TIG Post

Author: Chris Kodo

  • Desist from electoral violence – NCCE

    A Deputy Chairman of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Mr Samuel Asare Akumoah has cautioned political parties to desist from acts that will disrupt the peace as the country enters the election year.

    He noted that of the many causes of violence during election, rigging still remained one critical cause that could bring violence and disrupt the nation’s peace

    He said political parties ought to lead the country in one piece and it would be an irony if they worked to disrupt the very nation they sought to lead.

    Read: AWW by-election violence victim still on admission Airport Crime Officer

    He was speaking at a ceremony to inaugurate a 40-member Inter-Party Dialogue Committee ahead of the 2020 general elections.

    Beacon of democracy

    He indicated that Ghana had been acknowledged worldwide as a beacon of democratic advancement and peace.

    He said it was, therefore, important that all efforts were made to keep the peace before, during and after the election.

    He said it was essential that the country did not slip from the path of the democratic gains made.

    Committee

    Mr Akumoah asked the inter party dialogue committee to be open minded and pick up all information on possible acts of rigging and make efforts to revert them.

    “Work hard. Help us to name and shame political parties found culprits,” he stated.

    He urged the political parties to sanction persons who might seek to “set fire” in communities.

    He further cautioned the political parties and other organisations and the media not to rush to announce election results.

    Read: Some videos of Ayawaso by-election violence doctored Colonel Opoku

    Pockets

    The Central Regional Director of the NCCE, Mr Nicholas Ofori Boateng, noted that although the nation had had several peaceful general elections, there had also been pockets of violence during elections hence, the need to work towards consolidating the peace in the country.

    He called for proactive initiative from the committee to prevent violence in the region.

     

    Source: Graphic.com.gh

  • Accident victims carried in pickup to hospital as no ambulance exist

    At least eleven passengers including students going on vacation are fighting for their lives at Atua Government Hospital and St.Martins Depore Hospital in Odumase after a vehicle they were on board was involved in a near-fatal accident.

    The absence of functioning ambulance in the entire Lower Manya Krobo Municipality worsened the health conditions of the victims rescued from the vehicle which had landed in a ditch. The injured victims were parked in pickup vehicle and Taxis to the respective Hospitals without any emergency first aid care.

    Read: Gory accident leads to death of motor rider on Ofankor-Pokuase road

    The accident vehicle Toyota Hiace with registration Number GR 9332 Z onboard with 15 passengers was from Kumasi heading towards Ho in the Volta Region on Friday around 5:30pm.

    According to 47-year-old victim, Kojo Aboagye, the vehicle stalled while descending the sharp curve to the notorious Asitey junction stretch of the Odumase to Otorkpolu Highway, the driver lost control of the steering wheel and run into the ditch.

    It took the efforts of locals who were later joined by the Police to rescue the passengers trapped in the vehicle with serious injuries.

    Eleven( 11 ) victims including students are receiving treatment the St. Martins De Pores Hospital, the remaining 4 are at the emergency unit of the Atua Government Hospitals.

    The lack of functioning ambulances in the entire Krobo enclave is a worry to residents.

    Read: 38 injured in road accident at Ayi Mensah

    Meanwhile, there is an increasing public outcry against Government to release the first batch of 96 ambulances parked at the State House in Accra for months awaiting the arrival of 176 others before distribution to all 275 constituencies for political expediency.

    Whereas the Minister for Special Initiatives and Development claims the ambulances are waiting to be installed with trackers before distribution, President Akufo Addo at a recent media encounter said he halted the distribution to ensure the arrival of the rest of the fleet for even distribution to avoid accusation of discrimination.

    Th Eastern region is notorious for high rate of road accidents. A total of 722 accident cases were recorded in the region from January to October this year. Out of this 1062 were as a result of vehicle crashes, 188 knockdowns, 228 were reported dead with 1,288 injuries.

     

    Source: starrfm.com.gh

  • Akufo-Addo’s vision to make Accra cleanest city achievable – Minister

    The President’s vision to make Accra the cleanest city in West Africa, can be achieved with the right support from the citizenry.

    It is therefore important for all stakeholders to continue with their efforts to ensure standard sanitary conditions in the country.

    Read: Sanitation in Accra has improved massively Cecilia Dapaah

    Madam Cecelia Dapaah, Minister for Sanitation and Water resources, said this at the Eighth National Development Forum on the Sustainable Management of Ghana’s Sanitation, which was held in Accra last night.

     

    She said poor sanitary practices, deprived the country of resources, that were needed for Ghana’s over all development.

    The Minister said Ghana was for example blessed with 53 billion cubic meters of water, “but we are destroying our water bodies through illegal mining, the use of pesticides, and poor solid and liquid waste disposal.”

    She said there were basic things that people could do to promote a clean environment, such as ensuring that homes were not built without toilet facilities.

    The Minister also said it was important for everyone to treat their surroundings with care, and realise that refuse that were disposed carelessly, would not automatically disappear, but would only contribute towards destroying the environment.

    Madam Dapaah said her ministry was putting in basic measures to promote good sanitation, such as the one house one refuse bin policy,

    She said there was a deployment of refuse bins for pedestrians, adding that out of a target of 20,000 bins to be deployed, 5,100 had already been placed at vantage points.

    The minister said plans were afoot to establish the National Sanitation Authority, which would be highly instrumental in ensuring proper management of sanitation in the country.

    Mrs. Ama Gbadago, Executive Secretary, Environmental service Providers Association, said with the private sector partnering the assemblies, door to door waste management services had improved.

    She said the private sector was eager to partner government to ensure good sanitary conditions in the country.

    Read: Sanitation offenders will not be spared — Ayawaso North Assembly

    “All we want from government is an enabling environment, where we have clear guide lines,” Mrs. Gbadago said.

    Professor (Prof) Esi Awuah, Former Vice Chancellor, University of Energy and Natural Resources, and chairperson for the event, said there was the need for a coordinated approach from all stakeholders, to ensure effective management of the country’s sanitation.

    She said it was also important to evolve strategies, based on the unique circumstances pertaining in the country, in order to be successful.

    The programme was organised by the National Development Planning Commission.

     

    Source: ghananewsagency.org

  • Man found dead in a freezer with a note saying his wife was not responsible

    When Jeanne Souron-Mathers died in November, police in Tooele, Utah, were startled to find the body of her husband Paul in a chest freezer at the couple’s home.

    That wasn’t all. Police also discovered a notarized letter from Paul stating that his wife was not responsible for his death, according to a search warrant unsealed this week.

    Investigators now believe that Paul Mathers died a decade ago and are investigating the possibility that monthly payments to him from Veterans Affairs and Social Security kept coming in after his death.

    Read:Woman found dead in pool of blood, husband mutilated

    Sgt. Jeremy Hansen of the Tooele Police Department said investigators have filed subpoenas and are still awaiting financial records. The VA payments would total at least $177,000, Hansen said.

    Paul Mathers is believed to have died between February 4, 2009 and March 8, 2009, Hansen said. He had been diagnosed with a terminal illness and was being treated at a local Veterans Affairs medical center, Hansen said, and was last seen there on February 4, 2009.

    But before he died, Paul Mathers wrote a letter stating his wife was not responsible for his death, and that letter was notarized in December 2008, the search warrant said.

    Read:2 women found dead near hotel; used and fresh condoms retrieved at the scene

    “Detectives tracked down the notary and she said she didn’t read it, she just stamped it,” Hansen said.

    Sgt. Hansen declined to disclose Paul Mathers’ illness. Jeanne Souron-Mathers, 75, died in November from what appears to be natural causes, Hansen added.

    Source: cnn.com

  • Akufo-Addo was misled, none of us has received any payment – Private Healthcare providers

    The Upper East Regional Chapter of the Private Healthcare Providers Association has dismissed claims that they were paid five months arrears this year.

    According to them, President Akufo-Addo’s comment that the government has settled five months arrears owed healthcare providers under the National Health Insurance Scheme for the year 2019 is not true.

    The President at the recent media engagement said the government has paid NHIS claims up to the month of May 2019.

    Read: Low-income earners can afford private health insurance Premier CEO

    But members of the region said none of their members has been paid the said claims.

    The immediate past regional president of Private Healthcare Providers Association Thomas Moh in an interview with Citi FM said the President was misled.

    “This most of the Private Healthcare Providers have received only one-month payment and they are some who have not received even one month this year, and if anyone doubts I can give you the number of private healthcare providers and find out from them, so it is not true.”

    Private healthcare providers give Gov’t 2-weeks ultimatum to pay NHIA debt

    Private healthcare providers in the country in August gave the government a 2-week ultimatum to pay the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) debts owed them.

    According to the private companies, known as the Responsive Healthcare Service Providers Association of Ghana and the Private Health Facilities Association of Ghana, the debts owed them accrued over a 10-month period.

    The Association said the inability of the government to meet their demands will force them to drag the NHIA to court.

    According to executives of both groups, their members have been dragged to court by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Social Security National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) due to their inability to fulfill their obligations to these regulatory agencies while their monies are locked up with the NHIA.

    Read: Cash and carry returns from December 16

    The Executive Director for the Responsive Healthcare Services of Ghana, Joseph Christian Amoah who addressed a news conference in Kumasi said;

    “Our members are being taken to court by GRA, SSNIT and other regulatory authorities. We are in the procurement business and we deduct from source and for 10 months to a year a provider is not reimbursed and as a result of this ill act, it happens that our members are financially bankrupt. Some are ill, others are dead, others are threatening to shut down. It does not enhance the private government partnership in health. We are giving the government two weeks to advise NHIA to pay for for us. We will perhaps meet with our counsel and test the law.”

     

    Source: primenewsghana.com

  • La General Hospital to bury 27 unclaimed bodies en mass

    The Management of the La General Hospital says it intends to carry out the mass burial of 27 unclaimed bodies by December 23, 2019.

    A statement issued by the Medical Superintendent of the hospital, Dr Ebenezer Oduro-Mensah, said the notice served as the final one to all family members who suspected their relatives might be dead to report to the Hospital to identify and claim their bodies by December 20.

    Read: Police to embark on mass burial for some 120 unidentified bodies

    “This serves as the final notice to all family members who suspect their relatives might be dead to report to the facility to identify and claim their bodies by December 20, 2019. Failure to do so will result in a mass burial of bodies on December 23, 2019. Management shall not be held liable for anybody left unclaimed after December 20, 2019,” the statement said.

    A few weeks ago, the department of the Ghana Police Hospital announced that it will soon organise a mass burial service for 120 unclaimed bodies.

    In view of this, they called on the public to contact its Pathology Department for the identification of friends and families who they might have not seen in a long time.

