Rescuers scramble to help riders trapped at the top of a 72-foot rollercoaster.At a theme park, a rollercoaster ride broke down, leaving eight people stuck at the top.
When the Rage rollercoaster malfunctioned this afternoon at Adventure Island in Southend, Essex, emergency personnel acted quickly.
As one of the cars came to a stop not far from the top of the 72-foot ride, onlookers watched in helpless fear.
Witnesses claim that they were left dangling on the tracks for “at least half an hour to 45 minutes” after the rollercoaster broke down about 2pm.
One onlooker captured some video of the car on the ride, with the passengers facing the sky.
It is believed that everyone on board has now disembarked from the vehicle.
They had to be tethered and rescued down, according to a mother who was in the park with her 6-year-old daughter.
“It got stuck. It’s the big one there that goes through the loop – it goes up, God knows high, then straight back down, and then loops,” the speaker said.
Fernando Pérez Algaba appeared to be living the high life to his 920,000 Instagram followers.
A man who began his working life selling pizzas in Buenos Aires, Argentina, hinted at tremendous wealth with his designer clothes, supercars, and extravagant excursions across the world.
Meanwhile, admiring articles about him in Argentine publications gave credence to his assertions that he was a successful “Forex and cryptocurrency trader.”
But as is all too frequently the case with ‘influencers’ on social media, appearances can be deceiving, and lying can have fatal repercussions.
On July 23, two kids in Buenos Aires who were having fun by the river under a bridge discovered a bag containing the 41-year-old’s body and limbs.
Police eventually discovered his head in a rucksack downstream.
Authorities told the local media that the man was shot three times and that his limbs had been “cleanly” removed, implying that an experienced criminal was responsible.
Since then, it has come to light that Algaba was dealing with a mounting debt load, tax issues, and money demands from investors in a ‘failed’ cryptocurrency investment scheme, which he acknowledged had ‘gone out of hand.
The Argentinean, who had just moved back to his country after living in Barcelona, presented himself as a self-made millionaire who could assist others in accumulating fortune.
In the months leading up to his passing, he spoke to local reporters about his colourful “rags-to-riches” journey in addition to uploading images of himself wearing fancy clothing, expensive watches, and supercars to his over one million Instagram followers.
He claimed in numerous interviews to have been a pizza delivery kid before becoming a successful “Forex and cryptocurrency trader” and relocating to Miami to manage a jet ski and automobile rental business.
He said that he previously “lost everything” on the stock market and warned that trading was “dangerous,” which were both surprisingly humble statements for someone who likes to flaunt their money.
He also sprinkled it with ludicrous claims of investment success, such as that he turned $100,000 into $200,000 “in four days” on the stock market. If real, this would make Warren Buffet and others gasp in disbelief.
Although theoretically conceivable with riskier assets like forex and cryptocurrencies, such profits are exceedingly unusual and have never been regularly replicated on conventional stock markets.
Algaba was accused of beating one of the two men who accused him of scamming them by failing to deliver a car they had paid for in 2021, according to Argentine channel C5N.
He allegedly accrued ‘irrecoverable’ tax bills to the Argentine tax authorities, and just 10 months after incorporation, one of his companies started bouncing checks.
According to judicial authorities cited by the Argentine newspaper La Nación, Algaba left a letter on his phone claiming he feared for his life after an investment he made with others did not turn out as planned.
He is alleged to have written, “If something happens to me, everyone is already warned.”
The note reportedly referred to a $40,000 investment made by the son of a senior member of a local football hooligan firm.
He apparently described asking the man to ‘wait a few months for me to settle up’ but later got a call in which he ‘threatened me’.
The note, which La Nación said was shared with multiple contacts, began: ‘Hello, well, in principle I apologize to all the people that I failed them and I could not pay them what they gave me.
‘At first this started as an investment in cryptocurrencies and, little by little, it got out of hand.
“Nothing that occurred was done intentionally. There was always a chance to regain what had been lost in a subsequent endeavour to move forward. There it was—the error.
According to UK and US financial authorities, cryptocurrency investments are quite dangerous and the majority of FX trading schemes result in losses for investors.
Given the exhilarating profits that, very sometimes, may be obtained through such dangerous schemes, both markets are riddled with instances of investors losing their life savings in the blink of an eye – and frequently in circumstances they find dubious.
Few persons who lure others into failed scams are ever prosecuted for fraud because most law enforcement agencies view losing investments as “par for the course,” even though criminals have been convicted for stealing cryptocurrencies.
Tiantian Kullander, 30, who passed away ‘in his sleep’ last year, as well as millionaire Nikolai Mushegian, 29, who drowned on a beach in Puerto Rico, are just two of the wealthy people in the crypto scene who have perished too soon.
Last November, a helicopter tragedy claimed the life of 53-year-old Russian entrepreneur and co-founder of the trading and investing website Libertex, Vyacheslav Taran.
There is yet no proof that Algaba deceived investors, who might not have taken the dangers into account.
However, his exaggerated statements about his prior investment performance make it unclear if he adequately explained such dangers.
One suspect has been detained by Argentine police investigating the case—a lady connected to certain documentation discovered in the suitcase—but police believe more individuals are still at large.
Although Algaba’s body appeared to have been dismembered with care, officials do not think an organised group killed him.
Sergio Berni, Buenos Aires’ security minister, told C5N that the suspects behaved “quickly and almost madly.”
A more skilled crook wouldn’t do it this way, he said. The event was quite stunning and somewhat macabre.
According to reports, Kupper, Algaba’s missing French bulldog, was going with him.
On a melting glacier in Switzerland, the body of a German climber who had been missing since 1986 was discovered.
The unnamed climber was found earlier this month by other climbers who were traversing the Theodul glacier above Zermatt, close to the nation’s famed Matterhorn summit.
According to the BBC, they discovered crampons and a hiking boot sticking out of the ice.
The body was identified by DNA testing as that of a German climber, age 38, who went missing 37 years prior.
There was supposedly a significant search and rescue effort at the time, but the individual was not located.
A missing person or item is discovered almost every summer across Alpine glaciers as a result of climate change, which causes them to rapidly melt and decrease.
The 1968 plane’s wreckage was discovered in the Aletsch glacier’s thawing ice last year.
The remains of British climber Jonathan Conville, who went missing in 1979, were discovered in 2014 by a helicopter pilot who was bringing supplies to a mountain shelter on the Matterhorn.
Two Japanese climbers who had not been seen since 1970 were discovered on the Matterhorn glacier’s edge the following year.
Even the Swiss-Italian boundary has changed as a result of the ice melting. The drainage split, or the point where melted snow drains off into one country or the other, previously served as the determining factor.
However, the glacier’s retreat last year changed the situation, forcing the two governments to cautiously negotiate a new border.
However, the effects of melting Alpine glaciers go far beyond border disputes and discovered bodies.
They prevent rivers from overheating and killing fish by cooling the rivers with glacier melt water. Additionally, the winter snow they store feeds rivers like the Rhine and Danube, which supply water for crops and nuclear power plants to cool.
The size of Alpine glaciers had shrunk by more than half since 1931, according to glacier scientists in Switzerland last year.
This summer’s record-breaking heatwaves have affected a large portion of Europe, and it is believed that the consequences could be disastrous.
A three-year scheme by two retired Metropolitan Police officers and a current chief inspector of the Met to trade photographs of “the most depraved” child sex abuse resulted in their imprisonment.
Before being charged, the inspector was discovered to be deceased.
Jack Addis, 63, and Jeremy Laxton, 63, were jailed at Southwark Crown Court on Friday after pleading guilty to a charge of planning to distribute or display pornographic photos of children with Richard Watkinson, 49.
According to the testimony given in court, the guys shared the pictures and films on a hard drive that they added to whenever they got together “for their own sexual pleasure.”
Following concerns for his well-being, Watkinson, a working Met chief inspector for local policing at the West Area Command Unit, was discovered dead at his house in Saunderton, Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire, on January 12.
His suicide was reported to the court.
Following his arrest in July 2021, he was placed on administrative leave. On that day, he was scheduled to appear in court to answer bail on charges of the conspiracy, three counts of taking indecent pictures of children, voyeurism, and two counts of misconduct in public office.
The three men allegedly planned to “distribute or show indecent images of children to each other” between January 1 2018 and July 10 2021, according to the accusation.
The photographs were discovered on a computer hard drive and included 2,516 of the worst Category A images, 1,032 of Category B images, and 1,701 of Category C images.
Grantham, Lincolnshire native Laxton was punished after entering a guilty plea to a number of additional offences.
Laxton’s attorney, Karen Walton, stated that her client must live with the public’s perception of him as “integral” to the public’s “all-time low” level of confidence in the police.
Laxton received a five-year, nine-month sentence from Mr. Justice Wall, while Addis, of Perthshire, Scotland, received a three-year, nine-month sentence.
“The pictures you traded in were of the most depraved,” the court remarked.
Despite not working directly in child protection, he said, “You had each been policemen and must have been fully aware of the damage done to real children by the filming of such disturbing images.”
Laxton also admitted guilt to three counts of creating indecent photos of children, possessing a forbidden image, possessing an extreme pornographic image, and possessing cannabis on or before September 20, 2021, in addition to the conspiracy charge.
The indictment lists 56 extreme pornographic images that were “grossly offensive, disgusting or otherwise of an extreme character” and showed a person having sex with an animal. There are 6,086 images in Category A, 4,039 in Category B, 3,597 in Category C, seven prohibited images of a child, and 56 other images.
After witnessing a message Laxton sent to someone claiming to have “buried” his equipment within the walls of his house, investigators discovered gadgets in a ‘cavity’ Laxton had made behind the walls of his residence.
One of the officers assigned to review the material called one of the pictures “one of the most disturbing Category A pictures in existence.”
In addition, Laxton admitted guilt to the charge of willfully promoting or aiding the commission of the act of misconduct in a public position between December 1, 2019, and May 1, 2021.
At Lincoln Magistrates’ Court, Laxton admitted to several separate charges; he was also sentenced for those offences on Friday.
In Lincoln, he guilty to three counts of having severe pornography, indecent photos of children, illegal images, and cannabis possession.
Brazil’s government has turned down a US request to extradite a suspected Russian spy, arguing that Russia would eventually receive him instead.
