TIG Post

Author: Chris Kodo

  • GJA pledges support for journalists in 2024 

    GJA pledges support for journalists in 2024 

    The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has reaffirmed its support to all journalists and media practitioners in the year 2024.

    In a poignant New Year’s message dated December 2, 2023, and signed by the President of the association, Albert Dwumfour, these sentiments were conveyed.

    He said, “Be assured that the GJA under the current leadership got your back in this New Year and beyond.”

    Dwumfour encouraged everyone to embrace 2024 with gratitude and enthusiasm, highlighting the importance of approaching the upcoming journey with a positive mindset.

    Dwumfour also extended warm greetings and well wishes and prayed for a year filled with success, joy, and significant moments.

    “As we welcome 2024 with joy and optimism, coupled with a fresh start, new beginnings, and endless possibilities, it is my prayer that this year be filled with success, happiness, and cherished moments,” he mentioned.

    He ended by saying, “Once again, I wish all Journalists/Media Practitioners a Happy and a Glorious New Year.”

  • NDC operative threatens to deal ruthlessly with Owusu-Bempah over Mahama ‘attacks’ 

    NDC operative threatens to deal ruthlessly with Owusu-Bempah over Mahama ‘attacks’ 

    A member of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC),  James Agbey, has issued a formidable warning to Ernest Owusu-Bempah, the deputy communication director of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). This development underscores heightened tensions between key figures from opposing political parties.

    Alleging unwarranted attacks on the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama, James Agbey claims that Ernest Owusu-Bempah, the Executive Director of the Ghana National Gas Company Limited, has been needlessly targeting Mahama. This assertion points to escalating political tensions and exchanges between individuals associated with different parties.

    In a statement released to GhanaWeb, James Agbey declared that members of his party would handle Ernest Owusu-Bempeh with severity if he persists in his attacks on Mahama, the former president of Ghana. This statement further accentuates the intensifying political friction and the potential for increased confrontations between the two parties.

    “Politicians have a duty to uphold the highest standards. We are entrusted by the public to safeguard and protect our democracy. Failing to do so and allowing characters like Owusu-Bempah to taint the halls of power risks the very foundation of our democracy.

    “It is no secret that this weakling and pathetic stooge is incredibly fixated with the former president. Let me assure him that we have taken notice of him and we’re coming for him,” the NDC operative wrote.

    He added that, “I, James Agbey, acting on behalf of my colleague operatives in the NDC can assure Owusu-Bempah that the NPP will be sent parking out of the Jubilee House on December 7 through the ballot box, and there’s absolutely nothing he can do about that. However, if his likes decide to play the long game, then he should be ready to pay the price for his clownish politics”.

    Read the full statement by James Agbey below:

    For Immediate Release

    Tuesday 2nd January 2024

    NDC Operative warns: We will deal ruthlessly with Owusu-Bempah if his attacks on Mahama continues
     ———-

    I have become aware of yet another dose of Ernest Owusu-Bempah’s mindless drivel directed at His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, the former president of Ghana.

    Ernest Owusu-Bempah infamously has no shame when it comes to disparaging others, but he should make an exception and be ashamed of his recent, continuing attacks on former President John Mahama.

    Instead, he continues to prove that he is a man without character and backbone.

    His Facebook post yesterday was almost deranged in its utter lack of conviction. Typical of Owusu-Bempah, he once again portrayed President Mahama as a failure, and even went further to assassinate the character of the former president.

    I’ve long been convinced that this Owusu-Bempah boy ought to have his head examined. His blend of nastiness, pettiness and general mental incompetence marked him out as a social misfit.

    Indeed, it is quite astonishing just how little Owusu-Bempah cares for anyone but himself yet managed to persuade a decent chunk of NPP insiders that he is fit enough to work as a public servant in a department that was incorporated under the Mahama/Mahama regime .

    Owusu-Bempah has got the comfort blanket of Ghana Gas Company Limited to keep him warm and so he feels he is untouchable.

    When are these twats in government going to wake up and realise that Ghana isn’t their personal property?

    That we have such a comical character parading himself as a politcal player is a stain on our country.

    Quite clearly, the likes of Owusu-Bempah hasn’t figured out yet that picking a curious series of public fights on social media and its related confrontational stunts also reflects his thinking as a public servant.

    Politicians have a duty to uphold the highest standards. We are entrusted by the public to safeguard and protect our democracy. Failing to do so and allowing characters like Owusu-Bempah to taint the halls of power risks the very foundation of our democracy.

    It is no secret that this weakling and pathetic stooge is incredibly fixated with the former president. Let me assure him that we have taken notice of him and we’re coming for him.

    I, James Agbey, acting on behalf of my colleague operatives in the NDC can assure Owusu-Bempah that the NPP will be sent parking out of the Jubilee House on December 7 through the ballot box, and there’s absolutely nothing he can do about that. However, if his likes decides to play the long game, then he should be ready to pay the price for his clownish politics.

    He should toughen up, and hide his face.

    Signed:
     James Agbey –
     NDC Operative

  • IDF reports finding rocket launchers close to UN school

    IDF reports finding rocket launchers close to UN school

    The Israeli army claims to have discovered explosive devices positioned along the Gaza Strip’s coast in a statement that includes the most recent information from Gaza. The statement stated that the explosives were neutralised by IDF marine, aviation, and ground units during combined operations.

    In the southern city of Khan Yunis, where Hamas was purportedly hiding its weaponry, troops launched an attack on a few structures. It added that they discovered and removed launch pits and facilities for producing weapons in the central Gaza Strip.

    According to the statement, “those who were armed and identified driving towards the forces” were murdered by Israeli troops near Jabalia, in the northern Gaza region. Furthermore, they asserted that they discovered rocket launchers in the middle of the Bureij refugee camp, next to a UNRWA school.

    More update on this story soon

  • Israeli bombing of Khan Younis results in hospitalisation of Palestinian civilians

    Israeli bombing of Khan Younis results in hospitalisation of Palestinian civilians

    Children were among the Palestinian victims taken to hospital after Israel’s latest bombing of Khan Younis in southern Gaza.

    Other attacks targeted Deir al Balah and Rafah, towns from which tens of thousands of Gazans recently fled for safety.

    The Israeli military has warned that the fighting will continue this year, but the Defense Minister said Israelis evacuated from several communities near Gaza will soon be able to return home safely.

    Other Israeli ministers reacted angrily to yesterday’s Supreme Court decision to overturn a controversial law that had weakened their own powers.

    Ministers accused the court of exceeding its authority.

    However, opposition politicians have hailed the national crisis caused by last year’s controversial judicial changes, which may have contributed to Hamas’s decision to carry out deadly attacks on Sunday. October 7

  • Bawumia touts NPP’s efforts in championing education of Ghanaian children

    Bawumia touts NPP’s efforts in championing education of Ghanaian children

    Vice President and flagbearer of the NPP, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has asserted that the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has demonstrated its trustworthiness in the education of Ghanaian children. 

    This declaration underscores the party’s commitment and track record in the educational sector under its leadership.

    Addressing the 63rd Conference of the Ghana Muslim Mission in Kumasi on Saturday, December 31, Vice President Dr. Bawumia emphasized that with 7 years of dedicated investment in the Free SHS policy and its evident positive impact, the NPP proudly presents a substantial track record in effectively overseeing the education of Ghanaian children. 

    Dr. Bawumia, who listed the successes of the Free SHS policy, including an increase in enrollment from 800,000 to 1.4m in seven years and gender parity in enrollment, said some people predicted doom for Free SHS, and are now denigrating the success of the policy.

    “While the government rolled out the Free SHS policy, much to the excitement and relief of parents, some pessimists predicted doom for Free SHS,” said Dr. Bawumia.

    “They said Free SHS was a scam. They said it was 419 and they said if they 2 billion cedis to spend, they won’t spend it on Free SHS.” They said Free SHS will lower the quality of educational standards.

    Dr. Bawumia added that “at the end of the 2023 WASSCE, nearly 70% of Ghanaian students who sat the exam passed, representing the highest pass rate since 2015.”

    “There are those, who, instead of congratulating the students and their hard-working teachers for their remarkable success, are rather denigrating their efforts, by questioning the credibility of the score of the WAEC exams they wrote,”

    Dr. Bawumia also reminded the audience that the last NDC government also cancelled allowances for teacher trainees, nursing trainees and Arabic instructors and it took The NPP government to restore these allowances. In addition, the NPP government introduced free TVET education.

    While slamming the negative attitude of “Our opponent” to Free SHS and other educational initiatives, Dr. Bawumia concluded that “the future of the education of Ghanaian children will be safer in the hands of the NPP”.

    “We, the NPP, have demonstrated that we can be trusted with the education of our children,” he said.

    “Free SHS will not be safe in the hands of our main opponent. Let us not sacrifice the future of our children on the altar of people’s political ambitions,“ he added.

  • Resolve disputes through court – Bawumia tells Political actors ahead of 2024 polls

    Resolve disputes through court – Bawumia tells Political actors ahead of 2024 polls

    Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has called upon all political stakeholders, urging them to prioritize the resolution of disputes through the judicial system in the upcoming general elections this year. This plea underscores the importance of a fair and legal approach to address any election-related conflicts.

    Emphasizing Ghana’s distinguished position as the most peaceful country in West Africa and the second most peaceful in Africa, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia underscored the significance of preserving this esteemed reputation. In his remarks, he stressed the importance of not taking lightly the country’s standing in maintaining peace and stability in the region.

    Highlighting the significance of the upcoming general elections in Ghana, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia pointed out that 2024 is poised to be a pivotal year. Amidst the tumult observed in neighboring countries, he underscored Ghana’s distinguished status as an oasis of peace.

    “I don’t think it just happened by coincidence; I believe God has His hand on Ghana, and we should continue to pray to maintain peace and stability in Ghana,” he remarked.

    Speaking during the crossover service at Action Chapel International, Dr Bawumia underscored that while political actors may harbour differences, the 2024 general elections should not result in any form of instability.

    “In Ghana, when we have difficulties and disagreements over elections, we go to court and we settle the matter in court.

    “We will settle it that way and we will go back and leave peacefully and this is how I expect the 2024 elections to go,” the Vice President said.

    The flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party emphasised the need for Ghanaians to remember the country in their prayers as it gears up for the upcoming general elections.

  • Prince David switches allegiance from Lydia Alhassan, backs John Dumelo

    Prince David switches allegiance from Lydia Alhassan, backs John Dumelo

    The re-election campaign for the Member of Parliament (MP) seat in Ayawaso West Wuogon has encountered increased challenges for Lydia Seyram Alhassan. 

    Prince David Osei, a former supporter who actively campaigned for her during the 2020 election, seems to be withdrawing his support, adding to the complexity of Alhassan’s bid to retain her seat.

