Former President and National Democratic Congress (NDC) Flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has condemned the failure of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s administration to promptly pay allowances owed to National Service Personnel in the public sector.
According to Mahama, the delay in payment, which began in November 2023, has caused significant financial hardship for service personnel.
During a recent tour on March 22, Mahama reflected on his presidency, noting that under his leadership, service personnel allowances were consistently paid on time.
He expressed surprise and disappointment at the current situation, questioning the competence of the ruling government to meet the basic needs of the people.
Speaking to the crowd in the local dialect, Mahama criticised the government’s performance, particularly its inability to fulfil its obligations.
“There was never a time in my government where we were unable to pay monthly allowance, but today for five months, they are unable to pay the service personnel, and the money is not so much. About 600 cedis or 700 cedis. What kind of government is this? Nothing seems to be going well. The economy was bad and we are wallowing in debt, and the little amount due these personnel, you are equally unable to pay,” Mahama said.
Meanwhile, National Service personnel nationwide have indicated their intention to go on strike to demand the payment of their allowances.
Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has, as expected, opposed the idea of Ghanaians considering a return to power by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the nation’s development.
According to him, citizens should objectively compare the performances of the two main political parties, especially in addressing the country’s challenges, before making any decision.
Afenyo-Markin emphasised that the NDC’s track record reveals a lack of solutions to Ghana’s problems, particularly in sectors like education and road infrastructure, contrasting them with the achievements of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), such as the introduction of the Kufour Bus and the implementation of health insurance.
Highlighting the importance of effective communication by the NPP regarding their accomplishments, Afenyo-Markin cautioned against the NDC’s tendency to propagate misinformation and deceive the Ghanaian populace.
The NPP aims to disrupt the traditional eight-year cycle of political parties in Ghana under the leadership of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
In contrast, the NDC, led by John Dramani Mahama, argues that the NPP’s governance has harmed Ghana and believes they can reverse this trend within four years, possibly leading to Mahama’s return to power if successful in the 2024 elections.
As of December 2023, Ghana witnessed a significant surge in its public debt, reaching a staggering GH₵610 billion.
This represents a notable increase of 26.85% compared to the GH₵446.3 billion recorded in December 2022.
The latest debt figure signifies a substantial portion of the Gross Domestic Product, standing at 72.5%.
According to the Bank of Ghana’s Summary of Economic and Financial Data for March 2024, despite the successful completion of the domestic debt exchange, the country’s year-to-date public debt escalated by GH₵163.7 billion.
The total debtstock in dollar terms amounted to US$52.4 billion, primarily attributed to the depreciation of the local currency.
External debt contributed GH₵350.3 billion (US$30.1 billion), while domestic debt stood at GH₵259.7 billion, accounting for 30.9% of GDP.
The surge in external debt amounted to GH₵109.4 billion, while domestic debt saw a modest increase of GH₵54.3 billion.
In addition to the debt escalation, nominal GDP also experienced a significant rise, climbing from GH₵614.3 billion to GH₵841.6 billion.
Shalimar Abbiusi, known as a spokesperson for the New Force Movement, has announced her intention to take legal action against the Ghanaian government at the ECOWAS court for alleged human rights violations and injustice.
The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) arrested and deported Shalimar in December 2023, accusing her of entering the country with falsified documents. Her lawyer, Francis-Xavier Sosu, strongly condemned the GIS’s actions, citing human rights abuses.
Taking to her X profile (formerly Twitter) on Friday, March 22, the Belgian national stated her plans to sue Ghana at the ECOWAS court, expressing gratitude to Francis-Xavier Sosu and the New Force Movement for their support throughout the ordeal.
Shalimar asserted that the experience has not weakened her resolve but rather motivated her to advocate for others facing similar injustices, emphasizing that her legal action is driven by a desire for justice and fairness.
She underscored the broader significance of her fight, stating that it represents not only her struggle but also the plight of others who have suffered injustice, including those she encountered during her detention.
However, she did not provide a specific timeline for filing the lawsuit.
I can finally share the news that I will be taking the state of Ghana to international ECOWAS court for the violation of my human rights and the injustice I have suffered.
In a notice dated March 22, 2024, signed by Mr. Henry Ashley, the Director of Human Resources and Administration, on behalf of the Commissioner, the news of Mr. Quayson’s demise was shared with staff members.
The notice conveyed the heavy-hearted message, stating that Mr Richard Ackom Quayson, the Deputy Commissioner (APR), passed away on March 21, 2024, after a brief illness.
Mr Quayson has served as Deputy Commissioner since August 2005, overseeing the Commission’s responsibilities regarding anti-corruption initiatives, public education, and research.
His journey with CHRAJ began in 1993 when he joined as a senior legal officer, following his tenure as a legal officer at the Office of the Ombudsman from 1987 to 1993.
Prior to his appointment as Deputy Commissioner, he served as the regional director for the Western and Central Regions.
Additionally, Mr Quayson chaired the National Working Group responsible for crafting Ghana’s National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP) and played a vital role in overseeing its implementation.
As a legal practitioner, Mr Quayson specialised in promoting and safeguarding human rights, ensuring administrative justice, and conducting investigations into corruption cases.
Kumawood sensation, Clara Amoateng Benson, popularly known as Maame Serwaa, has made a striking comeback to social media, much to the excitement of her fans.
The actress reappeared on Instagram, capturing attention with a recent video shared from her visit to a renowned hair salon.
In the video, Maame Serwaa donned a chic brown blouse paired with ash-colored leggings, showcasing her freshly braided hair. Her choice of attire accentuated her curves, adding to her newfound allure.
Sporting stylish glasses and a subtle nose ring, the 24-year-old actress radiated confidence as she gracefully flaunted her transformed appearance, captivating viewers with a mesmerizing 360-degree view.
Maame Serwaa’s return has sparked a frenzy among Ghanaians on social media, with admirers applauding her stunning makeover while others eagerly inquire about the cost of her transformation.
For those unfamiliar, Maame Serwaa rose to fame as a child actress in Ghana’s vibrant Kumawood industry, earning acclaim for her exceptional talent and captivating performances. Now, with her bold return to the spotlight, she continues to captivate audiences with her undeniable charm and newfound glamour.
REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST (CONSULTING SERVICES-FIRMS SELECTION)
COUNTRY
GHANA
NAME OF PROJECT
GHANA DIGITAL ACCELERATION PROJECT (P176126)
CREDIT NO
IDA-70560-CH
ASSIGNMENT TITLE
ENGAGEMENT OF A CONSULTANT TO UNDERTAKE A BASELINE SURVEY TOWARDS DIGITAL ACCELERATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN GHANA
REFERENCE NO.
GH-HOC–379735-CS-QCBS
The Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation has received Credit from the World Bank toward the cost of the Ghana Digital Acceleration Project (GDAP) and intends to apply part of the proceeds for Consultancy Services to undertake a baseline survey towards Digital Acceleration for Persons with Disabilities in Ghana.
Objective of the Assignment
The principal objectives of this consultancy assignment include but not limited to:
i. Conduct an in-depth assessment of the existing digital infrastructure and technologies accessible to persons with disabilities in Ghana. ii. Assess the extent to which digital public services, digital platforms, and innovations are accessible to persons with disabilities in Ghana. iii. Identify social, economic, infrastructure, and policy barriers limiting the ability of persons with disabilities to access opportunities in the digital economy. iv. Benchmark Ghana’s existing digital acceleration policies, initiatives, and related activities against international best practices in digital inclusion for persons with disabilities. v. Inform the design of inclusive digital skills training programmes that help persons with disabilities to access employment and entrepreneurship opportunities in the digital economy. vi. Inform the development of digital skills training manuals for various trainings for people with disabilities to enhance active participation of persons with disabilities in formal employment, in entrepreneurship and for independent living.
The consulting firm must demonstrate the following: a. Minimum ten (10) years of experience in data collection and analysis, survey design, and baseline studies relating to the inclusion of persons with disabilities within the context of Ghana or Sub-Saharan Africa. b. Demonstrated experience in the ICT sector, especially in digital technologies and innovations. c. Previous experience in evaluating the accessibility of digital platforms, applications, and services for persons with abilities d. Prior experience working with donors and/or national governments in Sub-Saharan Africa; experience working in Ghana preferred. e. Experience in preparing reports to a standard acceptable to national and international financing institutions and be fluent in written and spoken English. f. Firms which include a person with disability on their tears are highly preferred.
Duration of the Assignment: 4 months
Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage.
The attention of interested Consulting firms is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14.3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers, September 2003 (Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. In addition, please refer to the following specific information on conflict of interest related to this assignment on paragraph 3.17 of the Procurement Regulations.
Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate, clearly, whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable the entire contract, if selected.
A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Consultant’s Qualification and CostBased Selection (QCBS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations.
Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours from 0900 hours to 1600 hours GMT or through pcu.gdap@moc.gov.ph
Expressions of Interest (one (1) original and four (4) copies) must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, by mail, or by e-mail) by 1600 hours GMT on April 4, 2024. Envelopes must be marked “EXPRESSION OF INTEREST TO UNDERTAKE A BASELINE SURVEY TOWARDS DIGITAL ACCELERATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN GHANA.
The Chief Director Attn: The Project Coordinator: Ghana Digital Acceleration Project (GDAP) Project Rooms 39 Fifth Floor, Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation Office Complex Abdul Diouf Street, near Ken Annan ICT Centre of Excellence P.O. Box M.38, Ministries Accra, Ghana Digital Address: GA-079-0539 To Email: pcu.gdap@moc.gov.ph Website: www.pbdc.gov.gh
SPECIFIC PROCUREMENT NOTICE National Competitive Tendering (NCT) Invitation for Tenders (IFT) (One-Envelope Bidding Process)
Country: Republic of Ghana Project: Ghana Digital Acceleration Project (GDAP) Contract Title: Supply and Installation of 1 Set of EMC Chamber (Anechoic Chamber), 1 set EMC Test Equipment and Accessories for conformance immunity and emissions and provision of a structure to host the EMC Anechoic Chamber Credit No: IDA 70960-GH RFB Reference Nos.: GH-MOC-286625-G0-RFB
1. The Government of the Republic of Ghana has received financing from the World Bank toward the cost of the Ghana Digital Acceleration Project (GDAP) and intends to apply part of the proceeds toward payments under the contract for the Supply and Installation of 1 Set of EMC Chamber (Anechoic Chamber), 1 set EMC Test Equipment and Accessories for conformance immunity and emissions and provision of a structure to host the EMC Anechoic Chamber for the National Communication Authority (NCA).
2. The Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation (MoCD) now invites sealed Bids from eligible Bidders for the following: The bid is packaged as follows:
Description
Bid Security
Supply and Installation of 1 Set of EMC Chamber (Anechoic Chamber), 1 set EMC Test Equipment and Accessories for conformance immunity and emissions and provision of a structure to host the EMC Anechoic Chamber
2%
3. Bidding will be conducted through national competitive procurement using a Request for Bids (RFB) as specified in the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” 5 Edition Revised September 2023 (“Procurement Regulations”) and is open to all eligible Bidders as defined in the Procurement Regulations.
4. Interested eligible Bidders may obtain further information from the address below and inspect the bidding document during office hours 0900 to 1700 at the address given below.
5. The bidding document in English may be downloaded or emailed free of charge. Soft copies of the bidding documents are available online from the website (www.moc.gov.gh), but hard copies may additionally be purchased by interested eligible Bidders upon the submission of a written application to the address below and upon payment of a non-refundable fee of GH500.00. The method of payment will be cash or bank draft in the name of the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation.
6. Bids must be delivered to the address below on or before 10:00 am. local time on April 3, 2024. Electronic Bidding will not be permitted. Late Bids will be rejected. Bids will be publicly opened in the presence of the Bidders’ designated representatives and anyone who chooses to attend at the address below.
7. All Bids must be accompanied by a Bid Security of 2%. 8. Attention is drawn to the Procurement Regulations requiring the Borrower to disclose information on the successful bidder’s beneficial ownership, as part of the Contract Award Notice, using the Beneficial Ownership Disclosure Form as included in the bidding document.”
8. Attention is drawn to the Procurement Regulations requiring the Borrower to disclose information on the successful bidder’s beneficial ownership, as part of the Contact Award Notice, using the Beneficial Ownership Disclosure Form as included in the bidding document.”
9. The address(es) referred to above is (are):
Tender Notice: Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation Seeks Bids for EMC Chamber Installation in Ghana’s Digital Acceleration Project
RECRUITMENT OF INVESTMENT PARTNERS FOR SHELL SERVICE STATIONS
Vivo Energy Ghana Limited is the exclusive marketer and distributor of Shell-branded products and services. The company is looking for investment partners to oversee the operations of its Shell service stations in the following cities:
Accra Tema Kumasi Koforidua Ho Takoradi Sunyani Tamale Wa Bolga Cape Coast
Eligibility Applicants must possess the following qualities:
A passion for driving excellence in client service.
