Ghanaian stand-up comedian OB Amponsah is expressing concern over the potential demise of the comedy sector in Ghana as a result of insufficient funding and a lack of interest from stakeholders.
In a Facebook post, OB Amponsah expressed this worry due to his inability to obtain a visa for a South African event. In his post, he discussed some of the issues plaguing the sector and the pressing need for solutions.
The popular comedian stated that “the standup comedy industry in Ghana is a struggling one”, explaining that it is “severely lacking funding even with exceptional talents that can sell anywhere.”
“The standup comedy industry is standing on wobbly legs. Don’t be surprised when it comes crumbling down,” he mentioned.
According to OB Amponsah, the comedy industry has persevered in the face of numerous obstacles thanks to the efforts of some key figures. These included the formation and registration of the GH Comedians Network association.
“We have tried our best to establish a running comedy club every Thursdays at 2927 pub. We have tried tertiary school tours (ValleyView University and HTU),” he said.
“Almost every one of these young comedians have their individual comedy specials. Our efforts spill over to other countries and so we are invited to perform at shows in Rwanda, Zambia, Botswana, South Africa, Swaziland, Nigeria. Bro, we even have a full 20-minute feature on CNN about comedy in Ghana. Look at how many comedy shows have happened from January to September,” OB Amponsah added.
However, he was concerned that if the industry did not receive the required support, the story would soon change.
He said: “The beautiful picture painted above, will collapse in no time mainly because of severe lack in funding and lack of stakeholders’ interest. Me and Lekzy can hardly get sponsorship for upcoming shows even after doing a number of shows at the National Theater.
“Because we do not seem to have the skit attracting or bortoss attracting numbers on our socials, we lose out on brand sponsorship and ambassadorial deals, but you all know we are working.”
Nigerian Comedian Kenny Blaq has tied the knot with his love. Marriage is indeed a beautiful journey, and it’s heartwarming to see the joy and love shared on this special occasion.
Kenny Blaq’s heartfelt Instagram post and the captivating photos must have brought smiles to the faces of his fans and well-wishers. It’s a moment of celebration for him and his new wife as they embark on this new chapter in their lives.
May their marriage be filled with happiness, laughter, and countless beautiful moments ahead. Congratulations to the newlywed
Ghanaian female musician Wendy Shay is gearing up to reclaim her position as the leading female musician in the country with her upcoming track titled ‘Every Man Cheats.’
The artist, who has maintained a relatively low profile in the music scene lately, is ready to get her audience grooving to her latest song.
Offering a sneak peek of her new track on her social media platform, Wendy Shay was seen dressed in a striking black lingerie ensemble, complete with matching pants featuring side press buttons, some of which she intentionally left unfastened to reveal her smooth legs.
Watch video
Check out some comments below:
OkyeameKwame: “Are you sure everyone cheats? I have not met a saint yet, but I know many men who do not cheat. I love the song ?”
Iamrichbahd:“Ah but Wetin man do you dear ??? ???? I love the song but na how ago take explain myself to my future wife if this song blow ??? hahahaha”
Avalonnnxp:“Not every man tho ?”
Future_perry:“Nah lie not every man ? cheat because you have not yet meet the perfect man ? for you that why”
Yaa_korankyewah:“This one dier ey3 ampa ?no dey trust man oo”
Reports indicate that Ugwu, who was affectionately known as “Big Brother Kelvin,” has sadly passed away after a short illness.
Prior to his untimely demise, Ugwu had a brief stint as a broadcaster at the Enugu State Broadcasting Corporation before his tenure at FRCN, where he retired a few months ago.
Meanwhile, his community of Umundu, located in the Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State, is now in mourning over his passing.
Meletus Eze, a chieftain in the community, said while speaking to the Whistler, “We have lost one of our finest gentlemen. Kelvin grew from nothing to prominence. He excelled as an actor, and then a broadcaster. He is also a pastor and mediator. We are indeed shocked.”
“It is incredible!” says Dennis Okeke. “I have known Kelvin for many years. He was always called and preached goodness. God knows why.”
Ghana’s reggae and dancehall music scene has always been vibrant and fiercely competitive. In this dynamic landscape, one name that consistently shines is none other than Aklerh.
This sensational female musician, celebrated for her commanding vocals and captivating stage presence, has once again demonstrated her musical prowess by releasing not one, but two exhilarating singles: “Run D’Town” and “Money.”
With a moniker that exudes confidence and a style that radiates authenticity, Aklerh, known in the real world as Zebulun Aklerh Ocansey, has carved a distinct niche for herself in an industry predominantly dominated by males.
Her remarkable ability to seamlessly blend reggae and dancehall vibes while infusing her music with relatable lyrics has endeared her to fans all across the nation.
“Run D’Town” emerges as a fiery anthem that showcases Aklerh’s powerful presence. Crafted by the talented CashTwo Beats, the track seamlessly blends infectious melodies with hard-hitting rhythms.
The song’s unforgettable chorus is bound to have listeners singing along after just one listen. Aklerh’s unique voice soars above the production, delivering verses that narrate tales of empowerment and seizing control.
In contrast, “Money,” produced by CaskeysOnit, explores a different theme. This track delves into the struggles and aspirations associated with the pursuit of freedom.
Aklerh’s emotive delivery breathes life into lyrics that reflect the universal yearning for success and prosperity. The track’s laid-back yet captivating beat harmonizes flawlessly with her vocals, creating a sonorous experience that is truly soothing.
Aklerh’s unwavering consistency in delivering exceptional music has firmly established her as Ghana’s reigning Dancehall Queen in recent times. Her ability to tackle a wide range of subjects in her music, from empowerment to socio-economic realities, highlights her versatility as an artist. Her dedication to staying rooted in her origins while pushing creative boundaries is evident in both “Run D’Town” and “Money.”
As “Run D’Town” and “Money” find their way into the playlists of reggae and dancehall enthusiasts, there’s no doubt that Aklerh’s reign as Ghana’s Dancehall Queen is poised to endure.
Her distinct sound, meaningful lyrics, and dynamic performances serve as a testament to her commitment and artistic brilliance. Through these new singles, Aklerh has once again affirmed her status as a formidable musical force, and fans eagerly anticipate her musical journey.
For both ardent supporters and newcomers alike, Aklerh’s music is readily available on all major streaming platforms. Experiencing these two new singles is an absolute must for anyone who appreciates authentic and impactful reggae and dancehall music.
Evidently, Rev Obofour and Bofowaa are experiencing no issues whatsoever in their relationship. Despite previous reports suggesting that their marriage was in turmoil, the couple’s bond continues to grow stronger.
Remarkably, their marital bliss has flourished since Bofowaa relocated to the United States. Paparazzi recently captured Rev Obofour in the U.S a few days ago.
According to insider information, Rev Obofour made the journey to the U.S to celebrate his wife Bofowaa’s birthday, following the Ridge Condos All-black party.
Today, on September 2nd, 2023, Bofowaa officially marks her birthday, as she joyfully announced on social media through video posts.
Obofour had already shared a glimpse of their enduring love by unveiling a ring featuring their own images online, a day prior to her birthday celebration.
With these recent developments, it appears that any prior misunderstandings or rifts in their relationship have been resolved, as the couple remains happily married.
For more details, please refer to the posts below.
Popular media personality, Deloris Frimpong Manso, widely recognized as Delay, has ignited significant online buzz with her recent gym video.
The video showcases Delay’s confidence and dedication to her fitness journey as she vigorously exercises in the gym. Dressed in a stylish two-piece bodycon outfit that impeccably highlights her figure, Delay’s commitment to her workouts is unmistakable.
The camera captures her from behind as she meticulously focuses on her arms, thighs, and torso during her workout routine. Delay revealed that she hit the gym bright and early, fitting in a quick session before heading to work. Her unwavering dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and caring for her body has earned her admiration and applause from her devoted followers and fans.
Many admirers have praised Delay for her impressive workout, acknowledging that the specific gym equipment she utilized is not easy to handle, but she made it appear effortless.
Burnaboy, the Grammy-winning Nigerian singer, has asserted in an online statement that there’s an end to the era of Davido and Wizkid.
Burnaboy, who recently unveiled his seventh studio album, “I Told Them,” made this revelation during an interview. This comes after he previously expressed his belief that the Afrobeats genre lacked depth.
In Burnaboy’s perspective, he extended a 7-year advantage to Wizkid, Davido, and other artists due to his inability to travel from Africa to the United Kingdom.
He further elaborated that upon his return to the UK in 2016, he came to the realization that the heyday of the then-shining superstars had come to a close.
In his words; “I gave them a head start for like 7 years because I wasn’t allowed to step out from my continent to the UK, but as soon as I got into the UK in 2016, I SAID IT’S OVER FOR Y’ALL”
However, netizens are speculating that Burnaboy is talking about Wizkid and Davido in his latest interview.
See reactions below;
snooprichie_: This one no fit reach half of wiz glory.
audioboy_808: You were once at every wizkid London show stay humble back stage and wiz always bring u on stage…..wiz introduced you to international audience 😂 try to appreciate the little wiz did for u…..man always sound like he did it alone… always cap shit.
parker_ojugo: Burna boy and yeye talk ehn 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂.
hisxos: Upon say he was banned from entering the UK for 7 years e still get UK chart entries and sold out stadiums pass obiyo 😂😂😂😂.
talkyashi: This guy cap too much, give credit to wiz and Davido. This guy caps too much, hin music no even hit the same, hin just they chase Yankee validation.
tedofabuja: So much pride .. Baba don forget that year wey him dey struggle to market “yawa dey “ 😂😂😂😂😂😂.
Ghanaian highlife artist Onyansapow Bowaanopow, based in the United States, has released a captivating music video for his latest track, “The Preacher’s Love.”
The video made its debut on Wednesday, August 30.
