TIG Post

Author: Chris Kodo

  • Mahama never believed in the ‘Better Ghana Agenda’ of Prof Mills – Koku Anyidoho asserts

    Mahama never believed in the ‘Better Ghana Agenda’ of Prof Mills – Koku Anyidoho asserts

    Former Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Koku Anyidoho, is seeking answers from former President John Dramani Mahama  over his plan to rename public universities if elected into office in 2025.

    Mr Anyidoho criticized Mahama’s proposal, arguing that the focus should be on job creation and advancing the “Better Ghana” agenda rather than renaming institutions.

    In a series of tweets, Anyidoho expressed his dissatisfaction with Mahama’s intention to rename universities, suggesting that it reflects a continuation of what he described as an “endless drab cycle” of political manoeuvring.

    “24hr economy to be used for honeymoon & University name change – not for Creating Jobs, Investing in People, Expanding Infrastructure, Governing in an Open, Honest & Transparent manner. Obviously, Opana never believed in the Better Ghana Agenda of Prez Mills. God save Ghana,” Anyidoho tweeted.

    He questioned the efficacy of renaming universities in addressing graduate unemployment and improving Ghana’s economic situation, labeling it as part of the “do me I do you” politics that perpetuates mediocrity.

    “If you name UHAS, Atta-Mills University for Health and Allied Sciences, how does that affect its core mandate? Honestly, if I was President Akufo-Addo, after building Asomdwe Park, I would name UHAS after Atta-Mills and see if Opana would dare say he would change that one too,” Anyidoho remarked.

    Meanwhile, John Mahama has reiterated his commitment to revert the names of public universities if the NDC regains power in 2025. Mahama accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government of merely renaming universities constructed by the NDC, emphasizing the lack of establishment of new universities by the NPP during its tenure.

    Mahama emphasized the importance of maintaining the original names of public universities to reflect their core mandates, suggesting that administration blocks, hostels, and libraries could bear the names of individuals instead.

    “We will restore the original names, and the names that they have given them, will be given to a significant infrastructure in the Universities. We will add other people and name the infrastructure in the Universities after them. But if the University is University for Development Studies, that is its core mandate. It will be called the University for Development Studies,” Mahama stated.

    The debate surrounding university renaming continues to provoke discussion among political circles, highlighting differing perspectives on the priorities and approaches to governance in Ghana.

  • Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and Blinken speak on “regional coordination” to end Gaza War

    Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and Blinken speak on “regional coordination” to end Gaza War

    US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman talked about working together to stop the war in Gaza and help the area recover after the fighting. This information was shared by a State Department spokesperson.

    In a meeting that lasted over two hours in Riyadh, the leaders also talked about helping the people in Gaza and stopping the conflict from getting worse. They also discussed the need to reduce tensions in the region, including attacks by the Houthis in the Red Sea, according to spokesperson Matt Miller.

    After his meetings in the area last month, Blinken said that US partners in the Middle East are prepared to help find a solution to stop the ongoing violence and make sure Israel is safe.

    Blinken said that at the time, those partners made it clear that this should include “a way for Palestinians to have their own state. “

  • UN chief names panel to conduct impartial external assessment of UNRWA

    UN chief names panel to conduct impartial external assessment of UNRWA

    The UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has chosen a team to check and review the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). UNRWA helps Palestinians in Gaza with things like food and shelter.

    An outside review will start on February 14. At the same time, the UN will also investigate claims that UNRWA staff were part of Hamas’ October 7 attacks.

    Catherine Colonna, who used to be in charge of France’s relationships with other countries, will be in charge of looking at something and will work with three research groups: the Raoul Wallenberg Institute in Sweden, the Chr. Norwegian Michelsen Institute and Danish Institute for Human Rights.

    The group will check if the Agency is doing its best to stay neutral and deal with serious problems. Guterres said that Israeli help is important for the investigation to work well.

    UNRWA fired some workers because of the allegations. The United States and other countries have stopped giving money to the organization because of the crisis in Gaza. The agency said it will probably have to stop helping people by the end of February because it’s not getting enough money. This will make the situation worse for the people in Gaza and other places where they help Palestinian refugees.

    More update on this story soon.

  • Director-General, why do you behave like this? – PAC Chairman rebukes NSA director

    Director-General, why do you behave like this? – PAC Chairman rebukes NSA director

    Tempers flared during a session of Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Monday, February 5, 2024, as Chairman James Klutse Avedzi reprimanded Professor Peter Twumasi, the Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), over allegations of undermining the authority of the Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif.

    The heated exchange arose from Prof Twumasi’s explanation regarding the directive to transfer the Central Regional Director of the NSA, Alexander Tieku, despite the minister’s instructions to the contrary. The minister had instructed a grass specialist to assist in fixing the pitch at the Cape Coast Stadium following Ghana’s Independence Day celebrations, but Mr Tieku allegedly ignored the directive.

    Frustrated by the interruptions to his flow during the committee hearing, Chairman Avedzi chastised Prof Twumasi, questioning his behavior and likening it to irresponsible parenting. “Director General, I am talking, why? Why do you behave like this? Is that how you are training your children?” Avedzi exclaimed.

    The Minister for Youth and Sports had previously expressed dissatisfaction with Mr Tieku’s insubordination, citing disrespect towards his authority. Despite issuing instructions for Mr Tieku’s transfer to Koforidua, Prof Twumasi signed a letter directing him to remain at Cape Coast, a move deemed as undermining the minister’s authority by Chairman Avedzi.

    “You are not actually respecting the minister at all; you are actually undermining the minister. It is not good. No, Mr Twumasi it is not good,” Avedzi admonished.

    The exchange highlights tensions within the National Sports Authority and underscores the importance of accountability and respect for authority within government agencies. The incident also emphasizes the crucial role of parliamentary oversight in ensuring transparency and accountability in public institutions.

    As the investigation into the matter continues, stakeholders are urged to prioritize cooperation and adherence to established protocols to avoid further friction and maintain effective governance within the sports sector.

  • Over 120 people dead in Chile as result of wildfires

    Over 120 people dead in Chile as result of wildfires

    Deadly fires in Chile have burned many areas and killed over 120 people. The authorities say more people could die.

    At least 122 people have died already, according to the city of Valparaiso’s Legal Medical Services on Monday. Authorities also said that they have identified 32 bodies, performed 40 autopsies, and are ready to give 10 bodies to their families.

    Images and videos from the news agency showed the widespread damage caused by the fires in many communities over the weekend. From above, pictures from El Olivar showed many cars burned and destroyed, and many houses turned to ash. A video from CNN showed the inside of a bus driving through Valparaíso while fires burned outside.

    The Chilean National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (SENAPRED) said there are 161 fires burning in the country right now.

    The SENAPRED Director, Álvaro Hormazábal, told the media that firefighters have stopped 102 fires, but are still fighting 40 others. Nineteen fires are being watched right now, said Hormazábal.

    President Gabriel Boric said there is a big problem in coastal cities like Viña del Mar and Valparaiso, so he declared a state of emergency. The cities were filled with smoke. People living in the middle of the city had to leave their homes too. Boric spoke at a press conference after visiting the areas that were affected. He is worried that the number of people who died will go up a lot.

    On TV, Boric said that the defense ministry will send more soldiers to places that need help, and they will have everything they need.

    He said Monday and Tuesday will be national days of sadness for the people who died in the fire.

    The problem of climate change, caused by humans, is making heat waves and droughts, which make wildfires happen more often and with more strength. The world is having the El Niño phenomenon right now, which is making temperatures even hotter.

    Fires are getting worse everywhere, showing how the climate crisis is changing and causing a lot of damage. And experts say that it will only get more bad. The UN Environment Programme said in a report in 2022 that uncontrolled and very damaging wildfires are now a common part of the seasons in many parts of the world.

    The UN report says that the amount of very serious wildfires will go up by 14% by 2030. In 2050, the increase will go up by 30%.

    In Chile, there are fires happening while the country is dealing with very hot weather in the summer. The city of Santiago has been experiencing very hot and dry weather with temperatures above 33 degrees Celsius (91. 4°F) for several days in a row.

    Colombia had big fires, and they asked for help from other countries to fight the fires. They said it was a disaster.

    Emergency teams in Chile are focusing on putting out the fires in the port city of Valparaíso first because it is close to where people live. Local leaders said that 372 people in the area are missing.

    Valparaiso is a famous place for tourists. It is in Chile, about 70 miles away from the capital city, Santiago. People like to visit because of its pretty houses, hilly landscapes, and its old town with a lot of history.

    Valeria Melipillán, who is the leader of Quilpué city in central Chile, said to CNN Chile that the wildfires are the biggest ever in the region. About 1,400 homes in the town have been harmed, said Melipillán.

    Chile’s Finance Minister Mario Marcel said on Sunday that early estimates show that the damages in the Valparaíso region will be very expensive, possibly costing hundreds of millions of dollars.

    Some people in the affected areas did not leave their homes even though they were told to do so. Evacuation efforts were good, but some people didn’t want to go. That’s what local search and rescue officials said.

    Rodrigo Mundaca, the leader of Valparaiso, said there are curfews in place in Viña del Mar, Quilpué, Villa Alemana, and Limache so that the authorities can focus on stopping the fires.

    Pope Francis, who is from Argentina, asked people to pray for the people who died or got hurt in the big fires in central Chile.

    CNN Chile reported that they have arrested at least one person in connection to the wildfires.

    The police said a man in Talca, Chile was welding at home when a fire started and spread to the grasslands.

    The person accused of a crime will go to court on Sunday in Talca, as reported by the Maule Prosecutor’s Office.

    A man’s mother died and he told CNN in Spanish that he can’t find his 14-year-old sister and is looking for her.

    “I think she may be confused,” said Ariel Orellana. “I strongly believe that she will come and stop this nightmare. ”

    Orellana said his sister, Anastasia, was last seen running away from the wildfire in the Pompeya community in Viña del Mar, which is in central Chile.

    The girl was living with her mom and her mom’s partner who also died in the fires, Orellana said.

    On Saturday, Orellana couldn’t talk to his mom, so he went to Pompeya and found the couple’s dead bodies near their car.

    “They couldn’t get away,” Orellana said. “They had a van, they tried to escape in it, and the van was surrounded by the fire. ”

    Orellana is still looking for his sister in the places that have been destroyed by the fires. He is also using social media to ask people for help in finding her.

    I only found two bodies, not three. I only found two bodies, not three. He said, “I’m still searching for my sister. “

  • Chairman Wontumi calls on defeated Parliamentary aspirants to rally behind NPP’s campaign for 2024 elections

    Chairman Wontumi calls on defeated Parliamentary aspirants to rally behind NPP’s campaign for 2024 elections

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Wontumi, has issued a rallying cry to defeated parliamentary aspirants, urging them to actively contribute to the party’s campaign efforts ahead of the 2024 general election.

    In a closed-door meeting with candidates who contested in the party’s parliamentary primaries on Monday, February 5, 2024, Chairman Wontumi expressed appreciation for their participation while emphasizing the importance of unity and collective action in securing victory for the NPP.

    “Our party has always recognized those who work hard, so, if you lost in the primaries, please go back to your constituency and support the one who won,” Wontumi stated, highlighting the need for solidarity within the party ranks.

    He assured the aspirants that active participation in the campaign would not go unnoticed, hinting at potential rewards under a future NPP government led by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    “The Vice President will definitely reward all of us in his government if the NPP breaks the 8 ‘Isha Allah’,” Wontumi affirmed, referencing the party’s aspiration to secure a third consecutive term in office.

