Ibrahim Adjei, an aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary seat in the Ledzokuku Constituency, has expressed his belief that he is the ideal candidate to lead the party in the constituency and regain the seat from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2024 parliamentary election.
Mr Adjei’s confidence stems from the positive feedback he has received during his campaign tour in the Constituency, indicating a desire for change.
Speaking to the media, Mr Adjei, who currently serves as the Assistant Secretary to the President stated that his diligent groundwork, when combined with the support of the party’s delegates, will secure a victory for the NPP and make history in the Constituency.
He said:“this is a pointer to the fact that the people in the constituency wanted to change the narrative regarding the ‘old stock.
“I have done a lot of underground work and that when given the nod by the delegates, I will win the seat for NPP and break the jinx for the party to make history.”
He acknowledged the existing challenges in the Constituency, including infrastructure, job creation, and tourism potential, and emphasized his suitability to address these issues.
Mr Adjei is a businessman with various enterprises in the Constituency, contributing to job opportunities for local youth.
One of his key priorities is to establish a university and a healthcare facility in the Constituency, aiming to enhance educational and healthcare services.
Additionally, he plans to support the local fishing industry by establishing retail outlets and providing solar panels to facilitate business expansion.
Mr Adjei called for a campaign focused on issues rather than resorting to insults or intimidation.
He urged all aspirants in the Constituency to maintain a respectful and issue-driven approach during their campaigns, emphasizing their common affiliation with the NPP.
“I will also establish retail outlets for fishermen and provide them with solar panels to enable them to expand their businesses.
“All the aspirants in the Constituency belong to the NPP stock and as such there is no need for them to quarrel and trade in insults and intimidation during their campaign,” Mr Adjei added.
The President of the Ghana Kidney Association (GKA), Professor Sampson Antwi, has emphasized the importance of embracing a healthy lifestyle among Ghanaians to safeguard their kidneys.
In an official statement released on October 3, 2023, Professor Antwi expressed worry regarding the challenges related to dialysis in Ghana.
He urged the populace to adhere to treatments addressing risk factors like hypertension and diabetes mellitus while cautioning against the excessive use of painkillers and herbs.
Professor Antwi informed that the GKA had taken proactive measures to collaborate with stakeholders, aiming to enhance the accessibility and affordability of dialysis for the general public.
He committed to updating the public on the outcomes of these collaborations.
Furthermore, he urged everyone to prioritize a healthy lifestyle for the protection of their kidneys.
Additionally, Professor Antwi encouraged individuals diagnosed with kidney disease to seek medical attention promptly to decelerate the progression of the ailment.
“Early reporting to hospital for all patients who have been diagnosed with kidney disease can slow down the disease progression.
The recent proposal by the renal unit of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital to double the cost of dialysis from GH¢380 to GH¢765.14 stirred debates regarding the expenses linked with treating kidney disease in Ghana.
However, due to public outcry and the lack of parliamentary approval, the management decided to retract the decision.
The former Chief Executive Officer of the now-defunct Capital Bank, William Ato Essien, has garnered widespread attention due to his recent imprisonment.
Ato Essien has been sentenced to a 15-year jail term for failing to fulfill his commitment to repay GH¢ 90 million owed to the bank.
In a ruling on October 12, 2023, Justice Eric Kyei Baffour’s court found that Ato Essien had not adhered to the agreed terms with the Attorney General regarding restitution to the state.
Following the news of his incarceration, an old video resurfaced on social media, featuring the former CEO fervently engaged in prayer and speaking in tongues during an interview on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana.
Despite having paid approximately GH¢ 30 million of the GH¢ 90 million owed by December 1, 2022, as mandated by the court, Ato Essien had not met the deadlines for the remaining GH¢ 60 million.
Specifically, he had paid only GH¢ 7 million of the anticipated GH¢ 40 million at the time of the judge’s pronouncement.
Background: In December 2022, William Ato Essien pleaded guilty to charges related to misappropriation of depositors’ funds and various counts of theft, abetment to theft, conspiracy to steal, and money laundering, among others.
He sought the court’s leniency, proposing that he be given an opportunity to explain himself if he failed to pay GH¢ 20 million to the state by April 28, 2023, instead of facing imprisonment.
The court accepted the terms of an agreement between Ato Essien’s lawyers and the prosecution, which stipulated a total restitution of GH¢ 90 million to the state. The court order required him to pay an initial GH¢ 30 million, which has been paid, and to refund the remaining GH¢ 60 million in three installments. The first installment was due by April 28, 2023, and the second by August 31, 2023.
Justice Baffuor warned that should he default on the payments or fall short of the required amount, Ato Essien would be arrested and brought to court for a custodial sentence.
In light of the current economic challenges, Ato Essien has submitted a court document emphasizing the need for an opportunity to explain any default before resorting to punitive measures, as reported by Myjoyonline.com.
Capital Bank was one of the early casualties of the Bank of Ghana’s extensive clean-up of financial institutions, beginning in 2017. On August 14, 2017, the Bank of Ghana revoked the licenses of Capital Bank and UT Bank, declaring them insolvent. To protect depositors’ funds and maintain their stability, the state-owned GCB Bank acquired both banks.
Accused of stealing GHS90 million, Ato Essien has been sentenced to a 15-year prison term, marking the first conviction related to the misappropriation of the GHS21 billion allocated from taxpayers to salvage the banks.
A political historian at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Professor Samuel Adu-Gyamfi, has called on residents of the Ashanti Region to demand more accountability from politicians to ensure their fair share of development.
Speaking to the media he expressed dismay that despite the region’s history of overwhelming support for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the party had taken its loyal voters for granted.
He found it concerning that, even after seven years in power, the Akufo-Addo government had failed to complete significant projects in its stronghold.
“I think Asante should begin to show the NPP the red card. Sometimes when we look at the region, some people think we are referring to those who are Asante, so Asante refers to the language and the people. But, when we look at Asante as a region, we are looking at Fante, Ewe, Dagomba- all other groups who are in Asante as a region,” he added.
This frustration arises as residents in the region grow increasingly discontented with the government’s unfulfilled promises and the abandonment of critical projects.
Notable among these abandoned projects are the Mother and Baby Unit at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), phases two and three of the Kumasi International Airport expansion project, phase two of the Kejetia-Central Market redevelopment project, and various sinohydro projects.
In addition to these, residents are demanding the completion of projects like the Afari Military Hospital, Sewua Hospital, Kumawu Hospital, KNUST Hospital, Fomena Hospital, and the Krofrom Market, among others, which have remained unfinished for years.
With the Akufo-Addo government’s second term coming to a close, residents worry that even the newly initiated projects, such as the Boankra Inland Port and Suame Interchange, may suffer a similar fate due to time constraints.
“They have been loyal and consistent in delivering the vote for the NPP, but they have not specifically tied that to development, and they have not made such demands openly and frankly to the NPP as a party. They must insist on this time around and make sure that when the NPP per adventure comes to power, and they refuse to deliver, they are penalized accordingly. If they do not begin to show them red cards and yellow cards, they are always giving them the green card to allow them to have the potential to come to power.
“Nana Akufo-Addo went into how many elections before he became president? Three times. The first time when all other regions were oscillating left and right, Asante was consistent. The second time, Asante was consistent. The third time, Asante has become like the faithful wife to the NPP, even if they are playing the buffoonery.
“This does not bring development because politics and governance must be tied to development. It is not just about forming political parties and winning power and coming to drink tea and then having big rallies. It is not about because we are Asante, or we are this and therefore, we must vote for the NPP. That’s absolutely nonsensical. The region needs development. It is lagging behind in many things roads, poor infrastructure and all that and the NPP must be blamed because they were supposed to have translated the votes of the NPP into development. They have taken the people for granted. They feel that rain or shine, they will queue and vote for them as a party,” he stated.
Furthermore, communities in the region continue to express dissatisfaction with the state of their road networks, including areas like the Manso enclave, Kwabre East, Bosomtwe Ahafo Ano South West, Ahafo Ano South East, Atwima Kwanwoma, and Ejisu.
Professor Adu-Gyamfi emphasized that changing their voting patterns could be a powerful way to make the NPP government take the region’s concerns seriously.
He encouraged residents to demand accountability and development in exchange for their loyalty, stressing that the region’s need for development transcends party lines.
He urged residents to break the pattern of unswerving support for the NPP and expressed disappointment with the lack of development in the region, despite its consistent electoral support.
He called on residents to hold the government accountable through protests, demonstrations, public discussions, and open speeches to ensure that their votes translate into real development for the region.
The Member of Parliament (MP) representing South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has raised concerns regarding the alleged sale of the land housing the Tema Children’s Library, originally constructed by Ghana’s inaugural President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
According to Dafeamekpor, the land has purportedly been sold to a private investor, a Chinese man.
On Thursday, October 12, 2023, the MP shared these allegations through a post on Twitter.
In the post, he further claimed that the Tema Development Company (TDC), under the management of Alice Ofori-Atta, facilitated the sale of the land where the park and library stand to a Chinese individual who plans to build a casino on the site.
In Dafeamekpor’s post, he emphasized the historical significance of the land, as it was originally designated for the Tema Children’s Library during Nkrumah’s development of Tema Township.
“This is the land containing Tema Children’s Library. This was allocated when Nkrumah built Tema Township.
“Today, TDC led by Alice Ofori Atta has decided to sell off the Children’s Library land in Tema to a Chinese man for purposes of building a casino. Yes, you heard me, a casino,” parts of the post reads.
The MP expressed concern about the ongoing construction activity, evidenced by a video shared in the post, showing trenches being dug for the erection of a wall.
A man featured in the video questioned the ongoing construction, indicating that the land had seemingly been sold to a private investor. The man’s comments highlighted the need to investigate the parties involved in the transaction.
In response to these claims, Ian Ocquaye, the Protocol and Administrative Officer of TDC, refuted the allegations made by the MP. Ocquaye contended that the statements lacked factual basis and evidence. He clarified that public lands are overseen by the District, Municipal, or Metropolitan Assemblies, in adherence to the Local Government Act. According to Ocquaye, the TDC can only sublease land to the Tema Metropolitan Assembly for specific usage upon a formal request.
He presented documentation illustrating that the land in question was allocated to the Tema Metropolitan Assembly in 2012, following a formal request for a development project.
The TDC relinquished control over the land after that date and was not involved in any subsequent transactions regarding it.
The records also revealed that the land had been released to WB IPEX Limited in 2012 for the construction of a recreational center.
