TIG Post

Author: Persis

  • Turkey and Syria’s recovery from the February 2023 earthquake: Challenges and achievements

    Turkey and Syria’s recovery from the February 2023 earthquake: Challenges and achievements

    In February 2023, a devastating earthquake struck Turkey and Syria, leaving behind a trail of destruction and heartbreak. As these two neighboring nations embark on the road to recovery, they face a multitude of challenges and have made significant achievements in rebuilding their shattered communities.

    The earthquake, with its epicenter in eastern Turkey, resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and widespread infrastructure damage. With limited resources and a complex geopolitical landscape, both countries are now navigating the daunting task of reconstruction.

    From mobilizing international aid to coordinating local efforts, Turkey and Syria are making strides toward rebuilding homes, schools, and essential utilities. Government agencies, non-profit organizations, and volunteers have come together to offer assistance and support to affected communities.

    However, the road to recovery is far from easy. Challenges such as funding constraints, bureaucratic hurdles, and ensuring the psychological well-being of survivors loom large.

    This article explores the challenges and achievements in Turkey and Syria’s recovery process after the February 2023 earthquake. From understanding the scale of the disaster to examining the innovative solutions implemented, we shed light on the arduous journey towards rebuilding and healing.

    Overview of the Damage Caused by the Earthquake

    The earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria in February 2023 left a devastating impact on both countries. With its epicenter in eastern Turkey, the quake resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and caused extensive damage to infrastructure, including homes, schools, and vital utilities.

    Photo by Doruk Aksel Anıl: Hatay Earthquake

    The affected regions were left in ruins, with entire communities displaced and struggling to cope with the aftermath of the disaster.

    The scale of the destruction was immense, with buildings reduced to rubble, roads and bridges collapsed, and essential services disrupted. The earthquake not only claimed lives but also shattered the social fabric of the affected regions, leaving survivors traumatized and in desperate need of support.

    Challenges in the Recovery Process

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

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

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

    Government Response and Initiatives for Recovery

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

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

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

    International Aid and Support for the Affected Regions

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

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

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

    Infrastructure and Housing Reconstruction Efforts

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

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

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

    Economic Recovery and Rebuilding Local Businesses

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

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

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

    Rehabilitation of Healthcare and Education Systems

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

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

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

    Environmental Impact and Conservation Efforts

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

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

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

    Achievements and Lessons Learned from the Recovery Process

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

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

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

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

     

  • Accra chokes on dust as air quality worsens – Ghana Meteo reveals

    Accra chokes on dust as air quality worsens – Ghana Meteo reveals

    The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has warned that air quality in Accra is very poor.

    The Agency posted on X, formerly Twitter, that the problem is caused by dust particles in the air.

    However, GMet has said that the situation will improve by the middle of the week, as more moisture will enter the atmosphere and reduce the dust in Accra.

    “An improvement in the air quality is anticipated,” the agency promised.

    Read the post below:

  • Exploring the rich history of Ghana

    Exploring the rich history of Ghana

    Ghana, located on the west coast of Africa, has a fascinating and rich history that spans centuries. From ancient civilizations to colonial rule and independence, the country’s past is filled with significant events, powerful leaders, and cultural heritage. In this blog post, we will delve into the captivating history of Ghana, exploring its key milestones and highlighting its unique contributions to Africa and the world.

    The Ancient Kingdoms

    Long before European contact, Ghana was home to several powerful and prosperous kingdoms. One of the most renowned was the Ghana Empire, which existed from the 6th to the 13th century. The empire was known for its wealth, as it controlled the lucrative trade routes of gold and salt. Another influential kingdom was the Ashanti Empire, which rose to prominence in the 17th century. The Ashanti people were skilled warriors and traders, and their empire played a crucial role in the transatlantic slave trade.

    The Arrival of Europeans

    In the 15th century, European explorers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, began to establish trading posts along the coast of Ghana. These posts eventually evolved into colonial settlements as European powers vied for control over the region’s resources. The British, in particular, gained dominance and established the Gold Coast colony in the late 19th century. During this time, Ghana became a major exporter of cocoa, rubber, and timber.

    The Fight for Independence

    In the early 20th century, Ghanaian nationalism began to rise, fueled by the desire for self-governance and an end to colonial rule. One of the key figures in the independence movement was Kwame Nkrumah, who became Ghana’s first prime minister and later its first president. On March 6, 1957, Ghana became the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence from colonial rule, setting the stage for the decolonization movement across the continent.

    Post-Independence Challenges and Progress

    After gaining independence, Ghana faced numerous challenges, including economic instability and political turmoil. However, the country made significant strides in education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. Ghana also played a crucial role in the Pan-African movement, hosting the historic All-African People’s Conference in 1958, which brought together leaders from across the continent to discuss the future of Africa.

    Ghana Today

    Today, Ghana is a vibrant and thriving nation with a diverse cultural heritage. It has experienced steady economic growth and political stability, making it a beacon of progress in the region. The country is known for its friendly people, vibrant festivals, and beautiful landscapes, including the stunning beaches of Cape Coast and the wildlife-rich national parks.

    Preserving the Past

    Ghana recognizes the importance of preserving its history and heritage. The country is home to numerous historical sites and museums that showcase its rich past, including the Cape Coast Castle, Elmina Castle, and the National Museum of Ghana. These sites serve as reminders of the struggles and triumphs of the Ghanaian people and offer visitors a chance to learn about the country’s history in a tangible way.

    In conclusion, Ghana’s history is a tapestry woven with the threads of ancient kingdoms, colonialism, and independence. It is a story of resilience, cultural diversity, and progress. By exploring and understanding Ghana’s past, we gain a deeper appreciation for its present and a clearer vision for its future.

  • Dr Grace Boadu’s pastor fiancé threatens to spill secrets after family snubbed him; speaks on her death

    Dr Grace Boadu’s pastor fiancé threatens to spill secrets after family snubbed him; speaks on her death

    The death of Dr Grace Boadu, the CEO of Grace Gift Herbal Hospital, has sparked a lot of controversy and speculation on social media, with her pastor fiancé, Prophet Kingsley Gyamfi, a.k.a. Bible Nokwarefo, has hinted at revealing undisclosed information after allegedly being snubbed by the family.

    Dr Boadu, a prominent herbal medicine practitioner, was discovered dead in her bathroom at her Tantra Hills residence in Accra on Monday, January 29, 2024.

    Her uncle, Akwasi Addae, revealed that she had returned from South Africa the previous night and was alone in her room. She reportedly didn’t respond to calls or knocks. Subsequently, a staff member, also a herbal doctor, found her lifeless in the bathroom, leading to her rushed transportation to the Hospital, where she was declared dead. The cause of death remains unknown, pending the autopsy report.

    Contrary to some reports, her uncle clarified that Dr Boadu was not married and had never been married.

    However, a YouTube blogger, Gossip24Avenue, released audio recordings purportedly of Rev Kingsley, claiming to be Dr Boadu’s fiancé, providing a conflicting account of events.

    According to Rev Kingsley, he was too sick to pick her up from the airport, asking her to take a taxi home. He claimed to have maintained contact until 4 pm, after which she stopped answering calls. Rev Kingsley expressed reluctance to disclose information about her life but threatened to reveal it if her funeral arrangements were not peaceful.

    This is what Rev Kingsley said on Kesseben “I was even supposed to pick her up at the airport, but I was also not well. I had been unwell for a while, even before the Saturday, So I had spoken to her earlier and she said she was about to set off from South Africa, so I will not hear from her again. She was coming from South Africa to Ghana, with transit from Ethiopia. So, even when she got to Ethiopia, she informed me about it. It was a Sunday, and I was unwell, and so I did not go to church. So she called me asked that I meet her at the airport, and then I told her I could not come and pick her up in the morning. So I asked her to pick charter a cab home so that I come and see her in Accra.”

    “When she got home, I heard from her again around 2:00 pm. And so I decided to set off and come and see her. And so around 4:00 pm she called me again and asked if I was coming, and then I said yes, I am on my way. So I set off from here around 5:00 pm. So we kept communicating on phone. But after a while, when I tried calling her, I could not reach her. But usually, we both don’t let each other’s calls ring for long. We pick each other’s calls instantly. So when I was not hearing from her, it was a little strange to me. So when I got to Accra, I still could not reach her, and so I decided to go to my house in Accra and get some rest. And so the next morning, she was still not responding to my calls. So I called one of the workers in her house and asked why I was unable to reach her. So I went to the house eventually and that was when we saw her. So I was there when the door to her room was broken down. I went with some of her workers to go and lodge a report at the police station,” he noted.

    “I really wanted to go and check up on her when she was not responding to my calls, but some things had already happened in the past, where I had been threatened by some people close to her, so I was a little careful about immediately going there. Just as was done when I went to commiserate with the family and was turned away. I will give more details later. I definitely have a lot of information because I have been with her, but not now,” he added.

    Also, discussing what she may have gone to do in South Africa, he refrained from discussing that matter and said, “I do not want to talk about that incident right now. Later, when all arrangements happen peacefully, everything will be calm, but if not, all that has to be said will be said.”

    Earlier reports suggested that Prophet Kingsley was turned away by Dr. Boadu’s family when he attempted to offer condolences. The blogger also played audio recordings of Dr. Boadu’s mother seeking Prophet Kingsley’s assistance in communicating with her daughter.

    “Hello King, morning. King, how are you doing? King, I beg you, motherhood is painful. Yesterday I heard something about my daughter. King, please have mercy on me, for I am very pitiful. Please ask my daughter what is wrong with her. I am her mother. I brought her into this world. I beg her to please tell me what is bothering her. Please tell her to talk to me,” Dr Boadu’s mother reportedly told Prophet Kingsley.

    The blogger alleged that Dr Boadu also had a miscarriage in the seventh or eighth month of pregnancy and claimed that Rev Kingsley was already married with children while dating her on the side.

    These revelations raise questions about potential undisclosed secrets surrounding Dr. Boadu’s life and death. Dr Boadu, a prosperous woman with branches of her herbal hospital in Accra and Kumasi, gained popularity on social media for her public education on herbal medicine.


  • Asenso-Boakye fans host ‘kokonte’ party after NPP primary victory to ‘spite’ Ken Agyapong

    Asenso-Boakye fans host ‘kokonte’ party after NPP primary victory to ‘spite’ Ken Agyapong

    Member of Parliament for the Bantama Constituency, Francis Asenso-Boakye, has revealed the rationale behind his supporters organizing a ‘konkonte’ party to celebrate his recent victory in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary primaries.

    The motivation, as explained by the MP, stemmed from negative remarks made by Kennedy Agyapong (Assin Central MP), who attempted to belittle him by referring to his late mother’s occupation.

    “When Honourable [Ken Agyapong] came, he was denigrating the job of my mother that fed many people in the community and he said that my mother is a kokonte seller, so it infuriated [people],” Asenso-Boakye explained during an interview on Starr FM’s Starr Chat on Thursday, February 1, 2024.

    He clarified that his late mother actually sold rice balls, known locally as “omu tuo,” not kokonte.

    Asenso-Boakye pointed out that Ken Agyapong’s attempt to demean his late mother’s work angered his supporters and constituents, prompting them to organize the ‘kokonte’ party as a triumphant response to celebrate his victory over Ralph Agyapong.

    “I think it doesn’t matter whether it’s omu tuo or kokonte; they are all local foods that are prepared and sold. So a lot of people were very upset in the community. Market women, widows; my mother was a widow, and given the sacrifices that my mother made to make sure that I had a very decent self… that is why some people decided to have the kokonte party, and it was very massive,” he remarked.

    Asenso-Boakye, who also serves as the Minister for Works and Housing, secured a commanding victory in the January 27 contest with 78.22% of the total votes cast, amounting to 650 votes. On the contrary, Mr. Agyapong garnered 181 votes, representing 21.78% of the overall vote count.

    During the heated campaign, Ken Agyapong, the current Member of Parliament for Assin Central, and former NPP flagbearer contestant, leveled allegations of corruption against Asenso-Boakye. In response, the MP dismissed all the allegations as baseless.

  • Govt finally agrees to ‘touch’ Free SHS under IMF requirements

    Govt finally agrees to ‘touch’ Free SHS under IMF requirements

    The government of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in a significant development, has unequivocally announced its intention to review the flagship Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program. This revelation is outlined in the latest report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding Ghana’s US$3 billion bailout programme.

    Contained on page 76 of the comprehensive 155-page report under the section titled ‘PUBLIC SPENDING EFFICIENCY,’ the government discussed recalibrating the expenditure portfolio of Municipal and District Assemblies (MDAs) responsible for social spending.

    Specifically addressing education, the report states: “In the education sector, we will review and rationalize the Free Senior High School (SHS) program.”