    Read: Police hospital begins mass burial in 21 days

    The Hospital in a statement signed by its Head of Public Affairs, DSP Yaw Nketia-Yeboah also added that the mass burial was part of routine measures to de-congest the hospital mortuary.

    The Police Hospital in the statement also advised the public to carry identification cards for easy identification in the event of an accident or emergency situations.

     

    Source: citinewsroom.com

  • 14-year-old boy drowns in stagnant water at Fetteh Kakraba

    Information gathered by Kasapa FM news indicates that a fourteen-year-old boy by name Michael Esiamah to drowned in a pool of water at Gomoa Fetteh Kakraba in the Gomoa East of the Central Region Friday morning.

    Residents tell Kasapa FM News Yaw Boagyan that some students of the Awutu Breku D/A Junior High School numbering about fifteen came to swim on Thursday after they vacated from school, but unfortunately, one of them was found dead floating on the surface of the water Friday morning.

    Read: Man, 22, drowns in 1D1F dam

    The friends who swam together with the deceased reportedly fled when they realized the latter was missing under the water.

    They body has been sent to Awutu Breku Hospital.

    The Awutu Breku Police have commenced an investigation into the incident.

     

    Source: kasapafmonline.com

  • Arsenal set to make Arteta announcement today

    Mikel Arteta is expected to be named as Arsenal’s new manager on Friday.

    Arteta said his farewells to staff at Manchester City on Thursday morning.

    There has been annoyance at City over Arsenal’s conduct but they will not stop Arteta, 37, succeeding Unai Emery.

    Read:Mikel Arteta to travel with Man City despite holding Arsenal talks

    A seven-figure compensation payment will be made in order for the move to be completed.

    Thursday’s news conference previewing the game against Everton was cancelled.

    Interim boss Freddie Ljungberg is expected to take charge of the team for the final time at Goodison Park on Saturday, with Arteta watching from the stands.

    Read:Arsenal sack Unai Emery after 18 months in charge

    The Gunners failed to mention their interest in Arteta despite the two teams meeting at Emirates Stadium on Sunday – a game the champions won 3-0.

    Gunners chief executive Vinai Venkatesham was pictured outside the Spaniard’s home several hours later.

    Source: bbc.com

  • The best gift you can give anyone this christmas is money Lydia Forson

    Christmas is fast approaching and in case you are still wondering what to gift someone, actress Lydia Forson has something for you.

    According to Lydia Forson, the best gift to give someone this Christmas is simply Money. Yes, money can solve many problems this Christmas and so just give that special someone money.

    Read:Lydia Forson descends into the gutter with fan

    Lydia Forson took to his Twitter page and tweeted;

    Source: www.ghgossip.com

  • Ill go door-to-door kissing voters Presidential candidate

    Independent presidential candidate for the 2020 presidential election, Kofi Koranteng, has indicated that part of his campaign strategy for 2020 would be to go from door-to-door to hug, kiss and shake hands with the electorates.

    According to him, kiss touches the heart and gives inspiration.

    He was speaking with Umaru Sanda on Citi FM Point Blank talk show.

    Read: Process for electing parliamentary candidates needs to be refined Osei Bonsu

    He made the remark when asked about how he intends to reach out to Ghanaians in 2020.

    Mr. Koranteng claims he worked with JP Morgan and has people to support his campaign.

    He believes the NPP and NDC have failed to fix the problems in Ghana and that he will be in the position to fix problems in Ghana.

     

    Source: dailyguidenetwork.com

  • Popular Ghanaian presenter, Giovanni Caleb confirms the birth of his second child

    Multiple Award-winning Broadcaster cum events MC, Giovanni Caleb in a recent social media post confirmed the birth of his second child.

    The host of the 3FM Drive show took to his Facebook page to announce this to his fans and well-wishers.

    Read:My girlfriend gave birth to a bouncing baby boy two months ago Fameye

    He posted a photo of himself with his first child with the caption;

     

    “To God be the glory. DADDY of two! 😍😍🙏🏾👍🏾 @ Royal Artillery Barracks”

    Read:Kafui Danku gives birth to second child

    Source: www.ghgossip.com

  • Terrorists likely to attack Ghana UK govt cautions citizens

    The government of the United Kingdom has issued a security alert to British citizens living and travelling to Ghana, warning of an imminent terrorist attack.

    This is an update of an earlier alert issued in June following the kidnapping of two Canadian citizens who were in Ghana on an exchange programme.

    Read: 170 alleged terrorists arrested at Ghana-Togo border

    In the note of caution, British citizens have been told to remain vigilant, particularly in northern border areas and in busy public locations.

    These include beach resorts, hotels, cafes, restaurants and places of worship across the country.

    “Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Ghana. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.

    “Terrorist groups associated with al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), the Islamic State of Libya and Islamic State West Africa (ISWA) present a threat in the region.

    Read: Ghana is vulnerable to terrorist attacks KAIPTC

    “These groups have demonstrated capability and intent by mounting attacks against security forces and civilians in several countries, most recently in Burkina Faso and Mali,” the security alert stated.

    The UK says about 90,000 British citizens visit Ghana every year and while most visits are trouble-free, crime does occur.

    “In recent years, reported crime has increased, particularly over the Christmas period. Criminal activity ranging from petty street crime to violent crime can occur at any time.

    “Take sensible precautions. Be particularly vigilant in public areas, and take care when travelling by road,” the alert added.

     

    Source: myjoyonline 

  • John Paintsil’s request to coach Wa All Stars without CAF License A rejected

    Former Ghana International John Paintsil has announced that his request to be granted permission to coach Wa All Stars has been declined by the Club Licensing Board.

    Paintsil is unable to sit on the technical bench of Wa All Stars as head coach because he does not hold a CAF License certificate which does not meet the requirements of the Club Licensing Board.

    Read:Wa All Stars dismiss John Paintsil takeover reports

    Happy Sports understands that John Paintsil holds a South Africa coaching License and is yet to begin his CAF coaching badges.

    The Club Licensing Board has requested all clubs to ensure that only License A coaches heads the club in the upcoming season.

    Read:Abedi Pele, Kwesi Appiah among 70 Ghanaian coaches with CAF License A certificate

    The former Fulham player had requested the the Club Licensing Board to allow him coach the team as he pursue his coaching badges.

    In a post on his official twitter handle, Paintsil announced that his request as has been declined, “The Club Licensing Committee has rejected my application to coach in the 2019/2020 Ghana Premier League while I pursue my CAF A coaching license. That not withstanding I hope to acquire the requisite qualification in due course to enable me coach in the GPL.

    Source: happyghana.com

  • Ghana finish 2019 47th on FIFA rankings

    Ghana is ending 2019 on the 47th position in the World and 6th position in Africa in the FIFA ranking as the last for the year was released on Thursday.

    Ghana moved up four places in last month’s rankings thanks to the two victories in the month.

    Read:Ghana moves up on FIFA rankings for the month

    The Black Stars wins over South Africa and Sao Tomé and Principe in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifications last month contributed to a rise in last month’s global rankings from 51st to the 47th place.

    Ghana remained on the 47th position in the December and final rankings for the year.

    The Black Stars also remained on the sixth position in Africa behind Senegal, Tunisia, Nigeria, Algeria and Morocco.

    Read:Ghana drops one place in latest FIFA Rankings

    Ghana began the year on the 52nd place in a global rankings and 6th in the African rankings.

    Here is the Top 10 in Africa.

    1. Senegal 2. Tunisia 3. Nigeria 4. Algeria 5. Morocco 6. Ghana 7. Egypt 8. Cameroon 9. Mali 9. DR Congo 11. Burkina Faso

    Source: GHANAsoccernet.com

  • GFA Congress approves 18-team League, 3 to be relegated

    Congress have amended the Ghana Football Association statues which means the Ghana Premier League will have 18 teams competing for title henforceth whilst 3 teams will be relegated at the end of the season instead of 5.

    It will be recalled that during the last Elective Congress, it was unanimously agreed that the 2019/2020 season should be expanded from 16 to 18 teams to among other reasons reinstate Accra Great Olympics and King Faisal into the elite division so that both of them can drop their legal battle with the GFA.

    Read:Bawumia to grace launch of 2019/20 Ghana Premier League

    64 members voted in favour of the proposal which means both Olympics and King Faisal will play in the 2019/2020 league.

    Per the agreement, 5 teams instead of 3 will be relegated before the league returns to its default format of 16 teams.

    However, at the 25th Ordinary session of Congress held today, December 19 at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence (GSCE), Prampram, Congress voted massively in favour of the decision to play an 18 club Ghana Premier League and 3 instead of 5 clubs will be relegated at the end of the season.

    Read:Some interesting fixtures in the 2019/2020 Ghana Premier League

    Source: primenewsghana.com

  • Coup plot: Evidence will shake the nation Prosecution

    The State is readying itself to present evidence against ACP Benjamin Agordzo and nine others who are standing trial for their involvement in an alleged coup.

    The State prosecutor has said the evidence would shake the nation.

    Opposing a bail application by lawyers for the nine persons who have been accused of planning to destabilize the country, state prosecutor, Hilda Craig, however, argued that the state needs time to properly investigate the matter.

    Read: Coup plot trial: State prosecutors are abusing their powers Defence lawyer

    Lawyers for the nine accused went to the high court to seek bail for their clients arguing the state is unreasonably delaying the case because of lack of evidence.

    Lead counsel, for the nine, Kojoga Adawudu, argued his clients have highly respectable individuals in society to stand for surety.

    He told the court the Ghana Armed Forces has its own arrangements to handle the military men involved in the case, an arrangement he insisted will check the accused from jumping bail.

    He further argued, the state so far has not exhibited good faith in the case and the processes presented to the court show that the state has no evidence against the accused, therefore delaying the case unreasonably.

    Read: BNI, CID foil coup plot on Jubilee House; three arrested

    But state prosecutor, Hilda Craig insisted if the accused are granted bail they will temper with evidence especially the military men who have stated in their application that the charges preferred against on them are trump up, claiming the trial is being instigated by one Sergeant Sule Awal who is also a military officer.

    She said if they are granted bail, they will target Sergeant Awal and temper with evidence.

    She appealed to the court to dismiss the bail application because the state needs time to do a thorough investigation which also involves a lot of work due to the number of persons involved in the case.

    Justice Georgina Mensah-Datsa adjourned ruling for the application to December 20.

     

    Source: 3news.com

  • Year of Return to rake in $1.9bn in revenue Tourism minister

    Up to 1.5 million tourists are expected in the country by the end of the year with up to 1.9 billion dollars also expected to be accrued in revenue as a result of the Year of Return activities.