This is the land containing Tema Children’s Library. This was allocated when Nkrumah built Tema Township. Today, TDC led by Alice Ofori Atta has decided to sell off the Children’s Library land in Tema to a Chinese man for purposes of building a Casino. Yes you heard me, a Casino pic.twitter.com/S025zkHRRj— Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, Esq. MP. (@etsedafeamekpor) October 12, 2023
Chairman of the Presidential Election Committee for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Prof. Aaron Mike Ocquaye, has mentioned the potential for the party leadership to seek the return of Alan Kyerematen.
Prof. Mike Ocquaye expressed regret over the NPP’s loss of such a valuable figure, describing Alan as a fine gentleman. He emphasized the importance of engaging Alan Kyerematen in order to harness his abilities, recognizing that politics relies on numbers.
During a sideline interview at the One Week Observation of the late Theresa Kufuor with the media, prof. Ocquaye stated,“he is a fine gentleman. I’m sorry that today, we don’t have him but like the Majority Leader said, we will need to engage him because politics is a game of numbers and he (Alan) is a man of excellence. The party will engage him in all possible ways because the Akans say ‘nsamanfo koraa pɛ wɔn dodoɔ na ateasefoɔ’ to wit; even ghosts love their numbers, how much more the living.”
He acknowledged that challenges lie ahead but affirmed the party’s determination to overcome them, stating, “there are always difficulties on the road. There are times that you have to bend the curve. There are times where you will reach a junction. There are times when you go through valleys. There are times you have to climb hills. We shall deal with all of them and we shall be well.
Background:
A prominent member of the NPP, Alan Kyerematen, resigned from the party on September 25, 2023, to run as an independent presidential candidate.
He cited the NPP’s transformation and stated that the party had been taken over by a select group of leaders, government appointees, power brokers, and unscrupulous party members.
As a result, he decided to contest the 2024 general elections as an independent presidential candidate.
A National Democratic Congress (NDC) Parliamentary Candidate Aspirant for the Odododiodio constituency, Emmanuel Nii Okai Laryea, has stated that he his confident that delegates will choose him over other candidates on October 31, 2023.
Speaking to the media, the former Member of Parliament for Amasaman, expressed his eagerness to serve as the parliamentary candidate and MP for the area.
After filing his nomination, Mr Laryea emphasized that his campaign revolves around three key themes: education, empowering the youth and women, and providing resources to the party at the constituency level.
“With regards to my message to the delegates my campaign was on three thematic areas which are education, empowerment of the youth and women and resourcing the party at the constituency level and I have already started the implementation of some these policies that I intend to introduce. I believe that the good works that I have already started will speak for me on the 31st of October during the primaries. I am very positive that the delegates will give me the nod”.
He has already begun implementing some of these policies and believes that his actions will resonate with delegates during the primaries.
In related news, Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye has decided not to contest in the upcoming elections.
Three aspiring candidates have officially submitted their nominations for the parliamentary slot, and the election is scheduled for October 31, 2023.
Nii Adjebu Lamptey, the Chairman of the NDC Elections Committee in the Odododiodio Constituency, has advised party sympathizers in the area to conduct their campaign activities with caution and responsibility.
Two fire officers have sustained injuries while battling a fire that engulfed a building housing the offices of the Ghana Railway Company Limited and the Railway Police Station in Kumasi on Wednesday, October 11.
During their efforts to contain the blaze, a piece of wood struck the officers when the roof of the affected building collapsed.
Subsequently, they were promptly transported to the Manhyia District Hospital and were discharged the following morning after receiving medical treatment.
The fire primarily affected the offices of the Railways Company located on the first floor, while the ground floor, used as a Police Station, remained unscathed.
Some unused offices were utilized for storage by local traders, and several items such as computers, stationery, and merchandise were damaged by the fire.
The Ashanti Regional Commander of the Ghana National Fire Service, ACFO Henry Giwah, stated that investigations are underway to determine the cause of the fire.
He also confirmed the discharge of the injured officers and refuted claims that the fire service response was delayed.
He stated, “they are currently responding to treatment, two of them were affected. The wood caved in, and the rafters fell on them. These are some things our men do at the peril of their lives. When you hear people say things as if we don’t care, it’s disheartening. So I will crave the indulgence of the public not to discourage them but rather encourage them to do more for Mother Ghana. They were taken to the Manhyia Hospital, but they have been discharged.
A distressing incident has occurred in the community of Jang, located in the Nadowli-Kaloe District of the Upper West Region.
At approximately 9:30 p.m. last Monday, a 42-year-oldlocal businessman,Raymond Suglo, and his wife experienced a horrifying ordeal when they were ambushed by a group of criminals.
The robbers arrived on a motorbike, brandishing a firearm and a menacing machete, setting the stage for a chilling ordeal.
The couple hurriedly sought refuge within their home, with the assailants in relentless pursuit.
As they reached their door, just before they could secure it, the robbers initiated a ferocious battle in their desperate attempt to gain entry.
Meanwhile, their children huddled in a bedroom, trembling with fear. In the midst of this struggle, a gunshot pierced through the door, gravely injuring Mr. Suglo.
Upon gaining entry, the assailants demanded the surrender of valuables, including the day’s earnings from Mr. Suglo’s shop.
During their frantic search, the robbers discovered a suspicious package tucked inside a handbag in the secure compartment of Mr. Suglo’s motorbike.
“This was before a fierce struggle between the man and the robbers during which they shot Mr Suglo in his right leg and left shoulder, and inflicted a machete wound on his head,” Graphic.com.gh reported.
Convinced that they had stumbled upon a significant prize, they seized the enigmatic package and hastily fled on their motorcycle.
The report noted that this transpired during an intense 45-minute scuffle, during which Mr. Suglo vigorously fought back, injuring one of the robbers in the process.
Despite being wounded and bloodied, Mr. Suglo displayed remarkable resilience as he mounted his motorbike, riddled with bullet holes from the confrontation, and attempted to race to the nearest medical facility in town. However, his strength waned, and he collapsed en route.
Fortunately, compassionate bystanders promptly came to his aid and rushed him to the Upper West Regional Hospital.
Meanwhile, the bewildered robbers seemingly realized belatedly that the handbag they had seized contained nothing more than a humble loaf of bread intended for the family’s breakfast the following day.
Overwhelmed by frustration and rage, they retraced their steps to Mr. Suglo’s residence, only to find him absent. In a horrifying act of vengeance, they shot and killed his pregnant wife, Mrs. Dorothy Suglo, before fleeing the scene.
A family member recounted that Mr. Suglo had only been informed of the robbers’ return to his home during his absence, unaware of his wife’s fate at that moment.
The Medical Director of Upper West Regional Hospital, Dr. Robert Amesia, provided an update on Mr. Suglo’s condition, indicating that he was stable and scheduled for surgery.
Law enforcement authorities have initiated an extensive manhunt for the robbers, urging the public to report individuals with visible facial wounds, potentially incurred during their encounter with Mr. Suglo.
The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, has cautioned politicians against resorting to lies and deception as a means to gain and maintain political power.
In his weekly thought-provoking video series titled “Arise for Ghana,” the General Secretary advised politicians to prioritize the interests of Ghana above their party affiliations.
While the message was primarily directed at the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) in light of their performance over the past seven years, Fifi Kwetey also reminded the NDC not to follow a similar path when they assume power.
Ending Deceptive Politics
Fifi Kwetey called on the youth to hold public officials accountable and urged political leaders to put an end to the practice of deceptive politics.
He stated, “the Politics of empty sloganeering, the politics of deliberately lying, knowing very well that what is being said is not true must come to an end”.
Instead, he advocated for “the politics of taking responsibility,” emphasizing that this approach is crucial for effective leadership in Ghana.
Fifi further stressed the NDC’s belief that remaining in power should not rely on falsehood, deception, hypocrisy, or misleading the public.
A Call to the Youth
He encouraged the youth to rise up and demand that both major political parties abandon the politics of falsehood while reiterating the NDC’s commitment to principled politics.
“Arise for Ghana,” a weekly video series that provides a platform for candid discussions with well-meaning Ghanaians, is available on Fifi Kwetey’s social media pages every Tuesday.
The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has levied fines on seven Petroleum Products Marketing Companies (PPMCs) for their involvement in the unlawful distribution of petroleum products.
They are obligated to pay fines due to their violations of Unified Petroleum Pricing Fund (UPPF) regulations, false representations related to UPPF made to the Authority, and their involvement in third-party supplies.
Failure by these affected companies to settle the fines will result in a three-month suspension of their operations.
Specifically, Andev Co. Ltd is facing a total fine of GHS90,000.00, which includes GHS10,000.00 for breaching UPPF regulations and GHS10,000.00 for each of eight (8) counts of making false UPPF representations to the Authority.
Beap Energy has been ordered to pay a total fine of GHS20,000.00, comprised of GHS10,000.00 for violating UPPF regulations and GHS5,000.00 for each of two (2) counts of third-party supplies.
For BF Petroleum, the company will pay a total fine of GHS95,000.00, which includes GHS10,000.00 for violating UPPF regulations, GHS5,000.00 for each of ten (10) counts of third-party supplies, and GHS5,000.00 for each of seven (7) counts of lifting petroleum products without cross-zonal authorization.
Anasset Co. Ltd is facing a total fine of GHS50,000.00, which includes GHS10,000.00 for violating UPPF regulations and GHS10,000.00 for each of four (4) counts of making false UPPF representations to the Authority.
Cost Energy, another company, has been directed to pay a total fine of GHS 665,000.00, which includes GHS10,000.00 for engaging in third-party supplies and GHS5,000.00 for each of one hundred and thirty-one (131) counts of third-party supplies.
Compass Oleum Ltd is subject to a total fine of GHS350,000.00, comprised of GHS10,000.00 for violating UPPF regulations, GHS5,000.00 for each of fifteen (15) counts of lifting petroleum products without cross-zonal authorization, and GHS5,000.00 for each of fifty-three (53) counts of engaging in third-party supplies.
Concord Oil Ltd has been fined a total of GHS65,000.00, which includes GHS10,000.00 for violating UPPF regulations, GHS5,000.00 for each of four (4) counts of engaging in third-party supplies, and GHS5,000.00 for each of seven (7) counts of lifting petroleum products without cross-zonal authorization.
The NPA has cautioned that any company failing to adhere to the approved rules and regulations stipulated by the Authority will be subject to additional sanctions.
The UPPF serves the purpose of ensuring uniform prices for petroleum products across the country.