This US-based Ghanaian highlife musician showcases his multilingual talents by singing in English, Ewe, and Twi languages in this song, where he delves into the theme of expressing genuine affection.
The music video, featuring scenes from both Ghana and the United States, has garnered significant attention.
Onyansapow has pledged to continue producing top-notch songs and videos, remaining committed to representing the highlife music genre.
Renowned dancehall artist Vybz Kartel, along with Miss Lafamilia and DJ Lara Fraser, have teamed up with the versatile Ghanaian musician and performer Camidoh on his latest track, “Taxi Man.”
This song showcases impressive co-production by Toddla T and marks Camidoh’s most recent release following his summer playlist, “Love Is The Answer (L.I.T.A.),” which features 10 compelling tracks. Notable highlights from this project include a cross-cultural remix of “Sugarcane” featuring Ghana’s King Promise, UK pop sensation Darkoo, and Nigeria’s Afrobeats star Mayorkun, as well as the collaboration with Stonebwoy on “Brown Skin Girl.”
Camidoh is celebrated for his smooth, soulful vocals, complemented by catchy melodies and relatable lyrics. His unique ability to infuse emotional depth into his music distinguishes him as a compelling storyteller within the Afrobeat genre. Over the years, he has garnered acclaim for his versatile style and collaborations with other prominent artists, and he continues this trend by bringing together an ensemble of top-tier talent for this track.
American television producer and the creator of ‘Suits’ Aaron Korsh, revealed that The Royal Family intervened to prevent Meghan Markle from using a specific word on “Suits,”. According to Korsh, the word “poppycock” was removed from a script due to concerns that it might be manipulated or misconstrued.
Korsh elaborated that Meghan’s character, Rachel, was intended to engage in a dispute with her partner, Mike, and as a playful reference to her royal in-laws, he wanted to incorporate British slang.
However, Korsh was taken aback to learn that palace officials were reviewing scripts for upcoming episodes and providing input.
“The Royal Family did not want her saying the word,” he revealed. “They didn’t want to put the word ‘poppycock’ in her mouth.”
Reflecting on why this might have been, Korsh added: “I presume because they didn’t want people cutting things together of her saying ‘c***’. So we had to change it to ‘bulls***’.”
The writer expressed his dissatisfaction with the situation, particularly because he had informed his royal in-laws that the word would be included in the show.
Korsh couldn’t recall the exact source of the directive but stressed that it had originated from a producer or an agent rather than directly from Meghan herself.
“I had some sympathy because I wouldn’t want somebody doing that to her either. And the thing is, I didn’t think anybody really would, but also I don’t know. People are crazy,” he said.
During the interview, Korsh acknowledged that Meghan’s relationship with Prince Harry undeniably contributed to the legal drama’s popularity on streaming platforms.
Upon learning about the relationship, Korsh humorously recalled his initial reaction as, “We’re dating a prince!”
Korsh and several of Meghan’s fellow cast members had the privilege of attending the royal wedding in 2018.
Former French Ambassador to Ghana Anne-Sophie Avé has opened up about her fears about being forgotten by Ghanaians once she completed her tenure in office.
In an interview with Andy Dosty, she described the love and attention she was receiving from Ghanaians as overwhelming.
According to her, she grew to enjoy the love and warmth she received from Ghanaians to the extent of getting scared that she would be forgotten after her tenure of office ended.
She added that leaving Ghana was a devastating time for her.
“It was devastating. I enjoyed the music, the culture, the tradition and everything. You don’t need to be an ambassador to carry on enjoying it. I was maybe afraid of being out of sight and maybe they’ll forget me.”
Anne-Sophie Avé emphasized that the affection she received from Ghanaians didn’t cease with the conclusion of her tenure. She further noted that she continues to experience substantial affection from Ghanaians.
Anne pointed out that hardly a week passes without her receiving messages or phone calls from people in Ghana, demonstrating the enduring connection and admiration she enjoys from the Ghanaian community.
“I was baffled when I realised that there hasn’t been a single week since I left when I didn’t have messages or phone calls from people who were checking up.”
She disclosed that when she became unwell at the beginning of the year, the majority of the callers that checked on her were Ghanaians, and that fact alone shocked her family and friends.
“Most of the people who were checking up on me at the beginning of the year were Ghanaians. My family could hardly believe it.”
Veteran Nollywood actor Patrick Doyle has criticized Nigerian Grammy-Winning star Damini Ogulu, known as Burna Boy, and argued that he does not deserve to be labeled one of the greatest in music. Doyle made this assertion in a social media post, where he contended that Burna Boy should not be credited for recent achievements in Nigerian music, asserting that the “last last” artist has not achieved enough to be considered great.
He stated, “The recognition for the achievements that seem to be elevating artists like Burna Boy should be appropriately attributed to the legends who paved the challenging paths, making it easier for artists like him to navigate.”
“Burna Boy has not by himself done anything that can be remotely described as great. He and his peers are recipients of the labors of heroes past. They need to be humble and respectful of their diligent and truly pioneering predecessors.
“Great artistes like SunnyAde, Fela Anikulapo, Majek Fashek , I, k. Dairo and a galaxy of others who paved the way from the 60s, to the 2000s. Greatness and great feats don’t exist in a vacuum.
“Let us not contribute to the creation of an arrogant and obnoxious monster.” Patrick Doyle noted.
His words, “90 percent of them (Nigerian musicians) have no real life experiences which is why most of Nigerian music or African music or Afrobeats as people call it, is mostly about nothing, literally nothing.
“There is no substance to it — like, nobody is talking about anything in it. it is just a great time. It’s an amazing time. But at the end of the day, life is not an amazing time. No matter how nice of a time you are having now or you had at some point or you plan to have, you are still going to face life.”
Ghanaian singer Deborah Vanessa, popularly known as Sister Derby, has disclosed that she never had intentions of having her own child. During an open and candid session with her fans on the social media platform Snapchat, she was asked if she had any children, to which she responded that she had no plans to have children of her own.
Sister Derby did, however, express her affection for children and indicated her willingness to care for them.
“I don’t and I’ve never wanted one. I however take care of some children because I love them” she posted.
Meanwhile, many on social media chided the fan for asking the question, igniting the age-old culture of some questions being taboo to ask.
Her candidness regarding her personal choices about motherhood sheds light on today’s society’s diversity of perspectives and choices.
Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy recently shared a fascinating encounter he had with American rapper J. Cole. During his appearance on the Rap Radar Podcast, hosted by Elliott Wilson, Burna Boy reminisced about finding himself in the company of J. Cole and a group of basketball players. Before diving into their musical pursuits, the group engaged in a heartfelt conversation about life and its complexities.
Known for his direct and candid approach to conversations, Burna Boy passionately expressed his thoughts. It was during this exchange that J. Cole made a profound statement. He gestured towards Burna Boy and declared, “This guy is Tupac,” capturing the attention of everyone present and highlighting the Nigerian artist’s significance.
“For me, I don’t really like to have conversations with people that don’t live with me. You know, I don’t have long conversations like that. So, I found myself just going off.
“And before we start [recording], he (J. Cole] just goes, ‘Bro, this n*gga is Tupac. And then I looked around to see who he was talking about. It’s me he’s talking about. He’s like, this n*gga is like Tupac reincarnated in Africa.”
Tupac Shakur, frequently celebrated as one of the most exceptional rappers and influential figures in the history of hip-hop, unquestionably left an enduring legacy within the genre.
Burna Boy, understandably surprised by the comparison, felt profoundly honored by J. Cole’s acknowledgment. Essentially, J. Cole was implying that Burna Boy embodied the essence of Tupac, particularly within the African context.
A Wa Circuit Court has scheduled October 17, 2023, as the date for delivering its judgment in one of the four cases linked to the defilement allegations against Ahmed Rashid, also known as Anaata.
Presided over by His Honour Jonathan Avogo, the court has directed the prosecution to submit written addresses by September 27, 2023.
In this particular case, the accused, Rashid Ahmed, began his defense without legal representation. He took the witness stand and underwent cross-examination by the prosecutor. This docket involves three alleged defilement survivors and comprises six counts.
The accused acknowledged recognizing two of the three survivors mentioned in this docket, with one of them being the daughter of his stepmother.
Rashid Ahmed also admitted to having one wife and two children, aged approximately five and two years, respectively. Additionally, he acknowledged impregnating an 18-year-old girl, identified by the prosecution as a Junior High School student.
During cross-examination, the accused conceded that he had been accused in the past by his aunt of engaging in sexual activity with her daughter.
The prosecution, led by Mr. Saeed Abdul Shakur, a Principal State Attorney in the Upper West Region, suggested that the accused had lured the survivors with food to commit the defilement, an accusation which the accused denied.
Furthermore, it was suggested that the accused had taken advantage of his relationship with one of the survivor’s mothers to commit the sexual offenses, but he again denied the allegation.
The prosecution also proposed that when the accused’s wife left for her family’s residence following a marital dispute, he had exploited that period, lasting approximately three months, to engage in sexual activities with girls. The accused denied this as well.
During cross-examination, a witness named Razark Adam, who testified on behalf of the accused, admitted that most of the accused person’s friends were women and girls.
Meanwhile, Rashid Ahmed, also known as Anaata, is expected to present his defense in two additional cases on Wednesday, September 6, 2023.
Rashid Ahmed, alias Anaata, a well-known Master of Ceremony (MC) for Islamic weddings in Wa, is approximately 35 years old and is facing trial on about 20 counts related to defilement, attempted defilement, and indecent assault, all of which he has denied in court. He stands accused of defiling around 30 girls in Wa, aged between 12 and 15 years, with nine survivors having testified in the case.
Fulham, an English Premier League club, has officially confirmed the acquisition of Alex Iwobi from Everton. The transfer fee remains undisclosed.
As per the club’s official statement, the 27-year-old midfielder has inked a five-year contract that secures his presence at Craven Cottage until 2028.