    The tourism sector has also recorded a tremendous growth of 18% in international arrivals from the Americas, Britain, Caribbean and other key countries while total airport arrivals increased by 45% over the period of the year.

    Also, the estimated spending of tourists has seen a significant increase from $1,862 in 2017 to the current figure of $2,589 per tourist, with the impact of tourism on the economy estimated to be about $1.9 billion.

    Read: Year of Return perfect foundation for future investments Tourism Minister

    Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Barbara Gyasi made these revelations at the Meet the Press series Tuesday.

    She said the numerous activities witnessed in the course of the year resulted in an increase in tourism sector spending with most major hotels being at a 100% occupancy during the climax of the Year f Return activities in this month.

    According to her, there has been a growth in tourism arrivals as follows, “from a baseline of 914,000 in 2016, international arrivals have risen to 956,000 in 2018. Tourism receipts increased from $1.804 million in 2017 to $2.589 million in 2018. It is projected that the number of tourist arrivals will increase to 1.1 million by the close of 2019,” she said.

    “The increased number of travellers in Ghana has positively impacted private sector industries such as airline, hotels, tour operators, restaurants, arts and crafts dealers to name a few,” she indicated.

    She explained “for example, apart from the major hotels which have 100% occupancy for the month of December, the arts centre merchants have confirmed increase sales compared to the same time last year. Tour operators have also increased bookings for tours to areas which have a linkage to the Trans Atlantic slave trade, such as the Cape Coast and Elmina Castles.”

    Read: Juliet Asante writes: The Year of Return and the elephant in the room

    Touching on the processing of visa on arrival, the minister noted “there have been major reforms. In consultation with the ministry of foreign affairs and regional integration and the ministry of interior. Visa on arrival fees was reduced from $150 to $75 enabling a significant number of people to visit the country. Over 900 visas on arrival will be processed by the end of the year of return.”

    “In addition, over 100 Africa Americans and Afro Caribbeans who applied for citizenship were granted Ghanaian citizenship in November this year as part of the year of return,” she added.

     

    Source: starrfm.com.gh

  • Don’t tweet at God, say your prayer silently – Samini

    Dancehall artiste, Samini, has asked people to desist from typing their prayers on their social media handles.

    According to him, prayer is something that should be personal between a worshipper and God, not something for public approval.

    “Don’t tweet at God…You want me to think, you’re a good person but I’m not the one that’s supposed to be thinking that. It’s not my business,” he told Sammy Forson on the Cosmopolitan Mix on Joy FM Wednesday.

    Read:Watch out for my made-in-Ghana rice soon Samini

    He explained that God does not live on social media hence it is inappropriate for people to post prayers on social media “otherwise you are lying.”

    The ‘Obaa’ hitmaker added that celebrities and people who embark on charity gestures should also leave their cameras at home.

    Read:Samini turned away from high school after dreadlocks deemed inappropriate

    “Do what you need to do for people. If the camera catches you fine but don’t carry the people with you and after that insist on captions, just so that the people know this and this is what you did. That one alone right there you dey lie,” he added.

    Source: Myjoyonline.com

  • Canadian kidnapping: Investigator returns accused persons money

    Police investigators in the case in which Sampson Agharlor and three others are standing trial for unlawful kidnapping of two Canadian nationals have returned monies taken from Agharlor, the first accused person.

    In court today, Hilda Craig, a Senior State Attorney returned an amount of GH¢650 to the court which belonged to the first accused person Agharlor.

    Read: Girl kidnapped in Tamale found

    In the case of Jeff Omarsar, the third accused person’s claim that the investigators have also collected his money, the prosecution said they have no money for him. She said it was only his mobile phone that was taken from him.

    DOCUMENTS FROM CANADA

    The Senior State Attorney also told the court that they are still waiting from documents from Canada which are very crucial to this matter.

    Read: Suspects in Canadian girls kidnap allege BNI torture

    On the issue of the order for Mr Appenteng, the supervision of the investigators in the case to appear before the court, she said, he was unable to appear before the court because “I am reliably informed he is out of the jurisdiction for a national assignment.

    Lawyer Yaw Dankwa in his response to the money accused the investigators of hiding behind the prosecution to squander the third accused person (Jeff Omarsar) money.

    On the absence of the supervisor, the lawyer said his superiors ought to have come to the court or written to inform the court.

     

    Source: starrfm.com.gh

  • Ghana rice to have special identification stickers Rice millers

    Moves are being initiated by rice millers in the country to get special identification stickers to differentiate Ghana rice from those imported.

    The Convener of the Rice Millers Association, Yaw Adu Poku, who made this known to Citi News said the move is also to check unwholesome or fake Ghana rice that may be on the market.

    Read: First lady officially joins eat Ghana rice campaign

    Yaw Adu Poku, in a Citi News interview, said the Association is collaborating with the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) to possibly roll out this initiative as the campaign for the consumption of local rice intensifies.

    “We have agreed in principle through our umbrella organization, Ghana Rice Inter-professional Bodies together with Food & Beverage Association of Ghana (FABAG) to officially write to the GSA that a stamp or some identification should be given to rice in the system and even those that have been imported into the country so that when you go to the market you can see the stamp. This will immediately differentiate between the rice produced internally and those that come in through the main ports,” he said.

    The CEO of Citi FM and Citi TV, Samuel Attah-Mensah, after visiting some rice farms in Northern Ghana about a month ago found out that locally produced rice was stuck at farm gates due to the lack of buyers.

    He subsequently appointed himself Ambassador for the promotion of Ghana Rice and began a campaign to drive the consumption of Ghana rice.

    This campaign has caught on with many Ghanaians and received widespread endorsements.

    Government and financial institutions have stepped in and made commitments to assist those in the local rice production value chain.

    Read: Buffer Stock Company promises to supply SHSs with 100% local rice

    The government has also announced a plan to ban rice importation by 2022.

    For this reason, the Food and Agriculture Ministry met with 20 major rice importers and urged them to consider sourcing locally produced rice.

    Recently, President Akufo-Addo during an encounter with the media at the Jubilee house called on Ghanaians to consume local rice.

    He also announced that all government institutions have been directed to start using local rice for all public programmes and initiatives from January 2020.

     

    Source: citinewsroom.com

  • AMA collaborates with others to light up Accra for Christmas

    The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) in collaboration with some business entities will light up the ceremonial streets of the capital to set the tone for Christmas.

    It is also part of efforts to beautify the city as the Year of Return rounds up.

    Read: Travellers to Ghana during The Year of Return to obtain visa-on-arrival

    The project dubbed #LightUpAccra is part of the agenda to beautify the capital city with Christmas trees and lights.

    The median streets from the Ako Adjei Interchange through to the Central Business District will no longer look the same this festive season as they will be decorated and with colourful lights.

    Also, the Airport roundabout has been well decorated as a sign of the festive season.

    Jandel, Ecobank Ghana, Stanchart and the Multimedia Group Ltd are partners of the initiative.

    Source: Myjoyonline.com

  • Trump becomes third US president to be impeached

    Donald Trump has become the third US president in history to be impeached by the House of Representatives, setting up a trial in the Senate that will decide whether he remains in office.

    The House voted on two charges – that the president abused his power and that he had obstructed Congress.

    Both votes fell along party lines with nearly all Democrats voting for the charges and all Republicans against.

    As voting took place, President Trump was addressing a campaign rally.

    He told the crowd in Battle Creek, Michigan: “While we’re creating jobs and fighting for Michigan, the radical left in Congress is consumed with envy and hatred and rage, you see what’s going on.”

    The White House released a statement saying that the president was “confident that he will be fully exonerated” in a Senate trial.

    Read:Trump declines to attend impeachment hearing

    The proceedings on Wednesday began with members of Mr Trump’s Republican Party calling for votes on procedural issues in an effort to frustrate the process.

    That was followed by a vote on the rules to be set out for the impeachment, which kicked off six hours of partisan debate on the merits of the two impeachment charges against President Trump.

    At about 20:30 local time (01:30 GMT), the House called for votes on the two charges: first, abuse of power, stemming from Mr Trump’s alleged attempt to pressure Ukraine to announce investigations into his Democratic political rival, Joe Biden; and second, obstruction of Congress, because the president allegedly refused to co-operate with the impeachment inquiry, withholding documentary evidence and barring his key aides from giving evidence.

    The vote for the first article of impeachment, abuse of power, was passed 230-197 and the second, for obstruction of Congress, 229-198.

    Being impeached places Donald Trump alongside only two other presidents in the nation’s history – Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton – and sets up a trial in the Senate for his presidency.

    Read:Trump impeachment vote delayed after long debate

    A day of hyper-partisanship

    And so it is done. Donald Trump now becomes the third member of the exclusive club that no-one wants to be a member of.

    But the framers of the constitution with its impeachment provision could never have imagined the hyper-partisanship – on both sides – that has been witnessed during today’s sterile House proceedings. Each side with its own narrative, neither side listening to the other. And one can say with some certainty – I would bet all my yet-to-be-gifted Christmas presents – that it will be much the same once this becomes a trial in the Senate in the New Year.

    Donald Trump will be acquitted. He won’t be forced from office. So what changes? Well, Donald Trump will have a place in the history books – and for a man with such a huge sense of self that will hurt. Acutely. But 2020? Far from this being a killer blow against President Trump, it might turbo charge his bid for a second term. The House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was always wary about going down the impeachment route. We’ll discover next November whether that concern was well founded.

    During the House debates, Mr Trump tweeted several times, calling the Democratic arguments “ATROCIOUS LIES BY THE RADICAL LEFT” and an “ASSAULT ON THE REPUBLICAN PARTY!!!!”.

    Read:In historic move, U.S. House set to vote to impeach Trump

    The Republican Party has a majority in the Senate, making it highly unlikely the president will be removed from office when senators cast their votes. Republican Senate Leader Mitch McConnell last week said that Republican senators would act in “total co-ordination” with the president’s team during the trial, outraging Democrats who pointed out that Senators are obliged to act as impartial jurors.

    What did House members say?

    Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi opened the debate on Wednesday with a speech from the floor of the House.

    “For centuries Americans have fought and died to defend democracy for the people, but very sadly now our founder’s vision of a republic is under threat from actions from the White House,” she said,

    “If we do not act now, we would be derelict in our duty. It is tragic that the president’s reckless actions make impeachment necessary. He gave us no choice.”

    Democratic representative Joe Kennedy, a grand-nephew of President John F Kennedy, used his speech to address his children directly, explaining his decision to vote for impeachment.