The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has imposed penalties on seven Petroleum Products Marketing Companies (PPMCs) for engaging in the illicit distribution of petroleum products.
They are obligated to pay fines due to their violations of Unified Petroleum Pricing Fund (UPPF) regulations, false representations related to UPPF made to the Authority, and their involvement in third-party supplies.
Failure by these affected companies to settle the fines will result in a three-month suspension of their operations.Specifically, Andev Co. Ltd is facing a total fine of GHS90,000.00, which includes GHS10,000.00 for breaching UPPF regulations and GHS10,000.00 for each of eight (8) counts of making false UPPF representations to the Authority.
Beap Energy has been ordered to pay a total fine of GHS20,000.00, comprised of GHS10,000.00 for violating UPPF regulations and GHS5,000.00 for each of two (2) counts of third-party supplies.
For BF Petroleum, the company will pay a total fine of GHS95,000.00, which includes GHS10,000.00 for violating UPPF regulations, GHS5,000.00 for each of ten (10) counts of third-party supplies, and GHS5,000.00 for each of seven (7) counts of lifting petroleum products without cross-zonal authorization.
Anasset Co. Ltd is facing a total fine of GHS50,000.00, which includes GHS10,000.00 for violating UPPF regulations and GHS10,000.00 for each of four (4) counts of making false UPPF representations to the Authority.
Cost Energy, another company, has been directed to pay a total fine of GHS 665,000.00, which includes GHS10,000.00 for engaging in third-party supplies and GHS5,000.00 for each of one hundred and thirty-one (131) counts of third-party supplies.Compass Oleum Ltd is subject to a total fine of GHS350,000.00, comprised of GHS10,000.00 for violating UPPF regulations, GHS5,000.00 for each of fifteen (15) counts of lifting petroleum products without cross-zonal authorization, and GHS5,000.00 for each of fifty-three (53) counts of engaging in third-party supplies.Concord Oil Ltd has been fined a total of GHS65,000.00, which includes GHS10,000.00 for violating UPPF regulations, GHS5,000.00 for each of four (4) counts of engaging in third-party supplies, and GHS5,000.00 for each of seven (7) counts of lifting petroleum products without cross-zonal authorization.The NPA has cautioned that any company failing to adhere to the approved rules and regulations stipulated by the Authority will be subject to additional sanctions.The UPPF serves the purpose of ensuring uniform prices for petroleum products across the country.
Traders at Odawna Market in Accra have threatened a naked protest on November 18 if the government doesn’t fulfill promises to renovate the market and address their concerns.
In 2020, President Akufo-Addo visited the market following a fire outbreak that devastated hundreds of stalls. During his visit, he pledged that the government, through the National Board for Small Scale Industries (NBSSI), would swiftly provide assistance to over 3,000 affected individuals.
Veronica Boakye, Chairperson at the Odawna Pedestrian Shopping Mall, expressed dissatisfaction with the response from authorities and the unfavorable business conditions that led some traders to abandon the market.
“We pay a ticket of GH2.50 a day. So we are doing everything within our means to support the government. But because we don’t have a spokesperson we have been neglected. So we will speak for ourselves God willing next month. All of us will do a naked demonstration to show all Ghanaians that we are losing our property.”
“God willing, next month, 18th November will be our birthday which marks the day when our market got burnt. But it won’t be a birthday where we will wear white but we will protest naked to press home our demands,” she stated.
The lifeless body of an unidentified woman in her forties has been discovered in Koforidua Asokore, located behind the Odomankoma block factory in the New Juaben North Municipality of the Eastern Region.
Residents of the area made the grim discovery around 7 p.m. on Wednesday, October 11.
In response to a distress call, officers from the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) in the municipality swiftly arrived at the scene, accompanied by police personnel from the Effiduase district command.
The exact cause of death remains unknown as the police have initiated their investigative procedures. However, the residents of the area are growing increasingly concerned, as this marks the third such incident in less than a month. In the previous month, two women were tragically murdered by unidentified assailants.
Confirming the incident to Citi News, Kankam Twumasi Daniel, the New Juaben North Deputy Municipal Director of NADMO, disclosed that the deceased’s body has been taken to the St. Joseph Hospital morgue for a thorough autopsy.
He stated, “Around 7 pm yesterday, we received a call that the dead body of an unidentified lady in her forties has been found behind Odomankoma block factory at Asokore.
A team of NADMO officials and the Ghana Police Service was organized to convey the body from the place to St. Joseph’s mortuary. The case is under investigation by the Police.”
Police in Somanya have launched a manhunt for 8 suspected armed robbers who recently attacked the SP GAS Filling station in Trom, located in the Yilo Krobo Municipality.
During the attack, which occurred around 7:30 pm on Wednesday, October 11, the armed assailants assaulted the pump attendants at the station to extract information regarding the location of the daily sales and the safe.
The robbery operation lasted for approximately ten minutes, and the CCTV camera installed at the station was destroyed before the perpetrators fled the scene.
Although the police patrol team in the vicinity responded to the incident, they arrived after the robbers had already fled.
In the ongoing investigation, the police have requested the facility’s owner to assist with the case.
They are also appealing to the public to come forward with any information that could aid in the apprehension of the robbers.
Ghanaian rapper, Patrick Gogoh, widely recognized as Tsikago, has expressed that only a handful of artists possess enduring charisma and lyrical prowess.
After a protracted hiatus from his musical endeavors, Tsikago has recently made a comeback, engaging in an exclusive interview with the media.
Mr Tsikago shared his insights on the contemporary music scene and revealed his much-anticipated return to the spotlight with a brand-new single.
In the interview, Mr Tsikago didn’t mince words when expressing his concerns about the present state of the music industry.
He expressed his disappointment with the lack of lyrical depth and substance in the music created by some emerging artists.
While acknowledging the abundance of talent, he stressed that the focus on catchy beats and danceable tunes often overshadows meaningful storytelling and lyrical craftsmanship.
Mr Tsikago emphasized the importance of striking a balance between entertainment and substantive content in music. He encouraged up-and-coming artists to delve deeper into their artistry and explore themes that connect with listeners on a personal and emotional level.
Mr Tsikago’s journey in the music industry has been nothing short of remarkable. He rose to prominence in the early 2000s for his distinctive fusion of highlife and hiplife, coupled with thought-provoking lyrics delving into themes of love, culture, and societal matters.
His unique voice and lyrical prowess made him a household name in Ghana, earning him a dedicated fan base.
However, Mr Tsikago disclosed that he decided to step away from the limelight to focus on personal growth, family matters, and to observe the evolution of Ghana’s music scene.
In an exciting revelation, Tsikago announced his triumphant return to the music scene with a forthcoming single titled ‘Agba.’ The title itself, meaning “treasure” in the Ewe language, hints at a valuable and culturally rich musical experience.
Tsikago urged his loyal fan base and music enthusiasts to anticipate ‘Agba’ with great enthusiasm. He assured them that the song would not only showcase his artistic growth but also serve as a testament to the enduring power of meaningful lyrics and compelling melodies.
With this imminent release, Mr Tsikago aims to set a new benchmark for music in Ghana and inspire a new generation of artists to embrace lyrical content that can withstand the test of time.
As we eagerly await the December release of ‘Agba,’ it’s evident that Tsikago’s comeback will be a momentous occasion in the history of Ghana’s music industry.
Back in July, a significant controversy unfolded that left many Ghanaians in suspense.
Now, three months later, Ghanaian comedian OB Amponsah is raising a question that’s likely on everyone’s mind.
You may recall that Pastor and founder of Perez Chapel International, Bishop Charles Agyinasare, became embroiled in a dispute with the Nogokpo township in the Volta Region due to comments he made during a conference.
In a video recording, he was heard saying, “Nogokpo is the demonic headquarters of the Volta Region.”
This statement triggered a strong reaction from the town’s elders, who gave Archbishop Agyinasare a 14-day ultimatum to come to the town and issue a sincere apology, or face potential consequences.
However, this directive went unheeded.
OB Amponsah, currently on a tour in the United States, turned to his Facebook page on October 11 to inquire about the current status of this controversy.
He posted “I will ask regardless. You guys already know I’m not in Ghana at the moment. How far with the Nogokpo and Bishop Agyin issue?”
His post elicited laughter from many of his followers, with some suggesting he remain quiet, while others echoed his concern. The issue involving Nogokpo and Bishop Agyin remains unresolved, leaving some Ghanaians curious about what direction it might take in the near future.
The rising sensation in Ghana, Obaapa Gladys, widely recognized for her hit “Cobra,” has openly expressed her admiration for the Dancehall King, Shatta Wale, and has even expressed a desire to collaborate with him on a musical project.
In an exclusive interview with MX24 TV, Obaapa Gladys, who affectionately refers to herself as “Shatta Cobra,” commended Shatta Wale for his recent remarkable achievements at the Ghana Music Awards UK 2023, where he clinched all five awards he was nominated for.
She enthusiastically expressed her eagerness to meet with Shatta upon his return from the United Kingdom.
“He is the one in charge of my videos. God bless him, and I commend Shatta Wale for winning awards recently. I am so happy for him. When he arrives in the country, I and my supporters will meet him at the airport. I would love to do a collaboration with him. ” she said.
Additionally, her son, who goes by the name Junior Shatta Cobra, conveyed his gratitude to Shatta Wale for promoting the Cobra song on his social media platforms.
The track “Cobra” was produced by Fred Kyei Mensah and brought to life by Obaapa Gladys. Originally composed in 2022, the song was officially released in early 2023. However, it gained significant traction in October 2023, rapidly becoming a sensation on TikTok and beyond.
The song has received widespread attention both on and off social media, piquing the interest of notable figures such as Shatta Wale and Nana Ama McBrown within the celebrity sphere.
An iconic jacket once donned by the legendary pop sensation, Michael Jackson, is slated to hit the auction block in London this coming November.
The jacket, which gained fame through its appearance in a 1984 Pepsi advertisement, is part of a remarkable collection of over 200 pieces of music memorabilia set to be offered for sale.
This custom-made leather jacket, a striking black-and-white piece worn by Jackson in the Pepsi commercial, is expected to command a price range between £200,000 ($246,000) and £400,000 ($492,000). This particular jacket was featured in the initial installment of a series of advertisements starring the superstar for the popular soft drink.
The 1984 Pepsi commercial is particularly renowned because it was during the filming of this project that Jackson sustained burn injuries due to a pyrotechnic malfunction.
It’s noteworthy to mention, however, that he wore a different jacket in the actual commercial, as reported by the BBC.