Prior to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Sergey Vladimirovich Cherkasov is accused of entering the country using a false name in order to spy on Americans.
According to a statement released by Brazil’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security on Thursday, Cherkasov’s extradition request to Russia, where he is accused of “drug trafficking,” was authorised on March 17 by Brazil’s Federal Supreme Court.
The Brazilian statement emphasised that the request from Russia came before the one from the US for extradition.
The US Justice Department claims that Cherkasov entered the country in 2018 under the pretence of enrolling in graduate school in Washington, DC.
The case is being handled by US authorities, who claim that after creating the false identity in Brazil, he began using the alias Victor Muller Ferreira. In 2022, when he returned to Brazil, officials there detained him on charges of fraud and identity theft.
Cherkasov’s extradition to Russia has been accepted, but he cannot be sent there until his Brazilian prison sentence for forgery has been served.
According to TASS, Cherkasov was given a 15-year prison term for the fraud by a Brazilian court in July 2022, although this was later reduced to five years and two months after an appeal.
According to three sources familiar with the situation, CNN previously reported in May that the Biden administration has been looking for high-value Russian nationals that could persuade Moscow to free two Americans, Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, who the White House believes are being held unlawfully.
Cherkasov was charged by the DOJ with working for the military intelligence service of Russia. He might be a good candidate for a prisoner swap with Russia if kept in US custody, it’s possible.
On Thursday, the UN’s human rights commissioner accused Mexico’s military of blocking a professional inquiry into the 43 students who vanished in a violent incident that rattled that nation nearly nine years ago.
In its report released in August of last year, a Mexican truth commission found that the students, who vanished while travelling to a protest in Mexico City, were victims of “state-sponsored crime.”
In September 2014, the students from a teachers’ college in Ayotzinapa were detained by local law enforcement and federal military personnel as they passed through the city of Iguala in the southwest.
The first 100 kids were shot at in a quick exchange of gunfire, according to survivors. However, scores of children aboard the buses vanished that evening, and it is still unclear what happened to them.
A panel of experts (GIEI) looking into the event stated earlier this week that because it had not had enough access to information, the experts were forced to end their inquiry and depart Mexico.
Following its report, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Mexico issued a statement on Thursday claiming that Mexico’s Armed Forces had not provided all the material required by an independent panel looking into the disappearance.
Since its inception, the GIEI has determined the necessity of obtaining thorough and accurate information from all authorities in order to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the students’ forcible abduction and other grave human rights violations. In light of this, the OHCHR expresses its grave disappointment that the Armed Forces have not delivered all the required information despite the political will demonstrated by the federal government at the highest level.
The assertions, however, have been refuted by Mexico’s president, who has defended the military’s degree of collaboration.
In a press conference on Thursday, Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said, “If progress has been made, it is because of the cooperation of the navy and the army.”
He stated that finding the missing kids remains the top priority and that 115 people, including two generals and a former prosecutor, have already been jailed.
After being forced to abandon their Taipan helicopter in the water while participating in joint wargame manoeuvres with the US late on Friday, four Australian defence personnel are presumed dead in the water off the east coast of Australia.
Defence Minister Richard Marles said there was still a search going on for the four Australian Army helicopter crew members on Saturday during a press briefing in Brisbane.
With sorrowful hearts, we greet today. An Australian Army MRH-90 helicopter capsized in waters near Hamilton Island last night shortly after 10.30 p.m. The helicopter was participating in a two-helicopter mission, according to Marles.
There were four aircrew members present. A search and rescue operation could start right away because another chopper was nearby. The four members of the flight crew are still missing as we speak to you. Search and rescue operations continue, he said.
Off the coast of Queensland, the plane “impacted waters” close to Lindeman Island. According to the Australian Defence Ministry, a search effort comprising both search and rescue aircraft and sea vessels is currently underway.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said their “thoughts are with loved ones of the missing” in a joint statement with his Marles, also the deputy prime minister.
“As the search and rescue teams are currently at work, all Australians are thinking of them, and we are holding onto hope. Their professionalism and expertise are of the utmost importance to us,” it said.
Known as Talisman Sabre, the mission was a component of extensive military exercises involving the US. The two countries alternate hosting the drills every other year, and other partner forces are frequently involved.
Both US Secretaries of State and Defence, Lloyd Austin and Antony Blinken, who are now in Australia, mentioned the victims of the disaster.
Austin remarked that running into accidents while training is “always tough.” But when called upon to respond to any kind of crisis, he continued, “the reason we trained to such high standards is so that we can be successful and we can protect lives.”
The Talisman Sabre exercise has been suspended to give all participants, “regardless of their nation, the opportunity to reach out and let their families know what is going on,” according to Brigadier Damien Hill, the exercise’s director, at the Brisbane press conference.
The four missing crew members’ families “have been informed of this incident, and our hopes and our thoughts are very much with the air crew and their families,” Marles stated. Our aspirations are very much with the search and rescue efforts.
With Friday’s accident, the Australian Army had to abandon an MRH-90 Taipan into the water for the second time this year. The previous incident, which occurred in March and was blamed on an engine malfunction, resulted in two injuries.
The Australian government declared in 2019 that it would retire its complete fleet of Taipans made by Airbus years ahead of schedule, referring to the Taipans as a “project of concern for the last decade.”
Police authorities are currently searching for a woman who allegedly caused knife injuries to her friend’s neighbor.
In the Awutu Senya District of the Central Region, a concerning incident unfolded involving a suspect identified as Philo, who allegedly inflicted knife wounds on her friend’s neighbor.
As reported by UTV, the altercation between Philo’s friend and the victim, Mariama, led to the unfortunate incident. Both women reside as neighbors in a compound house.
Per the report, the said ladies got into a fight two months earlier and in the process, Mariama cut the finger of her neighbour who is Philo’s friend.
The incident which was reported to the police was resolved but on Thursday, July 28, 2023, Mariama was attacked by Philo around 7 am while she was brushing her teeth on the compound.
According to Philo, her actions were vengeful.
“A lady called Mariama, she is 20 years. For about 2 months now, she got into a quarrel with her neighbour.
She used a knife from her kitchen that she was using to clear remnants of banku from a pot to cut the finger of her neighbour with whom she had a fight. It was reported to the Awutu Senya Police who resolved the issue amicably and told them to go home and live in peace.
“Just yesterday, about 7 am in the morning when Mariama was brushing her teeth before she realized, a lady called Philo, whose friend is the one who had an earlier fight with Mariama started inflicting knife wounds on her.
“She asked what she had done and Philo said she had told her earlier that she was avenging the incident where her friend was cut. After this, she left to her room,” UTV’s reporter said while narrating the events.
The report further noted that the victim; Mariama was rushed to the hospital by her father after he chanced on his daughter on the compound with blood and wounds. The incident was reported to the police who have launched a manhunt for Philo and her friend.
The 2023 Ghana Banking Survey, conducted by leading global consultancy PwC, has shed light on the prevailing sentiments among bank executives who remain steadfast in their predictions of challenging economic hurdles looming on the horizon.
As the financial sector navigates through uncertainty, the survey’s findings underscore the cautious outlook among industry leaders, prompting a closer examination of strategies and resilience for the road ahead.
Nonetheless, despite acknowledging the challenges, bank executives expressed unwavering confidence in their ability to stage a complete and swift recovery.
The survey on the theme “Hardwiring Resilience and Agility into Banks’ Business Models”, also found that most banks wished that they had taken a less significant position in government securities due to the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).
The banks thought they should have used more robust economic policy analysis and market research to improve their ability to predict economic risks.
From the survey, PwC realised that the impact of the DDEP on banks’ businesses were varied and far-reaching: profitability, liquidity management, solvency, investor perceptions, and asset portfolio quality dominated the responses on impact.
Second phase of DDEP
The second phase of DDEP is currently underway with memorandum of exchanges issued by the Ministry of Finance on the domestic dollar instruments and Ghana Cocoa Board on the cocoa bills. Unlike the first, the tenor under the second phase for the eligible instruments are much shorter with arguably improved returns.
The report said the response of the banking industry on the second phase of the DDEP appears to be calm.
It stated that industry players believe the impairment already taken on this round two eligible instruments will be more than enough for any modification loss required given the improved terms when these eligible instruments eventually are exchanged for the new ones.
“I hope that this report will provide some fresh insights for your decisions as the industry steers towards growth. I also hope that we have been able to convey, through the report, the positive outlook that bank executives hold about the future of banks. To the participating banks, we are grateful for your participation and for the financial information and insights you shared with us by completing the survey questionnaire”, Vish Ashiagbor, Country Senior Partner at PwC stated.
A profound moment of transformation unfolded as the Mali government, with unwavering determination, made history by officially removing French from its list of official state languages.
For generations, French has been the language of administration, education, and official discourse in Mali, serving as a stark reminder of the colonial era when the country was under French rule.
This monumental shift has not gone unnoticed by pan-Africanists and scholars across the continent. Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, who is a respected Ghanaian pan-Africanist and influential voice in the media landscape, has turned his attention to the development.
As Mali takes a bold step in removing French from its list of official state languages, Pratt has raised pertinent questions, challenging Africa’s readiness to embrace this transformative linguistic shift.
“The Mali government has officially removed French from its list of official state languages, signaling a move away from the country’s colonial past. Is a wind of change blowing on the African continent, and are we prepared for the ramifications from the Western world?” he tweeted.
With its new constitution, Mali has dropped French, which has been the country’s official language since 1960.
According to reports, under the new constitution passed overwhelmingly with 96.91% of the vote in a June 18 referendum, French is no longer the official language. Although French will be the working language, 13 other national languages spoken in the country will receive official language status.
Mali has about 70 other local languages spoken in the country and some of them, including Bambara, Bobo, Dogon, and Minianka, were granted national language status under a 1982 decree.
Recall that Mali’s junta leader Col. Assimi Goita put the country’s new constitution into effect, marking the beginning of the Fourth Republic in the West African nation.
According to the Presidency, Mali’s military since taking power in an August 2020 coup, has maintained that the constitution would be critical to rebuilding the country.
Mali witnessed two subsequent coups in recent years, one in August 2020 and the other in May 2021.
The junta had initially promised to hold elections in February 2022 but later delayed them to February 2024.
The decision by Mali to drop French comes at a time of growing anti-French sentiment across West Africa due to its perceived military and political interference.