Confident in working under pressure, strictly following Vivo Energy Ethics and Compliance.
Keen to take on physical activities where and when required.
Relevant experience in the oil and retail industry.
A minimum capital of One Million Ghana Cedis (GHC 1,000,000.00).
Knowledge in Financial Management (working capital, costs monitoring and savings, P&L management) and Human Resource Management.
An academic qualification in Business Administration preferable but not essential 961000.
Minimal experience on health, security and safety matters.
Ability to deliver results through the management, motivation, and development of teams.
If you have the required profile and ready for the daily management of one or more service stations, we invite you to download the application form via https://www.vivoenergy.com/sites/vivoenergy-corp/files/ve-retailer-application-form-spc-210819.pdf.
All completed forms should be sent to OP-Recruitment-Ghana@vivoenergy.com by 1 April, 2024 with the subject: Application For Investment Partner.
Only applications sent through the official email will be considered.
GHANA CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY NATIONAL COMPETITIVE TENDERING Invitation for Tenders
FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT (GOODS)
NAME OF PROJECT: PROCUREMENT OF BATTERIES FOR 10KVA UPS FOR THE AUTHORITY.
The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) intends to apply part of its budgetary resources to fund eligible payments under Call-off Contracts that may be awarded under a Framework Agreement (FWA) concluded through this Invitation for Tenders Primary Procurement process.
No.
Item Description
Qty
Package Number
Cost of Tender Document
Tender Opening
1
Procurement of Batteries 10kwa
GR/GCAA/ GD/0044/2024
Various
GH₵ 500.00
12/04/2024
Tendering will be conducted through the National Competitive Tendering procedures specified in the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663) as amended and in the Guidelines of the Public Procurement Authority of the Republic of Ghana.
GCAA is undertaking the Primary Procurement with a view to concluding a Framework Agreement. GCAA now invites sealed tenders from eligible tenderers for Supply of Batteries over a period of one (1) year. These items will be supplied to the GCAA stores. The Framework Agreement to be concluded will be a “Single-user”. The Single-User entitled to procure under the Framework Agreement is Ghana Civil Aviation Authority.
The Framework Agreement to be concluded will be “Single-Supplier”.
The selection of an FWA Supplier to be awarded a Call-off Contract will be done through a Secondary Procurement process as defined in the Framework Agreement. However, the conclusion of a Framework Agreement shall not impose any obligation on the GCAA to procure Goods under a Call-off Contract. The conclusion of a Framework Agreement does not guarantee that an FWA Supplier will be awarded a Call-off Contract.
Interested eligible Tenderers may obtain further information from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and inspect the Tender documents at the address given below from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm weekdays from 14th March 2024.
Procurement Office, New GCAA Head Office Building, Second Floor, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority Kotoka International Airport, Accra Tel: +233 302 776171 (Ext. 2002) Direct Line: +233 302 771812 Email: beshun@caa.com.gh
A complete set of Tender Documents in English may be purchased by interested Tenderers upon submission of a written application and payment of a non-refundable fee of Gh¢500.00 each.
Tenders shall be valid for a period of 148 days after the deadline of Tender submission. All Tenders must be accompanied by a Tender Security of Not less than GH¢ 2,000.00.
Tenders must be delivered to the address below on or before 11:00 AM on 12th April 2024.
DIRECTOR-GENERAL GHANA CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY PRIVATE MAIL BAG KOTOKA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ACCRA. ATTENTION: DIRECTOR, GENERAL
Late Tenders will be rejected.
All Tenderers are required to attach copies of the underlisted Documents to their tenders:
a. Company Registration Certificate b. VAT Registration Certificate c. Valid Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Clearance Certificate d. Valid SSNIT Clearance Certificate e. Valid Public Procurement Authority’s Supplier Registration
Tender Opening:
Tenders will be opened in the presence of tenderers’ representatives, who choose to attend at the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, New GCAA Head Office Building, Fourth Floor Conference Room on 11.00AM on 12th April 2024.
In the wake of the recent passing of Member of Parliament (MP) for Ejisu and Deputy Minister for Finance, John Kumah and the subsequent claims of possible poisoning brought up by media personalities, Captain Smart and Oheneba Asiedu, The Independent Ghana has chanced on a 2007 report by The Daily Guide Newspaper.
The report delves into the unsettling claims allegedly made by the late New Patriotic Party (NPP) stalwart Hawa Yakubu, who is reported to have confided in close associates that she had been poisoned, right before her demise.
Read the full report published by The Daily Guide Newspaper and circulated on ghanaweb.com, myjoyonline.com, and modernghana.com on Thursday, 22 March 2007.
A number of persons have disclosed that the late Madam Hawa Yakubu had told them before her death that she had been poisoned through ‘someone in her house but said she would recover.
According to the Greater Accra Regional Youth Organiser of the New Patriotic Party, Alhaji Yusif Ahmed, who hailed from the same Busanga ethnic group with the late leading member of the ruling party, “she spoke to me on 1st of March this year from London and told me that she had been poisoned. She therefore told me to organize prayers for her recovery.”
Continuing, he said, “The woman’s voice sounded as though she was responding to treatment. Her voice was a contrast to what I heard at the Maple Hotel sometime ago when she came there for a function.”
During the meeting at the Maple Hotel, he said the woman told him the same thing, having been poisoned.
Alhaji Yusif Ahmed, who is very close to the late politician’s family, disclosed that her son, Derrick Yakubu was due to leave for London yesterday to arrange for the return of his mother’s remains to Ghana.
The Youth Organiser said she bore four children, but one died earlier, with the surviving ones being Derrick, Amanda, and Dieudonne.
The Castle Correspondent of Daily Guide, Shiela Sackey who interviewed Hawa Yakubu on April 11, 2006 for her column, “Sheila’s Women”, also recalled how the former Bawku Central MP told her that she had been poisoned.
“She told me that it was off-record and the disclosure preceded the main interview she granted me. That was the time she told me that it was likely that she would contest the NPP Presidential flagbearship.
“She looked frail and did not even want me to take a picture of her because of her state,” Shiela said.
In another disclosure, a second-year student of the African Institute of Journalism and Communication, Abdul Karim Nantogmah said that “six months ago, I went to Madam Hawa Yakubu’s house at East Legon which is close to Dr Andani’s residence (the Sanerigu Chief). She was my mentor as she assisted me financially,” he said.
“When I went to her in the company of my junior brother, we were told that she was not in but when I sent my ID card through a house help in the house, she let me in.
“She took me to a portion of the house where she sat down to eat a meal of yam and plantain as her hair was being plaited,” he said.
Nantogmah said Madam Hawa Yakubu told him “My son, you would have come to meet your mother dead”.
Explaining, she told him that after taking her super that evening she felt an unusual taste in her mouth and started to vomit.
She said poison had been put in her food by one of her house helps, according to Nantogmah, who said when he probed her further, she only said it was from within but refused to get beyond that.
A Chinese doctor was called in to offer an initial treatment and he recommended that she be sent to abroad for further treatment.
“During the visit I saw Alhassan of TV Africa and Mr Larry, the Upper East Chairman of the NPP,” Nantogmah added.
On the day of her death, Napoleon Abdullai of the Foundation for Security and Development in Africa who was her junior at the Navorongo Secondary School and called from Liberia to ascertain the veracity of the news, said, “The woman is very much respected in Liberia and she took part on the campaign of President Sirleaf Johnson. I am going to call the Presidential aide and break the news to him.”
Sources close to the hospital have pointed at cancer as the cause of her death.
Madam Hawa Yakubu died in a London Hospital after being indisposed for a long time.
About two months ago, rumors hit town that she had died but after a few checks, it was established that it was not true.
Those who recalled when she told them she was poisoned are unflinching in their position that indeed this woman whom they adored immensely did not die through natural causes.
Below are screenshots of the reports on ghanaweb.com, myjoyonline.com, and modernghana.com
Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe, also known as Abronye DC has taken to his personal Facebook page on March 19, 2024, to announce his recent appointment to the board of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), a state-owned entity.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in a communiqué earlier this week revealed that he has chosen Abronye to serve as a board member at TOR, a decision Abronye seemingly justified by sharing a condensed version of his CV, emphasizing his academic background in law and the oil and gas sector.
In his post, Abronye listed his qualifications as follows:
MBA in Petroleum Economics and Finance from Coventry University, UK
MSc Energy Economics from GIMPA
LLB Hons from KAAF University
LLM in ADR from the University of Ghana
Chartered Energy Economics from the Global Academy of Finance and Management, USA
According to his post, Abronye is also currently pursuing an Advanced LLM in Energy Law at the North Sea Partnership in the Netherlands, University of Groningen.
The appointments to the TOR Board were communicated in a letter dated March 18, 2024, signed by Nana Asante Bediatuo, the Executive Secretary to the president.
The letter, addressed to the Minister for Energy, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, announced an 11-member board, with Mr Leon Kendon Apenteng and Mr Kofi Mocumbi nominated by the president as Board Chair and Managing Director respectively.
The letter instructed the Minister for Energy to take the necessary steps to implement these appointments in accordance with the Companies Act, 2019 (ACT 992) and the Regulations of the Company.
The son of prominent New Patriotic Party (NPP) figure, Professor Albert Adu Boahen, Christopher Adu Boahen, has tragically lost his life in a robbery attack at his residence in East Legon.
According to a Facebook post by the 1995-year group of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Christopher, who was a person living with disability, encountered armed robbers in his home who forcibly entered his home, ransacked every corner, and ultimately killed him in the process.
“Sad to announce the untimely passing of our classmate, Christopher. Wicked persons entered his home, ransacked the place, and robbed him of his life. His home, at East Legon, has been barricaded by the police and declared a crime scene,” it read.
Christopher, an electrical engineering graduate from KNUST, was remembered fondly by his classmates, who shared their shock and grief over the senseless loss.
“May the soul of our brother find rest in the Lord,” the post solemnly declared.
Christopher Adu Boahen’s father was the NPP’s presidential candidate during Ghana’s first elections under the Fourth Republic in 1992.
His brother, Charles Adu Boahen, also held key positions in the Akufo-Addo government. Charles served as both a deputy minister for finance and later as a minister of state at the Ministry of Finance. His abrupt resignation in November 2022 raised eyebrows and speculation.
Former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo has expressed concern over the approach of the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo-led administration towards combating corruption.
Domelevo specifically highlighted the stalled Minerals Royalties deal, which has been on hold since 2021, noting the absence of any punitive action against implicated officials.
He pointed out that a report from the Special Prosecutor in 2020 had flagged irregularities in the deal, yet no consequences have been seen.
During an appearance on the Hot Issues programme on TV3, March 17, 2024, Domelevo emphasised that accountability should have been enforced following the corruption risk assessment conducted by Martin Amidu.
According to reports, approximately US$12 million was expended by the state in processing the deal, before its supension.
The Agyapa Royalties Deal was a financial arrangement initiated by the Ghanaian government. Its primary purpose was to address the long-standing challenge of insufficient capital for developmental projects in Ghana. Here are the key points about the deal:
The government assigned most gold mining royalties from Ghana’s industrial gold production to an offshore company called Agyapa Royalties Ltd.
Approximately 49% of the shares of Agyapa Royalties Ltd were intended to be sold for approximately $500 million.
Agyapa Royalties Limited was planned to trade shares on both the Ghana Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange for the private market.
However, in 2021, the deal faced significant controversy and opposition. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo suspended the deal due to public outcry and opposition from various civil society organizations and the National Democratic Congress (NDC). As a result, the Agyapa Royalties Deal remains on hold, awaiting further resolution and reconsideration.
During the protest, Nyanzi implored Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to reject the proposed legislation, which she labelled as an act of legislating hatred.
In solidarity with a gathering of pro-LGBT activists, Nyanzi participated in a protest against the Bill in Munich on March 17, 2024.
Speaking to the assembled crowd, Nyanzi expressed her dismay over a similar law in her home nation, emphasizing the importance of combating homophobia and transphobia, particularly in Africa.
The legislation, officially named the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, seeks to outlaw LGBT activities and penalize their promotion, advocacy, and funding.
Under the proposed law, individuals engaging in such acts could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years, while promoters and sponsors could be sentenced to three to five years behind bars.
President Akufo-Addo has put on hold his decision to either endorse or veto the bill, awaiting a ruling on its constitutionality by the Supreme Court.
Should the president opt to reject the bill, the parliament has the power to override his veto with a two-thirds majority vote, thereby enacting the bill’s provisions.
Deputy Finance Minister-Designate, Dr Alexander Ampaabeng, has expressed his support for the government’s implementation of the betting tax.
During his vetting by the Appointments Committee of Parliament in Accra, he endorsed the tax, highlighting its revenue potential for the country.