    The renowned Ghanaian actor and staunch supporter of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), has made a surprising announcement, revealing his intention to throw his support behind the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency, John Dumelo. This unexpected shift in allegiance has stirred intrigue in the political landscape.

    Speaking in a GHOne interview on December 1, 2023, the actor explained that his decision to support Dumelo despite the fact that he is a member of the NPP is because the current MP has failed to address the needs of the constituency.

    He said all attempts to get the MP to listen to the needs of her constituents, particularly students of the University of Ghana, have proven futile.

    “Personnel, it would not be shocking if you see me on a platform campaigning for John to win the Ayawaso seat even though he is NDC… I’m NPP but I would support John. You shouldn’t be alarmed if that happens because I feel like when people go all out for you, you don’t take them for granted. I stood on that platform, got a lot of insults because of Maa Lydia.

    “At a point, I sent messages to her PA that some of these Legon students are really going through (sic), I have been trying to support you, you’re the MP so hear them. They never replied, nothing happened,” he said.

    The actor added, “So personally, I felt like ok, if we are the same people that went there, got all the insults and humiliation all because they said we stood against our friend. Then if John has gotten the nod again, we would support him”.

    Lydia Alhassan would face John Dumelo in the 2024 parliament if she emerges victorious in the upcoming NPP primaries which is slated for January 20, 2024.

  • NAPO pledges to work tirelessly to sustain electricity supply for Ghanaians

    NAPO pledges to work tirelessly to sustain electricity supply for Ghanaians

    Energy Minister, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has conveyed his commitment to the Ghanaian people, assuring that in 2024, he will persist in unwavering efforts to realize the vision set forth by Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

    Emphasizing a dedicated focus, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh affirms that his diligent efforts in 2024 will be particularly directed towards ensuring a consistent and uninterrupted power supply, aiming to keep the lights on for the people of Ghana.

    In a New Year message disseminated on social media, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh revealed his commitment to the ongoing hard work, specifically highlighting the priority placed on maintaining a reliable power supply for the people of Ghana in 2024.

    Expressing a forward-looking perspective, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh highlighted the importance of Ghanaians commencing the year with a revitalized sense of hope, acknowledging that there are further accomplishments to be pursued and achieved in the coming months.

  • IMF cautions BoG over adoption and use of CBDCs

    IMF cautions BoG over adoption and use of CBDCs

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cautioned that while Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) hold the potential for enhanced payment systems efficiency and financial inclusion, there exists a looming risk and potential complications if these technologies are not meticulously designed and subject to appropriate regulations. 

    This warning underscores the IMF’s recognition of both the benefits and the necessity for careful governance to avert potential threats associated with the implementation of CBDCs.

    The cautionary message from the Fund is rooted in the research discoveries of three prominent researchers affiliated with the organization: Tobias Adrian, Dong He, and Tommaso Mancini-Griffoli.

    “Benefits are more likely to come in time, following the policies pursued by countries and the private sector’s response, as well as the evolution of technology. In most cases, it would be useful for countries to continue exploring CBDC, carefully and systematically, as IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva noted in her recent speech at the Singapore Fintech Festival,” they said in a publication on the IMF Blog.

    In Ghana, Dr Ernest Addison, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) is of the view that, year in year out new financial technologies are developed with the promise of revolutionizing the financial sector, and although most of thses technology may come with their own threats, it is a force for good and a key determinant of the development trajectory.

    He said, “Therefore, our ability to appreciate, adopt, and adapt to technology will help position the financial services industry to drive national development efforts.”

    He added that for a while now, the BoG has created an enabling environment for the digital delivery of financial services.

    “Currently, the financial sector can boast of a variety of digital financial services, including payment, credit, savings, and investment products that are offered by banks and FinTechs. New business models have emerged through FinTech channels and removed barriers to micro-credit as well as paved the way for affordable and convenient inward remittance services.

    “These interventions have fostered financial inclusion in the country, evidenced by the phenomenal improvement in financial access from 41% in 2014 to 68% in 2021, according to the Global Findex Report of the World Bank,” Dr Addison said.

  • Residents report attacks overnight in southern Gaza

    Residents report attacks overnight in southern Gaza

    Gaza residents said Israeli planes and tanks continued to attack the south of the enclave overnight, a day after Israel announced it would begin withdrawing some troops.

    Israeli ministers say the war in Gaza will continue for several months, but the partial withdrawal signals a new phase in the offensive, with one official saying Israel will shift its strategy to operations.

    The US said this signals a gradual shift to lower intensity activities in the northern lands.

    More update on this story soon

  • Ghanaians abroad under scrutiny as GRA seeks $2.8bn in overseas accounts

    Ghanaians abroad under scrutiny as GRA seeks $2.8bn in overseas accounts

    The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has revealed its imminent pursuit of overseas accounts belonging to Ghanaians who are reportedly evading tax obligations. This forthcoming initiative underscores the GRA’s commitment to ensuring tax compliance among Ghanaian citizens residing abroad.

    Following comprehensive investigations into the financial activities of Ghanaians residing in 40 countries, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has announced its intention to take action on accounts after scrutinizing 70,000 such accounts. This move signifies the authority’s proactive measures to address potential tax non-compliance among Ghanaians living abroad.

    Commissioner General of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Rev. Dr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah, disclosed this on PM EXPRESS BUSINESS EDITION.

    “For the 40 countries that we have completed work, the value of money in these accounts are pegged at $2.8 billion”, he stated.

    “However, the Ghana Revenue Authority has been able to raise a tax liability of ¢1.6 billion. This is an assessment, but doesn’t mean that we have already collected the taxes on these accounts”, the GRA Boss added.

    Rev. Dr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah pointed out that this was based on work done in two months by the GRA.

    The Commissioner General also revealed that his outfit is expecting another set of data to come in the first week of January 2024, which could also improve the inflows expected. 

    Reasons and legal basis by GRA

    The Commissioner-General of the GRA said it is getting information from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Agreement on automatic exchange of information with member countries and the exchange of information on request.

    According to him, 150 countries including Ghana have signed up to this agreement by the OECD, which allows member countries to share information based on request and the automatic sharing of information. The agreement allows Ghana to share information with member countries

    “This means that Ghana can go to UK and ask for information on Ghanaians resident in that country and the UK can also request that GRA shares information on their residents in Ghana”, Dr  Owusu-Amoah pointed out.

    The development, he added, will also help in checking money laundering as well.

    “Ghana is one of the 5th countries in Africa in which in 2022 managed to satisfy all the conditions to be part of the OEDC agreement on sharing data for tax purposes on residents in their countries,” the GRA Boss revealed.

    What will happen to residents in Ghana who don’t cooperate?

    Rev. Dr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah furthered that persons who fail to meet their tax obligations will be given some time to comply with the GRA.

    However, failure to do so will result in the Authority going ahead to apply the necessary penalties.

    GRA and Foreign Nationals and Businesses in Ghana

    The Commissioner General also revealed that the Authority will soon roll out a Special Voluntary Disclosure Program (SVDP) for foreign nationals and businesses in the country.

    This will allow foreign nationals in Ghana, including individuals and businesses to voluntarily disclose any unreported or underreported information related to their financial activities outside Ghana for tax purposes.

    The initiative is coming under the Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement (MCAA) and the Standard for Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information in Tax Matters Act, 2018 (Act 967).

    Rev. Dr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah also explained that the Voluntary Disclosure Programme encourages participants to voluntarily disclose their errors or omissions and may be eligible for a reduction in penalties that would typically apply to such violations.

    He also added that “All information provided under the Voluntary Disclosure Programme will be treated with utmost confidentiality, whilst stringent protocol measures have been put in place to protect the security and privacy of your data.

  • MP announces decision not to contest in 2028 elections

    MP announces decision not to contest in 2028 elections

    Member of Parliament for Karaga Constituency and Minister of State at the Ministry of Finance, Dr Mohammed Amin Adam, has declared that he will not seek re-election for the Karaga constituency seat after completing his second term in 2028. 

    Dr. Adam, citing his impactful developmental projects in the region, emphasized that his contributions to the area extend beyond parliamentary duties.

    Highlighting his accomplishments during his initial term, he emphasized the transformation of the Karaga constituency through diverse developmental initiatives. 

    Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam pointed out that his ability to effect change extends beyond parliamentary responsibilities, underlining the multifaceted approach to community development.

    “It’s not only in parliament that I can contribute to the development of mother Ghana. I wish to hint that I will not contest for the Karaga seat when my second term elapses in 2028”, he announced

    Addressing journalists at a press soirée at his home in Tamale, he commended journalists in the northern region for projecting the north to the world and urged them to continue to support the growth of the northern sector.

    According to him, the projection of the north in a good manner will attract investors into the region, which will eventually create job opportunities for the youth in the region.

    He also advised journalists to be circumspect in their reporting and always report on facts and truth for the growth of the north.

    “I have also observed a lack of reportage about us, especially those of us in national politics, and national-level government and I believe that may be due to a lack of relationship between you(Journalists)and us. I think you must make conscious efforts to market us as individual politicians from here. Please make those efforts because whether we like it or not, resources in this country, and appointment in any government of this country depend on what our leaders read about us. Whether they promote us or sack us depends on what they read and hear about us”.

    “And it is very sad you have a region as important as the Northern region and you don’t have people from the region occupying certain key positions in the government. What it means is that there will not be people to lobby for projects to come to the region. What it means is that in distributing the resources of the country, let’s not deceive ourselves, if you are not at the table, you will get bones, but you won’t get the meat,” he urged.

    The Northern Regional Minister, Alhassan Shani Shaibu , who graced the press soirée however, said the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will not grant the Karaga MP permission to opt out of Parliament in 2028 should he still stand by his words because they cannot afford to lose the knowledge and experience in politics and governance from the Karaga MP.

    He said the Karaga MP has brought massive development to the Karaga constituency in the areas of health, education, roads, agriculture, electricity, water among others.

  • Israel must seize and keep control of all of Gaza – Former head of CIA

    Israel must seize and keep control of all of Gaza – Former head of CIA

    Former CIA Director General David Petraeus has said that Israel must “clear and control all of Gaza” to fulfill its stated mission of destroying Hamas and rescuing the hostages.

    Petraeus, a retired American general who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, likened the war to the war against the so-called Islamic State.

    “If you look at the case of [Iraqicity] Mosul and the destruction of the Islamic State and I think Hamas can be compared to that, although it’s an imperfect comparison, if that is the model, you have to destroy Hamas, you cannot reconcile with them.

    Mosul was retaken by the Iraqi army with the supportof US-led coalition warplanes in 2017 in a massive military operation that reduced large areas to rubble and killed many people. thousands of civilians.

    Petraeus said that after the current war, Gaza will have to be rebuilt.

    However, once Hamas is destroyed, it is possible that Israel will”take on this task”due to the lack of alternatives, the general added. Petraeus also told the BBC that the fear that Israel’s military operation in Gaza could scare future generations was”very legitimate”.

