Tensions have surged in the Sagban community within the Yonyoo District of the North East region following the demise of a woman accused of witchcraft.
The woman is said to have passed away in her sleep, but subsequent findings disclosed that she was strangled to death.
Reportedly, the intruders entered her room and proceeded to commit the atrocious act of strangulation by tying a rope around her neck.
The family of the deceased, originally from another community, is now seeking justice and demanding identification of the perpetrators.
Simultaneously, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has appealed to the Mo and Wangara tribes in the Kintampo North Municipality to embrace peace and unity.
The root of the conflict emerged when the Mo tribe announced their intention to perform rituals in November and December, coinciding with the Wangara’s annual Klubi Festival.
Dr. Bawumia, having visited the area and engaged with traditional leaders and community members from both tribes, urged the restoration of peace.
While speaking to the community members, he stressed the vital importance of resolving conflicts at an early stage to prevent its escalation within the region.
He also emphasized the importance of resolving conflicts at various levels, encompassing individuals, families, and communities, guided by principles of social justice.
“With a shared common destiny under the umbrella of this year’s festival, let us try to ensure that conflicts are resolved between individuals, families, and communities as a whole along the principles of social justice.”
“Let us use cultural diplomacy as a veritable tool for the promotion of harmonious relationships with our neighbours both far and near. Let us not entertain people who try to divide us along tribal or religious lines,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Speaker of Parliament Rt Hon Alban Bagbin has directed the Minister for National Security and the Minister for the Interior to appear before the Parliament committee of Defence and Interior for a briefing.
The committee will subsequently submit its report to the House for adoption and further directives.
An explosion during a Catholic Mass at the Mindanao State University gymnasium in Marawi city, Philippines, resulted in four fatalities and numerous injuries on Sunday, December 3, 2023.
Expressing strong condemnation on social media, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. labeled the acts as senseless and heinous, attributing them to foreign terrorists.
“I condemn in the strongest possible terms the senseless and most heinous acts perpetrated by foreign terrorists. Extremists who wield violence against the innocent will always be regarded as enemies to our society,” said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on social media platform X.
The blast occurred in Lanao del Sur province during a regular service at the university’s gymnasium in Marawi, the largest Muslim city in the country.
Regional police Chief Allan Nobleza stated that the investigation is considering whether it was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) or a thrown grenade.
Witnesses described the incident as sudden, causing panic and chaos among attendees.
I condemn in the strongest possible terms the senseless and most heinous acts perpetrated by foreign terrorists upon the Mindanao State University (MSU) and Marawi communities early this Sunday morning. Extremists who wield violence against the innocent will always be regarded as…
Chris Jurado, a university student, recounted that the explosion happened during the first Bible reading of the morning mass at 7:00 am.
Following the incident, classes were suspended, and additional security forces were deployed across the university.
Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong, Jr., expressed condemnation for the violent bombing, emphasizing the need to denounce terrorist attacks on educational institutions.
The governor visited wounded victims at a medical facility, showing solidarity with those affected.
In response, Mindanao State University issued a statement on Facebook, unequivocally condemning the senseless and horrific act.
The university expressed solidarity with the Christian community and all those impacted by the tragedy.
Work has resumed on the La General Hospital, prompting a visit from Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, who emphasized the need for swift completion.
During his inspection last Wednesday, Ofori-Atta urged contractors to expedite the reconstruction to ensure the facility is operational within a year, providing the people of La access to high-quality healthcare.
Assuring contractors of timely fund releases, the Finance Minister stated that the government had renegotiated the contract terms for the hospital reconstruction.
The 160-bed capacity hospital will maintain its design, with ongoing work focused on substructures.
Ofori-Atta revealed a project cost revision from €57 million to €50 million, aligning with government cost-cutting measures amid economic challenges.
The Finance Minister’s visit aimed to instill public confidence in the project’s timely completion.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health representative noted that work on the hospital, stalled due to challenges, would resume, with designs for the main hospital expected to be finalized by December 7, 2023.
The La General Hospital faced demolition in July 2020 due to severe structural issues. Although the La General Hospital Redevelopment Project was inaugurated in August 2020, actual construction was delayed, causing frustration among residents.
Health Minister Kwaku Agyemang-Manu recently disclosed the Finance Ministry’s successful securing of €50 million in local funding for the hospital’s reconstruction.
The renowned businesswoman whose life was tragically cut short, Afua Ahenkan, has been laid to rest in Offinso, a suburb of Kumasi in the Ashanti region.
The funeral service witnessed poignant moments, notably when the grieving husband, overcome with sorrow, couldn’t contain his tears as he passed by his late wife’s body.
In a heart-wrenching scene, the bereaved husband, accompanied by three supportive individuals, was guided back to his seat, his emotions laid bare.
The emotional tribute delivered by their 10-year-old daughter further intensified the tears, creating a somber atmosphere that enveloped the funeral service attended by numerous sympathizers, including friends and family.
The gravity of the tragedy deepened as the casket was lifted to its final resting place in the cemetery, marking the poignant conclusion of a life lost too soon.
Afua Ahenkan met a tragic end allegedly at the hands of her houseboy, John Alister, just two weeks after employing him.
The shocking incident unfolded with the suspect fleeing with the deceased’s car and belongings immediately afterward. Subsequently apprehended, John Alister confessed to the heinous crime.
Adding another layer to the tragedy, it has been revealed that the suspect was previously convicted for a separate crime.
He has received a 20-year jail sentence for stealing a substantial amount of GH¢167,666 from his former employer.
Ghana has officially registered a robust delegation of 618 participants for the 28th Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 28) in Dubai, showcasing a notable increase from its representation at COP 27 in Egypt.
During COP 27, Ghana’s delegation comprised 350 individuals, including both state and non-state actors, some of whom received funding from development partners.
This year, as reported by the UNFCCC, Ghana’s delegation has grown to 618 members, with 95 listed as official “parties” and an additional 523 on the “party overflow” list.
It is crucial to acknowledge that certain countries allocate party badges to NGOs, a factor that may contribute to an apparent inflation of the official delegation size.
These figures are provisional and based on registered participants; the final count, accounting for those collecting physical badges at the venue, will be disclosed by the UNFCCC post-summit.
COP 28, scheduled from November 30 to December 12, is poised to make history with a record-breaking number of delegates.
The provisional total indicates that 97,372 individuals have registered to attend in person, nearly double the attendance at COP 27 in Egypt.
Notably, this year marks the first instance in COP history where all delegates, including “host country guests” from the UAE and 3,000 “virtual-only” participants, have been named in the participant lists.
As expected, the host country, the UAE, leads with the largest-ever registered delegation of 4,409 badges. Brazil follows closely with 3,081, while China and Nigeria share the third spot with 1,411 badges each.
The presentation of participant lists in spreadsheet format by the UNFCCC underscores the escalating trend of growing participation in climate COPs.
With nearly 50,000 delegates in attendance at COP 27 in Egypt last year, there is a clear trajectory of increased engagement since the landmark COP 21 in Paris in 2015.
The former Minister of Finance, Seth Terkper, has raised concerns over the potential jeopardy to Ghana’s international cash flows if discussions on external debt restructuring come to a standstill.
Despite this apprehension, Terkper remains cautiously optimistic about the country’s ability to secure an agreement by the end of the upcoming week.
In a statement quoted by norvan reports, Terkper remarked, “I hope we can avert not reaching a deal with the creditors, otherwise, unless we get some waiver, flows from the IMF and World Bank will be in jeopardy, and we will still be locked out of the international capital market. I hope the Government will rally and meet the required conditions so that we can overcome these current economic challenges.”
Echoing Terkper’s sentiments, the current Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, also conveyed confidence in the government’s potential to finalize an agreement by the end of the coming week.
Ofori-Atta addressed the issue, stating, “My hope is that by the end of next week, we’ll have what we need. One of the key issues is the cut-off date and ensuring that there is comparability of treatment.”
IMF, World Bank funds in limbo should external debt restructuring talks be stalled – Seth Terkper
The former Minister of Finance, Seth Terkper, has raised concerns over the potential jeopardy to Ghana’s international cash flows if discussions on external debt restructuring come to a standstill.
Despite this apprehension, Mr Terkper remains cautiously optimistic about the country’s ability to secure an agreement by the end of the upcoming week.
In a statement quoted by norvan reports, Mr Terkper remarked, “I hope we can avert not reaching a deal with the creditors, otherwise, unless we get some waiver, flows from the IMF and World Bank will be in jeopardy, and we will still be locked out of the international capital market. I hope the Government will rally and meet the required conditions so that we can overcome these current economic challenges.”
Echoing Mr Terkper’s sentiments, the current Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, has also conveyed confidence in the government’s potential to finalize an agreement by the end of the coming week.
Mr Ofori-Atta addressed the issue, stating, “My hope is that by the end of next week, we’ll have what we need. One of the key issues is the cut-off date and ensuring that there is comparability of treatment.”
In December 2022, Ghana experienced a default on a significant portion of its external debts, leading to its exclusion from international capital markets and a subsequent surge in debt costs. This crisis further intensified an economic downturn characterized by a depreciating currency and soaring inflation rates.