Responding to questions from Elizabeth Ofosu-Agyare, the National Democratic Congress(NDC) Member of Parliament for Techiman North, Dr Ampaabeng, a tax expert, clarified that the betting tax was not a new concept.
He explained that it was first introduced in 2015 under Act 891 (Customs Acts, 2015), with subsequent amendments.
Differentiating between previous legislation and the current provision (Act 1094), Dr Ampaabeng highlighted that the latest amendment removed the exemption threshold, thereby subjecting all winnings to taxation.
He emphasised that similar betting taxes were prevalent in East Africa.
Expressing his stance on the matter, Dr Ampaabengasserted that, from a revenue generation perspective, the betting tax presented significant opportunities for the country.
The Income Tax (Amendment) Act 2023 (Act 1094) introduces a withholding tax of 10 percent on all betting, lottery, and games of chance winnings.
In addition to endorsing the betting tax, Dr Ampaabeng also advocated for the expansion of the tax net to include online businesses. He emphasised the importance of assessing and reconsidering options to ensure that the government maximises revenue potential from online platforms.
The police have disclosed intricate details surrounding the murder case of Mr. Eric Johnson, the proprietor of Royal Cosy Hills Hotel, popularly known as Jirapa Dubai.
Chief Superintendent of Police Abdulai Amadu Alichewu disclosed that Eliasah Mahama Akpanyikye, the former Human Resource manager at the hotel, is the prime suspect in the case.
Allegedly, Akpanyikye, in collusion with his partner Belinda Miller, a receptionist at the hotel, conspired to orchestrate Mr. Johnson’s demise.
During proceedings at the Wa District Court on Wednesday, March 13, 2023, the prosecution unveiled compelling evidence implicating Akpanyikye, Miller, and a third suspect, Kweku Kumbata, in the heinous crime. While four other individuals were discharged and acquitted, these three defendants are now standing trial.
The prosecutor alleged that Akpanyikye illicitly gained access to Mr. Johnson’s residence on February 10, clandestinely scaling a fortified fence with a ladder. Phone records reportedly reveal a series of calls made by Akpanyikye to Miller, seeking crucial information on accessing Johnson’s room.
Subsequently, Mr. Johnson was discovered brutally stabbed multiple times in his room, with valuable possessions, including money and a car key, allegedly pilfered by the assailant.
The prosecution further underscored Akpanyikye’s suspicious conduct, particularly citing conflicting explanations regarding an injury he purportedly sustained. Despite attributing the injury to a kitchen mishap, evidence suggests otherwise.
Following the purported crime, Akpanyikye purportedly fled Jirapa but was eventually apprehended in Takoradi, subsequently brought back to face the full force of justice.
The court also learned that Akpanyikye, the former human resource manager, was dismissed from his position on February 9, along with his girlfriend and four others. Allegations of Akpanyikye’s involvement in multiple amorous liaisons with several female employees reportedly resulted in discord and unhealthy rivalry among staff members, compromising operations at the hotel.
While the hotel management rescinded the decision to terminate Belinda Miller’s employment, Akpanyikye remains in custody pending further legal proceedings.
Chief Superintendent Amadu Alichewu reiterated the prosecution’s unwavering commitment to ensuring justice prevails, collaborating closely with the Office of the Attorney General to expedite investigations.
Presided over by Maxwell Maxbrain Titiriku, the court remanded Akpanyikye to prison custody, while Miller and the third suspect were detained in police custody, awaiting further deliberations scheduled for April 15th.
The wife of the late Deputy Finance Minister and MP for Ejisu, John Kumah, has revealed that her husband returned from Germany, where he was receiving treatment for a terminal illness, just to attend the 6th March parade in his constituency.
In an emotional interview with Asaase Radio, Mrs Lilian Kumah narrated how her husband ignored her pleas to rest, and instead chose to participate in the Independence Day celebration in Ejisu.
“He returned from Germany on the Sunday. Monday, he went to work, very strong and active. Tuesday, he went to parliament, but Tuesday, he realized that he was not that strong, but he returned all the way from Germany just to attend the 6th March so he was determined to be at Ejisu to be part of the 6th March. I tried everything to discourage him, but you know, once a soldier always a soldier, madly in love with his country and what he is doing so he left,” she said.
John Kumah’s unwavering commitment to his country was evident in this gesture. His wife shared the challenging events leading up to his unfortunate passing. She recounted driving to Kumasi on Wednesday, March 6th, 2024, only to find him in critical condition on Thursday morning, as he was being rushed to the hospital in an ambulance.
“I think Wednesday, I called him, but his voice did not sound well on the phone, so I told him to try to get here (Accra) so he could return to Germany, but he was not in support of that idea. So, I decided to drive to Kumasi. I drove to Kumasi. Unfortunately, I arrived Thursday morning around 7:30 a.m. My husband couldn’t move when I arrived. He was being put in an ambulance. So I left my car with my brothers and got into the ambulance,” she noted.
Despite an initial positive gesture from John, indicating control over the situation, the journey became increasingly challenging.
“He opened his eyes and gave me a thumbs up. He usually did that to let me know that he was in control, so I needn’t worry. Immediately, I felt relieved thinking that he was okay. But it got tough while we were on the road.”
"He went through pain”! – John Kumah’s wife breaks silence on cause of husband’s death
At around 11, signs of relief turned into a medical emergency. His wife, a pastor, began fervently praying as medical professionals worked to stabilize him.
Mrs Kumah said, “So around 11, I realized that he showed a sign of relief. He could fly his fists in the air along with joy on his face. He had been sweating earlier, but he had stopped sweating. But I have a little medical background, so I looked at the screen of the machine connected to him and realized that things are dropping and they weren’t encouraging. I was with his doctor and some technicians in the ambulance. They were all trying to comport themselves, but as a pastor, I was just praying seriously trusting God to intervene.”
The ambulance, urgently diverted to the nearest hospital in Suhum, for extra help as his condition worsened. Despite prompt efforts by medical staff, the situation deteriorated. At 12:20 pm, the doctor delivered the heartbreaking news to John’s wife, confirming their best efforts had not been enough.
“Unfortunately, the doctor raised the alarm at 11:45 a.m that, we find a nearby hospital so he could rest and be given a CPU and constant oxygen supply for the meantime before continuing. He wants to stabilize him first. The nearest hospital was Suhum, so we took the route to that hospital. When we got there, they didn’t delay at all. They quickly brought the oxygen, doctors came out. Not long after, the doctor gathered courage and told me that, they did their best, but it got out of their hands,” she recounted.
In her disbelief, she insisted on bringing him back, holding onto hope for a miraculous recovery. As the reality set in, she expressed a lingering hope that the tragic news might be a nightmare, desperately clinging to the possibility of a miracle.
“This was around 12:20. They confirmed this at around 12:20 pm. The reason why I remember the time is because I said ei JK, this afternoon, at this hour… you can’t leave like that, but unfortunately, I was hoping that they were wrong. So I insisted that they bring him for I have faith in God that life would return to him body once more. As at now, I am still hoping that this is a nightmare, that I would be told that this is a prank or there would be a miracle. I am still hoping,” she added.
Wife of the late John Kumah has recounted the series of events leading up to his untimely death after returning from Germany, on 3rd March 2024.
In an emotional interview with Asaase Radio, Mrs Lilian Kumah narrated how her husband moved from being ‘strong and active’ on Monday to losing his life on Thursday, 7th March 2024.
“He returned from Germany on the Sunday. Monday, he went to work, very strong and active. Tuesday, he went to parliament, but Tuesday, he realized that he was not that strong, but he returned all the way from Germany just to attend the 6th March so he was determined to be at Ejisu to be part of the 6th March. I tried everything to discourage him, but you know, once a soldier always a soldier, madly in love with his country and what he is doing so he left,” she said.
John Kumah’s unwavering commitment to his country was evident in this gesture. His wife shared the challenging events leading up to his unfortunate passing. She recounted driving to Kumasi on Wednesday, March 6th, 2024, only to find him in critical condition on Thursday morning, as he was being rushed to the hospital in an ambulance.
“I think Wednesday, I called him, but his voice did not sound well on the phone, so I told him to try to get here (Accra) so he could return to Germany, but he was not in support of that idea. So, I decided to drive to Kumasi. I drove to Kumasi. Unfortunately, I arrived Thursday morning around 7:30 a.m. My husband couldn’t move when I arrived. He was being put in an ambulance. So I left my car with my brothers and got into the ambulance,” she noted.
Despite an initial positive gesture from John, indicating control over the situation, the journey became increasingly challenging.
“He opened his eyes and gave me a thumbs up. He usually did that to let me know that he was in control, so I needn’t worry. Immediately, I felt relieved thinking that he was okay. But it got tough while we were on the road.”
"He went through pain”! – John Kumah’s wife breaks silence on cause of husband’s death
At around 11, signs of relief turned into a medical emergency. His wife, a pastor, began fervently praying as medical professionals worked to stabilize him.
Mrs Kumah said, “So around 11, I realized that he showed a sign of relief. He could fly his fists in the air along with joy on his face. He had been sweating earlier, but he had stopped sweating. But I have a little medical background, so I looked at the screen of the machine connected to him and realized that things are dropping and they weren’t encouraging. I was with his doctor and some technicians in the ambulance. They were all trying to comport themselves, but as a pastor, I was just praying seriously trusting God to intervene.”
The ambulance, urgently diverted to the nearest hospital in Suhum, for extra help as his condition worsened. Despite prompt efforts by medical staff, the situation deteriorated. At 12:20 pm, the doctor delivered the heartbreaking news to John’s wife, confirming their best efforts had not been enough.
“Unfortunately, the doctor raised the alarm at 11:45 a.m that, we find a nearby hospital so he could rest and be given a CPU and constant oxygen supply for the meantime before continuing. He wants to stabilize him first. The nearest hospital was Suhum, so we took the route to that hospital. When we got there, they didn’t delay at all. They quickly brought the oxygen, doctors came out. Not long after, the doctor gathered courage and told me that, they did their best, but it got out of their hands,” she recounted.
In her disbelief, she insisted on bringing him back, holding onto hope for a miraculous recovery. As the reality set in, she expressed a lingering hope that the tragic news might be a nightmare, desperately clinging to the possibility of a miracle.
“This was around 12:20. They confirmed this at around 12:20 pm. The reason why I remember the time is because I said ei JK, this afternoon, at this hour… you can’t leave like that, but unfortunately, I was hoping that they were wrong. So I insisted that they bring him for I have faith in God that life would return to him body once more. As at now, I am still hoping that this is a nightmare, that I would be told that this is a prank or there would be a miracle. I am still hoping,” she added.
Apostle Mrs Lilian Kumah, widow of the late Dr. John Kumah has shared a captivating revelation during an exclusive interview with Asaase Radio, recounting the fateful meeting that sparked a love story lasting nearly two decades.
Lilian recounted the chance encounter that laid the foundation for her enduring relationship with ‘Johnny’. Both navigating the early stages of their careers, they crossed paths in the bustling streets of Accra.
In 2005, shortly after completing Senior High School (SHS), Lilian Kumah crossed paths with her late husband on Mallam Road, on her way to—a moment that would shape her life forever.
“I met Johnny somewhere in 2005. I had just completed SHS. We met in Accra, specifically Mallam Road. I was on my way to work. An SHS student who was working,” she said.
Lilian recollected, “I had dropped my money, and he, a recent university graduate also on his way to work, gallantly retrieved it from the gutter for me. So after that, I thanked him.”
A simple act of kindness led to a conversation that changed everything.
As if scripted, their connection deepened over plantain chips. Johnny requested some, and Lilian, with all the money she had, shared her snack. Their brief exchange sparked something more profound.
“I then bought some plantain chips, and then he asked me to buy some for him. I told him that was all the money I had on me, and so I offered him some of what I had bought.”
Lilian, then hustling in Accra, directed Johnny to a friend’s residence when he inquired about where she lived.
“And then he asked for my name and where I lived. At the time, I was hustling in Accra, so I did not really have a place that I was living. So I directed him to a friend’s home,” she mentioned.
The following Sunday, Johnny surprised Lilian by visiting her friend’s home. Clutching his Bible under his arm, he explained that he wanted to say hello after church. Their friendship blossomed, and Johnny made his intentions clear: he was going far, and Lilian was part of his journey.
Exactly one year after their initial meeting, they exchanged vows. Their love story defied convention—no elaborate courtship, no grand gestures. It was love at first sight, a quiet knowing that transcended time. Johnny became Lilian’s mentor, her teacher, and her unwavering companion.
“Then that Sunday, I saw him come to my friend’s place, with his bible under his armpit. He said he wanted to just come and say hi after he had closed from church. And that is how our friendship began. Immediately, he made me understand that he [will be] going far, and he really meant business with me. Not long after, exactly one year after our meeting, we got married. We have been together for almost 18 years,” she narrated.