    “Dear Ellie and James: This is a moment that you’ll read about in your history books,” the Massachusetts congressman said, going on to accuse the president of “using his power as a weapon against his own people”.

    Read:House of Representatives impeaches President Donald Trump

    Doug Collins, the top Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, accused Democrats of conducting an unfair and illegitimate inquiry.

    “This is an impeachment based on presumption. This is a poll-tested impeachment about what actually sells to the American people,” Mr Collins said.

    Republican Barry Loudermilk compared the impeachment process to the fate of Jesus Christ. “During that sham trial, Pontius Pilate afforded more rights to Jesus than Democrats have afforded this president in this process,” Mr Loudermilk said.

    Democrats were reportedly instructed by Ms Pelosi to treat the process solemnly. She told reporters outside the chamber she was “sad” about the proceedings, and a number of Democrats reflected on their disappointment at being involved in impeachment proceedings.

    Across the country in the 24 hours leading up to the vote, pro-impeachment protesters took to the streets. Hundreds of people gathered in Times Square in New York on Tuesday night, chanting: “Tell me who’s above the law? Nobody is above the law!”

    A man displays a pro-Trump sign near the Capitol on Wednesday The president had made an extraordinary intervention on the eve of Wednesday’s vote, penning an irate six-page letter to Ms Pelosi accusing her of declaring “open war on American democracy”.

    In the letter, which was published by the White House, the president claimed he had been “deprived of basic Constitutional Due Process from the beginning of this impeachment scam”. He was in fact publicly invited by the Democratic chair of the House Judiciary Committee to give evidence, a move that would also have allowed his legal team to question witnesses, but he declined.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Bolivia orders arrest of ex-president Morales

    Bolivia’s attorney general on Wednesday ordered the arrest of exiled former president Evo Morales after the interim government accused him of sedition and terrorism.

    Public prosecutors in La Paz signed a warrant for police to detain the 60-year-old — who is in Argentina — and take him to the attorney general’s office.

    Morales fled Bolivia last month after civil unrest broke out following his re-election in an October 20 poll widely dismissed as rigged.

    The former trade union leader denounced the arrest order as “illegal, unfair and unconstitutional” on Twitter.

    “I’m not worried. As long as I’m alive I’ll continue with greater strength in the political and ideological struggle for a free and sovereign Bolivia,” he said.

    Read:Protesters forcibly cut off Bolivia Mayors hair

    Morales ruled the South American country for almost 14 years before resigning last month and leaving Bolivia.

    He initially received asylum in Mexico and then arrived in Argentina last week.

    The allegations against him stem from an audio recording released by Arturo Murillo, the interim government’s interior minister. In the recording, Morales allegedly tells one of his supporters to block trucks and interrupt the food supply to several cities.

    Morales was in Mexico at the time, the complaint alleges.

    – Food, fuel shortages –

    Murillo began legal action against Morales in November, after weeks of road blocks caused food and fuel shortages in the capital La Paz following his resignation.

    The ex-president countered by accusing the interim government of manufacturing the audio to damage him politically.

    The controversial October poll in which Morales was re-elected was annulled following an Organization of American States (OAS) audit that found clear evidence of vote rigging.

    Right-wing deputy senate leader Jeanine Anez took over as interim president and has vowed to call new elections early next year, although no date has been set.

    Read:Mexican government says it is concerned about situation in Bolivia

    The interim government has barred Morales from standing in the ballot.

    Bolivia’s constitution limits a president to two consecutive terms but Morales stood for a potential fourth term in October.

    Ahead of the last two elections, the constitutional court — filled with Morales loyalists — made controversial decisions authorizing him to run again.

    His detractors accused him of corruption and authoritarianism.

    Speaking from Buenos Aires on Tuesday, Morales pledged to back another candidate from his Movement for Socialism party this time around.

    “I’m convinced that we’ll win the next elections. I won’t be a candidate but I have a right to be in politics,” Morales told reporters.

    “My obligation now that I’m not a candidate, now that I’m not president, is to accompany candidates so that they can win the elections,” added Morales, who was Bolivia’s first ever indigenous president.

    Read:Bolivia president resigns after re-election triggered deadly protests

    Previously he insisted he’d been the victim of a coup and has launched near-daily Twitter attacks against Anez and her allies.

    Earlier on Wednesday he claimed US President Donald Trump — who hit out against Morales on Tuesday for provoking violence in Bolivia from afar — was behind the “coup.”

    Source: France24

  • 22 Fulanis killed at Mampong, Nsuta this year Fulani Association head claims

    It has emerged that about 22 nomadic herdsmen, mainly of Fulani descent, were killed at Asante Mampong and Nsuta areas of Ashanti region in 2019 alone.

    The Fulani community in the areas disclosed this at a meeting organised by the Municipal Chief Executive of Asante Mampong, Thomas Appiah-Kubi, to find a lasting solution to the fight between the locals and cattle-owning Fulanis.

    Read: Man, 71, guns down Fulani robber in Kwahu

    The National Secretary of Association of Fulanis, Yakubu Musa Barry, who revealed this said all the incidents of the murder have been reported to police but no arrest has been made so far.

    According to him, in the latest incident, three herdsmen were found dead in a bush about two weeks ago under strange circumstances.

    “Three herdsmen were recently found dead; we reported to the police yet no arrest has been made; is it because we are Fulanis?” he asked.

    Mr Barry, therefore, called on the Municipal Security Committee to intervene to arrest the worrying trend.

    He proposed a joint task force of police, herdsmen and the locals to constantly patrol the area to ensure confrontation between herdsmen and farmers do not escalate.

    Read: Fulani man grabbed on Berekum highway robbery

    “I am begging the chiefs within the communities to talk to the indigenes to restrain themselves when they notice the animals are on free-range, to avoid bloody clashes with the herdsmen.

    On his part, Mr Appiah-Kubi, who chairs the Security Committee, said steps were being taken to ensure a peaceful co-existence between locals and the herdsmen as police investigate the murders.

    “We cannot do away with the Fulanis completely because our survival on meat depends on them and same with the farmers here,” he noted.

    He promised that the Municipal Security Committee would meet and find a lasting solution to the challenge.

     

    Source: Myjoyonline.com

  • US takes Wakanda off free-trade list after listing the mythical African country

    The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has removed the mythical African country of Wakanda from an online list of nations that have free-trade agreements with the US.

    The mistake was noticed by a Tweeter:

    The software engineer was looking for data on US agricultural tariffs for a fellowship he is pursuing, reports Reuters.

    Read:Chadwick Boseman dodges Wakanda salute

    “I was very confused at first and thought I misremembered the country from the movie and got it confused with something else,” Mr Tseng told Reuters.

    Before it was removed, Reuters adds that Mr Tseng downloaded an Excel spreadsheet listing “Harmonized Schedule” tariff codes for various goods traded between Wakanda and the US including live animals, dairy goods, tobacco and alcohol but that there was no mention of a trade agreement in vibranium – a fictional ultra-strong metal found in Wakanda.

    Read:Marvel working on Black Panther spin-off

    After the list was corrected, Tseng tweeted a tongue-in-cheek political analysis of the situation:

    A spokesman told The Washington Post that the inclusion of Wakanda was a mistake made as part of a test officials were running.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Gory accident leads to death of motor rider on Ofankor-Pokuase road

    A motor rider lost his life Thursday morning on the Ofankor-Pokuase road when he tried to avoid a van ahead of him.

    The deceased, who is yet to be identified, was riding from the Achimota road headed towards the Pokuase stretch when the incident occurred.

    Read: 38 injured in road accident at Ayi Mensah

    Narrating the incident to Andy Dosty on Hitz FM, an eyewitness said a trotro driver parked on the main road to pick a passenger but in a bid to prevent crashing into it, the driver of the van he (the eyewitness) was travelling in, which was behind the trotro, hit the brake without knowing there was a motor bike behind him.

    In an attempt to swerve the van, the motor rider met his untimely death.

    “There was this big truck with cement that was on the left, that was the inner lane of the road. Immediately the van hit a brake all that I saw was that the motor rider went straight under the truck (loaded) with the cement which have about three wheels in the back and as I speak to you the guy is dead.”

    Read: 6 die daily in Ghana due to road accidents MTTD

    He added that the deceased went through all three back tyres of the truck.

    At the time of narrating the incident, the body of the deceased was still lying on the road.

    The eyewitness blamed the accident on big trucks parked at the bus stop where the trotro driver was supposed to have stopped

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Kevin-Prince Boateng to stay at Fiorentina

    Ghana forward Kevin-Prince Boateng is set to stay at Fiorentina ahead of the January transfer window despite reports he may leave the club.

    The 32-year old has had a poor start to the season and earlier reports suggested he could move from the club in search of more play time when the transfer window opens.

    Read:U.S Sassuolo slap €7 million price tag on Kevin-Prince Boateng

    According to reports in Italy, Brescia and Parma are interested in signing the Ghanaian International in January.

    Boateng has played 11 matches in the Serie A for Fiorentina making four starts and has scored one goal.

    Read:I was an idiot; I once bought 3 cars in one day at Tottenham Kevin-Prince Boateng

    Source: GHANAsoccernet.com

  • Sterling fires Man City into last four

    Raheem Sterling’s double sent Manchester City in the Carabao Cup semi-finals as they beat Oxford United 3-1 on Wednesday night.

    With Mikel Arteta in the dugout alongside Pep Guardiola -A swift counter-attack saw Phil Foden – making his third successive start – spring Cancelo, who drove into the box then saw his shot take a hefty deflection Elliott Moore and beat the helpless Jordan Archer.

    Read:Sterling scores hat-trick as England thrash chech

    Almost right from the restart, Oxford managed to haul themselves level – albeit in somewhat controversial circumstances. Shandon Baptiste took a free-kick quickly with the ball still rolling, but the officials did not spot it as he fed Taylor, who beat his marker before finishing low into the bottom corner.

    Despite his reported talks to become Arsenal manager this week – City took the lead midway through the first half at the Kassam Stadium as Joao Cancelo struck, before Matty Taylor levelled proceedings for the League One side just after the break.

    Read:Raheem Sterling in talks with Man City over new long-term deal

    City responded quickly, though, as Sterling struck twice to put the tie to bed, sending the defending back-to-back champions through to the last four, where they will face Manchester United over two legs in January.

    Oxford gave a fine account of themselves in the first half and were slightly unfortunate in the way they fell behind.

    Source: skysports.com

  • Man United cruise into semi-finals

    Marcus Rashford had a hand in all three goals as Manchester United beat Colchester 3-0 to reach the Carabao Cup semi-finals.

