TIG Post

Author: Chris Kodo

  • MPs would have lost their seats if Anti-Gay Bill wasn’t passed – Prof Adei explains

    MPs would have lost their seats if Anti-Gay Bill wasn’t passed – Prof Adei explains

    Former Director General and Rector of GIMPA, Prof Stephen Adei, has suggested that Ghanaian MPs felt compelled to pass the Anti-Gay Bill to secure their re-election prospects. 

    During a recent interview on JoyNews, Professor Adei explained that the MPs feared losing their seats if they did not support the Anti-Gay Bill. 

    He asserted that the issue had become politically charged, with constituents expecting their representatives to take a firm stance against perceived moral and cultural threats.

    “I expected it to be passed because the MPs knew that if they don’t pass this Bill, they will all lose their seats because of the Ghanaian sentiments of the bill,” Professor Adei stated.

    The Anti-Gay Bill, which was approved by Parliament on February 28, 2024, seeks to proscribe and criminalize lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) activities in Ghana. Under the proposed legislation, individuals engaged in same-sex relations could face a three year jail sentence, while promoters and sponsors of such acts could receive even harsher penalties.

    The bill’s passage has sparked controversy both domestically and internationally, with critics condemning it as discriminatory and a violation of human rights. 

    However, Professor Adei has indicated that Ghanaian MPs had no other choice than to approve the Bill. He also expressed the confidence that President Akufo-Addo would assent to the Bill. 

    “I think he would sign it because the consequences of his not signing it for himself and his party would be incalculable and politicians will always calculate the political consequences and I think that he would sign it,” he said.

  • Wagner hired steal flowers placed in memory of Alexei Navalny

    Wagner hired steal flowers placed in memory of Alexei Navalny

    Wagner’s hired supporters surprisingly steal flowers that were put down to remember Alexei Navalny, who strongly opposed Putin, and putting them on their leader’s grave.

    In honor of the late Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, who passed away in a plane accident last year, tributes are being organized to commemorate his legacy.

    Thousands of people have silently paid their respects to Navalny, who was 47yearsold and died two weeks ago in a prison in the Arctic. He was sent to the prison for speaking against the Russian government.

    But the men who left flowers at the memorial for people who were hurt by Russian people might have been reported to the military and might have to go fight in the war.

    More than 100 people have been arrested in eight cities for leaving tributes, according to OVD-Info, a group that watches political punishment in Russia.

    Video shows Natalya Khim, a 35-year-old former reality show star who supports Wagner, talking about people laying flowers at Lubyanka Square to remember Alexei Navalny.

    “We are aware that he passed away, but we are not sad about it. “Me and Wagner’s private army,along with other people in the Special Military Operation,decided not to leave any flowers here.

    “From now on, we will collect and move all the flowers in memory of Navalny to a special memorial for soldiers in the war. “

    Khim used to be part of a Russian neo-Nazi group called the Slavic Union, but now she writes a blog supporting war.

    She said,”Ihope no dogs come to our memorial and take anything from there. “

    Video also shows a person who supports Wagner, wearing black clothes and a covered face, moving flowers from the shrine of Navalny to a Wagner stall.

    Many people arrested at gatherings in Russia to remember Navalny. His body was given back to his mother just last week, according to an aide.

    Lyudmila Navalnya was being threatened and blackmailed by Putin’s government to bury her son privately without any public goodbye.

    His wife Yulia Navalnaya said that Vladimir Putin was very cruel to her late husband’s body and made it impossible for her to do anything with it.

    The Russian government says Navalny died from natural reasons.

  • Putin’s nuclear war plan exposed through leaks

    Putin’s nuclear war plan exposed through leaks

    Sensitive documents detailing Vladimir Putin’s war strategy have been released, revealing his willingness to readily deploy nuclear weapons.

    “Will Russia’s president use nuclear weapons. ” This question has been asked since Russia started invading Ukraine.

    The individuals holding authority in the Kremlin, like former president Dmitry Medvedev, have been making deliberate declarations of potential consequences to the West.

    New military papers, displayed by the Financial Times, explain the level for using small nuclear weapons as lower than Russia has ever said publicly.

    “We’ve never seen documents like this in public before,” said Alexander Gabuev, who works at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center in Berlin.

    ‘They prove that it doesn’t take much for countries to use nuclear weapons if they can’t get what they want using regular methods. ‘

    Russia has small nuclear weapons that are meant to be used in battles in Europe and Asia. They can’t reach as far as the big nuclear weapons that could reach the US.

    The documents made from 2008 to 2014 talk about how to use weapons at sea in war simulations and presentations for naval officers.

    Even though the files are 10 years old or more, it is said that they are still important for the current Russian military plans. One way this could happen is if an enemy enters Russia’s land and Russia decides to react.

    Another reason for concern would be if 20 percent of the Kremlin’s important missile submarines were destroyed.

    If three big ships, three airfields, or 30% of its nuclear attack submarines get destroyed, it could lead to an attack.

    China and Russia are working together closely, but the papers also show that they do not fully trust Xi’s government. If China attacks, Russia might use small nuclear weapons to stop the South from sending more troops.

    The leader has ordered to use nuclear weapons if the enemy sends more troops and the South is getting ready to attack. The order comes from the top commander.

    Putin’s spokesperson talked about the leak on Wednesday. He said that the rules for using nuclear weapons are very clear and written in the doctrine.

  • How global media and organizations reported Ghana’s passage of the anti-gay bill

    How global media and organizations reported Ghana’s passage of the anti-gay bill

    The recent passage of the Anti-LGBT+ Bill in Ghana has sparked widespread concern and condemnation from international media outlets and organizations, who fear its implications for human rights and inclusivity. 

    The legislation, which seeks to proscribe and criminalize lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) activities, has drawn sharp criticism for its potential to marginalize and endanger vulnerable communities.

    The bill, which was approved on February 28, 2024, awaits presidential assent to come into effect. Its provisions include imposing hefty penalties on individuals engaged in same-sex relations, with a six-month to three-year jail term for offenders and a three to five-year jail term for promoters and sponsors of such acts.

    International media coverage of the bill’s passage has largely focused on expressing concern over its potential impact on the rights and freedoms of LGBT individuals. News outlets have highlighted the discriminatory nature of the legislation, which seeks to restrict fundamental liberties based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

    Moreover, prominent international organizations have joined the chorus of criticism, denouncing the bill as a violation of human rights principles. Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and other advocacy groups have issued statements condemning the legislation and urging [Country]’s government to reconsider its stance. They warn that the bill’s enforcement could lead to widespread discrimination, persecution, and violence against LGBT individuals, further exacerbating social divisions and undermining efforts to promote equality and tolerance.

    In addition to concerns about its human rights implications, international commentators have also questioned the motivations behind the bill’s passage. Some have speculated that political maneuvering and pandering to conservative elements may have influenced the decision to enact such legislation, rather than a genuine commitment to upholding societal values.

    The passage of the Anti-LGBT+ Bill in Ghana has reignited debates about the rights of LGBT individuals and the role of governments in safeguarding their freedoms. As the bill awaits presidential assent, pressure continues to mount on Ghana’s leadership to reconsider its approach and ensure that all citizens are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

    Al Jazeera

    Al Jazeera reported that the Bill, considered one of the harshest of its kind in Africa, could lead to imprisonment ranging from six months to three years for those participating in LGBTQ+ activities and three to five years for those promoting or supporting such activities.

    Reuters

    Reuters emphasised the intensified crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana.

    According to the Reuters report, the bill, sponsored by a coalition of religious and traditional leaders, received favour from the majority of lawmakers and if signed into law by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, it would further restrict the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and those advocating for their rights.

    BBC Pidgin

    BBC Pidgin highlighted the local context, noting the widespread support for the bill in Ghana despite opposition from human rights groups and civil society organizations.

    The report underscored the concerns that the law could potentially abuse the rights of sexual minorities and the controversial nature of criminalizing private activities.

    CNN

    CNN pointed to the unanimous passage by parliament, describing it as a comprehensive measure that not only criminalizes LGBTQ+ relationships but also targets individuals supporting LGBTQ+ rights.

    The news outlet referenced the three-year prison term for identifying as LGBTQ+ and the five-year sentence for promoting or supporting LGBTQ+ activities.

    New York Times

    The New York Times zoomed in on the severity of the legislation, stating that if signed into law, it would be among the harshest on the African continent.

    The report highlighted the potential three-year jail term for identifying as gay and the five-year sentence for promoters of LGBTQ+ issues.

    DW

    The German broadcaster reported on the bill’s background, noting that the legislation has been the subject of discussion since 2021.

    The report highlighted the support from a coalition of Christian, Muslim, and Ghanaian traditional leaders and the potential jail terms that engaging in, promoting or supporting LGBTQ+ activities came with.

  • I’m confident Akufo-Addo will assent to Anti-Gay Bill – Prof Adei

    I’m confident Akufo-Addo will assent to Anti-Gay Bill – Prof Adei

    Former Director General and Rector of GIMPA, Prof Stephen Adei has expressed confidence that President Akufo-Addo will assent to the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill.

    Speaking in an interview on JoyNews, he noted that he believes the President would approve it since his failure to do so will result in dire consequences for himself and his political party. 

    “I think he would sign it because the consequences of not signing it for himself and his party would be incalculable and politicians will always calculate the political consequences and I think that he would sign it,” he said.

    His remarks follows Parliament’s passage of Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill on February 28, 2024, after a series of debates on the subject. 

    In a reaction to the passage of the Bill, Prof Adei noted that he expected it to be passed given the implications Parliamentarians are likely to face had it not been passed. 

    “I expected it to be passed because the MPs knew that if they don’t pass this Bill, they will all lose their seats because of the Ghanaian sentiments of the bill,” he said.

  • Serial killer’s execution halted after eight failed attempts

    Serial killer’s execution halted after eight failed attempts

    Thomas Eugene Creech a Serial killer’s execution was halted due to difficulties in administering a lethal injection through a needle in his arm.

    Thomas Eugene Creech, who is 73 years old, was convicted of killing five people in three different states and also beat another inmate to death. He was taken on a bed into a room where he would be executed at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution on Wednesday morning.

    Creech was supposed to be executed because he has been on death row for a long time, longer than most other inmates. However, three people from the medical team could not find a vein to put in the IV tube even after trying eight times.

    Creech was tied to a table and looked at his family and representatives. He reached his fingers out toward them. He looked like he was saying “I love you” to someone.

    When they stopped the execution, a prison guard went to Creech and talked to him quietly for a few minutes and hugged his arm.

    A couple of hours later, Attorney General Raul Labrador said that justice has been delayed once more.

    After the unsuccessful attempts, Creech’s lawyers asked to put the case on hold.

    The lawyers said that the failed execution shows that the corrections department can’t perform a humane and constitutional execution.

    Idaho said they won’t try to execute Creech again before his current death warrant expires, and the court agreed to wait.

    Creech was sent to prison 50 years ago for killing another inmate, David Dale Jensen, in 1981.

    In 1973, a person from Ohio was found not guilty of a murder in Tucson, Arizona. The next year, they were found guilty of murders in Oregon and California. They went to Oregon and California after getting out of a hospital for mental health treatment.

    In 1974, Creech was arrested for killing two house painters who gave him and his girlfriend a ride.

    The Federal Defender Services of Idaho said that the department let people who are not trained and not known do an execution.

    “We told the State and the Courts that something like this could happen when they tried to carry out the execution of one of the country’s oldest death-row inmates,” said the Federal Defender Services.

    Creech was supposed to be executed, but it was stopped because another inmate, Kenneth Eugene Smith, was killed during the first attempt to use nitrogen gas for an execution. Smith had been on death row for 35 years.

  • Professor Gadzekpo accuses Sam George of political maneuvering in passage of anti-gay bill

    Professor Gadzekpo accuses Sam George of political maneuvering in passage of anti-gay bill

    Board Chair of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Professor Audrey Gadzekpo, has accused Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam George, of political opportunism rather than genuine concern for societal values. 

    The bill, which has stirred widespread controversy, has come under scrutiny for its potential infringement on human rights and liberties.