Their bond endured through thick and thin, long before Johnny stepped onto the political stage. His passion for politics had roots in his school days, but their love story was more profound. Together for nearly 18 years, they weathered life’s storms, their commitment unyielding.
Lilian affectionately revealed, “It was love at first sight. He has been my mentor and my teacher, and we have been together, both good and bad times, even way before he became an active politician. He had been a politician from school days, but actively … We were together when he had his first appointment, from Hon Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen, so that is how we began. We have been together since, until this unfortunate, Thursday.”
The unfolding of Lilian Kumah’s narrative paints a picture of a love story that defied odds, originating from a chance encounter on the streets of Accra and evolving into a lasting partnership of nearly two decades.
Lilian Kumah lost her husband John Kumah on March 7th, 2023. He had six children with her.
Widow of the late Deputy Finance Minister and Member of Parliament (MP) for Ejisu, John A. Kumah, has launched a scathing attack on Prophet Nigel Gaisie, accusing him of being a ‘fake prophet’ and an adulterous, ‘cheap liar’.
Mrs Lilian Kumah, who is also the General Overseer of Disciples of Christ Ministries, said that Nigel Gaisie knew about her late husband’s terminal illness and yet went ahead to make a false prophecy that a deputy minister would die in 2024.
“Nigel Gaisie is not a true man of God, he is a fake prophet and a cheap liar. Nigel Gaisie knew very well that my husband was terminally ill as far back as August 2023, but regardless of that, he stood on his altar on 31st December 2023 to lie through his supposed prophesy that a Ghanaian deputy minister will die in the year 2024. What does he want to achieve through these fake prophesies?” Asaase News quoted her to have said.
John Kumah, passed away on March 7th en route to Accra, after his deteriorating condition during the journey led to a detour to the Suhum Government Hospital in an ambulance.
Following Kumah’s death, rumours and suspicions of foul play emerged, with claims from individuals like Onua TV presenter Captain Smart and Oheneba Asiedu, a close associate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Chairman Wontumi.
These claims suggested poisoning as a potential cause, a matter Lilian Kumah has reported to the police for investigation.
Despite these allegations, Mrs. Lilian Kumah vehemently denies that her husband died from poisoning, contradicting speculations.
According to a report on asaaseradio.com, Mrs Kumah said, her late husband was diagnosed with a disease related to the blood in August 2023. They found this out in Germany after she had accompanied him for a medical check-up.
The grieving wife then took aim at Nigel Gaisie whose prophecy contributed to the rumours of foul play. She established that her family had a close relationship with Nigel Gaisie at one point.
“Nigel Gaisie was like a brother. He knows my late husband, lawyer John Kumah personally, one-on-one. We have sat in this house and eaten together several times. That is how far we go. When he came from abroad to start a church in Ghana, he came to my church, Disciples of Christ Ministries and I did a programme with him dubbed “Let the Prophet Speak”, she reportedly said.
“We know him very well and have been aware since November 2023 that the late John Kumah was seriously sick. My husband had a lot of respect for men of Ghana in this country and that included Nigel Gaisie when my husband and I thought he was a genuine man of God,” Apostle Lilian Kumah added.
She is said to have alleged that Nigel Gaisie has a habit of sleeping with other people’s wives and breaking up marriages and that his own wife had left him because of his infidelity.
“What is surprising to me is that Nigel Gaisie claims that he is a prophet but goes about sleeping with other people’s wives, but God has not been able to reveal his ungodly acts to him. He claims to see all that concerns prominent people in Ghana, but the extramarital affairs that have caused his wife to leave their marital home has not come to his attention.
“I say on authority that the reason why he is no longer welcomed to several ministries in Ghana is that everywhere he has visited, he went after people’s wives and slept with them, which led to the breaking of several homes,” she reportedly mentioned.
She challenged him to reveal the reason they had fallen out and why he was banned from the Church of God in Obuasi.
“I dare him to disclose the reason why my family and I cut him off and why he is unable to go to the Church of God in Obuasi. He should be praying to God to reveal his bad ways to him and to give him strength to stop going after other people’s wives.”
Apostle Lilian Kumah, the widow of the late Deputy Minister of Finance, John Kumah, has refuted speculations surrounding her husband’s death. Contrary to reports of food poisoning, she revealed that John Kumah had been battling a severe illness for over a year.
As the General Overseer of Disciples of Christ Ministries, Apostle Lilian Kumah expressed her distress over the unfounded claims and urged individuals to refrain from spreading misinformation.
She disclosed that John Kumahhad been diagnosed with a terminal disease during his treatment in Germany. Despite facing immense pain, he remained resilient, driven by the motto “we don’t do what is convenient, we do what we are commanded to do.”
“My husband went through pain but he never showed that he was in pain. He went through all the pain to do everything he needed to do during the period of his ill-health,” she is quoted to have said in an Interview with Asaase Radio.
Apostle Lilian Kumah emphasized that the medical reports from both Germany and Ghana never mentioned food poisoning as the cause of her husband’s medical condition.
“Right from day one since he was diagnosed in Germany, I have been part of the medical processes my husband went through, and no one, none of the doctors ever told me that my husband’s medical situation was because of poisoning.
“I have all the medical reports both from Germany and Ghana and food poisoning has never been mentioned in any of the reports,” she added.
The revelation aims to set the record straight and provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding John Kumah’s passing.
Widow of the late Dr. John Kumah, Apostle Mrs. Lilian Kumah, in an interview with Asaase News, has disclosed that the self-proclaimed prophet, Nigel Gaisie, used to be a close friend to her family, and was thus aware of her husband’s terminal illness well before making a controversial prophecy about the death of a Ghanaian deputy minister in 2024.
According to Mrs. Kumah, Nigel Gaisie, whom they considered “a brother” at some point, knew about her late husband’s health, as they had shared meals and had a close relationship.
“Nigel Gaisie was like a brother. He knows my late husband, lawyer John Kumah personally, one-on-one. We have sat in this house and eaten together several times. That is how far we go,” asaaseradio.com quotes her to have said.
“When he came from abroad to start a church in Ghana, he came to my church, Disciples of Christ Ministries and I did a programme with him dubbed “Let the Prophet Speak”, she emphasised.
Mrs Lilian Kumah
We know him very well and have been aware since November 2023 that the late John Kumah was seriously sick. My husband had a lot of respect for men of Ghana in this country and that included Nigel Gaisie when my husband and I thought he was a genuine man of God,” Apostle Lilian Kumah noted.
Wondering why he would use confidential information they provided to him to make a doomsday prophecy during his watch night service, John Kumah’s widow said, “Nigel Gaisie knew very well that my husband was terminally ill as far back as August 2023, but regardless of that, he stood on his altar on 31st December 2023 to lie through his supposed prophesy that a Ghanaian deputy minister will die in the year 2024. What does he want to achieve through these fake prophesies?”
The family had severed ties with Gaisie after discovering numerous alleged misdeeds on his part concerning his ministry, according to Asaase News.
Mrs. Kumah asserted that information at her disposal indicates that Nigel Gaisie’s involvement in extramarital relationships resulted in his wife leaving their marital residence, essentially leading to the breakdown of their marriage.
Additionally, she allegedly claimed that Gaisie has a negative track record wherever his purported ministry has dispatched him, to the extent that previous churches he visited no longer extend invitations due to the consistent shortcomings accompanying him wherever he goes.
“What is surprising to me is that Nigel Gaisie claims that he is a prophet but goes about sleeping with other people’s wives, but God has not been able to reveal his ungodly acts to him. He claims to see all that concerns prominent people in Ghana, but the extramarital affairs that have caused his wife to leave their marital home has not come to his attention. I say on authority that the reason why he is no longer welcomed to several ministries in Ghana is that everywhere he has visited, he went after people’s wives and slept with them which led to the breaking of several homes,” Apostle Lilian Kumah said. Nigel Gaisie is not a true man of God, he is a fake prophet and a cheap liar. I dare him to disclose the reason my family and I cut him off and why he is unable to go to the Church of God in Obuasi. He should be praying to God to reveal his bad ways to him and to give him strength to stop going after other people’s wives,” she reportedly said.
The recent passing of John Ampontuah Kumah, the Member of Parliament for Ejisu and a deputy finance minister, has brought attention to a lesser-known but significant health condition: multiple myeloma. In this article, we delve into the details of this blood cancer, shedding light on its causes, symptoms, and impact on patients.
Multiple myeloma, also known as plasma cell myeloma, is a type of cancer that originates in the plasma cells—a specific type of white blood cell responsible for producing antibodies. These antibodies play a crucial role in our immune system, helping us fight infections and diseases.
Symptoms
Initially, multiple myeloma may not exhibit noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, the following signs may emerge:
Bone Pain: Patients often experience bone pain, especially in areas like the chest, spine, and ribs.
Anemia: Abnormal plasma cells can outnumber healthy red blood cells, leading to fatigue, dizziness, and irritability.
Kidney Dysfunction: Increased protein levels due to myeloma can harm the kidneys.
Weakened Bones: The uncontrolled growth of plasma cells weakens bones, making them prone to fractures.
Suppressed Immune Function: As healthy blood cells are crowded out, the immune system becomes compromised, increasing susceptibility to infections.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of multiple myeloma remains unknown, but several factors increase the risk:
Family History: Individuals with affected family members are more prone to developing the condition.
Monoclonal Gammopathy of Unknown Significance (MGUS): A precursor condition that can progress to myeloma.
Gender and Age: More common in males and typically affects people over 50.
Ethnicity: African-Americans are at higher risk.
Overweight and Obesity: Slightly increases the risk.
Radiation Exposure: Past exposure to radiation may contribute.
Lowered Immunity: HIV infection or immunosuppressant use.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing multiple myeloma involves blood tests, imaging (such as X-rays and CT scans), and bone marrow biopsies. Treatment options include:
Bone Marrow Transplantation: Replacing unhealthy bone marrow with a healthy one.
Radiation Therapy: Shrinking cancerous cells using high-energy beams.
Balanced Diet: Patients should focus on fiber-rich foods, iron sources, and avoid infection-prone foods.
Multiple myeloma is a complex disease that affects plasma cells, bone health, and overall well-being. John Kumah’s case underscores the importance of awareness, early diagnosis, and compassionate care for those battling this condition. Let us continue to learn, support, and advocate for better understanding and management of multiple myeloma.
The late Deputy Finance Minister and MP for Ejisu, John Kumah, did not die of poisoning as some reports had suggested, but of a rare form of blood cancer, an alleged autopsy report has revealed, according to a GhanaWeb report.
Reports indicate that the autopsy, which was supposedly performed on Friday, March 8, 2024, by a qualified pathologist, revealed the cause of death as resulting from multiple myeloma, a cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow.
The Deputy Minister passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2024, sparking rumours and allegations that he was poisoned by some enemies who wanted to eliminate him for political reasons.
Family sources also confirmed last week that the MP had returned from Germany, where he was undergoing treatment, shortly before his death.
The MP had reportedly then completed four rounds of chemotherapy, and was due to resume active treatment in Germany on March 12, 2024.
His condition worsened and was rushed to Accra from Kumasi in an ambulance. His condition got worse during the journey and was sent to the Suhum Government Hospital for urgent care, where he died.
His journey to Accra was intended to prepare him for a flight back to Germany for further medical attention.
Following the MP’s death, videos of a previous edition of Captain Smart‘s show on Onua TV went viral on social media, in which the journalist claimed that the MP and some top members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) had been poisoned by some people who were unhappy with their roles in the party.
He specifically mentioned that the MP was poisoned along with the NPP’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, a few weeks ago.
Following this, Apostle Lilian Kumah, the late John Kumah’s wife has challenged Captain Smart to provide evidence for his allegations.
John Kumah was a lawyer and an entrepreneur who served as the first CEO of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) before becoming the Deputy Finance Minister and MP for Ejisu in 2021.
An alleged autopsy conducted on the late Member of Parliament for Ejisu, John Ampontuah Kumah, has dismissed poisoning as the cause of his demise, according to a GhanaWeb report.
The report indicates that the autopsy, performed on Friday, March 8, 2024, by a certified pathologist, pinpointed the cause of death as multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer.
Contrary to earlier speculations attributing the Deputy Minister for Finance’s death to poisoning, a close source revealed to GhanaWeb that he had been diagnosed with multiple myeloma in early 2023 and was actively undergoing treatment.
Family insiders disclosed that the MP, who had recently returned from Germany, where he was receiving medical care, experienced a deterioration in his condition, ultimately leading to his passing.
Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer affecting plasma cells, responsible for producing antibodies to combat infections. In this condition, abnormal plasma cells multiply uncontrollably in the bone marrow, displacing healthy blood cells. The repercussions include weakened bones, anaemia, kidney damage, and compromised immune function.
Records from the German Hospital, according to GhanaWeb, detail the MP’s diagnosis, including multiple myeloma, a dislocated humerus shaft, and extraarticular lateral clavicle fracture (right), among other medical issues.