The auction of Jackson’s iconic jacket will be overseen by Propstore, a prominent costume and prop vendor. This auction will also include the sale of George Michael’s “La Rocka” jacket, famously worn during a 1987 duet with Aretha Franklin.
Additionally, a beehive hairpiece, used by Amy Winehouse in her 2007 music video for “You Know I’m No Good,” which was featured on her final album “Back To Black,” will be available for purchase.
This forthcoming auction promises a wide array of music-related memorabilia, featuring celebrated figures like David Bowie, Elvis Presley, and The Beatles.
Noteworthy items up for auction include a Gibson guitar that was once owned by AC/DC’s Angus Young, with a potential value of up to £120,000. Moreover, a belt buckle that once belonged to John Lennon is estimated to be valued as high as £60,000.
Mark Hochman, the director of music and posters at Propstore, anticipates vigorous competition during the bidding process for these invaluable items.
He underlines that many of the exclusive lots being offered are making their debut in the public market, which is expected to generate substantial interest and competitiveness among potential buyers.
It’s worth mentioning that Michael Jackson’s memorabilia has consistently commanded high prices at auctions. For instance, a black fedora hat he wore just before debuting his iconic moonwalk dance in 1983 was recently sold in Paris for a staggering $82,280.
Gospel artist, Piesie Esther has stated that she regrets saying ‘God of NPP’ when she was performing one of her songs ‘way3 me yie’ at the 40th-anniversary celebration of the Tagoe Sisters event in the presence of President Akufo-Addo.
She acknowledged her mistake and clarified that she typically adapts the lyrics of her song to the name of a prominent person present during her performances.
Piesie Esther expressed remorse for her choice of words and the political term used.
She expressed regret after receiving criticism from the public for her close interaction with President Akufo-Addo and using the term ‘God of NPP.’
In an interview with the media, Piesie Esther explained that she customarily uses the name of a prominent person present when performing her song “Waye me yie” to make the lyrics more relatable to the audience.
“I don’t allow criticisms to disturb me because since my ‘Wáye me yie’ song was released, whenever I go to a program and I’m ministering, I approach any prominent personality around and minister the song to him because I want the person to understand the lyrics of the song that’s how I do it all the time.
“So if you follow me, you’d notice that in every program that I attend, I use the person’s name to sing like ‘God of Enoch,’ that’s what I do every day. But I have learned that I shouldn’t have done that [calling Akufo-Addo ‘God of NPP],” she said.
A video of Piesie Esther performing her popular song ‘Waye Me Yie’ to President Akufo-Addo at the 40th-anniversary celebration of the Tagoe Sisters event garnered interesting reactions from online netizens.
During the event, Piesie Esther approached President Akufo-Addo’s seat and ministered to him, receiving cheers and applause from the audience.
She remained in close proximity to the president, who listened attentively to her performance, with Piesie Esther dedicating parts of the song’s lyrics to him.
As part of her performance, Piesie Esther sang, “While I was embarrassed by enemies, I resorted to prayer and cried out to God to save me,” and humorously replaced the original line, “The God of Jacob lifted me,” with “The God of NPP lifted me.”
This modification elicited laughter from President Akufo-Addo and various reactions from the event’s attendees, including the Tagoe Sisters, who were the hosts.
The Convener of the Federation of Concerned Arts Professionals (FOCAP), Kojo Preko Dankwa, has highlighted the success of Obaapa Gladys’ “Cobra” song as a valuable lesson for both media personalities and struggling artists.
Speaking to the media he emphasized the importance of supporting emerging talent and artists who are facing challenges in the industry. He encouraged them to be patient, work diligently, and believe that their efforts will eventually gain recognition.
Kojo Preko Dankwa admitted that he initially had reservations about the “Cobra” song but decided to focus on its content rather than the singer’s talent. He recalled giving Obaapa Gladys her first media interview when the song was produced by renowned record producer Fred Kyei Mensah, Fredyma.
He mentioned that during the interview, he asked Obaapa Gladys about the concept of likening humans to cobras. He noted that her response was not very impressive, as it was her first radio interview, but he expressed his pride in her success.
Kojo Preko Dankwa likened the rapid success of “Cobra” to Bless’s “Chocho Mucho” and emphasized that it serves as a valuable lesson for all. He encouraged artists to work diligently and avoid rushing, as someone is always watching, and the right circumstances will lead to the desired outcome.
He also pointed out the unusual nature of Obaapa Gladys’ success, as she had no promotional budget for her song yet enjoyed significant publicity on both traditional and social media platforms.
In conclusion, Kojo Preko Dankwa expressed his happiness and joy for being a part of Obaapa Gladys’ journey and stressed the beauty of the “Cobra” song lies in its message.
He added that if he had declined to interview her, he would have felt guilty, acknowledging the song’s impressive message despite Obaapa’s initial inexperience.
Deputy Minority Leader, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has honored five music legends in Ghana for their exceptional contributions to the music industry and the nation’s development.
The awards, known as the “Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah Excellence Award,” were aimed at expressing gratitude to these musical legends and inspiring young and emerging musicians to work diligently in promoting high-life music globally.
The distinguished musicians recognized with this award include Gyedu Blay Ambolley, Safohene Gyeni, Ackah Blay, Dr. F Kenya, and Jewel Ackah.
During a significant gathering on Saturday, September 25, 2023, as part of the “Journey to Nkroful Agenda” to commemorate the birthday of Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Deputy Minority Leader Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah expressed the importance of celebrating individuals in society, especially while they are alive.
He stated that such recognition serves as a motivating factor for others to contribute significantly to the nation’s development.
Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Ellembelle Constituency, emphasized that honoring individuals for their positive contributions can act as a deterrent to encourage others to serve their country diligently.
The awardees received citations and undisclosed monetary rewards in acknowledgment of their long-standing services to Ghana and the African continent.
The award ceremony featured live performances by various musicians, including Guru, Nero X, Eno Baroni, D Cryme, Ayesem, and Righteous, among others.
Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah himself showcased his musical talent, entertaining the hundreds of attendees at the event.
Gospel artist, Patience Nyarko has stated that Gospel musicians are indeed paid less than their secular counterparts.
She attributed this disparity to Gospel music veterans who, in the past, often declined payment when performing at church events, as they deemed themselves well-off due to revenue from CD sales and other sources.
She humorously recalled that a box of CDs, a meat pie, and a fizzy drink were considered sufficient compensation back then, as Gospel music was not primarily centered around monetary gains.
She explained: “When they started, there were CD sales, and a lot of things that brought them money, so whenever they were invited to perform by a church leader, they would decline payment saying they are okay.”
“This was because selling even one box of CDs for them and adding meat pie and a fizzy drink was okay for them, the work back then did not have money at its centre like today,” Patience said.
“That precedence did us a disservice, the practice of not paying Gospel musicians started from the church “and gradually came outside, and was picked up by event organisers,” she added.
This practice of not demanding payment continued, and she acknowledged that it has been a disadvantage.
She noted that the tradition of not paying Gospel musicians began within the church and gradually extended to event organizers.
Patience Nyarko recognized that the music industry has evolved, becoming more costly, and acknowledged that there has been some improvement in Gospel artists’ fees.
In conclusion, she urged those who engage Gospel musicians to compensate them at the same level as artists like Shatta Wale, as they share similar studio and production costs.
Patience Nyarko shared these insights during her guest appearance on CTV’s Class Showbiz on Thursday, October 5, 2023.
In several viral videos circulating online, Wizkid appeared somber as he took part in his mother’s candlelight procession.
The participants in the procession harmoniously sang worship songs while donning matching black shirts featuring images of the singer’s late mother.
In a deeply emotional moment, the singer united with close family members and a circle of friends, all attired in black attire.
Wizkid, who remained quietly seated throughout the event, was accompanied by his elder sister, the astute Project Management Consultant, Busayo Balogun.
This poignant event unfolded in Lagos State and included a procession through Shitta Small London in Surulere, a community closely tied to WizKid’s origins and upbringing.
Wizkid lost his mother during the early hours of Friday, August 18, 2023.
Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo Prampram, Sam Nartey George, has expressed optimism that the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values 2021 being considered by Parliament will be enacted into law before Christmas this year.
He made this known during an interaction with the media.
“When this law passes hopefully before Christmas this year, when it’s passed it then means that your editorial policy will need to take into cognizance the content of movies or videos that you air to ensure that it does not infringe on the law,” he added.
The bill, also known as the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill, has been under review in Parliament for approximately two years, sparking debates and discussions both within Ghana and on the international stage.
The bill seeks to criminalize activities related to homosexuality and impose penalties on offenders.
However, the MP has emphasized that once the law is enacted, editorial policies will need to be revised to ensure compliance, and any content contrary to the law, particularly in videos and movies, will not be tolerated.
He has also voiced his frustrations about pressure to adopt certain lifestyles that are inconsistent with Ghana’s culture and traditions.
He emphasized that Ghana should uphold its cultural and traditional values, and passing the anti-gay law is essential to maintain these values.
“They have our cultures we have our customs, our customs are not pro LGBTQ, you are coming to our country to come and do business or whatever here and you that I should leave the God given highway and go and enter the gutter. “
Earlier this year, Sam George responded to a claim made by the US Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Virginia Palmer, regarding the potential loss of investor confidence if the anti-gay bill is passed into law.
“Ghana is a very welcoming, tolerant society, with lots of interreligious harmony, lots of ethnic harmony that makes Ghana strong and stable, and attractive for investments.
“I hope it stays that way with regard to the LGBTQI Community. There is money to be made, and the color of your money is green or red but if there is discrimination or worse then that will send a signal to not just LGBTQ investors but other American companies that Ghana is less welcoming than I am telling people that it is now,” US Ambassador Virginia Palmer said in an interview on Thursday, August 10,” she added.
The MP reiterated that Ghana remains open and welcoming to American investors, highlighting the nation’s stable and viable democracy.
In a Twitter post, he emphasized Ghana’s readiness to embrace investors who value principles of integrity and respect for the cultural values of the Ghanaian society.
“Dear Virginia Palmer, US Ambassador to Ghana, I have seen videos of your comments at the US-Ghana Business Summit. “You have expressed fears that investors from the US would not find Ghana attractive if we as Ghanaians uphold our values and reject the depravity of LGBTQI. I find that really surprising,” he stated.
The Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values 2021 was introduced to Parliament in July 2021 and underwent its first reading on August 3 of the same year.
