Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly, is visiting Ukraine for two days to focus on bringing back children who have been taken by Russia.
“We continue to strongly support Ukraine’s freedom and independence,” she said at a press conference in Kyiv on Friday.
Ukraine’s fans will keep going; we can’t lose hope or doubt, not even for a second.
Joly had a meeting with Dmytro Kuleba, who is from Ukraine. She is also planned to meet with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The Canadian government has not said if they will give more money to the $9. 7 billion they already promised for Ukraine’s military, development, and immigration programs.
Joly started a project with Ukraine to ask other countries for help in making Russia bring back many Ukrainian children it sent away from war areas, which breaks the rules of the world.
The International Criminal Court has a warrant for the arrest of Russian President Vladimir Putin. They say he made kids from eastern Ukraine go live in Russian families and made them forget they were from Ukraine.
The new Canadian project wants to make more people aware of the problem and work together on campaigns to support it.
Canada will use its connections with other countries to reach out and talk to them as if they were Canadian children. This will happen in many different countries, like Mexico, Brazil, South Africa, and Qatar.
Ottawa will help Ukraine by offering technical help to get children back from Russia. Less than 400 children have been returned so far.
During the trip, Joly also wants to meet with Ukrainians hurt by the war, including children, and groups that help people who have been hurt by violence and trauma from war.
Canada and its friends promise to continue helping Ukraine for as long as it takes. They will also help prevent Russian aggression even after the conflict ends.
Public support for Ukraine has decreased in countries like the U. Sduring ongoing high prices and fighting in the Middle East.
Canada has not made a formal agreement with Ukraine about security yet. They have been talking for months about how much support Canada will give to help keep Ukraine safe.
Kuleba said that Canada is one of Ukraine’s best friends and praised Ottawa for the support it provides. He also mentioned that Canada brings up important topics at G7 meetings.
He said talks about the security promise are going well, and are not complicated by polite words. “He said we can talk about things honestly and openly. ”
Next month, it will be ten years since Russia invaded Crimea, and it has been two years since they invaded Ukraine.
Author: Chris Kodo
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Melanie Joly in Kiev to start global campaign to persuade Russia to return Ukrainian children
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Prof Manuh vows to drag Akufo-Addo to court if he assents to anti-LGBT+ Bill
Renowned Ghanaian human rights activist and member of the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Emerita Prof. Takyiwaa Manuh, has issued a stern warning of potential legal action against the Government of Ghana if the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill (anti-gay bill) is passed into law through presidential assent.
In an interview with GhanaWeb on Thursday, February 29, 2024, Emerita Prof Manuh asserted that her group had implored President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo not to assent to the bill, highlighting concerns that it would lead to the oppression of Ghanaians and tarnish the country’s international reputation.
According to Prof. Manuh, the bill, if enacted, would not only violate the rights of citizens but also cast Ghana in a negative light as a democratic and law-abiding society. She expressed alarm at the global backlash and public health implications, as well as the heightened fear and anxiety among the LGBT+ community in Ghana.
“We have asked the president not to assent to this bill because it does not advance the rights of anybody in Ghana. And it actually makes Ghana’s reputation as a democratic, law-abiding society worse,” Prof Manuh emphasized.
Furthermore, Prof. Manuh declared that if the government proceeds to approve the anti-gay bill into law, her group would seek legal recourse. She underscored the supremacy of the constitution, stating, “If the president assents to the bill, we would go to court. The constitution is the final law of this land; no law can be inconsistent with the constitution.”
The passage of the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill by the Parliament of Ghana on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, marked a significant development in the legislative process. The bill, awaiting presidential assent, aims to outlaw and criminalize LGBT+ activities, including their promotion, advocacy, and funding.
Under the proposed legislation, individuals engaged in such acts could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years, while promoters and sponsors could be subject to three to five years’ imprisonment.
The fate of the bill now rests on President Akufo-Addo’s decision to either assent to it or reject it. If the president declines to assent, parliamentary approval by a two-thirds majority vote could facilitate its enactment into law.
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GYEM launches Climate Action and Peace Education (CAPE) project
Ghana Youth Environmental Movement (GYEM) has launched the Climate Action and Peace Education (CAPE) Project at the International Press Centre in Accra.
The project is designed to address critical issues surrounding climate change and peace-building, and aims to empower Ghanaian youth with the knowledge and tools necessary to become agents of positive change in their communities.
The CAPE Project will focus on two key areas: climate action and peace-building. There is an urgent need to address climate change, particularly in the context of Ghana’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters.
This project aims to increase awareness and engagement among Ghanaian youth by equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills in disaster risk reduction. CAPE seeks to empower them to take meaningful action in response to the threats posed by climate change.
Moreover, with Ghana preparing for the upcoming 2024 elections, the CAPE Project will also strategically raise awareness on peace-building. The project seeks to promote peace among youth by fostering a deeper understanding of the intersection between climate change, peace, and security.
The CAPE Project will pursue three specific objectives:
● Enhance Ghanaian youth awareness of climate change and its real-life consequences, including issues such as galamsey, agriculture, food security, and conflict.
● Empower youth in flood-prone communities with the knowledge and skills to mitigate hazards and reduce their vulnerability to climate-related disasters.
● Sensitize youth on the relationship between climate change, peace, and security, fostering a culture of peace and dialogue in the run-up to the elections.
The project will comprise a series of impactful activities. Firstly, the Climate4 Peace Campaign will take place in Bolgatanga, bringing together 500 youth from the northern regions of Ghana to highlight the correlation between climate action and peace-building.
Following this, the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) training will occur in Mepe, targeting youth groups in the Volta Region to enhance awareness of everyday hazards and disaster preparedness.. Finally, the Kokuromotie 4 Climate Arts & Photography Competition will serve as the culmination of the CAPE project.
The youth will be invited to submit artworks and photography exploring themes related to climate action and the 2024 elections. A jury will be convened to assess the submissions and select the most outstanding entries, whose creators will be awarded prizes in recognition of their efforts.
The Ghana Youth Environmental Movement invites all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organisations, and the media, to support and participate in the CAPE Project. Together, we can empower Ghanaian youth to become champions of climate action and peace-building in our communities.
GYEM is a leading youth-led environmental policy advocacy and non-violent campaign group in Ghana. Their mission is to bring together and empower young people from diverse backgrounds with the tools to run disruptive campaigns, and lead solutions to the environmental challenges of our time.
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European Union to give Ukraine $54 billion
EU leaders have agreed to give Ukraine 50 billion euros ($54 million) to help its economy, which has been badly affected by the war. This happened after Hungary decided to no longer block the measure.
The help package is mostly loans that have to be paid back and some grants. It will be given over four years. It is not meant to pay for weapons, which will be covered by a different EU plan. Instead, it wants to make Ukraine’s economy stable after almost two years of fighting, pay for rebuilding, and prepare the country to join the EU in the future.
The package will help Kyiv with money while making sure prices don’t go up a lot like they did after Russia invaded in February 2022. Ukraine’s economy was severely hurt by war and being taken over by Moscow. Many factories in the east were taken by Russia.
The central bank needed to make more money to pay for government expenses, and as a result, prices went up a lot, reaching 26%. Last year, the economy got a little better, but Kyiv uses almost all of its tax money for the war.
As of Saturday, President Zelenskyy’s office and the Ukrainian finance ministry have not said how they will spend the money. However, EU authorities, Ukrainian lawmakers and diplomats have mentioned important things that worry them.
Zelenskyy was happy to receive help and he posted about it on a social media platform called X, which used to be called Twitter. He said that if the EU keeps giving money to Ukraine, it will help their economy stay strong in the long run. This is just as important as the military help and sanctions against Russia.
Russia’s economy has been able to withstand the economic sanctions from Ukraine’s Western allies better than expected. This is despite the fact that there is a limit on the price of Russian oil and natural gas, and other countries are looking for alternative energy sources instead of relying on Russia.
In late November, Moscow approved its largest federal budget, with more money going to the military than to social programs for the first time in modern Russian history. Low unemployment, higher pay, and more money for social programs have helped the Russian government deal with the effects of focusing the economy on preparing for war.
Some experts believe the government’s spending plans are not sustainable for a long time. They think taxes will go up after the presidential election in March. -
Attorney General clarifies contradictions in judgment debt savings figures
Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Dame, has clarified President Akufo-Addo’s announcement during his State of the Nation’s Address on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, regarding the Office of the Attorney General’s savings of GHS10 trillion in judgment debts.
In an interview with JoyNews on February 29, 2024, Dame confirmed that his office has indeed saved the country a significant amount of money concerning judgment debts. However, he clarified that the GHS10 trillion mentioned by President Akufo-Addo was only for one specific case, whereas the total savings under his tenure amounted to GHS14 trillion.
“The savings that the president announced were actually an underestimation. The president grossly underestimated. It indeed was actually my office because every minister has the responsibility of bringing to the president’s attention the work that the minister has done. And in presenting my report, I deliberately understated the account. Just not to raise unnecessary eyebrows… But if you go through, 10 trillion is just arising in a single case. If you go through, the savings are actually over 14 trillion,” Dame explained.
Dame proceeded to provide a breakdown of the judgment debts he has saved the country from, citing specific cases. “I can refer to this matter, China Jlen, which the Supreme Court set aside only last year, the judgment debt here… amount of GHS 352,662,144.41. And then an amount of almost $1 billion ($988, 294,313),” he stated.
He emphasized that such significant savings would not have been possible under the previous National Democratic Congress (NDC) government.
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31-year-old singer Cat Janice passes away after penning her last track
The singer Cat Janice, who was very popular on social media, has passed away at 31 years old. Janice’s family posted on Instagram that she died on Wednesday from a rare type of cancer that she had been fighting.
The cat was surprised to see her music become popular and is happy to know that she can still support her son with her music.
The mom from Washington, D.C She became very popular after her music was shared when she went to hospice care in January. Rewrite this text in simple words:10. Make this text simpler: 10.
The book came out in January. At 19 years old, her last song “Dance You Outta My Head” made it to No. 1 on iTunes. 7 worldwide and got 500,000 plays on Spotify.
In a TikTok video, Janice asked people to listen to the disco-pop song because the money made from it will go to her seven-year-old son.
“Janice is singing her final song about feeling a strong emotion inside. ” “Dancing dangerously makes my heart race. ” -
Attorney General corrects President Akufo-Addo’s judgement debt savings figures
Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Dame, has clarified that the GHS10 trillion President Akufo-Addo announced as the amount saved by his government in judgement debts is inaccurate.
In an interview on JoyNews on February 29, 2024, Godfred Dame took responsibility for the misrepresentation of the figures, revealing that the actual amount saved by the Akufo-Addo government is GHS14 trillion.
Dame explained that he deliberately provided undervalued figures of the judgement debts saved to avoid causing unnecessary surprise or shock to the public.
“The savings that the president announced were actually an underestimation. The president grossly underestimated. It indeed was actually my office (sic), because every minister has the responsibility of bringing to the president’s attention the work that the minister has done,” he stated.
He further elaborated, “And in presenting my report, I deliberately understated the account, just not to raise unnecessary eyebrows… But if you go through, 10 trillion is just arising in a single case. If you go through, the savings are actually over 14 trillion.”
During his State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Parliament on Tuesday, February 29, 2024, President Akufo-Addo had commended Godfred Dame for his efforts in preventing the state from being burdened with unnecessary bad debts. The president attributed savings of over GH¢10 trillion to the Attorney General’s work.
“The Attorney General has continued in a very effective manner the tradition under this administration of contesting every single litigation against the state and has avoided the numerous judgment debts that used to be given against the State,” Akufo-Addo stated.
The correction by the Attorney General highlights the importance of accurate reporting and transparency in government matters. It also emphasizes the significant role of the Attorney General’s office in safeguarding the country’s finances and interests.
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ECG Managing Director reveals parliament paid substantial amount to restore power
Managing Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Samuel Dubik Mahama, has disclosed that Ghana’s Parliament made a significant payment to have electricity restored after a power outage interrupted proceedings during a debate on President Akufo-Addo’s State of the Nation Address.
