The New Patriotic Party(NPP) General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong (JFK), has revealed to the Kumasi Traditional Council that the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi is unwell and currently on admission at a health facility.
JFK, who appeared before the chiefs and elders of the Ashanti Kingdom on Monday, disclosed this while reporting to the council about the whereabouts of Chairman Wontumi who has been summoned.
The General Secretary of the party however confessed that he had no doctor’s report to prove that Wontumi, was indeed sick.
JFK said that Chairman Wontumi called him on Sunday and claimed that he was at the hospital, on admission and that he was not well.
However, when JFK asked him to provide a doctor’s report, so that he could present it to the chiefs, Chairman Wontumi failed to do so.
“And so last week Thursday, I called Nana Samaahene and informed him that 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 said.
The summon is in relation to some alleged derogatory remarks that Chairman Wontumi has made against the Asantehene, Otumfuor Osei Tutu II, during the vetting of parliamentary aspirants in Manhyia South.
The remarks have sparked outrage among the chiefs and the youth of the Ashanti Kingdom, who have demanded an apology from Chairman Wontumi and threatened to exile him from the Ashanti land if he did not apologise to the Asantehene and the golden stool.
Some elders in the council have also asked that the NPP suspends all its activities in Kumasi until Chairman Wontumi appears before the Council and clears the air.
The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Kodua Frimpong, also known as JFK, has revealed what the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, told him when he informed him about his summon to the Manhyia Palace, by the Kumasi traditional Council.
JFK, who appeared before the chiefs and elders of the Ashanti Kingdom on Monday, January 22nd 2023, said that he received a notice from Baffour Kantankrankyi, the chief of staff of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to present Chairman Wontumi before the Kumasi Traditional Council.
The summon was in relation to some alleged derogatory remarks that Chairman Wontumi made against the Asantehene during the vetting of parliamentary aspirants in Manhyia South.
“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 Ashanti kingdom,” JFK said.
However, when he called Chairman Wontumi to relay the message, he said that he was on his way to China and that he would show up when he returned.
“I immediately called 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,” JFK said.
JFK said that he then travelled from Accra to Kumasi to plead with the chiefs on behalf of Chairman Wontumi, out of respect for the Asantehene and the Asanteman chiefs.
“I was then in Accra, but because of the respect my party and I have for our Lord (Otumfuor) and the Asanteman chiefs, I came from Accra to Kumasi, and visited the chiefs, Nana Samaahene, Nana Ankobea and I sat with them and told them that I had already mentioned on phone that Chairman had travelled, but I also had to come and plead with them,” JFK said.
JFK’s revelation has confirmed the reports that Chairman Wontumisnubbed the summon from the Manhyia Palace, which has angered the chiefs and the youth of the Ashanti Kingdom.
Some of the chiefs asserted that Chairman Wontumi must appear before the Council, even if he would come in a wheelchair.
The youth of the Kingdom have also threatened to exile Chairman Wontumi from the Ashanti land if he does not apologise to the Asantehene and the chiefs.
The Kumasi Traditional Council has also reportedly summoned Chairman Wontumi, lawyer Maurice Ampaw, and the management of Wontumi Radio and TV over the comments made by the latter against the chiefs during a programme on the station.
The fiery South African politician and leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema, is set to visit Ghana on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, for a dialogue with the youth.
The event, which is organised by Arise Ghana, a bi-partisan civil society group, will take place at the College of Surgeons and Physicians in Accra at 2 p.m.
Malema, who is known for his outspoken and controversial views on issues such as land expropriation, corruption, and African unity, announced his visit in a video posted on Twitter by Sammy Gyamfi, the communications officer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). Gyamfi who described the event as a “must attend” and invited the general public to join.
“Arise Ghana to host Julius Malema on Tuesday, 23rd January, 2024 for an engagement with Ghanaian youth. This program is a must attend! The general public is invited. Don’t miss it”, he tweeted.
AriseGhana to host Julius Malema on Tuesday, 23rd January, 2024 for an engagement with Ghanaian youth. This program is a must attend! The general public is invited. Don’t miss it 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/en26N7pzo2
In the video, Malema said he was looking forward to visiting Ghana, “the home of African democracy”, and engaging with young Ghanaian political activists who strongly believe in economic freedom. The dialogue will serve as an opportunity for the youth to meet and share their ideas and aspirations for the continent.
“Hey guys, I will be visiting Ghana, the home of African democracy on Tuesday 23 January, for a day of dialogue with Arise Ghana, a bi-partisan civil society organization, made up of young Ghanaian political activists who strongly believe in economic freedom in our lifetime. The dialogue will take place at the college of surgeons and physicians in Accra at 2pm. Join us, as we all meet as young people of Africa, because we care about our continent. Thank you.”, he said.
Malema’s visit is expected to generate a lot of interest and debate among the Ghanaian public, especially in the wake of the recent protests by AriseGhana and other groups over the economic hardship and alleged poor governance in the country.
Malema, who founded the EFF in 2013 after being expelled from the ruling African National Congress (ANC) for bringing the party into disrepute, has been a vocal critic of the ANC and its former leader, Jacob Zuma, whom he accused of being corrupt and incompetent. He has also been a staunch supporter of Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe and his land reform policies, which he advocated for in South Africa as well.
Malema has been involved in several legal battles over his political activities and utterances, including being convicted of hate speech twice for singing a liberation song that contained the lyrics “shoot the Boer” and for making derogatory remarks about a woman who had accused Zuma of rape. He has also faced charges of fraud, money laundering, and racketeering, which were later dismissed by the courts.
Malema has been described by some as the “future leader” of South Africa and by others as a “populist” and a “demagogue”. He has a large following among the poor and the young, who see him as a champion of their rights and interests. He has also been praised for his oratory skills and charisma, which have earned him the nickname “Juju”
Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, a former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, and a renowned physician and cardiothoracic surgeon, has denied reports that he predicted the number of people who are going to die of heart diseases in Ghana.
He said he had been flooded with calls for several weeks now, expressing concerns about various “nefarious online activities” using his name and pictures.
He said these “criminals” had been using not only his pictures but also Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated voices that sound like his to sell fake drugs and nutritional supplements for months.
He added that these “criminal elements” had gone further to publish fake news stories claiming he had predicted that more than 50,000 people would die of heart disease in Ghana by the end of 2023.
“The story went further to advertise various fake drugs they claim I have used to treat people with several listed conditions. I wish to state and place on record that, I have not predicted nor granted any interview to any media outlet about the number of people going to die from heart diseases in Ghana. I have equally not granted any media interview indicating to people my unique treatment methods for various chronic diseases,” he said in a statement.
He has therefore filed a complaint at the Police Criminal Investigative Department (CID) for action to be taken on this matter.
“These stories are not only fake but criminal with sole intent to deceive the general public with my reputation being put on the line.
“I have lodged complaints at the CID headquarters about these fake adverts with my name, and though little has been done, it is my hope these criminals will be brought to book. I urge the general public to disregard any advert with my image or name soliciting people to purchase drugs for various illnesses,” his statement said.
Professor Frimpong-Boateng is a respected figure in Ghana and beyond, having performed the first open-heart surgery in West Africa in 1989. He is also the founder of the National Cardiothoracic Centre and the Ghana Heart Foundation. He served as a minister under the Nana Akufo-Addo administration from 2017 to 2021.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. In Ghana, CVDs account for about 13% of all deaths, with hypertension, stroke, and coronary heart disease being the most common conditions. The WHO recommends a healthy lifestyle, regular screening, and access to quality health care as ways to prevent and treat CVDs.
The demise of renowned Ghanaian actor Vincent McCauley has left the nation in mourning, and today’s headlines are buzzing with questions about the cause of his sudden death.
A report from entertainment news blog GhanaCelebrities.com has suggested that the veteran actor might have succumbed to a brain tumor. It’s important to note that this information is yet to be officially confirmed.
The report, authored by Ms Inno, Deputy Managing Editor of the website, reveals that Vincent McCauley passed away last night after a battle with a brain tumor.
Details surrounding the incident are scant, but it is indicated that the actor faced significant challenges leading up to his demise.
Reports describe a difficult period for Vincent, noting his struggles with walking and the inability to exit his car without assistance from others.
Vincent McCauley, known for his roles in popular shows like ‘Things We Do For Love,’ ‘Games People Play,’ and ‘YOLO,’ is believed to have been in his late 40s.
As Ghanaians mourn the loss of this legendary actor, speculation about the potential link between his death and a brain tumor swirls, awaiting official confirmation.
A taxi driver, in a shocking incident yesterday morning between 7:00 am – 8:00 am in Agona Swedru in the Central Region, is currently on the run after he struck and dragged a police officer named Opare Ernest, who was directing traffic.
The incident, according to UTV reporter Sylvester Awuah Brobbey, occurred near the Agona Swedru Chapel Square, close to the chief’s palace, where police personnel were deployed to provide security for an ongoing event.
Narrating the incident on UTV’s Adekye Nsroma, Brobbey said, Opare Ernest was directing traffic to manage heavy congestion when a taxi driver deviated from the designated route, hitting the police officer and dragging him for a considerable distance.
The taxi eventually came to a halt after plunging into a gutter, with the injured officer still trapped under the vehicle.
Quick to respond, other police officers providing security rushed to the scene, successfully extricating their colleague from under the taxi. The injured officer was promptly transported to the hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment for severe injuries sustained during the incident.
The fleeing taxi driver abandoned his vehicle, with the registration number GW6086-22, a Hyundai I10, at the scene. Despite an extensive search conducted throughout the day, the driver remained elusive. The police have launched a manhunt to apprehend the hit-and-run driver.
The police officer’s uniform was torn into pieces during the harrowing incident, highlighting the severity of the injuries sustained. Authorities continue their efforts to locate and apprehend the driver responsible for this alarming hit-and-run.
Black Stars coach, Chris Hughton, shed light on his decision to substitute Osman Bukari just 16 minutes after introducing him during Ghana’s intense 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)clash against Egypt.
In the high-stakes encounter on Thursday night, Ghana surrendered a lead twice due to defensive errors, with one pivotal mistake arising from Bukari after he came on as a substitute for Inaki Williams in the 73rd minute. Williams had previously conceded possession with a poorly executed back pass, leading to Egypt’s equaliser.
While the swift decision to substitute Bukari may have raised eyebrows, Hughton defended the move, highlighting the impact of the mistake on the player’s performance.
“We like Osman Bukaria lot, and we have a lot of faith in him. I have to make decisions on the bench for what I see, and my feeling is there were a lot of emotions in the game,” stated Hughton.
“He is a very committed and honest player. At that moment, I thought the mistake affected him in the game. This is not normal, so to make this decision is because of what myself and the coaches see. This doesn’t take anything away from what we feel about him and the type of player and individual he is. But there are some tough decisions sometimes you have to make as a coach.”
Ghana, still in search of their first win, is set to face a crucial must-win encounter against Mozambique on Monday. The outcome of this match will determine their fate in advancing to the next stage of the competition.
Running mate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2020 elections, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has for expressed concern over President Akufo-Addo’s consistent tendency to attribute his failures to those who do not vote his party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In a Twitter post, Professor Opoku-Agyemang also highlighted instances where President Akufo-Addo ignored his responsiblities towards such people and in some cases allegedly shifted blame onto them.
Notably, the president’s response to Torgbui Adzonu-Gaga Amenya Fiti V, the Paramount Chief from Aflao, regarding the completion of an e-block, drew attention.
See the president’s response in the video below.
President Akufo Addo appears to be telling Togbi Fiti of Aflao to go and complete the E-Block himself…. pic.twitter.com/5DBRYCZFW3
A similar reaction was noted in response to the displaced and traumatised people in the flooded areas of the Volta Region.
President Akufo-Addo told the victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage in Mepe, Volta Region, that he had visited to offer sympathy even though the residents in that area do not vote for his political party.
“I came here because Ghanaians are having difficulties and are suffering, and it is my responsibility to try and help. Because if it is a question of counting who votes for me and who doesn’t vote for me, then I shouldn’t be here,” he said.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang also pointed out what the President told the Ekumfi people recently, when they visited him at the Jubilee House to appeal for development projects in their area.
The President admitted that he had overlooked development in Ekumfi because the constituents in the 2020 general elections voted out Francis Ato Cudjoe, whom he had appointed as Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development.
“Ato Cudjoe was your MP and I made him a Deputy Minister and you voted him out in the last elections and because of that, I did not pay attention to development in your area, I have to be honest with you but since you have brought it up I will pay attention to it,” the President said.
