The Cyber Security Authority has disclosed that Ghana incurred a substantial loss of GHS 49.5 million during the initial nine months of the year, primarily attributed to cyber fraud activities. This revelation underscores the critical imperative to redouble efforts in the fight against cybercrime and fortify measures to protect the nation’s digital environment.
The Cyber Security Authority is diligently pursuing the implementation of a set of regulatory measures geared toward strengthening the cybersecurity landscape within the nation.
As it underscores notable advancements in crafting a holistic cybersecurity framework, the Authority underscores its unwavering dedication to fortifying online endeavors and safeguarding the digital assets of both individuals and enterprises.
These statements were articulated by Dr. Albert Antwi-Bosiako, the Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority, during the commencement of the National Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2023.
This year’s celebration centers around the theme “Promoting a Culture of Digital Safety.”
The GHS 49.5 million loss serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of cyber fraud and the imperative of fostering a culture of digital safety.
Dr. Albert Antwi-Bosiako said the cyber frauds reported to the Authority are in the forms of “cyberbullying, online loan apps, shopping frauds, romance fraud, settling impersonation among others”.
It is essential for individuals and organizations alike to remain vigilant, adopt best cybersecurity practices, and collaborate with authorities to combat cyber threats effectively.
Renowned gospel artist,Piesie Esther, in a recent interview with Accra 100.5 FM has acknowledged the presence of a significant dearth of love and camaraderie within the Ghanaian gospel music industry. Despite her initial optimism and expectations, she has come to realize that mutual affection and support among industry participants are conspicuously scarce.
Having claimed the prestigious title of Artiste of the Year at the Ghana Music Awards Europe (GMAE) 2023, Piesie Esther’s remarks underscore the contrast between her prior perceptions and the stark reality she now perceives. She concedes that, contrary to what she may have once believed, individuals engaged in this particular realm of the music industry seldom extend gestures of genuine affection or solidarity to their fellow colleagues.
Nonetheless, she also suggests that such competitive dynamics and a relative lack of camaraderie are not unique to the gospel music sector but are common features in most business ventures, where individual ambitions and rivalries often prevail over collective support and goodwill.
“At first, I used to think there was love in the industry, but now that I am inside, I have come to realise that there is no love. But what I have discovered is, that’s the way it is in any business with a lot of people,” she expressed.
She attributed it to the rivalry and competition among individuals. Adding that, most industry players smile and laugh with each other but are bitter rivals deep down.
Taking herself as an example, Piesie Esther stated that she had had to be jovial with certain people in public even though she felt no love for them.
“There are times where you see a fellow gospel colleague and just want to pass by the person because you feel nothing for that person. But you just have to greet and smile with that person,” she said.
Piesie Esther however, admitted that many gospel artistes are hardworking, but there is little to no love to be found among them.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has strongly advised the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to consider broadening its existing benefits package to encompass a wider range of critical illnesses, with a particular emphasis on kidney diseases.
The primary objective behind this suggestion is to effectively mitigate the financial burden associated with dialysis procedures.
Dr. Francis Chisaka Kasolo, serving as the WHO Country Director, emphasized that the recent public outcry concerning the substantial rise in dialysis fees at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital could be effectively addressed by extending the NHIS coverage to include the expenses incurred by patients undergoing dialysis treatment.
This expansion of coverage would serve as a significant step towards ensuring that individuals grappling with kidney diseases and requiring dialysis are not unduly burdened with exorbitant medical costs.
Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of an event in Accra, Dr. Kasolo said that a second look at the operations of the NHIS was needed.
“If our health insurance is strong, it can mitigate the cost of renal treatment services if it is included in the benefits package. This would have mitigated the out-of-pocket expenditures that we are beginning to see increase, and if that works, then we would have solved part of the problem of increasing out-of-pocket expenditure that we see with the dialysis cost.”
The Wa Circuit Court has handed down a substantial prison sentence of 71 years to a 35-year-old man named Ahmed Rashid. This sentence came as a result of his conviction on ten counts of defilement, marking a grave violation of the law.
Initially, Ahmed Rashid had vehemently denied the charges leveled against him, entering a plea of not guilty in the court proceedings. However, presiding over the case was His Honor Jonathan Avogo, who, upon careful consideration and examination of the evidence, rendered the verdict.
The conviction stemmed from Rashid’s unlawful sexual acts involving seven minors, all girls, which ran contrary to Section 101 of the Criminal Offenses Act, Act 29.
The prosecution, led by Principal State Attorney Saeed Abdul-Shakuur, had initially presented twelve counts of defilement against the accused. Subsequently, they restructured the case, separating it into five distinct dockets, which encompassed a total of fifteen defilement charges and five attempted cases of defilement.
What is particularly distressing about this case is that twelve victims initially came forward to report the horrifying incidents perpetrated by Ahmed Rashid, which had continued for an extended period. Moreover, as the legal proceedings unfolded, an additional four victims were confirmed to have experienced multiple instances of sexual penetration at the hands of the accused.
During the course of the trial, Dr. Alhassan Mohammed Mubarak, a medical officer at the Wa Municipal Hospital, took the stand in court on August 23. In a solemn and emotional testimony, Dr. Mubarak verified the physical evidence of the assaults, further solidifying the case against the defendant. It was established that all the victims had suffered the loss of their hymens, underscoring the severity of the offenses committed by Ahmed Rashid.
