It is expected that some network subscribers will be blocked from accessing data services from their network providers from today, November 20.
These are subscribers who have linked their SIM cards to their Ghana Cards but have not done the second phase of the registration process.
Ahead of November 20, some network providers via text messages reminded their subscribers yet to re-register their SIM cards to do so.
This forms part of measures introduced by the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation to ensure all SIM cards are re-registered in the country.
In a statement issued on Friday, November 11, Communications Minister, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, announced that effective November 30, all unregistered SIM cards will be deactivated.
“Despite the ample opportunity afforded all to complete the registration of their SIM cards, some who have the Ghana Cards and have begun the process have failed to complete the registration. That is their choice and we cannot begrudge them,” the Minister argued.
The SIM card re-registration exercise began in October 2021. Since then, there have been about four deadline extensions due to the low number of re-registered SIM cards.
Currently, a total of 30,011,082 SIM cards have been linked to Ghana Cards, thereby completing the first phase of the registration process.
As of November 9, 20,892,970 subscribers had completed both the linkage and capture of their biometric data.
One person has been confirmed dead with four others injured in an accident involving a Daf truck and five other vehicles at Bogoso in the Western Region on November 19, 2022.
A police investigation has disclosed that the driver of the Daf truck, carrying logs from the Prestea end of the road, upon reaching Bogoso lost control while negotiating a curve. In the process, the logs fell on the five other vehicles.
Personnel of the MTTD are on the grounds and the road has since been opened to traffic.
The Ghana National Fire Service is assisting to rescue the victims believed to be trapped in the accident vehicles.
Augustus Osei, driver of one of the vehicles involved in the accident said the braking system of the Daf truck failed, which resulted in the accident.
“I was coming from Boadie to Bogoso and we had bypassed the roundabout. The Daf truck had already climbed the hill but suddenly all we could see was the truck reversing by itself so I shouted for all my passengers to exit the vehicle.
“Three of us in the vehicle managed to exit but one person could not exit so he died,” he narrated.
Richarlison says Brazil’splayers “will do everything” they can to win a record-extending sixth World Cup in Qatar.
Brazil are steeped in World Cup history, with more titles than any other country, though their fifth and most recent triumph came in 2002.
Tite’s men head into the tournament in Qatar as one of the favourites having lost just one match since 2019, their Copa America final defeat to Argentina last year.
Richarlison will be playing in his first World Cup, having scored 17 goals in his 38 appearances for the Selecao since his debut in 2018.
The 25-year-old says he and his team-mates will do all they can to bring home the trophy, telling Eurosport: “If we will win? I don’t know, but we will do everything to win the World Cup.
“I prefer that we work in silence, doing our job and doing our best every day. Certainly, Professor Tite [head coach] will prepare us well for a great World Cup.”
The Tottenham forward believes Brazil deserve to be among the most fancied teams and is confident they will make an impression in Qatar, saying: “I think there are a lot of good teams, but we are Brazil.
“We have a lot of history, we’ve never been out of the World Cup and we’re going to the World Cup to honour the shirt. We’re definitely going to get something good for us.”
Despite his belief in Brazil’s prospects, Richarlison acknowledged other sides he feels have a chance, adding: “There are a lot of good teams.
“The defending champions, France. Belgium, for example, and Argentina, which has a good squad and won the Copa America.”
Brazil open their World Cup campaign against Serbia on Thursday, before facing Switzerland and Cameroon in Group G.
Amnesty International has accused Gianni Infantino of “brushing aside legitimate human rights criticisms” following the FIFA president’s extraordinary speech on Saturday.
A remarkable opening address ahead of the World Cup opener between hosts Qatar and Ecuador on Sunday saw Infantino respond on a wide range of matters, claiming he had received “almost threats” around the subject of migrant workers’ rights.
Infantino was reluctant to accept criticisms on the topic from Europe, explaining: “We know there are many illegal workers in Europe, living in conditions that aren’t the best.
“In Qatar, of course, there are things that still don’t work, but this moral lesson-giving is one-sided, it is just hypocrisy.”
Amnesty International responded to Infantino’s comments, stating it is unacceptable to dismiss the “enormous price paid by migrant workers“.
Steve Cockburn, Amnesty International’s Head of Economic and Social Justice, said: “In brushing aside legitimate human rights criticisms, Gianni Infantino is dismissing the enormous price paid by migrant workers to make his flagship tournament possible – as well as FIFA’s responsibility for it.
“Demands for equality, dignity and compensation cannot be treated as some sort of culture war – they are universal human rights that FIFA has committed to respect in its own statutes.
“If there is one tiny glimmer of hope, it is that Infantino announced that FIFA would establish a legacy fund after the World Cup.
“This cannot be mere window dressing, however. If FIFA is to salvage anything from this tournament, it must announce that it will invest a significant part of the $6billion the organisation will make from this tournament and make sure this fund is used to compensate workers and their families directly.”
A Ranking Member on the Finance Committee of Parliament has opposed calls for the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta to resign as a result of the prevailing economic woes.
Speaking in an interview on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, Dr Stephen Amoah said the Finance Minister cannot be blamed for the economic hardship being experienced by Ghanaians.
“…This whole brouhaha as a matter of fact was based on the fact that our economy is not doing well and that it is his [Ofori-Atta’s] fault …. But is that a fact or not? In my opinion, that is not true. The fact that he is the cause of our economic decline, I don’t think that is true,” he said in Mr Ofori Atta’s defense.
The Nhyieso MP added that “to the best of my knowledge GDP had grown from about 3.2, 3.4 averagely to about 7%. The policy rate was about 25.5 it had reduced to about 12.5, Treasury bills were about 22 point something, it has been reduced in about the same period to about 14. Reserve has been increased to about 5.8 to about 7.4. All these were happening. Globally, did anything happen or not? Factually, globally, something happened.”
For this reason, Dr Stephen Amoah said asking the Finance Minister to resign due to economic hardship alone is unfair.
“Were we asking the Finance Minister to step down based on the economic performance today or not? …I am saying that if it is the economy alone, then that will be very unfair,” he stressed.
His assertion was in reaction to several calls from the public for the Finance Minister to resign because of economic hardships.
In a related development, the Minority in Parliament has filed a censure motion to that effect. They cited seven claims.
The claims are; conflict of interest, unconstitutional withdrawals from the Consolidated Fund, illegal payment of oil revenues into offshore accounts, deliberate and dishonest misreporting of economic data to Parliament, fiscal recklessness, alarming incompetence and gross mismanagement of the Ghanaian economy.
Meanwhile, Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, has apologised to Ghanaians for the hardship being suffered in recent times.
According to him, the brunt borne by the populace due to the ongoing economic turmoil is unfortunate.
He said this when he appeared before the Ad-hoc Committee hearing the motion of censure against him.
“Let me use this opportunity to say to the Ghanaian people what I believe, with courage, every Finance Minister around the world may wish to say to their people now. I am truly sorry,” he told the Committee on Friday.
Ghanaian midfielder, Mohammed Kudus, has revealed his decision to sign for Ajax was due to the need to prioritise developing himself as a player before taking a big step.
Kudus signed for the Dutch side in July 2020 after putting an end to his time in Denmark, playing for Nordsjaelland.
Prior to signing for Ajax, Kudus, who was then 19, had offers from the Premier League and German Bundesliga but turned them down.
Speaking to Star Connect, the midfielder side said the priority was to go to a club where his talent would be developed, something which was evident in the Ajax project.
“I had other options from the Premier League and the Bundesliga,” he said.
“I chose Ajax because I wanted to take one step at a time and not a big step. Looking at the history of Ajax and how they wanted to play, and their history of developing young talents, I thought it was awesome for me to join them, which I did.”
Kudus added that though the decision to move to Ajax was purely his, he spoke to Andre Onana to find out more about the club.
“I spoke to Onana because he is also an African and had been here for long,” he continued.
“He shared his experiences and it was positive for me. But the decision was based on my gut feeling and I went for it.”
In his first season with the club, Kudus won the Eredivisie and the Dutch Cup with Ajax.
The Majority Leader in Parliament, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Mensah-Bonsu has expressed satisfaction with the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori Atta’s responses to allegations levelled against him by the Minority in Parliament.
The Finance Minister appeared before an 8-member ad-hoc committee of Parliament on Friday, November 18, 2022, to react to claims of unconstitutional withdrawals from the consolidated fund for the construction of the National Cathedral, gross mismanagement of the economy and financial recklessness leading to the collapse of the Ghana Cedi among others as the basis for a motion censure against him by the minority.
The Finance Minister denied the allegations before the committee.
Speaking to journalists after the proceedings, the Majority Leadersaid, “we are a human institution and I think that we will continue to improve more as we move on. I think he did not do badly, my worry was about the first four questions which were serious allegations bordering on criminality.”
“But it seems like the committee has come to some agreement to the extent that there was no sufficient agreement on those matters, two of them have been struck out, so we are making progress, let’s see how it goes,” he added.
The Suame MP had initially said the whole caucus supports calls for the Finance Minister to resign or be sacked, this is after 80 majority MPs made the calls.
Mr. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu had initially criticised the timing of the NPP MPs’ call for the Finance Minister to be removed because Ghana is currently pursuing support from the IMF.
In response to the calls from his own party’s MPs, President Akufo-Addo urged the MPs to hold on till Ghana concludes negotiations with the IMF.