To address its financial predicament, Ghana is required to negotiate a restructuring deal with its official creditors, a crucial step for obtaining the International Monetary Fund (IMF) executive board’s approval for the next disbursement of $600 million from a $3 billion rescue loan.
The official creditors, holding approximately $5.4 billion of Ghana’s total external debt amounting to $20 billion undergoing restructuring, were considering two possible cut-off dates: March 2020 and December 2022, as reported by Reuters in September.
While December 31, 2022 aligns closely with Ghana’s default timeline, March 24, 2020, was also under consideration as a cut-off date. This date holds significance as it marks the introduction of the G20’s Debt Service Suspension Initiative (DSSI), designed to assist the world’s poorest countries in coping with the repercussions of the COVID-19 crisis. Notably, Ghana did not participate in the DSSI.
In response to the deliberations on cut-off dates, Ghana’s Finance Minister, Ofori-Atta, emphasized the country’s adaptability to either scenario. When queried about a preferred date, he commented, “We can manage either way. So the issue is (for) the membership of the OCC to get comfortable with how it impacts them.” Ofori-Atta further highlighted the importance of ensuring comparability of treatment, with China and France serving as co-chairs of the official creditor committee and exerting significant influence on the decision-making process.
A fatal knife and hammer attack which unfolded in central Paris near the Eiffel Tower has claimed the life of a German national as well as injuries to two others, including a British man.
The incident occurred around 21:00 local time on Saturday, prompting anti-terrorism prosecutors to launch an investigation.
A 26-year-old French national, previously known to security services, was swiftly apprehended.
The attack took place on Quai de Grenelle, where the victim, accompanied by his wife, was fatally stabbed.
The swift action of a taxi driver saved the wife’s life.
The assailant then fled across a nearby bridge over the River Seine, subsequently assaulting two more individuals—one with a hammer.
French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin revealed that the suspect, identified as Armand R, was Tasered and arrested on charges of pre-meditated murder and attempted assassination related to a terrorist enterprise.
The injured Frenchman and British tourist, both stable, received medical attention.
The alleged attacker, expressing grievances about Muslim casualties in Afghanistan and Palestine, shouted “Allahu Akbar” during the assault. Darmanin disclosed the suspect’s prior conviction for planning an attack in 2016, a four-year prison term, and inclusion in the security services watchlist. The assailant also struggled with psychiatric disorders.
President Emmanuel Macron conveyed condolences to the victims of the “terrorist attack” and lauded emergency services.
The national anti-terrorist prosecutor’s office will oversee the investigation, following a similar incident in Arras two months ago that elevated the country’s security alert status.
The National Identification Authority (NIA) has reported the conviction of an Assistant Technical Enrolment Officer (ATEO) on charges of misconduct that led to the registration of an unqualified applicant.
George Kwame Essien, serving as an ATEO at the NIA’s Walewale District Office in the North East Region, has been found culpable of forging NIA documents. He illicitly registered an individual named Amadu Seeta, who did not meet the necessary registration requirements.
Seeta, currently evading authorities, allegedly obtained an ECOWAS Identity Card through Essien’s fraudulent activities.
Investigations uncovered that Essien forged NIA Form One and an Oath of Identity Form belonging to Braimah Seini to facilitate Seeta’s registration.
Essien admitted guilt to the charges and has been sentenced to seven months imprisonment for count two (Forgery of Document) and six months each for counts 1 (Abetment of Crime), 3 (Causing Unauthorized Interference with Electronic Records), and 4 (Causing Unauthorized Modification of Information). These sentences will be served concurrently.
Essien, who happens to be a nephew of the Executive Secretary of the NIA, Professor Kenneth Agyemang Attafuah, has been transferred to the Tamale Prisons Authority to undergo his sentence. A bench warrant has been issued for the arrest of Amadu Seeta, who remains at large.
The NIA, in a statement, underscored its zero-tolerance policy for violations of the law and the NIA’s Standard Operating Procedures.
The Authority affirms its dedication to upholding the rule of law and fostering integrity, patriotism, and decency in the workplace.
The founder of the Movement for Change political party, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, and his wife has showcased their dance prowess in a public appearance.
Alan Kyerematen, the Ghanaian politician vying for the country’s leadership in the upcoming 2024 elections, organized his Afrafranto Walk on Saturday, December 2, 2023, in Kumasi. Supporters gathered in large numbers to join the presidential aspirant in promoting his policies to the Ghanaian public.
During the Afrafranto Walk, Alan Kyerematen and his wife, Patricia Christabel Kyerematen, joyously danced to the tunes of melodious Ghanaian music.
The couple sported matching yellow outfits, symbolizing the color associated with their political party.
The New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer and Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has extended congratulations to the party for the smooth conduct of peaceful elections in the orphan constituencies.
The NPP selected parliamentary candidates for these constituencies on Saturday, December 2, as part of their preparations for the 2024 general elections.
In a statement posted on his Facebook page, Dr. Bawumia expressed confidence, stating, “With great determination and a collective working spirit, we are poised to secure a majority of these orphan seats in the 2024 general election. To sustain our momentum and achieve victory, unity is paramount, from the grassroots to the highest echelons of leadership.”
He went on to convey sincere appreciation to party executives at all levels for their meticulous organization and the successful elections.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized the NPP’s steadfast commitment to the goal of “breaking the 8 in 2024” and called upon all dedicated party members and supporters to intensify their efforts for this noble objective.
“I also offer sincere thanks to party executives at all levels for their meticulous organization and successful elections. For us in the NPP, we have a fundamental commitment to our goal of breaking the 8 in 2024 and I call upon all dedicated party members and supporters to step up their efforts to achieve this noble objective.
“Together, we are going to continue in our quest for a brighter Ghana’s future with unshakable determination, unity in purpose, and determinedness. It is possible!”
Below is his full post…
I commend the New Patriotic Party (NPP: Development in Freedom) national leadership, particularly for supervising very peaceful and transparent primaries in the orphan constituencies.
On behalf of the party, I offer my sincere congratulations to all our newly elected parliamentary candidates for our beloved NPP in the just-ended Parliamentary primaries in the orphan constituencies across the country. I would like you to remember that your victory isn’t the end, but the beginning of a new chapter of service and responsibility.
To win the confidence of the Ghanaian people, we must adopt humility and grace. Special thanks to the aspirants who couldn’t make it for your determination and courage. The party is indebted to you.
Our party’s preparedness and determination to take a majority of these seats from the National Democratic Congress has been definitively demonstrated by today’s events. With the upcoming 2024 general elections in sight, I am very impressed by the quality of candidates chosen to represent our Party in these constituencies. In the coming election, I am confident that we will succeed in securing these seats through our sustained unity and collective efforts.
With great determination and collective working spirit, we are going to win a majority of these orphan seats during the 2024 general election. To keep our momentum and to accomplish victory, we need to stay united from the grassroots down to the highest levels of leadership.
I also offer sincere thanks to party executives at all levels for their meticulous organization and successful elections.
For us in the NPP, we have a fundamental commitment to our goal of breaking the 8 in 2024 and I call upon all dedicated party members and supporters to step up their efforts to achieve this noble objective.
Together, we are going to continue in our quest for a brighter Ghana’s future with unshakable determination, unity in purpose, and determinedness. It is possible!
God bless the New Patriotic Party God bless Ghana.
The Greater Accra Regional branch of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has documented 4,876 road crash incidents and 399 fatalities from January to October 2023.
Mr. Ezra Quansah, Assistant Planning Manager for NRSA in the Greater Accra Region, disclosed in an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Tema that these accidents, involving 8,804 vehicles, were primarily caused by human errors.
He further detailed that among the casualties, 2,776 individuals were injured, 866 experienced pedestrian knockdowns, resulting in 206 fatalities. For commercial vehicles, there were 2,294 incidents, causing 928 injuries and 94 deaths.
Private vehicle crashes numbered 5,122, resulting in 843 injuries and 134 deaths.
Motorcycle crashes accounted for 1,388 incidents, causing 1,005 injuries and 166 deaths. Notably, the recorded deaths included 70 females and 329 males.
Mr. Quansah emphasized the approaching Christmas season, urging drivers to prioritize safe driving practices, avoid unauthorized vehicle lights, and refrain from extended journeys with single drivers. He appealed to long-distance drivers to adopt a two-person arrangement for four-hour driving intervals to mitigate the risk of road accidents.
D03 Fifi Oppong, Tema Regional Operations Officer and Safety Officer of the Ghana National Fire Service, highlighted the necessity for drivers to carry a fire extinguisher in their vehicles, as overheating or electrical faults could lead to vehicle fires.
He recommended replacing fire extinguishers every six months or a year and specifically using dry powder extinguishers in cars.
Mr. Nasiru Abachem, CEO of Finance Company Limited, emphasized the positive impact of road safety lessons on drivers and motorcyclists, urging them to exercise caution, especially during the festive season.
MP for Tema Central, Mr. Nii Noi Hanson-Nortey, acknowledged the challenges faced by the public regarding road infrastructure and called on the government to address these issues by constructing better roads in certain communities to reduce accidents.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, along with members of the Police Management Board, organized a Police Open Day on Wednesday for pupils from Joyhil International School in Fise-Amasaman.
This event was part of the “Snatch Them Young Policing Initiative” held at the Police headquarters.