Running mate for the flabgearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2020 general elections, Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has reached out with a heartfelt message of congratulations to the recently elected Student Representative Council (SRC) President of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
Yvonne Osei Adobea is the first female SRC president in KNUST
In her message, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang commends the newly-elected SRC President, Yvonne Osei Adobea, on her well-deserved victory, acknowledging the commitment and dedication that students invest in representing their peers and contributing to the betterment of university life.
As a fervent advocate of education and women empowerment, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s message celebrates Yvonne and underscored the significance of nurturing responsible and visionary leaders within the educational landscape, especially women leaders.
Breaking Barriers, Shaping the Future!
A warm congratulations to Yvonne Osei Adobea for becoming the FIRST female President of the KNUST SRC!
Your historic victory inspires us all and paves the way for a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow!
— Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang (@NJOAgyemang) July 28, 2023
“Breaking Barriers, Shaping the Future! A warm congratulations to Yvonne Osei Adobea for becoming the FIRST female President of the KNUST SRC! Your historic victory inspires us all and paves the way for a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow! Best wishes Yvonne!!” she wrote.
Yvonne Osei Adobea, has set a record in the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), as she becomes the first Female Student Representative Council (SRC) President of the prestigious institution.
Yvonne won the Election total votes of 8,282 which represents 37.37% of the total vote cast.
This also makes her the first female KNUST Student to reach this vote margin in history of KNUST Students Election.
She takes over from Frank Owusu, a Level 300 Economics student, who was elected last year to head and manage the affairs of the SRC for the 2022/2023 academic year.
Renowned Ghanaian actor Prince David Osei has offered a glowing tribute to Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, extolling his leadership virtues in a heartfelt eulogy.
The actor’s profound respect for Dr Bawumia’s exceptional qualities has sparked a wave of appreciation for the Vice President’s contributions to Ghana’s development, uniting admirers from various walks of life.
Taking to Twitter, Prince David Osei penned a touching tribute to the Vice President, expressing his sentiments with genuine sincerity.
This picture speaks volumes to me, capturing so much beauty and depth. I've had the incredible opportunity to personally meet Vice President H.E Dr. Bawumia, and let me tell you, he’s a truly remarkable individual. Humble, yet incredibly intelligent! 💯 @MBawumia@JohnAKufuor… pic.twitter.com/KV9xe5meJL
— H.E Prince David Osei (@PrinceDavidOsei) July 28, 2023
He hailed Dr Bawumia as a “truly remarkable, humble, and intelligent” leader, using heartfelt words to acknowledge the Vice President’s unwavering dedication to the nation and its people.
“I’ve had the incredible opportunity to personally meet Vice President H.E Dr. Bawumia, and let me tell you, he’s a truly remarkable individual. Humble, yet incredibly intelligent! “ he said.
The actor’s tribute comes at a time when the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is heading for its special delegates congress and the much anticipated presidential and parliamentary primaries.
Dr Bawumia is among ten(10) candidates seeking to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and subsequently, the country.
In the lead up to the Special New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential superdelegates conference scheduled for August 26, 2023, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong has picked the number one slot on the ballot paper.
At the balloting on Wednesday, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen picked the 2nd slot followed by Joe Ghartey as the 3rd and Kwadwo Poku as the 4th.
Former Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto picked the 5th position with Kwabena Agyei Agyepong picking 6th slot.
The last four slots went to Francis Addai-Nimoh at 7th, Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku at 8th, Boakye Kyeremanteng Agyarko at 9th and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia at the 10th position.
When it comes to combating fatigue and boosting energy levels, certain vitamins play a crucial role in supporting your body’s overall vitality. Here are the ten best vitamins for energy and tiredness:
Vitamin B12: Essential for energy production, B12 helps convert food into usable energy and supports the health of red blood cells.
Vitamin B6: Works in conjunction with B12 to metabolize proteins and carbohydrates, aiding in energy release.
Vitamin C: An antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress and fatigue, promoting overall energy and immune health.
Vitamin D: Crucial for maintaining bone health and immune function, Vitamin D also plays a role in supporting energy levels.
Iron: Vital for transporting oxygen through the bloodstream, iron helps prevent anemia-related fatigue.
Magnesium: Supports hundreds of enzymatic reactions in the body, including energy production and muscle function.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Aids in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of cells.
Niacin (Vitamin B3): Helps convert food into energy and supports a healthy nervous system.
Folate (Vitamin B9): Supports the formation of red blood cells and assists in energy metabolism.
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): Essential for converting food into energy and maintaining overall health.
While obtaining these vitamins through a balanced diet is ideal, some individuals may benefit from supplementing with these vitamins to address energy levels and combat tiredness. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplementation regimen, as individual needs may vary. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and stress management is essential for overall energy and well-being.
A visually impaired historian has asserted delegates will show aspiring New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Kwabena Agyei Agyapong, the exit in the upcoming special delegate congress, scheduled for August 26, 2023.
Duodu The Historian, as he is affectionately called, said delegates will punish Mr Agyapong for spreading “anti-party” messages during his ongoing campaigns.
“Kwabena Agyei Agyapong is conducting an anti-party campaign and he is annoying party members with that,” he said.
Duodu asserted that all aspirants seeking to lead the NPP, including Mr Agyapong will be campaigning based on the track record of the current administration. Therefore, anyone who makes comments that put the current administration in a bad light, is shooting himself in the foot.
“There are a lot of factors that can influence his defeat; like things he did when he was the General Secretary of the party and how he existed [which party members have still not forgiven him for], in addition to his anti party campaign and I hope delegates are taking this into account and they will show him the exit on August 26, 2023,” he added.
Nigerian comedian and skit maker, Abdulgafar Oluwatoyin, also known as Cute Abiola, finds himself facing the wrath of a Nigerian law enforcement agency for the third time in three years, as he now stands at the risk of being arrested due to his recent comedy skits featuring a costume depicting the Nigerian police.
This time, the Nigerian police are expressing their displeasure with him for what they deem a disrespectful and derogatory portrayal of their force in his recent comedic videos. In these skits, Cute Abiola humorously satirizes the police officers begging for money from citizens amidst the backdrop of increased fuel prices.
His use of the police uniform without apparent authorization has raised concerns as it violates the Armed Forces Social Media Policy, which several Nigerian skit makers and comedians have seemingly disregarded in recent times.
In response, the Nigeria police released a press statement on Wednesday, as signed by its PRO, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stating that Cute Abiola will be subject to an investigation and potential prosecution for intentionally desecrating the police uniform in his comedy skits.
Statement The Nigerian police, in the statement, acknowledged the citizen’s fundamental human rights and warned against the unauthorised use of police costumes and other accoutrements. It is an offence punishable by section 251 of the Criminal Code and section 133 of the Penal Code Law.
The police statement reads, “In as much as the law grants Nigerians the right to enjoy their fundamental human rights, the same law prohibits an individual, under whatever guise, from rubbishing the police institution or grossly violating its provisions regarding the use of uniforms.”
“We vehemently condemn the contemptuous act displayed by comedian Abdulgafar Abiola, popularly known as “Cute Abiola,” in two recent skits posted on his social media handles on 20th and 24th July 2023. The skits in question show a highly disrespectful and derogatory portrayal of the police uniform. This action violates Section 251 of the Criminal Code and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law. Such acts are offensive and undermine the integrity and dignity of the men and women who wear the uniform to serve the nation.
“Abdulgafar Abiola will be investigated and possibly prosecuted for his deliberate acts as the NPF had warned skit makers and filmmakers to desist from desecrating their uniform or accoutrements. The Force is committed to upholding the sanctity of the uniform and will pursue due legal process to ensure accountability for any individual or entity that seeks to bring shame to the uniform or the institution it represents. We call on all members of the public, including media personalities, to exercise their freedom of expression responsibly and avoid engaging in actions that could erode public trust in our revered law enforcement institutions.”
This police statement is coming a few weeks after the Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, warned content creators, movies and skit producers against using EFCC-branded jackets, symbols, insignia, and other accoutrements without authorisation.
Serial Offender This is not the first time Cute Abiola, formerly a Nigerian naval officer, would be in trouble with the forces for using military uniforms to make comedy videos.
In several recent skits on his Instagram page, Cute Abiola has consistently made comedy videos clad in Police uniforms and military attire.
Cute Abiola, who recently welcomed a son with his wife in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, in June, has been arrested twice for violating the Nigerian Armed Forces Social Media Policy.
He was arrested in November 2021, where he spent over 10- days in naval custody, which later led to his dismissal from the naval force.
Again, he was arrested in 2020 after his birthday pictures in a naval uniform went viral. He was later released on 4 May 2020.
He often posts videos of himself clad in military uniform and wielding a gun.
Dealing with work stress in a healthy way is crucial for maintaining overall well-being and productivity. Here are some strategies to help you cope with work-related stress in a positive manner:
Recognize the Signs: Be aware of the signs of stress, such as irritability, difficulty concentrating, and changes in sleep patterns. Acknowledging that you are experiencing stress is the first step in addressing it.
Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for self-care activities that help reduce stress, such as regular exercise, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature.
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Avoid bringing work-related stress home, and create designated times for relaxation and leisure.
Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: If work tasks seem overwhelming, break them down into smaller, manageable steps. This can help you approach tasks with less anxiety and a clearer focus.
Seek Support: Talk to trusted colleagues, friends, or family members about your feelings and concerns. Having a support system can help you feel more understood and less isolated.
Time Management: Organize your tasks and prioritize them based on deadlines and importance. Effective time management can reduce stress and increase efficiency.
Practice Mindfulness: Stay present and focused in the moment, rather than dwelling on past mistakes or worrying about the future. Mindfulness techniques can help reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
Take Breaks: Regularly take short breaks throughout the workday to relax and recharge. Even a brief walk outside or a few moments of deep breathing can make a difference.
Avoid Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms: Avoid turning to unhealthy coping strategies such as excessive alcohol consumption, overeating, or ignoring the problem. Instead, choose activities that promote relaxation and well-being.
Seek Professional Help: If work stress becomes overwhelming and starts to affect your daily life, consider seeking support from a mental health professional or counselor.
Remember that it’s normal to experience stress at work, but taking proactive steps to manage it in a healthy way is essential for your physical and mental health. By implementing these strategies, you can build resilience and improve your ability to handle work-related challenges effectively.
