Wole Soyinka is a Nigerian writer, poet, dramatist, and literary critic who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential African writers of the 20th century.
However, his literary achievements were not without a price. Soyinka was imprisoned for 22 months by the Nigerian government during the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), also known as the Biafran War, for allegedly supporting the secessionist movement of Biafra.
Soyinka was arrested in August 1967, after he had secretly met with the leader of Biafra, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, in Enugu, the capital of the breakaway state. Soyinka had hoped to persuade Ojukwu to accept a peaceful resolution of the conflict, but his mission failed. He was accused of being a spy and a traitor by the federal authorities, who detained him without trial and subjected him to interrogation and torture.
Soyinka was held in solitary confinement for most of his imprisonment, in a cell that he described as “a windowless hole.” He was denied any writing materials, books, or contact with the outside world. He suffered from malnutrition, malaria, and depression. He later wrote that he felt like “a man buried alive.”
Despite these harsh conditions, Soyinka managed to produce some of his most remarkable works during his incarceration. He wrote poems on tissue paper, cigarette packs, and scraps of paper that he smuggled out of his cell.
He also composed a memoir, The Man Died: Prison Notes of Wole Soyinka, which he memorized and later dictated to his friends after his release.
In these writings, he chronicled his experiences in prison, his thoughts on the war and its atrocities, and his reflections on the human condition.
Soyinka was released in October 1969, after the end of the war. He left Nigeria and went into exile in Europe and America, where he continued to write and teach. He returned to Nigeria in 1975, after the military regime that had imprisoned him was overthrown. He resumed his political activism and criticism of successive governments, which led to further arrests and threats to his life. He also founded several cultural organizations and institutions to promote African literature and arts.
Soyinka’s prison writings are widely regarded as some of the most powerful and poignant expressions of political dissent and resistance in modern literature. They also reveal his remarkable courage, resilience, and creativity in the face of oppression and adversity. Soyinka is not only a Nobel laureate, but also a hero of human rights and freedom.
The police have discovered four more houses that were allegedly purchased with money stolen from the home of former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah. The houses are located in Budumburam, Aplaku and Kokrobite in the Central Region and Amrahia in the Greater Accra Region.
The police have also found two new Honda Acura cars, worth over GH¢600,000, that were bought with the stolen money. The cars are registered in the names of two of the accused persons.
These new findings add to the previous properties that were recovered from the suspects, including cash, jewellery, handbags, kente cloths and other household items.
The police have amended the charge sheet against the seven accused persons who are standing trial for the theft case. They are Patience Botwe, 18, hairdresser; Sarah Agyei, 30, unemployed; Benjamin Sowah, 29, plumber; Malik Dauda, 34, unemployed; Christiana Achab, a trader; Job Pomary, a mechanic; and Yahaya Sumaila, an excavator operator.
They are facing 14 counts of conspiracy, stealing and dishonestly receiving. They are alleged to have stolen $1 million, €300,000 and millions of Ghana cedis from the former minister’s residence at Abelemkpe in Accra between July and October 2022.
Sarah Agyei and Christiana Achab, who are said to be nursing mothers, have been granted bail of GH¢1 million each with three sureties. The sureties are required to deposit their Ghana Cards with the court registrar and not travel outside the jurisdiction.
The rest of the accused persons have been remanded in custody pending further investigations.
The prosecution has indicated that the Attorney General’s office will take over the case after full investigations are concluded.
The defence lawyers have argued that their clients are innocent until proven guilty.
The court has also asked the lawyers of the accused mothers to provide proof of their claim and shown a six-month-old baby who is under the care of a caregiver.
The eighth accused person, Franklin Sarakpo, is still on the run.
The father of Patience Botwe, Kweku Botwe, who was among the five persons initially arraigned, has been discharged following the Attorney General’s advice on the case.
Some candidates who registered for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the Ashanti Region failed to show up for the tests, according to officials from the local teachers association.
The General Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) Kumasi Metro B, Theophilus Mintah, said that absenteeism was a common trend at some examination centres in the Asokore Mampong and Oforikrom municipalities.
One absent student, a married woman who registered for the BECE, he said, was prevented by her husband from taking the exams.
“Some of them do not have reasons. Some of them have travelled abroad. Some of them are married and they don’t want to come and write. Yesterday there was an instance that a lady is married and the husband doesn’t want her to come and write the exams, so she did not come. I also observed a lady yesterday who was pregnant and she was writing the exam, and that was commendable,” he said.
Teachers at the particular centre also reported that some candidates faced health challenges during the exams, such as severe headaches, but there was no adequate provision of first aid or medical assistance at some centres.
In this case, one student who experienced sever headache was only given water to drink.
Meanwhile, some teachers have commended the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) for introducing serialisation of the exam papers, which they say has reduced the incidence of cheating and malpractice. They believe that this would ensure fairness and credibility of the exams.
The BECE is a national examination for students who complete junior high school in Ghana. It is used to select students for admission into senior high schools and technical institutes. The 2023 BECE started on Monday, August 7, and is expected to end on Friday, August 11.
Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, a presidential hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has outlined his vision for a lean and effective government, if he wins the presidential election.
He said he would reduce wasteful expenditure by scrapping unnecessary ministries and tightening the government’s budget in the face of economic difficulties. He said this would send a strong moral message to the people that he is serious about good governance.
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM: Express, he explained his position on the reduction of ministries, saying that he would have only 19 ministries under his administration.
He singled out the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and the Ministry of Chieftaincy as examples of redundant bureaucratic entities.
He argued that these ministries could be merged or incorporated into existing government functions, resulting in cost savings and increased efficiency.
“If I’m blessed to have the opportunity to be President, I’ll be substantially different. I don’t see why there should be a Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs or Ministry of Chieftaincy. It used to be a Secretariat at the Presidency.”
“So there are many things I want to see cut, especially when we are going through very tough economic times. It is not the quantum of money you save by reducing the Ministries per se but it is the strong moral message you send to the country that you’re tightening your belt and that you’re leading by example and that you mean what you say,” he told host Evans Mensah.
Mr Agyepong emphasised his commitment to his promises by saying: “And with Kwabena Agyepong, my word is my bond.”
The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) is expected to deliver a higher return than previously forecasted, thanks to the strong performance of non-financial stocks, according to Databank.
The financial asset manager has revised its market outlook for the year, projecting a return of up to 18 percent for the GSE Composite Index (GSE-CI), which measures the weighted average price changes of all listed equities.
This is an improvement from the 12 percent growth that Databank predicted at the beginning of the year, after the GSE-CI recorded a 13 percent drop in 2022.
In its latest quarterly outlook note, titled ‘Beyond the Trough: Stocks Remain in the Spotlight as a Glimpse of Economic Normalcy Emerges’, Databank said that the demand for non-financial stocks, such as Benso Oil, MTN and TotalEnergies, would continue to drive the market growth in the second half of the year.
“These stocks offer steady earnings and returns even during economic downturns. We expect income investors to maintain a favourable posture toward reliable, high dividend-paying and defensive stocks,” Databank said.
However, Databank cautioned that the demand for banking stocks remained weak due to the negative impact of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) on earnings growth and the suspension of dividends by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) until further notice.
The DDEP is a programme that involves restructuring some domestic debt instruments to reduce interest payments and extend maturities.
“It is worth noting that the announcement of the second round of DDEP has intensified investors’ concerns about the impact on financials. We anticipate industry players to implement measures that mitigate risk, protect the capital base, and improve earnings generation capacity and operational resilience,” Databank said.
Market performance
In July, the GSE-CI continued its positive momentum, surging by 168.74 points and resulting in a year-to-date return of 21.30 percent.
The GSE Financial Stock Index (GSE-FSI), which tracks the performance of listed financial stocks, also ended higher than the previous month, reducing its negative year-to-date return to 16.44 percent.
Regarding trading activities, both volume and value traded saw significant increases, rising by 669.42 percent and 24.25 percent respectively compared to the previous month.
This growth was fuelled by strong performances from listed companies in their half-year results and a bullish sentiment among investors.
The top-five price gainers for the month were Guinness Ghana (32.08 percent), Societe Generale (23.73 percent), MTN (8.33 percent), CALBank (6.67 percent), and TotalEnergies (5.43 percent).
At the close of trading last week, 179,136 shares corresponding to a market value of GH¢262,234 were traded on the Ghana Stock Exchange.
The GSE-CI saw a modest increase of 4.57 points (0.15 percent) to close at 3,127.43. This represents a 1-week gain of 6.64 percent, a 4-week gain of 10.89 percent and an overall year-to-date gain of 27.97 percent.
The GSE-FSI also recorded modest growth, increasing by 0.5 percent to reach 1,723.78 points. However, it still experienced a 1-week gain of 0.5 percent, a 4-week gain of 2.1 percent and a year-to-date loss of 16.02 percent.
The Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) Marketers Association has expressed its dissatisfaction with the National Petroleum Authority’s (NPA) plan to implement the Cylinder Re-circulation Model (CRM) in September 2021.
The association believes that the timeline is too short and that more public education is needed before the policy is fully rolled out.
The CRM is a new policy that aims to ensure that at least 50 percent of Ghanaians have access to safe, clean and environmentally friendly LPG by 2030.
The policy will require consumers to register with their Ghana Card details before they can buy gas at exchange points across the country.
Consumers will not have to own a cylinder, but will pick up pre-filled cylinders and pay only for the content.
However, the Vice President of the LPG Marketers Association, Gabriel Kumi, has argued that the policy will cause confusion among stakeholders and consumers if it is implemented in September.
NPA has set next month for the implementation, and so we have less than a month and the public confusion indicates that consumers are not ready and so there is a need to educate the public on the model so that we don’t confuse the public in the roll-out of the model,” he noted.
He said that the current system of LPG distribution is so entrenched that it cannot be changed abruptly without proper education and sensitisation.
“The current system is so entrenched that if you want to introduce a new system, you just don’t throw the old one out and suddenly introduce the new one, we have to do that slowly. Our initial discussion was that we should buy back all cylinders in the system because there are a lot of them out there that are obsolete and need to be changed, and it will be difficult to tell them to simply discard them and get new ones in anticipation of the model’s roll-out,” Kumi added.
In an interview with Citi FM, Kumi said that the association was not aware of the decision to use the Ghana Card as part of theCRM implementation until last week when the NPA had a press conference.
He said that the Ghana Card is not widely available and that many consumers may not have it by September.
“Not until last week that the NPA had a press conference, I did not know the Ghana Card was going to be used in the policy’s implementation. There is little education on this policy, and so we have to take our time to ensure the people understand the policy before it is implemented, and we can even give ourselves up until January 2024 to roll it out,” Kumi bemoaned.
He also said that the association had initially proposed that the NPA should buy back all cylinders in the system, as many of them are obsolete and need to be replaced.
He said that it would be difficult to tell consumers to discard their old cylinders and get new ones without adequate compensation.
Kumi suggested that the NPA should delay the implementation of the CRM until January 2024, and use the time to educate the public on the benefits and modalities of the policy.
He said that this would ensure a smooth transition and avoid any potential problems.
Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has acknowledged that there were valid reasons for some people to demand his dismissal, especially in the context of Ghana’s democracy.
He said that members of his own party, the New Patriotic Party, and the general public had the right to express their dissatisfaction with his performance amid the economic difficulties that Ghana faced, especially in 2022.
However, speaking on GTV’s Talking Point show on 8 August 2023, Ken Ofori-Atta said that he did not resign because he felt it was his duty to serve the country and ensure the successful completion of the IMF programme. He also admitted that he was hurt and shaken by the censure motion that was filed against him by the Minority caucus in Parliament.
“In the period of censure, in which Parliament then voted against it, but more importantly, you were in a situation where you were battered and broken. [
But] you do not leave a ship at that time. And given the urgency of ensuring the IMF programme goes through, for me, it was a duty to serve, and there was no running away from it,” Ken Ofori-Atta said.
The censure motion, which was lodged in 2022 by the Minority caucus in Parliament, accused Ken Ofori-Atta of gross incompetence, mismanagement of the economy and conflict of interest. The motion was rejected by the Majority caucus, who walked out of the House before a vote could be taken.
A new model of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) distribution is set to revolutionise the way Ghanaians access and use the fuel.
Starting from September, consumers in Accra and some regions of the country will have to register with their Ghana Card details before they can buy gas at exchange points across the country.
This is part of the implementation of the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM), an initiative led by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) in collaboration with its partners and supervised by the Ministry of Energy.
The CRM will allow consumers to pick up pre-filled cylinders and pay only for the content, without having to own a cylinder. However, they will have to register with their Ghana Card first.
“We are still going to use the same price build-up for the implementation of the policy. Nothing in the price build-up is going to change..all we need from you is the Ghana Card and money to buy the LP,” Perry Okudzeto, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the NPA is quoted to have said at a press briefing.
The CRM is expected to start in Accra and Kumasi next month, and then expand gradually to cover other regions.
Mr Okudzeto, explained the extensive preparation that has gone into establishing the CRM. He said the model had been rigorously piloted, and the systems and infrastructure had been developed to ensure the safe and secure distribution and use of LPG within the operational areas.
He said, “The programme taught us quite a number of lessons and that has gone into shaping the framework for the implementation of the new policy.” He also stressed the importance of registering with the Ghana Card during the exchange process, saying it was vital for data collection and consumer traceability.
The implementation has been carefully planned. Four CRM Bottling facilities, including GOIL Bottling Plant in Tema and Kumasi, as well as BlueOcean and Newgas facilities, are ready for operation. Moreover, cylinder production is set to begin at APPEB Cylinder Manufacturing Company, SIGMA Cylinder Manufacturing Company, and the Ghana Cylinder Manufacturing Company.
The CRM operation involves procuring cylinders from manufacturing entities, which are then transported to bottling plants for filling.
The filled cylinders will then be transported in bulk to exchange depots for sorting and storage before reaching cylinder exchange points. Consumers can register and buy any quantity of LPG they need for domestic or commercial use.
The aim of this initiative is to ensure that at least 50 percent of Ghanaians have access to safe and environmentally friendly LPG by 2030.
Besides enhancing access, the CRM also seeks to improve safety in LPG distribution and encourage its adoption. Notably, it hopes to prevent the loss of lives, property, and gas filling stations due to human errors.
Regarding pricing, Perry Okudzeto clarified that the new model will maintain the same price build-up as before. He assured the public that the main change was in the distribution network and access to LPG. Consumers will have the option to buy different quantities based on their needs.
The CRM initiative will operate alongside the existing distribution model until a suitable transition period is determined. Industry stakeholders have been actively involved, and their feedback has significantly influenced the design of the framework.
The NPA is committed to a successful rollout, with ongoing collaboration and support from all parties involved.
A new model of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) distribution is set to revolutionise the way Ghanaians access and use the fuel.
Starting from September, consumers in Accra and some regions of the country will have to register with their Ghana Card details before they can buy gas at exchange points across the country.
This is part of the implementation of the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM), an initiative led by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) in collaboration with its partners and supervised by the Ministry of Energy.
The CRM will allow consumers to pick up pre-filled cylinders and pay only for the content, without having to own a cylinder. However, they will have to register with their Ghana Card first.
“We are still going to use the same price build-up for the implementation of the policy. Nothing in the price build-up is going to change..all we need from you is the Ghana Card and money to buy the LP,” Perry Okudzeto, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the NPA is quoted to have said at a press briefing.
The CRM is expected to start in Accra and Kumasi next month, and then expand gradually to cover other regions.
Mr Okudzeto, explained the extensive preparation that has gone into establishing the CRM. He said the model had been rigorously piloted, and the systems and infrastructure had been developed to ensure the safe and secure distribution and use of LPG within the operational areas.
He said, “The programme taught us quite a number of lessons and that has gone into shaping the framework for the implementation of the new policy.” He also stressed the importance of registering with the Ghana Card during the exchange process, saying it was vital for data collection and consumer traceability.
The implementation has been carefully planned. Four CRM Bottling facilities, including GOIL Bottling Plant in Tema and Kumasi, as well as BlueOcean and Newgas facilities, are ready for operation. Moreover, cylinder production is set to begin at APPEB Cylinder Manufacturing Company, SIGMA Cylinder Manufacturing Company, and the Ghana Cylinder Manufacturing Company.
The CRM operation involves procuring cylinders from manufacturing entities, which are then transported to bottling plants for filling. The filled cylinders will then be transported in bulk to exchange depots for sorting and storage before reaching cylinder exchange points. Consumers can register and buy any quantity of LPG they need for domestic or commercial use.