Previous calls for the removal of Ken Ofori-Atta have been rebuffed by President Akufo-Addo, who said he would continue to back Mr. Ofori-Atta.
Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso, Dr. Stephen Amoah, has questioned the principles and mode of operations of Investigative Journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas.
Anas in his documentaries expose state officials including judges and politicians. The latest to have been exposed is former Minister of State at the Ministry of Finance, Charles Adu Boahen who was filmed engaging in influence peddling.
Reacting to the exposé, the Legislator said Charles Adu Boahen was compelled to take the hefty amount of dollars given to him as a ‘token’ although it was not right to have accepted the offer.
He argued that the edited footage which was shown to the public seemed to distort the whole story, thus the investigative journalist should air the full documentary for purposes of fairness to the implicated state official.
“I have nothing against Anas. I think he is also doing his best to contribute to fighting corruption, but he should do it in a way that would not seem like he has planned, he has built up conspiracy game theory to get people into trouble and for Ghanaians to have opinions.
“Many extracts that I have gotten from all of you indicated that Charles was very reluctant that does not also mean he was right in accepting the offers and so it was something like he was intimidated, it was put through his throat,” he said on Newsfile, Saturday.
Dr. Stephen Amoah, therefore, believes that the award-winning investigative journalistmust reconsider his mode of operations such that he avoids putting his subjects in awkward situations.
“I think Anas should redefine a new paradigm shift, the way he does his things so that you not really force or put people in a situation where they might not have gotten themselves into…let us look at the fact that one, he was intimidated, two, most of the offers were initiated by those who actually wanted to implicate him in the situation.”
Speaking on the same show, the Executive Director of Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), Sulemana Braimah expressed displeasure with the principles explored by Anas Aremeyaw Anas.
Although he admits that the conduct by Charles Adu-Boahen is condemnable, Mr. Braimah contended that the “forcefulness” and “persistence” from Anas to offer gifts raises questions.
“Per what we watch in number 12 and the forcefulness, the persistence, the request, the inducement then makes it difficult for us to conclude that ordinarily if the conversation had gone on, would Mr. Adu Boahen eventually say now that we have concluded, how much will you give me and all of that we cannot conclude,” he noted.
Currently, the Special Prosecutor is investigating the corruption allegations against Charles Adu Boahen.
Gianni Infantino promised that “everyone is welcome” in Qatar, but was adamant the country must not be criticised despite its questionable human rights record.
A World Cup the FIFA president believes will go down as the best in history kicks off on Sunday, with host nation Qatar taking on Ecuador.
The awarding of the tournament to Qatar, which happened in 2010, has drawn much criticism, with the Gulf state’s record on human rights particularly contentious.
Homosexualityis still a crime in Qatar, while the nation’s government does not recognise same-sex marriage or civil partnerships, while campaigns for LGBTQ+ rights have been quashed.
Infantino, though, assured that people of any sexuality, race or religion are welcome in the country, as in an hour-long monologue at the Main Media Centre in Doha on Saturday, he called out what he sees as the “hypocrisy” of the western world and media, insisting that he must take any criticism, and not Qatar or the players or coaches.
“At the last World Cup I was always getting angry, because I had to deal with questions about doping, which I had nothing to do with,” Infantino said.
“Here I have to deal with other topics. If you want to criticise somebody, don’t criticise the players, the coaches, let them focus on football and making their fans happy.
“If you want to criticise someone, criticise me, I am here, crucify me. Don’t criticise Qatar. Criticise FIFA, criticise me. But let people enjoy this World Cup.
“Do we want to continue to divide, to spit on people because they feel different, or look different? We obtain results, it’s a process. Help us, don’t divide, don’t split.
“We have 32 teams, 33 with the referees, we have a beautiful city that wants to welcome the world. Let’s celebrate and hope we can give some joy around the world.”
Infantino promised he had assurances that people within the LGBTQ+ community will be welcome and secure in Qatar.
“I’ve been speaking about this topic with the highest leadership in the country, several times,” he said.
“I can confirm that everyone is welcome. If you’re a person here or there that says the opposite, well it’s not the opinion of the country, and it’s certainly not the opinion of FIFA.
“This is a clear requirement, everyone has to be welcome. Whatever religion, race, sexual orientation or belief that she or he has, everyone is welcome – this is our requirement and the Qatari state sticks to this.
“Yes, these legislations exist in many countries in the world. These legislations existed when Switzerland organised the World Cup, in 1954. What do you want to do about it?
“Do you want to stay home and criticise, say how bad they are – these Arabs or Muslims or whatever, because it’s not allowed to be publicly gay. Of course, I believe it should be allowed, but I went through a process.
“If I asked the same question to my father, who is not here anymore, he would probably have a different answer than me, and my children will have a different answer than me.
“If somebody thinks by hammering and criticising we achieve anything, it will be exactly the opposite, because it will be provocation and if you provoke me the reaction will be bad, then the doors will be more closed, even though now the door is starting to open.
“Tolerance starts with ourselves, we shouldn’t spread aggression, we have to spread understanding.”
Infantino hopes the tournament will help unite the world, claiming that is FIFA’s aim.
He said: “We are a global organisation, and we want to unite the world. I am still convinced, though not sure how optimistic I still am, that this World Cup will help to open the eyes of people in the western world to the Arab world.
“We have to live together, but we have to understand we have different beliefs, different history and backgrounds, but we are in the same world. It’s why you have to come here and say what you see – when you see something that is wrong, say how it can be rectified, please.
“Maybe we can help everyone to understand how we can help each other a little bit better.”
The GSS revealed these statistics on men to raise awareness about International Men’s Day, celebrated on November 19 each year. This year’s commemoration is under the theme, “Helping Men and Boys”.
According to GSS, the Upper East Region recorded the highest percentage of employed males in the first quarter who were no longer employed in the second.
It was followed by the North East Region.
“In the Upper East Region, seven out every ten (69.0%) males employed in the first quarter were no longer employed in the second. Theirs is the highest rate in the country distantly followed by the North East Region (43.9%).”
Touching on earnings, GSS noted that the “mean hourly earnings for males in the second quarter were GH¢9.9, falling slightly from GH¢11.0 in the first quarter.”
On education, GSS revealed that “the AHIES 2022 Q1 and Q2 Report estimates that 600,893 males 15 to 24 years were not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) in the second quarter, an increase of over 100,000 from the 463,260 recorded in the first quarter.”
It added that 3,335,604 males between 15 years and older are not literate with almost half a million (459,110) boys from 4 to 14 years currently not attending school.
Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso, Dr Stephen Amoah, has commended President Akufo-Addo’s response to the latest exposé by investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas.
According to the MP, even though the President is not perfect, his reaction to the investigative piece by the Tiger Eye Pi team is worthy of commendation.
Speaking on NewsFile on Saturday, the NPP lawmaker said contrary to certain criticisms about the President’s response to the exposé, Akufo-Addo did well in the circumstances.
Lauding the President, he indicated that the battle against corruption has been on for years, and therefore the President’s decision to sack an appointee named in a corruption scandal is deserving of acknowledgment.
“I think the President has rather demonstrated a leader’s position and style that has to be commended.
I’m not saying he’s perfect. [But] let’s be honest; he took a very swift decision and made a very swift decision to let everybody understand that he really believes in an open culture system when it comes to fighting corruption which has been a canker”, Dr Stephen Amoah said.
The comments by the member of Parliament, follow the President’s sacking of the Minister of State at the Ministry of Finance, Charles Adu Boahen.
Earlier this week, the Harvard scholar was shown the exit door, after he was mentioned in the latest Ana’s exposé, as a facilitator of shady deals, using the name of the Vice President.
Few hours after a trailer of the exposé was published, the President, through his Director of Communications at the Presidency, Mr Eugene Arhin, announced Mr. Adu Boahen’s dismissal.
In the letter announcing his dismissal, the President thanked him for his ‘strong services’, and ordered the Special Prosecutor to intestigate the said allegations.
But while many, including the Nhyiaeso MP, Dr Stephen Amoah have commended the President, others have expressed their lack of confidence in the outcome of the investigations.
According to the critics, Adu Boahen’s dismissal is much ado about nothing.
Meanwhile, the Office of the Special Prosecutor says it will probe the allegations and get to the bottom of the matter.
Bukayo Saka can thrive during England’s World Cup campaign after handling the fallout from his penalty miss in the Euro 2020 final “impeccably”, according to Aaron Ramsdale.
Saka’s spot-kick was saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma after England’s tense draw with Italy last July, ensuring the Three Lions lost on their first major final appearance since the 1966 World Cup.
The winger then endured further disappointment on the domestic stage as Arsenal failed to secure a top-four finish last term, but he has bounced back in fine fashion this season.
With Arsenalflying high at the top of the Premier League table, only five players have bettered Saka’s tally of 10 goal contributions in the competition this campaign (four goals, six assists), and his Gunners team-mate Ramsdale expects him to impress in Qatar.
Asked by ESPN how Saka handled last year’s disappointment, Ramsdale said: “[I’m] trying to find the right words, impeccably, probably.
“The kid’s a lovely boy, he has time for everyone, he works super hard throughout every week.
“He very, very rarely misses a training session and he used all that motivation of criticism, but also the love that everyone gave him, [it] gave him an extra boost.
“Don’t forget he had the pressure of the whole football club on him last year – him and Emile Smith Rowe were our main guys – and he has dealt with that, he’s dealt with everything else.