Ghanaian broadcaster and MC, OB Nartey and his team received a warm welcome from Joseph Acolatse, the Chairman of the Adentan Constituency, at the party’s headquarters when they went to collect the nomination forms on July 26, 2023.
During the visit, OB Nartey expressed his gratitude and joy to the party’s executives for their openness and support. He took the opportunity to reiterate his strong commitment and vision for the constituency.
As he picked his nomination forms, OB Nartey appealed to all party members to consider him as the best candidate, confident in his determination and capability to secure victory for the parliamentary seat in the upcoming December 2024 elections.
The constituency delegates present at the event were delighted and proud to witness OB Nartey’s successful nomination form collection, showing their support for both him and the party.
In addition to being an artiste manager, OB Nartey is a well-known gospel presenter, famous for his Live Worship show that used to air on Vision 1 FM. He is also a member of the Table of Men, an advocacy group within the gospel music fraternity.
Nigerian s singer and former Big Brother Naija Season 6 housemate, Victoria Adeyele, popularly known as Vee, has shared some relationship tips for women.
She believes that it is perfectly acceptable for women to make the first move and pursue men they are interested in.
Vee encourages women to take chances and not be afraid to chase after the men they desire, even if it may seem daunting. According to her, women should embrace the idea of wooing men and be proactive in their romantic pursuits.
“Toast these guys once in a while. Go for what you like,” she tweeted.
Vee is a musician based in Lagos State. She was born and raised in London; and moved to Lagos almost four years ago to build her musical career.
Tagged the “Queen of flames” on the reality TV show, Vee considers herself a preacher of love and a fighter.
She was one of the housemates that competed for the grand prize of N85 million on the fifth edition of Big Brother Naija Reality TV Show.
During a discussion section with her fellow housemates on the show, Vee revealed she didn’t go to the high institution because of her look for music and the high cost of tuition fees in London.
She also stated that she didn’t want to dislike her course if she studied any.
A visually impaired historian has asserted that aspiring New patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer and former Trades Minister, Alan Kyerematen, is unlikely to emerge winner of the upcoming NPP Presidential Primaries.
Although Duodo The Blind Historian, as he is affectionately called asserts that Mr Kyerematen is likely to cross the first selection process, where five candidates will be selected, it will be impossible for him to win the Presidential primaries to become the party’s flagbearer.
He attributed this to what he describes as a political plunder Mr Kyerematen committed in 2008.
“Alan for instance can break the first five but to become a flagbearer will be very very difficult. It is the most difficult thing currently in the world. It will be more difficult for him to win than for someone to die and resurrect.
Asked by host Kofi Adoma Nwanwani why he says so, he explained that: “in April 2008, he [Alan] committed a political suicide and that political suicide will follow him.”
The case in reference occurred in April 2008 when Mr Kyerematen resigned from the party.
A Daily Guide report indicated that the then defeated New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential aspirant, John Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen has resigned from the party.
Mr Kyerematen, popularly called Alan Cash, was said to have submitted his resignation letter to the office of the National Chairman of NPP, Peter Mac Manu, who was then out of the country.
The former Minister was said to have stated in the letter that his supporters were being harassed since his defeat at the party’s Legon Congress, and therefore he was left with no option than to quit.
Alan however said he would rejoin the party at the appropriate time and later did so.
Duodu, who emphasised that forgiveness is rare in Ghanaian politics, said that party delegates might not forgive him for his decision to exit and rejoin the party.
Despite being advertised as a solution to eliminate “99.9% of germs,” mouthwash might bring about more health problems than expected.
Beware of the potential dangers of using mouthwash, even though it is often marketed as a safe and effective method to combat bad breath and improve overall oral health. Before incorporating mouthwash into your regular dental regimen, it is essential to take a moment and consider the possible risks associated with its use.
Mouthwash destroys good bacteria in the mouth Mouthwash makes no distinction between good and bad oral bacteria and simply destroys them all; it acts like an antibiotic for the mouth.
Consider mouthwash to be the oral equivalent of abusing antibiotics. Similar to how antibiotics disrupt the delicate equilibrium of bacteria in your gut, leading to weakened immune function and many other problems, mouthwash completely eliminates all bacteria in your mouth.
Just like your gut health relies on beneficial bacteria, your oral microbiome also depends on them. These bacteria play a key role in reducing common problems such as cavities, gingivitis, and bad breath, ensuring optimal oral health.
Mouthwash dries out the mouth and causes cavities Conventional mouthwash dries out your mouth and interferes with saliva production. Because saliva functions as a natural barrier for dental diseases, this can actually result in poor breath over time and even cause cavities. It is vital to have enough saliva in your mouth because it aids in the process of remineralization, which helps you naturally avoid and reverse cavities.
It leads to high blood pressure Recent research has shown that the use of regular mouthwash can potentially lead to elevated blood pressure due to its interference with the production of Nitric Oxide (NO), a vital chemical that regulates blood pressure in the body.
Many standard mouthwashes contain up to 26% alcohol in addition to other hazardous substances. Alcohol kills the beneficial microorganisms that your body requires to maintain normal blood pressure and oral health.
They may cause mouth ulcers The drying of your mouth when you use mouthwash causes more than just poor breath; it leads to mouth ulcers. The combination of toothpaste and mouthwash components affects your cheek’s protective layer. Using conventional mouthwash may cause mouth ulcers by the formation of holes in the tissue of the mouth.
Listerine and other mouthwashes burn in the mouth because they contain skin-irritating chemicals such as eucalyptol, menthol, thymol, and methyl salicylate.
Mouthwash has been linked to an increased risk of oral cancer While the research is still uncertain, alcohol-containing mouthwashes appear to raise your risk of oral cancer. For example, smokers that use mouthwash more frequently to mask odour increase their risk of oral cancer.
What can you use instead? Buy mouthwash that contains natural ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil and other essential oils.
Ghanaian millionaire, Nana Cheddar, has recently acquired an extraordinary $7 million mansion located in the prestigious Bel-Air neighborhood of Los Angeles.
This opulent property stands as a breathtaking testament to luxury, drawing inspiration from the timeless grandeur of the iconic Versace style. Nana Cheddar spared no expense in transforming the interior, investing over $2 million to adorn it with the most exquisite and lavish items money can buy.
One of the mansion’s most captivating features is a remarkable mirror television, a true masterpiece valued at an astonishing $20,000.
As a connoisseur of the finest tastes, Nana Cheddar has curated an impressive $80,000 customized champagne collection, boasting the rarest and most exclusive bottles from around the world.
With a clear vision in mind, Nana Cheddar intends for his mansion to become the talk of Bel-Air, a place where luxury and extravagance know no bounds. This stunning property stands as a testament to his appreciation for opulence and his desire to create a truly remarkable and awe-inspiring living space.
Check out video below
🚨ICYMI🇬🇭🏠: Self-acclaimed Prince of Africa, Nana Kwame Owusu Bediako(a.k.a Cheddar) owns one of the world’s luxurious buildings located in Bel Air, Los Angeles.
He acquired it for $7 million and spent $2 million transforming the interior with Versace prints.
For absolute beginners in weight lifting, it’s essential to start with exercises that are safe, effective, and easy to learn. Here are five weight-lifting exercises that are perfect for beginners:
Goblet Squat: Hold a dumbbell or kettlebell close to your chest, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and lower yourself into a squat position by bending your knees and pushing your hips back. Keep your chest up and back straight. Push through your heels to return to the starting position.
Dumbbell Deadlift: Hold a dumbbell in each hand with palms facing your thighs. Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Lower the dumbbells by pushing your hips back while keeping your back straight. Lower the weights until they reach mid-shin level, then lift them back up by pushing through your heels and engaging your glutes and hamstrings.
Dumbbell Bench Press: Lie flat on a bench with a dumbbell in each hand, elbows bent at a 90-degree angle. Push the dumbbells upward until your arms are fully extended, then lower them back down to the starting position.
Bent-Over Dumbbell Row: Hold a dumbbell in each hand, bend your knees slightly, and hinge at your hips to lean forward. Let the dumbbells hang below your shoulders with palms facing inward. Pull the dumbbells up towards your chest by squeezing your shoulder blades together. Lower them back down in a controlled manner.
Dumbbell Shoulder Press: Hold a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder level, palms facing forward. Press the weights upward until your arms are fully extended overhead. Lower the dumbbells back to the starting position.
Remember, proper form is crucial when weight lifting to prevent injuries. Start with lighter weights and gradually increase the load as you gain confidence and strength. If you’re new to weight lifting, consider seeking guidance from a fitness trainer to ensure you are performing the exercises correctly and safely.
Nollywood actress, Iheme Nancy, has recently made a revelation on her Instagram page, stating that she has abstained from intercourse for the past 7 years.
In her post, Nancy Iheme mentioned that her extended period of celibacy has even affected her ability to kiss, as she humorously added that she doesn’t remember how to do it anymore.
The popular actress shared a radiant headshot on her page, donning a brown wig cap, showcasing her glowing appearance.
Nancy Iheme’s candid revelation has sparked reactions and discussions among her followers, highlighting the personal choices individuals make when it comes to matters of intimacy and relationships.
In her words:
“I have not had sêx in the last 7 years help me oooo. How do I keep my mouth to kiss because I don’t understand how they keep mouth again…”
Her post has been welcomed with reactions from netizens who seem to be in shock.
This is due to the fact that the actress’ lifestyle on social media somewhat does not depict her statements.
One can recall that Nancy earlier chided critics for still judging her by the past.
“Some people visit my past more than I do. I don’t live there anymore baby, I sold the whole building,” she wrote on Instagram sometime in May 2023.
Shatta Wale, the baby daddy of Michy, has made an appeal to his followers to show their support for her after the release of her new song ‘Hustle.’
As a gesture of encouragement, he has offered a cash reward to anyone who can flawlessly and accurately sing the song.
The Dancehall musician in a tweet, he shared the link to the song together with his plea, saying: “Guys kindly support Michy on her new song for me .. Anyone that can sing from A-Z is getting 2k from me for Freeeee!!!! Thank you.”
In a joyous response to the tweet, Michy expressed in Pidgin English: “I don blow. Thank you, baby daddy.” Shatta replied, “I love the vibe.”
Michy and Shatta Wale were once in a relationship that lasted for eight years. However, in 2019, they decided to go their separate ways after a series of accusations between them.