    In an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Citi FM, Professor Gadzekpo voiced skepticism regarding the motives driving the passage of the bill, particularly singling out Sam George for his role in advocating for its approval. She alleged that George’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights had shifted opportunistically, pointing to his previous defense of such rights during accusations against former President John Dramani Mahama in 2015.

    “I am telling you that they have passed it not for any reason but for political reasons. Mr. Sam George, the chief proponent of the bill in 2015 when his candidate John Mahama was accused of having a friend who was a homosexual sponsoring him, etc. Sam George is on record saying that the constitution protects those rights,” citinewsroom.com quoted her as stating.

    Professor Gadzekpo questioned the inconsistency in George’s position over the years, highlighting his apparent shift from advocating for LGBTQ+ rights to championing the Anti-Gay Bill. She pointedly asked, “So I have to wonder why he changed his mind… What has changed? 10 years ago did he have a different morality from today, from 2021 when he proposed the bill.”

    According to Professor Gadzekpo, the passage of the bill reflects political maneuvering rather than a genuine commitment to protecting societal values. She criticized the opportunistic nature of the legislation, asserting, “That is why I am saying there is politics. They are walking over the bodies of vulnerable people.”

    The Anti-Gay Bill, which proscribes lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) activities and criminalizes their promotion, advocacy, and funding, has faced staunch opposition from human rights advocates and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Persons found engaging in same-sex relations could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years, with promoters and sponsors of such acts subject to even harsher penalties.

  • Members of the same-sex community express alarm over safety after passage of anti-LGBT+ bill 

    Members of the same-sex community express alarm over safety after passage of anti-LGBT+ bill 

    In the wake of the recent passage of the Anti-LGBT+ bill on February 28, 2024, the LGBT+ community in Ghana is raising poignant concerns regarding their safety and fundamental rights. 

    The legislation, which awaits presidential assent to come into effect, has sent shockwaves among individuals from the same-sex community who have expressed profound fear for their lives and livelihoods.

    Speaking to the BBC, members of the LGBT+ community shared their apprehensions and recounted harrowing experiences following the bill’s passage. One individual, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed intense fear, stating, “I am so scared, very scared, and I don’t know my fate. My life is at stake. It will be my end in Accra.” Such sentiments reflect the pervasive atmosphere of dread and uncertainty gripping the community.

    For many, the impact of the bill extends beyond personal safety to encompass significant disruptions in employment and social life. 

    A poignant account shared by a member of the community revealed the stark reality of discrimination in the workplace, stating, “My life was a bit better before this whole Bill started; I lost my job because I was gay. In my previous workplace, my madam had to sack me.” The individual described facing pressure to conform to societal norms and religious beliefs, highlighting the deeply entrenched biases that perpetuate discrimination against the LGBT+ community.

    The dire situation has prompted some members of the community to contemplate drastic measures for their safety, including seeking refuge in countries more accepting of LGBT+ rights. “I feel like relocating from the country itself to any LGBTQ+ friendly country which is safe for me to live in,” expressed one individual, underscoring the profound impact of persecution on personal well-being and freedom.

    The passage of the Anti-LGBT+ bill signifies a regressive step in the protection of human rights and the promotion of inclusivity and tolerance in [Country]. The legislation criminalizes LGBT+ activities and prohibits their promotion, advocacy, and funding, imposing severe penalties on those found in violation. Persons caught engaging in such acts could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years, with promoters and sponsors subject to even harsher penalties.

    As the bill awaits presidential assent, the LGBT+ community and human rights advocates are mobilizing efforts to challenge its implementation and uphold the rights and dignity of all individuals regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

  • French Senate supports constitutionally enshrining right to abortion

    French Senate supports constitutionally enshrining right to abortion

    The Senate in France voted heavily in favor of making women’s right to abortion a part of the country’s constitution.

    Since 1974, abortion has been permissible in France, but there is growing pressure to enhance and make it a more enduring legal protection.

    The suggestion was supported by 267 votes to 50 on Wednesday. It was approved by the lower house, the National Assembly. Many people are worried that in countries like the US and Poland, the right to end a pregnancy is being taken away.

    French President Emmanuel Macron wants to have another important vote on Monday. Both the Senate and the National Assembly will meet together in Versailles,outside of Paris.

    If most of the members of the joint session agree to change the constitution, there won’t be a need to ask the public to vote on it. In November 2022, a survey by Ifop found that 86% of people supported the amendment while the National Assembly was voting on the legislation.

    All of the important political parties in the country support abortion rights. The words used in the amendment about abortion were changed after the 2022 vote, when the National Assembly approved the “right” to abortion.

    Last month, the government voted to support the right to have an abortion, after Mr Macron’s government requested changes to the constitution to guarantee women’s freedom to have an abortion.

    The Senate approved the new wording about “guaranteed freedom” on Wednesday.

    Mr Macron said on X that he is dedicated to making it impossible to take away women’s right to have an abortion by putting it in the constitution.

    In response to the vote, the Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti said that France is soon going to have a “historic day” because it will be the first country in the world to protect women’s freedom to decide what happens to their bodies in its constitution.

    Several conservative senators told the AFP news agency that they felt pressured to agree to the amendment.

    I was told that if I don’t vote for it, my daughters won’t come for Christmas anymore.

    The argument about abortion has been going on in the US since the Supreme Court took away the right for women to have an abortion in June 2022.

    Last month, 21 out of 50 states in the country have made laws against abortion. Some of these laws are very strict and could result in doctors and others helping with the procedure facing severe penalties like going to jail,paying a lot of money, and losing their medical licenses.

    In2020,Poland’s highest court made a decision to almost completely ban abortion in the country. Now, it is only allowed in situations where a woman has been sexually assaulted, has a serious health risk during pregnancy, or when her life is in danger.

  • South Korea: Doctors on strike risk arrest if they don’t show up for work

    South Korea: Doctors on strike risk arrest if they don’t show up for work

    The South Korean government is considering legal action against junior doctors who are on strike and may revoke their medical licenses if they do not return to work by Thursday.

    Three quarters of the country’s new doctors have stopped working in the past week. This has caused problems and delays for surgeries at big hospitals.

    The new doctors in training are upset about the government’s idea to allow many more students to go to medical school each year. This is supposed to make more doctors available in the healthcare system.

    South Korea doesn’t have enough doctors for its people, especially with more old people, and the government says there will be even fewer doctors in the future.

    This week at St Mary’s Hospital in Seoul, the empty hallways showed us a peek at what the future could be like. Hardly any doctors or patients were in the area outside the emergency room. Patients were told to stay away.

    Ryu Ok Hada, who is 25 years old and is a doctor, and his co-workers haven’t gone to the hospital for more than a week.

    “It’s strange not waking up at 4 a. m,” Ryu said jokingly. The young doctor told the BBC that he usually works for more than 100 hours a week, and sometimes goes without sleep for 40 hours. “We work a lot but get paid very little, which is crazy. ”

    Even though doctors in South Korea get paid a lot, Ryu thinks that he and other new doctors can end up making less than the least amount of money per hour because they work long hours. He thinks that adding more doctors won’t solve the problems in the healthcare system that make them work too much and earn too little.

    Healthcare in South Korea is mostly run by private companies, but it’s not too expensive. Doctors say that life-saving surgeries and specialist care are not being paid enough, while less important treatments like cosmetic surgeries are paid too much. This means more doctors are choosing to work in big cities where they can make more money. As a result, rural areas don’t have enough doctors and emergency rooms in big cities are very busy.

    Ryu, who has worked for a year, says that trainee and junior doctors are being taken advantage of by the university hospitals because they are being paid very little for their work. In big hospitals, they make up more than 40% of the staff and play a critical role in keeping the hospital running.

    As a result, the number of surgeries that some hospitals can do has been cut in half over the past week. The problems have mostly only affected scheduled medical procedures, which have been delayed. There have been only a few times when people needing urgent care weren’t able to receive it. An old woman who was having a heart attack died in an ambulance last Friday because seven hospitals would not help her.

    The government has announced that the patient had incurable cancer and her death was not caused by the walkout.

    There are no medical doctors available.

    The public and healthcare workers are getting frustrated with the doctors because they have to do more work. Nurses say they have to do tasks in operating rooms that doctors usually do.

    Ms Choi, a nurse at a hospital in Incheon, said she now has to work an extra hour and a half each day and is doing the work of two people.

    She said that the patients are worried, and she is upset that this is going on without a solution. She asked the doctors to return to work and find a different way to show their complaints.

    The government wants to accept more medical students into university next year. They want to increase the number from 3,000 to 5,000. The doctors who are on strike say that if more doctors are trained, the quality of care will decrease because it would mean giving medical licenses to less skilled doctors.

    However, the doctors are finding it hard to make people believe that having more doctors would be a bad thing. They have not received much sympathy. On Tuesday, Mrs. Lee, who is 74 years old, went to Seoul’s Severance Hospital for treatment for colon cancer. She had to travel for over an hour to get there.

    “Where we live outside the city, there are no doctors,” she said.

    Lee’s husband Soon-dong said that this problem has been ignored for too long and it needs to be solved now. The doctors are thinking only of themselves.

    The pair was upset that more doctors might go on strike. They said they were willing to pay more for their treatment if it would help end the argument.

    However, President Yoon Suk Yeol’s popularity has gone up since the walkout started. This means the government doesn’t have much reason to change the system and make procedures more costly before the elections in April.

    Both sides are now in a serious and tense situation where they are not willing to back down. The health ministry won’t let the doctors quit and is saying they could get in trouble for breaking the law if they don’t go back to work by the end of the day.

    The deputy minister of health, Park Min-soo, said that people who don’t meet the deadline will have their licenses taken away for at least three months.

    The government will begin on Monday.

    It is expected that the possibility of being punished will make doctors go back to work. Nearly 300 out of 9,000 striking doctors have already gone back to work.

    Some people who left think the government’s tough actions could change what the public thinks. This Sunday, the Korean Medical Association will decide whether experienced doctors should work with new doctors in training. If many of their younger coworkers have been arrested, they will be more likely to do something about it.

    Ryu said he was ready to be arrested and lose his medical license. He said if the government wouldn’t listen to their problems, he would quit his job.

    “He said that the medical system is not working well, and if it keeps going like this, it will fail and not survive. ” “I have experience farming, so maybe I could do that again. “

  • NPP not rushing to name running mate for 2024 elections – Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

    NPP not rushing to name running mate for 2024 elections – Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

    Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Member of Parliament for Suame, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has emphasized that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is not in a hurry to name its running mate for the upcoming 2024 presidential election.

    In an interview with JoyNews on February 28, 2024, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu reiterated that the NPP is not in competition with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding the selection of a running mate. He stressed that the responsibility to choose a running mate lies solely with the NPP’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    “We are not in competition with the NDC to select a running mate. The burden lies on the presidential candidate,” stated Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu.

    The Suame MP highlighted Dr. Bawumia’s qualities, describing him as intelligent, analytical, and broad-minded. He emphasized that Dr. Bawumia has been consultative in his decision-making process and should not be pressured or influenced by external forces.

    Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu referenced past instances where the NPP selected running mates for presidential candidates, noting that the party has never imposed a running mate on any of its candidates.

    “I kept saying that nobody should attempt to foist any man on him. He is intelligent, he’s analytical, and he’s broad-minded. He has been very consultative in whatever he has been doing,” Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu stated.

    He emphasized the importance of allowing Dr. Bawumia to make his own decision regarding the choice of a running mate, adding that the final decision rests with him. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu urged patience and trust in Dr. Bawumia’s judgment.

    Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress is expected to announce the running mate for its flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, on February 29, 2024.

    As the political landscape continues to evolve ahead of the 2024 elections, stakeholders await further developments regarding the selection of running mates by the major political parties in Ghana.

  • Late reporting of Minority Caucus during SONA 2024 attributed to Anti-Witchcraft Bill dispute – Nana Yaa Brefo

    Late reporting of Minority Caucus during SONA 2024 attributed to Anti-Witchcraft Bill dispute – Nana Yaa Brefo

    The absence of the entire 137 members of the Minority Caucus from Ghana’s parliament during President Akufo-Addo‘s 2024 State of the Nation Address prior to the delivery of the address has been attributed to discontent over the president’s refusal to assent to the Anti-Witchcraft Bill. 