“He is thriving and I can’t wait to see him thrive over here.”
“I was just able to reflect that the season before they finished eighth, [last] season we finished fifth, and if we go another step again, we will be in the top four. It’s a game of football and there’s a lot more to it.”
Asked whether Saka had become a stronger character in the last year, he added: “Absolutely. There is no doubt about that, off the pitch and on it. He’s a more complete person.”
Switzerlanddefender Silvan Widmer has suggested that the weather was partly to blame for his side 2-0 defeat to Ghana in pre-World Cup friendly.
Mohammed Salisu and Antoine Serlom Semenyo scored in the second half to ensure the West Africans head into the World Cup on a high note.
During the game, there were about four stoppages for players to drink some liquids due to the hot weather condition in Abu Dhabi.
“The game was decided by a goal after a corner. We saw an even game between two teams who couldn’t go as fast as they could because of the heat,” Widmer said after the game.
“But we still have to step on the gas. That’s a losing game, bottom line. Playing at two in the afternoon when it’s over 30 degrees is difficult. We did well in terms of positions, especially in the first half. Let’s see what the coach has in store for us in the next few days.”
FIFA president Gianni Infantino launched an impassioned defence of the Qatar 2022 World Cup, insisting he feels solidarity with many of the groups seemingly marginalised by taking the event to the Middle East.
The decision to host world football’s showpiece event in Qatar – a country with a chequered past on human rights issues, its treatment of migrant workers and the illegality of homosexuality – has drawn widespread criticism, but in an extraordinary riposte, Infantino was unrepentant.
He said: “Today I have very strong feelings. Today, I feel Qatari. Today, I feel Arab. Today, I feel African. Today, I feel gay. Today, I feel disabled. Today, I feel a migrant worker.
“I feel all this because what I have been seeing and what I have been told, since I don’t read, otherwise I will be depressed.
“What I see brings me back to my personal story. I am a son of migrant workers, my parents were working hard in very difficult conditions, not in Qatar but in Switzerland, I remember it very well. I know the rights migrants in Switzerland had.
“I remember as a child how migrant workers were treated when they wanted to enter a country and look for work.
“I remember what happened with their passports, their medical checks, with their accommodation and when I came to Doha for the first time after I was elected FIFA president I went to see some of the accommodation and I was brought back to my childhood.
“I said to the people in Qatar, this is not right, and the same way that Switzerland has become an example of tolerance, inclusion and rights, Qatar has made progress as well.
“Of course, I am not Qatari, I am not Arab, I am not African, I am not gay, I am not disabled, I am not a migrant worker but I feel like them because I know what it feels to be discriminated against by a bully.
“As a foreigner in a foreign county, as a child at school, I was bullied at school because I had red hair and freckles. I was Italian, and didn’t speak good German.
“What do you do? You lock yourself down, go to your room and cry. And then you try to make some friends, to engage, make friends. And then you try to make these friends engage with others. You don’t start fighting, you start engaging and this is what we should be doing.
“I am proud to have this FIFA sign on my jacket. It’s not easy to read all the criticism from a decision taken 12 years ago. Now we have to make the best out of it.
“Qatar is ready and it will be the best World Cup ever. As soon as the ball rolls, people will focus on that.”
Infantino’s “I feel gay” comment immediately prompted accusations of hypocrisy on social media given he heads an organisation that is staging the World Cup in a country with such an oppressive outlook on homosexuality.
He added: “If we were to exclude all these countries, you are playing football with just you and me.
“I think football has to bring people together and I think we have to welcome everybody. Gay people are welcome in Qatar – we need to engage, don’t provoke.
“How many gay people were prosecuted in Europe? It was a process, we went through a process. We seem to forget.
“We shouldn’t take for granted that a country that has not had the same chance for development as we had in Europe.
“We have to have our beliefs, engage and explain. I think provocation is the wrong way. I may be right, may be wrong. I try to engage.”
The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources in charge of Mines, George Mireku Duker has made a passionate appeal to the youth of Kenyasi and the managementas well as staff of Newmont Mining Limited to bury the hatchet and allow peace to prevail.
Mireku Duker said both the mining company and community owe each other a fiduciary duty and that it is imperative that calmness is restored for them to enjoy the full benefit of the relationship.
Addressing the community and the management at separate meetings on Friday, November 18, 2022, the Deputy Minister urged the two partiesto employ dialogue as the means of settling their differences, warning that violence will only incur losses.
Detailing the purpose of his visit, Mr. Duker explained that he is on a fact-finding mission to uncover the remote and immediate causes that resulted in the chaos and will submit his findings to the sector minister, who will forward them to the security agencies for necessary actions to be taken.
While describing the incident that led to the death of one resident as unfortunate, Mr. Duker said the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources will collaborate with the community, Newmont, and security agencies to ensure that whoever acted untowardly is dealt with and lasting peace is found.
Duker who visited the injured victims of the mayhem expressed the sympathies of the Sector Minister, Samuel A. Jinapor, and hoped that some useful lessons will be picked from the unfortunate incident.
One of the injured
He appealed to the traditional authorities to rally the youth and counsel them against violence and exercise restraints in their bid to strive for what they believe is due their community.
“On behalf of the government, I send my sincerest condolence and sympathies to everyone. The Police are investigating the issue and government will collaborate with them. We’ve visited those in the hospital and I will pass on the needed information to the relevant authorities to ensure that the right things are done.”
“I will urge you all to exercise restraint and be in the know that we are not overlooking the issue. The government is keenly following matters, and my presence here is to show that we are with you and concerned with all that is going on. Once again, my condolences to the family of the bereaved,” he said.
In his engagement with Newmont Mining Limited, Mr. Duker advised them to cooperate with the security agencies to restore calm and ensure the safety of their staff.
He disclosed the commitment of the government to creating an enabling environment for the company and other licensed mining companies to thrive.
Mr. Mireku Duker remarked that the management of the company should take steps to establish a harmonious relationship with the traditional authorities so as to facilitate its smooth operation in the area.
On behalf of the government, the Deputy Minister also visited the injured victims at the Hospital and expressed his warm felicitations whiles assuring them of a speedy recovery.
The Eastern Regional National Democratic Congress delegates conference, which was originally scheduled for November 19, 2022, has been slapped with a court injunction.
In a letter sighted by Citi News with the heading, Notice of Interlocutory Injunction Eastern Regional Conference, signed by the regional chairman, John Owusu Amankra and copied to all constituency chairmen in the region and all media houses, the party indicated that the regional office has been served with a writ of summons from the court placing an interlocutory injunction on the regional conference.
“We are therefore by this means communicating to the entire region, particularly the delegates, that the regional conference is on hold and shall not be held on November 19 till further directives from the NDC legal team. We apologize for the inconvenience caused”.
In the writ “the plaintiff Fia-Tes Valentine Confidence by the motion prayed for an order of interim injunction restraining the defendants, their agents or privies whatsoever from organizing, convening and conducting or convening the Eastern Regional Conference of the National Democratic Congress to be organized, convened and conducted at the Koforidua Technical University on the 19th day of November 2022, pending the determination of these applications.”
“The affidavit in support of the plaintiffs indicated that the party fixed the 19th day of November 2022 to hold the Eastern Regional Conference at Anagkazo Bible and Ministry, Mampong Tutu, and that for no justifiable reasons, some unseen hands in the party have alleged a change in venue from Tutu Akwapim to the Koforidua Technical university. That I am advised by counsel verily believing the same to be true, that this does not auger well for our young democracy. If after a decision has been settled upon by the majority of us, just a few members of the party could not change it. That a grant of the application would ensure that at the end of the day, after the court makes a determination, no party is shortchanged to enjoy the fruit of the judgement”.
Accra Hearts of Oak forward, Daniel Afriyie Barnieh has implored Ghanaians to support him in prayers ahead of the 2022 World Cup after his impressive performance against Switzerland on Thursday.
Barnieh was named in Black Stars’ starting XI and won the hearts of Ghanaians with his explosive performance.
Speaking after the match in the United Arab Emirates, the former U-20 star said the prayers of Ghanaian fans are crucial to his subsequent performances and that of the team at the World Cup in Qatar.
“The fans should keep on praying and support me,” he told Joy Sports.
The Black Galaxies captain also said he had a good game because he relaxed and executed all the instructions that the coaches gave him.
“It was a good game, there wasn’t pressure and I stick to what the coaches said and everything went well for me,” he added.
Mohammed Salisu and Antione Semenyo scored the goals as Ghana wrapped up their preparations ahead of the Mundial in Qatar.
The Hearts of Oak forward was a surprise inclusion in Otto Addo’s 26-man squad for the Qatar 2022 World Cup.
Ghana will leave Abu Dhabi for Doha today. The Black Stars have been housed in Group H alongside Portugal, South Korea, and Uruguay and Barnieh will hope for more game time at the global showpiece.
The 22nd edition of the Mundial has been scheduled to kick off from November 20 to December 1, 2022.
Belgium‘s final warm-up match before the World Cup ended in defeat as Mostafa Mohamed and Trezeguet struck to earn Egypt a 2-1 victory in Kuwait.
Mohamed took advantage of an uncharacteristic mistake from Kevin De Bruyne to fire the Pharaohs into the lead, before Trezeguet scored a minute after half-time to put them two goals to the good.
Lois Openda reduced the deficit with a close-range finish but they could not find an equaliser as Roberto Martinez’s men fell to a second consecutive defeat.