The government has received a two-month ultimatum from the Coalition of Ashaiman Residents to initiate road rehabilitation in the area. This demand comes in the wake of their protest, which drew attention to the dire condition of Ashaiman’s roads.
Freeman Tsekpo, the assemblyman for the Nii Komieteh Electoral Area, submitted a petition on behalf of the residents to Ashaiman’s Chief Executive Officer, Albert Boakye Okyere. He also revealed that if rehabilitation efforts do not commence within the next two months, residents plan to stage a protest at the Ministry of Roads and Highways.
“We ask as a matter of urgency for the government to instruct all contractors that have been awarded road contracts in Ashaiman Municipality to come to the site and work on fixing our roads. We demand that the following major sections of the roads be fixed immediately,” Tsekpo said.
The roads in question include the Ashaiman Municipal Assembly Traffic Light to Presby section of the Ashaiman Agyei Kwadwo main road, the main market to Lebanon section of the Ashaiman overhead to Zenu road and the Ashaiman Newtown junction to Afariwa junction road and community 22 to Lebanon inner roads.
“If within two calendar months, we do not see any action of works within the community we will organise another march. This time we will march to the ministry and picket at the Ministry of Roads and Highways. It is our prayer that this call will be given the needed attention,” he stated.
In the meantime, it is noteworthy that Ernest Norgbey, who serves as the Member of Parliament (MP) representing Ashaiman, has voiced his apprehensions regarding what he perceives as a deliberate choice by the government to withhold from the residents of Ashaiman the opportunity to have access to well-maintained and high-quality road infrastructure.
“I have said it in so many media outlets, we have fought to draw the government’s attention to the bad nature of our roads but unfortunately the central government refuse to heed to our plight. And that is why today’s demonstration is very important for the people of Ashaiman,” Norgbey said.
“We are saying enough is enough all of us use the same road. Our cars and everything is getting damaged. So we are pleading on behalf of the people of Ashaiman that the government should do the needful and bring the contractors back to the site so that the people of Ashaiman will have some relief,” he stated.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has announced that the Minority Caucus will convene today to decide on the future date for their Occupy BoG protest.
On Tuesday, October 3, thousands of demonstrators took to the streets, demanding the resignation of the Governor of the Bank of Ghana and his two deputies, citing mismanagement of the Central Bank as their primary grievance.
During the protest, the organizers declined to submit their petition to the Bank’s Director of Security, who had been designated to receive it on behalf of the Governor.
In an interview with Citi News, Mr. Ablakwa reaffirmed the Minority’s position that they would only deliver the petition directly to the Governor or his two deputies.
“In countries like Nigeria, there are Governors who are being prosecuted. He should check what is happening to his colleagues, so governors should not think that they have some immunity. It happened elsewhere, some governors are in jail for far less. I mean, you treat our laws with such contempt, trample over them, disregard Parliament, and you continue to do that by refusing to receive a petition.”
“He will keep running away from the people. When you keep running away from the people you serve, it is clear that you have lost legitimacy. How long is he going to be running away from his own office?”
The Minister of State at the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Osei Bonsu Amoah, has suggested that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has the means to prevent, John Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen from running as an independent candidate in the 2024 presidential election.
According to him, Mr Kyerematen’s decision to contest as an independent candidate violates the party’s constitution and could lead to legal action.
“This is not a subject matter we should waste time to discuss. How can a lawyer put up such an argument on national television? I signed the document when I was in the party. If I leave the party how do you chase me to live by that document? It is hard to comprehend,” he said.
In response, Alan Kyerematen, the leader of the Movement for Change, expressed his readiness to face the NPP in court.
He argued that expecting him to adhere to a document he signed while he was a party member is unreasonable, as he has since resigned from the party.
Mr Kyerematen left the NPP, claiming that the party had been taken over by a select few and had strayed from its democratic principles.
The prompt action of police officers prevented the family members of the 35-year-old businesswoman allegedly killed by her house help in Sokoban, Kumasi, from physically attacking the prime suspect and accomplice.
The enraged family members, clearly upset, attempted to assault the suspects physically after their court appearance as they were being escorted out of the premises. Some family members even threw stones at the police vehicle carrying the suspects, chasing the vehicle in an attempt to attack them.
The 22-year-old prime suspect, Allister John, confessed to the alleged murder during his initial appearance before the Asokore Mampong District Court on Monday, September 18, 2023.
Another suspect believed to be an accomplice is also in custody.
The court proceedings revealed that the gruesome act involved a conspiracy among five individuals, including the two current suspects. Three additional suspects – Collins, Biggie, and Christian Obu – are currently at large, with the police actively pursuing their apprehension.
During their second appearance before the Asokore Mampong district court on Tuesday, October 3rd, the prosecution presented an autopsy report indicating that the victim’s death was unnatural, suggesting that she had been killed by someone else.
The prosecution requested the court to remand the suspects for the second time to allow for further investigations, a request granted by the court. The suspects are scheduled to reappear before the court on October 17, 2023.