At the time of his death, John Kumah had reportedly undergone four chemotherapy sessions, one of which took place at the Sweden Ghana Medical Centre in Accra, as per his request.
GhanaWeb’s report also disclosed that the MP was scheduled to commence active treatment in Germany on March 12, 2024, but against medical advice, he was discharged to participate in the Independence Day celebrations on March 6, 2024, before intending to return for treatment.
During the transportation from Kumasi to Accra, the MP’s condition worsened, leading to his untimely death. Plans were underway to fly him back to Germany for medical attention.
Meanwhile, Apostle Lilian Kumah, the wife of the late MP, who is supposedly aware of the diagnosis from the German hospital, has filed a police complaint against Captain Smart, the host of Onua FM’s morning show.
Captain Smart, in a recent show, alleged that the MP and other NPP figures had been targeted with food poisoning, a claim that the MP’s wife requires proof of.
The MP’s widow according to reports is demanding evidence and proof from Captain Smart regarding his statements concerning her husband’s death.
The Independent Ghana has not independently confirmed this information but deems it a responsibility to provide comprehensive details regarding the MP’s demise. Updates will be provided as the story unfolds.
What is Multiple Myeloma:
Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer affecting plasma cells, responsible for producing antibodies to fight infections. Abnormal plasma cells grow uncontrollably in the bone marrow, leading to weakened bones, anaemia, kidney damage, and suppressed immune function. Symptoms include bone pain, weakness, fatigue, frequent infections, weight loss, and excessive thirst. Treatment involves a combination of chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplantation, and supportive care.
Veteran journalist and Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, has expressed his shock and disbelief over the death of John Kumah, the deputy finance minister and MP for Ejisu, who reportedly died on Thursday, March 7, 2024, at the age of 45.
Speaking on Peace FM’s morning show Kokrokoo, Pratt said that he never saw Kumah unwell and that the last time he saw him, he was not sick and they had a good conversation.
“Our brother John Kumah’s death has shocked me. The reason is this. I never saw him unwell. The last time I saw him, he was not sick, and we had a good conversation. When I heard he had died, I could not believe it. I called the Ashanti Regional Minister Simon Osei Mensah for clarification because I know he was good friends with John Kumah. He confirmed it. John Kumah is dead. I consoled him. All of us who know John Kumah have been hit by this,” Pratt said.
He added that he was even more disturbed by the rumours and allegations that Kumah was murdered by some unknown persons who poisoned him.
“As I was still pondering on his demise, suddenly I heard rumours claiming he was murdered. Ah! Where from that too? There is even a gentleman who has come out to say he knows who killed John Kumah. So if you know who killed him, why have you not reported it? Why have you not reported it to the police? You claim to know who killed him, but won’t go and report it to the police.
So what at all is this? So in Ghana, no prominent person can die without being murdered? All of them have to be deliberately killed? I don’t understand. Must we politicize death, too? It is quite embarrassing. This is not the first time. Recently we had some big people claiming Professor Mills was also murdered and insisted on publicising his autopsy report. It is the same thing happening now,” Pratt lamented.
The real reason behind John Kumah’s deathhas been questioned by some recent statements from Captain Smart, a TV presenter, and Oheneba Asiedu, a friend of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Chairman Wontumi.
A common theme running through these submissions on John Kumah’s death is the claim that Kumah and Wontumi were poisoned some months ago in Tamale by some people who wanted to eliminate them for political reasons.
Resurfaced video excerpts of Captain Smart on his Maakye show on Onua TV, alleging the intentional poisoning of the late John Kumah.
He also claimed that there were attempts to poison other important people, such as Hon. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the former Majority Leader and MP for Suame; Hon. Andy Appiah Kubi, the MP for Asante-Akim North Constituency; and Chairman Wontumi, the NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman.
However, these claims have been challenged by Kumah’s wife, Apostle Lilian Kumah, who has filed a complaint with the police and demanded evidence from Captain Smart to substantiate his allegations. She has also called for a thorough investigation into the cause of her husband’s death and urged the public to respect the family’s privacy and grief.
John Kumah was a lawyer and an entrepreneur who served as the first CEO of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) before becoming the deputy finance minister and MP for Ejisu in 2021.
He was widely regarded as a man of integrity who championed job creation and youth development. He was also a preacher and a family man who left behind a wife and six children.
As Ghana grapples with this perplexing situation, one thing remains clear: John Kumah’s passing is shrouded in uncertainty. Was it natural causes or foul play? The nation awaits an answer.
Renowned commentator Kwesi Pratt Jnr has raised questions on the recent speculations surrounding the death of John Kumah during an appearance on Peace FM’s morning show Kokrokoo.
Expressing his bewilderment over the emerging rumours suggesting foul play in John Kumah’s demise, Kwesi Pratt Jnr remarked, “As I was still pondering on his demise, suddenly I heard rumours about claiming he was murdered. Ah! Where from that too? There is even a gentleman who has come out to say he knows who killed John Kumah. So if you know who killed him, why have you not reported it? Why have you not reported it to the police? You claim to know who killed him, but won’t go and report it to the police. So what at all is this?”
Kwesi Pratt Jnr went on to question the tendency to politicize deaths in Ghana, stating, “So in Ghana, no prominent person can die without being murdered? All of them have to be deliberately killed? I don’t understand. Must we politicize death, too? It is quite embarrassing for me.”
He drew parallels with previous instances of high-profile figures facing similar speculations, saying, “This is not the first time. Recently we had some big people claiming Professor Mills was also murdered and insisted on publicising his autopsy report. Is it not the same thing happening now? It is the same thing happening now.”
Expressing his personal shock over John Kumah‘s death, Kwesi Pratt Jnr emphasized, “Our brother John Kumah’s death has shocked me. The reason is this. I never saw him unwell. The last time I saw him, he was not sick, and we had a good conversation. When I heard he had died, I could not believe it. I called the Ashanti Regional Minister Simon Osei Mensah for clarification because I know he was good friends with John Kumah. He said it was true. John Kumah is dead. I consoled him. All of us who know John Kumah have been hit by this.”
Veteran journalist and Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, has expressed his shock and disbelief over the death of John Kumah, the deputy finance minister and MP for Ejisu, who reportedly died on Thursday, March 7, 2024, at the age of 45.
Speaking on Peace FM’s morning show Kokrokoo, Pratt said that he never saw Kumah unwell and that the last time he saw him, he was not sick and they had a good conversation.
“Our brother John Kumah’s death has shocked me. The reason is this. I never saw him unwell. The last time I saw him, he was not sick, and we had a good conversation. When I heard he had died, I could not believe it. I called the Ashanti Regional Minister Simon Osei Mensah for clarification because I know he was good friends with John Kumah. He confirmed it. John Kumah is dead. I consoled him. All of us who know John Kumah have been hit by this,” Pratt said.
He added that he was even more disturbed by the rumours and allegations that Kumah was murdered by some unknown persons who poisoned him.
“As I was still pondering on his demise, suddenly I heard rumours claiming he was murdered. Ah! Where from that too? There is even a gentleman who has come out to say he knows who killed John Kumah. So if you know who killed him, why have you not reported it? Why have you not reported it to the police? You claim to know who killed him, but won’t go and report it to the police. So what at all is this? So in Ghana, no prominent person can die without being murdered? All of them have to be deliberately killed? I don’t understand. Must we politicize death, too? It is quite embarrassing. This is not the first time. Recently we had some big people claiming Professor Mills was also murdered and insisted on publicising his autopsy report. It is the same thing happening now,” Pratt lamented.
The real reason behind John Kumah’s deathhas been questioned by some recent statements from Captain Smart, a TV presenter, and Oheneba Asiedu, a friend of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Chairman Wontumi.
A common theme running through these submissions on John Kumah’s death is the claim that Kumah and Wontumi were poisoned some months ago in Tamale by some people who wanted to eliminate them for political reasons.
Resurfaced video excerpts of Captain Smart on his Maakye show on Onua TV, alleging the intentional poisoning of the late John Kumah.
He also claimed that there were attempts to poison other important people, such as Hon. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the former Majority Leader and MP for Suame; Hon. Andy Appiah Kubi, the MP for Asante-Akim North Constituency; and Chairman Wontumi, the NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman.
However, these claims have been challenged by Kumah’s wife, Apostle Lilian Kumah, who has filed a complaint with the police and demanded evidence from Captain Smart to substantiate his allegations. She has also called for a thorough investigation into the cause of her husband’s death and urged the public to respect the family’s privacy and grief.
John Kumah was a lawyer and an entrepreneur who served as the first CEO of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) before becoming the deputy finance minister and MP for Ejisu in 2021.
He was widely regarded as a man of integrity who championed job creation and youth development. He was also a preacher and a family man who left behind a wife and six children.
As Ghana grapples with this perplexing situation, one thing remains clear: John Kumah’s passing is shrouded in uncertainty. Was it natural causes or foul play? The nation awaits an answer.
Gospel singer and songwriter MOG Music has avoided taking a clear position on the anti-LGBTQ+ bill that has been passed by Ghana’s parliament and awaits the president’s assent.
The award-winning artist, whose real name is Nana Yaw Boakye, was a guest on the United ShowBiz show on UTV on Saturday.
When asked by the host MzGee about his thoughts on the passage of the bill, he said, “With the job that I do, I would rather plead the fifth. I am saying this to protect my image and my brand. If I say for, they will say something, if I say against, they will say something. So I plead the fifth. What I stand for, in my private caucus I can speak about it, but not on air. Thank you.”
His response drew mixed reactions from the viewers, some of whom praised him for being diplomatic and others who criticized him for being evasive and hypocritical.
Theanti-LGBTQ+ Bill,which Ghana’s Parliament passed on February 28, 2024, aims to criminalize the activities of LGBTQ+ individuals within the country.
While it awaits the president’s assent to become law, it has already sparked intense debates and reactions both nationally and internationally. The bill encompasses stringent measures against members and sympathizers of the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana.
The bill has also sparked protests and petitions from opponents of the bill in the country and beyond.
MOG Music has carved a niche for himself in the gospel music scene. His soul-stirring melodies and heartfelt lyrics have resonated with audiences across Ghana and beyond.
Despite his rising fame, MOG Music remains an enigma, carefully guarding his image and brand. His decision to withhold public commentary on the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill underscores the delicate balance between personal convictions and public perception.
As the nation awaits the president’s decision on the bill, MOG Music’s cryptic silence adds intrigue to an already charged debate. Will he eventually break his silence? Only time will reveal the truth behind this gospel artist’s mysterious stance.
One Grace Adubea Ofosu has been reported missing following her prolonged absence from home after stepping out to visit a family member in Nungua, Accra.
The scant details available indicate that Grace “left home to visit her aunt’s shop behind The Junction Mall in Nungua” and has since Monday, 4th March 2024, not returned home.
In a heartfelt plea, a concerned individual, presumably a family member, has launched a social media campaign to locate “his sister.”
The campaign aims to mobilize support and gather any information that could lead to Grace’s safe return. The following contact numbers have been provided for anyone with relevant details: 0244240509 and 0243060532.
As the search intensifies, community members are urged to cooperate with law enforcement. If you possess even the slightest piece of information, please visit the nearest police station. The fate of Grace Adubea Ofosu hangs in the balance, and every lead matters.
Ghana’s recent passage of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill has sparked global attention and concern.
The legislation, officially known as the “Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2024,” has elicited widespread condemnation both within and beyond Ghana’s borders.
Across the African continent, a number of countries maintain laws criminalizing various aspects of LGBTQ activities.
These regulations encompass the criminalization of LGBT individuals, sexual activities between individuals of the same gender, and, in some instances, the gender expression of trans people.
This list outlines the legal frameworks and penalties imposed by different nations, reflecting the diverse and, restrictive attitudes towards LGBTQ communities in Africa.
Algeria
Illegalises LGBT persons and any form of sexual relations between males and females
Highest punishment: Three years imprisonment and a fine of 10,000 Dinars
Burundi
Illegalises LGBT persons and any form of sexual relations between males and females
Highest punishment: Two years imprisonment and a fine of 100,000 Burundian Francs
Cameroon
Illegalises LGBT persons and any form of sexual relations between males and females
Highest punishment: Five years imprisonment and a fine of 200,000 West African CFA Francs
Chad
Illegalises LGBT persons and any form of sexual relations between males and females
Highest punishment: Two years imprisonment and a fine of 500,000 West African CFA Francs
Comoros
Illegalises LGBT persons and any form of sexual relations between males and females
Highest punishment: Five years imprisonment and a fine of 1,000,000 Comorian Francs
Egypt
Illegalises LGBT persons and any form of sexual relations between males
Highest punishment: Three years imprisonment and a fine of 3,000 Lira
Eritrea
Illegalises LGBT persons and any form of sexual relations between males and females
Highest punishment: Three years imprisonment
Eswatini
Illegalises LGBT persons and any form of sexual relations between males
Highest punishment: Imprisonment
Ethiopia
Illegalises LGBT persons and any form of sexual relations between males and females
In recent days, the name Richard Sky has been thrust into the spotlight in Ghana, following the filing of a supreme court writ against the parliament of Ghana and the attorney general over the passage of the anti-LGBTQ bill.