    Highlighting the importance of unity and cohesion within the party, Wontumi expressed confidence in the NPP’s ability to secure victory in the upcoming election. He emphasized the party’s commitment to building a better Ghana and asserted that the NDC posed no threat to their electoral prospects.

    “As for the NDC, they are not the hope, so when we move into the election with a united force, we’ll win,” Wontumi declared, exuding optimism about the party’s electoral prospects.

    The call to action comes following the conclusion of the NPP’s internal elections on January 27, 2024, which saw the election of parliamentary candidates in constituencies where the party has sitting MPs. Notably, 28 sitting MPs lost their bid for re-election, signaling a potential shift in dynamics within the party.

    With Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia elected as the party’s presidential candidate in November 2023, the NPP gears up for a spirited campaign as it seeks to retain power and continue its agenda of development and progress for the people of Ghana.

  • Man found unconscious behind steering wheel at Lapaz

    Man found unconscious behind steering wheel at Lapaz

    An unidentified man has been discovered unconscious behind the steering wheel of his white, tinted car on the Abeka-Lapaz Road in Accra. The incident, captured on video and shared online, has sparked concern and speculation about the man’s condition.

    The video, initially shared by UTV on X, quickly went viral, depicting several individuals gathered around the car as they attempted to rouse the unresponsive man. In the footage, the man is seen slumped over in the driver’s seat, with the windows of the car initially rolled up, hindering access to him.

    Efforts by bystanders to gain the man’s attention proved unsuccessful until some managed to roll down the driver’s side window, revealing the man’s clean-shaven head and plain white shirt. Despite the intervention, the man remained motionless, prompting further concern from onlookers.

    Among those present at the scene was a uniformed policeman, seen in the video attempting to manage the crowd and maintain order.

    As of now, the circumstances leading to the man’s unconscious state remain unclear, leaving many questions unanswered. While the caption of the viral post suggested that the man’s condition was unknown, speculation and concern continue to mount regarding his well-being and the events leading up to the incident.

    Authorities have yet to release any official statement regarding the incident, further fueling speculation and uncertainty surrounding the situation.

    As the investigation unfolds, the public is urged to exercise restraint and avoid spreading unverified information. The priority remains ensuring the welfare of the unidentified man and uncovering the truth behind his sudden incapacitation.

    In the meantime, the viral video serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of swift intervention and assistance in times of crisis. It is hoped that the man receives the necessary medical attention and support to recover from this alarming ordeal.

  • Senegal in danger after elections were postponed

    Senegal in danger after elections were postponed

    Senegal is known for being a strong supporter of democracy in a troubled area. But now, there are clashes between protesters and police near the National Assembly, and this could hurt its reputation.

    In a meeting, politicians agreed to change the rules so that President Macky Sall can stay in office for longer and the elections can be delayed. This happened because he canceled the upcoming election with only three weeks left.

    Khalifa Sall, a top critic and former mayor of Dakar who is not related to the president, said the delay is like breaking the rules of the country and is telling people to protest against it. His group of politicians promised to take their case to the court.

    Thierno Alassane Sall, a different candidate who is not related, said it was very wrong and encouraged his followers to go to the National Assembly to protest and make sure the lawmakers do the right thing.

    The idea had to be supported by three out of every five people. The ruling Benno Bokk Yakaar coalition, which includes President Sall’s party, has a small lead in parliament.

    The room was tense and it was said that some MPs who disagreed with the government were taken out by security because they tried to stop the meeting.

    In the end, 105 members of Parliament agreed with the proposal. At first, they wanted to delay it for six months, but they changed their minds at the last minute and extended it to 10 months, or until December 15th.

    Mr Sall said again that he was not going to run for office again. But people who don’t like him say that he is either trying to hold onto power or unfairly influencing the next leader.

    As soon as he said the event will be delayed for the first time ever, protesters walked through the city of Dakar, asking for it to be changed back.

    Senegal has been considered as a very stable democracy in West Africa for a long time. It is the only country in mainland West Africa that has never had a takeover by the army. It has had three times when people peacefully gave their power to someone else, and it always had presidential elections on time.

    In 2017, soldiers from Senegal went to The Gambia to kick out Yahya Jammeh, who had been in charge for a long time, because he didn’t want to admit he lost an election. In a place where there have been many sudden takeovers of the government, President Sall has played an important role in getting countries in West Africa to make military leaders have elections and give up power to regular people.

    Senegal’s reputation for being a democratic country is in danger, and there is a growing problem with the country’s constitution. Experts believe that the country is being tested on whether its elections are fair and if its courts can make decisions without being influenced.

    For over two years, there has been increasing conflict because the opposition believes they were unfairly kept out of the election by falsely accusing their candidates of crimes. One big party that disagreed was not allowed to participate anymore.

    The officials said they didn’t use the law for politics and the President tried to calm things down by postponing the vote, but it doesn’t seem to have worked.

    “The decision has caused a big problem with Senegal’s constitution,” says Mucahid Durmaz, an expert on West Africa at risk intelligence company Verisk Maplecroth, when talking to the media.

    The law says that elections must be scheduled at least 30 days before the current president’s term ends. Sall’s rule will end on April 2nd. The electoral calendar must be made public 80 days before the vote. Even if he chooses a temporary president after 2 April, some people will argue about whether it is legal or not.

    The government stopped people from using mobile internet to stop them from spreading harmful messages online and to make it difficult for protesters to make plans.

    Some people have been using wifi and Virtual Private Networks (VPN’s) to get around the restrictions, but not everyone can do this.

    The opposition is unhappy about the private TV channel Walf TV being taken off the air because the government says it was encouraging violence during the protests.

    Two politicians who oppose the government, including former Prime Minister Aminata Touré, were briefly taken into custody after the protests. Touré used to be a close friend of President Sall but now she strongly disagrees with him.

    Critics worry that the crackdown could make the country’s political problems worse and could also be bad for the whole West African area.

    People in Senegal are not as happy with their government as they used to be when Mr. Sall became the leader. In 2013, a survey by Afrobarometer showed that when Mr. Sall became president, most Senegalese people were happy with democracy. By 2022, fewer than half were.

    However, Durmaz does not think there will be a military takeover in Senegal because there are many different political parties, a strong civil society, and religious leaders who help solve problems between politicians.

    Twenty people are on the final list to run for elections, but some were not allowed to because they didn’t meet the rules.

    Two important leaders, Ousmane Sonko and Karim Wade, were not allowed to run for election. Sonko was banned because he was found guilty of libel, and Wade was accused of having citizenship in France. Both of them claim that the accusations against them are being made for political reasons.

    Even though Mr Sonko is late, he probably won’t be able to join the election. His party has already replaced him with Bassirou Faye, who is also in jail but can still run for election, according to Mr Durmaz.

    Mr Sonko has proved that he can gather his followers to protest on the streets. As long as he is not allowed, there will likely be high tensions.

    His banned political party, Pastef, has promised to fight against the delay. They say it’s a big problem for our country and shows disrespect for what the people want.

    This has happened before when people who want to win against the current leader couldn’t run in the election. Both Karim Wade and Khalifa Sall were put in jail for doing bad things in 2015 and 2018. They were also not allowed to run for office in 2019.

    This time, accusations of corruption in the Constitutional Council by Karim Wade’s party led to a government investigation.

    President Sall said the election was delayed because they needed time to solve a disagreement between the Council and some members of parliament.

    Many people are upset about the delay, but Mr. Wade’s Senegalese Democratic Party supports it. If the party’s MPs vote with the government, the bill might pass.

    But Wole Ojewale, who works in Dakar and is in charge of Central Africa at the Institute for Security Studies, says the wait is not right.

    The president does not control the election process. As long as the election officials are capable, there should be no doubts about their ability to run the election. I believe nothing should stop the political process.

    Some people think Mr. Sall was worried that his chosen successor, Prime Minister Amadou Ba, might not win the election.

    His party is losing strength. Ojewale says there are signs that they might want to change their candidate.

    He thinks we can still have the election when we planned. If not, the country could have a lot of trouble and become a place where the police have a lot of power and people’s rights are taken away. Durmaz thinks this could happen.

    Ecowas and the African Union want people to talk to each other. France, the US, and the EU want an election to happen as soon as possible.

    But Durmaz says that President Sall’s reputation in other countries would make it unlikely for him to be pressured from outside.

    “He doesn’t think Ecowas will strongly urge Senegal to change the election date. He says Ecowas and the AU’s reputation has been damaged because they haven’t been able to address the lack of democracy in civilian-led countries. ”

    Now everyone will be watching the regional groups to see how they handle another problem with democracy in West Africa.

  • Miss Japan quits after affair with already married man revealed in tabloid article

    Miss Japan quits after affair with already married man revealed in tabloid article

    A woman from Ukraine who won the Miss Japan beauty contest has given back her title because a magazine said she had a relationship with a man who is already married.

    26-year-old Karolina Shiino just won the Miss Japan title, but some people are talking about it because of her background.

    Some people were happy about the new citizen being made queen, but others said she didn’t match the usual idea of what a beautiful Japanese person looks like.

    During the chaos, a magazine in the area published a story claiming that someone is having a secret relationship.

    The magazine Shukan Bunshun said that Ms Shiino was in a relationship with a married influencer and doctor. The man did not say anything to the public.

    When the report came out last week, the organizers of the pageant said Ms Shiino didn’t know the man was married.

    However, on Monday, the organizers said she admitted to knowing about the man’s marriage and family.

    The Miss Japan Association said that she said sorry for being unclear and stepped down from her title. The organisers agreed to her resignation.

    Ms Shiino said sorry to her fans and everyone in a statement on Monday. She said she acted out of fear and panic because of the report.

    “I’m really sorry for causing a big problem and let down those who were on my side,” she said.

    The winner of the Miss Japan title is not being replaced for the rest of the year, even though there were other contestants who almost won.

    Ms Shiino won a competition on 22 January and became the first person of European descent to receive this honor. She was born in Ukraine and then went to Japan with her mom when she was five. She got her step-dad’s last name.

    She can speak and write Japanese very well and became a citizen in 2022.

    When she got the title, she said in her speech: “I have not been seen as Japanese many times, but I am thankful to be seen as Japanese today. “

  • Canadian Police apologise to victim of alleged sexual assault in ice hockey case

    Canadian Police apologise to victim of alleged sexual assault in ice hockey case

    The Canadian police apologized for the delay in the charging of five hockey players accused of sexually assaulting a woman in 2018.

    The police in London, Ontario charged four NHL players and one former player last week.

    Police said on Monday that they found new evidence in a review of the case that was not available during the initial investigation.

    All five say they did not do anything wrong and will plead not guilty.

    The five people were on Canada’s World Junior hockey team when the alleged attack happened.

    During a meeting with reporters on Monday, Police Chief Thai Truong said: “I am very sorry to the victim and their family for the long time it took to get to this point. ”

    He said, “I am really upset about this. ”

    The police stopped looking into the alleged assault in 2019 and didn’t charge anyone, but they started investigating again three years later when people in Canada started paying attention to the case.

    Sgt Katherine Dann, who is in charge of looking at the case, said her team discovered that there were more things that could have been done to make the investigation better.

    On Monday, the players’ lawyers went to a court in London to represent their clients for the first time. No players showed up.

    The lawyers asked the court to not allow anyone to say the name of the person who was hurt and two people who saw what happened.

    Five players are accused of sexual assault. Player Mike McLeod is also being accused of being involved in the crime.