The aim of this initiative is to ensure that at least 50 percent of Ghanaians have access to safe and environmentally friendly LPG by 2030. Besides enhancing access, the CRM also seeks to improve safety in LPG distribution and encourage its adoption. Notably, it hopes to prevent the loss of lives, property, and gas filling stations due to human errors.
Regarding pricing, Perry Okudzeto clarified that the new model will maintain the same price build-up as before. He assured the public that the main change was in the distribution network and access to LPG. Consumers will have the option to buy different quantities based on their needs.
The CRM initiative will operate alongside the existing distribution model until a suitable transition period is determined. Industry stakeholders have been actively involved, and their feedback has significantly influenced the design of the framework. The NPA is committed to a successful rollout, with ongoing collaboration and support from all parties involved.
A leaked tape, purported to be the voice of one of the maids of former sanitation minister Cecilia Dapaah, has revealed shocking details about her interactions with Madam Dapaah before the issue of her alleged theft made headlines.
According to the audio, released on GH Pages TV’s YouTube channel, a voice that reportedly belongs to one of the accused maids, is heard detailing how Cecilia Dapaah treated her when she responded to the former’s summon to visit her house.
This was after she had stolen the money.
The maid claimed that Ms Dapaah poured hot water laced with pepper on her and beat her up with a wooden spatula.
“On Tuesday, the woman called me and my guy to come to her house. So when we went to the house, as for me, I know that we are going to beg her, because you said that your money and I have come to put your money down.
So why? So we are going to beg her. When we went there, the woman poured hot water, pepper and used that wooden spoon they use to cook (banku ta) to beat me.”
She also said that Madam Dapaah took her to the police station and had her arrested. She said she spent about a month in remand before the case was dismissed and later submitted to another court.
“And later on she took me to the police station, and they arrested me again. And I was in the cells for about two weeks, and they took me to court. When they took me to court, the court also gave me remand for two weeks. I was in remand [for] about one month, before the court discharged the case, and they took me to another court.”
None of the parties involved in this case have responded to the authenticity of the audio or its content.
So far, two more persons have been arrested by the police in Tamale in connection with the stealing of various sums of money from Ms Dapaah’s home. The case has been adjourned to August 8, 2023, as the court continues its proceedings to determine the fate of the accused individuals.
A transcript of the leaked tape;
On Tuesday, the woman called me and my guy to come to her house. So when we went to the house, as for me, I know that we are going to beg her, because, you said that your money and I have come to put your money down.
So Why? So we are going to beg her. When we went there, the woman poured hot water, pepper and used that wooden spoon they use to cook (banku ta) to beat me. And later on she took me to the police station, and they arrested me again.
And I was in the cells for about 2 weeks, and they took me to court. When they took me to court and court also gave me remand two weeks. I was in remand [for] about one month, before the court discharged the case, and they took me to another court.
I took some of the money and went to Tamale, so when I was in Tamale, she called me back again to come. When I came, she gave me $1.8m, that I should take. After my guy asked me where did I get the money, but I did not answer him. I said one of the people I am working with gave me the money.
And he said okay, he wanted to buy a car in Accra here, so I should give the money to him to buy a car. And okay, I gave the money to him to go and buy the car. When he went to buy the car, about 3 weeks [later], they came to arrest me in Tamale. When they came to arrest me, I was pregnant. It was one week.
All the money, the lady gave me, I have given all to them. Including the house. And the house too, I gave the money to a girl to buy for me, and then it is not my name on the papers, I don’t know why, and I am not seeing the lady too. I don’t know where she is now.
A new policy that will allow gas consumers to exchange their empty cylinders for filled ones without owning them will be implemented from September this year in Accra and selected parts of the country.
The policy, known as the Cylinder Recirculation Model(CRM), is being spearheaded by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) and its partners, under the supervision of the Ministry of Energy.
The aim of the policy is to ensure that at least 50 per cent of Ghanaians have access to safe, clean and environmentally-friendly Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) by 2030.
It is also meant to improve safety standards, reduce gas leakage and explosion risks, and create more jobs in the LPG sector.
The CRM involves the following steps
LPG Bulk Distribution Companies (LBDCs) import or buy LPG from local refineries or gas processing plants and store it in their bulk storage facilities.
LBDCs sell LPG in bulk to Bottling Plants, where empty cylinders are filled and tested for quality and safety.
Filled cylinders are transported in specialised trucks from Bottling Plants to Exchange Depots, where they are sorted and stored for distribution.
Exchange Depots supply filled cylinders to Cylinder Exchange Points (CEPs), where consumers can register with their Ghana Card and pay for any quantity of LPG they want.
Consumers exchange their empty cylinders for filled ones at CEPs, without owning or maintaining the cylinders.
What this means for consumers
The CRM policy means that consumers will have more convenience and flexibility in accessing LPG for their domestic and commercial needs.
They will not have to worry about owning or maintaining a cylinder or finding a nearby gas station to refill it.
They will also benefit from improved safety standards and reduced risk of gas explosions.
They will only need their Ghana Card and money to buy any amount of LPG they want from any exchange point across the country.
Arsenal fans have hailed Thomas Partey as the new Michael Essien after the Ghanaian midfielder put in a dominant display in the Community Shield victory over Manchester City on Sunday.
Partey was instrumental in Arsenal’s 4-1 win on penalties after the game ended 1-1 in regulation time at Wembley. He bossed the midfield with his physicality, passing, and tackling, and also provided the assist for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s opening goal.
The 29-year-old, who joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020 for a club-record fee of £45 million, has been compared to Chelsea and Ghana legend Essien, who is widely regarded as one of the best African midfielders of all time.
Essien, who won two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, one League Cup, and one Champions League with Chelsea, was known for his versatility, energy, and long-range goals. He also played for Lyon, Real Madrid, AC Milan, and other notable clubs in his illustrious career.
Some Arsenal fans took to social media to claim that Partey is even better than Essien, citing his football intelligence and technical ability. One fan tweeted: “Thomas Partey’s football intelligence put him ahead of Micheal Essien.”
However, some Chelsea fans and a section of Ghanaians disagreed with the comparison, arguing that Essien achieved more in his career and was a more complete player. One fan wrote: “Essien was a beast in his prime. Partey is good but not on his level.”
The debate has generated a lot of interest among football lovers, especially those from Ghana, where both players are national heroes. Partey has represented Ghana at three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and two World Cups, while Essien has played in four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and one World Cup.
Both players have also won individual awards, such as the BBC African Footballer of the Year for Essien in 2006 and the Ghana Player of the Year for Partey in 2018 and 2019.
Essien had a far better career. He did what he knew how to do so well. But make we take ball put ground paa de33 Partey dey ball. I feel there's something hindering him. He just is too relaxed and doesn't feel the need to explode. Essien on the contrary was a beast that will kill https://t.co/9bJlTLH2EP
Partey is yet to play the football Essien played at Lyon, some of these Twitter influencers shouldn't bore us with bollocks in the name of opinion Partey level no even catch Bernard Kumordzi sef😤 pic.twitter.com/JySReNUGSG
Partey isn’t even close to Rodri how much more Michael Essien Lol Charley let’s put this country man support aside and let’s talk about real football!!! https://t.co/4TaknmknDp
This is what i get from those who started watching football when doing anything for twitter engagements became a thing.
You’re entitled to your opinion but Read the room Obaa Hemma. No one is forcing you to be an influencer at everything. At least you spelt “Essien” well this… https://t.co/XyoLzEzvo5
Partey is yet to play the football Essien played at Lyon, some of these Twitter influencers shouldn't bore us with bollocks in the name of opinion Partey level no even catch Bernard Kumordzi sef😤 pic.twitter.com/JySReNUGSG
A concerned citizen has alerted the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of the presence of fake olive oil in the market, calling for urgent action to protect public health and consumer rights.
Charles Benoni Okine, a resident of Dansoman in Accra, said he noticed an anomaly when he went to buy olive oil at Okasishie market. He said he saw two bottles of the same brand, but with different sizes, both labelled as 70ml.
“That was not only strange, but a clear demonstration of a deliberate attempt to sell to the unsuspecting public, fake olive oils,” he said.
He explained that olive oil is a valuable product that has many benefits for health, cooking and spirituality. He said olive oil comes from olive fruit and contains monounsaturated fatty acids, which can lower cholesterol levels and have anti-inflammatory effects.
He said olive oil is also used as a medicine for heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. He added that olive oil has a spiritual significance in Jewish tradition and biblical texts, as it symbolises the divine presence and is used for anointing.
“From these known uses for olive oils, it is clear that fake ones on the market could be injurious to human health, that’s for those who use them for cooking,” he said.
He urged the FDA to act now to stop this practice and rid the markets of these products. He said there are too many fake products in the open that pose a threat to consumers.
This is not the first time that fake olive oil has been reported in Ghana. In 2016, the FDA issued a press exposing some fake brands of olive oil on the market, such as Pinno Olive Oil, Kazmor Olive Oil, Quality Olive Oil and Holy Oil.
The FDA said it arrested the culprits who were assisting the police in their investigations. The FDA also assured the general public of its resolve in ensuring the protection of public health and safety.
Read the full piece [as published on graphic.com.gh] below
I wish to draw the attention of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) to a development in the market that requires attention.
While at the market at Okasishie in Accra to buy olive oil, I chanced upon this brand and noticed an anomaly, which clearly pointed to the fact that the product was fake.
Two bottles, one bigger than the other, were both labelled as 70ml.
That was not only strange, but a clear demonstration of a deliberate attempt to sell to the unsuspecting public, fake olive oils.
Olive oil comes from olive fruit and contains monounsaturated fatty acids.
Fatty acids in olive oil seem to decrease cholesterol levels and have anti-inflammatory effects.
Olive oil is commonly used in foods.
As a medicine, people most commonly use olive oil for heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.
Spiritually, olive oil produces a great flame with less smoke.
In Jewish tradition, olive oil symbolises the divine presence.
In the biblical text, olive oil is the main element of anointing.
It is used in the royal sacraments and the sacrament of baptism.
From these known uses for olive oils, it is clear that fake ones on the market could be injurious to human health, that’s for those who use them for cooking.
The FDA must act now to stop this practice.
There are too many fake products in the open and the time to rid the markets of these products should be now.
The cedi, which has been relatively stable since February 2023 after a sharp depreciation in January, is projected to maintain its course in the second half of the year (H2-23), supported by significant foreign exchange (FX) inflows and improved investor confidence.
According to Databank, an asset management company, the cedi will trade between GH¢10.9 and GH¢11.1 to US$1 by the end of the year, as the country is set to receive substantial funding from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), as well as proceeds from the cocoa syndicated loans. Moreover, Ghana’s external debt restructuring, which is on track to be completed in H2-23, will bolster investor confidence and help attract portfolio inflows.
The cedi depreciated by 20.6 percent against the US dollar in January 2023, amid a severe economic crisis triggered by large external shocks and exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the cedi has remained generally stable since then, with a cumulative depreciation of only 1.8 percent between February and June 2023.
The stability of the cedi has been supported by positive market sentiments derived from the IMF’s disbursement of the first tranche of US$600 million under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement in May 2023, as well as forex purchases from the mining and oil sectors and weakened demand.
The government’s debt service is not expected to significantly impact foreign investor holdings of four maturing domestic bonds in H2-23, as they constitute only 2 percent of the outstanding bonds. As a result, the cedi is expected to remain stable in H2-23, and the central bank aims to meet its US$120 million target for the Bulk Oil Distribution Companies (BDC) forex forward auction in Q3-23.
Despite the cedi’s impressive performance since February 2023, concerns remain about the vulnerability of the reserve buffer to shocks – with gross reserves (adjusted for petroleum funds and encumbered assets) estimated to cover only 0.8 months of imports by December 2023. This weak reserve cushion poses a threat to the local unit’s near-term outlook.
The upcoming maturity of the Aug-2023 Eurobond with a face value of US$148.76 million is expected to put significant strain on FX reserves and limit the central bank’s sell-side interventions.
In a period of increased volatility, though unlikely, the cedi could be subject to speculative attacks. Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s decision to reduce oil production by a million barrels daily could increase oil prices and Ghana’s import bills – exerting depreciating pressures on the cedi, as noted by Databank.
Despite these risks, the overall outlook for the cedi appears positive, with the expected funding and debt restructuring contributing to improved investor confidence and stability in the currency market.
Former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, predicament in the ongoing saga of missing funds from her Ablekuma residence in Accra, appears to be deepening with each passing day.
The most recent development in her troubles involves an alleged formal complaint lodged with several United States government bodies, urging them to initiate an inquiry into suspected money laundering activities.
The complaint specifically concerns the sum of US$1 million, a portion of the overall funds purportedly stolen from her private residence by domestic staff.
The individual behind these petitions, one Grace Loki, indicated that her actions were motivated by a lack of confidence in the Ghanaian governmental and institutional apparatus to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
“Not just the FBI alone; I’ve written to the FBI, the Federal Reserve, Treasury Department, the DEA and just about every US government institution interested in issues of money laundering and the main reason is that I don’t have any confidence that Nana Addo will use ways and means to ensure the woman gets away with the issue.
“Whatever it takes, Nana Addo will make sure the woman walks away, we have seen some before even under the NDC.
During an interview on OBGhPage via Facebook Live, she declared, ““I will make sure that if she has any property in the US, she is investigated by IRS and made to pay taxes. We all pay taxes here in America and even when we send money back to Ghana to invest, we are required by law to file taxes to the American government. We are supposed to file taxes after declaring profits, I don’t know if Cecilia Dapaah has paid the required taxes on the dollars that was stolen by the workers. But everyone is supposed to pay taxes on their dollars even if she won a lottery.”
The controversy surrounding Madam Dapaah stems from recent reports detailing allegations against certain domestic workers of the former minister, who are being accused of pilfering amounts totaling US$1 million, €300,000, and GH¢350,000.
Furthermore, Ms. Dapaah and her spouse are reported to have incurred substantial material losses, encompassing garments valued at GH¢95,000, handbags amounting to US$35,000, an assortment of perfumes worth US$1,400, assorted jewelry valued at US$95,000, and GH¢95,000 worth of assorted Kente fabric.
Amidst fervent public criticism and concerns over corruption and money laundering in connection with the substantial sums within the ex-minister’s abode, Paul Adom-Otchere, the Host of “Good Evening Ghana” on Metro TV, had endeavored to provide an explanation for the origins of the funds.
Ace journalist Adom-Otchere on his Good Evening Ghana show on Metro TV explained elucidated that approximately $800,000 of the pilfered $1 million was the property of a late sibling of the former minister, Nana Akwasi Essan II.
Grace Loki, a resident of Bantama in Kumasi, the hometown of Madam Dapaah and her family, found Adom-Otchere’s narrative implausible concerning the late brother’s substantial wealth.
“All I am saying is that the money Paul Adom-Otchere is saying belongs to the deceased brother of Cecilia Dapaah which specifically is Nana Kwaku Nantwi who was a shoemaker; although I am not in his pocket to be able to determine his net worth, what I know is that I met him at Santasi Roundabout where he was broke, had run out of fuel and I had to buy fuel to fill his car. That incident is quite recent, not more than two years ago.
“So if he had $800,000 which he had given to his sister to keep I would think of him as very useless. He is my friend, so I feel pained that he is being dragged into all of this especially because he is even no more,” she said.
In the wake of the recent controversy, Cecilia Dapaah tendered her resignation from her position, citing her desire to eliminate any distractions from governmental affairs.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor, which has received a range of petitions against her, took her into custody on charges related to corruption. Following a search at her residence, she was granted bail.
Meanwhile, Irene Kensah, the spouse of the late brother of the former minister, disclosed her ignorance of her husband’s substantial financial holdings prior to his demise.
Notwithstanding, she has directed her legal representatives to initiate the necessary legal procedures aimed at recovering the funds as a component of her entitlement to her late husband’s assets.
Involvement in various offences, including alleged visa and recruitment fraud, that have tarnished the reputation of the Service, has led to the suspension of 27 of its officers by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS).
The suspensions were announced in a circular signed by the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Mr Kwame Asuah Takyi, on Monday, 31 July 2023.
The suspended officers are accused of breaching Regulation 138 (1)(a) and (k) of the Immigration Service Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2245), which prohibit engaging in activities that are likely to bring the Service into disrepute or compromise its integrity.
The suspensions are meant to facilitate thorough investigations into the cases, in line with internal disciplinary procedures. After the investigations, appropriate legal action will be taken against those found guilty.
