After a man allegedly fell into a river and vanished, three individuals were detained on murder suspicion.
When a man told police that his companion, a man in his 20s, had fallen down an embankment and into the River Wye in Hereford, the police initiated a search operation.
However, police now think that the missing man was involved in a fight before the early-morning Saturday incident near Victoria Bridge.
The arrests have been disclosed to his family.
The man hasn’t been located despite the best efforts of fire personnel, paramedics, specially trained police search officers, and a police aircraft.
Along the riverside, a police perimeter and scene guard are still in place.
According to police, searches will probably last for a while with expert assistance.
Detective Chief Inspector Tony Garner, the senior investigating officer, stated: “Teams have searched the river again today, but regrettably have not been successful in locating the missing individual.
The arrests have been disclosed to his family.
“While our investigations are still in their early stages, we have now detained three persons on suspicion of murder in response to new information that the missing guy was involved in a fight.
They are currently being held by the police while we continue to look into the events that may have led up to the moment the man is thought to have entered the river.
“If anyone has any information that could help with our investigations, we urge them to get in touch with us. The information they provide could be crucial in putting the pieces of this tragic incident together.”
The Hereford city centre was the scene of an incident late last night, and West Mercia Police is asking any witnesses who may have seen it to come forward.
The EU has suspended all security cooperation with Niger after the country’s army took power in a coup.
It comes shortly after the US declared its “unflagging support” for ousted president Mohamed Bazoum – seen as a key Western ally in the fight against Islamist militants.
On Friday the head of the presidential guards unit Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani declared himself Niger’s new leader.
He said insecurity, economic woes and corruption led him to seize power.
But there are now concerns in the West about which countries the new leader will align with.
Niger’s neighbours, Burkina Faso and Mali, have both pivoted towards Russia since their own coups.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell joined the US and France in refusing to recognise the coup leaders and said security cooperation and budgetary aid was being suspended indefinitely.
Also on Saturday the African Union called on the Niger army to return to base within 15 days.
Mohamed Bazoum – Niger’s first elected leader to succeed another since independence in 1960 – is currently thought to be in good health, and still held captive by his own guards.
On Friday evening US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned those detaining him that “hundreds of millions of dollars of assistance” was at risk.
However, the leader of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group has reportedly described the coup as a triumph.
“What happened in Niger is nothing other than the struggle of the people of Niger with their colonisers,” Yevgeny Prigozhin was quoted as saying on a Wagner-affiliated Telegram channel.
“With colonisers who are trying to foist their rules of life on them and their conditions and keep them in the state that Africa was in hundreds of years ago.”
He added: “Today this is effectively gaining their independence.”
The BBC has not been able to verify the authenticity of his reported comments.
Wagner is believed to have thousands of fighters in countries including the Central African Republic (CAR) and Mali, where it has lucrative business interests but also bolsters Russia’s diplomatic and economic relations.
Wagner fighters have been accused of widespread human rights abuses in several African countries.
Gen Tchiani, 62, has been in charge of the presidential guard since 2011 and was promoted to the rank of general in 2018 by former President Issoufou.
He had also been linked to a 2015 coup attempt against the ex-president, but appeared in court to deny it.
On Friday Gen Tchiani said his junta took over because of problems in Niger including insecurity, economic woes and corruption.
He also addressed Niger’s global allies, saying the junta would respect all of the country’s international commitments, as well as human rights.
But the junta has had strong words for those who oppose them, accusing members of the ousted government who have taken refuge in foreign embassies of plotting against them.
They said any such attempt would lead to bloodshed, which has so far been avoided.
Life in the capital Niamey has largely returned to normal with markets and shops open, but civil servants have been told to go home.
Meanwhile Nigeriens have mixed feelings about the coup, with some saying insecurity in the country wasn’t severe enough to justify a coup. But others have supported the junta.
Niger’s coup is the latest in a wave of military takeovers that have hit the West African region in recent years, toppling governments in countries including Mali, Guinea and Burkina Faso.
It also comes as a big blow to the leadership of regional body ECOWAS. Just two weeks ago, the bloc’s chairman, President Bola Tinubu, warned that terrorism and the emerging pattern of coups in West Africa had reached alarming levels and demanded urgent, concerted actions.
This is the fifth coup in Niger since it gained independence from France in 1960, on top of other unsuccessful takeover attempts.
The Coalition of Small Business Owners (CSBO) is calling on Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to halt the implementation of taxes on Lottery and Sports Betting firms, as well as their customers.
In response to the recent announcement of a 20% tax on the revenue of Lottery and Sports Betting Companies and a 10% tax on winnings, the Coalition of Small Business Owners (CSBO) is urging Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to suspend these tax measures.
The CSBO are expressing concerns about the potential repercussions on both companies and customers, seeking a reconsideration of the tax implementation.
According to the convener of the group, Justice Ayeh Donkor, the lottery and sports betting taxes are undermining private sector growth and collapsing businesses.
Since assuming office in 2016, the Akufo-Addo-led government has introduced about 22 taxes, this, the group argues has created a hostile business environment which is affecting the private sector.
“Government is becoming highly insensitive to the plight of businessmen in the country. The 20% and 10% taxes on Lottery/Sports Betting would go a long way to collapse the business of the National Lottery Authority and Lotto Marketing Companies,” he stressed.
In 2015, a withholding tax of 5%, under Act 896, was imposed on the winnings of a lottery.
In 2016, the Income Tax Amendment Act 907 exempted the first ¢2,592 while any excess winning above ¢2,592 was taxable at 5%.
But Mr Ayeh Donkor says, “The NPP then in opposition promised Lotto Marketing Companies to remove those taxes and even restore the Retailer Commission to 25% for the LMCS but the NPP Government has failed to honour these promises.”
He explained that in 2017, the National Lottery Authority made a proposal to the Ministry of Finance for the scrapping of taxes as a way of attracting more mainstream operators. The taxes were subsequently removed.
However, in 2023, the Government reintroduced the taxes now at a new rate of 20% on the company’s revenue and 10% on winnings respectively.
In view of this, the group is “calling on Ken Ofori-Atta and government to immediately suspend the 20% and 10% taxes imposed on Lottery and Sports Betting companies and winnings respectively.
“We shall resist these taxes at all cost and also demonstrate against the Government and Ken Ofori-Atta should the Finance Minister fail to address the issue during the Mid-Year Budget review”.
Deputy Attorney-General and Minister for Justice has affirmed the government’s dedication to the passage of the Conduct of Public Officers Bill.
This commitment signals the administration’s focus on fostering transparency and accountability among public officers, a matter of great importance to Ghanaians and various pressure groups.
Alfred Tuah Yeboah asserts that the Bill will be passed before the current government’s term comes to an end.
According to him, for what has been so far and the discussions he has been involved in, the Bill be passed in the national interest.
In a discussion on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, July 29, Mr Tuah Yeboah urged Ghanaians to be hopeful of its passage.
“We are still committed to having that (Conduct of Public Officers Bill) passed. It is considered that it has taken a long time for Parliament to pass it, but I can give that the assurance that this government and what has been done and for what I know speaking as the Deputy Attorney-General, this bill definitely be passed.”
Already, OccupyGhana has called on the government to liaise with Parliament to pass the Conduct of Public Officers Bill to help check and regulate the wealth of persons serving in public portfolios.
The pressure group in a statement said the President must summon an emergency cabinet meeting for the sole purpose of finding ways to approve the Bill.
These calls were made on the back of reports of some stolen monies from the Abelemkpe home of former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah.
The Minister caused the arrest and prosecution of her domestic staff who allegedly stole monies including $1 million dollars, €300,000, several sums of Cedis, and other items from her residence.
OccupyGhana said the passage of the Bill will help check instances such as the one Madam Dapaah finds herself in but “the Government appears inexplicably unwilling or unprepared to approve the Bill and transmit it to Parliament for enactment.”
The group urged “Ghanaians, fellow Civil Society Organisations and the media, to join us in this campaign to ensure that Cabinet approves the Bill and forwards it to Parliament and that Parliament passes the Bill into law, all at the earliest times possible.”
Attorney General, Godfred Yeboah Dame in the coming days is expected to issue advice on the Cecilia Dapaah scandal.
This is because the Ghana Police Service has forwarded the docket of the case to the Attorney General.
“Following a case of stealing reported to the police by Daniel Osei-Kuffour and Cecilia Dapaah, former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, the Police initiated investigations into the case, arrested some suspects, recovered some of the stolen items and arraigned the suspects before court.”
“Police have since forwarded the docket to the Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice for review and advice,” Ghana Police Service announced in a statement.
But some Ghanaians have expressed their displeasure about the decision by the A-G.
Dr Justice Srem-Sai said until Cecilia Dapaah does that, she cannot allege inconsistencies in the figures the police have reported.
The Minister is reported to have called for the arrest and prosecution of her domestic staff who allegedly stole monies including $1 million dollars, €300,000, several cedis and other items from her private residence.
But Cecilia Dapaah in a statement dated Friday, July 21, 2023, said there are “noticeable inconsistencies between what is being discussed in the public domain and the thrust of the original complaint on the matter.”
She said she is taking steps to examine the origins of the inconsistencies and will provide a detailed response in the coming days.
But Dr Srem-Sai speaking on Newsfile on Saturday, July 29, said the amounts reported by police ought to be believed.
According to him, the police have conducted a thorough investigation into the matter.
“On the scale of who is more likely to be right with regards to the amounts involved, I think the police is more likely to be right because the police have spoken to a number and the extent to which they have gone with this investigation, I think every fair-minded person should be able to come to this basis conclusion that it is possible that the police have not information on the tracing of the money and whatever happened more than the complainant herself.”
“In any case, I’ve listened to all the discussions and read all the press releases not for once has the complainant herself come out with how much she thinks she has.
“So if you’re saying what the police are saying is not correct, you need to tell us what or how much was stolen from you. So it is not enough to just say what the police are saying is not correct,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Minister resigned from her position on Friday, July 22.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor subsequently placed her under arrest for suspected corruption and corruption-related offences and subsequently conducted a search of her home.
The OSP has said it will update the public on the completion of its investigation.
Tragedy struck on Thursday, July 27, 2023, during a Homowo ritual fishing expedition, as two fishermen lost their lives. The fishing activity had been authorized by the Tema Traditional Council, but the early morning outing took a devastating turn, leaving the community in grief and mourning.
According to a report from graphic.com.gh, the incident occurred at the anchorage of the Tema Port when a patrol speed boat purportedly collided with the fishermen’s canoe, leading to the tragic loss of lives.
The identity of the patrol boat remains undisclosed, but certain members of the fishing community have directed suspicion towards the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), suggesting that the boat might be under their ownership.
However, in a press statement, the GPHA denied any connection with the boat in question.
The canoe, named “Adesa Na Ohetsui” (Man, have patience), was carrying 12 fishermen when the tragedy struck.
The ritual fishing expedition was part of the preparations for the upcoming Homowo festival.
Nevertheless, conflicting reports surfaced, suggesting that the fishermen might have defied the closed fishing season, scheduled to end on July 31, 2023
According to the report, the incident occurred around 1:30 am when the fishermen were in the process of hauling their nets within the anchorage.
The patrol boat, reportedly deployed by port control following reports of alleged illegal activities, approached the scene.
To escape, the fishermen’s canoe was tragically hit, causing it to capsize with the nets entangling the deceased.
The victims were identified as Francis Tetteh Larbi, aged 27, and Samuel Acquaye Allotey, aged 45, both residents of Tema New Town.
Their untimely demise sparked anger and outrage among the fishing community, who demanded an independent investigation into the incident and accountability from the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority.
As the police attempted to retrieve the bodies, a tense situation arose when the crowd at the Canoe Landing Basin refused to allow the police to convey the deceased in a police pick-up truck, insisting that their kinsmen were not criminals.
Eventually, a hearse was summoned to convey the bodies to the International Maritime Hospital mortuary for autopsy and preservation.
Superintendent Charles Osei, Commander of the Marine Police Unit in Tema, confirmed the incident and revealed that investigations were underway to establish the identity of the boat and the cause of the collision.
While the GPHA refuted any involvement in the collision, it expressed regret for the loss of lives and extended its condolences to the families of the deceased. The GPHA emphasized its commitment to search and rescue missions, regardless of the circumstances.
In response to the tragic event, the Tema Metropolitan Security Committee (MESEC) has established a five-member committee to investigate the incident and submit its report within five days. The fishing community, still mourning the loss of their fellow fishermen, awaits answers and reassurance that such accidents will be prevented in the future.
In the eastern Ukrainian city of Dnipro, two buildings were damaged by missiles, causing at least nine injuries, including two children.
A BBC team on the scene reported that the strike on Friday evening nearly entirely demolished the top floor of a big residential tower block.