I ‘abandoned’ your constituency because you voted out my candidate – ‘Truthful’ Akufo-Addo tells Ekumfi Chiefs
This statement has sparked outrage among some Ghanaians, who have accused the President of being vindictive, divisive and unfair.
One striking paradox noted by Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang was the constant complaints of neglect from the people of the Ashanti Region, a stronghold where the president’s party supposedly gains the majority of its votes. This led to speculation about the actual source of the “massive votes” the president receives.
The professor expressed anticipation for the president’s response to his stronghold and questioned whether it would differ from previous reactions. She particularly highlighted the president’s statement to the people of Kwabre, where he asserted that it was none of his business if they voted for the NDC. The NDC, in contrast, welcomed votes from all citizens, emphasizing their commitment to collaboration for the collective goal of building the desired Ghana.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang also brought attention to the president’s recent statement to the Ekumfi people during their visit to the Jubilee House, where he admitted overlooking development in the area due to the voting out of Francis Ato Cudjoe in the 2020 general elections. The president’s acknowledgment sparked outrage, with some Ghanaians accusing him of being vindictive, divisive, and unfair.
The post underscored the need for a more inclusive and non-partisan approach to national development, calling for collaboration to build a better Ghana.
Mr. President, please do something, say something different before you go.
But come to think of it, our president has been consistent in blaming his failures and woes on those who he claims do not vote for him.
The former Minister of Education and running mate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2020 elections, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has criticised President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his selective development agenda and his disregard for the people who did not vote for him.
In a post on Twitter, Prof Opoku-Agyemang said the President has been consistent in blaming his failures and woes on those who he claims do not vote for him, and neglecting their development needs.
She cited the examples of the President’s response to the Paramount Chief of Aflao, Torgbui Adzonu-Gaga Amenya Fiti V, who appealed to him to complete one of the e-blocks in the area; the displaced and traumatized people of the flooded areas in the Volta Region; and the family of the late President John Evans Atta Mills, who were granted audience on a matter that is clearly none of their business.
She also mentioned the paradox of the people of Ashanti Region, the stronghold of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), constantly complaining of neglect, despite giving the party the majority of their votes.
She said the President’s reaction makes one wonder where the “massive votes” actually come from, and whether he will repeat his response to the people of Kwabre, that it is none of his business if they vote for the NDC.
She said the NDC welcomes the votes of all people in the country, regardless of their political affiliation, and is happy to collaborate with everyone who desires to restore the country onto itself by joining all their efforts in building the Ghana they all want, led by their experienced, respectful and humble flag bearer, John Dramani Mahama, whose record speaks for itself.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang also mentioned what the President told the Ekumfi people recently, when they visited him at the Jubilee House to appeal for development projects in their area.
The President admitted that he had overlooked development in Ekumfi because the constituents in the 2020 general elections voted out Francis Ato Cudjoe, whom he had appointed as Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development.
“Ato Cudjoe was your MP and I made him a Deputy Minister and you voted him out in the last elections and because of that, I did not pay attention to development in your area, I have to be honest with you but since you have brought it up I will pay attention to it,” the President said.
This statement has sparked outrage among some Ghanaians, who have accused the President of being vindictive, divisive and unfair.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang is a former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast and a full professor of literature. She served as the Minister of Education from 2013 to 2017 under the Mahama administration. She is also the Chancellor of the Women’s University in Africa
Mr. President, please do something, say something different before you go.
But come to think of it, our president has been consistent in blaming his failures and woes on those who he claims do not vote for him.
Reports of an arson attack on a neighbourhood in Achimota, which houses people of a certain ethnic extraction and perceived NDC supporters, have emerged from the constituency of the Member of Parliament for Okaikoi North, Hon. Theresa Awuni, according to Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Adaklu, Governs Kwame Agbodza.
Mr Abgoza in a series of posts on X accompanied with pictures alleged that a massive fire has razed down an entire neighbourhood around Achimota, a suburb of Accra, where a certain ethnic group of people live.
“Reports coming from the Constituency of the Member of Parliament for Okaikoi North, Hon. Theresa Awuni, are quite disturbing and disheartening. It has been reported that suspected arsonists have set fire to an entire neighbourhood around Achimota that houses people of a certain ethnic extraction and perceived NDC supporters,” he wrote.
The fire, according to Hon. Agbodza is suspected to be an act of arson following “recent threats by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government to evict these same people from that settlement.”
The reported arson has resulted in the displacement of thousands of families, with many grappling with significant losses. While awaiting investigations into this alarming development, Mr Agbodza raises questions regarding the potential motivations behind this act.
“This situation has left thousands of families displaced as many continue to count their losses. While we await investigations into this worrying development, one cannot rule out suspected foul play or ill motive by the criminal and cowardly elements behind this act. Several lingering questions are begging for answers. Who are these arsonists and what is their motivation? Could this inferno be politically motivated to permanently displace and disenfranchise some voters in a crucial election year? Could this be another approach by forces within government to achieve their end-game of evicting the people?” he asked.
Agbodza’s tweet sparked mixed reactions from social media users, some of whom accused him of politicising the tragedy and spreading false rumours, while others supported his claims and condemned the government for its alleged involvement.
Read some of the comments below:
@Nana11_B You only think of votes, but not the interest of the people. Shame on you.
@amapapa60 U are a member of parliament for Christ’s sake. Where are these speculations leading to? U are only beating war drums. When the unfortunate happens, u guys stand to benefit because u are placed on committees and take hefty allowances. It’s a shame.
@Tomtom_Arthur So as for you politicians everything is about voting right?, even so called honourable members have reduced their senses to naught,hmmm.
@AshanteWarrior Seems in one breath you are apportioning blame to a certain group and in the other breath you are asking who it could be. Confused much or it or just tribal bigotry…
@tawiah_tenhag With all due respect sir, don’t politicize this. That’s just irresponsible of you. I’ll delete this tweet if I were you. Absolutely disrespectful to those affected.
@aloufelixj Eight people were said to have been gruesomely killed during the last elections in the name of politics. It will therefore be wrong or simple propaganda or naivety for one to try to prevent one from reading politics into this act.
A research by The Or Foundation, a human rights and environmental NGO, reveals that Ghana is the world’s biggest importer of secondhand clothing, also known as Obruni Wawu or Dead White Man’s Clothes.
The research exposes the environmental and social impacts of this trade, as well as the potential for circular fashion in the country. According to the research, Ghana imports about 15 million items of secondhand clothing each week, mostly from the UK, US and China.
These clothes are sold to vendors in Kantamanto Market, one of the world’s largest secondhand clothing markets, located in the heart of the capital city of Accra. However, not all of these clothes find a new home.
“Our research based on hundreds of surveys and interviews and thousands of hours of observation and garments sorted since 2016 has shown that roughly 40% of the millions of items that pass through Kantamanto Market every week leave the market as waste. Just as the amount of waste is staggering, so too is the effort to recirculate clothing. Kantamanto is the world’s largest reuse hub,” parts of their findings published on their website https://theor.org/work, reads.
The research estimates that 40% of the imported clothes end up as waste, either because they are too worn out or too low quality to be resold. These clothes are dumped in landfills or water bodies, polluting the environment and posing health risks to the people.
The research also highlights the efforts of the traders and workers in Kantamanto Market to recirculate the clothes and extend their lifespan. Kantamanto is the world’s largest reuse hub, where 30,000 people work to add value to the garments through various tasks of transformation, such as sorting, washing, ironing, dyeing, tailoring, remanufacturing and screen printing.
The market recirculates roughly 25 million garments a month, far more than any dedicated digital clothing resale platform in the Global North. The research argues that the lessons of craft of use that are found throughout Kantamanto are the very lessons that the society needs to learn if it wants to end fashion’s waste crisis.
The research also calls for the consideration of global supply chains and socioeconomic systems that have spawned the secondhand clothing trade, and how they affect the people and the planet. The research also notes that the secondhand clothing trade is changing due to the new technologies and developments in Accra, such as high speed internet and shopping malls.
These changes create new opportunities and challenges for the traders and customers, as well as for the city’s future both ecologically and economically. The research is based on hundreds of surveys and interviews and thousands of hours of observation and garments sorted since 2016. The research is part of a larger project by The Or Foundation to document and address the textile waste problem in Ghana and beyond.
Ghana is facing a severe environmental and economic crisis due to the massive influx of secondhand clothing from the global north, according to a study by The Or Foundation.
According to their report, Ghana imports about 15 million items of secondhand clothing every week, mostly from the UK, Europe, North America and Australia.
These clothes, donated by consumers in the name of charity, end up in the country’s sprawling markets, such as Kantamanto in Accra, where they are sold at cheap prices.
But not all of these clothes find a second life in Ghana. The Or Foundation, a human rights and environmental NGO, has revealed that, 40 percent of the clothes are of such poor quality that they are discarded as waste, creating a huge environmental burden for the country.
“Our research – conducted over a period of six years and informed by immersive observation, hundreds of surveys, thousands of interviews, waste analysis and corresponding data from the municipality – has found that 40percent of the average bale of clothing opened in Accra’s Kantamanto second-hand clothing market, likely the largest secondhand clothing market in the world, leaves the market as waste,” the organisation said in a position paper.
“This has created an environmental disaster in Ghana; a disaster that has unjustly become the burden of communities which did not cause the problem,” it added.
The clothing waste has polluted the air, water and soil of Ghana, posing serious health risks to the population. It has also contributed to the 2019 Kpone Landfill fire, which forced the closure of one of the main waste disposal sites in Accra
To tackle this crisis, some experts have proposed a levy on the imports of secondhand clothing, which could help fund the waste management and recycling industry.
Plant Manager at the Accra Compost and Recycling Plant (ACARP), Ganyo Kwabla Malik, told the B&FT that such a levy could create incentives for investors who are interested in processing the clothing waste into reusable materials
“If possible, introduce some sort of levy to help players who will be interested in managing waste from this ecosystem. This will serve as a way of investing in the space,” he said.
“As we have it now, the private individual who wants to invest in that space has to bear the cost of machinery and everything. But if there’s a levy of sorts in place, when the material comes in and reaches the end of its life, that money can be devoted to managing this type of waste by first retrieving it and then processing it into reusable materials. We believe that this is an area we can dialogue on to get some improvements into the space,” he added.
ACARP is an integrated waste processing and recycling company that receives and processes municipal solid and liquid waste. It produces organic compost, liquid fertilizer, pelletized plastics, baled PET bottles, baled cardboard and refused derived fuel.
Malik said that the clothing waste could be turned into products such as carpets, mats, pillows, blankets and insulation materials, which could create jobs and income for the local economy.
He also said that the levy could help reduce the importation of low-quality clothes that have no value in the market, and encourage the consumption of locally made garments.
The levy could also ease the economic pressure on the dealers of secondhand clothing, who are facing a 153 percent increase in import duty since last year.
The Ghana Used Clothing Association (GAUCA) said that the hike in duty has affected their profit margins and customer patronage, threatening their livelihoods.
Samuel Darko Apenteng, Secretary of the Used Clothing Dealers Association at Kantamanto, said that the business used to be very lucrative, but now it is struggling to survive.
“The situation is posing an existential threat to our livelihoods. This business used to be very lucrative, serving as a source of income for many Ghanaian young men and women who otherwise would have been at home doing nothing. But as I speak, we now operate on narrow profit margins due to the increasing bale-price and low customer patronage,” he told the media.
He said that some of the factors that have contributed to the high cost of import duty include the depreciation of the cedi, high inflation, a challenging economic environment, and additional taxes.
He appealed to the government to intervene and review the duty, as well as support the local textile industry to produce quality and affordable clothes for the market.
He also urged the consumers to be more conscious of their clothing choices and the environmental and social impacts of their donations.
Former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, has emphasized the need for accountability and performance evaluation of Members of Parliament (MPs), stating that the duration of their stay should not be a justification for continued representation.
His remarks follow concerns raised about experienced Members of Parliament from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) who opted not to seek reelection in 2025. Professor Oquaye suggested adopting a cost-benefit analysis approach, common in advanced democracies, to assess the performance of MPs and take appropriate action.
“The NPP should continue to have a cost-benefit analysis of all MPs… of course, who are not performing, they know and, for that matter, take action on them; the labour and the consecutive parties do that. When an assessment is made, they may want to drop you,” he stated.