While many recognize Richard Sky as a private legal practitioner and journalist, there’s a connection to an incident from 2022 that adds intrigue to the story.
This incident involves a petition against the calling to the bar of law graduate and YouTuber, Ama Governor.
Back in 2022, Ama Governor, also known as Elorm Ababio, faced denial in her call to the bar due to concerns raised in a petition to the Ghana Legal Council, signed by Hajia Siduri, a “concerned citizen.”
Ama Governor had completed her training at the Ghana School of Law and was expecting to be called to the Bar on Friday, November 11, 2022
Ama GovernorAma 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]
The complaint against Ama Governor cited “conduct unbecoming of an applicant to be called to the Bar” and gained widespread attention, thanks to widely circulated videos.
So, how does Richard Dela Sky fit into this picture?
The phone number attached to the signed letter, allegedly belonging to the petitioner Hajia Siduri, led curious netizens to investigate further.
It turned out that the telephone number provided in the petition belonged to Richard Dela Sky.
This revelation sparked controversy, with accusations thrown at Richard for allegedly hiding behind a pseudonym to voice concerns.
However, Richard swiftly refuted any involvement in the matter. In a Twitter post, he clarified that while the phone number on the document was indeed his, he did not author the letter.
“My attention has been drawn to a document in circulation in which the author has asked the General Legal Council to investigate a person said to be a student of the Ghana School of Law.
To avoid doubt, the number displayed is my number, but I DID NOT AUTHOR THE DOCUMENT IN QUESTION. ALSO, I AM NOT CONNECTED TO ANYONE INVOLVED WITH THE SAID DOCUMENT.
I have since drawn the attention of the relevant authorities to the issue for the appropriate redress. Richard Sky Dated: 10th November 2022,” Richard tweeted.
This revelation raises questions about the dynamics surrounding the petition against Ama Governor and adds an unexpected twist to the ongoing narrative.
A deputy national organiser of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Elikem Eric Kevin Kwame Kotoko, has launched a scathing attack which appears to be directed at journalist and lawyer Richard Dela Sky, who has filed a suit in court against the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
The bill, which seeks to criminalise homosexuality and LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, has been passed by parliament but has not yet been signed by President Nana Akufo-Addo, who has said he will wait for the Supreme Court to rule on its constitutionality.
Elikem Kotoko, who is a vocal supporter of the bill, has accused Richard Sky of being a protégé of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and of colluding with the president to delay the enactment of the bill.
He posted a copy of the Supreme Court writ initiated by Richard Sky on his Facebook page and expressed his disappointment in the journalist’s action. He also pointed out that the president had mentioned a lawsuit challenging the bill on March 4, 2024, a day before Richard Sky filed his suit.
“The statement by the president was false, there was no writ filed as of yesterday. It was until today that Richard Dela Sky, who is considered a known protégé of the governing NPP, filed a writ at the Supreme Court today. This means that before Richard Sky filed his writ, it was probably agreed between him and the governing NPP. President Akufo-Addo and the NPP are sponsoring a challenge to the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, period. Such a shame!” he wrote.
But Elikem Kotoko did not stop there. He went on to make some shocking revelations about Richard Sky’s family background, alleging that his father was a rapist and a paedophile who had committed incest with his own daughter and another minor.
Without explicitly mentioning Sky’s name, Elikem posted on Facebook and X, details of one Mr Moon, who he claimed was being used to “mount a challenge to this bill.”
Elikem asserted that this may be because Mr. Moon “lacked the parental care from home as a child,” due to his father’s alleged crimes.
“His father slept with his own biological daughter (incest) and later with another minor (rape or paedophilia), so he was sent to gaol for that conduct but now he is back to resettle within society after serving his sentence. Certainly, his conduct and absence created a vacuum in the life of Moon. His dad was a rapist, a paedophile and rather than uphold some values to depart from the father, no, ‘the crap doesn’t give birth to’,” he wrote.
He also claimed that Mr Moon had changed his surname from Ku***nu to Sky to escape the stigma of his father’s crimes.
“Little Moon was a little boy then though but as he grew, to escape the stigma he refused to use his family surname, Ku***nu, instead resorted to the Skies for a name which he willingly imposed on himself,” he added.
He then hinted at Richard Sky’s identity by breaking his name into two syllables and forming a sentence with each part.
“He wasn’t Rich and he was never Ard either, growing up. He lacked that proper upbringing to appreciate what a home was or is and the true definition of family. Don’t be surprised, he has accepted to be used by his paymasters to mount this challenge,” he noted.
Elikem Kotoko’s allegations have sparked a lot of reactions on social media, with some people supporting him and others criticising him for his personal attacks on Richard Sky. Richard Sky has not yet responded to Elikem Kotoko’s claims or confirmed or denied his involvement in the lawsuit against the bill.
A deputy national organiser of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Elikem Eric Kevin Kwame Kotoko, has launched a scathing attack which appears to be directed at journalist and lawyer Richard Dela Sky, who has filed a suit in court against the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
The bill, which seeks to criminalise homosexuality and LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, has been passed by parliament but has not yet been signed by President Nana Akufo-Addo, who has said he will wait for the Supreme Court to rule on its constitutionality.
Elikem Kotoko, who is a vocal supporter of the bill, has accused Richard Sky of being a protégé of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and of colluding with the president to delay the enactment of the bill.
He posted a copy of the Supreme Court writ initiated by Richard Sky on his Facebook page and expressed his disappointment in the journalist’s action. He also pointed out that the president had mentioned a lawsuit challenging the bill on March 4, 2024, a day before Richard Sky filed his suit.
“The statement by the president was false, there was no writ filed as of yesterday. It was until today that Richard Dela Sky, who is considered a known protégé of the governing NPP, filed a writ at the Supreme Court today. This means that before Richard Sky filed his writ, it was probably agreed between him and the governing NPP. President Akufo-Addo and the NPP are sponsoring a challenge to the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, period. Such a shame!” he wrote.
But Elikem Kotoko did not stop there. He went on to make some shocking revelations about Richard Sky’s family background, alleging that his father was a rapist and a paedophile who had committed incest with his own daughter and another minor.
Without explicitly mentioning Sky’s name, Elikem posted on Facebook and X, details of one Mr Moon, who he claimed was being used to “mount a challenge to this bill.”
Elikem asserted that this may be because Mr. Moon “lacked the parental care from home as a child,” due to his father’s alleged crimes.
“His father slept with his own biological daughter (incest) and later with another minor (rape or paedophilia), so he was sent to gaol for that conduct but now he is back to resettle within society after serving his sentence. Certainly, his conduct and absence created a vacuum in the life of Moon. His dad was a rapist, a paedophile and rather than uphold some values to depart from the father, no, ‘the crap doesn’t give birth to’,” he wrote.
He also claimed that Mr Moon had changed his surname from Ku***nu to Sky to escape the stigma of his father’s crimes.
“Little Moon was a little boy then though but as he grew, to escape the stigma he refused to use his family surname, Ku***nu, instead resorted to the Skies for a name which he willingly imposed on himself,” he added.
A Facebook user, Nana Ama Osei Kufuor seemed to corroborate this claim with the contents of this post
He then hinted at Richard Sky’s identity by breaking his name into two syllables and forming a sentence with each part.
“He wasn’t Rich and he was never Ard either, growing up. He lacked that proper upbringing to appreciate what a home was or is and the true definition of family. Don’t be surprised, he has accepted to be used by his paymasters to mount this challenge,” he noted.
Elikem Kotoko’s allegations have sparked a lot of reactions on social media, with some people supporting him and others criticising him for his personal attacks on Richard Sky. Richard Sky has not yet responded to Elikem Kotoko’s claims or confirmed or denied his involvement in the lawsuit against the bill.
Member of parliament for the Ningo-Prampram Constituency, Honourable Sam George, has publicly challenged the BBC’s reporting on President Nana Akufo-Addo’s stance regarding the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
BBC News Africa’s Twitter handle recently highlighted President Akufo-Addo’s hesitation in signing the bill. Their article bore the headline, “Ghana’s Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill: Akufo-Addo to Wait for Supreme Court Ruling.”
The accompanying caption underscored that Ghana’s leader would withhold assent until the highest court in the land ruled on the bill’s constitutionality.
“Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo says he will not assent to an anti-gay bill until the Supreme Court rules on its constitutionality. The bill was backed by both of Ghana’s main political parties but cannot become law without the president’s approval,” BBC News Africa tweeted.
In a succinct tweet directed at BBC Africa, Sam George, also a major sponsor of the bill, pointed out an omission in their coverage.
Sam George’s tweet suggests that the president’s assent is not necessary for the bill to become law, and that parliament can override his decision if he refuses to sign the bill
He wrote, “@BBCAfrica, point of correction. Article 106(8)(9)&(10) spell out how Parliament can proceed to make the Bill law even when the President decides not to assent to the Bill. Cheers.”
The BBC has not yet responded to Sam George’s tweet.
The anti-LGBTQ+ bill, titled the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill 2024, was passed by parliament on 28 February 2024.
The bill proposes penalties for anyone who identifies as LGBTQ+, engages in same-sex relations, or promotes LGBTQ+ rights and activities.
It has been widely condemned by human rights activists, civil society organisations, religious groups, and foreign governments as a violation of the fundamental rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ people and a threat to Ghana’s democracy and rule of law.
However, President Akufo-Addo’s reluctance to sign it has fueled controversy. His assertion that the Supreme Court’s ruling must precede any action on the bill has sparked discussions within Ghana and beyond its borders.
As the nation awaits the court’s verdict, tensions remain high, and citizens closely monitor developments. The bill’s fate hangs in the balance, and its potential impact reverberates far beyond Ghana’s shores.
Invitation for Expressions of Interest Consulting Services – Individual Consultant Consultancy – Technical Advisory Panel Member for DEPTH 2.0 Trust Fund No.: TF-B8445 Country: Ghana Project: Support to Regional Knowledge Capacity on Economic Transformation, Resilience and Recovery Program
About ACET
The African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) is one of the pre-eminent organizations in the world focused on advancing African solutions to African transformation challenges. Driven by a commitment to support governments address the policy and institutional barriers that hamper sustained economic growth on the continent, ACET was founded in 2008 with the support of national governments alongside major multilateral and bilateral donors and foundations. ACET is an economic policy institute that provides research, policy advice, and institutional strengthening for African countries to develop their economies, reduce poverty, and improve livelihoods. To learn more about ACET, visit https://acetforafrica.org
The African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) has received funding from the Transformation for Africa Partnership (TAP) Trust Fund administered by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD)/International Development Association (IDA) and intends to apply part of the proceeds of this funding to payments under the contract for services of an Advisory Panel.
The Consultancy Assignment
The Technical Advisory Panel for DEPTH 2.0 will enhance and refine the Growth with DEPTH framework. The Panel will address measurement challenges, incorporate noneconomic risks, mainstream gender equity, and ensure the framework’s relevance in measuring Africa’s economic transformation. The Panel’s primary objective is to provide expert guidance and recommendations for continuously improving the DEPTH 2.0 framework. Key responsibilities will include the following:
Measurement refinement: Review and address measurement challenges in DEPTH 2.0, including total factor productivity, informal manufacturing, re-exports, and technological upgrading. Propose methodological improvements to enhance accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Incorporating risks of noneconomic origin: Explore the interrelationships between economic growth and transformation and resilience against risks of noneconomic origin, such as climate change phenomena, political instability, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Identify potential challenges and opportunities, recommend strategies to mitigate risks, and enhance economic resilience.
Threshold determination: Evaluate the scientific basis for the 50% threshold used to assess countries’ transformation progress. Recommend a benchmarking methodology based on the performance of early transformers, ensuring a fair and accurate assessment of progress.
Mainstreaming Gender Equity: Develop strategies for mainstreaming gender equity considerations into the DEPTH 2.0 framework. Identify relevant indicators and assess their impact on economic transformation. Propose gender-sensitive approaches to enhance the inclusivity of the framework.
Qualification, Skills, and Experience
An advanced degree (preferably a Ph.D.) in economics, development studies, or a related field. A strong publication record in reputable journals related to economic transformation, gender equity, or non-economic risks is advantageous.
A minimum of ten (10) years of relevant and broad professional and inter-regional experience.
A strong background in economic analysis, with expertise in areas such as macroeconomics, microeconomics, development economics, and economic modelling. Experience in analysing economic data and trends is essential.
A deep understanding of measurement methodologies related to economic indicators, including but not limited to productivity, trade, technology adoption, and gender-related metrics. Familiarity with statistical techniques and econometric methods is highly desirable.