The suspended officers include three senior officers and 24 junior officers. They are: Chief Superintendent Philipson Adeti, Superintendent Dominic Eshun, Assistant Superintendent of Immigration (ASI) Marvin Essandoh, Senior Inspector (Snr. Insp.) Augustine Nuamah, Snr. Insp. Martin Owusu, Inspector (Insp.) Stephen Kofi Acheampong, Insp. Patrick Asante, Insp. Benjamin Darko, Assistant Inspector (Asst. Insp.) Victor Donkor, Asst. Insp. Daniel Danso Ntiamoah, Asst. Insp. Wisdom Ahorlu, Asst. Insp. Wisdom Elorm Addo, Asst. Insp. Hamdiya Abass, Asst. Insp. Elizabeth Quainoo, Asst. Insp Isaac Dzihlornu, Asst. Insp. Edmund Agbotey, Asst. Insp. Mary Agyemang Duah, Immigration Control Officer (ICO) Iddrisu Adam, ICO Christopher Torgbenu, ICO Joseph Ampomah, and ICO Francis Dabi.
The remaining officers are: Assistant Immigration Control Officer I (AICO I) Cosmos Dakora, AICO I Ebenezer Azumah, AICO I Bright Buabeng, AICO I Collins Nyarko, AICO II Solomon Koney Laryea, and AICO II Samuel Kuranchie.
The GIS has urged members of the public who may have fallen victim to the alleged acts of these officers to come forward and provide information to assist in the ongoing investigations.
The phrase ‘Eii Ato’, which became popular after the vetting of Bryan Acheampong as the Minister-designate for Agriculture in February this year, has resurfaced in Parliament on Thursday, August 3, 2023.
The Deputy Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, used the expression several times to mock the Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, during the debate on the 2023 Mid-Year Budget presented by the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta.
Afenyo-Markin accused Ato Forson of incompetence and failure when he was the Deputy Finance Minister under the previous NDC administration. He cited examples such as the inability to draw down on the $3 billion CDB loan for gas infrastructure, and the suspension of disbursement under the IMF deal in 2014.
He also challenged Ato Forson‘s credibility to question the performance of the current Finance Minister, whom he described as a visionary and competent leader.
He further claimed that Ato Forson did not do anything to improve the lives of the people in the Central Region, where he hails from, or to alleviate poverty levels in the country.
He said the NDC had not introduced any new person or idea to the economy, and had failed the people of Ghana during their eight years in office.
He contrasted this with the achievements of the NPP government, such as the implementation of Free SHS, the construction of landing beach projects for fisherfolk, and the provision of relief packages amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Below is a transcript of Afenyo-Markin’s statement in Parliament:
This is the same Ato Forson. Ato. Is it the same you? Is it Ato Forson? Eii Ato! Eii Ato! Eii Ato Forson! Were you not the person who could not draw down on the CDB loan?
Were you not the one who could not implement successfully the IMF facility that disbursement seized? Are you not the same person? Yes! I tell you on authority that during your time you could not successfully implement the IMF deal. Sit down!
Mr. Speaker, This is the same Ato Forson, who today want to create a certain impression about the finance minister. Now you see say it dey sweet you. Sit down! Mr. Speaker, this is the same Ato Forson.
The NDC party has not introduced any new person. Mr. Speaker, they have not. They have not introduced a new idea. The NDC party, led by its Ato Forson in this parliament, are not new to this economy. Mr. Speaker, they had an opportunity to rule.
They were in office for 8 years. They failed the people of Ghana. This government came and implemented a free SHS. This government came and used another route to ensure that our fisher folks have had a relief.
Today, we have ten landing beach projects gone going. Honourable Ato Forson, the then Deputy Finance Minister from Central Region, could not do anything, any physical infrastructure to turn around the coastal economy. Ato Forson could not lead such a charge for the people of central Region.
Ato Forson and his team of NDC MPs could not at the time do anything to alleviate the poverty levels, but today they are enjoying the liberties of opposition to criticize this government it is strange it is rich, it is rich to hear Ato Forson, it is rich to hear and his NDC MPs attacking Ken Ofori-Atta on grounds of competence What, what, what, what a call! Ato Forson, what a call!
People living with HIV/AIDS in Ghana are facing a shortage of anti-retroviral drugs (ARVs) due to a lack of funding for the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC), the agency responsible for coordinating the national response to the epidemic.
Director-General of the Commission, Dr. Kyeremeh Atuahene, has disclosed that due to the lack of sufficient government support, the distribution of medicines has been limited to two to three months, a significant reduction from the original allocation of six months.
The situation has become critical as the Commission struggles to meet the growing demand for anti-retroviral drugs. As a result, rationing has become necessary, placing the lives of HIV/AIDS patients at risk.
Dr. Atuahene passionately called upon both individuals and groups to extend their support to the AIDS fund, aiming to bridge the alarming funding gap, which presently stands at a staggering 66%.
Addressing the gravity of the situation, Dr. Atuahene drew a poignant analogy, comparing the shortage of medicine to depriving people on oxygen of the essential gas, ultimately leading to fatal consequences. Such a crisis threatens to undermine the significant progress made in managing HIV/AIDS and places vulnerable individuals in a precarious position.
At present, there is no dedicated budget allocation for HIV programs, leaving the Commission largely reliant on sporadic contributions from the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
However, this sporadic funding is woefully inadequate to meet the increasing needs of the HIV-infected population. The funding gap remains a pressing concern, leaving the Commission with limited resources to address the growing epidemic effectively.
According to the GAC, Ghana recorded 16,574 new HIV infections in 2022, compared to 18,036 in 2021. The new infections were spread across all age groups, with the majority among people aged 15 and above. Adolescent girls and young women accounted for 20% of new infections in 2021.
In the long run, the rationing of anti-retroviral drugs could result in increased mortality rates, stalled progress in reducing new infections, and a strained healthcare system.
HIV/AIDS patients may experience worsened health outcomes, and the nation may face increased economic burdens due to a higher prevalence of untreated HIV cases.
To combat this crisis and protect the lives of those living with HIV/AIDS, urgent action is needed from the Ghanaian government and the international community.
Allocating a specific budget for HIV programs and strengthening partnerships with global health initiatives can provide a more stable funding base.
Additionally, efforts to raise public awareness and encourage domestic contributions through initiatives like the AIDS fund can supplement existing resources.
The legal profession in Ghana is known for its strict code of conduct and ethics, especially when it comes to appearance and attire.
Lawyers are expected to dress in a formal and conservative manner, with black and white as the dominant colours.
However, some lawyers have challenged this norm by expressing their personal style and preferences, sometimes causing controversy and criticism.
One of such lawyers is Gloria Akuffo, who served as the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of Ghana from 2017 to 2021.
During her tenure, she often made headlines for her choice of accessories, particularly her anklet. She was seen wearing an anklet to various public functions, including parliament, where she represented the government in legal matters.
2017: Gloria Akuffo in parliament to move a motion for the reintroduction of the Special Prosecutor’s (SP)
According to a report by Ghanaweb, she once explained that she wears the anklet as a token of remembrance for a young lady friend of hers who gave it to her as a gift. She said the young lady found her inspiring and that she was her mentor. She also said that she loves beads and that it is part of her choice of clothing.
She also reportedly said that she likes to shop in the young people sections when she goes shopping. She said that anklet has no special meaning or significance, but that it is just a habit and a preference.
2018: Gloria Akuffo in an interview with Paul Adom Otchere on Metro TV’s Good Evening Ghana | Image Source: Good Evening Ghana Official (Facebook)
However, the anklet was not the only thing that many people were uncomfortable with. Madam Gloria Akuffo also had a habit of showing some skin when she wore dresses or skirts.
When she was not in the lawyer’s robe or not in a pantsuit, she was most often seen in dresses or skirts that were above her knee when standing.
This meant, when she did sit down, the clothes would get shorter, revealing great portions of her thighs.
It is for this reason, many are shocked by the GLC and the GBA’s stance on lawyer-in-waiting, Elorm Ama Ababio, popularly known as Ama Governor.
Ama Governor is a Ghanaian YouTuber, social media influencer and lawyer-in-waiting. In November 2022, she was denied the call to the Ghana Bar even though she completed the law programme, passed her exams and aced her interview session.
Ama Governor acquired an LLB Degree from the University of Ghana in 2020, with a 3.32 GPA and in the Second Class Upper Division. Image Credit: Ama Governor [Instagram]
According to her, the reason for this denial was a petition by an anonymous individual who accused her of lacking good character and moral fitness to be a lawyer. The petition cited some of her YouTube videos where she discussed her sexual experience with a woman. The petition also alleged that she wore nose rings to school, which was considered inappropriate and unprofessional.
Sources say this is the petitionSources say this is the petition
Ama Governor has however repeatedly denied these allegations and has said that she had complied with the dress code and rules of the Ghana School of Law. She said that she had never worn her nose rings to school and that she had always inverted her septum piercing when attending classes. She also said that she had never had any conflict with anyone in school and that her YouTube content was not obscene or offensive.
Ama Governor
She said that the petition was frivolous and malicious and that it should not have been entertained by the GLC. She said that she won the case against the unidentified petitioner after a hearing where they agreed with her submissions. However, she said that she has not received any update on her status as a lawyer since then.
She also said that her name has been dragged in the most undignified ways by some people who have used her as a bad example of people unworthy of the Ghana Bar. She said that she does not recognize the person they are trying to describe her as and that she thinks she is very fit to be called.
Ama Governor with a graduation stole
Following this, as expected there were divided opinions. Some say she deserves everything she is getting because they do not agree with her having tattoos, wearing nose rings and discussing her queerness publicly.
Others who sympathised with her plight, questioned why she is being “crucified” when if the matter of wardrobe choices should come up, many Ghanaians expressed discomfort with the former Attorney General’s wardrobe choices, and nothing was said or done about that.
They argued that there was a double standard and a bias against Ama Governor because of her gender, age and sexuality. They said that Gloria Akuffo was allowed to wear an anklet and show some skin without any consequences, while Ama Governor was denied the call to the Bar for wearing nose rings and expressing her views.
Below are some comments under the Good Evening Ghana post of her interview on Facebook in 2018
Could she be practicing law right now if she had chosen to keep these aspects of her identity private?
Some also pointed out that the GLC and the GBA have not addressed other issues of misconduct and corruption among lawyers and judges, but have focused on trivial matters such as appearance and attire.
They called for a reform of the legal system and a review of the criteria for admission to the Bar. They said that the GLC and the GBA should be more transparent, fair and consistent in their decisions and actions. They also said that Ama Governor should be given a chance to pursue her dream of becoming a lawyer.
What do you think of this controversy? Do you think Ama Governor should be called to the Bar or not? Do you think Gloria Akuffo’s dressing was appropriate or not? Do you think this comparison is valid?
Ghanaian onion sellers are facing the prospect of a supply crunch and a price hike as a result of the border restrictions imposed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Niger following a coup d’état last week.
The coup, which ousted President Mohamed Bazoum and put Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane in charge of a military junta, has triggered international condemnation and sanctions from ECOWAS, which include closing land and air borders, suspending commercial and financial transactions, and instituting a no-fly zone.
Niger is a major source of onions for Ghana, accounting for about 70 per cent of its imports. The other suppliers are Nigeria (20 per cent), Burkina Faso (five per cent), and local production (five per cent).
Mr Ali Umar, Public Relations Officer of the Onion Sellers Association of Ghana, told the Ghana News Agency that the border closure would have a negative impact on their business.
“If Niger’s borders remain closed for long, it will really affect our onion business. It will lead to hikes in prices,” he said.
He added that onion was a perishable commodity and that he hoped there would be some exemptions for it to be imported into Ghana amid the restrictions.
Niger is a major source of onions for Ghana
He said that in previous instances of border closures, especially in Burkina Faso, some commodities, especially onions, were allowed to move across.
He also said that Ghana was the largest exporter of salt to Niger and that the border closure would affect that trade as well.
“The countries should be able to negotiate so that foodstuffs can be distributed between Niger and the rest of the West African sub-region because people will need to eat to survive. If there is no movement of goods, there is going to be hardship,” he said.
Mr Emmanuel Doni-Kwame, Secretary-General of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Ghana, said the border closure meant that other producers of onions would have to increase their output to fill the gap.
He said it was an opportunity for Ghana to boost its local production of onions and reduce its dependence on imports, and that if the gap was not filled, it would result in increased prices for consumers.
He expressed concern about the political situation in Niger and its implications for regional stability and security.
“The most important thing is to make sure there is enough security, there is respect for rule of law and human rights, and to make sure the economic system is not disrupted,” he said.
Niger is a key ally of the West in the fight against Islamist militancy in West Africa. It faces two insurgencies from groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and Islamic State in its south-eastern and south-western regions.
President Bazoum, who was democratically elected in 2021, is a close friend of France and other Western nations.
He has received support from the United States, the United Nations, the African Union, and the European Union.
However, some of Niger’s neighbours, such as Mali and Burkina Faso, which have also experienced coups in recent years, have defended the coup in Niger and even hinted at war.
They have also aligned themselves with Russia’s Wagner Group, a private military contractor that has been accused of human rights violations.
Niger has experienced four coups since independence from France in 1960. The latest coup attempt comes two days before Bazoum’s inauguration. His whereabouts are unclear, but he has tweeted that he is well and that his supporters will safeguard democracy.
Lawyer and cousin of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, has in recent times, been embroiled in a series of scandals that have have rocked the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government since 2017.
Gabby, who is described by some members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the de facto “Prime Minster” and is often perceived as a powerful and influential figure behind the scenes, has faced allegations of leveraging his close ties with the president to interfere in deals and contracts, raising concerns about transparency, accountability, and corruption.
Here, we outline five major scandals linked to Gabby Otchere-Darko:
PDS Scandal
In 2019, the Ghanaian government terminated the concessionaire agreement with Power Distribution Service Ghana Limited (PDS) due to challenges with the financial guarantee provided for the deal. Critics accused the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration of mishandling the negotiation and signing of the power concession.
It has been alleged that some influential figures and allies within the current administration attempted to share the shares of Power Distribution Service Ghana Limited. Among those mentioned in relation to the dubious PDS deal are Philip Ayensu, a board member of PDS; Edward Akufo-Addo, also known as Bumpty, who is President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s blood brother; and Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, the nephew of President Akufo-Addo.
Ameri Deal
The energy sector saw the dismissal of Boakye Agyarko as energy minister in 2018, partly due to the involvement of Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko in the Ameri Deal. Boakye Agyarko alleged that Gabby had renegotiated the deal without the consent of the government committee assigned to handle it.
When Agyarko confronted Gabby on the matter, he was reportedly told to remain quiet because President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was already aware of the actions taken by Gabby. This incident caused controversy and added to the list of scandals involving Gabby Otchere-Darko.
Frimpong-Boateng Galamsey Report
Gabby, earlier this year, was mentioned in a leaked report by Prof. Frimpong-Boateng, the former environment minister, who accused him of interfering in his work to fight illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana. Prof. Frimpong-Boateng said that Gabby had provided legal services to a Chinese company that was involved in galamsey and had tried to influence him to grant them mining permits.
In response, Gabby sued for defamation, claiming that some of the allegations made by the professor were untrue and had damaged his reputation in society.
The Agyapa Royalties Deal
In 2020, the Ghanaian government proposed the Agyapa Royalties Deal, intending to raise funds by offering shares in Agyapa Royalties Limited on the London Stock Exchange.
This deal attracted criticism from civil society groups and the opposition, who saw it as a secretive and corrupt arrangement that would benefit politicians at the expense of the country.
Veteran journalist Kweku Baako later confirmed that Gabby’s law firm had served as transaction advisors to the government during this deal.
However, he clarified that Gabby’s firm did not receive the alleged sum of US$2 million, but rather a much smaller amount of around US$103,000. One issue that emerged from the controversy was the involvement of Osafo-Maafo’s son and Gabby Otchere-Darko in the deal.
The Kitchen Scandal
In a recent publication by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, a Member of Parliament from the opposition National Democratic Congress, Gabby’s law firm was implicated in seeking GH¢187 million from the government for a contract that the NPP previously opposed and the current government varied upon taking office.
Ablakwa referred to Gabby as the “grand master of the government” and questioned the extent of power he wields.
These major scandals have raised concerns about transparency, accountability, and ethical practices within the government.
The recent coup in Niger has sent shockwaves throughout West Africa, raising concerns about the stability of neighbouring countries.
In light of this development, security expert Vladimir Antwi-Danso has issued a stark warning about the potential implications for Ghana.
Speaking to Joy News’ Benjamin Akakpo on the AM Show, Antwi-Danso highlighted the need for vigilance and urged Ghana not to underestimate the risk of similar upheavals.