    Rashford took advantage of a rare Colchester attack leaving them exposed at the back to beat Dean Gerken after a solo run, and five minutes later had a hand in their second as Mason Greenwood’s cross was turned past Gerken by Ryan Jackson under pressure from the Manchester United forward.

    He then set up the third goal to kill the game as a contest soon after when turning Juan Mata’s cross back across goal to provide Anthony Martial a simple finish.

    Read:PL: Rashford double hands Mourinho first Spurs defeat

    The hosts had struggled to turn their first-half dominance into clear opportunities against a side three divisions below them, but once they found the breakthrough, they added the second and third goals with relative ease to secure a spot in the last four against arch-rivals Manchester City.

    Manchester United arrived at Old Trafford acutely aware only a sizeable win would satisfy expectations against a side 61 places below them in the football pyramid, and named a strong team against opponents unbeaten in League Two since mid-October.

    Read:Easy to compare Rashford with Ronaldo Ole

    Their domination was constant and their residence inside the Colchester half almost endless, but their final ball was very poor in a first half in which Gerken had little of note to worry him.

    Colchester have prided themselves on a strong defence this season but Manchester United should still have tested them far more before the break, and only Rashford’s sliced miscue from a floated ball into the box looked like it could have threatened a breakthrough.

    Source: skysports.com

  • Leicester beat Everton on pens after thriller

    Leicester squeezed through to the Carabao Cup semi-finals with a 4-2 penalty shootout win over Everton after the Toffees fought back from 2-0 down in a thriller at Goodison Park.

    Leicester struck twice in the space of four minutes to seemingly take the game away from Everton in the first half as James Maddison curled a fine effort with the outside of his foot (26), before Johnny Evans tucked home at close range from a corner (29).

    Read:PL: Chelsea record sixth straight win, Leicester beat Arsenal

    Everton’s interim manager Duncan Ferguson introduced Moise Kean at half-time after being controversially subbed on and off within 19 minutes on Sunday, and the hosts halved the deficit with 20 minutes remaining through Tom Davies’ volley.

    Leighton Baines then levelled with a superb long-range effort in stoppage time (90+1) to lift the roof off Goodison Park and send Ferguson down the touchline hugging the ballboy again, but Baines himself and sub Cenk Tosun missed penalties as Jamie Vardy wrapped up the shootout victory.

    Read:Leicester go second with seventh PL win in row

    Leicester will now face Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup semi-finals, while Everton’s wait for a first trophy since 1995 goes on.

    Source: skysports.com

  • La Liga: Barca and Real play out uneventful El Clasico draw

    Barcelona and Real Madrid played out a goalless and largely uneventful El Clasico at the Nou Camp.

    Gareth Bale’s disallowed goal was the closest either side came to scoring, but Real left-back Ferland Mendy was judged to be offside in the build-up.

    The result sees defending champions Barca stay top of La Liga with Real second on goal difference.

    Read:La Liga: Messi gives set-piece masterclass as Barca outclass Celta

    Both clubs are now five points clear of Sevilla who lost to Villarreal on Sunday.

    The 179th La Liga meeting between these sides was originally scheduled for 26 October but was postponed because of fears of civil unrest in Catalonia.

    Both teams shared the same hotel in the lead-up to Wednesday’s game and travelled to the ground together, two hours before kick-off amid security concerns.

    Read:La Liga more important than Champions League Messi

    But while several thousand Catalan independence protesters gathered outside the stadium, there was little suggestion that their presence was going to place the fixture in doubt.

    There was however an interruption to the game early in the second half, with yellow balls raining down on the field to briefly delay proceedings.

    Source: bbc.com

  • MASLOC gives financial aid to kente weavers in Volta

    The Volta Regional Director of Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), Dan Kafui Wudome says his outfit had processed about 175 members of the association to receive financial support.

    He also disclosed that MASLOC had supported more than 134 groups with a membership of 3,350 who were engaged in various economic activities across Volta and Oti regions.

    Read: ADB hesitates in giving us loans Peasant farmers

    Wudome says an amount of GH¢3,350,000 had been disbursed to the groups and about 60 per cent of the beneficiaries were women.

    He also assured other members of the association that they would also be supported in due course.

    A representative from Ghana Export Promotion Counsel, Doris Ama Bansah, announced that there would be training and capacity building programmes for the kente weavers in 2020.

    She said that the kente shade at Kpetoe would also be renovated to promote the kente business.

    Madam Bansah urged the kente weavers to work hard and also register their businesses.

    The Ho Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr Proper Kofi Pi-Bansah, said that there was an ongoing construction of a centre for kente weaving at Sokode Ando to boost the industry.

    Read: BoG in talks with banks to explore minimum loan deposits ratio Governor

    He urged members of the association to stick to the aims and objectives of the association in order to create a vibrant association which would gain international recognition and win more laurels.

    Speaking at the 10th annual congress of Volta Regional Kente Weavers Association, stakeholders have called for the arrest of people who sell imitated kente products.

    The chairman of the Volta Regional Kente Weavers Association, Robert Jokoto suggested that the police be allowed to go to the market and arrest those selling imitated kente products after a three-month ultimatum had been given to the dealers.

    He said any seller caught with the imitated product after the deadline should be made to face the law.

    “This move will discourage the importers of the imitated products who bring them to the country,” he added.

     

    Source: Grace Senam Klay

  • Menzgold to pay clients in 36 months beginning next week

    Embattled gold dealership firm, Menzgold, will from next week 27 December 2019, begin paying clients their investments that have been locked up for some time now.

    “Payments start on Friday, 27th December 2019 with funds at hand now, as we proceed to go recover the debt owed Menzgold overseas, especially in Dubai and Europe to come to reinforce as payments sessions continue”, the company said in a statement.

    Read: Menzgold CEO, NAM 1 captured in a room filled with gold bars

    Claims shall, however, be settled in full and shall be subject to an invitation from its legal team, adding “unlimited, strictly following the below indicated scheduled hierarchical order, all to be settled within 36 months starting from December 2019.”

    The statement noted that payments will be based on a formula and scheduled, saying, “Payments shall be made strictly following a ‘reverse mechanism’, which implies from the last day (month) of our business operations to the very first day when our business commenced. Thus; from 12th September 2018 to 18th March, 2013.”

    To this end, Menzgold shall start to settle all investors’ transactions in September 2018 and those who did not access any extra values.

    Read: We cannot pay your customers Menzgold lawyers reject instruction

    Menzgold said it is committed to settle all claims in not more than 36 months, as it follows strictly the “reverse payment mechanism”, in its firm resolve to amicably and peaceful reverse all transactions or contracts, to achieve cordial co-existence and harmony.

    Menzgold, however, expressed worry that its assets remain frozen, implying that “we cannot access any of our offices nationwide, credit or debit any bank account in Ghana. In view of these constraints, our lawyers shall agree with claimants upon invitation, as to where and how to legally receive payment.”

    Menzgold called on its customers to cooperate with them to ensure the preservation of the integrity of tyhe exercise and its smooth sustenance, in order to avoid interruption and its abortion.

     

    Source: classfmonline.com

  • Fancy Gadam lights up Koforidua to kick start ‘Dream’ album tour

    Ahmed Muhajid Bello known in showbiz as Fancy Gadam last Sunday thrilled music loving fans with some great tunes at the Culture Center Hall in Koforidua.

    The concert which is part of his “Dream” album tour is aimed at connecting to his fans around the country especially with his new album which is doing very well.

    Read:I was devastated when I was called a ritualist after people died during my concert Fancy Gadam

    Fancy Gadam on the night thrilled fans with some thrilling dance moves as the fans cheered him up.

    Fancy Gadam performed alongside some budding stars including Subziro, De Donzy and John Kizzy.

    Read:Maccasio hints of possible unity with rival Fancy Gadam

    The second stop of the “Dream” album tour would be in Yendi Community Center come December 20, 2019.

    Fancy would also tour Yeji, Nyong, Offinso and Wa during the Christmas festive period.

    Source: ghananewsagency.org

  • We can’t help you pay your clients Kwame Akuffo & Co Unlimited to NAM1

    Kwame Akuffo & Co Unlimited, the law firm representing Menzgold, has distanced themselves from the payment plan announced by the embaattled gold firm on Wednesday, 18 December 2019.

    Menzgold in a statement said payment will be done through their lawyer since they do have access to their office.

    Read: Menzgold CEO, NAM 1 captured in a room filled with gold bars

    “Claims shall be settled in full and shall be subject to an invitation from our legal team; Kwame Akuffo & Co. Unlimited, strictly following the below indicated scheduled hierarchical order, all to be settled within 36 months starting from December 2019,” the company said.

    “we cannot access any of our offices nationwide, credit or debit any bank account in Ghana. In view of these constraints, our lawyers shall agree with claimants upon invitation, as to where and how to legally receive payment,” the company added.

    Read: We cannot pay your customers Menzgold lawyers reject instruction

    But in a counter-statement, the Kwame Akuffo & Co. Unlimted said it does not have the “capacity” to carry out the exercise.

    The law firm said it has advised Menzgold to engage the services of a third party to undertake the exercise.

    Source: classfmonline.com

  • A Plus sues AG, Kroll and Associates over US$1 million cash

    Controversial musician now turned political activist, Kwame Asare Obeng, alias A Plus, has sued the Attorney General and private firm, Kroll and Associates over the payment of some $1million paid to the latter by the Senior Minister, Mr. Yaw Osafo Maafo.

    In a writ filed at the Supreme Court on Wednesday, A Plus is seeking a declaration that the decision by the government to pay the said amount to Kroll and Associates was contravened the 1992 constitution.

    Read: A Plus scores Akufo-Addo 30%, says Mahama is better

    He is also seeking the court to order Kroll and Associates to refund the monies paid to them with interest at the prevailing Bank of Ghana rates.

     

    Source: Graphic.com.gh

  • Girl kidnapped in Tamale found

    The Northern Regional Police have found Jennifer Selome who was allegedly kidnapped about a week ago in Tamale, the Northern regional capital.

    According to the police, Jennifer was spotted in Tongo in the Upper East region by someone they referred to as a Good Samaritan wandering and looking traumatised.

    Read: Police probe alleged kidnapping in Tamale

    The police said the Good Samaritan sent her to the Tongo police station and the police in Tongo subsequently relayed the message to Tamale.

    A statement signed by the Northern regional crime officer Superintendent Otuo Acheampong said Jennifer narrated to the police that she boarded a tricycle but was allegedly sprayed with a substance, gagged and blindfolded.

    She said she was taken to an unknown location after being transported in six different vehicles.