According to President Volodymyr Zelensky, a building owned by Ukraine’s security services (SBU) was also struck.
He cited “Russian missile terror” as the cause.
A video that Mr. Zelensky sent to Telegram showed smoke rising from damaged buildings and a fire on the ground.
Following the incident, he claimed to have called urgent meetings with the SBU, the interior ministry, the emergency services, and local politicians.
Two teenagers, ages 14 and 17, were among the injured, according to Serhiy Lysak, the regional chief. He also mentioned that they were receiving care at home.
According to Mr. Lysak, the strike began at 20:30 local time (17:30 GMT), but no fatalities have been reported since then.
According to Borys Filatov, the mayor of Dnipro, this was Russia’s third attack on the SBU building.
He added that the residential block had recently been finished and flats were being placed up for sale, noting that both structures were virtually empty.
It follows Russia’s announcement on Friday that it had shot down two Ukrainian missiles over the Ukraine-bordering Rostov region in the country’s south.
According to Moscow, debris falling in the southern port city of Taganrog injured 15 people.
The first S-200 missile, according to the Russian defence ministry, was directed against “residential infrastructure” in the roughly 250,000-person city.
Shortly after, it claimed to have shot down a second S-200 missile close to the city of Azov, with the missile’s debris landing in a rural region.
In an explosion that occurred close to the “Chekhov Garden” cafe in the heart of Taganrog, Rostov area Governor Vasily Golubev reported that 15 individuals had “light injuries” from shards.
Nearly 25 miles (40 km) from the Ukrainian border, Taganrog is situated on the Sea of Azov shore.
Additionally, the town is near a road that leads to Mariupol, a strategic port city that was shelled by Russian forces and destroyed.
A Saturday explosion at a fireworks warehouse in a market in southern Thailand resulted in at least nine fatalities and more than 115 injuries.
It is believed that building work was what set off the explosion at Sungai Kolok, near the Malaysian border, at around 15:00 local time (09:00 BST).
According to the local governor, the market fire is currently under control.
According to a preliminary examination, a “technical error” during the welding of steel was to blame, according to Sanon Pongaksorn.
Several stores, homes, and cars were severely damaged by the intensity of the explosion, including several that were on fire or had their rooves torn off, according to footage that was released in local media. A massive smoke plume could be seen rising from the market.
Seksan Taesen, a witness who lives 100 metres (330 feet) from the market, reported hearing a “loud, thunderous noise and my whole house shook” while he was at home.
“I then noticed my roof was completely exposed. When I turned to look outside, I noticed a collapsed house and numerous individuals sprawled on the ground. Chaos reigned, he told AFP.
The safety record of Thailand’s construction sector is dismal, and fatal accidents are frequent.
A road bridge in Bangkok’s capital city collapsed onto traffic last month, killing two people.
Kissing is undeniably a wonderful experience, which may seem peculiar when pondered from afar due to its unique mechanics. If you were to imagine explaining the art of kissing to an inquisitive alien from Planet X, known for its curiosity, it would indeed be quite awkward.
You might begin by stumbling over your words, trying to convey that kissing involves physical attraction triggered by pheromones and the act of pressing your mouth against another’s while intertwining tongues, all in an attempt to generate a sense of intimate warmth.
Admittedly, this description may appear shocking, and it might even momentarily deter you from kissing in the future. My apologies to the person with whom I am currently romantically involved!
Yet, despite this somewhat gross portrayal, kissing holds an incredible power to make us feel amazing. Beneath the surface, a myriad of physiological and chemical reactions take place within our bodies, contributing to our profound affection for locking lips.
Here are 6 strange things that happen to your body when you kiss someone:
Increased blood flow You feel all tingly for a reason. A good kiss sends blood surging, making your nipples stiff, your stomach fluttery, and your downstairs business all hot and bothered.
Adrenaline rush In the throes of passion, your body releases a rush of adrenaline. That’s why your heart races and your palms sweat, and all that stuff you read about in romance novels happens.
Brain party When you kiss someone your brain is like “Release the dopamine! Now the oxytocin! Time for this little gal to feel pleasure and an intense bonding connection. Also, she will BE FEARLESS LIKE UNTO THE GODS.” Because your brain is like, a little dramatic.
Enter the chill zone When you kiss someone it immediately reduces the amount of tension and stress you feel. This is when you’re kissing a partner or someone you’re attracted to, so don’t go clamping lips with strangers you meet at the airport if you get pre-flight jitters, okay?
Getting spitty with it Lololol I made a Gettin’ Jiggy With It joke just now! Oh god, what year is it? Okay, I’ve calmed down. When you kiss, you exchange up to 9 millimeters of saliva with your partner. That saliva includes 1 billion bacteria. But fret not, 95% of said bacteria are harmless. Sexy.
You work your muscles When you mash face meats with someone you engage 24 of your facial muscles and 100 of your other muscles. A particularly rigorous make-out session can burn up to 100 calories!
Planning a low-budget wedding requires creativity, resourcefulness, and careful consideration of expenses. Here are ten ways to plan a budget-friendly wedding:
Set a Realistic Budget: Determine a strict budget from the beginning and stick to it. Consider what elements are most important to you and allocate funds accordingly.
Choose a Budget-Friendly Venue: Opt for affordable venues such as local parks, community halls, or private backyards instead of expensive banquet halls or hotels.
DIY Decorations: Get crafty and create your own wedding decorations, centerpieces, and bouquets. Utilize affordable materials like candles, string lights, and seasonal flowers.
Limit the Guest List: Keep the guest list small and intimate, inviting only close family and friends. Fewer guests mean reduced expenses on catering, seating, and favors.
Simple Invitations: Use electronic invitations or opt for simple, cost-effective wedding stationery instead of elaborate custom-made invitations.
Off-Peak and Weekday Weddings: Consider having your wedding on a weekday or during the off-peak season, as venues and vendors often offer discounts during these times.
Thrifty Wedding Attire: Look for budget-friendly wedding dresses, groom’s attire, and bridesmaid dresses. Consider renting or buying second-hand outfits to save money.
Potluck or Buffet-style Catering: Instead of hiring a full-service caterer, consider a potluck-style meal or buffet, where guests bring their favorite dishes to share.
BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage): If the venue permits, have a “bring your own beverage” policy where guests can bring their drinks, saving on the cost of an open bar.
Digital Entertainment: Instead of hiring a live band or DJ, create playlists and use digital music services to provide entertainment during the reception.
By implementing these budget-saving strategies, you can plan a memorable and meaningful wedding without breaking the bank.
The Ghana Union Traders Association (GUTA) has presented a comprehensive proposal to the government, introducing the “tripod scheme” aimed at supporting and promoting the production and sale of made-in-Ghana goods. According to Joseph Obeng, the president of GUTA, this scheme involves the government allocating funds to industries, enabling them to offer supplier’s credit to distributors, which in turn supports the growth of the made-in-Ghana agenda.
By implementing this scheme, distributors can purchase locally-produced goods without upfront payments, making it easier for them to sell these products to consumers. GUTA members have faced challenges in securing local supplier’s credit, leading them to look beyond Ghana’s borders, where they can access foreign manufacturers’ 90 to 180 days of supplier’s credit to import goods produced elsewhere into the country.
Joseph Obeng likened the proposed tripod scheme to arrangements seen in EXIM Banks of other countries, where government-guaranteed loans are available to businesses exporting locally-produced goods to international markets. This not only facilitates businesses in obtaining the necessary financing to export their goods but also stimulates the sale of domestically-produced goods, thereby fostering economic growth.
During a visit to Avnash Industries, known for producing Golden Drop and Lafia vegetable oils, as well as Royal Farmers’ rice, GUTA aimed to assess local production levels and explore avenues for sourcing goods from local manufacturers. However, Avnash Industries, like other local manufacturing companies, has faced challenges such as high production costs, competition from cheaper imported edible oils, and trade policies from neighboring countries restricting exports within the sub-region.
Joseph Obeng emphasized that promoting made-in-Ghana goods requires practical and well-defined policies, not mere lip service, to enhance production and sales. He also suggested that the tripod scheme could be an effective way to utilize government-provided start-up capital, benefiting identifiable businesses sourcing locally-produced goods.
In the face of challenges hindering exports to certain markets, both GUTA and Avnash Industries remain hopeful that pragmatic policies and collaborations between businesses and the government will create a conducive environment to boost the Ghanaian economy and encourage the consumption of locally-made products.
In the wake of a disruptive incident that unfolded at Labone Senior High School on Wednesday, the La-Dadekotopon Municipal Education Directorate has swiftly initiated an investigation.
Authorities are working diligently to uncover the details surrounding the disturbance, which has prompted immediate action to ensure a thorough and comprehensive inquiry into the matter.
Viral videos circulating on social media captured chaotic scenes on the school campus as police resorted to firing warning shots to restore order.
In response to the incident, Habiba Kotoma, the La-Dadekotopon Municipal Education Director, addressed the public through a Citi News interview, debunking reports suggesting that the school was under siege by members of the township.
She clarified that the reports were inaccurate and the situation is currently being thoroughly investigated.
“We haven’t gathered enough facts. We have spoken with only the junior student so tomorrow (July 27), we will meet with the senior student so we can hear his side of the story and we can get the true fact of the incident. As of now, it is one-sided. He [a junior student] said he bought packs of food and the senior seized them and that got him angry so he decided to fight with the senior. Town folks were not involved. It is the students…his friends came to help him that’s all. They are students also but in form 2 who are on break right now. Yes, investigations have commenced” she said.
She indicated that no arrest was made “because it is within the school, they brought the situation under control even before the police came in” stressing that they bolted away upon hearing of the police presence.
According to some eyewitnesses, the incident on Wednesday took place around 3:20 pm and created a scene of chaos as persons believed to be members of the township invaded the school wielding cutlasses and other weapons.
“The incident started around 3:20 pm there about. We were at the park playing basketball when we saw the Labone students running so we turn back to look. We saw some town boys with cutlasses and knives that got people scared and afraid so we all started running because we don’t know what they might do. There, the Labone students also came with a cutlass to stop us from going to the park. Then the police came to sort the issue out. Everybody was scared, and panicking…girls were fainting. A student came out of the classroom shouting” one of them said.
A resident living in close proximity to the school in recounting the events to Citi News said the individuals believed to be from the nearby township stormed the school brandishing cutlasses and other weapons and were allegedly seeking retribution against a senior student who had reportedly assaulted a junior within the school premises
“We were around when we saw the alleged members from the town invade the school premise. They were holding cutlasses, stones and other things. We were unaware of what happened but the alleged members of the township really beat up the senior student. They were initially calling him a thief but that was later rebutted. A student informed us that a senior colleague had beaten a junior who allegedly initiated the retaliation” he said.
At the time of Citi News’ visit to the school, calm had been restored as normal school activities were ongoing.
Some students who witnessed the incident indicated that the police had been to the school earlier in the afternoon of Thursday to check on the security situation on campus.
Meanwhile, school authorities have been tight lipped on the matter. Citi News observed, however, that the administrators of the school held meetings with the La-Dadekotopon Municipal Education Director after she visited the school.
Former Ukrainian soldier who is being held by forces supported by Russia says he plans to return as an online reporter.
Despite being taken prisoner in April, Aiden Aslin was one of five British nationals who were freed in September.
Mr. Aslin, a resident of Newark, Nottinghamshire, who received a death sentence, said he was beaten and stabbed while a prisoner.
He has since declared that he will not engage in combat but instead report on the war from his YouTube channel.
In April, Mr. Aslin was taken prisoner during combat in Mariupol, a city in the southeast.
After being freed, he admitted that he had been held in a tiny cell with an open window, no toilets, and scant food.
In addition, he claimed, he had received punches, death threats, and orders to perform the Russian national anthem.
Analysis
It may seem strange to go back to Ukraine after such a horrible ordeal.
Aiden, though, has long accepted the dangers.
He lived in Ukraine for four years, and he still has a strong connection to it and a desire to participate in the struggle there.
Social media has a sizable audience for content that stirs up conflict. On Instagram, YouTube, and other platforms, a large number of combatants, civilians, and citizen journalists share their experiences, bringing us closer than ever to the horrors of conflict.
This is the channel Aiden now plans to utilise to draw attention to the struggle his former allies are still having. He believes he can offer a viewpoint that perhaps traditional media outlets cannot.
Now that Aiden is well-known in Ukraine, he will have access to more opportunities, but he is also aware that this could make things more dangerous.
Even if it is difficult for them, his family at home supports his decision.
Alexander Nikulin, the judge who executed Mr. Aslin and two other people, was shot and hurt earlier this month in what appears to have been an assassination attempt.
In September, ten prisoners, including Mr. Aslin, were freed after Saudi Arabia claimed to have arranged a trade between Russia and Ukraine.
Five of them, including Mr. Aslin, John Harding, Dylan Healy, Andrew Hill, and Shaun Pinner, were British citizens.