  • Bawumia celebrates New Year with dance moves at Crossover service

    Bawumia celebrates New Year with dance moves at Crossover service

    A video of the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, showcasing his dance moves during the 31st all-night celebration has popped up.

    In a notable series of events, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), made visits to several churches in Accra that hosted 31st Night services, actively participating in ushering Ghanaians into the new year, 2024.

    Demonstrating his gracious demeanor, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia actively engaged in singing and dancing during the 31st Night services he attended, coupled with delivering inspirational New Year messages to uplift Ghanaians.

    Despite being the sitting Vice President of Ghana, Dr Bawumia seemed unfazed by the criticisms directed at him for his frequent visits to churches and the comments made during these visits, despite his Muslim faith.

    At the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC) in Kokomlemle, Accra, Dr Bawumia could be seen dancing as he entered the centre with the chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Ghana, Apostle Eric Nyamekye.

    The vice president and team, who were all in white clothing, were joyously dancing to ‘We Shall Sing Hosanna’ as they were waving their white handkerchiefs.

    The Second Lady, Samira Bawumia, who was also with her husband, could also be seen dancing to honour God for the gift of 2024.

    Dr Bawumia, in his New Year’s message at the PIWC, urged Ghanaians to jealously guide the democracy the country enjoys as it heads into an election year.

    He urged all stakeholders in the 2024 general election to resort to the court to resolve any grievance they have and not resort to violence.

  • Israel claims hostilities will persist until 2024

    Israel claims hostilities will persist until 2024

    Israel has stated that it anticipates the Gaza confrontation to last until 2024. According to Daniel Hagari, an IDF spokesman, army deployments are being rearranged in preparation for “prolonged fighting”.

    There will be a pullout of some soldiers, especially reservists, from Gaza so they can recuperate, see their families, and reorganise.

    Since the start of the war, Israel’s economy has suffered due to the large number of males who have been absent from work.

    However, Hagari went on, “We will need them [the reservists] and the fighting will continue.”

  • NPP, NDC owes Ghanaians an apology for Ghana’s current sordid state – IEA Director

    NPP, NDC owes Ghanaians an apology for Ghana’s current sordid state – IEA Director

    Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA),  Dr John Kwakye, has brought attention to the mismanagement of the country’s economy by the two prominent political parties over the course of the past 32 years.

    In a notable stance, Dr John Kwakye urged the presidential candidates of both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to issue apologies to the Ghanaian public for the perceived mishandling of the economy.

    Dr John Kwakye noted that the prevailing economic challenges in Ghana partly stem from the actions of the two primary political parties.

    Dr. Kwakye charged the two main flagbearers, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and John Dramani Mahama, to explain to the electorate the things they would do differently if given the mandate to be at the helm of affairs of the country.

    The IEA Director of Research called on voters to reject these two presidential candidates if they are unable to table the policies they have put in place to turn the economy around.

    In a post on X, Dr Kwakye said, “NPP and NDC must apologise to Ghanaians for bringing the country, once the shining star of Africa, to its current sordid state. Their presidential candidates should tell us what they are going to do differently to turn the economy around. Otherwise, they don’t deserve our mandate.”

    He added, “NPP and NDC presidential candidates must first admit their party failures in the past 32 years and tell Ghanaians what they are going to do differently to turn this country around. Otherwise, they should be rejected by the electorate.  NPP and NDC have woefully failed Ghana over the past 32 years. Their presidential candidates should openly admit the NPP and NDC failings and tell us what they are going to do differently. Otherwise, the electorate should reject them.”

    The former president, John Mahama is seeking re-election, whereas the vice president, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is seeking election to be the president.

  • Israel claims to have struck Syrian military sites

    Israel claims to have struck Syrian military sites

    Israel said it struck Syrian military targets in retaliation for Syria’s missile firing into northern Israel on Monday night.

    The IDF claimed to have attacked the military infrastructure of the Syrian army, which official Syrian media denied.

    Syria’s official SANA news agency said an Israeli airstrike hit positions on the outskirts of Damascus on Tuesday morning, causing material damage.

    Since the start of the war in Gaza on October 7, the Israeli army has stepped up attacks in Syria, especially on airports in Damascus and Aleppo, as well as in places where of Iran-backed militias.

  • Violent communal clash hits Atwima Agogo, Atwima Twedie; cars, houses, other properties damaged 

    Violent communal clash hits Atwima Agogo, Atwima Twedie; cars, houses, other properties damaged 

    A communal clash during the early hours of the New Year at Atwima Agogo and Atwima Twedie has resulted in extensive vandalism, with several vehicles, houses, and school properties falling prey to the destructive turmoil.

    Eyewitness accounts reveal that, stemming from a discord between residents of the two communities on Christmas Eve, tensions escalated as some individuals from Atwima Agogo reportedly launched an attack on their counterparts from Atwima Twedie on New Year.

    The fallout led to the destruction of numerous vehicles, houses, and possessions belonging to residents of Twedie.

    In a retaliatory move, residents of Twedie stormed the Atwima Agogo community, unleashing vandalism on vehicles, houses, and belongings of residents in Atwima Agogo and Boaso.

    Timely police intervention played a crucial role in bringing the situation under control.

    Residents, gripped by fear, are facing the repercussions of the clash, with a notable disruption in transport services within the vicinity.

    During a visit to the area on Monday, transport operators feared using their vehicles to transport people from one community to the other.

    The assembly member for Twedie electoral area, Augustine Osei, in a Citi News interview, called for security to be beefed up in the area.

    For a driver who had his vehicle vandalized, Michael Kwaku Boateng, he wants the affected persons to be compensated.

    Police sources have revealed to Citi News that, so far, no arrests have been made as investigations continue.

  • Israel intensifies its bombardment in southern Gaza – Locals

    Israel intensifies its bombardment in southern Gaza – Locals

    Israeli aerial bombardment continues in Gaza, residents say Israel has stepped up attacks in the south Children were among the Palestinian victims taken to hospital after Israel’s latest bombing of Khan Younis in southern Gaza.

    Other attacks targeted Deir al Balah and Rafah, towns from which tens of thousands of Gazans recently fled for safety.

    Meanwhile, the IDF claimed to have killed four Palestinian militants in a shooting in the West Bank On Monday, the Israeli military announced it was withdrawing some reservists from Gaza in anticipation of “protracted fighting” that it said would continue throughout the year.

    Several Israeli ministers reacted angrily to yesterday’s Supreme Court decision to overturn a controversial law that had weakened their own powers.

    At least 1,200 people were killed when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7 and about 240 others were taken hostage.

    Gaza’s Hamas-run Health Ministry says more than 22,000 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel began its retaliation campaign.

  • NPP to vet Parliamentary hopefuls from January 3-5

    NPP to vet Parliamentary hopefuls from January 3-5

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially declared the initiation of the vetting process for parliamentary aspirants in constituencies with incumbent MPs. 

    The vetting sessions are slated to take place from January 3 to 5, 2024, simultaneously across all regional capitals. 

    This crucial step underscores the party’s commitment to the transparent and timely selection of candidates ahead of the upcoming political landscape.

    Additionally, the party has formed several committees tasked with overseeing and managing the vetting procedures.

    Some of the persons appointed as national representatives on the committee include NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye, NPP National Women Organizer Kate Gyamfua, Prof Addai Mensah, Gary Nimako, among others.

    In a statement signed by the General Secretary of the party, Justin Kodua Frimpong, the NPP said, “The vetting of aspiring parliamentary candidates shall be held at all regional capitals from Wednesday, January 3, 2024, to January 5, 2024.”

    Read the statement issued by NPP below:

    For Immediate Release

    January 1, 2024

    CONDUCT OF PARLIAMENTARY PRIMARIES

    The New Patriotic Party is pleased to announce the constitution of committees to supervise the vetting of Parliamentary Aspirants in constituencies with incumbent Members of Parliament.

    The vetting of Aspiring Parliamentary Candidates shall be held at all regional capitals from Wednesday, January 3, 2024, to Friday, January 5, 2024.

    Regional Executive Committees are hereby directed to communicate to their respective Constituencies and Aspiring Parliamentary Candidates the date, time and venue for the vetting.

    The Party has appointed the following persons as National representatives on the Vetting Committees for the various regions:

    ASHANTI REGION

    TEAM A

    1. Henry Nana Boakye, Esq

    (Chairman)

    2. Iddi Muhayu-Deen, Esq

    (Member)

    3. Richmond Amponsah Agyabeng

    (Member)

    TEAM B

    1. Danquah Smith Buttey

    (Chairman)

    2. Stephen Forson

    (Member)

    3. Prof. Dr. Addai Mensah

    (Member)

    TEAM C

    1. Gary Nimako Esq

    (Chairman)

    2. Dr Kwasi Nyame-Baafi

    (Member)

    3. Madam Margret Atiemo

    (Member)

    TEAM D

    1. Dr Antoinette Tsibu-Darko

    (Chairperson)

    2. Habib Ibrahim

    (Member)

    3. Kwabena Ampofo Appiah

    (Member)

    GREATER REGION

    TEAM A

    1. Madam Kate Gyamfua

    (Chairperson)

    2. Isaac Jay Nii Amahtey Hyde

    (Member)

    3. Kwesi Abeasi

    (Member)

    TEAM B

    1. Hon. Abraham Osei Aidoo

    (Chairman)

    2. Michael Nketiah

    (Member)

    3. Elizabeth Agyeman

    (Member)

    CENTRAL REGION

    TEAM A

    1. Rita Talata Asobayire

    (Chairperson)

    2. Abubakari Mahazu

    (Member)

    3. William Yamoah

    (Member)

    TEAM B

    1. Peter Mac Manu

    (Chairman)

    2. Betty Awura Adjoa Eshun

    (Member)

    3. Prof. Samuel Bert Boadi-Kusi

    (Member)

    WESTERN REGION

    TEAM A

    1. Frank Davies, Esq

    (Chairman)

    2. Vera Wiredu

    (Member)

    3. Dr Isaac Owusu Mensah

    (Member)

    TEAM B

    1. Dr Patrick Kumah Aboagye

    (Chairman)

    2. Abdul-Rahman Fuseini

    (Member)

    3. Alhaji Abdul-Aziz Haruna Futa

    (Member)

    BONO EAST REGION

    1. Nana Obiri Boahene

    (Chairman)

    2. Anthony Osei

    (Member)

    3. Dr. Emmanuel Amankwa

    (Member)

    BONO REGION

    1. F. F. Antoh

    (Chairman)

    2. Eric Asonade Ofosu

    (Member)

    3. Mathew Chremeh

    (Member)

    AHAFO REGION

    1. Dr Nsiah Asare

    (Chairman)

    2. Eric Nkansah

    (Member)

    3. Samuel Akwasi Adjei, Esq

    (Member)

    EASTERN REGION

    TEAM A

    1. Laud Oblitey Commey

    (Chairman)