He expressed that the level of indiscipline and lack of human security within the country could make it susceptible to internal unrest and called for a collective effort to safeguard democratic principles and stability in the region.
This he explained is because, West African countries, to a large extent, share similar characteristics that make them vulnerable to political unrest.
He emphasized that “regime security” should be a thing of the past, and governments must prioritize “human security” to ensure collective progress. However, he expressed concern that many governments within the sub-region focus more on electoral politics and global norms of democracy, rather than genuinely upholding the rule of law.
“The point is that we have similar specificities within the West African sub Region. Regime security should have been a thing of the past, and human security assures the people of a collective way of moving forward. Unfortunately, government upon government within the sub Region are thinking about the next election, satisfying global norms that there is democracy – frequent elections, institutions of state etc. Rule of law. But then there is no rule of law,” he said.
Antwi-Danso cited Senegal as a concerning example, where underlying issues of unemployment and social unrest are simmering beneath the surface.
He pointed out that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) should be vigilant and proactive in addressing such challenges before they escalate into larger crises.
He warned against waiting for military intervention as a signal of trouble, indicating that systemic coups, driven by a need to avert implosion, could become more prevalent.
“It is only when the soldiers come in that we believe that something odd has happened. Look at what is happening in Senegal. What is ECOWAS waiting for before they trigger of the Panel of the wise to be able to at least, cool things down. And they have a problem with Casamance already. And then the population, a lot of them, it is about 18-20 percent unemployment rate in Senegal, and yet what is happening is so bad.
And when it goes so bad what happens is what I talk about as Systemic Coup. The military will just see that let us intervene before there is an implosion. So I will not be surprised that in future, you will see something like that in Senegal also,” he explained.
Ghana’s vulnerabilities
While Ghana has long been regarded as a beacon of democracy in the region, Antwi-Danso cautioned against complacency.
He believes that the country faces its own set of vulnerabilities, citing a high level of indiscipline and a lack of human security as major sources of concern.
Both of these factors, he believes, could contribute to potential explosions of unrest in the country as is already evident in the series of protests that has transpired over the years.
“With Ghana, we should be very careful. Let’s not play the ostrich that everybody sees Ghana as a serious Democratic country. The level of indiscipline in the country, the lack of human security is such that when there is anything untoward, we will see some explosion in Ghana,” he noted.
Antwi-Danso urged Ghanaian authorities and regional bodies to address the root causes of potential instability, promote human security, and prioritize the well-being of citizens.
The West African sub-region as a whole, also needs to recognize and address all security risks that service as ingredients for internal conflicts, to ensure lasting peace and stability, he added.
In other ways
Security
The coup could worsen the threat of terrorism and instability in the region, as Niger is a key partner of Ghana and other countries in fighting jihadist groups.
The UN envoy for West Africa, Léonardo Santos Simão, briefing journalists at UN Headquarters in New York following the coup, has warned that the Niger crisis could escalate terrorism throughout West Africa if not addressed quickly.
Economy
The coup in Niger could also have negative economic consequences for Ghana and other West African countries. Niger is a landlocked country that depends on its neighbours for trade and transit. ECOWAS has suspended all commercial and financial transactions between Niger and its 15 member states, as well as frozen the country’s assets in its central banks.
The coup could disrupt trade and commerce between Ghana and Niger, especially for goods such as onions, which Ghana imports from Niger.
For example, some onion sellers in Ghana are worried about possible shortages and price increase due to the ECOWAS border restrictions on Niger following the coup.
Niger is one of the main suppliers of onions to Ghana, as well as other countries such as Nigeria, Benin, and Togo.
The coup could also affect foreign investment and aid to Niger, which could have spillover effects on its neighbours.
According to the World Bank, Niger received US$1.4 billion in net official development assistance in 2019, equivalent to 13.4 per cent of its GDP. Any disruption or reduction of this assistance could worsen the humanitarian situation in Niger and affect its ability to provide basic services to its population, which could cause a refugee crisis.
Diplomacy
The coup in Niger could also pose diplomatic challenges for Ghana and other West African countries. Ghana is one of the leading democracies in the region, having successfully conducted eight peaceful elections since 1992.
It is also a strong advocate of regional integration and cooperation through Ecowas. Ghana has condemned the coup in Niger and called for the immediate release and reinstatement of President Bazoum.
However, Ghana could face pressure from other actors, such as France, the UN, or the AU, to take a more active role in resolving the crisis or supporting sanctions against Niger. Ghana could also face difficulties in balancing its relations with other West African countries that have different views or interests on the coup.
For instance, Ghana has close ties with Burkina Faso and Mali, which are both led by military juntas after recent coups. Ghana could be seen as siding with either the pro-democracy or pro-military camp in West Africa, depending on its actions or statements on the Niger coup.
The Niger coup could have significant impacts on Ghana’s political stability, economic development, and diplomatic relations. The situation requires careful monitoring and engagement from Ghana and other West African countries to prevent further deterioration or escalation of violence or instability.
Ama Governor, a 24-year-old law school graduate from the University of Ghana, has been defending herself against allegations that have marred her reputation and stalled her dreams of being called to the Bar.
Proclaiming her innocence in a Twitter rant, Ama asserted that there was no misconduct on her part during her time at the Ghana School of Law (GSL).
Ama’s case gained attention after an anonymous petitioner sought to deny her a call to the Bar.
According to her, she however emerged victorious after the petition, which she describes as “frivolous” was swiftly dismissed by the Ghana Legal Council (GLC).
“This obviously frivolous petition that should not have passed the prima facie test, but which managed to stop my life, was thrown out in the very first hearing within 15 minutes. They just said they have read our written submission and agree with us wholeheartedly, and so they do not wish to address me on anything in the petition.”
𝚎𝚕𝚘𝚛𝚖 @Ama_governor [Twitter]
Nevertheless, the ordeal has left her name tainted, and she continues to be allegedly used as a “bad example” in law classes.
“Since 6th November 2022, my name continues to be dragged in the most undignified ways. I hear in law classes, I am used as a bad example of people unworthy of the Ghana Bar. When people like the Honourable CJ also talks about you like this, I’m sorry, but I do not recognize the person you are attempting to describe me as. Me? Immoral? Unfit? Misconducting myself how?”
𝚎𝚕𝚘𝚛𝚖 @Ama_governor [Twitter]
Ama Governor in Twitter thread, vehemently denied any wrongdoing during her time at the GSL. She emphasized that there was “nothing about any crime” or misconduct attributed to her, either in school or outside. Ama highlighted the ‘Book of Shame,’ a disciplinary measure used by the GSL to catch students who misconduct themselves, and asserted that she had never been subjected to it.
“NOTHING ABOUT ANY CRIME I HAVE COMMITTED OR ANY MISCONDUCT ON MY PART WHETHER IN SCHOOL OR OUT OF SCHOOL, NEVER A PRONOUNCEMENT OF MISCONDUCT. NOT ONE TIME. I COULD HAVE BEEN CAUGHT BY THE ‘BOOK OF SHAME’ – GHANA SCHOOL OF LAW’S WAY OF CATCHING STUDENTS WHO MISCONDUCT THEMSELVES, OR HAVE BEEN REPORTED BY A TEACHING OR NON TEACHING STAFF AT GSL. I WAS NOT A TERRIBLE LAW STUDENT OR PERSON WHILE STUDYING LAW,” SHE WROTE.
𝚎𝚕𝚘𝚛𝚖 @Ama_governor [Twitter]
Despite her dedication and commitment to her legal studies, Ama found herself facing serious accusations. The unidentified petitioner claimed that she was not fit to be called to the bar based on three grounds. Two of these grounds, according to Ama, were exposed as complete fabrications when Ama and her lawyer presented videos that rebutted the claims.
The first accusation revolved around a video Ama and her classmates had made to introduce law school life to outsiders.
The petitioner falsely interpreted the video as tarnishing the school’s reputation by suggesting that law students slept in class. Ama firmly denied this, stating that the video was meant to be lighthearted and welcoming.
“The petitioner stated three grounds upon which they believed that I was not fit to be a lawyer. Two of them were complete fabrications which interestingly enough were rebutted by the very videos the petitioner attached to a pen drive on which they relied. Can you imagine? The two fallacious grounds were that, I can be seen in a widely circulated video with other GSL students tarnishing the schools reputation. Ei. They were referencing this video o: A video my classmates and I made for all persons outside the legal so where who want to become a part of us.
𝚎𝚕𝚘𝚛𝚖 @Ama_governor [Twitter]
The second false allegation targeted Ama’s choice to wear nose rings to school. However, Ama clarified that she had always complied with the GSL’s expectations, even when there were no explicit rules against nose rings. Despite her efforts to follow the guidelines, she found herself unfairly attacked for her personal choices.
Ama then went on to defend the identity and advocacy she pursued on social media. She had shared her journey, documenting her life experiences related to body autonomy, feminism, body positivity, queerness, women’s sexual reproductive health, self-worth, and women’s sexual liberation. Ama wondered if her advocacy for these important issues had been misconstrued as a “crime” years later.
“I was a girl who began studying law at 18 years at the University of Ghana and who having just gotten her first phone in uni, was mesmerized by YouTube, first of all and other social media platforms. I not only amassed an active following but shared everything I’ve learned to be the woman I am today through the law by digitally documenting my life: body autonomy, feminism, body positivity, embodying my queerness, women’s sexual reproductive health, self-worth, confidence, women’s sexual liberation, and I would create content around this.
Was this my crime? Was someone to tell me at 18 that this would be considered a crime 6 yrs later? What was my actual crime? What did I do? What did the Ama Governor girl actually do wrong?”
YouTuber and law graduate, Ama Governor, who was denied her call to the bar in November 2022, has alleged that she is being used as an “example” of people unworthy of the Ghana Bar in law classes.
She said that this was part of continuous efforts to tarnish her image and spread false information about her, by some people.
In a series of tweets posted on Tuesday, Ama Governor shared how she received a notice from the General Legal Council (GLC) [the body that regulates the legal profession in Ghana], on 6th November 2022, informing her that her call to the bar had been suspended due to a petition filed by a concerned citizen of Ghana on 3rd November 2022.
Ama claims that the petition alleged that she had engaged in improper conduct that tarnished the reputation of the Ghana School of Law (GSL) and that she was queer and slept with women.
She said her lawyer submitted a written legal response to the petition, arguing that the first two grounds were false and based on fabricated evidence and that the third ground was true but irrelevant. She said that she did not deny or hide her queerness, but rather embraced it as part of her identity and expression.
She said that the GLC agreed with her submission and dismissed the petition in the first hearing within 15 minutes. She noted that they did not question her on anything in the petition and that they only asked her two questions in the subsequent hearings before delivering their decision.
However, despite winning the case, Ama said she was still waiting to be told what her improper conduct was from 6th November 2022 till date. She said that she had not committed any crime or misconduct while studying law or after graduating. She said that she was a digital content creator who shared her views on various topics such as feminism, body positivity, sexual liberation, and queerness.
She said that she was not a bad example of people unworthy of the Ghana Bar, but rather a proud and confident woman who had fulfilled all the requirements to be called to the bar, and thus did not recognize the person that some people, were trying to portray her as.
Ama Governor says she is ready to account for every content she has put out on the internet.
Ama Governor, a young law graduate from the University of Ghana, has been embroiled in a controversy that has made her question the fairness and integrity of Ghana’s legal system.
Ama Governor, whose real name is Elorm Ama Ababio, was denied the call to the Ghana Bar in November 2022, despite completing the law programme, passing her exams and acing her interview session.
She was accused of displaying “conduct unbecoming of an applicant to be called to the Bar” in some of her posts on social media. The petitioner also alleged hat Ama broke some rules in the Ghana School of law code of conduct.
This decision raised questions about the nature and extent of her social media content that could have led to such a consequence. Ama to a large extent refrained from discussing the matter openly until now.
In a series of tweets in response to Chief Justice TorKornoo’s stance on proper conduct in the legal sphere, Ama recounted her experience in 2022 and said she started studying law at the age of 18.
Soon after that, she discovered the world of YouTube and other social media platforms, which she used to document her journey through law school and share her thoughts on important social issues.
She explained the type of content she hosted on her channel.
According to Ama, she boldly tackled conversations that centred on body autonomy, feminism, body positivity, queerness, women’s sexual reproductive health, self-worth, confidence and women’s sexual liberation through her content.
She passionately believed that expressing her ideas and experiences could inspire others and contribute positively to society.
However, her world turned upside down on 6 November 2022, just days before she was set to be called to the bar.
A petitioner who can only be identified as “a concerned citizen of the Republic of Ghana” had petitioned the General Legal Council, claiming that Ama was unfit to be a lawyer based solely on their belief. This petition led to the suspension of her call to the bar, leaving her devastated and confused.
The petitioner cited three grounds for their belief that Ama should not be called to the bar. Two of these grounds according to Ama, were based on complete fabrications, as they were refuted by the very videos the petitioner relied upon as evidence.
One false claim was about a video Ama had made with her classmates to showcase the law school experience. The petitioner, according to Ama also twisted innocent scenes of law students having fun into an attack on the school’s reputation.
Another false claim was about Ama wearing nose rings to school, which was not against any school rules and, in fact, Ama had complied with expectations during law school. The third ground, while accurate, was about Ama’s queerness and her relationships with women, which her legal team argued should not be a reason to deny her call to the bar.
In the first hearing, the frivolous petition was quickly dismissed within 15 minutes, as the committee found it baseless and unsupported. Despite this clear outcome, Ama’s name continued to be dragged through the mud, tarnishing her image and causing her unnecessary distress.
Ama is now demanding answers. She wonders if expressing her thoughts and experiences on social media was her crime, and if someone should have warned her at 18 that this innocent act could be held against her six years later. She raises concerns about her constitutional rights being disregarded, as she was not convicted of any criminal offence, and yet her call to the bar was suspended without proper justification.
Meanwhile, Ama feels that her character and reputation are still under attack. She questions why she continues to be allegedly used as a negative example in law classes and feels hurt by the unjust labelling of her as immoral and unfit.
She firmly believes that her content on the internet is something she can boldly account for, and she passionately argues that she is deserving of being called to the bar.
Ghanaian YouTuber and lawyer-in-waiting, Ama Governor has disclosed that the General Legal Council of Ghana (GLC) threw out the petition that accused her of being a lesbian and blocked her call to the Bar in just 15 minutes.
Ama Governor, whose real name is Elorm Ama Ababio, was denied the call to the Ghana Bar in November 2022, despite completing the law program, passing her exams and scaling her interview session.
She was accused of displaying “conduct unbecoming of an applicant to be called to the Bar” in some of her videos, where she expressed her views on feminism, body positivity, sexual liberation and queerness.
In a lengthy statement posted on her Twitter page, following remarks by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, Ama Governormaintaining her ‘innocence’ narrated how she was hit with a letter from the GLC on November 6, 2022, informing her that a concerned citizen of Ghana had petitioned them on November 3, 2022, that she was not fit to be a lawyer and that her call to the bar had been suspended.
“Imagine this: 5th November I get the final result in- my bar exam result, and I’m index numbers 1 so number was first, I had passed. I was rejoicing and thinking about preparations towards my call on the 11th of Nov, 6 days away.
Ama Governor acquired an LLB Degree from the University of Ghana in 2020, with a 3.32 GPA and in the Second Class Upper Division. Image Credit: Ama Governor [Instagram]
“Only to be hit out of nowhere on 6th November with a letter from the regulators of the legal profession in Ghana, General Legal Council, that a concerned citizen of the Republic of Ghana has petitioned them on 3rd November that only me, Elorm Ama Governor-Ababio, I am not fit to be called to the bar and so on that basis ALONE, my Call to the bar has been suspended and that they’ll get back to me about further details (no date given).” She wrote
The YouTuber, who has been vocal about her fight to be called to the Bar after the petition was filed against her, asserted that being queer and having relationships with women should not be considered grounds to deem her unfit for the legal profession. She described her sexual orientation as a “blissful fact” and argued that it should not affect her eligibility for admission.
“The third ground which was not challenged as a lie was that I am queer and that I sleep with women. We argued that while that was a blissful fact, it was not a ground on which I should be deemed unfit to be called to the bar. Simple. And guess what?! This obviously frivolous petition that should not have passed the prima facie test, but which managed to stop my life, was thrown out in the very first hearing within 15 minutes.”
Ama Governor expressed her frustration with the lingering effects of the petition, despite it being thrown out in the first hearing. She stated that since the incident in November 2022, her name continues to be dragged in undignified ways, and she has been used as a negative example in law classes, labelling her unworthy of the Ghana Bar.