Iwobi, who joined Everton in 2019 from Arsenal, amassed 123 league appearances for the Blues and contributed six goals during his tenure.
Following his transfer to Fulham, the Nigerian international expressed his enthusiasm for the deal and eagerly anticipates the start of his journey with the club.
Peace Town residents, residing in a neighborhood within Ngleshie Amanfrom, located in the Ga South Municipality of the Greater Accra Region, are preparing for a substantial protest concerning the inadequate road connection between their community and the primary roadway.
The roadway stretching from American Farm to Peace Town has deteriorated significantly, featuring substantial gullies and potholes that have occasionally led to vehicles becoming immobilised.
According to the organizers of the protest, Mr Eric Kortey and Mr Jerry Hammond various groups in the community including opinion leaders, the youth and commercial drivers will join the demonstration that will end at the Ga South Municipal Assembly to present a petition to the MCE, Joseph Yarni Stephen.
Mr Kortey said their roads are in a deplorable state while they also lack a proper bridge on River Jei, which separates them from Ngleshie Amanfro.
A number of residents who spoke to Myjoyonline said they are tired of the situation, and will support any one organizing a demonstration to draw the attention of the Ga South Municipal Chief Executive.
A recent downpour in the area flooded some parts of the community which cut it off from Ngleshie Amanfro, thus making it difficult for residents including school children to cross to the other side.
The situation has become a regular affair as anytime it rains heavily upstream, the river which takes its sources from Bawjiase and Agona Swedru, and enters the Weija lake overflows its banks, making it impossible for them to cross.
The residents say they started a self-help project to raise funds to construct a culvert and also graveled part of the road, but the flood has washed away everything.
Peace Town road construction was started seven years ago by the John Mahama administration but the contractor abandoned the work.
Under the President Akufo-Addo’s year of roads project, the MP for the area, Sylvester Tetteh and the MCE, Mr Joseph Yarni Stephen lobbied for the return of the contractor to site, leading to the completion of about 70 percent and abandoned it leaving two excavators on site.
Ernest Agbey, a taxi driver who plies the road said a journey which normally lasts 5 minutes now takes much longer due to the deplorable state of the roads.
A ‘trotro’ [commercial] driver, Gyasi Peter, who plies the road, lamented how his daily sales has drastically reduced because of the situation.
Mabel, another resident, said life has become difficult for them because of the poor nature of the road as commercial drivers do not work after 8: 00 pm, compelling people to walk for long hours.
In an interview with the Ga South MCE, Mr Joseph Yarni he said he was aware of the situation and that residents are also aware of an ongoing project to fix things.
According to him, construction of that road is a central government project and therefore the assembly has a little control over it.
The MCE said the leaders of the community should visit his office with their concerns for them to find an amicable solution instead of holding a demonstration.
He disclosed that the work has been stalled by the construction of the bridge which was put on hold after the recent rain.
Former President John Dramani Mahama has declared his readiness to offer innovative ideas for the country during his potential second term in office. He underscored that if he returns to power in 2024, his tenure would distinguish itself from the conventional, business-as-usual approach demonstrated by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
“I can assure you that the John Mahama administration from January 7, 2025, will be different. I promise visionary and selfless leadership and not the business-as-usual approach of the NPP,” Mahama’s statement posted on social media affirmed.
In a sequence of social media posts, Mahama directed his criticism towards President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, alleging their incompetence in economic management and governance.
He argued that their leadership had caused considerable harm to Ghana’s democratic standing, characterizing it as a historic low point in the history of the Fourth Republic.
“The governance of Nana Akufo-Addo and Bawumia has eroded Ghana’s democratic goodwill. Political credibility is at an all-time low, never experienced in the history of the Fourth Republic. The December 7, 2024, election is crucial to restoring faith in our democracy. Poor leadership must be held accountable for the corruption and deteriorating conditions,” Mahama asserted.
John Mahama previously served as the President of Ghana from 2012 to 2016 but was defeated by Akufo-Addo in the 2016 presidential election. He made an unsuccessful bid to reclaim the presidency in the 2020 election.
Mahama has been selected as the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the upcoming 2024 general elections. He has expressed confidence in his ability to secure victory in 2024 and implement the changes he believes are necessary for the country.
On the other hand, the currently ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) is determined to break from the traditional eight-year political cycle and win the elections once again.
Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), which lost power to the NPP in the previous election, is pinning its hopes on the leadership of former President John Mahama to lead the party back to prominence.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, is expected to make an appearance before the Parliamentary Ad-hoc Committee that is currently investigating a leaked tape related to a plot to remove him from office.
Samuel Atta-Akyea, the Chairman of the Committee and Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, revealed this information during an interview with Adom News following the committee’s third day of deliberations.
Daniel Bugri Naabu, a former Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), was the first to testify before the committee on Monday. He confirmed the authenticity of the recorded audio and identified COP Alex Mensah, Superintendent Asare, and Superintendent Gyebi as individuals featured in the recording. Naabu also acknowledged holding meetings with these individuals in his office near the Osu Police station.
However, COP Alex Mensah, who has undergone two days of questioning regarding the tape, disputed Mr. Naabu’s statements, accusing him of falsehoods. While acknowledging his own voice on the recording, COP Mensah asserted that the tape had been manipulated and contained damaging remarks about Dr. Dampare.
As a result, the committee has resolved to summon Dr. Dampare to provide his perspective and share any pertinent information.
Director General of Operations for the Ghana Police Service, COP George Alex Mensah, has revealed that Superintendent George Asare, who was purportedly linked to the scheme to remove the IGP, is not someone he considers a friend.
He clarified that he had collaborated with Superintendent Asare in Accra and only maintains a professional acquaintance with him.
“Mr. Chairman, Asare worked under me as a regional police commander in Accra, so he knows me and I know him.
“But he is not a friend that we meet outside of work and do things. No, but he knows me and I know him,” he said.
Appearing before Parliament’s committee tasked to investigate an alleged plot to remove the IGP of which he is involved, COP Alex Mensah narrated how he ended up in the office of Daniel Bugri Naabu, a former Northern Regional Chairman of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) who recorded the tape.
According to Mr. Mensah, he was invited by Bugri Naabu as the latter was allegedly scouting for a new IGP because he was unhappy with the management of the current IGP, George Akuffo Dampare.
“Mr. Chairman, my going to Mr. Bugri Naabu was through his own invitation and the purpose was that the probability that they’re going to change the IGP is high and they’re looking for somebody who can do the job and do it well,” he said.
He continued by adding that, due to his good work and diligence, he was recommended by Superintendent George Asare to Bugri Naabu as a good candidate for the position of the IGP.
“The purpose of Mr. Bugri Naabu inviting me was that, one of the police officers had gone to tell him that if they’re looking for a new Inspector General of Police then the man that he thinks can do the job and do it well is Commissioner George Alex Mensah.”
“Then Bugri Naabu said if that is the case, bring him and let me see him, that is why I ended up at Bugri Naabu’s office.”
“My impression was that yes, he was scouting for a new IGP,” COP Alex Mensah recalled.
The Director General of Operations said he had no problem with Superintendent Asare being with him at the office because he trusted and had confidence in him.
“I’ve dealt with him on several issues as the Regional Commander, so yes I have confidence in him,” he indicated.
Daniel Bugri Naabu appeared before the committee on Monday, August 28, 2023 and admitted that he recorded the conversation about the proposed plot to remove the IGP and he did that to safeguard the interest of his party [the NPP].
Mr Naabu, who confirmed the authenticity of the secret tape, indicated that his plan was to forward the tape to President Akufo-Addo to take action but unfortunately the tape got leaked into the public space and led to a lot of controversies.
Following public reaction, Parliament set up the Committee, chaired by the Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Samuel Atta-Akyea, to delve into the issue.
The panel has the mandate to investigate both the authenticity of the leaked tape and the allegations that have captured the nation’s attention.
The Committee is to submit its report on September 10.
The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has seized over 700 shipments of counterfeit electrical meters at the Dabala Junction checkpoint situated in the Volta Region.
Customs officers stationed at the checkpoint made a comprehensive examination of an Aflao-bound bus heading towards Accra on Sunday. During the inspection, they discovered the counterfeit meters concealed within the luggage compartment and proceeded to seize them.
No passenger on board the vehicle owned up to the fake meters, which compelled the customs officials to seize the consignment.
The Volta Regional Manager of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Christina Jatoe-Kaleo, who confirmed the development to the Ghana News Agency, said only the ECG, NEDCO and the Ministry of Energy have been mandated to import meters, hence it was illegal for individuals to venture into such business.
The Company was clamping down on such fake meters since those substandard meters were installed on the blindside of the ECG, she said.
“This nation-wrecking activity is taking a negative toll on the commercial and technical operations of the Company,” Madam Jatoe-Kaleo said.
“It is illegal to import meters into the country and acquire meters from other sources apart from ECG. We will take all necessary legal actions against individuals who are trying to infiltrate our network with these fake meters, including those who aid them by selling or buying those meters.”
She revealed that those meters were substandard and could cause fire outbreaks, saying: “Our meters are tested and calibrated to meet the required standards of our country, but these foreign meters are not calibrated so customers using them are likely to incur higher electricity bills than our standard meters.”
“Using such unauthorised meters poses several dangers to the user, other ECG customers and the company.”
Madam Jatoe-Kaleo explained that such meters could cause overloading and damage to transformers, leading to outages and technical losses.
She advised customers to avoid purchasing those meters and dealing with third parties but to visit the ECG offices for any service required.
“With the introduction of the Loss Reduction Programme and flat rate policy, we have many options to service our customers anytime they apply for meters, so kindly visit the nearest ECG office and apply to ensure you are served instead of engaging in the illegal act of purchasing from illegal sources,” she said.
Madam Jatoe-Kaleo called on the public to assist the Company in winning the war against dealers in fake meters by reporting any individual engaged in that to enable the ECG to generate enough revenue to sustain the electricity supply chain.