    2. Miriam Awurama Duah

    (Member)

    3. William Ampem Darko

    (Member)

    TEAM B

    1. Dr Charles Dwamena

    (Chairman)

    2. Emmanuel Senyo

    (Member)

    3. Hon. Adjei Sowah

    (Member)

    TEAM C

    1. Haruna Mohammed

    (Chairman)

    2. Sandra Sarkodee-Addo

    (Member)

    3. Capt Rtd Kwasi Ayi Aquah

    (Member)

    NORTHERN REGION

    1. Kwadwo Afari

    (Chairman)

    2. Ammar Khamis

    (Member)

    3. Alhassan Yakubu Tali

    (Member)

    UPPER EAST REGION

    1. Alhaji Ishmael Ibrahim

    (Chairman)

    2. Dr Ernest Owusu Kumi

    (Member)

    3. Hajia Rukaya Ahmed

    (Member)

    UPPER WEST REGION

    1. Alhaji Masawudu Osman

    (Chairman)

    2. Eric Ntori

    (Member)

    3. Dr Eric Donyina

    (Member)

    NORTH EAST REGION

    1. Hajia Safia Mohammed

    Chairperson

    2. Dr Aseidu Kokro

    Member

    3. Abdul Taric Bonsu

    Member

    SAVANNAH REGION

    1. Chris Lloyd Nii Kwei

    (Chairman)

    2. Hajia Rabi Salifu

    (Member)

    3. Dr Abdulai Mobson

    (Member)

    VOLTA REGION

    1. Joseph Nganiba Kwayaja

    (Chairman)

    2. Hajia Ayesha Yussif

    (Member)

    3. Peter Oteng

    (Member)

    Vetting shall also be held for Aspiring Parliamentary Candidates in the Bawku Central, Ketu North and Akatsi North Constituencies.

    The Party has further constituted a National Parliamentary Appeals Committee (NPAC) to consider appeals from aspirants and other stakeholders. Membership of the Committee is as follows:

    1. Hon. Osei Prempeh – Chairman

    2. Mr. Evans Nimako – Secretary

    3. Hon. Opare Ansah – Member

    4. Madam Esther Ofori – Member

    5. Amb. R.O. Solomon – Member

    6. Prof. Emmanuel Flolu – Member

    7. Dr. Clifford Braimah – Member

    8. Hon. Eugenia Gifty Kusi -Member

    9. Dr. Agyeman Budu – Member

    10. Alhaji Amadu Kalem – Member

    The Party anticipates the full cooperation of all stakeholders in the conduct of the primaries and wishes all aspiring candidates the best of luck.

    …SIGNED…

    JUSTIN KODUA FRIMPONG

    GENERAL SECRETARY

  • Livestream: Failatu Abdul Razak attempts to break Guinness World Record for longest hours in cooking

    Livestream: Failatu Abdul Razak attempts to break Guinness World Record for longest hours in cooking

    Culinary enthusiast Failatu Abdul Razak is set to make waves in the culinary world by attempting to break the Guinness World Record for cooking.

    This feat promises to showcase not only her culinary prowess but also her determination to leave an indelible mark on the global stage.

    Failatu Abdul Razak, commenced the Cook-A-Thon on Monday, January 1st 2024, and as of filing this report, had done over 30 hours. She is hoping to do 120 hours of cooking.

    This comes after Ghanaian native, Afua Asantewaa Aduonom’s attempt to break the world record for the longest hours in singing. 

    Afua was able to do 126 hours, 52 minutes but the Guinness World Record is yet to declare her fate. 

    So far dignitaries such as Tamale South MP, Haruna Iddrisu, and Tamale Central MP, Murtala Mohammed have all been to the premises in Tamale, to support her. 

  • Race against time to save as many survivors as possible – PM Kishida

    Race against time to save as many survivors as possible – PM Kishida

    The number of survivors being pulled out of collapsed buildings by rescuers is hampered by severely damaged and blocked highways.

    “We are in a race against time to locate and rescue the disaster victims,” Prime Minister Kishida declared following a meeting on disaster response.

    He stated that “very extensive damage has been confirmed, including numerous casualties, building collapses, and fires,” and that it was becoming more challenging for rescuers to get to the northernmost point of the Noto peninsula.

    Due to a lack of energy, over 33,000 homes battled below-freezing conditions last night. There is also a lack of flowing water in several cities.

    More update on this story soon

  • Prof Quartey hopeful 2nd tranche of IMF will boost Ghana’s economy

    Prof Quartey hopeful 2nd tranche of IMF will boost Ghana’s economy

    Director of the Institute of Statistical, Social, and Economic Research (ISSER), Professor Peter Quartey, is hopeful the second tranche of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will help boost Ghana’s economy.

    He is optimistic that the country will be able to secure a deal with bilateral creditors by February.

    “For us to get the second tranche [funds], it is dependent on us getting into an agreement with external creditors.

    “If that happens, then certainly we are likely to see some stability in the exchange rate market and that drives inflation and a lot of activities on the business front. So, if the exchange rate is relatively stable, we are likely to see some gains,” he was quoted by myjoyonline.com.

    Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has scheduled January 11, 2024, as the proposed board meeting date for cash disbursement, subject to the country reaching a deal with its bilateral creditors.

    On the issue of new taxes, Prof. Quartey said: “Of course, the new taxes as we mentioned, depend on when it becomes operational.

    “I heard GRA [Ghana Revenue Authority] says it is now setting up the system so it might not kick off in January [2024]. But as soon as it kicks in, we’ll find costs going up” he added.

  • “Dreadful” scenes in Suzu town’s seaside area – Mayor

    “Dreadful” scenes in Suzu town’s seaside area – Mayor

    Per Reuters report, the quake damaged 1,000 homes in the coastal town of Suzu, and mayor Masuhiro Izumiya called the consequences “disastrous.

    ” Suzu, which has just 5,000 households, is near the epicenter of the New Year’s earthquake.

    The quake also damaged a temple and several graves in the city, Japan’s NHK channel reported.

    Aerial photos broadcast by NHK showed collapsed roofs and capsized boats in the city’s port.

  • 82-year-old widower’s home destroyed by an earthquake in Japan

    82-year-old widower’s home destroyed by an earthquake in Japan

    As we approached the epicenter, we discovered isolated areas of damage – single-family homes reduced to rubble.

    These are often old wooden houses that were not built to withstand such earthquakes.

    We met Toshio Iwahama, 82, whose wooden house partially collapsed. He lives alone since his wife passed away and doesn’t know how he will pay to repair the house, which is now uninhabitable.

    He told us that he always fears a big earthquake but hopes it won’t happen in his town.

    Like everyone we spoke to, he said that although he had been through many earthquakes, he had never experienced one this strong.

    We are trying to reach the worst affected town of Wajima, where more than a dozen people have died and we believe others are trapped in their homes. But all the roads leading in this direction seem to have broken down.

    There are large cracks in the middle making them inaccessible.

    This means that rescue teams also have difficulty accessing the area. Therefore, we are still trying to assess the extent of the damage as well as the number of people killed and trapped.

  • IGP Dampare thrills congregants at 31st Night service with powerful praise and worship session

    The Ghana Police Service has earned praise for ensuring security at New Year‘s Eve services nationwide.

    In a proactive move to bolster security measures, the police initiated a nationwide 31st December Night Security Tour, reinforcing safety protocols and upholding law and order at multiple centers hosting crossover services.

    Heading a team, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, personally visited several worship centers in the capital city, Accra, underscoring the police’s commitment to ensuring security during the New Year’s Eve celebrations.

    He visited the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC) in Kokomlemle, Accra, where the service was presided over by the chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Ghana, Apostle Eric Nyamekye.

    The IGP could not help but lead the congregation himself to sing praises to God for the gift of a new year when he took the microphone to address the congregation.

    The IGP and his team could be seen joyfully dancing and singing on the podium in a viral video sighted by GhanaWeb.

  • JJ Rawlings’ speech writer, Valerie Anne Sackey, passes on

    JJ Rawlings’ speech writer, Valerie Anne Sackey, passes on

    Former Director of the Castle Information Bureau during the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) era from 1982 to 1992, and subsequently of the Public Affairs Secretariat at the office of President Jerry John Rawlings from 1992 to 2001, has passed away.

    Mrs Valerie Anne Sackey, died on December 31, 2023, according to a report on newstitbits.com.

    On January 2, 2024, the J.J. Rawlings Foundation announced the passing of Mrs. Valerie Anne Sackey.

    About Valerie Sackey:

    Valerie Sackey (nee Valerie Anne Lindoe) was born in 1935 in Accrington in the United Kingdom to Valentine Lindoe, Principal of the Accrington College of Art and Nancy Lindoe, an arts teacher in the college.

    She met and married Mr. Horace Walter Kofi Sackey at the London School of Economics and Political Science where they were both studying, and came to Ghana three days after independence in March 1957.

    On arrival in Ghana, she taught Geography at the Opoku Ware Secondary School and later joined the Department of Game and Wildlife and was posted to the Kumasi zoo.

    When her husband was appointed a Minister of State in the Progress Party government led by Prime Minister Kofi Abrefa Busia in 1969, she moved to Accra and continued to work with the Department of Game and Wildlife.

    On her return to Kumasi following the fall of the Progress Party government in 1972, Mrs. Valerie Sackey transferred to the Kumasi unit of the Department of Game and Wildlife and then on to teaching at St. Louis Secondary School in Kumasi.

    During this period, she wrote on various topical issues for the Pioneer newspaper under the pen name of Yaa Asantewaa.

    Her direct and commonsensical approach to issues gained her a wide readership in a culture prone to using euphemisms to totter around uncomfortable facts of our socio political life.

    In one of these articles, she sharply criticized the manner in which the various leaders of the PNDC were going round the country haranguing the people on radio and television and advised them to take a tape recorder and hear themselves speak.

    This drew the attention of the Leader of the Revolution. Flt. Lt. J. J. Rawlings who secretly agreed with her expressed views and requested to meet her. He was however surprised to find that she was white.

    After a number of interactions with her, Rawlings extended an invitation to her to join his personal office staff and take charge of his speeches, interviews with local and foreign media and official Press Statements.

    Her schedule also included dealing with complaints and petitions to his office as well as responding to letters from members of the public.

    With the able assistance of Kwasi Opoku Acheampong, who was editor of the Pioneer in 1980-81, the Castle Information Bureau and the Public Affairs Secretariat became the most powerful and effective administrative organs of the Rawlings personal administrative units.

    After 2001, Mrs. Valerie Sackey continued to work at the office of the late former President helping with his speeches, interviews and other media related matters.

    She is survived by her children; Michael Sackey (London) Joseph Sackey (Los Angeles) Anne Asantewaa Sackey (Accra) and seven grandchildren.

    Her final funeral rites will be announced shortly.