A police officer stationed in Ashaiman is receiving treatment at the Ashaiman Hospital after protestors pelted stones at him.
Reports indicate that what initially began as a peaceful protest quickly escalated into violence when some demonstrators resorted to pelting stones at law enforcement officers.
In connection with the assault, one of the protesters has been apprehended by the police.
The demonstration was organized by the Concerned Citizens of Ashaiman to address the deteriorating road conditions in their densely populated town, which is situated in the region.
Notably, among the demonstrators was the Member of Parliament for Ashaiman, Ernest Henry Norgbey, who criticized the government, for ignoring their appeals for road repairs.
The Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana has revealed that fish farmers operating along the Volta Lake have incurred losses amounting to ₵46 million due to the release of water from the Akosombo Dam.
Recently, the Volta River Authority (VRA) opened the dam gates to prevent damage to the hydropower plant caused by rising water levels. This move, however, has had dire consequences for fish farmers in the region.
The Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana expressed deep concern about the devastating impact of the recent spillage on its members. The release of water has led to significant destruction of assets and investments for cage farmers operating along the Volta Lake.
In a statement, the Chamber reported that more than 500 cages have been destroyed, resulting in the loss of valuable fish stock, brood stocks, and fingerlings. Additionally, some hatcheries located near the Volta River have been submerged.
“Over 500 cages have been destroyed. Cage farmers are losing their livestock fish stock, brood stocks, and fingerlings. Some hatcheries situated close to the Volta River bank have been submerged,” the Chamber said in a statement.
The Chamber estimates that its members and other cage farmers operating on the Volta River have collectively lost approximately ₵46 million in investments due to the spillage from the Akosombo Dam.
They emphasized that the current damage to fish farming assets in the Ada estuary is irreparable.
The Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana called upon the government and relevant stakeholders to provide assistance to the affected fish farmers in the wake of this spillage.
“The Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana is also calling on the government, the sector ministry, stakeholders, and other supporting agencies to come to the aid of fish farmers affected by the recent spillage. We would therefore encourage fish farmers to subscribe to aquaculture insurance, which could have absorbed some of the losses they have incurred,” it read.
They also encouraged fish farmers to consider subscribing to aquaculture insurance as a way to mitigate some of the financial losses they’ve experienced.
Furthermore, the Chamber advised the Volta River Authority to adopt prudent measures to minimize damage to cage farms on the Volta Lake.
“The Chamber is also calling on the Volta River Authority to use the various media outlets and other platforms to constantly announce to its stakeholders the volume of water being spilled, as this will enable cage farmers to adequately prepare and put in place measures that will mitigate the impact of the spillage,” it said.
They urged the VRA to regularly communicate the volume of water being released through various media outlets to help cage farmers prepare and implement measures to mitigate the impact of future spillages.
The Chamber emphasized the importance of cage farmers taking precautions to safeguard their investments.
“In addition to anchoring the cages, cage farmers are encouraged to constantly monitor the activities of the Volta River Authority in order to prevent any unaware situation that will cause further havoc to assets and investments. Cage Farmers should fix floats or barrels around cages to minimize the direct impact of the fast-moving water currents.
This includes adjusting anchors to secure cages firmly, monitoring VRA activities closely, placing floats or barrels around cages to reduce the direct impact of fast-moving water currents, avoiding overstocking cages, harvesting mature fish before spillage occurs, and ensuring that feeders and divers are vigilant in monitoring the condition of nets and debris.
Dignitaries from various sectors and stalwarts of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) gathered at the Peduase residence of former president John Agyekum Kufuor to offer their condolences and support following the passing of his wife, Theresa Kufuor.
Among those who signed the book of condolence were Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Opare, Joyce Aryee, and National Security Minister Kan Dapaah.
In their messages, the dignitaries praised Theresa Kufuor for her compassion, dedication to serving others, and her role in promoting peace and unity in Ghana.
Former Speaker of Parliament, Prof Mike Ocquaye, said, “I believe that the former president must have had a lot of peace of mind, which is needed when you are on a job as a president and every serious public service job as he had. The peace that she gave transcended all areas. She deserves to rest in perfect peace.”
A former government official, Kwame Pianim, added, “When she became a first lady, she was a mother to all of us. Many people only know her as the first lady. She and Prof Nyame built the Cocoa Clinic. She is one of the few Ashantis who speak Ewe fluently because of the school she attended, so she united all of us. So, we have lost a great mother.”
Theresa Kufuor, who was 86 years old, passed away on October 1 after a prolonged illness.
She is survived by her husband, former president John Agyekum Kufuor, and their five children.
The 35-year-old woman allegedly murdered by her house help died as a result of multiple head and abdominal injuries, as revealed in an autopsy report presented in the Asokore Mampong District Magistrate Court on Tuesday, October 3, 2023.
Stella Osei, also known as Princess Afua Ahenkan, sustained multiple injuries to her head and stomach after being struck in the head and stabbed in the stomach multiple times by the prime suspect, John Allister.
Her househelp, Allister, along with an accomplice, James Anokye, a 27-year-old driver, is currently on trial for the alleged murder of the businesswoman at her Sokoban Apaaso home on September 11, 2023.