“Users of these foreign meters consume electricity illegally without paying and this is not fair to customers who pay their bills. Such individuals usually complain they are not receiving bills, and this is because their meters were obtained and installed illegally…”.
“We would like to commend the GRA and Customs Division together with other security agencies like the military, national security and Ghana Police Service for supporting the company in the fight against the use of illegal meters,” Madam Jatoe-Kaleo said.
She urged customers to download the ECG PowerApp or use the shortcode *226# to pay all their outstanding bills to enable the company to supply stable power.
The Executive Director of Peace Watch Ghana, Nyonkopa Daniels, has strongly rebuked COP Alex Mensah, characterizing him as an embittered and unprofessional law enforcement officer.
According to Daniels, the remarks made by COP Mensah expose his animosity and insubordination towards higher authority.
In his critique, COP Mensah censured Dr. Akuffo Dampare for his alleged mismanagement of the Police Service and asserted that the management approach of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, was negatively impacting the morale of police officers.
The Director of Operations for the Ghana Police Service, COP George Alex Mensah, accused Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, the Inspector General of Police, of mishandling the Police Service during his appearance before a parliamentary committee investigating an audio recording concerning a plot to remove the IGP.
“Dampare is not managing the Police Service well, and the majority of police officers are not happy. You can call the police officers underground, and they will tell you,” COP Mensah told the committee on Thursday, August 31.
Madam Daniels slammed the COP for raising false issues that did not accurately represent the current state of the Police Service.
During an interview on Rainbow FM, she stated, “I am sad, and the reason I am sad is because some Ghanaians do not appreciate something good.” Others are greedy and self-centred, and they do not want the country to progress. COP Mensah should be ashamed of himself. Someone who was in the Accra Region but failed claims that the IGP is mismanaging the Service. Did he join the Service to do the NPP’s or Ghana’s bidding? I want the committee to recommend sanctions against him and the others involved.”
“COP Mensah, you are greedy and selfish, and you have disgraced yourself. You have disgraced your wife, your children, and the entire generation. Your posture was not the best. You are arrogant. Your envy and jealousy did not allow you to be appointed IGP. Your claims were false.”
According to her, those complaining about morale were unprofessional and engaged in activities contrary to the service’s ethical standards.
Jackie Chan, the famous martial artist, actor, and film director, has faced personal challenges involving his family, particularly his daughter, Etta Ng Chok Lam. Their strained relationship became widely known in the media, and Jackie Chan has expressed disappointment and disapproval of his daughter’s actions.
The complex and often strained relationship between Jackie Chan and his daughter, Etta Ng Chok Lam, has indeed been a topic of public interest and discussion. Etta’s life, marked by financial struggles and the absence of her biological father, stands in stark contrast to the glamorous and privileged lives often associated with celebrity children. Here’s a closer look at the dynamics and challenges in their relationship:
Jackie Chan’s Affair: The public scandal surrounding Jackie Chan’s affair with Elaine Ng Yi-lei, the 1990 Miss Asia winner, and the subsequent birth of Etta was a significant turning point. Chan publicly acknowledged the affair, apologized to his wife, Joan Lin, and their son, Jaycee. However, he distanced himself from Elaine and Etta, leaving them to face life’s challenges without his support.
Financial Struggles: Etta’s financial struggles have been evident over the years, especially when compared to her father’s immense wealth. Despite Chan’s net worth, which is estimated to be around US$400 million, Etta and her mother reportedly faced financial hardships. Etta was even seen in Toronto, Canada, relying on free meals to get by.
Homophobia Allegations: After Etta publicly came out as a lesbian in 2017 and married Canadian social media influencer Andi Autumn in 2018, they faced allegations of homophobia from their parents. The couple even reported being homeless and sleeping under a bridge. CCTV footage captured them in a supermarket, with Etta expressing a desire to find her father.
Lack of Financial Support: Despite suggestions that Jackie Chan might provide financial assistance to Etta when she turned 21, it’s unclear whether this support materialized. Chan, when asked about supporting Etta financially, publicly dismissed the issue, stating that he believed she didn’t need his inheritance.
Charitable Intentions: Jackie Chan has publicly stated his intention to donate his wealth to charity rather than passing it on to his son, Jaycee. This decision has led to criticism and public disappointment, given the stark difference in the financial situations of Etta and Jaycee.
Etta’s story serves as a reminder that not all celebrity children enjoy lives of privilege and luxury. Her resilience in the face of adversity has garnered both sympathy and support from the public. It highlights the complex nature of family dynamics, even within the glitzy world of entertainment, and challenges the way we perceive celebrities and their personal lives.
A person who was addicted to drugs strangled their friend to teach them a lesson and then took their £15 television. They have been sent to prison.
Salieu Seray-Wurie, who is 26 years old, did a very mean thing at Darren Ammon’s apartment in Shoreditch, which is in east London, on October 15 of last year.
Mr Ammon, who is 47 years old, let a person who is addicted to Class A drugs stay in his apartment. However, on the day he was killed, Mr. Ammon called the police because he wanted the person to go away. This information was shared at the Old Bailey court.
Seray-Wurie came back later to get his bank card. He was very angry and used a cord to strangle Mr. Ammon while he begged for his life.
He left Mr Ammon sleeping under a blanket while he took the TV and sold it for £15.
The neighbors called the police when they found Mr. Ammon tied up with his wrists and knees, and the cord was still around his neck three days later.
Bernard Tetlow KC explained that Seray-Wurie went through mistreatment by his father and was sent away from his family in Sierra Leone.
The US government made a new website where people can learn about their investigations into strange and unknown things. They will also let people report any strange things they see soon.
But, as per the Department of Defense, the data that is available will only be about UAP causes that have been solved.
During a meeting, Air Force Brigadier General Pat Ryder, who is a spokesperson for the Pentagon, announced the launch of the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office’s new website. He explained that this website will share details, pictures, and videos of cases involving Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) that have been solved and approved for the public to see.
The website also has information about trends and common questions that people ask. There are also links to official reports, transcripts, press releases, and other resources that the public might find helpful.
The data on the website shows that almost half of the UFO sightings are described as being shaped like an orb or a round sphere. The second most common thing that happens is when the sensor contact is unclear.
The US government is being questioned about what it knows about UAPs (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) after David Charles Grusch, a whistleblower, claimed in June that it was hiding physical proof of alien vehicles that are still in one piece or partly intact. Politicians and the media put pressure on Mr. Grusch after his claims, which caused a congressional hearing last month. In that hearing, Mr. Grusch and two other former military personnel talked about their experiences with UAPs.
Former F-18 pilot Lt Ryan Graves said that Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs) are something that many fighter pilots know about but don’t openly talk about. He described a situation where he had to quickly move his aircraft to avoid hitting an object that looked like a dark grey cube inside a clear sphere. Strangely, this object didn’t move even though there was wind blowing.
David Fravor, a retired commander, talked about some strange objects, called UAPs, that he saw in the Persian Gulf. One of them was a well-known UAP called the ‘Tic Tac’. It was a small, white object that disappeared from the radar and then showed up again 60 miles away just a minute later.
The Department of Defense said that they promise to be open and honest with the American people about AARO’s work on UAP. The new website will also be a place where people who have served or are currently serving in the military can share their experiences of seeing unidentified flying objects (UFOs) since 1945.
The DoD will soon announce a way for people to share their sightings with the public, but it’s unclear if this will be for everyone around the world or just for people in the US.
During his statement, Mr. Grusch expressed worries about how UFO sightings are reported, and mentioned that he faced negative consequences for speaking out about it. He claimed that people had been hurt to hide the truth.
When asked about the evidence Mr. Grusch collected and if AARO would share it, Brig Gen Ryder said: ‘AARO is happy to receive any information to investigate UAP claims, and if that information is given to us, we will definitely examine it. ‘
I don’t know if this person gave their report to AARO or not. AARO’s director, Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick, wrote on the new website that they have been working to improve how they collect data, make reporting requirements the same for everyone, and reduce any potential dangers to safety and security caused by UAP.
‘We are excited to use this website to keep the public informed about AARO’s work and findings, and to offer a way for UFO sightings to be reported. ‘
The Department of Defense said that they have created a website where you can find all the information about AARO and UAP that is available to the public. They will update the website regularly with new information when it is approved for release to the public.
“We are afraid of China,” says fisherman Benjo Atay while his small bamboo boat on the island of Palawan in the Philippines gets hit by strong wind and rain.
He yells instructions at his young team, most of whom are his relatives, while they pull on ropes to steer the boat away from the harbor. They are already covered in salty water and sweat – but it is not the weather that scares them.
He says that the Chinese ships go around us and follow us closely. When we are tied down or secured to something with an anchor, we cannot move freely. They would make us go away. “They want to get rid of us. ”
The Philippines and China are in a heated disagreement over who should control certain areas in the South China Sea.
China recently released a map claiming ownership of over 90% of the sea, which has led to protests from multiple countries including this one.
In the past, Manila may have quietly complained about China stopping its ships. But now, Manila has become louder and more confident in expressing its concerns, supported by help from Washington and its allies.
“We are concerned about the increasing tensions, but we are not discouraged,” said Jonathan E Malaya, who is a high-ranking official at the Philippines National Security Council.
In the past few months, the Philippines has allowed the US to use important military bases, organized the biggest ever joint military exercises with the US, and frequently criticized China’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea. As Philippine and Chinese coastguards play a repetitive game on the disputed waters, Manila announced that they will teach fishermen how to defend their territory at sea.
The message is easy to understand. Jay Tarriela, a spokesperson for the coastguard in the West Philippine Sea, said that if you are Filipino, whether in the government or private sector, and no matter your political beliefs, supporting and making excuses for China’s aggressive behavior means you are not loyal to the Philippines and its people. This makes you a traitor.
China believes that it owns the entire South China Sea, including areas that other countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Brunei also claim as their own. These things aren’t new, but they are becoming louder and more risky.