Approximately 20 NPP lawmakers did not submit forms for the 2024 elections, raising concerns among political analysts about the potential impact on Ghana’s democracy. Professor Oquaye, however, asserted that the absence of some experienced hands does not justify retaining nonperforming members.
In an interview with Beatrice Claire Adu of 3News, Professor Oquaye acknowledged the emotional aspect of departing from Parliament after years of service. Still, he emphasized that longevity alone should not warrant continuous representation for MPs whose performance is subpar.
“It can be pitiful when after years, the person has to leave Parliament. Of course, it doesn’t mean, therefore, no matter how nonperforming a Member of Parliament is, merely [because] he or she has been there for long, then the person must continue to be there…this should be part of the think-tanking of people who are interested in civil society affairs,” he suggested.
The former Speaker’s perspective underscores the importance of evaluating MPs based on their performance rather than solely considering their years of service, contributing to a discourse on accountability within the Ghanaian parliamentary system.
Ranking Member of Parliament’s Mines and Energy Committee, John Abdulai Jinapor, has raised concerns about the exclusion of the Minerals Commission from the contract awarded to Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML), a company that is supposed to monitor and audit the gold production sector for the government.
Mr Jinapor, also the MP for Yapei Kusawgu, emphasized the significance of involving the Minerals Commission, the government agency responsible for regulating and licensing mineral exploration and extraction in Ghana, in the contract. He asserted that the commission, with its expertise and mandate, plays a vital role in ensuring quality assurance and revenue collection in the sector.
“They are supposed to ensure that we also meet the revenue requirement, and so they have a role to play when it comes to quality assurance in respect to revenue,” he stated.
Contrary to this, the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Martin Kwaku Ayisi, stated that the commission “did not play any role in the award of the contract” to SML, a subsidiary of a timber company. He added that the commission has no records of losses resulting from deliberate or accidental miscalculation of revenue in the mining sector.
The contract, awarded by the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), grants SML over $100 million annually for a five-year duration, renewable for another five years. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has suspended the contract and appointed international audit firm KPMG to conduct an audit within two weeks, following revelations by The Fourth Estate, an investigative news website.
Mr Jinapor criticized the clandestine handling of the contract, stating, “A common contract is that you want to ensure that there is value for money, that there is quality assurance in terms of revenue.” He urged Parliament to verify if the proper procedures were followed in awarding the contract and if other companies were given the opportunity to tender.
The MP underscored that the contract’s transparency and accountability raise questions about the government’s management of the country’s mineral resources.
Latest reports on social media indicates that the former Member of Parliament for Navrongo Central and former interior Minister , Mark Owen Woyongo is dead.
The news of his death was confirmed by some of his followers on social media, who expressed their condolences and tributes.
The cause and place of his death are not yet clear, but it is believed that he died on Wednesday, January 17, 2024.
The former Interior Minister recently buried his son, Kenneth Kwotua, who died at age 49.
He is survived by his wife, Cecilia Wuni Woyongo, and two children.
Mark Woyongo was a veteran politician and a communicator, who served in various capacities in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) governments. He was the MP for Navrongo Central from 2013 to 2017, after winning the seat in the 2012 election. He lost the seat in the 2016 election to Joseph Kofi Adda of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and retired from politics.
He was also the Minister for the Upper East Region from 2009 to 2012, the Minister for Defence from 2013 to 2014, and the Minister for the Interior from 2014 to 2017.
He was known for his role in ensuring peace and security in the country, especially during the 2016 election, which was widely praised as free and fair. He was also the owner and Chief Executive Officer of Tamale-based Diamond FM, a radio station that provides news and entertainment to the people of the Northern Region.
He was born on June 9, 1946, in Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region. He attended Notre Dame Secondary School in Navrongo and Ghana Institute of Journalism in Accra.
He worked as a Public Relations Officer, a Regional Information Officer, and a Minister Counselor for Information at the Ghana High Commission in London. He was a member of the National Anniversary Planning Committee in 2005 and the Board Chairman of Irrigation Company of the Upper East Region (ICOUR) in 2010. He was also a member of the Police Council, the Armed Forces Council, and the National Security Council. He was a devout Catholic and a philanthropist, who supported many causes and projects in his constituency and region. He will be remembered for his service and dedication to the nation.
In response to alleged disrespectful remarks made by Mr. Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as ‘Wontumi,’ the Ashanti Youth group and traders, have enforced a ban on the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The ban, disclosed during a press conference in Kumasi on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, stems from accusations that Chairman Wontumi claimed to have “built his own kingdom with military and police force in the Asante Kingdom.”
”Expressing their discontent, the youth not only barred Chairman Wontumi from the Ashanti Region but also forbade his entry into the Manhyia Palace and any other palaces within the region.
The decision was prompted by what the youth labeled an “uncalled-for” outburst and a “display of disrespect for the golden stool” by the Ashanti Regional chairman.A spokesperson for the agitated youth, Mr. Eugene Oppong, who addressed the press, insisted on a public apology from Chairman Wontumi before considering his reintegration into Asanteman.
Mr. Oppong emphasized that Chairman Wontumi’s remarks were disrespectful to the Asante Kingdom, especially the Golden Stool, and warranted an unreserved apology.The controversy emerged during the vetting of NPP parliamentary aspirants in the Ashanti region when Chairman Wontumi purportedly claimed to have “built his own kingdom with military and police force in the Asante Kingdom.”
The statement allegedly followed a confrontation between the regional Chairman and the Manhyia South Organiser for the NPP, Alhaji Abuba.
The Chief of Kokoso, Nana Kwaku Duah, Council of Elders Chairman for Manhyia South, reportedly confronted Wontumi, asserting that, aside from Asantehene, no one in the Asante Kingdom possesses a kingdom.
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has praised the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, for his outstanding performance in ensuring peace and security in the country.
The King of the Asante Kingdom made this remark when the IGP and his team paid a courtesy call on him at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on Friday, January 14, 2024.
The IGP was accompanied by the members of the Police Management Board (POMAB) and the Regional Police Commander.
The visit was to wish the Asantehene a Happy New Year and to brief him on the security situation in the Ashanti Region and the country at large.
The IGP said the visit was also in accordance with tradition and to seek the blessings and guidance of the Asantehene, who has been a pillar of support for the Police Service.
“We are very thankful for his kindness towards us and receiving us in his residence. We pray for strength, peace, and blessings for him,” Dr Dampare said.
He also introduced the members of the POMAB to the Asantehene and thanked them for their dedication and hard work.
Dr Dampare told the Asantehene that the Police Service had put in place various measures to ensure utmost peace and tranquillity during the festive season and beyond.
He said these measures had resulted in a reduction of road accidents, robbery, and other crimes in the Ashanti Region and the whole country.
He said the Police Service had also enhanced its visibility and patrol with the deployment of horses and motors, adding that the horses would remain in the region and serve as the country’s first regional Mounted Squadron.
The Asantehene expressed his appreciation for the warm visit and commended the IGP and the POMAB for their yeoman’s job since taking over the administration of the country’s Police Service.
“Thank you for the exceptional work you have done since you assumed office. The impact of your service to the country is felt in our homes. Ghanaians now know the true definition of security, and that is all because of the sound measures you have in place,” Otumfuo said.
He added, “You are responsible for maintaining peace while the military is meant for wars. Continue with the good work.”
The Asantehene also welcomed the establishment of a Mounted Squadron in the region and pledged to assist the Service in getting a barn to house the horses.
He also urged the Police Service to implement sound policies that would ensure a peaceful and incident-free election in December, noting that there was a lingering sense of panic during such periods.
A shocking video has emerged online showing some members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) swearing an oath of loyalty to the party with a sword, ahead of the 2024 general elections.
The video, which has gone viral on social media, shows former Director of Elections for the NDC, Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, and several others, pledging to remain faithful to the party and its agenda, or face death and the loss of their first born children.
The oath swearing was led by a man in white, who held a sword and made Mr Ankrah and the others repeat after him.
“By this sword, I vow, that if I compromise, and sell my party out for money for this coming election, may I die and my first born also die in my place, so help me God. Amen,” Mr Ankrah said, holding the sword upright, while barefooted.
The video is believed to be part of the efforts by the NDC to ensure that its members do not betray the party or its flagbearer, John Mahama, who is seeking to return to power after losing the 2020 election to the incumbent President, Nana Akufo-Addo of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The NDC has accused the NPP of destroying the country and failing to deliver on its promises, and has vowed to boot it out of power at all cost.
However, many people who have seen the video have expressed concern about the severity of the oath and the involvement of the children of the party members in something they are not part of.
Some have questioned the legality and morality of the oath, and whether it violates the rights and dignity of the children.
Others have also wondered whether the oath is a sign of desperation or commitment by the NDC, and whether it will have any impact on the outcome of the 2024 election.
According to the Electoral Commission of Ghana, the 2024 general election is scheduled to be held on 7 December, to elect the president and members of parliament.
The NDC and the NPP are the two dominant parties in Ghanaian politics, having alternated in power since the return to multiparty democracy in 1992.
"May I die and my first born also die in my place" if I betray NDC! – Afriyie-Ankrah swears#INDNews Atta Akyea #BlackStars Morocco | Sarkodie | Ghanaians | The NPP | SDA Church | Jordan Ayew | East Legon pic.twitter.com/hYXR7CmYYn
NDC Executives pledge to die with their firstborns if they sell out their party in the 2024 elections#DwasoNsem#BlackStars Ursula The NPP Nana Kwame Bediako Ghana John Mahama The NDC SDA Church Addo D East Legon Ekumfi Mepe 02 Arena Faila Ashanti Region pic.twitter.com/e4UTEPpgQN
A shocking video has emerged online showing some members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) swearing an oath of loyalty to the party with a sword, ahead of the 2024 general elections.
The video, which has gone viral on social media, shows former Director of Elections for the NDC, Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, and several others, pledging to remain faithful to the party and its agenda, or face death and the loss of their first born children.
The oath swearing was led by a man in white, who held a sword and made Mr Ankrah and the others repeat after him.
“By this sword, I vow, that if I compromise, and sell my party out for money for this coming election, may I die and my first born also die in my place, so help me God. Amen,” Mr Ankrah said, holding the sword upright, while barefooted.
The video is believed to be part of the efforts by the NDC to ensure that its members do not betray the party or its flagbearer, John Mahama, who is seeking to return to power after losing the 2020 election to the incumbent President, Nana Akufo-Addo of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The NDC has accused the NPP of destroying the country and failing to deliver on its promises, and has vowed to boot it out of power at all cost.
However, many people who have seen the video have expressed concern about the severity of the oath and the involvement of the children of the party members in something they are not part of.
Some have questioned the legality and morality of the oath, and whether it violates the rights and dignity of the children.
Others have also wondered whether the oath is a sign of desperation or commitment by the NDC, and whether it will have any impact on the outcome of the 2024 election.
According to the Electoral Commission of Ghana, the 2024 general election is scheduled to be held on 7 December, to elect the president and members of parliament.
The NDC and the NPP are the two dominant parties in Ghanaian politics, having alternated in power since the return to multiparty democracy in 1992.
"May I die and my first born also die in my place" if I betray NDC! – Afriyie-Ankrah swears#INDNews Atta Akyea #BlackStars Morocco | Sarkodie | Ghanaians | The NPP | SDA Church | Jordan Ayew | East Legon pic.twitter.com/hYXR7CmYYn
NDC Executives pledge to die with their firstborns if they sell out their party in the 2024 elections#DwasoNsem#BlackStars Ursula The NPP Nana Kwame Bediako Ghana John Mahama The NDC SDA Church Addo D East Legon Ekumfi Mepe 02 Arena Faila Ashanti Region pic.twitter.com/e4UTEPpgQN
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Ablakwa, recently took to Facebook to express concerns about the spending habits of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government during the 2020 election campaign.
Ablakwa claims to have obtained documents revealing what he describes as a “profligate and vulgar spending spree on fantasy projects.”
One notable example highlighted by Ablakwa is the construction of a 50-bed guest house in Tamale during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ablakwa alleges that the Bank of Ghana, led by Dr. Addison, prioritized this project over other pressing concerns, such as monetary policy interventions to address the economic impact of COVID-19.
According to the documents in Ablakwa’s possession, the guest house project was awarded through a single-source procurement method to De Simone Limited at a staggering cost of GHS139.9 million. Ablakwa expresses concern over what he perceives as an “appetite for single-source and restricted tendering” under Dr. Addison’s leadership, emphasizing that none of the procurements during his tenure has been competitive.