The primary suspect, who applied for work on September 4, 2023, began working the following day, and he was assigned to the woman he allegedly murdered at Apaaso near Kumasi.
The police stated that he repeatedly struck his employer’s head and face with a club after stabbing her on September 11, 2023, at approximately 11:00 am, shortly after she had prepared fufu for them to eat. This occurred while the victim’s 11-year-old daughter was at school.
After committing the crime, Allister invited James Anokye and another individual named Collins, the 2nd and 3rd accused persons, to the deceased’s home and stole a KIA Sportage vehicle with registration GS 307-21, a Samsung mobile phone, rice, cooking oil, and other valuable items.
They then fled to Accra, where they contacted Biggy, a fourth accomplice who is still at large, to sell the stolen vehicle to Christian Obu, the fifth accomplice who is also at large.
Allister used some of the proceeds from the sale of his employer’s KIA Sportage car to purchase a Toyota Vitz car with registration number GS 3107-23.
While the police were pursuing the 3rd, 4th, and 5th accomplices, the 2nd accused abandoned the stolen KIA Sportage vehicle at Oyibi Police Station and fled.
Following a police report, the Crime Scene Management team discovered the body of the late Stella Osei, also known as Princess Afua Ahenkan, in the garage of her Apaaso home. A blood-stained club believed to have been used in the murder was also found at the crime scene on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.
An intelligence-led police operation led to the arrest of the 1st and 2nd accused persons in their hideouts in Accra on September 14, 2023.
In court, ASP Stephen Ofori, who is prosecuting the case, requested that the accused persons be remanded to enable the police to locate the three other accomplices who are still at large.
Initial reports surrounding the passing of Former First Lady, Mrs. Theresa Kufuor suggested that she died at their home at Aburi Mountains shortly after President Akufo-Addo‘s arrived for a scheduled visit.
However, Dr. Kwabena Osei-Adubofour, spokesperson, and special aide to former President Kufuor, in an interview with the media he revealed that her death occurred in the presence of President Akufo-Addo.
“His excellency was in the house; he was going to have a meeting with the former president so it happened in his presence,” he told the host of Anopa Bofuo Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah.
Mrs Theresa Kufuor, passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023.
Mrs Theresa Kufuor, was married to former President John Agyekum Kufuor on September 8, 1952. She served as the First Lady of Ghana between 2001 and 2009.
During her time as First Lady, Theresa Kufuor made a significant impact by establishing the Mother to Child Community Development Foundation. This foundation was dedicated to promoting the healthy development of children and preventing the transmission of diseases from mothers to their offspring.
Her efforts were instrumental in improving healthcare services, especially in the realms of maternal and child health. This, in turn, resulted in notable advancements in healthcare access and a reduction in maternal and child mortality rates within the nation.
Mrs. Kufuor was a passionate advocate for women’s rights and empowerment. She tirelessly championed various programs and policies aimed at elevating the status of women in Ghanaian society.
Meanwhile, Ghanaians have turned to social media to convey their heartfelt condolences and extend their sympathies to former President John Agyekum Kufour and his family.
A group known as ‘Friends of Bawumia’ has accused certain members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of orchestrating the booing incident aimed at vice president Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia during the inauguration of the Teshie McDan Sports Complex.
According to chairman of the group’s Ledzorkuku constituency wing, B.K. Ayensu, the residents actually welcomed the vice president warmly during the event on Saturday, September 30, 2023.
Despite videos circulating on social media showing constituents expressing disapproval for Dr. Bawumia and President Akufo-Addo, the group contends that their investigations reveal the booing incident was coordinated by prominent NDC members, including MP Benjamin Ayiku. “Nana Akufo-Addo, we are suffering…? We will express our frustration.” “From our investigation, the MP, Hon. Benjamin Ayiku with his constituency NDC chairman organized residents from our neighboring constituency (Krowor) to do this untoward act,” the Chairman said.
Mr Ayensu emphasized that Vice President Bawumia was genuinely embraced by the people of Teshie during the Sports Complex’s commissioning, fostering an atmosphere of optimism and contributing to the constituency’s historical legacy. He also praised Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye for his significant role in the area’s development.
The houseboy, John Allister, accused of murdering his employer in Apaaso near Sokoban in the Ashanti region, has pleaded guilty to stealing over GH¢167,000 from a hotel owner in a separate case.
Last month, Allister allegedly stabbed his employer, 35-year-old Stella Osei, to death after working for her for only six days.
Along with accomplices, he allegedly sold his employer’s KIA Sportage vehicle and stole bags of rice, cooking oil, and other items from her home.
He also reportedly used some of the proceeds from the car’s sale to buy a Toyota Vitz.
In the recent case, Allister pleaded guilty but with an explanation to two counts of theft.
He is accused of bolting with the hotel owner’s phone and withdrawing cash from her bank account using the mobile app on the phone.
According to the prosecution led by ASP Stephen Ofori, Allister had worked as a hotel receptionist in 2022 but abruptly stopped going to work after a month.
In July 2023, he returned to seek employment from the same complainant, who allowed him to start work again due to their previous working relationship.