Familiarity with assessment frameworks for risks of noneconomic origin. Expertise in analyzing the impact of noneconomic factors, such as political stability, social cohesion, and environmental sustainability on economic transformation.
In-depth knowledge of the economic landscapes of African countries, including their diverse industries, challenges, and opportunities. Experience in working on economic development projects in African nations is a significant advantage.
Experience in policy development and implementation related to economic transformation. Knowledge of African countries’ policy frameworks, governance structures, and institutional setups.
Previous experience in leading or contributing significantly to similar advisory committees, research projects, or policy initiatives related to economic transformation and development.
ACET invites eligible individuals to indicate their interest in providing the services. Interested consultants must provide information indicating their qualifications and ability to perform the services in the form of a cover letter expressing interest and a detailed CV. Expressions of interest can be submitted in hard copies or by email to the address below.
The attention of interested consultants is drawn to section III, paragraphs 3.14,3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” July 2016, revised November 2017 and August 2018. A consultant will be selected in accordance with the Individual Selection Method set out in the Bank’s Procurement Regulations.
Interested consultants may obtain further information from the Procurement Unit at the address below from 0:800 to 17:00 hrs. GMT
Expressions of interest must be delivered to either the online or physical address below by Wednesday, 13th March, 2024 (by 17:00 hrs. GMT)
REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST: FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT FOR (FWA) – TRAVELLING SERVICES)
The Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) intends to apply part of its internally generated funds to engage Travel Agent(s) for GIMPAand YALI RLC Participants and Staff on a Framework Agreement basis.
1.0 The Selected vendor(s) will provide the following services for the Institute.
Will be responsible for all ticketing and reservation;
Will be responsible for revision and rebooking tickets;
Will also be responsible for giving the Institute information for arrival dates and times of Staff and participants
2.0 The Institute would like the vendors to note the following terms of references when they are drafting and submitting their Proposals to the Institute:
Proposals should include all service charges associated with rendering this service for the Institute.
Proposals should include the staffing levels and their profiles.
A member of staff dedicated to our Staff and participants’ travel arrangements around the clock when training is in session for YALI RLC participants.
3.0 GIMPA now invites eligible agents to indicate their interest in providing the services. Interested agents must provide information indicating that they are qualified to perform the services (brochures, description of similar assignments, experience in similar conditions, availability of appropriate skills among staff, etc.).
The agent(s) will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663), as amended, of the Republic of Ghana and shall meet the following criteria;
IATA Accredited
Valid Company Registration Certificate
Valid Tax Clearance Certificate
VAT Registration Certificate
Valid SSNIT Certificate
Valid PPA Registration Certificate.
Further information can be obtained from the Procurement Department, Room 1, Oval 4, GIMPA Achimota, Accra, or on telephone number (0302) 401681-3 ext. 1118 between 8.30 am to 5.00 pm (Monday to Friday).
Note: Shortlisted Agents will be expected to submit tenders at the next stage.
Submission of Expression of Interest Expression of Interest in English (One original, three (3) copies), must be delivered to the address below in the Tender Box on OR before 10:00 am on Wednesday, 20th March 2024, and electronic copy to procurement @gimpa.edu.gh.
Late submissions will not be accepted.
THE PROCUREMENT MANAGER GIMPA P. O. BOX AH 50 GREENHILL, ACHIMOTA
FOR FURTHER ENQUIRIES: TEL: (0302) 401681-3 ext. 1118/1561 E-MAIL: procurement@gimpa.edu.gh WEBSITE: www.gimpa.edu.gh
Please note that the closing date for submission of tenders is Wednesday, 20th March 2024.
NHIS NATIONAL COMPETITIVE TENDERING (NCT) NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME PROCUREMENT OF TABLET COMPUTERS
1. The National Health Insurance Authority intends to apply part of its USAID support to fund eligible payments under the contract for the procurement of the following transactions towards the realization of the cited projects, as indicated below:
Package No.
Description
Quantity
Delivery Period
Tender Security
Submission Dates
GR/NHIA/GD/008/24
Tablet Computers
15
3 weeks
2% of Tender Price
March 14 2024 @10:00 am
2. The National Health Insurance Authority invites sealed Tenders from eligible suppliers for the supply of the above items. Tendering will be conducted through the National Competitive Tendering procedures specified in the Public Procurement Act, 2003 as amended and in the Guidelines of the Public Procurement Authority of the Republic of Ghana.
3. Interested eligible Tenderers may obtain further information from National Health Insurance Authority, Procurement and Projects Directorate, First Floor, NHIA Head Office, and inspect the Tender document from Wednesday, February 28, 2024, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
4. A complete set of Tender documents in English may be purchased by interested Tenderers on the submission of a written application to the address one (1) below and upon a payment of a non-refundable fee of Three Hundred Ghana Cedis (GH¢ 300.00) only to the Finance Directorate of NHIA. The method of payment shall be in cash or bank draft in the name of National Health Insurance Authority for each set.
5. Tenders labelled and clearly marked must be delivered to the address two (2) below at or before submission dates indicated in the table above. Tenders shall be valid for a period of 90 days after the deadline of Tender submission. All Tenders must be accompanied by a Tender Security of not less than two percent (2%) of the Tender price from a reputable bank or insurance company.
6. Late Tenders will not be accepted and will be returned unopened to the Tenderer. Tenders will be opened in the presence of the Tenderers’ representatives who choose to attend at the date and time indicated in the table above.
7. A register of potential tenderers who have purchased the tender document may be inspected at the address (2) below.
8. It is mandatory that Tenderers include in their Tender the under-listed statutory requirements and others.
The Chairman of the National Peace Council, Rev. Dr. Ernest Adu-Gyamfi, clarified that the council remains neutral on Ghana’s Parliament approving the anti-LGBT+ bill, citing their role as mediators and abstaining from taking sides on contentious issues.
Speaking on TV3’s Hot Issue program, he mentioned that the council is closely monitoring the situation and will consider mediation if conflicts arise.
He emphasized,”We don’t have a position on the passage of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill because we are mediators; we don’t take sides on issues like this”.
The passage of the bill has sparked debate within Ghana, drawing attention from the international community, including concerns raised by the U.S. embassy in Accra.
Gabby Otchere-Darko, a leading member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), defended Parliament’s decision, urging those opposed to the bill to seek legal recourse if they find it unconstitutional.
“There are several issues that have come to us that people expected us to take sides on, but we realized it was important to remain neutral when they later came for conflict resolution.
“We are waiting to see how things will unfold so we know if to mediate/intervene in the event of a conflict.”
He emphasized the democratic process but acknowledged the potential consequences, urging media and politicians to inform the public about the bill’s pros and cons.
Mr Otchere-Darko highlighted the importance of respecting Ghana’s sovereign state status and cultural norms while suggesting a balance between traditional family values and values of tolerance and diversity.
“Ghana’s Parliament, in which is vested the sovereign will of the people, has democratically passed a harsher anti-LGBTQ+ Bill. Yes, democratically! In fact, the threat of being unseated for standing for the rights of gays, etc., certainly created its own culture of silence in the House! But, it is the decision of Parliament and one which enjoys huge popular support in the country.
“The world must understand that. But Ghanaians must also understand that it comes with consequences. Choices have consequences. We expect the media and the politicians to be fair to the people by letting them know the pros and cons of this decision to impose stiffer penalties against gays, etc. We also expect those who believe the bill is constitutionally wrong to do what is right and go to court.
“That is democracy! Our institutions of democracy are still strong and alive. Let’s have faith in our democracy. Let’s respect the choices we make and their consequences and believe in the process. Ghana remains a sovereign state with cultural norms that cannot be wished away but must be respected.
“I still believe, though, that we can balance our traditional family values with our traditional values of tolerance and diversity. That’s the Ghanaian way. The Ghanaian culture. The Ghanaian spirit. Our history. Our DNA. That is Ghanaian,” he expressed.
Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Joseph Whittal, expressed concerns about potential legal challenges if the bill is signed into law by the President. He advised careful handling due to the bill’s possible impact, emphasizing the need to respect Ghanaian values.
The Ghanaian Parliament’s recent approval of the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2024 has ignited a global debate.
The legislation, aimed at criminalizing same-sex relationships, has drawn sharp criticism from human rights advocates, international organizations, and concerned citizens worldwide.
The Bill in Focus
The anti-LGBTQ+ billseeks to impose penalties on LGBTQ+ individuals, effectively making their activities and the promotion of it a crime. It also targets allies, including those who express support for LGBTQ+ rights.
The bill’s proponents argue that it upholds Ghana’s traditional family values, but critics view it as an infringement on personal freedoms and human rights.
International Outcry
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has expressed deep concern over Ghana’s decision. In a statement, Türk emphasized that consensual same-sex conduct should never be criminalized.
He further highlighted that the bill undermines freedom of association and expression, affecting not only LGBTQ+ individuals but also human rights defenders, teachers, medical professionals, landlords, and those seeking healthcare.
“The bill broadens the scope of criminal sanctions against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transexual and queer people – simply for being who they are – and threatens criminal penalties against perceived allies of LGBTQ+ people. I call for the bill not to become law. I urge the Ghanaian Government to take steps to ensure everyone can live free from violence, stigma, and discrimination, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Consensual same-sex conduct should never be criminalized,” said Türk.
Comparisons with Other African Nations
Ghana’s move aligns with a recent anti-gay trend across some African countries. Notably, Uganda faced international backlash after passing a similar anti-LGBTQ+ law. Sanctions that included, banning Ugandans involved in human rights abuses against LGBTQ people from entering the US, cutting aid and investment to Uganda, canceling a military exercise with Uganda, and redirecting funds for some programs in Uganda to other countries or civil society groups.
The question now is whether Ghana will face similar consequences.
Diplomatic Tensions
The passage of this bill could strain diplomatic relations. Several Western nations have expressed their disapproval in the past, hinting at potential sanctions.
The European Union and the United States have both raised concerns about Ghana’s commitment to human rights and inclusivity. Trade agreements, foreign aid, and diplomatic ties could also hang in the balance.
Civil Society’s Response
Ghanaian civil society organizations, LGBTQ+ activists, and allies have rallied against the bill. Some argue that the bill distracts from pressing issues such as healthcare, education, and economic development.
The Road Ahead
The passage of the bill is only the initial step, and its final approval by the president remains a critical point of contention. As the nation awaits the president’s decision, the implications for LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana remain uncertain. Advocates, activists, and concerned citizens continue to closely monitor the situation.
As Ghana grapples with the aftermath of this legislation, the world watches closely. Will international pressure lead to a reconsideration of the bill? Or will Ghana stand firm in its stance? The impact on human rights, diplomacy, and Ghana’s global standing remains uncertain.
In the coming weeks, the United Nations and other international bodies are likely to scrutinize Ghana’s actions.
For now, the fate of LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana hangs in the balance, and the world awaits the next chapter in this unfolding story.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo delivered theState of the Nation Address(SONA) on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, before a joint sitting of Parliament.
The address highlighted the achievements and challenges of his government in the past year and outlined the plans and priorities for the year.
The address also touched on various issues such as the economy, health, education, security, corruption, and the upcoming elections.
The address was attended by dignitaries, officials, and members of the public, who witnessed the President’s speech and the reactions of the lawmakers and the audience.
Here are some of the photos that captured the moments and the mood of the SONA 2024.
The murder case of the former MP for Abuakwa North, JB Danquah-Adu, has taken a surprising twist as the defence counsel, Yaw Dankwah, has accused three police impersonators of killing the former legislator, not the first accused person, Daniel Asiedu, also known as Sexy Dondon.
Dankwah alleged that the three impostors visited the home of the deceased and killed him, then disappeared without a trace.
The defense counsel supported his claim by citing the testimony of Apraku, the security guard, who reported the incident to the police. Apraku, in phone calls, allegedly confirmed the presence of these impersonators at the scene of the crime.
Dankwah further argued that Asiedu, due to his physical stature, could not overpower the tall and well-built late MP.
“It was the three impersonating officers who overpowered the MP and killed him at his residence… Asiedu cannot overpower the MP physically,” Dankwah insisted, branding the narrative implicating Asiedu as a fabrication filled with lies.
Contrary to Dankwah’s assertions, ASP Augustine Nkrumah, the case investigator, testified before the court, maintaining that Daniel Asiedu was indeed the perpetrator.
Nkrumah described Asiedu as a “terrible person” capable of committing such a crime. The investigator detailed how weapons used in the act were recovered from Asiedu, including a knife and items soaked in blood found at the crime scene.
ASP Nkrumah revealed that Asiedu’s girlfriend, Janet Kyeraa, confirmed to the police that the blood-soaked T-shirt and handkerchief belonged to Asiedu.