  • 48 people killed as earthquake in Japan destroys buildings and tears apart roads

    48 people killed as earthquake in Japan destroys buildings and tears apart roads

    The death toll in Japan’s powerful earthquake that collapsed houses and triggered a tsunami warning now stands at 48.

    Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said the earthquake had claimed many lives and they faced a “race against time” to save survivors.

    About 1,000 rescue workers are searching for people they believe may be trapped under the rubble.

    The Japanese military distributed supplies, including food, water and blankets, to those who had to flee their homes.

    All tsunami warnings have now been lifted along the Sea of ​​Japan, meaning there is no longer a risk of such an event.

    President Joe Biden said the US is ready to provide all necessary aid.

    More update on this story soon

  • China and Thailand will no longer require visa by March

    China and Thailand will no longer require visa by March

    Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said Thailand and China will permanently waive visa requirements for each country’s citizens from March.

    Thailand eliminated visas for Chinese citizens in September in a bid to increase tourist arrivals.

    The show attracted strong reaction at a time when Thailand was starting to lose its appeal to Chinese tourists.

    Authorities said more than 22,000 Chinese people entered the Southeast Asian country in the first two days of the exemption. “Currently, we are ready to open the country and take care of tourists from both countries together.

    This is good news,” Srettha said at a press conference on Tuesday. “This is an improvement in relations [between Thailand and China and strengthens the importance of the Thai passport,” he said.

    Chinese are the second largest group of foreign tourists to Thailand, after Malaysians.

    The Tourism Authority of Thailand said in November that it expected to welcome up to 3. 5 million Chinese visitors in all of 2023, still short of its target of 4 million.

    The number is less than half of the roughly 11 million Chinese tourists who visited in 2019, but still represents a marked improvement over 2022, when just 270,000 of them were welcomed pick up.

    The lack of cheap flights in the post-Covid era and the slowdown in the Chinese economy are among the reasons why tourists are hesitant to visit Thailand.

    But some have also raised security concerns after rumors emerged that tourists were being kidnapped and taken across the border to work at scam centers in Myanmar or Cambodia.

    Tourists are also worried after a shooting at Bangkok’s most famous shopping mall left a Chinese mother of two dead last October.

    The tourism agency has set a target of welcoming 8. 2 million Chinese tourists by 2024.

    China has also waived visa requirements to attract tourists.

    Last November, it announced a trial visa exemption for visitors from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia.

    The program starts in December and will last until the end of November this year.

  • KPMG Survey reveals Ghanaians protected their investments in 2023 by saving in foreign currency

    KPMG Survey reveals Ghanaians protected their investments in 2023 by saving in foreign currency

    KPMG’s latest report has shed light on a notable shift in the savings habits of certain Ghanaians, reflecting a growing inclination to preserve the value of their incomes.

    As per the findings outlined in the report, the combination of double-digit inflation and the devaluation of the cedi has contributed to a surge in living expenses, especially in crucial sectors like food, housing, and transportation.

    Furthermore, a vital debt restructuring effort aimed at securing an IMF bailout has resulted in diminished confidence among local investors, triggered by losses experienced by bondholders.

    In unison, these elements have forged an unpredictable macroeconomic terrain, presenting a challenge to the purchasing power of consumers.

    Thirty-five percent of respondents indicated savings and investments as one of their top priorities – the third highest, highlighting a resilient savings behavior despite economic pressures.

    Notably, 92% of respondents affirmed their commitment to saving.

    “However, only one in five is able to set aside more than twenty percent of their income, signaling that rising costs have eroded disposable incomes. In response to this challenge, some Ghanaians have turned to saving in foreign currencies to safeguard the value of their money” it stated.

    In this year’s research, KPMG West Africa, delved into customer spending habits to understand their financial priorities. The findings unveiled that food (62%) and transportation (40%) stood out as the primary expenses for respondents.

    These categories align with inflation drivers in Ghana, such as food prices and transportation fares, particularly fuel prices. Consequently, consumers have strategically adjusted their spending patterns and embraced various strategies to optimise their budgets for long-term savings.

    18 to 25 years spend more on food, airtime and data

    Similar to their Nigerian counterparts, the research revealed the spending patterns of individuals aged 18 to 25, indicating significant allocations to categories such as food, airtime & data, transportation, education, and personal care.

    To foster loyalty among these young customers, it stressed that banks could consider implementing reward programmes linked to specific transactions or spending thresholds. This could involve offering complimentary airtime, discounts on ride-hailing services, or vouchers for frequently visited restaurants and food vendors.

    Such initiatives could enhance customer retention and engagement within this demographic.

    “For more affluent banking customers, those earning over ¢20,000 monthly, our survey found that their primary expenditure focuses on savings and investments. Remarkably, approximately 81% of these customers save over 20% of their income, while around 43% allocate more than 20% towards investments.

    This presents an opportunity for banks to provide tailored investment guidance to assist these clients in preserving their capital amidst competing financial demands” the report stated.

    Meanwhile, consumers are adapting to manage their expenses by embracing alternatives, such as opting for more budget-friendly brands. Additionally, there is a noticeable shift in household spending priorities from non-essential categories towards essential ones.

    According to the report, these are the top five spending categories in Ghana

    62%    –          Food

    40%    –         Transportation

    35%    –          Savings and Investments

    34%    –          Power Utilities33%    –          Family Obligations

  • Boss LAJ released from prison following failed coup attempt in Sierra Leone

    Boss LAJ released from prison following failed coup attempt in Sierra Leone

    Sierra Leonean authorities have released 352 prisoners, including famous rapper Alhaji Amadu Bah, known as Boss LAJ, who was serving a nine-year prison sentence for robbery.

    The country’s information ministry said they were released following an amnesty Monday by President Julius Maada Bio.

    The move comes just a month after more than 20 people were killed and about 2,000 prisoners escaped in a coup attempt.

    Bah, one of those who escaped, later surrendered to prison authorities in the capital Freetown.

    “Today the president released our brother King Boss La and 351 other detainees across the country,” Information Minister Chernor Bah told AFP.

    The minister said the rapper had “demonstrated good citizenship” by voluntarily returning to prison.

    Prison authorities said some of the released prisoners, including 11 women, were serving sentences for “minor crimes”.

    Rapper Bah is known for his lyrics criticizing President Bio’s government. More than 80 people, mostly military officers, were arrested following the coup attempt.

  • TUSAAG announces nationwide strike, effective Jan 8

    TUSAAG announces nationwide strike, effective Jan 8

    The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Technical University Senior Administrators’ Association of Ghana (TUSAAG) has announced a nationwide strike set to commence on Monday, January 8, 2024. This decision is poised to have widespread implications as administrators across the country unite in protest.

    In a released statement, the Association has clarified that the industrial action is a resolute effort to emphasize their call for complete adherence to the terms of the retirement date rollover, as stipulated in the relevant sections of the Conditions of Service.

    “The strike action shall mean the outright cessation of all administrative and professional services (including all services for both fresh and continuing students), withdrawal of services at all Units, Sections, Departments, Faculties, Centres, Directorates, Halls of Residence, Finance, ICT Services, physical development, facilities maintenance services, as well as all other main and general services (at the offices of the Vice-Chancellor, the Pro Vice-Chancellor the Registrar),” portions of the statement read.

    TUSAAG’s NEC also insisted that the strike will be implemented until the conditions of the roll-over of the retirement date, as outlined in the Conditions of Service, are wholly implemented by the Management of all Technical Universities.

    “By this correspondence, all members of the Association are to take note, and act accordingly,” it added.

  • Ukraine issues missile warning to Russia after drone attacks

    Ukraine issues missile warning to Russia after drone attacks

    Ukraine’s capital Kyiv has become the target of new Russian drone attacks, with authorities also warning of missile attacks from Moscow.

    Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko said explosions were heard in the city on Tuesday morning and that drone debris caused a fire in the Desnianskyi district near the center. Aerial warnings also took place in other cities, including Kherson and Mykolaiv.

    Recent days have been marked by significant air strikes from both sides. Klitschko said drone debris caused a fire in the Desnianskyi district and emergency services were at the scene.

    The mayor of Mykolaiv in southern Ukraine said air defense forces shot down a drone in the town, its debris causing a fire.

    The Ukrainian Air Force said on Telegram that it shot down all 35 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) launched by Russia on Monday night.

    However, after these attacks, many missiles were fired from Russia towards areas such as Kyiv, Cherkasy and Kirovohrad.

    He asked people to listen for air raid sirens and go to shelters.

    This follows multiple attacks from both sides in recent days, with Russia responding to a Ukrainian attack on the Russian border town of Belgorod on Saturday that left at least 25 people dead and more than 100 injured person.

    According to officials installed by Moscow, Ukraine bombed the Russian-controlled city of Donetsk on New Year’s Eve (Sunday), killing four people and wounding 13 others, while Ukraine said the attacks by a Russian drone killed one person and injured nine in Odessa.

    On New Year’s Day (Monday), six civilians were killed by Russian attacks in various Ukrainian cities.

    Russian President Vladimir Putin said his forces will increase attacks on military targets in Ukraine in response to the attack in Belgorod.

    Putin also said Western rhetoric about the war is starting to change as they begin to realize that it cannot “destroy” Russia.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed these claims in an interview with The Economist, saying that Putin’s suggestion that Russia was winning the war was just a “feeling”.

    He highlighted the number of Russian casualties in Ukraine and said opposition forces had not captured a single major city in 2023.

    Mr Zelensky also expressed frustration with Kiev’s Western allies, saying they had lost a sense of urgency.

  • Legendary South African photographer Peter Magubane remembered

    Legendary South African photographer Peter Magubane remembered

    Renowned South African photographer and anti-apartheid activist Peter Magubane has been praised for his contributions to South Africa’s liberation struggle after his death on Monday. He was 91 years old.

    Magubane covered key events in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa, including the 1976 Soweto uprising, in which hundreds of black student protesters were killed.

    Magubane’s work pitted him against the apartheid government, leading to his arrest and solitary confinement for 586 days and a five-year ban on photography.

    South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, praised Makubane as “an outstanding photojournalist and freedom fighter who courageously documented the injustices of apartheid. ” clan”

    “Dr Magubane used his camera as a means of protest, never backing down from an oppressive regime,” Mr. Kodwa added

    “Magubane’s indomitable spirit, courage and exceptional contributions to journalism will be greatly missed,” the South African National Editors Forum (Sanef) said.

    Magubane also served as liberation hero Nelson Mandela’s official photographer for four years after Mandela’s release from prison in 1990.

  • Kenyans advised to take alternate routes following toll increase

    Kenyans advised to take alternate routes following toll increase

    Kenyan authorities have advised motorists to take alternative routes in response to complaints about toll increases on the Nairobi Expressway, a 27-km (17-mile) expressway in the capital.

    The government has increased road tolls by 38. 9%, sparking complaints from some Kenyans who say the toll increase is excessive. Some say the move was imposed without public or parliamentary approval.