The defeat exposed serious defensive deficiencies for Belgium ahead of their trip to Qatar, where they are hoping to better their run to the semi-finals at the 2018 World Cup.
Belgium hit the bar within 10 minutes when Michy Batshuayi rattled the woodwork, though replays later showed the former Chelsea man was clearly offside.
After Thibaut Courtois twice denied Trezeguet, Arthur Theate sent a long-range curler looping onto the top of the net.
Mohamed gave Egypt the lead, capitalising on De Bruyne’s poor touch before side-footing beautifully into the bottom right corner from outside the box.
Mohamed El Shenawy then made a big stop to save Yannick Carrasco’s fierce drive and preserve his side’s lead heading into the interval.
Egypt doubled their lead moments after the break, Trezeguet latching onto Mohamed Salah’s excellent throughball before rifling home as Belgium continued to look shaky at the back.
Martinez’s men screamed for a penalty when half-time substitute Openda was felled by Ahmed Hegazy but a VAR review decided not to award a spot-kick.
Belgium pressed to pull a goal back but they struggled to break though Egypt’s resolute defence, with Youri Tielemans firing well over from range almost out of frustration.
They did find a goal back through Openda when he was picked out by a superb Carrasco cross but they could not kick on and find an equaliser.
What does it mean? Belgium head to World Cup out of form
Belgium are ranked second in the world by FIFA but they looked a million miles from that against Egypt in both attack and defence.
Martinez’s men rarely threatened and completed the match with just 0.64 xG (expected goals). They also looked a liability at the back despite holding 67.4 per cent of the possession as Egypt finished with a superior 0.76 xG.
Terrific Trezeguet
Trezeguet was a constant threat and could have finished with more than just the one goal had his finishing been more clinical.
The former Aston Villa man finished the game with four shots, all on target, while he ranked highest on his team for touches in Belgium’s box (three) and total xG (0.61).
Rare De Bruyne mistake
Egypt were set on their way to victory by De Bruyne‘s heavy touch when in seemingly no danger just outside his own penalty area, which Mohamed ruthlessly punished.
The Manchester City midfielder was taken off at the break after a poor 45 minutes by his lofty standards, failing to register a shot or a touch in Egypt’s box as his usual attacking output was missing.
What’s next?
Belgium get their World Cup campaign underway against Canada on Wednesday, while Egypt’s absence from the tournament means they will not be back in action until 2023.
Portsmouth endured a fourth straight Sky Bet League One draw as play-off rivals Derby held them 0-0 at Fratton Park.
A stalemate seemed almost inevitable for the hosts, who have now won once in their last nine matches to derail their hopes of automatic promotion.
Both sides sit on 29 points, with a single goal giving Portsmouth fifth to Derby’s sixth, and their proximity in the table was evident on the pitch.
Derby enjoyed the best of the early chances in a high-tempo opening, James Collins heading a dangerous Conor Hourihane delivery narrowly wide.
David McGoldrick went even closer as he pulled down a long free-kick on the edge of the area while unmarked, letting the ball bounce before curling onto the crossbar.
Connor Ogilvie looped a header onto the roof of the net for Pompey, while Craig Forsyth and Owen Dale could not get their angles right from a yard out at either end.
The Rams were denied twice as Josh Griffiths blocked Louie Sibley’s shot before Dane Scarlett was needed to steer a rebound off the line.
Jay Mingi had Pompey’s first shot on target in stoppage time, with neither side able to find a winner.
Vinicius Junior feared he would miss Brazil’s World Cup campaign through injury after being targeted by “dirty” challenges in the build-up to the tournament.
The Real Madrid winger has contributed to nine goals in LaLiga this season (six goals, three assists) – a tally only bettered by Robert Lewandowski (17) and Borja Iglesias (10).
With the mid-season scheduling of the World Cup being criticised after several big-name players including Sadio Mane and Paul Pogba were ruled out through injury, Vinicius says both he and team-mate Rodrygo were targeted with unsavoury challenges by opponents.
“What happens on the field stays on the field, but it went too far,” Vinicius told Reuters.
“You can come strong, but they were being dirty with their challenges. Rodrygo and I suffered a lot in those last games and feared the worst, to get injured and miss the World Cup.
“When you start to become an important player, rivals come after you harder. You have to learn to deal with that.
Tradição é tradição!
São 215 milhões de torcedores representados no nosso sonho pela sexta estrela ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Seleção Brasileira viaja amanhã para o Catar levando na bagagem a energia de todos vocês! 🇧🇷🇶🇦
“I learned a lot from Neymar when he played for Barcelona, he suffered a lot too. Cristiano [Ronaldo], when he played for Real, suffered a lot too.
“But it was Karim [Benzema] who told me to stay calm and have peace of mind, because if the rivals are chasing you it is because you are relevant, because they are afraid of you.
“So that’s why when I take the ball and burst forward, I do it with a vengeance. Yes, I can get hurt. But I’m prepared for the challenge.”
Brazil get their quest for a sixth World Cup under way when they face Serbia on Thursday, looking to defend a fine group-stage record at recent editions of the tournament.
The Selecao are unbeaten in their last 15 World Cup group games, winning 12 (D3), with their last such defeat coming against Norway in 1998.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s criticism of young players is understandable, according to his Manchester United team-mate Anthony Elanga, who has defended the forward following his comments.
Ronaldo has endured a torrid season after reportedly asking to leave United in the last transfer window, and his future is in doubt once again following an explosive interview with Piers Morgan.
As well as claiming senior figures at Old Trafford have “betrayed” him and admitting he has no respect for head coach Erik ten Hag, Ronaldo said the club’s young players “don’t care”.
Asked about Ronaldo’s comments by Swedish publication Aftonbladet, Elanga said: “Cristiano talks about young players in general.
“We are a new generation. I am always 100 per cent focused on what I am doing, but I can understand what he is saying.
“There are a lot of phones and a lot of technology. It’s quite easy for young players to get distracted and lose focus. Young players at United are listening, but I can understand what he is saying.”
Elanga also maintains that Ronaldo has been a positive influence on his development since the five-time Ballon d’Or winner returned to United last August.
“He has helped me a lot not only on the pitch, but off it as well,” Elanga said. “He is an inspiration, not only to me but to all the young players at United. Sometimes it’s just me and him at the gym.
“When I’m with him, he hasn’t changed. He is still Cristiano Ronaldo to me. He has helped me a lot.”
Ghana coach, Otto Addo, has admitted that they are in a tough group but his side is capable of beating any opposition ahead of the 2022 World Cup.
The Black Stars, who are making their fourth appearance at the Mundial are hoping to make history after exiting the group phase in 2014 in Brazil.
Ghana’s best performance came in 2010 where they played in the quarterfinals.
After missing out in the last edition in 2018 in Russia, Addo, who masterminded Ghana’s return to the Mundial says his team can cause an upset should they progress from Group H, where they are pitted against Portugal, South Korea, and Uruguay.
“Everything is possible. As I’ve said, we have three strong opponents in our group. If we don’t perform as we need to, or if we’re not able to implement our tactics then it’ll be very difficult,” he told FIFA in an interview.
“Especially because Portugal, Uruguay, and the Korea Republic are very strong opponents with qualities on and off the pitch.
“It will be difficult to compete with them but, as I’ve said, we have the quality to beat them. If we progress from the group, anything is possible,” Addo, who also serves as Borussia Dortmund’s talent coach added.
The Black Stars wrapped up their preparation with a 2-0 win over Switzerland on Thursday in Abu Dhabi with Mohammed Salisu and Antione Semenyo scoring the goals.
Ghana will open their campaign against Portugal on November 24 at Stadium 974 in Doha.
Four days later, the Black Stars return to action with a clash with South Korea at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan.
Ghana will wrap up their group stage adventure with their much-anticipated encounter with Uruguay at Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah.
The 22nd edition of the Mundial has been scheduled to kick off on Sunday, November 20 to December 18.
Ghana’s total debt stock has shot up to GH¢450 billion in 2022 from a total of GH¢120 billion in 2017, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has revealed.
The current debt stock means Ghana has borrowed over GH¢300 billion since the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia-led government assumed power in January 2017.
Appearing before the ad-hoc committee probing the grounds of censure filed by the Minority in Parliament, Mr Ofori-Atta said despite the astronomical increase in Ghana’s debt stock, the focus should be on what the loans have been used for and its benefits to the nation.
Mr Ofori-Atta stated that the GH¢330 billion loan has been invested in One-District-One Factory, education, interchanges, Planting for Food and Jobs and other sectors that he claims have benefitted the state.
The Finance Minister also dismissed suggestions that he has mismanaged the country’s finances.
“Fiscal recklessness leading to the crash of the Ghana cedi which is currently the worst performing currency in the world” was one of seven grounds put forward by the Minority to demand the removal of Mr. Ofori-Atta.
He added that on the contrary, the government’s “strenuous efforts to protect the public purse is what has helped”.
He argued that he has as required of him always presented government revenue and expenditure propositions to Parliament, who have in turn raised no concerns.
The ad-hoc committee tasked by the Speaker of Parliament to probe the censure motion filed against the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, is requesting for more time to file its report.
The request was announced by a co-chairman of the committee, Dominic Ayine after the committee, concluded its proceedings on Friday, November 18, 2022, after hours of grilling the Finance Minister.
