payments of their coupons and principals upon maturity, however due payments have on occasions delayed.
The Finance Ministry on March 13, 2023, began processes to payment on matured bonds on 6th February and 13 February 2023, however, these monies are yet to hit the accounts of pensioners.
For most pensioners, the delay in payment does not only affect them but their dependents as well. For many, they want back their hard earned money they are entitled to.
“All we want is our monies to be paid. The Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, promised to give us our money, but up till now we have not received anything.
“We are monitoring everything because we worked hard, there’s no way any of our monies will go unpaid that we will not track. We are not asking for any social services, we are asking for our money.
“Please convey to the Finance Minister that he must keep his word and pay us. We wouldn’t be here if he had kept his promise,” an aggrieved pensioner told the media.
Portions of the Makola Market in the Greater Accra Region caught fire on Saturday, May 13, 2023.
The structures in flames were those closer to the Ghana Commercial Bank.
A team from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) arrived at the scene to douse the flames.
The cause of the fire is unknown as of the time this article was written.
Also, the media is unable to confirm if there are any injuries or deaths. Again, it is unknown the extent of the damage caused by the fire and the properties that were destroyed and their worth.
These details are yet to be provided by the Ghana National Fire Service.
This is not the first time the market has been gutted by fire.
In August 2021, there was a fire outbreak at the Makola Market in the central business district.
The fire is said to have affected the inner perimeter of the new shopping mall where hair and other cosmetic products, among other items, are stocked and sold.
A month before that, a three-storey building and valuables running into millions of Ghana cedis in the area got destroyed by a similar incident.
Fire incidents in 2023
A total of 2,177 fire outbreaks have been recorded between January and March 2023 by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS). A total of 2,403 fire incidents were recorded in the same period in 2022.
In 2023, domestic fires led the chart with a total of 760, followed by bush fires, 492, commercial fires, 336, electrical fires, 208, vehicular fires, 178, refuse fires, 117, institutional fires, 76 and industrial fire outbreaks, 10.
Out of the total fire incidents recorded within the period, 596 were doused by the public and 1,581 were extinguished by the GNFS.
Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Julius A. Kuunuor attributed the decrease in fire outbreaks to the intensive national fire safety education the Service had embarked on over the period.
Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the national secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has urged the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to prepare for an intense contest in the general election of 2024.
Mr. Kwetey, who was overseeing the Korley Klottey Constituency elections, praised the Party’s primaries as being “so far, so good” and noted that the general election of 2024 will be fascinating, necessitating the NPP’s need to go into “overdrive” in preparation.
The primaries, according to the general secretary, are crucial for getting ready for the 2024 election.
“Once we know who the leader of the Party is going to be, we know who majority of our parliamentary candidates are going to be, the Party now gets into the business of strategising towards 2024,” he stated.
Parliamentary aspirants for the Korle Klottey Constituency were Dr Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings, Madam Meredith Naakai Lamptey-Addy and Nii John Coleman.
At the end of the race, Dr Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings emerged winner.
The Police have arrested eight suspects throughout the country for various election-related offences and disturbing the peace during the Presidential and Parliamentary Primaries of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) held on Saturday, 13th May 2023.
The suspects, Yaro Burdove, Harrison Martey, Imoro Ibrahim, Arkoli Mensah, Nyarko Richard, Prince Lomotey, Hamidu Dramani and Bejando Emmanuel, were arrested at their various voting centres across four constituencies in the country.
Specifically, suspect Yaro Burdove was arrested during the elections at the Ningo Prampram Constituency for taking a photograph of his ballot paper in the polling booth and also attempting to take photographs of the ballot of other voters, while Harrison Martey and Imoro Ibrahim were arrested for engaging themselves in an unlawful fight at a voting centre at the same constituency.
Suspects Arkoli Mensah and Nyarko Richard were arrested for disturbing the peace by engaging themselves in an unlawful fight at a voting centre during the voting process at the New Juaben South Constituency in the Eastern Region.
At the Mfantseman Constituency in the Central Region, suspect Prince Lomotey was arrested at the voting centre for personation, while at a polling station in the Atebubu-Amantin constituency in the Bono East Region, suspects Hamidu Dramani and Bejando Emmanuel were arrested for causing violence.
Five of the suspects are currently on Police inquiry bail, while the three others are in custody assisting the ongoing Police investigation.
Juliana Wassan, an NDC Parliament candidate, showers money on delegates.