    The increase in tolls comes amid rising living costs and follows the government increasing the cost of various taxes last year.

    “The adjustment was made based on the project agreement taking into account the depreciation of the Kenyan shilling against the US dollar since the announcement of the toll,” Transport Minister Kipchumba said on Monday Murkomen roads and bridges in April 2022”.

    The $550m (£410m) motorway was built to ease traffic amid worsening traffic congestion in recent years.

    China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) operates the highway under a public-private partnership and collects tolls to recover construction costs.

  • ICU-Ghana calls on gov’t to provide relief for workers

    ICU-Ghana calls on gov’t to provide relief for workers

    The Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU-Ghana) has emphasized the need for renewed commitment from the government and workers to tackle New Year challenges.

    In a New Year message conveyed by the Leadership, Management, and Staff of ICU-Ghana, the union underscored its conviction that an enhanced economy will bring positive implications for the welfare of workers and employers in both public and private sectors.

    In a statement signed by the General Secretary of the Union, Morgan Ayawine, Ghanaians are encouraged to actively contribute to peaceful elections this year, aiming to uphold investor confidence in the economy.

    The ICU message said that the overall goal of workers leaders’ is to continue to collaborate with other social partners to ensure a conducive working environment that will engender increased productivity, which will result in higher profits for organisations and better remuneration for workers.

    It is in this vein that the ICU-Ghana reiterates the need for workers to be guided by the union maxim “the Employer’s Vision, Our Union’s Concern.”

    In upholding the union’s maxim, it is expected that Ghanaian workers will commit to sacrifice and re-dedicate themselves to working assiduously to help employers realise their organisational goals, for the mutual benefit of all.

    The ICU-Ghana, having expressed worry over the years regarding the country’s increasing unemployment situation and the attendant rising poverty levels, will like to call on government to pay serious attention to some strategic State-owned institutions in this new year, 2024, by injecting the needed financial resources into such institutions to revive and sustain them.

    This, the Union believes, is one progressive way to help those whose jobs are on the line in such organisations and also goes a long way towards creating sustainable employment opportunities for the teaming young people.

    ICU-Ghana therefore reiterates its special appeal to social partners, especially Government, to extend the needed support to the following State-Owned Enterprises Aluworks Ghana Limited, Neoplan Ghana Limited, PBC Limited, and Volta Star Textiles Limited, since the potential of the huge economic contributions from these institutions to attainment of the country’s rapid socio-economic goals cannot be overemphasised.

    The union is hopeful that the bailout to the National Investment Bank, upon appeal by the Union (ICU-Ghana), will see magnificent results in this new year 2024 and beyond. This will surely be a testament to the belief of the union that, with dedicated central government support, strategic State-Owned Enterprises, SOEs can play their rightful roles in national development efforts.

    It will also give meaning to the advocacy by labour unions for the necessary conditions to be created for sustainable employment opportunities. For employers whose goal is to bend the rules against workers, thereby jeopardising their future, ICU-Ghana urges such employers to reposition themselves so that the labour terrain can be peaceful and engender higher productivity.

    On election 2024, ICU-Ghana reminds Ghanaians that peaceful environment is critical for accelerated growth, and it is the expectation of the union that all stakeholders will unite and strive at all times to sustain national peace and stability. This is because no amount of increased productivity can take place in an atmosphere of violence.

    The union urges all political actors to conduct their activities devoid of rancour and acrimony, mindful of the fact that working people can only give their best in a peaceful society.

    It added that the gallant workers of Ghana have over the years sacrificed for the national interest, but it behooves other social partners to play their roles responsibly, for the greater good of the country.

  • Increasing prank calls exert pressure on emergency response in Ashanti Region – Chief Fire Officer

    Increasing prank calls exert pressure on emergency response in Ashanti Region – Chief Fire Officer

    The Ashanti Regional Office of the Ghana National Fire Service has revealed a significant rise in prank calls, with the monthly count surpassing 20,000. This surge in non-emergency calls is posing a challenge to the efficient operation of the emergency response system in the region.

    The upsurge has compelled officials to issue a warning to the public, underscoring its adverse effects on the Fire Service’s capacity to promptly respond to authentic emergencies.

    ACFO 1 Henry Giwah, the Ashanti Regional Commander of the Ghana National Fire Service who expressed worry about the situation said the daily influx of more than 2,000 prank calls creates unnecessary hurdles for the Fire Service, diverting resources away from real emergencies.

    The Regional Chief Fire Officer warned against such misuse and disclosed that measures are being implemented to collaborate with the police and the judicial service to prosecute such offenders.

    “Prank calls persist”, Giwah said.

    “Every day when you go to our control room, even right now. You see the number of prank calls that come. Averagely eighty to nighty per hour and over 2000 a day”.

    “One thing we do is that when you call, because of these prank calls, when you call fire service, we always want to call you back. And even listen to the environment where you are. Sometimes we spend time to educate these callers and that divert attention to other emergencies. What we are doing is that we are compiling the names and forward them to the police to deal with them”, he stated.

  • DR Congo election: Felix Tshisekedi emerged victorious by overwhelming margins

    DR Congo election: Felix Tshisekedi emerged victorious by overwhelming margins

    President Félix Tshisekedi has been declared winner of the election in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has been condemned by some opposition candidates as “sham” in demanding a new vote.

    Officials said the president won about 73% of the vote, while his closest rival, Moise Katumbi, received 18%. The December 20 election was marred by many logistical problems.

    It had to extend into a second day in some parts of the vast country.

    According to one monitoring group, about two-thirds of polling stations opened late, while 30% of voting machines did not work on the first day of voting.

    Millions of people waited hours to vote, while some gave up and went home.

    The opposition says the issues are part of a deliberate plan to rig the outcome in favor of 60-year-old Tshisekedi. Some main opponents called for protests after Sunday’s announcement.

    “We call on our people to take to the streets en masse following claims of election fraud,” they said in a joint statement.

    The army was deployed to different areas of the capital Kinshasa to prevent chaos, while Mr Tshisekedi’s supporters took to the streets to celebrate.

    The head of the election commission earlier said opposition candidates wanted new elections because they “know they have lost. they are big losers”.

    Election head Denis Kadima admitted some irregularities but insisted the results reflected the will of the Congolese people.

    President Tshisekedi will be sworn in for a second term on January 20. Son of former opposition fighter Étienne Tshisekedi, the president was first elected in 2019. It followed a vote in which some observers, including the influential Catholic Church, said former oil executive Martin Fayulu had won.

    He ranked third in this election with 5% of the votes. None of the remaining 16 candidates received more than 1% of the vote. Mr Kadima said voter turnout was about 43% of the 41 million registered voters.

    It is unclear whether any of the 18 opposition candidates will challenge the results in court. Mr Katumbi has said it is not worth it because the courts are not independent.

    The Constitutional Court has 10 days to hear possible legal challenges before announcing the final results on January 10, 2024.

    The DRC is about four times the size of France but lacks basic infrastructure. Even some of its main cities are not connected by road.

    About two-thirds of the country’s 100 million people live below the poverty line, earning $2. 15 a day or less. Voters also choose congressional, provincial and city representatives, with a total of about 100,000 candidates.

    During the election campaign, Mr. Tshisekedi repeatedly attacked Rwandan President Paul Kagame, whom he accused of supporting the M23 rebel group that is occupying territory in the east of the country.

    Rwanda has repeatedly denied these accusations. At his last election campaign, Mr. Tshisekedi pledged to declare war on Rwanda, although observers dismissed the declaration as rhetoric aimed at stoking nationalist sentiment.

    Elections have not been held in the country’s eastern regions due to fighting that has plagued the region for three decades.

    Some seven million people have been forced from their homes, more than in any other country except Sudan.

    Dozens of armed groups are fighting for control of areas in the region, where most of the country’s vast mineral resources are located.

    This includes huge reserves of cobalt, the key element in many lithium batteries, considered essential for a future free of fossil fuels.

  • 2024 polls must be clean – Lawrence Tetteh to NPP, NDC

    2024 polls must be clean – Lawrence Tetteh to NPP, NDC

    Founder and President of the Worldwide Miracle Outreach, Rev Lawrence Tetteh, has emphasized that elections should not be arenas of conflict. He urged all political parties to guarantee a fair and transparent conduct of the 2024 polls.

    Stressing the importance of democratic practices, he underscored the necessity for political parties to uphold democracy without resorting to attacks as the nation prepares for the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections.

    Rev. Lawrence Tetteh made these remarks during a national prayer rally at the Old Obra Spot in Accra on New Year’s Eve, themed “Come, Let’s Pray for a Peaceful and Transparent Election.”

    “They should remember that politics is not war, elections are not war, and democracy is not war. We should be able to practice democracy devoid of insults. This year’s elections should be clean, fair, and transparent,” he advised.

    The Founder and President of the Worldwide Miracle Outreach further advised the political parties, especially the major ones, to refrain from using well-built men called ‘macho men’ to terrorize voters during the elections.

    “The youth shouldn’t be abused, our macho men shouldn’t be used and if people are used to causing chaos because of their deprived situation, they should wake up to the responsibility and the challenge that they will also answer when the nation gets doomed,” he asserted.

  • Shelters overnight for thousands after earthquake in Japan

    Shelters overnight for thousands after earthquake in Japan

    Thousands of Japanese people had to spend the night in evacuation centers after a strong earthquake. Kyodo news agency reported that at least two people were believed to have died and the number of casualties was expected to rise in the coming days.

    Dozens of buildings collapsed in several cities, leaving countless people trapped under rubble.

    The magnitude 7. 6 earthquake occurred at around 4:10 p. m local time (07:10 GMT) on Monday.

    Tsunami warnings were issued and then lowered. About 60 tremors were recorded after the first earthquake.

    The extent of the damage was unlikely to be known until Tuesday morning, but significant infrastructure damage was evident.

    National broadcaster NHK reported that the government of Suzu town, Ishikawa province, said a number of houses and electricity poles had collapsed.

    According to utility provider Hokuriku Electric Power, major highways near the quake’s epicenter were closed and more than 36,000 homes were without power.

    Former BBC Japan correspondent Rupert Wingfield-Hayes – who was reporting from Taiwan – said hundreds of meters of the main highway between the towns of Toyama and Kanazawa were destroyed by a landslide.

    Video from Uchinada, also in Ishikawa Prefecture, showed rippling and cracking road surfaces. Damage to Onohiyoshi Shrine in Kanazawa was also photographed.

    Initially, a major tsunami warning was issued for the Noto coastal area in Ishikawa – near the quake’s epicenter – and authorities said waves could reach heights of 5 meters (16 feet).

    According to local reports, this is the first such warning issued in Japan since 2011, when a powerful earthquake devastated the country’s northeast and caused waves up to 40 meters high.

    The waves that actually crashed onto the Sea of ​​Japan coast in Ishikawa on Monday were no more than a meter high.