The most recent episode is about the faraway Ayungin shoal. It is located more than 620 miles away from the closest part of mainland China and about 120 miles away from Palawan island.
In the past six months, Chinese ships used water cannons and lasers to keep the Philippine coastguard away from the shoal. The boats were taking important water and food to soldiers on an old warship called Sierra Madre. Manila purposely put the ship on a reef in their waters. It was a planned and deliberate action to try to stay at the shoal.
This is land that the Philippines got in 2016 from an international court. The court said that Beijing’s claim to owning most of the South China Sea was not legal.
These fishing areas are very profitable, and being able to get to the shoal also means being able to reach Reed Bank, which has a lot of oil and natural gas.
The Philippines didn’t let China’s power stop them. They made another attempt to send supplies to their soldiers on the Sierra Madre, and this time, they were able to do it.
“It’s like a small person fighting against a big person,” Mr. However, just like David, we will keep working hard and focus even more on safeguarding the resources that are crucial for the future of the Philippines.
But China’s government does not have the same perspective. It says that Sierra Madre is not respecting its authority. A statement from the Chinese coastguard said they used a water cannon on the Filipino boat in a professional and controlled manner.
Manila attempted to use a hotline it created with China to calm the situation, but nobody picked up the phone.
MrMalaya said that they want to solve the problem, but he also admitted that things are moving slowly and that everyone doesn’t agree at the moment.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos has changed his approach towards China. Unlike Rodrigo Duterte, who tried to be friendly with China, President Marcos is now getting closer to the United States.
He has also made each argument with Beijing in the South China Sea known to the public. If it is difficult for the Philippine coastguard to bring supplies to the ship stuck on Ayungin shoal, it will be shown on TV. Importantly, the United States is not very distant.
The commander of the US Navy’s Seventh Fleet recently said that China’s strong actions in the South China Sea need to be confronted and controlled.
Vice Admiral Karl Thomas promised Manila that they have support from the US despite the difficult situations they face in the region. He told Reuters news agency that his troops are here with a purpose. You need to confront and question people who operate in an unclear or uncertain area. When people are demanding more and more from you and pressuring you, you need to stand up for yourself, and keep moving forward.
Beijing said that the US was twisting the truth and causing disagreements in order to show their influence.
In the past, Washington was unsure about what Beijing was doing in the South China Sea, and some countries in that area still don’t know if they can believe or rely on its promises of help. When a new leader takes charge, they may also change their beliefs or attitudes.
However, at present, the US is proving that it will support its allies in Asia. Other countries have also been present in the South China Sea, not just the US.
Last week, the US, Japan, and Australia had a joint practice session with the Philippines. The ambassador of Japan to Manila called it a very important moment for defense. Forces from Australia and the Philippines participated in the biggest military exercises ever conducted by the two countries. These exercises involved practicing a pretend landing on a beach and carrying out air attacks near the South China Sea.
There’s nowhere else where many countries are so close to a rival power, and this makes people worried that there could be a mistake during these fights in the sea.
In simpler terms, allied help for Manila could make the dispute even worse. However, Palawan’s fishermen might not want to take that risk.
The head of the Philippine Army, Romeo Brawner, announced that they want to hire fishermen and teach them new skills for duty as reserve soldiers. Larry Hugo, the person in charge of the regional office for the Kalayaan Palawan Farmers and Fisherfolks Association, found it funny when the BBC asked him if he knew any fishermen who were willing to join a militia.
“No, we don’t want to be part of it,” he said. “It will be difficult if China discovers us. ” Fishers in this area will be singled out. The Chinese are getting more violent or forceful. “They have also grown in numbers. ”
According to Mr. Malaya from the Philippines National Security Council, the Chinese are using many fishing boats near the Ayungin shoal, which are basically like military ships.
These are tools that China uses to show its strength, and they are a part of China’s military equipment. They scare and bother our fishermen in the area,” he said.
Beijing says there is no such militia.
Benjo Atay says he is not willing to sail near those waters or engage in combat there, no matter what.
He has been fishing close to Ayungin shoal since he was 14 years old. It is called after a type of fish that is in danger of disappearing and only found in the Philippines. Many families who have little money are familiar with this fish.
Once, he and other fishermen who lived on islands near Palawan sailed near Chinese boats in the same waters for several months.
Now that Mr. Atay is in his 30s, he values the safety of the crew more than catching a large amount of fish.
I don’t believe we will return to that place. We are really afraid. They may use their water gun to spray water. Yes, we only have a boat made of wood. We are very scared to return there.
The beautiful blue-green oceans and white beaches of Palawan are perfect and tranquil. To stay alive in this place, you have to fish if you want to have food to eat.
For many years, the people on this island have made homes in rocky bays and sandy shores. These homes are small with roofs made of corrugated iron. Babies sleep in hammocks that are hung in the kitchen.
A storm has stopped most of the boats from going out, so some people are walking into the shallow water with nets and buckets to catch shellfish. Some people are using the time to fix their boats and nets.
The kids have a break from school and play basketball on a makeshift court made of overturned boats. Some people say they want to become professional basketball players, but when asked if they want to be fishermen, they enthusiastically say yes.
Mr Atay says that it is becoming more difficult every year. How can we do our job well when we’re scared. We can’t concentrate on fishing so we stay on the island where Filipinos are allowed to go.
These communities are committed to staying quiet and not getting involved in these fights over land. But what happens in the future could determine what happens to them.
That future used to rely on wind and the movement of the sea. Now, the outcome will rely on how determined world leaders are.
It is alleged that TikTok star, Asantewaa, along with her brother, Kay Verli, are on the run from the police. According to a report by IG Blogger, Mari Gyata, after a police search, Asantewaa has reportedly moved from the residence she lived in with her brother after she was allegedly expelled by her husband for infidelity.
The Ghanaian police are reportedly searching for Asantewaa and Kay Verli in connection with the alleged leaking of explicit photos of individuals. Neither Asantewaa nor her brother has officially responded to these allegations at this time.
Recently, a self-proclaimed woman of God issued a warning to those criticizing Asantewaa, asserting that she possesses a special divine grace, and attacking her is akin to attacking God indirectly.
The press service for Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner Group, has announced that he was privately buried in St. Petersburg
It was said that the ceremony took place in his hometown but only a certain number of people were allowed to attend. If anyone wanted to, they could go to the Porokhovskoe cemetery to say their goodbyes.
The leader of the group of soldiers for hire was declared dead by Russian officials. They used genetic testing on 10 bodies that were discovered in a plane crash near Moscow on 23 August.
The Kremlin said it is not responsible for the crash, dismissing rumors.
Many people who pay attention to Russia, both inside and outside the country, have called Prigozhin a “dead man walking” because of a failed armed rebellion he led in June.
All 10 people, including Dmitry Utkin who was Prigozhin’s right-hand man, died in the crash in the Tver region, which is located to the northwest of Moscow.
The Wagner press service shared a brief message on Telegram on Tuesday, providing information about Prigozhin’s funeral.
When you are on certain medications or drugs, it’s crucial to be mindful of what you consume, as some foods and drinks can interact negatively with these substances and potentially affect their effectiveness or cause adverse reactions. Here are five foods and drinks you should generally avoid while on medications:
Grapefruit and Grapefruit Juice: Grapefruit and its juice contain compounds that can interfere with the enzymes responsible for metabolizing many medications. This can lead to higher levels of the drug in your bloodstream, potentially causing side effects or toxic reactions. Check the medication label or consult your healthcare provider to see if grapefruit interactions are a concern for your specific medication.
Alcohol: Alcohol can interact with various medications, including over-the-counter drugs, prescription medications, and even herbal supplements. It can intensify the side effects of some drugs, reduce the effectiveness of others, or lead to unpredictable reactions. It’s important to avoid alcohol while taking medication unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
Dairy Products: Some medications, particularly antibiotics like tetracycline, can bind to calcium in dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese. This binding can reduce the absorption of the drug, making it less effective. To ensure proper absorption, take such medications at least 2 hours before or after consuming dairy products.
High-Vitamin K Foods: If you are taking blood-thinning medications like warfarin (Coumadin), it’s essential to maintain a consistent intake of vitamin K, which plays a role in blood clotting. Foods rich in vitamin K, such as leafy greens (e.g., kale, spinach, broccoli), can interfere with the action of these medications. While you don’t need to avoid vitamin K-rich foods entirely, it’s essential to consume them consistently and in moderation. Your healthcare provider can help you strike the right balance.
Caffeine: Caffeine can affect certain medications, such as stimulants, decongestants, and some medications used for asthma or bronchitis. It may intensify the side effects of these drugs, including increased heart rate and nervousness. Be cautious about your caffeine intake while on such medications and follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.
Always read the medication label and consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding potential interactions with foods and drinks. They can provide specific guidance based on your medications and individual health profile. If you have concerns about your diet and medication interactions, it’s essential to address them with a healthcare professional to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment.
Controversial crossdresser, Idris Okuneye, widely recognized as Bobrisky, recently shared the cost of his recent Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure on his social media. In a conversation with comedian Kuye Adegoke on Friday, Bobrisky revealed that he spent a staggering N4.5 million on the surgery.
“I did the body for N4.5 million in Lagos,” he said when asked about the price of his BBL.
In an Instagram post, Bobrisky shared updates about his recovery process following his Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgery, keeping his fans informed about his journey to a more feminine appearance. He also previously mentioned that he turned to cross-dressing as a means of income after living as a man for 25 years.
Building wealth in your 40s is still very achievable, and it’s a critical time to focus on securing your financial future. Here are eight proven ways to build wealth in your 40s:
Maximize Retirement Contributions: Continue to contribute the maximum amount allowed to your retirement accounts, such as a 401(k) or an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). In your 40s, you can make “catch-up” contributions, which allow you to contribute more than the standard limit.