“Today is the last day that was given to us by Mr. Speaker, hopefully we will apply to the Speaker for extension of time to be able to file our report next week, and the purpose of the report is to simply continue the debate on the motion for the vote of censure. And the report will be laid in Parliament hopefully next week Tuesday,” he concluded in his remarks.
KT Hammond, another co-chair, announced that the committee would have to present a draft copy of the report to the Finance Minister to ensure that his responses are properly captured before the full report is tabled before Parliament for debate.
Seven allegations have been levelled against the Finance Minister by the Minority in Parliament, calling for his removal from office.
The Minister is accused of conflict of interest, gross mismanagement, recklessness of the economy among others.
The committee was given seven days by the Speaker to probe the censure of motion, which ended today.
The Committee was set up by the Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, chaired by Dominic Ayine and K.T Hammond.
The fate of the Finance Minister will be known after the committee had presented its report to the Speaker, as to whether the censure of vote will go in his favour or otherwise.
Liverpool chairman Tom Werner has confirmed the Reds’ owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG) are “exploring” a sale of the club but says there is “no urgency” for a deal to be completed soon.
Reports suggested last week that Liverpool had been put up for sale by FSG, who acquired the club from Tom Hicks and George Gillett in 2010.
The club’s ownership group consequently released a statement saying it was seeking outside investment but remained “fully committed to the success of Liverpool, both on and off the pitch”.
On Wednesday, FSGpartner Sam Kennedy, who is also the president and chief executive of the Boston Red Sox, revealed there has been “a lot of interest” in the club since that announcement but said it was “early days” in terms of a deal being struck.
While Kennedy said he was unsure whether FSG would sanction a full sale of the club, Liverpool chairman Werner has revealed that is being discussed.
“We’re exploring a sale, but there’s no urgency, no timeframe for us, and as far as I’m concerned, it’s business as usual,” Werner told the Boston Globe.
“One outcome could be our continued stewardship for quite a while.”
FSG’s ownership has coincided with one of the most successful periods in Liverpool’s recent history, with the club winning eight trophies – including the Premier League and Champions League — since the group took charge.
The Speaker of Parliament says he has not given any directive banning phones in the Chamber of the House.
Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin issued the disclaimer to the false publication in a private newspaper of Thursday, November 17, 2022, titled “Bagbin bans phones in Parliament”.
He noted that no Member of Parliament had been stopped from using his or her phone in the Chamber.
“The Parliamentary Press Corps, who operate from the press gallery have equally not received any directive banning them from using their phones in the execution of their functions and Parliamentary reporting,” he said.
The Speaker said his Office remained accessible to the media for purposes of clarification on any issue of interest to them.
“We entreat all well-meaning Ghanaians to disregard the wrong and misleading publication, which sought to tarnish the Speaker’s image and reputation by the false claim in the headline.”
Pele “had Ghana in mind” when he predicted a team from Africa would eventually win the World Cup, the country’s president said on Friday.
As the Black Stars set off for Qatar, hopes are high at home that the 2010 quarter-finalists can have another strong tournament.
Brazilgreat Pele forecast in the 1970s that a team from Africa would win football’s greatest global title before the end of the century.
That did not come to fruition, and Africa has yet to produce a World Cup semi-finalist. Few would expect that to change in Qatar 2022, and Ghana enter the tournament as long shots.
The opening game for Otto Addo’s team comes on November 24 against Portugal, who should have superstar Cristiano Ronaldo in their ranks.
President Nana Akufo-Addo said: “A long time ago, the greatest footballer that’s ever lived, the Brazilian Pele, said that very soon an African country is going to lift that trophy, and I know that he had in mind Ghana.
“Let’s all together rally around the young men and the team and make sure we give them our maximum support.
“They’re going to go a long way away in Doha and Qatar, but they should know the entire nation, without distinction of politics, or religion, or ethnicity; the entire Ghanaian nation are 100 per cent solidly behind them.”
Ghana will also face South Korea and Uruguay in Group H, and the Professional Footballers Association of Ghana (PFAG) challenged the team to “hoist the flag of Ghana even higher on global football’s ultimate stage”.
“As the mother body of all professional footballers in the country, the PFAG expects a sterling showing from our gallant warriors to make all Ghanaians proud,” the association said in a statement.
“We wish the playing body the very best as they lace up their boots to do battle on the world stage.
“To the technical bench, we urge you to continue doing your utmost and to leave no stone unturned in mapping out our assured paths to victory.
“Finally, to all teeming and passionate fans of the Black Stars, we ask that you enjoin us in fervent prayer and resounding support for our Stars!
“Let’s chant and sing in one voice to push our team beyond all hurdles in their quest to shine bright in Qatar!”
Barcelona’s 19-year-old full-back Alejandro Balde has been added to Spain’s squad for the World Cup following an injury to Jose Gaya.
Valencia left-back Gaya has won 18 caps for Spain after making his international debut in 2018, and he looked likely to deputise for La Roja’s vice-captain Jordi Alba in Qatar.
However, Gaya suffered an ankle sprain in training on Wednesday, and while initial reports said his injury was not serious, Luis Enrique has opted against taking any risks ahead of the tournament.
Balde had been preparing to represent Spain’s under-21 side against Japan in a friendly on Friday, but he could now win his first senior cap on the grandest stage of all.
Balde made his Barcelona debut in a Champions Leaguedefeat to Bayern Munich last September, and has assumed a prominent role in Xavi’s new-look team this season.
With Barcelona battling a series of injury problems in defence, Balde has made 16 appearances for the Blaugrana this campaign, starting on 13 occasions.
Spain begin their Group E campaign against Costa Rica at the Al Thumama Stadium on Wednesday, before taking on Germany in a huge clash four days later.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has corroborated findings of the Water Resource Commission with regards to the pollution of Fulani Lake at Ashiyie in the Adenta Municipality.
According to both institutions, Mc-Bauchemie Ghana Limited Company is not to blame for the devastating state of the waterbody as alleged by some residents of Ashiyie.
Residents of Ashiyie in the Adenta Municipality are no longer able to drink or use water from the Fulani Lake for domestic purposes. The colourless water body some years ago has now turned black.
Interacting with JoyNews’ Latif Iddrisu, the aggrieved residents maintained that Mc-Bauchemie Ghana Limited Company is responsible for this.
Findings from the EPA revealed that the blackish colouration of the pond was only observed at the shoreline of the pond.
The Agency also noted that Mc-Bauchemie Ghana Limited Company does not discharge its effluent into the pond.
“Findings from the preliminary investigation are not sufficient to conclusively determine the cause for the colourization of the pond. Alleged colourization cannot be attributed to the company,” it added.
The residents have lamented the inconvenience the current state of the Fulani Lake is having in their lives.
A commercial driver, Patrick, indicated that residents risk losing their lives due to the danger they are exposed to.
“A lot of people are getting sick. If they get their money, do they give it to them? They should remove the factory and take it away. People used to drink this water. We are struggling with galamsey and a lot of things are happening,” he bemoaned.
The World Health Organisation explains that contaminated water and poor sanitation are linked to transmission of diseases such as cholera, diarrhoea, dysentery, hepatitis A, typhoid and polio. Some 829 000 people are estimated to die each year from diarrhoea, the WHO adds.
Abena, a trader by profession, disclosed that the said company approached her to relocate after realising her well had also turned dark.
“Due to some ongoing work, the water in my well turned dark,” she admitted.
The activities of residents are not the only things that have been affected by the pollution happening on the Fulani Lake.
Aquatic animals such as mud fish have been killed due to the heavy pollution taking place. For residents, the devastating state of Fulani Lake is nothing to write home about.
The unknown activities destroying the water body combat the Sustainable Development Goal target 6.1, which calls for universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water.
Meanwhile, the EPA has encouraged Mc-Bauchemie Ghana Limited Company to help improve the water quality of the pond as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
Adrien Rabiot says France must “stay united” if they are to avoid the failures that saw them crash out of Euro 2020 at the round-of-16 stage.
France went into that tournament as world champions and advanced as group winners from a tricky pool that included both Germany and Portugal.
But their campaign was derailed in stunning fashion, as Switzerland scored two late goals to force extra-time from 3-1 down.
Kylian Mbappe then missed the crucial penalty in the shootout, as France were knocked out amid rumours of dressing room discontent.
Rabiot’s family were reportedly involved in dissension too, with his mother allegedly clashing with the relatives of Paul Pogba and Mbappe after the Switzerland defeat.
Their disappointing tournament sparked memories of France’s spectacular capitulation at the 2010 World Cup, where Les Bleus were blighted by a number of controversial incidents and failed to make it out of the group stage.
Rabiot acknowledged France cannot afford to self-destruct as they have in the past if they are to retain their World Cup crown.
“We have to stay united,” Rabiot told reporters. “[We need to] try to have as few things as possible that interfere with the group.
“It is essential to have a serene climate. We have the potential to do much better than at the Euros.”
The Juventus midfielder was not selected to France’s squad for their 2018 triumph and he wants to make an impression at his first World Cup in Qatar.
“The [2018] World Cup was a big disappointment,” Rabiot explained. “I worked a lot to be there in 2022.
“I take this as a chance and I’m going to be able to express myself.”
France kick off their tournament against Australia on Tuesday, before also facing Denmark and Tunisia in Group D.
Ronaldo was United’s top scorer with 24 goals in all competitions last term, but he reportedly asked to leave the club following their failure to qualify for the Champions League.