During the program, the pupils were given a tour of the police headquarters, providing them with a firsthand look at various police equipment used in operations.
An interactive forum was also conducted, allowing the children to ask questions about the police and basic security.
The IGP and his team took turns addressing the pupils’ inquiries and provided insights into their role in ensuring community security.
The “Snatch Them Young Policing Initiative” (STYPI) kicked off in Accra on September 12, 2023, beginning with students from the Police Depot Cluster of Schools in Tesano.
Its primary goal is to instill security awareness in children and cultivate their understanding and appreciation of the police force’s duties.
The campaign seeks to enhance children’s confidence in the police’s mission to prevent and solve crimes, apprehend wrongdoers, and uphold public order and safety.
There are plans to expand this initiative to schools and communities nationwide, with a particular focus on fostering positive relationships between the police and the youth of the nation.
The selected New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for the Akuapem North Constituency, Sammy Awuku, has committed to relentless efforts in advancing development across all sectors of the constituency if he secures victory in the 2024 general elections.
Having been the sole candidate to file forms during the party’s nomination process in the constituency, Mr Awuku garnered unanimous endorsement from all party delegates on Saturday, December 2, officially solidifying his position as the NPP’s parliamentary candidate for Akuapem North.
The endorsement was conducted through a widely supported acclamation at the Presbyterian College of Education polling center.
In a post-endorsement interview with Citi News, Sammy Awuku characterized his unanimous endorsement as a summons to serve.
He extended an invitation to all party supporters, including those who may have had reservations or supported the incumbent MP, to join forces in propelling the constituency’s development.
“It has been a long journey. over ten to eleven years, together with a few friends, we started this. Wonderful people, they rallied behind me. We engaged the party people, and they kept saying that I would be given the opportunity when the time came. They have done an acclamation, and I don’t take this for granted. On any day, whether rain or shine, I will stand by them, and we will develop the constituency together.
“We will ensure that development in the area of roads, health, potable water, electricity. All those who left come home, let’s work together, I will be a candidate for all the people, and I want to be an MP when elected for all. This is a call to service.”
John Kwakye, the Senior Economist and Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Research, has expressed concern about the current state of Ghana’s cocoa sector.
He finds it disheartening that the country has to resort to borrowing to finance cocoa purchases, a key export.
In a post on his X page, Kwakye suggested that the Bank of Ghana and the Cocoa Board explore innovative ways to raise funds domestically instead of relying on external borrowing.
He wrote, “Isn’t it a pity that, as a country, we have to go outside to borrow money to purchase our main cash crop, cocoa? Since the crop is self-financing, can’t BoG and Gov’t find innovative means of raising the money domestically? Let’s think outside the box!”
Isn't it a pity that, as a country, we have to go outside to borrow money to purchase our main cash crop, cocoa? Since the crop is self-financing, can't BoG and Gov't find innovate means of raising the money domestically? Let's think outside the box!
Recent unrest has arisen due to reports of the government’s struggle to secure the annual syndicated loan, attributed to banks’ concerns about the country’s debt levels.
A press release on November 10, 2023, detailed COCOBOD’s planned financing strategy for the 2023/2024 Crop Season.
The board aimed to diversify funding sources, utilizing both a refinancing arrangement with international buyers and a syndicated loan from lenders.
However, the latter was discontinued after weeks of engagement with buyers, leading to noncollateralized financing from cocoa sales proceeds.
COCOBOD asserted its ongoing efforts to secure the syndicated loan for the 2023/24 Crop Season, emphasizing that the necessary arrangements have been made and the loan is laid in Parliament for consideration and approval.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mark Okraku-Mantey, experienced defeat in his bid to secure the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary candidacy in the Ayensuano constituency of the Eastern Region.
During the parliamentary elections in orphan constituencies on Saturday, December 2, Okraku-Mantey garnered 136 votes, while Ida Adwoa Asiedu, his opponent, emerged victorious with 410 votes.
Additional contenders, Ernest Addo and Kingsley Boateng Adomah, secured 4 and 3 votes, respectively.
Meanwhile, in the Adentan Constituency, Akosua Manu (Kozie), Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Youth Authority, clinched the parliamentary candidacy.
Mr Kozie secured an impressive 814 votes, surpassing her closest competitor, Kwasi Obeng Fosu, who garnered 638 votes. Winfred Nartey trailed with 18 votes.
President Akufo-Addo’s lawyer, Kow Essuman, extended congratulations to Kozie on Twitter, affirming, “Congratulations @KozieOzie. A well-deserved victory. Adentan Constituency is coming back!”
Delegates from the New Patriotic Party gathered at various polling centers to participate in the just ended parliamentary primaries across the country, focusing on 111 orphan constituencies.
The following are a list highlighting significant victories in some of these constituencies:
Ledzokuku Constituency: Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, the CEO of the National Health Insurance Authority and former MP, reclaimed his seat with 902 votes, overcoming strong competition from Clifford Martey, Ibrahim Adjei, a presidential staffer, and Collins Nii Ashitey Ollenu, the NPP’s parliamentary candidate in the 2020 general elections.
Ablekuma Central: Jefferson Sackey, Deputy Director of Communication at the Office of the President, secured victory in the Ablekuma Central Constituency with 539 votes, defeating contenders Collins Amoah, a businessman; Ebenezer Nii Narh Nartey, a former MP; and Samuel Brako-Amoafo, a businessman.
Jaman South Seat Constituency: Colonel Kwadwo Damoah, former Commissioner of the Customs Division at the Ghana Revenue Authority, emerged as the parliamentary candidate for Jaman South with 289 votes, surpassing the former MP Yaw Afful and other contestants.
Asuogyaman Constituency: Pius Enam Hadzide, CEO of the National Youth Authority, secured victory in the Asuogyaman Constituency with 423 votes, surpassing opponents Paul Asare Ansah, Chief Michael Ansah, and Nana Abrokwa Asare.
Okaikwei North: Nana Ama Dokua Asiamah-Adjei, Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, won the NPP parliamentary primary in Okaikwei North with 341 votes, defeating former deputy chief executive of MASLOC Alberta Afia Akoto and former MP Fuseini Issa.
Odododiodio Constituency: Manaf Sowah defeated Nii Lante Bannerman to secure the Odododiodio Constituency seat with 349 votes against 203.
Ayensuano Constituency: Ida Adwoa Asiedu, Deputy Tourism Minister, won over Mark Okraku-Mantey with 410 votes to become the NPP’s parliamentary candidate for Ayensuano.
Adentan Constituency: Akosua Manu (Kozie) secured the NPP parliamentary candidacy for Adentan with 814 votes, surpassing her closest contender, Kwasi Obeng Fosu.
Ningo-Prampram Constituency: Michael Tetteh-Eku, also known as Chairman, won the NPP candidature for the Ningo-Prampram Constituency with 410 votes.
Tamale South: Fuseini Musah emerged as the NPP candidate for Tamale South with 608 votes, setting the stage for the 2024 election where he will face off against Haruna Iddrisu.
Awutu Senya Constituency: Eugene Arhin, Communications Director at the Presidency, won the NPP candidature for the Awutu Senya Constituency with a significant 862 votes, surpassing his rival Amos Opei Okine.
First-time aspirant Akosua Manu, widely known as Kozie, secured victory as the parliamentary candidate for the Adentan constituency, clinching the New Patriotic Party‘s (NPP) ticket for the upcoming 2024 elections.
With a notable 814 votes, she emerged triumphant, closely trailed by Kwasi Obeng Fosu, who garnered 638 votes.
In addition to her political aspirations, Miss Manu holds the position of Deputy Chief Executive Officer at the Ghana National Youth Authority. She emphasized that the NPP stands as the sole party capable of driving development for the Adenta community.
Meanwhile, in Odododiodio, two-time contender Nii Lante Bannerman faced defeat in his quest to secure the NPP’s parliamentary candidacy for the 2024 elections. The victory went to first-time contender Manaf Sowah.
Manaf Sowah garnered 349 votes, surpassing Mr. Bannerman’s count of 203.
The incumbent Member of Parliament (MP), Nii Lante Vanderpuye of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), had earlier withdrawn from the race earlier this year.
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has reconfirmed that the reporting date for first-year Senior High School students (SHS) remains Monday, December 4, 2023, as stated on the placement form.
In an official statement released on Saturday, December 2, the GES emphasized that parents, students, and the public should take note of the specified reporting date, aligning with the information provided on the placement form.
The statement, signed by Cassandra Twum Ampofo, the Head of Public Relations at the GES, highlighted that schools are set to commence the registration and orientation of students from December 4, 2023.
“Per the academic calendar, there would be Christmas break on the 21st of December 2023 and resume on the 3rd of January to continue academic work till March 5th 2024,” the statement noted.
According to the academic calendar, there will be a Christmas break on December 21, 2023, with a resumption on January 3 to continue academic work until March 5, 2024.
The GES management encouraged students yet to complete their Self Placement to do so promptly.
The statement expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their collaboration and support in the CSSPS process.
It emphasized the need for patience to ensure the smooth implementation of the SHS academic calendar without disruptions, aiming to return to the pre-COVID academic schedule.
Following concerns raised by Members of Parliament, particularly from the minority side, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban S. K. Bagbin, proposed a shift in the reopening date to the first week of January.