In the self-declared Donetsk People’s Republic, Mr. Aslin, Mr. Pinner, and a Moroccan citizen named Brahim Saadoun were put on trial and informed they would likely receive the death penalty.
A viral video circulating on social media, particularly on Twitter, has captured a significant moment at a wedding where the bride, an African American woman, chose to refrain from reciting a specific portion of her wedding vows that referred to the wife obeying her husband.
As the bride and groom proceeded to recite their vows and exchange wedding rings to formalize their union, the bride made a bold decision to omit the part of her vows that spoke about obeying her husband. She expressed that this particular aspect of the vows had not been discussed during their counseling sessions, and as a result, she did not feel comfortable making a promise to obey her husband in their marriage.
This powerful act by the bride has sparked widespread discussion and attention on social media, highlighting the importance of open communication and understanding between partners in a marriage. It also emphasizes the significance of individual agency and autonomy in the context of modern relationships. The video has resonated with many, leading to a broader conversation about traditional gender roles and expectations within marriages and relationships.
“In sickness, and in health, to love, cherish, and to obey…. we did not talk about that in counseling. I think we can keep down with it”, she said.
The actions of the bride have triggered contrasting opinions among netizens. Many disapprove of her decision and believe that a marriage where the wife does not promise to obey her husband might face challenges and may not endure. On the other hand, some netizens see nothing wrong with her choice, embracing more egalitarian views on marriage, where both partners share equal responsibilities and decision-making power. The divergent perspectives circulating online reflect the ongoing societal debate on gender roles and the evolving dynamics of modern relationships.
“If you marry the right man, obeying him will be the same as obeying God. If you’re worried about obeying your husband, then back to counseling you go”, a netizen shared.
“The Bible says the wife is supposed to honor and obey her husband as a leader, not as a master. Husbands are supposed to be unconditional servants to their wives”, another netizen wrote.
A social media user known as yksmith 1969 said that: “I did not say obey and told my pastor not to say it in our vows. He didn’t and we have been married for 30 years!”.
As reported by Ukrainian police, two British nationals have vanished in the country’s eastern Donetsk region.
The two men, 48-year-old Andrew Bagshaw and 28-year-old Christopher Parry, were volunteering, according to the police, and were last seen on Friday travelling to the town of Soledar, where there had been frequent fights.
The Foreign Office stated that it was “supporting the families”.
According to Mr. Bagshaw’s parents, they “love him dearly” and are “immensely proud of all the work he has been doing.”
Since Friday, communication with the two men has been completely cut off.
Mr. Parry, who is from Truro in Cornwall, recently assisted residents of Bakhmut in the eastern Donbas region in their evacuation as part of his humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.
He mentioned having a “drive to help, as the people here are so lovely” while speaking to BBC Cornwall over the holidays from Ukraine.
As he spent time close to the front line, he talked about the “continuous” bombardment and coming into contact with a drone “within about 10 metres of my face.”
The Cheltenham resident Mr Parry discussed how to raise money for vehicle repairs, petrol and equipment to aid evacuate civilians in his internet crowdfunding page. He also provided examples of how to assist children and families in leaving the front line.
His parents described the work he has been doing as “delivering food and medicines and assisting elderly people move from near the battlefront of the war” in a statement given to the media in New Zealand, where Mr. Bagshaw resides.
The Bakhmut police department reported receiving a missing person’s report at 17:15 local time on Saturday and issued a request for any information that would assist in locating the two males.
The men were in Kramatorsk, where there had recently been rumours of strikes.
They were last spotted travelling towards Soledar, a tiny village in the east. After a protracted conflict with Ukrainian forces, the UK’s Ministry of Defence stated on Tuesday that Russia was “likely” in charge of the majority of Soledar.
As the war enters its eleventh month, the British Foreign Office has issued an advisory against any travel to Ukraine due to recent attacks on a number of different cities.
The document states that there is a “real risk to life” and advises British nationals who are still in Ukraine to leave right away.
oing missing or being taken prisoner in Ukraine.
Five British citizens who were being held by forces with Russian support in September last year were freed after Saudi Arabia claimed to have arranged for the exchange of 10 detainees between Russia and Ukraine.
This meant that after being detained for months, Aiden Aslin, John Harding, Dylan Healy, Andrew Hill, and Shaun Pinner could all go back to their homes.
A former soldier who was taken prisoner and held captive by Russians has declared his intention to settle back in Ukraine.
Before being released last year, Aiden Aslin, a Newark resident, was imprisoned by forces in Mariupol that were supported by Russia and given the death penalty.
He revealed on the BBC’s Ukrainecast podcast that he would be returning to Ukraine with his Ukrainian fiancée, Diana Okovyta.
He intends to begin a career in conflict journalism there.
After completing the process of leaving the Ukrainian army, Mr. Aslin, who has published a book about his time in captivity, said he and Ms. Okovyta will want to settle down.
“It’s going to be a long drive, and hopefully everything will go as planned,” he remarked.
Although there is always a chance that you could be hurt or killed in one of the airstrikes, life goes on because we have been in Ukraine for such a long time, especially for a family that is there.
In addition, Mr. Aslin discussed his month-long detention by Russian military, which ended only after protracted discussions.
He described it as “like some old Soviet sort of police thing.”
There are no mattresses, only a concrete floor, no bathroom, and you get like a tiny piece of bread every day. In addition, everyone gets a two-liter bottle of water, so you’d be lucky to get maybe a quarter of a cup.
“Therefore, it’s just the bare minimum to keep you alive, and then on top of this, you have people that will get taken out – they’ll find out something about them, and you just hear them being taken beaten,”
Ghanaian Afro-pop sensation, KiDi, has unveiled his latest musical masterpiece, “Likor,” featuring the renowned reggae and dancehall artist, Stonebwoy, showcasing their exceptional talent and creativity to captivate audiences.
This release marks KiDi’s second offering for the year 2023, following the well-received “I Lied,” which earned widespread praise and adoration from fans and music critics alike.
“Likor” is a testament to KiDi’s versatility and musical prowess, as he effortlessly weaves together his distinctive style with Stonebwoy’s sultry vocals, resulting in an unforgettable musical experience that will resonate with listeners on a profound level.
Behind the scenes, a team of talented producers, including Beatz Vampire, Kayso, and KiDi himself, worked tirelessly to craft a sound that perfectly complements the two artists’ unique musical visions. Their dedicated efforts have undoubtedly paid off, creating a track that is destined to become a fan favorite for years to come.
As an artist who has already amassed a dedicated fanbase with previous releases, KiDi’s return was highly anticipated, and “Likor” undoubtedly lives up to the expectations. With his distinctive sound and captivating presence, KiDi has solidified his position as one of Ghana’s most sought-after and talented musical exports. “Likor” stands as a testament to his continued growth and prominence in the music industry, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what he has in store for the future.
As part of its ongoing effort to distance itself from Russia, Ukraine has changed the date of its state-sanctioned Christmas Day holiday from 7 January to 25 December.
A parliamentary measure to “abandon the Russian heritage of imposing Christmas celebrations” was made legislation by President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Kyiv has been severing its religious, cultural, and other links to Russia in recent years in order to align itself with the West.
Following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, this process intensified.
The legislation was approved by Ukrainian parliament two weeks ago, and Mr. Zelensky signed it on Friday.
The legislation also changes the dates of two other official holidays: Defenders’ Day, which honours veterans of the armed forces, goes from October 14 to October 1, and Day of Ukrainian Statehood moves from July 28 to July 15.
Moscow hasn’t spoken out publicly on the subject yet.
Ukraine has been under absolute control attempts for centuries, first by imperial Russia and afterwards by the Soviet Union, which was ruled from Moscow, but with no success.
This includes the Russian Orthodox Church’s (ROC) imposition of rule over Ukraine’s churches.
The Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual head of all Orthodox Christians, did, however, grant independence to the recently founded Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) in 2019.
The ROC, which has come out in open defence of President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, was incensed by the action.
The OCU, along with a number of other Orthodox churches, including the ROC, had previously observed Christmas Day on January 7 in accordance with the Julian calendar.
However, the OCU has since converted over to the more accurate Gregorian calendar that is used in most of the globe.
Since many Ukrainian believers have joined the OCU in recent years, the majority of them are now probably celebrating Christmas on December 25.
Additionally, some people may celebrate Christmas twice.
The Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), the other well-established branch with parishes all over the nation, is still followed by millions of people.
On the most recent developments, the UOC has not made any remarks.
In 2022, it formally announced its break with Moscow, but a number of its clergy have since faced legal action for their pro-Russian actions.
According to the UOC, there is no proof to back up the allegations of collusion.
Ukraine’s coat of arms, the Trident, will replace the Soviet emblem on Kyiv’s Motherland Monument, one of the highest sculptures in the world.
The decision by Ukraine to rescheduled Christmas is the nation’s newest measure to distinguish itself from its northeastern neighbour.
Renaming of streets honouring Russian and Soviet historical personalities has lately occurred in cities and villages around Ukraine.
The removal of several monuments and the Ukrainian prohibition on Russian films released after 2014 are similar.
Following Russia’s illegitimate annexation of the southern Crimean peninsula of Ukraine in March 2014, certain actions were taken.
Not only has Barbie dominated the box office, but the film’s soundtrack has also achieved tremendous success, conquering the UK music charts within just one week of its release. With tracks from renowned artists like Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa, and Nicki Minaj, the pink-tinged blockbuster’s soundtrack stormed straight into the top five positions, captivating music enthusiasts across the country.
The star-studded album didn’t stop there, as several other songs from the soundtrack also made their mark on the chart. Even Ryan Gosling’s ballad “I’m Just Ken” showcased its charm, securing the 25th spot, an achievement that would typically land it within the top 10.
In an unprecedented feat, the Official Singles Chart authorities have confirmed that it marks the first time in history that three tracks from a soundtrack have simultaneously reached the top five positions, solidifying the soundtrack’s widespread appeal and the popularity of Barbie’s cinematic adventure beyond the big screen.
Some of pop’s biggest names were behind the soundtrack’s pink, sparkly hits, and you might think that recruiting such a glitzy line-up would be hard work.
But the film’s music supervisor George Drakoulias tells BBC Newsbeat you’d be wrong.
“Nobody said no,” he says. “Everybody was really excited.”
That included two stars at the top of George’s wish list, Nicki Minaj and Lizzo, along with superstar writer and producer Mark Ronson.
George says he enticed Mark on to the project with a simple text message: “Hey Barbie?”
“He called me right back and we sent him a script,” says George. “That started the ball rolling.”
Mark ended up curating the soundtrack, writing the score and penning the film’s closing song, Dance the Night Away, with Dua Lipa.
Dolly Chartin’: Dua Lipa’s song Dance the Night Away was the first song from the soundtrack to be released The soundtrack’s also played a big part in Barbie’s massive marketing campaign.
Songs from the 17-track album have been steadily released in the run-up to the film’s release, which George says has “helped fuel excitement for the movie”.
“It was a perfect symbiotic relationship of the music driving the movie and the movie driving the music,” he says.
“Once you saw the movie and how well the music works, as soon as they left the theatre people went out and got the album.”
And, this being Barbie, physical copies of the soundtrack are available in “cotton candy” vinyl and on transparent pink cassette tapes.
Nicki Minaj collaborated with Ice Spice to release Barbie World, which has been streamed more than 42m times on YouTube George refuses to reveal his favourite track but says he was “blown away” by Billie Eilish’s What Was I Made For.
He says the singer was shown just 25 minutes of the film and managed to “take what she’d seen and encapsulate it into this heartbreaking song of being a woman”.
George says he’s very proud of the album and its success in the charts is “the icing on the cake”.
“It’s Barbie’s world, we just live in it,” he says.
Aqua’s Barbie Girl, sampled in Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice’s movie song, also returned to the chart for the first time since its original release in 1997.
And while plastic sure is fantastic, Dave and Central Cee kept the top spot, with Sprinter entering its eighth week at number one.
Olivia Rodrigo also sunk her teeth deeper into the number two slot, holding firm with Vampire.
At a campaign rally in Iowa, Republican presidential contenders appeared on stage together for the first time in the 2024 presidential contest.
Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump, the Republican Party’s top competitors, were the featured speakers at their annual Lincoln Dinner fundraiser.
During the occasion, each of the 13 contenders was given 10 minutes to speak.
Even as his legal troubles get worse, polls suggest that Mr. Trump is still ahead of his competitors.
He argued that the only reason he is facing a slew of criminal and civil allegations is because he is the only candidate who can win the election next year.
Mr. Trump has previously said that, even if he is found guilty, he will still seek the presidency.
More than 1,200 individuals, all of whom have a considerable impact on the Republican nominee, were gathered in the enormous ballroom.