Diversify Investments: Ensure your investment portfolio is diversified to spread risk. Consider a mix of stocks, bonds, and other assets that align with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Increase Savings Rate: As your income hopefully increases in your 40s, aim to increase your savings rate. Put aside a higher percentage of your income for savings and investments.
Reduce Debt: Prioritize paying down high-interest debts like credit card debt. Reducing your debt burden can free up more money for saving and investing.
Emergency Fund: Maintain or establish an emergency fund that covers at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses. This safety net can prevent you from dipping into investments or incurring high-interest debt in case of unexpected expenses or emergencies.
Real Estate: Consider real estate as an investment option. Whether it’s purchasing rental properties or investing in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), real estate can diversify your investment portfolio and provide rental income.
Education and Skill Building: Invest in furthering your education or acquiring new skills that can enhance your earning potential. This may involve taking courses, obtaining certifications, or pursuing advanced degrees, depending on your career path.
Seek Professional Advice: Consult with a financial advisor or planner who can help you create a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your goals and circumstances. They can provide guidance on investment strategies, tax optimization, and retirement planning.
Remember that building wealth is a long-term endeavor, and your 40s are a crucial period for securing your financial future. Stay disciplined in your savings and investment strategies, and adjust your plan as your goals and circumstances evolve.
Nigerian singer, Mr Eazi today released his new music and revealed the title of his eagerly anticipated debut solo album, a project that has been a decade in the making. The track “Advice,” produced by Ghana’s M.O.G. Beatz, is the latest single from his freshly named album, “The Evil Genius,” scheduled for release on October 27, 2023.
Mr Eazi is the most recent artist to be featured in Vevo’s original content series Ctrl., offering a compelling and resolute performance of the drill-infused “Advice” in support of the track’s release.
The lyrically rich “Advice” references several African figures, including former Democratic Republic of the Congo president Joseph Kabila and Ken Saro-Wiwa, a Nigerian writer and activist whose 1995 execution stirred both domestic and international outrage. “I was coming from a place of having that energy,” Eazi explains.
Recorded over a span of two years in locations spanning from Ouidah and Cotonou, Benin; Kigali, Rwanda; Accra and Kokrobite, Ghana; Lagos, Nigeria; London; Los Angeles; to New York City, “The Evil Genius” showcases some of Mr Eazi’s most personal work. The album delves deep into themes such as love, betrayal, loneliness, and family, expressed through three distinct acts.
In an unprecedented fusion of African music and art, Mr Eazi commissioned visual artists from across the continent to create a unique, physical art piece representing each of the album’s 16 tracks. For “Advice,” he collaborated with Nairobi, Kenya-based artist Alphonce Odhiambo, known as Alpha ODH, whose acrylic painting aligns with the track’s defiant lyrics.
Mr Eazi personally selected 13 artists from eight African countries to take part in this creative process, which he describes as ‘informal and instinctual.’
Regarding this artistic collaboration, Mr Eazi stated, “Inviting artists to create for the album was from my passion for creativity and expression. The artworks visually unlock the ideas, emotion, and energy within my music.’
These artworks created for the album will be showcased in a multi-sensory exhibition experience, premiering in Accra, Ghana, from September 13-17, before moving to the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair at Somerset House in London from October 12-15. Expect more exhibition announcements in other cities soon.
The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has stated that the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM) will be in operation alongside the current distribution model until it is completely phased out.
The Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM) includes the process of replenishing LPG cylinders at large refilling facilities and then delivering them to consumers through specialized retail stores referred to as exchange points.
During the initial day of implementation, a visit by Citi News to several LPG stations showed that the commencement of the implementation had not yet taken place.
The NPA clarified that the refilling plants are at various stages of completion, causing a delay in the rollout.
Interacting with Citi News, Obed Kraine Boachie, the Head of Gas in Charge of Commercial Regulation at the NPA, indicated that consumers can still visit their LPG filling stations to refill their cylinders until exchange points are established in their communities.
“We are running the whole model side by side with the CRM. This means that you can still go to the refilling station where you have been filling your cylinders all this while and refill your cylinder to whatever quantity you want and take it home. Until you see an exchange point in your local area or vicinity and decide to go there and begin the cylinder exchange. From that point on, any time you are short of gas, you can go to that station and exchange your empty cylinder for a filled one,” he stated.
Conceiving twins is primarily influenced by genetic factors and luck, with many variables beyond your control.
Nonetheless, there are some dietary choices that might potentially enhance your chances of conceiving twins, although they are not guaranteed to be effective.
It’s worth noting that these strategies may be more effective if you have a family history of twins or if you are of an older age, both of which can increase the likelihood of releasing multiple eggs. Here are some foods to consider incorporating into your diet:
Dairy Products: Some studies have observed a higher incidence of twins among individuals who consume dairy products compared to those following a vegan diet. This effect could be linked to growth hormones given to cattle, which may stimulate ovarian activity and increase the likelihood of multiple pregnancies.
Cassava: In another study, yams, specifically cassava, were associated with a higher occurrence of multiple births. Like dairy products, cassava may trigger double ovulation, potentially leading to twin pregnancies.
Beans: Beans are rich in fiber and protein, making them a valuable dietary choice for supporting ovulation. They are also an excellent source of folic acid, a crucial nutrient for conception and a healthy pregnancy.
Avocados: Avocados are packed with essential nutrients such as Vitamin K, potassium, and folate, which contribute to overall well-being. Additionally, avocados provide a significant amount of folic acid, which may enhance the chances of giving birth to twins.
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are known to stimulate ovarian activity, possibly leading to the release of more eggs and an increased likelihood of having twins.
It’s crucial to understand that attempting to boost your chances of having twins through dietary choices is not foolproof and may not be suitable for everyone. Before making any significant changes to your diet or attempting to conceive twins through dietary means, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist for personalized guidance and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.
The little child was discovered with terrible injuries at their house in the vacation town on August 19th.
The police and paramedics quickly went to the place and the young person was taken to the hospital but unfortunately he passed away two days later.
Daniel Hardcastle, who is 30 years old, went to court last week because he was accused of intentionally causing grievous bodily harm (GBH). He is now accused of committing murder and being cruel to a child.
He will be seen again at Blackpool Magistrates’ Court on Friday, September 1.
Director of Operations for the Ghana Police Service, COP George Alex Mensah, has expressed remorse after a private conversation he had with Bugri Naabu, the former Northern Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), was leaked to the public.
The recorded conversation, which was later made public, purportedly contained discussions about a plan to oust Dr George Akuffo Dampare, who holds the position of Inspector General of Police.
An ad-hoc committee set up by the Speaker of Parliament to investigate the issue has been interrogating persons implicated in the audio.
COP George Alex Mensah, who was grilled for hours when he appeared before the committee on Thursday, August 31, and September 1, vehemently denied the authenticity of the audio.
The Director of Operations of the Ghana Police Service, who is currently on leave pending retirement in September 2023, stated that he could not confirm the authenticity of the audio because it was “seriously edited.”
When he was asked if he had any regrets following the leaked audio, COP Mensah said, “Honestly, yes, because I thought I was speaking to a well-respected confidential friend. I didn’t know that I was just speaking to such a person [who would record our conversation].”
During his interrogation, COP Mensah disclosed how he, through the former Northern Regional Chairman, tried to lobby for the IGP position.
Bugri Naabu, who recorded the leaked tape, confirmed its authenticity when he appeared before the committee on Monday.
Ghanaian stand-up comedian, Obarima Akuoko Amponsah, better known as OB Amponsah, has opened up about the challenges faced by creative artists in Ghana when trying to expand their careers on the global stage.
In a heartfelt post on Facebook, OB Amponsah shared his personal experiences related to a journey to South Africa and the promising opportunities that awaited him. However, he also expressed his frustration regarding the intricate visa acquisition process, which ultimately prevented him from participating in a major comedy show in South Africa, a situation that deeply concerns him.
The comedian disclosed that in 2022, he and Nabil Alhassan of Event Factory embarked on a self-funded expedition to explore South Africa’s vibrant comedy scene. Their mission was twofold: to test their comedic talents on international platforms and introduce Ghana’s unique sense of humor to a broader audience.
During the initial phase of their venture, they performed at various South African clubs, effectively demonstrating that Ghanaian humor could genuinely connect with diverse audiences.
“In 2022, I decided to go check out the comedy scene in South Africa, do a few clubs, and test my strength there. I pitched my tent with Nabil Alhassan and Event Factory and went and did a couple of spots in different clubs. Then I came home to tell my colleagues about a rife market that is so cool to work in, where even our Ghanaian jokes work.
“In May 2023, Lekzy DC, my partner in crime, joined the trip to SA and we did more clubs and garnered the attention we needed from event organizers and comedian friends.
“All these two trips, personally funded. Gigs, personally sought.” he recalled.
All their diligent efforts began to yield results when they successfully secured a coveted spot at an upcoming comedy festival in Bloemfontein, scheduled for the upcoming Saturday. Yet, their initial excitement was overshadowed by an unforeseen challenge: the formidable task of obtaining the required visas within the tight timeframe leading up to the festival.
“Then our hard work pays off, we are booked for a comedy festival in Bloemfontein happening this Saturday but cannot go because we have not been able to secure visas.
“I am not sure any event organizer will love to go through the stress we’ve put the organizer through. Dude is just waiting for confirmation so he can book our tickets. If this doesn’t happen, I doubt he will put us on anymore. ‘Those Ghanaians will stress you with visa acquisition’, will be their response in sure.
A Member of Parliament in Kenya has expressed worries about the health effects of the infra-red light used by Worldcoin‘s eye-scanning orbs. This concern was raised during a government investigation into the cryptocurrency project.
Worldcoin was giving people digital coins in exchange for scanning their eyeballs. However, it was told to stop allowing Kenyan users to sign up last month because there were concerns about the privacy of their data.