The concerns centered on the challenges parents might face in preparing their children for school within the short timeframe between Thursday and Sunday, following the release of school placements.
The Education Minister, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, has been invited to brief the House on Monday, December 4, regarding the reopening date and related matters.
A woman whose joy of motherhood was cut short during labour by what she termed as ‘medical negligence’, is on the mission to seek justice for her lost baby
The victim, Mavis Aklamanu, has filed a lawsuit against the Airport Women’s Hospital, seeking a compensation to the tune of GH₵5,000,000 and many others.
This was after Mavis, who was due for childbirth, lost her baby under strange circumstances after a prolonged labour and rescheduling of a planned caesarean section, causing anguish and pain in what was supposed to be a joyous moment.
Narrating her bitter encounter, Mavis said she first opted for a natural birth procedure but was later prepped for Caesarian session.
As though that wasn’t enough, Mavis, after agreeing to the CS, was left unattended to, until 5am the next day, a situation that cause her severe contractions and complications.
After failed attempts to draw the attention of the nurses and doctors all through the night, when she saw the discharge of fluids from her private parts, it was finally discovered in the morning that Mavis had lost the baby.
The caesarian session was performed after a long wait but the baby never survived.
“The first day I went there and met with the receptionist, the first question she asked me was if I wanted normal delivery or CS. I said normal delivery because obviously it was my first child so why will I go for CS when there is nothing wrong with me.
“They came to shave the area where they will be cutting and left. I waited for like two hours and nobody came to say anything. A doctor came and I asked him what’s happening? I told him I have been shaved so what is happening? He asked me if I wanted the CS today. I told him they said my situation is an emergency so why don’t they carry out the procedure today. Was I supposed to wait? I don’t understand. A nurse came to tell me that the doctor said they won’t be carrying out the procedure today so I should get something and eat.
“I realized there was something watery coming out of me, green in colour. There was a bell in the ward I could press, when I pressed it, nobody came till 5am at dawn. The nurse came and I told her about what happened. When I took off everything and she saw it, she screamed. She said my water has broken and the baby’s poop has mixed with it. I asked her what will happen now and she assured me that everything is fine. It never occurred to me that my baby was dead. At that time, I didn’t know,” she painfully narrated during an interview with TV3.
Mary also recalled the doctor’s interesting ‘consolation message’ while she laid in a grieving state on the hospital bed.
“In the morning, the doctor and the team came in to break the news to me. All he was saying was that CS wasn’t a bad procedure. He said his mother had nine children and all of them were from CS. He said giving birth naturally will enlarge my vagina and my husband wouldn’t be able to enjoy me again. I asked why he was telling me all these things instead of consoling me and then he said, don’t be foolish. My husband then held me,” she asserted.
However, in a copy of the writ of summons spotted by GhanaWeb, Mary is seeking GH₵5,000,000 as compensation, general damages for the pain and trauma caused, among others.
“The hospital has been very unprofessional in the discharge of their duties and as a result of this we lost our child. So, all I want is justice for my child. We want justice,” she retorted.
Meanwhile, the hospital’s management has refused to discuss the specifics of the incident.
A confidential video acquired by Adomonline.com reveals an ongoing money-sharing event at the Ejura Sekyeredumase voting center during the NPP orphan constituency primary.
On-site journalists have witnessed delegates eagerly anticipating their portion of the shared funds.
The footage captures delegates gathered closely around the individual distributing the money within a confined space, though the specific candidate responsible for the cash distribution remains undisclosed.
A parliamentary candidate aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Okaikwei North Constituency, has refuted claims of vote-buying during the ongoing parliamentary primary.
Accusations were made that she allegedly influenced voters and brought unidentified delegates to polling centers.
In response, Akoto defended herself, stating, “How did I buy votes? How did I do it? I don’t work at MASLOC anymore, I am a member of the NPP, the government in power. I worked to bring my party to power. If I have the opportunity to serve my people, I should be able to assist them.” She emphasized that the assistance provided was within the bounds of due process and aimed at helping the community.
Another aspirant, Fuseini Issah, called for individuals without accreditation to leave the voting centers. He clarified that the misunderstanding stemmed from individuals attempting to gain access without proper accreditation.
NPP delegates are actively voting in orphan constituencies to select their parliamentary candidates in preparation for the 2024 general elections.
Orphan constituencies are those where the NPP currently has no sitting MPs, meaning the constituencies are represented by members of the National Democratic Congress or independent candidates.
The party has emphasized the importance of all stakeholders adhering to regulations for a smooth and transparent electoral process.
Voting at Funsi in the Wa East Constituency has faced a temporary suspension as supporters of two aspirants engaged in an intense altercation.
The District Chief Executive (DCE), Hon. Dr. Ewura Kandia Mahama, and Mr. Halitu Issac, Regional Secretary of the NPP, were involved in a clash, accusing each other of campaigning among the delegates during the voting process.
The situation escalated into physical altercations, leading to the police intervening and subsequently arresting six supporters.
However, this action sparked dissatisfaction among Halitu Isaac’s supporters, who claimed bias, insisting that the chaos was instigated by Dr. Ewura Kandia Mahama’s supporters.
To restore order, the police dismantled canopies and chairs set up by both aspirants before engaging key figures for a resolution. After a regional delegation intervened, including the Regional Communication Officer and Deputy Regional Nasara Coordinator, voting resumed smoothly.
Yet, another disagreement arose, temporarily halting the process again. Supporters of Halitu Issac accused the DCE’s team of campaigning at the voting center and raised concerns about the DCE-branded vehicle present, violating party regulations. Regional delegates stepped in once more, resolving the situation for the continuation of the exercise.
As of now, voting is proceeding smoothly without further disruptions. Three aspirants, including DCE Dr. Ewura Kandia Mahama, Halitu Isaac, and Salifu Yakubu, are vying for leadership in the Wa East Constituency to challenge the incumbent NDC Member of Parliament, Dr. Seidu Jasaw. A total of 651 delegates are expected to cast their ballots in the parliamentary primaries.
A dramatic scene unfolded at the Victory Presby Church, the voting center for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) orphan constituency parliamentary primaries in Adenta today, Saturday, December 2, 2023.
The upheaval occurred following an altercation involving a man named Nana, though the exact cause remains unclear.
Delegates from the NPP shared that the individual involved in the dispute with Nana was affiliated with the camp supporting “Kozie,” one of the aspirants seeking parliamentary candidacy.
The altercation reportedly escalated, involving national security officials stationed at the center.
Quick police intervention brought the situation under control, leading to the apprehension of the individual involved, who was subsequently taken to the Adenta police station.
The Adenta primaries, a competitive race is anticipated among the candidates: Kwasi Obeng-Fosu, former Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Energy; Akosua Manu Kozie, Deputy Director of the National Youth Authority; and Winfred Nartey Obimpeh, a gospel musician.
The Adentan parliamentary primary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Greater Accra region turned chaotic, leading to the injuring of a delegate.
The exact cause of the disruption is yet to be determined, as reported by Bervelyn Longdon from Citi News.
The injured delegate is currently receiving medical treatment, adding a layer of turmoil among party officials and delegates.
Videos circulating on social media capture the tumultuous scenes, showcasing delegates engaged in verbal and physical altercations. The root cause of the confrontation remains under investigation.
Despite this upheaval, order has been restored in Okaikwei North following a morning disturbance.
The disruption arose from attempts by foreign delegates to participate in the ongoing parliamentary primaries.
Local delegates confronted the foreigners, leading to police intervention that successfully quelled the situation.
Nationwide, NPP delegates are actively participating in parliamentary primaries across orphan constituencies.
Voting commenced at 7 am, accompanied by a significant security presence at polling centers.
Notably, calm was reinstated after the disturbance in Okaikwei North, underscoring the prompt response of law enforcement.
As an additional security measure, delegates’ phones were temporarily confiscated before gaining entry to the polling centers.
Chaos erupts at the Adentan Constituency with the cause immediately unknown.
Some delegates could be seen heckling and shoving each other.
In violation of the party’s election regulations, individuals donning T-shirts featuring Frederick Korankye, one of the three contenders in the NPP primaries for Wassa Amenfi East Constituency in the Western Region, stormed the polling area, engaging in campaign activities with singing and drumming.
However, their presence was short-lived as they were promptly expelled from the area for contravening the no-campaign directive on voting day.
The 1,136 anticipated delegates from 28 electoral areas have commenced the ballot-casting process.
Mineral Engineer Frederick Korankye is competing against businessman Ernest Frimpong and economist Frederick Kumah for the Wassa Amenfi East slot.
Southern Germany has been grappled with intense snowfall, causing widespread disruptions at Munich Airport, the nation’s second-busiest hub.
The airport took the unprecedented step of suspending flights until 6 a.m. on Sunday.
Approximately 320 out of 760 scheduled flights for Saturday were canceled, as crews worked tirelessly to maintain at least one operational runway.
Germany’s DWD weather service forecasted extended snowfall throughout Saturday afternoon in much of Bavaria, anticipating accumulations of 30-40 centimeters (12-15 inches) in some areas within a 12-hour period.
The airport braced for additional delays due to the ongoing snowfall.
The heavy snowfall also severely impacted Munich’s public transport, with most local bus and tram services canceled.