Despite the fact that a lot of people claimed to be legitimately undecided about their vote, there were plenty of Trump bumper stickers in the throng.
Observing the many contenders’ interactions with one another was not enjoyable. When it came time for each of them to deliver their ten-minute address, they quickly emerged from their individual backstage suites. In reality, they were under no need to interact.
Watching the many contenders engage with one another was not amusing. Each of them got an own backstage suite from which they emerged to give their ten-minute address. Actually, they didn’t even need to interact with one another.
Vivek Ramaswamy captivated the audience and received a standing ovation for his barnstorming performance, exactly what he needed to achieve to become a breakthrough artist.
The performance of Will Hurd won’t be quickly forgotten, but for all the wrong reasons. When he claimed that Donald Trump is just running for president to avoid going to jail, the audience appeared to be really astonished.
The rest of his words were almost completely drowned out by raucous jeers and clinking silverware, with one man yelling “go home.” He had clearly lost track of the space.
The fundraiser on Friday comes a day after additional accusations were made against Mr. Trump for allegedly handling classified information improperly.
The former president is the front-runner for the Republican nomination, despite the fact that federal prosecutors have expanded their criminal investigation into him due to how he handled official papers after leaving office.
A FiveThirtyEight average of opinion polls shows that Mr Trump is leading the Republican field with 52.4% support, followed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis with 15.5% and everyone else with less than 10%.
Trump could soon face charges in Washington for allegedly trying to rig the 2020 election. He has refuted each and every accusation.
Voters will start narrowing the field of presidential candidates in each state until only one from each major party is left standing to run in the November 2024 election in Iowa.
On Friday, the ceremony was also attended by South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, former UN ambassador Nikki Haley, and former Vice President Mike Pence.
The former governor of New Jersey, Chris Christie, opted out of attending the event in favour of New Hampshire.
Since last Thursday, Mr. DeSantis has been in Iowa. He has promised to eventually travel to each of Iowa’s 99 counties in an effort to improve his standing both locally and nationally.
The governor of Florida has come under fire for the new educational requirements that have been adopted for middle schools in his state, especially from Republicans.
The 200-page curriculum’s statement that slaves acquired practical skills that “could be applied to their personal benefit” has stirred some debate.
One of three black Republicans running for president in 2024, Mr. Scott, told reporters on Thursday that the real purpose of slavery was to split up families, mutilate people, and even rape their wives. Simply catastrophic, that is.
So I would hope that everyone in our country would respect it, and certainly anyone running for president.
Local Iowan polls of public opinion suggest that Mr. Scott may be gaining ground.
A political dispute recently caused Mr. Trump to lose a supporter in the crucial state of Iowa.
A few days after Mr. Trump lambasted Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds for remaining neutral in the 2024 election, an Iowa state senator opted to support Mr. DeSantis instead.
How often have we clenched our teeth and shaken our heads at some of the former president’s statements? NPR was told by Jeff Reichman.
His lawyers emphasised on this when they were called to move his application for the Judge, Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe to recuse herself.
The former deputy finance minister who is accused of causing financial loss to the state filed the application following the grant of a witness summons he requested from the court. His lawyers had asked the court to issue witness summons for some of his witnesses including former health minister, Alex Segbefia, as they were facing difficulties in getting them to appear even though they had filed witness statements.
The judge, Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe before allowing the motion to be moved, inquired why they resorted to a motion compelling the appearance of the witnesses while admonishing the lawyers of Dr. Ato Forson of the consequences of issuing an arrest warrant for the witnesses if they fail to appear.
His lawyers led by Dr. Bassit Bamba insisted that was the best option due to the difficulty in securing their appearance to testify.
But weeks after this request was granted, lawyers of Dr. Ato Forson applied to the court for the judge to recuse herself on grounds that the admonishment by the judge amounted to bias. According to the lawyers, the caution by the judge was not only bias but also portrayed their witnesses as criminals who will willfully disobey a court order.
However, when the case was penned down for determination on Thursday, Dr. Bassit Bamba argued that the Judge does not even have jurisdiction to hear the application on whether she ought to recuse herself for the alleged bias.
He argued that the Judge hearing the matter will amount to her being a judge in her own case.
“The course which we are referring to has to do with certain prejudicial utterances that your ladyship has made in the course of hearing this matter.
“In that regard, your ladyship has become the subject matter of this application, we pray that your ladyship should decline to hear this matter, for this court is differently constituted to hear this application,” Dr. Bassit Bamba advanced in court.
He further argued that there is precedence to show that when the allegations involved are of grave bias, it warrants a call for the sitting Judge not to hear the application. In his view, statements of the Judge including a point that his case will be deemed to have been closed if the summoned witnesses do not appear and he does not secure the attendance of any other witnesses is an infringement on his client’s right to fair trial under article 19.
The judge then inquired why the application was filed in the first place if the applicant considered her unfit to hear the application.
Dr. Ato Forson’s lawyers also clarified that in their application for witness summons they didn’t claim unwillingness on the part of the witnesses to testify but rather a difficulty in reaching out to the witnesses.
The Judge who disagreed on what the records of proceedings were queried if the witnesses were willing, why did Ato Forson apply for the witness summons.
Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe further inquired if indeed the difficulty was just in reaching out to the witnesses, how was a witness summon going to help reach them.
Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame described the application as unmeritorious.
He argued that it is a settled position in law that a Judge whom bias has been alleged against has jurisdiction to hear the matter.
He further argued that the court has not in any way shown bias and all orders made are within the powers of the court.
Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe has adjourned the case to October 12 to deliver her ruling on both the objection to her jurisdiction to hear the matter and the substantive application for her to recuse herself.
Meanwhile, an application by Dr. Ato Forson for his passport to be released to him was not heard as the Judge was of the view that her capacity to hear the application will be based on the ruling to be delivered in October.
During Taylor Swift’s recent concerts in Seattle, her passionate and devoted fans, lovingly referred to as “Swifties,” surpassed all expectations by generating a minor earthquake with their energetic and earth-shaking dancing.
In the course of two exhilarating nights at Seattle’s Lumen Field on July 22 and 24, where Taylor Swift enthralled her devoted fans, lovingly known as “Swifties,” with her captivating performances as part of the “Eras” tour, their passionate and energetic dancing was so intense that it led to seismic activity being recorded, equivalent to a 2.3 magnitude earthquake; seismologist Jackie Caplan-Auerbach verified these seismic readings utilizing a local seismometer.
On that occasion, fans of the American Football team Seattle Seahawks erupted in response to an impressive touchdown by running back Marshawn “Beast Mode” Lynch.
Swift sold out both nights in Seattle, breaking the venue’s record of 70,000 people set by U2 in 2011. The Saturday show saw 72,171 “Swifties” in attendance.
Prof Caplan-Auerbach, a geologist at Western Washington University, said she saw the Swift comparison in a Pacific north-west earthquake group she moderates, so compared seismic data from both concerts and the 2011 NFL event.
“I grabbed the data from both nights of the concert and quickly noticed they were clearly the same pattern of signals,” she told CNN.
“The shaking was twice as strong as ‘Beast Quake’. It absolutely doubled it,” she said.
The Swifites’ ground-shaking dancing and cheering comprised around 10 hours of data, from both nights combined, with the massive energy generating the seismic activity.
“The music, the speakers, the beat. All that energy can drive into the ground and shake it,” Prof Caplan-Auerbach said.
Concerts do occasionally register seismic activity, such as a 2011 Foo Fighters gig in New Zealand, which was attended by 50,000 fans.
Swift herself appeared to thrive from the energy, thanking her Seattle crowd for “all the cheering, screaming, jumping, dancing, singing at the top of your lungs” in an Instagram post.
The “Eras” tour, Swift’s first in five years, is one of the most expensive ever, costing an estimated $100 million (£78 million) or more.
Member of Parliament (MP) for Adansi Asokwa and Trade Minister, KT Hammond, has reaffirmed that he did not make any prejudicial remarks concerning the trial of James Gyakye Quayson, the Member of Parliament for the Assin North Constituency.
Lawyers representing Gyakye Quayson filed a contempt application in response to comments made by the Trade and Industry Minister during a media interview, which they considered to be contemptuous.
Mr Hammond is alleged to have equated the Gyakye Quayson case to that of Adamu Sakande, a late former MP for Bawku Central and indicated that the Assin North MP will suffer the same fate.
But speaking in an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Eyewitness News on Citi FM in Accra on Friday, Mr Hammond emphasised “I am clear in my mind that I haven’t committed any contemptuous sin. I made a remark, the remark was in the context of precedence of decisions that have been made by the Supreme Court… And I don’t understand why anyone would want to take me to court except for the fact I am KT Hammond.”
For that reason, the Trade Minister said that he would have gladly acceded to the allegations and rendered an apology if he really made such commentary.
Meanwhile, the High Court in Accra has set October 19, to deliver a ruling on the contempt case brought against Adansi Asokwa Member of Parliament, KT Hammond.
The complainant in the case, Gyakye Quayson was hoping to move the case on Friday, but it was rather adjourned.
The court has directed the parties in the matter to file their written addresses by August 31.
The parties will then return on October 19 for the ruling.
There are certain aspects of our lives that are best kept private to maintain personal boundaries, protect our well-being, and preserve our relationships. Here are five things that are commonly advisable to keep private:
Finances: Sharing detailed financial information, such as income, savings, or debts, can lead to complications and potential conflicts. Keep your financial matters private to maintain financial security and prevent unnecessary interference in your financial decisions.
Health Issues: Personal health matters, especially sensitive medical conditions, should be kept confidential. Sharing such information indiscriminately might lead to unwanted attention, stigma, or even potential exploitation.
3. Intimate Relationships: The details of your intimate relationships and personal matters between you and your partner should be kept private. Sharing too much about your romantic life can create discomfort for others and potentially harm the trust within your relationship.
Family Conflicts: Family issues and conflicts should be dealt with privately within the family unit. Sharing family disputes with others might exacerbate the situation or lead to unnecessary involvement from outsiders.
Personal Goals and Aspirations: While it’s essential to have a support system, sharing your most profound dreams and aspirations with everyone can leave you vulnerable to criticism or discouragement. Choose to confide in trusted friends or family members who will support and encourage you.
Remember, what you choose to keep private is entirely up to you, and setting healthy boundaries is crucial for maintaining personal well-being and fostering positive relationships.
‘You can’t park there, mate,’ everyone yells at once.
Locals and visitors to Bath were perplexed in March when they noticed a car squished between the walls of a famous hotel.
The Kia Picanto became stuck three days in a space above the Francis Hotel’s basement.
In the end, a crane was used to remove it.
Prior to the collision, Benjamin Maddocks was operating the vehicle. On March 19, he admitted to driving while intoxicated in Bath Magistrates’ Court.
He acknowledged that he was to blame for his vehicle hitting the rails and ending up in the Francis Hotel’s basement.
In 100ml of breath, Maddocks’ drink-driving test revealed he had 56 micrograms of alcohol, 21 micrograms more than the permitted limit of 35 micrograms.
He was given a 15-month driving suspension, ordered to pay £253 in court costs, and recommended for a drink-drive rehabilitation programme.
Over the years, strange crashes have resulted from Britain’s little alleys and hidden nooks.
After a car slammed through its glass window in a Birmingham pub last year, the establishment’s closure may have saved lives.
Firefighters in Devon, meantime, were baffled when they arrived after an emergency call and discovered a car perched perilously between two structures.
Following a birthday meal, the 87-year-old driver attempted to park on top of a wall, but instead she knocked over railings in her red Kia.
Love is a complex emotion that can fill our hearts with joy, but when doubts arise about its authenticity, it can leave us feeling confused and hurt. If you suspect that your partner’s love might be pretence, it’s essential to pay attention to subtle signs that could validate your concerns. Here are five indicators that your partner may not genuinely love you:
1.Inconsistent Words and Actions: Pay attention to whether their words match their actions. True love is demonstrated through consistent affection, support, and care. If their actions contradict their declarations of love, it may be a red flag worth exploring further.
2.Avoidance of Communication: Open and honest communication is vital in any healthy relationship. If your partner avoids serious conversations and consistently uses busyness as an excuse, it could indicate a lack of genuine love and investment in the relationship.
3. Selfishness: A partner pretending to love you might exhibit selfish behavior, constantly putting their needs ahead of yours without considering your feelings. Love should involve a balance of give and take, not just one-sided self-centeredness.
4. Unnecessary Jealousy: While jealousy can be normal, excessive and irrational jealousy is a warning sign of a toxic partner. If they isolate you from loved ones or constantly monitor your activities, it may indicate underlying issues.
5. Inconsistency: If your partner’s affection fluctuates dramatically, going from loving to hostile, it can be confusing and emotionally draining. Genuine love remains steady and constant, even during difficult times.