    This move is part of a broader strategy to shift the spending composition of MDAs towards targeted and well-designed interventions.

    The report, dated December 18, 2023, titled “STAFF REPORT FOR THE 2023 ARTICLE IV CONSULTATION, FIRST REVIEW UNDER THE ARRANGEMENT UNDER THE EXTENDED CREDIT FACILITY, REQUEST FOR MODIFICATION OF PERFORMANCE CRITERIA, AND FINANCING ASSURANCES REVIEW,” sheds light on the government’s commitment to a thorough assessment of public sector wages, with a focus on the education and health sectors.

    Contrary to previous assertions, the government, led by the education minister, has now acknowledged the need for a review of the Free SHS program.

    The report emphasizes the objective of improving overall learning outcomes, including targeted measures to enhance foundational learning and continued support for tertiary education.

    This announcement comes amid recent exchanges between the government and former president John Dramani Mahama, who had pledged to review the Free SHS if elected in 2025. While the government has previously argued against the need for a review, the latest stance signals a shift towards recognizing the necessity for improvements in the Free SHS policy.

    IMF GHANA REPORT January 2023 by The Independent Ghana on Scribd

  • “We should have done better” – Dede Ayew takes full responsibility for Black Stars AFCON Exit”

    “We should have done better” – Dede Ayew takes full responsibility for Black Stars AFCON Exit”

    Captain of the Black Stars, Andre Dede Ayew, has issued a formal apology for Ghana’s disappointing performance at the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), acknowledging that the team fell short of expectations.

    In a video message, the Le Havre player expressed regret for the team’s early exit from the tournament, stating, “These past days have been very difficult for every Ghanaian football fan and myself.

    I would like to apologize for the results at the AFCON that we just exited; we know that we should have done better.”

    Taking full responsibility as the squad captain, Dede Ayew admitted that the team’s showing, marked by a winless campaign with a loss to Cape Verde and draws against Egypt and Mozambique, did not meet the nation’s expectations.

    “In football, these are things that happen; it makes you stronger. What doesn’t kill you always makes you a stronger person, individually and collectively. We are Ghana and never going to give up… we shall rise and shine again as a family,” he emphasized.

    Dede Ayew, who made an appearance in the final group game against Mozambique, acknowledged setbacks as a norm in football but emphasized that they should serve as a stepping stone to better performances in the future.

    He concluded his apology by addressing the sentiments of disappointed fans, stating, “We understand the anger, backlash, everything that came to us; we take it, and we will make sure that we put our flag back where it belongs.”

    The national team’s failure to progress beyond the group stage led to widespread disappointment among fans, prompting key squad members, including Dede Ayew, to publicly express remorse and commitment to a stronger comeback.

  • ‘These past days have been very difficult for me’ – Black Stars captain Dede Ayew apologizes after AFCON Exit

    ‘These past days have been very difficult for me’ – Black Stars captain Dede Ayew apologizes after AFCON Exit

    Ghana’s Black Stars captain, Andre Dede Ayew, has finally opened up about the challenging period following the team’s exit from the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), expressing remorse and taking responsibility for the disappointing results.

    In a video message sighted on social media, the Le Havre player acknowledges the difficulty faced not only by himself but every Ghanaian football fan in the aftermath of the AFCON campaign.

    He extended a heartfelt apology for the team’s underwhelming performance, emphasizing the collective responsibility he bears as the captain.

    Ayew reflected on the team’s shortcomings during the tournament, where they failed to progress beyond the group stage, registering a winless run with losses to Cape Verde and draws against Egypt and Mozambique.

    He acknowledges that better results were expected, and as the captain, he takes full responsibility for the on-field outcomes.

    “In football, these are things that happen,” Ayew said as he highlighted the transformative power of challenges, adding, “What doesn’t kill you always makes you a stronger person, individually and collectively.”

    Despite the disappointments, he expressed unwavering determination, asserting that Ghana, as a footballing nation, will rise again.

    “We are Ghana and never going to give up… we shall rise and shine again as a family”, he noted.

    He concludes by reiterating his apology and emphasizing the team’s understanding of the frustration and backlash from disappointed fans.

    Ayew assures that they will work towards restoring Ghana’s football pride and reclaiming their position among the footballing elite.

    “We understand the anger, backlash, everything that came to us, we take it and we will make sure that we put our flag back where it belongs.”

  • Madam EOCO boss reveals major challenge in fighting crime: Lack of evidence hampers prosecution efforts

    Madam EOCO boss reveals major challenge in fighting crime: Lack of evidence hampers prosecution efforts

    Head of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has expressed frustration with the difficulty in gathering evidence to prosecute numerous crime cases brought to her office.

    COP Tiwaa Addo-Danquah highlighted the issue of people making unsubstantiated public allegations of crimes against others before cases are brought to EOCO. She emphasized that, in the court of public opinion, the accused individuals are already deemed guilty. However, when it comes to providing evidence to support these claims, individuals often refrain from cooperating.

    “Evidence gathering is one of the major challenges that we face. You have a lot of people making wild allegations, but when it comes to supporting the allegations with evidence, you won’t even hear from them again,” She told the media.

    COP Tiwaa Addo-Danquah‘s remarks follow Ghana’s consistent score of 43 out of 100 in the Corruption Perceptions Index report by Transparency International for the fourth consecutive year.

    She, heading one of the institutions mandated to fight corruption, emphasized that many individuals tend to make baseless accusations without providing supporting evidence. Consequently, when it is time to prosecute these cases, the lack of available evidence becomes a significant obstacle.

    “The point is that it is not about saying something, and it is not about how many media houses are carrying out that allegation. It is about your ability to put credible evidence together that will be presented to a judge for prosecution, and remember the judges are not listening to whatever is being said on social media,” she lamented.

    COP Tiwaa Addo-Danquah further explained that citizens often misunderstand the challenges faced by her institution, leading to perceptions of bias or selectivity.

    “So when you have a case where the person has been tried, convicted in the court of public opinion, we are unable to gather the kind of evidence that will (succeed) at the court. The public will say that no, the institution is either not working well or there is something wrong with it.

    “Like any other crime, you need evidence to prosecute. It is not because you say it is not about the truth. It is about your ability to gather information to do that,” she added.

  • EOCO boss recounts how somebody she knows tried to ‘rob’ MTN

    Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO), Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has disclosed a surprising incident involving someone she knows attempting to deceive MTN, a prominent telecom company in Ghana.

    During an interview with 3News on the prevalent issue of corruption in the country, Madam Tiwaa shared the story as an illustration of the need for collective efforts to combat corruption.

    Madam Tiwaa narrated that she once offered assistance to a person in need of money for school fees. After agreeing to help, the individual requested that the money not be transferred via mobile money (MoMo) because of an outstanding debt to MTN.

    “The moment I said I could help, she called me back to say that I should not put it on her MoMo because she is owing MTN, can you imagine? And I did. So, these are small things that we think they don’t matter, but they do. It starts from small-small things and become big,” she stated.

    She emphasized the necessity for a change in attitude and mindset, urging everyone to play a role in the fight against corruption.

    “So, everybody must have a change of attitude, mindset, that this is where we are and this is where we want to go. And we must all play a role in the fight against corruption. One person cannot do it. And it’s not about leadership. It’s about everybody playing a role. Whatever is expected of you, you do it, whatever is expected of me, I do it. Whatever is expected of institutions, they do it,” she explained.

    Madam Tiwaa also revealed that EOCO has initiated investigations into the case of Cecilia Dapaah, a former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, who is accused of corruption. The case was referred to EOCO by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), which indicated that it could involve money laundering, beyond the OSP’s investigative and prosecutorial mandate.

    “I have that, and we are now reviewing it, at the appropriate time, we will speak about it. I am not well briefed about the docket, so I don’t want to make any comment on it until we review it. The most important thing is that he has handed over, I don’t have any more thing to add,” she noted.

  • How Ewes helped Ashantis during wars in the past – Historian Anokye Frimpong gives details

    How Ewes helped Ashantis during wars in the past – Historian Anokye Frimpong gives details

    As the Asante Kingdom prepares to commemorate 150 years since the Sagrenti War, coupled with the 25th anniversary of the reign of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu, curiosity about Asante history and traditions is on the rise.

    Lawyer Yaw Anokye, shedding light on Asante history, particularly during the era of wars, highlighted the unique collaboration that unfolded between the Asante and Ewe communities.

    He said that the Fanti people, who were allies of the British, wanted the war to end as soon as possible so that they could get rid of the Ashanti presence in their land.

    For that reason, they refused to contribute soldiers to the British army. Instead, they relied on Captain Glover, who brought in troops from Accra, Akuapim, and Akyem, as well as from the West Indies, Hausaland – Northern Nigeria, Lagos, Lagos, Gambia, and Sierra Leone.

    This was a huge coalition against the Ashantis, to make sure that they outnumbered the Asante army. And while the troops had arrived, towards the end of 1873, they made sure that more soldiers would arrive to surprise the Asante.

    At that time, the Ewe people were most of the time the map readers of the Asante people, anytime they wanted to make incursions to the east, under Edubofuo.

    They had lost over 20,000 soldiers in the east, because they wanted to invade the Oyo empire with the Eʋe people, in Nigeria. The Asantehene had to call Edubofuo back to the coast when they learned that Sir Garnet Wolseley was arriving, and they also learned that one of their own entourage, they had sent to Britain, had betrayed them.

    They wanted the British to understand them because as part of the 1831 treaty they signed with the British, the Asante were to give up all the Twi-speaking tribes they had conquered. The Wassa, the Akyem, Twifo, Assin, Denkyira, and Elmina. But the Asante felt that this was purely an African affair and that when they made a treaty with the British, they did not agree to give up these states.

    Because long before they came in, these people had been subdued by the Asante under Osei Tutu, and they were serving them. And so they did not think that the British could rightfully claim them because they said they wanted to serve the British. And then, the British also said that the Asante should stop human sacrifice.

    The Asante wanted Queen Victoria herself to understand the Asante tradition and the African form of religion, that whenever a great king died, for them, it was just a transition to the other world, and they needed slaves and servants to accompany them and serve them. And so it was not a matter of the Asantehene always killing people, but that when an Asantehene or a famous chief died, someone had to be made to accompany the king. And for them, they did not see it as murder. They saw it as part of their rituals, which they felt Queen Victoria should know. And then, the people being killed were those who were already war captives, so whether they killed them to accompany the king or not, being war captives, and prisoners, they could dispose of them in any way they wanted.

    Anokye said that the Asante and the Eʋe people had a history of cooperation and mutual respect, and that they fought together against the British invasion.

    Historian Anokye Frimpong’s revelations provide a captivating glimpse into the historical dynamics between the Asante and Ewe communities during times of conflict.

  • NPP is yet to receive formal notice of alleged assault of Citi News journalist – JFK

    NPP is yet to receive formal notice of alleged assault of Citi News journalist – JFK

    The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Kodua Frimpong, has revealed that the party is yet to receive a formal report regarding the alleged assault on Citi FM/Citi TV’s Northern Regional correspondent, Mohammed Alabira, during the recent Parliamentary primary in Yendi, Northern region.

    The incident, reportedly involving the Member of Parliament for Yendi, Farouk Aliu Mahama, took place as Alabira covered disruptions at the NPP’s parliamentary primary in Yendi. The violence erupted during the vote counting at Yendi Senior High School, the designated election venue.

    Accusations surfaced from NPP delegates claiming that an Electoral Commission official had manipulated the ballots of Farouk Aliu Mahama’s opponents, specifically Hajia Abibata Shanni Mahama Zakariah.

    Speaking on Eyewitness News on Monday, January 29, Mr Kodua Frimpong highlighted that, at present, no formal report had reached him. He stressed that the party would take appropriate action once a report is received.

    “Well, as of now, I’ve not received any report of that nature, and if indeed it happened, then it would have been an unfortunate incident, and the party would look at it. NPP is a party that would never support any act that seeks to undermine and attack the integrity of journalists in this country.

    “Let’s assume it’s an allegation, but once it comes before us and [we’re] able to ascertain that indeed this is what happened, the party will take extra harsh time on it.”

    Responding to inquiries about his awareness of the incident, Frimpong stated, “Well, I have not. You might not expect that I’ll know everything that is happening. From Saturday, as General Secretary, I’ve been overburdened with several issues, and just today I was at Manhyia, so it is possible that I might not have heard it, and I’ve told you that I’ve not, and I’ve even made a position that if it happened, it would have been an unfortunate incident.”

  • Major Mahama’s killers to appeal life sentence, claim judge misled jury

    Major Mahama’s killers to appeal life sentence, claim judge misled jury

    Three individuals among the twelve convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of Major Maxwell Mahama are set to challenge their conviction.

    The lead counsel, Theophilus Kafui Donkor, revealed that his clients believe the judge misdirected the jury, influencing the verdict against them. The trio has instructed him to take the matter to a higher level through an appeal.