He said in the TalkTV interview: “I feel betrayed. I felt that some people didn’t want me here not only this year, but last year too.”
The sale of beer around stadiums during the World Cup has been banned after talks between FIFA and Qatari tournament chiefs.
It was revealed on Friday by FIFA that alcohol would not be available as expected in the perimeter area of stadiums.
Budweiser is a major FIFA sponsor and sales of its product had been expected to be allowed close to the stadiums. However, only its alcohol-free variant will now be available.
The news was swiftly criticised, with England’s Football Supporters’ Association questioning whether such an apparent U-turn could be followed by more promises not being kept.
Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe (FSE), expressed similar concern, describing the news as an “extremely worrying” development.
FIFA said: “Following discussions between host country authorities and FIFA, a decision has been made to focus the sale of alcoholic beverages on the FIFA Fan Festival, other fan destinations and licensed venues, removing sales points of beer from Qatar’s FIFA World Cup 2022 stadium perimeters.
“Host country authorities and FIFA will continue to ensure that the stadiums and surrounding areas provide an enjoyable, respectful and pleasant experience for all fans.”
Referencing Budweiser’s parent company, FIFA added: “The tournament organisers appreciate AB InBev’s understanding and continuous support to our joint commitment to cater for everyone during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.”
Reports said Budweiser posted on Twitter “Well, this is awkward”, before deleting the post.
The Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) said its concern was less about the beer decision but about the prospect of fans being affected by possible further unexpected decisions at the controversial mid-season World Cup.
The FSA said in a statement: “Some fans like a beer at the match, and some don’t, but the real issue is the last-minute U-turn which speaks to a wider problem – the total lack of communication and clarity from the organising committee towards supporters.”
It condemned the lack of explanation and said fans would have “understandable concerns about whether they will fulfil other promises relating to accommodation, transport or cultural issues”.
Sadio Mane could face several months on the sidelines after undergoing the surgery that ended his slim hopes of playing for Senegal at the World Cup.
The Bayern Munich forward underwent what his club described as a successful operation on Thursday.
Bayern said in a statement: “During the operation, a tendon was reattached to the head of his right fibula.
“The FC Bayern forward will therefore no longer be available to play for Senegal at the World Cup and will begin his rehab in Munich in the next few days.”
According to widespread reports in Germany, Mane’s recovery is unlikely to be a quick one, with the former Liverpool forward said to be facing possibly three to four months out of action.
ℹ️ Sadio Mané underwent successful surgery in Innsbruck on Thursday evening. He will therefore no longer be available to play for Senegal at the World Cup.
African player of the year Mane sustained the leg injury when playing in Bayern’s 6-1 win against Werder Bremen last week.
He was initially judged fit enough to be included in Aliou Cisse’s 26-man Senegal squad for the World Cup, with hopes he could be available by the knockout stages, but subsequent medical checks confirmed the need for surgery.
A short statement from the Senegalese Football Federation read: “The FSF wishes a speedy recovery to its player Sadio Mane.”
Senegal face Netherlands in their Group A opener on Monday before meeting Qatar and Ecuador.
Bayern are due to resume their Bundesliga campaign against RB Leipzig on January 20. They headed into the World Cup break as leaders, chasing an 11th consecutive German league title.
They face a Champions League last-16 tie against Paris Saint-Germain, with games scheduled for February 14 and March 8 in that heavyweight contest.
Ghana will continue to see and receive the best from him, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has said.
On Friday, Mr Ofori-Atta told the ad hoc committee probing the censure motion against him that upon assuming office in 2017, he pledged to give his utmost best in ensuring Ghana sees the development she deserves.
The Minister noted that he found inspiration in the hymn titled “Land of our birth.”
“As a child, I was taught a hymn that has guided me through out my life. Inspired by these words of the hymn, when I assumed the position of Minister of Finance, I resolved to serve the people of Ghana with my all,” he said.
He read the first verse out to the hearing of the committee and all present.
“Land of our birth, we pledge to thee. Our love and toil in the years to be; When we are grown and take our place. As men and women with our race.”
According to him, that passion and commitment to see the country grow has not diminished despite the challenges Ghana is facing.
Mr Ofori-Atta noted that despite the challenges, he has overseen some great strides in the development of Ghana and the improvements in the lives of the Ghanaian people.
On the way forwards, he charged all Ghanaians to support the government in addressing the challenges which include high inflation, hike in prices of fuel and foodstuff.
“Our circumstances require a united and concerted response to the crisis,” he said.
Edu has earned a promotion at Arsenal with the Gunners announcing their former midfielder has become the club’s first ever sporting director.
The Brazilian played for Arsenal between 2001 and 2005, making 29 league appearances in their 2003-04 ‘Invincibles’ season, before taking over as the Gunners’ technical director in 2019.
His time in that role has seen him work with manager Mikel Arteta to improve Arsenal’s standing in the Premier League, as their young side head into the World Cup break with a five-point lead at the top of the table.
That success earned Edu a new role, as he takes on responsibility for the academy alongside his existing duties.
In a statement, chief executive Vinai Venkatesham said: “We are delighted that Edu is recommitting his future to the Club that he so clearly loves, after making such a positive and critical contribution to our progress in his time with us so far.
“Edu’s promotion formalises his already growing influence over our Academy operations.”
Edu himself added: “I’m delighted to have this new role which I see as an evolution and consolidation of the way we’ve been working.
“I look forward to building on the hard work of so many people and helping all of us grow together and enjoy more success, and am thankful for the trust the club has put in me. We move forward together.”
We are delighted to announce that Edu Gaspar has been appointed as our first-ever Sporting Director.
Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has clarified that he has at all times provided Parliament accurate information pertaining to the state of the economy.
The Ministry in Parliament who argue otherwise have accused Mr Ofori-Atta of misreporting economic data to the House.
Appearing before the eight-member committee tasked to probe into the censure motion against him, the Finance Minister described such comments as “unfortunate” and “false”.
“The Ministry of Finance has never misreported data to Parliament,” he said.
The Minority say that information on Ghana’s deficit are contradictory, but the sector minister says this is not so.
Mr Ofori-Atta also revealed that the government has provided accurate data to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) so far in their engagements.
Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has refuted allegations levelled against him with regards to the construction of the National Cathedral Project.
According to the Minority in Parliament, the Finance Minister has made unconstitutional withdrawals from the Consolidated Fund.
This, they say, contravenes Article 178 of the 1992 Constitution, which states that no moneys shall be withdrawn from the Consolidated Fund except where the issue of those moneys has been authorised by “an Appropriation Act; or by a supplementary estimate approved by resolution of Parliament passed for the purpose; or by an Act of Parliament enacted under article 179 of this Constitution.”
In response to the allegations, the Finance Minister explained that he has breached no laws.
Explaining to the ad hoc Committee interrogating the censure motion against him on Friday, Mr Ofori-Atta said “It (the allegation) presupposes that Parliament is assuming the jurisdiction to enforce or interpret a provision of the constitution against the combined effect of Articles 21 and 131, which grants the sole and exclusive power to the Supreme Court.”
“Nonetheless, I say with bold humility and confidence that I have not breached the constitution in making payment to support the construction of the national cathedral of Ghana,” he added.
The sector minister also indicated that he has taken no money from the Contingency Fund to make payment for the National cathedral.
Also, the Minority in Parliament also argue that Mr Ofori-Atta has among other things; made illegal payment of oil revenues into offshore accounts, misreported economic data to Parliament, mismanaged the economy, leading to the depreciation of the Ghana cedi.
Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has rendered an apology to the good people of Ghana over the current economic hardship they are facing.
Appearing before the ad hoc committee instituted by Speaker Alban Bagbin, the Finance Minister on Friday noted that it has been the vision of the Akufo-Addo-led government to develop the country.
“Since the Akufo-Addo government came into office, it was the dream of making the lives of the people better. In the first four years, our efforts were leading to the realization of the vision,” he said.
However, he noted that the success chalked by the government has been erased by the COVID-19 pandemic and other external factors.
Nonetheless, he took responsibility for the current economic situation and said “I am sorry.”
According to Mr Ofori-Atta, “as a person President Akufo-Addo has put in charge of this economy, I feel the pain personally, professionally and in my soul.”
Despite the challenges being faced, the sector minister noted that “government remains focused on its vision.”
The Minority in Parliamentargue that Mr Ofori-Atta has among other things; made unconstitutional withdrawals from the Consolidated Fund, illegal payment of oil revenues into offshore accounts, misreported economic data to Parliament, mismanaged the economy, leading to the depreciation of the Ghana cedi.
“I’m proud that I, Nana Yaa Henrietta Okora coming from nowhere in Ghana, have a job that I employ even the American people to work for me,” CEO of A& H African and Jamaican Restaurant, New Jersey, United States stated.
Madam Nana Yaa recalls when she relocated to the United States in 2000. She recounted that when her Grandfather and mother picked her up from the airport, she thought she would not walk on sand but sky in America.
“My grandpa told my mom, ‘ask your daughter and son if they picked any money from the floor. When you people were in Ghana, you thought they were dollars on the floor for picking.”
She narrated that settling into her new home was not easy. Before choosing to open a restaurant, Nana Yaa worked at a tripe store, a military clothing supply factory and a nursing home. She tells how these experiences shaped her perceptions, especially about diseases like Dementia and Alzheimers, that is said to be witchcraft in Africa.