    Media personality Nana Yaa Brefo shed light on the matter, revealing that the Minority Caucus felt disrespected by the president’s decision, leading to their delayed appearance in parliament.

    President Akufo-Addo was scheduled to commence his address at 10:00 am on Tuesday, February 27, 2024. However, the absence of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Members of Parliament (MPs) was conspicuous as the nation awaited the president’s speech. While the exact reason for the Minority Caucus’s nonattendance remained unclear initially, it was later revealed that their absence was a form of protest against the president’s actions.

    According to Nana Yaa Brefo, the Minority Caucus was particularly aggrieved by President Akufo-Addo’s refusal to assent to the Anti-Witchcraft Bill, among others. The bill aimed to protect individuals accused of witchcraft, but the president cited constitutional concerns that needed resolution before he could assent to it.

    “It took the intervention of John Mahama to convince them to rescind their decision and show up in parliament,” Nana Yaa Brefo explained during an Instagram live session.

    In a letter addressed to Parliament on Monday, December 4, President Akufo-Addo highlighted his inability to assent to certain bills, including the Anti-Witchcraft Bill, due to constitutional matters requiring resolution. Speaker Alban Bagbin conveyed the president’s message to members of the House, emphasizing that the specific constitutional issues needing resolution were yet to be specified.

    President Akufo-Addo delivered the State of the Nation Address in accordance with Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, which mandates the president to present a message on the State of the Nation to parliament at the beginning of each session and before the dissolution of parliament.

    The absence of the Minority Caucus during the State of the Nation Address underscores the importance of ongoing dialogue and resolution of legislative disputes to ensure effective governance and representation in Ghana’s parliament.

  • Study recommends measures to address postpartum depression among Ghanaian women

    Study recommends measures to address postpartum depression among Ghanaian women

    A recent study on Postpartum Depression (PPD) among Ghanaian women has highlighted critical recommendations aimed at tackling alarming rates of maternal mental health issues in the country. The research emphasized the importance of allowing spouses to accompany women in labour wards and theatres, providing crucial support during childbirth to alleviate fear and anxiety.

    According to the study, allowing spouses in labour wards and theatres would help ease patients’ fear and anxiety while offering encouragement, thereby enhancing the birthing experience for women. Additionally, the research proposed the establishment of “daddy’s clinics” by the Ghana Health Service, aimed at promoting the active involvement of spouses in the pregnancy journey. These clinics would serve as platforms for partners to gain insight into the nuances of pregnancy and offer emotional and physical support to expectant mothers.

    Findings from the study, which included a Mental Health Situational Analysis in Ghana, revealed a prevalence of 27% of PPD among women who delivered at healthcare facilities, with Bawku recording a staggering 50.1%. The research also highlighted the economic and human costs associated with maternal mental health disorders, including increased risk of maternal morbidity and mortality, stunted growth in children, and social and cognitive impairment.

    Dr. Promise Sefogah, a leading consultant for the World Health Organization (WHO) on maternal mental health, attributed the triggers of PPD among Ghanaian women to various factors such as financial constraints, fear of medical procedures, and traumatic birth experiences.

    Despite the severity of the problem, Dr Sefogah emphasized the lack of knowledge and training among healthcare workers, coupled with inadequate screening and counselling services at health facilities, pushing affected women to seek solutions from spiritual and herbal centres.

    In response to these challenges, advocacy efforts have intensified for the development of a Maternal Mental Health Policy, aimed at integrating mental health services into existing healthcare frameworks. Dr. Winfred Ofosu, the Eastern Regional Director of Health, stressed the urgency for a National Policy Framework on Maternal Mental Health Care, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategies to combat maternal mental disorders.

    The initiative, sponsored by the World Health Organization Ghana and UK International Development, seeks to curb maternal mental disorders in Ghana. Dr. Joana Ansong, Technical Officer for non-communicable diseases and Mental Health at WHO Ghana country office, emphasized the importance of integrating policy interventions into routine perinatal services to address the burden of maternal mental health holistically.

  • Deputy Minister emphasizes importance of early childhood education in Ghana

    Deputy Minister emphasizes importance of early childhood education in Ghana

    Deputy Minister for Education, Rev. Ntim Fordjour, has underscored the critical need to prioritize Early Childhood Education (ECE) in Ghana, highlighting significant strides made by the government to enhance the ECE subsector.

    Rev. Ntim Fordjour’s remarks came in response to statements made by the MP for Tamale North, Alhassan Suhuyini, during a parliamentary session, where the latter referenced the Ghana Education Service (GES) Lively Minds Programme as a case study for Early Childhood Education.

    Addressing parliament, Rev. Ntim Fordjour emphasized the collaborative efforts between the government and various organizations, including the Ghana Education Service, Lively Minds, Sabre Education, IPA, Right to Play, and UNICEF, in implementing the standard-based curriculum. 

    He highlighted the incorporation of play-based pedagogies into the curriculum, stressing its effectiveness in engaging learners optimally, as supported by research indicating that children learn best through play.

    “We see so many NGOs operating in silos and therefore the kind of harmonized impact we ought to gain in their interventions is not maximized. Taking a cue from that, we have managed to harmonize all of the players within the play-based sector,” Rev. Ntim Fordjour remarked, emphasizing the importance of coordination among stakeholders to maximize the impact of ECE interventions.

    Rev. Ntim Fordjour also commended the GES Lively Minds Programme for its innovative approach, which involves engaging 90,000 rural parents in classrooms to support their children’s learning. Additionally, he highlighted the launch of the KG INSET Manual last year, aimed at training 48,000 kindergarten teachers nationwide, as a significant step towards improving ECE standards.

    In recognition of the commitment demonstrated by ECE NGOs in Ghana, Rev. Ntim Fordjour reiterated the ministry’s dedication to collaborating with global partners to secure funding and support for further advancements in Early Childhood Education.

    The deputy minister’s remarks underscore the government’s commitment to enhancing ECE in Ghana, aiming to provide a solid foundation for the educational development of young learners and combat learning poverty. As efforts continue to improve ECE standards nationwide, stakeholders remain optimistic about the positive impact on Ghana’s educational landscape.

  • Child Rights International’s suit against govt over child streetism squashed 

    Child Rights International’s suit against govt over child streetism squashed 

    The Supreme Court has rendered its verdict in response to an action brought forth by Child Rights International (CRI), a children’s advocacy group, against the government regarding the issue of Child Streetism. In a judgment delivered on Wednesday, February 28, the panel of seven, chaired by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, dismissed the suit on grounds of improper invocation of the court’s jurisdiction.

    Justice Torkornoo, speaking on behalf of the panel, stated, “The Plaintiff’s (Child Rights International) action is dismissed for failing to properly invoke the jurisdiction of this Court.” The panel emphasized the necessity for proper legal procedures to be followed, with Justice Gabriel Pwamang adding, “Even though the Plaintiff had genuine grievances, your lawyers must come properly.”

    The full judgment of the panel, which also includes Justice Prof Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu, Justice Mariama Owusu, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, Justice Lovelace Avril Johnson, and Justice Emmanuel Yonny Kulendi, is ready according to reports from EIB Network Legal Affairs Correspondent Murtala Inusah.

    Child Rights International had filed the suit seeking to enforce children’s rights to education and address the threat posed by child streetism. The suit aimed to compel the government to fulfill its obligations under the 1992 Constitution, particularly in protecting children from moral hazards and ensuring their access to education.

    Among the demands made by CRI in its suit were declarations that the government’s failure to protect children against moral hazards and the current conditions of children living on the streets are inconsistent with the Constitution. Additionally, they sought orders directing the government to define penalties for families neglecting children’s rights, improve healthcare services for poor children on the streets, and address economic exploitation of children.

    Despite the dismissal of the suit, the issue of child streetism remains a pressing concern in Ghana, prompting calls for concerted efforts from both the government and civil society to address the underlying causes and protect the rights of vulnerable children.

  • Cheddar announces nationwide tour ahead of 2024 elections

    Cheddar announces nationwide tour ahead of 2024 elections

    Leader and founder of the New Force political movement, Nana Kwame Bediako, has revealed plans for an extensive tour across all 16 regions of the country in the lead-up to the 2024 elections. 

    Popularly known as Cheddar or Freedom Jacob Caesar, Mr Bediako made the announcement during an event held on X, February 28, 2024.

    Addressing the public, Mr. Bediako outlined his intention to embark on a comprehensive tour, with the first stop scheduled for Friday, March 1, 2024, at Frankies Hotel in Nima. He expressed his eagerness to engage with the people of Nima, emphasizing their importance and inviting them to share their concerns and aspirations with him.

    “I am embarking on a tour. 16 regional tours, and Nima is in first place. I am coming, so we can talk and tell me anything you need. You are very important to me, so be there,” Mr. Bediako stated, signaling his commitment to fostering direct dialogue with citizens across the nation.

    The New Force, a political movement founded by Ghanaian businessman Nana Kwame Bediako, has been gaining momentum as Mr. Bediako sets his sights on contesting the upcoming elections as an independent candidate. At 43 years old, Mr. Bediako brings a fresh perspective to the political landscape, aiming to champion the interests of ordinary Ghanaians and effect positive change in governance.

    Mr. Bediako’s decision to embark on a nationwide tour underscores his dedication to grassroots engagement and his desire to understand the diverse needs and challenges faced by communities throughout Ghana. By initiating direct dialogue with citizens across all regions, he aims to cultivate a deeper connection with voters and develop policies that address their most pressing concerns.

    As Mr. Bediako prepares to kick off his tour in Nima, anticipation mounts among residents and political observers alike.

  • MP dismisses NDC’s 24-hour economy proposal as unrealistic

    MP dismisses NDC’s 24-hour economy proposal as unrealistic

    Member of Parliament for Tolon, Habib Iddrisu, has strongly criticized the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s proposed 24-hour economy policy, labeling it as impractical and a mockery of the party’s past governance record.

    In an interview with GHOne TV, Deputy Majority Whip, Habib Iddrisu, derided the NDC’s policy initiative, citing the party’s inability to effectively manage the economy during its tenure, particularly due to the infamous ‘dumsor’ crisis that plagued the nation with persistent power outages.

    “Sometimes, when they are talking about how they will run a 24-hour economy, I just laugh at them. How can you run a 24-hour economy when you can’t even keep running the economy for 12 hours?” questioned Habib Iddrisu.

    The 24-hour economy proposal has been a focal point for the NDC, with the party’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, emphasizing its potential to boost revenue generation and alleviate unemployment by enabling businesses to operate continuously.

    However, Habib Iddrisu dismissed the feasibility of such a policy, attributing the skepticism to the NDC’s past governance failures, particularly in the energy sector. He pointed out that the NDC’s mismanagement of the energy sector during their tenure led to widespread power outages, crippling small-scale businesses and factories.

    “People with small-scale businesses and factories were being shut down because of the constant power outages we refer to as ‘dumsor.’ Businesses have collapsed, and people have lost their jobs, so you can’t run the economy for 12 hours; how can you run it for 24 hours?” he asserted.

    While acknowledging intermittent power outages currently experienced in some parts of the country, Habib Iddrisu clarified that the situation does not amount to a return of the ‘dumsor’ era. He cited assurances from the Minister of Energy regarding ongoing repairs to address the power disruptions, asserting that the government is actively working to rectify the issue.

    As the debate surrounding the NDC’s 24-hour economy proposal continues, contrasting viewpoints underscore the complexities and challenges inherent in Ghana’s economic landscape. For comprehensive coverage and analysis of this developing story, stay tuned to reliable news sources.

  • PAC set to begin vetting newly-nominated ministers

    PAC set to begin vetting newly-nominated ministers

    In a pivotal step towards solidifying the new government’s administration, Parliament’s Appointments Committee is gearing up to commence the rigorous vetting process for the newly-nominated Ministers of State. 

    The proceedings are slated to unfold from Tuesday, March 5, 2024, to Tuesday, March 12, 2024.