    Four players in the NHL are Mr. McLeod and Cal Foote who play for the New Jersey Devils, Carter Hart who plays for the Philadelphia Flyers, and Dillon Dubé who plays for the Calgary Flames.

    The fifth person is Alex Formenton, who used to play in the NHL. Before he was arrested, Mr. Formenton was a player for the Swiss hockey team Ambri-Piotta.

    They have been away from their teams waiting for the case to be decided.

    Sgt Dann said that they have charged all the people they have good reasons to believe did something wrong.

    In 2022, a woman sued Hockey Canada for saying that eight players assaulted her in a hotel room in July 2018. Hockey Canada manages hockey programs and teams in Canada, including the Olympics.

    In May, TSN reported that Hockey Canada had settled with the woman without making a lot of noise about it.

    The news caused a lot of people in Canada to be very upset. Because of this, the organisation lost money from the government and some big sponsorships.

    When he was asked why it took almost six years for the police to file charges and if the police didn’t do a good job at first, Mr. Troung said he couldn’t give more details because it could hurt the investigation.

    He said they will talk about why it took a long time.

    The NHL did a big study, but they won’t share what they found because it’s being decided in court.

    Mr Bettman talked to reporters on Friday at the NHL All-Star weekend in Toronto. He said that NHL players will be free agents at the end of the season and won’t be with their teams during the trial.

    Mr Bettman said it’s best to wait for the end of the court case at this time.

    He also said the accusations were terrible and defended the sport despite the charges.

    “Mr Bettman said that this does not show what really happens in our game. ” “We want everyone to know that our game is for everyone, friendly and secure. ”

    The players have to go to court again on April 30. In Canada, if someone is found guilty of sexual assault, they can be put in prison for up to 10 years.

  • Remembering Turkey’s catastrophic earthquake: A year later

    Remembering Turkey’s catastrophic earthquake: A year later

    Today marks the one-year anniversary of the devastating earthquake that shook Turkey to its core, and TIGPost takes a dive into the aftermath of the earthquake.

    February 6, 2023, is a date etched into the collective memory of nationals, residents, people who had relatives in Turkey and the global community alike. 

    At exactly 04:17 TRT (01:17 UTC), a Mw 7.8 earthquake struck southern and central Turkey and northern and western Syria.

    In the immediate aftermath of the earthquake were scenes of chaos and devastation as buildings crumbled, streets buckled, and many lives were tragically lost.

    The toll was staggering, with thousands injured and many displaced, and families torn apart by the merciless force of nature.

    Although the earthquake’s epicenter was far from Ghana’s shores, the loss of Christian Atsu brought the devastation closer to home. Atsu was a remarkable player whose presence on the football field brought joy and inspiration to countless fans. 

    His talent transcended borders and was prior to his demise playing for Hatayspor in Turkey, but unfortunately he lost his life in the incident. 

    As a result, Ghanaians joined the global community in mourning the lives lost and extending support to those affected by the disaster.

    The confirmed death toll in Turkey was 53,537; estimates of the number of dead in Syria were between 5,951 and 8,476. 

    The February 6, 2023, earthquake has been recorded as the deadliest earthquake in what is now present-day Turkey since the 526 Antioch earthquake and the deadliest natural disaster in its modern history.

    Yet, amidst the rubble and despair, ordinary people became heroes, as they risked their lives to save others trapped beneath the debris. 

    Communities came together, offering shelter, food, and support to those in need. International organizations also came on board to support.

    In the days and weeks following the earthquake, the world rallied behind Turkey, offering aid, assistance, and solidarity. 

    International relief efforts poured in, with teams of rescuers, medical professionals, and humanitarian organizations working tirelessly to provide relief and support to the affected communities.

    Challenges in the Recovery Process

    The recovery process in Turkey and Syria has been fraught with numerous challenges. One of the primary hurdles faced by both countries is the lack of adequate funding. Rebuilding entire communities and infrastructure requires substantial financial resources, which are often limited in the aftermath of a disaster.

    Bureaucratic hurdles have also posed significant challenges. The coordination and implementation of recovery efforts involve multiple government agencies, non-profit organizations, and international stakeholders. Streamlining these processes and ensuring effective collaboration can be a complex task, further delaying the recovery process.

    Another critical aspect of the recovery process is addressing the psychological well-being of the survivors. The earthquake left many individuals traumatized, with deep emotional scars that require attention and support. Providing mental health services and counseling to the affected population is crucial in ensuring their long-term well-being and facilitating the healing process.

    Government Response and Initiatives for Recovery

    The governments of Turkey and Syria have taken active steps to address the challenges posed by the earthquake and facilitate the recovery process. Both countries have established dedicated government agencies responsible for coordinating and overseeing the rebuilding efforts.

    In Turkey, the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization has been at the forefront of the recovery process, working closely with local authorities and international organizations. The government has implemented strict building codes and regulations to ensure the construction of earthquake-resistant structures, aiming to minimize the impact of future disasters.

    Syria, despite facing political and economic challenges, has also made progress in its recovery efforts. The Syrian government has prioritized the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure, such as water and electricity networks, to restore essential services to the affected regions. Government-led initiatives have focused on providing temporary shelter, healthcare services, and education facilities to displaced communities.

    International Aid and Support for the Affected Regions

    The international community has played a crucial role in supporting Turkey and Syria’s recovery process. Various countries, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies have extended financial assistance, technical expertise, and humanitarian aid to the affected regions.

    International aid has been instrumental in addressing immediate needs, such as emergency medical assistance, food, and clean water. Additionally, foreign governments and organizations have partnered with local authorities to provide resources for long-term reconstruction, including funding for housing, infrastructure, and sustainable development projects.

    Collaboration between local and international stakeholders has been essential in leveraging expertise and resources to accelerate the recovery process. Non-profit organizations have been actively involved in providing on-ground support, including emergency relief, medical services, and psychological counseling to survivors.

    Infrastructure and Housing Reconstruction Efforts

    Rebuilding infrastructure and housing has been a significant focus of the recovery process in Turkey and Syria. Efforts have been made to restore damaged roads, bridges, and utilities, ensuring the efficient functioning of essential services. The construction of earthquake-resistant buildings has also been prioritized to mitigate future risks.

    In Turkey, the government has implemented innovative approaches to housing reconstruction, such as the use of prefabricated structures. Prefabricated housing offers a cost-effective and rapid solution to provide temporary shelter to displaced communities while permanent housing is being constructed.

    Syria, with its extensive urban damage, has faced unique challenges in rebuilding its cities. The government has worked closely with international experts to develop urban planning strategies that prioritize safety, accessibility, and sustainability. Efforts are underway to restore public spaces, revitalize neighborhoods, and create resilient communities.

    Economic Recovery and Rebuilding Local Businesses

    The earthquake’s impact on the local economy has been significant, with businesses and livelihoods disrupted in the affected regions. Economic recovery has been a crucial aspect of the overall recovery process in Turkey and Syria.

    Both countries have implemented measures to support local businesses and stimulate economic growth. In Turkey, the government has provided financial assistance and tax incentives to affected businesses, encouraging them to resume operations and contribute to the recovery efforts.

    Syria, despite the ongoing conflict, has also taken steps to rebuild its economy. The government has focused on creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurship and attracting investments to the affected regions. Efforts have been made to provide microfinance opportunities and vocational training to empower individuals and rebuild livelihoods.

    Rehabilitation of Healthcare and Education Systems

    The earthquake severely impacted healthcare and education systems in the affected regions. Hospitals and medical facilities were damaged, leaving communities without access to essential healthcare services. Schools and educational institutions were also destroyed or rendered unsafe, disrupting the education of thousands of children.

    Rehabilitating healthcare and education systems has been a top priority for Turkey and Syria. Both countries have worked towards restoring healthcare facilities, ensuring the availability of medical supplies, and training healthcare professionals to address the increased demand for services.

    In the education sector, efforts have been made to rebuild schools and provide temporary learning spaces for children. Access to quality education is seen as crucial for the long-term recovery and development of the affected regions. Innovative solutions, such as mobile classrooms and distance learning programs, have been implemented to ensure continued education.

    Environmental Impact and Conservation Efforts

    The earthquake’s impact extended beyond human lives and infrastructure, affecting the environment and natural resources. The destruction of ecosystems, soil erosion, and potential hazards posed by damaged infrastructure have raised concerns about the long-term environmental impact.

    To address these challenges, Turkey and Syria have focused on implementing sustainable and eco-friendly practices in the recovery process. Efforts have been made to restore and conserve natural habitats, promote reforestation, and mitigate the risks of future disasters through better land management and urban planning.

    Conservation organizations and environmental experts have collaborated with local authorities to develop strategies that balance the need for reconstruction with environmental preservation. The integration of green infrastructure and sustainable design principles in rebuilding efforts has been crucial in creating resilient and environmentally conscious communities.

    Achievements and Lessons Learned from the Recovery Process

    Despite the numerous challenges, Turkey and Syria have achieved significant milestones in their recovery process. The communities have shown resilience and strength, coming together to rebuild their lives and support each other in times of adversity.

    From the establishment of efficient coordination mechanisms to the implementation of innovative solutions, the recovery efforts have showcased the determination and resourcefulness of the affected regions. The international community’s support and collaboration have also played a vital role in accelerating the recovery process.

    The recovery process has provided valuable lessons for future disaster preparedness and response. The importance of early warning systems, robust infrastructure, and community engagement in disaster management has been emphasized. The need for stronger international cooperation and support in times of crisis has also been highlighted.

    As Turkey and Syria continue their journey towards recovery and healing, the challenges may persist, but the achievements attained thus far serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of unity in the face of adversity.


  • ECG transformer, copper windings stolen in Nsawam-Adoagyiri

    ECG transformer, copper windings stolen in Nsawam-Adoagyiri

    Unidentified individuals targeted and vandalised a 200kVA transformer belonging to the Electricity Company of Ghana Ltd (ECG) in Nsawam Adoagyiri, leaving the community of Nkumkrom shrouded in darkness.

    The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, February 2, 2024, has sparked outrage and concern among residents and ECG officials alike.

    According to a statement issued by ECG, the perpetrators dismantled and stole copper windings from the transformer, rendering it inoperable. The transformer, which served as a vital source of electricity for the residents of Nkumkrom, was forcefully pushed down from its pole mount, exacerbating the impact of the theft and leaving the entire community without power.

    The estimated cost of the 200kVA transformer is valued at GhS 80,000.00, a significant financial loss for ECG and a devastating blow to the affected community. Emmanuel Ankrah, the Acting General Manager of the Accra West Region, expressed dismay over the incident, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in safeguarding ECG installations.

    “All electrical equipment we have installed in communities are for the benefit of the community, and so we all have to show greater care so that a few miscreants do not deny us of the benefits of these investments,” Ankrah stated.

    The theft of copper windings from transformers is not a new phenomenon in Ghana, with similar incidents reported in various parts of the country in recent years. These thefts not only disrupt essential services but also pose significant safety risks to both the perpetrators and the community at large.

    ECG has swiftly reported the incident to the Police, and investigations are currently underway to apprehend the culprits responsible for this act of sabotage. Meanwhile, efforts are being made to restore electricity to Nkumkrom and mitigate the impact of the outage on residents.

    As the investigation progresses, ECG and local authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities around ECG installations. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community cooperation in safeguarding vital infrastructure and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of essential services to all Ghanaian communities.

  • California drenched in unprecedented rainfall, killing three

    California drenched in unprecedented rainfall, killing three

    At least three people died after trees fell on them during a strong storm in California. The storm caused flooding, mudslides, and power outages.