The bill was presented by a group of eight members, including Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, Rev John Ntim Forjour, Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini, and Rita Naa Odoley Sowah.
Other members who introduced the bill include Helen Adjoa Ntoso and Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor.
While some segments of society support the bill due to its alignment with Ghana’s cultural and religious values, it has faced criticism from human rights activists who argue that it infringes upon the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals.
The Member of Parliament (MP) representing Akim Swedru in the Eastern Region, Kennedy Osei Nyarko, has claimed that within the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), the National Democratic Congress (NDC) perceives vice-president, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as a significant threat among all the potential flagbearers.
He explained that Dr. Bawumia is the only candidate who can lead the NPP to break the “eight-year cycle.”
“Among all the five, who is the most attacked candidate? When NDC [set] their eyes on you, consistently attacking you, then you are the one that they fear the most” Mr. Osei Nyarko said.
He also emphasized the role played by Dr. Bawumia in the NPP’s “phenomenal” performance in the Northern region.
“This is someone who has given so much for the country; I’m not saying the others haven’t given, but when you look at the individual contribution, Bawumia has done well. Look at the days of the Supreme Court, he tried his best, in my opinion,” Mr. Osei Nyarko added.
He also underscored Dr. Bawumia’s instrumental role in the NPP’s remarkable performance in the Northern region.
The party’s presidential primary is scheduled for November 4, 2023.
Over 200,000 party delegates are expected to participate in the highly anticipated elections.
Vying for the flagbearership position are Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, former Agriculture Minister Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and former Mampong MP Addai Nimo.
Mother of the government’s Spokesperson on Governance and Security, Palgrave Frimpong Boakye-Danquah, is scheduled to be laid to rest on Friday, October 13.
Madam Gladys Awura Adwoa Warewaa Twum-Barima passed away on Friday, August 18, after a brief illness.
In line with the funeral arrangements, a laying in state ceremony will be held on Friday at Transition Funeral Home in Haatso, Accra.
A memorial service and the final funeral rites will also take place on the same day at the same venue.
However, her interment will be a private event in Kyebi, her hometown.
A thanksgiving service is planned at the Presbyterian Church of Ghana – Joy Congregation at Ashongman on Sunday, October 15.
Madam Gladys Awura Adwoa Warewaa Twum-Barima was 78 years old.
She is survived by four children, including Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, the aspirant for the Abuakwa North New Patriotic Party Parliamentary Candidate.
Employees at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) are insisting on the immediate removal of their Director-General, Professor Amin Alhassan, citing his alleged ineffective management of the organization.
They have displayed red banners both within and around the GBC premises to emphasize their demands.
As per the employees, the Director-General’s four-year contract reached its conclusion on October 1, and they believe any further extension would be detrimental to the Corporation.
Samuel Nathaniel Kevor, the Divisional Union Chairman of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation Workers Union, expressed to Citi News that GBC’s condition has deteriorated under the leadership of Mr. Alhassan.
“Our Director-General’s contract officially ended on the 1st of October, 2023. Consequently, employees have collectively agreed that we granted him a peaceful four-year tenure, but we are dissatisfied.
“The organization is in decline, and the availability of essential resources has become a significant challenge. We have come to the realization that we must make the appointing authority understand that extending the contract will result in the organization’s collapse.”
The Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) has voiced its dissatisfaction regarding the prolonged delay in distributing food supplies to Senior High Schools nationwide.
CHASS is calling for Senior High Schools to have the option to procure their own food supplies for their students.
Addressing the 61st National Annual Conference, Reverend Steven Owusu Sekyere, the President of CHASS, emphasized the need for CHASS to have a say in the selection of food supplies for schools.
He pointed out that allowing schools to independently purchase their food supplies would help resolve the logistical and operational issues that frequently disrupt food distribution to various SHSs across the country.
“We are urging management to ensure a timely release of the entire funding for schools to make our work less stressful, and monies allocated for all activities must be increased significantly to meet the current market price of goods and services. This will help to provide our students with the required resources for their educational needs,” he said.
“CHASS also passionately wishes to reiterate our plea to management to allow the various schools to procure the food items to feed the students. This has been our unblemished request for years, and it is due to the way some suppliers sometimes disappoint us in supplying some food items on time. We are of the firm belief that procuring the food items by ourselves will reduce the logistical and operational challenges that come with it,” he added.
Chief Executive Officer of National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, has expressed his reservations and directed a question towards the organizers of the #occupyjulorbihouse movement.
During a press interaction, he deliberated on the potential for adopting a more appropriate appellation for their campaign.
Dr. Boye argued that the process of naming should be undertaken with due diligence, given the profound significance of names and their associated connotations.
In his perspective, Dr. Boye highlighted the inherent significance of names, underscoring their implicit meanings and symbolism.
He pointed out the importance of exercising caution in selecting a name like ‘julorbi,’ as it translates to “thief” in the Ga language.
He contended that such a choice could inadvertently convey a negative message to both the Ga tribe and the broader community.
Furthermore, Dr. Boye underscored the significance of upholding Ghana’s rich customs and traditions.
He stressed the need for individuals to be mindful of their actions and their potential impacts on societal progress and well-being.
“People have the right to protest, but if the title of your protest is ‘julorbi’,it’s my language, you know the meaning of ‘julorbi’ in Ga? It means thief. Please we are a country of customs and norms, you are the one preaching advancement of society. You mean you couldn’t have had a different name occupyjulorbihouse,” he added.
The organizers of the #OccupyJulorBi House protest, known as The Democracy Hub, initiated the first protest from September 21 to September 23, 2023.
They have recently declared their plan to launch a second edition of the protest, scheduled to occur from December 1 to December 31, 2023, at Jubilee House.
The organization has expressed serious concerns about the current state of the nation under President Akufo-Addo’s leadership.
The Democracy Hub asserts that the President’s management of the country has been characterized by incompetence, a lack of integrity, the routine abuse of power, and greed.
They are particularly troubled by the persistent high levels of youth unemployment, economic mismanagement that has endangered the prospects of young people and pushed millions of Ghanaians into poverty.
They are also alarmed by declining press freedom, extrajudicial killings, and the slow progress in democratic reforms.
South Dayi representative in Parliament, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has indicated that the Minority do not expect support from the Majority side of the House regarding their effort to extend an invitation to Dr. Ernest Addison, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), to Parliament.
Mr Dafeamekpor emphasized that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) lawmakers failed to support some of their own colleagues who called for the removal of the Finance Minister. Therefore, he does not expect the NPP to support the Minority’s efforts.
“We in the NDC don’t expect it after all, the NPP MPs couldn’t support their own calls for removal of Ken Ofori Atta, how can they support us?” Dafeamekpor tweeted.
The Majority Leader had earlier informed the Minority that they should not count on support from the Majority if they decide to file a motion to invite Governor Addison to Parliament.
According to Mr. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the Minority has already formed a negative opinion about the Governor through their street protests, and therefore, they should not anticipate backing from the Majority side of the House in summoning Dr. Addison to Parliament.
He argued that instead of staging street protests, the opposition Members of Parliament could have chosen to invite the Governor to address questions concerning the new headquarters building and the GHS60.8 billion loss incurred by the Bank, in a more civil manner.
“We are Members of Parliament, we could have invited the Governor to come and talk about the issues that are not clear to us. You go on a demonstration and organize a press conference against the man then you come back to Parliament to move the motion [to invite him], do you want me to support that?
“Now, you have made up your mind that whatever has been done by [the Governor] is inappropriate, you are not going to countenance it, so if he comes to explain the issues, are you going to take it or jettison it?” the Suame Lawmaker told TV3’s Evelyn Tengmaa in an interview on Monday, October 9.
The Minority had called for the resignation of Dr. Addison as well as his two deputies – Dr. Maxwell Opoku-Afari and Elsie Addo Awadzi – due to alleged mismanagement. After an ultimatum demanding their resignation expired, the caucus took to the streets to march to the central bank’s headquarters to make their demand more forceful.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Members of Parliament expressed their discontent with the allocation of over $200 million for the construction of a modern headquarters in Accra while the Bank had reported financial losses. They also accused the Bank of violating the Bank of Ghana Act by writing off government debt amounting to GH¢48.4 million and printing excess cash for government expenses.
Ningo Prampram lawmaker, Samuel Nartey George, asserted that the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament had invited Dr. Addison several times to answer questions related to the Bank’s operations, but he appeared only three times in the last seven years.
In response to this claim, Mr. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu stated that the accusations made by the Minority were unfounded and inappropriate.
Regarding the protest, Dr. Addison conveyed that it was “completely unnecessary” and maintained that neither he nor his two deputies had any intention of resigning.
He emphasized that the Minority in Parliament had other means to address their concerns in a civilized manner, rather than through street demonstrations.
Additionally, he clarified that the decision to build the new headquarters was made in 2019 when the Bank was profitable, and it was not a response to a crisis.
Ghanaian media personality, Kwami Sefa Kayi, has expressed his concern about the growing complacency among the leadership of both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) regarding the behavior of the youth associated with their respective parties.
In his conversation with the media, Mr Kayi highlighted that the lack of discipline and accountability towards certain Ghanaian youth has allowed them to act without restraint.
“Concerning the issue of the youth, two youths from NDC and the NPP, one goes by the name Ernest Kofi Owusu Bempah is NPP, one is also Amos Blessing Amorse is NDC and excuse me to say they are fooling. Owusu Bempah is spearheading a group, #fixingthecountrymovement which aims to picket at former president Mahama’s office,” he added.
His remarks were prompted by recent actions taken by two youths affiliated with the NDC and the NPP.
Ernest Kofi Owusu Bempah, who is associated with the NPP, announced the establishment of an advocacy group and their plan to conduct a nationwide campaign across all 16 regions of Ghana.
The central objective of this campaign is to spotlight and promote the significant achievements of President Akufo-Addo’s administration.
In response to this, Amos Blessing Amorse, a regional youth organizer within the NDC, issued a letter where he warned that if Owusu Bempah’s group resorts to violence, they should be prepared to cover the expenses for their coffins and graves before picketing at the residence of the former president, John Dramani Mahama.
Mr Amorse added, “in the event Owusu Bempah and his group remain nonchalant and attempt anything close to what they have announced, they should pay for their coffins and graves before they come.”
Mr Kayi expressed deep disappointment that these statements and warnings from both groups have been circulating for approximately a week, yet there has been no condemnation or response from the authorities.
He questioned whether authorities were waiting for a harmful incident to occur before addressing these issues.
Mr Kayi further stressed the urgency of rectifying the situation, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration for the betterment of the country.