The debate was halted abruptly when Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, was on his feet responding to the outgoing Deputy Minister for Finance, Abena Osei-Asare. The chamber was plunged into darkness, bringing the debate to a standstill.
Speaking on Starr Chat with Bola Ray, Samuel Dubik Mahama explained that his office was engaged in a routine revenue collection exercise at Parliament when the outage occurred. He revealed that Parliament had made a substantial payment, covering more than half of their outstanding debt, to have the power restored.
“They gave us money, they paid a substantial amount more than half. I see this as something very beautiful, something that we should all look at as a success. It goes to tell the average citizen that nobody is above it. If the Presidency has paid, Parliament has paid then why is everybody down giving excuses,” Mr. Mahama stated.
However, despite the payment, it was revealed that the disconnection exercise undertaken by ECG officials was due to an outstanding debt of over GH¢23 million. This indicates that Parliament’s payment was a significant step towards resolving the issue and ensuring uninterrupted power supply.
The revelation by the ECG Managing Director sheds light on the proactive steps taken by Parliament to address outstanding debts and ensure essential services like electricity are maintained. It also underscores the importance of timely payments in sustaining critical infrastructure and services for the smooth functioning of government institutions.
As the debate on President Akufo-Addo’s State of the Nation Address resumes, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for responsible financial management and adherence to payment obligations to prevent disruptions in essential services.
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Two people arrested after $24,000 worth of drugs and cash were found
Windsor police found $24,000 worth of drugs and cash during their investigation.
The police arrested two people they think are guilty and took away $13,505 worth of illegal drugs and $10,844 in cash.
On Wednesday, the Windsor Police found and arrested a 29-year-old man who they think was selling drugs. During the arrest, police found $2,960 in Canadian money and eight tablets of 5mg oxycodone.
After the police arrested the suspect, they searched the suspect’s home on Dandurand Ave. in the 3200 block. Police found and took 102. 3 grams of cocaine, six buprenorphine tablets, 19 oxycodone (5mg) tablets, eight oxycodone (20mg) tablets, 28 oxycodone (40mg) tablets, 22 oxycodone (80mg) tablets, two digital scales, $7,000 in Canadian money, and $504 in American money.
The police found and arrested a 25-year-old woman who lived in the same house.
After the arrest, police searched the suspect’s car and found $380, bear spray, and a collapsible baton. The car, a 2009 Jaguar CPL, was taken by the police.
The man is accused of:
⢠Having a dangerous drug with intent to sell (x 7)
⢠Having money or things gained from breaking the law (more than $5,000)
The woman has been accused of:
Having an illegal drug with the intention of selling it (x 6)
Having money that was obtained by committing a crime (more than $5,000)
If you know something, please call the Windsor Police DIGS Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. The number 4361. You can also contact Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers without giving your name at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at www. catchcrookscom
If you or someone you know needs help because of a crime, please call Victim Services Windsor Essex County at 519-723-2711 or the Victim Assistance Unit at Windsor Police at 519-255-6700, ext. “4879” -
Brian Mulroney, former prime minister of Canada, passes away at age 84
Brian Mulroney, who was once the prime minister of Canada and a strong member of the Conservative party, has passed away at the age of 84. The ex-leader of the Tory party passed away peacefully with his family by his side, his family announced with much sadness on Thursday.
The House of Commons stopped its meeting on Thursday when they found out Mulroney had passed away. People from all over Canada reacted to the news.
Throughout his important and sometimes controversial political career, Mulroney made a big impact on the country.
Desire to enter politics at a young age
Mulroney was born in a regular family in Baie-Comeau, Quebec. When he was in college studying political science, he started helping the Conservative prime minister John Diefenbaker.
He did a lot of work in conservative politics for many years. Then he studied law. In 1976, he tried to become the next leader of the federal Progressive Conservative party, but he lost to Joe Clark.
Mulroney was not successful, but he did not give up. He got a job in a big company, but still planned to remove Clark from his position.
In 1983, he became the leader of the Progressive Conservative Party after working hard to gain power.
“We will make a new party and a new country together,” he promised. He was chosen as the Member of Parliament for Central Nova, N. SHe promised to work for more jobs in the area.
Mulroney ran a very successful campaign in 1984 and won the most seats in Canadian history. It was all thanks to a famous line he said during the campaign.
When former Liberal prime minister John Turner was asked about Pierre Trudeau’s questionable job appointments, Mulroney said, “You could have chosen differently. ”‘Very difficult choices’
“Mulroney was Canada’s 18th prime minister. Before that, he was a Member of Parliament for Manicouagan, Quebec. ” Started a sometimes difficult time as the prime minister that lasted nine years and both made the country stronger and created divisions.
Mr Simple words: Mister Mulroney made some hard decisions that people are only starting to recognize as good choices now, said former diplomat and Mulroney’s former chief of staff Derek Burney to CTV News.
He tried really hard to get Quebec to agree to be a part of Canada, but it didn’t work. He had two big plans, but they didn’t happen. So the changes he wanted to make to the Canadian laws and the improvements he wanted to make never happened.
On the world stage, Mulroney made Canada more respected and noticed. He got many countries to oppose apartheid, and put restrictions on South Africa.
Mulroney and his wife Mila became good friends with Nancy and Ronald Reagan while they were getting closer with the United States. This led to a special moment at the 1985 Shamrock Summit in Quebec City.
These relationships continued after the leaders’ political careers ended, and Mulroney gave speeches at the funerals of both former presidents.
Mulroney also made new friends in the United States. One of the most important things he did was to make a deal between Canada and the United States for free trade. This was a big issue in the 1988 election.
After winning again, Mulroney made a bigger trade agreement that included Mexico called the North American Free Trade Agreement.
In his second term, Mulroney signed the Acid Rain Accord and brought in the unpopular Goods and Services Tax (GST).
The tax started in 1991 and is still here today. People really didn’t like it. The country was feeling tired and went into a recession. Mulroney’s popularity dropped a lot in 1992.
Mulroney and his wife became very close friends with Barbara and George Bush Sr. -
Man accuses sick girlfriend of infidelity; clubs her to death at Akyem Brenase
A nurse identified as Alberta has met her untimely death allegedly at the hands of her fiancé in at town called Akyem Brenase, in the Eastern Region. The suspect, whose name has not been disclosed, reportedly struck Alberta with a club after accusing her of infidelity.
According to reports, Alberta and the suspect had been in a relationship for some time before the unfortunate incident occurred. Details emerging from the investigation suggest that this was not the first instance of violence in their relationship. Last year, the suspect allegedly poisoned Alberta, but she was saved by doctors at Akyem Ayirebi.
The sequence of events leading to Alberta’s death began when she fell ill recently and sought her boyfriend’s assistance in caring for her. Trusting him to provide support during her illness, Alberta invited the suspect to her home.
However, unbeknownst to Alberta, the suspect had allegedly devised a sinister plan to harm her. Instead of offering care and support, the suspect reportedly confronted Alberta, accusing her of being unfaithful. In a fit of rage, he is said to have struck her with a club, resulting in her immediate death.
The tragic incident took place in Breman, a community within the Ofoase Ayirebi constituency. According to Rev. Thomas Odame Bempong, who reported the story on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5 FM, the suspect remained at the scene beside Alberta’s lifeless body for nearly 24 hours following the alleged assault.
The police have launched an investigation into the matter to unravel the circumstances surrounding Alberta’s death and bring the perpetrator to justice. The community is reeling from the shock of losing a beloved nurse in such a senseless and violent manner.
As the investigation progresses, friends, family, and colleagues of Alberta mourn her tragic passing and demand accountability for the heinous crime committed against her.
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Protesters in Kitchener obstruct entrance to Colt Canada building
Workers at a gun-making company in Kitchener were met by people protesting as they tried to go to their job on Wednesday morning. A bunch of people stopped others from getting into the Colt Canada Corporation building on Wilson Avenue.
People said the protest was part of a national push to ask the Canadian government to stop selling weapons to Israel right away, because of the fighting in Gaza.
“We’ve been preventing people from getting into this Colt facility since this morning,” protestor Sasha Koegler told CTV News.“Some Colt employees have said that they work here and also support what we’re doing. They understand that it’s necessary.” Koegler said that people can still go to a nearby Rogers TV building and some homes past the blockage.
“I think it was a good event. ” Many people have stopped by and are showing their support. They understand that this needs to happen.
Earlier this month, the government said it might punish Israeli people living in the West Bank for hurting Palestinians.
The Nicaraguan government wants to ask the International Court of Justice to decide if countries that give weapons to Israel are helping Israel do bad things. But the decision will only be made after the court makes a ruling on a case brought by South Africa. They say Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
In 2022, Canada sold a lot of military goods to Israel.
Global Affairs Canada said that the government has not sent weapons to Israel in a long time, but they do allow the export of military technology and non-lethal equipment.
Earlier this month, Minister of Foreign Affairs Melanie Joly said that she would punish 10 people linked to Hamas and the Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad.
I want to make sure you understand. Hamas is a group that does bad things, and they will be punished for their attacks, Joly said. -
There will be political implications if Akufo-Addo doesn’t assent to Anti-Gay Bill – Foh-Amoaning
Executive Secretary for the National Coalition for Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, Moses Foh-Amoaning, has expressed confidence that President Akufo-Addo will sign the recently passed anti-LGBTQ+ Bill into law.
On February 28, 2024, Parliament approved the bill, which criminalizes LGBTQ activities and prohibits their promotion, advocacy, and funding.
The legislation imposes penalties ranging from 6 months to 3 years imprisonment for individuals found guilty, with promoters and sponsors facing potential jail terms of 3 to 5 years.
However, the passage of the Bill has sparked controversy, drawing criticism from various stakeholders, including the United States Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Evelyn Palmer.
Foh-Amoaning emphasized the potential political ramifications if President Akufo-Addo opts not to sign the Bill, cautioning that such a decision could provide a strategic advantage to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
In an interview with Citinewsroom.com, Foh-Amoaning highlighted President Akufo-Addo’s alignment with religious values, suggesting that his commitment to upholding moral principles would likely lead him to endorse the legislation.
Foh-Amoaning stated, “Well, the president is a very smart politician and what I’ve told everybody who asked me this question is, first of all, there’s no president who has ascended the presidency of Ghana who has used the word of God more than this president. So, the point I’m trying to make is, with all that I know about the president, I know he will sign this bill.”
He further warned of the potential consequences if President Akufo-Addo were to refuse signing the Bill, asserting that the NDC could capitalize on such a decision to portray the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) negatively in the public eye.
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Food aid arrives in northern Gaza for first time in several weeks
Israeli officials has announced that this week, trucks carrying food arrived in northern Gaza. It is the primary substantial delivery to reach the area, which is completely disconnected from the outside world and in dire condition.This is good news for the people living there since the situation was getting worse for hundreds of thousands of Palestinians because of Israel’s attack.
Growing concern about hunger in Gaza has led to demands from other countries for a truce between Israel and Hamas. The US, Egypt, and Qatar are working to make a deal for a break in fighting and the release of some hostages taken by Hamas in October. Seven people attacked.
Mediators want to make a deal before the Muslim holy month of Ramadan begins on March 10. So far, Israel and Hamas have not agreed on what they want.
Families of hostages are putting more pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to make a deal. They started a march from southern Israel to Jerusalem to ask for their loved ones to be released. Some of the nearly 100 people who were kidnapped and then set free are now joining a protest march. The march will finish close to where Netanyahu lives.
The situation of the hostages has really upset Israelis. They see the hostages as a symbol of the state’s failure to protect its citizens from Hamas’ attack. “In October” During the 7 attack, the Palestinian group took about 250 people, including men, women, children, and older adults, according to Israeli authorities. After the events in November, there are still about 130 hostages, and Israel believes that around a quarter of them have died.
Israel attacked Gaza to destroy Hamas after they attacked Israel, and it has killed over 29,900 Palestinians. The United Nations Authorities are saying that many more people could get hurt or killed if they attack the southernmost city of Rafah, where more than half of Gaza’s 2. 3 million people are staying. They also say that an attack in Rafah could make it harder to help people in need.