    In an interview on JoyFM’s Newsnight, Mr Donkor stated, “My clients are not satisfied with the directions that the judge gave to the jury, so they have instructed me to appeal the decision on their behalf.”

    He emphasized that the clients are convinced they have a strong case and are determined to challenge the verdict on appeal.

    According to Mr Donkor, the grounds for the appeal revolve around the judge’s failure to direct the jury to the applicable law while determining the case’s verdict.

    He pointed out that the judge’s direction did not align with legal standards, citing the case of Yirenkyi versus the Republic as a reference.

    Highlighting the requirement to prove prior agreement in conspiracy charges, Mr Donkor argued that the prosecution failed to present evidence indicating an agreement among the twelve convicted individuals to commit the crime of killing Major Mahama.

    Despite allegations of a planned meeting, two individuals were acquitted, further strengthening the appeal’s foundation.

    Mr Donkor mentioned that during the legal process, multiple appeals were filed, some of which are still pending. All outstanding appeals will be consolidated into a composite appeal, with the primary argument centered on the improper direction given by the judge to the jury.

    The twelve individuals have already commenced serving their life sentences at the Nsawam Prison in the Eastern Region.

    Major Maxwell Mahama met his tragic demise at the hands of an angry mob in Denkyira Obuasi, Central Region, while on official duty as a detachment commander on May 29, 2017.

  • “I am still MP for Yendi, I will wait for party’s decision on primaries” – Farouk Mahama

    “I am still MP for Yendi, I will wait for party’s decision on primaries” – Farouk Mahama

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for the Yendi constituency in the Northern region, Umar Farouk Aliu Mahama, who contested in the party’s recent parliamentary primaries, has expressed his intention to await the party leadership’s decision on the winner of the primaries in his constituency.

    This follows a series of events that occurred after voting concluded in his constituency on Saturday, January 27, 2024, including the interruption of counting, destruction of ballot papers, and a declaration of victory by both himself and his contender, Abibata Shani.

    Reports indicate that despite the absence of an official declaration, both candidates – Farouk Mahama and his contender, Abibata Shani, had individually proclaimed victory following the contest.

    The Electoral Commission promptly denied knowledge of any declaration of results in that constituency and urged for calm while matters are resolved. The NPP party also stated that it was waiting for a report on what led to the incident before drawing any conclusions.

    In response to the situation, Mr. Mahama insists that the disturbance was initiated by his opponent’s relative because it was evident that he was able to maintain his candidacy.

    Speaking in an interview on Joy FM, Farouk Mahama stated that he would patiently wait for the party’s verdict on the matter.

    “As a democratic member, I am still a member of parliament for Yendi, and I have the support of the people and the delegates. I will patiently wait for the outcome of the party and the general secretary’s direction,” he said on January 29, 2024.

    He assured that he believed in democracy and thus would adhere to the principles of democracy; therefore, he would not do anything to tarnish his reputation and that of his constituency.

    “I am the PC [parliamentary candidate] and MP currently, and I am a democratic person who really believes in democracy so I will not do anything untoward to bend the hard-earned reputation of my tribe and the good people of Yendi. I am still the MP, and I will lead the party to the 2024 election,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the police have reportedly arrested one suspect and are on a manhunt for others in Yendi, Northern Region, for election-related offenses.

  • 10 facts about the Sagrenti War of 1874

    10 facts about the Sagrenti War of 1874

    Did you know that the Sagrenti War of 1874 had a significant impact on the history of West Africa? This lesser-known conflict between the Ashanti Empire and the British forces holds several fascinating facts that are worth exploring. In this article, we will delve into the ten key facts about the Sagrenti War, shedding light on its causes, major battles, and the ultimate outcome.

    Causes of the Sagrenti War

    The causes of the Sagrenti War can be traced back to the tensions between the Ashanti Empire and the British colonial powers. The Ashanti Empire, a powerful and wealthy kingdom in West Africa, had successfully resisted British attempts to establish control over the region for decades. The British, driven by their desire to expand their colonial empire, saw the Ashanti Empire as a barrier to their ambitions. This led to a series of clashes and skirmishes between the two sides, ultimately escalating into full-scale war in 1874.

    The primary cause of the war was the British desire to gain control over the rich natural resources of the Ashanti Empire, including gold and other valuable commodities. The Ashanti Empire, on the other hand, was determined to maintain its independence and protect its resources from foreign exploitation. The clash of interests between the two sides set the stage for the Sagrenti War.

    The final catalyst for the war was the Ashanti Empire’s refusal to comply with the British demand to abolish the practice of human sacrifice. This cultural difference, combined with the economic and political motivations of both sides, created a volatile situation that eventually erupted into armed conflict.

    Major Events During the Sagrenti War

    The Sagrenti War was marked by a series of major events that shaped its outcome. The first major battle of the war took place at Amoaful, where the Ashanti Empire launched a fierce attack on the British forces. The Ashanti warriors, known for their bravery and military prowess, initially gained the upper hand, inflicting heavy casualties on the British troops. However, the British, with their superior firepower and disciplined tactics, managed to repel the Ashanti assault and secure a decisive victory.

    Another significant event during the war was the Battle of Ordahsu, where the Ashanti Empire made a last-ditch effort to defeat the British and regain control of their territory. Despite their valiant efforts, the Ashanti forces were once again outmatched by the British, who had reinforcements and modern weaponry at their disposal. The Battle of Ordahsu ended in a resounding victory for the British, effectively breaking the back of the Ashanti resistance.

    The final major event of the war was the capture of the Ashanti capital, Kumasi, by the British forces. This marked the end of the conflict and the beginning of British colonial rule in the region. The capture of Kumasi not only dealt a severe blow to the Ashanti Empire but also symbolized the triumph of British imperialism over African sovereignty.

    Key Leaders and Their Roles in the Sagrenti War

    The Sagrenti War saw the emergence of several key leaders on both sides, each playing a crucial role in the outcome of the conflict. On the British side, General Garnet Wolseley was the commanding officer who led the military campaign against the Ashanti Empire. Wolseley, known for his tactical brilliance and strategic planning, played a pivotal role in coordinating the British forces and securing victory in the war.

    On the Ashanti side, King Kofi Karikari was the ruler during the Sagrenti War. Karikari, a charismatic and respected leader, sought to defend the independence and sovereignty of the Ashanti Empire against British encroachment. Despite his efforts, Karikari was ultimately unable to withstand the superior firepower and resources of the British forces.

    Impact of the Sagrenti War on the Region

    The Sagrenti War had a profound impact on the region, both in the immediate aftermath of the conflict and in the years that followed. One of the most significant consequences of the war was the establishment of British colonial rule over the Ashanti Empire. With the defeat of the Ashanti forces, the British gained control over the region’s resources and imposed their authority on the indigenous population.

    The war also resulted in the loss of thousands of lives on both sides. The Ashanti Empire, once a formidable power in West Africa, was significantly weakened by the conflict, paving the way for further British expansion in the region. The Sagrenti War served as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of colonialism and the impact it had on the lives of the people in West Africa.

    Casualties and Losses in the Sagrenti War

    The casualties and losses incurred during the Sagrenti War were significant. Both the Ashanti Empire and the British forces suffered heavy casualties during the major battles of the war. The exact number of casualties is difficult to determine, but it is estimated that thousands of soldiers and civilians lost their lives during the conflict.

    The Ashanti Empire, with its formidable warrior tradition, fought fiercely to defend its territory and way of life. However, the superior firepower and military tactics employed by the British forces proved to be a decisive advantage. The casualties suffered by the Ashanti Empire, coupled with the loss of their capital, Kumasi, dealt a severe blow to their military capabilities and ultimately led to their submission to British rule.

    International Involvement in the Sagrenti War

    The Sagrenti War attracted international attention and involvement due to the strategic importance of West Africa and its valuable resources. Several European powers, including France and Germany, closely monitored the conflict and sought to exploit the situation for their own gain. While these powers did not directly participate in the war, their presence and influence in the region added another layer of complexity to the conflict.

    The international involvement in the Sagrenti War highlighted the broader geopolitical dynamics of the time, with European powers vying for control over African territories and resources. The war served as a microcosm of the larger colonial struggles that were taking place across the continent, further fueling tensions and conflicts in the region.

    Legacy of the Sagrenti War

    The legacy of the Sagrenti War is multifaceted and continues to shape the history of West Africa. The war marked a turning point in the relationship between the Ashanti Empire and the British colonial powers. The defeat of the Ashanti Empire and the imposition of British rule had far-reaching consequences for the region, including the exploitation of its resources and the erosion of indigenous cultures and traditions.

    The Sagrenti War also highlighted the resistance and resilience of the Ashanti people in the face of foreign aggression. Despite their defeat, the Ashanti Empire and its people have continued to preserve their cultural heritage and strive for self-determination. The war serves as a symbol of the struggles and triumphs of the African people against colonialism and oppression.

    Historical Significance of the Sagrenti War

    The Sagrenti War holds significant historical importance, both in the context of West Africa and the broader history of colonialism. The war exemplifies the tactics and strategies employed by European powers to expand their empires and exploit the resources of African nations. It also underscores the resistance and resilience of African societies in the face of colonial aggression.

    The Sagrenti War serves as a reminder of the complex and multifaceted nature of colonialism and its lasting impact on the lives of people in West Africa. It is a testament to the struggles and sacrifices of those who fought for their independence and sovereignty. By studying the Sagrenti War, we gain a deeper understanding of the historical forces that have shaped the region and the ongoing challenges faced by its people.

    The Sagrenti War of 1874 was a significant chapter in the history of West Africa. From its causes and major events to the key leaders and international involvement, the war offers a wealth of fascinating facts and insights. The conflict between the Ashanti Empire and the British forces had far-reaching consequences for the region, shaping its destiny and leaving a lasting legacy.

    As we explore the ten facts about the Sagrenti War, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of colonialism and its impact on the lives of the people in West Africa. The war serves as a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of the African people and highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve their cultural heritage and achieve self-determination.

    Join us on this historical journey as we uncover intriguing details about the Sagrenti War of 1874. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the impact of colonialism in West Africa, these ten facts will provide you with a deeper understanding of a war that shaped the destiny of nations.

  • Ghanaian UN Peacekeeper killed in South Sudan

    Ghanaian UN Peacekeeper killed in South Sudan

    A Ghanaian peacekeeper serving with the United Nations (UN) has lost their life in the Abyei region of South Sudan during clashes between local rival groups, as confirmed by a statement from the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA).

    The violence unfolded in three locations within the Abyei area on the South Sudan-Sudan border on Saturday, leading to casualties and the evacuation of civilians to UNISFA bases for safety.

    During the clashes, one UNISFA base faced an attack, and despite the successful repelling of the assault, a Ghanaian peacekeeper tragically lost his life.

    The UN mission is currently working to verify the extent of the impact of the violence on the local population, including the number of casualties, injuries, and displacements.

    South Sudan has been grappling with intercommunal clashes, a consequence of the devastating war that occurred between the country’s leader, Salva Kiir, and his former deputy, Riek Machar. This conflict was characterized by tribal rivalries, leaving lasting tensions among different communities.

    The statement did not specify which tribes were involved in the clashes on Saturday. The Abyei region, known for its oil resources, is often a hotspot for violence, particularly due to disputes over the administrative boundary between rival factions of the Dinka ethnic group.

    Abyei’s ownership itself remains a point of contention between Sudan and South Sudan, both nations having conflicting claims over the region since South Sudan declared independence from Sudan in 2011.

    In response to the incident, UNISFA has condemned the attacks on civilians and the killing of the Ghanaian peacekeeper. The mission has expressed condolences to the affected families and reiterated its commitment to actively protect civilians and support efforts for peace and security in its operational area.

    UNISFA has called for a prompt and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attacks to ensure accountability for all perpetrators involved.

  • Kumasi Traditional Council to decide on Wontumi’s fate today despite alleged ‘cease and desist’ order from Otumfuo

    Kumasi Traditional Council to decide on Wontumi’s fate today despite alleged ‘cease and desist’ order from Otumfuo

    The Kumasi Traditional Council will reportedly convene a significant meeting today, Monday, January 29, 2024, which could determine the future of the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, in the Asante Kingdom.

    Chairman Wontumi has been embroiled in controversy and found himself on the ‘wanted list’ of the second-highest decision-making body of the Kingdom, following alleged derogatory remarks against the Asantehene during a recent encounter with the Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Dua, at a parliamentary aspirants’ vetting in the Ashanti region.

    Despite denying the accusations, Chairman Wontumi was summoned by the traditional council for a hearing, which he failed to attend citing health reasons. A regular panelist at Wontumi Radio, Lawyer Maurice Ampaw was also summoned to appear before the Council today in response to insults Ampaw allegedly rained on chiefs of the land.