“It’s been over a week and I haven’t heard any NPP leader or NDC’s leader speak against this and we have kept quiet and watching. I am sure if we dont speak against this and something bad comes out of this we will end up blaming each other. How can a regional youth organizer make such threats in a letter asking protestors to bring their coffins along,” he added.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have jointly launched simultaneous investigations into the activities of former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, and her associates.
In a statement posted by the OSP on Twitter, it revealed that the investigations primarily focus on scrutinizing their assets and financial transactions within the United States of America.
It added that the collaborative effort aims to determine the legality of the wealth held by Ms. Dapaah and her associates, both concerning the movement of funds from Ghana to the United States and vice versa.
“These investigations primarily focus on examining their assets and financial transactions within the United States of America,” the OSP added.
Ms. Dapaah came under public scrutiny in July when it was revealed that two of her domestic workers were facing charges of alleged theft, involving significant sums of money and valuable items.
As a result, she resigned from her position on July 22, 2023, following public pressure.
Meanwhile, the former Sanitation Minister has taken legal action by filing an interlocutory injunction application against the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) in an attempt to halt the investigation and prosecution of her and her husband, Daniel Osei Kufuor, on charges of suspected corruption and corruption-related offenses.
he is also seeking to unfreeze her bank accounts and challenge the reseizure of monies found at her residence in Abelemkpe, which were refrozen.
Her legal team is requesting a court order that prohibits the OSP from continuing the investigation into her and her husband for corruption-related offenses.
“A Declaration that the Respondent’s re-seizure of the money (initially seized from the Applicant’s home on 24/07/23) and re-freezing of Applicant’s bank accounts respectively on 5th September 2023 is unfair, unreasonable, capricious, arbitrary, and ultra vires the Respondent’s statutory powers under Act 959 relative to the constitutional provisions of Articles 23 and 296 of the Constitution, 1992.”
Court documents filed by the OSP have indicated that Ms. Dapaah used aliases to obscure transactions linked to undeclared real estate business and other activities, which led to the reseizure and refreezing of her bank account.
However, Ms. Dapaah has refuted these claims, characterizing them as misleading.
Ghanaian journalist, Kwesi Pratt has directed a thought-provoking question to the Chief Executive Officer of the InterCity State Transport Corporation, Nana Akomea, sparking discussions regarding interpersonal relationships and attitudes towards infidelity.
During a media interaction, Mr. Pratt asserted that it is inappropriate for a man to resort to violence when he discovers that his wife is involved in infidelity.
He contended that just as a woman should not resort to violence if she discovers her partner’s infidelity, a man should also refrain from such behavior when faced with a similar situation.
Mr. Pratt pointed out that such behavior contributes to the negative perception of men as being harsh and cruel.
He emphasized, “Would you resort to violence if your wife cheats on you? You have no right to resort to violence if your wife is unfaithful. Some men have contributed to the negative stereotype of men as cruel by their actions. Since a wife cannot resort to violence if her husband is unfaithful, a man should similarly refrain from violence when his wife cheats.”
In response, Nana Akomea stated that no one is advocating for violence in the event of a spouse’s infidelity.
Instead, he suggested that if a person finds themselves in such a situation, the appropriate action is to separate from the unfaithful partner.
He expressed, “We are not suggesting that you should resort to violence if you discover that your wife is cheating. The proper course of action in such circumstances is to end the relationship.”
Chairman of a 7-member ad hoc committee, Mr. Samuel Atta-Akyea, tasked with investigating a leaked tape containing discussions of a plot to oust the Inspector General of Police (IGP), George Akuffo Dampare, has expressed his regret in taking on the role of chairing the committee.
This follows serious allegations made by the lawyer of IGP George Akuffo-Dampare, Mr. Kwame Gyan, accusing Atta-Akyea of making prejudicial comments that could compromise the integrity of the investigation.
Mr Gyan further alleged that Atta-Akyea was acting as if he were the sole commissioner overseeing the investigation, revealing matters that were supposed to be kept confidential during in-camera hearings and fabricating baseless stories during media interviews.
He also claimed that Atta-Akyea had an agenda against the IGP.
In response to these allegations, Atta-Akyea expressed his frustration during an interview with Kasapa 102.5FM/Agoo TV on Wednesday.
“I wish I did not chair this committee; I’m being honest. Because I don’t understand the baseless accusations against me by the lawyer for the IGP when people are rather commending me for steering the affairs of the committee well. What is the problem of the IGP’s lawyer? Your client is not at the centre of the probe; if the lawyer has not abreast himself of why the committee was set up, he should do so. Where is the IGP in this matter? Why is the lawyer saying that I’m trying to make the IGP the accused person? Clearly, I nor the committee have not done that.
“By my training, I can never manufacture lies against the IGP. It will not bring me any profit. What is Atta Akyea’s interest in the disgrace of the IGP?” the MP for Abuakwa South quizzed.
He stated that he wished he had not taken on the role of chairing the committee, as he found the accusations baseless and unwarranted.
“He will be granting media interviews to the extent that after one sitting, he went out there and said the extended tape, which was submitted by Bugri Naabu and had not been played at the committee, has been doctored. Very prejudicial comments,” he said.
Atta-Akyea emphasized that he had no personal issues with the IGP and questioned the motives behind the allegations against him.
He defended his actions, asserting that he was committed to conducting a fair and impartial investigation and that he had not sought to make the IGP an accused person in the process.
Atta-Akyea called for a proper understanding of the committee’s objectives and the role of the IGP in the matter. He also stressed his commitment to honesty and integrity in handling the investigation.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has announced its collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and various stakeholders to introduce electric and autonomous vehicles in Ghana.
According to the Authority, this will help enhance the country’s transportation infrastructure.
This revelation came during the inaugural International Driver and Vehicle Licensing Innovation Conference held in Accra, where transportation experts explored creative approaches to enhance the transport system.
Prince Opoku Edusei, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, explained that the authority is implementing new innovations to advance the transportation sector in the country.
“We aim to bring together experts in the transport space to deliberate on the future of transport,” he said. “We all know several transformations have emerged globally as far as transport is concerned.
“We now have vehicles that drive themselves, vehicles that can even fly. Too many technologies are being introduced as far as transportation is concerned.”
The one-week memorial for Theresa Kufuor, former President John Agyekum Kufuor’s wife, is taking place today, October 11 in Peduase, Eastern Region.
The commemoration commenced in the morning, at the private residence of the former President, with esteemed guests in attendance, including President Akufo-Addo, government ministers, Independent Candidate Alan Kyerematen, as well as family and friends.
The final funeral rites for the former First Lady will be conducted at the state house’s forecourt on November 16, 2023.
Subsequent funeral ceremonies will continue in Kumasi on November 18, culminating in her interment on November 19, 2023.
Theresa Aba Kufuor, who passed away on October 1, 2023, had been a dedicated companion to former President Kufuor for the entirety of their 61-year marriage.
She hailed from a well-known family in Odumase, Bono Region, and had a career as a retired nurse and midwife. Born on October 25, 1935, Theresa Aba Kufuor reached the age of 87 at the time of her passing.
Most of her working life was spent in the United Kingdom, following her studies at the Radcliffe Infirmary in Oxford and Paddington General Hospital in London.
She achieved qualifications as a state-certified midwife with a focus on premature nursing. She was the youngest child in her family.
Samuel Atta Akyea, the Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee tasked with investigating a leaked tape allegedly plotting the removal of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has rejected accusations of bias against the IGP.
The lawyer representing the IGP, Kwame Gyan, accused Atta Akyea of unfair treatment toward his client.
However, the Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South has countered these allegations, asserting that he has overseen the committee’s proceedings without prejudice.
“The word doctored is what did not sit well with him, but I said is deduced from how it started. Was I not together with my committee members who afforded the IGP the best opportunity to speak to the press?
“The same chairman who afforded the IGP together with my committee members the opportunity to speak to the press is being biased. It’s a baseless allegation and the rest of the committee members thought that the lawyer who said it would be bold to say it again, and they will respond, but he didn’t”.
Mr Atta Akyea also clarified why the committee decided not to allow members of the Police Service Management Board to attend Tuesday’s in-camera hearing.
According to him, it would be unfair to have non-witnesses present during an in-camera session, and the committee believed that admitting senior officers who were not going to speak would be unjustified.
President Akufo-Addo has affirmed his administration’s commitment to raise the National Service Scheme (NSS) to the status of an Authority.
He made this announcement at the 50th-anniversary celebration of the NSS, held at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra.
During his speech, President Akufo-Addo revealed that a draft policy document is currently in development and will soon be presented to Parliament.
This document will guide the scheme’s implementation and is a significant step forward as it marks the first time such a policy document will be presented in the NSS’s history.
Additionally, a draft Bill will be presented to Parliament for consideration, aiming to transition the NSS into an Authority.
This transformation will provide a legal framework for the employment of e-models, with a model called “deployment for employment” as part of the transition.
The President acknowledged the various youth programs established by his government under the NSS to harness the potential of young graduates and address their specific employment needs.
He emphasized the scheme’s role in creating a positive impact and contributing to the nation’s development.
President Akufo-Addo also highlighted the financial restructuring of the NSS and praised its leadership for their significant contributions over the years.
He disclosed that the scheme would create 81,000 jobs in the agricultural and allied sectors through the economic enclave program over the next four years.
This initiative will involve deploying 65,000 graduate youths to agricultural enclaves, developing 20,000 hectares of land for production, producing 110,000 metric tons of food, and generating revenue of approximately $92 million by the end of the year.
The Deputy Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Hajia Rabi Salifu, has suggested that the National Democratic Congress may have masterminded the invasion of the UTV studio by individuals associated with the NPP.
In an interview with the media, Hajia Rabi Salifu discussed the possibility of the NDC orchestrating the incident, stating, “this possibility is very great because you can never underestimate the NDC, it could be our own opposition trying to get faces to stage this, you might never know, this is a possibility I will explore. Given how desperate they are (NDC), they’re not far from doing that.”
While condemning the actions of the invaders, she also raised concerns about potential bias in the moderation of TV and radio shows, suggesting that biased moderation and topic selection could have contributed to such incidents.
“These young people taking that approach was wrong; however, we should also see what would have triggered that. Just maybe, somebody who is opposing the current leadership of the party trying to make the leadership of the party unpopular could try to stage people and do this,” she said.
Hajia Rabi Salifu emphasized that she was not justifying the actions of the invaders and expressed the party’s readiness to support the police in their investigation of the incident.