In Gaza, over 576,000 people, which is a quarter of the population, are very close to not having enough food to eat, according to the U. NIt is said. But people in northern Gaza are really suffering from not having enough food. The north has been blocked and a lot of it has been destroyed since Israeli troops entered in late October. Many thousands of Palestinians still live there, and many have to eat animal food to stay alive. The United Nations One out of every six young children in the northern region is not getting enough food and is very thin.
A group of 31 trucks bringing food went into northern Gaza on Wednesday, according to the Israeli military office that looks after Palestinian civilian matters. The office called COGAT said that almost 20 trucks went into the northern area on Monday and Tuesday. Video from the Associated Press showed people taking bags of flour from the place where it was given out.
It was not clear right away who did the deliveries. The United Nations Eri Keneko, a spokesperson for the U. N’s humanitarian coordination office, said they were not involved.
On Sunday, the United Nations (U. N) Hadn’t been able to bring food to northern Gaza since January. organization responsible for assisting Palestinian refugees, the situation in Gaza is dire and without immediate action, the region faces a humanitarian crisis. 23, Philippe Lazzarini, who is in charge of the UNRWA, which helps Palestinian refugees, says the situation in Gaza is very bad. If we don’t do something right away, there will be a big problem for the people living there. Organization helping Palestinian refugees during the war.The attack on Gaza by Israel began after Hamas’ Oct. uprising Israel has stopped food, water, medicine, and other supplies from coming into the country, except for a small amount of aid coming from Egypt and Israel’s Kerem Shalom crossing in the south. Even though many countries want to send more help, the amount of trucks bringing supplies has decreased a lot in the past few weeks.
COGAT said on Wednesday that Israel allows all the aid to come through without any limits. Israel said the U. N is to blame. Organizations are having a hard time getting through because a lot of trucks are waiting on the Palestinian side of Kerem Shalom for aid workers to pick them up.
The United Nations Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Wednesday that big trucks going into Gaza have to be taken off and put onto smaller trucks, but there aren’t enough of them, and it’s not safe to give out aid in Gaza. The police in Gaza stopped guarding convoys because Israeli airstrikes hit convoys near the crossing. Israel is not coordinating well on security and making sure there are no conflicts, which is putting the lives of U. N people at risk. Workers and other people who help others in need are in danger.
“We have asked many times for a ceasefire to help people in need,” he said. The United Nations has asked Israel to open up the northern crossings so that aid can be delivered and to make sure that convoys can travel safely.
The boss of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza said that four children have passed away in the last few days because they were very hungry and thirsty.
Dr means doctor Hussam Abu Safiya said that the hospital will stop working on Wednesday because there isn’t enough fuel. “Dialysis, ICU, child care, and operations will be halted. ” So, he said more people will die soon.
But many people in Gaza feel pain because there aren’t enough supplies. Project Hope, a group that helps people, runs a clinic in the town of Deir al-Balah. They said that 21 out of 100 pregnant women and 11 out of 100 children under five years old they have treated in the last three weeks are not getting enough food and are not healthy.
The Gaza Health Ministry said that 29,954 people have died and 70,325 people have been injured in Israel’s attack. The government doesn’t see a difference between people who fight and people who don’t, but it says that most of the people who died were children and women. 22, the Palestinian militant group fired over 200 rockets towards the area. 7, Hamas and other Palestinian fighters killed about 1,200 people, most of them were not soldiers. -
How a Ghanaian businessman narrowly escaped assassination in his office
A businessman and First Executor and Trustee of The Max’s Estates Realty Trust, Emmanuel Nii Boi Abbey, narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on Friday, January 26, 2024, at his office in Kokomlemle, Accra.
According to reports from Accra-based newspaper Daily Guide, Abbey recounted the harrowing incident, revealing that an unknown assailant, disguised as a courier service provider, attempted to take his life by spraying tear gas and brandishing a syringe filled with a lethal acid. Despite the assailant’s efforts, Abbey managed to overpower him, foiling the assassination plot.
The assailant’s accomplice, who fled the scene on a motorbike with the assailant, was later involved in a collision with a taxi after being pursued by concerned bystanders in the neighborhood. Subsequently, the suspects abandoned their motorbike and escaped on foot.
Following four weeks of intense investigation, the Nima Police Division apprehended two suspects connected to the incident. However, during the scheduled court hearing at the Dansoman Circuit Court on Monday, February 26, 2024, the proceedings were abruptly halted when the suspects were swiftly removed from the court premises by police escort, allegedly following a call from the Police Headquarters.
Emmanuel Nii Boi Abbey expressed concern over potential interference from influential individuals, suspecting that “bigwigs” may be seeking to obstruct the prosecution. He emphasized the importance of allowing the legal process to proceed without undue influence, urging for a fair and impartial resolution to the case.
The incident underscores the ongoing challenges of combating crime and ensuring justice in Ghana, highlighting the need for diligent investigation and protection of victims’ rights.
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Israeli forces allegedly kill Palestinians as they hunt for food
A group of Palestinians in Gaza City have been killed by Israeli soldiers as they tried to access food from a delivery truck. Witnesses saw this happen on Thursday. Over 100 people died in the Israel-Hamas war, making the total number of deaths more than 30,000.
Israel said a lot of people were crushed in a crowded rush for food aid and that their soldiers only shot when they felt threatened by the crowd.
The Arab countries and the U. Swere quick to speak out against the violence. President Joe Biden said he was worried that it would make it harder to agree on a peace agreement in the almost five-month-long fighting.
The Gaza City area was one of the first places that Israel attacked with its planes, ships, and soldiers. They did this because of Hamas’ actions in October. Seven attacks on Israel.
Many Palestinians left when the area was attacked, but a few hundred thousand are thought to still be there in the damaged and isolated area. This week, trucks delivered food to northern Gaza, which was the first big aid delivery in a month, according to officials.
Aid groups are finding it very hard to deliver supplies to most of Gaza because they are having trouble working with the Israeli military. There is a lot of fighting and chaos, and it is very hard to keep things under control. Lots of people are in need and it is getting difficult to get them the help they need. The United Nations says that 25% of the 2. 3 million people in Gaza do not have enough food to eat, and 80% of them have had to leave their homes.
The military said that early in the morning, a group of 30 trucks carrying supplies to northern Gaza were met by a large crowd of people trying to take the aid. Many Palestinians died in the chaos, and some were hit by trucks while the drivers tried to escape, according to Rear Admiral. Daniel Hagari is the main person who talks about the military.
Israeli soldiers in charge of protecting the area shot warning shots at the crowd because they felt that the crowd was dangerous, he explained.
“We didn’t shoot at the people asking for help. ” We did not shoot at a humanitarian aid convoy, neither from the air nor from the ground, despite what people are saying. “We made it safe for it to get to northern Gaza,” he said.
Kamel Abu Nahel was at Shifa Hospital for a gunshot wound. He and some other people went to the distribution point in the middle of the night because they heard there would be food. “We’ve been eating food for animals for two months,” he said.
He said that Israeli soldiers shot at the crowd while people were taking food from the trucks. This made them run away and some of them hid under cars. After the shooting ended, people returned to the trucks, and the soldiers started shooting again. He got shot in the leg and fell down. Then a truck ran over his leg as it drove away, he said.
At least 112 people died, said a spokesman for the Health Ministry named Ashraf al-Qidra. The Health Ministry called it a very violent and deadly attack.
Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan said Israel is attacking innocent people. They asked for more safe ways to deliver aid to people in need. They also asked other countries to do something to make Israel follow the rules of the world, and to make a deal for peace right away.
Biden talked to the leaders of Egypt and Qatar about the deaths, according to the U. SgovernmentGovernment leaders and the UN Security Council plan to have urgent private discussions about the issue on Thursday.
“We really need to know more information about what happened,” said Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the State Department.
More and more people are worried about hunger in Gaza. They want the fighting to stop so that food and supplies can reach the people who need them.Violence has also increased a lot in the West Bank since October. The text is missing and may have been cut off. Can you provide the text you want to be rewritten in simple words. Someone attacked and killed two Israelis at a gas station in the settlement of Eli on Thursday, as reported by the Israeli military. The military said the person who attacked was killed.
At the same time, the UN officials have said that many more people could die if Israel attacks the city of Rafah in the south, where over half of Gaza’s 2. 3 million people are staying. They also say that an attack on Rafah could destroy the little of aid operations that are left.
Many Palestinians are still in northern Gaza even though Israel told them to leave in October. They are struggling to find enough food to eat and are even eating animal food to survive. The UN says that in the northern areas, one out of every six children under two years old is suffering from severe malnutrition and weight loss.
The Israeli military group in charge of helping Palestinian civilians, COGAT, said that about 50 trucks carrying aid went into northern Gaza this week. It was not clear who gave the help. Some countries have been dropping supplies from airplanes in the past few days.
The World Food Program stopped sending food to the north because of the increasing disorder. Palestinians took all the food from a delivery truck while it was on its way.
Ever since it started attacking Gaza after Hamas’ Oct. Israel has stopped food, water, medicine, and other supplies from coming into the area, except for a small amount from Egypt and Israel. Despite many countries asking for more help, the number of trucks bringing supplies is much lower than before the war. -
Health ministry run by Hamas accuses Israel of committing “massacre” in northern Gaza
Ashraf al-Qudra, who speaks for the health ministry in Gaza, said that over 100 people were killed while waiting for help to arrive in northern Gaza, and more than 700 others were injured. He said the event happened at the Nabulsi roundabout, on Rashid Street, on Thursday and he said Israeli forces were responsible for what he called a “massacre”.
Mr Ashraf al-Qudra said many seriously injured people were brought to the nearby al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. The doctors couldn’t handle so many severe cases.
At the same time, the Palestinian news agency Wafa reported that Israeli soldiers shot at many people in Gaza City and other northern areas while they were waiting for trucks with aid to arrive.
As we mentioned before, we are still getting more information and we will keep you updated with the latest news.This news story is still being updated. Come back later for more information.
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Over 100 people reportedly killed as crowd awaits aid for Gaza
The health ministry in Gaza, which is controlled by Hamas, says that 112 Palestinians has been killed while waiting for help in the northern part of Gaza.
The government said Israeli forces shot at the crowd, and Palestinian media reported that medical sources said the same thing. An Israeli military official said that Israeli soldiers shot at some people in the crowd because they were moving too close in a way that could harm the soldiers.
One person who saw it happen told the media that most of the people who got hurt were hit by trucks, not shot by Israelis.
An IDF spokesperson said that Israeli soldiers shot at some civilians who were coming near a checkpoint, but it was not a big response.
Videos on social media show dead bodies in Gaza City being put onto trucks and a cart pulled by a donkey.This news story is still being updated. Come back later for more information.
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Putin cautions the West from deploying forces in Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned the Western countries not to send soldiers to Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin said that the results of that decision would be very bad.
In his yearly speech to the country, President Putin said that the West is trying to get Russia into a competition to build more weapons. He said that Russia needs to make its defenses stronger on the western border because Sweden and Finland are joining Nato.
President Putin said that the West started the fighting in Ukraine and keeps lying by saying that Russia plans to attack Europe.
Perhaps talking about what French President Emmanuel Macron said earlier this week, President Putin said that sending Nato ground troops to Ukraine is not out of the question. He also said that there will be consequences for anyone who tries to intervene. Sad and unfortunate.
“We also have weapons that can attack targets on their land,” he said.
This could lead to a big fight using nuclear weapons and the end of society. Do they understand that.
Many Nato countries, like the US, Germany, and the UK, said they won’t send soldiers to Ukraine.
President Putin said that Russia has very advanced weapons, like super-fast planes and unmanned vehicles that can go underwater. He also said that Russia’s nuclear forces are ready for action.
President Putin called the conflict in Ukraine a “war” even though he usually tries to say it’s a “special military operation. ”
He said most Russians agreed with his decision to invade Ukraine, and that the Russian people were now working together to resist the Western countries trying to make Russia weaker.
He also criticized the US for accusing Russia of making nuclear weapons for attacking satellites in space.
The speech happened a little more than two weeks before the Russian president election. Many people think President Putin will win a fifth time.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the speech could be seen as Putin’s plan for the upcoming election.