    The inaugural day of the vetting session promises to be packed with notable figures facing scrutiny from the committee. Among those expected to appear are Andrew Egyapa Mercer, Minister-designate for the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture; Lydia Seyram Alhassan, Minister-designate for the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources; Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, Minister-designate for the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development; Ophelia Mensah Hayford, Minister-designate for the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation; and Darkoa Newman, Minister-designate for the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection.

    Joining them on the first day will be Kingsley Nyarko, Deputy Minister-designate for the Education Ministry; Festus Awuah Kwofie, Deputy Minister-designate for the Employment and Labour Ministry; Akwasi Konadu, Deputy Minister-designate for the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources; and Musah Abdul Aziz Ayaba, Deputy Minister-designate for the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development.

    This vetting process serves as a critical checkpoint in ensuring the suitability and competency of the nominees to assume their respective roles within the government. Parliamentarians will meticulously examine their qualifications, experience, and vision for their designated portfolios, probing into their plans and strategies to address pertinent issues facing their sectors.

    Subsequent days of the vetting period will see the remaining nominees take their turn before the committee, providing them with the opportunity to present their credentials and articulate their plans for driving progress and development in their designated ministries.

    The outcome of these vetting sessions will significantly shape the composition of the new government and determine its ability to effectively address the myriad challenges confronting the nation. With the nation’s eyes fixed on Parliament, anticipation mounts as the vetting process unfolds, paving the way for a government poised to deliver on its mandate and propel Ghana towards a prosperous future.

  • Former Energy Minister contradicts President’s assertion on power supply

    Former Energy Minister contradicts President’s assertion on power supply

    Former Energy Minister, Dr Kwabena Donkor, has countered President Akufo-Addo‘s recent statement asserting that Ghana is not grappling with intermittent power supply, commonly known as dumsor. Dr Donkor contends that the country is indeed facing power challenges, leading to load-shedding exercises nationwide.

    In an interview with Citi FM on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, Dr Donkor emphasized that Ghana is currently experiencing a deficit in power generation, necessitating the implementation of load-shedding measures. He highlighted the reduction in power exports to neighboring countries as evidence of Ghana’s insufficient power production.

    “The government can lay claim that there has not been load shedding, which is not accurate. Indeed, two days ago, we were shedding 600 megawatts at peak. We have consistently shed load in the last month. Almost every week, we shed load. In fact, our export to Cote d’Ivoire, export to Burkina Faso, export to Togo, Benin have been cut because we are not able to generate enough, and every Ghanaian will testify,” Dr. Donkor remarked.

    These assertions directly contradict President Akufo-Addo’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered in parliament on Tuesday, February 27, 2024. The President had lauded his government’s success in averting dumsor, contrasting it with the challenges faced during the John Dramani Mahama administration.

    “Mr. Speaker, between 2012 and early 2017, there was nothing more demoralizing than the phenomenon we called DUMSOR. It was symptomatic of a dysfunctional system, and it caused widespread depression among businesses and households. After that experience, my government was determined that DUMSOR would not be inflicted upon Ghana and Ghanaians under an NPP government, and I am glad to be able to say, SO FAR, SO GOOD, we have managed to keep the lights on these last seven (7) years, even in the midst of a financial crisis,” President Akufo-Addo stated during his address.

    The conflicting narratives between the former Minister of Power and the President underscore the ongoing debate surrounding the state of Ghana’s power supply. As the discourse continues, Ghanaians await further developments and clarifications regarding the nation’s energy situation.

  • Ukraine downs 10 Russian jets out of the sky in 10 days

    Ukraine downs 10 Russian jets out of the sky in 10 days

    Ukraine’s military has announced that it has shot down 10 Russian military jets in the past 10 days, a dramatic rise from the previous months.

    The statement comes in spite of the shortages faced by Ukrainian forces due to delays in Western supplies.

    Ukraine claims that it has destroyed a total of 342 Russian planes and 325 helicopters since the beginning of the full-scale invasion in February 2022.

    These numbers cannot be confirmed independently. Russia remains silent.

    “Another one! In addition to the one in the morning!” Ukraine’s General Staff posted on Facebook on the afternoon of 27 February.

    “Oops, we did it again!” the Ukrainian defence ministry joked on X (formerly known as Twitter). “And now it’s 10 ruined Russian planes in 10 days!”

    Ukrainian Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk says that the latest two Russian aircraft to be shot down are Su-34 bombers – both downed in the east of the country.

    “Considering such losses of fighter and special aircraft, the Russians should think twice and stop their aviation meat grinders for a while,” he said.

    Gen Oleshchuk was referring to a Russian military strategy that involves sending large numbers of troops into combat with no care for their lives.

    Ukraine says that it has shot down some of the best aircraft that the Russian air force has to offer between 17 and 27 February.

    They include a highly advanced and rare A-50 military spy plane. If true, this would be the second A-50 to be shot down in just over a month, a humiliating loss for Russia and a major victory for Ukraine.

    The other Russian planes that Ukraine says it has shot down in that period are seven Su-34s and two S-35 fighter jets.

    One weapon that Ukraine is likely to have used is the US-supplied Patriot surface-to-air missile.

    The higher number of Russian planes that Ukraine says it has shot down recently suggests that “Ukraine is being more aggressive with risking Patriot launchers close to the frontlines in order to engage Russian jets,” Justin Bronk, a senior research fellow at the London-based think-tank Rusi, told the BBC.

    The recent surge has several possible reasons, such as increased deployment of such aircraft by Russia and more effective air defence systems used by Ukraine.

    But without precise information on resources deployed on the battlefield, it can be hard to fully explain the increase in Ukrainian claims.

    Such an increase, however, is still noteworthy.

  • Three-year-old boy vanished after mother sent him to live with her boyfriend

    Three-year-old boy vanished after mother sent him to live with her boyfriend

    A 3-year-old Wisconsin boy is missing and his mother and her boyfriend have been accused of child neglect, after the district attorney alleged that the boy was sent to live with the man as a punishment.

    The boy, named Elijah Vue, was last seen on Tuesday at a residence in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, where he was staying with Jesse Vang, 39, who was dating his mother, Katrina Baur, 31.

    The district attorney, Jacalyn LaBre, made the allegation in court on Friday, when she referred Baur and Vang for charges of child neglect. She said that Baur “deliberately sent that child for disciplinary reasons for more than a week to the residence. She knew the tactics used and the lack of care provided. This was intentional by her.”

    Baur and Vang appeared briefly and separately in court on Monday. Baur is charged with being a party to the crime of neglecting a child and two counts of obstructing an officer. Vang is charged with child neglect, prosecutors said. Preliminary hearings were set for March 7.

    LaBre’s remarks in court and information from police shed some light on the disappearance of the 3-foot, 50-pound boy with sandy blond hair and Hmong heritage.

    Police said in a statement that someone who claimed to be Elijah’s “adult caretaker” called authorities shortly before 11 a.m. Tuesday to report that Elijah was missing from the residence in Two Rivers and was last seen there about 8 a.m.

    A huge search was started, and a statewide Amber Alert was issued, they said.

    During the detention and bail hearing, LaBre also alleged that Baur was not truthful with police investigating Elijah’s disappearance. She said he was last in the care of Vang. The nature of the relationship between Baur and Vang was unclear.

    The hearing on Friday was covered by NBC affiliates WTMJ of Milwaukee and WGBA of Green Bay. LaBre confirmed by email to NBC News that she made the remarks alleging Baur sent Elijah to live with Vang as discipline.

    She was held on $15,000 cash bail and Vang was held on $20,000 cash bail, prosecutors said.

    A state public defender assigned to the case did not immediately respond to a request to comment on behalf of both defendants.

    Investigators have not said what they think has happened to Elijah. They are searching on the ground and in the air using state, local and federal resources.

    “From the moment Elijah was reported missing, our law enforcement from local, state and federal agencies, along with devoted volunteers and community members, have been working non-stop around the clock to search every inch of our city and beyond,” Two Rivers Police Chief Benjamin Meinnert said at a news conference on Wednesday.

    He urged residents to check the grounds of their homes for the boy and report any sightings or clues to authorities.

    Two Rivers police said in a statement on Sunday that the Green Bay police dive team helped with the search.

    “Our search efforts continued throughout last night and will continue today on our city rivers,” the police department said.

    Two Rivers is a city of about 11,000 on Lake Michigan, about 90 miles north of Milwaukee.



  • Experts urge collective effort to sustain Public Financial Management (PFM) reforms across govt transitions

    Experts urge collective effort to sustain Public Financial Management (PFM) reforms across govt transitions

    Experts have called for a concerted effort to address the challenge of sustaining Public Financial Management (PFM) reforms across government transitions, emphasizing the need for collaboration between stakeholders.

    The Controller and Accountant-General (CAG), Kwasi Kwaning-Bosompem, raised concerns about the disruption of ongoing PFM initiatives during leadership changes, noting that this poses a significant national challenge.

    Speaking at a PFM Focus Group Dialogue organized by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Mr. Kwaning-Bosompem stressed the importance of continuity and progress in PFM reforms to ensure fiscal transparency, accountability, and efficient use of public resources.

    He highlighted systemic weaknesses in the nation’s PFM practices, such as lack of strategic planning, weak budgeting systems, poor compliance with regulations, and inadequate financial information for decision-making.

    To address these challenges, Mr. Kwaning-Bosompem emphasized the need for collaboration among the government, professional accountants, civil society organizations, and other relevant stakeholders.

    The dialogue also reviewed past PFM initiatives, including the Public Financial Management Reform Programme (PUFMARP) launched in 1995 and subsequent reforms like the Ghana Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) launched in 2010.

    Despite some successes in improving budget preparation and implementing electronic revenue systems, concerns have been raised about the nation’s growing debt stock and fiscal responsibility guardrails.

    The surge in domestic debt, reaching GH¢194.4 billion in 2022, and the overall public debt rising to GH¢435.3 billion by the end of December 2022, have raised questions about the sustainability of the PFM framework.

    To consolidate gains and ensure continuity in PFM reforms, stakeholders must take ownership of the process and prioritize public value in decision-making, according to Dr. Mohammed Sani Abdulai, Project Director for PFM Reforms at the Ministry of Finance.

    The Deputy Controller and Accountant-General, Dr. Edward Boateng, acknowledged that while conditions were not perfect, the domestic framework and degree of continuity were better than in peer nations.

    Helen Brand, Global Chief Executive of ACCA, pledged ACCA’s support in providing skilled personnel to enable the public sector to thrive, emphasizing the importance of professional accountants in contributing to the public sector’s development.

    The dialogue underscored the significance of sustained collaboration and commitment to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of PFM reforms in Ghana.

  • Palace gives updates on Kate after William leaves memorial service

    Palace gives updates on Kate after William leaves memorial service

    Prince William won’t be able to attend his godfather’s memorial service due to a personal problem.

    Kensington Palace didn’t give more details on why he couldn’t go, but they did share that Kate Middleton is recovering well after having surgery on her stomach.

    The Princess of Wales went to the hospital for a planned surgery on January 16th.

    She will not be back to work until after Easter, and her husband is taking a break from his royal duties to take care of her and their kids.

    The Prince of Wales was supposed to read at a ceremony for the late King Constantine of Greece at Windsor Castle this morning.

    The palace said that he called the Greek royal family to tell them he couldn’t come to the service at St George’s Chapel.

    The royal family had a tough start to 2024. King Charles got cancer and Kate Middleton had surgery.

    Constantine was the son of Prince Philip’s first cousin and they used to sail together. He died when he was 82 years old in January of last year after being removed from power in a military takeover many years ago.

    His oldest son, Crown Prince Pavlos, will read in place of William.

    Prince Andrew walked with some members of his family, like his ex-wife Sarah, Duchess of York, Princess Beatrice, and Zara and Mike Tindall, into the chapel.

    Queen Camilla was the last person from the British royal family to come. She was driven from the castle to the chapel that was built in the 15th century.

    King Charles has cancer, but the type of cancer has not been told to everyone. He has been getting treatment for it regularly.

    He found out he was sick after having surgery at the London Clinic. Kate had her surgery there too. He had a problem with his prostate.