    The NPP national leadership, who responded to the summons and pleaded on behalf of Chairman Wontumi for more time, was directed to ensure his appearance within a week.

    Following an unqualified apology rendered by Wontumi Media to the Kumasi Traditional Council over derogatory comments, a news report on www.wontumionline.com suggested that the Asantehene had directed the council to discontinue the case.

    However, media reports indicate that the council will reconvene today to deliberate on Chairman Wontumi’s fate.

    According to JoyNews, an invitation letter signed by the Registrar of the Council, Kwame Adusei Agyemang, informed Nananom of the scheduled sitting, urging attendance.

    Despite Chairman Wontumi’s previous failure to honor the invitation on health grounds, he was reportedly seen in the Bantama Constituency during the NPP’s Parliamentary Primaries on Saturday, January 27, 2024, where he claimed to be in good health.

    While it remains uncertain if Chairman Wontumi will attend Monday’s meeting, sources at the Manhyia Palace suggest that the traditional rulers are prepared to make a decision with or without his presence.

    The Kumasi Traditional Council, being the largest traditional council in Ghana, holds significant influence as the second-largest decision-making body after the Asanteman Council, with members comprising chiefs from 77 suburbs of Kumasi. Acting President Bantamahene, Baffuor Owusu Amankwatiah VI, is expected to lead the proceedings in the absence of the overlord of the Ashanti Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who missed the last meeting.

  • Angry NPP Youth Organiser ‘chokes’ Chairman during thanksgiving service

    Angry NPP Youth Organiser ‘chokes’ Chairman during thanksgiving service

    A thanksgiving service at the Asante Akyem Asankare Church of Pentecost in the Ashanti region turned chaotic when the Asante Akyem South constituency Youth Organizer, Simon Agyemang, physically assaulted the chairman, Noah Kyei, in the church auditorium.

    The incident occurred on Sunday and involved prominent members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    The thanksgiving service was organized to celebrate the victory of MP Kwaku Asante-Boateng in the recent parliamentary primaries. However, the celebratory atmosphere took a dark turn when the Youth Organizer, visibly enraged, confronted Chairman Kyei, grabbing him by the neck and physically mishandling him.

    The attack drew the attention of other worshippers, who promptly rushed to the aid of the assaulted chairman. The exact trigger for the assault remains unclear, but there are allegations that the Youth Organizer was dissatisfied with the chairman’s handling of the primary elections held the previous Saturday.

    During those primaries, Mr. Asante-Boateng emerged victorious with 522 votes, representing 61.27% of the total votes cast. His main contender, Bice Osei-Kuffuor, the Managing Director of Ghana Post, secured only 280 votes, accounting for 32.86% of the votes cast.

    The incident has raised concerns about the internal tensions within the NPP, and party members are awaiting an official response or statement regarding the altercation during what was supposed to be a joyous occasion.

  • “Why this small pistol when you have an AK47 with plenty bullets at home?” – K.T Hammond asks his ‘son’

    “Why this small pistol when you have an AK47 with plenty bullets at home?” – K.T Hammond asks his ‘son’

    The incumbent Member of Parliament (MP) for Adansi Asokwa constituency in the Ashanti Region, Kobina Tahir (KT) Hammond, has caused a stir with his violent remarks against his rival, Sammy Binfoh Darkwa, in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary primaries..

    Mr Hammond, who won the primary with 311 votes, representing 63.86% of the total valid votes cast, was captured on camera threatening to beat and humiliate Mr Binfoh, who got 125 votes, amounting to 25.67.

    He also questioned why one of his supporters, whom he referred to as his child in Twi (meba yi), came to the voting area with a small pistol instead of an AK47 with many bullets, implying that he was ready to use firearms to ‘defend’ his supporters at the voting area.

    “But he too [pointing at an unknown person who the camera does not capture] I do not even know what is wrong with him, you have an AK47 with many bullets, you leave it and come around with this small pistol and come and stand watching as they beat these boys,” he said.

    The video, which has gone viral on social media, has sparked outrage and condemnation from the public.

    Mr Hammond, who is also the Minister of Trade and Industry, said he was provoked by the actions of some macho men, who allegedly attacked his supporters on the eve of the election.

    “Binfoh, I am going to make sure he is mercilessly beaten, to pulp. I will humiliate him at the polls and get him beaten,” he said. 

    “I am just putting you on notice. Get him. Wherever he is, he should leave town quickly. Chief, we have been voting in this town for about 24 years. Nobody provokes the other. Yesterday in the evening, come and see this place. Macho boys beating my boys, hitting them with metals,” he added.

    He also vowed to give Mr Binfoh a showdown, both at the polls and physically.

    “I say to you commander today I am going to give him a showdown. Two forms of showdown, I will beat him here, I will humiliate him here, and then organise for him to be beaten physically,” he said.

    He was then seen holding firmly a police officer and thanking him, while the police tried to calm him down and engage with him.

    Mr Hammond, who has been the MP for Adansi Asokwa since 2001, is known for his controversial statements and his influential role within the NPP.

  • Results from NPP parliamentary primaries so far

    Results from NPP parliamentary primaries so far

    The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary elections, held in the 105 constituencies where the party has sitting Members of Parliament (MPs), have reached completion, with the voting, sorting, and counting processes wrapping up in most voting centers across the country.

    Below are the provisional results from selected constituencies:

    1. Nsawam Adoagyiri:
      • Annoh Dompreh: 734
      • Hayford Siaw: 228
    2. Mion:
      • Musah Superior: 132
      • Musah Abdul-Aziz Ayaba: 344
    3. Asene Manso Akroso:
      • George Kwame Aboagye: 36
      • Alex Owusu Adjei: 152
    4. Swedru:
      • Kennedy Osei Nyarko: 194
      • Kwasi Kwaning-Bosompem: 94
      • Okyere Jerome Kwame: 10
    5. Abuakwa North:
      • Gifty Twum-Ampofo: 202
      • Palgrave Boakye-Danquah: 76
      • Nana Kwame Mamfe: 4
      • Nana Ampaw Addo-Frempong(Buffalo): 222
      • Kofi Obeng-Mensah: 4
    6. Atiwa East:
      • Abena Osei-Asare: 288
      • Dr Banning: 11
      • Eric Agyarko: 67
      • Adade Wiredu: 44
    7. Daboya-Mankarigu:
      • Alhaji Mahama Asei Seini: 196
      • Samuel Yeyu Tika: 211
    8. Assin Central:
      • Godfred Nti: 193
      • Obed Kumi: 79
      • Eric Kwadwo Baidu (Broda): 119
      • Adjei Banin: 115
    9. Tano:
      • Gideon Boako: 442
      • Freda Prempeh: 221
    10. Nsuta Kwamang Beposo:
      • Adeliade Ntim Yaa Agyeiwaa: 320
      • Kwadwo Banahene Bediako: 20
      • Victor Owusu: 217
      • Owusu Boahen: 11
      • Fred Boama: 1
    11. Dome Kwabenya:
      • Mike Oquaye Jnr: 1,194
      • Adwoa Sarfo: 328
      • Sheila: 186
    12. Tano North:
      • Dr. Gideon Buako: 442
      • Freda Akosua Prempeh: 221
    13. Asante Akyem South:
      • Total Ballots Cast: 852
      • Asante Boateng: 522
      • Obour: 280
      • Eric Amofa: 50
    14. Ofoase/Ayirebi:
      • Kojo Oppong Nkrumah: 378
      • Eric Owusu Mensah: 92
      • Maxwell Dwamena: 100
    15. Ablekuma West:
      • Ursula Owusu-Ekuful: 817 votes
      • Roni Paa Kwesi Nicol: 241 votes
      • Rejected ballots: 20
    16. Oforikrom Constituency:
      • Claudia Kwarteng Lumor: 351
      • Nelson Owusu Ansah: 92
      • Joseph Tieyiri: 13
      • Michael Kwasi Aidoo: 666
      • Gyamfi Nkrumah Adwabour: 8
      • Rejected: 1
      • Total: 1131
    17. Lower West Akyem Constituency:
      • Hon. Charles Achampong: 437
      • Adamu Abdulai: 33
      • Hon. Kwabena Sintim Aboagye: 115
      • Grace Akosua Amoabeng: 01
      • Hon. Odamene Antwi: 120
      • Total Delegates: 717
      • Total Votes Cast: 709
      • Rejected: 3
    18. Abura Asebu Kwamankese:
      • Frederick Quainoo: 49
      • Etudur Kobina Nyanteh: 414
      • Elvis M. Donkoh (Incumbent): 335
      • Rejected: 6
      • Total Vote Cast: 804
    19. Tano North:
      • Dr. Gideon Buako: 442
      • Freda Akosua Prempeh: 221
    20. Ahanta West:
      • John Agyare: 139
      • Francis Eric Pobee: 431
      • Benedict Appau: 256
      • John Yankey: 67
      • Total Vote: 901
      • Rejected: 1
    21. Ashanti Offinso North:
      • Fred Kyei Asamoah: 378
      • Rockson Kwaku: 1
      • Augustine Collins Ntim: 231
    22. EC Final Results Tema West:
      • Dennis Nana Amfo: 918
      • Robert Richard Suapim: 356
    23. Asante Juaben Constituency:
      • Total Registered: 470
      • Total Turnout: 454
      • Francis Kwabena Owusu Akyew: 334
      • Hon Ama Pomaa Boateng (Incumbent): 120
    24. Akyem Swedru:
      • Incumbent MP Hon Kennedy Osei: 194
      • Okyere Jerome Kwame: 10
      • Kwasi Kwening Bosompem (Controller and Accountant General): 94
    25. Asene Akroso Manso:
      • Hon George Kwame Aboagye: 362
      • Alex Owusu Adjei: 152
    26. Abuakwa North:
      • Gifty Twum-Ampofo (Incumbent MP): 202
      • Palgrave Boakye-Danquah: 76
      • Nana Kwame Mamfe: 4
      • Nana Ampaw Addo-Frempong (Buffalo): 222
      • Kofi Obeng-Mensah: 4

    The elections mark a significant step for the NPP as they prepare for the upcoming general elections later in the year.

  • KT Hammond wins again

    KT Hammond wins again

    The NPP primaries witnessed KT Hammond clinching an impressive 311 votes, establishing his dominance over competitors. Enoch Acheampong received 25 votes, Kwabena Nksansah Asamoah secured 26 votes, and Samuel Darkwa Binfo garnered 125 votes.

    This landslide victory is a significant milestone for KT Hammond, who currently serves as the Minister of Trade and Industry in Ghana. The results underscore the strong support he enjoys within the Adansi Asokwa constituency.

    Stay tuned for more updates on the NPP primaries and the political landscape at large.

  • Asenso-Boakye floors Ralph Agyapong with 650 votes

    Asenso-Boakye floors Ralph Agyapong with 650 votes

    The NPP primaries unfolded today, revealing a significant electoral win for Asenso-Boakye, the incumbent Member of Parliament and Minister of Works and Housing in the Bantama constituency of the Ashanti Region.

    In a decisive triumph, Francis Asenso-Boakye secured an overwhelming 78.22% of votes in the NPP primaries against Ralph Agyapong, the younger brother of, Member of Parliament for Assin Central Constituency, Kennedy Agyapong.

    Asenso-Boakye received 650 votes, while Agyapong received 181 votes. The total number of valid votes cast was 831, with only 1 vote being rejected.

    This victory is a significant milestone for Asenso-Boakye, who is the current MP and Minister of Works and Housing in the Bantama constituency of the Ashanti Region of Ghana2.

    Stay tuned here at backend.theindependentghana.com for more information on the NPP primaries 

  • ‘Unwell’ Chairman Wontumi makes ‘miraculous’ recovery, seen taking charge of NPP primaries in his region

    ‘Unwell’ Chairman Wontumi makes ‘miraculous’ recovery, seen taking charge of NPP primaries in his region

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has made a surprising recovery from his illness, just days after he was seen in a hospital bed with an intravenous catheter.

    Chairman Wontumi, who was summoned by the Kumasi Traditional Council for allegedly insulting the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, had communicated to the council that he was unwell and could not appear before them on Friday, January 26, 2024.

    A photo of him lying on a hospital bed, with a bandage on his arm and a drip attached to his hand, circulated on social media, raising concerns about his health condition.

    However, on Saturday, January 27, 2024, Chairman Wontumi was seen in good health and high spirits, as he supervised the NPP parliamentary primaries in his region.

    He was spotted at various polling stations, granting interviews and interacting with the delegates and the candidates.

    When asked by a journalist how his health is at the moment, he briskly responded, ” I am fine, I am fine”.

    Chairman Wontumi, who has been the NPP regional chairman since 2014, is known for his influential role within the party and his outspoken nature, often making controversial statements and engaging in vigorous political discourse.