Their breakup was messy, with allegations surfacing that Michy had denied Shatta Wale access to their child, Majesty. However, Michy vehemently denied these allegations.
In a May 2023 interview on Showtym with Andy Dosty, Michy made it clear that there is no chance of a comeback with Shatta Wale. She stated that fans who hope for a reconciliation between them will not see it happen as their love cannot be rekindled.
Currently, Michy has moved on to become a show host, and her path rarely crosses with her former fiancé, even though they share a child together. The two have chosen separate paths in their lives after their split.
“We are both living separate lives, I will not like to talk about him but yes, I sometimes see him. We bump into each other on the roadside. We go our separate ways, he doesn’t call me when he sees me in town,” she said.
Michy publicly confessed to turning back the hand of time if only she could. This is to make right some of her greatest mistakes.
Revisiting her love life with the dancehall musicians in the interview with Andy Dosty, she tried everything possible to avoid mentioning the name of Shatta Wale.
“If I had a magic eraser I’d erase some occurrences. You are in certain situations and don’t realize the consequences. Today, we are doing a rebranding, we are evolving, growing. I am still dealing with pain, and the consequences of certain occurrences, I don’t want to go too deep but you know what I mean,” she said.
Dating a single parent can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with unique challenges. Here are ten tips to help you navigate dating someone who is a single parent:
Be Understanding: Recognize that their child(ren) will always be a top priority, so be understanding and supportive of their parenting responsibilities.
Patience is Key: Building a relationship with a single parent takes time. Be patient and allow the relationship to develop at a comfortable pace for both of you.
Communication: Open and honest communication is crucial. Discuss your feelings, expectations, and any concerns you may have.
Respect Boundaries: Understand and respect their parenting boundaries and decisions. Avoid interfering in parenting matters unless asked.
Be Flexible: Single parents often have unpredictable schedules. Be flexible and understanding when plans may need to change.
Show Interest in Their Child(ren): Take an interest in their child(ren) and show that you care about their well-being. Building a bond with the kids is essential for a successful relationship.
Take it Slow with the Kids: Let the single parent decide when it’s appropriate for you to meet their child(ren). Don’t rush this process.
Offer Support: Offer support and help when needed, but also give them space to handle their parenting responsibilities independently.
Be Mindful of Their Feelings: Understand that dating as a single parent can bring up various emotions. Be sensitive to their feelings and be a good listener.
Be Understanding of Their Past: Be aware that a single parent may have past experiences that have shaped their approach to dating and relationships. Show empathy and understanding.
Dating a single parent can be a fulfilling and loving experience with the right approach and mindset. Remember that everyone’s situation is unique, so adapt these tips to suit your specific relationship dynamics.
On July 28, 2023, rising Ghanaian sensation, Benjies, released his latest single, ‘Third Person,’ which is set to become the ultimate anthem for lovers.
Since the debut of his first single, ‘On The Go,’ Benjies has been making significant waves in Ghana’s thriving music scene, showcasing his exceptional musical talent and prowess.
‘Third Person’ is a melodic and introspective exploration of love and self-discovery. The song’s heartfelt lyrics delve into the complexities of relationships and the often unspoken emotions that come with them.
Benjies’ soulful vocals bring depth and emotion to the narrative, captivating listeners and drawing them into a world of vulnerability and raw feelings.
As a rising sensation from Sekondi-Takoradi, Benjies’ highly anticipated single has been met with praise from both fans and critics. ‘Third Person’ is being hailed as a masterpiece that highlights his unique style and creative brilliance.
The infectious melody and relatable themes in the song have the potential to resonate with audiences worldwide, indicating that Benjies is well on his way to becoming an international sensation.
With his impressive vocal ability and the incorporation of traditional African percussions, Benjies continues to solidify his position as a promising and talented artist in the Ghanaian music scene. The release of ‘Third Person’ marks another significant milestone in his musical journey.
Renowned Ghanaian Highlife artiste, Kwabena Kwabena has exciting news for his fans as he revealed that he will be releasing gospel songs soon.
The artiste shared the reason behind this initiative, stating that he made a promise to God some time ago to record a few gospel songs as a way of expressing his gratitude for everything that God has done in his life.
During a media interaction on Onua TV’s Onua Keteke, while discussing his upcoming album, Kwabena Kwabena expressed his belief that God has been incredibly good to him, and now is the perfect time for him to honor his promise and show his appreciation through these gospel songs.
This upcoming release marks a significant and heartfelt endeavor for the artiste, as he ventures into a new genre to express his faith and appreciation for the blessings he has received. Fans eagerly await this transformation in Kwabena Kwabena’s music, anticipating his soulful renditions of gospel melodies.
“So, I made a promise to God that I will release a couple of songs that I will use to praise Him and also show him how grateful I am for the things he has done in my life. So, I am recording a few songs; gospel songs. I will release those Gospel songs by all means. It’s in the pipeline so Ghanaians should anticipate”, he said during the interview.
The ‘Asor’ hitmaker also mentioned that he is the author of most of his songs, explaining that songwriting is a gift thus, if God has blessed him with such a talent, he sees no reason why he should ignore such talent.
Kwabena Kwabena has indeed made a lasting impact in the music industry, becoming a household name in Ghana. His career took off in 2004, and since then, he has consistently delivered excellent music to his fans. Some of his popular songs that have resonated with audiences include ‘Ka Kyere me’, ‘Adea waye me’, ‘Me ne woa’, and ‘Fakye me’.
The Ghanaian hip-hop scene is currently buzzing with excitement as rap sensations Amerado and Strongman team up to release their highly-anticipated EP, ‘Young And Strong’. This collaborative project showcases their undeniable talent, passion for music, and dedication to delivering exceptional artistry to their fans.
‘Young And Strong’ is a testament to the remarkable chemistry between Amerado and Strongman. They have skillfully fused their unique styles and lyrical prowess, resulting in a musical experience that leaves a lasting impression.
The EP features an impressive lineup of renowned producers, including Atown TSB, IzJoe Beatz, and Tubhani Muzik. Together, they have crafted captivating beats that perfectly complement the artists’ distinctive flows, making “Young And Strong” a true masterpiece of sound.
The tracklist of the EP includes: ‘Rap Is Still Alive’, ‘Life’, ‘Yonah’, ‘Wobesu’, and ‘Mea Me Sika’.
Each track on ‘Young And Strong’ explores diverse themes, offering a mix of thought-provoking lyrics and infectious rhythms that are sure to resonate with audiences worldwide. From powerful social commentary to personal reflections, Amerado and Strongman pour their hearts into every verse, leaving a profound impact on listeners.
Amerado and Strongman expressed their excitement about the collaboration, stating, “Working on ‘Young And Strong’ has been an incredible journey of creativity and growth. We believe this EP represents the best of both of us, and we can’t wait for our fans to hear it.”
This electrifying collaboration is undoubtedly set to leave a mark on the Ghanaian hip-hop scene and beyond, solidifying Amerado and Strongman’s positions as prominent figures in the genre. Fans eagerly await the release of ‘Young And Strong’ to witness the magic that these two talented artists have created together.
Before getting married, it’s essential to have open and honest conversations with your partner to ensure you are on the same page about important aspects of your life together. Here are five conversations to have before marriage:
Future Goals: Discuss your individual and shared long-term goals, such as career aspirations, where you see yourselves living, whether you want children, and financial objectives. Ensure your visions align and that you have a plan to work together to achieve your goals.
Finances: Talk about your current financial situation, including debts, savings, and spending habits. Be transparent about your approach to money and how you envision handling finances as a couple. Discuss financial responsibilities and how you plan to budget and manage expenses together.
Communication and Conflict Resolution: Understand each other’s communication styles and how you handle conflicts. Discuss healthy ways to resolve disagreements and how you can support each other during challenging times. Open and respectful communication is crucial for a strong and lasting marriage.
Family and Relationships: Talk about your relationships with family members and how they might influence your marriage. Discuss how involved you expect each other’s families to be in your lives and set boundaries as needed.
Division of Household Responsibilities: Address how you will share household responsibilities, such as cooking, cleaning, and managing household tasks. Clearly define each partner’s roles to prevent future misunderstandings or resentment.
It’s important to have these conversations in a non-judgmental and supportive environment. Take the time to listen to each other’s perspectives and be willing to compromise where necessary. Marriage requires continuous effort and communication, so starting these conversations before tying the knot can help build a strong foundation for your life together.
Couples therapy exercises can be beneficial in strengthening the emotional connection and communication between partners. Here are seven exercises you can try with your spouse:
Active Listening: Sit facing each other and take turns sharing your thoughts and feelings while the other partner listens attentively without interrupting. After one partner finishes speaking, the listener summarizes what they heard before sharing their own perspective.
Appreciation Exercise: Each partner takes turns expressing appreciation and gratitude for something their spouse has done. This exercise helps foster a positive atmosphere and encourages acknowledgment of each other’s efforts.
Relationship Vision: Together, discuss and create a shared vision of your ideal relationship. Talk about your long-term goals and aspirations, and ensure they are aligned to create a sense of shared purpose.
Conflict Resolution: Choose a past conflict that you both feel comfortable discussing. Take turns expressing your feelings, needs, and concerns about the issue while actively listening to your partner’s perspective. Look for common ground and work together to find a resolution.
Love Maps: This exercise involves learning more about each other’s preferences, hopes, and dreams. Create a list of questions to ask each other and take turns answering them to deepen your understanding of each other.
Role Play: Reenact a past situation or conflict using role play. This allows you to gain insight into each other’s perspectives and emotions during challenging moments and find more effective ways to communicate and empathize.
Stress-Reducing Activities: Engage in activities that help reduce stress and promote relaxation together. This could include practicing mindfulness exercises, going for a walk, or doing a fun activity that you both enjoy.
Remember that couples therapy exercises are most effective when approached with openness, empathy, and a willingness to work together to improve your relationship. If you find that your relationship is facing significant challenges, seeking professional guidance from a licensed couples therapist may also be beneficial.
Prominent Ghanaian political figure and Member of Parliament, Sam Nartey George, has voiced his apprehensions regarding the current state of the nation.
With unwavering honesty, he has drawn attention to a precarious situation, asserting that Ghana seemingly fulfills the distressing characteristics of a failed state.