The road conditions prompted the city’s fire service to fit snow chains on fire trucks, ensuring safe response during the challenging weather.
Football journalist Archie Rhind-Tutt, returning to Munich from Helsinki, expressed surprise at the continued wintry conditions.
The scheduled Bundesliga game between Bayern Munich and Union Berlin was eventually canceled due to the heavy snowfall.
Similar weather conditions were reported in nearby Bavarian cities like Augsburg.
The week’s heavy snowfall follows a trend of unusually early winter weather across Germany. Ski slopes on the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, opened on Friday, marking the earliest start to the ski season in years.
The mountain boasted approximately 2 meters of snow at the season’s outset, the most since 2007.
The wintry conditions led to dozens of road traffic accidents across southern Germany, including a mass collision on a southwest highway with seven injuries, four of them severe.
Earlier in the week, snowfall was reported in Berlin, while much of the country experienced light snow or freezing temperatures.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced the tragic death of British soldier Major Kevin McCool, who lost his life while off duty in Kenya.
The incident occurred during a motorcycle trip away from the base, where Maj McCool was unfortunately attacked.
MoD officials have informed the soldier’s next of kin but have decided not to disclose further details regarding the circumstances of the incident.
Major McCool, aged 32, passed away on November 29, prompting Defense Secretary Grant Shapps to lead tributes, describing the loss as “tragic.”
“It’s clear from the tributes of those who knew him that Maj McCool was an exceptional person and an exceptional soldier, loved and respected in equal measure, who served his country with distinction.”
Shapps emphasized Maj McCool’s exceptional qualities, noting the outpouring of love and respect from those who knew him, highlighting his distinguished service to the country.
Commissioned from Sandhurst in August 2014, Major McCool served in various regions, including Europe, the Middle East, the Falklands, and Africa.
The MoD praised his glittering operational record, citing his successful completion of some of the military’s most challenging courses. The eulogy also highlighted his legendary fitness, exceptional endurance, and infectious enthusiasm.
Described as a “big family man,” Major McCool’s commanding officer paid tribute to his integrity and professionalism.
Recounting a poignant memory during operations, the officer remembered Maj McCool’s dedication, even after minimal sleep, expressing a readiness to deploy into challenging situations.
The officer emphasized the bright light that has gone out among their ranks, expressing the sentiment that Major McCool will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Jirapa, Cletus Seidu Dapilah, has levied accusations against the New Patriotic Party (NPP), alleging the monetization of their parliamentary primaries.
He expressed concern over candidates reportedly offering delegates substantial sums, with some allegedly paying as much as GH¢10,000 or in dollars.
Delegates from the NPP are currently participating in the party’s parliamentary primaries across orphan constituencies. Voting commenced at various polling centers, with delegates queuing up to cast their votes.
During an appearance on the Big Issue on Citi TV, the Jirapa MP acknowledged that while all parties, including his own, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), provide delegates with funds for transportation, he deemed the NPP’s approach to be excessive.
Dapilah emphasized the concern about the increasing monetization of parliamentary primaries, particularly within the NPP, expressing worries about the extent to which candidates were allegedly spending large sums, even in dollars.
He pointed out that while both major parties engage in such practices, the NPP’s approach seems to be more extreme.
“For me, what worries me is the monetisation of parliamentary primaries, particularly within the NPP. We don’t get to that level…Democracy is expensive, you can’t do it by spending money. But the level at which we are doing it, particularly the NPP. In parliamentary primaries, you have some candidates paying as much as 10, 000 per delegate. Some say they are going to pay dollars.”
“If you are to research about it, you will find that though both parties (NPP and NDC) engage in that, one (NPP) does it in the extreme,” he stated.
These remarks from Mr. Dapilah coincide with the ongoing parliamentary primaries held by the NPP.
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has raised the bar for credit bureaus, mandating both existing and prospective players to bolster their minimum paid-up capital to GHS6 million, a significant surge from the previous GHS500,000.
This adjustment, effective from November 20, 2023, grants existing credit bureaus until January 2025 to meet the enhanced minimum paid-up capital requirement.
The Central Bank, in a released statement, highlighted that the move aims to fortify the nation’s credit reporting system, ensuring well-capitalized investments by credit bureaus.
The increment is anticipated to facilitate the maintenance of robust information technology infrastructure and systems, enabling credit bureaus to deliver effective credit reporting services.
The statement emphasized the imperative for all credit bureaus and potential license applicants to adhere to the new minimum paid-up capital directive.
Non-compliance, it warned, would invoke measures outlined in Section 11 (1) (e) of the Credit Reporting Act, 2007 (Act 726).
“All credit bureaus and prospective applicants for credit bureau licenses should take note and be guided accordingly,” the statement stated.
“Non-compliance with the new minimum paid-up capital requirement shall be dealt with in accordance with Section 11 (1) (e) of the Credit Reporting Act, 2007 (Act 726),” the statement noted.
Should a credit bureau fail to meet the revised minimum capital requirement, the Bank reserves the right to revoke its license, citing non-compliance with the establishment’s minimum capital prerequisites.
The Central Bank clarified that this revision aligns with Section 18 (3) of the Credit Reporting Act, 2007 (Act 726).
Credit bureaus, crucial entities collecting information from various institutions, play a pivotal role in providing transparent credit information.
This, in turn, supports sound risk management and financial stability, assisting financial and non-financial institutions in screening borrowers.
Regulators, including the Bank of Ghana, heavily rely on credit information furnished by these bureaus to comprehend interconnected credit risks faced by both borrowers and financial institutions.
Such insights are instrumental in their oversight functions, contributing to a well-informed and stable financial landscape.
Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, has decried the low productivity in Ghana’s agriculture sector, where many farmers achieve less than 60% of potential crop yields, coupled with post-harvest losses ranging from 10% to as high as 70%.
He labeled this as unacceptable and is leading a strategic initiative to bring about positive change, aiming to empower farmers for better results.
Mr Acheampong sees the Planting for Food and Jobs Phase II (PFJ 2.0), introduced by the government, as a game-changer.
He believes it will address challenges hindering a sustainable and resilient food system, aiming for substantial progress by 2028.
The initiative focuses on adopting new technologies to enhance food security and resilience.
Mr Acheampong sees the Planting for Food and Jobs Phase II (PFJ 2.0), introduced by the government, as a game-changer.
He believes it will address challenges hindering a sustainable and resilient food system, aiming for substantial progress by 2028. The initiative focuses on adopting new technologies to enhance food security and resilience.
Expressing sympathy for farmers affected by recent events like the Akosombo Dam spillage and floods, Acheampong assures plans are underway to support them in the upcoming planting season.
Reviewing the initial Planting for Food and Jobs program rolled out in 2017, Acheampong initiated the design of PFJ Phase II, launched by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo in August 2023.
“As announced a month ago, plans are underway to ensure that support reaches the affected farmers by the next planting season to get them back on their feet,” he added.
This five-year transformative agenda is private-sector driven, targeting eleven commodity value chains for sector transformation.
“This was to afford me the opportunity to appreciate what has been achieved, the challenges, and how to proceed with a focus on accelerating the agriculture transformation agenda,” he said at the farmers awards night to commemorate the National Farmers Day.
The program emphasizes an efficient input credit system to ensure food availability, reduce food price inflation, promote import substitution, boost exports, create jobs, and enhance food security and resilience.
Smart solutions and digital technology underpin PFJ Phase II, fostering interconnectedness among all agricultural stakeholders for a more efficient and effective value chain.
Acheampong calls for the collective embrace of PFJ Phase II by farmers, input dealers, financial institutions, traders, processors, chiefs, youth, and women. The program’s success will rely on continuous data collection, monitoring, and a supportive policy environment that encourages increased financing to the private sector, aligning with targeted objectives.
On November 29, the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) of the Forestry Commission conducted a successful operation leading to the arrest of Nana Kwame Sobre II, the Chief of Manse, and nine additional suspects involved in illegal mining activities.
The crackdown targeted influential political figures and traditional leaders allegedly leading illegal mining in the Manse area of the Anhwiaso East Forest Reserve, near Diaso in the Bibiani Forest District of the Western North Region.
During the operation, two excavators and two heavy-duty generator plants at the site were dismantled.
Among the nine individuals apprehended were Osman Shaibu, Nana Kwasi, Desmond Nkrumah, Abraham Donko, Frank Mensa, Richard Kurofi, Patrick Ayambila, Abdul Salam, and Rasad Nuoeeikaa.
Under interrogation, the suspects claimed Chief Nana Kwame Sobre II introduced them to the illegal mining business.
The arrested individuals are currently held at the Dunkwa Police Station and will later be transferred to the relevant Police jurisdiction in the Western North Region for court processing.
The Coordinator of the Rapid Response Unit, Mr. Samuel Darko Akonnor, issued a stern warning to all involved parties to cease such activities.
He emphasized the Forestry Commission’s unwavering commitment to protecting the nation’s forest and wildlife resources, as well as its water bodies.
Independent presidential candidate Alan Kyerematen, along with his Movement for Change support base, has organized a health walk in Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional Capital, scheduled for today, December 2, 2023.