MP Shakeel Shabir expressed his concerns when Health Minister Susan Nakhumicha attended the parliamentary committee meeting on Thursday.
Five people have sent me letters saying that they had a lot of pain after this medical test. “They had pain in their eyes,” he said.
Ms Nakhumicha explained that since the orb was not brought into Kenya specifically as a health device, its infra-red light has not been tested. She encouraged Kenyans who might be experiencing health problems to go to the doctor for help.
Please rewrite this passage in simpler language: Please rewrite this text in easier words.
The Worldcoin Foundation said to the BBC that iris and facial scanning are safely used and recorded by private companies, health organizations, and governments all around the world. Worldcoin is just as safe as other cryptocurrencies.
Over two million people from across the globe have signed up with Worldcoin. We haven’t heard any reports of people getting sick from using the orb to prove they are human.
Tools For Humanity, the company that made the orb used by Worldcoin, has also posted a message on Twitter. To say the device “meets the requirements of international industry standards”.
Researcher and Statistician Prof. Smart Sarpong has asserted that Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia stands a 92% likelihood of emerging victorious in the New Patriotic Party’s delegates’ election scheduled for November 4.
Additionally, he assessed Kennedy Agyapong’s prospects at 61.5% and former Trades Minister Alan Kyerematen‘s chances at 46.6%.
He thus entreated the two other contenders, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto and Francis Addai-Nimoh to contemplate forming alliances with one of the leading three contenders, as their chances of securing victory are extremely slim.
The researcher sets out to provide statistical justification that the recent Super Delegates’ Congress has the possibility of influencing choices of delegates in the main polls in November.
Prof. Smart Sarpong explained the mechanism of his 961 sample size from the super delegates.
“There is something we call elevation factor which means divide the population by the sample, now you go to the reasonableness of the elevation factor. The question I asked myself is whether the caliber of people who voted, if they can have influence over the others, for me it is Yes.”
“These estimates are founded on statistical laws. My margin of error is only 3.2% and my confidence interval is 95% ”, the statistician said.
By the formula, he said the ability of the super delegates to influence their subordinates to vote for their choices improves the chances of the desired candidate.
According to him, the numbers show that supporters of Dr. Bawumia have a task to convince at least 301 electors to brighten his chances of winning.
Prof. Sarpong indicated that the 132 delegates who voted for Kennedy Agyapong will have to win 1,434 members with each of the 95 faithful of Alan Kyerematen mobilizing up to 1,992 delegates to vote their choice.
“The question I asked myself is whether there is any constituency Chairman who cannot influence 210 members of his constituency?”
“If you are Chairman of a constituency and you cannot mobilize 210 people then you are not worthy”, Prof. Sarpong explained.
Meanwhile, the statistician believes the NPP must set standards for candidates rather than choosing first five persons who file nominations to contest.
“They rather have to set pass mark and not merely looking for five”, he concluded.
Tami Manis, who lives in Knoxville, has a mullet hairstyle that is 5 feet and 8 inches long, which is about the same height as an average man.
Ms Manis has been wearing a mullet hairstyle since the 1980s. She got this idea from a music video of an American rock band called ‘Til Tuesday. She has not trimmed her hair for 33 years.
Ms Manis, a nurse who works in public health, said that her journey with the mullet hairstyle started when she first saw the music video for the song “Voices Carry” about forty years ago.
“She said to the Guinness World of Records that the girl had a long piece of hair at the back of her head and I really wanted one too. ”
Then, in November 1989, she decided to cut off her mullet hairstyle. However, she immediately felt sorry about it. So, from the next February onwards, she started to let it grow again and has not trimmed it since then.
A mullet is a hairstyle that is often described as having short hair on the front, top, and sides, and long hair at the back. People call it “business in the front and a party in the back. ”
This was a very popular style in the 1980s and early 1990s. It was worn by famous people like Billy Ray Cyrus, Mario Lopez, and Patrick Swayze. MsManis said that she often surprises people because they don’t realize how long her hair is until she turns around.
MsManis believes that she was able to grow her hair very long because her genes are responsible for it.
She said that she also makes a conditioner with Argan oil in it.
But having such a long mullet can be challenging. First, Ms Manis has very long hair, even longer than her height. Because of this, she usually braids her hair to make it easier to handle.
Before she became a World Record holder, Ms. Manis participated in the 2022 US Mullet Championships and came in second.
Not long after, Guinness World Records created a new category for the longest competitive mullet. They told Ms Manis to apply.
She found out she had the special title when she got a certificate from Guinness delivered to her front porch.
She said, “I thought it was amazing when I opened it. ”
Families in Johannesburg, South Africa are looking for their loved ones in mortuaries after a very bad fire happened in a building, which is one of the worst in the country’s history.
At least 76 people died in the fire, including 12 kids.
Scared and very worried, a man from Malawi named Grif arrived at the Diepkloof morgue. He only told his first name.
There were a lot of bodies, some of them badly burned, and he found one of his two missing younger sisters.
The 26-year-old received a phone call early on Thursday morning about a fire. He quickly went to several hospitals in the city to search for Miriam and Fatima. After a few hours, he realized that he needed to look for something else.
On Friday, he started checking the morgues in the city and eventually went to Dieplkloof in Soweto, Johannesburg, where all the victims were taken.
He was standing outside a short building, crying and very tired. He told the BBC that he could recognize one of his sisters.
The word ‘lucky’ might not be suitable here, but the officials say that only 12 out of over 70 bodies can be recognized just by looking at them.
Grif said he will continue looking for his sister who is lost.
The two women lived together in a cramped and rundown five-story building in downtown Johannesburg. Grif lived in a place that was like the one close by.
It is believed that many of the victims are undocumented migrants who struggle to survive on the outskirts of South African society.
“Grif said he is feeling a lot of pain. ” And I’m afraid to share with my family. “It hurts a lot and there is nothing I can do. ”
Earlier today, the firefighters went back into the building to check if there were any more bodies.
We don’t know what caused the fire yet, but investigators are searching through the destroyed building to find out more.
The government said they will help all the victims, but it’s hard for many of them because they don’t have the right papers to be in the country. Some people are worried that if they speak up, they might be reported to the authorities.
According to Malawi’s foreign ministry, as reported by Reuters, it is believed that twenty people from Malawi have died.
Tanzania’s temporary leader, Peter Shija, stated that he has learned that five of his fellow Tanzanians passed away in the fire, and three others were hurt. He told a news broadcaster in South Africa called eNCA that 150 Tanzanians were living in the building before it caught on fire.
President Cyril Ramaphosa visited the central area of Johannesburg on Thursday evening. He said the tragic incident should make us realize that we need to start finding solutions for the housing situation in the city center.
The building used to be a safe place for women and children who were being hurt by others. But when the rental period ended, someone took control of it without permission, as President Ramaphosa told the journalists.
Several buildings near the location of the fire have been declared unsuitable for habitation.
However, these old buildings are left behind by their owners or the city authorities, and many families live in them. These families often have to pay rent to criminal gangs who control the buildings.
Some of the people who use the buildings are undocumented migrants, mainly from other African countries.
In many of these places, the living conditions are like shanty towns. The homes have weak walls, and there is hardly any access to water and electricity.
There are suggestions that a candle, paraffin stove, or a bad electricity connection could have caused the fire on Thursday.
The country is starting to come out of winter, and the nights in Johannesburg have been quite cold, with temperatures dropping to 4C.
Veteran journalist and managing editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jr., has strongly criticised officials from the Bank of Ghana regarding the condition of Ghana’s economy.
Addressing an Arise Ghana gathering in Accra on Thursday, August 31, 2023, Kwesi Pratt remarked that officials from the Bank of Ghana, including the governor, primarily emphasize their academic credentials but lack effectiveness in managing the country’s economy.
He further commented that despite their extensive academic qualifications, the scholars working at the central bank were unable to prevent the deterioration of Ghana’s economy.
“Nonsense… all of those universities and those degrees have not prevented the cedi from losing value from GHS4.20 to $1, today, we are exchanging the cedi at GHS12 for $1. No Harvard degree managed to stop this. So, don’t waste our ears with your Harvard degree. We don’t care,” he said.
The veteran journalist made these remarks as he was kicking against the notion that statutory state institutions, like the Bank of Ghana and their heads, should be treated as independent and devoid of interference by the central government.
According to him, it does not make sense that the president of the republic who appoints the heads of these state institutions is answerable to the people of Ghana but these heads, like the governor of the Bank of Ghana, are not.
Pratt, therefore, called for a review of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana so these state institutions can be checked.
Mr. Pratt, who was particularly not happy about the independence of the Bank of Ghana, indicated that academics and the technocrats at the central bank have messed up Ghana’s economy because they answer to nobody.
“The independence of the governor and so on must be thrown into the wastepaper basket, thrown into the dustbin. It has no relevance throughout our history. In whatever we do, it is the will of the people which does matter.
“In whatever we do, it is that taxi driver, that ‘nika nika’ operator, that chop bar operator, it is their while, their interest which must move us forward and not the interest of some godforsaken academics, whose only boast is that they went to Harvard and they have doctorates in economics and so on,” he said.
Ghanaian musician and entrepreneur, famously known as Guru, whose real name is Nana Yaw Maradona, recently shared some insights into his family background during an interview with Zionfelix.
While many Ghanaians often talk about their humble beginnings, Guru revealed that his upbringing was quite the opposite. He explained that his parents enjoyed considerable wealth while he was growing up, and their affluence was evident in their lifestyle in Darkuma at that time.
The ‘Pooley’ hitmaker went on to describe his parents as the epitome of what Ghanaians commonly refer to as ‘borga,’ as they had spent most of their lives in Europe and accumulated substantial wealth and assets through their hard work overseas.
In a surprising revelation, Guru mentioned that his parents gifted him a car when he entered secondary school, which allowed him to start driving during his first year of high school. He emphasized that this was not an ordinary occurrence for a typical student.