— The Independent Ghana (@independent_gh) May 13, 2023
Meanwhile, the attention of the Police Service has been drawn to a viral video in which Madam Juliana Kinang-Wassan, one of the Parliamentary aspirants for the Ejura Sekyedumase Constituency, is seen spraying money at a crowd during the elections at Ejura Sekyedumase, in the Ashanti Region. A dedicated legal team is currently scrutinising her conduct in the video to establish whether there are elements of election-related crime to warrant Police intervention or otherwise.
The Police has assured the public of its commitment towards ensuring, peace, security, law and order at all times.
The delegates made the decision to provide their support to newcomers they believe will have the tenacity to carry the party to victory in the constituencies in the general elections of 2024.
Della Sowah, a member of parliament for Kpando, was defeated by Sebastian Deh, who received 332 votes overall, by a mere 51 votes. In the 2019 primary, the former defeated the latter.
Maxwell Kwame Lukutor cut short Kobena Mensah Woyome’s effort to keep serving as the South Tongu residents’ representative.
He polled 597 votes against Mr. Woyome’s 562 votes.
Delegates were convinced that Frank Afriyie is a better candidate to maintain the Afadzato South parliamentary seat for the NDC, hence, voted against the incumbent, Angela Alorwu-Tay.
Mr. Afriyie was heavily endorsed with 631 votes, while Madam Alorwu-Tay managed to poll 225 in Saturday’s primary.
The son of former NDC flagbearer candidate, Dr Kwabena Duffuor, has failed in his attempt to represent the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the parliamentary candidate in the Sekyere Afram Plains Constituency in the Eastern Region.
Dr Duffuor Jr. lost the primary to Hajia Nasira Afrah by a margin of 8 votes.
Dr. Duffour Jr. received 203 votes, while Nasira Afrah received 211 votes to claim the victory.
Meanwhile, the incumbent Member of Parliament, Dr. Alex Adomako Mensah, polled only 86 votes.
The fourth contender, Professor Edward Brenyah garnered 65 votes.
Following his father’s decision to withdraw from the presidential race after a botched injunction suit against the primaries, some had said Duffuor Jnr. may pay the price for his father’s conduct.
At a press conference on Friday, Duffuor Snr. explained that his decision to withdraw from the race after he withdrew his lawsuit against the party, was based on his grievances with the processes surrounding the primaries; especially the voters’ register.
According to him, the exercise has been marred by a lot of irregularities; a problem that has not been resolved by the leadership of the party.
Inflation in the US dropped to its lowest level in two years last month as a result of lower prices for milk, new vehicles, and airline tickets.
According to official statistics, the rate of inflation in the 12 months leading up to April was 4.9%.
This was the eighth month in a row that price increases have slowed down, down from 5% in March.
The decline follows a substantial increase in interest rates by the US central bank in an effort to curb inflation.
The US had its greatest level of inflation since 1981 in June of last year, when it reached 9.1%.
But officials have hesitated to declare victory, as a problem that once seemed contained to particular sectors – such as energy and manufactured goods – has spread throughout the economy.
Housing, petrol and used car prices all jumped from March to April. The cost of haircuts, veterinary visits and gardening services also climbed.
And though no longer soaring, overall prices continue to rise far more quickly than the 2% rate the Federal Reserve considers healthy.
The Federal Reserve has raised interest rates 10 times since last March, bringing them to the highest levels since 2007.
The moves are intended to discourage people from borrowing, leading economic activity to slow and easing the pressures that are pushing up prices.
The head of the Federal Reserve, Jerome Powell, signalled this month that officials believe they may have done enough to get inflation under control and could be ready to pause their programme of rate rises.
Shaden Gardood, one of Sudan‘s most well-known vocalists, was killed in crossfire in the Sudanese capital of Omdurman.
On Friday, Gardood lost her life during fighting between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The 37-year-old’s passing occurred just one day after the warring sides agreed to a truce to lessen suffering among civilians.
In April, fighting broke out in Sudan as a result of a brutal power struggle among the military’s top brass.
Gardood resided in the al-Hashmab neighborhood, where the RSF has become more visible lately.
Her niece, Heraa Hassan Mohammed, confirmed her death on Facebook and said: “She was like a mother and a beloved to me, we were just chatting, may God give her mercy.”
She then wrote the Islamic phrase used when a person dies: “inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un”.
In a video which circulated on social media, Gardood said she was trying to hide from the shelling and asked her son to close the windows.
She could be heard saying: “Go away from the doors and the windows… in the name of Allah, we are going to die ready wearing our full clothes… you should wear this, we will die in a better shape.”
Gardood regularly made live videos on Facebook talking about the clashes and shelling in her neighbourhood, and she wrote intensively against the war.