He recalled that during a programme he undertook at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Center, Ghana checked all the boxes of a failed state.
“When I did my programme in Kofi Annan. In one of our classes, we looked at the indicators for failed states and Ghana ticked all the boxes. All. A huge youth population, growing unemployment, desperation, we tick all the boxes.
“So the class ended with the conclusion that it was the grace of God that has kept Ghana away from failing because all the things that are classic indicators of a failed state exist in Ghana,” he added.
During his appearance on Good Evening Ghana, Sam George addressed several implications of the indicators, highlighting unemployment as a major concern among them.
“You just need to drive around Accra and look at the desperation in the faces of young people,” he stated, adding that the upcoming elections will be a battle of competencies, where candidates will be assessed and selected based on their skills and their competencies, and not just promises.
“The next election is not necessarily going to be about who’s got the best promises and slogans, it’s about who can appear to the youth of this country and give them practical solutions to unemployment,” he said.
Nigerian singer-songwriter, Teniola Apata, popularly known as Teni, recently opened up about the seriousness of her health issues on her official Instagram account.
Through videos posted on Instagram, Teni revealed the numerous medications she had been taking, which played a crucial role in her quick recovery.
The singer shared the difficulties she faced during her ordeal, particularly having trouble opening her mouth, which made it challenging for her to eat and interact with people.
Grateful for her swift recovery, Teni expressed her deep thanks to God, as her life felt like a dreadful nightmare until she fully recuperated.
During her illness, she was compelled to stay at home and rest, taking the necessary measures to regain her health.
Teni also briefly mentioned considering the possibility of being pregnant and pondered who the father might be if her suspicions turned out to be true.
In her words: “You guys should help me thank God, I was feeling so uncomfortable and sad throughout last week. I couldn’t open my mouth go talk or eat properly. I slept and slept at home, at a point I thought I was pregnant and kept wondering who impregnated me.”
The Primetime Emmy Awards, known as television’s top honor, have been postponed for the first time in over two decades due to ongoing strikes by Hollywood writers and actors, according to a report by Variety on Thursday.
Originally scheduled to air on Fox on September 18, vendors for the event have been informed that the ceremony will not take place on that date, marking the first official announcement of the postponement, as reported by the entertainment outlet.
The Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA, representing the striking writers and actors, have not yet commented on the matter.
The current strikes have significantly impacted Hollywood productions, with the Writers Guild of America initiating their strike on May 2, followed by SAG-AFTRA, the actors’ union, starting their strike on July 14. This simultaneous strike is the first of its kind since the 1960s.
The Writers Guild of America’s strike is driven by issues related to staffing and duration of employment on shows, as their union and the Alliance of Motion Pictures and Television Producers failed to reach an agreement during negotiations.
The rise of streaming services has transformed how writers are compensated, leading to reduced job opportunities and income sources for many writers, particularly in terms of residuals for original content on streaming platforms.
Similarly, SAG-AFTRA’s strike involves demands for increased pay and progress on residuals, particularly on streaming services, as they express dissatisfaction with the offers from studio management.
The strikes come at a time when prominent media companies are facing financial challenges, leading to cost-cutting measures, including layoffs, due to drops in their stock prices.
The postponement of the Primetime Emmy Awards highlights the significant impact of the ongoing strikes on the entertainment industry and its major awards ceremonies.
Filmmaker Peter Sedufia is taking legal action seeking compensation from the Eclipse Broadcasting Network (EBN) for airing his movie, ‘Aloe Vera’, without obtaining proper consent.
As the executive producer of the ‘Netflix rated’ movie, Sedufia holds the exclusive economic rights to its copyright, making EBN’s action illegal, as stated by his lawyer.
In a letter addressed to EBN’s management, Sedufia’s lawyer explained that this move is necessary due to the limited opportunities Mr. Sedufia has had to monetize the movie through sales, premieres, or authorized broadcasts, despite the substantial production costs involved.
The filmmaker’s legal action highlights the importance of protecting copyright and ensuring that artists and creators can rightfully benefit from their work, especially when it comes to the unauthorized distribution and airing of their intellectual property.
“On Saturday, July 12, 2023, before 2:00pm, you caused the broadcast of Aloe Vera, a work owned by Oldfilm Productions, without the express permission of my client as required by the Copyright Act 2005(Act 690).
“You are advised to act on the legitimate and fair demand for compensation within ten days of this letter, failing which, I shall act as instructed and initiate legal proceedings for compensation without further recourse to you,” parts of the letter read.
Data from the General Social Study indicates that the percentage of young men abstaining from sexual activity in the United States, and presumably globally, has nearly tripled from 2008 to 2018. In 2008, about 10% of men under 20 reported having no sex in the previous year, slightly more than the number of women. In the last decade, that number has risen to 28% for men under 30—a nearly triple increase—while for women under 30, the rise was less than 10%.
Several factors may contribute to the increasing number of young male virgins:
Unemployment: Researchers have found a correlation between labor force participation and stable relationships. Unemployed individuals are less likely to have consistent romantic partners compared to employed individuals.
Living with parents: Young men are more likely than young women to live with their parents, which can create challenges in establishing romantic relationships.
Technology: The influence of technology, such as video games, movies, and pornography, may distract young men from real-life interactions and intimacy. Spending significant time looking at screens can reduce opportunities for meaningful relationships.
Online distractions: The accessibility of online entertainment, social media, and adult content platforms like OnlyFans and pornography might contribute to men outsourcing their sexual needs to the internet, potentially reducing their motivation to pursue real-life relationships.
It’s essential to recognize that these factors are complex and may vary from individual to individual. Social, economic, and technological changes can impact the dynamics of relationships and sexual behaviors in society. Understanding these trends can help researchers and policymakers address the challenges faced by young people in forming meaningful connections and relationships.
Mr. Drew, the talented Ghanaian musician and dancer, has openly addressed the criticism he faced on social media following his departure from Highly Spiritual Music.
In an Instagram live session, the ‘S3k3’ hitmaker took the opportunity to clarify any misunderstandings, stating that he harbors no ill feelings towards his former boss and CEO of Highly Spiritual Music, Kaywa, despite some claims suggesting otherwise.
Mr. Drew made it clear that he bears no grudges against Kaywa and genuinely wishes him well. However, he honestly admitted that he is uncertain about Kaywa’s feelings towards him as they haven’t had direct communication since his departure from the record label.
This public clarification from Mr. Drew provides some insight into his mindset and demonstrates his desire to maintain a positive and respectful outlook on the situation.
Regarding the supposed subtle shades that Kaywa allegedly threw at him in recent interviews, Mr. Drew acknowledged that many people brought it to his attention. Nevertheless, he believes that those remarks might not be directed at him.
He highlighted his commitment to the record label, stating that he fulfilled his five-year contract diligently, even as others chose to leave after just five years of their contract.
Despite not receiving certain benefits stipulated in his contract, Mr. Drew expressed his loyalty to Highly Spiritual Music and strived to give his best to the label.
Derrick Kobina Bonney popularly known as DBK a stand-up comedian and University of Ghana alumnus, has offered a word of caution to Osei Yvonne Adobea, the recently declared winner of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Students Representative Council (SRC) presidential election. He advises her not to deliver an abysmal performance as she takes up her new role.
On July 26, 2023, history was made when Yvonne Osei Adobea emerged as the victorious candidate in the KNUST SRC election. This landmark victory marked the first time in the institution’s 71-year history that a female SRC President was elected.
Defeating five other contenders, Yvonne, a third-year Sociology student, secured an impressive 8,282 votes, leading her main opponent, Abraham Rockson, who obtained 4,568 votes.
Yvonne’s win resonated deeply with students, faculty, and alumni, as it represented a significant step forward in gender representation and female leadership within the institution.
In an appreciation post on July 27, Yvonne dedicated her achievement to females, inspiring them to aim higher.
“This victory is not just mine,” she said. “it’s a triumph for all students, particularly women who have long dreamed of breaking through glass ceilings and making their voices heard. Together, we have shattered stereotypes and proven that women are strong, capable, and ready to lead…”
Responding to the tweet, DKB recalled how the University of Ghana’s first female SRC president performed below par, in his view. According to him, he believed in the said SRC aspirant and rigorously campaigned for her to become president but ended up being a disappointment.
“Don’t you dare be a disappointment and a huge disaster like the first University of Ghana SRC female president I helped campaign for!” DKB cautioned. “Biggest regret & she messed the chance of other potential female presidents!
“Look at the girls behind you and serve well. Wish you the best!”
Renowned Ghanaian broadcast journalist, Joyce Serwaa Amihere, achieved an impressive feat by graduating with second-class upper honours from the law faculty at the prestigious Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).
Enrolling at GIMPA in September 2020, despite her demanding role as co-host of the morning show ‘GH Today’ on GH One TV, Serwaa Amihere showcased her dedication and determination. While excelling in her TV career, she also managed to strike a balance between her professional commitments and academic pursuits.
Additionally, she demonstrated her versatility and passion for journalism by hosting the weekend sports show ‘Cheers’ alongside her morning show responsibilities.
Serwaa Amihere is widely recognized for her exceptional skills as a broadcast journalist, amassing a loyal following of viewers and fans in Ghana and beyond. Throughout her career, she has earned widespread admiration for her insightful reporting and engaging style.
Having completed the first half of her legal education, she is now preparing for the Ghana School of Law entrance examination, scheduled for Friday, 8th September 2023. Her continuous pursuit of knowledge and excellence is an inspiration to many.
Forgiving betrayal in marriage and moving forward can be a challenging process, but it is possible with effort and commitment from both partners. Here are some steps that may help:
Acknowledge your emotions: Allow yourself to feel the pain, anger, and sadness caused by the betrayal. It’s essential to recognize and process these emotions before moving forward.
Communicate openly: Have honest and open conversations with your spouse about the betrayal. Express your feelings and listen to their perspective as well. Effective communication is crucial for understanding each other’s viewpoints.
Seek professional help: Consider couples therapy or individual counseling to work through the issues and emotions surrounding the betrayal. A trained therapist can guide you both through the healing process.
Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries and expectations to prevent similar betrayals from happening in the future. Both partners should commit to building trust and respect in the relationship.
Practice empathy and understanding: Try to understand the underlying reasons behind the betrayal without excusing the behavior. Empathy can foster compassion and help with the healing process.