Termed the ‘Afrafranto Walk,’ this event is part of Mr. Kyerematen’s campaign to garner support for his political movement following his departure from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
An announcement shared on his social media platforms encourages Ghanaians from diverse backgrounds to participate in the exhilarating Afrafranto Walk on December 2nd, 2023.
“Come and be a part of the exhilarating Afrafranto Walk in Kumasi on December 2nd, 2023.
“This event provides a distinctive platform for Ghanaians of various backgrounds to come together in unity, drawing inspiration from our collective strength. Let’s join forces to bring about the change and progress that our beloved country, Ghana, so dearly deserves,” an announcement shared via his social media handles read.
The event aims to create a unique platform for unity, drawing inspiration from collective strength.
The message emphasizes the need for collective effort to bring about the change and progress that Ghana deserves.
In August of the same year, Mr. Kyerematen secured the third position in a special delegates’ election, part of the process to select five candidates for the NPP’s flagbearership contest.
Leading up to the final election on November 4, having resigned as the Minister for Trade and Industry in the ruling government, Mr. Kyerematen officially left the NPP.
In his exit statement, he cited maltreatment against himself and his supporters by the party’s leadership, accusing them of favoring Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the flagbearer contest.
With his independent ticket, Mr. Kyerematen’s influence in the Ashanti Region becomes a pivotal factor in the 2024 presidential election.
The region, his home region, is also a stronghold for the NPP, a party he has sought to lead on multiple occasions.
Private basic schools in Axim, Western Region, are grappling with an alleged scandal involving Enoch Asiamah, the Nzema East Municipal Examination officer.
Mr Asiamah is accused of absconding with Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) fees collected from approximately eighteen schools for the 2022 exams.
Despite collecting the registration fees, he reportedly refused to submit them to the West African Examination Council (WAEC) while managing to secure exam details for the candidates.
The schools, including Manye Academy, were unaware until WAEC notified them in November 2023, threatening sanctions if fees weren’t paid.
In a letter dated November 14, 2023, WAEC warned Manye Academy of potential repercussions, stating that failure to pay would impact the registration of candidates for the Basic Education Certificate Examination for School Candidates in 2024.
The Municipal Examination Officer allegedly vacated his post at the Municipal Education Directorate after the incident in late April.
The proprietor of Manye Academy, Professor Kaku Sagari Nokoe, suspects potential irregularities at WAEC, questioning how candidates were registered and allowed to write exams despite the examination body knowing they hadn’t paid their fees. He expressed concerns about potential illegality within WAEC and is anxiously awaiting the exam results.
Professor Nokoe also finds it strange that the Municipal Director of Education did not inform the affected schools about the Examination Officer’s vacation of post. In an interview with the Municipal Education Director, Nathaniel Akwasi Affum, he confirmed Asiamah’s departure and admitted to not notifying the schools.
Mr. Affum claimed that Asiamah collected the money of his own volition and was not sent by the education directorate. He reported the matter to the Ghana Education Service (GES) and lodged a complaint with the police to apprehend Asiamah, who is said to be hiding in Accra.
In response to WAEC’s letter, Manye Academy has requested a grace period to make another payment, aiming to resolve the payment issue.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban S. K. Bagbin, has summoned the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, to appear before Parliament on Monday, December 4, in response to concerns raised by the Minority regarding the proposed reopening date for new Senior High School (SHS) students and to provide updates on school reopening dates.
Bagbin proposed a shift in the reopening date to the first week of January 2024, urging Dr. Adutwum to reconsider the decision for better preparation among parents and teachers.
The Speaker explained that this adjustment would facilitate improved readiness for the upcoming academic term.
The Minority in Parliament has expressed discomfort with the reopening date, highlighting challenges faced by parents in preparing their children for school on such short notice.
They questioned the logic behind releasing school placements a few days ago and promptly asking students to report on Monday, December 4.
Minority MPs, including Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, cited concerns from constituents, with some requesting changes to their school placements.
The MPs emphasized the need for additional time for teachers to rest and handle the logistical challenges posed by the hurried reopening.
The Ministry of Education maintains that first-year SHS students should report to school on Monday, December 4, 2023.
The Ministry’s spokesperson, Kwasi Kwarteng, clarified that students unable to report on the first day will not lose their slots, and flexibility is allowed for reporting on subsequent days or weeks.
The Ministry asserts that the academic calendar was publicized weeks before, expecting parents and students to prepare accordingly.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) election in the Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira constituency, initially included in the five constituencies set for today’s primaries in the Western Region, has been called off due to a dispute over the choice of the polling center.
Originally planned for Gwira-Bamiako, the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) recommended relocating the election to a neutral venue in Ellembelle following recent protests over the area’s underdevelopment.
Despite the Western Regional NPP Executives’ insistence on holding the election at Gwira-Bamiako, the process was canceled this morning when two different centers were reportedly established at Gwira-Bamianko and Axim, causing confusion for the Electoral Commission.
Confirming the cancellation of the Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira NPP Primaries to Citi News, the Western Regional NPP Secretary, Okatekyire Afrifa Amankwah, expressed frustration and disappointment, stating that it has been indefinitely postponed due to party polarization caused by a candidate’s attempt to influence the choice of the primary venue.
The Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira NPP Primaries witnessed a heated competition between former MP Catherine Abelema Afeku and businessman Justice Kangah.
A former presidential aspirant of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwabena Agyepong, has expressed disappointment in President Akufo-Addo for retaining his cousin, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, in office after the government sought assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Despite earlier assurances from the Finance Minister that the government would not opt for an IMF bailout, a subsequent announcement revealed the decision to seek a $3 billion bailout. Calls for the Minister’s resignation ensued, even from within the ruling party, but no action was taken.
In an interview with Accra-based Starr FM, the former General Secretary of the NPP emphasized the importance of the Finance Minister showing humility by resigning in the face of clear failure.
Mr Agyepong argued that, in a well-functioning democracy, such circumstances should have prompted a resignation, and he disagreed with the President’s decision not to take action.
“He [Ofori-Atta] had stood in front of all Ghanaians and said that we were not going to the IMF and did a full U-turn in a couple of weeks. And I said, in any decent democracy, you stand down as a person. He chose not to go, and I disagree with the President for not taking the action to let him go,” Agyepong stated.
He further highlighted that, eventually, 88 MPs called for the Finance Minister’s resignation, supporting his earlier stance on the matter.
“Months down the line the MPs, how many of them 88 [MPs called for his resignation] so I wasn’t wrong. I was just having that foresight, months down the line. So these are difficult things that as Ghanaians and as party people we have to deal with,” Mr Agyepong said.
The Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), Saviour Kudze, has underscored the significance of adhering to due process in court proceedings, emphasizing that the courts will not overlook any lapses in following established procedures.
He directed his comments towards Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, urging him to refrain from engaging in media disputes over his cases and instead fully complete all court processes.
Mr Kudze questioned whether Agyebeng had exhausted the entire process and appealed to him to diligently follow the established procedures to completion. He stressed the importance of adhering to the specified procedures, cautioning that the court would not forgive any deviations.
These remarks were made during an episode of “Key Points” on TV3 on Saturday, December 2, following Agyebeng’s statement.
Mr Agyebeng had emphasized the importance of allowing anyone accused of a crime to have free access to the courts for a fair trial while urging the judiciary not to interfere with the investigative and prosecutorial authorities within their statutory powers.
“Has Kissi Agyebeng told anyone that he has exhausted the process? Did he exhaust the appeal process? He has to follow the process through to the end and then he can say that he has done all that is required by the procedures and you think there is something wrong.
“If you are ready to work there are procedures that follow. The court will never forgive you if you miss out on a procedure. We are all in support of the fight against corruption but follow the procedure,” Mr Kudze said on the Key Points on TV3 Saturday, December 2 after the Mr Kissi Agyebeng said that just as it is essential that anyone accused of a crime should have free access to the courts so that he may be duly acquitted if found not guilty of the offense with which he or she is charged, it is also of the utmost importance that the judiciary should not interfere with investigation and prosecution authorities in respect of matters which are within their statutory powers.
Mr Kudze raised concerns about a judge granting immunity from investigation to individuals accused of corruption, highlighting the potential risks of such decisions.
He expressed worries that such decisions could encourage individuals under investigation to seek court injunctions against investigative and prosecutorial bodies, using the judiciary to shield themselves from scrutiny.
In a press conference on Wednesday, November 29, Agyebeng had addressed dismissive judicial decisions in cases involving the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).
He cited instances where judges refused to confirm freezing orders related to a deceased person’s estate, claiming that the OSP had come too late.
Mr Kudze acknowledged that while the OSP is not infallible, the court should afford the agency better consideration and avoid dismissiveness and regression in decisions related to its work.
He concluded by emphasizing the potential disastrous consequences if the OSP and the judiciary were at odds in the fight against corruption.
“A judge has granted two persons immunity from investigation for suspected corruption and corruption-related offences and hence immunity from prosecution. This decision opens up a calamitous deluge as every person under criminal investigation would be encouraged to take out suits to injunct investigation and prosecution bodies from investigating and prosecuting them. The real and present danger looms largely on the consideration that by so doing, persons under investigation would conscript the judiciary to clothe them with immunity from investigation and prosecution.