Yes, a lot of the speech talked about things happening in Russia, like changing the tax system and helping people save for retirement. It also talked about trying to increase the number of babies being born in Russia.
He also said we need to make our nation healthier. He announced plans to help Russians live longer because right now, they don’t live as long as other Europeans.
Encouraging people to exercise more and drink less alcohol, he made a joke: “Quit drinking and go skiing. ”
President Putin is skiing while wearing a red outfit.
The speech went on for a very long time, two hours, and was heard by important politicians, the leaders of big oil and gas companies, and religious leaders from all different beliefs.
It was shown on big screens in Moscow and some cinemas in Russia showed it for free.
As expected, they didn’t talk about the death of Alexei Navalny, the opposition leader who died in a prison in Siberia two weeks ago. Many people thought he was President Putin’s biggest enemy.
Navalny will be laid to rest in Moscow on Friday. He died on February 16th under circumstances that are still not fully understood. His wife Yulia says that President Putin was to blame. -
Prime minister of Britain visits Ukraine to provide relief
The UK’s Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced new money for Ukraine’s military when he visited Kyiv. His goal is to show that the West is still helping Ukraine for almost two years after Russia attacked.
The UK will get Ukraine a big package of 2. 5 billion pounds (US$3. 2 billion) next year. The British government has given Ukraine more money since the war started, which is 200 million pounds (US$233 million) more than before.
I am here today with one message: The U. K”Will” means that something is going to happen in the future or that it is a possibility. “Do not hesitate,” Sunak said. “We will support Ukraine during difficult times and in the future. ”
The package will cover the costs of buying long-range missiles, thousands of drones, air defense, artillery ammunition, and maritime security, according to Sunak’s office. This happens when the U. Sgives money for other things. Europe is caught up in political arguments and disagreements.
“We’re not leaving,” Sunak said at a press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Ukrainian leaders are happy that the U. K”The announcement shows that Western support for its fight against a bigger neighbor is not getting weaker, as some people thought. ”
Zelenskyy said, “This is a message to the world: Ukraine has support. ”
Sunak and Zelenskyy agreed to work together on keeping their countries safe for the next 10 years. “It will stay in place until Ukraine joins NATO, Zelenskyy said. ” Officials said they will tell us more about the agreement at a later time.
Kyiv has been asking Western countries to send more help like the U. KThe war is still going on and not much is changing at the front. Both sides are now using long-distance attacks.
Sunak said he went to Ukraine for his first trip of the year to show strong support and to stand with Ukraine, as the situation there is serious and they need international attention.
Russian leader Putin has to understand that we are staying here.
“We want Ukraine to succeed,” said Sunak, who mentioned that helping Kyiv is a way to keep the world safe. “If Putin wins in Ukraine, he will keep going. ”
Sunak visited shortly after the British and U. SleadersThe army attacked Yemen, hitting over 12 places used by the Houthis, who are supported by Iran.
Thursday’s attacks reminded us of the long-lasting war in the poorest country in the Arab world. The attack also had the potential to start a bigger fight in the region because of Israel’s war on Hamas in Gaza.
The worries have made people focus on something else instead of Ukraine’s problems, but Zelenskyy is working to solve this through talking with other countries.
Sunak went to Ukraine in November 2022, not long after he became prime minister. Britain strongly supports Ukraine. It is the second largest giver of military help to Ukraine after the U. SIt has given a total of 4. 6 billion pounds (US$5. 8 billion) in 2022 and 2023.
Ukraine and Russia are trying to get more weapons this year, say military experts. They think there might be big fights on the ground in 2025, so the countries want to be ready.
Sunak said that the United Kingdom (U. K) Aid is the largest amount of help one country has given for drones, which are important weapons in the battlefield.
The front line in Ukraine and Russia is about 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) long. It has not really changed during the winter. Both countries need weapons like artillery shells, missiles, and drones to attack from far away.
Ukraine says that Moscow is getting artillery shells and missiles from North Korea and drones from Iran. -
Poland urges allies to “stay engaged” in Ukraine conflict
The ambassador of Canada to Poland is urging other nations to continue providing support in the conflict taking place nearby for the past two years.
Two years after Russia invaded Ukraine, Catherine Godin said that the war is a serious and current danger for the people of Poland.
She made this comments after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau went to Ukraine to show support. He promised more help with money and weapons, and said he will keep supporting Ukraine for a long time.
Godin said that Poland and Canada have worked closely to train soldiers and provide help.
She says Poland is thankful for Canada‘s help in protecting NATO’s eastern side in Latvia.
However, as other western countries are becoming less supportive of Ukraine, Godin wants Poland to ensure that they continue to take the war seriously. -
170,000 jobs created from 1D1F – Prez Akufo-Addo
President Akufo-Addo, in his seventh State of the Nation Address, celebrated the significant strides made by the government’s ‘One District, One Factory’ (1D1F) Programme, revealing that it had created around 170,000 jobs.
The President delivered his address in Accra on Tuesday, showcasing the positive impact of the policy on Ghana’s industrial landscape.
The President noted that the implementation of the 1D1F Programme had led to the establishment of 321 projects, including 211 new medium to large-scale factories and support for 110 existing companies to expand their production capacity. This substantial number underscores the programme’s commitment to fostering economic growth and job creation across the country.
Highlighting the government’s efforts to support the programme, President Akufo-Addo mentioned the approval of incentives and duty exemptions for selected companies between 2019 and 2020. However, he noted that no exemptions had been granted from 2021 to date, urging Parliament to expedite the approval of outstanding exemption applications to bolster confidence in the business community.
Emphasizing the significance of the 1D1F Programme in Ghana’s industrial transformation, the President described it as the cornerstone of the country’s efforts to stimulate and incentivize the private sector to expand and diversify manufacturing activities nationwide. He commended the private sector for its substantial investments in manufacturing under the programme, with investments spanning 142 districts across all sixteen regions of the country.
President Akufo-Addo expressed the government’s commitment to achieving broader district coverage under the 1D1F Programme, with the ultimate goal of establishing a project in every district. The programme’s success in achieving 54% district coverage within six years reflects its effectiveness in driving economic development and creating employment opportunities in various regions of Ghana.
The President’s remarks underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering industrial growth and job creation through strategic initiatives like the 1D1F Programme. As Ghana continues to prioritize economic development and inclusive growth, the programme remains a pivotal driver of progress, empowering local businesses and communities nationwide.
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Presbyterian University, Ghana calls for holistic learning beyond grades
Vice Chancellor of the Presbyterian University, Ghana (PUG), Professor John Ofosu-Anim, has underscored the importance of holistic learning in university education, urging students to embark on a journey of self-discovery beyond classroom lectures.
Addressing 1,042 fresh students at the Tema Campus matriculation ceremony, Prof Ofosu-Anim emphasized that university education goes beyond acquiring grades, encouraging students to explore personal development and intellectual growth.
The matriculation ceremony marked the official entry of the students into the academic life of the University. Prof. Ofosu-Anim urged them to make the most of the diverse academic programs and resources available to them to enhance their skills and become well-rounded graduates.
The students admitted to pursue various undergraduate programs across the Tema and Akuapem campuses were reminded of the significance of abiding by the institution’s rules and values to acquire knowledge for their overall growth and development.
Programs offered at the Akuapem Campus include BSc. International Development, BSc. Environmental and Natural Resources, and B.Ed. Social Studies, while the Tema Campus offers programs such as BSc. Human Resource and Management, BSc. Marketing Management, and BSc. Banking and Finance.
The emphasis on holistic learning reflects the Presbyterian University’s commitment to nurturing students who are not only academically competent but also well-equipped for personal and professional success in diverse fields.
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The Pentagon runs out of funds for Ukraine as it prepares to host summit of fifty allies
The US has said it doesn’t have any more money to help Ukraine and can’t send the guns and missiles they need to defend against Russia’s attack.
The Biden administration didn’t have anything to offer at a meeting for about 50 countries that help Ukraine because they were focused on politics at home. The team was created by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin in April 2022.
While waiting for Congress to agree on sending more money to help Ukraine, Washington will ask other countries to help cover the costs in the meantime.
I encourage this group to work hard to give Ukraine more air defense systems and interceptors that can save lives. Austin said this during a speech from his home, where he’s recovering from prostate cancer surgery.
The first time Austin, who is 70 years old, appeared in public was in a video, and he looked a little thin. He had to stay in the hospital for two weeks because he had problems after the surgery.
After the meeting, Celeste Wallander, who works for the defense department, told reporters that Ukraine’s defense ministry is getting reports from its front lines that “soldiers do not have enough ammunition. ”
Wallander said, “That’s why we have been focusing on answering Congress’ questions, so they can make a decision on passing legislation with help. ”
Ukraine is waiting to see what Congress will decide, but European friends are already taking action to help Ukraine.
In Brussels, the leader of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg, said that they will spend $1. 2 billion to buy more than 222,000 rounds of 155 mm bullets. The bullets are very important in the war, and the contract will help allies who need more bullets for fighting in Kyiv.
The fighting between Israel and Hamas has been in the news a lot, but Russia is still attacking Ukraine.
Russia attacked Ukraine on Tuesday with over 40 missiles in the two large cities, causing damage to homes and killing at least five people. The attack happened after Moscow refused to agree to any deal supported by Kyiv and its Western allies to end the war that has been going on for almost two years.
Ukraine stopped at least 21 missiles with its air defences. But the attacks hurt at least 20 people in four parts of Kyiv, the main city.
The Pentagon said it will stop giving security help to Ukraine in December. At the age of 27, a $250 million gift included 155 mm rounds, Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, and other items that are in high demand from the U. SinventoryStockpiles are large collections or reserves of goods or materials.
The United States They can’t buy more weapons because they don’t have enough money, and Congress hasn’t approved more funds.
Over $110 billion in help for Ukraine and Israel is delayed because Congress and the White House disagree on other important issues, like making the U. S-Mexico border more secure.
Senators from both political parties are working together to make a deal. This deal would give Ukraine almost $61 billion in help and also change the country’s border rules. Republicans want to reduce the help that Ukraine is getting. They think that European countries can give money to Ukraine instead.
“I want to see smaller portions,” said Senator. John Thune from South Dakota, who is second in command among the Republican senators, told reporters on Tuesday. “I think the number is very big and there are a lot of things paid for with it. ”
However, even if the Senate agrees on a deal, the plan will still have to face strong opposition in the House. Many Republicans in the House have consistently voted against supporting Ukraine in the war.
America Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, they have given Ukraine more than $44. 2 billion in security help. Approximately $236 billion was taken from the military’s current supplies, and about $19 billion was used for long-term contracts to buy military items that will take a few months to get. Although there is no more money, some weapons that were bought before will still be delivered. -
Accra records alarming rate of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTI), myalgias, and other health conditions have emerged as the leading causes of morbidity in the Out-Patient Departments (OPD) across the Greater Accra region over the past three years, according to health officials.
Dr Louisa Ademki Matey, the Municipal Director of Health for Ayawaso West Municipality, expressed alarm over the doubling of URTI cases from 2021 to 2023, reaching 25,789. She attributed this concerning trend to factors such as air pollution, which can impair respiratory functions and exacerbate health conditions.
Dr. Matey emphasized the need for a thorough examination of data and risk factors associated with URTI. She highlighted the detrimental effects of inhaling poor air quality, underscoring the importance of addressing air pollution as a public health concern.
Mr. Desmond Appiah, the Country Lead of Clean Air Fund-Ghana, acknowledged the potential link between URTI and air pollution. He emphasized the importance of data disaggregation and further investigation to inform targeted interventions in areas most affected by poor air quality.
Appiah noted the involvement of Ayawaso West Municipality in the Breathe Cities clean air initiative, aimed at reducing air pollution and improving public health. The initiative provides support such as low-cost sensors, capacity building, and data analysis to enable local leadership to take effective measures in ensuring clean air.
The Breathe Cities initiative, driven by evidence-based strategies and community engagement, aims to reduce air pollution by 30 percent across participating cities by 2030. This ambitious goal, if achieved, could prevent thousands of premature deaths and asthma cases, while also saving significant healthcare costs.