Guru further disclosed that his siblings, including a brother and a sister, had similar experiences due to their parents’ affluence. He pointed out that his parents’ prosperity extended to his entire family.
Despite his parents’ wealth, Guru revealed that they strongly disapproved of his decision to pursue a career in music during his academic years. They had high expectations for him to focus on his studies and build a more conventional future for himself.
Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jr., has expressed doubts regarding the autonomy of constitutional organizations within the nation.
He suggested that these institutions leverage their assertion of independence to create problems within the country.
He made these remarks during the Arise Ghana public forum, which was coordinated by the minority in collaboration with certain Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), as part of their preparations for the planned demonstration on September 5, 2023.
“The Electoral Commission messes up, if you complain, they come and say they are independent. Bank of Ghana messes up when you complain, their refrain is that we are independent. All these constitutional bodies when they mess up, their excuse is that they are independent. Independent of what and from what. That is the question you should be asking,” he challenged.
Kwesi Pratt Jr. also challenged the idea that constitutional bodies are placed above the welfare and concerns of the Ghanaian populace.
The veteran journalist argued that all these bodies are to submit to the will of the citizens in the country.
“Is there a constitutional body that can act in the interests of Ghana, certainly not. There shouldn’t be any constitutional body that is above the people of Ghana.
“And so, all the state institutions, like the Bank of Ghana, National Commission for Civil Education (NCCE), the Electoral Commission and so on, they are all subject to the will of the people of Ghana,” he added.
Turning his attention to the economic challenges facing the country, Kwesi Pratt Jr. painted a plain picture of the financial constraints.
He stated that as of now, the country is dead broke.
“We know that today, we need 128% of total national revenue to repay debt, pay interest on debt and pay public sector workers. What else paints the picture than the situation in which we find ourselves today? We are dead broke,” he said.
“When we repay debt, we service debt and pay public sector workers, we cannot buy a bottle of water. That is the state of the Ghanaian economy,” Kwesi Pratt said.
He claimed that the shootout, which lasted 90 minutes and resulted in the deaths of 16 males and 2 women who were the suspects, and the critical injury of one police officer.
Additionally, the police claim to have discovered explosives at the location that were supposed to be utilised in a crime.
Gospel musician Perez Musik is dedicated to making a positive impact on lives through his Glorified concert, and he’s set to do just that with the second edition of the event, which took place at Victory Bible Church in Awoshie on Sunday, August 27.
The proceeds from the concert, which featured artists like Cindy Thompson and Joe Beecham, are being donated to an orphanage.
“I want to be a blessing to many people. Therefore, my team and I will be donating the proceeds from this show to an orphanage. I don’t need to be wealthy to give to others, but I can give what I have to those in need. The Bible teaches that there is more blessing in giving than in receiving,” Perez Musik shared in an interview with Graphic Showbiz.
Frank Nii Okai Tagoe, known as Perez Musik, explained that the Glorified concert also serves as a platform to draw many people to Jesus. The positive feedback and testimonies from the first concert inspired him to organize this year’s event.
“Although it’s not easy to organize such shows, especially when you are financing all the expenses, the testimonies we received last year have been encouraging. Most importantly, the thought of helping the less privileged through my benevolence motivated me, and nothing will deter me from bringing smiles to people’s faces,” he stated.
The VGMA 2023 Songwriter of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year appealed for support and sponsorship to make next year’s event even better.
“A major sponsor would help take the concert to the next level. I want to make it a grand event, but the financial resources are currently limited. Anyone who has attended Glorified can attest to its excellent organization,” he added.
Perez Musik, who has been involved in music for five years, has performed at prominent events such as the VGMA and Adom Praise. He is well-known for songs like “Hewale Lala,” “Blema Tesaa,” and “Fresh Fire,” among others.
A man from the Proud Boys group was given a prison sentence of 10 years for leading the attack on the US Capitol. He broke into the building using a police shield and recorded himself smoking a celebratory cigar.
Dominic Pezzola, a 46-year-old man who used to be in the US Marine, had a physical altercation with the officers during the attack on Congress on January 6, 2021.
He was found guilty of attacking police officers and interfering with a government process.
Another member of the Proud Boys group, Ethan Nordean, will receive his punishment for a more severe charge of seditious conspiracy on Friday.
A video selfie taken during the riot shows Pezzola smoking a celebratory cigar inside the Capitol building.
On Friday, Pezzola, who was feeling emotional, showed some regret for what he did. The judge heard from his wife, daughter, and mother. His mother said he was a great child who never caused any problems.
After the judge finished giving the prison sentence and left, he shouted: “Trump won. ”
The Proud Boys, a group that began as a social club for drinking, considered themselves as supporters of Donald Trump and were one of the first to participate in the demonstration at the Capitol on January 6th. The people causing a disturbance broke through the police lines and went inside the building to try to stop Congress from approving Joe Biden‘s win in the election.
Pezzola and Nordean were part of a group. They were taken to court with three other people from the same group. These people include a former chairman named Enrique Tarrio, and two military veterans named Joe Biggs and Zachary Rehl.
On Thursday, Biggs and Rehl were given prison sentences of 17 and 15 years each. Tarrio will be given his punishment next week and could possibly go to prison for 33 years.
Proud Boy extremists are now targeting drag shows.
Out of the group of five people, Pezzola was the only one found not guilty of seditious conspiracy. This charge is given to those who are accused of planning to overthrow the government or use force to stop laws from being enforced.
But the prosecutors said that Pezzola’s violent actions during the riot deserved a severe punishment.
Prosecutors wrote in a document that Pezzola’s actions and testimony clearly show that he wanted to scare or force the government to act a certain way. “He did bad things related to terrorism on January 6th. ”
On Friday, Judge Timothy Kelly told Pezzola that he had an important part in the Capitol riot, even though he wasn’t a leader in the Proud Boys group.
Judge Kelly said that what happened was a disgrace for the whole country.
During the trial, Pezzola argued that the people in the crowd were protesters who were trespassing, not an invading force. He kept minimizing his own actions during the riot.
He also said that he acted that way because he fell back on his military training when he saw the police trying to break up the crowd by using non-lethal weapons.
“In the army and Marine Corps, you never go in the opposite direction and escape,” Pezzola stated.
“You are trained to not consider the instinct to flee. ” You are trained to move toward the danger.
In an interview with the Washington Post after he was found guilty, Pezzola said the trial was completely unfair and repeated strange claims that the riot was a planned event by government officials and informants.
Ethan Nordean, who was seen as a leader in the Proud Boys, is scheduled to be sentenced on Friday.
During the trial, the prosecutors mentioned that he played a role in planning and organizing the group both before and during the riot. This included soliciting donations for communication devices and safety equipment.
Over 1,100 people have been arrested for causing riots. Out of those arrested, 630 people have admitted their guilt and over 110 people have been found guilty.
The Oath Keepers founder, Stewart Rhodes, received the longest prison sentence to date, which is 18 years, in May.
Commissioner of Police (COP) Alex Mensah disclosed that he was summoned to the office of Bugri Naabu, the paramount chief of the Namong traditional area in the Northern Region, for a meeting that ultimately led to the leaked audio detailing plans to oust Inspector General of Police (IGP) George Akuffo Dampare.
He revealed that in the course of their meeting, Bugri Naabu explicitly stated that the present IGP, Dampare, would be discharged from his position in the near future. Therefore, he was actively seeking individuals who could assume the role once it became available.
At a committee hearing held on Friday, September 1, 2023, COP Alex Mensah recounted the circumstances in which one of his fellow police officers endorsed Bugri Naabu as a capable candidate for the position of Inspector General of Police (IGP).
“My going to Mr. Bugri Naabu was through his own invitation and the purpose was that the current IGP [George Akuffo Dampare], the probability that they are going to change him is high and they are looking for somebody who can do the job, and do it well.
“Bugri Naabu invited me because one of my boys, the police officers, had gone to tell him that if they were looking for a new Inspector General of Police (IGP), then the man that he thinks could do the job and do it well is COP George Alex Mensah. And Bugri Naabu said Oh, is that so? Then bring him and let me see him. That is why I [COP Alex Mensah] ended up at Bugri Naabu’s office,” he said.
COP Alex Mensah further disclosed that the utterances of Bugri Naabu gave him the impression that he was scouting for a new IGP because Akuffo Dampare would be sacked soon due to his poor management of the police service.
“My impression was that yes, he was scouting for a new IGP. He [Bugri Naabu] made it clear. And that is why I was even surprised about some of the audio, that is why I said the audio was edited because he said so many things about this current IGP what he has done, and what he’s not doing.
“The promise he [IGP Dampare] gave him [Bugri Naabu] has not been satisfied and the fact that the likelihood of him being changed is about 100%, so he is scouting for one person who can do the work well,” he narrated.
Background:
A leaked audio recording, allegedly involving a Police Commissioner and a politician discussing a plot to remove the Inspector General of Police (IGP), George Akuffo Dampare, has ignited public outrage.
In the said video, a Police Commissioner, who described himself as Mensa, was heard with Bugri Naabu, plotting the removal of IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare over fears he will be too firm in the 2024 elections. The Police Commissioner, who is said to be retiring, is heard telling the politician that the IGP is too firm and will not allow machinations in next year’s polls if he is not removed. He further notes that the nature of security the IGP provided during the Assin North by-election shows he will not allow any rigging in the polls.
“This IGP won’t help us. He won’t, he wants everything to be done fairly and we don’t win elections that way. If we don’t remove him, we can’t break the 8, in politics we need machinations and this IGP won’t allow that,” the Police Commissioner is heard saying.
The Parliament of Ghana has set up a 7-member committee to conduct a probe into the leaked tape after calls by the NDC Members of Parliament.
Proponents of the government have however stated that the allegations in the said tape should not be taken seriously because the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has no plans to change IGP Dr Geroge Akuffo Dampare.