“These young people taking that approach was wrong however we should also see what would have triggered that”. Just maybe, somebody who is opposing the current leadership of the party trying to make the leadership of the party unpopular could try to stage people and do this”
“I am not justifying what they did, that is not to say I am so sure about who would have sent them because the police is investigating it and we are ready as a party to support the police service to do the investigations” she added.
A communication member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Twum Barimah, has expressed his support for political activist and social commentator A Plus for his actions at the studios of UTV.
Speaking as a panel member on UTV’s morning show, Twum Barimah stated that although he is not a fan of A Plus, he believes A Plus did the right thing by tearing up a letter written by the NPP to UTV regarding its United Showbiz program.
He emphasized that the NDC has never thought of raiding or invading the premises of other TV and radio programs in the country that seem to favor the ruling NPP, despite their content.
“I am not a fan of A Plus but I give it to him. He has done very well. He did well for shredding the letter and this is why. Number one, the content stated that the program was serving the interest of the NDC. You read it. The programme is serving the NDC? Then we should have stopped Oman FM’s Boiling Point a long time ago. Seriously. How can you be angry about a UTV show because you feel it is serving the interest of the opposition party? We should have closed down Oman FM a long time. The content of the show has changed; does NPP give content?” he quizzed.
The chaos at UTV’s studios occurred on Saturday, October 7, 2023, when alleged thugs, believed to be affiliated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP), disrupted a live broadcast of the United Showbiz show.
This incident followed A Plus’s decision to tear up a letter addressed to UTV’s management by the NPP, which demanded reforms to the United Showbiz program. A Plus had criticized the letter’s content and the propriety of its issuance during a previous broadcast.
In our community, stroke is an event that can affect anyone, reshaping lives in an instant.
However, a stroke does not have to be the end of the road; it can be a beginning—a beginning of recovery, renewal, and rediscovery of life’s possibilities.
In this article, we’ll explore the importance of rehabilitation after stroke, shedding light on the journey to recovery and the hope it brings to survivors and their families.
A stroke, often referred to as a “brain attack,” occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, either by a clot (ischemic stroke) or a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke).
The consequences can be life-altering, affecting mobility, speech, and cognitive functions. Recovery from a stroke is a complex and often challenging process, but it is a journey that can be guided by post-stroke rehabilitation.
This comprehensive and personalized program is designed to address the unique needs and challenges faced by stroke survivors.
Post-stroke rehabilitation is a collaborative effort that involves a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including: physiatrists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists or counselors. Starting rehabilitation as early as possible is critical for achieving the best outcomes.
Research has shown that stroke survivors who begin rehabilitation within the first few days or weeks after their stroke tend to experience better recovery. Family and caregivers play a significant role in the rehabilitation process.
Their support, encouragement, and involvement in therapy sessions can enhance a stroke survivor’s progress.If you or a loved one has experienced a stroke, don’t underestimate the importance of rehabilitation.
Work closely with your healthcare team and therapists to develop a personalized plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.
Remember, stroke recovery is a journey that takes time and determination, but with the right support and rehabilitation, it’s a journey filled with possibilities for renewed health and well-being.
Physiotherapy and traditional rehabilitation are two important components of stroke recovery, often used in combination to help stroke survivors regain function and improve their quality of life.
In our part of the world the education on the choosing of a proper rehabilitation program has not be well done, and so the choice of physiotherapy ,modern medicine, and traditional rehabilitation has not been explained very well to the general public, with people taking decisions based on recommnedations of friends and neighbours.
Physiotherapy (Physical Therapy) primarily focuses on improving physical function and mobility. It targets specific impairments and limitations related to movement, strength, balance, and coordination.
Traditional Rehabilitation in our part of the world has been focused on mainly usage of herbs and concoctions and sometimes superstition to help revive stroke patients, although these methods themselves may not necessary be harmful, little is known about their effectivesness.
Another issue that arises is the lack of scientific data and regulation of these practices . the lack of training of these practioners who normally ‘inherited’ or were ‘gifted ‘their craft, sometimes put the lives of their patients in harm, as most patients finally return to modern medicine for cure afterwards.
Physiotherapy is a subset of stroke rehabilitation, focusing specifically on physical aspects of recovery. Traditional rehabilitation, on the other hand, encompasses a wider range of therapies, which may come with their challenges.
The choice between the two depends on the individual needs and goals of the stroke survivor, and often, a combination of both approaches is used to provide comprehensive care and support for stroke recovery. A healthcare team in consultation with the patient and their family should develop the specific treatment plan
Stroke recovery is a journey that takes time, determination, and support, and it’s a journey filled with possibilities. Post-stroke rehabilitation is the bridge that connects survivors to renewed hope and a path toward recovery.
If you or a loved one has experienced a stroke, remember that you are not alone.
Reach out to your healthcare team and therapists to develop a personalized rehabilitation plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. Together, we can turn the page to a new chapter of life—a chapter filled with recovery, resilience, and the promise of renewed well-being.
Cerebral palsy is a neurological condition that affects thousands of children and adults worldwide, and it presents unique challenges to both patients and healthcare professionals.
As a neurosurgeon with experience in treating individuals with cerebral palsy, I want to shed light on this complex condition, explore its origins, and discuss the role of neurosurgery in its management.
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of non-progressive neurological disorders that impact a person’s ability to move and maintain posture. It is caused by damage to the developing brain during pregnancy, childbirth, or early childhood. CP varies in severity, and affected individuals can experience a wide range of motor and cognitive challenges.
Cerebral palsy presents a host of challenges, not only for those diagnosed but also for their families and caregivers.
The condition can manifest in various ways, including spasticity (muscle stiffness), dyskinesia (involuntary movements), and ataxia (lack of muscle coordination).
These motor impairments can significantly affect a person’s daily life, mobility, and independence. Neurosurgery is one facet of the multidisciplinary approach to managing cerebral palsy.
While it does not cure the condition, neurosurgical interventions can be beneficial in specific cases, particularly when addressing issues related to muscle spasticity and mobility.
Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) is a surgical procedure that involves selectively cutting the sensory nerve roots in the spinal cord to reduce muscle spasticity.
It can improve mobility and reduce pain in some individuals with CP. Neurosurgeons can implant baclofen pumps that deliver medication directly into the spinal fluid to manage muscle stiffness and spasticity.
In cases where severe muscle contractures or skeletal deformities occur due to cerebral palsy, orthopedic surgeries can help correct these issues and improve functional mobility.
Effective management of cerebral palsy typically requires a comprehensive, team-based approach. Pediatricians, neurologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and other specialists work together to create individualized treatment plans.
Early intervention and ongoing therapies are crucial to maximizing a person’s potential for independent living. The goal is to enhance mobility, improve communication, and provide a better quality of life for individuals with CP.
While cerebral palsy presents unique challenges, there are reasons for optimism. Advances in medical research, including stem cell therapy and neuroplasticity-based interventions, offer hope for improved treatments and outcomes in the future.
Furthermore, advocacy groups, support networks, and community organizations play a vital role in raising awareness about cerebral palsy, supporting affected individuals and their families, and advocating for accessible healthcare and education.
While cerebral palsy poses significant challenges, it is essential to focus on the potential for progress and the resilience of those living with the condition.
With ongoing research, continued support, and a compassionate community, we can work towards a brighter future where individuals with cerebral palsy can lead fulfilling lives and achieve their fullest potential.
Cerebral palsy manifests in diverse ways, with varying degrees of motor dysfunction and associated challenges. Some individuals may have mild motor impairments and lead relatively independent lives, while others may require extensive care and support for daily activities.
Here are some of the challenges commonly faced by individuals with CP: The hallmark of CP is motor dysfunction, which can include muscle spasticity (stiffness), dyskinesia (involuntary movements), or ataxia (lack of coordination).
These impairments can affect mobility and functional independence. Some individuals with CP may have difficulties with speech and communication due to muscle control issues.
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices and therapies can help address these challenges.
CP can be associated with other medical conditions, including seizures, intellectual disabilities, and sensory impairments, which further complicate the clinical picture.
Neurologists and neurosurgeons play a critical role in diagnosing and managing cerebral palsy. Our expertise includes assessing the neurological basis of the condition, differentiating it from other disorders, and recommending appropriate interventions.
Here are some key aspects of neurology’s role: Neurologists often collaborate with other healthcare professionals to diagnose CP through clinical evaluations, medical history, and imaging studies like MRIs.
Medications may be prescribed to manage muscle spasticity, alleviate pain, and address associated conditions, such as seizures. Neurologists work closely with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists to develop personalized rehabilitation plans to improve mobility, independence, and communication.
Regular follow-up appointments with a neurologist help track a patient’s progress, adjust treatments as needed, and provide ongoing guidance and support.
While cerebral palsy presents significant challenges, there is reason for optimism. Advances in medical research, rehabilitation techniques, assistive technology, and supportive communities are transforming the landscape of CP care.
In conclusion cerebral palsy is a complex condition that requires a multifaceted approach to care. As a neurosurgeon, I am committed to working alongside a dedicated team of healthcare professionals to provide the best possible care for individuals with CP. Innovations such as robotic exoskeletons, brain-computer interfaces, and stem cell therapies are showing promise in enhancing mobility and improving the quality of life for individuals with CP.
Early intervention, individualized treatment plans, and an inclusive and supportive environment are crucial in maximizing the potential of those affected by the condition.
A notorious thief in Bogoso has met his untimely death after an unsuccessful robbery attempt in the nearby community of Akoko Bedi Aburo.
The lifeless body of the thief, identified as Romeo, was discovered by residents of Akoko Bedi Aburo on the morning of October 9, 2023.
Romeo had been bound to an electricity pole in the area by unknown assailants, his wrists secured with a rope. His body bore evidence of severe beatings, and it was clear that he had succumbed to his injuries.
Peter Afful, a resident of the community, recounted the discovery, saying, “It was my sister who went to see it and called me to also come and witness. In fact, I don’t know how it happened, but I believe he went to steal and luck eluded him which has led to his death.”
Romeo was known in the Bogoso community for previous incidents where he had been stripped naked and tied to an electric pole in Chapel Square after being caught stealing.
He was spared further harm with the intervention of some community leaders who pleaded on his behalf. However, his luck ran out on that fateful Monday morning when no one came to his rescue.
Residents expressed little surprise at Romeo’s lynching, citing his history of theft and criminal activities.
They also voiced concerns about the increasing number of theft cases in the community, which had left them living in fear whenever they went to bed.