Recognizing these subtle signs can help you assess the authenticity of your relationship and make informed decisions about your future. Remember that healthy relationships are built on trust, communication, and genuine care for each other’s well-being.
The untimely death of a 14-year-old British national has left his family in anguish.
The boy is said to have tragically lost his life at St. Peter’s Mission School in Ogbojo, Adentan Municipality after falling from the 4th floor of one of the school’s dormitories.
His family is therefore seeking answers and justice for their beloved.
The family is outraged over the claims made by school authorities, and they suspect foul play in their son’s death.
They have expressed their concerns previously about the circumstances surrounding the incident and are seeking clarity on what truly transpired.
According to the school authorities, the incident occurred on Monday, May 15, within the school premises. The boy was immediately rushed to the University of Ghana Medical Center (UGMC), but unfortunately, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
In an interview with Eyewitness News, the family head, Nii Nii Quaye Ashale, vehemently refuted the school authorities’ version of events.
He alleges that their son did not fall from the dormitory but rather met with a different fate outside the school premises. The family finds the reports provided by the school authorities to be incredulous and dismisses them as a “cock-and-bull story.”
“We realised it was a cock-and-bull story indeed, there was no correlation between what we saw and told. The blood stains on the floor were not up to a tin of canned milk. Our grandson and son never fell from any 4th floor. He was murdered outside the school, they brought him back when everybody was asleep, and they just took him to the spot. They spread a pint of his blood around the place.
“If the school is a boarding house, and it’s got security, definitely the boy couldn’t have run out of campus, he’s in the custody of the authorities of the school. From what we saw and what they narrated to us that he fell from the 4th floor. And the quantum of blood that was there, clearly, there was an indication that something had transpired,” a livid family head pointed out.
He further debunked claims that the boy engaged in drug peddling.
“We are also waiting on the homicide to tell us. The report that came out from the standard board was that he never took drugs and that he was never poisoned. It all lies when the school authorities said he was high on drugs, and they had to bathe him with cool water and put him to sleep. The drugs that they said might have been the cause of his death are all a lie”.
The Independent Power Producers (IPPs) in Ghana are currently facing a looming crisis as they consider the possibility of shutting down their power plants in the upcoming days. This critical situation has arisen due to the government’s failure to settle a debt owed to the IPPs, which has now accumulated to over $2 billion.
Initially, the IPPs had chosen not to shut down their power plants after engaging in discussions with the Electricity Company of Ghana, with the aim of finding a resolution to the debt issue. Unfortunately, despite the assurances made during these talks, it appears that the agreements reached have not been honored, leaving the IPPs disheartened and uncertain about their future.
In response to the worsening situation, the IPPs held a meeting on Thursday and reached a decision to continue power production, at least for the time being. However, the looming threat of shutting down their power plants remains a significant concern if the government does not take swift action to settle the outstanding debt.
The unresolved debt issue has created a challenging and potentially detrimental situation for the IPPs in Ghana, putting their operations and the country’s power supply at risk. A timely resolution is imperative to avert further escalation of the crisis and ensure the stable functioning of the energy sector.
During the meeting, the IPPs expressed valid concerns about the growing challenges they would face in sustaining their power plants over an extended period without the prompt settlement of the debt owed to them. The situation has become increasingly critical, with severe repercussions affecting various aspects of the energy sector.
According to a source present at the meeting, the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) is struggling to pay for gas transportation services as a result of outstanding payments from the government. This further exacerbates the financial strain on the IPPs and hampers their ability to maintain operations.
Additionally, the West Africa Gas Pipeline Company is now in a precarious position, at risk of shutting down its valves if the government fails to urgently settle its debt to the company. Such an eventuality would have severe consequences for the energy supply chain.
Stakeholders within the energy sector are raising alarm bells about the potential power crisis that could arise if the IPPs are forced to cut their supply due to the escalating debt issue. The situation has reached a critical point, demanding immediate attention and resolution from the government to avoid further disruptions to the country’s energy production and supply.
The Independent Power Producers (IPPs) hold a crucial position in the nation’s energy generation mix, accounting for approximately 50 percent of it. Unfortunately, the mounting debt burden has had a severe impact on their operations. Accessing working capital has become challenging, impeding their ability to finance vital inputs like chemicals for water treatment in thermal generators, with many of these resources priced in foreign currency, notably the US dollar.
Given the current circumstances, the IPPs are facing a pressing need for prompt debt settlement. Failure to address this issue could potentially lead to a power crisis, jeopardizing the stability of the entire energy sector. Swift action and resolution are imperative to support the continued functioning and reliability of energy supply in the country.
Avoid organising any barbecues this month because it will be cloudy.
Forecasters have issued a warning for cloudy conditions and rainy weather similar to what we saw in July.
Mainland While wildfires and heatwaves are raging across Europe, the UK has fortunately avoided experiencing the same amount of heat as last year.
However, there have been concerns that summertime highs of 40°C will soon be seen as the norm.
Forecasters predict that London will see ten days of continuous rain and showers between July 29 and August 7.
The jet stream is expected to bring intervals of rain and showers as well as moderate temperatures of 20°C in the south and 17 to 18°C in the north for the next seven to ten days, according to meteorologist Phil Morrish, who spoke to the Express.
The picture for the upcoming weeks is similarly grim according to the Met Office.
According to its website, the upcoming days will be “unsettled,” with days of sunny patches and showers possibly mixed with periods of heavier rain as low pressure systems travel across the UK.
When these low pressure systems do develop, the southern portions of the UK are more likely to see them while the north continues to experience dry weather.
Otherwise, on showery days, showers will frequently be centred in the north and east, where they could occasionally combine into extended periods of rain and be heavy and thundery at times.
Western regions are more likely to stay dry, however there is still a potential of showers.
The forecast calls for temperatures to be a little below average, with a strong northwesterly breeze enhancing the feeling of coolness.
Overall, the likelihood of strong winds is higher than usual.
There is a higher likelihood that the unstable weather will continue into the second part of August, continuing to afflict the UK with a combination of rain and showers.
A lengthy dry and hot spell is unlikely, but there is a signal for brief drier, brighter, and occasionally warmer interludes towards the end of August.
Scotland and the north of England have recently experienced sunny periods while the south has experienced dreary weather.
“The forecast for the next couple of weeks is unsettled, but that shouldn’t give the impression of continuous or heavy rain,” Met Office spokesperson Grahame Madge told MailOnline.
“Rain is predicted for London over the next few days, but most of it will be showers, with clearer periods in between.”
A purported suicide involving an Indian national has occurred in Sefwi Bekwai Low-Cost, located in the Bibiani Ahwianso Bekwai Municipality of the Western North Region.
The incident has left residents and neighbors in a state of disbelief and sorrow.
Menny Dann is alleged to have committed suicide because his wife threatened to divorce him.
Some allege that the woman threatened to divorce the spouse because he was misbehaving.
Neighbours and landlord reported that before the incident, the deceased, Menny Dann, a mechanised borehole contractor in Ghana, had been whining about his wife threatening to divorce him due to his bad attitude.
He threatened to kill himself multiple times, according to them, until he eventually did.
The deceased, along with his Ghanaian counterpart, had been living in their home for two months.
According to the residents, the deceased was loved since he was a kind man.
On Tuesday, he attempted suicide by hanging but was rescued by nearby people.
The incident was reported to the police, and Maan was arrested, held, and then released.
He was discovered hanged on Thursday, July 27, 2023.
Meanwhile, Assembly Member for Sefwi Bekwai Low-cost Hon. D’Porish Darko revealed that information was provided to his wife in India that her husband is behaving badly in Ghana.
The assembly member added that they reported the event to the Sefwi Bekwai District Police Command after receiving information about the man, and the body was sent to the Sefwi Anhwiaso mortuary for autopsy, and the police went to the man’s apartment and discovered him hanging.
Best Point Savings and Loans has disclosed a loss of GH¢22.70 million after tax by the end of 2022. The company attributes this recorded loss to the government’s domestic debt exchange programme.
The impact of the debt exchange program has evidently affected the financial performance of the company, resulting in the reported loss.
The revelation about the GH¢22.70 million loss after tax was made during the 9th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Best Point Savings and Loans held in Accra.
Isaac Emmil Osei-Bonsu Jnr, the Board Chairman, addressed the negative impact of the government’s domestic debt exchange programme on the company’s financial performance. Specifically, the net impairment loss on financial assets was affected by this government initiative.
During the year under review, the company experienced a reduction of 5.86 per cent in cash and cash equivalents, with the amount decreasing from GH¢35.25 million in 2021 to GH¢33.18 million in 2022. On the other hand, investment securities saw a marginal increase of 0.33 per cent, rising from GH¢289.13 million in 2021 to GH¢290.09 million in 2022.
The details presented during the AGM shed light on the financial challenges faced by the company and the impact of external factors, particularly the government’s debt exchange program, on its financial position.
During the year, the company saw notable changes in some key financial aspects. Loans and advances to customers rose from GH¢44.70 million in 2021 to GH¢46.14 million in 2022, reflecting a growth of 3.22 per cent. This increase was a result of deliberate strategies implemented to expand the company’s loan portfolio.
Additionally, the total assets of the company experienced a slight increase from GH¢382.36 million in 2021 to GH¢382.54 million in 2022. On the other hand, total liabilities saw a more substantial increase, rising from GH¢344.41 million in 2021 to GH¢369.39 million in 2022, representing a growth of 0.04 per cent and 7.57 per cent, respectively.
The financial changes reported during the year demonstrate the company’s efforts to strengthen its loan offerings and overall financial position. The increase in loans and advances indicates the successful execution of strategies aimed at expanding their lending activities, while the growth in total assets and liabilities reflects the company’s evolving financial landscape.
He also said deposits from customers increased by 6.66 per cent from GH¢338.26 million in 2021 to GH¢360.80 million in 2022.The increase in deposits was the result of deliberate efforts geared towards the mobilisation of low-cost funds.
On the outlook for 2023,he said the domestic debt exchange programme was projected to increase pressure on the solvency and liquidity of financial institutions.
Additionally, he said the establishment of the financial stability fund by the government was expected to moderate the impact of the government’s domestic debt exchange programme and help preserve financial stability in the sector.
He commended the management and staff of the company for their committed dedication and high sense of duty and customers for their loyalty.
The Managing Director of the company, Dr Fred Safo-Kantanka, described the year 2022 as daunting and challenging.
He said the management of the company would continue to execute appropriate strategies to ensure the company remained profitable in 2023, with measures put in place to maximise income generation while minimising operating costs.
An outgoing Director, Dr Ernest Ofori Sarpong, said the vision for the establishment of the company was for it to become the topmost savings and loans company in the country,adding: “We have partially attained that and I urge the board to strive to ensure that the vision is achieved.”
A retired Information Technology Communications expert, Kwadwo Ohemeng Essumeng, was approved to serve on the board as Director.
The meeting was also used to announce the retirement of three directors of the company namely Dr Ernest Ofori Sarpong,Daniel Asare-Minta and Kwadwo Danso-Dodoo.
They were presented with citations after they had been highly praised for their glowing contribution to the growth of the company.
The five-year-old allegedly shot his younger brother to death in the US while high on cocaine and with marijuana in his blood, according to theprosecution.
Approximately 60 miles north of Indianapolis in the city of Lafayette, Indiana, Isiah Johnson, 16, was shot in the head on March 28. In the family’s flat, his brother reportedly found a gun.
According to them, Isiah tested positive for cocaine and had marijuana in his blood.
Police also discovered marijuana, paraphernalia and 93 fentanyl tablets inside the flat after the incident, they added.
Parents Deonta Jermaine Johnson, 27, and Shatia Tiara Welch, 24, of Lafayette have been charged with neglect and drug use.
Following their detention in LaPorte the day before, the charges were made public on Tuesday, according to news sources.
According to officials, Johnson was dozing off inside the flat when the shooting occurred, and Welch wasn’t there.
Welch admitted to owning the weapon to the police, but she typically kept it stored in a box beneath her bed.
Johnson is also accused with obstructing justice because, according to the prosecution, he removed marijuana from the flat before the police showed up to respond to the shooting.
DISCLAIMER: Independentghana.com will not be liable for any inaccuracies contained in this article. The views expressed in the article are solely those of the author’s, and do not reflect those of The Independent Ghana
Seasoned Nollywood actress Rita Edochie has recently expressed her disapproval of a “drama devil” who, according to her, played a role in separating actor Yul Edochie from his first wife, May.
Rita, who has been a loyal supporter of May ever since Yul married Judy Austin, a fellow colleague, took to Instagram to share her thoughts. In her post, she stated that it is time to free Yul from the clutches of the “drama devil” that led to the end of his first marriage.
The post reflects Rita Edochie’s emotional stance on the matter and her dedication to supporting her friend May during this challenging time. However, it’s essential to note that personal matters like these involve complex emotions and relationships, and any further details or context surrounding the situation have not been provided in the available information.