In one of her last posts on Facebook, she said: “We have been trapped in our houses for 25 days… we are hungry and living in an enormous fear, but are full of ethics and values,” referring to looting across Khartoum, the capital of Sudan.
Image caption,Shaden Gardood was a prominent singer in Sudan
Gardood lived near the national television and radio building, which has been a battlefield from the first day of the war.
The RSF was guarding the building and they came under constant shelling by fighter jets, with on-the-ground clashes between the two forces.
One resident living in the same neighbourhood as Gardood said: “Last night, the clashes were violent and intense, which lasted for long hours with fighter jets hovering over all night last night.
“But what I observed is that the clashes were a bit less immediately after Shaden was injured, then we continued to hear the sound from afar.”
The resident said that Gardood later died of her wounds.
Gardood is survived by her 15-year-old son, Hamoudy, and her mother and sister.
The fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF has been taking place in Khartoum for almost four weeks.
The conflict erupted in mid-April, when the RSF refused to be integrated into Sudan’s army under a planned transition to civilian rule.
More than 600 civilians have died and more than 4,000 injured, closing down about 80% of the hospitals with severe food, water and electricity shortages.
Before moving to Khartoum with her family, Gardood was originally from the war-torn South Kordofan state.
She performed as a hakama, traditional poets in western Sudan who exhort men to go into battle, in order to promote peace and security in her area as well as the culture of her marginalized community, al-Bagara, in South Kordofan.
In addition to singing, Gardood studied the al-Bagara Melodies and delivered papers on the Hakamas’ legacy both in the past and the present.
A number of public figures were killed in Khartoum in the past few weeks, among them Sudan’s first professional actress, Asia Abdelmajid, who died in crossfire at the age of 80.
Former footballer Fozi el-Mardi, 72, was also killed only a few days after the death of his daughter who was killed in a crossfire in Omdurman.
Four days after the start of the war, constant ceasefires were announced under the request of regional powers, but none were upheld.
The clashes have not stopped as the fighter jets continue hovering over the entire city.
According to reports, Chelsea will soon choose Mauricio Pochettino as their manager.
The former Tottenham manager and the Blues have reached a contract agreement, according to reports in various media outlets on Saturday night.
At the conclusion of the season, the 51-year-old Argentinean would succeed Frank Lampard, who was serving as interim manager.
The club has not provided a confirmation. Chelsea has been contacted by the PA news agency.
Graham Potter was fired by Chelsea in April after just seven months of his five-year contract due to a run of poor performance, and the club is now looking for a new full-time manager.
Lampard, who previously managed the club from 2019-21, was brought in on a temporary basis but the team’s struggles have continued and they sit 11th in the Premier League.
Pochettino, who led Tottenham to the Champions League final in 2019 before being sacked later that year, is available after leaving Paris St Germain last summer.
A strong cyclone is now striking the shores of Bangladesh and Myanmar after strengthening into the equivalent of a category-five storm.
195kph (120mph) gusts and heavy rain from Cyclone Mocha could cause severe floods on land near the Bay of Bengal.
There are worries that it could impact Cox’s Bazar, which is home to almost a million people and is the largest refugee camp in the world.
Up to four meters of storm surge could saturate low-lying towns.
Cyclone Mocha, according to forecasters, might be Bangladesh’s strongest cyclone in nearly two decades.
About 500,000 people have been evacuated to safer locations.
The Bangladeshi meteorological department office said the maximum sustained wind speed within around 75km (45 miles) of the centre of the cyclone was around 195 kilometres (120 miles) per hour with gusts and squalls of 215 kilometres per hour.
In preparation nearby airports were shut, fishermen ordered to suspend their work and 1,500 shelters were set up as people from vulnerable areas were moved to safer spots.
Cyclone Mocha was predicted to bring a deluge of rain, which can trigger landslides – a serious danger for those who reside in hillside camps, where landslips are a regular phenomenon.
Particular concerns have been expressed for the many Rohingya refugees living in makeshift homes in the the camps of Cox’s Bazaar and people on the western coast of Myanmar.
“For a cyclone to hit an area where there is already such deep humanitarian need is a nightmare scenario, impacting hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people whose coping capacity has been severely eroded by successive crises,” UN Humanitarian Coordinator A.I. Ramanathan Balakrishnan said.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected former President John Dramani Mahama to run on the ticket of the party in the 2024 general elections.
Mr John Mahama secured 297,603 of the votes cast representing 98.9% to beat his only contender, former Mayor of Kumasi, Kojo Bonsu, who garnered 1,381 votes.
Over 356,000 delegates participated in the party’s primaries held in a total of 420 voting centers across the country on Saturday, May 13, 2023.