All this, according to Ablakwa, happened at a time when Ghana was facing multiple challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which had claimed over 1,400 lives and infected over 90,000 people in the country.
Managing the impact of the pandemic had affected Ghana significantly, leading to the worst economic setback in decades. The government had to resort to reliefs from both domestic and external sources.
The pandemic also exposed the inadequacies of the health system, suffering from a lack of infrastructure, equipment, personnel, and funding. Many health workers complained of inadequate protective gear, low salaries, and poor working conditions.
The pandemic worsened social and educational challenges in the country, such as poverty, inequality, and unemployment. Many people lost their livelihoods, and students faced disruptions and difficulties in accessing online learning.
Ablakwa also accused the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government of hypocrisy, noting that in opposition, they condemned single-source procurements, considering them conduits for corruption. He pointed out that they have now become champions of such procurement methods.
The MP drew attention to other controversial projects, including the US$450 million National Cathedral and the US$222.7 million Bank of Ghana Head Office, both of which, according to him, initiated payments during the 2020 election campaign.
Ablakwa then cautioned Ghanaians against potential similar spending schemes ahead of the December 7 elections, urging citizens to be vigilant and prevent what he terms as “lootocratic” schemes.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Ablakwa, recently took to Facebook to express concerns about the spending habits of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government during the 2020 election campaign.
Ablakwa claims to have obtained documents revealing what he describes as a “profligate and vulgar spending spree on fantasy projects.”
One notable example highlighted by Ablakwa is the construction of a 50-bed guest house in Tamale during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ablakwa alleges that the Bank of Ghana, led by Dr. Addison, prioritized this project over other pressing concerns, such as monetary policy interventions to address the economic impact of COVID-19.
According to the documents in Ablakwa’s possession, the guest house project was awarded through a single-source procurement method to De Simone Limited at a staggering cost of GHS139.9 million. Ablakwa expresses concern over what he perceives as an “appetite for single-source and restricted tendering” under Dr. Addison’s leadership, emphasizing that none of the procurements during his tenure has been competitive.
All this, according to Ablakwa, happened at a time when Ghana was facing multiple challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which had claimed over 1,400 lives and infected over 90,000 people in the country.
Managing the impact of the pandemic had affected Ghana significantly, leading to the worst economic setback in decades. The government had to resort to reliefs from both domestic and external sources.
The pandemic also exposed the inadequacies of the health system, suffering from a lack of infrastructure, equipment, personnel, and funding. Many health workers complained of inadequate protective gear, low salaries, and poor working conditions.
The pandemic worsened social and educational challenges in the country, such as poverty, inequality, and unemployment. Many people lost their livelihoods, and students faced disruptions and difficulties in accessing online learning.
Ablakwa also accused the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government of hypocrisy, noting that in opposition, they condemned single-source procurements, considering them conduits for corruption. He pointed out that they have now become champions of such procurement methods.
The MP drew attention to other controversial projects, including the US$450 million National Cathedral and the US$222.7 million Bank of Ghana Head Office, both of which, according to him, initiated payments during the 2020 election campaign.
Ablakwa then cautioned Ghanaians against potential similar spending schemes ahead of the December 7 elections, urging citizens to be vigilant and prevent what he terms as “lootocratic” schemes.
Ghana is one of the few countries in the world that has a fixed date for its general elections, which are held every four years on December 7. But what is the origin and significance of this date, and how does it affect the electoral process and outcome?
Ghana, a West African nation of about 30 million people, is widely regarded as a model of democracy and stability in the region, having successfully conducted seven peaceful and credible elections since its return to multiparty politics in 1992.
The country’s constitution, which was adopted in 1992 after a referendum, provides for a presidential system of government, with a president elected for a four-year term, renewable once, and a unicameral parliament of 275 members elected for a four-year term.
The constitution stipulates in Chapter 8, Article 63 (2) that amongst other things, the “election of the President shall be held at such place and shall begin on such date as the Electoral CommissIOn shall, by constitutional instrument, specify.” This indicates, that there is no constitutionally assigned date for presidential and parliamentary elections in Ghana.
However, the choice of December 7 as the election date was not arbitrary, but rather based on historical and possibly practical considerations.
Historically, December 7 was the date of the first general election in Ghana after Ghana transitioned to a democratic state in 1992. Prior to that, the country had experienced periods of military rule and one-party rule. The Fourth Republic of Ghana was inaugurated on January 7, 1993, following the approval of a new constitution in a referendum held on April 28, 1992.
Rawlings, who initially ruled as a military dictator, later initiated a process of democratic transition, which culminated in the adoption of the 1992 constitution and the holding of the first multiparty elections on December 7 that year. This transition marked a significant milestone in Ghana’s political history, establishing a multi-party democratic system. Rawlings, then became Ghana’s first President under the new democratic dispensation.
Since then, Ghana has held presidential elections every four years, having the subsequent elections in 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020 all on December 7.
It is not known the factors that influenced the choosing of December 7 as the Election Day in 1992, or why that practice has persisted to this day.
Per our analysis, it Ould be determined that December 7 was chosen as the election date because it was considered to be the most convenient and conducive time for the conduct of the polls, taking into account the climatic, agricultural, and festive factors.
Climatically, December falls within the dry season in Ghana, which means that the weather is relatively favourable and predictable, and the roads are more accessible, especially in the rural areas. This facilitates the movement and deployment of electoral materials, personnel, and security agents, as well as the participation of voters and observers.
Agriculturally, December coincides with the end of the farming season in Ghana, which means that most farmers have harvested their crops and have more time and resources to engage in the electoral process. This is important, as about half of the population depends on agriculture for their livelihood.
Festively, December is also a month of celebration and relaxation in Ghana, as it marks the end of the year and the beginning of the Christmas and New Year holidays. This creates a positive and peaceful atmosphere for the elections, and also allows the voters to travel to their hometowns or constituencies to cast their ballots.
However, December 7 is not without its challenges and controversies as an election date. Some of the challenges include:
The proximity of the election date to the end of the year, which puts pressure on the electoral commission to announce the results within a short time, and on the outgoing government to prepare the budget and hand over power within a month.
The possibility of the election date falling on a weekend or a public holiday, which may affect the turnout and the availability of some public facilities and services, such as schools and banks, that are used as polling stations and agents.
The clash of the election date with some religious and cultural events, such as the Sabbath day for the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which may prevent some of their members from voting or participating in the electoral process.
Despite these challenges and controversies, December 7 remains the fixed date for the general elections in Ghana until further notice.
The date has become a symbol of Ghana’s democratic culture and tradition, and a source of pride and inspiration for the people and the continent.
A video of the former Minority Leader in Parliament, Haruna Iddrisu, dancing to a northern ethnic song has sparked controversy on social media, as an NPP activist claims that the NDC northern caucus is deeply divided and unhappy with John Mahama.
The video, which was posted by @Gen_Buhari, an NPP activist, on Twitter, shows Hon. Iddrisu, who is also the Member of Parliament for Tamale-South, dancing and smiling at a public event.
However, the caption of the video suggests that the MP is not happy with the NDC leadership, especially the former President and flagbearer, John Mahama, who is seeking to contest the 2024 elections.
“The NDC northern caucus is deeply divided, the supporters of Haruna Iddrisu have vowed to punish John Mahama in the 2024 elections, its this same issue that led to the attack on Chairman Azoka and the Northern Regional Treasurer, Haruna Iddrissu’s demotion at Parliament is the worse mistake NDC did and they’ll be punished mercilessly for that, you can’t hate Dagombas and expect their votes in election. Interesting times ahead,” the caption reads.
This post has elicited diverse responses on Twitter, with some endorsing the claim and others dismissing it as mischief and propaganda.
One of the comments, written by @Arena_Odd, said: “I have not been seeing Haruna Iddrisu at any NDC gathering off late.” To which @Gen_Buhari replied in Ghanaian pidgin English: “He vex waaaa”, meaning he is very angry.
@Gen_Buhari alleged that the NDC northern caucus, especially the supporters of Hon. Iddrisu, who is a Dagomba, have vowed to punish John Mahama, who is a Gonja, in the 2024 elections, by either voting for the NPP or boycotting the polls. He said that the NDC cannot expect to win the votes of the Dagombas.
Despite these allegations, some Twitter users have questioned the credibility and legitimacy of the information provided by @Gen_Buhari, suggesting it might be part of the NPP’s propaganda to create division within the NDC, especially as the 2024 elections approach.
The NDC northern caucus is deeply divided, the supporters of Haruna Iddrisu have vowed to punish John Mahama in the 2024 elections, its this same issue that led to the attack on Chairman Azoka and the Northern Regional Treasurer, Haruna Iddrissu’s demotion at Parliament is the… pic.twitter.com/Ft7sT9GIZz
Wife of the late Prophet TB Joshua, Pastor Evelyn Joshua, in a poignant message delivered on Sunday, January 14, 2024, at the Synagogue Church Of All Nations (SCOAN) in Lagos, Nigeria publicly shared the final words of her husband before his passing. This revelation comes amidst the backdrop of a recent damning documentary released by the BBC about the founder of SCOAN.
“What were the words of Prophet Joshua, his last words? He said, ‘Watch and Pray. Watch and pray, and you will see the glory of God.’ I bless you all,” Pastor Evelyn Joshua disclosed during her address to the congregation.
Expressing gratitude, she extended her thanks to the members of The Synagogue Church of all Nations, Emmanuel TV Partners, friends of the ministry, and the broader body of Christ for their love, faith, steadfastness, and commitment during what she described as an eventful week.
Amidst the challenges faced by the church, Pastor Evelyn Joshua emphasized the importance of faith and urged the congregation not to lose focus. Quoting scriptures from the book of 1 Corinthians 13, she reminded believers that love is not irritable or resentful, rejoicing with the truth.
“As a church, as the Body of Christ, become, remain steady in this unsteady world. Examine all things in the light of God’s word. And please remember the word of God, the word of Christ Jesus to you in the book of 1 Corinthians 13, from verse 4 to 8. Don’t lose focus. Do not lose focus. Jesus Christ is our focus, our roadmap. He stood for truth; he stood for love,” she urged the congregation.
Pastor Evelyn Joshua concluded her message by invoking blessings upon the church members and expressing the need for a continuous focus on the goodness, kindness, faithfulness, healing power, deliverance power, and salvation power of Jesus Christ. The revelation of Prophet TB Joshua’s last words adds a poignant touch to the ongoing discussions surrounding the legacy of the late televangelist.
Dean of the University of Cape Coast Business School (UCCBS), Professor John Gatsi, has cast doubt on Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s understanding of the economy he manages.
This revelation follows the Finance Minister’s recent statement asserting that the decline in inflation figures indicates Ghana’s economic recovery.
During an interview on the Morning Starr with Francis Abban, Professor Gatsi highlighted that the root causes of the economic challenges in the country remain unaddressed.
He questioned the Finance Minister’s optimism, stating, “The Finance Minister, when he was presenting his economic indicators, will want to compare it to about 10 years ago, about 15 years ago. Why are we turning the corner just because we are comparing inflation figures, which are not responsive to policy rate and not responsive to the cost of doing business in the country?”
Professor Gatsi emphasized that key issues such as corruption, unemployment, and a high cost of doing business persist, with no significant improvements.
He expressed skepticism about attributing the supposed economic turnaround solely to declining inflation figures, which he argued do not reflect the challenges faced by businesses and the actual policy effectiveness.
He concluded by remarking, “Our problem is corruption, unemployment, and people selling jobs at the government departments, which people are saying all around. So I wonder how somebody will just look at the inflation figures and then say that we have turned the corner. It means that person doesn’t appreciate the economy he is managing.”
The wife of the late Nigerian megachurch leader and televangelist, Prophet TB Joshua, Pastor Evelyn Joshua, has urged members of his church to remain faithful and focused on Jesus Christ amid controversy sparked by a BBC documentary exposing alleged abuse and torture by the late prophet.
Pastor Evelyn Joshua, who assumed leadership of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) after her husband’s death in June 2021, addressed the congregation on Sunday, January 14, 2024, at the church’s headquarters in Lagos, Nigeria.
This marked her first public address to the church since the release of the BBC Africa Eye documentary titled “Disciples: The Cult of TB Joshua.” The documentary featured former disciples accusing the late prophet of misconduct, including rape, physical abuse, and coercion for abortions.