Nana Yaa explained, “Those times I was working there, the minimum wage was like 11 dollars per hour, and I work a minimum of 40 hours a week. It was not that easy. A lot of stuff happened, so I decided I don’t want to work for anybody. I noticed that we didn’t have any African Restaurant in my area. So I decided to open an African Restaurant and see how it goes.”
A&H African and Jamaican Restaurant sells food indigenous to Africa and the Caribbean, including their best sellers, banku, fufu, omotuo (riceballs), oxtail and jerk chicken.
“America has more opportunities than Ghana. Over here, when you work, you are going to make it,” Nana Yaa continued. “I don’t think you can be here in America to be lazy. If you are lazy in America, you will go home with nothing.”
Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) Dr John Kwakye has said all ministers who are resigning or being sacked should be made to declare their assets and compare to what they declared when they were appointed.
“All those resigning from office or being sacked must be made to declare their assets before they leave and this must be compared with the declaration when they assumed office. OSP, over to you,” Dr Kwakye tweeted.
All those resigning from office or being sacked must be made to declare their assets before they leave and this must be compared with the declaration when they assumed office. OSP, over to you!
The OSP earlier announced in a statement signed by the Special Prosecutor Mr Kissi Agyebeng on Tuesday November 15 that, it has commenced in investigations to the alleged corruption by the sacked Minister of State at the Finance Ministry Charles Adu Boahen.
The statement said “The Office of the Special Prosecutor has promptly commenced investigations into the action of Mr Charles Adu Boahen and any other implicated persons contained in the investigative exposé, ”Galamsey Economy’.”
— Office of the Special Prosecutor-Ghana (@ospghana) November 15, 2022
President Akufo-Addo sacked Mr Adu Boahen.
“The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has terminated the appointment of the Minister of State at the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Charles Adu Boahen, with immediate effect.
“After being made aware of the allegations levelled against the Minister in the exposé, ‘Galamsey Economy’, the President spoke to Mr. Adu Boahen, after which he took the decision to terminate his appointment, and also to refer the matter to the Special Prosecutor for further investigations.
“The President thanked Mr. Adu Boahen for his strong services to his government since his appointment in 2017, and wished him well in his future endeavours,” a statement issued by the Director of Communications at the Presidency, Mr Eugene Arhin said on Monday November 14.
A Government Communicator Kofi Tontoh said the principle of natural justice will play out properly when Adu Boahen gets his day before the OSP to answer allegations of corruption made against him.
Mr Tontoh stated that investigations by the OSP will determine the next action to be taken against him.
Commenting on this matter, Mr Tontoh said on the Big Issue on TV3 with Berla Mundi on Tuesday November 15.“This is a decisive decision by the President.”
He added “It is an attempt to show that the President doesn’t condone corruption but let us allow Adu Boahen to have his day and ones all the facts come out if any further action is needed it will be taken.”
Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, appeared before the eight-member committee interrogating the Minority’s censure motion against him today.
He revealed to the Committee co-chaired by MP for Bolga East, Dominic Ayine and Adansi-Asokwa legislator, Kobina Tahir Hammond why Ghana’s economic woes cannot be pinned on him.
The Minority in Parliamentargue that Mr Ofori-Atta has among other things; made unconstitutional withdrawals from the Consolidated Fund, illegal payment of oil revenues into offshore accounts, misreported economic data to Parliament, mismanaged the economy, leading to the depreciation of the Ghana cedi.
The ad hoc Committee established by Speaker Alban Bagbin commenced hearing on Tuesday.
On the said day, Minority leader Haruna Iddrisu and Ranking Member on the Finance Committee in Parliament, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, together with Lawyer for the Finance Minister, Gabby Otchere Darko appeared before the Committee.
On Thursday, hearing resumed. Two institutions; Public Interest Accountability Committee (PIAC) and the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation(GNPC) took turns to make their submissions before the Committee.
During the meeting, the PIAC corroborated allegations by the Minority that government illegally paid $100 million in oil revenues into an offshore account.
The President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) says the country can adopt the use of electronic systems in court proceedings to help ensure speedy justice delivery.
Lawyer Yaw Acheampong Boafo, however, says this good option can be realized if the country’s judiciary invests in resources and laws to aid in its implementation.
The GBA President was speaking at 2022 Annual Chief Justice’s Forum currently ongoing in Kumasi.
The Judicial Service of Ghana instituted the Annual Chief Justice’s Forum as part of measures to enhance its public image, trust and confidence through engagement with stakeholders on issues of access to justice, transparency and accountability.
The annual event also brings together key stakeholders to deliberate on pertinent issues that affect the administration of justice.
It also serves as a platform to receive feedback on justice delivery.
The GBA President pointed out that the traditional modes of justice administrationand judicial processes – with their well-known challenges – sometimes breed frustration, result in delays and blockage of cases.
“Thus, the time is now for a transition face-to-face court proceedings to digital modes of delivering justice by the courts embracing newer and modern technologies that support the various court processes and proceedings. The virtual court hearings during the legal vacation was a welcome innovation.
“The exigencies and challenges of the time brought about by the pandemic should serve as a catalyst for reform and innovation,” he stated.
“It is my conviction that it is possible to implement technological or digitization tools that host and drive almost the entire legal processes from the time of filing to serve through discovery, case management, trial and even to delivery of judgments in ways that ensure accessible justice,” he said.
Lawyer Acheampong Boafo also proposed the publication of key court judgements of the superior court on social media handles to inform the public of its decisions.
The Chief Justice, Kwasi Anin-Yeboah, assured the public that the judiciary will continue to adopt technology in order to expand access to justice delivery.
He pointed out that the Covid-19 pandemic showed the importance of technology, with the judiciary adopting many digital tools in order to serve public.
“Technology has afforded us an opportunity to cut cost, be more efficient, and avoid unnecessary delays in administering justice. For the first time in the history of the judiciary, this year, vacation courts in Accra, held virtual sittings. This meant that lawyers who were even abroad on vacation could participate remotely, of course, they had to be properly attired with good internet connectivity,” he added.
The Mamponghene, Dasebre Osei Bonsu, who represented Asantehene, pointed out that Covid-19 disrupted nearly every aspect of our individual and collective lives.
“Improving access to justice in a pandemic through technology challenges all of us to reflect on how we can use technology to ensure that justice delivery continues unabated, despite what we have been asked to think of as the new normal.”
The maiden Africa Open Parliament Index by the Parliamentary Network Africa (PNAfrica) and the Ghana Parliamentary Monitoring Organizations Network (GPMON) has revealed that Ghana is leading in parliamentary openness in the West African sub region.
The Africa Open Parliament Index (OPI), is a tool that seeks to periodically measure the level of openness of legislative assemblies on the continent. The OPI uses the three criteria of Open Parliament: Transparency, Civic Participation and Public Accountability, to assess Parliaments across Africa.
The Parliamentary Network Africa (PNAfrica) and the Ghana Parliamentary Monitoring Organizations Network (GPMON) presented the results of the maiden Africa Open Parliament Index to Parliament in Accra on Thursday.
The Executive Director of PNAfrica Mr. Sammy Obeng, who made the presentation to Parliament, said the purpose of the OPI is to strengthen Parliaments through CSO- Parliament collaborations. “It makes recommendations, which when pursued diligently over time, can show real progress and improvements in the level of openness in the assessed Parliaments”, he said.
Mr. Obeng said the OPI is developed with three specific objectives which are: to strengthen parliamentary institutions towards the advancement of parliamentary openness across national, sub-national and regional parliaments; to identify, compare and exchange knowledge and best practices among parliaments, and among CSOs that work with parliaments; and to foster collaboration between civil society and parliaments towards achieving the principles of open parliament, providing a platform for amplifying open parliament initiatives.
He said, the combined indicators used for the Index are from global best practices on openness, and minimum standards in parliamentary transparency, civic participation and public accountability, to objectively and independently rank the parliaments of the selected countries in a way that identifies the success stories and the Open Parliament gaps.
Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin called on Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to actively participate in the legislative processes of the country, as part of efforts to improve parliamentary democracy.
The Africa OPI is a joint effort of the Africa Parliamentary Monitoring Organisations (APMON) Working Group, which is made up of renowned parliamentary monitoring organizations in Africa namely, Mzalendo Trust (Kenya), Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Parliamentary Monitoring Group (South Africa), Africa Parliamentary Press Network (APPN), the Pan African Parliament Civil Society Forum which is coordinated by the Center for Human Rights of the University of Pretoria, and Parliamentary Network Africa.
Sadio Mane has been ruled out of the World Cup with a fibula injury, the Senegalese Football Federation confirmed on Thursday.
Mane sustained the leg issue while playing in Bayern Munich’s 2-0 win over Schalke on Saturday, though he was deemed fit enough to be included in Aliou Cisse’s 26-man squad.
It was announced on Tuesday that Mane would not play any part in Senegal’s opening matches, Cisse’s side saying they “will have to rely on playing the first games without Sadio”.
But Thursday’s update confirms Mane’s injury will need surgery, thus ruling him out of the entire tournament in Qatar.
A short statement from the Senegalese Football Federation read: “The FSF wishes a speedy recovery to its player Sadio Mane.”
It comes as a huge blow for both Mane and Senegal after he played an instrumental part in their Africa Cup of Nations triumph, scoring the winning penalty in the final against Egypt in February.
Senegal face Netherlands in their Group A opener on Monday before meeting Qatar and Ecuador, though they will have to attempt to reach the knockout stages without their star attacker.