” I do not intend to sound as though I am predicting doom. However, with this development, it would not be long, a suspected murderer or armed robber would boldly walk to court with the unthinkable prayer that the court should injunct law enforcement agencies from investigating him. We are not suggesting that the OSP is infallible and that every case brought by the OSP or against the OSP should end in a favourable outcome – no matter how improbable the evidence.
“However, it seems to us that the flagship public agency created by law to fight corruption should receive better regard and consideration by the courts and not the developing trend of dismissiveness and regression without regard to its governing enactments, and certainly not the erection of non-existent hurdles in its work and operations,” he said at a press conference in Accra on Wednesday November 29 while indicating that there appears to be a developing trend of rather regressive and dismissive judicial decisions in respect of cases involving the Office of the Special Procsueirt (OSP).
“In one case, the OSP applied to the High Court for a confirmation of a freezing order in respect of a deceased person’s estate. The judge refused to confirm the order by, in effect, holding that the OSP had come too late since the person of interest had died and that his death had extinguished the enquiry commenced after the occurrence of death.
“The danger of this outcome is obvious. It is to effect that a person may, in his lifetime, acquire property through corruption and then upon his demise happily pass on the corruptly acquired property to his estate and by so doing, extinguish all scrutiny as to the propriety or otherwise of the acquisition of the property because his corrupt activities were not discovered during his lifetime.
“Indeed I have had several calls from well-meaning lawyers admonishing me that they have heard talk that our friends who have been elevated to the bench and presiding over cases in court do not take very kindly to criticism, especially of the public calling out variety as we do.
“And that if the office persists in the media releases, the judges will gang up against the office and throw out all our cases. Mind you, members of the press, collective admonishing is from very senior and experienced lawyers who are members of the law. Members of the press, my learning of the law for the past 25 years in three different jurisdictions, my teaching and training of lawyers and law students for the past 17 years, my 20-year record at the bar all bear testimony that I will be the last person to lead an institution to attack the judiciary.
“It will be absolutely of no good should it be the case that the OSP is set against the judiciary or that the judiciary is against the OSP. That will surely spell disastrous consequences for this republic, especially in the fight against corruption to the glee of corrupt persons.”
Delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have swarmed various polling centers to participate in the ongoing parliamentary primaries in the party’s orphan constituencies across the nation.
The party has orchestrated these primaries in 111 constituencies.
Voting activities commenced promptly at 7 am at the designated polling centers. To facilitate transparency and uphold democratic principles, the Electoral Commission (EC) is overseeing the primaries.
1. Chairperson of the Constituency Council of Elders as Chair; 2. Constituency Chairperson; 3. Constituency Secretary, who shall be the Secretary to the Committee; 4. An elderly woman in the constituency appointed by the Constituency Executive Committee 5. Constituency Research and Elections Officer
Earlier this week, the party disseminated guidelines for the parliamentary primaries in constituencies currently without NPP Members of Parliament.
“In cases where the Constituency Chairperson is a contestant, the First Vice Chairman will assume the role on the committee. Similarly, if the secretary is a contestant, the Assistant Secretary will undertake the responsibilities.”
The Constituency Parliamentary Elections Committee, responsible for overseeing these primaries, consists of the Chairperson of the Constituency Council of Elders, Constituency Chairperson, Constituency Secretary (who serves as the Committee Secretary), an elderly woman appointed by the Constituency Executive Committee, and the Constituency Research and Elections Officer.
In instances where the Constituency Chairperson or Secretary is a contestant, the First Vice Chairman or Assistant Secretary will step into the respective roles. Notably, the selection of parliamentary candidates in constituencies with incumbent MPs is slated for January 2024.
Evans Nimako, the Director of Elections and Research for the NPP, emphatically asserted the party’s commitment to ensuring a fair and unbiased internal election process.
He assured prospective parliamentary aspirants that the leadership will not favor any candidate, emphasizing the conduct of primaries without the imposition of candidates.
Host of the renowned radio show “Kokrokoo” on Peace FM, Kwami Sefa Kayi, has dismissed a prophecy on the December 1, 2023 edition of his show, which suggested that he might be selected as the running mate to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming political scene.
This prophecy came on the heels of an earlier prediction in 2017 that Sefa Kayi would eventually become the youngest president in Ghana’s history. On the recent episode, a listener shared a vision foreseeing the radio host becoming Dr. Bawumia’s running mate.
Responding to the prophecy, Sefa Kayi emphatically stated, “Don’t worry, I will not be Bawumia’s running mate. It will not happen, so, don’t worry,” emphasizing his understanding of his own limitations and capabilities.
“I will not be his running mate; they say every man should know his limitations and capabilities. Prof. Agyekum has a saying that ‘there are some prayers, you are only disturbing God when you say it,’” he added.
This isn’t the first time Sefa Kayi has been at the center of prophetic declarations. In October 2017, Prophet Samuel Okyere predicted that Sefa Kayi would become Ghana’s youngest president after President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
The head pastor of Empire of Prayer Ministries foresaw Sefa Kayi being chosen by God to lead the nation for eight years, emphasizing that he would be a president greatly loved by Ghanaians.
However, Sefa Kayi appears resolute in his stance against political roles, specifically refuting the idea of becoming a running mate.
On Wednesday, November 29, 2023, the disqualified aspirant for the upcoming Parliamentary election in Odododiodioo, Michael Nii Yarbio, explicitly stated that he is unaware of the disturbance that occurred at the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Headquarters.
Allegedly, disgruntled followers of Yarbio, barred from contesting the upcoming election, were reported to have caused damage at the NDC Headquarters in Accra.
Reports indicated that these angered supporters deposited refuse in front of the party’s headquarters, blocking the road and causing traffic disruptions.
These actions ensued after the Functional Executive Committee (FEC) of the opposition NDC disqualified Michael Nii Yarbio from the parliamentary elections in Odododiodioo, Greater Accra.
However, in a statement, Mr. Yarbio clarified that he played no part in the reported vandalism in Odododiodioo, which extended to the National Headquarters of the NDC.
He expressed regret and surprise at media reports linking his campaign supporters to the acts of vandalism.
“Sections of media reports that these acts of vandalism were committed by supporters of my campaign have also caught my attention with much regret and surprise and I wish to place on record that members of my team and I have no hand in these disturbances.
“I particularly regret to learn that these disturbances and destructions have been extended to the national Headquarters of our great Party, and once again, my team and I have no hand in these acts,” Mr. Yarbio stated.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has dismissed claims of a deadlock in Ghana’s negotiations for the second tranche of the $3 billion credit facility from the Bretton Woods institution.
The IMF insisted that ongoing discussions between Ghana and the Official Creditor Committee on a debt treatment under the G-20 Common Framework were still in progress.
An IMF spokesperson stated,“The discussions between Ghana and the Official Creditor Committee on a debt treatment under the G-20 Common Framework that is consistent with the objective of the IMF-supported program are ongoing. We hope that an agreement can be reached soon, so that we can bring the program to the Board for the first review in the coming weeks,” an IMF spokesperson told Citi News.
This response comes in response to assertions by Minority Leader Dr. Ato Forson that disagreements between the government and the Official Creditors Committee on the cut-off point for external debt in the restructuring exercise have led to a setback and potential uncertainty for the next $600 million package.
Dr. Forson expressed these concerns in Parliament on Wednesday, November 29, 2023.
The Ghana Education Service (GES) is considering revising the reporting date for first-year students in Senior High Schools (SHS), following concerns raised by Pre-Tertiary Teacher Unions about the limited time parents have for preparations.
Cassandra Twum Ampofo, the Public Relations Officer of GES, acknowledged the concerns and mentioned that her outfit had already published the academic calendar for second-cycle institutions.
While assuming parents were prepared due to the prior publication, they are now reconsidering and exploring possible solutions.
“Before the release of placement, we had already published the academic calendar so the first December for first years was already cast and so as a parent, if you knew that your child would be going to the boarding house at least you are working within that time frame. We were only waiting for the school placement to be out but in terms of preparation, we knew that they had started.
“But again once they have given us this feedback, management will look at it and whatever comes out of it will be communicated to the public,” she said.
Dr. Peter Anti-Partey, the Executive Director at the Institute of Education Studies, suggested the possibility of postponing the reopening to early next year for parents to adequately prepare.
“Adjust it in such a way that everybody will be a little bit okay. I don’t know how they are going to do this because you cannot move it to the following week. If you move it to the following week, it means the students are about to spend about one week on campus. It does not help because some of them will be traveling so you go to school for one week and you come back home for Christmas. It does not help.
“So, I think that maybe the best option will be either to maintain this or move the reopening of the first years to early next year so that everybody would be prepared for that,” he said.
Police has arrested seven for indiscriminate firing during paramount chief’s installation in Bono Region.
During the installation of the paramount Chief at Sampa traditional area, Nana Samgba Gyafla II, on November 30, 2023, in the Bono Region, seven individuals have been arrested by the Police for firing shots indiscriminately.
According to the police statement, seven people sustained gunshot wounds, and one person tragically lost their life as a result of the indiscriminate firing.
Two single-barrel guns were recovered, and all suspects are currently in custody, cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
The Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) is under scrutiny for purportedly utilizing public funds to finance political campaigns for specific New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidates in the lead-up to the 2024 elections.