On August 6, 2023, the complainant gave Allister her Infinix Note 8 mobile phone to assist with some settings, but he allegedly ran away with the phone. He also reportedly withdrew GH¢167,660 from the complainant’s ABSA Bank account using the mobile app on the stolen phone.
The complainant reported the matter to the police, leading to Allister’s arrest in Accra.
He admitted to the offense and explained how he spent the stolen money, including renting and furnishing an apartment.
John Allister is expected to appear before the Asokore Mampong District Court on Tuesday, October 3, 2023.
The Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Ernest Addison, has refrained from engaging directly with #OccupyBoG protestors who are demanding his resignation along with his deputies.
Instead of meeting the leaders of the demonstrations, Minority, in person, Dr. Addison delegated his head of security to receive the petition from the Parliamentary Minority, intensifying tensions at the central bank’s premises.
Wing Commander Kwame Asare Boateng (rtd), the Director of Security, who arrived to address the protestors disclosed that Governor Dr. Addison was engaged in discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Speaking to the media, leader of the opposition in Parliament, Ato Cassiel Forson, expressed his frustration at the disrespect shown by the BoG.
According to him, “We will go and come back again. And we will come back and demand to see him in person”.
“I feel very disrespected as the Leader of the opposition in Parliament. For a simple reason that we demanded to present a petition to the Governor of the Central Bank of the Republic of Ghana otherwise known as the Bank of Ghana. The Governor has two deputies, namely Deputy 1 and Deputy 2.
“Unfortunately, he has decided to disrespect us and his two deputies have also decided to disrespect us by not being here to accept the petition. We never said we are going to present our petition to the head of security or someone responsible for security with all due respect. They have actually mismanaged the affairs of the Central Bank,” he added.
On Tuesday, October 3, the minority in Parliament launched a peaceful protest known as #OccupyBoG, with the aim of demanding the resignation of the leadership of the BoG.
The protest is a response to the Bank’s reported GH¢60.81 billion loss in the 2022 fiscal year and the allocation of over $250 million for the construction of a new headquarters for the central bank.
The Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has stated that the party is willing to participate in Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meetings if the committee returns to its original role as a consensus-building forum.
Mr Nketia expressed concerns that the advice and input offered by IPAC to the Electoral Commission (EC) currently go unheeded, rendering the committee ineffective.
He emphasized that if IPAC’s objective is to seek consensus, and it is established that consensus cannot be achieved through the committee, then attending IPAC meetings would be a futile exercise.
“The political parties that have been attending IPAC, are they not the ones who are joining us now in court against what the Electoral Commission has done? They went to IPAC, learned about what to do with this voter’s registration and everything they decided upon, the Electoral Commission came out to announce the opposite.”
“Everything you do, there must be an objective, there must be a motive. If the motive behind IPAC is for us to go and seek consensus, and you have come to the conclusion that consensus cannot be sought at the IPAC, you are wasting your time going to sit there,” Mr Nketia said.
However, Nketia indicated that the NDC is open to participating in IPAC meetings if they genuinely serve as forums for building consensus and making positive contributions to improve Ghana.
“If you are calling us to school, it means we are going to study. If you go to school and then you don’t study anything, would you continue going there and your parents be paying the school fees? No. That’s the reason why IPAC was established. So let us go back and use the IPAC to be building the consensus. But if IPAC is not going to be used to build consensus, then that meeting is not IPAC,” he added.
The NDC has boycotted IPAC meetings since March 2020, citing concerns about the EC’s actions.
IPAC is a forum where political parties in Ghana, along with the EC, come together to discuss electoral matters, provide input, and seek consensus on various electoral issues.
The NDC’s decision to boycott these meetings was a form of protest against what they perceived as unfavorable actions or decisions made by the EC, which they believed undermined the fairness and transparency of the electoral process.
This boycott was a way for the NDC to express their dissatisfaction and seek redress for their concerns.
By boycotting IPAC meetings, the NDC effectively withdrew their participation and contributions from this platform, indicating their disapproval of how the EC was conducting electoral affairs.
Meanwhile, the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has appealed to the NDC to return to IPAC, emphasizing the importance of the opposition party’s representation in decisions affecting all stakeholders.
The NPP urged the NDC to rejoin IPAC discussions for the benefit of the country.
A former Deputy Upper West Regional Minister, Abu Kasangbata, has urged the government to heed the concerns of various stakeholders, including political parties, market women, civil society organizations, and others, amid economic challenges and development issues.
Mr Kasangbata emphasized that the government should not only respect these concerns but also address them through effective policies and programs to alleviate the growing suffering experienced by Ghanaians and their businesses.
He particularly expressed concerns about the consistent increases in utility bills every three months, which have adversely affected many Ghanaians and their livelihoods.
Mr Kasangbata also called on organizations such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), diplomatic communities, and external development partners to take an interest in Ghana’s economic challenges, safeguarding the country’s image as a multi-party democracy.
Mr Kasangbata emphasized the importance of preserving democratic values and principles, which transcend partisan lines, and urged the government to respect the opinions of opponents and ordinary citizens.
He expressed disappointment in the police service’s handling of public demonstrations and called for positive change in the nation, stating that the upcoming “Occupy BoG” demonstration serves as a wake-up call and an opportunity for the government to address economic challenges for the betterment of Ghana and its citizens.