In her Instagram post, Rita Edochie strongly asserted that it is crucial to liberate Yul from the clutches of the ‘drama devil’ that seems to have a hold on him. She expressed her desire for this negative influence to be removed from his life.
Additionally, Rita mentioned that she eagerly awaits the drama devil’s response, indicating her readiness to confront and address the situation head-on. She also made a heartfelt plea, hoping that those who have supported any mistreatment towards May would experience a similar fate, so they could gain a deeper understanding of the pain and hardships involved.
It’s clear that Rita’s post reflects her deep concern and emotional involvement in the matter, advocating for justice and resolution in the midst of what appears to be a challenging and sensitive situation. However, without further context or details, it’s essential to approach the situation with empathy and respect for the privacy of those involved.
She wrote: “Snatch my husband and anyhow, I correct you anyhow by sending you to God knows where. No be every woman you fit snatch. Yul time don come to release him. Yes na me talk am. I am still that fear fears.
“I am actually waiting for drama devil to talk so I can now come live but for all of you supporting this evil, your generation to generation will go through what queen May is going through so that you will understand how it taste.”
A recent photo of Second Lady, Samira Bawumia, taken alongside Ghanaian musician Kuami Eugene during a plane journey, has left a section of social media users astonished. The photo showcased Mrs. Bawumia without make-up, revealing her radiant skin and natural beauty.
In the picture, she had her hair elegantly wrapped in a white scarf, adding a touch of grace to her casual attire for the trip. It was quite uncommon to see her in such a relaxed and laid-back look during her public appearances, as she chose to wear a blue and white striped top along with trousers.
The photo has captivated many, who admire the Second Lady’s ability to exude confidence and beauty even without makeup, inspiring conversations about embracing natural beauty and individuality. This rare glimpse of her authentic self has garnered praise and admiration from social media users, further exemplifying her grace and charm.
Kuami Eugene took to Instagram to share the photo.
Social media users, captivated by her radiant beauty, have been showering her with endless praises and admiration. Her authentic and natural look in the rare photo has sparked awe and admiration among her followers, who commend her for embracing her true self with grace and confidence.
The outpouring of compliments is a testament to the positive impact she has on her admirers, and it showcases the admiration and respect she commands for being a role model in embracing one’s natural beauty.
Special Aide to former President John Dramani Mahama, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, has presented a five-month supply of sanitary pads to 622 first-year students of the Tamale Girls Senior High School on behalf of the Rosa Foundation-Africa.
The foundation’s sanitary pads initiative aims to improve menstrual hygiene and reduce the risk of infection among young schoolgirls.
Research has shown that some girls abandon school due to their inability to access menstrual products. Mrs Mogtari and her family foundation have pledged to support the 622 students until they complete their three-year programme.
Mrs Mogtari emphasised the importance of menstrual products for young girls’ education and how such donations will reduce the financial burden on families.
She urged the students to be disciplined, studious, and well-prepared for Ghana and Africa’s future.
The Rosa Foundation-Africa was founded to empower and promote the girl child, striving to do for others what they cannot do for themselves.
Over the years, the foundation has provided furniture for schools in the Upper West Region, Eastern and Savanna Regions and is donating sanitary supplies to girls in senior high schools.
Supported by movie producer and actress Kafui Danku, officials of the Rosa Foundation- Africa and school management, Mrs Mogtari said the sanitary pads initiative is expected to positively impact the health, education, and well-being of countless girls and women in Ghana.
Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary group, praised the recent military coup in Niger as wonderful news and offered the help of his men to restore order to the area.
A audio message purportedly sent by Prigozhin on Telegram channels connected to Wagner denied his involvement in the coup but hailed it as a long-overdue moment of independence from Western colonisers.
“What happened in Niger was nothing more than the struggle of the Niger people against their colonisers,” said one observer. The statement was uploaded on Thursday night. It said, “With colonisers who are trying to impose their way of life and conditions on them and keep them in the state that Africa was in hundreds of years ago.”
Today, they are acquiring freedom in this manner. ‘They have gotten rid of the colonisers,’ he continued. “The rest will undoubtedly depend on the people of Niger and how efficient administration will be.
The leader of Wagner, who attempted to overthrow Vladimir Putin last month but was unsuccessful, is still active today and is believed to be operating his organisation from exile in Belarus.
At this week’s Russia-Africa meeting in St. Petersburg, he was seen shaking hands with a representative from the Central African Republic (CAR), suggesting that he still has some formal ties to the Kremlin.
After claiming to have overthrown President Mohamed Bazoum in the sixth military coup in West and Central Africa in less than three years, coup leaders in Niger announced General Abdourahamane Tiani as the new head of state on Friday.
The nation, which is among the world’s poorest but has some of the largest uranium deposits, formally declared its independence from erstwhile colonial power France in 1960.
The Wagner organisation is still active in Africa, where they still hold security contracts in various nations, including Mali, Libya, Sudan, and the CAR. The most recent indication of this is Prigozhin’s voicemail.
For Western nations, including as France and the US, Wagner’s activities in Africa continue to be of concern. Although Prigozhin has asserted the group operates legally, Washington has accused it of perpetrating crimes and slapped sanctions on it.
In his voicemail, Prigozhin bragged about how effective Wagner was at stabilising and developing African countries, and in a video that was made public earlier this month, Prigozhin was heard ordering his soldiers in Belarus to prepare their energies for a “new journey to Africa.”
On Friday night, Prigozhin praised the success of the Africa summit in remarks made to the Cameroonian-based Afrique Media programme. He praised Putin for developing what he called trust-based one-on-one working ties with African leaders.
According to a transcript that was published on Wagner Telegram channels, he claimed that “Russia today offers both…economic relations and security exports, without which Africa today cannot exist.”
Mali, CAR, and Niger were mentioned as nations becoming “more and more independent” and he concluded, “The forum went well and we should see the results of it in the near future.”
The restoration of constitutional order in Niger, according to Sergei Lavrov, Russia’s foreign minister, was stated on Thursday.
The Prigozhin visits, according to analysts, showed that Wagner will continue to support the Kremlin’s foreign policy objectives in Africa and were intended to reassure African allies following the turmoil of the unsuccessful mercenary rebellion inside Russia.
Catrina Doxsee, a specialist at the American CSIS think tank, commented on messaging platform X, “Yes, it’s wild that Prigozhin is back in Russia, and apparently has been several times.”
But projecting normalcy and business as usual is also consistent with Wagner’s and Russia’s objectives.
Celebrated gospel singer, Nacee has revealed that his departure from the No Tribe group was prompted by persistent complaints from other members about financial difficulties. During that time, he was the main financial support for the group, but his fellow team members mistakenly believed that the funds came from their performances and music revenues.
In a recent appearance on Joy Prime’s morning show, the Aseda singer candidly admitted that he takes responsibility for the situation, as he failed to communicate the true financial status of the group to the other members. He acknowledged that keeping them in the dark about the financial challenges was an oversight on his part.
The revelation sheds light on the internal dynamics of the group and the financial strain that ultimately led to Nacee’s decision to part ways. His willingness to share this personal experience demonstrates a level of introspection and honesty, allowing the public to better understand the circumstances that influenced the group’s dynamics and eventual breakup.
“Some of the problems that No Tribe encountered and for which I had to pull a break were because when No Tribe was called to perform at events, I always had to go and cash out some money because of my music production.
“At least I had people paying me some money. So I tried and made sure that I could cushion them and make sure everybody is fine even when the person is not able to pay. But it was the wrong decision because I could have used my money for something else.
“It got to a point where I didn’t have enough money again. So the way they were treated at the beginning, it wasn’t coming, and some began to complain,” he said.
Nacee revealed that when he could no longer provide financial support, the continuous complaints from other group members became overwhelming. Consequently, he felt compelled to leave the group, especially after some members accused him of withholding their payment following a performance. The situation reached a point where he saw no alternative but to part ways with the group to avoid further conflicts and misunderstandings.
“When we finished, the money was delayed, and the people thought I had collected the money, but I said I didn’t collect anything. So, what happened was that I gave them money to hold on to until the money comes… Before the money came, there were already problems.
“Then I said, I’m tired of all the complaints, and if they can’t see anything good in what I do, let’s pull a break,” he stated.
The Jospong Group of Companies (JGC) has successfully inaugurated a state-of-the-art waste water treatment plant in Gbalahi, a suburb of Tamale, at a cost of €20 million.
This cutting-edge facility boasts a remarkable capacity of 1,000 cubic meters and has been specifically designed to treat waste water originating from faecal fluids in the metropolis and its surrounding areas. Through advanced processes, the plant will transform this waste water into reusable water, ensuring efficient and sustainable use of resources. Additionally, the plant will recover and recycle the organic fraction of the waste, converting it into compost to support agricultural activities in the region.
The impressive project was made possible by funding from the Hungary Government and will be managed by Sewerage Systems Ghana Limited (SSGL), a subsidiary of JGC. Alongside its primary waste water treatment functions, the facility offers a comprehensive range of auxiliary amenities such as a solid waste plant, restaurant, clinic, cafeteria, lecture halls, administration block, and a conference hall.
With a strong commitment to environmental friendliness and efficiency, this waste water treatment plant is poised to provide a long-term and sustainable solution to liquid waste management for Tamale, the Sagnarigu Municipality, and neighboring communities. Employing advanced European treatment technology, the plant promises to deliver a holistic and environmentally conscious approach to liquid waste treatment, safeguarding the local ecosystem and contributing to a healthier environment for all.
Shani Alhassan Shaibu (left), Northern Regional Minister, being assisted by Tristan Azbej (2nd from right), State Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Hungary, and some guests to commission the plant
Additionally, it would process solid waste into reusable materials such as compost, plastics, metals, paper, among other items, with the by-product being used as organic fertiliser.
It is expected to create about 1,000 direct and indirect jobs for the people. The Chief Operation Officer of JGC, Florence Larbi, who read the speech of the Executive Chairman of the JGC, Joseph Siaw Agyepong, said the plant would serve as a research centre for university students to undertake research into how to convert waste into energy-generating ventures.
“Presently the region generates 183,000 tons of waste annually, most of which go into landfills making it hazardous to the citizenry,” he added.
While thanking the Hungary Government and the Government of Ghana for providing the necessary support for the realisation of the project, Mr Agyepong reiterated the company’s commitment to ensure cleanliness and proper waste management in the country.
The Northern Regional Minister, Shani Alhassan Shaibu, said the intervention was in line with the government vision of creating proper waste management system across the country.
“As you may be aware, Tamale is the 4th largest city in Ghana and has a total population of 374,744, with an annual population growth rate of 3.5 per cent.
“The Tamale Metropolis is a bustling and rapidly expanding city with an increase in human population, very significant growth in physical infrastructure and other spheres of human activities.
“The increase in population obviously translates into a corresponding increase in the amount of faecal matter generated in the city,” he said.
The minister conveyed his strong belief that the newly commissioned waste water treatment plant would play a pivotal role in reducing the prevalence of contaminated water in the region. He expressed optimism that this facility’s efficient operation would lead to significant improvements in living conditions and overall health and well-being for the residents of Tamale and its surrounding areas. The implementation of this advanced wastewater treatment system is expected to bring about positive and lasting impacts on the local community, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable environment for everyone.
Bank of Ghana’s Annual Report for 2022 has revealed a significant loss of GHC 60.8 billion, marking a stark contrast from the GHC 1.2 Billion profit it achieved in 2021.
As per the 2022 Financial Accounts, the Bank of Ghana‘s loss can be attributed to a decline in the Group’s net worth position, mainly caused by the impact of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) and the impairment of certain assets within the Group.
The Bank stated that its total liabilities, combined with those of its subsidiaries, surpassed its total assets by GHC54.52 billion. In contrast, the Bank had recorded a surplus of GHC5.72 billion in 2021.
Breakdown of Loss Positions
The impairment of Government of Ghana securities holdings amounted to GHC48.45 billion, resulting from the Government of Ghana Domestic Debt Exchange Programme. Additionally, there was an impairment of loans and advances granted to quasi-government and financial institutions, totaling GHC6.12 billion.
The devaluation of the local currency led to a net exchange loss of GHC5.27 billion, in contrast to a gain of GHC1.07 billion in 2021.
Impact of Loss on Operations
According to the Bank of Ghana, the Board of Directors and Management of the Bank have assessed the policy solvency implications arising out of the negative net worth position and the Group’s ability to continue to generate enough income to cover its monetary policy operations and other operational costs. In the view of the Directors, the Bank will continue to operate on a going concern basis due to a variety of factors underpinned by expectations of an improved macroeconomic situation and policy actions specifically targeted at improving the balance sheet of the Bank of Ghana.