    Read: Uncle kidnaps, kills 7-year-old nephew after collecting ransom

    He said Jennifer alleged that she was kidnapped together with a 12-year-old who later escaped.

    Superintendent Otou said Jennifer has been reunited with her family and was taken to a health facility for medical examination.

    He added that investigation continues.

     

    Source: Myjoyonline.com

  • House of Representatives impeaches President Donald Trump

    The deeply divided House of Representatives took the historic step to impeach President Donald Trump on Wednesday, charging a president with high crimes and misdemeanors for just the third time in American history.

    The House voted almost entirely along party lines for two articles of impeachment to remove the President from office — abuse of power and obstruction of Congress — sending the case to the Senate for a trial expected to start next month.
    The impeachment votes marked the culmination of a sprawling and rapidly moving three-month Democratic investigation into allegations that the President pressured Ukraine to investigate his political rivals while withholding US security assistance and a White House meeting.
    The House voted 230-197 to charge Trump with abuse of power and 229-198 to charge him with obstruction of Congress. The votes were largely split along party lines: just two Democrats voted against both articles, Reps. Collin Peterson of Minnesota and Jeff Van Drew of New Jersey, who is expected to soon switch parties. A third, Rep. Jared Golden of Maine, voted for one impeachment article. Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii, who is running for the Democratic presidential nomination, voted present for both articles.
    Republican-turned independent Rep. Justin Amash of Michigan voted to impeach Trump on both counts.
    Trump’s impeachment, which occurred 85 days after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced the opening of the impeachment inquiry, will have long-lasting ramifications across Washington and beyond. It will undoubtedly shape the legacies of the key players in the midst of it, from Pelosi and her committee chairs who led the impeachment proceedings to Trump and his staunchest defenders in Congress.
    It’s a scenario that appeared unlikely just months ago for Pelosi, who had resisted the push for Trump’s impeachment from liberal advocates both inside her caucus and outside Capitol Hill. But then an anonymous whistleblower complaint changed the course of history for both Trump and his chief antagonist at the other end of Pennsylvania Avenue.
    “We gather today under the dome of this temple of democracy to exercise one of the most solemn powers that this body can take: The impeachment of the President of the United States,” Pelosi said Wednesday to kick off the impeachment debate on the House floor. “If we do not act now we would be derelict in our duty. It is tragic that the President’s reckless actions make impeachment necessary. He gave us no choice.”
    Trump now joins a small club of Presidents who have been impeached by the House for “high crimes and misdemeanors” cited in the Constitution: President Andrew Johnson in 1868 and President Bill Clinton in 1998. President Richard Nixon resigned in 1974 before impeachment proceedings against him could reach the House floor.
    Both Johnson and Clinton were acquitted by the Senate, and there’s effectively zero chance the Republican-controlled Senate will remove Trump from office. But unlike Johnson and Clinton, who were impeached during their second terms, Trump will face reelection less than a year after his impeachment, giving voters the opportunity to have the final word in November 2020.
    Trump has insisted he did nothing wrong in his “perfect” July call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which formed the basis of the whistleblower complaint. Trump tweeted repeatedly about the impeachment proceedings against him on Wednesday as the House debate unfolded.
    “The House Democrats are surrendering the majority, their dignity,” Trump said at a rally in Michigan after learning he’d officially been impeached. “They look like a bunch of fools.”

    Pelosi won’t commit to sending articles

    Wednesday’s vote shifts the impeachment proceedings to the Senate, where a trial is expected in January. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told Republican senators at a policy lunch Tuesday that he will announce by the end of the week the date for the start of the Senate trial, according to sources.
    But Pelosi, at a news conference after the vote, would not commit to sending the articles of impeachment to the Senate, saying “that would have been our intention, but we’ll see what happens over there.”
    Democrats say that Trump was impeached because he abused his office by directing a pressure campaign for Ukraine to announce an investigation into former Vice President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden, conditioning $400 million in US security aid and a one-on-one White House meeting on the investigation. Then Trump covered up his misconduct, Democrats say, obstructing Congress by stonewalling all the subpoenas from Congress trying to investigate his conduct.
    “His conduct continues to undermine our Constitution and threaten our next election,” said House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler, a New York Democrat. “His actions warrant his impeachment and demand his removal from office.”
    House Intelligence Chairman Adam Schiff, a California Democrat who led the impeachment investigation, said that the President “was willing to sacrifice our national security by withholding support for a critical strategic partner at war in order to improve his reelection prospects.”
    “But for the courage of someone willing to blow the whistle, he would have gotten away with it,” Schiff said. “Instead, he got caught. He tried to cheat, and he got caught.”
    But congressional Republicans condemned Democrats for rushing to impeach the President, charging that Democrats pushed forward with a partisan impeachment intended to beat Trump at the ballot box in 2020.
    “What we’ve seen is a process that’s led to the most partisan and least credible impeachment in the history of America,” said House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy.
    “What we’ve found here today is a president who did not do as being charged,” said Rep. Doug Collins of Georgia, the top Republican on the House Judiciary Committee. “The call itself, the two parties say no pressure. Nothing was ever done to get the money. In fact, they didn’t even know the money was held.”
    “The people of America see through this. The people of America understand due process, and they understand when it is being trampled in the people’s House,” said Rep. Doug Collins of Georgia, the top Republican on the Judiciary Committee.
    “What we’ve found here today is a president who did not do as being charged,” Collins added. “The call itself, the two parties say no pressure. Nothing was ever done to get the money. In fact, they didn’t even know the money was held.”

    Day of intense partisan debate

    The intense partisan debate over impeachment played out for hours on the House floor Wednesday on rapid-fire fashion ahead of the impeachment votes. In one-to-two minute speeches, Democrats and Republicans traded passionate arguments for why they were voting for or against impeachment. Back and forth they went: Democrats explaining the duty to impeach, followed by Republicans declaring that impeachment was a massive mistake.
    Lawmakers on both sides referenced back to the Founding Fathers, to the history being made with Wednesday’s votes and to the ramifications they were leaving for their children and grandchildren.
    The floor fight is the same war that the two parties have waged for the past three months in the closed-door depositions and committee hearings after Pelosi opened an impeachment inquiry on September 24.
    The investigation included testimony from 17 officials, 12 of whom appeared in public hearings. They described a months-long campaign led by the President’s personal attorney Rudy Giuliani to oust former US Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch, followed by a push for Ukraine to announce the investigations that would benefit the President politically.
    Several key officials, including acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney and former national security adviser John Bolton, refused to testify. Democrats, however, chalked up the defiance of subpoenas to evidence of congressional obstruction rather than fighting in court to force witnesses to appear — a move that could have prolonged the impeachment inquiry for weeks if not months.
    Leading up to Wednesday’s vote, no Republicans signaled they were considering voting to impeach the President. The looming question was whether moderate Democrats — the 31 who represented congressional districts Trump won in 2016 — would support impeachment.
    One by one, almost every one of the 31 Democrats said they were compelled to vote for impeachment. Only Peterson, a veteran lawmaker from a deeply red rural Minnesota district, and Van Drew, who signaled he would soon switch parties, said they were opposed to impeachment altogether. Golden split the difference, voting for abuse of power and against obstruction of Congress.
    Wednesday’s vote shifts the impeachment proceedings to the Senate, where a trial is expected in January. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told Republican senators at a policy lunch Tuesday that he will announce by the end of the week the date for the start of the Senate trial, according to sources.
    For House Democrats, the next step to prepare for the trial is to name impeachment managers who will prosecute the case in the Senate. Wednesday’s vote also paved the way for the House to approve a resolution announcing the managers — though they aren’t likely to be named until the House sends the articles to the Senate.
    This story has been updated with additional developments Wednesday.
    Source: CNN 

  • Police arrest man who allegedly drugged uber driver, stole his car

    The Cantonments Police in Accra has arrested one Edward Sena at Pokuase for allegedly stealing cars from commercial drivers after drugging them.

    The suspect on Saturday stole a car; two Samsung Phones and GHC300 from a driver, when he invited him to Purple Pub, only to give him a drink that left his victim unconscious.

    Read:Three policemen assault Uber driver at Sowutuom

    Speaking to Citi News, the Public Affairs Head of the Greater Accra Police Command, DSP Afia Tenge, said her outfit is inviting victims of such this crime to the Cantonments Police Station to identify the suspect.

    A police communique sighted by Citi News noted that on the Saturday, December 14 at about 11:00 pm, “a victim in a state of drowsiness came to the cantonments police and reported that someone hired his services from Nkrumah circle to Airport but on reaching Danquah Circle, the client invited the driver to have a drink with him while they wait for a flight to arrive at airport.”

    Read:Teenager, girlfriend arrested for allegedly strangling, stabbing Uber driver

    “That the client served him with a fruit juice at Purple Pub which he lost consciousness after taking the drink. When he regained consciousness the client had stolen his Uber car together with his two Samsung phones and cash of GHC300.”

    But the stolen vehicle had a tracking device and was traced to Pokuase “and with the assistance of the police information room and the patrol teams, the vehicle together with the suspect Edward Sena was arrested.”

    The suspect had changed the registration plate and when he was searched, one of the mobile phones of the complainant was found in the room.

    Read:Uber driver injured in carjacking at Ejisu

    Police also noted that “another victim has come to identify him as the same suspect who stole his car under the same modus on May 10, 2019, at Nungua.”

    Source: citinewsroom.com

  • ‘This is madness – Roads Minister leads team to demolish barricade on Airport road

    “This is nonsensical and madness,” Roads Minister, Kwasi Amoako-Atta fumed on Wednesday when he led a team to the Airport residential area Wednesday.

    The Minister led the team to demolish a concrete barricade erected by some Turkish developers who are putting up a 22-storey building in the area.

    He also called for the arrest of the contractor working on the project.

    Read:Govt will no longer condone shoddy road construction Amoako-Atta

    They had erected the barricade which blocked portions of the road, causing vehicular traffic. Cracks also have developed in the road as a result.

    Worse, the trench dug for the foundation of the storey building has caused cracks in some buildings of Association International School which is adjacent the site.

    Residents say the developers have no permit for the project.

    Read:I go on tours with Amoako-Atta for him to see the bad roads Akufo-Addo

    According to the headmistress of Association International School, the developers are also in defiance of a court order restraining them from proceeding with the construction.

    She told JoyNews numerous calls on city authorities since June 2019 to intervene, proved futile.

    On Wednesday, however, Mr Amoako-Atta led a team to the site after media coverage on the issue increased.

    “Because of this project, you destroy public road? This is nonsensical and madness. It is madness,” Graphiconline reported the Minister to have said.