  • NPP primaries: Voting ends, sorting underway and counting to follow shortly

    NPP primaries: Voting ends, sorting underway and counting to follow shortly

    The voting process for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary has ended in all the 276 constituencies across the country, as the party seeks to elect its flagbearer for the 2024 general election.

    As the clock ticks, election officials have swiftly transitioned into the sorting phase, meticulously organizing the cast ballots. The sorting process is a critical step that precedes the official counting of votes, providing a structured approach to handling the received ballots.

    The atmosphere at the polling centers remains charged with anticipation as party members and supporters await the final results that will determine the selected candidates for the upcoming elections.

    Stay tuned for updates..

  • VIDEO: Moment delegate with oxygen mask cast his ballot Berekum East

    VIDEO: Moment delegate with oxygen mask cast his ballot Berekum East

    In a remarkable and unprecedented scene at the New Patriotic Party‘s (NPP) ongoing primaries in the Berekum East constituency, a ‘seriously’ ill delegate, believed to be in his 30s, went to great lengths to cast his vote.

    The delegate, whose identity and specific condition remain undisclosed, was transported to the voting centre in a taxi. Despite being visibly unwell, he displayed determination as he wore an oxygen mask, and an oxygen tank was present in the vehicle.

    Accompanied by two male nurses and two individuals assumed to be his relatives, the sick delegate defied the odds to participate in the democratic process. The motive behind his decision to exercise his franchise in such a precarious health condition remains unclear.

    The extraordinary act has left many questioning the circumstances that led to the delegate’s determination to cast his vote amid health struggles.

    As the NPP primaries unfold across various constituencies, this incident in Berekum East serves as a testament to the commitment and importance individuals place on their civic duty, even in challenging circumstances.

    Video footage capturing this unusual event has circulated on social media, sparking discussions about the lengths some citizens are willing to go to exercise their democratic rights.

  • “Akufo-Addo has destroyed us, we want John Mahama now” – Suame Magazine traders declare

    “Akufo-Addo has destroyed us, we want John Mahama now” – Suame Magazine traders declare

    Traders at Suame Magazine, the largest industrial cluster in Ghana, have expressed their dissatisfaction with the performance of President Nana Akufo-Addo and his government and called for the return of former President John Mahama in the 2024 election.

    Suame Magazine, located in Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti Region, is home to over 200,000 workers and 12,000 small businesses, mainly dealing with metal engineering and vehicle repairs.

    The traders, who spoke to the media on Friday, January 26, 2024, said they had been disappointed by the unfulfilled promises of Akufo-Addo, especially in the areas of infrastructure, taxation, and importation.

    “We don’t have anything to tell him again. All Nana’s promises never happened. He even promised to build a hospital for us, but he never did. After 8 years,” one of the traders said.

    Another trader lamented the high cost of importing goods from the port, saying it had affected their businesses negatively.

    “The amount of money we use when we are going to get more items, we pay more than that at the port when we get there. Why? What is going on in Ghana is not good, so we are pleading with John Mahama that if he listens to us, we too, we will listen to him. So we beg him he should come and help us here at Magazine. We the scrap dealers and the spare parts dealers are suffering,” he said.

    The traders also compared the economic situation under Akufo-Addo and Mahama, and said there was a huge difference in favour of the latter.

    “Ghana is not developed yet, but if we compare what Mahama did during his time and what Akufo-Addo has done, there is a huge difference. During Akufo-Addo’s time, cement is 100 cedis, but during Mahama’s time it was 28 cedis. If you look at the difference. Akufo-Addo has destroyed the country in 8 years. So we want Mahama to continue,” another trader said.

    A shop owner said his wife always goes home crying because of low sales, and blamed it on the poor economic management of Akufo-Addo.

    “My wife has a shop here. She always comes home crying. She says people are unable to buy anything. So sometimes she comes home without sales,” he said.

    The traders said they were praying for John Mahama, popularly known as JM, to come back to power and rescue them from their hardships.

    “The way the job was when NDC was in power, now it is not so. Everything has reduced. So we are all praying that John Mahama will come back into power. JM should come back,” they said.

    John Mahama, who is the presidential candidate of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has been making efforts to woo the voters in the Ashanti Region, promising to complete all the abandoned projects initiated by his government.

    Mahama is expected to face Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, who is the presidential candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), in the 2024 election. 

  • Obuor’s billboard near voting area sparks controversy at NPP primaries

    Obuor’s billboard near voting area sparks controversy at NPP primaries

    A huge billboard of the Managing Director of Ghana Post, Bice Osei Kuffour, popularly known as Obour, has caused a stir at the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary primaries in Asante Akyem South constituency in the Ashanti Region.

    A video posted by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) on Twitter shows a chaotic scene of people arguing about the billboard, which was set up a few metres from the voting centre.

    Some people in the video are heard saying “is this how we do things?” while others say “it looks very nice”.

    Obour, who is also a former president of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), is an aspiring parliamentary candidate of the NPP for the constituency.

    He is contesting against the incumbent MP, Kwaku Asante-Boateng, a seasoned lawyer and Deputy Minister of Railway Development, and Eric Amofa.

    The billboard, which bears Obour’s image and the slogan “The Time for Change”, has been criticised by some observers as a breach of the electoral rules and an attempt to influence the delegates.

    The NPP parliamentary primaries are currently ongoing at 277 voting centres across the 16 regions.

  • He changed Ashanti Region – Breman Chief endorses Mahama

    He changed Ashanti Region – Breman Chief endorses Mahama

    Chief of Breman in the Ashanti Region, Baffuor Kotei Kutin Sraman, has reiterated his support for former President John Dramani Mahama ahead of the 2024 presidential election.

    In a issued on Friday, January 26, 2024, the traditional leader said he had been backing Mr Mahama since 2016, despite being criticized by some people.

    He said he was confident that Mr Mahama could deliver development to the country, especially the Ashanti Region, which he claimed had benefited immensely from his previous administration.

    “I said this in 2016. I was chastised. But because time changes, we are here again. Today is Friday the 26th of January 2024, today I am saying our prayers are behind his excellency John Dramani Mahama, so that God can help him reclaim his seat as president. I am not saying it for granted because I know what he can do. During his tenure, he changed the Ashanti Region. Talk of hospitals, schools, roads, he did a lot of things for our development. Ideally, when someone does a good thing, it has to be continued, but it looks like things are not exactly going well. So this is our plea, that God almighty will help so that this man can come back and lead this country into development,” he said.

    Baffuor Kotei Kutin Sraman is one of the few chiefs in the Ashanti Region who have openly endorsed Mr Mahama, who is the presidential candidate of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    The region is considered a stronghold of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), which has won the majority of the parliamentary seats and the presidential votes in every election since 1992.

    However, Mr Mahama has been making efforts to woo the voters in the region, promising to complete all the abandoned projects initiated by his government, such as the Kejetia market, the Kumasi airport expansion, and the Kumasi ring road.

    He has also highlighted some of his achievements in the region, such as the construction of hospitals, schools, water projects, and roads.

    Mr Mahama is expected to face Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, who is the presidential candidate of the NPP, in the 2024 election.

  • NPP primaries: “I will give you two forms of showdown!” K.T Hammond tells opponent Sammy Binfo

    NPP primaries: “I will give you two forms of showdown!” K.T Hammond tells opponent Sammy Binfo

    As the New Patriotic Party‘s (NPP) parliamentary primaries unfold across various regions, tensions have escalated in the Adansi Asokwa constituency in the Ashanti region, with the incumbent Member of Parliament, K.T Hammond, issuing alarming threats to his contender, Mr Sammy Binfo Darkwa.

    In a video capturing the intense moment, K.T Hammond can be heard delivering a vehement warning to Binfo, expressing his intent to subject him to physical harm and public humiliation.

    “Binfo, I am going to make sure he is mercilessly beaten, to pulp. I will humiliate him at the polls and get him beaten,” declared Hammond, as uniformed police officers attempted to intervene and calm the situation.

    Hammond’s frustration seemed to stem from alleged violent incidents involving macho men associated with Binfo. He accused Binfo of allowing these individuals to assault his supporters, highlighting an incident where macho boys reportedly beat his supporters with metals.

    “I am just putting you on notice. Get him. Wherever he is, he should leave town quickly. Chief, we have been voting in this town for about 24 years in this constituency. Nobody provokes the other,” Hammond asserted, emphasizing the long-standing history of peaceful elections in the area.

    “Some of them came to my house to plead with me, the macho boys. Are you mad!? Where are you from? An animal like you. You are coming to beat my boys,” Hammond exclaimed, expressing disdain for those involved in the reported violent acts.

    Hammond concluded his fiery address by declaring his intent to give Binfo a “showdown” in two forms – physical beating and public humiliation.

    “I say to you commander today I am going to give him a showdown. Two forms of showdown, I will beat him here, I will humiliate him here, and then organise for him to be beaten physically,” he noted with finality.

    The incident has raised concerns about the potential for violence within the party during the primaries, prompting calls for intervention and investigation into the matter.

  • You should leave town quickly, otherwise…. – K.T Hammond ‘warns’ Sammy Binfo

    You should leave town quickly, otherwise…. – K.T Hammond ‘warns’ Sammy Binfo

    Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa constituency in the Ashanti region, K.T Hammond, has issued severe threats to one of his contenders, Mr Sammy Binfo Darkwa as the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary primaries are ongoing in various regions.

    The incident unfolded as K.T Hammond, flanked by uniformed police officers and onlookers, passionately declared his intentions to subject Sammy Binfo to physical violence and public humiliation.

    The reasons behind this outburst remain unclear, though Hammond vehemently accused Binfo of allowing macho men to assault his supporters.

    The video captured K.T Hammond making explicit threats, promising to “mercilessly beat [Binfo], to pulp” and vowing to humiliate him at the polls while organizing for him to be physically beaten.

    “I am just putting you on notice. Get him. Wherever he is, he should leave town quickly,” Hammond declared, expressing frustration over alleged violent incidents involving macho men associated with Binfo. He went on to recount an incident of these individuals beating his supporters and accused Binfo of condoning such actions.

    The video also portrays a visibly agitated K.T Hammond emphasizing the longstanding history of peaceful elections in the constituency.

    Hammond’s threat escalated as he proclaimed, “Today I am going to give him a showdown. Two forms of showdown, I will beat him here, I will humiliate him here, and then organize for him to be beaten physically.”

    The ongoing NPP parliamentary primaries across the country are intended to determine candidates for the party in the upcoming general elections.

    However, this incident has raised concerns about the potential for violence within the party, prompting calls for swift intervention and investigation into the matter.

  • NPP primaries: “I will make sure you are beaten mercilessly” – K.T Hammond publicly threatens Sammy Binfo

    NPP primaries: “I will make sure you are beaten mercilessly” – K.T Hammond publicly threatens Sammy Binfo

    A startling video has surfaced online amid the ongoing NPP Parliamentary primaries across the country, revealing the incumbent Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa constituency in the Ashanti region, KT Hammond, issuing severe threats to one of his contenders, Mr Sammy Binfo Darkwa.

    In the video, KT Hammond can be heard making ominous promises, including a pledge to brutally beat Sammy Binfo Darkwa and orchestrate further physical harm with the assistance of others.

    The reason behind this outburst remains unknown, but in the video, KT Hammond is seen standing in front of uniformed police officers, surrounded by onlookers, vehemently shouting threats at Sammy Binfo and accusing him of allowing muscle men to assault his boys.

    Here is a transcript of KT Hammond’s remarks:

    “Binfo, I am going to make sure he is mercilessly beaten, to a pulp. I will humiliate him at the polls and get him beaten.”

    Despite attempts by the police to calm him down, KT Hammond continued his tirade:

    “I am just putting you on notice. Get him. Wherever he is, he should leave town quickly. Chief, we have been voting in this town for about 24 years in this constituency. Nobody provokes the other. Yesterday in the evening, come and see this place. Macho boys beating my boys, hitting them with metals. But he too [pointing at an unknown person who the camera does not capture], I do not even know what is wrong with him, you have an AK47 with many bullets, leave it and come around with this small pistol and come and stand watching as they beat these boys.”

    KT Hammond further described an incident where individuals purportedly came to his house to plead with him, referring to them as “macho boys” and expressing his anger at their actions.

    “Some of them came to my house to plead with me, the macho boys, Are you mad!? You were are you from? An animal like you. You are coming to beat my boys,” he added.

    He vowed to confront the situation head-on, declaring, “Today, I am going to give him a showdown. Two forms of showdown, I will beat him here, I will humiliate him here and then organize for him to be beaten physically.”

    The video has sparked outrage and condemnation from many social media users, who have called for Mr Hammond to be disciplined and prosecuted for his violent and abusive language.