An independent presidential aspirant, Alan John Kyerematen, has pledged to consult all political parties before appointing their members as ministers or leaders of government institutions.
He has called on every political party in the nation to cooperate with him in forging a unified Ghana, should he be elected as president in 2024.
Speaking to the media, Mr Kyerematen articulated his intention to involve both politicians and non-politicians in the administration of the government.
As the founder of the Movement for Change, he asserted that an independent candidate as President offers the best option for Ghana.
Mr Kyerematen emphasized his plan to engage with the NPP, NDC, CPP, and a wider pool of experienced professionals to implement a national unity policy.
He underscored that his presidential ambition is motivated by his desire to be an agent of change and transformation, as being President offers the greatest opportunity to bring about the desired change.
According to him, he would directly engage with over 5.5 million voters and floating voters who resonate with his Great Transformational Plan (GTP).
He added that Ghana requires a fresh transformational leader, rather than another political leader, which is the core principle of the Movement for Change.
He stated that the movement aims to move Ghana beyond the NDC and NPP duopoly and create a more united government, focused on a single national agenda.
The CEO of the Mental Health Authority (MHA), Dr. Pinaman Appau, has indicated that the prevailing economic hardships are contributing to a rise in mental health issues among individuals.
Speaking at the launch of this year’s Mental Health Week in Accra, Dr. Appau noted that the stress associated with economic challenges has exacerbated the existing mental health problems in the country.
In 2016, a national survey identified over 6,000 individuals with mental illness living on the streets and in public places.
Dr. Appau pointed out that factors such as increasing unemployment, economic uncertainty, and social isolation have negatively impacted the mental well-being of people from various socio-economic backgrounds.
“As jobs vanish and businesses shutter, individuals and families find themselves facing financial instability, food insecurity and inadequate access to healthcare and education with consequences on mental health,” he added.
She mentioned that a new count would soon be conducted to gather data for targeted interventions.
Dr. Appau emphasized that the economic hardships, including job loss and financial instability, food insecurity, inadequate access to healthcare, and education, have serious consequences for mental health.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated in September that almost 2.4 million Ghanaians may be suffering from various forms of mental illness.
The CEO expressed concern about the rising numbers of individuals with mental illness and their presence in public spaces, stating that it is a matter of national security.
She mentioned that the Mental Health Authority and the Ministry of Health are considering a program to remove mentally ill individuals from the streets and reintegrate them into communities.
Dr. Appau called for the support of all stakeholders in advocating for mental health and implementing the proposed strategy.
She stressed that mental health is a universal right, emphasizing that everyone, regardless of background or circumstances, has the right to mental well-being, including access to mental health services and support systems.
Mental illness, as defined by the WHO, is a mental disorder characterized by clinically significant disturbances in cognition, emotional regulation, or behavior, often associated with distress or impairment in important areas of functioning.
Various types of mental illnesses include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, eating disorders, disruptive behavior disorders, and dissocial disorders, among others.
Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables individuals to cope with life’s stresses, realize their abilities, learn and work effectively, and contribute positively to their communities.
The Mental Health Week, scheduled for October 4 to 10, will focus on community engagement, open dialogues, discussions on the rights of persons with mental illness and intellectual disabilities through various media platforms.
Activities will include school health talks on substance abuse among adolescents, stress management presentations, self-assessment of mental health, public screenings, and outreach programs at faith-based healing centers.
A durbar will also be held in Dambai, Oti Region, on October 10 to climax the celebration.
Protesters have gathered at Obra Spot at the Kwame Nkrumah Circle for the #OccupyBoG demo which has been organized by the leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Minority caucus of Parliament.
Civil society groups like Arise Ghana have also joined the opposition party in this protest, calling for the removal of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) Governor, Dr. Ernest Addison, and his two deputies.
The protesters’ demand for resignation is in response to the Central Bank’s reported GH¢60.81 billion loss in the 2022 fiscal year and the allocation of over $250 million for the construction of a new headquarters.
Prominent Members of Parliament (MPs), including Francis-Xavier Sosu, Haruna Iddrisu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Rashid Pelpuo, and Bede Ziedeng, have been seen among the protesters.
The participants are predominantly dressed in black and red attire, with many wearing red caps on their heads.
Throughout the demonstration, the protesters can be heard chanting patriotic songs, expressing their collective demand for change and accountability. The Ghana Police Service has deployed personnel to ensure the smooth facilitation of the ongoing demonstration.
The Bono Regional House of Chiefs and Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, has stated that he would not permit anyone, especially the president, to exploit any natural resource in his region unless it benefits local business owners.
He expressed his dissatisfaction with foreigners being the primary beneficiaries of Ghana’s natural resources.
Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, the Omanhene of the Dormaa Traditional Area, emphasized that if he had a say, he would only allow local business moguls to extract these resources, such as oil, from his region.
“What about our oil? I’m on record to have said that if the oil were mainly to be found in Dormaa, president, unless you kill me. I won’t allow you to ever drill it, because why should you do it: all these rigs, and you are using foreign contractors.