“And yet since 6th November 2022, my name continues to be dragged in the most undignified ways. I hear in law classes, I am used as a bad example of people unworthy of the Ghana Bar. When people like the Honourable CJ also talks about you like this, I’m sorry, but I do not recognize the person you are attempting to describe me as. Me? Immoral? Unfit? Misconducting myself how? There’s not a single content I have put out on this internet that I will not boldly account for, not one, & still I think I am very fit to be called.”
Her tweets have however, sparked a lot of debate and controversy in Ghana, with some people criticizing and others supporting her.
Some lawyers have argued that she has a right to freedom of expression and that her private life should not affect her professional qualification. Others have maintained that she has shown a lack of character and integrity that is expected of a lawyer.
YouTuber and law graduate, Ama Governor, who was denied her call to the bar in November 2022, has revealed how she openly admitted to being queer and sleeping with women to the General Legal Council (GLC), the body that regulates the legal profession in Ghana.
She said that this was one of the three grounds that a mysterious petitioner used to challenge her fitness to be a lawyer, but that it was not a valid reason to disqualify her.
In a lengthy statement posted on her Twitter page, Ama Governor narrated how she received a letter from the GLC on 6th November 2022, informing her that her call to the bar had been suspended due to a petition filed by a concerned citizen of Ghana on 3rd November 2022.
She said that the petition alleged that she had engaged in improper conduct that tarnished the reputation of the Ghana School of Law(GSL) and that she was queer and slept with women.
“The third ground which was not challenged as a lie was that I am queer and that I sleep with women. We argued that while that was a blissful fact, it was not a ground on which I should be deemed unfit to be called to the bar. Simple. And guess what?!,” she wrote.
According to her, she and her lawyer submitted a written legal response to the petition, arguing that the first two grounds were false and based on fabricated evidence, and that the third ground was true but irrelevant.
She said that she did not deny or hide her queerness, but rather embraced it as part of her identity and expression.
” This obviously frivolous petition that should not have passed the prima facie test, but which managed to stop my life, was thrown out in the very first hearing within 15 minutes,” Ama explained.
She said that the GLC agreed with her submission and dismissed the petition in the first hearing within 15 minutes.
“They just said they have read our written submission and agree with us wholeheartedly, and so they do not wish to address me on anything in the petition.”
Ama also said that they did not question her on anything in the petition and that they only asked her two questions in the subsequent hearings before delivering their decision.
“I won the ‘case’, if you will, against the till date unidentified petitioner. After my lawyer and I submitted our written legal response to the frivolous petition, it was thrown out in the very first hearing. The next three hearings till the decision was delivered was about 2 questions the committee had to ask me and us coming to a consensus.”
She said that despite winning the case, she was still waiting to be told what her improper conduct was from 6th November 2022 till date.
She said that she had not committed any crime or misconduct while studying law or after graduating. She said that she was a digital content creator who shared her views on various topics such as feminism, body positivity, sexual liberation, and queerness.
She said that she was not a bad example of people unworthy of the Ghana Bar, but rather a proud and confident woman who had fulfilled all the requirements to be called to the bar.
She said that she did not recognize the person that some people, including the Chief Justice, were trying to portray her as. She said that she was ready to account for every content she had put out on the internet and that she still believed that she was very fit to be a lawyer.
Ghanaian YouTuber and law graduate, Ama Governor, has taken to Twitter to express her frustration and anger over the delay in her call to the bar, which was suspended due to a petition filed by an anonymous person who claimed she was unfit to be a lawyer.
In a series of tweets, Ama Governor revealed that she had successfully defended herself against the petition, which was based on false and malicious allegations about her conduct and sexuality.
She said the petition was thrown out in the first hearing, and that the subsequent hearings were only about two questions the committee had to ask her.
“Respectfully, I am still waiting to be told what my improper conduct was from 6th Nov, 2022 till date. I cannot handle this tarnishing of image and spread of false information about the true facts of the events that took place for much longer. This is cruel.
I won the ‘case’, if you will, against the till date unidentified petitioner. After my lawyer and I submitted our written legal response to the frivolous petition, it was thrown out in the very first hearing. The next three hearings till the decision was delivered was about 2 questions the committee had to ask me and us coming to a consensus, ” she wrote.
She also challenged the basis and legality of the petition, which was filed on 3rd November 2022, just six days before her scheduled call to the bar on 11th November 2022. She said she had passed all the requirements necessary to be called to the bar, and that she had not committed any crime or misconduct while studying law.
Ama accused the petitioner of violating her constitutional rights and tarnishing her image with lies and fabrications. She also lamented the unfair treatment and discrimination she faced from some members of the legal profession, who used her as a bad example and questioned her moral compass.
She demanded to know what her actual crime was, and why she was singled out among her peers. She said she was proud of her content creation and advocacy on various social media platforms, where she shared her views on feminism, body positivity, queerness, women’s sexual liberation, and other topics.
She ended her rant by calling for justice and respect for her dignity and career. She said she was still waiting to be told what her improper conduct was from 6th November 2022 till date. She said she could not handle the spread of false information and the denial of her call to the bar any longer.
Her tweets have sparked mixed reactions from netizens, some of whom supported her and praised her courage and resilience, while others criticized her and questioned her suitability for the legal profession. Some also called for an investigation into the petition and the role of the General Legal Council in handling the matter.
Ghanaian YouTuber, Ama Governor, and aspiring lawyer, has taken to Twitter to express her strong objection to remarks made by the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Gertrude Torkornoo.
In a series of tweets, Ama Governor voiced her frustration over the suspension of her “Call to the Bar” ceremony and the subsequent implications on her reputation.
The Chief Justice’s comments, made during a recent public appearance, touched on the issue of proper conduct in the legal sector and the admission to the Bar.
She stated that individuals seeking to join the legal profession must exhibit behaviour that is not obscene or offensive. Her Ladyship expressed surprise at the controversy surrounding the admission of certain individuals, emphasizing the importance of upholding standards within the legal community.
Ama Governor, who felt directly targeted by the Chief Justice’s remarks, went on a Twitter rant to set the record straight. She vehemently denied engaging in any improper conduct and questioned the fairness of the process that led to the suspension of her “Call to the Bar.”
Respectfully, I am still waiting to be told what my improper conduct was from 6th Nov, 2022 till date. I cannot handle this tarnishing of image and spread of false information about the true facts of the events that took place for much longer. This is cruel. https://t.co/vzV7mWHyhW
According to her tweets, she successfully defended herself against a petition that challenged her eligibility for admission to the Bar. The petition was based on three grounds, two of which she claimed were fabrications.
The first alleged ground involved a video in which Ama Governor and her classmates were seen discussing life as law students, including humorous anecdotes about occasionally dozing off in class. The petitioner misconstrued this discussion as tarnishing the school’s reputation, which Ama Governor vehemently refuted.
The second ground falsely accused her of consistently wearing nose rings to school, despite adhering to the school’s guidelines on student appearance. Ama Governor clarified that she had followed the rules and even made videos demonstrating her compliance.
The Chief Justice gives the reason why Ama Governor, a social media influencer wasn’t called to the bar and may still not be called to the bar. pic.twitter.com/YoiIoqdKTn
The third ground, which she acknowledged as true, referred to her sexual orientation as queer. However, she asserted that her sexual orientation should not be a basis for deeming her unfit to become a lawyer.
Ama Governor expressed deep disappointment with the process, citing that the petition was thrown out in the very first hearing, yet her name continues to be dragged through the mud. She further raised concerns about the potential violation of Article 19(11) of the Ghanaian Constitution, which states that no person shall be convicted of a criminal offense unless defined and prescribed by written law.
The young YouTuber’s tweets have ignited discussions on social media, with many expressing support for her stance and questioning the fairness of the entire process.
As the controversy unfolds, attention is drawn to the intersection of social media influence, individual rights, and the legal profession’s stringent standards.
Ama Governor’s online presence has been a platform for her to advocate for body positivity, feminism, and women’s sexual reproductive health. She now awaits a response from the relevant authorities on the matter and hopes for a resolution that upholds her right to practice law without undue prejudice.
North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has made startling revelations regarding what he refers to as the “Kitchen Scandal.”
The exposé centers around Mr. Gabriel Asare Otchere-Darko, known as Gabby Otchere-Darko, and his alleged status as the “Prime Minister” of Ghana, with significant influence over government affairs.
Ablakwa claims that the Kitchen Scandal sheds light on the modus operandi and sophisticated schemes of the “Kitchen Cabinet,” of which Gabby Otchere-Darko is a central figure.
He alleges that Gabby’s influence extends to various multi-million dollar transactions, including the controversial PDS, Agyapa, and Ameri deals.
In particular, the former Energy Minister, Boakye Agyarko, accused Gabby of unilaterally renegotiating the infamous Ameri novation agreement, leading to the minister’s dismissal.
The focal point of the scandal revolves around a staggering GHS187.3 million liability incurred for a contract awarded to West Blue Company Limited, which Gabby Otchere-Darko is said to have championed.
Ablakwa questions how Gabby managed to garner support from elements within the Finance Ministry and the Attorney-General’s office for this payment, considering the current economic challenges faced by Ghana.
Notably, the scandal exposes the alleged shifting stance of the government. Ablakwa points out that the same contract awarded to West Blue was fiercely opposed by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) when they were in opposition.
Gabby Otchere-Darko’s current advocacy for West Blue has raised concerns about double standards and betrayal, as he now seems to hold a position contrary to the party’s earlier stance.
Ablakwa has released a series of documents, purportedly intercepted by him, which appear to corroborate the perception that Gabby Otchere-Darko yields considerable influence and can get things done as the alleged “Prime Minister” of Ghana.
The North Tongu MP’s exposé has sparked public interest and calls for transparency and accountability from the government.
As the nation awaits further developments, questions loom about the veracity of the claims made by Ablakwa and the potential implications for Ghana’s political landscape.
In the interest of objectivity and accuracy, it is important to note that these claims have been made by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and any further investigation and responses from the implicated parties are awaited.
The government and Gabby Otchere-Darko may issue official statements addressing the allegations in due course.
Read Ablakwa’s full report below.
The Kitchen Scandal
The Kitchen Scandal is a tale of betrayal, bravado, double standards, influence peddling, dishonesty, greed, collusion, arm-twisting, naked nepotism and blatant rape of the public purse.
The Kitchen Scandal will afford us a rare insight into how President Akufo-Addo’s “Kitchen Cabinet” operates and how destructive they have been to national progress.
This Kitchen Scandal reveals the modus-operandi and sophisticated schemes of the grand master in the “Kitchen Cabinet” — Mr. Gabriel Asare Otchere-Darko, who prefers to be called Gabby Otchere-Darko.
Many people say Gabby is the “Prime Minister” of Ghana and what he wants always gets done — well, the volumes of intercepted documents in my possession appears to confirm this perception.
Gabby’s name has often come up in other multi-million dollar transactions such as PDS, Agyapa and recently Ameri when former Energy Minister, Boakye Agyarko accused him of unilaterally renegotiating the infamous Ameri novation agreement which led to the minister’s unceremonious exit.
Justice Dotse may likely describe this Kitchen Scandal as a well-hatched conspiracy to “Create-Loot-and-Keep,” perhaps in a Cecilia Dapaah-like fashion.
This Kitchen Scandal is valued at a stupendous GHS187,356,969.55.
How Gabby Otchere-Darko managed to get sections of government including the Attorney-General and elements within the Finance Ministry to agree that his new client: West Blue Company Limited must be paid the staggering GHS187.3million is most legendary.
It is absolutely insane for Akufo-Addo’s “Kitchen Cabinet” to create this ginormous GHS187.3million liability for the Ghanaian taxpayer under this downgraded bankrupt IMF-bailout economy.
Put in proper context, GHS187.3million is more than the entire 2023 budgetary allocation for the following ministries: Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations (GHS76.6million); Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs (GHS44.9million); Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (GHS6.4million); Ministry of Information (GHS141.4million) and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (GHS180.9million)
The monetary value of this scandal is also greater than the full 2023 approved budgets for the following institutions: Office of the Special Prosecutor (GHS129.5million); National Development Planning Commission (GHS13.2million); CHRAJ (GHS45.4million); NCCE (GHS84.4million); National Pensions Regulatory Authority (GHS98.4million) and Office of the Head of Civil Service (GHS50.2million).
Ironically, the GHS187.3million exceeds the total annual 2023 budgeted expenditure for the salaries of all lawyers and staff at the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice (GHS155.6million); all staff at the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (GHS109.3million); all staff at the Ministry of Trade and Industry (GHS80.8million); all staff of the Ministry of Roads and Highways (GHS74.6million) — just to highlight a few.
Strikingly, GHS187.3million is far greater than what the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government is spending on numerous flagship programmes such as: Railways Development (GHS164.5million); Water and Sanitation Initiative (GHS74.4million); National Identification Authority (GHS37.6million); MASLOC (GHS14.4million); Fish Landing Sites (GHS26.3million) and Zongo Development Fund (GHS24.4million).
NPP’s POSITION ON THE WEST BLUE CONTRACT
In opposition, the NPP raised fire and brimstone and mounted the most fierce resistance to the National Single Window System and an Integrated Risk Management System contract awarded to West Blue Ghana Limited on 4th August, 2015.
The NPP’s Alexander Afenyo-Markin, MP for Effutu went to court in a spirited effort to stop the contract.
Not even a ruling by His Lordship Justice K.A. Okwabi on August 31, 2015 dismissing Afenyo-Markin’s injunction application deterred the NPP from continuing with further legal actions in a bid to scuttle the West Blue Contract. I must add that these NPP-led legal actions are still pending in court, albeit cold cases now.
The NPP continued to fight the West Blue contract in and outside the courts.
On the 16th of May, 2016 — the NPP’s Director of Communications, Nana Akomea issued a statement on what they said was President Mahama’s record of corruption. First on his list was the West Blue Contract. This is what Nana Akomea wrote: “President Mahama told a blatant lie when he said in London that he does not put himself in a position to be bribed as he does not involve himself and his Office in public procurement. As fate will have it, on 12th May, 2015, exactly a year ago to the day he granted the BBC interview, the President, through a letter signed by his Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, personally and directly instructed the Minister of Finance “to formally engage West Blue Ghana Limited”, without any competitive tender. This was the contract for the implementation of the National Single Window for the inspection of goods at the ports. This contract is estimated to be worth more than $300 million over the next five year. By directing his Minister of Finance to give the contract to a particular company the President, by his own logic, had put himself in a position to be offered and receive bribe.”
The NPP won the 2016 elections and could now act on their opposition to the West Blue Contract.
The NPP Government discovered that the 4th August 2015 West Blue Contract had as a condition precedent to contract effectiveness, a value-for-money audit.
In August 2017, the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government got Crown Agents to complete the value-for-money audit. The outcome was that the contract did not guarantee value for money. Crown Agents recommended either a cancellation or a termination. (Report attached).
On 21st September 2017, Ports and Customs World Ghana, with links in Dubai, wrote to the Ministry of Finance that it had taken over West Blue and expressed readiness to renegotiate the West Blue contract. (Letter attached).
On October 2, 2017, West Blue also wrote to the Ministry of Finance indicating that they had been taken over by Ports and Customs World. (Letter attached).
The Government of Ghana wrote to Ports and Customs World on 25th January, 2018 on the basis of Crown Agent’s value-for-money audit, revising the fees under the contract downwards from 0.35% FoB to 0.28% FoB and bringing forward the termination date from December 2020 to December 2018. (Letter duly attached).
Ports and Customs World/West Blue, per a letter dated January 30, 2018 accepted these reduced terms and new contract termination date. (Letter attached).
On March 14, 2019, government entered into a mutual understanding with West Blue to hold the fort by delivering services on the reduced terms until government replaces them.
DOUBLE STANDARDS AND BETRAYAL
Despite the NPP’s firm public opposition to the West Blue contract and termination of same, President Akufo-Addo’s cousin and grand master of his “Kitchen Cabinet,” Gabby Otchere-Darko has strangely become the chief advocate and super strategist for West Blue.
Gabby’s law firm, Africa Legal Associates (see articles of incorporation attached) now represent West Blue. Who would have predicted this considering the political tsunami Gabby and his collaborators created for President Mahama a few years ago in the aftermath of the West Blue contract?
Curiously, Gabby has not only surreptitiously departed from the position the NPP canvassed publicly and vehemently in opposition and in government, he has managed to get the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame to strongly agree with him.