    Source: Myjoyonline.com

  • You could be jailed for discriminating against a person living with HIV/AIDS

    Discriminating against a person living with HIV or AIDS could land one in jail for up to three years.

    This is contained in the Ghana AIDS Commission Act 2016, Act 938 which was passed by Parliament and assented by former President John Dramani Mahama on December 30, 2016.

    Read: Mobilise internal resources to fund HIV/AIDS activities Experts

    The Act, among other things is aimed at preventing and controlling HIV and AIDS epidemic in Ghana, as well as protect the rights of persons living with the disease.

    This means that employers, service providers and individuals can no longer deny persons living with HIV or AIDS access to vital services such as healthcare, education, goods and services as well as jobs.

    In an instance where these rights are denied a person living with HIV or AIDS, Section 38 subsection 2 states that a public agency or non-governmental organisation may institute legal proceedings for or on behalf of a person living with or affected by HIV or AIDS for infringement of their rights.

    Read: My husband of 8 years has infected me with HIV/AIDS Woman breaks down

    According to Section 39 of the Act, anyone who denies a person living with HIV or AIDS his or her rights commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not less than 200 penalty units and not more than 500 penalty units or a term of imprisonment of not less than 18 months and not more than three years or to both the fine and imprisonment.

     

    Source: Graphic.com.gh

  • Film set in Senegal makes it to next round of Oscars voting

    Atlantics, a film set in Senegal by French director Mati Diop, is one of 10 films to be shortlisted for the next round of the International Feature Film category at the Oscars.

    Members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will now vote on whether it should be nominated for final consideration.

    Read:Film on Nigerian sex workers disqualified from Oscars

    Atlantics, one of 91 films that were originally submitted in this category, is a love story set against the backdrop of migration and poverty.

    The final nominations will be announced on 13 January.

    Read:Oscars: Tom Holland, Letitia Wright and Adele join Academy

    The International Feature Film category attracted criticism earlier this year when Nigerian film Lionheart was disqualified after it was judged not to have “a predominantly non-English dialogue track”, one of the criteria for being considered.

    Read:Oscars 2019: Winners in full

    In the Original Song category, Beyonce’s Spirit, composed for the Lion King remake, is one of 15 on the shortlist for further consideration.

    The song opens with lyrics in Swahili “Uishi kwa mda mrefu mfalme” meaning “long live the king”.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Australia endures hottest day on record

    Australia has experienced its hottest day on record with the national average temperature reaching a high of 40.9C (105.6F), meteorologists say.

    The Bureau of Meteorology (Bom) said “extensive” heat on Tuesday tipped the mercury past the previous record of 40.3C set on 7 January 2013.

    Taking the average of maximum temperatures across the country is the most accurate measure of a heatwave.

    The record comes as the nation battles a severe drought and bushfire crisis.

    Forecasters had predicted the most intense heat would come later in the week, meaning the record could be broken again.

    Read:Australia weather: January was hottest month on record

    As hundreds of fires rage, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has been criticised for his response to the natural disasters and his government’s climate policies.

    Why has this happened now?

    Australia heated up this week as a mass of hot air swept east across the continent, with meteorologists forecasting “severe to extreme heatwave conditions”.

    Several individual heat records for towns and cities have already been shattered. On Tuesday, several areas across the nation’s centre recorded temperatures above 45C.

    At the start of the week, Perth, the capital of Western Australia, recorded three days in a row above 40C – a record for December.

    The dominant climate driver behind the heat has been a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) – an event where sea surface temperatures are warmer in the western half of the ocean, cooler in the east.

    Read:Japan heatwave declared natural disaster as death toll mounts

    The difference between the two temperatures is currently the strongest in 60 years. The warmer waters cause higher-than-average rains in the western Indian Ocean region, leading to flooding, and drier conditions across South East Asia and Australia.

    But Australia has been enduring a drought for a long time – several years in some places. Bom says the dry soil has meant less evaporation – which would normally exert a cooling influence on the landscape.

    What is climate change doing to Australia?

    According to Bom, Australia has warmed overall by just over 1C since 1910, with most of the heating occurring since 1950.

    Nine of Australia’s top 10 hottest years on record have all occurred since 2005.

    Officials predicts that 2019, on the temperatures recorded so far, will be among the four warmest years on record. Bom says it’s expecting national mean temperatures to be at least 1.3C above the long-term average of 27.5C.

    That heat has helped create the conditions for natural disasters like bushfires, droughts and floods – which have always happened in Australia – to be more frequent and more severe.

    Read:Europe heatwave expected to peak and break records again

    “Australia’s climate is increasingly influenced by global warning and natural variability takes place on top of this background trend,” says Bom.

    Vast areas of the nation are struggling through a second and third year of drought. According to the measurements for 2019 so far, the year has been Australia’s driest in over a century.

    Australia’s conservative government has been criticised both at home and internationally for what’s seen as an inadequate climate record and a reliance on coal.

    Australia is one of the highest emitters of carbon pollution per capita, largely because it is still heavily reliant on fossil fuel power. The UN has also said it is among the minority of G20 nations falling short on its emissions cuts goals.

    As the bushfires, and other natural crises, have raged on there has been growing public anger towards the government’s inaction, and demands for Prime Minister Scott Morrison to properly acknowledge the impact of climate change.

    How damaging can heatwaves be in Australia?

    Heatwaves are Australia’s deadliest natural disaster and have killed thousands more people than bushfires or floods.

    Read:Dangerous heatwave starts hitting US and Canada

    Last summer (2018-2019) was recorded as the nation’s hottest on record, as average temperatures soared past 30C (86F) for the first time.

    At least five of the days were recorded among the nation’s top 10 hottest on record.

    The heat, which was concentrated over one fortnight in January, caused mass wildlife deaths, sparked bushfires and led to a rise in hospital admissions.

    It also sparked furious political discussion about the nation’s energy grid, after densely populated city areas were forced to endure blackouts amid the heat.

    What does this mean for the fires?

    More than 100 blazes are still burning across Australia’s east coast – with the high temperatures escalating dangerous conditions.

    Bom and fire authorities warned that the record temperatures had made the fires more volatile and harder to fight.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Money supply slows down by 8%

    The growth of money supply slowed down in the third quarter of the year, signaling some level of illiquidity in the Ghanaian economy.

    According to the Bank of Ghana, the provisional data on monetary aggregates at the end of the third quarter of 2019, broadly reflected considerable moderation in the growth of money supply, consistent with the monetary policy stance.

    The annual growth in broad money supply (M2+) slowed from 24.09 per cent a year ago to 16.32 per cent in quarter three of 2019.

    Read: Borrow money to organise exams GES to JHS heads in Wa

    Broad money is a measure of the amount of money, or money supply, in a national economy including both highly liquid “narrow money” and less liquid forms.

    The slowdown in the growth of M2+ during the review quarter, the central bank said, was largely reflected in decreases in the growth of demand deposits, savings and time deposits.

    Demand deposits are purely current account and call deposits.

    The other components of M2+, comprising currency in circulation and foreign currency deposits, however, showed an increased growth in quarter three of 2019, relative to that of the previous year.

    Meanwhile, the currency outside banks or the banking system have hovered around GH¢11 billion throughout the year.

    However, the currency in circulation has also hovered around the GH¢12 billion bracket throughout 2019.

    It inched up from GH¢12.6 billion in August to GH¢12.9 billion, the highest so far in the year.

    On the treasury market, however, interest rates trended upward.

    Rates on the 91-day, 182-day T-bills increased by 132 basis points (1.32%) and 110 basis points (1.10%), respectively year-on-year, to settle at 14.69 per cent and 15.14 per cent, respectively.

    Read: Calls for tax on mobile money transaction fees untenable Eli Hini

    The 364-day bill rate, however, remained broadly unchanged at 17.91 per cent in the review quarter.

    The rate on the 2-year fixed note increased by 1.0% to settle at 19.00% in quarter three of 2019 from 18.00% in 2018.

    The rates on the 3-year and 5-year government of Ghana (GOG) bonds increased by 2.2% and 3.0%, respectively.

    Rates on the 7-year and 15-year government-of-Ghana bonds remained unchanged at 16.25% and 19.75%, respectively.

     

    Source: classfmonline.com

  • Mikel Arteta to travel with Man City despite holding Arsenal talks

    Mikel Arteta will travel with Manchester City for Wednesday’s Carabao Cup quarter-final at Oxford despite holding talks with Arsenal about their managerial vacancy, says Pep Guardiola.

    Assistant manager Arteta, 37, took part in training on Tuesday after two rounds of discussions with the Gunners.

    “He is an incredible person, a good manager, that’s why he has done well with us,” said City boss Guardiola.

    Read:Arsenal chiefs fear top stars will leave if Emery remains in charge

    “He is talking with Arsenal so I don’t know what is going to happen.”

    Gunners chief executive Vinai Venkatesham was pictured outside former Spain U21 international Arteta’s home after both flew north following City’s 3-0 win at Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

    It is not yet known whether Arteta has been offered the chance to succeed compatriot Unai Emery, who was sacked in November.

    Read:Everton: David Moyes still under consideration to replace Marco Silva

    City are reportedly fuming with Arsenal about their pursuit of former Gunners midfielder Arteta and have told the London club it will cost them a seven-figure sum to prise him away.

    Guardiola added: “Now it happens with Mikel that teams want him. He knows exactly what we would like but at the end the decision is personal.

    “The organisation of the club is always live, it doesn’t always stay the same – what works today might not work tomorrow. The people today maybe won’t be here tomorrow.

    “Now he is part of our group and staff and he stays here. When we have any new news I will know, you will know and we will see what happens.”

    Source: bbc.com

  • Bawumia to grace launch of 2019/20 Ghana Premier League

    The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia will grace the launch of the 2019/2020 Ghana Football Season at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday as the Special Guest.

    The Vice President leads the list of distinguished guests invited to grace the event, which will usher in the return of domestic league after nearly two seasons break.

    Read:Ghana Premier League to be launched on December 20

    The guest list, also includes Sports Minister, Hon. Isaac Asiamah, as well as executives from the corporate community.

    All of the GFA’s competitions will be launched together, with the Ghana Premier League scheduled to kick off next weekend.

    The other competitions are the Division One League, Women’s Premier League, as well as Men and Women’s FA Cup.

    Read:Ghana Premier League fixtures for 2019/2020 announced

    Apart from the Premier League which kicks off next weekend, all the other competitions will start early next year.

    The event will be held at the Sports Hall of the Accra Sports Stadium from 5:p.m. on Friday December 20, 2019.