Black Stars held a recovery training session in Abu Dhabi without players who participated in their 2-0 friendly win over Switzerland on Thursday.
Coach Otto Addo put theses players through their paces in bid to get them ready for the World Cup.
Ghana concluded their 2022 World Cup preparation with a convincing win over Switzerland at the Zayed Sports complex.
Mohammed Salisu and Antoine Serlom Semenyo scored in the second half to ensure the West Africans head into the World Cup on a high note.
The team has been camping in the United Arab Emirates capital for the past four days as coach Addo look to fine tune his squad for the global showpiece.
Black Stars will leave Abu Dhabi for Doha today for Doha and are expected to arrive this evening to continue with preparations for the World Cup finals.
Black Stars who are the lowest-ranked team at the tournament have been drawn in Group H alongside Portugal, South Korea and Uruguay.
Ghana will take on Portugal in their first game on November 24 before playing South Korea and Uruguay on November 28 and December 2 respectively.
Ghana secured a 4th FIFA World Cup tournament having participated in 2006, 2010, and 2014 in Germany, South Africa, and Brazil after drawing 1-1 against Nigeria in the return leg of the final play-offs at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja to seal qualification on the away goals rule.
The 2022 FIFA World Cup takes place between November 20 and December 18, 2022.
Only three sides from the continent have ever progressed to the quarter-finals; Cameroon in 1990, Senegal in 2002, and Ghana in 2010.
Ghana will be hoping to progress from the group stage at this year’s tournament.
Cristiano Ronaldo acknowledged a Manchester United future appears unlikely after his scathing interview, though he rubbished earlier reports of a move away as “garbage”.
Five-time Ballon d’Or winner has caused a stir at Old Trafford after hitting out at the club’s senior figures, current manager Erik ten Hag and former boss Ralf Rangnick.
In a wide-ranging interview with Piers Morgan on Talk TV, the Portugal international said he felt “betrayed” by United and claimed the club had made “zero progress” since Alex Ferguson left in 2013.
Amid a host of other complaints, Ronaldo suggested he may no longer be a United player after the World Cup break with Portugal, who open their Group H campaign against Ghana in Qatar next Thursday.
“It’s hard, it’s hard for me to say that I will not be back to Manchester United. But regardless, let’s see what’s going to happen,” the 37-year-old said.
“It’s difficult to tell right now, because my mood is right now to the World Cup. It’s probably my last World Cup, of course, my fifth World Cup.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen after the World Cup, but as I told you before, and I will say again, the fans will be always in my heart.
“I hope that they never forget the things that I will continue to do it. Not only in the past, but in the present too. Manchester will be always in my side, the fans will be always on my side.
“It doesn’t matter what’s going to happen. When I arrived at Manchester United, I am always available to help the team to do good things, to put them in the right spots to compete with the best teams.
“But it’s hard when they cut your legs and don’t like you to shine and don’t listen to your advice.
“I think I have words to advise the club because the trophies are one individual and collective. I think I can help a lot, but the infrastructure is not good.”
Ongoing reports linked the unsettled Ronaldo with the likes of Chelsea, Juventus and Atletico Madrid among a plethora of Europe’s elite clubs.
Former side Sporting CP were another name touted, alongside Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, though the ex-Real Madrid attacker refuted numerous reports.
“What they say the last three months is complete garbage and wrong,” he added. “They say that they offer me this and that, and many presidents and directors speak about, they reject me.
“It’s a complete lie, they lie. Because this is not what’s happened. I have a few clubs that they want me to sign and I didn’t go because I feel comfortable here.
“I was motivated to do a great season here. But they continue to repeat that nobody wants Cristiano. How don’t they want a player who scored 32 goals last year, with the national team?”
While Ronaldo took aim at the speculation and his current employers United, the forward insisted he has no doubts over his capabilities.
He continued: “For me, it’s a stupid question. What do people say? They are not the same. Nobody is the same, day-by-day we’re getting old. Every one of us, it is normal. You have to adapt.
“And I think nobody in this game has this brain that adapts to his age. I’m not wanting to be cocky to say that I’m the same as when I was 20. Of course, no.
“I adapt and be smart to know my strength, what I’m good at. I’m still playing a high level and I score goals, and I will continue to score goals.
“If my mind is clear and happy. And if the people surround me, they’re helping me to be a successful player, especially the coach, the president, the directors…
“But when you feel that the energy around you won’t help, it’s difficult for you to be yourself, which is what has happened with me.”
Cristiano Ronaldo remains optimistic about Portugal’s chances at the World Cup in Qatar, who he thinks will host a “good tournament” despite ongoing human rights concerns.
Portugal captain Ronaldo missed Fernando Santos’ side cruise past Nigeria 4-0 in their final warm-up game on Thursday before FIFA’s global tournament.
Coach Santos cited illness issues for the 37-year-old amid the furore of his scathing interview on Manchester United with Piers Morgan on TalkTV.
While the former Real Madrid forward hit out at United, their staff and directors, Ronaldo suggested Portugal have a chance at the World Cup, where they face Ghana in their Group H opener next Thursday.
“I am very optimistic. We have a fantastic coach, we have a good generation of football players,” the five-time Ballon d’Or winner said.
“I’m looking forward to it, we’re going to an amazing World Cup… [It’s] going to be tough. Extremely difficult. But everything is possible, of course we’re going to compete.”
After labelling a host of pre-tournament favourites, such as Argentina, Spain and Brazil, Ronaldo said he would retire immediately if Portugal won the tournament.
The United forward believes England also have a “chance” in Qatar, who came under widespread scrutiny for their human rights treatment after being awarded hosting rights by FIFA.
Captains of 10 European sides will wear heart-adorned armbands, raising awareness for the OneLove campaign against discrimination in a country where same-sex relationships are prohibited.
FIFA has repeatedly called for nations to focus on football, much to the disappointment of many supporters and countries, though Ronaldo feels Qatar will prove a capable host.
“All the national teams, the people will be welcomed in Qatar, and I see a good tournament to be honest,” he added.
“I think Qatar; they are prepared. They are prepared for that [the backlash].
“It will be weird to play at the beginning of the season. But in the same way, it is a challenge. I think it’s good. I feel good and with good energy.”
Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted he would be happy to see Arsenal win the Premier League, if Manchester United cannot become champions.
The Portugal star has caught the headlines with an explosive interview aired this week, where he criticised his employers, current manager Erik ten Hag and his former team-mates Wayne Rooney and Gary Neville.
His comments have led to a growing expectation that a swift departure from Old Trafford is on the cards after the World Cup in Qatar when the January transfer window opens for business – and his admission on the Premier League title race will cause a further stir.
United have struggled for stability in the Premier League this season, while Arsenal have lost just once – at Old Trafford – as they look for a first top-flight crown since going unbeaten in the 2004-05 season.
If that were to happen, Ronaldo has conceded he would be happy with the outcome.
“I hope so. Manchester United first, if not, Arsenal. It’s a team I like to see play,” he told Piers Morgan’s Uncensored on TalkTV.
“I like the team, I like the coach. I think they have a good team and if Manchester United don’t win the Premier League, then I will be happy if Arsenal do.”
Arsenal hold a five-point advantage over Manchester City after 14 rounds of Premier League action, with United 11 points adrift of the Gunners.
That was my all-time favourite interview. A sporting icon baring his soul as never before & doing it with such raw honesty & passion, knowing it would attract a lot of heat but believing it was time to speak out. Thanks @Cristiano – you’re a class act, on & off the pitch. pic.twitter.com/4hwTzk7Lhj
Former England midfielders Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard are confident the Three Lions can go “all the way” at the World Cup in Qatar.
England begin their Group B campaign against Iran on Monday, looking to cast aside their poor recent form in the Nations League in a bid for their second World Cup triumph.
Gareth Southgatehas led England to at least the final four in consecutive major tournaments – becoming the first manager to do so since Alf Ramsey in 1966 and 1968 – and Gerrard believes the team can build on their recent near misses in Qatar.
“I’m really optimistic. I’ve got a lot of belief and confidence in the boys, I’m sure they’re extremely excited at the moment,” Gerrard told Sky Sports.
“I’m looking forward to going on a journey with them, now that I’m a fan and an ex-player. I’ve experienced where they are right now and I’m really looking forward to, hopefully, a positive start to build belief.
“They were millimetres away from winning the Euros, to get to a World Cup semi-final is a positive performance.
“I think, collectively, they should have belief, they should have confidence and togetherness. They’re a real tight group with a fantastic manager, there’s a lot of talent.
“I think if we get the right bits of luck and the right breaks, and keep the majority of the squad healthy, I’m confident we can go all the way.”
Everton manager Lampard concurs with his former international team-mate, viewing England as one of the favourites to win the tournament.
“We’ve got a squad that has been building for a couple of years, they’ve had a couple of tournaments where they’ve had relative success and they’re getting stronger, in my opinion,” Lampard said.
“I think we can fairly put England as one of the favourites for the tournament, with the talent they have in the squad.
“I think it’ll be about momentum in the tournament itself, who gets through the group, who builds that confidence and momentum, and then that can take you all the way.”
England are the only European nation to have reached the semi-finals in each of the past two major tournaments.
However, since winning the World Cup on home soil in 1966, England have only progressed beyond the quarter-finals of the competition on two occasions – finishing fourth in 1990 and 2018.