Steps taken to recover from the losses
The Bank of Ghana in its Annual report outlined these measures which they believed that it will aid to their recovery. These include:
Retention of profits to help rebuild capital until equity firmly returns to positive region.
Refraining from monetary financing of the Government of Ghana’s budget. In this respect, action has already been taken with a Memorandum of Understanding on zero financing of the budget signed between the Bank of Ghana and the Ministry of Finance on 26 April, 2023;
Taking immediate steps to optimize Bank of Ghana’s investment portfolio and operating cost mix to bolster efficiency and profits; and
• Assessing the potential need for recapitalisation support by the government in the medium-to-long term.
The Board of Directors and Management are of the view that “ continued efforts at restoring macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability in addition to long-term efforts at building reserves, provide enough basis for continued operational policy efficiency existence for the foreseeable future”.
Impact of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme on the Banking Sector and Bank of Ghana Interventions
All 23 Banks signed on to Government’s DDEP by the settlement date of 21 February 2023. The Bank of Ghana conducted stress tests on banks, which showed elevated risk exposures of the DDEP on banks’ solvency, liquidity, and profitability. Thus, to manage the potential impact of the debt exchange and preserve financial stability, the Bank announced some policy and regulatory reliefs for Banks that fully participated in the DDEP.
The Bank rolled out these reliefs for the commercial Banks to deal with expected shocks.
Reduction of the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) from thirteen percent (13%) to twelve percent (12%) on foreign currency deposits to be held in foreign currency;
Reduction of the Capital Conservation Buffer from three percent (3%) to zero, effectively reducing the minimum Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) from thirteen percent (13%) to ten percent (10%), intended to provide capital relief to banks after the implementation of the Debt Exchange;
According to the Bank of Ghana it is fully equipped to provide liquidity support to banks and banks can access the Bank of Ghana’s Emergency Liquidity Assistance (ELA) Funds using the new bonds as collateral. The Bank of Ghana has also enhanced its supervisory surveillance systems with banks.
Banks are required to report more frequently, such as daily submissions of balance sheet as well as liquidity reports including interbank market activities and cost of financing.
Additional reporting requirements have been developed for banks to report on the performance of the new bonds. The enhanced monitoring mechanism is to ensure timely supervisory intervention, if needed.
The Bank of Ghana maintains that these reliefs are designed to minimise the potential impact of the domestic debt exchange on the financial sector and to preserve financial stability.
Bank of Ghana’s Gold Purchase programme
The Bank of Ghana commenced the Domestic Gold Purchase (DGP) programme and a Gold for Reserve Programme in June 2021 with the objective of increasing its foreign reserves. The Bank did this by purchasing refined gold from certified domestic gold mining firms using local currency. The refined gold is then shipped to the Bank’s offshore gold custodians, and it becomes part of the Bank’s reserves.
The Bank also purchases dore gold from local gold mines using aggregators. The price of the dore gold is determined using market prices adjusted for the gold content (estimated to be ninety-three percent (93%).
The Bank of Ghana maintains that these reliefs are designed to minimise the potential impact of the domestic debt exchange on the financial sector and to preserve financial stability.
The government has been urged by two anti-corruption bodies to expedite the process of presenting the Conduct of Public Officer’s Bill to Parliament for swift enactment into law, aiming to bolster the country’s asset declaration system.
The proposed bill encompasses provisions for amending the existing Asset Declaration Act.
The organizations, namely the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII) and the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), expressed concern that the Conduct of Public Officer’s Bill has been under consideration by the Cabinet for over a year, without any definitive commitment to present it before Parliament for thorough review and passage.
This call aligns with a similar appeal made by the pressure group, OccupyGhana.
The joint statement by GII and GACC, released in Accra, underscores the importance of expediting the legislative process to enhance transparency and accountability in public service and strengthen the fight against corruption.
The reference pertains to a recent incident involving the alleged theft of significant sums of money and personal belongings belonging to Cecilia Abena Dapaah, a former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, and her husband.
The reported stolen funds amounted to $1 million, €300,000, and an undisclosed sum in Ghana cedis.
Following the revelation of this alleged theft, discussions have ignited across various social media and traditional communication channels, with numerous individuals expressing apprehension regarding the origin of the money and its intended purpose. The incident has generated considerable public interest and scrutiny, prompting debates about accountability and transparency in relation to public figures’ possessions and financial matters.
The organizations have acknowledged the unfortunate nature of the alleged theft committed by the workers. However, they emphasized that regardless of the regrettable incident, inquiries into the origin of the money are entirely valid and must be thoroughly investigated by the appropriate competent authorities.
“Much as we applaud the announced resignation of Madam Cecilia Dapaah, it seems unconscionable to think of a public officer and a renowned political personality keeping such colossal amounts of money outside of the banking sector.
“This is why the news of Madam Cecilia Dapaah’s swift arrest and subsequent investigations by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) must be commended, even as we ask for transparency in the investigations,” the statement added.
The organisations also called for protection of the two house helps named in the case since they served as prime witnesses to the unfolding narrative. The statement further called for the strengthening of the Criminal Code (Amendment) Act, 2003 (Act 646), to provide for a reverse burden of proof in addressing illicit enrichment.
“What this case brings to the fore is that the time has come for the government to enact laws that will strengthen the Criminal Offences, Act 1960 (Act 29) and other anti- corruption laws to include reverse burden of proof in addressing illicit enrichment.
“We strongly urge the President to take a decisive action in addressing alleged corruption cases and back his rhetoric on fighting corruption in the country with action by expelling the popular perception of interferences in corruption investigations involving persons in government,” it said.
Officials from the Ministry of Defence unintentionally transmitted emails to a nation that supports Russian President Vladimir Putin that contained confidential material.
The Times was the first to expose the error, which saw authorities email Mali in Africa rather than the US troops.
Staff typed “.ml,” the country code for the West African nation, instead of the military’s “.mil” domain while sending emails.
Officials have opened an investigation even though the’small number of emails’ didn’t contain any information that may endanger national security.
A representative for the MoD stated, “We have opened an investigation after a small number of emails were accidentally forwarded to an incorrect email domain.”
We are certain that they didn’t include any material that may jeopardise technical or operational security.
The email servers are secured and “designed to minimise the risk of misdirection,” the official insisted, adding that they are locked away.
The MoD “reviews its processes continuously and is currently working on a programme of work to enhance information management, data loss prevention, and the control of sensitive information,” they added.
The incorrect emailing of Mali by British defence personnel is not unique. Over a decade ago, the US military’s email account resulted in millions of communications reaching the country.
Last month, The Financial Times claimed that the ‘typo leak’ involved extremely private emails being sent to the ‘.ml’ email address, including passwords and trip itineraries, as well as diplomatic and medical records.
A Dutch internet entrepreneur named Johannes Zuurbier was hired to oversee Mali’s national domain, and he frequently brought up the matter in Washington.
Approximately 117,000 misdirected emails, many of which were sent by military recruits, travel agencies, US intelligence personnel, and others, were allegedly intercepted by him in January alone.
Six African nations, including Mali, will get free grain shipments for the next four months, according to a commitment made yesterday by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Putin said at the Russia-Africa meeting in St. Petersburg that Western hypocrisy, not Russia’s conflict with Ukraine, was to blame for problems with the food supply chain.
Nevertheless, just 17 heads of state were present when Putin spoke, which is fewer than the number of African leaders who attended the inaugural meeting in 2019.
It happened a few days after Moscow revoked the agreement that had allowed Ukraine to transport its grain by sea despite Russia’s naval blockade, which helps feed millions of people throughout the world.
Mali and Russia have a long history of friendly relations. According to a research by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Russia provided Mali with the most weapons from 2017 to 2021.
The secretive and momentarily mutinous mercenary organisation Wagner has also dug themselves deep into Mali.
According to independent experts consulted by the UN Human Rights Council in January, the UN has charged Wagner mercenaries with committing war crimes and crimes against humanity, many of which were committed against civilians.
The UN experts stated, “We are particularly alarmed by credible reports that over the course of several days in late March 2022, Malian armed forces together with military personnel thought to be members of the Wagner Group executed several hundred people, who had been rounded up in Moura, a village in central Mali.”
For a response, the Mali government has been approached.
President of the Ghana Union of Traders’ Association (GUTA), Dr Joseph Obeng, has urged the government to establish a conducive environment that fosters the growth and success of businesses in the country.
The mid-year budget is scheduled to be presented by Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta on Monday, July 31, 2023.
During an interview on Joy FM’s Top Story on Friday, the GUTA President expressed his anticipation for the mid-year budget, emphasizing the essential requirements: stability and an enabling environment that allows the business community to flourish and expand.
According to him, the cedi’s stability must be maintained at its current level if the rate of depreciation cannot be reduced.
The cedi is currently traded at an average of GHC 11.50 to the American dollar in the retail market, whilst it went for about GHC10.97 on the interbank market.
The cedi is, however, going for almost GHC12 at the forex bureaus.
He also said he expects the hike in inflation reduced. This, according to him, is the main challenge in the country.
He proffered solutions to ensure the inflation rate is reduced drastically as follows:
We must do so by lowering the cost of doing business. The cost of doing business is so high that we are completely uncompetitive in the subregion.
We must also lower the monetary policy rate to allow the lending rate to fall.
American rapper Drake made headlines as the proud new owner of a rare piece of 2Pac’s jewelry, which fetched a staggering price of over $1 million at a Sotheby’s auction. The remarkable item in question is a gold, ruby, and diamond-encrusted ring that 2Pac himself wore during his last public appearance at the 1996 VMAs.
The coveted ring became a significant piece of music history and memorabilia, which undoubtedly contributed to its remarkable selling price of $1,016,000. The auction garnered immense interest from collectors and fans alike, given the sentimental value attached to the jewelry, given its connection to the late and iconic rapper.
Drake took to Instagram on Friday to share the exciting news with his followers, confirming that he was the successful bidder who secured this valuable piece. In his Instagram Story post, while promoting Travis Scott’s latest album, “Utopia,” Drake proudly showcased a close-up photograph of the ring adorning his finger, symbolizing his ownership of this precious and historical artifact.
The acquisition of 2Pac’s jewelry by Drake is a testament to the lasting impact and influence that the late rapper continues to have on the music industry, even years after his passing. It also underscores the significance of music memorabilia in preserving the legacies of celebrated artists like 2Pac and the enduring passion collectors and enthusiasts have for these pieces of history.
Meanwhile, it appears that Drake references his latest jewellery purchase on his guest verse on Utopia cut “Meltdown,” in which he raps “I pull out a million to stare at this shit.”
Drake will have a difficult time topping his latest purchase, as ‘Pac’s ring is already considered the most valuable hip-hop artefact ever sold at an auction.
The 14-karat yellow gold ring “sits atop a diamond-encrusted gold band is the ‘crown’ itself: a gold circlet studded with the three largest jewels in the entire piece—a central cabochon ruby, flanked by two pavé-cut diamonds,” Sotheby described on its website.
“This one-of-a-kind, custom ring was meticulously designed by Pac and is among the final products of his boundless creative energy — a unique artefact from a period of time that is a testament to his enduring influence on hip-hop,” Cassandra Hatton, Sotheby’s Global Head of Science and Popular Culture, added.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Global Motor Trading Company Limited (GMTCL), Nareswar Singh, has been acquitted by the Accra Circuit Court Nine.
He was accused of issuing two non-functional cheques to Toyota Ghana Company Limited (TGCL) as payment for five Toyota vehicles worth GHC1.82 million.
Singh made full payment of the amount in question, and as the complainant, Toyota Ghana Company Limited (TGCL), received the payment. However, despite several adjournments, TGCL failed to appear in court to provide evidence in the case.
Therefore, the prosecution withdrew the charges against Singh because it (prosecution) could not produce witnesses.
The Court presided over by Mr Bright Samuel Acquah struck out the case and Singh was discharged.
Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) now Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Emmanuel Nyamekye earlier told the Court that Singh, in a sales agreement between his entity and TGCL to make payment for the vehicles through Letters of Credit (LCs), rather issued two separate cheques to TGCL in replacement of the LCs after they had matured.
The prosecution said when the cheques were dishonoured, the complainant brought the accused to court and Singh denied issuing the false cheques and defrauding by false pretense.
He was granted a GH¢2 million bail with three sureties, one to be justified. The sureties were to be public servants earning not less than GHC3,000.00.
The prosecution said the Managing Director (MD) of TGCL met the complainant and on April 18, 2019, GMTCL purchased five models of Toyota vehicles from TGCL valued GH¢1.819 million, which was to be paid through LCs.
It said the vehicles were supplied with reference to the sales agreement signed between TGCL and GMTCL and that upon maturity of the LCs, GMTCL refused to authorise its bank to pay TGCL, but issued the two separate cheques, one to be withdrawn on February 9, 2020, and the other on March 30, 2020, both in replacement of the LCs.