    Firefighters have helped with more than 130 flooding problems and saved many people since the heavy rain started.

    Experts predict that there will be a lot of rain and dangerous flooding until Tuesday.

    The governor said there is a big problem with too much rain in eight counties, so he made a rule that there is a big emergency.

    The storm is caused by something called an “atmospheric river. ” This happens when water evaporates into the air and is carried by the wind, creating long streams of water in the sky, kind of like rivers on land.

    This slow storm is the second big rainstorm to hit California in two weeks.

    Authorities have told people to leave their homes in some neighborhoods in the southern part of the state, including in Los Angeles. The city leaders said it’s an emergency.

    LA Mayor Karen Bass said on Monday that it is really important to stay safe and not drive on the roads right now. “Only go out of your house if you really have to. ”

    Up in northern San Francisco, which is one of the hilliest cities in the world, landslides have been happening in the area.

    Three men have been killed by trees falling on them. One of the accidents happened in Sacramento Valley, and another one occurred when a tree fell on a house in Santa Cruz County. A man who was getting old died in Yuba City, in Northern California, when a big redwood tree fell in his backyard.

    The storm also brought a lot of snow to the area. An avalanche happened on Monday at a ski resort in Lee Canyon near Las Vegas, Nevada. Luckily, no one got hurt.

    Mud and rocks are sliding down the mountains in Los Angeles. On Sunday, 16 people had to leave their homes in Hollywood Hills because mudslides damaged their houses and caused gas leaks.

    People saw fridges and pianos floating on the streets along with all the other mess.

    Problems also happened in the fancy neighborhoods of Bel Air and Beverly Hills in LA.

    People driving in Los Angeles and San Bernardino County got stuck because of flooding. Rescuers had to help them.

    A dad, mom, and daughter had to leave their car on Monday because of a flood. They climbed a tree to stay safe from the water. The San Bernardino fire crews saw them do this.

    Rescuers helped 19 people on a boat after it got stuck on rocks near Long Beach. The boat lost its tall pole and the wind was very strong.

    Lifeguards sent swimmers to help the group, who were then taken to safety in boats. Only one person was hurt, but not seriously.

    Very strong winds, reaching up to 70mph (112km/h), have cut off electricity and knocked down trees. But the winds are expected to calm down a lot by Monday night.

    It is happening after a very successful day for the state. The National Weather Service (NWS) said that on Sunday, 4. 1 inches (104 centimeters) of rain fell in downtown Los Angeles, breaking the old record of 2. 5 inches set in 1927.

    By Monday afternoon, some areas in LA County had gotten more than 11 inches of rain since the weekend – almost reaching the nearly 15 inches that the region usually gets in a whole year.

    The storm got really strong really fast because cold air and warm sea air mixed together. This made the air pressure drop quickly and created a “bomb cyclone,” according to UCLA climate scientist Daniel Swain.

    Winds going over 100 miles per hour were reported in the Bay Area, he mentioned in a talk on Monday.

    The storm and flooding made schools close from Malibu to Sonoma County, near San Francisco.

  • Children’s clothing strewn on shore as protests against Gaza War continue

    Children’s clothing strewn on shore as protests against Gaza War continue

    A long line of old children’s clothes, stretching for 3 miles, has been placed along Bournemouth beach to show unhappiness about the war in Gaza.

    Activists from the Led by Donkeys group said they were laying out more than 11,000 sets of clothes to represent children who have been killed on both sides of the conflict since 7 September.

    A group of 80 people spent five hours putting the clothes in place.

    Israel said it wants to keep civilians safe, but more than 11,500 children have been killed, according to Palestinian health officials.

    Led By Donkeys said that the US and UK governments should work to stop the fighting right away.

    “All kids are innocent, whether they are Palestinian or Israeli,” it said.

    The line went from Canford Cliffs on the left all the way to almost reaching Boscombe on the right.

    The person in charge, James Sadri, said that if you walked along this line, it would take an hour to pass by 5km of children who have been killed. This should make us all realize how serious the situation is.

    “We want to show how many people were killed – you can’t understand it just by reading a number or hearing it on the news, you have to see it and feel it for yourself. ”

    The clothes will be taken away, washed, and given to charities and thrift stores.

    Rebecca Ross said the installation was “surprising” to those on the beach who saw it.

    “It’s really sad – each one represents a life lost and it makes me feel sick,” she said.

    Another person at the beach, Sheila Dayman, also said she was really sad and surprised.

    “All of them are kids, innocent lives on Israel and Palestine’s sides. ” “I don’t talk about politics, but we just hope for peace,” she said.

    Led By Donkeys started in 2018 as a group against Brexit. They have done things like painting the road in front of the Russian Embassy in London with the Ukrainian flag colors.

    They also arranged a fake plan to catch the ex-health secretary Matt Hancock and ex-chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng talking about how much money they would get to give advice to a fake company in March 2023.

  • Ghanaians need action not the same old soundbite – Prof Mensah replies Kofi Bentil

    Ghanaians need action not the same old soundbite – Prof Mensah replies Kofi Bentil

    In the midst of the ongoing economic debate and a recent call by Kofi Bentil, Vice President of IMANI Africa, urging Ghanaians to consider Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the presidency, Prof. Kobby Mensah, a senior lecturer at the University of Ghana (UG), has entered the fray with skepticism. 

    Bentil’s call focused on acknowledging Bawumia’s role in the current economic changes and advocating for a fair hearing in the upcoming presidential election. 

    However, Prof. Mensah questioned the consistency of praise and criticism directed at the Vice President, emphasizing the need for concrete actions to address the country’s economic challenges. 

    As the debate unfolds, discussions around Bawumia’s economic stewardship and leadership capabilities are gaining prominence in the lead-up to the 2024 general election.

    In a post shared on Facebook on February 4, 2024, Prof. Mensah wondered why proponents of the ruling New Patriotic Party are quick to applaud Dr. Bawumia, the flagbearer of the NPP, for the ‘successes’ of the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government but are always trying to exonerate him from the current economic challenges.

    He added that the vice president has had enough time to implement the economic solution he came up with when he was in opposition, which brought him to the limelight, but he has failed.

    “On the part of Ghanaians, we gave Bawumia ample fair hearing in 2012 and 2016 as he championed his infamous theories, including the FTTP – from taxation to production. How did that fare? All of us can attest to his utmost failure, leading to the ‘Nwisie Tax’ today.

    “Bawumia’s endorsers tend to give him credit for Agenda 111, Drone delivery system, Ghana card, digitalization among others. In 2018, Nana Addo gave Bawumia credit for what he described as improvement in the economy. Yet when Ghanaians, talk about the economy being in tatters, his endorses say Bawumia is not to blame. Wow! How does that sound?” he quizzed.

    The academic added, “What Ghanaians need now is action, not the same old soundbites. The talk of bold solutions for the future, what about now? What about bold solutions for the economy he has destroyed?”

  • EOCO director calls for active public participation in anti-corruption efforts

    EOCO director calls for active public participation in anti-corruption efforts

    Executive Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), Maame Tiwa Addo Danquah, has called on Ghanaians to actively engage in the fight against corruption. Stressing that the battle against corruption cannot be won solely by officeholders and politicians, she emphasizes the crucial role of citizens in combating this societal issue.

    Addressing Ghana’s recent ranking at the 43rd position in the Corruption Perception Index, Maame Tiwa Addo Danquah underscores the need for collective efforts to eliminate corruption. She encourages citizens to willingly provide information that can strengthen anti-corruption initiatives, urging them to speak up when they witness corrupt practices.

    “I keep saying that everybody must be part of the fight against corruption, not just those in authority; it must be everybody,” stated the EOCO Executive Director.

    Emphasizing the importance of public vigilance, she added, “When you see something, not only in the physical security but even in the area of corruption, you must say something because if you don’t say it, it will get bad, and that is what we should be worried about.”

  • New Juaben South MP hints at quitting Parliament after 2028

    The Member of Parliament for New Juaben South and Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Michael Kofi Okyere Baafi, has officially declared that he will not seek a third term in parliament. Citing his desire to leave a lasting legacy and expressing gratitude to delegates, constituency, and regional executives for their trust, Okyere Baafi pledged to work tirelessly as the parliamentary candidate for New Juaben South Constituency in the upcoming December elections, aiming to maximize votes for the party.

    Following his acclamation ceremony, Okyere Baafi emphasized his commitment to development-oriented projects, infrastructure, and recreational initiatives during his second term. In an interview, he stated, “This is going to be my last term as an MP, so I want to do exceptionally well in my last term. As I said, I won’t do anything more than two terms, so the next term is going to be my last.”

    Highlighting the changes he envisions for his final term, Okyere Baafi asserted that he aims to make a significant impact before his exit, focusing on physical projects and encouraging tourism to the constituency. He expressed confidence that New Juaben South would play a pivotal role in the party’s quest to “break the 8” in the upcoming elections.

    “People will see a lot of physical projects. And they will know the system has changed; we will encourage tourism and direct a lot of traffic to the constituency,” he added.

    Addressing doubts about the party’s chances, Okyere Baafi stressed his confidence in hard work and collaboration with the right people to secure votes. He assured the nation that New Juaben South’s contribution would be significant in achieving the party’s goal of “breaking the 8.”

    As the political landscape evolves, Okyere Baafi’s decision to conclude his parliamentary career after two terms adds a dynamic element to the upcoming elections in New Juaben South Constituency.

  • Woman confesses to deliberately spreading HIV/AIDS for fear of losing her livelihood

    Woman confesses to deliberately spreading HIV/AIDS for fear of losing her livelihood

    A woman living with HIV/AIDS has confessed to having unprotected sex with multiple partners despite being aware of her status. She attributes this risky behavior to coping with the grief of losing her husband and five children to the disease. While expressing guilt, she reveals that engaging in prostitution is her only means of livelihood.

    The woman fears disclosing her status to her sexual partners due to potential consequences such as rejection, stigma, or loss of income. She is apprehensive that her neighbors might spread the news, jeopardizing her livelihood.

    Dr. Steve Kyeremeh Atuahene, the Director General of the Ghana AIDS Commission, deems her actions dangerous and illegal. He emphasizes that knowingly spreading HIV is a prosecutable offense under Ghanaian law. Dr Atuahene urges those living with HIV to prioritize prevention, treatment, and responsible behavior.

    The incident sheds light on broader challenges in HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness in Ghana. The latest demographic survey by the Ghana Statistical Service indicates a significant increase in new HIV infections, categorizing the country as one facing a fast-track infection rate. Out of 16,574 new infections in 2022, females accounted for 10,927 cases, while males accounted for 5,647.

    Dr Atuahene points out that same-sex relationships, deemed illegal in Ghana, contribute to the spread of the virus. He underscores the importance of treatment, urging those living with HIV to adhere to preventive measures and avoid risky behavior.

    This revelation highlights the need for intensified efforts in HIV/AIDS education, destigmatization, and support for those affected. The intersection of health, social, and economic factors underscores the complexity of addressing such challenges and the importance of a comprehensive approach in mitigating the impact of HIV/AIDS in Ghana.

  • Arrest Northern Regional NSA Director immediately – PAC instructs police over misuse of GHS160K

    Arrest Northern Regional NSA Director immediately – PAC instructs police over misuse of GHS160K

    Parliament of Ghana has authorized the arrest of the Northern Regional Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA) for alleged financial misconduct. The directive comes in response to the director’s failure to deposit more than GHS160,000 in internally generated funds into the designated Consolidated Fund Transit account of the Authority.