“Where are the Kennedy Agyapongs? Where are the Kwame Despites? Where are the Ibrahim Mahamas? Where are they? Can’t we resource these Ghanaian people; can’t we help them, raise them, so that these very people will be in the gold business, they will be in the oil business?” he quizzed.
He questioned why foreign contractors were predominantly involved in these endeavors and advocated for supporting and empowering Ghanaian entrepreneurs like Kennedy Agyapong, Kwame Despite, and Ibrahim Mahama to participate in industries like gold and oil.
He emphasized that this approach would contribute to the country’s economic growth and development, as profits generated by these local entrepreneurs would be reinvested locally rather than being sent abroad.
In a viral video capturing the #OccupyBoGProtest, demonstrators have added a unique and expressive dimension to their cause by composing a song dedicated to president Akufo-Addo.
The song prominently features the president’s favored phrase, “Sika mpɛ dede,” which translates to “money does not like noise.”
During his address to the nation on October 30, 2022, president Akufo-Addo delved into the challenges responsible for Ghana’s current economic situation.
In his speech, he outlined the measures his government was implementing to reverse the decline and stimulate economic growth.
He stated, “Fellow Ghanaians, as the French would say, l’argent n’aime pas le bruit, to wit, money does not like noise, sika mpɛ dede. Where there is chaos, where there is noise, where there is unrest, you will not find money. If you talk down your money, it will go down. If you allow some unidentifiable person to talk down your money, it will go down.”
However, the demonstrators, singing in the Ga dialect, have contradicted the president’s statement, emphasizing that “Nana Akufo-Addo, we are dying, despite your assertion that ‘money does not like noise.’”
The #OccupyBoGProtest, initiated by the Minority Caucus in Parliament, represents a powerful demand for the resignation of the Governor of the Bank of Ghana and his deputies.
The protest is a response to the Bank’s reported GH¢60.81 billion loss in the 2022 fiscal year and the allocation of over $250 million for the construction of a new headquarters for the central bank.
Residents of Zenu, New York, and Atadeka, suburbs in Ashaiman, Greater Accra, have staged a protest due to the deteriorating condition of their roads.
The frustrated residents have blocked the roads, causing inconvenience to drivers and commuters.
They are calling for the immediate repair and restoration of all community roads.
Protesters have expressed that previous complaints and appeals for road repairs went unanswered, leading them to resort to demonstrations to draw attention to their grievances.
The Concerned Citizens of Ashaiman group is spearheading this protest.
Freeman Tsekpo, the Assemblyman for the Nii Komieteh Electoral area, revealed that the Regional Minister had made promises to address the road issues but had failed to fulfill those commitments on multiple occasions.
Despite negotiations and efforts involving various local authorities, the residents have yet to see improvements in their road conditions.
“The assembly members went into negotiations with the Regional Minister, and he promised us that he was going to facilitate the construction of sixteen kilometres of roads in Ashaiman, but this has not happened,” Tsekpo said.
He added, “After that, the chief of Ashaiman, the Ashaiman MP, the Ashaiman NDC chairman, and some other people attempted to demonstrate and that again ended up in the office of the Regional Minister and another promise was made to fix Ashaiman roads, but that has not been done.”
Nollywood star Tonto Dikeh criticized Naira Marley for seeking police protection before cooperating in the investigation of Mohbad‘s death.
Two key suspects, Sam Larry and Marley, had left the country following the singer’s demise. Larry reportedly returned to Nigeria discreetly, while Marlian Music’s CEO was still abroad.
Reportedly, Naira Marley stated that he would only return to Nigeria if the police assured his safety. Nevertheless, Tonto Dikeh labeled these demands as unreasonable.
She accused Naira Marley of intentionally subjecting Mohbad to severe distress, pushing him towards suicide.
She wrote: “No sleep for the wicked. Naira Marley you want your safety to be guaranteed? Laughable. But you never gave #Generalmohbad a chance at life free of bullying, extortion, violence, drug abuser.
“Set ups, beatings, terror and fear of one’s life till the point he felt unaliving himself would be better than facing your ( Naira Marley/sam Larry) wrath. You never guaranteed his safety and always hurt him at every given chance!!”
The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that the process of transferring votes and replacing lost or defaced ID cards will commence today, Tuesday, October 3, 2023.
Dr. Bossman Asare, the Deputy Chair in Charge of Corporate Services at the EC, conveyed this information during an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM. He encouraged the public to utilize this opportunity to either transfer their voting location or obtain replacements for their lost or damaged ID cards.
“The transfers begin on Tuesday, and we are doing the transfers from October 3 to October 9, which is seven days. So, for anyone who wants to transfer to a district, this is the time to do it. And on Tuesday too, we are doing the replacement of ID cards. So if your ID card is defaced or missing, just go to the district offices. There is a shortcode for you to use to pay your money, and once you pay, you go to any district office and the ID card will be replaced for you.”
“For the replacement of the cards, we have not announced an end date yet. It is only the transfers which are ending on October 9, including Saturdays and Sundays. But for the card replacements, if you go to any of our district offices from Monday to Friday, they should be able to replace it for you once you have evidence of payment.”
The EC in a statement urged applicants who wish to replace their ID cards to do so by dialing Dial *222*1067# and follow the prompts.