275 constituencies took part in the presidential elections while 259 constituencies partook in the parliamentary elections.
Mr Kojo Bonsu has congratulated Mr Mahama over his landslide victory. According to him, this was done via phone call.
In a Facebook post, Mr Bonsu pledged his continuous support for the party and to ensure the NDC wins the 2024 elections.
“I have placed a call to H.E. John Dramani Mahama to congratulate him for the landslide victory. Just as I’ve indicated throughout my campaign, regardless of the outcome of this election I’ll continue to serve the NDC party,” he said in a Facebook post.
In 2019, Mr Mahama, who first served as Vice President under the late John Evans Atta Mills from 2009 to 2012 and then President from 2013 to 2016, was elected as flagbearer to lead the party into the 2020 polls after failing to win the 2016 general elections.
Mr Mahama secured an overwhelming 213,487 votes representing 95.23 percent of the total valid votes cast with the other six contenders managing about 4 percent.
Former Vice-Chancellor of University of Professional Studies; Accra (UPSA), Prof. Joshua Alabi, then Member of Parliament for Nadowli/Kaleo, Mr Alban Kingsford Sumani Bagbin, Goosie Tanoh, former Trades and Industry Minister, Ekwow Spio Garbrah, former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Mr Sylvester Mensah and Nurudeen Iddrisu were the other contenders.
Mr Mahama’s name is recorded in history books as the first former president in Ghana to run for presidency. Mr Mahama during the 2020 elections failed to bring the NDC from opposition.
President Akufo-Addo was declared the winner with 51.59%, ahead of the former president who received 47.37%.
He sent the matter to the Supreme Court but the apex court threw out the case.
As he prepares for the 2024 general elections, Mr Mahama has pledged to do among other things, erase payment of ex-gratia, strengthen the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and go after corrupt government officials and individuals in the country.
Should Mr Mahama emerge winner in the 2024 general elections, he would become the first-ever former President to run for presidency and emerge victorious.
As it stands now, it is unknown whom Mr Mahama will compete against from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) as they are yet to elect their flagbearer.
Professor Joshua Alabi, the campaign manager of John Mahama, expressed strong confidence in his candidate’s victory in the NDC flagbearership contest, predicting an overwhelming margin.
He stated that John Mahama would emerge victorious with an impressive 99.9% of the total valid votes cast.
Professor Alabi shared these remarks during a short visit to the voting center at Zenith University College, where the ongoing La Dadekotopon Constituency primaries of the NDC are taking place.
“My expectation is for His Excellency John Mahama to make above what he made in the previous election; which is above 85%, closing to 99.9%”, he said.
The former President is going up against a former Mayor of Kumasi, Kojo Bonsu.
Mr Bonsu has expressed optimism in winning the race. However, he has entreated the rank and file of the party to accept the outcome of the elections whichever way it goes.
A total of 2,032 delegates in the Jomoro Constituency are participating in the National Democratic Congress’ primaries which aims to select the party’s presidential and parliamentary candidates for the upcoming 2024 general elections.
In the parliamentary race, the incumbent Member of Parliament, Madam Dorcas Afo-Toffey, is facing competition from Mr. Francis Ackatia Kwaidoo, who previously contested in the 2019 Parliamentary Primaries.
The voting process is being conducted at the Bawia Primary School Park, with the Jomoro Municipal Electoral Commission overseeing the proceedings to ensure fairness and transparency.
Jomoro Constituency has 215 branches (polling stations). As of 11:30am, 352 delegates had cast their votes.
So far, the exercise has not witnessed any form of violence, everything is in order.
The weather is very sunny at Bawia, where the election is taking place.
Speaking to the Jomoro NDC Constituency Communications Officer, Lenrie Nyamekeh, at Bawia, he commended the Ghana Police Service for ensuring there was order on the voting ground.
He also commended the delegates and other observers for comporting themselves.
“I’m very excited about how the Ghana Police Service is maintaining law and order here. Electoral Commission of Jomoro is doing well and I have to commend them. Our delegates have so far comported themselves and let me encourage them to continue to comport themselves”, he stated.
He stated that today’s exercise is a dress rehearsal for elections 2024.
Voting at Jomoro Constituency
“Today’s exercise is a dress rehearsal for elections 2024, we NDC are prepared for elections 2024 and we are going to win the presidential election in 2024”, he said.
He, therefore, urged other Ghanaians to rally behind the NDC to recapture political power from the governing NPP in 2024 to repair the broken economy.