The Court heard that both cheques were dishonoured when they were presented at the bank, leading to a formal complaint and Singh was arrested.
The prosecution said that in his cautioned statement, Singh admitted the offence and said the banks had declined the LCs because they were presented late and that there was a discrepancy.
It said the two banks where the cheques were presented were invited to assist with investigations and a report retrieved showed that the banks did not have adequate funds at the time the cheques were issued.
As rail employees strike once more, train travellers will experience more disruptions.The head of the rail union, Mick Lynch, has said that the Government is obstructing a resolution to the long-running employment, pay, and conditions dispute, which is creating additional travel delays on Saturday.
Train services were widely cancelled as a result of a daylong strike by the Rail, Maritime and Transport union.
There has been no hint of a resolution to the union’s disagreement for more than a year. The conflict has gotten worse due to contentious plans to close most ticket offices.
Ticket offices will only save roughly £89 million, according to RMT general secretary Mr. Lynch, a “tiny fraction” of the $1 billion he claims the Government has spent to “artificially keep the dispute going and prevent a settlement.”
“The public is being ripped off,” he declared, “not just to pay for this legal battle that could have been resolved 18 months ago, but also to pay for the closure of ticket offices on which they depend.
The money spent on rail company indemnification to prolong the strike and the large profits they have generated will only be partially saved by closing 1,000 ticket offices.
“Closures of ticket offices are unpopular with the general public, and there has been widespread opposition nationwide.”
“Ticket office closures are not only being used as a pretext for completely de-staffing stations, but this is also the tip of the spear for staff layoffs across the entire rail network, which our union will vehemently resist.
The aged, the weak, and the disabled will no longer want to use the railway and in some circumstances won’t be able to because qualified and kind workers are waiting to help them.
Our union is still fully dedicated to negotiating a deal on pay, jobs, security, and working conditions.
“However, our members are still steadfast in their industrial action and will not be intimidated by anyone,” the statement continued.
The strike would cause significant changes in services across the nation, with trains starting later and concluding significantly earlier than usual. Passengers were asked to double-check their travel plans.
Some places will only have around half as many train services as others, and vice versa.
The following train companies are among those affected: Avanti West Coast, c2c, Caledonian Sleeper, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Gatwick Express, Great Northern, Great Western Railway, Greater Anglia (including Stansted Express), Heathrow Express, LNER, London Northwestern Railway, Northern, Southeastern, Southern, South Western Railway (including Island Line), Thameslink, TransPennine Express and West Midlands Railway.
Picket lines will be set up in front of train stations all around England, and employees report that the public has shown a lot of support for their action.
A representative for Rail Delivery Group claimed that the strike will interfere with families’ summer vacation plans.
Tens of thousands of people will experience disappointment, annoyance, and financial pressure as a result of this.
“We apologise for the trouble we have created and recognise the effect on people and companies.
We advise you to do your research before leaving.
According to a representative for the Department of Transportation, “The Government has met with the rail unions, listened to them, and enabled improved offers on pay and reform.”
“So that this dispute can be resolved,” the union officials should present their members with these fair and acceptable offers.
July 28 was undoubtedly a day of immense pride and achievement for the renowned Reggae/Dancehall artist, Samini, as he successfully earned a degree in Project Management from the prestigious Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).
Following his graduation, social media platforms were flooded with heartwarming congratulatory messages from fellow musicians, colleagues in the industry, as well as his devoted fans. The news of Samini’s academic accomplishment spread like wildfire, and his well-wishers eagerly expressed their admiration and support for his dedication to both his music career and his pursuit of higher education.
The pictures of Samini donning his academic regalia served as a visual testament to his hard work, determination, and commitment to personal growth and development. The “Linda” hitmaker’s decision to further his education even amid his successful music journey highlighted his commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement.
The heartfelt messages of congratulations from peers and fans not only celebrated Samini’s academic milestone but also recognized his versatility as an artist and an individual with a thirst for knowledge and excellence. His achievement serves as an inspiration to many, proving that with dedication and perseverance, one can excel in multiple domains, both artistic and academic.
Samini, whose birth name is Emmanuel Andrews Sammini, made significant strides in his academic journey beyond his recent graduation in Project Management from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). In the preceding year, he took on the esteemed role of Students Representative Council (SRC) President at GIMPA.
His election as SRC President garnered widespread attention and became a viral sensation on social media, with numerous individuals extending their heartfelt congratulations to him for achieving this remarkable feat. Samini’s ability to balance his musical career with the responsibilities of student leadership was commendable, and his success in the election demonstrated his popularity and respect within the GIMPA community.
It’s worth noting that the election took place in June, and Samini was officially sworn into office as SRC President in the subsequent month of August. This period provided him with the opportunity to prepare and transition into his new role, ensuring that he could effectively serve and represent the student body.
Samini’s journey from being a celebrated Reggae/Dancehall artist to assuming a prominent position in student leadership showcased his versatility, leadership qualities, and dedication to making a positive impact both in the world of music and academia. His accomplishments continue to inspire others to pursue their passions and excel in various aspects of life.
Earlier in June this year, the artiste who has wowed music audience with songs such as “My Own”, “Obaa”, “Where My Baby Dey” announced his comeback to music when he disclosed that he was officially done with his degree programme.
“4 years ago I decided to challenge myself to a promise I made to my own damn self after high school. That I would one day go back and do university education just to complete the journey if not for anything to make mama proud since she was my biggest fan and played a major role in how I got to convince family to allow me to choose music over books.
“Today I’m proud to tell all my loved ones and well-wishers that I’m Officially done with my exams for my PROJECT MANAGEMENT DEGREE PROGRAM at GIMPA BUSINESS SCHOOL and am awaiting Graduation….. Morale . YOU CAN DO IT NO MATTER HOW LATE. BETTER LATE THAN NEVER. Back to the music. Lol. Dem no ready for what’s cooking smh. #Akyesaaaaaaaaaa (sic)” he posted on Facebook.
An autopsy report has revealed that the 26-year-old woman who was fatally shot by his Police boyfriend, Victoria Dapaah, known as Maadwoa, sustained multiple entry and exit wounds from the incident.
Inspector Ahmed Twumasi allegedly used his firearm to commit the act in Adum, a suburb of the Ashanti Regional capital, from which the bullets were fired.
As per the autopsy report conducted by the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), the deceased sustained six bullet entry wounds and seven exit wounds.
During the murder case proceedings against the inspector at a Kumasi High Court on July 26, the report detailing the autopsy findings was presented as evidence. It revealed that the deceased suffered six bullet entry wounds and seven exit wounds.
The report added that the deceased died of haemorrhagic shock due to multiple gunshot injuries. Pathologists described the manner of death as “unnatural”.
An Asaase Radio report added that prosecutors told the court that six spent shells and a nine-millimetre service rifle allegedly used by Inspector Ahmed Twumasi to commit the crime were obtained at the scene.
The exhibits which also included a swab stick with blood samples obtained at the scene have been forwarded to the police forensic laboratory for examination.
The inspector has pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder even as family relations who often throng the court during sittings express high hopes that a conviction will be secured at the end of the trial.
The parliament of Ghana has taken a significant step forward in addressing issues related to witchcraft accusations by passing the Criminal Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2022, through Parliament on the previous Thursday. With this new legislation in effect, it is now officially considered an offense to accuse anyone of being a witch.
The Bill explicitly targets and criminalizes the act of accusing someone of practicing witchcraft, making it illegal to declare, accuse, name, or label another individual as a witch, along with all related matters connected to such accusations.
The primary objective of this bill is to amend the existing Criminal Offences Act of 1960 (Act 29), with the specific intention of prohibiting any person from acting as a witch doctor or witch finder, thus curbing the practice of making accusations based on beliefs in witchcraft.
This crucial piece of legislation is part of a broader set of policy measures aimed at effectively addressing and preventing attacks and human rights violations that often arise due to unfounded witchcraft accusations. By criminalizing the act of accusing others of witchcraft, the country seeks to promote social harmony, protect individual rights, and foster a more just and compassionate society.
During the deliberations leading up to the third reading of the bill, all participating members of Parliament were in complete agreement, voicing their support for the criminalization of all witchcraft activities and the accusation of witchcraft in addition to advocating for the complete abolition of all existing witchcraft camps within the country.
The lawmakers firmly believed that such measures would act as a deterrent against baseless accusations of witchcraft and the subsequent human rights abuses that often accompany such allegations. By criminalizing witchcraft activities and accusations, individuals would be discouraged from making false claims and perpetrating harm on innocent people due to superstitious beliefs.
Moreover, the proposed legal framework would empower law enforcement agencies to take appropriate action against offenders who engage in human rights violations stemming from witchcraft accusations. This legal clarity and accountability would enhance the protection of individuals who may be targeted unjustly.
The collective stance taken by the members of Parliament showcased their shared commitment to addressing the serious issues arising from witchcraft accusations in the country. By striving for the abolition of witchcraft camps and enacting laws against such practices, they aimed to create a safer and more just society, free from the harmful consequences of unfounded witchcraft allegations.
The declaration, it said, further proclaimed that all human beings were endowed with reason and conscience, and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.
“These very important tenets of human rights are reinforced by the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, which also provides for the prohibition of all forms of practices that are dehumanising or are injurious to the physical and mental well-being of a person (Article 26(2) of the 1992 Constitution),” it said.
It indicated that Article 15(2) of the Constitution also provided for the respect for human dignity and projects that, “no person shall, whether or not he is arrested, restricted or detained, be subjected to; (a) torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment; (b) any other condition that detracts or is likely to detract from his dignity and worth as a human being.”
“Accusation of witchcraft is undoubtedly, a setback to the efforts to achieve the tenets of international human rights treaties which Ghana has ratified, including the Universal Declaration on Human Rights; Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and Convention on the Elimination of All Discrimination against Women,” it said.
It added that the negative effect of witchcraft accusations on Ghana’s human right efforts was evident in the 2022 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices.
“In the said report, accusations of witchcraft and its attendant human rights violations such as physical assault, stigmatisation and banishment from families and communities were recorded as part of Ghana’s human right shortfalls,” it said.
During a Fire Festival celebration in Aboabo, a community situated in the Asokore Mampong Municipality of the Ashanti Region, a tragic incident unfolded, resulting in the loss of a 14-year-old boy’s life.
According to a report from citnewsroom.com, the victim, Masawudu Abdul-Aziz, was attending the joyous event when a stray bullet struck him amidst a mesmerizing display of celebrants firing muskets while engaging in enthusiastic chanting, dancing, and lighting of fires.
The devastating occurrence has plunged the community into a state of shock and mourning, as this young teenager fell victim to the otherwise festive occasion.
The sorrowful aftermath of the incident is further compounded by several others who were also injured during the incident, prompting them to receive immediate medical attention to address their wounds and trauma.
The deceased boy’s uncle, Muaz Abdul-Baki, recounted the moment he received the news from his wife.
According to him, he rushed to the scene to find his young nephew lying in a pool of blood. “My wife called me last night to inform me that the boy attended the ceremony and had been hit by a stray bullet, so I quickly moved there and confirmed it was true,” citinewroom.com quoted him to have said.
The Fire Festival, also known as the Bugum Festival, holds significant cultural importance among the people of Dagbon, Mamprugu, and the Nanumba ethnic groups. It is an annual celebration that marks a historical event on the Mole-Dagbon calendar. Those who have migrated from the North and now reside in the Southern part of the country participate in the festival each year to honor their heritage and traditions.
A heartbreaking incident occurred during the Fire Festival celebration in Aboabo, Asokore Mampong Municipality of the Ashanti Region.
According to a reports, a 14-year-old boy tragically lost his life due to a stray bullet that struck him.
Masawudu Abdul-Aziz, the victim, was present at the festive event when the unfortunate incident occurred. Amidst the enchanting display of celebrants firing muskets, dancing, and lighting fires, he was struck by a bullet.
The incident has plunged the community into a state of disbelief and sorrow, as the teenager’s life was tragically claimed during the festivities. The community is mourning the loss of the young boy who became an unfortunate casualty of the event. Additionally, there are reports of several others being injured during the incident, and they are currently undergoing medical treatment.
The deceased boy’s uncle, Muaz Abdul-Baki, recounted the moment he received the news from his wife.
According to him, he rushed to the scene to find his young nephew lying in a pool of blood. “My wife called me last night to inform me that the boy attended the ceremony and had been hit by a stray bullet, so I quickly moved there and confirmed it was true,” citinewroom.com quoted him to have said.
The Fire Festival, also known as the Bugum Festival, holds significant cultural importance among the people of Dagbon, Mamprugu, and the Nanumba ethnic groups. It is an annual celebration that marks a historical event on the Mole-Dagbon calendar.
Those who have migrated from the North and now reside in the Southern part of the country participate in the festival each year to honor their heritage and traditions.