Though Pastor Evelyn Joshua did not directly reference the documentary or the allegations, she expressed gratitude to the church members for their love, faith, steadfastness, and commitment during the “eventful week”. She reminded them of the church’s core beliefs, such as faith in the Holy Spirit, the word of God, the salvation of Jesus Christ, and the judgment day.
Encouraging the congregation to evaluate all things in the light of God’s word, she emphasized the importance of love, quoting 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, which says that love is not irritable or resentful, and does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.
Pastor Evelyn Joshua urged members not to lose focus and to keep Jesus Christ as their central focus and guide, emphasizing that Jesus stood for truth and love, and that the church was a house of joy, which was their conquering power.
She then quoted the alleged last words of her late husband: “Watch and pray, and you will see the glory of God.” She blessed the congregation and thanked them for their support.
Pastor Evelyn Joshua, who married TB Joshua in 1990 and had three daughters with him, was appointed as the new leader of SCOAN in September 2021, after a court order made her a member of the church’s board of trustees.
She faced some opposition from some factions within the church, who questioned her legitimacy and transparency. However, she has since asserted her authority and vision for the church, which has millions of followers around the world.
TB Joshua, who died at the age of 57, was one of the most influential and controversial religious figures in Africa. He claimed to have the power to heal various diseases, including HIV/AIDS and cancer, and to prophesy about world events.
He attracted thousands of pilgrims to his church in Lagos, where he performed his “miracles” and delivered his sermons. He also had a huge online presence, with more than six million followers on Facebook and more than one million subscribers on YouTube.
He was praised by some as a man of God and a philanthropist, but he was also criticized by others as a fraud and a cult leader. He faced several lawsuits and investigations over his practices and claims, and he was also accused of being involved in politics and corruption.
The BBC documentary has reignited the debate over his legacy and the future of his church, as well as the wider issues of accountability and regulation in the Nigerian and African religious landscape.
The 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) is underway in Cote d’Ivoire, with 24 national teams vying for the continental trophy. But the action is not only on the field, but also on social media, where two of Ghana’s TV stations are engaging in a hilarious and witty war of words over the viewership of the tournament.
It all started when StarTimes Ghana, a pay-TV service that uses both satellite and terrestrial technology to broadcast its channels, mocked GTV, the state-owned national broadcaster, for interrupting its programmes for government events.
“We are sorry we have to break this transmission to make way for a live address from the independence square” Free diɛɛɛɛ saaaaa”, wrote @startimesghana, using a Twi word that means very cheap.
GTV, which uses terrestrial technology and has been struggling to generate revenue from TV licence fees, did not take the shade lightly. The station, which claims to be the only one accredited to broadcast the AFCON 2023 in Ghana, hit back at StarTimes Ghana with a sarcastic reply.
“Twinkle twinkle little “Startimes” Now we have a bigger fish to fry Focus on your GPL If not, we will come and take it from you We are the station of the Nation. #AFCON2023 #AFCONonGTV”, wrote @GTV_Ghana, referring to the Ghana Premier League, which both stations broadcast.
StarTimes Ghana, which has been offering flexible and affordable subscription plans, as well as a rich blend of local and foreign content, had the last word in the exchange. The pay-TV service, which boasts of having exclusive rights to some of the AFCON matches, implied that GTV was outdated and irrelevant.
“Sing along. Ancient of days as old as you are. As old as you are. You remain the same.”, wrote @startimesghana, quoting a popular gospel song.
This exchange was the latest episode in the social media war for AFCON 2023 viewership, which began when GTV posted a cryptic message on its Facebook page, which read: “Bad weather and a Satellite TV. If you know, you know! #AFCON2023”.
The post, which went viral, was interpreted by some netizens as a subtle dig at DSTV Ghana, the pay-TV giant that uses satellite technology to broadcast its channels. The implication was that DSTV’s signal would be disrupted by bad weather during the AFCON matches, while GTV would provide uninterrupted coverage.
DSTV Ghana, which claims to have the best picture and sound quality, as well as exclusive rights to some of the AFCON matches, responded to GTV’s post with a series of posts of its own, challenging the quality and variety of GTV’s programmes.
The online rivalry between GTV, DSTV Ghana and StarTimes Ghana has generated a lot of reactions from football fans, who are eagerly following the AFCON 2023, which will end on February 11, 2023.
Defending champions Senegal will be among the favourites to retain their title, along with Morocco, Algeria, Nigeria, and Egypt.
The social media war for AFCON 2023 viewership has been entertaining and hilarious, but also informative and competitive. It has shown the different strengths and weaknesses of the three TV platforms, as well as their strategies and tactics to win over the viewers.
Who will emerge as the ultimate winner of this epic battle? Will it be GTV, the station of the nation? Will it be DSTV Ghana, the pay-TV giant? Or will it be StarTimes Ghana, the pay-TV challenger?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the viewers are in for a treat.
A shocking revelation has emerged that the amount of money stolen from the residence of the Deputy Minister of Finance and MP for Ejisu, Dr. John Ampontuah Kumah, was far more than what was initially reported by the police.
According to a tweet by Ghana Crimes, a social media platform that reports on crime and justice issues in Ghana, the thieves made away with GHC 500,000, not GHC 50,000 as the police had claimed.
The tweet, which cited an unnamed source, suggested that the police had deliberately underreported the amount to avoid triggering a public outcry.
The tweet read: “To clarify, the amount stolen is ¢500,000, not ¢50,000. Our source suggests that the police initially stated ¢50,000 to avoid triggering a significant public reaction.”
The tweet has sparked a lot of reactions from Ghanaians, some of whom expressed disbelief, anger, and suspicion over the incident. Some questioned the source and credibility of the information, while others demanded the police to produce a report and confirm the allegation. Some also praised the thieves for taking the money, which they believed was the result of corruption and theft of public funds.
The police have not responded to the tweet or issued any official statement on the matter. Dr. Kumah and his family have also not commented on the allegation.
The burglary occurred on the night of Friday, December 29, 2023, when Dr. Kumah and his wife, Apostle Lilian Kumah, were out attending a church event. The thieves broke into their house in Chantan, Greater Accra, and stole cash, household appliances, and documents, such as passports and birth certificates.
This is not the first time that a government official has been robbed of huge sums of money in Ghana. In July 2023, the former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, reported a robbery at her house, where more than $1 million, €300,000, and other valuable items were allegedly stolen. She was later arrested by the Office of the Special Prosecutor for suspected corruption and corruption-related offences.
In August 2023, a presidential staffer, Hamida Nuhu, was also robbed of $114,500, £800, GH¢50,000, and €3,000, among other items, at her Premier Place home in the Airport Residential area of Accra. Eight people were arrested and charged with conspiracy and robbery in connection with the case.
In October 2020, the MP for Mfantseman, Ekow Quansah Hayford, was shot and killed by armed robbers on the Abeadze Dominase–Abeadze Duadzi–Mankessim Road, when he was returning from a campaign trip.
Five people were arrested and charged with conspiracy and murder in relation to his death.
These incidents have raised concerns over the security of parliamentarians and the nature of their jobs. Over the years, MPs have asked for more security, citing the risks and threats they face in the course of their duties.
Controversial commentator Kevin Taylor, known for his direct and critical approach to political figures, has unleashed a blistering attack on Cheddar, a prominent Ghanaian businessman and real estate mogul, during a recent episode of his ‘LOUD SILENCE’ program.
In a widely circulated video on social media, Taylor accused Cheddar, also known as Nana Kwame Bediako, of dishonesty and theft. He issued a challenge for Cheddar to appear on television and respond to his allegations, cautioning him against mentioning his name in any retort.
“Cheddar, you, you, you are a liar. Your wife should not even trust you. You Cheddar. And if you are a man, come on TV and respond to me. I say, Cheddar, you Cheddar, you are a liar and every liar is a thief. And I am sending my warning to you, if you are a man, mention my name in any of your comments and I will prove a point to you. And you know what I am talking about. You Cheddar, you know what I am talking about. You know. You know. You have spoken to me on the phone. You know. You are a liar. And right now it is going to be rough,” Taylor asserted in the video.
While Taylor did not explicitly state the reason for his attack on Cheddar, he hinted at possessing information that could expose him. Additionally, he claimed to have had phone conversations with Cheddar, emphasizing that Cheddar understood the context of his accusations.
Cheddar, also recognized as Freedom Jacob Caesar, serves as the founder and chairman of Kwarleyz Group, a company specializing in real estate, construction, and hospitality. Beyond his business ventures, he engages in philanthropy and social activism, contributing to various projects aimed at fostering African development and empowerment.
Cheddar, who has recently confirmed his presidential aspirations under the New Force movement has not responded to Taylor’s allegations, as of the time of writing this article.
Taylor, a US-based Ghanaian journalist, is the founder and CEO of Loud Silence Media, focusing on human interest stories and expressing vocal criticism towards the current NPP government. The unfolding situation promises to add further intensity to the already charged atmosphere.
President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoehas voiced his concerns over the relentless imposition of taxes by the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, expressing sympathy for Ghana’s future president.
The latest addition to the tax burden is the implementation of the Value Added Tax (VAT) on residential electricity consumption, effective January 1. Franklin Cudjoe anticipates the likelihood of further taxes, given the government’s pursuit of increased revenue.
In an interview on The Big Issue on Citi TV, Mr Cudjoe underscored the crucial need for prudent economic management. He shared his apprehensions for the next president, who will grapple with the challenges posed by the numerous tax policies.
“I think it is important to be very careful how we want to deal with this economy. I pity the next president of this country because what it means is that you are going to deal with this nonsense of taxes and there will be no breathing room at all,” he stated.
The continuous introduction of taxes has sparked discussions about the economic implications and the burden it places on the country’s leadership. Mr Cudjoe’s remarks add to the ongoing discourse, highlighting the potential challenges awaiting Ghana’s future president in navigating the economic landscape shaped by these taxation policies.
A 2021 YouTube video by the QEDNG channel has regained relevance in the wake of the BBC Africa Eye exposé titled “DISCIPLES: The Cult of TB Joshua,” that has revealed shocking allegations of abuse and torture by the late Nigerian preacher TB Joshua.
The video, uploaded in June 2021, shows a man described by some reports as “a Christian Elder simply referred to as Mr. White responding to a question about TB Joshua‘s demise.
His answer was full of praise for the late founder of The Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN) with details of several good things he believed TB Joshua had done in Nigeria and around the world.
In the interview, Mr. White recalled TB Joshua‘s prophetic abilities, noting predictions that came to pass concerning Nigeria, other African and European countries, and the world at large. He acknowledged the criticisms directed at TB Joshua by other church leaders but asserted that TB Joshua continued to thrive despite the opposition.
Furthermore, Mr. White recounted a statement made years ago by the late Charismatic Pentecostal preacher and founder of Church of God Mission International, Archbishop Benson Idahosa, who, in response to complaints about TB Joshua, reportedly said, “Leave him, leave him. If he is not of God, he will not survive seven years, but if he’s of God, he will survive seven years, and if he survives seven years, then know that this man is of God.” Mr. White, claiming to be a witness to this statement, emphasized the enduring impact of TB Joshua’s ministry.
“Yes, I was there when he was making that statement in Benin. I’m a witness to it,” he said.
He highlighted the late TB Joshua was a great man of God known worldwide for solving problems, healing the sick, delivering the oppressed, and making Nigeria proud. Mr. White shared a specific anecdote about a Prime Minister whose life TB Joshua saved, leading to enduring honors for the late prophet in the Prime Minister’s country.
The resurgence of this video adds an intriguing dimension to the ongoing discussions surrounding TB Joshua’s legacy, especially in light of the recent BBC exposé.
TB Joshua, who died at the age of 57, was one of Africa’s most influential evangelists, with top politicians, celebrities, and sports stars among his followers. He founded the SCOAN in 1987 and built an evangelical empire that stretched across the globe. He was also known for his philanthropy and his prophecies, which he claimed were divinely inspired. However, he was also controversial and faced criticism from other church leaders, who accused him of being a false prophet or using occult powers.
The BBC’s investigation is the first time that multiple former church insiders have come forward to speak on the record about their experiences within the SCOAN. They say they have spent years trying to raise the alarm, but have been effectively silenced.
A shocking video has emerged online showing the moment an Imam collapsed and died while leading the Fajr prayer, the early morning prayer, in a mosque in Indonesia.
The video, captured by a surveillance camera in the mosque, shows the Imam leading the worshippers in prayer, and when he kneels down, he stays in that position for longer than usual before falling to the ground dead.