Accra, as one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities and the commercial center of Ghana, faces significant challenges related to air pollution, particularly from road transport. The city’s inadequate public transport infrastructure contributes to dust and particle concentrations, impacting the health of residents and commuters.
Efforts to address air pollution in Accra include initiatives to improve public transport, reduce emissions from vehicles, and pave roads to minimize dust resuspension. These measures are crucial for safeguarding public health and promoting sustainable development in the region.
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Zelenskyy arrives in Saudi Arabia to seek peace and POW swap with Russia
On Tuesday, Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, visited Saudi Arabia to meet with the kingdom’s crown prince to ask for a plan to make peace and to get back Ukrainian prisoners of war from Russia.
Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman wants to help stop the fighting between Ukraine and Russia. But Saudi Arabia still supports Russia when it comes to energy decisions. Yesterday, the prince had a meeting with Vyacheslav Volodin, who is the chairman of Russia’s Duma, the lower house of its parliament, and many other Russian officials.
Zelenskyy went to visit as Kyiv’s army was starting to lose ground in eastern Ukraine. Military experts say that Russia is leading because it has more soldiers and weapons than Ukraine. Ukraine is waiting to hear if they will get more support from their Western allies.
“The Ukrainian military moved its soldiers away from two more villages near Avdiivka in Donetsk after heavy fighting overnight,” a spokesperson for the Ukrainian army said on Tuesday.
Ukrainian soldiers have moved away from Sieverne and Stepove, according to Dmytro Lykhovyi on TV. He said that before the big attack, the two villages had about 100 people living there.
Ukraine still depends on Saudi Arabia’s help to push for a “Peace Formula” to end the invasion. Zelenskyy said this in a message on X, which used to be called Twitter.
Zelenskyy has a 10-point plan for peace that includes getting all Russian troops out of Ukraine and making sure those who committed war crimes are held responsible. This is happening while the two sides are fighting from mostly the same positions along a 1,500-kilometre (930-mile) front line. Moscow quickly rejects those ideas.
“The next topic is about bringing back prisoners of war and people who were sent out of the country,” Zelenskyy wrote. The leaders of the kingdom have already helped to free our people. I am sure this meeting will have good outcomes. He also said we will talk about working together on our economy.
In this picture from the Saudi Royal Palace, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman meets with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Royal Palace in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Tuesday, Feb. 11thThe date is 27, 2024. Bandar Aljaloud took the photo at the Saudi Royal Palace. It was released by the AP.
Zelenskky arrived at Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport and was greeted by government officials, as reported by the state-run Saudi Press Agency. Later video showed Zelenskyy and other important people in his government meeting with a happy Prince Mohammed. Also present was Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz.
A video showed the prince and Zelenskyy talking in English without translators in a big hall at a palace while other officials were sitting nearby.
In recent years, Crown Prince Mohammed has made peace with Iran, tried to make peace with Yemen’s Houthi rebels, and has offered to help solve other worldwide problems. After getting a lot of criticism from many countries for their war in Yemen and the murder of Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, the Saudi-led coalition is now facing trouble. Intelligence agencies think that the attack was done because he told someone to do it.
Saudi Arabia and Ukraine did not immediately give a lot of information about what the leaders talked about. On Monday, the prince talked about things that both the kingdom and the Russian Duma leader are interested in.
“Volodin passed on the hello and best wishes from Russian President Vladimir Putin,” reported Russia’s Tass news agency.
In May, Zelenskyy went to Saudi Arabia to meet with Arab leaders and also met with Crown Prince Mohammed. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, who are all next to each other on the Arabian Peninsula, have been trading prisoners since the war started in 2022. -
We scored 70%, NDC scored 30%, how can they be better than us? – Dr Bawumia quizzes
Vice President and the NPP flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has refuted assertions suggesting that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) had governed better than the current administration.
Speaking at a recent address at an event organized by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, Dr Bawumia vehemently defended the NPP’s performance, asserting that the government had surpassed the NDC’s achievements in every sector of the economy, a sentiment echoed by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo during his recent State of the Nation Address (SONA).
“At the State of the Nation yesterday, as I listened to him (President Akufo-Addo), it was very clear that our government has outperformed the NDC government in every sector. I mean every single sector. I can’t see one sector where they have outperformed us, but every single sector. Whether you are talking about jobs, whether you are talking about roads, whether you are talking about hospitals, whether you are talking about schools, or digitalization, across every sector,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
Expressing disbelief at comparisons drawn between the NPP and NDC governments, Dr. Bawumia likened the scenario to a contest where one party excels in every subject, yet the opposition insists they are superior.
He emphasized, “Meanwhile, they are trying to convince the public that they are better than you. What sort of mathematics is that? I mean, really, you score 70%, they score 30% and they are trying to say their 30% is better than you. It doesn’t make sense. So, in terms of the record, our record is superior.”
President Akufo-Addo’s SONA, delivered on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, emphasized the government’s accountability for the nation’s economic state and highlighted the threat of terrorism within the West African sub-region. The president also underscored his administration’s achievements, asserting that their tenure had surpassed the NDC’s eight years in office.
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United States will not send soldiers to battle in Ukraine – White House
The White House has announced that the US will not be sending troops to Ukraine, even though it was suggested by the president of France.
President Biden has stated clearly that the United States. “We will not send soldiers to Ukraine to fight,” said Adrienne Watson, who works for the National Security Council. She said this while President Biden talked with important lawmakers at the White House about giving money to Ukraine.This news story is still being updated. Come back later for more information.
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Public Sector Reforms CEO alleges NDC enriched themselves during dumsor era
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Public Sector Reforms, Thomas Kusi Boafo, has asserted that the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) would be deceiving themselves if they believe they are wealthier than the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
During an interview on Wontumi TV on February 28, 2024, Kusi Boafo alleged that members of the NDC amassed significant wealth during the period of erratic power supply, known as dumsor. He claimed that while the country grappled with power outages, the NDC government entered lucrative power purchase agreements, enriching themselves in the process.
“Some people used dumsor to amass huge sums in Ghana, and they became fabulously rich. That is why I have been saying that the opposition NDC is richer than the NPP. But when I say this, people don’t agree,” he remarked in Twi.
Kusi Boafo elaborated on the alleged power purchase agreements, stating that they amounted to over $9 billion. He accused the NDC of inflating costs and engaging in deals that led to wastage of electricity. According to him, these agreements were renegotiated by the current NPP government, resulting in substantial savings for Ghana.
Highlighting President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s revelations during the 2024 State of the Nation’s Address (SONA), Kusi Boafo emphasized the government’s efforts to rectify the perceived financial mismanagement of the NDC era.
He contended that the funds lost due to the power purchase agreements could have been utilized to improve infrastructure, particularly road networks. Kusi Boafo estimated that the amount lost could have facilitated the construction of approximately “1000 kilometres of asphalted road” across the country.
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Analyst accuses Akufo-Addo of inconsistency and deception in SONA
A political analyst, Dr Emmanuel Anti, has launched scathing criticism against President Akufo-Addo, branding him as a dishonest politician who has failed to be candid with Ghanaians. Anti accused the President of inconsistency and deception, particularly regarding his administration’s handling of infrastructure projects and economic management.
During a recent interview, Anti highlighted the contradictions between the President’s past statements and his current stance. He pointed out that during the 2016 campaign, Akufo-Addo and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) disparaged the achievements of former President John Dramani Mahama in the road sector, claiming that “we don’t eat roads” and thus, emphasizing road infrastructure was unnecessary.
However, Anti criticized the President and his party for later boasting about their achievements in the road sector, alleging that this showed insincerity and deception. He questioned the President’s excitement about road projects in his recent State of the Nation Address (SONA), given his previous stance on the matter.
Furthermore, Anti criticized the President for not utilizing the economic expertise of Vice President Bawumia to address the country’s economic challenges effectively. He cited instances where Vice President Bawumia distanced himself from economic woes, claiming his role was merely advisory. Anti argued that President Akufo-Addo’s acceptance of blame for economic issues indicated his failure in leadership.
Anti concluded by asserting that if President Akufo-Addo did not voluntarily resign, he should be removed from office due to his perceived failure in discharging his duties effectively.
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Prof Gadzekpo, others fighting Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill because of money – Sam George
Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo-Prampram, Sam Nartey George, has responded to criticisms from notable figures, including Prof Takyiwaa Manuh and Prof Audrey Gadzekpo, regarding the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill (anti-gay bill) currently awaiting presidential assent in Ghana.
In an interview on Adom FM, on Thursday, February 29, 2024, Sam George, one of the sponsors of the bill, expressed bewilderment at the opposition to the legislation. He alleged that critics of the anti-gay bill were motivated by financial incentives from LGBTQ+ groups.
George argued that opponents of the bill claim there are already existing laws addressing LGBT+ activities, yet they advocate for its rejection. He questioned why they hadn’t challenged these laws in court if they found them problematic.
He asserted, “Prof Audrey Gadzekpo, Takyiwaa Manuh, CDD, all of them, they are doing this because of money. They are taking money to do this. I’m putting it on record that they are all being funded by pro-LGBTQ groups.”
The Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, passed by the Ghanaian Parliament on February 28, 2024, criminalizes LGBT+ activities and their promotion, advocacy, and funding. It awaits presidential assent to become law.
However, critics like Prof Takyiwaa Manuh and Prof Audrey Gadzekpo argue against the bill’s passage, citing existing laws and constitutional rights. Prof Manuh emphasized that the Constitution should not discriminate based on identity, while Prof Gadzekpo accused Sam George of pursuing political gains through the bill.
The debate surrounding the anti-gay bill underscores broader discussions on human rights, constitutional law, and political motives in Ghana. As the bill awaits presidential action, tensions between supporters and opponents continue to escalate.
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UN requests US$674 million as sexual and murderous gang violence in Haiti increases
Violence in Haiti is getting worse, especially in the capital city and nearby areas. Armed gangs are killing people and committing sexual violence. The United Nations is worried about the situation.
Ulrika Richardson said to UN reporters in an online meeting from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, that the amount of violence people experience is like being treated in a cruel and unfair way.
During her time at the United Nations, Richardson said she saw things that were worse than anything she had ever seen before.
She said that men, women, and children are going through a lot of pain and suffering. She pointed out that sexual violence increased by 50% between 2022 and 2023 and 314,000 Haitians have left their homes to escape the violence. Many of them are now living on the streets and in schools, and they need help.
Richardson stated that 5. 5 million people in Haiti need help, with 4. 4 million – about 40% of the population – having a big problem getting enough food.
The UN just asked for money to help people in need. They want $674 million, and half of it will be used to buy food.
Even though the needs are greater this year, Richardson said the request for help is smaller than the US$720 million request for 2023, which only received 34 percent of the funding.
She said that the UN is trying harder to work with local groups in Haiti and is finding that it is working well. They are now figuring out how to work even better with these groups.
Since the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, Armed gangs have become stronger and there is more trouble with the government. Before he was killed, people were protesting and calling for him to step down because of corruption and because they said his time as president was finished.
In 2023, over 8,400 people were reported killed, injured or kidnapped, which is more than twice the number reported in 2022. The gangs keep on fighting for control of the area and are thought to have control of about 80 percent of Port-au-Prince.
Kenya said they would lead a big group of police to help make Haiti peaceful again. This was approved by the UN in October. It’s not clear when or if the soldiers will be sent because a court in Kenya said in January that it’s not allowed. The government of the East African country is asking for another decision to be made.
On Monday, the United States said it will give money, equipment, and logistical support to help bring peace to Haiti. They are still not sure when a multinational force will be sent there.
When she was asked if Haitians want help from a multinational force, she said, “If you ask people on the street if they want help dealing with gang violence, they will say yes. “ -
UK sliding towards mob rule – Sunak
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said that Britain is starting to have a “mob rule” because of the protests against the Israel-Hamas war. According to a human rights group, his remarks were too theatrical and hyperbolic.
Sunak spoke to a group of police officers and said that he has noticed a growing trend of violent and threatening behavior. This behavior is meant to silence discussions and prevent elected officials from doing their job.