    Mr Hammond, who has been the MP for Adansi Asokwa since 2001, is facing a stiff challenge from three other aspirants, including Mr Darkwa, in the NPP parliamentary primaries.

    According to sources, Mr Hammond had earlier lodged a petition with the NPP vetting committee, seeking the disqualification of Mr Darkwa and the other two aspirants, citing violations of the party’s constitution.

  • Dr Bawumia urges aspirants towards unity for 2024 success

    Dr Bawumia urges aspirants towards unity for 2024 success

    Vice President of Ghana and the presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has urged all the parliamentary aspirants of his party to unite and work hard for the 2024 general elections.

    His message, delivered on the day of the elections, highlights the need for a cohesive and strong party to ensure success in the upcoming 2024 elections.

    In a statement, Dr Bawumia emphasized the critical nature of the December 2024 elections, stating, “The NPP needs to come out of this process strengthened, united, and ready to deliver victory in 2024.” He urged aspirants to prioritize the greater goal of advancing the principles and ideals of the party, rising above personal interests and differences.

    Expressing his sincere wishes to all aspirants through a Facebook post, Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the demanding nature of the political journey, calling for dedication and sacrifices in the service of the people. He encouraged adherence to the fundamental principles of the party’s democratic culture, emphasizing values such as freedom, fairness, and peace.

    Dr Bawumia asserted the collective responsibility of all party members in ensuring the integrity of the party’s electoral system and compliance with the decisions of the delegates. In addition, he extended congratulations to Members of Parliament running unopposed in the primaries, urging them to validate the trust placed in them by contributing diligently to the party’s success in the upcoming 2024 elections.

    “I also wish to congratulate all Members of Parliament who are running unopposed in their constituencies. The party and their constituents have expressed confidence in their leadership. I, therefore, entreat them to justify their confidence by working with all stakeholders to deliver their constituencies in the presidential and parliamentary polls,” Dr. Bawumia said.

  • NPP primaries shake-up as 33 MPs face no contest

    NPP primaries shake-up as 33 MPs face no contest

    As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) gears up for its parliamentary primaries scheduled for January 27, 2024, a total of 33 incumbent Members of Parliament (MPs) are poised to face no opposition in their respective constituencies. This unopposed status positions them for the forthcoming general elections later in the year.

    Here is a compiled list of these unopposed MPs along with their constituencies and regions.

    Ashanti Region (5 Unopposed Candidates):

    1. Bosomtwe MP – Yaw Osei Adutwum
    2. Effiduase MP – Dr Nana Ayew Afriyie
    3. Ejisu MP – John Ampotuah Kumah
    4. Offinso South MP – Isaac Yaw Opoku
    5. Akrofuom MP – Alex Blankson

    Northern Region (5 Unopposed Candidates):

    1. Bimbilla MP – Ntiwul Bingab Aduna Dominic
    2. Tatale-Sanguli MP – Mbomba Thomas
    3. Gushegu MP – Alhassan Tampuli Sulemana
    4. Tolon MP – Iddrisu Habib
    5. Karaga MP – Mohammed Amin Adam

    Eastern Region (4 Unopposed Candidates):

    1. Abetifi MP – Bryan Acheampong
    2. Akim Oda MP – Alexander Akwasi Acquah
    3. Upper West Akim MP – Adom Frederick Obeng
    4. New Juaben South MP – Michael Okyere Baafi

    Central Region (3 Unopposed Candidates):

    1. Effutu MP – Alexander Afenyo Markin
    2. Assin Central MP – John Ntim Fordjour
    3. Upper Denkyira East MP – Festus Awuah Kwofie

    Greater Accra Region (3 Unopposed Candidates):

    1. Ayawaso West Wuogon MP – Lydia Seyram Alhassan
    2. Okaikwei South MP – Darkoa Newman
    3. Okaikwei Central MP – Patrick Yaw Boamah

    North East Region (3 Unopposed Candidates):

    1. Yagaba/Kubori MP – Yussif Mustapha
    2. Yunyoo MP – Liwaal Oscar
    3. Chereponi MP – Tahidu Abdul-Razak

    Bono East Region (2 Unopposed Candidates):

    1. Techiman South MP – Martin Kwaku Adjei Mensah Korsah
    2. Kintampo South MP – Alexander Gyan

    Upper West Region (2 Unopposed Candidates):

    1. Lambussie Nandom MP – Ambrose Dery
    2. Dr Bright Yelviel Baligi

    Single Unopposed Candidates in Respective Regions:

    1. Ahafo Region – Tano South MP – Benjamin Yeboah Sekyere
    2. Bono Region – Dormaa East MP – Paul Apreku Twum Barimah
    3. Volta Region – Hohoe MP – John-Peter Amewu
    4. Savannah Region – Damongo MP – Samuel Abdulai Jinapor
    5. Upper East Region – Binduri MP – Abanga Abdulaif
    6. Western North Region – Sefwi Akontombra MP – Alex Tetteh Djournobuah

    While this list unveils a considerable number of unopposed candidates, the Western region is anticipated to witness intense competition, as all candidates have competitors vying for their positions.

    The NPP primaries promise to be a pivotal moment in shaping the political landscape for the upcoming general elections.

    Stay tuned for further updates.

  • Investigate what the military did in Ashaiman last year – Prof Appiagyei-Atua urges Ghana Police Service

    Investigate what the military did in Ashaiman last year – Prof Appiagyei-Atua urges Ghana Police Service

    Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua, an Associate Professor at the School of Law, University of Ghana, has called for a police investigation into the admitted excesses by the military during the military raid on Ashaiman last year.

    The Defence Minister and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) conceded to authorizing the swoop on Ashaiman following the murder of a young soldier on March 7, 2023, as revealed in Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee’s report.

    During an interview on Joy FM’s Top Story on Friday, January 26, Prof Appiagyei-Atua emphasized the role of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, in the matter. He highlighted that since the police conducted an investigation into the soldier’s death, the IGP should condemn the military brutality and initiate an independent investigation leading to arrests.

    “It is not too late for the police because this borders on criminality, so they can do their investigations, identify these culprits,” he asserted. He emphasized that those responsible for the harm caused to the residents of Ashaiman, the image of the Ghana Army, and the country should be held accountable under the law.

    Prof Appiagyei-Atua suggested that while the Army has a tribunal to address the issue, involving the police in the investigation would ensure impartiality and professionalism in the findings. He proposed that the inquiry should extend to the top leadership of the Ghana Army, as the orders for the raid originated from the high command.

    “In the army structure, when such offences are committed, it is the responsibility of those who gave the order who should be held responsible. They would then be able to identify the people who were identified as leaders in command and so on who gave orders for their juniors to commit those atrocities,” he explained.

    While stressing that junior military personnel who followed orders should be held accountable, Prof Appiagyei-Atua emphasized that the primary responsibility lies with the command, and they should face the highest level of punishment. Additionally, he commended Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee for their thorough report on the matter.

  • Rtd ACP Agordzo reveals details of former IGP’s ‘mysterious’ call leading to his 2019 detention

    Rtd ACP Agordzo reveals details of former IGP’s ‘mysterious’ call leading to his 2019 detention

    Retired Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Benjamin Agordzo has shed light on a pivotal conversation he had with the former Inspector General of Police (IGP), James Oppong-Boanuh, just before his arrest in November 2019.

    Agordzo recounted the unfolding events, stating, “It all started on one Thursday. I had just returned from Winneba after teaching master of philosophy students, and then I received a call from the then IGP. I don’t want to mention names, okay? Okay, the then IGP. Um, and I realized that there was some urgency in his call. ‘Ben, where are you? Where are you?’”

    The retired ACP emphasized the unusual urgency in the IGP’s tone and directive to meet immediately. “And I said I was in town. ‘See me in my office right now.’ I was a bit concerned because we had been speaking, and he had never spoken to me that way.”

    “I went there only to be informed that the BNI wanted to see me and that I should report to the BNI the next day, which was a Friday”, he said.

    Agordzo, curious about the reason for the urgency, sought information about the summons from then Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) now National Intelligence Bureau (NIB). “I asked my IGP whether they had given any reasons for my invitation. He said no. I said, ‘Could you please find out? Because I needed to know why I’m going to the BNI.’”

    Despite promising to get back to Agordzo with the information, the former IGP provided no reasons for the BNI summons. Agordzo continued, “That Friday I told him I was traveling to… (Did not complete sentence) And I had returned from a mission, and I had not reported officially to the police service. So, I was free to move. ‘Okay.’ So, I told him I was going for a funeral.”

    However, Agordzo discovered that news of his arrest and bail had circulated even before he reported. “Interestingly, by the time I got home at Vakpo, the news was all over. The news was all over that I had been arrested and granted bail. Nobody had arrested me then,” he recounted.

    He highlighted the apparent propaganda and premeditation behind the situation. “That tells you the propaganda behind the whole thing because they had already planned everything and schemed it in such a way that they had already given our names out to certain media houses and other things. So, whether I reported or not, it was reported that I had reported because they were sure that I was going to report that Friday. And so, even though I did not report, it was there. So, Monday, I reported.”

    “That was the beginning of a very long story, taking me over four and a half almost four years, three months,” Dr Agordzo noted.

    This revelation adds a new layer to the circumstances surrounding Agordzo’s detention, raising questions about the motives behind his summons by the NIB. The former IGP’s alleged role in this sequence of events becomes a focal point, further intensifying the intrigue surrounding the case.

  • ADB, GCB, Bank of Africa, CalBank, UMB, UBA Ghana seize PBC assets over GH¢300m debt

    ADB, GCB, Bank of Africa, CalBank, UMB, UBA Ghana seize PBC assets over GH¢300m debt

    A coalition of prominent banks, including Agricultural Development Bank (ADB), GCB Bank, Bank of Africa, CalBank, UMB, and UBA Ghana, has taken legal action to confiscate assets owned by Produce Buying Company (PBC).

    This follows a court order obtained by the consortium, allowing them to sell the company’s assets due to outstanding debts surpassing GH¢300 million.

    The assets confiscated include crucial components of PBC’s operational infrastructure including vehicles and various equipment.

    The consortium, consisting of leading financial institutions, such as ADB Bank, GCB Bank, Bank of Africa, CalBank, UMB, and UBA Ghana, initiated legal proceedings by filing an application for summary judgment on October 9, 2023, under order 14 of C.I 47.

    Specifically, PBC is expected to pay the individual banks as follows: GH¢49.257 million to ADB Bank, GH¢11.219 million to Bank of Africa Ghana, GH¢71.049 million to CalBank, GH¢108.469 million to GCB Bank, GH¢42.295 million to UMB, and GH¢13.728 million to UBA Bank.

    The impact of this development on PBC’s operations and the broader implications for the banking sector are yet to unfold.

    Refresh for updates.

  • Ghana’s constitution is bigger than Otumfuo – Maurice Ampaw stokes more fire on Asanteman 

    Ghana’s constitution is bigger than Otumfuo – Maurice Ampaw stokes more fire on Asanteman 

    Lawyer Maurice Ampaw, has stirred more controversy by defying a summons by the Kumasi Traditional Council over some alleged derogatory comments he made against its members.

    In an interview with Kasapa FM, Ampaw raised questions about the motive behind a potential invitation to the Kumasi Traditional Council, asking, “What you say I have said, are you inviting me so you can listen to me? Or you are inviting me so you can kill me?” He went on to emphasize the supremacy of the constitution, stating, “The constitution is bigger than anybody. Otumfuo is subject to the constitution of the Republic of Ghana. Everybody, including the President.”

    Ampaw, defending his reputation, highlighted his extensive legal experience and ethical standing. “A lawyer of 25 years. High moral character proven integrity. I do not have any misconduct. I am competent enough. I educated the whole Ghana, 2012 – 2013,” he asserted. Ampaw also shared his past collaboration with Otumfuo, recalling an assignment given to him by the Asantehene in 2013, which he executed satisfactorily.

    Expressing frustration with recent allegations, Ampaw addressed the perceived prejudice against him, saying, “Today a chief is telling me I am a gutter…(trailed off). I haven’t even come there yet, and you are already prejudiced against me, you have judged me already, and have insulted me such that it is already on social media.”

    As tensions escalate, Ampaw expressed concern about potential mistreatment, saying, “They are only going to bully me when I go. You are saying I am a bad lawyer, so what am I going to do there? Someone who is bad? Otumfuo is not around. I am sad. The Asantehene will never behave this way. Yes, I am telling you.”

    The controversy surrounding Chairman Wontumi and Maurice Ampaw’s alleged offenses adds a layer of complexity to the delicate balance between traditional authority and constitutional principles in the governance of Asanteman.