The muezzin, who was standing in the line behind the Imam, raises his head and sees the Imam lying on the ground. He then steps forward to continue leading the worshippers in prayer and completes the prayers.
The incident happened on Friday, January 5, 2024, in a mosque in the city of Surabaya, according to Gulf Today.
The Imam, identified as Ustadz Abdul Halim, was 52 years old and had no known health problems, the report said.
The video has gone viral on social media, with many users expressing their condolences and admiration for the Imam, who died while performing his religious duty. Some also praised the muezzin for his calmness and composure in the face of the tragedy.
According to Islamic belief, dying while praying is considered a sign of martyrdom and a blessing from Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever dies while praying, Allah will forgive him and admit him to Paradise.
The funeral of the Imam was held later that day, and he was buried in a nearby cemetery.
A necklace that holds the record for the most valuable necklace in the world has been revealed by the Guinness World Records.
The necklace, named Mouawad “L’Incomparable”, features the largest flawless diamond in the world, a yellow stone weighing 407.48 carats, also known as the Incomparable.
The diamond is suspended gracefully from a 229.52-carat white diamond necklace, intertwined by 18-karat rose gold branchlets. The necklace also contains a further 102 diamonds cut into various shapes.
The necklace was valued in 2013 at £36,361,232 ($55,000,000), and was created by the Lebanese jeweler Mouawad, which has been honored by Guinness World Records five times for its exceptional creations.
The Incomparable diamond has a remarkable history, as it was discovered by a young girl in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1980. She found the diamond among a pile of rubble from an old mine, and gave it to her uncle, who sold it to a local dealer.
The diamond was then bought by a group of investors, who spent four years cutting and polishing it to reveal its beauty and brilliance.
The diamond was first exhibited at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC in 1984, and then at the Natural History Museum in London in 1987.
In 2002, the diamond was acquired by Mouawad, which decided to transform it into a stunning necklace, along with other diamonds from its collection.
The necklace was unveiled in 2013 at the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition in Qatar, where it attracted the attention of the Guinness World Records.
The necklace has since been displayed in various exhibitions and events around the world, and has been admired by many celebrities and royalty.
The necklace is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design, and a testament to the beauty and rarity of the Incomparable diamond.
This is the most valuable necklace in the world.
The full name of the necklace is Mouawad “L’Incomparable” and contains the largest flawless diamond in the world (407.48 carats), also know as the Incomparable. It also contains a further 102 diamonds cut into various shapes.
The Ashanti regional chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, in a recent development reported by Onuaonline.com, is facing repercussions for allegedly challenging the authority of Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, during a session of the NPP parliamentary primaries vetting committee last week.
Without provocation, Wontumi reportedly asserted his independence, stating, “I have built my own kingdom, I have my own police and military, and I will speak my mind to Otumfuo if I disagree on an issue with him,” as quoted in the report.
NPP National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, chaired the vetting committee during this incident, as noted in the report. Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Duah, who was present at the time, expressed strong disapproval of Wontumi’s statement.
“For you to even say those words in my presence is unacceptable, and I’m not happy about your weird and disrespectful behaviour,” Kokosohene reportedly rebuked Wontumi.
Subsequently, the Asanteman Traditional Council has taken action, reportedly writing to the General Secretary of the NPP, Justin Frimpong Kodua, demanding an explanation for his perceived challenge to the authority of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
The letter seeks the facilitation of Chairman Wontumi‘s appearance at the Manhyia Palace to address and explain his alleged disrespect towards Otumfuo. This move suggests a significant response from traditional authorities to maintain respect for the Asantehene.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is the 16th Asantehene, the traditional ruler of the Asante people, who are the largest ethnic group in Ghana. He is widely respected and revered for his role in promoting peace, development, and culture in Ghana and beyond.
He is also the Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and a member of the World Economic Forum.
TB Joshua, the late Nigerian preacher and founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), held profound connections with numerous African presidents and political leaders. His impact reached beyond religious boundaries, with leaders seeking his prayers, guidance, and prophecies. Here are some notable presidents who were close to TB Joshua:
1. John Atta-Mills (Ghana):
Former President of Ghana, the late John Evans Atta-Mills standing by the founder of Synagogue Church Of All Nations (SCOAN) Prophet TB Joshua, during a visit to the church in Nigeria after the 2008 general elections in Ghana
A regular visitor to SCOAN.
Credited Joshua for his 2008 presidential election victory.
Expressed gratitude at a thanksgiving service in 2009.
Joshua attended Atta-Mills’ funeral, describing him as a “brother” and a “friend.”
2. Joyce Banda (Malawi):
Visited SCOAN several times.
Claimed Joshua foretold her rise to power and warned of an assassination attempt.
Acknowledged Joshua’s guidance in overcoming challenges.
3. Frederick Chiluba (Zambia):
Declared Zambia a Christian nation in 1991.
Described as a close friend and frequent visitor to SCOAN.
He visited TB Joshua after his acquittal from corruption charges in 2009.
4. Morgan Tsvangirai (Zimbabwe):
SCOAN visitor and recipient of Joshua’s prophecies.
Joshua predicted his fate in the disputed 2008 presidential election.
Credited Joshua with healing him of colon cancer in 2016.
5. Goodluck Jonathan (Nigeria):
Follower of TB Joshua and recipient of spiritual guidance.
Joshua prophesied his rise to power and advised conceding defeat in the 2015 election.
Received prayers and support during his tenure.
While these leaders shared close ties with TB Joshua, many others, including;
Muhammadu Buhari (Nigeria)
Omar Bongo (Gabon)
John Magufuli (Tanzania):
Salva Kiir Mayardit (South Sudan)
George Manneh Oppong Weah (Liberia),
Former Liberian President George Weah in a handshake with the late prophet TB Joshua during a visit to the SCOAN in Nigeria
Koudou Gbagbo Laurent (Ivory Coast), Levy Patrick Mwanawasa (Zambia), Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu ( Zulu Nation, South Africa), Professor Pascal Lissouba (Congo), General André Kolingba (Central African Republic), King Koshi Kgabo Moloto (South Africa) were also seen with him.
TB Joshua was one of Africa’s most influential evangelists, with millions of followers across the continent and beyond. He was also controversial, facing accusations of rape, torture, and abuse from former followers . He died on 5 June 2021, at the age of 57 . He was the founder of SCOAN, a Christian megachurch that runs the Emmanuel TV television station from Lagos, Nigeria .
The website of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), the megachurch founded by the late Nigerian preacher Temitope Balogun (TB) Joshua, has been following the BBC’s release of a damning documentary about his alleged sexual crimes and torture.
The documentary, titled “Disciples: The Cult of TB Joshua”, was aired on BBC Africa Eye on 8 January 2024.
It featured dozens of former members and workers of SCOAN, who accused Joshua of raping and abusing them, forcing them to have abortions, and faking his “miracle healings”.
The BBC also reported that Joshua had covered up his role in the collapse of a building at his church in 2014, which killed at least 116 people, mostly South Africans.
The documentary has sparked outrage and condemnation from many Nigerians and Africans, who have called for justice and accountability for the victims of Joshua’s alleged atrocities.
However a visit to SCOAN’s website, www.scoan.org, shows the message “This page isn’t working. www.scoan.org took too long to respond. HTTP ERROR 504. Reload.”
The Independent Ghana has no knowledge of how whether the website was accessible before the exposé, and it is unclear whether the current downtime is related to the recent allegations against the founder of the church.
However, many observers have found the development intriguing, given the recent events surrounding the ministry.
The church’s social media accounts, such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, are however still active.
TB Joshua, who died in June 2021 at the age of 57, was one of Africa’s most influential and controversial evangelists, with millions of followers across the continent and beyond. He was the founder of SCOAN, a Christian megachurch that runs the Emmanuel TV television station from Lagos, Nigeria.
A video of the late Ghanaian president John Evans Atta-Mills visiting the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) in Nigeria in 2009 has resurfaced on social media, following the BBC’s exposé on Temitope Balogun (TB) Joshua’s life and ministry.
The video, which has been posted on several social media platforms, shows Atta-Mills giving a testimony of how TB Joshua prophesied his victory in the 2008 presidential election, which was decided by a run-off and a subsequent re-run in some constituencies.
Atta-Mills said when he informed TB Joshua about the 2008 elections, the “man of God” told him that he would face three elections, and that the final result would be announced in January 2009.
“When I told him that our elections would be on December 7th and that there was a possibility that the results would be announced on the 8th, 9th, or 10th of December, he looked at me for some time, smiled, and said, ‘I don’t see it that way. I can see three different elections ahead of you, and the results are going to be declared in January,” he said.
He said the prophecy came to pass, as he won the election after a third round of voting, and was declared the winner on January 3, 2009. He said he came back to the church to thank God and TB Joshua for the prophetic message and the prayers.
“I was asking myself if there is a runoff, and the runoff is usually on the 28th of December. Give ourselves two days for the Electoral Commissioner to come out with the results. Well, how possible that would run into January? Well, I kept these words at the back of my mind. We had the elections, all right, on December 7th. There was a runoff on December 28th, and then we had a third election in one constituency, and the results were announced in January,” he added.
He also said he wanted to be a good leader who would serve God and the people of Ghana with humility, wisdom and strength. He said he believed that God had a purpose for his life and his presidency.
“My prayer to God is to give me nothing but wisdom, wisdom to undertake my responsibilities, give me a big heart to play the role that Himself has chosen for me. And we should always remember that nobody came into the world on his or her own. The creator brought us into this world and he directs our affairs. I believe that the elections in Ghana have changed the minds of many people. I believe there are many people who are going to give themselves to God because of what has happened and would always want God’s name to be glorified,” he remarked.
Atta-Mills died in July 2012, while still in office, after a short illness. He was succeeded by his vice-president, John Dramani Mahama.
TB Joshua died on June 5, 2021, a week before his 58th birthday. He was a popular and controversial preacher, who claimed to perform miracles and healings. He had millions of followers across Africa and around the world.
As the late Nigerian preacher TB Joshua faces allegations of rape, torture, and abuse from former followers, we look back at his special friendship with Ghana’s former president John Atta-Mills, who died in office in 2012.
Atta-Mills, who served as president from 2009 to 2012, was a regular visitor to Joshua’s church, the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), in Lagos, Nigeria. He credited Joshua for his victory in the 2008 Ghanaian presidential election, and often sought his counsel and prayers.
In 2009, Atta-Mills attended a thanksgiving service at SCOAN, where he delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing his gratitude to God and Joshua for their role in his life and the affairs of Ghana.
He then shared a prophetic message he received from Joshua about the outcome of the election, which turned out to be accurate.
The late president of the Republic of Ghana then said a heartfelt prayer to God saying, “My prayer to God is to give me nothing but wisdom, wisdom to undertake my responsibilities, give me a big heart to play the role that Himself has chosen for me.”
Atta-Mills died on 24 July 2012, at the age of 68. He was the first Ghanaian president to die in office. His vice-president, John Dramani Mahama, was sworn in as his successor.
TB Joshua, who died on 5 June 2021, at the age of 57 was among the dignitaries who attended Atta-Mills’ funeral in Accra. He was also one of Africa’s most influential evangelists, with millions of followers across the continent and beyond. He was seen as controversial and faced accusations of hate speech, fraud, and sexual abuse.He was the founder of SCOAN, a Christian megachurch that runs the Emmanuel TV television station from Lagos, Nigeria.
Read a transcript of his statement below.
“I want to thank the Almighty for making it possible for me to be here this morning to take part in this Thanksgiving service. I am no stranger to the synagogue; indeed, I’ve been coming here very regularly, and I’ve known the man of God for more than 10 years. Indeed, I first met him when I was the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, and I’ve continued to maintain the relationship ever since.
What I’ve seen today is a rather humbling experience for me. You remember a few weeks ago, I came around, and when I was interviewed, I made reference to the fact that I will be contesting for the presidency in Ghana in December elections. Now, if there is anybody who does not believe in God, I would say that our elections should change that person’s mind and let him believe in God.
We prayed for peace and stability and unity for our dear nation before, during, and after the election. We cry to God because he is our creator and the provider of all these. God gave us more than we asked for.
My brothers and sisters in Christ, the man of God took special interest in what was happening with the organization of prayer groups and all, and I know that many of my brothers and sisters in the congregation also took it upon themselves to pray not only for our Atta-Mills but for all the competitors and also for Mother Ghana.