“More and more people agree that mob rule is taking over instead of democratic rule,” he said, according to a transcript from the prime minister’s office. “We all need to quickly make a change together. ”
Tom Southerden from Amnesty International said on Thursday that when people talk about mob rule, they are making the problem seem much bigger than it actually is. This could make peaceful protests seem less legitimate.
Many people are protesting in London every week to stop a fight that has killed over 30,000 Palestinians in Gaza. Israel says that Hamas has killed about 1,200 Israelis, mostly civilians, and kidnapped around 250 people in October. 7 people tried to hurt someone or something.
The protests have mostly been calm, but many people have been arrested for holding signs and chanting in support of Hamas, which is not allowed in Britain. Jewish groups and many politicians say the large marches have made Jewish people in London feel scared, even though some Jewish people have also joined marches for peace.
Disagreements about the fighting in Gaza are causing problems in British politics. Some politicians are worried about their safety because they have been threatened for their views on the war. Reports of more hate towards Jewish and Muslim people in Britain have gone up a lot since October when Hamas did something. Israel was attacked, so they went into Gaza.
Last week, a discussion in the House of Commons about whether to ask for a stop to fighting turned into a mess. There were claims that the speaker of the house broke the rules because of pressure from people who support Palestine.
During the argument, people showed a message on the Parliament building that some think means they want to destroy Israel.
On Saturday, Sunak stopped Conservative official Lee Anderson from being in the party because he said London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who is Muslim, was influenced by Islamists and let them take control of the city.
Protesters who support Palestine were at a Conservative lawmaker’s house. Environmental activists also went to Sunak’s family home in northern England.
The prime minister met with police chiefs to discuss the 31-million-pound fund to make sure lawmakers are safe. This is because some politicians have been threatened and intimidated because of the war.
At the meeting on Wednesday, the government told police chiefs that protesting outside of politicians’ homes should be seen as intimidating.
Sunak instructed the officers to take strong action to protect our democratic processes from being threatened, disrupted, or undermined.
British officials usually meet with people in their local areas, but security has been increased because of past attacks. In 2016, a Labour politician named Jo Cox was killed by a far-right extremist. In 2021, a Conservative named David Amess was murdered by someone who was influenced by the Islamic State group.
Sunak said these things after the government started making it harder for people to peacefully protest for several years. New laws have been made to stop behaviors that are considered bothersome to the public. People who are found guilty of this may be put in jail for up to 10 years. The police now have more authority to control protests that they believe are causing trouble. Many environmental activists have been taken by the police and put in jail for stopping traffic and doing other peaceful actions.
“Being able to speak and gather with others are very important rights in a fair and free society,” explained Southerden, who is the director of law and human rights at Amnesty U. K
The United Kingdom “These past few years, the government has been cracking down on people’s right to protest. They’re making it illegal to use peaceful protest tactics and giving the police a lot of power to stop protests from happening,” he said.
People in Rochdale, a town in northwest England, voted on Thursday to choose a new lawmaker. The election campaign was messy because of the war in Gaza. The Labour Party rejected its candidate, Azhar Ali, because he said that Israel let Hamas enter Gaza. 7 attacks were planned as an excuse to invade Gaza.
His name is still listed as an option to vote for, along with other people running for office. These include George Galloway, a former member of the Labour party who is against their position on the Israel-Hamas conflict, and Simon Danczuk, another former Labour politician who now supports the right-wing Reform U. K -
Mahama accuses govt’s over contradictory stance on free SHS
Former President and presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has accused the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) of double standards regarding the ongoing discourse on the review of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.
Addressing attendees at the launch of the Ghana National Association of Private Schools week, themed “2024 Elections: The Private Education Manifesto,” Mahama lambasted the government’s handling of the Free SHS policy, alleging a lack of transparency and consistency in its communication.
Mahama pointed to a document submitted by the government to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which pledged to review and rationalize the Free SHS policy. He criticized the discrepancy between the government’s promises to international bodies and its public narrative, accusing the NPP of hypocrisy.
“There’s hypocrisy in this thing about review. If you look at the IMF agreement that this government has signed, under point 47, page 76,” Mahama stated. “This Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government signed an agreement with the IMF in January 2024. And they say that in the educational sector, we will review and rationalize the free SHS. These are their words, not my words.”
Mahama emphasized the need for clarity and honesty in the discourse surrounding the Free SHS policy, urging citizens to scrutinize government actions and statements. He highlighted concerns regarding the implementation and effectiveness of the policy, citing statistics indicating a significant number of students not taking up their places in Free SHS schools.
“The report says that between 2021 to date, over 196,000 children did not take up their place in the free SHS. Even though they were posted and qualified, they didn’t go. We need to find out why they didn’t go,” Mahama explained. “The total amount of money the government has spent on free SHS comes to about ¢5.8 billion. The proportion of the parents is about 77% to the government’s share of about 23%. That is why we must do a review.”
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UN accuses Nicaragua gov’t of human rights violation
The United Nations has accused the Nicaraguan government of violating people’s rights to an extent that amounts to serious crimes against humanity.This is happening as the government tries to control political opposition.
For many years, President Daniel Ortega’s government has been targeting people who disagree with them. In 2018, huge protests against the government led to a violent crackdown by the authorities.
But in the last year, the government has started to control more and more of society to stop any opposition in the future. This information comes from a group of UN experts who have been looking into the issue since March 2022.
“Nicaragua is in a lot of violence where people who disagree with the government are being targeted and punished,” said Jan Simon, an expert leading the investigation. “The Government has made it difficult for anyone to speak out against them. ”
Ortega’s government keeps saying that the big protests against it in 2018 were actually a failed attempt to take over the government, organized by the United States. And when people criticize the government, it usually responds in the same way.
The government has attacked regular people, such as students, Indigenous and Black Nicaraguans, and members of the Catholic Church. Kids and their families are being targeted just because they are related to people who speak out against the government.
In December, the police accused the director of the Miss Nicaragua competition of planning to manipulate the competition against beauty queens who support the government. In February, the government closed down more social clubs, like the country’s scouting group and a rotary club.
The report said the crackdown has spread to people who have left Nicaragua because of government repression. Many of them have gone to the United States and Costa Rica. Many Nicaraguans have lost their citizenship and are now without a country and cannot access important rights.
The UN report asked the Ortega government to let go of Nicaraguans who were put in jail for no reason and also asked leaders from around the world to put more sanctions on people and organizations that are involved in violations of human rights. -
25% of Gaza’s population is a step from starvation – UN
At least 576,000 people in the Gaza Strip are very close to not having enough food. A senior UN aid official said this to the Security Council. If we don’t do something, a lot of people could go hungry.
“Not much can happen as long as fighting continues and there’s a chance it could move into the crowded areas in the south of Gaza. ” Ramesh Rajasingham, who works for the UN, said again that we want a ceasefire.
One out of every six children under the age of two in northern Gaza is very malnourished and not growing properly. Almost everyone in the Palestinian enclave, which has 2. 3 million people, depends on food aid that is not enough to survive.
Rajasingham said that it’s very hard for the UN and aid groups to bring even the basic things into Gaza because there are many things getting in the way, like closed crossings, rules about where they can go, and difficult screening processes. Also, there is fighting, broken roads, and bombs that haven’t exploded yet.
Israel wants to help the people in Gaza, but they can only give as much aid as the UN and other agencies can handle.
Israel has been straightforward about its rules and decisions. “There is no maximum amount of humanitarian aid that can be sent to the people of Gaza,” Miller said to the Security Council.
‘Israel needs to do better’
The United States of America The US asked Israel to keep border crossings open for aid to reach Gaza and to open more crossings. “Robert Wood, who represents the US at the UN, spoke to the Security Council. ”
He said Israel needs to do more. “We ask Israel to make sure aid can be delivered safely and securely by improving deconfliction procedures. ”
The World Food Programme is prepared to increase our help quickly if there is a truce, said WFP Deputy Executive Director Carl Skau to the Security Council.
“But right now, there is a high risk of not having enough food in Gaza because we can’t bring in enough supplies, and it’s very difficult for our staff to work there,” Skau explained.
The fighting in Gaza started when fighters from Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7 people died, about 1,200 people were killed and 253 hostages were taken, as reported by Israel. Israel has attacked Gaza by air and ground, and around 30,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to health officials in Gaza.
“Guyana’s UN Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett said that starving people on purpose as a way of fighting is against the law, and Guyana is against those who are doing this to the people in Gaza. ”
Israel’s attack on Gaza “is hurting all the innocent people in Palestine,” said Algeria’s UN Ambassador Amar Bendjama to the Security Council. “When we don’t speak out, we allow people to harm and deprive the Palestinian population. “ -
Toronto lady claims that bitcoin scam cost her $340,000
A woman from Toronto allegedly lost $340,000 in a cryptocurrency scam. Her cautionary message to others is to be vigilant and avoid falling for the same scam.
Natalya, who didn’t want to use her full name, said she saw a video last year on YouTube about making money by investing in cryptocurrencies. She felt embarrassed about it.
Natalya said to put money into cryptocurrency because it’s the best way to become wealthy.
She sent a message to the company on their website and then they called her. They talked her into investing $250 and when she saw the money increase, she put in more.
Natalya said, “I believed him and sent him $100,000. ”
The bad person sent her $5,000 and told her to act like she was rich and buy herself expensive diamond earrings. After she did that, she thought the company must be real, so she put another $240,000 into it.
“Watching my money increase made me really happy. I thought, ‘This is a really good way to make money quickly. ‘” Natalya explained
It seemed like she had twice as much money. But when she tried to withdraw it, she couldn’t. That’s when she found out it was fake and she was cheated out of all the money she had invested, which was $340,000.
Natalya said she felt embarrassed to admit that she was tricked into losing a lot of money.
In 2023, Canadian people lost $309 million to investment scams, as reported by the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Jason Tschetter started Fraud Hunters Canada after he was tricked out of $81,000 in a cryptocurrency scam.
“We have clients who have lost either $700,000 or $7,000. ” “It depends on what they can receive from people,” said Tschetter.
Tschetter said there aren’t many places for people to get help if they are scammed with cryptocurrency.
Next month, Fraud Hunters Canada will change their name to Cyber Crime Victim Service. They will help people who have been victims of cyber fraud.
“They are going through tough times, such as trying to hurt themselves, having no money, and getting divorced. It’s really hard for many people who contact us,” Tschetter said.
Natalya said she lost a lot of money, $340,000, and it made her feel really bad. She wants to tell her story so that other people can be careful and not lose money too.
“Natalya said she is really sad about this and doesn’t want it to happen to other people. ”
Some people who have been scammed with cryptocurrency are tricked again when criminals call them and promise to return their money. They ask for money at the beginning, promising to get back the lost money, but it’s a lie. -
NPP campaign chairman expresses confidence in Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s presidential victory
The campaign chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dan Botwe, has voiced strong optimism regarding the chances of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia emerging the president following the December 7 presidential election.
Speaking to reporters in Accra after the launch of the candidate’s campaign team, Botwe expressed confidence that the NPP would break the eight-year election cycle jinx and secure victory in the upcoming polls.
Botwe predicted that the NPP’s candidate, Dr Bawumia, would win the election with over 50 percent of the valid votes cast. Additionally, he asserted that the NPP would secure a majority vote in the parliamentary election, aiming to win the majority of the 275 seats in Parliament.
“We will work very hard to make sure that we achieve our objectives. And we shall win the majority of the 275 seats in Parliament and over 50 percent in the presidential election,” Botwe affirmed.
Highlighting Dr. Bawumia’s superior policies compared to his opponent, Botwe emphasized the NPP’s vision and record of performance. He argued that the NPP has outperformed the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government in every sector, citing President Akufo-Addo’s recent State of the Nation Address as evidence of the party’s achievements.
“We have the vision, and we have the record, and it is very clear in the exhilarating speech that was given by the president at the State of the Nation Address. As I listened to the president, it was very clear that we have outperformed the NDC government in every single sector. I can’t see even one sector where they outperformed us,” Botwe stated confidently.
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Dan Botwe predicts NPP’s breakthrough in December 7 elections
The campaign chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dan Botwe, has voiced strong optimism regarding the chances of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia emerging the president following the December 7 presidential election.