Suddenly, to Gabby who may have transmogrified from Saul to Paul — contrary to the claims they made in opposition, the West Blue contract is no longer over priced due to sole sourcing; basically, it’s no longer a ripoff.
Now Gabby actually suggests that President Mahama’s government did not pay West Blue fully and fairly — wonders they say will never end!
In an unusual development, the Attorney-General has issued three pro-Gabby legal opinions on this matter.
What is even more worrying about the AG’s latest legal opinion dated 16th December, 2022 is that it failed to take into consideration inputs from the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority as both institutions had not submitted their written arguments. (Legal opinion attached)
Gabby and Godfred now state emphatically that despite the fact that the value-for-money condition precedent was not met, the contract is still valid.
The duo have also questioned the post value-for-money contract downward revisions and are insisting that the colossal West Blue demands are met.
These Gabby-Godfred positions run contrary to what the Finance Ministry had earlier communicated to West Blue through former Deputy Minister of Finance, Mr. Kwaku Kwarteng on January 25, 2018 which the latter accepted in writing. (See letters attached)
Interestingly, the previous lawyer for West Blue, Mr. Ace Anan Ankumah wrote to the Ministry of Finance on March 10, 2020 proffering a different opinion from Gabby and Godfred although it related to a proposed market value audit when he asserted: “As you are aware, the written agreement dated 4 August 2015 that West Blue entered into with the Government of Ghana, acting through the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority, for a National Single Window System and an Integrated Risk
Management System (“Agreement”) did not come into effect as the conditions precedent for
the agreement to become effective were not fulfilled. An agreement that did not become effective cannot be used as a basis for the market value audit.” (See letter attached)
Is the Attorney-General suggesting the Finance Ministry and the GRA did not seek his legal advice when they were declaring the August 4, 2015 West Blue contract ineffective?
Why is Gabby and Godfred happy to impose this huge financial burden on Ghanaians when West Blue had earlier accepted in writing the “new understandings” which substantially protect the public purse? What could be their motivation?
Does Godfred Dame recognize that by issuing his one-sided legal opinion without the inputs of Finance and GRA as he concedes, he has undermined the position of the state should Gabby decide to proceed to court? Is this a conspiracy to cause financial loss to Ghana?
That notwithstanding, I must point out that even though Gabby Otchere-Darko doesn’t state his name in all his letters for this frightening GHS187.3million West Blue demand, I can confirm that he is the one signing the letters as I have obtained his GRA Taxpayer Registration Form which bears the same signature. (See attached).
What is increasingly troubling is the shifting position of the Ministry of Finance to align with Gabby. Insiders say Ministry officials are terrified as the “Prime Minister’s” pressure mounts. Already, it is suspected in several quarters that the former Chief Director of the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Patrick Nomo was transferred because he wasn’t cooperating on this matter.
The new Chief Director and Ken Ofori-Atta staunch ally Eva Esselba Mends seems more amenable and is piling pressure on GRA to respond to Gabby’s 6-week ultimatum for payment to be effected. (See her 30th June, 2023 letter to GRA attached).
Analysts agree that Eva won’t be writing those letters to GRA if she didn’t have Ken’s approval.
Also, Ken’s cousin Gabby won’t be getting bolder and bolder with his threats and ultimatums if the family had a genuine objection. A really complex nepotistic web.
By some sheer coincidence, Gabby’s 6-week ultimatum letter for payment of the colossal GHS187.3million is dated May 3, 2023 — the same month Ghana received US$603million from the IMF.
DEMANDS
1. President Akufo-Addo must immediately instruct his Finance Minister and the GRA to ignore Gabby’s 6-week ultimatum and not to pay the GHS187.3million;
2. President Akufo-Addo must instruct his Attorney-General and Minister for Justice to withdraw his lopsided pro-Gabby legal opinion because of the obvious dangers to Ghana’s interest in any likely litigation;
3. President Akufo-Addo must caution his cousin, Gabriel Asare Otchere-Darko to back off and stop issuing threats to GRA officials;
4. President Akufo-Addo should as a matter of urgency constitute an independent panel to investigate these grave matters;
5. The Finance Committee of Parliament should urgently summon all parties and initiate a full-scale parliamentary inquiry into this GHS187.3million West Blue saga.
ASSURANCES
May I assure the top public officials working with me on this latest patriotic project, and the Ghanaian people that we shall not relent until this unconscionable GHS187.3million Gabby-orchestrated demand is defeated.
We are preparing to stage a mammoth “Enough of the Looting Demo” if we do not see urgent action from the President on this matter.
Ghanaian singer Gregory Bortey Promise Newman, popularly known as King Promise delivered an emotional performance of his hit single “Terminator” at the Tottenham Stadium, London, as part of Wizkid’s Made in Lagos tour.
The singer, who was one of the guest acts at the sold-out concert, could not hide his feelings as he sang the song to the cheering crowd.
A video posted by a Twitter user, @SIKAOFFICIAL, captured the moment King Promise’s voice was shaky with emotions as he performed the song.
“King Promise’s voice was shaky with emotions as he performed his hit single “Terminator” at the Tottenham Stadium, London, but he was able to wow the crowd during his performance,” @SIKAOFFICIAL wrote.
The video showed King Promisetaking pauses through the song as the crowd sang along while applauding him for his heartfelt performance.
King Promise’s voice was shaky with emotions as he performed his hit single “Terminator” at the Tottenham Stadium, London but he was able to wow the crowd during his performance. pic.twitter.com/YiXFJYPeIf
The song is about accepting individual imperfections, discouraging judgmental sentiments and advocating for one to live their lives without care of what anyone thinks about them.
King Promise later thanked Wizkid for inviting him to the show and expressed his gratitude to the fans for their support.
He also performed some of his other songs, such as “CCTV”, “Sisa” and “Commando”, at the concert.
Some of Ghana’s top musical talents have been praised by a former French ambassador to Ghana, Anne Sophie Avé, who has called for them to be given diplomatic passports.
She said that artistes such as Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, Black Sherif, King Promise, Shatta Wale and R2Bees have done more to promote Ghana to the world than some ambassadors could ever do.
Her campaign was inspired by the impressive performances of these artistes at various summer events abroad.
— Anne Sophie (Akosua) Avé (@annesophieave) July 30, 2023
Sarkodie is wrapping up his Jamz tour in the US, while King Promise rocked the Tottenham Sports stadium during Wizkid’s show, among others.
She took to Twitter to express her admiration for these artistes and their contribution to Ghana’s image and culture. She tweeted:
“Ghana 🇬🇭, you should give these guys diplomatic passports: they put Ghana to the world better than even the best ambassadors could in a lifetime @sarkodie @stonebwoy @blacksherif_ @shattawalegh @r2bees @IamKingPromise”
Two of Ghana’s prominent figures in the entertainment industry, Yvonne Nelson and Sarkodie, in recent times have opened up about their challenging childhood experiences that may have significantly shaped their personalities and perspectives.
For Yvonne and Sarkodie, the struggle was not about facing bullies or enduring extreme poverty, but rather the absence of one or both parents during crucial moments in their lives.
Sarkodie’s journey was especially difficult, as he grew up without any knowledge of his parents’ whereabouts.
He found himself under the care of a guardian who treated him poorly. However, as he progressed in life, fate led him to reunite with his parents.
Sarkodie
Engaging host Angela Yee in an interview on Way Up, Sarkodie who was answering a question about his childhood revealed that certain harsh experiences as a young boy had contributed to his “laid back” personality.
“It started from when I had to live with somebody when I went through serious hardship. It was a tough beginning. I didn’t know where Mom was didn’t know where Dad was. I was staying with this person and I had to go throw serious hardship.
“It’s kind of like as much as I love speaking about it I still feel like the person didn’t know better. So me speaking about it now I still think about how they feel because I didn’t have the best experience with them. But I also kind of like understand that they didn’t know better at that point,” he shared.
For him, “That created the whole laid back and watching stuff and not getting involved in too much and watching life from this perspective,” personality.
He however holds no grudge. According to Sarkodie, “they didn’t know better at that time.” Nonetheless, “it doesn’t take away the fact that it happened,” he quickly added.
The rapper noted that during such challenging times, he developed the skill of writing which eventually turned into music.
“That’s where I developed writing and it turned into music. Cos I needed a way to speak about the way I was feeling. I was not too much a friend type, clique type of person. It was a good therapy for me,” he added.
Though Sarkodie remains tight-lipped about the details of his relationship with his parents, he appears to share a more open and public bond with his mother than with his father.
He revealed, during the interview that he recently had a heartfelt conversation with his father, discussing the times when his father was absent.
Sarkodie demonstrated grace and understanding towards his father’s past actions.
Yvonne Nelson
Yvonne Nelson, on the other hand, was fortunate to have her mother’s presence during her formative years.
However, she had a distorted perception of her father, believing that a man who treated her unkindly was her biological father. As an adult, she unraveled the truth, realizing that he was not her real father.
Overwhelmed by the pain of this revelation, Yvonne decided to document her journey of self-discovery in a book, which surprisingly contained details about Sarkodie.
In her memoir, ‘I Am Not Yvonne Nelson’, the actress shares detailed her failed relations with Sarkodie in 2012 and how she got pregnant by him.
She also mentioned how his answer then of not being ready and thus triggering an abortion resulted in reflections of her own struggles of having a father who did not want her.
She shared in her memoir that the man she had been calling her father, Mr Oko Nelson, was not her biological father. She found out this truth at the moment he was dying, but it was too late to apologise to him for the resentment she had harboured towards him for years. She writes,
“I do not know where to begin this and what it will achieve, but I feel strongly about it. I feel I owe you an apology, even if the timing is wrong and my apology may mean nothing to you. I became resentful towards you because of what my mother told me about you. I had no reason to doubt her because when I made attempts to get close to you, your rejection only confirmed her claim that you didn’t like me.”
Yvonne and Mr Nelson
She goes on to say that she regrets painting him black in several media interviews, where she claimed he was not part of her life. She says that she now understands that he had no reason to be part of her life at all, and that he owed her nothing, not even his surname. She concludes by asking for his forgiveness, wherever he is, and says that she wishes things had not been this way.
The connection
The coincidence of their childhood experiences and the emotional void caused by absent fathers raises questions about whether their relationship in 2012 was partly fueled by a shared sense of hurt and longing for fatherly presence.
Alas, the truth remains elusive. Nevertheless, when Sarkodie candidly discussed how his challenging upbringing influenced his perspective on life, it inevitably evokes thoughts of Yvonne Nelson and how her “daddy issues” have left a lasting impact on her life, both as an individual and as an artiste.
But to Sarkodie, such bad experiences are supposed to “tailor make you. You never know, but if maybe, he was around, because I was supposed to do something. But if he was around, it might not be this way.”
“So when we recently had a heart to heart conversation, which I love him for even stepping up to have the conversation, I still said Thank you to him. Because that situation created the Sarkodie that you’re seeing today.” he explained.
These profound position encapsulates the indomitable spirit of both Yvonne Nelson and Sarkodie, who, despite facing hardships and uncertainties, emerged as inspiring figures in the world of entertainment, touching the hearts of many and leaving an indelible mark on Ghana’s cultural landscape.
Ghanaian rapper, Sarkodie, couldn’t contain his excitement as he shared his love for the peace and security of his homeland, Ghana, during a recent interview on the American radio show ‘Way Up with Angela Yee’.
The celebrated artist was responding to host Angela Yee’squestion about the recent influx of visitors to Ghana.
Angela pointed out that many people from abroad had been travelling to Ghana lately, and she wondered if Sarkodie had observed this trend [in reference to last year].
“People did go to Ghana though. We were just talking about that. Were you there?,” she asked.
With a smile, Sarkodie enthusiastically replied, “Yeah, because every Christmas I have one of the biggest shows in Ghana, so I have to be there. It’s a beautiful spot to come to… if you want peace and security-wise, if you don’t want to care about walking out at night and nobody bothering you, that’s Ghana.”
The rapper went on to praise his Ghana’s peaceful atmosphere, highlighting how it provides a sense of security to both locals and visitors. He also emphasized the warm hospitality that Ghanaians extend to those coming from other parts of the world.
“Ghana is extremely peaceful, beautiful, and we love people coming from elsewhere to our country. We really know how to host,” Sarkodie added with pride.
The interview also touched on the trend of individuals from abroad acquiring properties in Ghana and choosing to stay in the country, captivated by its serene environment.
Sarkodie mentioned that many people, especially during the Christmas season, find themselves reluctant to leave Ghana due to the incredible peace and tranquillity they experience there.
“A lot of your people are still staying there they don’t want to come back since Christmas you know they bought properties out there, and they don’t want to come back because the peace out there is crazy,” he said.
As Ghana continues to attract international attention as a prime tourist destination, Sarkodie’s passionate endorsement of his homeland further amplifies the country’s appeal to potential visitors.
The rapper’s affectionate portrayal of Ghana’s peaceful nature and warm reception serves as a glowing testament to the nation’s reputation as a hospitable and safe place to explore and enjoy.
With Ghana increasingly capturing the hearts of both locals and foreigners alike, the future looks bright for the country’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
As Sarkodie aptly summed up, “the peace in Ghana is crazy,” and that allure is drawing people from around the globe to experience its charm first-hand.
The Chief Justice of Ghana, Justice Gertrude Esaaba Torkornoo, has urged the nation to uphold justice for all people as a way of attracting God’s grace and blessings.
She warned that without justice and law enforcement, Ghana would face destruction and instability.
She made these remarks at the opening of the 2023 National Development Conference organised by the Church of Pentecost at the Pentecost Convention Centre at Gomoa Fetteh in the Central Region on Monday, 26 July 2023.
The two-day conference, which is on the theme: “Moral vision and national development”, brought together key personalities, stakeholders, bodies and institutions in Ghana to deliberate on critical issues on Ghana’s development.
Among the speakers attending the event were Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia; Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin; former President John Agyekum Kufuor; Former Minister of Women’s Affairs of Zimbabwe, Dr Olivia Nyembezi Muchena and Spokesperson of the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Aremeyaw Shaibu.
Justice Torkornoo stressed that justice is a vital element for peace and stability, and that the quality of life in every nation depended on that. She pointed out that upholding the laws and investing in the building of justice delivery in a nation brings prosperity to its citizens.
“As a nation, we must work towards giving justice to all manner of persons,” she said, adding “there cannot be prosperity without peace and there cannot be peace unless people are assured that their rights will be upheld and they will not be robbed of their entitlement.”
She also spoke on the theme of the conference, saying that the judiciary does not see morality as a personal preference of a person, but as a constitutional mandate that requires the maintenance and enforcement of the highest standards of ethical conduct and the upholding of the innate need of the human soul for justice in a nation.
She said that members of the judiciary have chosen to defend the morality of a person through the power given to them by the Constitution and other government institutions.
She further said that it is her conviction that in Ghana’s diversity of ethnicity, belief systems, vocations and talents, the elements of the laws of Ghana, the rules of equity, and the innate ethical values that flow from good conscience can surely bind our hearts and minds together and assist us to arrive at a nationally accepted vision of morality.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has issued a statement in response to ‘purported reports, pictures, and videos’ circulating on social media concerning the ongoing investigation into the case of Cecilia Abena Dapaah, the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources.
According to the OSP, it has not released, published, or authorized the disclosure of any reports, videos, or pictures pertaining to the steps and actions taken in the investigation or the outcome of those actions.
The OSP has urged the public to disregard any such information being circulated on various platforms. The Office emphasizes that all official updates on the case will be communicated directly to the public through official channels.
The investigation into the alleged corruption and corruption-related offences involving the former Minister commenced on Thursday, July 20, 2023.
Since then, the OSP has been diligently conducting its inquiry, making significant progress in the case.
The public is assured that the OSP is committed to conducting a thorough and fair investigation to uncover the truth behind the reported incident.
Once the investigation is concluded, the OSP will promptly inform the public of its findings and any further actions to be taken in line with the law.
As the nation awaits the outcome of the investigation, the Office encourages the public to avoid spreading unverified information and to rely on official sources for updates on the matter.
Cecilia Dapaah, who served as the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, is at the centre of the investigation regarding the alleged theft of cash sums from her residence. The case has generated significant interest and public concern, and the OSP is committed to addressing it with the utmost professionalism and impartiality.
PUBLIC NOTICE (2)
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has taken notice of purported reports, pictures and videos of the steps and actions taken in respect of the matter involving Cecilia Abena Dapaah, the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources. 1/ pic.twitter.com/5ju8OyxJRf
— Office of the Special Prosecutor-Ghana (@ospghana) July 26, 2023
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has released a fresh statement in relation to the ongoing investigation into suspected corruption and corruption-related offenses involving Cecilia Abena Dapaah, the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources.