  • Why Black Stars players cursed the team after winning 1982 AFCON

    Why Black Stars players cursed the team after winning 1982 AFCON

    A former Black Stars player George Alhassan, a member of the 1978-1982 AFCON-winning team, has revealed how some of his teammates cursed the national team after winning the 1982 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Libya. Alhassan recounted the team’s visit to JJ Rawlings’ house, expecting a gesture of appreciation but receiving only a salute.

    “When we went there, he just said there is nothing he can do for us, only salute. So he gave us a salute and thanked us and then we left,” Alhassan revealed. Before boarding the bus, discontent brewed among players, expressing dissatisfaction with the former head of state’s lack of encouragement. Alhassan shared, “Most of them were saying Ye b3 wh3 kwan a omo be faso a omo b3 fa cup no biom (We will see how they will ever win another cup).”

    Alarming as it may seem, the same players who uttered these words faced an unexpected turn of events during the next tournament in Cote d’Ivoire. Alhassan suggested, “We have already cursed ourselves before going to play, so how would you win the cup? You cannot.”

    However, Veteran Sports Journalist Ken Bediako dismissed the notion of a curse, attributing it to an unfortunate coincidence. Bediako stated, “I am not that superstitious. I think we have grown past those spiritual things.”

    Adding a different perspective, Mohammed Polo, another member of the 1978 AFCON–winning team, emphasized personal responsibility.

    Polo asserted, “I don’t believe that somebody is hindering you from achieving your goal, because everybody has his time. But that doesn’t stop your achievement. You also have to go through your process that will help you. If you don’t help yourself… they are not helping themselves. Because It is the selfishness of monetary issues.. And you are making money. You are making money, why can’t you perform?”

    This revelation raises questions about the impact of superstition and belief systems on the Black Stars’ subsequent performance, sparking debates on the influence of external factors on sporting success.

  • Ghana Enterprises Agency disburses over GH₵700 million to MSMEs

    Ghana Enterprises Agency disburses over GH₵700 million to MSMEs

    Chief Executive of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Kosi Yankey-Ayeh, has revealed that the organization has successfully disbursed over GH₵700 million to support micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises (MSMEs) in the country.

    In an interview on JoyNews’ PM Express, Yankey-Ayeh underscored the tangible effects of this financial support, marking a pivotal role in sustaining businesses amid and post the Covid-19 pandemic.

    Yankey-Ayeh, when questioned about the sufficiency of the disbursements, responded with a call for perpetual improvement. She asserted, “In life, you should never be satisfied with what you get. So I would want more, and I think people should want more. The question therefore should not be ‘Is it enough?’ The question should be ‘How can we do more for people?’”

    The Chief Executive, expressing the government’s unwavering commitment, stated, “In this nation’s history, no government or agency has disbursed so much funds to the micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises in the way we’ve done. It’s unprecedented, never happened before.”

    Highlighting the importance of recognizing the extraordinary efforts made by the agency, Yankey-Ayeh urged a shift in perspective, asserting, “The question should not be ‘Is it too small?’ Because it is not about that; it is about even making the effort.”

    The disbursed funds aim to provide financial assistance, promote entrepreneurship, and contribute to the overall development of small businesses in the country.

    Yankey-Ayeh emphasized that the government’s focus remains on continual enhancement and expansion of support for MSMEs.

  • My only ‘crime’ was to support a medical outreach – Dr Agordzo explains his connection to alleged coup plotters

    My only ‘crime’ was to support a medical outreach – Dr Agordzo explains his connection to alleged coup plotters

    Retired Assistant Commissioner of Police, Benjamin Agordzo, who was cleared of any involvement in a 2019 coup plot, has spoken out about his ordeal and how he was falsely accused by the National Investigations Bureau (NIB).

    Mr Agordzo in a recent interview said that he had no connection with the alleged coup plotters, and that the money he gave to the late Dr Mac-Palm, a key suspect in the case, was for a medical outreach programme and not for any subversive activities.

    He said that the NIB had presented 13 witnesses who claimed that he had paid GH₵2,000 to support the coup, but he had explained to them the circumstances under which he made the payment.

    “I explained to them the circumstances under which I paid the GH₵2,000. Of course, they didn’t even know I had paid the GH₵2,000. I told them I had paid GH₵2,000 to him and even on the platform I had made a promise, on the open platform that looking at the medical outreach programme they were undertaking, I was going to support,” he said.

    He also accused the NIB of twisting his words and fabricating a false narrative as evidence against him.

    “I took my time, together with my lawyers, and put my case together, dismantling all that they had said and putting them in the context in which I said them, which the judge agreed with,” he stated.

    Mr Agordzo further revealed that he was summoned by the NIB for questioning about the coup before news of his alleged arrest and subsequent release on bail circulated.

    He contended that the authorities had already shared the names of individuals implicated in the coup plan with certain media outlets.

    In a surprising turn of events, the court acquitted and discharged ACP Agordzo and another individual from the coup plot charges. However, six others were convicted and sentenced to death.

  • ‘Military invasion’ in Manwe: Residents in fear as armed officers allegedly seize bikes and block roads

    Reports from upperwestmedia.net reveal a concerning development in the Wa East District, as the farming community of Manwe has reportedly been taken over by armed military personnel.

    The incident unfolded yesterday 25th January 2024 at about 1 pm, within the township, where armed military men seized several motorbikes belonging to civilians, accompanying their actions with warning shots to instill fear.

    Residents of the area expressed their apprehension, sharing how military officers seemingly infiltrated the Manwe Community. One resident narrated, “I saw three men within the community today, I saw them going into a room ordinarily dressed but came out later with military uniforms. They blocked the roads and took motorbikes from their owners. We are worried because we don’t have an idea why they are here; they even took the bike of our Assembly Member.”

    Efforts are underway to gather more details from the Assembly Member of the area, Hon. Adams Iddrisu, to shed light on the military presence in Manwe.

    The District Security Council, led by Dr. Ewurah Suleman Kandia, is anticipated to provide a response to the unfolding developments in the Wa East District.

    The motive behind the said military takeover is still unclear, as no official statement has been issued by the Ghana Armed Forces or the government.

  • Roof collapse, trap fire officers dousing fire in West Legon, Wednesday evening

    Roof collapse, trap fire officers dousing fire in West Legon, Wednesday evening

    A fire outbreak at a residence in West Legon, near the Westland Junction, has resulted in three firefighters being trapped under a collapsed roof, and rushed to the hospital with serious injuries.

    The fire incident occurred on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, around 2 pm, and spread quickly to the roof of the building, which was made of wood and metal sheets. Thick smoke was seen billowing from the building, attracting the attention of passers-by and residents.

    The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) was alerted and dispatched a team of firefighters from the Legon Fire Station to the scene. However, as they entered the building to douse the flames, the roof suddenly caved in and fell on them, trapping them under the debris.

    The other firefighters managed to rescue their colleagues and rushed them to the West Legon Hospital, where they are receiving treatment.

    The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and that the GNFS is appealing to the public to cooperate with them and provide any relevant information that could assist in the probe.

    The public is also advised to be vigilant and cautious about fire safety, especially during the dry season, and to report any fire incidents to the GNFS as soon as possible.

    The fire outbreak was captured on video by blogger Zionfelix, who posted it on his Instagram page, with the caption:

    “Fire outbreak at West Legon (Westland junction). 3 Fire Service personnel were trapped just when they entered and they have been rushed to the hospital. According information gathered, the roof collapsed on the fire officers.”

    Many users expressing their sympathy and prayers for the firefighters, commended them for their bravery and sacrifice.

    Some users also criticized the poor quality of building materials and the lack of fire safety measures in the area, and called for more regulation and enforcement by the authorities.

    West Legon is a suburb of Accra, the capital city of Ghana, and is known for its residential and commercial activities.

  • Court clears BoG of wrongdoing in revoking GN Bank’s license

    Court clears BoG of wrongdoing in revoking GN Bank’s license

    A Human Rights Court in Accra has ruled in favour of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) in a case brought by Dr Papa Kwesi Nduom, GN Savings and Loans, and another, challenging the revocation of their license by the central bank.

    The court dismissed the application filed by the plaintiffs, who claimed that the BoG had violated their human rights by revoking their license without due process, and without considering their financial circumstances and the debt owed to them by the government.

    The court said that the BoG was acting within its lawful mandate, as stipulated by the Bank of Ghana Act, 2002 (Act 612), to ensure the safety and soundness of the banking sector, and to protect the interests of the depositors and the public.

    The court also said that the BoG had followed the proper procedures and given the plaintiffs enough notice and opportunity to rectify their situation, before taking the final decision to revoke their license.

    The court further said that the plaintiffs had failed to prove that they were solvent and met the minimum capital adequacy ratio, as required by the BoG, at the time of the revocation. The court said that the debt owed to them by the government was not a valid excuse, as it was not confirmed by the Ministry of Finance, and it did not address their capital deficit.

    The court also said that the plaintiffs had failed to prove that they were discriminated against by the BoG, as other entities had suffered the same fate as them, and that the BoG had applied the same criteria and standards to all the institutions under its supervision.

    The court concluded that the plaintiffs’ complaints were unfounded and without merit, and that the BoG had taken a reasonable decision to protect the public interest.

    The BoG revoked the license of GN Savings and Loans, formerly GN Bank, on August 16, 2019, along with 22 other savings and loans companies and finance houses, for being insolvent and unable to meet their obligations to their customers.

    The BoG said that GN Savings and Loans had a negative capital adequacy ratio of -61%, and a negative net worth of GH¢683.66 million, as of May 31, 2019.

    The BoG also said that GN Savings and Loans had engaged in transactions that violated prudential norms, such as extending overdraft and other facilities to its related parties, who were other companies in the Groupe Ndoum network of businesses.

    GN Savings and Loans, which was originally incorporated as First National Savings and Loans in 2006, and later became GN Bank in 2014, was reclassified as a savings and loans company in January 2019, after it failed to meet the new minimum capital requirement of GH¢400 million for universal banks.

    Dr Papa Kwesi Nduom, the founder and president of Groupe Ndoum, and a former presidential candidate of the Progressive People’s Party, had challenged the revocation of the license of GN Savings and Loans, and accused the BoG of being unfair and unreasonable.

    He had also claimed that the government owed him GH¢942.98 million, of which GH¢102.73 million represented Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs), for various projects that his companies had executed for the government.

    However, the BoG had disputed his claims, and said that only GH¢30.33 million of the IPCs had been confirmed by the Ministry of Finance, and that even if the amount was paid, it would not address the capital deficit of GN Savings and Loans.

    The BoG had also appointed the Ghana Deposit Protection Corporation (GDPC) as the receiver for GN Savings and Loans, and assured the customers that their deposits were safe and would be paid to them through the receiver.

  • Six sentenced to death, top police and military officers walk free in Ghana coup plot case

    Six sentenced to death, top police and military officers walk free in Ghana coup plot case

    Six people have been found guilty of conspiracy to commit high treason and committing high treason by a High Court in Ghana, in relation to an alleged coup plot to overthrow the government.

    The six are Donya Kafui, alias Ezor, Bright Allan Debrah Ofosu, Yohannes Zikpi, Warrant Officer Class Two Esther Saan Dekuwine, Lance Corporal Ali Solomon, and Corporal Sylvester Akanpewon.

    They were part of a group of ten accused of plotting to destabilise the country and overthrow President Nana Akufo-Addo in 2019.

    However, three of the accused, Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Agordzo, Colonel Samuel Kodzo Gameli, and Corporal Seidu Abubakar, were acquitted and discharged by the court on Wednesday.

    The tenth accused, Dr. Frederick Yao Mac-Palm, the late Chief Executive Officer of Citadel Hospital, died in custody in October 2020. His testimony was removed from the records by the court.

    The judgment, delivered by a three-member panel of judges, was scheduled for November 22, 2023, after the submission of written arguments by the prosecution and the defence.

    The prosecution, led by Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame, presented 13 witnesses, including seven soldiers, to prove their case.

    The defence team, composed of lawyers from Legal Aid and private practitioners, argued that the accused were innocent and that the evidence was insufficient and fabricated.

    The court, presided over by Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, found that the prosecution had established beyond reasonable doubt that the six convicted persons had conspired and acted together to overthrow the government by force.

    The court also found that ACP Agordzo, Colonel Gameli, and Corporal Abubakar had no direct involvement in the plot and that their actions did not amount to abetment.

    The court adjourned the case to December 15, 2023, for sentencing.

    The convicted persons face a maximum penalty of death by hanging, according to the Criminal Offences Act of Ghana.

    The alleged coup plot was uncovered by a joint operation by the Bureau of National Investigations and the Defence Intelligence in September 2019.

    The security agencies claimed that they had seized several weapons, explosives, and ammunition from a makeshift hospital in Alajo, a suburb of Accra, where Dr. Mac-Palm and his accomplices were planning to execute their plan.

    The security agencies also alleged that the accused had planned to target key installations, such as the Jubilee House, the seat of the presidency, the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, the police headquarters, and the military barracks.