Speaking to reporters in Accra after the launch of the candidate’s campaign team, Dan Botwe expressed confidence that the NPP would break the eight-year election cycle jinx and secure victory in the upcoming polls.
Botwe predicted that the NPP’s candidate, Dr. Bawumia, would win the election with over 50 percent of the valid votes cast. Additionally, he asserted that the NPP would secure a majority vote in the parliamentary election, aiming to win the majority of the 275 seats in Parliament.
“We will work very hard to make sure that we achieve our objectives. And we shall win the majority of the 275 seats in Parliament and over 50 percent in the presidential election,” Botwe affirmed.
Highlighting Dr. Bawumia’s superior policies compared to his opponent, Botwe emphasized the NPP’s vision and record of performance. He argued that the NPP has outperformed the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government in every sector, citing President Akufo-Addo’s recent State of the Nation Address as evidence of the party’s achievements.
“We have the vision, and we have the record, and it is very clear in the exhilarating speech that was given by the president at the State of the Nation Address. As I listened to the president, it was very clear that we have outperformed the NDC government in every single sector. I can’t see even one sector where they outperformed us,” Botwe stated confidently.
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Dumsor interrupts Parliamentary debate on SONA
Parliamentary proceedings were briefly disrupted on Thursday, February 29, 2024, after the house experienced a power outage, commonly referred to as “dumsor.” The incident occurred during a debate on the president’s State of the Nation Address, leaving members of the minority chanting “Dumsor, Dumsor, Dumsor” as the lights went off.
The interruption came just hours after the minority had called on the power sector to release a load-shedding timetable, highlighting concerns over the reliability of the country’s power supply. John Jinapor, the Member of Parliament representing the Yapei-Kusawgu constituency, expressed alarm over the situation, citing persistent load shedding and worsening power outages.
“The minority side has been monitoring the power situation for the past month, and it appears, based on the information available to us, that the power sector is collapsing,” Jinapor stated. “Since February 2, there has been persistent and consistent load shedding by the generation companies. Indeed, the load shedding is worsening by the day.”
Jinapor further highlighted that on the day of the president’s State of the Nation Address, load shedding was occurring, adding to concerns about the reliability of the power supply. He warned that load shedding would commence again at 12 pm, citing issues with thermal plants and a lack of fuel as contributing factors.
“Our investigation indicates that some of our thermal plants are down, and there is a lack of fuel causing the load shedding,” Jinapor explained. “The handlers of the power sector should do the honourable thing by informing the people of Ghana so they can plan ahead of time.”
The interruption in parliamentary proceedings underscores ongoing challenges within Ghana’s power sector, with concerns raised over the stability and reliability of electricity supply. As debates continue surrounding the country’s energy infrastructure, stakeholders are calling for greater transparency and accountability from authorities to address the root causes of power outages and ensure a consistent and reliable electricity supply for all citizens.
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Advocate opposes Anti-LGBTQ Bill, expresses disappointment with potential Presidential assent
An advocate against the Sexual Human Rights and Family Values Bill, Emerita Professor Takyiwaa Manuh, has voiced her disappointment over the potential assent by President Akufo-Addo.
The bill, which seeks to outlaw LGBTQI+ activities and penalize their promotion, advocacy, and funding, was passed by Parliament on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, following the completion of the Third Reading.
In an interview with Starr News, Prof Manuh expressed her disapproval of the bill, citing concerns about its necessity and constitutional compatibility. She argued that the bill, if signed into law, would be a violation of Article 108 of the Constitution, particularly regarding its enforcement provisions, which could impose financial burdens on the public purse.
“The reason why the President has not assented to the other private members bills that were sent to him was that they violate Article 108 of the Constitution. I believe that this bill violates Article 108 even more because every part of it is about enforcement, which is going to be a charge on the public purse. So if we are to follow the president’s reasoning, I will be surprised if he assents to this bill,” Prof. Manuh stated.
She emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and respecting constitutional rights and freedoms for all citizens, regardless of their religion or identity. Prof. Manuh stressed that no law or act should be inconsistent with the Constitution, particularly concerning provisions that govern fundamental rights and freedoms.
“We live in a country that is governed by the rule of law; we live under a constitution. No law, no Act that is passed can be inconsistent with the Constitution. Therefore, if there are violations of the Constitution, especially as regards the rights and freedoms that are guaranteed to all Ghanaians, the Constitution does not begin to differentiate according to your religion or identity. This law is unnecessary; we already have provisions in our laws that govern all matters,” she asserted.
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Woman passes away at her birthday after her hair got tangled in go-kart’s wheel in Singapore
A woman suffered a fatal accident at her birthday party when her hair got caught in a go-kart.
Arini Mohamed Adinan’s was running a race with her friends Karmeli, Zeth, and Julie at a track near Singapore in Indonesia’s Riau Islands on February 21 on her 33rd birthday when her helmet came off after her vehicle crashed into the tyre barrier, according to a witness.Arini, who is said to come from Singapore, was taken to the hospital very quickly, but she was declared dead upon arrival.
A person at the scene said the woman’s hair was very long and got caught in the back wheel. She couldn’t stop her own kart after seeing the accident she added.
She said: “I had to crash the kart into the tire barrier to make it stop, but the engine was still on. ” Julie said the group helped each other put on their helmets, and Karmeli added that she also wore a hair net.
Arini was laid to rest on her birthday at a cemetery next to the Pusara Aman Mosque in Singapore. Over 100 people came to her funeral, including friends and family.
Zahwani Pandra Arsyad, a spokesperson for the police, said that people saw the victim driving a go-kart with the number 14 for two laps around the track.
In August 2021, a 15-year-old girl named Ruwaida Adan died when her headscarf got stuck in her go-kart at a racing track in London.
The jury said she died because she didn’t get enough oxygen to her brain and couldn’t breathe. -
Find out the full meaning of LGGBDTTTIQQAAAPP+
As discussions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and legislation continue to dominate conversations in Ghana, there’s a growing recognition of the diverse array of sexual orientations and gender identities encompassed within the community.
A bill which has been passed in Parliament, pending Presidential assent, criminalises issues related to LGBTQ+ rights, sparking nationwide debate and reflection on the topic.
While many individuals may perceive LGBTQ+ solely in terms of gay and lesbian identities, the acronym has evolved to reflect a much broader spectrum of experiences and expressions.
In an extended version of the acronym, LGGBDTTTQQAAAPP+, each letter represents a distinct identity or orientation.
Here’s a breakdown of the expanded LGGBDTTTQQAAAPP+ acronym and what each letter represents:
- L – Lesbian: Refers to women who are sexually attracted to other women.
- G – Gay: Describes men who are sexually attracted to other men.
- G – Genderqueer: Denotes individuals who do not conform to conventional gender distinctions and may identify with neither, both, or a combination of male and female genders.
- B – Bisexual: Describes individuals who are sexually and/or romantically attracted to people of the same gender and people of another gender.
- D – Demisexual: Refers to individuals who experience sexual attraction only after forming an emotional bond with someone.
- T – Transgender: Describes individuals whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
- T – Transexual: Refers to individuals who may experience sexual attraction primarily after forming an emotional bond with someone.
- T – Twospirits: Indigenous term describing individuals who identify as having both masculine and feminine spirits.
- I – Intersex: Describes individuals born with physical or biological sex characteristics that do not fit typical definitions of female or male.
- Q – Queer: Umbrella term for sexual and gender minorities who are not heterosexual or cisgender.
- Q – Questioning: Refers to individuals who are uncertain or exploring their sexual orientation or gender identity.
- A – Asexual: Describes individuals who experience little to no sexual attraction to others.
- A – Ally: Refers to heterosexual individuals who support and advocate for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.
- A – Autosexual: Describes individuals who experience sexual attraction primarily to themselves.
- P – Pansexual: Refers to individuals who are attracted to people regardless of their gender identity or biological sex.
- P – Polyamorous: Describes individuals who engage in consensual relationships with multiple partners simultaneously.
+ – Represents additional identities and expressions beyond those explicitly listed.
- L – Lesbian: Refers to women who are sexually attracted to other women.
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Over 30,000 people have died in Gaza – Health ministry headed by Hamas
Over 30,000 Palestinians have died in Gaza since 7 October, according to the health ministry run by Hamas.
The number is about 1. 3% of the 2. 3 million people who live there. It shows how many people have been hurt by the war.
The government says most of the people who died were women and children. It doesn’t separate between civilians and fighters when counting the people who were killed.
The ministry said that 81 people died in the past day, and the total number of deaths is now 30,035.
The number of people who have died is probably much higher because the count doesn’t include those who haven’t gone to the hospital. This includes thousands of people who are still trapped under collapsed buildings from Israeli air strikes.
Over 70,000 people have been injured in Gaza, according to the health ministry. The United Nations and other global groups use its information.
The World Health Organization works closely with the health organization in Gaza and it is good at collecting and analyzing data. The UN agency thinks the previous reports are believable and well written.
The WHO says that more civilians, including children and women, are being killed in Gaza now compared to past conflicts.
Israel’s military told the BBC that about 10,000 terrorists have been killed, but did not give specific numbers for civilian and fighter casualties.
For a Palestinian death to be recorded in Gaza, the hospital staff or medical workers must see the body or remains. Every day, hospitals send a list of all the people who got hurt or died to the Ministry of Health. The list has their names, ID numbers, when they got hurt or died, and what injuries they have. Its workers are now located in Rafah.
The Palestinian Red Crescent also gives information.
During the war, it has been very hard to report the numbers because there are too many dead bodies in the morgues, fighting near hospitals and clinics, and not good internet and phone service.
But, if a longer ceasefire is agreed or the war ends, finding and identifying the bodies of the missing people will help us know how many people were killed, including how many soldiers were killed. The UN, rights groups, and Israeli military will likely each do their own investigations.
People are saying that the current numbers don’t show how Palestinians were killed. They want to know if it was from Israeli air strikes, artillery shelling, or other ways like Palestinians’ rockets not working correctly. All the people who got hurt are being called victims of “Israeli aggression” right now.
Lately, the Gaza Ministry of Health has reported more cases of what the World Health Organization (WHO) calls “indirect mortality” – which means people dying because of the war but not directly from the fighting.
On Wednesday, it was reported that six children had died from not having enough water and food at hospitals in northern Gaza. Two people were at al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City and four people were at the Kamal Adwan Hospital in the town of Beit Lahia.
The UN is saying that a lot of people in Gaza don’t have enough food to eat and are getting very sick. There isn’t enough medicine or medical help for them.
The fighting started when many Hamas fighters attacked southern Israel on October 7th. They killed around 1,200 people and took 253 hostages. This is according to the counts by Israel. -
Putin kills priest at a church bombing in Ukraine
At least four people including a priest were killed after Russian soldiers detonated a large bomb on a church in Ukraine.
Several days following the commencement of a significant conflict by Russia, they unleashed large bombs on the Kharkiv region.
A Ukrainian priest was found under the debris of a church in the front line city of Kupiansk. He was one of the victims.
His name was Yuriy Klymko and he was 58years old. He was also a chaplain in the Ukrainian military.
The Church of Jesus Christ was reported to have been struck. A 58year old pastor was found trapped under the collapsed building, the Ukrainian Interior Ministry said.
The body of a 39-year-old man was found near the church, in a damaged café. His body had blood on it.
Kharkiv’s leader, Oleh Synehubov, said five people were hurt in the city, which is about 40 miles from the border with Russia.
A little girl and her grandpa, who were 48yearsold, were killed in the village of Velykyi Burluk.
Earlier today, at least 12 houses were damaged in the attack.
Before the war, Kupiansk was a busy train station with around30,000 people living there.
Russian forces briefly took over the area, but Ukraine was able to take it back later that year. -
LGBT+ is now LGBTQQIP2SAA or LGBTIQCAPGNGFNBA
The acronym “LGBTQ+” has undergone significant transformation over the years, reflecting the evolving understanding and recognition of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.
Originally coined as “LGBT,” the acronym has expanded to encompass a broader spectrum of identities.