    Cancer was found early, so he’s making plans for who will take over his responsibilities and wants Prince William to be involved.

    This is a new story that is still being updated. More information will be available soon, so check back later for updates.

  • Parliamentary Committee lauds SML-Ghana amid scrutiny

    Parliamentary Committee lauds SML-Ghana amid scrutiny

    Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) has received praise from Samuel Atta Akyea, Chairperson of the Mines and Energy Committee of Parliament, following a visit by the committee to SML’s office in Tema.

    Mr. Atta Akyea lauded SML’s setup as “world-class” and encouraged other stakeholders to visit the facility to understand the company’s impact on the country’s revenue mobilization efforts.

    The visit comes amidst scrutiny over the necessity, cost, and duration of SML’s contract with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) for revenue assurance services in the petroleum and mineral sectors, triggered by a documentary titled ‘The GH¢ 3 Billion Lie’ produced by media entity, The Fourth Estate.

    In response to the concerns raised, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo instructed advisory firm KPMG to conduct an audit of the contract.

    Mr. Atta Akyea, while refraining from prejudicing the case, expressed the committee’s objective during their visit to SML. He stated, “We came here to familiarize ourselves with this matter… We want the President to complete his side and we will engage them; but I believe, so far, that this is a world-class set-up.”

    He clarified that the committee would reserve judgment on the contract’s propriety until after engaging formally with SML following the release of the KPMG report.

    Expressing satisfaction with the technological prowess exhibited by SML, Mr. Atta Akyea suggested that the company’s operations have played a significant role in the nation’s revenue mobilization framework.

    Last week, data from the tax authority indicated a notable increase in revenue from the petroleum sector following the implementation of the revenue assurance contract in December 2019.

    Mr. Atta Akyea, however, criticized premature conclusions drawn by some individuals lacking sufficient information, emphasizing the importance of thorough investigations.

    In response to allegations raised in a December 2023 investigative report by The Fourth Estate, SML denied irregularities in its contract and welcomed President Akufo-Addo’s directive to suspend operations pending the audit.

    SML remains confident that the audit will provide a transparent and accurate depiction of its operations, while concurrently pursuing legal action against The Fourth Estate for defamation.

    The ongoing scrutiny underscores the complexities surrounding SML’s operations and the importance of transparent and accountable practices in the country’s revenue mobilization efforts.

  • UK “on the verge of going dark with widespread blackouts”

    UK “on the verge of going dark with widespread blackouts”

    New research says that the UK might have blackouts within five years because a lot of power stations are closing down.

    According to the think tank Public First, the country lacks sufficient methods to generate the amount of power lost.
    Four nuclear power plants in the UK will be shut down by April 2028: Hartlepool, Heysham I and II, and Torness.

    The last coal power plant in the country, Ratcliffe-on-Soar in Nottinghamshire, will close in September this year.

    Drax Power, the company that runs the biomass-fuelled Drax power station in North Yorkshire,asked Public First to make a report called” Mind the Gap: Exploring Britain’s energy crunch. “

    Delays in building Hinkley Point C could make the problem worse because more people want electricity from electric vehicles and heat pumps.

    The new nuclear power station was supposed to start making electricity next year, but now it won’t be ready until at least 2031.

    At the same time, the expected cost of building the facility in Somerset has gone up from £18 billion when it was first approved to £35 billion.

    According to the Telegraph, Public First predicts that the UK will need7. 5GWmore power than it can provide by 2028.

    Last year, gas was the main way we made electricity in the country. But according to National Grid data, wind power was actually used more than gas in January, October, and December.

    Even though we use natural gas a lot, last year we made the least amount of electricity from fossil fuels since 1957.

    The UK gets 56% of its energy from low carbon sources, but the government wants it to be 95% by 2030.

    The French energy company EDF runs all eight nuclear power stations in Britain. They said last month that they will decide by the end of the year if they will keep Hartlepool, Torness, and Heysham I and II power stations operating for longer.

    This morning, BBC Panorama said that Drax, the power company involved in the Public First report, has been burning wood from rare Canadian forests.

    The company got£6 billion in environmentally friendly payments while its wood pellet-burning plant releases about 12 million tonnes of carbon dioxide every year, as reported by the BBC.

  • Joint task force cracks down on smuggled vegetable oil in Ghanaian market

    Joint task force cracks down on smuggled vegetable oil in Ghanaian market

    A collaborative effort involving the Tree Crop Development Authority, the Oil Palm Development Association of Ghana, the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, and National Security has initiated a rigorous operation aimed at curbing the influx of smuggled vegetable oil into the Ghanaian market.

    The operation, spanning the Greater Accra Region and parts of the Central Region, commenced with targeted inspections of shops in key areas such as Kasoa, Mallam Market, McCarthy Hill, and Adabraka.

    In McCarthy Hill, Perfect End Logistics was instructed to cease operations following the discovery of suspected smuggled vegetable oil on its premises. Despite claims by shop attendants that the oil was locally produced, markings indicating “Made in Malaysia” raised concerns about its authenticity.

    Head of the task force, Paul Amaning, emphasized the importance of legitimate importation, underscoring the need to crack down on illegally imported goods.

    Similar exercises were conducted in Kasoa New Market, where retailers pointed fingers at their suppliers for the smuggled products. Three shop attendants were apprehended by the National Security taskforce for attempting to obstruct the operation by withholding access to a shop containing smuggled vegetable oil.

    Market women were also sensitized about the hazards associated with selling unbranded oil, highlighting the risks posed to consumers.

    In Mallam Market, one shop faced closure as a result of the operation, prompting concerns from shop attendants about the impact on their livelihoods. The task force then proceeded to Adabraka, where shop attendants defended their products’ authenticity despite markings indicating “Made in Indonesia.”

    The joint task force’s operation reflects a concerted effort to combat the illegal trade of vegetable oil in Ghana, emphasizing the importance of adherence to regulatory standards and the promotion of locally sourced products in the market.

  • GRA official highlights importance of E-Levy in tax collection

    GRA official highlights importance of E-Levy in tax collection

    Assistant Commissioner in charge of Strategy, Research, Policy, and Programmes at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Charles Addae, has emphasized the significance of the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) in bringing the informal sector into the tax net.

    Addae explained that relying solely on the formal sector for revenue generation is insufficient, prompting the introduction of the E-Levy to ensure broader participation in tax payment, especially from individuals in the informal sector.

    During an interview at the Taxing Mobile Money, Lessons, and Ways Forward Conference held in Accra on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, Addae disclosed that the government had successfully collected GH¢1.2 billion from the E-Levy, indicating the effectiveness of the tax.

    “Ghana introduced E-Levy in 2022, and we’ve had challenges implementing this tax. However, in 2022, we collected an amount of 600 million, and in 2023, we raised GH¢1.2 billion from the E-Levy,” stated Addae.

    He emphasized the need to explore new avenues to enhance tax revenue without overburdening existing taxpayers, highlighting the importance of tapping into the informal sector to bolster revenue collection.

    “The formal system has depended on existing businesses and employees in raising national revenue. There is a need to go into the informal sector to raise revenue to support the country,” he added.

    The Taxing Mobile Money conference, organized by the International Centre for Tax and Development in collaboration with the Ghana Revenue Authority, provided a platform to discuss strategies for improving domestic revenue mobilization.

    The introduction of the E-Levy forms part of the government’s efforts to enhance domestic revenue mobilization. Following public criticism, the E-Levy tax was revised downward from 1.5% to 1%, demonstrating responsiveness to stakeholder concerns.

  • GREDA plans implementation of Real Estate Investment Trust to address housing challenges

    GREDA plans implementation of Real Estate Investment Trust to address housing challenges

    President of the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA), Patrick Ebo Bonful, has announced plans to launch the GREDA Real Estate Investment Trust (GREIT) as part of efforts to tackle demand-side challenges in the housing sector.

    Speaking at the GREDA CEO’s meeting on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, Bonful highlighted the Trust’s aim to provide essential investments to bridge the gap created by insufficient home mortgage finance. He emphasized the need for legislative changes, including the review of the Home Mortgage Finance Act 2008, to incorporate non-bank financial institutions and non-deposit taking corporate organizations in providing home mortgage financing.

    “I’m happy to inform you that plans are well underway to birth GREDA Real Estate Investment Trust (GREIT) to address the demand side challenges or help fill the gap created by inadequate home mortgage financing,” disclosed Bonful.

    He pointed out the challenges faced in delivering affordable housing options, particularly for low and middle-income individuals, citing high land costs, land litigation, and limited availability of spaces in urban and peri-urban areas. Additionally, the rising costs of building materials and labor contribute to the difficulty in providing affordable and sustainable housing options.

    Bonful called on governments and policymakers to prioritize affordable housing delivery by allocating funding and resources towards housing initiatives. Currently, Ghana’s housing deficit stands at 1.8 million units, prompting GREDA and other stakeholders to advocate for urgent action from the government to address the situation.

    The GREDA Real Estate Investment Trust (GREIT) initiative signifies a proactive approach by GREDA to address housing challenges and contribute to bridging the housing gap in Ghana. As the housing deficit persists, stakeholders continue to advocate for collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors to provide affordable housing solutions for all citizens.

  • TECNO to launch revolutionary imaging system TECNO PolarAce at MWC Barcelona 2024

    TECNO to launch revolutionary imaging system TECNO PolarAce at MWC Barcelona 2024

    Global innovative brand TECNO has announced its groundbreaking venture into the realm of imaging technology with the introduction of TECNO PolarAce Imaging System, set to debut during the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona 2024. 

    Representing TECNO’s inaugural foray into independent imaging chip technology, TECNO PolarAce promises to redefine videography capture with cutting-edge AI capabilities, setting a new standard for mobile video imaging worldwide.

    Scheduled to launch alongside the CAMON 30 Series, the TECNO PolarAce Imaging System is poised to elevate mobile photography and videography to unprecedented levels. Leveraging state-of-the-art AI technologies, this revolutionary system addresses common challenges faced by traditional imaging solutions, such as low-light performance and limited dynamic range, to deliver exceptional video quality across various lighting conditions.

    TECNO PolarAce will take center stage at the TECNO New Technology and Flagship Product Launch event on February 27th at Partner Theatre 3, Hall 8.0, FiraBarcelona Gran Via. The event promises to showcase TECNO’s latest innovations in AI capabilities for smartphones, alongside the unveiling of the MEGABOOK T16 Pro 2024 Ultra, a flagship laptop designed to complement the brand’s ecosystem of cutting-edge devices.

    Despite significant advancements in mobile imaging technologies, TECNO recognizes the persistent limitations of current solutions in meeting the evolving demands of content creators. With TECNO PolarAce, the brand aims to push the boundaries of innovation and empower users to capture extraordinary moments with unparalleled clarity and detail.

    TECNO’s commitment to leveraging AI to enhance the user experience is evident in its ambitious range of products and technologies. By harnessing the power of AI, TECNO continues to drive innovation and shape the future of mobile technology.

    At MWC Barcelona 2024, attendees are invited to experience the future of imaging technology firsthand at TECNO’s stand located at 6B11, Hall 6, Fira Gran Via. Following the launch event, TECNO PolarAce will be available for demonstration, offering visitors a glimpse into the next generation of mobile photography and videography.

    With the unveiling of TECNO PolarAce Imaging System, TECNO reaffirms its commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering cutting-edge technologies that empower users to unlock new possibilities in mobile imaging.

  • Putin suffers severe setback following loss of his ninth fighter jet in ten days

    Putin suffers severe setback following loss of his ninth fighter jet in ten days

    Ukraine shot down another advanced Russian bomber and also took down seven fighter jets in one week.

    After successfully avoiding Ukraine’s air defenses on Monday, Russia quickly realized it had not actually had a good week in the sky.
    Commander Mykola Oleschuk announced that another Su-34 fighter jet was lost in the Ukrainian Air Force today in the morning.

    The high-ranking military officer said: “Yesterday, Russian pilots were able to avoid our missiles, but they won’t always be able to do that. “

    That’s why I suggest people who are leaving to visit their family before they go, just in case.