I thank you all, and I would urge that we continue to pray not only for Atta-Mills but for Mother Ghana so that we remain united, stable, and we enjoy peace. The words of our national anthem or some of the words say that God should bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong.
This is what I would wish for our dear nation. There were times when, as a human being, the body was weak but the soul was willing. Sometimes one began to ask questions, and on such occasions, I would call the man of God or he would call me and say, “How are you now?” Let me just say one thing.
When I told him that our elections would be on December 7th and that there was a possibility that the results would be announced on the 8th, 9th, or 10th of December, he looked at me for some time, smiled, and said, “I don’t see it that way. I can see three different elections ahead of you, and the results are going to be declared in January.”
I was asking myself if there is a runoff, and the runoff is usually on the 28th of December. Give ourselves two days for the Electoral Commissioner to come out with the results. Well, how possible that would run into January? Well, I kept these words at the back of my mind.
We had the elections, all right, on December 7th. There was a runoff on December 28th, and then we had a third election in one constituency, and the results were announced in January.
My brothers and sisters in Christ, God is all-knowing, God is omnipresent, omniscient, and indeed the only repository of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. My prayer to God is to give me nothing but wisdom, wisdom to undertake my responsibilities, give me a big heart to play the role that Himself has chosen for me.
And we should always remember that nobody came into the world on his or her own. The creator brought us into this world and he directs our affairs. I believe that the elections in Ghana have changed the minds of many people. I believe there are many people who are going to give themselves to God because of what has happened and would always want God’s name to be glorified.
I come here as the same old John Evans Atta-Mills. I may probably have a title, but I’m the same person, and I will continue to come here whenever the opportunity offers itself because there is strength in fellowship, there is strength in sharing views and ideas with like-minded people.
My brothers and sisters, we are all the same children of God. Let’s help one another, let’s hold each other’s hands, and whatever happens to us, let’s give praise to the Almighty God. Man of God, I want to thank you, and I want to thank the Almighty for using you and many others. God, we thank you for your glory. May your name be praised forever and ever.”
The boy, identified as Evans, was a top performer at his junior high school (JHS) in Tema, a city in the Greater Accra region. He had gained admission to Presec Legon, one of the best schools in the country, but his mother refused to allow him to attend school due to her religious belief that opposed his need for further formal education.
Evans’ mother, according to sources, had recently joined the God’s Kingdom at Last church, whose tenets seem to have strong reservations on formal education. She had therefore reportedly relocated from Egypt to Ghana to ensure that her son did not defy her faith by going to senior high school (SHS), even after his impressive academic achievements.
Despite two weeks of relentless persuasion by Evans’ teachers, school officials, and Kofi Asare, Executive Director of Africa Education Watch, the mother remained steadfast in her refusal. Mr. Asare expressed his concerns on Facebook, acknowledging the potential need for legal action if persuasion failed.
“Its been two weeks of persuasion. Let’s hope it works,” Mr. Kofi Asare in a Facebook post in December 2023.
Mr. Kofi Asare said he had been unable to contact the church leader directly to intercede on Evans’ behalf, as calls and messages to the mother went unanswered or resulted in being blocked.
“Compulsion through the law courts should be the last option. It can take forever to litigate on matters like this, as we want the boy in school early January, yet have no idea where he is being kept,” said Mr. Asare, indicating legal action may be necessary if other attempts at persuasion failed.
Ghana Education Servicehad been asked to hold Evans’ placement at Presec Legon in the hopes he could still take up his spot in January 2024.
Update
The Independent Ghana has learned from a credible source that the young boy has finally been admitted to Presec Legon in Accra.
Key stakeholders, including Africa Education Watch, Social Welfare, CHRAJ, and others, intervened in the matter, ensuring the bright student could pursue his education.
Despite the mother’s initial resistance and her son’s compliance with her opposition, the collective efforts of concerned parties, including his JHS, prevailed. The boy’s admission serves as a testament to the collaborative determination to secure his educational future.
However, apprehensions persist about Evans’ well-being in his mother’s care, prompting calls for him to be entrusted to a reliable relative or guardian.
The mother’s reaction to the recent development remains undisclosed, given her earlier emotional stance and reported threats to his teachers.
The 16-year-old’s initial agreement with his mother’s stance now appears to have been influenced by confusion and overwhelming pressure. In a positive turn, he is now reportedly happy about attending school, signifying a significant shift in his perspective.
As the boy commences his educational journey at Presec Legon, the focus shifts to ensuring ongoing support and monitoring to secure his academic success.
In his annual foreign policy address to ambassadors accredited to the Holy See, Pope Francis called for a universal ban on what he termed the “despicable” practice of surrogate motherhood. He included the “commercialization” of pregnancy among the threats to global peace and human dignity.
Francis, lamenting the increasing threats to peace in the world, listed various issues, including Russia’s war in Ukraine, the Israel-Hamas conflict, migration challenges, climate crises, and the production of nuclear and conventional weapons. However, he also highlighted smaller-scale issues, such as surrogacy, stating that the life of the unborn child must be protected and not turned into an “object of trafficking.”
Expressing his strong disapproval, the Pope deemed surrogate motherhood a “grave violation of the dignity of the woman and the child” based on the exploitation of the mother’s material needs. He went on to declare it a practice that should be universally banned, emphasizing that a child should never be the basis of a commercial contract.
The Vatican’s stance against surrogacy is not new, aligning with its opposition to in vitro fertilization. While commercial surrogacy contracts are common in the United States, parts of Europe, including Spain and Italy, have banned such arrangements. The ongoing war in Ukraine has shed light on the thriving surrogacy industry in the country, where surrogacy for foreigners is allowed.
The Pope’s words were echoed by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, stating that surrogacy is “not morally permissible.” The Catholic Church advocates for a world that upholds the profound dignity of every person.
In his geopolitical roundup, Pope Francis broke with his usual tendency to spare Moscow public blame, explicitly mentioning Russia’s “large-scale war” against Ukraine. He also addressed Israel’s conflict with Hamas, condemning terrorism and extremism while urging an immediate cease-fire, the liberation of hostages, and advocating for a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians.
The Pope’s call for a global ban on surrogacy adds a new dimension to the ongoing discourse on reproductive ethics and human dignity.
As the BBC documentary on TB Joshua airs, stirring conflicting emotions around the world, many have begun looking into the past to make sense of all the claims made against him by multiple women, former workers (also called disciples), former members of his church, SCOAN, and one Ajoke who claims to be his daughter.
As the late preacher gained patronage from around the globe, it has become relevant to recount an experience that a member of parliament for the Assin North constituency in Ghana, Kennedy Agyapong, claimed to have had with TB Joshua.
The lawmaker called the deceased Temitope Balogun Joshua, also known as TB Joshua, a ‘fake’ prophet in a Good Evening Ghana interview on Metro TV on July 6, 2021. He gave an example of how a family member passed away because they chose to go to Joshua’s church, the Synagogue Church of All Nations in Lagos, instead of seeing a doctor.
“He is fake, I have said it a long time ago that he is fake. He is fake because my wife’s sister, when she had cancer, that time she (Mrs Agyapong) was in America, brought money for the woman to go to Korle Bu.
“In fact, a doctor actually went to her house (to assess her), the woman said no, she was going to TB Joshua. She took the money and went to Lagos, when she got to Lagos, she said she could not even see TB Joshua (except) his young pastors.”
He continued: “Then she came back and when the sister called, she said ‘oh, I am feeling good, nice, TB Joshua is good.’ This woman’s breast cancer happened again, she was begging at Korle Bu for the doctors to cut the breast because of the pain, she lived in Tema, she died.”
To buttress his point, he referred to a 2014 incident where a guesthouse within the SCOAN headquarters collapsed, killing 115 people. In his view, how did TB Joshua not see that happening?
“Let me ask you a question, you said TB Joshua can heal you, why is it that he sees what is wrong with everybody but when his building was collapsing he couldn’t see it, are you dumb? You are dumb!”
He also related a recent report by a member of the church that TB Joshua had deflowered a lot of women in the church.
“Have you seen a confession with one of the ladies that he was sleeping with all of them? The confessions of TB Joshua, that a lady has come out? As for me, the ladies are not my problem, but I am saying that a man’s structure collapsed, over 100 people died.
“So if TB Joshua can say that today Kwame Agyapong, you are going to fall sick tomorrow and I have to go and see him for prayers? Tell that to the dogs, so these are some of the things,” he charged.
TB Joshua died in early June and was buried on July 9, 2021, at the SCOAN premises where a mausoleum has been built.
A number of Ghanaians participated in the weeklong funeral, among others Profs Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and Joshua Alabi, Dr Sipa Yankey and Afriyie Ankrah.
Current Railways Development Minister John Peter Amewu has also confessed to being a strong follower of the Man of God, praising Joshua in a video tribute. Musician Shasha Marley also performed at the thanksgiving event in Lagos.
Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, has a long-standing beef with some ‘Men of God’ he considers ungodly in their words and deeds.
Through Net2 TV and other channels under the Ken City Media group he owns, Agyapong has waged a consistent war especially on some leaders of Charismatic congregations.
His pronouncement on the Nigerian televangelist TB Joshua was one of several remarks he has made about some other “men of God”.
The legacy of TB Joshua faces renewed scrutiny, with questions raised about the authenticity of his spiritual claims and the impact of his practices on his followers.
An alarming video circulating on social media has revealed an unsettling incident in which Ghanaian preacher Eben Ablorh faced blatant harassment by two women on the streets of Stratford, London.
The footage captures Ablorh sharing his sermon in a public space when he becomes the target of unwanted advances from the two ladies. Despite his attempts to continue preaching, the women persistently follow him, engaging in suggestive acts, including forceful twerking around his groin area.
In the video, Ablorh can be heard responding to the harassment, saying, “I don’t want it; I have a better one at home…hallelujah.”
Throughout the incident, an unidentified person behind the camera protests the women’s actions, urging onlookers to document the disturbing scene. “Let’s record it; we need to record this… we will show them what they were doing. Back off, stop it, don’t touch him,” the person exclaims.
Ghanaian Preacher Eben Ablorh was abused by some white Uk -Stratford ladies as he shares the word of God . pic.twitter.com/fTieRGKIS3
The government of Ghana has announced its plan to borrow a substantial GH¢12.7 billion through treasury bills in January 2024.
This move, aimed at financing maturing bills, represents a 1.2% reduction compared to the borrowing figure for December 2023.
Surprisingly, the government has already achieved an impressive feat in the new year by raising GH¢3.223 billion in the first auction of 2024.
This amount surpasses the targeted figure by a significant margin, standing at 15.24% more than anticipated.
Industry analysts, gauging the robust demand that averages GH¢4.0 billion per week, predict a smooth and successful refinancing of the upcoming maturities.
Despite this optimistic outlook, expectations linger regarding heightened targets to address the 2024 budget deficit and create a buffer for the February 2024 coupon payments on the restructured bonds.
The surge in demand for treasury bills observed in December 2023 underscored investors’ unwavering interest. With total bids reaching a staggering GH¢16.3 billion across the T-bills, the average weekly bid size hit GH¢4.0 billion, surpassing the total maturities of GH¢12.8 billion.
The government, facing a pressing need for maturity refinancing, accepted all tendered bids, amplifying the financial manoeuvre’s impact.
Examining the yield landscape in December 2023, a mixed outcome emerged. Downward pressure, stemming from sharp disinflation, contrasted with upward pressure induced by the increased Cash Reserve Ratio.
Notably, the 91-day and 364-day yields experienced reductions of 14 and 74 basis points month-on-month, settling at 29.4% and 32.5%, respectively. In contrast, the 182-day yield gained 19 basis points, reaching 31.9%.
These nuanced shifts in yields add further intrigue to the government’s financial strategies as it navigates the intricate landscape of economic variables and investor sentiments.
Dr Arikana Chihombora-Quao, alongside notable figures such as Patrick Loch Otieno Lulumba of Kenya, Peter Obi of Nigeria, and Nana Kwame Bediako, expressed her sentiments in a press conference following the cancellation of the Convention titled “Igniting the Voices of Africa.”
Addressing the speculation surrounding the event’s cancellation, Dr Chihombora-Quao revealed, “I feel strongly that I should make this comment. As I was coming here, I got a call from one of my Africa diaspora who is a Ghanaian, who actually came to Ghana from the United States because I was coming here.”
She continued, recounting the rumour she had heard: “He said, Ambassador, I heard a rumour that the reason why the event was cancelled was because the young man who was sponsoring it is a millionaire, and he has political ambitions.”