In recent years, the acronym has continued to evolve, with the incorporation of the symbol “+” serving as a testament to the ongoing expansion and diversification of the LGBTQ+ community.
Here are some ways the acronym has transformed into:
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LGBTIQCAPGNGFNBA: Which stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer/Questioning, Curious, Asexual, Pansexual, Gender-Nonconforming, Gender-Fluid, Non-Binary, and Androgynous.
LGBTQQIP2SAA: This term stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, pansexual, two-spirit, asexual, and ally.
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2SLGTBQIA+: Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual
Here is a breakdown of the words in the acronym:
- Lesbian: A woman who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to other women.
- Gay: A person, typically a man, who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to people of the same gender.
- Bisexual: A person who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to people of more than one gender.
- Transgender: A person whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. Transgender individuals may undergo social, medical, or legal transitions to align their gender expression with their identity.
- Intersex: A person born with variations in sex characteristics that do not fit typical definitions of male or female. Intersex individuals may have biological traits such as chromosomes, gonads, or genitals that differ from societal norms.
- Queer/Questioning: “Queer” is an umbrella term that encompasses diverse sexual orientations and gender identities outside of heteronormativity. “Questioning” refers to individuals who are exploring or uncertain about their sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Curious: Refers to a state of questioning or exploration regarding one’s sexual orientation or gender identity. It often describes individuals who are curious about or interested in exploring non-heteronormative identities or experiences.
- Asexual: A person who experiences little to no sexual attraction to others. Asexual individuals may still experience romantic or emotional attraction.
- Pansexual: A person who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to people regardless of their gender identity or biological sex.
- Gender-Nonconforming: Refers to individuals whose gender expression does not conform to societal expectations or stereotypes associated with their assigned sex at birth. Gender-nonconforming people may present themselves in ways that challenge traditional notions of masculinity or femininity.
- Gender-Fluid: A person whose gender identity may vary over time or in different contexts. Gender-fluid individuals may feel comfortable expressing themselves across a spectrum of genders.
- Non-Binary: An umbrella term for individuals whose gender identity does not exclusively align with the binary categories of male or female. Non-binary people may identify as both, neither, or a combination of genders.
- Androgynous: Refers to a gender expression that blends elements of both masculinity and femininity. Androgynous individuals may present themselves in a way that challenges traditional gender norms and expectations.
- Two-Spirit: A term used within some Indigenous cultures in North America to describe individuals who embody both masculine and feminine qualities or characteristics, as well as spiritual qualities.
- Lesbian: A woman who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to other women.
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Parliament of Hungary opens the door for Sweden to join NATO
Hungary’s parliament has given approval for Sweden to join Nato, so Sweden can now become a member.
The Nordic country asked to join the defense alliance after Russia attacked Ukraine in 2022. Each person has to agree to a new member joining, but Hungary was taking longer because it accused Sweden of being unfriendly towards it.
Last week, Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban said that the two countries are ready to sacrifice their lives for each other. All Nato countries must support each other if one is attacked.
The Prime Minister of Sweden, Ulf Kristersson, said that it was a very important day and a significant move for Sweden to stop being neutral after 200 years.
“We think Sweden is a great country, but we are joining NATO to better protect ourselves and our beliefs,” he explained.
Nato’s leader Jens Stoltenberg said that Hungary‘s decision made the alliance “stronger and safer”.
The president needs to sign the parliament’s approval, and then a formal invitation will be sent to Sweden to join the group of 31 members.
The process typically takes a few days.
Mr Orban is a politician who loves his country and is friends with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin. He has stopped the EU from giving weapons to Ukraine many times.
Sweden is one of the European Union countries that say Hungary is moving backwards on the EU’s democratic rules.
MrOrban’s spokesperson, Zoltan Kovacs, said that officials in Sweden think they are better than everyone else, but their power is weakening.
Last week, Mr Orban met with the leader of Sweden, Ulf Kristersson, and said he supports Sweden being in the group.
On Monday, almost all Hungarian MPs agreed to a vote – 188 yes, 6 no.
In his speech, Mr. Orban strongly criticized some Nato allies for trying to make his government stop the 21-month delay.
Hungary is a free country and won’t accept being told what to do by others, about what decisions to make or when to make them.
Turkey did not agree to let Sweden join Nato because it thought Sweden was helping Kurdish separatists. It finally decided to stop blocking or saying no in January.
Sweden and Finland, who have always stayed out of military conflicts, said that they want to join Nato in May 2022.
Finland officially became a member of the alliance in April of last year, which made the alliance’s border with Russia twice as long.
In 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin sent his army into Ukraine to stop Nato from getting bigger and make Western countries weaker.
Actually, the opposite has happened with Sweden and Finland joining. -
LGBT+ is now LGBTQQIP2SAA or LGBTIQCAPGNGFNBA
The acronym “LGBTQ+” has undergone significant transformation over the years, reflecting the evolving understanding and recognition of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.
Originally coined as “LGBT,” the acronym has expanded to encompass a broader spectrum of identities.
In recent years, the acronym has continued to evolve, with the incorporation of the symbol “+” serving as a testament to the ongoing expansion and diversification of the LGBTQ+ community.
Here are some ways the acronym has transformed into:
LGBTIQCAPGNGFNBA: Which stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer/Questioning, Curious, Asexual, Pansexual, Gender-Nonconforming, Gender-Fluid, Non-Binary, and Androgynous.
LGBTQQIP2SAA: This term stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, pansexual, two-spirit, asexual, and ally.
2SLGTBQIA+: Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual
Here is a breakdown of the words in the acronym:
- Lesbian: A woman who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to other women.
- Gay: A person, typically a man, who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to people of the same gender.
- Bisexual: A person who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to people of more than one gender.
- Transgender: A person whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. Transgender individuals may undergo social, medical, or legal transitions to align their gender expression with their identity.
- Intersex: A person born with variations in sex characteristics that do not fit typical definitions of male or female. Intersex individuals may have biological traits such as chromosomes, gonads, or genitals that differ from societal norms.
- Queer/Questioning: “Queer” is an umbrella term that encompasses diverse sexual orientations and gender identities outside of heteronormativity. “Questioning” refers to individuals who are exploring or uncertain about their sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Curious: Refers to a state of questioning or exploration regarding one’s sexual orientation or gender identity. It often describes individuals who are curious about or interested in exploring non-heteronormative identities or experiences.
- Asexual: A person who experiences little to no sexual attraction to others. Asexual individuals may still experience romantic or emotional attraction.
- Pansexual: A person who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to people regardless of their gender identity or biological sex.
- Gender-Nonconforming: Refers to individuals whose gender expression does not conform to societal expectations or stereotypes associated with their assigned sex at birth. Gender-nonconforming people may present themselves in ways that challenge traditional notions of masculinity or femininity.
- Gender-Fluid: A person whose gender identity may vary over time or in different contexts. Gender-fluid individuals may feel comfortable expressing themselves across a spectrum of genders.
- Non-Binary: An umbrella term for individuals whose gender identity does not exclusively align with the binary categories of male or female. Non-binary people may identify as both, neither, or a combination of genders.
- Androgynous: Refers to a gender expression that blends elements of both masculinity and femininity. Androgynous individuals may present themselves in a way that challenges traditional gender norms and expectations.
- Two-Spirit: A term used within some Indigenous cultures in North America to describe individuals who embody both masculine and feminine qualities or characteristics, as well as spiritual qualities.
- Lesbian: A woman who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to other women.
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17 people including a kid, killed in head-on bus crash in Colombia
A collision between two buses in Honduras resulted in the death of 17 people and injuries to 14 others.
The accident occurred in the village of La Montanita in Colombia on Wednesday morning. It involved a regular public bus and a private bus.
Alexia Mejia, who speaks for the 911 system in western Honduras, said that all the people who were hurt or killed were on the small bus and are from Honduras. The big bus was not carrying anyone.
Out of the 14 injured people, four were badly hurt and taken to a hospital in San Pedro Sula by helicopter. The others went to the hospital in the west.
A person from the hospital said that two of the injured people have died, including a child. Pictures from the scene show several bodies covered with sheets lying on the road in front of the damaged vehicles.
People who saw the accident said that both buses were going at a moderate speed on a winding, hilly road when they crashed.
The big bus had the driver and one passenger on it. They were coming back from the Agua Caliente customs post at the Guatemala border after dropping off a group of migrants.
The little bus was crowded with people.
Every year, lots of people from South America travel through Honduras on their way to the United States.
Xiomara Castro, who is the president of a country in Central America, said that she was very sad to hear about the crash. She sent her sympathy to the families of the people who died.
Car crashes are the second leading cause of death in Honduras, right after murders. -
UN Supreme Court to hear major case pertaining to Israel’s occupation in Palestinian Territories
The International Court of Justice, which is a part of the UN, is to listen to the last reasons in a case that questions Israel’s 56-year control of the West Bank and Gaza.
This week’s hearings will focus on the legal impact of Israel’s control over the Palestinian territories.
Renowned lawyer Philippe Sands told the BBC that this issue is very important and the solution is crucial. Even though it may not be as dramatic as other Court cases, it is still very significant.
This situation started because of a decision made by the United Nations in December 2022, before the attacks by Hamas on October 7th last year, and Israel’s military reaction in the Gaza Strip.
What have people said in favor of their opinions.
Last week, the Palestinian Authority’s foreign minister accused Israel of being like a colonial power that treats Palestinians unfairly.
He used a lot of maps to show how the land in Palestine is getting smaller and smaller.
Benjamin Netanyahu, the leader of Israel, showed a picture at the UNGA in September. In the picture, he held up a map of the Middle East without any Palestinian territory. He called it the “new” Middle East.
Mr al-Maliki said there is no Palestine on the map, only Israel. It includes all the land from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea.
“This shows that the long-lasting Israeli control of Palestine aims to make Palestine disappear and destroy the Palestinian people. ”
Paul S Reichler, a lawyer who works internationally, told the ICJ that permanent occupation doesn’t make sense according to the law. “If a job keeps going on and on, it becomes like adding on extra territory,” he said.
Philippe Sands, who worked for the PA’s legal team, said to the judges: “The right for people to decide their own future. UN member states must make Israel stop occupying immediately.
“No help, no support, no involvement, no help with using force, no money, no weapons, no trade. ” I don’t know anything.
Many countries said that Israel’s occupation was violating the Palestinian people’s right to decide things for themselves. They talked about this for 30 minutes.
Israel said no to being in the meetings. They gave a written statement instead. They said the meetings would make it harder to fix the problem. They didn’t like the questions from the UN.
However, Israel’s best friends did take part.
The US told the ICJ that pulling out without security promises would hurt talks for peace. It requested the judges to make sure that their decision would support, not harm, the possibility of a two-state solution.
The UK asked a group of judges not to give their opinion because Israel did not agree to it.
This might have something to do with another case at the ICJ. Mauritius is suing the UK over the Chagos Islands, and the UK made the same argument and lost.
Many countries said the Hamas attacks, which killed about 1,200 people and took over 250 hostages in Gaza, showed that Israel needs to be safe. They said if Israeli forces leave, there must be guarantees for safety.
Why is this important.
If the ICJ gives an opinion that is not a law, it goes to the UN General Assembly, and they make a decision. That would be important and could start talks and create the rules for a future agreement.
If the court says Israel’s control of the land is against the law, it will tell the UN and other countries not to help or support the current situation.
This decision could have a big impact on trade and on Israel’s position. Countries such as the US might struggle to keep helping Israel.
The UNGA’s current case is the first time since the 1940s that the highest UN court will be able to address all of these issues.
In recent weeks, some ICJ presentations have become really popular on TikTok. It shows that even legal arguments, which usually seem far away and not relevant, are connecting with people outside of the ICJ’s Great Hall of Justice.
At the same time, Human Rights Watch says that Israel is not following a court order to allow food and supplies into Gaza. This is putting 2. 3 million Palestinians in danger of not having enough food.
Israeli officials said that they have given a response to the ICJ about the court’s request on January 26th. The court wanted Israel to report on the actions they are taking to stop genocide in Gaza.
The Israeli government hasn’t said what they will do in response yet.