    ‘Because we don’t know if he will be fortunate this time or not. ‘

    Ukraine said they shot down another Su-34 fighter jet at around 2pm on Tuesday. Oleschuk said on Telegram, “Russia needs to stop attacking with airstrikes for a while. “

    The Russian military has to spend a lot of money when they lose one of their Su-34 jets, because each one costs around £40 million.

    Ukraine said they shot down five more planes in the last ten days, as well as two Su-35 planes.

    This means there was one Su-34 on February 21, one Su-34 and one Su-35S on February 19, one Su-34 on February 18, and two Su-34 planes and one Su-35 on February 17.

    Besides the fighter jets, the Air Force says they shot down two A-50 planes in one day on February 23.

    Russia uses a special plane to watch Ukraine’s air defenses. It can hold up to 15 people and costs about£236 million each.

    Ukraine’s military says Russia has lost about 340 planes since the war began.

    During the night and early morning on February 27, Russia sent many drones and missiles to attack Ukraine.

    This included 13 drones made in Iran and five missiles.

    The Ukrainian Air Force stopped 11 drones and two missiles from entering their airspace.

  • Nigeria introduces mandatory levy for employing expatriates

    Nigeria introduces mandatory levy for employing expatriates

    Nigeria has implemented a new mandatory annual levy targeting organizations employing expatriate workers. 

    This is part of efforts to promote local employment opportunities and boost revenue. 

    The levy requires companies to pay $15,000 for a director and $10,000 for other categories of expatriate employees.

    The move, announced by President Bola Tinubu during the launch of the Expatriate Employment Levy (EEL) handbook, aims to encourage foreign companies to hire more Nigerian workers while closing wage gaps between expatriates and the local labor force.

    President Tinubu emphasized that the levy should not deter potential investors but rather foster a balanced employment landscape between Nigerians and expatriates. He stressed the importance of clear implementation to achieve the intended objectives of the program.

    According to data from the interior ministry, Nigeria hosts over 150,000 expatriates primarily working in sectors such as oil and gas, construction, telecommunications, and hospitality. The imposition of the levy comes amidst Nigeria’s worst economic crisis in recent memory, prompting widespread protests against economic hardships.

    Acknowledging the challenges faced by Nigerians, President Tinubu reassured efforts to improve the country’s financial situation and stimulate economic growth.

    The levy applies to expatriate employees working for at least 183 days in a year and carries penalties of up to three years in jail for non-compliance, including providing inaccurate information. The Nigerian Immigration Service will oversee enforcement, operating in collaboration with a private firm under a public-private partnership model.

    Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Oj highlighted the partnership’s framework, underscoring its role in effectively administering the levy and ensuring compliance with regulations.

  • Europe’s oldest king in hospital following an infection

    Europe’s oldest king in hospital following an infection

    King Harald of Norway is in the hospital because he got sick while he was on vacation in Malaysia.

    The king, 87, was going on a private trip overseas to celebrate his birthday but got sick before he could go. He went to Sultanah Maliha Hospital on Langkawi island in Malaysia, the Norwegian royal house said on Tuesday.

    Two days before King Harald V’s birthday last week, the palace said he was going on a trip to another country, but they didn’t say when or where he was going.

    There isn’t much information about his condition, but the prince is getting good care from doctors in Malaysia and Norway.

    King Harald, who is the oldest monarch in Europe, has been sick a lot recently and had heart surgery last year. He was in the hospital last May to treat another infection.

    Prince Haakon will continue doing the things he had already planned to do in his country.

    The Prime Minister of Norway, Jonas Gahr Støre, said he felt ‘sad’ to hear that the king is in the hospital and hopes he gets better soon.

    King Harald, who is related to King Charles III of Britain, became Norway’s ceremonial leader in 1991 and said that he doesn’t want to give up his position.

    Queen Margrethe of Denmark, 83, stopped being the queen after 52 years. Her son Frederik took over last month.

  • Putin threatens to start nuclear war with Europe if he doesn’t get his way

    Putin threatens to start nuclear war with Europe if he doesn’t get his way

    President of Russia, Vladimir Putin has issued a terrifying threat of nuclear war in the event that Ukraine attempts to retake Crimea and joins NATO.

    Russia has gathered more than 100,000 soldiers on the Ukrainian border and increased military drills, leading to a diplomatic impasse with the West.

    The Kremlin says they are not planning to invade, and they blame Nato for expanding eastwards in Europe.

    Western leaders like Boris Johnson have said that Ukraine can make its own alliances without Russia getting in the way.

    New video shows the use of powerful new nuclear missiles called Kinzhal in Kaliningrad, a part of Russia next to Poland and Lithuania.

    Putin said his meeting with the French president went well, but he also said that there could be a nuclear war if Ukraine joins Nato and tries to take back Crimea from Russia.

    He said, “I want to emphasize it again. ” I’ve been telling you, but I really want you to listen to me and share it with your audience in newspapers, on TV, and on the internet.

    ‘So, you know if Ukraine joins Nato and tries to take back Crimea by force, then European countries will have to fight Russia. ‘

    Putin said that Moscow has a very strong military, much stronger than Nato’s, but he also said that Russia is one of the top countries with nuclear weapons.

    “There won’t be any winners, and you will be forced into this fight even if you don’t want to,” he said.

    ‘You won’t have time to blink when you use Article 5 to help NATO members. ‘

    “President Macron and I don’t want this, that’s why he’s here, questioning me for six hours. ”

    Putin said that for 30 years Russia has been trying to convince the West not to move Nato towards the east. He said that they didn’t care about what we wanted or needed.

    Putin used the informal way of saying “you” to Macron, which shows that they have a good relationship.

    At the same time, a new video shows one of two very fast MiG-31K aircraft in Russia’s farthest west area of Kaliningrad.

    The fighter jet is said to be equipped with new very fast Kinzhal missiles that are launched from the air.

    The Kinzhal is a big missile that is 24 feet long and weighs one ton. It can carry regular or nuclear bombs. It can travel 1,250 miles and attack Ukrainian soldiers and defenses without getting too close to the country.

    It seems that the MiG-31Ks with big bombs were moved from Nizhny Novgorod to Chernyakhovsk air base in Kaliningrad.

    It is thought that Russia has about 20 MiG-31K planes that can work with the Kinzhal missile.

    In the Black Sea, a high-tech Russian Ivan Khurs intelligence ship was spotted just 20 nautical miles away from the Ukrainian naval port Odessa.

    Russia said no to UN soldiers being put on the borders of rebel-held Donbas.

    The leader of the Russian foreign ministry’s international organizations department, Pyotr Ilyichev, said: “No, we don’t need to do that. ” Peacekeepers cannot fix the problems in the conflict within Ukraine.

    ‘The Ukrainians have to have a conversation with the LPR and DPR’

    Russia said that the upcoming visits by the UK’s Foreign Secretary Liz Truss and Defence Secretary Ben Wallace are not likely to make relations between the two countries better.

    The Russian ambassador to London, Andrei Klein, said that he doesn’t think the current situation will improve the relationship between countries. He is saying this because of the statements made by Liz Truss and Ben Wallace.

  • Man ultimately convicted guilty of rape after 20-year investigation

    Man ultimately convicted guilty of rape after 20-year investigation

    A man who raped many women has been sent to prison for 36 years because he killed a woman whose body was found in the forest a month after she disappeared in 2005.

    Iain Packer, 51, was in court being tried for the death of 27-year-old Emma Caldwell in South Lanarkshire.

    He was also found guilty of touching her inappropriately, and committing several sexual assaults on other women.

    Miss Caldwell went missing on April 4, 2005, and then her body was found a few weeks later in Limefield Woods near the village of Roberton.

    A few days ago, she told her mom Margaret that she wants to quit using heroin. She started using it in her early twenties after a family member died.

    She was very close to her parents, and when she didn’t show up for a planned meeting, they quickly called the police to report her missing.

    On May 8, someone walking a dog found her dead with a rope around her neck.

    Packer was not arrested by the police until February 2022.

    Police Scotland’s Assistant Chief Constable Bex Smith said that Emma Caldwell, her family, and many other victims were not supported by the police in 2005. We apologize for that.

    Many women and girls who were brave enough to speak up did not get the help and fairness they needed from Strathclyde Police.

    During evidence, the defendant admitted indecently assaulting Miss Caldwell.

    During the trial, the person accused admitted to sexually assaulting Miss Caldwell in a way that was not appropriate.

    But he kept saying he didn’t do any of the things they accused himof,even the accusations of raping 11 women. He said they were all lying.

    Packer was accused of 36 crimes against 25 women. He said his actions toward sex workers were terrible and he felt ashamed of how he treated Miss Caldwell.

    He said in court that he didn’t kill her. It wasn’t my fault. I didn’t do anything to her.

    During the six-week trial, the jury listened to several women who talked about how Packer violently attacked them.

  • Bulgarian decorator shows up in court after being accused of spying for Russia

    Bulgarian decorator shows up in court after being accused of spying for Russia

    A Bulgarian person who paints walls and decorates rooms is in trouble for allegedly spying for Russia in the UK.

    Tihomir Ivanchev, 38, from Acton, West London, didn’t say if he’s guilty or not in a short court hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.

    It is said that he was part of a group of Bulgarians in the UK who were spying for Russia.

    Five more Bulgarians were accused last year and are now waiting to go to court.

    When the police arrested the other five people, they didn’t know that Mr. Ivanchev may have been involved. They found out about his connection when they translated group messages.

    He was taken by the police earlier this month and formally accused on Tuesday.

    Another person is charged with spying for Russia in the UK. Mr Ivanchev used to date Vanya Gaberova, who is one of the people accused last year.

    He was put in jail and will go to court at the Old Bailey on 15 March. The group is accused of watching and following people to help Russia do bad things to them, like kidnapping them.

    Mr Ivanchev is also accused of being involved in spying in Austria and Montenegro in 2021 and 2022.

    The remaining five people are going to trial in October at the Old Bailey. It is said that Mr. Roussev led the cell’s spying activities from the UK.

    It is said that Mr. Roussev got orders from a person called Jan Marsalek, who all the defendants are accused of working with in a plan. Marsalek is not accused in the case.

    Mr Marsalek used to be in charge of a company called Wirecard in Austria. Now, he is wanted in Germany because he is suspected of doing something dishonest. He is said to be in Russia now.
    Similar subjects .

  • Nikki Haley easily defeated by Donald Trump in Michigan primary

    Nikki Haley easily defeated by Donald Trump in Michigan primary

    Donald Trump has emerged as the top contender for the Republican presidential nomination after securing a comfortable win in the Michigan primary. With nearly all the votes counted, Mr. Trump won 68%, while Nikki Haley only got 27%.

    Ms Haley hasn’t won any races in the contest to choose the party’s candidate for the November election. She promised to keep fighting and believes that Mr. Trump can’t beat Joe Biden in the presidential election.

    As the results started coming in on Tuesday night, the ex-UN ambassador told the media “We need to save our country. ”

    However, she admitted that it is very likely that the Republican party now supports Mr. Trump’s views instead of her own.

    Ms Haley promised to continue seeking votes, but it seems more and more certain that there will be another election in November between Mr. Trump and President Biden.

    Miss Haley’s loss to Mr. Trump in Michigan is her fifth loss in a row in the primary elections. Ms Haley lost to a 77-year-old in South Carolina over the weekend.

    Tuesday’s defeat is another setback for her hopes of becoming president. Americans for Prosperity Action (AFP), a group started by the wealthy Koch brothers, said they won’t give money to her campaign anymore after she didn’t do well in South Carolina.

    However, her campaign said that the results and the percentage of Michigan Republican voters who did not support the former president are a warning for Trump in November.

    On Monday night, Mr. Trump said in a statement that his campaign won by an even bigger margin in Michigan than they expected, even though he didn’t go there to campaign.

    He also said that car factory workers, who are a big group of voters in the state, “support us”. In the past month, a union called United Automobile Workers, which represents 400,000 workers, supported President Biden’s campaign for re-election.

    A person can become the Republican nominee by winning 1,215 delegates in state-level elections.

    Most of the delegates in Michigan will be given out on Saturday, during the state’s party convention. Only 16 people are chosen by the first vote.