They called on security agencies to enhance police presence in Bogoso to ensure greater safety and security.
President Akufo-Addo has declared a state funeral in honor of the late former First Lady, Theresa Kufuor.
During a meeting with the family of the late former First Lady, President Akufo-Addo announced that the state funeral will take place on November 16, 2023.
President Akufo-Addo emphasized that Theresa Kufour deserves the utmost respect of the state, hence the decision to hold a state funeral in her honor.
Theresa Kufuor, born on October 25, 1935, was the wife of John Agyekum Kufuor, the second President of the Fourth Republic of Ghana, and served as the former First Lady of Ghana.
She had a background in nursing and midwifery.
Mrs. Kufuor’s education began at the Catholic Convent, OLA, in Keta, Volta Region, Ghana. She later pursued nursing training in London at the Southern Hospital Group of Nursing, Edinburgh, Scotland.
She furthered her studies at the Radcliffe Infirmary in Oxford and Paddington General Hospital in London, earning qualifications as a State Certified Midwife with a Certificate in Premature Nursing.
Theresa and John Kufuor met in 1961 at a Republic Day Anniversary Dance in London and married in 1962 when he was 23 years old. They had five children and eight grandchildren. She was a devoted Roman Catholic.
Despite her role as the First Lady of Ghana for eight years from 2001 to 2009, she maintained a relatively low profile in the political arena. However, in 2007, she advocated for policy changes in the Government’s white paper on Educational Reforms to support the implementation of UNESCO’s Free Compulsory Universal Basic Education (FCUBE) program for kindergarten children.
Theresa Kufuor also established the Mother and Child Community Development Foundation (MCCDF), a non-governmental organization operating in Ghana and Canada, focused on preventing mother-to-child transmission and supporting various community development initiatives.
Ghanaian musician and media personality, Blakk Rasta, has criticized the host of “Kokrokoo” on Peace FM, Kwame Sefa Kayi, for not condemning the invasion of United Television (UTV) by individuals affiliated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Blakk Rasta accused Kwame Sefa Kayi of accepting an appointment from President Akufo-Addo, which he believes has silenced him from speaking out against issues in the country, including the UTV invasion.
Blakk Rasta suggested that if he were in Kwame Sefa Kayi’s position, he would have resigned from his appointment as a board member of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) to distance himself from the Akufo-Addo-led government.
He expressed disappointment that Kwame Sefa Kayi, as a member of the NPP, had not openly condemned the attack on UTV, suggesting that his government appointment had compromised his ability to speak out.
Blakk Rasta made these remarks during an interview with the media, where he expressed his views on the incident at UTV.
The incident involved individuals associated with the NPP who stormed the UTV studios and disrupted a live broadcast of the United Showbiz program, which featured panel member A-Plus.
The individuals were reported to have entered the studio with hostile intentions and demanded an explanation from A Plus for tearing a paper related to the NPP. The disruption led to the temporary suspension of the live broadcast.
The final funeral rites of the late National Democratic Congress (NDC) stalwart, Dr. Hanny-Sherry Naa Sackley Ayittey, are scheduled for Friday, November 10, 2023.
The ceremony will be held at the forecourt of the State House, followed by a private burial.
Additionally, a thanksgiving service will be conducted on Sunday, November 12, at 9 a.m. at the Royal House Chapel in Accra.
Prior to these events, a night of tributes, hymns, and song ministration in her honor will be held at the NDC headquarters in Accra on November 3, 2023, at 7 p.m.
Dr. Hanny-Sherry Ayittey, a former Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, passed away on Saturday, July 22, at the age of 75. Hanny Sherry Ayittey (8 February 1948 – 22 July 2023) was a Ghanaian biochemist, politician, and women’s activist.
She held various ministerial positions in Ghana, including Minister for Health from February 2013 to June 2014 and Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology from 2009 to 2012.
She graduated from Labone Secondary School in Accra, earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and a Master of Science in industrial microbiology from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), and was involved in non-governmental organizations in Ghana.
She had a notable career in various management boards and international conferences, including representing Ghana in climate change and biodiversity conventions.
The Asante Youth Association has issued a one-month ultimatum to the government, demanding the immediate resumption of work on numerous abandoned projects within the Ashanti Region.
They have warned of a large-scale protest if the government does not comply with their request.
Furthermore, the association is urging the government to prioritize development in the region, expressing their dissatisfaction with what they perceive as neglect by the Akufo-Addo-led administration, despite the Ashanti Region being a stronghold of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Some of the cited abandoned projects include phases two and three of the Kumasi International Airport, phase two of the Kejetia-Central Market redevelopment project, and the Mother and Baby Unit at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).
Road projects in various areas such as the Manso enclave, Kwabre East, Bosomtwe, and others are also mentioned.
Nana Oppong Boadi, the Vice President of the Asante Youth Association, expressed disappointment with the Akufo-Addo government, alleging that the President has not treated Ashanti Region residents fairly.
He warned that if the government does not take prompt action to address their concerns, a protest would be their last resort.
“All Kumasi projects are at a standstill, the Central Market project is abandoned, Komfo Anokye Maternity Block, Airport Project, we don’t know what is going on again. Bosomtwe road we don’t know what is going on again. Manso Nkwanta, Anhiawa Nkwanta, Kwabre roads, no work is going on. They have not started any major work in Suame.”
“From today till November, if these projects are still abandoned, and the contractors of those who are supposed to work are not on the site, we will go there ourselves and see if they are not there, we are going to protest. We will organize all the youth in Asante kingdom to fight. It is uncalled for. The way Asantes rallied behind President Akufo-Addo, we never expected him to do this, he has not been fair to Asantes and NPP people in the region,” he added.
The group also expressed disappointment with Ashanti Region residents in ministerial positions and the numerous Members of Parliament from the region, accusing them of not doing enough to advocate for development.
They threatened to campaign against these MPs in the upcoming general elections if they fail to take measures to ensure the region receives its fair share of development.
A political historian at KNUST, Prof. Samuel Adu-Gyamfi, suggested that the region’s electorate should take strong measures to demand development from the NPP-led government, including resorting to protests, to make their concerns heard and taken seriously.
The Asante Youth Association, in existence for the past 70 years, has been actively advocating for development in the Ashanti Region.
A Nigerian actor and director, Charles Inojie, has expressed concern about the presence of what he refers to as an “army of Jezebel daughters” within the movie industry.
Mr Inojie indicated that these individuals aim to entice directors and producers into offering them movie roles in exchange for sexual favors.
He shared these thoughts during the recent episode of ‘The Honest Bunch Podcast,’ where he was co-hosted by Chinedu Ani Emmanuel, also known as Nedu.
He emphasized that the issue of exchanging sex for roles in Nollywood is not limited to filmmakers alone; some actresses also actively engage in this practice to secure movie roles.
He said: “There are some actresses who can do anything just to be in front of the camera. And when you meet a character who is not properly formed as the director or producer, he will fall. So, there are actresses like that. The issue of sex-for-role is not just one-way. It is a two-way thing.
“There is also an army of Jezebel daughters looking for directors and producers to fall … So, the level of desperation among some of these girls is also an issue.
He further discussed the level of desperation among some individuals in the industry, referring to them as “an army of Jezebel daughters” seeking to influence directors and producers.
He emphasized that the vulnerability of certain filmmakers makes them susceptible to falling into such traps, especially those set by individuals with unstable backgrounds.
“That’s why they are quick to fall into the booby traps set by a lot of producers and directors with characters that are not properly formed; people who came from very shaky backgrounds,” he added.
Over 900 individuals of the 2023 batch have received approval from the Independent Examination Committee of the General Legal Council.
This group includes 499 students who had been initially denied admission to the Ghana School of Law two years ago but were subsequently admitted following a series of protests and appeals.
Following the release of the results, Odupong Agyapong Atta-Agyapong, the immediate past SRC president of the Ghana School of Law, who spoke to the media highlighted the significance of this year’s call to the bar ceremony.
“It’s exciting how students are reacting on their WhatsApp pages and statuses,” he said. “For the first time, we are going to have over 900 students called to the Ghana bar. It’s quite historic given the turn of events in the past.”
Atta-Agyapong encouraged students who did not make it onto the list to maintain their determination and strive to be called in the mini-call scheduled for March next year.
“It’s not the end of the road,” he emphasized. “We have a mini-call, and it’s expected that next year these students will be offered the opportunity to sit for the supplementary exams, and when they are successful, they will be called.”
Atta-Agyapong encouraged students who did not find their names on the list to persevere and aim for inclusion in the upcoming mini-call scheduled for March next year.
“It’s not the end of the road,” he said. “We have a mini-call, and it’s expected that next year these students will be offered the opportunity to sit for the supplementary exams, and when they are successful, they will be called.”
For the past two months, inhabitants of Tamale and its adjacent communities have been experiencing irregular power outages, the most prolonged instances of which took place during the initial week of September.
Concerned residents are worried that these persistent outages might herald a return of the “dumsor” era, characterized by sporadic power cuts and electricity load shedding.
They are calling on authorities to provide explanations for these outages and implement lasting solutions to the problem, which consistently plunges the city into darkness.
Martey Rafael, a storekeeper at ‘Enso Nyame Y3’ Cold Store, shared the severe impact these power outages have had on businesses. He recounted instances of having to discard meat and fish due to spoilage caused by the power interruptions.
Rafael urgently appealed to the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) to address the erratic power supply situation, emphasizing the dire consequences it inflicts on local businesses.
“Our business is suffering greatly from these outages, and NEDCo needs to act fast,” he asserted.
“Just last week, we had to dispose of some of our products to prevent this place from emitting foul odours that could drive customers away.”
Meanwhile, NEDCo has refuted claims that the country is on the verge of experiencing a peak in electricity shortages due to the recent power outages in northern Ghana.
Maxwell Kotoka, the Corporate Communications Manager at NEDCo, explained that the recent disruptions in power supply were caused by various factors that their technical team is actively managing.
He noted that challenges often arise during the rainy season, as a single storm can damage their power infrastructure, resulting in significant outages.
Kotoka also linked the recent outages to the aging machinery that NEDCo has been using since its inception. However, he assured the public that management is diligently working to replace these machines to improve service.
Kotoka expressed optimism that the ongoing month-long Phase III of the revenue mobilization drive by the electricity company would yield the necessary resources to equip NEDCo adequately.
He underscored the importance of customer payments for power, as it serves as a vital source of income to enhance NEDCo’s ability to effectively serve the community.