Give it time: Forgiving and healing takes time. Be patient with yourself and your spouse as you navigate through the challenges. Avoid rushing the process and allow room for growth and change.
Focus on self-care: Take care of your physical and emotional well-being. Engage in activities that bring you joy and surround yourself with supportive friends and family.
Foster trust: Trust is a crucial foundation in a marriage. Work on rebuilding trust through consistent actions and open communication.
Let go of resentment: Holding onto resentment can hinder the healing process. Work on letting go of negative emotions and focusing on the present and future of your marriage.
Make a commitment to move forward: Decide to forgive and move forward together. This commitment will require effort from both partners, but it can lead to a stronger and more resilient marriage.
Remember that forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting the past, but it allows you to free yourself from the burden of carrying that pain. It’s a gradual process, and both partners need to be willing to work towards healing and rebuilding the marriage.
It has been reported that Ethan Slater, known for his role as Ariana Grande’s Wicked costar, has filed for divorce from his wife, Lilly Jay. Slater submitted the divorce papers in New York on Wednesday, as confirmed by various news outlets.
Following the news of Slater’s divorce filing and his new romance with Ariana Grande, Lilly Jay has broken her silence on the matter.
And today, Jay told Page Six: “[Ariana’s] the story really. Not a girl’s girl.”
“My family is just collateral damage,” she added. “The story is her and Dalton.”
Slater and Jay have been married since 2018 and welcomed a baby son last August. Jay told Page Six she’s now focusing on raising their child and being “a good mom.”
Neither Ariana Grande nor Slater have publicly confirmed their relationship, but the news of Slater’s divorce comes weeks after sources said Grande had ended her two-year marriage to luxury real estate agent Dalton Gomez.
Insiders said the “Thank U, Next” singer and Gomez had been living separate lives since she temporarily moved to London to film Wicked—though their relationship issues started long before. While Grande has not addressed the breakup, she did remove her post from her Instagram about her and Gomez’s wedding.
A source close to Jay told TMZ that Slater’s wife was “completely blindsided” by his moving on with Grande and feels like Slater has “completely turned his back on his family.” She is “heartbroken” and feels “betrayed” by both her ex and Grande, whom Jay met when she and Slater were still together.
Meanwhile, a separate source told the outlet that “Ari and Ethan are just trying to lay low and be respectful of their exes as they pursue this new relationship.” The two reportedly began seeing each other “several months ago” after meeting on set.
As for Gomez’s thoughts on the situation, sources have not revealed much, though an insider did tell People that Grande and Gomez “have been quietly and lovingly working on their friendship” since their separation.
Rosa Sanchez is the senior news editor at Harper’s Bazaar, working on news as it relates to entertainment, fashion, and culture. Previously, she was a news editor at ABC News and, prior to that, a managing editor of celebrity news at American Media. She has also written features for Rolling Stone, Teen Vogue, Forbes, and The Hollywood Reporter.
Brandy Norwood is a multi-talented American artist known for her contributions as a singer, songwriter, actress, and model. According to Celebrity Net Worth, her estimated net worth stands at US$12 million. The primary source of her income is her successful music career, where she has achieved considerable success and earned from album sales, concerts, and royalties.
Norwood first made way into the music industry in the 1993 and does still exist in modern day. A career that spans exactly thirty years says it all. She has been a success story and she would definitely be remembered as one of R&B’s favorite star for many more decades to come.
Brandy Norwood | Personal Life, Career, & Latest Gossip Brandy Rayana Norwood, born on February 11, 1979 in McComb, Mississippi, United States is an American singer, songwriter, actress and model. She is currently 44 years old. Her father, Willie Norwood, is a gospel singer and choir director. Her mother, Sonja Norwood, was a district manager for H&R Block.
She is the older sister of singer and actor Ray J. Rapper Snoop Dogg and WWE wrestler Sasha Banks are her cousins. Brandy started singing through her dad’s work with the local church choir. She performed her first gospel solo at the age of two. Her family moved to Los Angeles in 1983. Brandy attended Hollywood High School Performing Arts Center.
Despite coming from a musical family, Brandy first developed her own interest in performing when she discovered and became a fan of Whitney Houston at age seven. She started entering talent shows at 11 and was part of a youth singing group. Also while she was 11, she began working as a background singer with the R&B boy band Immature.
She put together a demo tape with the help of her parents and in 1993, signed with Atlantic Records. Her mom quit her job to manage her daughter’s burgeoning career. Brandy dropped out of Hollywood High School after her freshman year. She finished high school with private tutors.
How many houses and cars does Brandy Norwood have? She owns a beautiful home in Los Angeles and another in her hometown McComb.
Brandy does have eyes for beautiful cars and as such she’s acquired a few including the Land Rover she was involved in a fatal car accident with.
Brandy! | Brandy norwood, Brandy, Chris brown videos Pin It How much does Brandy Norwood make per year? Annually, the singer-songwriter makes an estimated US$1.5 million.
What investments does Brandy Norwood have? Unknown but she has earned millions of dollars from her investments.
How many Endorsement deals does Brandy Norwood have? She has had several endorsements in her career; some of which were with Candie’s, DKNY, Wilhelmina Agency and Ultima among others.
Brandy Norwood Net Worth | Celebrity Net Worth Pin It How many Philanthropy works has Brandy Norwood supported? Brandy is a philanthropist who has been involved with several charities and foundations. Together with her brother Ray J, they founded the Norwood Kids Foundation, a non-profitable organization whose goal is to “use performing arts as a catalyst to shape the youth of today into self-confident, disciplined, responsible, and caring individuals capable of making a positive impact in their communities.”
Aside working with the different foundations for different causes, she also a supporter of UNICEF, Make A Wish Foundation and RAINN. She has made several donations to different causes as well. In 2000, she donated US$100,000 to 2000 WATTS, an entertainment community center founded by singer and actor Tyrese Gibson in the underprivileged community of Watts, Los Angeles, California.
She’s also supported “Nothing Compares to Family” campaign, and the American Heart Association among others.
How many businesses does Brandy Norwood own? It is unknown how many businesses she has. Brandy partnered with Mattel to release the Brandy Doll.
Hiplife musician, Emmanuel JB Danquah, popularly known as Sony Achiba, has candidly shared the reason behind his severe decline in the music industry. He attributed this downturn to an unsavory comment made about his career by former Peace FM presenter, Fiifi Banson.
In an interview with Angel fm, he recalled Fiifi Benson’s negative comments against his song.
The host, Ohemaa Woyeje, asked if he had an issue with Fiifi Benson, to which Sony Achiba responded that he didn’t and couldn’t understand why the presenter made those disparaging comments.
Sony Achiba revealed that Fiifi Benson’s statements had significant consequences for him, leading to the loss of several sponsorships and causing him to lose a substantial amount of money from his sponsors.
Currently, Sony Achiba mentioned that he is no longer producing albums for himself. Instead, he is channeling his resources and expertise to support emerging artists. He claims to be managing five up-and-coming artists and is actively promoting Lady Blue’s single, “Duabo Donkomi.”
Reflecting on his past success, Sony Achiba shared how he used to be active in the industry, capable of performing four concerts in two days across different parts of the country. He expressed nostalgia when observing young artists today, as it reminds him of his own journey in the music industry.
The Ghana Police Service has stated that appropriate action will be taken against its officer, who was caught in a viral video dragging a suspect on the ground during an arrest in Dadease, near Kumawu in the Ashanti Region.
According to a statement issued on Friday, July 28, 2023, the police reported that the officer involved has been detained and temporarily suspended as a result of the incident.
“The Police have commenced investigation into a viral video in which a Police officer is seen dragging a suspect on the floor during an arrest at Dadease, near Kumawu in the Ashanti Region.
“The said Police officer was detained and has been interdicted and will be taken through the due process of the law,” parts of the statement read.
It added that the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, has sent a team to commiserate with the family of the victim.
“As investigation continues, the Inspector-General of Police yesterday sent a team from the Ashanti North Regional Police Command to engage the victim’s family.
He has also spoken to the victim’s mother via the telephone and assured her of a thorough investigation into the matter,” the statement concluded.
In the said video which has been sighted by GhanaWeb, two men in police inform could be seen attempting to arrest a man.
One of the officers could be seen engaging in a scuffle with the suspect as a lot of people had gathered around watching what was happening.
The officer fixed a belt on the neck of the suspect and started dragging him around by the neck with the belt.
Some of the community members tried to stop the policeman from dragging the suspect but to no avail.
Ghanaian artist, Sony Achiba has opened up about the reasons behind his departure from Ghana to the United Kingdom.
During an interview with Zion Felix in London, Sony Achiba recounted the circumstances that led to his decision to travel to the United Kingdom.
He candidly revealed that he made the decision to relocate to the United Kingdom after facing the consequences of a wrong investment.
Sony Achiba admitted to taking money from some individuals with the intention of investing it in a song,back in 2002 and 2003 but unforunately things didnt go as planned.
He had hoped that the song’s success would allow him to repay the investors after promotion. However, things did not go as planned, and the investment didn’t yield the expected returns, leading to financial difficulties and influencing his decision to move to the UK.
According to Sony Achiba, his promotional plans for the song were adversely affected by a comment made by Fiifi Banson on Peace FM while the song was being played. The comment seemingly had a negative impact on the song’s reception and hindered its success, leading to unforeseen challenges in his promotional efforts.
After Fiifi Banson’s unfavorable remark about the song, the producers that Sony Achiba had hoped to collaborate with showed disinterest, which further hampered his promotional plans. Facing financial strain and the need to pay off his debts, Sony Achiba decided to travel to the United Kingdom.
In the UK, he worked diligently and took loans to accumulate the necessary funds to repay the debt he owed due to the failed investment.
“The money involved is very huge, I am still paying as we speak” he noted.
Recounting how difficult it was getting a job in the UK he said, It was very difficult getting a job when I got here,I even offered to be a cleaner,but I was turned down due to my appearance.
“I finally got a job at a company that sells building materials.”
Through all the struggles in the UK ,Sony Achiba managed to take himself through school and completed the University in 2022.
Feeling restless and unmotivated is a common experience that can be caused by various factors. Here are seven possible reasons for these feelings:
Lack of Clear Goals: When you don’t have clear, meaningful goals to work towards, it can be challenging to stay motivated. Setting specific and achievable objectives can provide a sense of direction and purpose.