    Next week, there will be more delegates available for the candidates from both parties during Super Tuesday.

    No one is really competing against Mr. Biden to become the Democratic candidate.

    Even though he easily won the Michigan primary, many people voted “uncommitted” in the Democratic contest as a protest against the White House’s support for Israel during the war in Gaza.

  • States back demands for “an immediate suspension of hostilities” in Gaza

    States back demands for “an immediate suspension of hostilities” in Gaza

    Jersey’s political leaders have expressed their desire for an end to the conflict in Gaza and for lasting peace to be achieved.

    The proposal from Deputy Montfort Tadier was accepted by all politicians after the External Relations Minister made some changes.
    Before, about 60 people met in the Royal Square in St Helier to ask for peace.

    Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas have been fighting since the beginning of October 2023.

    States Members agreed that a ceasefire should be put in place right away so that hostages and people held unfairly can be released. They also want urgent help for people in need and a long-term ceasefire to be established.

    They also agreed to be very sad and upset about the many innocent people who died in Gaza and Israel. They also said they don’t like when people take hostages or do violent things that hurt civilians, especially women and children.

    The proposal was changed many times before the final vote.

    Mr Tadier wanted to say that countries should follow international laws to prevent more people from dying and to stop any possible genocide.

    He mentioned a temporary decision from the top UN court that told Israel to do everything it can to stop genocide in Gaza.
    ‘Promote peaceful discussion’

    Israel strongly denied the accusations,saying they are completely false and have no basis.

    Deputy Ian Gorst was able to convince the group to take out some mentions of.

    Possible mass killings.

    He said some people felt uneasy or scared about the words in the proposition.

    Mr Gorst said his new version of the text is meant to help stop the fighting,make the cease fire last, stop people from dying and buildings from getting destroyed, and promote peaceful solutions to the conflict.

    “I can make changes when dealing with the United Kingdom. This shows that Jersey is a fair and mature place that understands and respects unity within its own borders. “

    The government of Jersey has been asked to tell the UK government about the views of the States Assembly as a result of the vote.

  • Passengers narrowly escape death after truck crashes into ‘trotro’ from behind 

    Passengers on board a minibus narrowly escaped death after a truck ran into their vehicle from behind. 

    A video making rounds on social media captured the moment when the incident occurred, with passengers seen running for their lives after a truck crashed into their vehicle.

    Fortunately, all of them escaped unscathed; however, the back of the car was badly damaged.

    Per the post, the incident occurred on February 28, 2024, at Asuoyeboa Asore Kwanta a suburb of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly in the Ashanti Region.

    The incident captured the attention of traders, pedestrians and even residents of the area, who drew near to assist in case of any casualties.

  • Electricity tariffs to marginally decrease for residential consumers in Ghana

    Electricity tariffs to marginally decrease for residential consumers in Ghana

    The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) in Ghana has announced a marginal reduction in electricity tariffs for residential consumers, particularly those within the consumption bracket of 301 kWh and above. 

    According to the latest tariff review released by the PURC, residential consumers falling within this bracket can expect a reduction of 6.56 percent in their electricity tariffs.

    However, for lifeline consumers within the consumption bracket of 0-30 kWh, there will be no change in tariffs, with rates remaining unchanged at 0 percent.

    The PURC clarified that tariffs for non-residential consumers within the 0-300 kWh consumption bracket will also remain the same, without any alterations in their rates. However, consumers within the 301 kWh and above category will experience an average reduction of 4.98 percent in their electricity tariffs.

    These adjustments were outlined in the PURC’s statement on the first-quarter tariff review for electricity, natural gas, and water in 2024.

    While the electricity tariff review brings relief to residential consumers, the PURC stated that water tariffs for all consumer categories will remain unchanged during the period under review.

    In its previous fourth-quarter tariff review conducted in November 2023, the PURC had announced a slight increase of 0.34 percent in water tariffs. Conversely, electricity tariffs witnessed a decrease of 1.52 percent, effective from December 1, 2023.

    The latest tariff adjustments by the PURC reflect the regulatory body’s efforts to ensure fair and sustainable pricing for essential utilities while considering the economic well-being of consumers. These measures aim to strike a balance between maintaining operational efficiency and alleviating the financial burden on residential consumers amidst prevailing economic conditions.

  • Are you conceding defeat? – Ablakwa chides Akufo-Addo over failed corruption fight

    Are you conceding defeat? – Ablakwa chides Akufo-Addo over failed corruption fight

    North Tongu Member of Parliament, Okudzeto Ablakwa, has sharply criticized President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration over its perceived failure to effectively combat corruption in Ghana. 

    Ablakwa’s remarks come amid growing concerns and public dissatisfaction with the government’s efforts to tackle corruption.

    In a scathing rebuke directed at the President, Ablakwa questioned whether Akufo-Addo‘s administration will now concede defeat in the fight against corruption, given the failed efforts. 

    “Are you conceding defeat?” Ablakwa rhetorically asked, highlighting what he sees as a lack of meaningful action by the government to root out corruption and hold perpetrators accountable.

    Ablakwa’s criticism comes in the wake of numerous corruption scandals that have tarnished the reputation of the Akufo-Addo administration, including the controversial “Galamsey Fraud” saga and allegations of corruption within various state institutions.

    The issue of corruption has been a long-standing challenge in Ghana, with successive governments pledging to tackle the problem but often facing criticism for their perceived inability to make significant progress. 

    Despite promises of zero tolerance for corruption, many Ghanaians feel disillusioned by the persistent allegations of graft and the apparent lack of accountability for those implicated.

    President Akufo-Addo’s administration has yet to respond to Ablakwa’s criticism.

  • AgriConnect Initiative equips Ghanaian students with laptops and connectivity for Agriculture Education

    AgriConnect Initiative equips Ghanaian students with laptops and connectivity for Agriculture Education

    The AgriConnect initiative, developed by theSOFTtribe in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has begun delivering laptops and connectivity to students across various universities in the country.

    Since February 5th, the AgriConnect team has distributed laptops to students at the University of Ghana, University of Cape Coast (UCC), and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). Over 1,000 students have already received their devices, with thousands more expected to benefit in the coming months.

    AgriConnect aims to provide education and training opportunities for youth interested in agriculture, including young women and persons with disabilities, to leverage emerging opportunities in the industry.

    With over 3,500 students from 10 participating institutions already registered, the program is set to provide 10,000 students enrolled in agriculture-related faculties with laptops and connectivity. Additionally, participants will engage in three supplementary courses focused on value chain development in agriculture, agribusiness and entrepreneurship, and digital literacy, designed to enhance their readiness for the job market.

    Mr. Tetteh Antonio, CEO of theSOFTtribe Limited, expressed satisfaction with the response to AgriConnect and reiterated the project’s commitment to providing viable career opportunities in agriculture, particularly through technology-driven approaches.

    As part of the initiative, students are required to contribute a small fraction of the cost for the laptops, which they will retain after the program ends, as well as the connectivity, which they will receive for one year.

    Aligned with Ghana’s national economic plan, Ghana Vision 2020, and the National Youth Policy (2010), AgriConnect seeks to make agriculture a lucrative venture for Ghanaian youth, thereby fostering employment and sustainable livelihoods.

    The participating institutions include Damongo Agricultural College, Ejura Agricultural College, Kwadaso Agricultural College, KNUST College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Ohawu Agricultural College, Pong Agricultural College, University of Cape Coast School of Agriculture, University of Development Studies Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Sciences, University of Ghana School of Agriculture, and Wenchi Agricultural College.

    In the coming weeks, the AgriConnect team will continue its engagement with students at participating universities, facilitating registration and payment processes, and providing support in navigating the learning platform for the supplementary courses.

  • GEXIM to commemorate Ghana’s 67th Independence day with ‘Freedom Market’ 

    GEXIM to commemorate Ghana’s 67th Independence day with ‘Freedom Market’ 

    As Ghana prepares to celebrate its 67th National Independence Day next week in the Eastern Region, the Ghana Export–Import Bank (GEXIM) has announced plans to host a special event called “Freedom Market” on Tuesday, March 5, 2024.

    The event, which is an extension of the bank’s popular Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Fair known as Tuesday Market, aims to commemorate this year’s independence celebration. It will be held at the forecourt of the Africa Trade House, located next to the British Council in Accra, from 8 am to 8 pm.

    The “Freedom Market” will showcase a wide range of unique, quality, affordable, and authentic Made-In-Ghana products. Visitors can expect to find a diverse array of items including food and ingredients, beverages, skin and beauty care products, textiles, apparel, garments, leather footwear, slippers, and more.

    Speaking on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Lawrence Agyinsam, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer responsible for Banking, Ms. Rosemary Beryl Archer, emphasized the importance of promoting Ghanaian-made products during the celebration of the nation’s independence.

    “GEXIM has been championing the repositioning of the Ghanaian economy into an export-led one, and it has become very necessary to encourage Ghanaians to consume locally manufactured products and services,” said Ms. Archer. “The fair provides a platform for the promotion of indigenous Ghanaian products to the general public. When we patronize Ghanaian-made products, it will help to sustain Ghanaian businesses as well as create jobs for Ghanaians.”

    The “Freedom Market” not only aims to create awareness and promote Ghanaian products but also serves as a platform for businesses to generate revenue from sales to the general public. Over the years, GEXIM has introduced innovative ways to create avenues for revenue generation for the Bank’s clients as well as other producers of Made-In-Ghana products.

    All are invited to visit the Africa Trade House on Tuesday, March 5th, 2024, to experience the very best of Made-In-Ghana products at unbeatable prices. The “Freedom Market” promises to be an exciting opportunity to celebrate Ghana’s independence while supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs.

  • ‘I was test subject for covert nuclear tests conducted on Christmas Island’

    ‘I was test subject for covert nuclear tests conducted on Christmas Island’

    A former soldier who saw a lot of big bomb explosions during the UK’s nuclear tests says he felt like a test subject.

    Brian Cantle, who lived in Bedfordshire, was 21 years old when he was sent to Christmas Island as part of his national service in 1957. He and the other soldiers were not told what they were going to do there because the program was a secret.

    Mr Cantle, who is now 87 years old, has been given a medal for his work on an island in the Pacific Ocean where nuclear tests were conducted.

    The old soldier from Whipsnade saw many atomic and hydrogen bomb explosions during his year on the island. He was one of 22,000 British soldiers who took part in nuclear tests and clean-ups with the United States from 1952 to 1965.

    Mr Cantle said he arrived in the middle of the night and felt like he was surrounded by sharks after sailing from Southampton.

    “It was a simple island, very flat with reefs all around and sharks all around,” he said.

    The Royal Engineers were supposed to build a camp for the British forces, but it became clear that there was something more important happening behind the scenes.

    Mr Cantle said that someone told us there would be a bomb in about two months. When they dropped the bomb, there were also other aircraft there.

    “We were told that an atomic bomb might be dropped, but we didn’t know much about it at the time. ”

    When bombs were tested, Mr. Cantle said that the soldiers had to wear brown overalls and turn around to avoid being hurt by the bomb.

    He said: “There was a bright light and then we were told to turn around and look at it. ” “It was a huge blast. ”

    We were used as test subjects.

    In the years after the nuclear tests, people have asked for the men who saw the tests to be told sorry for getting sick from the radiation.

    “We were like test subjects, just following orders without question,” Mr. Cantle explained

    “I’m not upset at all. It’s just a part of life and I’m grateful that I’m healthy. ”

    The Grapple H-bomb tests were meant to prove that Britain could also have a big impact on the Cold War, after the U. S made the atomic bomb. Scientist Robert Oppenheimer. Scientist Robert Oppenheimer.

    Every three months, they set off really strong hydrogen bombs.

    But Cantle said that everything went back to normal at the company after the explosions. The chefs went back to making the next meal and he went back to building houses.

    “We didn’t understand what was happening – no one told us much,” he said.

    “It’s a good thing we didn’t know about it, looking back on it. “

  • This address has been uninspiring – Ablakwa reacts to SONA 2024 

    This address has been uninspiring – Ablakwa reacts to SONA 2024 

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Okudzeto Ablakwa, has expressed deep disappointment in the 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA).