“Ghanaians are suffering too much under the incompetent Akufo-Addo and Bawumia governments; the NPP government has collapsed the economy. I will use your medium to call on other Ghanaians who are not NDC members to support NDC to recapture political power from the NPP in 2024. We at the NDC are ready to repair the broken economy in 2025”, he said.
The voting, which commenced at 9:30 a.m. is expected to close at 4pm.
The High Court in Sefwi Wiawso has granted an interlocutory injunction motion against Joseph Yensu, a parliamentary aspirant of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Aowin constituency, as well as the party itself.
The court order, issued on May 12, 2023, restrains the party from using the parliamentary nomination forms submitted by Joseph Yensu for his candidacy.
The injunction will remain in effect until the case is finally determined.
The lawsuit, filed by Bamfoh Richard, Mamile Beatrice, and Kofi Abraham on March 30, 2023, accuses Joseph Yensu of fraudulently obtaining their endorsement on his nomination forms without their consent.
During the ruling the court ordered that, “The defendants/respondents herein themselves, their assigns, agents, workmen and all other persons lawfully claiming through them to restrain from using NDC parliamentary nomination forms submitted by Joseph Yensu (Ist defendant) to contest as parliamentary aspirant in the Aowin constituency, Western North Region, until the final determination of the case.”
It added that upon reading the affidavit and supplementary affidavit of Bamfoh Richard filed on March 30, 2023, and May 10, 2023, respectively in support of motion on notice for interlocutory injunction, the court took that decision.
The court further said it heard the submission of Evans Amankwah Esq, counsel for and on behalf of the plaintiffs/applicants on the motion on notice for an interlocutory injunction.
Information gathered by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) revealed that the NDC chairman in Aowin constituency, Mr Saani Mahama has been served with a copy of the injunction but the Municipal Electoral Officer, Mr Eric Aseidu was yet to be served.
Reports coming in is that some delegates at Asawase Constituency in the Ashanti Region are taking pictures of their ballots in the ongoing National Democratic Congress’ primaries.
These individuals sources say had their mobile phones seized by police officers around or Electoral Commission officers.
However, one delegate who had his phone seized by an EC officer, thus after taking the picture, aggressively went to attack the EC official for his phone.
Voting finally commenced at Asawase Constituency around 11:30am has been very smooth.
It was earlier reported that delegates had been camped.
A minor altercation occurred between police officers and delegates of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) at the voting center in the Adentan constituency.
According to reports from GhanaWeb, there was a brief moment of disorder as some delegates were denied entry by the security personnel, leading to conflicting instructions from the police officers present.
The situation escalated when a later officer overturned an earlier order allowing delegates to enter, further agitating the already charged delegates.
However, calm was restored after a meeting between the security team and the party’s constituency leadership.
More than 2,700 delegates are expected to cast their votes at the De Youngsters School Center, and some have already done so.
The race for the Adentan seat is keenly contested, with three strong contenders vying for the position.
The incumbent Member of Parliament, Mohammed Adamu Ramadan, faces stiff competition from two opponents:
Former Minister of Gender, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, and young youth activist Linda Awuni. All three candidates have expressed their confidence in securing victory.
The Adentan seat has a unique record of not having a political party win more than one term in parliament.
Professor Kwaku Asare, a Fellow of the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD), has highlighted the potential economic benefits for Ghana through the removal of restrictions on dual citizens holding public offices.
He argues that such a move would attract Ghanaians in the diaspora to return to their home country and actively contribute to its development.
By repealing these laws, it is believed that remittances and return migration would be encouraged, ultimately leading to greater stability and economic growth.
“Ghana is a net exporter of skilled labour and we have to be aware of that, and we have to have return-friendly policies that attract this skilled labour and their wealth back to the country.
“A repeal of the law, that is, allowing people who are dual-citizens to hold public offices would encourage and stabilize both remittances and return migration,” he said.
Currently, dual citizens are prohibited from occupying certain public offices including the office of Special Prosecutor, Inspector General of Police, an MP, Cabinet Minister, and President.
This, the Accounting professor based in the United States is opposing.
Prof. Asare added that the removal of the prohibition would also facilitate the use of financial vehicles like a Diaspora Bond to encourage diaspora investment in Ghana’s economy.
“Furthermore, it will facilitate the use of vehicles like Diaspora bonds which countries like Nigeria and Israel have put to good effect.
“But the reason they’ve put to good effect is they’ve not categorised their dual-citizens as disloyal, they have embraced them and by embracing them, it is much easier to then go to them and say ‘Well come and invest in the country, buy Diaspora bonds and so on and so forth.”
Currently, a private member’s bill is before Parliament to remove the prohibition of dual citizens from holding certain public offices.