    The 2022 Auditor General’s report brought attention to the expenditure of these funds by the Northern Regional Management of the Sports Authority, a violation of the Public Financial Management Regulations, 2019. Despite being summoned to appear before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and explain the irregularities outlined in the report, the Regional Director did not comply.

    Expressing his dissatisfaction, the Committee Chairman has ordered the immediate arrest of both the regional director and the accountant involved. “We are instructing the police to pick up the regional director and accountant of the region without delay. You were invited to testify before Parliament, and you declined, despite being aware that you had misused over GHS160,000, presuming that you would escape consequences,” stated the chairman.

    This development underscores the commitment of the Parliament to uphold financial accountability and transparency within public institutions.

    The arrest order emphasizes the gravity of the alleged financial mismanagement and sends a strong message about the consequences for those failing to comply with established financial regulations.

    The unfolding situation is expected to prompt further investigation and legal proceedings to address the financial irregularities within the National Sports Authority’s Northern Regional office.

  • African countries aim to expand their mining sector

    African countries aim to expand their mining sector

    African leaders, mining experts, and global investors are gathering in South Africa for a yearly conference about mining.

    Africa has a lot of valuable minerals, about 30% of the world’s reserves. But most of these minerals are not being used.

    “Africa has the ability to become a key part of the world’s shift to cleaner energy, with mining as its central focus,” stated South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa at the start of a four-day event in Cape Town.

    We will talk about the competition to get important minerals from Africa. These minerals, like lithium, nickel, cobalt, manganese, and graphite, are needed to make renewable energy, like solar panels and wind turbines.

    South Africa emits the most greenhouse gases in Africa. The majority of these gases come from power plants that use coal. These power plants make 80% of the electricity in the country.

    South Africa is having a hard time shutting down their coal power plants because of the energy crisis.

    President Ramaphosa said that South Africa is working towards changing its energy in a fair way. The goal is to do this in a way that the country can manage, make sure there is enough energy, and create new opportunities for people.

    Many African countries send out valuable minerals as raw materials without making them more valuable at the place they come from. This has made them not get the most out of these resources. It has also led to unfair labor practices in the mining industries in Africa.

    Countries have trouble getting their minerals to markets because they don’t have the right transportation and facilities. This makes it expensive and inefficient.

    The mining industry has only given 8% of the money to the government in the top 15 African countries that rely on mining.

    African governments will want to have more say and get better deals for their resources at the conference.

  • South Sudanese reflect on Pope’s visit’s legacy

    South Sudanese reflect on Pope’s visit’s legacy

    Pope Francis was in the news last year for being the first pope to visit the newest country in the world.

    But on the anniversary of that visit, when he and church leaders from the UK asked for peace, people in South Sudan feel like nothing has improved. But some people still have hope.

    “The Pope’s message to the people of South Sudan was to come together and be united. But we are still divided by our tribes instead of being one united nation,” said Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin, the Catholic archbishop of Juba, in an interview with the media.

    He said that in South Sudan, the country’s resources are not being shared equally, even though the Pope has called for people to be more united.

    A year ago, the pope blessed Baby Pauline Adul. Her mom and dad say she still brings happiness and good luck to the family and the community.

    Her dad says that Juba, the capital city is now feeling more calm and safe to live in compared to when they visited last February.

  • Old Mutual report reveals widespread financial stress among Ghanaian workers

    Old Mutual report reveals widespread financial stress among Ghanaian workers

    A recent report from the 2023 Old Mutual Financial Services Monitor indicates that only 14% of working Ghanaians are satisfied with their current financial situation.

    The study sheds light on financial stress levels, revealing that both the informal sector and local income earners in Ghana face significant financial challenges.

    The report highlights that 68.0% of those facing financial stress belong to the informal sector, while 55% are part of the formal sector. The findings underscore the financial strains experienced by a majority of Ghanaians, with implications for their overall well-being.

    Dependents and Financial Priorities:

    The study also explores the prevalence of dependents among Ghanaians, revealing a high incidence of dependents, particularly among older and more affluent consumers. Less than half of those surveyed fall into the category of ‘sandwich generation’ individuals, and the report notes that most dependent children belong to the respondents themselves.

    Income security emerges as the top financial priority for Ghanaian consumers, followed by efforts to manage expenses downward, including delaying major expenditures and opting for more affordable retail brands. Notably, paying off debt ranks sixth among financial priorities.

    Household Income and Spending Patterns:

    The report provides insights into Ghanaian household spending patterns, indicating that consumption constitutes just over half of household spending. Savings make up a quarter of spending allocation, while debt servicing accounts for only 9% of household income allocation.

    Despite financial challenges, Ghanaians exhibit discipline in debt management. The study reveals that one in four Ghanaians has had to borrow from friends or family, and one in five has fallen behind on household bills in the last year. Additionally, six in 10 individuals have tapped into their savings to meet financial obligations, with less than a quarter using credit cards.

    The Old Mutual report offers a comprehensive overview of the financial landscape in Ghana, emphasizing the need for tailored solutions to address the specific challenges faced by different segments of the population. As economic conditions continue to evolve, understanding these financial dynamics becomes crucial for policymakers and financial institutions seeking to support the financial well-being of Ghanaians.

  • 12 in Sudan camp perish from starvation every day – MSF

    12 in Sudan camp perish from starvation every day – MSF

    The charity MSF is very worried about a very bad situation for people in a refugee camp in North Darfur, Sudan.

    MSF said that all the levels for emergency malnutrition have been met and asked for more help from other countries right away.

    At least one kid was dying every two hours at the Zamzam camp, close to the city of Fasher.

    Fighting between Sudan’s army and a paramilitary group has forced about eight million people to leave their homes since last April.

    Almost five million people in Sudan are now experiencing very severe hunger, according to the World Food Programme. It has doubled since the conflict began.

    The organization helping people affected by the fighting could only give important help to 10% of the people who need it.

  • Dagbon overlord urges John Mahama to recognize Bawumia as a brother, not an enemy

    Dagbon overlord urges John Mahama to recognize Bawumia as a brother, not an enemy

    Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abubakari Mahama II, has delivered a message of unity and reconciliation to former President John Dramani Mahama during the latter’s ‘Building Ghana Tour.’ In a speech read on behalf of the Ya-Na during a courtesy call by Mahama, the traditional leader urged the former president to recognize Vice President Dr Bawumia as a brother, not an enemy, for a clean and respectful 2024 election campaign.

    Ya-Na emphasized that both the NPP flagbearer and the NDC flagbearer are his sons, and as such, they should conduct themselves with decorum, avoiding petty name-calling and fostering a spirit of brotherhood.

    This counsel from the Dagbon Overlord comes in response to recent comments made by John Mahama, who referred to President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Bawumia as “Jack Toronto and his younger brother.”

    The Ya-Na encouraged the NDC flagbearer, stating, “You have no other brother out there besides him (Bawumia). Being on the opposite side of the political divide does not make you enemies.”

    The traditional leader urged both Mahama and Bawumia to maintain peace during this year’s election, emphasizing that “only Allah knows the winner of the election.”

    During his visit to Yendi, the former president informed the Ya-Na of his presence in the region and sought permission to tour selected constituencies. As the political landscape intensifies in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections, the call for unity and respectful discourse from traditional leaders becomes increasingly significant.

  • Ukraine war: Refugee Tetiana Martynova dies in an accident in Swansea

    Ukraine war: Refugee Tetiana Martynova dies in an accident in Swansea

    A lady who escaped from the Russian attack in Ukraine with her 13-year-old son has passed away after being hit by a car.

    Tetiana Martynova, a 40-year-old woman from Kharkiv, Ukraine, arrived in Swansea as a refugee in July 2022.

    South Wales Police said a woman was hit and killed by a Chevrolet Captiva while she was walking on Neath Road in Morriston at around 6:20 pm on Wednesday.

    Her friends said she is very dedicated and takes good care of her son Illia.

    They said people in the area know her as Tania. She is a smart, hardworking woman who can speak many languages.

    They said she was a strong and important member of the Ukrainian community in Swansea. Everyone liked her because she was friendly and nice at every event.

    They said: “Her many friends and coworkers are all very sad about her sudden death. ”

    “We are thinking of Illia in Wales and Tania’s family in Ukraine. Our prayers are with them. ”

    Tania became very close to us, like a daughter. We cry for an amazing young woman. Ukraine has lost one of its best people.

  • Man freed in connection with murder of Kieran Quilligan

    Man freed in connection with murder of Kieran Quilligan

    A man in his 20s was arrested for possibly killing Kieran Quilligan, but he has been let go without being charged.

    Mr Quilligan, who was 47 years old, had disappeared from his home in the middle of Cork city for five months.

    The police found his body in Rostellan on Monday afternoon.

    Another man in his 30s was also taken into custody by the police on suspicion of murder. He is still being held by the police.

    He was arrested on Sunday and is being kept in a police station in Cork city.

  • Six killed in drone attack at US base in Syria

    Six killed in drone attack at US base in Syria

    Right now there is a lot of tension in the Middle East. We are trying to give you updates from different places, and the latest one is from Syria.

    A drone attack at a big US military base killed at least six fighters from a group of Kurdish soldiers who are allies.

    The information is from a group called the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) that worked with the US and other countries to defeat the Islamic State group in eastern Syria. It was mentioned

    A military school at an oil field in the eastern part of the country was attacked by a drone sent from an area controlled by the Syrian government.

    The SDF said they have started looking into it and found that the militias supported by Iran were responsible for the terrorist act.

    A group in the UK said that seven SDF soldiers were killed and 18 were hurt in the 108th attack on US bases in the country since mid-October.

    The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, which is a group of Iraqi militias supported by Iran, said they were responsible for a drone attack on a US base in the al-Omar oil field. This was reported by the Iraqi media.

    It also said it attacked a US base in Jordan near Syria on January 28 using a drone. Three US soldiers were killed. In response, the US carried out air strikes on Iranian military sites in Syria and Iraq.

  • It’s prudent not to take Kofi Bentil seriously – US economist

    It’s prudent not to take Kofi Bentil seriously – US economist

    Financial analyst and Economist Scott Bolshevik, has asked Ghanaians to disregard Senior Vice President and Policy Analyst with IMANI Ghana, following his requests for Ghanaians to give the Vice President “a fair hearing.”

    Mr Bolshevik in a statement noted that considering the latter’s history of endorsing, criticizing, and subsequently supporting the government, it is not prudent to trust him entirely on his current words. 

    Kofi Bentil has found himself at the center of public scrutiny following a statement he made on Facebook.

    https://twitter.com/scottbolshevik/status/1754451173648535630?s=46

    In the said statement, Mr Bentil implored Ghanaians to give the Vice President a fair hearing since he believes the Vice President is the best candidate to become Ghana’s next president.

    He argued that the Vice President has not been able to prove himself in this administration because he does not wield so much power as the President and other key government officials like the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta. 

    “Indeed the Minister of finance has more constitutional power than the VP in managing our finances and the EMT has zero power to effect its decisions. They advise the President who acts through his ministers!!!,” he noted.

    “I trust VP Bawumia. Because he has been the best VP ever. Even under trying circumstances he has shown himself not corrupt and indeed has been effective in delivering some crucial transformations. I am entitled like everyone to my belief and choice and I believe he is a better choice,” he added. 

    Bentil, who initially endorsed the government for power, later became a vocal critic, accusing it of corruption, victimization, and inefficiency. However, recent indications suggest a renewed support for the very government he previously criticized.

    This unexpected shift in allegiance has not gone unnoticed as many are now questioning the prudence of taking him seriously. Some critics have also argued that Bentil’s credibility is at stake. 