    Speaking after President Akufo-Addo delivered the address, Mr Ablakwa labeled the speech as “uninspiring” and questioned the President’s commitment to key promises made during his tenure.

    Addressing the nation on February 27, 2024, Mr Ablakwa highlighted several areas of concern, including Akufo-Addo‘s perceived failure to address corruption and fulfill promises made in his inaugural address.

    “Another disappointment is the President’s refusal to touch on corruption,” Ablakwa lamented. “In his first State of the Nation Address, he assured us he was going to protect the public purse; he will fight corruption head-on. Now in his eight years, he can’t even approach the issue of corruption. So what is going on? Is he conceding defeat that corruption has defeated him?”

    Ablakwa also criticized the President for not addressing the issue of the National Cathedral, a flagship project of the Akufo-Addo administration. “Why didn’t he speak on it? Why is he silent on it? He promised to commission the Cathedral on March 6, 2024, but here we are. So he has disappointed Ghanaians and has disappointed even God,” Ablakwa remarked.

    The MP further expressed disappointment with the President’s handling of major scandals in the country, accusing Akufo-Addo of failing to provide financial accountability, particularly in relation to the performance of the national football team, the Black Stars.

    “We are where we are now because of mismanagement, because of bad leadership,” Ablakwa asserted. “I was expecting that in this time of injury time, the president will indicate that he has reflected and will now offer us a new paradigm and do things differently but clearly there is no hope and the only way forward is to kick them out.”

    Drawing attention to what he perceived as contradictions in the President’s actions, Ablakwa pointed to Akufo-Addo’s failure to fulfill promises made in his inaugural address, particularly regarding tax waivers and exemptions.

    “The way he started his tenure, that’s not how he is ending,” Ablakwa observed. “He gave us so much hope, presented himself as someone who can be trusted but as it is now, it is a very very disappointing outcome,” he added.

  • Chad attributes deadly attack on security agency to opposition

    Chad attributes deadly attack on security agency to opposition

    The Chad government reported that numerous individuals were killed in an assault on the National Security Agency headquarters in Chad. “The government said everything is now okay and they have everything under control. ”

    The Socialist Party Without Borders (PSF) members were taken into custody and will face legal action.

    The attack in the capital city, N’Djamena, happened just a few hours after the announcement that Chad will have a presidential election on May 6th.

    The government said that anyone who tries to disrupt the democratic process in the country will be punished.

    The Communication Minister, Abderaman Koulamallah, said that the leader of the PSF, Yaya Dillo, was behind the attack on the national security agency. He has not said anything yet.

    It’s not sure if Mr. Dillo was arrested, but he posted on Facebook that the military came for him on Wednesday morning. The government also said the PSF was part of a recent “attempt to kill” the president of the Supreme Court.

    Mr Dillo said he wasn’t involved in the attack and called it a setup, according to AFP.

    Mr Dillo doesn’t like President Mahamat Déby. Déby became president in 2021 after his father was killed by rebels. President Déby said he would make the country run by regular people again, but he took more than two years to do it.

    The election is meant to signal the completion of a change in political leadership.

    The Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS) has chosen President Déby as their candidate for the next elections, but he hasn’t said if he will run yet.

    Since the transition began, France, which used to have colonies in the area, has been supporting Mr. This has surprised and concerned people both inside and outside the country. France has around 1,000 soldiers in Chad to fight against extremist groups in West Africa.

    The opposition believes the electoral commission is not fair, and they are worried that the Déby family will continue to stay in power for a long time.

  • SONA 2024: Akufo-Addo is a President of contradiction – Ablakwa

    SONA 2024: Akufo-Addo is a President of contradiction – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Okudzeto Ablakwa, has leveled sharp criticism against President Nana Akufo-Addo, accusing him of being a “President of contradictions.”

    His criticism stems from President Akufo-Addo’s apparent reversal on his promise to address the issue of tax waivers and exemptions upon assuming office. 

    Addressing journalists after President Akufo-Addo delivered the 2024 State of the Nation Address on February 27, 2024, Mr Ablakwa pointed out that during President Akufo-Addo’s first State of the Nation Address (SONA), he vowed to end tax exemptions. 

    However, the President is now advocating for the approval of tax exemptions, contradicting his earlier stance.

    “Go and read his first SONA, he said when he comes into office, he is going to address the issue of tax waivers, tax exemptions, he’s going to end it but today, he’s rather urging us to approve the tax exemptions he has presented to us,” Ablakwa remarked.

    Ablakwa’s comments highlight what he perceives as a shift in the President’s position on tax policies, leading him to characterize President Akufo-Addo as a leader marked by inconsistencies.

    Also, he chastised the President for failing on his promise to tackle corruption head-on as promised prior to assuming the role.

    “[One] disappointment is the President’s refusal to touch on corruption. Looking at the first State of the Nation Address, he assured us he was going to protect the public purse; he will fight corruption  head-on, now in his eight years, he can’t even approach the issue of corruption, he is avoiding the promise to protect the public purse. So what is going on?  Is he conceding defeat that corruption has defeated him?” he said.

  • Japan grants protected status to Staffordshire Cheese

    Japan grants protected status to Staffordshire Cheese

    Staffordshire Cheese now has special protection in Japan, just like some other British food and drinks.

    Other things that need to be kept safe are Cornish Pasties and Anglesey Sea Salt. These will now be protected from being copied in East Asia.

    The UK government said that businesses in the country were happy about the announcement.

    Additional protections will be announced after more work is finished.

    A person who speaks for the government said: “A lot of people in Japan, about 125 million, really like to eat and drink food from other countries. ”

    They said: “Protecting the names of famous British products like Melton Mowbray Pork Pies, Welsh Beef, and Staffordshire Cheese stops fake products from being sold in Japan. This helps UK companies sell their products there and makes sure that people get real, good-quality items. ”

    Food and farming minister Mark Spencer said that the protection guarantees that the goods Japanese consumers are buying are of good quality.

    ‘Classic cheese from Britain’

    Mary Button from Staffordshire Cheese Co in Cheddleton said that anyone who wants to make Staffordshire cheese has to follow strict rules to use the name.

    These tell us where it’s from, how it’s made, and how big it is. “If someone makes cheese and doesn’t follow the rules, they could get in trouble,”. She said Staffordshire Cheese is made from a traditional, strong British cheese. It is believed to have been made in the area for many years.

    Ms Button said that her company is the only one making this thing right now.

    In addition to Japan’s new protections, the UK will also protect the names and locations of certain Japanese food and drink products, like Hokkaido wine and Hiba beef.

  • GPHA attains ISO certifications, advances commitment to health, safety, and environment 

    GPHA attains ISO certifications, advances commitment to health, safety, and environment 

    Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining certifications in ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, ISO 45001:2018, and ISO 27001:2013 standards. 

    These certifications signify the organization’s adherence to internationally recognized frameworks for quality management, environmental sustainability, occupational health and safety, and information security.

    With a commitment to upholding standards in these crucial areas, GPHA aims to enhance internal processes while fostering trust and credibility with customers, partners, and stakeholders. 

    To ensure effective implementation and oversight of these standards, GPHA has established an Occupational Health, Safety, and Environment (OHSE) Committee, comprising key members of top management and staff.

    Mrs. Frances Jemimah Manu, the ISO Coordinator of GPHA, plays a pivotal role within the OHSE Committee, facilitating communication and action plans between department heads and the committee. 

    Recently, the committee spearheaded the revision and aggressive implementation of GPHA’s OHSE policy, fostering a culture that prioritizes health, safety, and environmental sustainability at the ports.

    To further reinforce awareness and understanding of OHSE practices, GPHA conducted a sensitization drive among staff and stakeholders. This initiative aims to promote employee well-being, minimize accidents, and enhance safety compliance and environmental consciousness within the port environment.

    Speaking on the significance of ISO certifications, Mrs. Manu emphasized their role in maintaining trust with the global business community and ensuring compliance with international regulations. 

    She underscored the importance of upholding ISO procedures in line with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, urging staff to champion health, safety, and environmental consciousness.

    GPHA has made its policies accessible to both internal and external stakeholders, with copies available on its website and through internal distribution channels. 

    Mrs. Manu encouraged everyone to familiarize themselves with these policies to facilitate smooth and safe operations within the port environment.

    Overall, GPHA’s attainment of ISO certifications represents a significant stride in its ongoing commitment to excellence in health, safety, and environmental sustainability, positioning the organization as a responsible and reliable player in the global maritime industry.

  • GPHA intensifies efforts to prioritize health, safety, and environmental sustainability at Ghana’s ports

    GPHA intensifies efforts to prioritize health, safety, and environmental sustainability at Ghana’s ports

    The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) is reaffirming its commitment to prioritize the health, safety, and environmental sustainability of its staff and stakeholders. 

    Recognizing the pivotal role played by these factors in its operations and the overall well-being of its workforce, the organization has intensified efforts to provide a safe working environment for all employees and port users.

    In line with this commitment, the GPHA has implemented various initiatives aimed at promoting health, safety, and environmental awareness among its staff and stakeholders. 

    Recently, the Ports of Tema and Takoradi witnessed a vigorous awareness campaign led by the Occupational Health, Safety, and Environment Committee (OHSE) of GPHA. 

    This initiative sought to educate employees and stakeholders on the Occupational Health and Environment policies and procedures of the Port Authority.

    Dr. Vitus Victor Anaab-Bisi, Chairman of the OHSE Committee, emphasized the importance of fostering an organizational culture that prioritizes health, safety, and environment to enhance productivity. 

    He highlighted the rigorous regime established by the GPHA for handling incidents, accidents, and near-misses within the port environment, underscoring the unwavering commitment of top management to allocate sufficient resources for health and safety.

    Moreover, Dr. Anaab-Bisi outlined measures to enforce compliance with health and safety protocols, including the introduction of punitive measures for defaulters. 

    He emphasized the strict enforcement of the Authority’s zero-tolerance policy for drug and alcohol abuse, highlighting the use of breathalyzers and multiple drug tests to deter such behavior.

    Dr. Anaab-Bisi reiterated the vital role played by port workers in the economy and emphasized the need for personal responsibility in maintaining health and safety. He commended the support of top management for OHSE initiatives and encouraged staff and stakeholders to uphold the momentum in promoting health, safety, and environmental sustainability at the ports of Ghana.

    The GPHA’s commitment to ensuring a safe working environment reflects its dedication to the well-being of its workforce and the sustainability of its operations. 

    Through continuous education, enforcement of protocols, and collaboration with stakeholders, the Authority aims to foster a culture of health, safety, and environmental responsibility for enhanced productivity and efficiency in port operations.

  • BoG adjusts momo transaction limits to meet growing demand

    In response to the rapid growth in mobile money transactions and evolving customer needs, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced revisions to the balance and transaction limits of mobile money wallets, effective March 1, 2024.

    The decision to revise the limits comes after the release of the 2023 Fintech Sector report by the Bank of Ghana, which highlighted a significant surge in mobile money transactions. 

    According to the report, there was a remarkable 79 percent increase in the total value of Mobile Money transactions, reaching GHS1.9 trillion compared to the figures recorded in 2022. 

    Additionally, the total value of Mobile Accounts (Funds) held with commercial banks witnessed a 40% increase, reaching GHS18.3 billion.

    Acknowledging the growing trends in transactional activities and the need to accommodate evolving customer demands, the Bank of Ghana deemed it necessary to adjust the transaction limits for various customer accounts.

    Effective March 1, 2024, the newly approved guidelines include adjustments to the transaction limits for different customer accounts.

    These adjustments aim to ensure that mobile money users can effectively conduct their transactions while maintaining the security and integrity of the mobile money ecosystem.

    The revisions in transaction limits are expected to provide greater flexibility and convenience for mobile money users across the country. Furthermore, it aligns with the Bank of Ghana’s commitment to fostering financial inclusion and promoting the use of digital financial services in Ghana.

    As mobile money continues to play a vital role in driving financial inclusion and economic growth in Ghana, the Bank of Ghana remains committed to monitoring and adapting to the evolving needs of mobile money users and the broader financial ecosystem.