    The main warning was later downgraded to a simple warning and then a “warning”, NHK reported. Neighboring Niigata and Toyama prefectures were also placed on alert.

    Japan is one of the most seismically active countries in the world due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where many tectonic plates intersect.

    The constant threat of earthquakes has prompted Japan to develop one of the world’s most sophisticated tsunami warning systems. There are several nuclear power plants in the affected areas, but Japan’s nuclear agency said there was “no risk of radiation leaks” from these facilities.

    South Korean and Russian weather agencies also issued tsunami warnings after the quake.

    The 9. 0 magnitude earthquake that hit Japan in 2011 caused a tsunami that devastated coastal communities in the country’s northeast, killing nearly 18,000 people and displacing tens of thousands.

    These tsunami waves caused a nuclear explosion at the Fukushima power plant, causing the most serious nuclear accident since Chernobyl.

  • Thousands of Palestinians escape central Gaza as Israeli forces move forward

    Thousands of Palestinians escape central Gaza as Israeli forces move forward

    According to the United Nations, about 150,000 Palestinians are being forced to flee areas in central Gaza, as Israeli forces advance toward refugee camps.

    Witnesses and the military wing of Hamas reported that tanks had reached the eastern outskirts of the Bureij camp.

    The Israeli army recently expanded its ground offensive against Bureij and the neighboring camps Nuseirat and Maghazi. Israeli bombing also killed dozens of people in Gaza on Thursday, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said.

    Egypt confirmed it had put forward a three-phase proposal to end the fighting, ending with a ceasefire. A Hamas delegation is said to have arrived in Cairo to give feedback on the project.

    The war was sparked by an unprecedented cross-border attack by Hamas gunmen into southern Israel on October 7, in which 1,200 people were killed – mostly civilians – and about 240 others were captured hostage.

    According to the Health Ministry, more than 21,300 people have been killed in Gaza – mostly children and women – in 11 weeks of fighting.

    The Israeli military called for the evacuation of the strip stretching across central Gaza, including the Bureij and Nuseirat camps, and ordered nearly 90,000 residents and 61,000 displaced people from affected areas to move south to the town of Deir al-Balah.

    However, the United Nations warned on Thursday that they had nowhere to go because Deir al-Balah was overcrowded, with hundreds of thousands of displaced people sheltering there.

    The United Nations says Rafah – which has become Gaza’s most populous city – has welcomed about 100,000 new arrivals in recent days as Israeli ground forces move into new residential areas. Omar, 60, said he was forced to leave Bureij with at least 35 family members.

    “This moment has come, I wish it never happened, but it seems this move is necessary,” he told Reuters news agency by phone. “Now we are in a tent in Deir al-Balah because of Israel’s brutal war.

    ” Tom White, Gaza director for the UN humanitarian agency UNRWA, said more and more people were being pushed towards the town of Rafah in southern Gaza, “so there are more and more people in a very small strip of land. ” cannot meet their needs.

    On Thursday night, Gaza’s Health Ministry announced that 20 people were killed in an Israeli airstrike on a building in Rafah that appeared to house displaced civilians.

    On Thursday morning, a ministry spokesman announced that 50 people were killed in Israeli attacks in Maghazi, the northern town of Beit Lahia and the southern town of Khan Younis.

    The deadliest incident occurred in Beit Lahia, where Palestinian media reported 30 people were killed in the demolition of a block of four buildings.

    A local television journalist, Bassel Kheir al-Din, told the Associated Press that 12 members of his family were buried under the rubble of one of the buildings and were presumed dead, leaving nine remaining. Their neighbors are missing.

    The Palestinian Red Crescent said 10 people were killed when Israeli artillery shelled an apartment near al-Amal hospital in Khan Younis, a day after a similar incident outside the facility left 31 people died.

    Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari told reporters on Wednesday that the city is “a major terrorist center for Hamas”.

    He also said the army fought in the Bureij region for the third day, adding that they “killed many terrorists and destroyed terrorist infrastructure”.

    Residents told Reuters that heavy fighting continued on Thursday, with Israeli tanks advancing towards the densely populated Bureij camp from the north and east.

    Hamas released a video showing what it said was its warplanes targeting Israeli soldiers and vehicles.

    Elsewhere, the IDF said it regretted the “damage to unrelated civilians” caused by an airstrike in Maghazi on Sunday that killed at least 70 people, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.

    Their statement said that the fighters “attacked two adjacent targets where Hamas members were present. ” In Israel, thousands of teenagers participated in marches demanding a new agreement to return more than 100 hostages still held by Hamas and other armed groups in Gaza.

    Many protesters came from communities hardest hit by the October 7 attacks. “I come from Kibbutz Kfar Aza,” Shiri Khiyali told the BBC.

    “I was there on October 7. My people were kidnapped. We want them back. We want them back now. ” Separately, United Nations human rights chief Volker Türk issued a fresh appeal calling on Israel to end what he called “illegal” killings in the occupied West Bank.

    A report says the United Nations has verified the killing of 300 Palestinians in the West Bank by Israeli forces and Israeli settlers since October 7.

    A spokesman for the Israeli prime minister called the report ridiculous and said it downplayed major threats to Israel’s security.

  • GBA President calls on Ghanaians to resist political division amidst election season

    GBA President calls on Ghanaians to resist political division amidst election season

    National President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), Yaw Acheampong Boafo, has counseled Ghanaians against allowing politicians to sow divisions during the electioneering period.

    He urged Ghanaians to consistently exercise their civic rights, regardless of the political party in authority.

    Delivering his New Year Message, Acheampong Boafo, said, “To our countrymen who need no reminding that 2024 is an election year, we urge you to continue to be model citizens and engage your full citizenship for national development, irrespective of who holds the reins of political power.”

    “There is more that unites us than divides us. We must cherish our unity in diversity. Let’s act in the hospitality of our forefathers and not allow politicians in their Machiavellian pursuit of political power to divide us on ethnic, religious, and other divisive pranks.”

    The President of GBA indicates the commitment of his team to fully cooperate with the judiciary, the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Gertrude Torkonoo, to ensure access to justice reforms for citizens.

    “We will continue our cooperation with the judiciary, and our Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Torkonoo, to ensure access to justice reforms for all Ghanaians and smooth administration of justice,” he assured.

    He advised members of GBA to ensure that their upcoming elections are conducted with decorum.

    “It’s my fervent hope that the campaign and the elections will be conducted with a high level of decorum so that we will have the moral authority to speak truth to our politicians.”

    Yaw Acheampong Boafo further urges members of GBA, both in public life and politics, to set standards at all times.

    “We will urge members of GBA in public life and politics to set the standards at all times. There’s only one Ghana company limited, and we are all stakeholders,” he stated.

  • Israel-Gaza conflict will rage for months – IDF head

    Israel-Gaza conflict will rage for months – IDF head

    The war between Israel and Hamas militants in Gaza will continue for “several more months,” the head of the Israeli army said.

    “There is no magic solution,” Herzi Halevi told reporters. On Monday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the campaign is “not over yet. ” Israel said it attacked more than 100 locations on Tuesday.

    It appears to be expanding its ground operations into central Gaza. Gaza’s Hamas-run Health Ministry says 20,915 Palestinians have been killed in more than 11 weeks of fighting.

    The war began on October 7 after Hamas carried out a wave of deadly attacks targeting communities in Israel.

    Since then, about 1. 9 million people have been displaced by Israeli bombing, according to the United Nations.

    Juliette Touma, spokeswoman for the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (Unwra), told the BBC: “We are seeing very worrying reports of famine in some places, while there is war.

    The fighting continues, displacement continues and the UN shelters are overcrowded and overwhelmed. ” ” Last week, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken called on Israel to reduce the intensity of its attacks to limit “harm to civilians”.

    On Tuesday, Herzi Halevi, chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), told a news conference that the war would “continue for several more months” to ensure that “our interests are protected” over a long period of time”. He added.

    “There is no shortcut to completely destroy a terrorist organization, other than being stubborn and determined to fight.

    ” The Israeli military said Tuesday’s airstrikes hit 100 targets, from Jabaliya in northern Gaza to Khan Yunis and Rafah in the south.

    He reportedly launched a ground attack on refugee camps in central Gaza after ordering residents to evacuate.

    Internet and phone services were again cut across the Gaza Strip. About 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed in the October 7 attack.

    About 240 people were sent back to Gaza as hostages. Israel said 132 people remained detained.

    On Monday, Netanyahu told parliament: “We will not be able to release all the abductees without military pressure. we will not stop fighting.

    ” Israeli and Arab media said Egypt has proposed a ceasefire plan.

    The plan reportedly calls for the gradual release of all Israeli hostages and an unspecified number of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli prisons, ending with Israel calling off the offensive.

    A previous temporary ceasefire negotiated by Qatar allowed the release of dozens of hostages from Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

    Israel and Hamas have so far resisted calls for a permanent ceasefire.

    Meanwhile, Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer is in Washington to hold talks with Mr. Blinken and national security adviser Jake Sullivan.

    National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said the discussions would focus on “issues related to the conflict in Gaza and the return of hostages held by Hamas. ”

  • ACEPA urges political parties to groom young people to replace experienced MPs 

    ACEPA urges political parties to groom young people to replace experienced MPs 

    Executive Director of the African Center for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA), Dr Rasheed Draman,  has called on political parties to implement intentional grooming strategies for the effective replacement of seasoned Members of Parliament.

    Several veteran Members of Parliament from the Majority, including the Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, have indicated their decision not to contest in the upcoming parliamentary elections in 2024.

    Their decisions have raised concerns about creating a deficit of experienced legislators.

    In an interview, Dr Rasheed Draman called on political parties to develop a deliberate strategy to phase out MPs.

    “In Norway, the parties have academics; they prepare young people, they have a way of preparing people to go to parliament. In that system, you can have a lot of young people in parliament, with people who are already prepared, people who have gained some experience through the preparations and support that they have had from the parties.”

    “In our system, I don’t know if there is any school or academic where a candidate who is preparing to go to parliament is taken through some kind of skills training and preparations. You wake up, and if there’s a mad rush, everybody wants to go to parliament without any experience. And then you have these experienced hands leaving; then it creates a big void.”

    Dr. Draman also bemoaned the impact of the exit of some experienced MPs on the business of parliament.

    “The work of parliament, legislative work, is not for the faint-hearted; I mean, it’s not for everyone. You get the experience by doing, and you learn by doing. People become very important assets, both for the parties, parliament, and the country. I would have hoped that there has been some cause in the past for some seats to be protected. I would have hoped that the parties in parliament would have found a way, at least to ensure that through some internal negotiations and agreement, some seats will be protected,” the Executive Director of ACEPA said.

    Among the noteworthy MPs opting not to seek reelection are prominent figures such as Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu (Suame), First Deputy Speaker Joe Osei Owusu (Bekwai), Atta Akyea (Abuakwa South), Joe Ghartey (Essikado Ketan), and Ken Agyapong (Assin Central). Their decision undoubtedly leaves a void in the party’s leadership and parliamentary representation.