    Mr Bolshevik, for instance, believes it is prudent to disregard his comments.

    “Mr. Bentil endorsed this government for power, and I later witnessed him criticize this government for corruption, victimization, and inefficiency Now he is a staunch supporter of the same government. It’s prudent not to take him seriously before he misleads good citizens again,” he said.  

  • Blinken to advocate for cease-fire and hostages’ release

    Blinken to advocate for cease-fire and hostages’ release

    The topic of conversation is about taking a pause in the conflict in Gaza. The people involved are waiting for Hamas to give an answer to the plan.

    The intelligence leaders of the US, Qatar, Israel, and Egypt all agreed on the framework.

    Reports say it has at least three parts. Each would involve freeing Israeli captives in Gaza and Palestinian prisoners in Israel.

    But Israel is not yet promising to stop fighting with Hamas. That’s a big issue because the Palestinian militant group wants the truce to bring about a lasting peace.

    Importantly, if the fighting stops, more help can go to Gaza. The UN says people there might not have enough food.

    If Hamas agrees to make a start on the plan, there are still a lot of things to figure out.

    Israel’s security cabinet would also need to agree with it. Some members on the extreme right don’t like the terms.

  • Blinken moves to Middle East over Israel-Gaza conflict

    Blinken moves to Middle East over Israel-Gaza conflict

    The US secretary of state will travel to Egypt, Qatar, Israel, and the West Bank after holding talks with prominent leaders in Saudi Arabia.

    He will help Hamas talk to Egypt and Qatar to try to make a deal and stop the fighting in Gaza.

    Officials from the US, Israel, Egypt, and Qatar have discussed making peace.

    Blinken is coming to the area because Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s National Security Minister, said the US isn’t helping Israel enough. After the Biden government punished four people living in the West Bank, more harm to Palestinian civilians started happening there.

    More update on this story soon.

  • Blinken lands in the Middle East

    Blinken lands in the Middle East

    US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has arrived in Saudi Arabia for his fifth trip to the Middle East since October 7th.

    He visited after the US said it bombed more Houthi missiles in Yemen on Sunday. The military said it had hit a land-attack cruise missile and four anti-ship missiles that were ready to launch at ships in the Red Sea.

    The US and UK worked together to attack Houthi targets to stop their attacks on ships in the Red Sea.

    There have been more attacks by a group supported by Iran in the Red Sea. They are targeting military and commercial ships that they believe are connected to Israel.

    The US is going to do more attacks on places connected to Iran in retaliation for the drone attack in Jordan that killed three US soldiers over a week ago.

    But Iran says the claims that it was involved are “without any evidence”. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a group supported by Iran, said they were the ones who did it.

  • Give us a break! – ASEPA slams Kofi Bentil over ‘Bawumia deserves a fair hearing’ write-up

    Executive Director of the Alliance for Social Equity and Public Accountability (ASEPA), Mensah Thompson, has criticised Kofi Bentil, Vice President of IMANI Africa, for what he perceives as a deviation from principles of accountability in recent commentaries.

    The letter, addressed to Senior Kofi Bentil, expresses concern over the shift in IMANI’s stance, traditionally known for holding leaders accountable. Thompson highlights Bentil’s argument that Vice President Dr. Bawumia should be given a chance to redeem himself, especially as he has not yet served as President.

    Thompson challenges this perspective, arguing that absolving Dr. Bawumia of any blame for the country’s challenges over the past seven years solely because he held the position of Vice President is a stretch. He points out that Dr. Bawumia chaired the Economic Management Team and was part of the cabinet, which, in his view, makes it implausible to disassociate him from the governance decisions and their consequences.

    The letter questions how IMANI, under Kofi Bentil’s leadership, can advocate for giving Dr. Bawumia a chance while simultaneously asserting that he should not be blamed for the country’s hardships during his tenure as Vice President.

    Thompson urges Kofi Bentil to reconsider his position and stresses the need for accountability in governance. He contends that Ghanaians have endured significant challenges, including the closure of banks and the debt exchange program, and deserve a more candid and accountable leadership.

    The letter concludes by urging Kofi Bentil to offer Ghanaians an apology for any potential misdirection or misleading statements made in the past, emphasizing the responsibility of opinion leaders in guiding the public towards informed decisions.

    As this open letter gains attention, it highlights the ongoing discourse and scrutiny surrounding the accountability of public figures, setting the stage for a broader conversation on leadership and governance in Ghana.w

  • Parliament instructs MOFA to compensate farmers affected by Bird Flu outbreak

    Parliament instructs MOFA to compensate farmers affected by Bird Flu outbreak

    The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Ghana’s Parliament has issued a directive to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) to compensate farmers who suffered losses during the avian influenza, commonly known as the Bird Flu outbreak, between 2015 and 2018.

    PAC Chairman James Klutse Avedzi emphasized the urgency of implementing the compensation, stating that the ministry should disburse the funds within one month. He cautioned that failure to comply within the stipulated time frame would result in the ministry being summoned before the house for questioning.

    Avedzi noted, “I am sure you have a list of the farms that are affected and a certificate for destroying the birds as well. All that you need is to have the affected farmers’ bank details to do the transfer, and I am sure that you have the contact details of these farmers.”

    The directive comes in response to revelations in the 2022 Auditor General’s Report, which disclosed that a substantial portion of the allocated compensation funds, exceeding GHS1.8 million, remains unused in the ministry’s account.

    In defense, the Ministry of Agriculture argued that the funds have not been disbursed because affected farmers have not provided the necessary details to facilitate the compensation process.

    The call for compensation underscores the importance of swift action to alleviate the losses suffered by farmers during the Bird Flu outbreak, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector and ensuring fair and timely compensation for affected individuals.

  • Actor Jacob Elordi of Saltburn accused of choking reporter

    Actor Jacob Elordi of Saltburn accused of choking reporter

    Saltburn’s famous actor, Jacob Elordi, has been accused of grabbing a radio reporter by the throat during a prank that went bad.

    Joshua Fox, a radio host from KIIS FM in Australia, found the 26-year-old actor at a bar in Sydney after hearing rumors that he was in the city.

    But Mr Fox said that Mr Elordi got upset when he asked him to fill a container with bathwater, referring to a well-known scene in Saltburn.

    Police in New South Wales are looking into a possible attack that happened.

    Mr Elordi, who is from Brisbane in Australia, was seen in a outdoor bar at the beachside Clovelly Hotel in south-east Sydney on Saturday.

    Mr Fox talked on the radio show about how he went up to the actor outside the building.

    Mr Elordi asked not to be recorded in a video released by KIIS FM.

    Mr Fox said to Kyle Sandilands and Jackie Henderson that he agreed to stop because the joke didn’t work. But Mr Elordi got really close to me and told me to delete any footage.

    The person who makes radio shows said he didn’t want to do it because he felt scared and wanted to keep the recording as proof of what happened.

    Afterwards, Mr Fox said that the actor “flipped”. “He shoves me against the wall and puts his hands on my neck. ”

    The police are looking into an attack on a 32-year-old man by a 26-year-old man.

    The old man was not hurt in the fight, police said.

    Mr Elordi is now a very popular young actor in Hollywood. He moved to the US and soon got a big role as Nate in the TV show Euphoria.

    He’s been chosen for prizes for acting in movies in Saltburn and Priscilla.

    BBC Newsbeat asked his representatives to give a statement.

    Joshua Fox is from England but has been working for the Kyle and Jackie O show in Australia since 2022.

    Newsbeat has reached out to iHeartRadio and ARN, the owner of Kiis FM, to get their response.

  • President Geingob’s death prompts Namibia to enter state of mourning

    President Geingob’s death prompts Namibia to enter state of mourning

    Namibia’s new President, Nangolo Mbumba, said everyone in the country should be sad for a while because the previous President, Hage Geingob, died on Sunday.

    Geingob, who was 82 years old, passed away while getting treatment for cancer at a hospital in Windhoek, the capital city.

    The whole country will be sad from Monday until the President’s funeral, which has not been decided yet. This was announced by the ICT Minister in a public broadcast.

    The president has put together a group led by the prime minister to plan the funeral. Mushelenga said that the committee will make announcements after finalizing the arrangements.

    All the flags in Namibia and its foreign embassies will be lowered halfway until the funeral of the former president.

    The government says that schools will not close during this time, despite what some reports have said.

  • California faces “catastrophic” flood

    California faces “catastrophic” flood

    Heavy rain, floods, and powerful winds are hitting southern California for the second day in a row. This is causing a lot of damage in one of the busiest areas of the US.

    There will be a lot of rain around Los Angeles, up to 1 inch (2. 54cm) an hour, for at least 24 hours starting on Monday.

    The big storms are bringing a lot of rain, wind, and snow to parts of the state.

    A serious situation has been announced in 10 counties of the state.

    Experts say there will be heavy rain in California on Monday.

    The Weather Prediction Service gave a high-level warning for heavy rain in southern California on Sunday.

    The WPC warned that very dangerous flash floods could happen in Los Angeles and the surrounding area. The report said that there could be mudslides and debris flows.

    The center said that there will be a lot of snow in the Sierra Nevada mountains, and it will be very hard to travel there.

    The NWS warned that very strong winds could cause more power cuts and trees to fall, but the winds will calm down by Monday night.

    Big, steep waves could make the areas near the coast very unsafe, it said.

    On Sunday, planes couldn’t fly from Santa Barbara Airport and people stuck in their cars because of flooding in Los Angeles had to be saved by rescuers.

    Many people lost electricity because the storm damaged power lines.

    Officials in Orange County said that some areas may need to evacuate soon, and the order could happen very quickly.

    The storm is happening because of lots of wet air moving through the sky.

    Atmospheric rivers are like long streams of water in the sky that are carried by the wind.

    Last week, a big storm hit California. The new round of bad weather is happening because of another storm.

    Governor Gavin Newsom announced a state of emergency in eight counties, including Los Angeles and Orange. He said that the storm is very serious and could be dangerous and life-threatening.

    “California has lots of emergency resources ready to help with the storm’s effects. ”

    Two more states have said they are in a state of emergency.

    The NWS said Monday’s weather would be very dramatic and memorable.

    NWS experts told people in areas at risk to listen to evacuation orders, avoid driving on freeways, and get ready for possible power outages.

  • Deputy foreign minister of Houthi charges US of “lying”

    Deputy foreign minister of Houthi charges US of “lying”

    The deputy foreign minister of the Houthi-led government in north-western Yemen said that the US is not telling the truth about what is happening in the Red Sea and the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

    “Hussein al-Ezzi says it’s safe to travel across the Red Sea. ” This was reported by Houthi-run Al-Masirah TV.

    At a press conference in Sanaa, he said that the Iran-backed group is attacking merchant and naval ships to stop Israeli ships from going to Palestinian ports until the aggression stops.

    He also says the US and UK making the Red Sea more like a military zone is a danger to ships and boats.

    The US and UK say the Houthis have done more than 30 dangerous and disruptive attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since mid-November. They think the recent attacks were meant to weaken the Houthis’ military power.

  • 15 raids undertaken by US in Yemen – Report

    15 raids undertaken by US in Yemen – Report

    The Houthi-controlled Al-Masirah TV said US planes attacked western Yemen with 15 night-time raids. It is not certain if the strikes are the ones the US military announced happening on Sunday morning.

    A military source said there were 11 attacks in the Red Sea area of Hudaydah. Eight were at a port called Ras Isa, and three were further inland in al-Zaidiya.

    Four more attacks happened in the eastern Saada province, which is an important area for the Houthis in the north.