As the NPP parliamentary primaries approach in orphan constituencies on Saturday, December 2, allegations have emerged that MASLOC is granting loans to over 250 women delegates in the Okaikwei North constituency, Greater Accra Region, to sway their votes in favor of Alberta Afia Akoto as the party’s parliamentary candidate.
During an address to delegates on Wednesday evening, former deputy CEO of MASLOC and deputy communications director of the NPP, Afia Akoto, confirmed that the state financial institution would disburse the loans on Friday, December 1, 2023, the eve of the primaries.
“I promised you that I will secure MASLOC loans for you. People doubted me. I took 500 names to MASLOC to get them loans, but I have managed to secure cheques for 250 people for now so that I will shame my detractors,” Afia Akoto told the delegates.
“On Friday, we are going to disburse the loans. I want to assure those who are yet to secure their loans to exercise patience. Theirs will also come,” she added.
Afia Akoto also announced that the scholarship secretariat has allocated 62 scholarship slots for her supporters.
Reports suggest that MASLOC is allegedly providing more loans to supporters of candidates with close ties to the Office of the President.
Afia Akoto, who is competing against deputy trades minister Nana Ama Dokua Asiamah-Adjei, former MP Fuseini Issah, and managing editor for the Daily Searchlight newspaper Kenneth Agyei Kuranchie, addressed the gathering by stating that her past marriage with former NDC deputy organizer Chief Biney is still being used against her despite the collapse of the union.
On Wednesday, November 29, 2023, the Rapid Response Unit of the Forestry Commission targeted the Anwiaso East Forest Reserve near Diaso in the Bibiani Forest District, Western North Region, addressing illegal mining activities causing environmental degradation.
The reserve had witnessed an incursion of illegal miners, reportedly supported by political authorities in the district, utilizing heavy machinery.
Taking prompt action, the Armed Unit of the Forestry Commission’s Rapid Response Unit conducted an operation resulting in the apprehension of 10 individuals engaged in illegal mining.
Simultaneously, the team dismantled and rendered inoperable two excavators and two heavy-duty electrical plants found at the illicit mining site.
The Coordinator of the Rapid Response Unit at the Forestry Commission Headquarters issued a stern warning, reaffirming the unit’s unwavering commitment to combating illegal mining and safeguarding the country’s forest reserves and water bodies.
He declared,“The unit is ever prepared to carry the fight to them in order to save the forest and water bodies”.
A 2022 report from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has disclosed that approximately a quarter of a million Ghanaians, equivalent to around 25% of the population, grapple with unemployment.
The report highlighted the fluctuating estimate of unemployed individuals and those in food-insecure households, ranging from 250,000 in the third quarter to about 330,000 in the second quarter of 2022.
Furthermore, the findings revealed that over half a million individuals in the labor force experienced unemployment and multidimensional poverty throughout 2022, with estimates ranging from 550,000 in the fourth quarter to 780,000 in the first quarter.
The report underscored gender and demographic disparities in unemployment rates, noting higher rates for females than males and higher rates in urban areas compared to rural areas.
“The estimated number of unemployed and food insecure persons in the labour force ranged from 250,000 in the third quarter to 330,000 in the second. These statistics emanate from the recently released Ghana Annual Household Income and Expenditure Survey: Quarter 4 2022 Labour Statistics Report.
“Over half a million persons in the labour force were unemployed and multidimensionally poor in every quarter of 2022, ranging from an estimated 550,000 in the fourth quarter to 780,000 in the first quarter,” the report stated.
Alarmingly, the survey unveiled that two out of every three employed individuals aged 15 or older were either self-employed without employees or contributing family workers.
“The unemployment rate in the fourth quarter was 11.5 percent, the lowest recorded across all quarters in 2022. Fourth quarter unemployment rates are higher for females (12.5%) compared to males (10.3%); and higher in urban areas (14.3%) compared to rural (7.8%), patterns consistent with what was observed for the previous three Quarters,” the report continued.
In response to the escalating unemployment rate, the government has implemented several employment programs, including the recent E-Jobs4all initiative aiming to provide jobs for nearly 10,000 youths.
“Two in every three (68.1%) employed persons 15 years and older in the fourth quarter were in vulnerable employment (i.e. self-employed without employees or contributing family workers), the highest recorded across all quarters. All regions except for Greater Accra had more than half of the employed persons in vulnerable employment. The highest rate of vulnerable employment in the fourth quarter was recorded in the North East (92.1%), Savannah (90.6%), and Northern (84.2%) regions.
“Over 2.1 million persons aged 15 to 35 years were not in education, employment, or training (NEET) across all quarters. In the fourth quarter, one in every five persons (20.2%) aged 15 to 35 years was NEET. Greater Accra recorded the highest NEET rate (26.5%) in the fourth quarter followed by the Ashanti (22.9%) and Upper East (22.9%) regions. All 16 regions recorded double-digit figures for youth NEET in all quarters with the lowest recorded in Oti in the fourth quarter (11.2%).The Annual Household Income and Expenditure Survey (AHIES) is the first nationally representative high frequency household panel survey in Ghana,” the report added.
Former presidential staffer and National Democratic Congress (NDC) member, Ludwig Hlordze, delivered a compelling message at the official opening ceremony of the 6th Volta Trade and Investment Fair 2023.
He urged not only stakeholders but also the entire business community to embrace the concept of a 24-hour economy.
Mr Hlordze asserted that this approach is a definitive path to development for Ghanaians, aligning with the proposed vision by former President John Dramani Mahama.
Highlighting the crucial role of this proposal in shaping Ghana’s new development trajectory, Hlordze passionately called on citizens to unite in support of the 24-hour economy vision.
The 6th edition of the Volta Trade and Investment Fair, themed ‘Leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area for Economic Development,’ commenced on Sunday, November 26, and is scheduled to conclude on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at the Ho Jubilee Park.
Anti-corruption advocate Emmanuel Wilson has rebuked Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng for expressing concerns about judicial obstacles impeding the prosecution of corruption cases.
Mr Wilson asserts that instead of lamenting, Mr Agyebeng should concentrate on working for the country’s benefit.
Mr Agyebeng recently disclosed receiving warnings from senior lawyers about a potential conspiracy by certain judges to undermine his office.
Allegedly, judges are planning to thwart anti-corruption efforts by dismissing many cases brought before them. Agyebeng voiced his apprehension about the dismissive attitude toward corruption cases in the courts.
In response, Wilson urged the Special Prosecutor to resign if he felt frustrated.
Speaking on Accra 100.5 FM’s evening news on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, Mr Wilson emphasized that Ghanaians expect tangible actions in the fight against corruption, not mere lamentations.
Mr Wilson’s critique aligns with Agyebeng’s expressed challenges in prosecuting corruption cases and the perceived lack of support from the judiciary.
Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta as has expressed confidence in the commissioning of La General Hospital by the close of 2024.
The reconstruction of the previously demolished La General Hospital is underway, with the government securing 50 million euros to facilitate its completion.
The decision to demolish the edifice has faced substantial public criticism, particularly from the Minority in Parliament.
Nevertheless, in the 2024 budget presentation to Parliament, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta revealed that contractors have commenced work on the reconstruction.
During a visit to the project site on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, the Finance Minister reassured the contractor of timely payments to support the project’s swift completion.
He emphasized the establishment of a standing committee, meeting regularly to ensure progress, with the aim of having the President commission the hospital next year.
Two additional fatalities have been linked to the ongoing Bawku conflict in the Upper East Region, following the earlier killing of a driver and his conductor (mate).
Subsequently, unidentified assailants set ablaze the victims’ bus.
The conflict involves the Kussasi and Mamprusi communities in the region.
The car owner, an Ashanti who remains neutral in the communal fight, expressed bewilderment at his vehicle’s involvement, questioning why it became a target.
“I was called in the morning at about 7am that they had shot my driver in Bawku. Later the one who called on told me that the mate was also included. He said that they were killed as a result of the Kussasi and the Mamprusi conflict.
“Two hours later, he called again to tell me that they had set the vehicle they use on fire,” he stated.
Despite not being part of the conflict, he emphasized that his business suffered, and his car was set on fire.
Concerns have been raised about the conflict’s impact on the region’s economy and residents’ lives.
“I am not part of the fight, I am neither a Kussasi nor a Mamprusi. I am an Ashanti who operates my business in those areas. So, I don’t understand why they should burn my car. Go ahead with your fight, why include me?
“All the security agencies are present in the area. I am very familiar with the Bawku township but I was told that it happened around the prison yard,” he added.
Prominent associations from the Upper East Region, including BONABOTO, the Bisa Development Association, the Buluk Bisa Club, and the United Kassena Nankana East Association, held a joint press conference in Accra. They called for urgent peace, addressing the chieftaincy conflict that has plagued the region for nearly three years.
The associations highlighted the distressing casualties and economic decline resulting from the conflict.
They appealed to stakeholders, including the Mamprugu Overlord, Nayiri, Mamprusi youth, and the Bawku Naba, to prioritize peace.
The Asantehene Committee was urged to expedite conflict resolution, and the media commission was called upon to prevent biased reporting.
Security agencies were urged to monitor social media, prevent weapon influx, and take decisive action against troublemakers.
The associations committed to being part of the solution, emphasizing the collective interest in silencing the guns and working toward a lasting and peaceful resolution.