The investigation centers on substantial sums of cash that were reportedly stolen from Ms. Dapaah’s residence.
The OSP initiated the investigation on Thursday, July 20, 2023, and has since made significant progress, including the apprehension of Ms. Dapaah and searches conducted at two residential properties linked to her.
Due to recent developments and ‘new revelations’ discovered during the ongoing investigation, the OSP deemed it necessary to provide an updated statement to keep the public informed.
— Office of the Special Prosecutor-Ghana (@ospghana) July 26, 2023
The OSP emphasized that the public will be briefed on the outcome of the investigation once it is concluded.
“On Thursday 20 July 2023, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) commenced investigation into suspected corruption and corruption related offences involving the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah in respect of large cash sums reportedly stolen from her house.
“The OSP has, since then, taken a number of steps and actions, including placing Ms. Dapaah under arrest and conducting searches at two residential properties associated with her.
“The OSP is still conducting its investigation. The public will be briefed on the outcome of the investigation when it is concluded, including any further steps the Office may take,” the statement read.
Buckwyld Media Network and BHM have teamed up to bring you Naija To The World, a groundbreaking series of international showcases that will celebrate the diversity and richness of Nigeria’s culture and creativity.’
The first edition of Naija To The World will kick off at the legendary Apollo Theatre in New York City on September 16, 2023, after touring several Nigerian cities from Lagos to Port Harcourt, Benin, Abuja, Jos.
The theme of the debut showcase is the Niger Delta Experience, a tribute to the region that has produced some of the most influential talents in the creative industry over the past 25 years. The Niger Delta is also home to most of Nigeria’s crude oil, but it has faced many challenges such as environmental degradation, poverty, and violence.
Naija To The World will shine a light on the positive aspects of the Niger Delta, such as its vibrant music, its delicious cuisine, its colorful fashion, and its inspiring literature. You will hear stories that you have never heard before, from the people who have lived them. You will see performances that will blow your mind, from the stars who have made it big. You will discover the culture that has shaped Nigeria’s national identity and global influence.
Ayeni Adekunle, founder of BHM, says: ‘We are thrilled to co-host this new series of cultural showcases around the US and later other parts of the world. The aim is to tell original African stories through live concerts, exhibitions, films, documentaries, and so on. And the first instalment will focus on the Niger Delta region of Nigeria where most of Nigeria’s crude oil comes from but which continues to be troubled, abandoned, and impoverished. The world already knows this and many have had cause to use the oil directly or indirectly. But what many do not know is that most of the African pop music dominating the world right now also comes from there (Burna Boy For example). So we want to showcase the music, the food, the fashion, and the literature from a place many only previously associated with oil and violence…’
Efe Omorogbe, Chief Executive Officer of Buckwyld Media Network, adds: ‘Against a backdrop of multi-billion dollar operations and squalid communities, confounding extremes that seem to leave the polity constantly tethering on the brink of crisis, the Niger Delta region remains the premiere incubator for talent in Nigeria. Talent who have continually shaped the course of creative enterprise in Nigeria; talent who are driving the redefinition of Nigeria’s national identity and burgeoning soft power; talent who are primed for world domination and seem unwilling to let anything deter them from reaching their goal.’
Naija To The World – The Niger Delta Experience will feature a star-studded line-up of emerging and leading actors, comedians, designers, chefs, musicians and performers from Nigeria’s Niger Delta. You will witness the culture of Ken Saro-Wiwa; the culture of Burna Boy; the culture of Don Jazzy; the culture of Timaya; Rema and so many more. Only 1,500 lucky fans will get to watch live at the Apollo Theatre, while millions more will tune in through broadcast partners across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
N2TW is the first instalment of the original African exhibition concert series which will happen annually and feature the brightest and biggest stars from Nigeria and other parts of Africa headlining at the most iconic music venues around the world.
Apart from live-curated concerts, the series will also produce themed biographies, biopics, and documentaries in partnership with select platforms.
The secondary bond market in Ghana witnessed a surge in activity last week, as total market turnover soared by 91.52% to ¢336.87 million, compared to the previous week.
The increase in market turnover was driven by a 92.54% rise in the volume traded across the short-dated new bonds, indicating a strong demand for fixed-income securities.
However, the local currency yield curve shifted upward, reflecting a rise in the average yield at the middle of the curve by 113 basis points. This was influenced by the Monetary Policy Committee’s decision to raise the policy rate to 30% in November, in a bid to curb inflation and stabilise the cedi.
Analysts believe that the higher policy rate could dampen market activity in the long run, as it makes treasury bills more attractive than existing bonds. The policy rate is a signalling rate that serves as a reference cap for all other rates in the economy.
According to the Bank of Ghana, the policy rate was 13.5% in May 2021, before it was increased to 14.5% in July, 16% in September and 30% in November. The bank said the rate hike was necessary to address the risks to inflation and growth outlook, amid rising global commodity prices and domestic cost pressures.
The Ghana Fixed Income Market (GFIM) is a platform that facilitates the secondary trading of all fixed-income securities, including government and corporate bonds. The GFIM offers a transparent environment where price discovery and price information are easily accessible to participants.
A transboundary water project between Ghana and Togo has sparked a dispute over the ownership of the Volta Lake, according to the Managing Director of the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), Dr Clifford Braimah.
He said that Togo has attempted to lay claim to the lake, which is located entirely within Ghana’s territory, as a result of Ghana’s refusal to accept Togo’s terms for the Sogakofe-Lome Transboundary Water Supply Project.
Dr Braimah made the revelation when he appeared before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee in Accra on Tuesday to respond to audit findings in the Auditor-General’s report on public boards, corporations and other statutory institutions for the year ended December 31, 2021.
He said that negotiations between Ghana and Togo on the project have been slow, but both parties have been trying to reach a common ground before its implementation. The project, which was initiated in the 1970s and revived in 2012, aims to transfer treated water from Sogakofe in the Volta Region of Ghana to Lome, the capital of Togo, and to supply water to communities along the pipeline in both countries. The project was estimated to cost US$110 million in 2005.
However, Dr Braimah said that Togo has been pushing for an unfair deal that would shift all the risks to Ghana while taking 85 per cent of the water to be produced. “They wanted to take raw water and treat it themselves; and we say we can’t take raw water and pass communities along the line without them being connected,” Dr Braimah said.
“We want to treat water at Sogakofe and evacuate it to Lome so that people along the line can also benefit.”
He added that Togo has also challenged Ghana’s right to charge them for the water, arguing that they co-own the Volta Lake and its resources.
“They even want to lay claim to the resource itself that we own the Volta together and cannot put charges on them, but we feel that the water that is coming is from Burkina Faso,” he said.
He explained that the water in the lake originates from rivers flowing from Burkina Faso and other upstream countries, and that Ghana has invested in dams and reservoirs to store and manage it.
“So these are the issues we are battling with. The lawyers are sitting with them and we are getting somewhere. It is very slow but we are hoping that reasoning will prevail,” he said.
He assured that GWCL would negotiate the best deal for Ghana, including the financial consideration, because “Ghanaians will not forgive us if we sit down and allow that to happen and we don’t get a good deal”.
The Sogakofe-Lome Transboundary Water Supply Project is regulated by the Ghana Interbank Forex Market Conduct Rules, which are issued by the Bank of Ghana under sections 17 and 31 of the Foreign Exchange Act, 2006 and section 92 of the Banks and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, 2016. The rules require local and international forex brokers who want to operate in Ghana’s forex market to obtain prior approval from the Bank of Ghana at the beginning of every calendar year. The Bank of Ghana has authorised nine institutions to serve as forex brokers for 2023.
Meanwhile, Dr Braimah said that government is making frantic efforts to enhance water production to Northern and Savannah regional capitals, Tamale and Damango, respectively, and their environs.
He said that what is holding back the Damango water project, which is expected to cost US$49 million, is finance, adding that all necessary documents for its release have been signed and are currently with Deutsche Bank.
He said that GWCL, on its own, however, is developing an artesian well, which was drilled in 2015, to treat water for the people of Damango.
He said that the plan is to develop a big treatment plant at Yapei on the White Volta River and redistribute water to Tamale and Damango.
A report by TV3 has revealed that more money was found in the home of Cecilia Abena Dapaah, the former sanitation minister who is under investigation by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for suspected corruption and corruption-related offences. The report claimed that it took officials of the OSP close to five hours to count the amount of cash discovered in her residence.
According to TV3’s reporter Eric Mawuena Egbeta, who cited sources within the OSP, the search at Ms Dapaah’s residence on Monday, 24 July 2023, yielded more cash than what was initially reported. He said it was not clear which of her two residences – her official residence at Cantonments or her private residence at Abelemkpe – had the latest stash.
“From the search at her residence yesterday, a lot more cash has been discovered and it took officials of the Special Prosecutor close to five hours alone in counting this amount of cash which was discovered in her home,” he said in a stand-up piece in front of the offices of the OSP in Accra.
He added that some relatives of the former minister have also been questioned by the OSP about the stolen monies from her Abelemkpe residence which led to her resignation from office and the current probe by the OSP.
The ongoing investigations by the Office of the Special Prosecutor has revealed more cash was discovered in the home of former sanitation and water resources minister, Cecilia Dapaah.
Ms Dapaah was granted bail on Monday, hours after the OSP announced that she had been arrested and had escorted its officials to conduct searches at her residence. She is accused of hoarding large amounts of foreign currency at her home, which were allegedly stolen by two former house helps.
The court charge sheet dated 20 July 2023 stated that Ms Dapaah and her husband, Daniel Osei Kuffour, accused the house helps of stealing a cash sum of $1m (£780,000), 300,000 euro (£255,000) and 350,000 Ghana cedis (£45,000), as well as handbags valued at $35,000 (£27,000) and $95,000-worth (£73,000) of jewellery. The alleged thefts occurred between July and October 2022.
Ms Dapaah disputes the figures given in the court document but the revelations outraged many in Ghana. The country’s currency has been losing value rapidly in recent months, with those in charge of the troubled economy blaming dollar hoarders for the woes of the cedi. It was shocking for many to learn that a government minister may have been holding foreign currency herself.
Ms Dapaah resigned as minister of sanitation and water resources on Saturday, 22 July 2023, in order not to distract from the work of government. She added that she was sure that any investigation would show she had acted with integrity. She had held the post for the last five years.
However, TV3’s report has been contested by pro-government voices including Paul Adom-Otchere of Metro TV who said on his Good Evening Ghana show (25 July 2023) that his checks with the OSP showed that nothing of the sort had been found.
“We understand that it is untrue and the OSP must come out and clarify, we tried to search about this and what we have is that it is not true. We don’t know why TV3 has been carrying this story since midday. It has no source, neither the Special Prosecutor or his deputy. If TV3 has further and better particulars, they should publish it tomorrow or even tonight. Because our sources indicate that the Special Prosecutor has said it is not true,” he said.
It took 5 hours to count more money found in Cecilia Dapaah’s home – Report
A report by TV3 has revealed that more money was found in the home of Cecilia Abena Dapaah, the former sanitation minister who is under investigation by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for suspected corruption and corruption-related offences. The report claimed that it took officials of the OSP close to five hours to count the amount of cash discovered in her residence.
According to TV3’s reporter Eric Mawuena Egbeta, who cited sources within the OSP, the search at Ms Dapaah’s residence on Monday, 24 July 2023, yielded more cash than what was initially reported. He said it was not clear which of her two residences – her official residence at Cantonments or her private residence at Abelemkpe – had the latest stash.
“From the search at her residence yesterday, a lot more cash has been discovered and it took officials of the Special Prosecutor close to five hours alone in counting this amount of cash which was discovered in her home,” he said in a stand-up piece in front of the offices of the OSP in Accra.
He added that some relatives of the former minister have also been questioned by the OSP about the stolen monies from her Abelemkpe residence which led to her resignation from office and the current probe by the OSP.
Ms Dapaah was granted bail on Monday, hours after the OSP announced that she had been arrested and had escorted its officials to conduct searches at her residence. She is accused of hoarding large amounts of foreign currency at her home, which were allegedly stolen by two former house helps.
The court charge sheet dated 20 July 2023 stated that Ms Dapaah and her husband, Daniel Osei Kuffour, accused the house helps of stealing a cash sum of $1m (£780,000), 300,000 euro (£255,000) and 350,000 Ghana cedis (£45,000), as well as handbags valued at $35,000 (£27,000) and $95,000-worth (£73,000) of jewellery. The alleged thefts occurred between July and October 2022.
Ms Dapaah disputes the figures given in the court document but the revelations outraged many in Ghana. The country’s currency has been losing value rapidly in recent months, with those in charge of the troubled economy blaming dollar hoarders for the woes of the cedi. It was shocking for many to learn that a government minister may have been holding foreign currency herself.
Ms Dapaah resigned as minister of sanitation and water resources on Saturday, 22 July 2023, in order not to distract from the work of government. She added that she was sure that any investigation would show she had acted with integrity. She had held the post for the last five years.
However, TV3’s report has been contested by pro-government voices including Paul Adom-Otchere of Metro TV who said on his Good Evening Ghana show (25 July 2023) that his checks with the OSP showed that nothing of the sort had been found.
“We understand that it is untrue and the OSP must come out and clarify, we tried to search about this and what we have is that it is not true. We don’t know why TV3 has been carrying this story since midday. It has no source, neither the Special Prosecutor or his deputy. If TV3 has further and better particulars, they should publish it tomorrow or even tonight. Because our sources indicate that the Special Prosecutor has said it is not true,” he said.
Former sanitation minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, who resigned over a theft scandal, had more money hidden at one of her residences, a report by Accra-based TV3 has claimed.
The TV3 news report, citing sources within the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), said it took the officials five hours to count the latest stash of cash that was discovered during a search at her home on Monday, July 24.
“From the search at her residence yesterday (Monday, July 24), a lot more cash has been discovered and it took officials of the Special Prosecutor close to five hours alone in counting this amount of cash which was discovered in her home,” the TV3 reporter Eric Mawuena Egbeta said in a stand-up piece in front of the OSP offices in Accra.
He however did not specify which of her two residences – her official one at Cantonments or her private one at Abelemkpe – had the additional sums of money
The OSP confirmed on Monday that it had arrested and questioned Ms Dapaah for “suspected corruption and corruption-related offences regarding large amounts of money and other valuable items reportedly stolen from her residence”.
The ongoing investigations by the Office of the Special Prosecutor has revealed more cash was discovered in the home of former sanitation and water resources minister, Cecilia Dapaah.
The probe followed a revelation by a court charge sheet that Ms Dapaah and her husband had reported a theft of $1m (£780,000), 300,000 euro ($333,000) and 350,000 Ghana cedis ($30,000), as well as handbags valued at $35,000 and $95,000-worth of jewellery from their Abelemkpe residence last year.
Ms Dapaah has disputed the figures given in the court document but has not disclosed the actual amount that was stolen. She resigned as minister of sanitation and water resources on Saturday, saying she did not want to distract from the work of government. She added that she was sure that any investigation would show she had acted with integrity.
Some relatives of the former minister have also been questioned by the OSP about their involvement in the alleged theft and corruption. The OSP said it had also conducted searches at other premises linked to Ms Dapaah.
The theft case was initially reported to the police in June this year, seven months after it occurred. Two women who worked as domestic workers for the couple were accused of stealing and dissipating some of the stolen money and items. They were arraigned before an Accra Circuit Court last week along with three other individuals who allegedly received some of the money from them.
The TV3 report has been challenged by some pro-government voices, including Paul Adom-Otchere of Metro TV, who said on his Good Evening Ghana show (July 25) that his checks with the OSP showed that nothing of the sort had been found.
“We understand that it is untrue and the OSP must come out and clarify, we tried to search about this and what we have is that it is not true.
“We don’t know why TV3 has been carrying this story since midday. It has no source, neither the Special Prosecutor or his deputy. If TV3 has further and better particulars, they should publish it tomorrow or even tonight.
“Because our sources indicate that the Special Prosecutor has said it is not true,” he added.
The scandal has sparked outrage among many Ghanaians who are struggling with a depreciating currency and a troubled economy. The government has blamed dollar hoarders for the woes of the cedi, while critics have accused it of failing to curb corruption and mismanagement.
Management of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, also known as Ridge Hospital, has refuted claims that it hosted a fraudster who was supposed to serve a 15-year jail term for two months.