    Al-Masirah said that there was no harm or injuries reported.

    The US military in a recent statement said it attacked a Houthi land attack cruise missile and four anti-ship cruise missiles, but did not give any details about where the missiles were.

    Saturday night, the Houthi military spokesman Yahya Sarea said that the US and UK had done 48 attacks in the areas of Sanaa, Hudaydah, Bayda, Taiz and Lahij.

  • Blinken on his way to Middle East after recent US bombings against Houthis

    Blinken on his way to Middle East after recent US bombings against Houthis

    US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, is going to the Middle East again. This will be his fifth visit to the region since October 7th.

    He came to visit after the US said it did more attacks on Houthi missiles in Yemen on Sunday. The military said it hit a missile and four other missiles that were ready to launch at ships in the Red Sea.

    The US and UK cooperated to attack the Houthi targets in order to prevent their attacks on ships in the Red Sea.

    The Iran-backed group has been attacking military and commercial ships in the Red Sea that it believes are connected to Israel.
    The US is going to attack more places in Iran because of a drone attack in Jordan that killed three US soldiers.

    Iran says the claims that they were involved are not true. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a group supported by Iran, said they were responsible.

    More update on this story soon.

  • Nigeria is Africa country with lowest cost of living – Presidency

    Nigeria is Africa country with lowest cost of living – Presidency

    The Nigerian president’s office said that Nigeria has the cheapest cost of living in West Africa, but some people are not sure about that.

    On Sunday, a person called Bayo Onanuga, who advises the President, said that he didn’t agree with a political opponent who said Bola Tinubu’s economic plans were making life tougher for Nigerians.

    Numbeo, a cost-of-living website, says that Nigeria is very affordable to live in. But only 23 out of 54 countries in Africa were included in the survey.

    Nigeria’s national ranking won’t make its citizens feel better. They are struggling with high prices for basic foods and things they need, the government taking away fuel subsidies, and a weak currency.

  • 14 Lands Commission staff relieved of their duties over stamp duty fraud 

    14 Lands Commission staff relieved of their duties over stamp duty fraud 

    Fourteen staff of the Lands Commission have been interdicted over their alleged involvement in fraudulent activities. The fraudulent scheme, detected in May 2022 by the Commission’s Audit Unit, revealed discrepancies in the tax figures paid by property owners during the registration of their properties.

    The alleged Stamp Duty fraud, amounting to an alleged GHS100 million tax loss, prompted swift action from the Commission. Mr. Benjamin Arthur, the Acting Executive Secretary of the Commission, announced the interdiction during the Executive Secretary’s Annual Briefing and launching of the Staff Awards Scheme in Accra on Friday.

    Subsequent investigations by the Commission revealed that the initially estimated tax loss had been exaggerated. Internal disciplinary action has been taken against the implicated staff members, who are currently undergoing court processes led by the National Investigations Bureau.

    In addition to the Stamp Duty fraud case, disciplinary procedures are being carried out against other Commission staff for fraudulent deletion and insertion of records, leading to false search reports.

    Mr. Arthur emphasized that while the Commission would provide the necessary job security for its staff, acts of indiscipline and fraud would not be condoned. He expressed the commitment of the management to assist state investigation bodies in weeding out any misconduct within the organization.

    The event also marked the unveiling of a five-year Business Strategic Plan (2023-2027) for the Commission. The plan outlines major goals, including enhancing financial sustainability, implementing digital reforms, and improving the competence and discipline of staff to elevate overall service delivery.

    Mr. Arthur announced the launch of an outreach program, the “You Deserve to Know” campaign, scheduled for this year. The campaign aims to educate the public about various aspects of the Commission’s operations, services, fees, and digital reform platforms. This initiative is expected to enhance the corporate image of the Commission, build public trust, and correct misconceptions about its role.

    The Acting Executive Secretary emphasized that the success of the corporate image redemption drive hinged on improvements in service delivery. He called for teamwork among staff and management to achieve the desired outcomes.

    Mr Benito Owusu-Bio, Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, expressed confidence in the Commission’s leadership and highlighted the Ministry’s plans for the year, including the digital transformation of land administration activities, the completion of the new Lands Commission’s head office, and an enhancement of the Commission’s corporate image. He expressed belief that Ghanaians would vouch for the credibility and efficiency of the Commission in the near future.

  • Australia’s detainee receives suspended death sentence from China

    Australia’s detainee receives suspended death sentence from China

    Australian writer Yang Hengjun has been given a suspended death sentence by a Chinese court. This happened five years after he was arrested and accused of spying.

    Australian officials say that the sentence might be changed to life in prison after two years.

    Dr Yang, who is a scholar and writer, denies the accusations about Chinese state affairs on his blog. The charges have not been made public.

    The Australian government is very upset by what happened.

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese went to China last year to make things better because the relationship between the two countries had been getting worse.

    Penny Wong, who is the Foreign Minister, has asked China’s Ambassador to Australia for an explanation. She also said that the government will strongly communicate its response to Beijing.

    “We have always asked for fair treatment and kindness for Dr. Yang, following international rules and China’s laws,” she said in a statement.

    All Australians want Dr. Yang to be back with his family. We will keep fighting for what we believe in.

    Australian leaders have been worried about how he is being treated. But China’s government has told them not to get involved and to respect their legal system.

    Chinese spokesperson Wang Wenbin said that Dr. Yang’s case has been carefully handled according to the law and his rights have been respected.

    Supporters of Dr. Yang said he was unfairly arrested for political reasons.

    “The Chinese government punished him because he spoke out against the bad things happening to people in China and supported important values like human rights, democracy, and the rule of law,” said his friend, Feng Chongyi, who is a professor in Sydney.

    Dr Yang used to work for the Chinese government. People called him the “democracy peddler” because he wrote about democracy. But he didn’t directly criticize the government in his writings.

    He was living in New York but went to Guangzhou in January 2019 with his wife and her child, who are Chinese citizens, on a visa run. However, he was stopped at the airport.

    The 58-year-old’s situation has mostly been kept private since then, including a hidden trial in 2021.

    Elaine Pearson, who is the Asia Director for Human Rights Watch, said that the case has raised a lot of worries about whether the proper legal procedures were followed, and the result is very unfair.

    “He didn’t have a lawyer when he needed one, and his trial was not fair. He said he was tortured and forced to confess during questioning,” she told the media.

    Dr Yang can still ask for a chance to change the decision, Ms. But Yang’s sons in Australia have said before that he is getting sicker and not getting medical care.

    Before Albanese went to Beijing last November, Dr. Yang’s sons asked the prime minister for help in getting their father released. They said their father’s health was getting worse.

    His arrest, along with Cheng Lei’s in 2020, made the relationship between Beijing and Canberra worse. But things have been getting better since a new government took over in Australia in 2022.

    However, Richard McGregor, a senior fellow at the Lowy Institute, told the Sydney Morning Herald that Dr. Yang’s new sentence is likely to severely affect the relationship between the two countries.

    “He said the big screen shows how difficult it is for foreigners to get help from the Chinese legal system, and how it punishes people who try to question it. ”

    “This sentence is the most extreme and unexpected. ” He will not be able to avoid dying in prison.

  • Kill me if Mahama does not win elections with Leslie Tamakloe as running mate – Apostle

    Kill me if Mahama does not win elections with Leslie Tamakloe as running mate – Apostle

    Founder of Hezekiah Apostolic Prayer Ministry, Apostle Kwabena Owusu Adjei has offered himself up for lynching if a prophesy about former President John Dramani Mahama wining the 2024 elections. 

    Apostle Owusu Adjei in his declaration indicated that the former President will win the elections hands down if he chooses one Leslie Tamakloe as his running mate.

    Speaking at a press conference, he said: “My name is Apostle Kwabena Owusu Adjei and I am advertising my God, the God of Bethel; Genesis 31:13, it says, ‘I am the God of Bethel.’

    “I am saying these are the words of the God of Bethel. His excellency John Dramani Mahama, correct your mistakes from 2020, go to the Volta Region, choose Leslie Mensah Tamakloe as your running mate, you will win hands down. NDC, you have the opportunity and the possibility to rule for 30 good years,” he stated.

    It was during these remarks that Apostle Mensah said he would offer himself to be lynched if the NDC wins the election without naming Leslie Tamakloe as running mate.

    “If his Excellency John Dramani Mahama refuses and goes for any other candidate apart from Leslie Mensah Tamakloe born on the 18th of April, 1957 and wins this election, I Apostle Kwabena Owusu Adjei I am offering my body to be lynched by the NDC foot soldiers and grassroot supporters.

    “We will meet at former Obra Spot, Kwame Nkrumah Interchange-Dubai. Bring all your cameras, call me guilty, whatever they want to do to me; they can stone me, lash me, whatever. I said I offer myself because I am so confident in my God that there is no turning back,” he stated.

    The Apostle went on to state that he will still put himself up to be lynched if the NDC fails to win the election after heeding to the directive of his prophecy.

    Former President Mahama’s second attempt at winning Ghana’s presidency after losing the 2016 election will come off in the December polls in a contest that is set to have him and Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, New Patriotic Party flagbearer as frontrunners.

    Both leading candidates have yet to name their running mates with months left to the election.

  • GUTA ‘wails’ over impact of emissions levy, VAT on electricity on businesses 

    GUTA ‘wails’ over impact of emissions levy, VAT on electricity on businesses 

    Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has vehemently opposed the government’s proposed implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity charges and the introduction of an emission levy. In a press release issued on February 4, 2023, GUTA expressed serious apprehensions regarding the potential negative economic impacts these measures could inflict on businesses operating within the country.

    GUTA contends that the proposed VAT on electricity charges would have direct and adverse effects on businesses, especially those heavily reliant on electricity for their operations. The association predicts that such businesses may face heightened financial strain, potentially leading to reduced production capacity, layoffs, and, in extreme cases, business closures, thereby hindering economic progress and stifling job creation opportunities.

    The release also draws attention to the challenges presented by the emission levy, emphasizing concerns about double taxation and the current lack of infrastructure for electric vehicles, including charging stations and a reliable power source. GUTA highlights that Ghana already imposes energy taxes, such as the petroleum tax on gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and LPG.

    Dr. Joseph Obeng, the President of GUTA, underscored the need for the government to reconsider these proposed measures and engage in extensive consultations with key stakeholders, particularly the business community, before implementing any new taxation policies.

    “It is crucial that the voices and concerns of businesses are heard and taken into account to ensure policies that do not hinder economic growth and investment,” the communique stated.

    As the government grapples with economic challenges and explores revenue-generation avenues, GUTA’s opposition underscores the importance of striking a balance that promotes economic sustainability while addressing fiscal concerns. The call for inclusive dialogue with business stakeholders aims to ensure that any new policies are well-informed, considerate of business realities, and contribute positively to Ghana’s economic growth.

  • Jospong Group of Companies awards scholarships to over 600 Ghanaian students for studies in Russia

    Jospong Group of Companies awards scholarships to over 600 Ghanaian students for studies in Russia

    The Jospong Group of Companies has announced scholarship packages for over 600 Ghanaian students to pursue their studies at RUDN University in Russia over the next five years. 

    The scholarships, spanning diverse fields such as Agriculture, Information Technology, Integrated Waste Management, and Climate Change studies, are set to benefit 120 Ghanaian students annually from 2024 to 2029.

    The momentous announcement took place in the presence of key dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Ghanaian Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, and the Russian Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Sergei Berdnikov. The collaboration between Jospong Group and RUDN University signals a significant stride in broadening educational opportunities for Ghanaian youth.