In response, Dr Chihombora-Quao clarified her stance, stating, “I can tell you as clearly and plainly as I can that I never heard the conversation about him being a millionaire. I never heard the conversation about him having political ambitions.”
Highlighting the nature of her interactions with Nana Kwame Bediako, she emphasized, “The time I have spent with him has had more to do with entrepreneurship and the possibilities. So for those who are saying we are here to support him further his political ambitions, that is a damn lie.”
She elaborated on the focus of her discussions with Nana Bediako, stating, “Certainly for my interactions with him, Nana Bediako, have been about entrepreneurship and the possibilities of what we can do if the Africa youth could be empowered and how we can raise money to support African youth so they can build the Africa that we want. That’s all the conversation that I have had. Anything else, I do not know.”
Explaining her initial hesitation and subsequent acceptance of the invitation, Dr Chihombora-Quao said, “When the invitation came, I did not know him, but I had to do homework. What got me to accept the invitation is his age and the fact that he is a youth. Because if we do not support our youth, then who is going to support them.”
In a press conference following the unexpected cancellation of ‘The Convention: Igniting the Voices of Africa,’ Dr Arikana Chihombora-Quao, accompanied by Patrick Loch Otieno Lulumba, Peter Obi, and Nana Kwame Bediako, addressed the media. Their intended message of empowerment for African youth was disrupted, leaving attendees disheartened.
Dr Chihombora-Quao emphasised the significance of the convention, expressing, “The world at large knows that Africa’s future is in the hands of our youth.” The New Africa Foundation had specifically requested their presence to deliver a message of hope, resilience, and unity to the gathered youth.
Despite the cancellation, Dr Chihombora-Quao remained resolute, asserting, “We intended to continue to preach the gospel of truth until we reach the promised land.” She expressed confidence in Africa’s ability to overcome current challenges, describing Africans as “beautiful, intelligent, sophisticated, highly adaptable, and totally indestructible human beings.”
Highlighting the critical issue of mental colonization, she stated, “The most dangerous person for Africa today is a colonised African,” urging a self-reflection on the impact of colonial education. Dr Chihombora-Quao lamented the lack of African-authored literature in educational systems and questioned, “What have we done to undo the colonial education?”
Drawing attention to the role of educated Africans, she criticised the elite for failing to challenge the status quo. “Our miseducation is leading us to the Africa that we are today,” she declared. The Berlin Conference and its ongoing impact on everyday life were underscored, urging Africans to stand up against exploitation, neo-colonization, and imperialism.
Dr Chihombora-Quao’s passionate call for mental liberation and the rejection of colonial education serves as a powerful rallying cry for Africans to challenge the status quo and reclaim their narrative.
In an unexpected turn of events, the highly anticipated “Igniting the Voices of Africa” convention, featuring prominent leaders Dr Arikana Chihombora-quao, Patrick Loch Otieno Lulumba, Julius Malema, and Peter Obi, faced an abrupt cancellation, leaving attendees stranded and perplexed at Independence Square in Accra.
The Independence Square, once buzzing with excitement, saw groups of disappointed individuals blocked at the entrance by military and police personnel, citing the sudden cancellation of the event. Organizers were notably absent, and behind the security detail, the previously prepared stage was being disassembled, adding to the confusion among the gathered crowd extending from the Independence Arch to the Accra Sports Stadium.
Expressing his frustration, Ansumariam Dukuly, adorned in a red beret bearing the inscription “EEF,” voiced his disappointment at the unforeseen turn of events. He had travelled with high expectations to hear his leader, Julius Malema, and other esteemed panellists speak. Dukuly expressed his disappointment, not just in the cancellation, but also directed criticism towards the Ghanaian government.
In his own words, Dukuly stated, “I am disappointed, downhearted. I don’t mind what I paid to come here. I consider this place my home. Cancelling this programme, honestly, I won’t beat around; I am disappointed in the leadership, in the government of our Ghana. They should not do this.”
He went on to suggest a conspiracy, asserting, “They are trying to satisfy outsiders or our oppressors by stopping our leaders from coming here to speak to us. No other reason. They just want to satisfy their masters.”
Dukuly questioned the motive behind the cancellation, pointing out the visibly prepared stage. He believed that if there were legitimate reasons, the organizers would have communicated them to the attendees. Convinced that external influences were at play, he declared, “I am convinced if this programme is cancelled, the stopping of this programme was undermined by the imperialists and their friends.”
The conversation took a political turn as Dukuly criticized the government’s alignment with IMF and World Bank policies, accusing them of selling the country. He called for the exclusion of these institutions, stating, “IMF and the World Bank were put together to build France and Germany. After that, nothing.”
Dukuly challenged the government’s dependence on these institutions, emphasizing, “The leadership now is showing the ineptitude of how to run this country without the IMF and the World Bank, and we know other countries that have been prospering without these institutions. So how come with the natural resources and the population, the educated population of this country, how come they cannot do it without these institutions? I don’t see it.”
As attendees dispersed with disappointment etched on their faces, the sudden cancellation of the convention raises questions about the motivations behind such a decision and the impact on the voices eager to be ignited at this significant event.
A poignant video circulating on social media captures a deeply emotional exchange between a Ghanaian father and his daughter during her traditional marriage ceremony.
In the video, the father, visibly distressed, addresses his daughter, recounting the joy of her culinary skills whenever her siblings visited. He expresses concern about losing this source of familial connection after her marriage.
“If they tell me they are coming, I will have to come and beg your husband Freddie before you can come and cook for them to eat? Do you agree that that should happen?” he queries.
The daughter responds optimistically, urging her father to accept the dowry with a smile. However, the father, his voice breaking, remains resolute, pausing to contain his emotions. Attendees, initially amused, realize the depth of his sentiments as he fights back tears.
In an attempt to console him, they assure him that everything will be okay, but he confronts the impending reality with a poignant question: “Does it mean I too, your father, will have to ask Freddie for permission before you can cook for me?”
His daughter, now emotional, struggles to respond while wiping away tears. The father presses on, asking if she agrees to this potential scenario, but she remains silent, requiring assistance from her bridesmaid.
Finally, the father, sensing the gravity of the moment, poses a question that encapsulates the dilemma faced by many fathers in Ghanaian traditional marriages: “Will you go?” His daughter tearfully replies, “Daddy, please, yes.”
Accepting the inevitability of the situation, her father says, “Alright, it is okay, you can go,” holding her hand and leading her to her husband’s family.
The video, which has gone viral on social media, has elicited mixed reactions from viewers. Some have praised the father for his genuine emotions and love for his daughter. Others have criticized him for being too possessive. Some have also commented on the beauty and elegance of the traditional Ghanaian wedding attire and rituals.
The practice of asking the daughter’s consent to accept the dowry from the groom’s family is part of the Ghanaian traditional wedding customs, which vary from tribe to tribe. It is a way of showing respect and honour to the bride, who is leaving her family to join another. It is also a way of ensuring that the bride is happy and willing to marry the groom, and not being forced or coerced. The bride’s consent is usually sought after the groom’s family has presented the dowry and the engagement list, which is a list of items that the bride’s family requests from the groom’s family as a sign of commitment and goodwill.
The traditional Ghanaian wedding, sometimes called “engagement”, is a colourful and festive event that celebrates the union of two families and cultures. It is often followed by a church or court wedding, which is more formal and legal. The traditional wedding is a rich and unique expression of the Ghanaian culture and heritage, and a source of pride and joy for many Ghanaians.
A Ghanaian father and daughter get emotional during her traditional wedding ceremony as the father is worried about who will prepare him the best food when she is away. pic.twitter.com/3PPqSjE08f
A video that has gone viral on social media shows a rare moment of cordiality between President Nana Addo DankwaAkufo-Addoof the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The video was taken during the state funeral service for the late NDC stalwart Enoch Teye Mensah, held at the forecourt of the State House. In the video, President Akufo-Addo looks John Mahama in the face, gives him a handshake, pats the back of his hand, exchanges some words with him, and both of them smile. The president then moves on to greet other dignitaries at the event.
This unexpected camaraderie between the leaders of the two major political parties in Ghana stands in stark contrast to their public friction and occasional subtle jabs at each other on various platforms.
Over the years, their interactions have often been marked by tension, exemplified by an incident in 2019 that had social media buzzing.
During the Kofi Annan Peace and Security Summit in Accra, President Akufo-Addo’s seemingly ‘awkward’ handshake with former President Mahama became the focal point of discussions. This incident, along with their other public encounters, contributed to the perception of strained relations between the two political giants.
The recent exchange at E.T. Mensah’s funeral, however, presents a surprising and positive development for supporters of both the NPP and NDC.
As Ghana approaches an election year, the political landscape is likely to witness various bold and subtle gestures. The dynamics between Akufo-Addo and Mahama will undoubtedly be an interesting aspect to observe, offering a potential shift in the narrative leading up to the elections.
See how President Akufo-Addo engages in a handshake with John Mahama as he arrives at late Enoch Teye Mensah, Former Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram’s funeral
So Mahama is in a queue to receive The President. The President greets everyone warmly and chooses to embarrass himself when he gets to Mahama. Okay. #ThankYouNanaAddopic.twitter.com/DJ9uTZabrm
A shocking video that has gone viral on social media shows a man slapping a uniformed officer of the Ghana Police Service in the face.
The incident, which occurred at an undisclosed location, has sparked outrage and condemnation from netizens who praised the officer for his restraint and professionalism.
The video does not reveal what led to the confrontation, but it shows the officer holding the man’s trousers, apparently trying to arrest him. The man, who has a bloody nose, resists and slaps the officer hard, causing him to stagger.
However, the officer does not retaliate or use force against the man, but calmly tries to subdue him with the help of a bystander in a red shirt. The people at the scene are heard asking the man why he would assault a police officer like that.
The video has generated several reactions on social media, including concerns about the safety of police officers in the line of duty. Some of the comments are:
@PaamanuelUtd_
The police did the right thing. If he should have retaliated, that would be another story
@phoenix_bld_
The disrespect is too much these days, and to top it off a civilian had to neutralise the culprit for him facepalm♂️
@ericboatenggh
I like the fact that the officer didn’t react
@CdoreIsRed
Bro, the police acted very well, he would have been in the mortuary if he did this in America
@_adomAsante
The officer is not weak. The criminal is still in his grasp, how is that weakness? No matter how fearsome or strong you may be as an officer, in your line of duty, you will meet that one person who will challenge you either mentally unstable or just brave. It is everywhere.
Seriously, did you see that move? How on earth does someone end up punching a security officer like they're training for a boxing match? That's some wild unexpected action, isn't it?"
Ghanaian journalist and women’s rights advocate Afua Asantewaa, who recently attempted to break the Guinness World Record for the longest sing-a-thon, shared powerful words of encouragement during a gratitude visit to Reverend Sam Korankye Ankrah at the Royalhouse Chapel International.
Afua Asantewaa, who has been appointed as a Tourism Ambassador, sang for a total of 126 hours and 53 minutes, from December 24 to December 29, 2023.
She sang about 120 Ghanaian songs, focusing exclusively on songs from Ghana, particularly celebrating Highlife, Hiplife, and Gospel genres.
Seeing an opportunity to inspire many others with her journey, Asantewaa extended words of encouragement to the congregation, urging everyone to “step out of your comfort zone. We are too comfortable, we are extremely comfortable and that hurts. Move out of your comfort zone with faith. All you need is faith. With faith, you move mountains. Ignore what people tell you, listen to your conscience and your faith, and you’ll be guided to the right path, thank you.”
During the service, Reverend Ankrah also asked Asantewaa what kept her going during moments of exhaustion, prompting her to reveal, “Psalm 23. I had a Bible with me, and prior to the attempt, I had the zeal that I shouldn’t leave my Bible behind. So I think on the second day I lost my voice totally. I didn’t know what was happening. It was beyond medical treatment, yeah, and then I remembered that this is why I asked you to go with your Bible. So I opened Psalm 23.”
Asantewaa explained the challenging second day of her singing marathon, stating, “The second day was very terrible, we had an attack, and it was meant to just shut the whole process down. According to my team, I couldn’t wake up; they were calling, I was not responding.”
Expressing gratitude to God, she said, “I just have one thing to tell God. I have been his eye, regardless of everything. He has been with me, and people didn’t understand the courage that I had. It’s not mere courage. I know who I have trusted and who I believed in, so I say thank you to God.”