    Source: ghanafa.org

  • Kurt Okraku can never revive Ghana football – Opeele Boateng

    Former Ghana U-17 assistant coach, Isaac Opeele Boateng has emphatically reiterated that Kurt Okraku’s led administration can never reignite football in the country.

    According to him, people around Mr Okraku are selfish and football administrators are only interested in their selfish gains.

    The 2019/20 Ghana Premier League is set to kick off December 27.

    Read:Ghana football will rise again new GFA boss promises

    “Ghana football can never be the same it is in the past,” the former Asante Kotoko and Tudu Mighty Jet gaffer said on Asempa FM.

    “There are people in football who are only interested in their selfish gains and the people around the president [Kurt Okraku] are also selfish.

    “The hooliganisms, the bribery and the bad attitude of club administrators will still continue because we called for change and the Normalization Committee was worse.

    Read:I underestimated the problems in Ghana football Naa Odofoley

    “I will only believe there is change when people stop being selfish when clubs stop sacking coaches but as it stands, Kurt Okraku has a difficult job and for me, he cannot reignite the passion,” he added.

    Vice president Dr Bawumia will grace the launch of the 2019/20 Ghana Premier League season.

    Source: footballghana.com

  • Anthony Joshua: Tyson Fury welcomes sparring offer for Deontay Wilder bout

    Tyson Fury says he would “love” to take up Anthony Joshua’s offer of sparring before he faces Deontay Wilder.

    Fury, 31, drew with WBC world heavyweight champion Wilder in 2018 and is set for a rematch on 22 February.

    Joshua, who holds the IBF, WBA and WBO belts, feels Fury would be more likely to agree to a fight for all four titles and offered to help his fellow Briton.

    “I would love to have you in camp, work out for this fight and give Deontay Wilder a proper beating,” said Fury.

    Read:Wilder v Fury: Stunning draw in WBC world heavyweight title fight

    “I hope you mean it, as I’d love to have you in training camp with me. When I do beat Wilder I will fight you AJ no problem.”

    Fury offered his “congratulations” to Joshua for his win over Andy Ruiz Jr on 7 December, where he reclaimed his world titles after losing to the Mexican in June.

    Joshua says he has already been “studying” Oleksandr Usyk, who he could face in the short term given the Ukrainian fighter’s status as mandatory challenger with the WBO.

    Read:Joshua defeats Ruiz to reclaim heavyweight crown

    Bulgaria’s Kubrat Pulev is also a mandatory challenger with the IBF, meaning the prospect of any fight between Joshua and Fury or Wilder still appears some time away.

    Fury’s bout with 34-year-old Wilder is said to be taking place in Las Vegas, although no venue has yet been confirmed for the bout.

    “I think honestly he might beat Wilder next time,” Joshua told Sky Sports News.

    “I think Fury would fight me quicker than Wilder would, so if that’s the case I want him to win. Imagine that fight on British soil.

    “If Tyson needs me, I’ll go out and spar with him to get him ready for Wilder.”

    Read:Anthony Joshua knocked down by physically challenged lady Kate Farley

    Fury is currently in the process of joining up with new trainer Javan ‘Sugar’ Hill having parted company with Ben Davison.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Sports deaths in 2019

    From the tragic death of Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala to motor racing legend Niki Lauda and South Africa’s 1995 Rugby World Cup champion Chester Williams, AFP Sport looks at some of the notable sporting figures who passed away in 2019:

    Emiliano Sala, 28

    — The Argentine footballer was killed on January 21 when the plane he was in crashed into the English Channel. He was on his way to join Cardiff after they agreed a club record 17 million-euro transfer fee with Nantes.

    Niki Lauda, 70

    — Austria’s three-time Formula One world champion died on May 20, eight months after a lung transplant. Lauda suffered severe burns on his face and hands, and inhaled toxic fumes which damaged his lungs when his vehicle burst into flames at the Nurburgring in 1976. Despite being given the last rites in hospital he made an almost miraculous recovery to race again just six weeks later still bandaged and in intense pain.

    Read:Australian boxer Dwight Ritchie dies aged 27 after training session

    Jose Antonio Reyes, 35

    — The former Spain international was killed in a car crash on June 1 on the main road from Sevilla to Utrera. Reyes was part of Arsenal’s unbeaten ‘Invincibles’ who won the 2003-04 Premier League title. He later had spells at Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.

    Marieke Vervoort, 40

    — Belgian Paralympic champion Marieke Vervoort, suffering from a degenerative muscle disease, ended her life on October 22 through euthanasia. Vervoort announced her intentions after the 2016 Rio Games after detailing her struggle with constant pain, paralysis in her legs and a condition which left her barely able to sleep.

    Bob Willis, 70

    — The former England paceman, who famously bowled his country to a dramatic Test win against Australia in 1981, died December 4. Willis played in 90 Tests, taking 325 wickets with his aggressive pace bowling and also captained England for a spell before retiring in 1984 and taking up a career in broadcasting.

    Read:Former Nigeria striker dies aged 31

    Chester Williams, 49

    — The left winger in South Africa’s side that won the 1995 Rugby World Cup died of a heart attack on September 6 after returning home from a gym session. Williams was the only black player in the triumphant 1995 side and has been credited by many with breaking barriers in a team reserved for whites for many decades.

    James Small, 50

    — The former South African winger, a member of the celebrated 1995 Rugby World Cup winning squad, died of a heart attack on July 10. Small was famed for keeping rampant Jonah Lomu at bay when the Springboks won the World Cup final in Johannesburg, a historic moment for the country just a year after the end of white-minority apartheid rule.

    Gordon Banks, 81

    — England’s goalkeeper during their triumphant 1966 World Cup campaign, Banks passed away on February 12. A legendary save he made from Pele at the 1970 World Cup came to define his career. “The save was one of the best I have ever seen,” Pele recalled.

    Read:Meet the black French footballer who has been in coma for 37 years

    Tyler Skaggs, 27

    — The Los Angeles Angels pitcher was found dead July 1 in his hotel room ahead of a game against the Texas Rangers. A toxicology report showed Skaggs had ingested a lethal mix of alcohol, fentanyl and oxycodone.

    Raymond Poulidor, 83

    — The universally loved Poulidor died November 13 but will forever be remembered as the greatest French rider never to win the Tour de France. From 1964 to 1976 Poulidor finished second in the Tour de France on three occasions and third five times in an era dominated by Eddy Merckx.

    Anthoine Hubert, 22

    — The French driver was killed in a horrific high-speed race just minutes into the Formula Two race at the Belgian Grand Prix on August 31. Hubert, who was considered a serious talent by Renault’s F1 set up, died following a three-car pile-up also involving Juan Manuel Correa and Giuliano Alesi.

    Frank Robinson, 83

    — The pioneering baseball great, who was the first African-American to become a manager in the major leagues, passed away February 7 after suffering from bone cancer. The Hall of Famer won two World Series titles during a glittering career and remains the only player to win MVP awards in both the National League and American League.

    Read:Ghanaian footballer collapse and dies in Zambia

    Matti Nykanen, 55

    — The Finnish ski jumping ace died suddenly on February 4. Nykanen dominated the sport in the 1980s when he won four Olympic gold medals, six world titles and the World Cup four times. He made headlines after his sporting career as a pop singer and stripper and did repeated stints in prison for assault.

    Hidekichi Miyazaki, 108

    — A Japanese centenarian who set the 100-metre sprint world record for the over-105 age category died January 23. Miyazaki, dubbed “Golden Bolt” after eight-time Olympic gold medallist Usain Bolt, clocked 42.22 seconds in his home city of Kyoto in 2015.

    Kelly Catlin, 23

    — The American three-time world champion cyclist took her own life on March 7 after a battle with depression. Catlin was part of the US team pursuit squads that captured world titles in 2016, 2017 and 2018 and also won a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

    Jessi Combs, 39

    — A racing driver considered the “fastest woman on four wheels” was killed in an August 27 car accident trying to break her own record. Combs earned her “fastest woman” title in 2013 when she hit 398 miles (641 kilometres) per hour.

    Read:Junior Agogo is dead

    Pernell Whitaker, 55

    — The former Olympic boxing gold medallist and four-weight world champion died after a traffic accident in Virginia on July 14. Whitaker was regarded as one of the most gifted fighters of his generation, a skilful technician who enjoyed a successful professional career after winning gold as a lightweight at the 1984 Olympics.

    Andres Gimeno, 82

    — The oldest male French Open champion in the Open era passed away October 9. Gimeno’s biggest achievement was winning Roland Garros aged 34 in 1972 but he also reached the Australian Open final in 1969 and the semi-finals at Wimbledon in 1970.

    Billy McNeill, 79

    — The former Celtic captain, the skipper of the ‘Lisbon Lions’ side that became the first British team to win the European Cup in 1967, died April 22 after suffering from dementia for a number of years. His spent his entire playing career with Celtic before going on to manage the Glasgow giants.

    Peter Snell, 80

    — The New Zealand running great, the most dominant middle-distance runner of his era, died December 12. Snell, who had suffered heart problems for a few years, won gold in the only three Olympic events he contested — the 800 metres at Rome in 1960 and the 800m and 1500m in Tokyo four years later.

    Source: France24

  • Courts can sit on weekends, public holidays – Supreme Court rules

    The Supreme Court has in a unanimous decision ruled that courts are to sit on weekends and public holidays to deal with issues that affect personal liberty.

    This brings to an end the age-long practice where persons are arrested and kept beyond 48 hours because weekends and holidays are not counted.

    The seven-member panel presided over by outgoing Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo held that 48 hours means 48 hours.

    Read: Parliament approves three Supreme Court Justice nominees

    Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu in September 2016 dragged the Attorney General to the Apex court demanding a declaration that portions of the Holidays Act that bars the courts from dealing with cases that affect personal liberty are unconstitutional.

    The Chief Justice presided over the panel comprising Justices Julius Ansah, Anin Yeboah (Chief Justice Designate), Baffoe Bonnie, Sule Gbadegbe, A. A Benin, and Prof. Ashie Kotey.

    This is her last decision as a Justice of the Highest court of the land.

    Reading the judgement, she stated that the portions of the Holidays Act preventing such access to justice are unconstitutional.

    Read: Our laws must be lenient on abortion Supreme Court Justice nominee

    The court then rectified the provisions to exempt courts dealing with personal liberty cases as part of those who can work on holidays.

    The court ordered that the Chief Justice must within six months designate each Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assembly with the required number of courts as may be needed to sit on weekends and holidays to deal with cases affecting personal liberty.

    The court also ordered that the IGP sensitizes police prosecutors about this decision within six months.

    The director of the Judicial Training Institute is also to do the same for Judges and Magistrates.

     

    Source: Myjoyonline.com