    Other MPs who have decided to step down include Dan Botwe (Okere), Kwasi Amoako-Atta (Atiwa West), Dr. Kwaku Afriyie (Sefwi Wiaso), and Emmanuel Marfo (Oforikrom). Additionally, Benito Owusu-Bio (Atwima Nwabiagya), Carlos Ahenkora (Tema West), Nana Kwasi Adjei Boateng (New Juabeng North), William Owuraku Aidoo (Afigya Kwabre South), Johnson Adu (Ahafo Ano South West), Francis Manu-Adabor (Ahafo Ano South-East), Suleman Sanid (Ahafo Ano North), Kojo Kum (Ahanta West), and Francisca Oteng (Kwabre East) are among those opting not to seek reelection.

    The reasons behind their decision remain unclear, with speculation ranging from potential retirements from politics to pursuing alternative professional opportunities or taking a break from the demanding nature of parliamentary life.

  • Bawumia affirms commitment to foster a modern, resilient economy driven by digitalisation

    Bawumia affirms commitment to foster a modern, resilient economy driven by digitalisation

    Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to advancing a modern and resilient economy through the transformative force of digitalization. Emphasizing continuity in the pursuit of progress in his New Year’s message to Ghanaians, he highlighted the pivotal role technology plays in shaping Ghana’s economic landscape.

    Extending warm wishes to Ghanaians, he expressed optimism that the new year would offer a chance for reflection on the past, fostering an opportunity for a reset as the nation looks towards the future.

    In his opinion, ensuring the country’s progress will require a collaborative effort.

    He said “We shall continue our effort to build a modern and resilient economy catalyzed by digitalization. We shall continue to make young people future-ready.

    “We shall continue to create greater opportunities for every man, woman, and child to fulfil their dreams and aspirations. It is possible,” he said.

    He also urged Ghanaians to be proud of their heritage and work together to propel the country to new heights in this election year.

    “We shall be laying another layer on top of our landmark 30 years of democracy. I have absolutely no doubt that we shall once again prove to ourselves and the rest of the world that Ghana has indeed come of age,” he said.

  • Xi promises “reunification” before votes in Taiwan

    Xi promises “reunification” before votes in Taiwan

    Chinese President Xi Jinping, in his annual New Year’s address, reiterated his assertion that Taiwan “will definitely be reunited” with China.

    His message comes ahead of Taiwan’s crucial Jan. 13 election, which will determine the island’s cross-strait policies for the next four years.

    He also took a stronger tone than last year, in which he talked about Taiwan being part of “the same family.

    ” China has stepped up military pressure on Taiwan as the election approaches. They consider the self-governing island of 23 million people a breakaway province that will eventually come under Beijing’s control.

    Taiwan considers itself distinct from mainland China, with its own constitution and democratically elected leaders. Separately, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said in her New Year’s speech that the island’s relationship with China should be decided by “the will of the Taiwanese people.

    ” His government has repeatedly warned that Beijing is trying to interfere in the election, in which a new president and government will be elected.

    Taiwan’s Kuomintang (KMT) party has traditionally favored warmer relations with Beijing – although it denies being pro-China.

    The KMT’s main rival, Tsai’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has ruled Taiwan for eight years and has taken a tougher line on China, asserting that the country is sovereign and not belongs to China.

    Mr Xi’s latest comments are in line with China’s long-standing policy of unification, but the message is harsher in tone than Mr. Xi gave last year, when he called “people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait Loan… is a member of one and the same family.

    The Taiwan issue also strained relations between the United States and China, with China subsequently condemning any support from Washington for Taipei.

    Beijing said it “reserves the ability to take all necessary measures” against external forces that hinder peaceful unification.

    However, the two countries marked the new year with a positive message, with Xi and US President Joe Biden exchanging congratulatory messages on Monday.

    Xi noted that “adhering to mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation is the correct way for China and the US to interact,” according to Reuters, citing state media CCTV China.

  • 2024 Polls: NDC appeals to Ghanaians to contribute to a brighter future

    In a fervent call to action, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has implored Ghanaians to actively contribute to securing a brighter future for the country by advocating for a change in leadership through the ousting of the governing New Patriotic Party in the upcoming 2024 polls. The party’s appeal underscores its vision for a transformative future and encourages citizens to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s trajectory.

    The NDC contends that the prevailing economic challenges in Ghana stem from the mismanagement by the ruling party.

    In a New Year’s address, the General Secretary of the NDC, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, encouraged Ghanaians to perceive the approaching 2024 election as an opportunity to reshape the fortunes of the country.

    “In the spirit of unity and shared aspirations for progress, let us recognize this upcoming election as an opportunity to shape a brighter future and address the challenges imposed by the present leadership. Despite the economic difficulties, the National Democratic Congress remains committed to serving the interests of all Ghanaians, working towards a future characterized by inclusivity, economic development, and social harmony.”

    “As we bid farewell to 2023, a year marked by economic hardships inflicted by the current NPP government, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) extends warm New Year wishes to the resilient people of Ghana,” Mr. Kwetey stated.

  • Putin vows to ‘intensify’ his assaults on Ukraine

    Putin vows to ‘intensify’ his assaults on Ukraine

    President Vladimir Putin vowed to “intensify” attacks on Ukraine after days of aerial bombardment by both sides in the long war.

    Speaking during a visit to a military hospital in Moscow, Putin said the military would continue to target Ukraine’s “military facilities.

    ” He called Ukraine’s airstrike on the Russian town of Belgorod “a deliberate attack against civilians.

    ” Twenty-four people were killed and more than 100 injured in Saturday’s attack. Speaking to Russian troops on Monday, Putin said the war was turning in Moscow’s favor and he wanted it to end quickly, but only on Russia’s terms.

    He said Ukraine’s Western backers were the biggest obstacle to ending the conflict, but their rhetoric began to change as they began to realize they could not “destroy” Russia.

    On Sunday, Putin sent his traditional New Year’s message in which he praised Russian soldiers as “heroes” without explicitly mentioning the war in Ukraine.

    In his own New Year’s message, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky promised to sharply increase the number of weapons produced by the country by 2024, pledging to build at least one million drones.

    Russia and Ukraine have continuously had deadly attacks in recent days.

    Ukraine bombed the Russian-held city of Donetsk on New Year’s Eve, killing at least four people and wounding 13 others, according to Moscow-appointed officials and on Saturday, Ukrainian forces launched a series of attacks on targets in southwestern Russia, including one on Belgorod that Mr. Putin called a “terrorist attack.

    ” Last week, Russia launched a widespread attack in several cities in Ukraine, killing at least 45 people. This attack was described by Kiev as Russia’s largest missile bombardment of the war so far.

  • Mahama promises Muslims additional Eid holiday if he wins 2024 polls

    Mahama promises Muslims additional Eid holiday if he wins 2024 polls

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has pledged his preparedness to grant an additional Eid holiday to Muslims in the country should the NDC assume power in the next government. This assurance underscores Mahama’s dedication to recognizing and accommodating the religious celebrations of the Muslim community.

    Addressing a pertinent issue, the former president voiced apprehensions about the hindrance Muslims face in fully enjoying their holidays due to challenges associated with moon sighting.

    These statements were conveyed by Mr Mahama during the 63rd Annual National Conference of the Ghana Muslim Mission held in Kumasi on Friday, December 29.

    He emphasized modifying the Public Holidays Act to benefit Muslims, adding that he would ensure it does not affect productivity.

    Mr Mahama assured, “It is our intention to resolve the situation where some of our Muslim brothers and sisters do not enjoy the public holiday at the end of Ramadan fast due to the 29 or 30-day rule based on sighting the moon. Therefore, we will add a holiday to the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr. If Insha-Allah we are voted into office, we will add an additional holiday to the Eid-ul-Fitr celebration. And we are going to do this by reconfiguring the Public Holiday Act so that Ghana maintains the same number of public holidays per year so that we do not affect productivity.”

    The Member of Parliament for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, on December 14, initiated a new private members bill to amend the country’s Public Holidays Act 2001, Act 601, by providing an additional two Islamic public holidays.

    These are Tashreeq (a day after the Eid-al-Adha Festival) and Shaqq (a day before the Eid-al-Fitr).

    The bill was submitted to the Clerk of Parliament on Wednesday, 29th November 2023, and is currently being processed.

    Muslim leaders, on October 8, urged the government to designate two days as official holidays for Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha to address recurring disputes over the commencement of these holidays.

    The Conference of Regional Imams of Ghana highlighted the persistent uncertainty about whether the Ramadan holiday should be observed on the 29th or 30th day.

  • Muhammad Yunus Nobel laureate jailed

    Muhammad Yunus Nobel laureate jailed

    A court in Bangladesh has sentenced Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to six months in prison for violating the country’s labor laws.

    Professor Yunus harshly criticized Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

    His supporters believe the incident was politically motivated. The famous economist and three colleagues of Grameen Telecom – one of the companies he founded – were convicted of not establishing a social protection fund for workers.

    All four deny any wrongdoing and have been released on bail pending appeal.

    “As my lawyers argued convincingly in court, this judgment against me flies in the face of all legal precedent and logic,” Professor Yunus said in a statement released after the verdict.

    “I call on the people of Bangladesh to speak out against injustice and support democracy and human rights for all our citizens.

    ” Yunus, 83, is known around the world as the “banker for the poor,” credited with establishing a pioneering microfinance lending system that helped millions escape poverty.

    Professor Yunus and his Grameen Bank were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their pioneering work in 2006.

    Bangladesh must end attacks on ‘bankers for the poor’ Discussing the verdict, one of his lawyers, Abdullah Al Mamun, told the media: “It is an unprecedented verdict.

    No legal procedures were followed in this case and it was brought to trial hastily”.

    “The idea is to damage its international reputation,” Mr. Mamun added We are appealing this verdict.

    ” Professor Yunus’ lawyers said he faces more than 100 other charges of labor violations and corruption allegations.

    Ms Hasina once described Professor Yunus as a “bloodsucker” of the poor and accused Grameen Bank of charging exorbitant interest rates.

    Irene Khan, former director of the human rights organization Amnesty International and a special rapporteur for the United Nations, was present at Monday’s trial.

    She told AFP news agency that the verdict was a “betrayal of justice”.

    In August, more than 170 global figures called on Ms. Hasina to end the “persecution” of Professor Yunus.

    The letter, whose signatures include former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Virgin founder Richard Branson and U2 singer Bono, demands that the “continued legal harassment” of Professor Yunus cease.

    Ms Hasina said she has invited international experts to evaluate the ongoing legal proceedings against Professor Yunus.

    It is unclear what led to the friction between Ms Hasina and Professor Yunus, but the economist’s supporters said the government was trying to discredit him because he had considered forming a political party to compete with the ruling Awami League.