    The accused denied the charges and maintained that they were victims of political persecution and witch-hunt.

    The trial, which began in June 2021, attracted public attention and controversy, as it involved senior police and military officers, who were accused of supporting the plot.

    The case also raised questions about the state of security and democracy in Ghana, which is widely regarded as a stable and peaceful country in West Africa.

  • Govt spent GHS27.9m on you! We do not deserve this! – Ablakwa tells Black Stars

    Govt spent GHS27.9m on you! We do not deserve this! – Ablakwa tells Black Stars

    The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has exposed the huge amount of money that the government spent on the Black Stars, Ghana’s national football team, towards the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire, where many believe they performed poorly and crashed out in the group stage.

    In a Facebook post, Ablakwa revealed that the government spent a whopping GHS27.9 million on five items related to the Black Stars between April and June 2023, according to documents submitted to Parliament by the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

    These items include:

    • GHS7,452,437.71 for the 2024 AFCON Qualifier (Ghana V Angola — Home & Away)
    • GHS8,395,434.13 for the 2024 AFCON Qualifier (Ghana V Madagascar — Home & Away)
    • GHS3,414,894.51 for the 2024 AFCON Qualifier (Ghana V Central Africa Republic — Home & Away)
    • GHS3,379,548.10 for the salaries of the coach and signing on fees
    • GHS5,324,721.89 for airlifting supporters of the Black Stars during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar

    Ablakwa said that this amount did not include the latest tournament expenditure items in Côte d’Ivoire, which he promised to highlight later.

    He expressed his disappointment and frustration with the Black Stars, who he said failed to recognize the pride and honour of representing the nation, and the extraordinary sacrifices that the taxpayers were making for them despite the prevailing economic crisis.

    He said that the country was undergoing unprecedented financial hardships, which did not spare even the aged, and that the country was unable to raise GHS4 million to save lives at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital’s renal unit, which was shut down to outpatients in May 2023 due to lack of funds.

    He said that the players and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) officials must acknowledge that there were so many national problems that could be solved with GHS27.9 million, and that the country did not deserve the calamitous output that they delivered at the AFCON.

    The Black Stars, who were among the favourites to win the tournament, failed to win any of their three matches in the group stage, losing to Mozambique and drawing with Egypt and Angola. They finished at the bottom of their group with two points, and were eliminated from the competition.

    The dismal showing led to the sacking of coach Chris Hughton, who had been in charge of the team since July 2023.

    Many Ghanaians have taken to social media to vent their anger and frustration with the Black Stars, who they accuse of being insensitive and wasteful. They have called for a review and reduction of the Black Stars’ budget, and for more transparency and accountability from the GFA and the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

  • Leave Wontumi alone! He is my grandson – Otumfuo allegedly orders Kumasi Traditional Council

    Leave Wontumi alone! He is my grandson – Otumfuo allegedly orders Kumasi Traditional Council

    The Asantehene, His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has reportedly instructed the Kumasi Traditional Council to stop pursuing the case of alleged disrespect by the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, towards the Golden Stool and its occupant.

    According to Wontumionline.com, the Asantehene made this directive after he learned that the Kumasi Traditional Council had summoned Chairman Wontumi to appear before them on Monday, January 29, 2024, to answer for his comments that were deemed offensive and insulting to the Asantehene and the Sika Dwa, the sacred golden stool that symbolizes the sovereignty and unity of the Asante people.

    The Asantehene reportedly stated that Chairman Wontumi is his own grandson, and therefore, he would not subject him, the Asantehene or the Sika Dwa to any form of disrespect as alleged. He also said that he had not authorized anyone to summon Chairman Wontumi on any matter, and that he was very furious with the Bantamahene, Baffour Owusu Amankwatia VI, for creating unnecessary tension in Asante ahead of the 150th anniversary celebration of the Sagrenti War and the 25th anniversary of his coronation.

    The Sagrenti War, also known as the Third Anglo-Ashanti War, was fought between the British Empire and the Ashanti Empire from 1873 to 1874, and resulted in the British annexation of the Ashanti territory and the destruction of the royal palace in Kumasi. The Asantehene’s coronation took place on April 26, 1999, after he succeeded his late uncle, Otumfuo Opoku Ware II, as the 16th Asantehene of the Ashanti Kingdom.

    It is believed that the Asantehene does not want Manhyia, the seat of the Asante monarchy, and the Golden Stool to be involved in petty partisan political issues, and that he prefers to maintain cordial relations with all political parties and leaders in the country.

    The Kumasi Traditional Council, which is the largest and most influential traditional council in Ghana, comprises the chiefs and elders of the various towns and villages within the Kumasi metropolis.

    The council has the power to summon, sanction, or banish any person who violates the customs and traditions of the Asante people, or who shows disrespect to the Asantehene or the Golden Stool.

    The council had earlier invited Chairman Wontumi to appear before them on January 22, 2024, but he failed to show up, citing health reasons. He was represented by the NPP General Secretary, Justin Kodua, and the Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, who pleaded for two weeks for his recovery. However, the council rejected their plea and rescheduled the meeting for January 29, 2024.

    Chairman Wontumi, who is a wealthy businessman and a staunch supporter of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has been accused of making derogatory remarks about the Asantehene and the Golden Stool on his own radio station, Wontumi Radio, and on other media platforms. He has also been criticized for his abrasive and confrontational style of politics, and for allegedly inciting violence and intimidation against his opponents.

    However, following the intervention of the Asantehene, it seems that Chairman Wontumi has been spared from any further action by the Kumasi Traditional Council, and that the case has been dropped. It is not clear whether Chairman Wontumi has apologized to the Asantehene or the Golden Stool, or whether he will refrain from making any more controversial statements in the future.

  • Stop sharing CCTV footage of crimes on social media – Police urges public

    The Ghana Police Service (GPS) has issued a stern warning to the public, urging them to refrain from sharing Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) footage of criminal activities on social media platforms.

    The GPS believes this approach will hamper its investigations and jeopardise the chances of arresting the culprits.

    Director of the Public Affairs Directorate of the Ghana Police Service, ACP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, stated that such actions would benefit neither the public nor the service.

    She emphasized that it would expedite the process of bringing the perpetrators to justice if the public shared the CCTV footage directly with the police.

    “In the event of any incident, instead of circulating the CCTV footage, they should first share it with the police to help in our investigations. Sometimes, putting it out there makes our investigative efforts difficult because if you are a suspect and you know that there is footage of you, it reveals your identity and the like,” she said on Citi FM.

    She added that the police had the expertise and the equipment to analyse the CCTV footage and identify the suspects, and that sharing it on social media could alert them and make them flee or destroy evidence.

    She also appealed to the public to cooperate with the police and provide any relevant information that could assist in solving crimes.

    Therefore, the public is advised to exercise caution and discretion when dealing with CCTV footage of crimes, and to respect the work of the police and the law.

  • Former Eastern Regional Minister Kwadwo Affram Asiedu dies at 78

    Former Eastern Regional Minister Kwadwo Affram Asiedu dies at 78

    Kwadwo Affram Asiedu Esq., a former Eastern Regional Minister and a key member of the Kufuor administration, has died at the age of 78.

    He passed away on Monday, January 8, 2024, at the Focos Hospital in Pantang, where he was receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness.

    His death was confirmed by the Mpraeso/Bepong Afranie-Asona family in a press release, which also announced that the one-week celebration would be held on February 10, 2024, to decide on the funeral arrangements.

    Former Minister Kwadwo Affram Asiedu

    Mr Asiedu, who was also a lawyer and a businessman, served as a Deputy Minister for Interior and a Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry under former President John Agyekum Kufuor from 2001 to 2008.

    He was appointed as the Eastern Regional Minister in August 2007, following a cabinet reshuffle. He held the position until January 2009, when the Kufuor government handed over power to the Mills administration.

    As a minister, he was instrumental in implementing various policies and projects to promote peace, security, trade, and development in the region and the country at large. The family has requested privacy and prayers as they mourn their loss.

  • “Wontumi beginning to make Nananom very angry!” – Chiefs upset over no show at Council meeting

    “Wontumi beginning to make Nananom very angry!” – Chiefs upset over no show at Council meeting

    The chiefs and elders of the Kumasi Traditional Council expressed displeasure and anger over the failure of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, to appear before them on Monday.

    Chairman Wontumi had been summoned by the Council for allegedly making disrespectful remarks about the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, during the vetting of parliamentary aspirants in Manhyia South.

    However, he did not attend the Council meeting, citing health reasons, and sent a delegation led by the NPP General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, also known as JFK, to plead on his behalf.

    JFK explained to the Council that Chairman Wontumi, who had returned from a trip to China, was on admission at a hospital. He requested a two-week extension for Chairman Wontumi to honour the invitation.

    “I got a notice a short while ago that Baffour Kantankrankyi said I should call him. Truthfully, I called him. When I did, he told me to present ‘my child’, the regional chairman, before the chiefs of the Ashanti kingdom. I immediately called the chairman to relay the message, and he told me he was on his way to China and that when he returns he will show up. And so last week Thursday, I called Nana Samaahene and informed him that the chairman has come back and so just as was said the last time, if God permits and if there is room, on Monday, we would want to come and fulfil your request of his presence before you so we could discuss what needs to be discussed. Nananom, with all due respect, yesterday on my way here from Accra, then my chairman called me and said he is at the hospital, on admission and that he is not well. When he said that, I said oh, I am already on my way to Kumasi, if that is the case, he should let me have a doctor’s report, so I can present it to the chiefs when I come here today. But as time approached for my meeting with the chiefs, I hadn’t received the report. And I also decided, I was not going to wait for the report before I come before Nananom. So Nananom, this is the case now.” JFK humbly said.

    However, the Council was not convinced by JFK’s explanation and demanded a doctor’s report to prove Chairman Wontumi’s health condition. The council also refused the 2-week ask and instead gave a 7-day ultimatum.

    An elder of the Council angrily responded after JFK had delivered his message, saying:

    “This sickness chairman claims he has and thus is on admission, is not understandable. He is not sick. He is not sick. How many hours does it take to go to China and back? He is not sick. And the two weeks you are asking for, what kind of illness is it? Is it malaria? Typhoid? How do we give him excuse duty if we do not know what is wrong with him? So if you ask for two weeks, it does not work! We are serious here. He is beginning to make Nananom angry! We have to tell him. He has bitten more than he can chew. What do you mean you are unwell? He has to come here for the things he has said, so that we discuss the matter, and then we tell him what we have to tell him. He is not truly sick. It is fake! If he is indeed sick, he should prove it. So to us, he is not ill, and as such he should come here in the next seven days!”

    The Council, led by Bantamahene Baffour Owusu Amankwatia VI, insisted that Chairman Wontumi must appear before the Council on Friday, January 29, even if he is dying.

    The Council also summoned Lawyer Maurice Ampaw and the management of Wontumi Multimedia to explain why they used their airtime to insult the chiefs during a programme on Wontumi Radio and TV.

    The NPP delegation present immediately distanced the party from the comments by Lawyer Ampaw and assured the Council that it would ensure Chairman Wontumi honoured the invitation.

    Chairman Wontumi’s health excuse and his failure to provide a doctor’s report have cast doubt on his sincerity and his willingness to face the Council and apologise for his comments.

  • Wontumi Multimedia finally apologises to Manhyia

    Wontumi Multimedia finally apologises to Manhyia

    The General Manager of Wontumi Multimedia, Kofi Agyei, has apologised to the Manhyia Palace for some derogatory remarks made by one of their show hosts, Lawyer Maurice Ampaw, against the chiefs of the Kumasi Traditional Council.

    Ampaw’s comments, considered offensive by traditional rulers, led to a summons from the Kumasi Traditional Council for the CEO of Wontumi Multimedia, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, and Lawyer Ampaw to appear and explain their actions.

    “He (Wontumi) should come along with Maurice Ampaw and the Management of his media house so they answer why they decided to use their air time to disrespect Nananom,” ordered the Council.

    Facing the repercussions of these remarks, Wontumi Multimedia‘s General Manager expressed regret and offered an unqualified apology ahead of their scheduled visit to the Manhyia Palace on January 29.

    “He erred in his speech and spoke against traditional authorities at the Manhyia palace. It was wrong, and so we are here to apologize. Management of the media house will go to the Palace but ahead of that, we want to use this channel to render an unqualified apology. We are on our knees. We plead that the traditional authorities forgive us,” Mr Agyei stated during a broadcast on Monday evening.

    He further emphasized that the media house would never use its platform to disrespect authorities and acknowledged the support received from Manhyia Palace.

    This unexpected apology aims to mend the strained relationship caused by the offensive remarks, signaling a potential resolution between Wontumi Multimedia and the traditional authorities.