    During the ceremony, the Executive Chairman of Jospong Group, Dr Joseph Siaw Agyepong, expressed his commitment to supporting the scholarship recipients beyond their academic pursuits. “Gone are the days when you finish your education and you stay behind because of a lack of opportunities back home. I want to assure you that Jospong is ready to work with you, so come and let’s develop Ghana together,” he declared.

    The scholarship program aims to empower Ghanaian students in key sectors, fostering expertise in areas crucial for national development. The fields of Agriculture, Information Technology, Integrated Waste Management, and Climate Change studies represent critical areas where the scholarship recipients are poised to make a lasting impact upon their return to Ghana.

    This collaborative effort not only provides educational opportunities but also underscores the commitment of Jospong Group to contribute to the development of the nation. The company’s assurance to absorb the students into meaningful roles post-education aligns with the broader vision of building a skilled and empowered workforce for the country.

    As the first cohort of students prepares to embark on this educational journey, the partnership between Jospong Group and RUDN University is poised to create enduring impacts in Ghana, shaping a brighter future for the scholarship recipients and the nation as a whole.

  • At least 10 people killed in attack on Pakistani police station

    At least 10 people killed in attack on Pakistani police station

    At least 10 police officers were killed in an attack on a police station in north-west Pakistan.

    Violence has gotten worse before the country’s elections this week.

    Terrorists attacked around 03:00 in the morning on Monday in Draban region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. They started with shooting from a distance and then threw grenades, as per the police.

    The shooting went on for more than two and a half hours and nine other people got hurt.

    We don’t know who did the attack yet, but the area has been attacked by different groups for a long time, including the Pakistan Taliban, Islamic State, and other militant groups targeting the government, security, and civilians.

    A person running for government was killed last week in a different area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

    Recently in Balochistan, a region in Pakistan’s southwest, a political leader was shot and killed in his party’s election office. Also, a bomb attack after a political rally killed at least four people. The Islamic State said they did the attack.

    The army also stopped 24 terrorists in Balochistan last week.

    The Election Commission of Pakistan has divided 45,337 polling stations into two categories: “sensitive” and “most sensitive” based on the risk of violence. The categories are determined by how safe the area is and its past experiences with election violence.

  • Police finds no obvious evidence of foul play in mysterious death of Darius Appiah  

    Police finds no obvious evidence of foul play in mysterious death of Darius Appiah  

    The Fredericksburg Police Department has announced that there is no apparent evidence of foul play in the death of Darius Joshua Appiah, whose disappearance had sparked an intense search effort by family and friends. Appiah was found dead more than 10 days after going missing.

    The police, expressing condolences to the grieving family and friends of Appiah, have stated that his death is now an active investigation, and they are urging anyone with information about Appiah or the events leading up to his death to come forward.

    Darius Appiah, 22, was last seen driving a dark green 2004 Lexus RX330 SUV with Virginia license plate VBT8217. The police revealed that on Friday, Mr. Appiah’s vehicle was discovered in Alum Springs Park, but his whereabouts remained unknown until Saturday, February 3, 2024.

    According to the police report, a 911 call on Saturday reported the discovery of a body in Hazel Run at 10:30 a.m. Patrol officers, along with the Fredericksburg Fire Department and the Rescue Squad, responded to the area at 1:50 p.m., where the body was recovered from the creek.

    The victim, identified as Darius Joshua Appiah, had been reported missing on January 25. He was last seen on January 24 on Maine Road in Fredericksburg, Virginia, just before 3 p.m. Family members noted that he disappeared after picking up food on his way home from work.

    The body has been transported to the Medical Examiner’s office for an autopsy to determine the cause of death. While the police have not identified any signs of foul play, the circumstances surrounding Appiah’s disappearance and subsequent death have left the community seeking answers.

    As the investigation unfolds, the Fredericksburg community is grappling with the loss of a young life and awaiting the results of the autopsy to shed light on the mysterious circumstances surrounding Darius Appiah’s tragic end.

  • Koku Anyidoho achieves educational milestone; graduates from Galilee International Management Institute

    Koku Anyidoho achieves educational milestone; graduates from Galilee International Management Institute

    Founder and CEO of the Atta-Mills Institute (AMI), Mr Samuel Koku Sitsofe Anyidoho, has continued his pursuit of knowledge into 2024 by receiving a Diploma in National Security and International Diplomacy from the esteemed Galilee International Management Institute (GIMI) based in Galilee, Israel.

    GIMI, with over 30 years of history, stands as a world-class institution known for enhancing the knowledge base of senior leaders globally. Its prestigious Alumni Association includes accomplished professionals from various sectors around the world.

    Despite the challenging geopolitical context, with Israel declaring total war on Gaza, Mr. Anyidoho displayed determination by traveling to Israel for his training and the receipt of his Diploma. Alongside fellow Africans from Ghana, Nigeria, Chad, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), he was awarded the diploma on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, in a ceremony held at the Golden Crown Hotel in the city of Nazareth.

    The comprehensive course covered various aspects, including Israel’s National Security Challenges, Diplomacy in Times of Emergency, Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terror Regulation and Prevention, History of the Middle East, Economic Development Based on the Israeli Experience, and Communication and Media Management in Emergency Situations.

    This recent achievement adds to Mr. Anyidoho’s notable accomplishments. In 2023, he became an Accredited Member of the Institute of Public Relations (IPR) Ghana, obtained a Master’s degree from the Trinity Theological Seminary, and became an Accredited Member of the Ghana Psychological Council (GPA).

    As a continuous learner, Mr Anyidoho’s commitment to expanding his knowledge base both locally and internationally sets him apart. He remains dedicated to using his experiences to positively impact the upcoming generation of future leaders, aiming to impart transformative knowledge and instill the mindset needed for building a Better Ghana.

    Looking ahead, it is anticipated that before the end of March 2024, Samuel Koku Anyidoho will launch his first personally authored book titled “Uncompromising Thoughts,” further showcasing his dedication to intellectual pursuits and contributing to the literary landscape.

  • Stray bullet kills 2 in confrontation between youth and police in Kwahu Bepong

    A grim incident unfolded in the Kwahu South Municipality of the Eastern Region, resulting in the tragic deaths of two individuals allegedly struck by stray bullets fired by the police during a confrontation to disperse an agitated crowd. 

    The clash occurred at the chief’s palace, where the police were attempting to apprehend a murder suspect accused of heinous crimes in the community.

    The suspect in question is 23-year-old Kwasi Tenkorang, identified as an ex-convict. Sources reveal that Tenkorang is accused of raping and murdering a 45-year-old woman named Akua Kyerewaa. 

    The alleged crimes extended to the murder of two other individuals in Adwumasu, a farming community within the Kwahu South Municipality.

    During the incident at the chief’s palace, a 65-year-old brother of the victim, Kwasi Antwi, attempted to rescue his sister during the confrontation and tragically succumbed to fatal injuries after being struck on the head with a metal bar.

    Eyewitnesses, including one identified as Frederick, who was on his way to the farm, narrowly escaped harm after witnessing the harrowing incident and being pursued by the suspect.

    The fugitive, Tenkorang, was eventually apprehended on Sunday, February 4th, and taken to the chief’s palace. However, upon learning of the suspect’s arrest, members of the community stormed the palace, demanding his immediate release for what they considered to be instant justice. The police, responding to the escalating situation, managed to prevent the release of the suspect.

    Growing impatient with their demands unmet, community members reportedly began pelting the police with stones, resulting in the destruction of a service vehicle and four police motorbikes.

    In an attempt to disperse the agitated crowd, the police fired warning shots, inadvertently injuring five people. Tragically, two of the injured individuals succumbed to their wounds, while the remaining three are currently receiving treatment at the Kwahu Government Hospital in Atibie.

    The incident has left the community in shock and mourning, raising questions about the use of force in crowd control situations. Authorities are urged to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the clash, ensuring transparency and accountability. The bereaved families and the affected community await answers and justice for their lost loved ones.

  • Over 100 people killed in Chile’s fire

    Over 100 people killed in Chile’s fire

    Deadly fires are burning in parts of Chile and have killed over 100 people, according to officials on Sunday. They said the number of people who died will likely go up.

    The Chilean emergency service said that at least 112 people have died. Authorities also confirmed that they have identified 32 bodies, performed 38 autopsies, and are prepared to deliver 10 bodies to their families.

    Over the weekend, pictures and videos from the news agency showed the widespread damage caused by the fires in many different towns. A camera in the sky took pictures of lots of burnt cars and many houses completely destroyed by fire in El Olivar. A video from CNN showed the inside of a bus driving through Valparaíso while fires were burning outside.

    Right now, there are 161 fires burning in different parts of the country, according to the Chilean National Disaster Prevention and Response Service.

    SENAPRED Director Álvaro Hormazábal said to media that firefighters have put out 102 fires but are still fighting 40 others. Nineteen fires are being watched right now, according to Hormazábal.

    President Gabriel Boric said there’s a very big problem in coastal cities like Viña del Mar and Valparaiso and declared a state of emergency. These cities were filled with smoke. People in the middle of the city had to leave their homes. Boric talked to reporters after visiting the damaged areas and said he is worried that more people will die.

    Boric said on TV that the defense department will send more soldiers to the places that need help, and they will have everything they need.

    He announced that Monday and Tuesday will be national mourning days for the victims of the fire.

    Scientists say that climate change and the El Nino weather pattern are causing the Earth to become warmer. This makes heatwaves and wildfires more likely to happen.

    Fires are getting worse all over the world, showing us how the climate crisis is causing a lot of damage and affecting many people’s lives. It costs billions of dollars each year. And experts say that it will only get more serious. The UN Environment Programme said in a report published in 2022 that uncontrollable and devastating wildfires are now expected at certain times of the year in many places around the world.

    According to a UN report, the amount of very bad wildfires will go up by 14% by 2030. By 2050, the rise will go up to 30%.

    In Chile, fires are happening while the country is experiencing very hot weather in summer. The city of Santiago has been very hot for several days with temperatures rising above 33 degrees Celsius (91. 4°F)

    Colombia had big fires and asked other countries for help.

    Emergency teams in Chile are focusing on stopping the fires in the city of Valparaíso because it is close to residential areas. The local authorities said that 372 people from the area were said to be missing.

    Valparaiso is a popular place for tourists in Chile. It is about 70 miles northwest of the capital city, Santiago. Valparaiso is famous for its colorful houses, beautiful hills, and old town.

    Valeria Melipillán, who is in charge of Quilpué city in central Chile, said to media that the wildfires are “probably the biggest ever” in the region. Almost 1,400 homes in the town have been broken, the mayor of Melipillán said.

    “Video shows how wildfires in Chile have caused a lot of damage. ”

    Chile’s Finance Minister Mario Marcel said that the initial calculations show that the damages in the Valparaíso region will likely cost hundreds of millions of dollars.

    Some people in the affected areas did not want to leave their homes, even though the evacuation was done well, according to local search and rescue officials.

    Rodrigo Mundaca, who is in charge of Valparaiso, announced that curfews are in effect in Viña del Mar, Quilpué, Villa Alemana and Limache. This is so that the authorities can concentrate on fighting the fires.

    Pope Francis, from Argentina, asked people to pray for the people who died or got hurt in the big fires in central Chile.

    According to report, authorities have arrested at least one person in connection to the wildfires.

    The man was doing welding work at his home in Talca, Chile when a fire started and spread to nearby grasslands, according to the police.

    The person accused of a crime will go to court on Sunday in Talca, as announced by the Maule Prosecutor’s Office.