Kyeraa also informed the police that Asiedu gave her a blood-stained knife to clean after the incident. According to Nkrumah, Asiedu’s slippers were retrieved from the crime scene, and he identified a catapult and cutter found there.
During investigations, the knife used in the stabbing was traced to Asiedu’s room in Agbogbloshie, Accra. Asiedu allegedly admitted to using the knife on the deceased, claiming self-defense as he felt held by the late MP.
Asiedu is currently facing trial for the murder and robbery of J.B. Danquah Adu, with charges of conspiracy alongside Vincent Bossu.
Both accused individuals have pleaded not guilty before a seven-member jury. The court, presided over by Justice Lydia Osei Marfo, has remanded them to reappear on February 28, 2024.
Widow of a 40-year-old Ghanaian migrant, Adu Boakye, who was fatally shot in Canada on February 17, 2024, has shared the heartbreaking details of her husband’s tragic passing.
A Joy News reporter visited the family’s residence in Kwanwoma, Ashanti Region, revealing a household enveloped in sorrow and pain since the devastating news broke.
Amidst friends offering condolences, the grief-stricken wife, who had been shedding tears for days, was quoted saying, “I cannot fight this battle. Save me, Lord. Akwasi, how do I cater for these children?” The profound loss left the family grappling with the harsh reality of Adu Boakye‘s untimely demise.
Confirming the circumstances surrounding the shooting, Adu Boakye‘s brother-in-law, Francis Kumi, revealed that the victim was en route to send money back home when the tragic incident occurred.
Kumi recounted the last conversation with Adu Boakye, stating, “He called me a few hours before his passing, saying that he had sent money to his wife, but it couldn’t go through. So, I asked him to resend it to my account so I could withdraw and give it to her. Sadly, on Monday, I read the news of his passing.”
Despite immediate efforts by first responders to rush Adu Boakye to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries. A community vigil was held on February 24 in the vicinity of the shooting in Toronto, Canada, attended by the Toronto Mayor.
While the police have released a photo of the suspected attacker, no arrests have been reported. The grieving family in Ghana is now calling for swift justice.
A plea echoed by Adu Boakye’s sister, Dorcas Boakye, who shared, “We’re hoping the Canadian government will arrest the perpetrator so that we will be at peace.” The family, deeply impacted by the loss of a caring brother and husband, seeks closure through the apprehension of the assailant.
Renowned Ghanaian politician and Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central Kennedy Agyapong, has opened up about the health challenges he faced in 2008 when President Akufo-Addo lost the general elections.
Kennedy Agyapong, also a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), in an interview with Kwaku Sintim-Misa on the KSM show, discussed his passionate involvement in elections, while addressing his loss to Bawumia in the Party’s flagbearer race on November 4th 2023.
Expressing discontent towards certain MPs who had in the past, received his support but opposed him publicly with insults towards Nov 4th, Agyapong vowed to make his displeasure known when dealing with such individuals in the future.
Clarifying that his straightforwardness shouldn’t be mistaken for bitterness, Agyapong stated, “I’m not bitter. It’s not every MP who didn’t vote for me that I’m angry at. No, everybody has a choice. But the very people who were my friends that I have helped to bring them to Parliament, it’s not a betrayal, but the things, the bad things they said about me, that is where I have a problem.”
Reflecting on past defeats, he recounted the 2008 elections when he ardently supported Akufo-Addo, leading to his own health issues. Agyapong admitted learning a lesson from that experience, emphasizing that he would campaign and contribute but not let electoral outcomes affect him to the extent of jeopardizing his health.
“I’m not peeved because I learned my lesson from 2008 when I put my resources, my soul and will, money, everything to support President Akufo-Addo”
“When he lost, I got a heart problem. So my doctors, they counseled me. They didn’t know I was a politician until they saw my heartbeat and all those things. So I learned my lesson from that time that I will campaign. I’ll do everything, but I’ll not religiously get involved and say that it’s do or die and therefore, if I don’t win or Mr. B doesn’t win, I should get heart problems. That has cushioned me,” he shared.
According to the Electoral Commission of Ghana, Akufo-Addo won the first round of voting with more than 49 percent of the vote, but he did not secure the required 50 percent plus one to avoid a run-off. He and his closest challenger, John Evans Atta Mills of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), advanced to a second round, held on December 28, 2008.
Mills was certified as the victor by a margin of less than one percent, winning the presidency on his third attempt. It is to date the closest election in Ghanaian history.
Akufo-Addo also lost the 2012 election to John Mahama of the NDC, amid controversy and a Supreme Court challenge. He finally won the presidency in 2016 and was re-elected in 2020.
Renowned Ghanaian politician and Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central Kennedy Agyapong, has opened up about the health challenges he faced in 2008 when President Akufo-Addo lost the general elections.
Kennedy Agyapong, also a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), in an interview with Kwaku Sintim-Misa on the KSM show, discussed his passionate involvement in elections, while addressing his loss to Bawumia in the Party’s flagbearer race on November 4th 2023.
Expressing discontent towards certain MPs who had in the past, received his support but opposed him publicly with insults towards Nov 4th, Agyapong vowed to make his displeasure known when dealing with such individuals in the future.
Clarifying that his straightforwardness shouldn’t be mistaken for bitterness, Agyapong stated, “I’m not bitter. It’s not every MP who didn’t vote for me that I’m angry at. No, everybody has a choice. But the very people who were my friends that I have helped to bring them to Parliament, it’s not a betrayal, but the things, the bad things they said about me, that is where I have a problem.”
Reflecting on past defeats, he recounted the 2008 elections when he ardently supported Akufo-Addo, leading to his own health issues. Agyapong admitted learning a lesson from that experience, emphasizing that he would campaign and contribute but not let electoral outcomes affect him to the extent of jeopardizing his health.
“I’m not peeved because I learned my lesson from 2008 when I put my resources, my soul and will, money, everything to support President Akufo-Addo”
“When he lost, I got a heart problem. So my doctors, they counseled me. They didn’t know I was a politician until they saw my heartbeat and all those things. So I learned my lesson from that time that I will campaign. I’ll do everything, but I’ll not religiously get involved and say that it’s do or die and therefore, if I don’t win or Mr. B doesn’t win, I should get heart problems. That has cushioned me,” he shared.
According to the Electoral Commission of Ghana, Akufo-Addo won the first round of voting with more than 49 percent of the vote, but he did not secure the required 50 percent plus one to avoid a run-off. He and his closest challenger, John Evans Atta Mills of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), advanced to a second round, held on December 28, 2008. Mills was certified as the victor by a margin of less than one percent, winning the presidency on his third attempt. It is to date the closest election in Ghanaian history. Akufo-Addo also lost the 2012 election to John Mahama of the NDC, amid controversy and a Supreme Court challenge. He finally won the presidency in 2016 and was re-elected in 2020.
The Ghana Police Service (GPS) has implemented stringent measures to ensure a secure environment for the upcoming general elections.
These measures include the establishment of an election security secretariat tasked with overseeing, planning, and executing all election-related matters. Collaborating with other security agencies, the GPS aims to conduct the elections smoothly and without any security breaches.
Commissioner of Police (COP) Iddi Lansah Seidu, the Director General of ICT at the Police Headquarters, revealed these measures during the passing-out ceremony of 29 graduates and 159 general recruits at the Regional Police Training School in Ho last Wednesday.
Addressing the new police personnel, Seidu emphasized the significance of their role in an election year, urging them to enforce election laws impartially while respecting the rights of citizens.
“You are to treat them with respect, exhibit a high sense of professionalism, and live law-abiding lives for others to emulate. Always remember that policing is about service, sacrifice, and selflessness,” he advised the new officers.
Acknowledging the evolving landscape of security, Seidu highlighted the changing nature of crimes, particularly complex and cyber-related offenses.
He emphasized the demand for diverse, complex, skilled, and specialized services to address contemporary crime trends. To meet these challenges, a new training module incorporating theory, field practicals, and simulation exercises has been introduced, focusing on activities such as riding, driving, swimming, crowd control, and incident and disaster management.
Seidu mentioned that nearly 7,000 new police personnel have benefited from this updated training approach.
He urged the fresh officers to uphold high standards in maintaining law, order, and security in the country. The ceremony recognized Graduate G/Sgt Michael Peprah Yeboah as the under-cadet and General Recruit Godfred Kabatia as the best recruit.
Ghana recorded 19,000 tuberculosis cases in 2023, a significant rise from the 16,500 cases in 2022 and the previous years, according to the National TB Control Programme, Ghana Health Service.
The country had been registering about 14,000 to 15,000 cases annually from 2014 to 2019, far below the 44,000 cases expected to be detected each year.
Programme manager of the National TB Control Programme, Dr Yaw Adusi-Poku, revealed that out of the 19,000 cases, 5% were children, falling short of the World Health Organization’s target, which suggests that Ghana needs to enhance its diagnostic efforts, aiming for 8 to 10% of diagnoses in children.
Speaking at a training session for journalists in Accra organized by the Ghana National TB Voice Network, Dr Adusi-Poku explained that the increased number of cases in 2023 was attributed to the availability of Gene-Xperts and Cartridges, essential for effective TB diagnosis.
These interventions, including stool testing for children, contributed to identifying more cases.
Dr Adusi-Poku emphasized the importance of continued support for additional cartridges, especially highlighting the need for government, individual, and institutional support.
Despite the current availability of cartridges from 2023, concerns arise about their sufficiency for the years ahead, emphasizing the necessity for governmental support.
Addressing the shortage of Gene-Xperts in districts, Dr Adusi-Poku called for expansion and accessibility, advocating for a swift diagnosis process without extensive travel.
He urged media, teachers, and parliament to play a role in monitoring children’s health charts, supporting procurement law amendments, and building health worker capacity to combat TB.
Tuberculosis, an infectious disease primarily affecting the lungs, is a bacterial infection transmitted through the air. Symptoms include prolonged cough, chest pain, weakness, fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats.
Samuel Hackman, executive secretary of the Global Fund Country Coordinating Mechanism, stressed the importance of domestic funding for TB interventions, highlighting the need for urgent attention to procurement and financial laws hindering advanced purchases.
Jerry Amoah-Larbi, coordinator of the Ghana National TB Voice Network, emphasized the media’s crucial role in advocacy, awareness, and activism initiatives to achieve UNHLM TB 2023 targets.
Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, has expressed resentment towards certain colleagues whom he believes abandoned him during his presidential bid. Agyapong revealed that these MPs not only turned their backs on him but also went as far as insulting him.
The former New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful emphasized that he refuses to tolerate disrespect and disdain, particularly from individuals he considered friends and allies.
“This year I will be 64 years, so I will not allow anybody to treat me like I am trash; for that, I am sorry. Let them do their own thing, and we stay back,” he stated in an interview on the KSM Show on February 23, 2024.
Agyapong clarified that he is not angry at every MP who did not vote for him, acknowledging that everyone has a choice. However, his frustration stems from those he had personally assisted in reaching parliament, especially due to the negative things they said about him.
“The very people who were my friends that I have helped to bring them to parliament, it is not about the betrayal but the bad things that they said about me. That is where I have a problem, so, who says I am not bitter, I’m bitter. I am bitter not because the vice president won, I’m bitter because the people that I have helped… if you are not going to vote for me, no problem, but the insults, I can’t forgive them,” he added.
In the NPP flagbearer election held on November 4, 2023, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia emerged victorious with 118,210 votes, representing 61.47% of the total votes cast. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong secured the second position with 71,996 votes, representing 35.52% of the total valid votes. Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto garnered 1,459 votes, while Francis Addai-Nimoh received 781 votes.
A former contender for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearership, Kennedy Agyapong, has disclosed that he was about to make a harsh speech after losing the party’s presidential primary last year.
He said his wife intervened and stopped him from making provocative comments at the event where the winner of the race was announced at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The former NPP flagbearer hopeful confessed that he had intended to vent his anger on stage when he saw some people who had wronged him.
He appreciated his wife for playing a vital role in making him behave and accept defeat in a civil manner.
“When the results were coming and I saw that the vice president had won, I told my team I am going home.
“…anybody who wants to drink champagne should come, we were drinking champagne and I happily decided to go and congratulate the vice president but I would be honest with you, when I got there on stage, and saw the people who had insulted me, I got so annoyed,” he said in an interview on KSM Show on February 23, 2024.
Explaining the incident, Agyapong said, “That day was the first time I took my wife to a public gathering like that. She saved me.
“I would have misbehaved; I will tell you the truth. When I took the mic, the things I was going to say… but I just controlled myself. It is not them alone I was speaking to; it was the party and the nation, so I had to control myself,” he added.
Kennedy Agyapong lost the November 4 NPP primaries to Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia.
Bawumia won with 118,210 votes, representing 61.47% of the total votes cast.
Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, secured the second position with 71,996 votes, representing 35.52% of the total valid votes.
Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto got 1,459 votes, while the fourth candidate, Francis Addai-Nimoh got 781 votes.