Burnout: Overworking yourself without taking enough breaks and rest can lead to burnout. When you’re exhausted, it’s natural to feel unmotivated and restless.
Monotony and Routine: Engaging in the same activities repeatedly without variety can lead to boredom and a lack of motivation. Mixing things up and trying new experiences can help break the monotony.
Lack of Passion: If you’re not passionate about what you’re doing, it’s challenging to maintain enthusiasm and drive. Reconnecting with your interests and passions can reignite motivation.
Stress and Anxiety: High levels of stress and anxiety can drain your energy and leave you feeling restless and unmotivated. Finding healthy ways to manage stress is essential for maintaining motivation.
Negative Environment: Being surrounded by negativity or unsupportive people can take a toll on your motivation. Surround yourself with positive influences and supportive individuals.
Lack of Progress: If you feel stuck or are not seeing progress in your efforts, it can lead to a sense of restlessness and demotivation. Celebrate small successes and find ways to measure your progress.
It’s essential to recognize these reasons and take proactive steps to address them. Remember that feeling restless and unmotivated is normal from time to time, but with self-awareness and effort, you can overcome these feelings and regain your motivation. If these feelings persist or significantly impact your daily life, consider reaching out to a mental health professional for guidance and support.
Parliament has granted its endorsement to the Whistleblower Amendment Bill, 2023. The approved bill aims to strengthen whistleblower protection measures and encourage the reporting of misconduct, signaling a promising step forward in the nation’s fight against wrongdoing and malfeasance.
According to the report, the main goal of this bill is to amend the current Whistleblower Act, 2006 (Act 720), with the aim of strengthening the funding channels for the Whistleblower Reward Fund.
On March 7, 2023, the Attorney-General (A-G) and Minister of Justice, Godfred Dame, presented the bill before parliament. Following its submission, the bill was referred to the Committee on Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs for a comprehensive assessment.
The Whistleblower Act, 2006 (Act 720), was enacted to incentivize and establish robust structures to strengthen Ghana’s ability to combat corruption and other illicit practices that hinder sustainable development efforts.
One of the key sections of Act 720, Section 20, is what captures the Whistleblower Reward Fund.
It relied on voluntary contributions and budgetary allocations from Parliament as its primary funding sources.
However, the Committee on Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs, led by Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, in its report submitted to the House prior to the bill’s passage, noted certain shortcomings that needed to be addressed.
One major concern was the possibility of delays in releasing approved budgetary funds into the Whistleblower Reward Fund, which could affect the prompt payment of rewards to whistleblowers.
Additionally, Act 720 lacked clarity on the timeframe within which whistleblowers should receive their rewards for their efforts leading to the successful recovery of money or proceeds obtained from the sale of confiscated assets.
“The amendments proposed are, therefore, meant to cure the shortcomings in Act 720 by reducing over-reliance on budgetary allocations as the main sources of revenue into the Whistleblower Reward Fund and to also provide for timeliness for payment of the rewards to successful whistleblowers,” it said.
To rectify these issues, the proposed amendments aim to reduce reliance on budgetary allocations as the primary revenue source for the Whistleblower Reward Fund. This shift intends to ensure the timely payment of rewards to successful whistleblowers, thereby preventing demotivation due to delays.
The committee underscored the vital need to protect the identities of whistleblowers to shield them from potential hunts by powerful individuals in society.
Robust whistleblower protection mechanisms are crucial to encourage citizens to report misconduct, promote public accountability, and uphold integrity.
As part of the approved amendment, individuals and institutions receiving disclosures of impropriety, as per Section 3 of Act 720, are urged to maintain the utmost confidentiality and implement stringent protective measures to safeguard the whistleblowers’ identities.
The report further emphasized that motivating individuals to expose wrongdoing in both private and public sectors play a pivotal role in combating fraud, corruption, and unethical behavior.
Hence, continuous review and improvement of policies and legal frameworks that incentivize and protect patriotic individuals providing information on misconduct are essential.
The proposed amendment is seen as a crucial step in strengthening national efforts to combat corruption and reinforces the country’s commitment to promoting a culture of transparency and accountability.
The town council in Nadine Dorries‘ Mid Bedfordshire district has called for her immediate resignation, claiming that she has been more concerned with ‘political machinations’ than with serving her citizens.
After failing to obtain a peerage in Boris Johnson‘s departure honours list, the former Cabinet minister declared her decision to resign as an MP last month, but she has not yet done so formally.
Due to her procrastination, Flitwick Town Council has written a stern letter to Ms. Dorries requesting that she “immediately resign your seat” due to their “concerns and frustration” with her preoccupation with her TV work and “political manoeuvres to embarrass the Government.”
The letter stated, “The last time you spoke in the Commons was June 7, 2022.”
It’s well known that you haven’t held a Flitwick surgery since March 2020, and you haven’t kept up a constituency office for a long time.
“The council is concerned that your concentration appears to have been squarely on your television show, future book, and political ploys to shame the Government for not sending you to the House of Lords, rather than representing citizens.
Council members highlighted that your actions “are not consistent with the Seven Principles of Public Life set out by Lord Nolan in 1995.”
They stated that Flitwick residents, who number about 13,800, represent those who “desperately need effective representation now.”
The main voting bloc in the constituency is made up of the 13,800 people who live in Flitwick.
Then they added, “Flitwick Town Council calls on you to resign your position immediately to make way for a by-election.”
On June 9, Ms. Dorries announced her resignation from Westminster, but a week later she changed her mind and said she would remain while she looked into the reasons why the former prime minister’s honours list did not include her for a seat in the House of Lords.
The steadfast supporter of Mr. Johnson holds a weekly chat show on Talk TV and is the author of The Plot: The Political Assassination of Boris Johnson, which is scheduled for release just before the Conservative Party convention in September.
Ms. Dorries has held Mid Bedfordshire since 2005, and the Conservative Party has held it usually since 1931.
The Tories just managed to hold onto the Uxbridge and South Ruislip seat left vacant by Mr. Johnson last week after losing two by-elections last week in Selby and Ainsty and Somerton and Frome.
Mid Bedfordshire residents, according to Labour’s Alistair Strathern, are “sick of being taken for granted; they want proper representation and a local MP who puts them first.”
The interactions I have with people on the doorstep every day reflect the two-horse battle between Labour and the Conservatives, according to polling, he continued.
“The people of Mid Beds are ready for change, and I’m ready to speak up for them and be the most dedicated, approachable MP they have ever had.”
The locals are tired of being taken for granted by an absent MP and this Conservative government, said Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Olney, who termed the action “unprecedented.”
Nadine Dorries “continues to hold onto a job she has no interest in doing” as families in Bedfordshire struggle to get appointments with doctors and deal with skyrocketing mortgage prices.
It appears civilians are not the only people who have been at the mercy of National Security Operatives as some security officers have had their share of brutalities meted out by these men of whom most are believed to be ‘party boys.’
Member of Parliament of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam George, has recounted a chilling incident of assault meted out against a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer who was later identified as WO1 Mashud Salia.
“Under this government, we have seen National Security boys, party apparatchik, pull a warrant officer out of his vehicle, handcuff him, and assault him, at Michelle camp.
He made the remarks during an interview on Good Morning Ghana on Metro TV where he stated that this is a threat to the country’s security.
Background
In November 2020, WO1 Mashud Salia was allegedly physically assaulted and handcuffed whilst in uniform over his inability to give way to a convoy of four vehicles.
The event, according to The Chronicle newspaper, happened on the Tema-Akosombo highway at the Ashaiman Tulaku section.
The shocking incident which occurred on Wednesday, November 25 is said to have attracted a large crowd of commuters and motorists alike, who watched in disbelief as the soldier who is said to be a Physical Training Instructor (PTI) at the nearby First Battalion of Infantry was receiving slaps from the alleged National Security Operatives.
Narrating what occasioned the unfortunate incident, the Chronicle wrote “on Wednesday, November 25 at about 08:30hrs, when traffic was heavy on the stretch, the soldier, Warrant Officer Class One ( W O 1) Mashud Salia, was driving his saloon car towards Michel Camp.
Upon negotiating the Ashaiman roundabout, a siren-blowing convoy of four high speeding vehicles approached from his rear, forcing their way through the middle of the tight traffic.”
The Chronicle further explained that according to eyewitnesses, “the WO attempted parking off the road to give way to the convoy, but the road was so narrow that his very life and that of other motorists was at stake, so he continued in the lane. Suddenly, the lead vehicle blocked that of the soldier, and armed men alighted from the other vehicles and started to slap him behind the steering wheel and afterwards pulled him out.”
The armed men who allegedly assaulted the soldier were described as wearing brown khakis and armed. They later handcuffed the soldier and shoved him into one of their vehicles and drove to Michel Camp and handed him over to the authorities there.
Former parliamentary aspirant for Kpone Katamanso, Hopeson Adorye, has cautioned the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) against taking any action to suspend party members for statements made during the campaign for the presidential primaries.
He pointed out that while the party’s Members of Parliament and certain regional executives freely declare their support for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and criticize other presidential contenders, the party leadership remains silent. However, they are now adopting a different stance, threatening to disqualify and suspend individuals who defend themselves.
During an interview on Atinka TV, Adorye criticized the party’s national executives for showing favoritism in dealing with matters related to the primaries. He further asserted that the party leadership does not have the authority to disqualify any of the candidates in the upcoming elections.
“You can’t scare anybody. We are in this country… You think we are here to joke. If you want us to fight, we will fight. I’m saying that if they want us to fight, we will fight.
“You think we are just going to sit down? Nobody is going to cheat us. We’re unperturbed about your threats to disqualify people; nobody can threaten us,” he said in Twi.
Hopeson Adorye, a former National Security operative, added, “the system cannot impose anybody on us. The grassroots are going to select the candidate for the party. We are not afraid of anybody,”.
Ten people would be contesting the NPP presidential primaries, which are slated for August and November 2023.
A super delegate conference would be held in August 2023 to reduce the number of contenders to five, while the main primaries would be held in November 2023 to choose the party’s presidential candidate for the 2024 elections.
The ten candidates include Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia; a former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen; Kwadwo Poku, an energy expert; Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Joe Ghartey; a former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto; a former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong; MP for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong; a former MP for Offinso North, Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku; and a former Energy Minister, Boakye Agyarko.