In a press release, the hospital said that David Aseye Tay, who was convicted of defrauding a bulk distribution company of over GHc27.9 million in 2018, was referred from the Nsawam Prison Clinic and admitted to the hospital on June 23, 2023, after falling ill.
The hospital said that he underwent a series of surgical procedures and was discharged on July 21, 2023, after spending a total of 28 days on admission.
The hospital denied reports that Tay was living in luxury at the hospital, receiving visits from family and friends and occasionally going home to be with his wife and family.
The hospital said that it uses electronic records systems to keep track of patients’ medical records in real-time and that these records can be verified by the necessary legal authority.
The hospital said that it was open to any suspicions or doubts regarding the matter and that its doors were always open for such verifications.
The hospital’s statement comes after some media reports alleged that Tay had been staying at Ridge Hospital for almost two months under the guise of being very sick, despite being sentenced to serve 15 years at the Nsawam Maximum Prison.
Tay was found guilty of 23 counts of defrauding by false pretence, issuance of false cheques and money laundering by an Accra High Court presided over by Justice Lydia Osei Marfo in May 2023.
He admitted to having collected petroleum products from Misyl Energy Company Ltd., owned by Dr Nick Danso Adjei, through dubious means in 2018.
He was also ordered to forfeit some properties he acquired from the proceeds of his fraud, including houses, cars, a G&G operating licence worth GHc1.3 million and seven fuel stations across Ghana.
Ghana has joined the growing number of African countries that have abolished the death penalty after its parliament voted on Tuesday to replace it with life imprisonment.
The Criminal Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2022, sponsored by Francis-Xavier Kojo Sosu,a member of parliament from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), aims to reform the criminal justice system and align it with international best practices.
The bill amends theCriminal Offences Act, 1960 and the Armed Forces Act, 1962, which prescribe the death penalty for offences such as murder, attempted murder, genocide, piracy and smuggling of gold and diamond.
The death penalty, also known as capital punishment, is the state-sanctioned execution of individuals convicted of certain crimes. In Ghana, the death penalty can be carried out by hanging or shooting by firing squad, according to the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1969.
However, Ghana has not executed anyone since 1993, when 12 people were killed by firing squad for armed robbery or murder. Since then, successive presidents have refused to sign execution warrants, leaving hundreds of death row inmates in limbo.
According to Amnesty International, Ghana had 172 people on death row by the end of 2022, seven of whom were sentenced that year. The human rights group has been campaigning for the global abolition of the death penalty, which it considers a violation of the right to life and a cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment.
The bill was passed by a majority vote in parliament after a heated debate that saw some lawmakers opposing the abolition of the death penalty. They argued that it could lead to more crime and mob justice and that it was justified by the principle of retribution.
However, supporters of the bill said that the death penalty was ineffective as a deterrent, unjust as a punishment and incompatible with Ghana’s obligations under international treaties and conventions.
The Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin announced the passage of the bill after putting it to a vote. He said that the bill would now be sent to President Nana Akufo-Addo for his assent.
Following the passage of the Bill, Mr Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, the NPP MP for Efutu and the Deputy Majority Leader, told the Parliamentary Press Corps that the Bill’s passage was a triumphant day for the people of Ghana.
“Today the Parliament of Ghana has made the country proud, it has signed onto that which has become an international human rights position.
“We have had the Death Penalty in our Statues Books for well over 50 years, it’s been a concern and Parliament after deliberations and through a member of Parliament championed this private member’s Bill.
“And I am happy to say we’ve by this amendment of the parent Act been able to repeal that provision that deals with death Penalty.”
“So, simply put the Death Penalty is no more a punishment in our Statutes Books….”
Samira Daoud, Amnesty International’s West and Central Africa Director, also welcomed the parliamentary vote as a major step forward for Ghana. She urged the president to sign the bill into law without delay and commute all death sentences to prison terms.
She also called on the Ghanaian authorities to take steps to remove the death penalty from the constitution, which still provides for high treason to be punishable by death.
“Today’s parliamentary vote is a major step by Ghana towards the abolition of the death penalty. It is also a victory for all those who have tirelessly campaigned to consign this cruel punishment to history and strengthen the protection of the right to life,” she said in a statement.
“As of today, 23 out of 55 African countries have abolished the death penalty for all crimes. Amnesty International opposes the death penalty in all cases without exception because it violates the right to life as proclaimed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The death penalty has no place in our world.”
According to JoyNews sources, the search was conducted on Monday at her private residence in Abelemkpe, as part of the investigation into the alleged theft of millions of dollars and other items by her housekeepers.
The sources did not disclose what the significant discovery was, but said it could have implications for the case.
The OSP has also searched Madam Dapaah’s official residence in Cantonments and interrogated some of her close relatives who she claimed owned some of the money.
Madam Dapaah is currently on bail with surety after spending hours in the custody of the OSP. She has been asked to complete an income and property declaration form so that the OSP can track her assets and determine if they were acquired legally.
Madam Dapaah resigned from her position as Sanitation Ministeron Saturday, July 2022, following media reports of two housemaids who worked for her and her husband facing trial for stealing US$1 million, €300,000 and millions of Ghana cedis between July and October 2022.
The housemaids, 18-year-old Patience Botwe and 30-year-old Sarah Agyei, are also accused of taking clothes, handbags, perfumes, jewellery, kente cloth and suits belonging to Mrs. Dapaah’s husband said to be worth thousands of dollars.
Madam Dapaah has questioned the amounts alleged to have been stolen, saying there are “noticeable inconsistencies” in the discussions of what she reported to the police.
She has also denied any wrongdoing and said she is cooperating with the authorities.
Virgin Atlantic and Rolls-Royce have announced that they will operate the world’s first transatlantic flight powered entirely by Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on 28 November 2023.
The flight will depart from London Heathrow and land at New York JFK on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, using a SAF blend of 88% Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) and 12% synthetic aromatic kerosene (SAK).
The SAF will be supplied by Air bp and Virent, who will provide 60 tonnes of the fuel for the project, which is jointly funded by the Department for Transport and involves a consortium of partners, including Boeing, University of Sheffield, Imperial College London and Rocky Mountain Institute.
The project aims to demonstrate the potential of SAF as a 100% drop-in replacement for conventional jet fuel, as well as to reduce the environmental impacts of aviation and contribute to research and development on the non-CO2 effects of flying.
SAF is a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels that can reduce CO2 lifecycle emissions by more than 70%, while still meeting the strict quality and safety standards required for aviation. SAF is currently the most viable option for decarbonising long-haul flights, but it represents less than 0.1% of jet fuel volumes and fuel standards only allow for a 50% SAF blend in commercial jet engines.
The Virgin Atlantic flight will be the first to use 100% SAF in a commercial aircraft, pending further regulatory approvals and testing. The partners have already completed a successful ground test on the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engine, which powers the Boeing 787 aircraft, using the chosen SAF blend.
Virgin Atlantic is committed to finding more sustainable ways to fly and achieving its Net Zero 2050 goal. The airline already operates one of the most fuel and carbon efficient fleets across the Atlantic and has a 15-year track record of leading on SAF.
Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, said: “The 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel transatlantic flight will be a historic moment in aviation’s roadmap to decarbonisation. Alongside fleet transformation, SAF is the most readily available way for our industry to decarbonise, but currently there’s not enough supply and without it and the radical collaboration required to produce it, we can’t meet our 2030 targets. We need UK government support to create a UK SAF industry to allow for every single flight out of the UK to operate with 100% SAF – if we make it, we can fly it.”
Rob Watson, President of Civil Aerospace at Rolls-Royce, said: “We are incredibly proud that our Trent 1000 engines will power the first ever flight using 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel across the Atlantic. Confirming that we have successfully completed the ground test of the Trent 1000 engine today, using the chosen 100% SAF blend, gives us increased confidence for the engine’s performance and operation ahead of the flight this November. The flight will represent an incredible milestone for the entire aviation industry in its journey towards net zero carbon emissions.”
Andreea Moyes, Global Head of Sustainability at Air bp, said: “We are thrilled to be supplying Sustainable Aviation Fuel for the world’s first 100% SAF transatlantic flight. SAF is currently the most viable option to help us meet the industry’s net zero ambition and in the short and medium term it will be the only option for long-haul flights. Moving our industry and policy towards the use of 100% SAF is important as we work in collaboration with key stakeholders to help decarbonise aviation.”
Dave Kettner, President & General Counsel at Virent said: “With Virent’s plant-based Synthesized Aromatic Kerosene (SAK) providing essential fuel components, this test showed that 100% drop-in renewable fuel is cleaner burning and will work seamlessly in today’s commercial airline engines. We’re honoured to collaborate with Virgin Atlantic, Rolls-Royce and Air bp as these forward-looking companies lead the way in sustainable aviation. Virent shares their commitment to finding sustainable ways to fly, and we’re excited about the pivotal role our BioForm® SAK plays in making that goal a reality.”
Sheila Remes, Vice President of Environmental Sustainability at Boeing said: “Boeing is proud to provide technical expertise and support for this testing as we gear-up for Virgin Atlantic’s flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner to make the first 100% SAF transatlantic flight. We look forward to continuing to work with our project partners on this journey, taking one more step towards a sustainable future of flight.”
Adjetey Anang, the renowned Ghanaian actor known as Pusher, has revealed that he wishes he had more children.
The actor, who is married to Elom Anang and has a son named Ryan, said he always wanted to have two children, while his wife wanted three.
In an interview with Graphic Showbiz, the star of ‘The Things We Do for Love’ said he was content with what he had, but he would not mind having one or two more children.
“I have always wanted to have two and my wife wants to have three children so if we have one or two more, it will be great but we are content with what we have,” he said.
Adjetey Anang and his wife welcomed their first child in 2015, seven years after their marriage. He said it was one of the most challenging times of their lives as they waited for God’s blessing.
“So it was a combination of feelings, there were times when there was so much hope and there were other times you would ask yourself what is it that you are doing wrong as Christians.
“There were times when we were invited for outdoorings and other times when people will see you and say, we are praying for you. All of that was not easy at all for us.
“There was a lot of pressure on us and it was very tough but we kept hoping and hoping and here we are today,” he said.
The actor also defended his decision to share his marital struggles in his memoir, saying it was an act of vulnerability and sincerity that was expected of him as a public figure.
“No, I won’t change a thing at all, I will leave it as it is. That is what it is supposed to be for someone in the limelight. There is an element of vulnerability and sincerity that is expected of you for them to relate,” he said.
Trevor Francis, the former England forward who became the first £1m player in British football history, has passed away at the age of 69.
His family confirmed that he died of a heart attack in Spain, where he spent half of his time. He had suffered a heart attack 11 years ago and had kept himself fit with daily power walks.
Francis was a prolific striker who scored 12 goals in 52 appearances for England, including two at the 1982 World Cup. He also had a successful managerial career, leading Sheffield Wednesday and Birmingham City to major finals.
He started his playing career at Birmingham City in 1970, making his debut at 16. He scored 133 goals in 328 games for the Blues, becoming the youngest player to score four times in a Football League match in 1971.
In 1979, he made history when he joined Nottingham Forest for £1.15m, although his manager Brian Clough insisted the fee was £999,999 to ease the pressure on him. He repaid the investment by scoring the only goal in the 1979 European Cup final against Malmo, securing Forest’s first continental trophy. He missed the following year’s final win over Hamburg due to injury.
He left Forest in 1981 and joined Manchester City, before moving to Italy where he played for Sampdoria and Atalanta. He won the Coppa Italia with Sampdoria in 1985. He then had spells with Rangers and QPR, where he became player-manager in 1988.
He joined Sheffield Wednesday as a player in 1990 and took over as manager from Ron Atkinson in 1991. He guided the Owls to third place in the old First Division and seventh place in the inaugural Premier League season. He also led them to the FA Cup and League Cup finals in 1993, losing both to Arsenal.
He left Wednesday in 1995 and returned to Birmingham City as manager in 1996. He took them to three play-off campaigns and the 2001 League Cup final, where they lost to Liverpool on penalties. He left St Andrew’s in 2001 and had a brief spell at Crystal Palace before retiring from management in 2003.
His former clubs and teammates paid tribute to him on social media, expressing their shock and sadness at his death.
“Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of two-time European Cup winner, Trevor Francis,” Forest wrote on Twitter. “A true Forest legend who will never be forgotten.”
Birmingham City tweeted: “We are deeply saddened by the news. He represented Blues on 330 occasions, scoring 133 goals.”
Gary Lineker, who played with Francis for England, wrote: “Deeply saddened to hear that Trevor Francis has died. A wonderful footballer and lovely man. Was a pleasure to work alongside him both on the pitch and on the telly. RIP Trevor.”
Peter Shilton, who played with Francis for Forest and England, wrote: “I’m absolutely devastated to hear about my old teammate Trevor Francis such a wonderful gentleman a friend and a terrible loss.”
The football world is mourning the loss of Chris Bart-Williams, the former midfielder who played for Nottingham Forest, Sheffield Wednesday and England. He passed away in the US at the age of 49, where he had been working as a coach and mentor.
Bart-Williams was born in Sierra Leone and moved to London as a child. He started his career at Leyton Orient, where he made his debut at 16.
He then joined Sheffield Wednesday in 1991 for a club-record fee of £275,000. He played more than 150 games for the Owls, helping them reach the FA Cup and League Cup finals in 1993.
He also played under Trevor Francis, the former striker who also died on Monday at the age of 69.
In 1995, Bart-Williams moved to Nottingham Forest for £2.5 million. He became a key player for the Reds, winning the First Division title in 1997/98 and scoring 36 goals in 248 appearances.
He also played for Charlton and Ipswich, before ending his playing career in Cyprus and Malta.
Bart-Williams represented England at under-19, under-21 and B levels, earning 16 caps for the under-21s. He then pursued a coaching career in the US, working in women’s college football and youth soccer.
He was the owner and CEO of CBW Soccer Elite, a recruiting agency for college-bound players. He also became the head coach of Dade County in Florida last year.
His former clubs and teammates paid tribute to him on social media, expressing their shock and sadness at his untimely death.
“Sheffield Wednesday are deeply saddened at the passing of our former player Chris Bart-Williams,” the club said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with Chris’ and Trevor’s families and friends at this devastating time.”
Nottingham Forest tweeted: “Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former player Chris Bart-Williams. Our thoughts go out to Chris’ family and friends at this truly difficult time.”
Mark Crossley, who played with Bart-Williams at Forest, wrote: “Devastating and I’m so upset to hear the news of Trevor Francis passing and my former teammate Chris Bart-Williams, both so young, it is so sad , RIP Trevor and Chris.”
Ipswich also offered their condolences, posting: “The club is saddened to learn of the passing of former player Chris Bart-Williams. Once a Blue, always a Blue.”
We are extremely saddened to hear that Chris Bart-Williams, who represented our #YoungLions and B team in the 1990s, has passed away aged 49.
Devastating and I’m so upset to hear the news of Trevor Francis passing and my former team mate Chris Bart Williams, both so young, it is so sad , RIP Trevor and Chris ❤️🥲🥲🥲
Sarkodie has finally spoken publicly about his leaked song ‘Try Me’, which was a direct response to actress Yvonne Nelson’s revelations in her memoir ‘I Am Not Yvonne Nelson’ about his role in an abortion she had for him years ago.
Background
Yvonne Nelson claimed in her book that Sarkodie impregnated her and asked her to abort the pregnancy when he was still a budding musician living with his mother.
She also accused him of being irresponsible, unfaithful and disrespectful to her during their relationship.
She said she decided to write the book to expose Sarkodie’s true character and to inspire other women who have gone through similar experiences.
Sarkodie’s reaction
Sarkodie released ‘Try Me’ as a counter-attack to Yvonne Nelson’s allegations, denying that he forced her to abort the pregnancy and questioning her credibility and motives.
He said he was not proud of the song and that it was leaked without his knowledge or consent by someone who had access to his studio.
He said he did not want to speak about the issue in the media because he might lose his composure and say things he would regret later.
He said he was hurt by Yvonne Nelson’s claims and that he felt the need to defend himself and his reputation.
The song
‘Try Me’ is a hard-hitting rap song that features Sarkodie’s signature wordplay, rhymes and flow.
The song tackles various aspects of the controversy, such as Sarkodie’s career, Yvonne Nelson’s book, their relationship, the pregnancy and the abortion.
The song also contains some personal details and insults aimed at Yvonne Nelson, such as calling her a liar, a hypocrite, a gold-digger and a whore.
The song has generated mixed reactions from fans and critics, some of whom praised Sarkodie for his lyrical skills and courage, while others condemned him for being disrespectful and insensitive.