The Police has outlined significant roadblocks to traffic flow as part of the Minority’s #OccupyBoG protest scheduled for Tuesday, October 3.
In a press briefing on Monday, the Director of Public Affairs, ASP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, announced that “the road from Independence Square in front of the National Lotteries towards the old Parliament House will be temporarily blocked to vehicular traffic during the demonstration.”
The police have detailed the diversion plan for the blocked road, redirecting it to the Starlets traffic light through the Ministry traffic light, passing in front of the Office of Department of Urban Roads, continuing through the National Lotteries to connect with the AMA road to EOCO, and ultimately returning to the John Evans Atta Mills Highway at the old Parliament traffic intersection.
ASP Ansah-Akrofi assured commuters that the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) would be deployed to assist the motoring public during the protest.
The briefing, held on Monday, provided information on the preparations and security measures in place for the opposition party’s #OccupyBoG protest.
According to ASP Ansah-Akrofi, the Minority has reached an agreement with the police regarding the protest route.
“Per our agreement with the Minority, the demonstrators will converge at Obra Spot at the Kwame Nkrumah Circle and proceed to Adabraka to Ridge Roundabout, National Theatre Traffic Light, High Court Traffic Light to Atta Mills Highway and make a u-turn at the National Lottery and terminate at the Independence Square,” ASP Ansah-Akrofi indicated.
However, Minority Leader Ato Forson disputed the police’s claim, asserting that they have not fully agreed to the proposed route.
Earlier, the Minority had informed the police of their intention to commence the protest from the frontage of Parliament, proposing a specific route that would pass through various landmarks in Accra.
The police expressed concerns about the selected routes, citing potential public order and safety risks, as well as traffic disruption.
In response, the police proposed an alternative route, but the Minority insisted on adhering to their original plan, emphasizing that their proposed route was shorter than the police’s suggested alternative.
As a result, the police sought an injunction against the Minority’s proposed routes.
The Minority is organizing the protest to address what they perceive as mismanagement at the central bank, resulting in significant losses and adverse effects on the Ghanaian economy.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has agreed to compromise on the police-proposed routes for its Occupy Bank of Ghana (BoG) protest on Tuesday, October 3, 2023. This decision is aimed at advancing their demand for the resignation of the BoG Governor and his two deputies.
Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the NDC, acknowledged the police’s initial stance on the routes as “unreasonable.” However, the NDC has chosen to compromise in the interest of maintaining public order and safety.
The protest, organized by the Minority Caucus in Parliament and various pressure groups, opposes the continued tenure of the BoG Governor, Dr. Ernest Addison, and his two deputies. The demonstrators are calling for the resignation of the Central Bank’s leadership due to the GH¢60 billion loss recorded by the bank in the 2022 fiscal year and the controversial new head office project.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Grace Ansah-Akrofi, the Director of Public Affairs of the Ghana Police Service (GPS), informed the press in Accra that the protesters would gather at the Obra Spot at Kwame Nkrumah Circle. From there, they would proceed through Adabraka, Ridge Roundabout, National Theatre Traffic Light, High Court Complex Traffic Light, Attah Mills Highway, make a U-turn at the National Lottery Authority, and conclude their march at Independence Square.
But Mr Gyamfi on Eyewitness News said “They [police] have been very unreasonable on the routes but in the interest of public order and public safety and because we want to embark on this peaceful demonstration to press home our demands, we had compromises which we have agreed to. So on Tuesday, the demonstration is coming on.”
In the interim, the GPS has also assured that it is adequately prepared and has enough contingents to deploy for the #OccupyBoGProtest.
ACP Ansah-Akrofi said the police have prepared and trained adequately for the protest.
“We have an adequate number of police officers for tomorrow’s demonstration and I will want to urge every member of the public that wants to come for the protest to show up tomorrow because we have enough men to provide security throughout the length of the demonstration, and we will be there throughout.”
Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, the Minister of Information, expressed worry over the steep expenses faced by renal patients in Ghana. He proposed that the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) should alleviate some of the financial burden on kidney patients undergoing dialysis.
In an interview on Eyewitness News, Nkrumah emphasized the necessity for the government to support certain facets of this costly treatment, which is straining the finances of individuals with kidney ailments. Consequently, he highlighted the significance of adequately funding the NHIS Fund.
“The government is waiting on the management of Korle Bu to complete its internal work and come forward with what its position is. The conversation has been going on, and I personally suggested that whatever the amount comes to, it is a matter that the NHIS Fund should be able to pick up. To achieve that, we need to take a lot more seriously the financing of the NHIS Fund to take up incidents like this. The amount is not something an individual will be able to cater for considering the number of dialyses one has to go through in a month, without draining their finances extensively.”
The MP representing Ofoase-Ayiribi expressed concern over the absence of contributions to the NHIS Fund since its inception during the tenure of former President John Agyekum Kufuor.
Additionally, he recommended automating the collection of funds on behalf of the NHIS Fund to prevent potential loopholes and enhance its efficiency.
“Today, the non-Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) contributor is paying GHC28 as an annual premium, and the SSNIT contributor is paying GHC8, as an annual premium, this is woefully inadequate. The NHIS levy that is collected on behalf of the NHIS Fund is not automatically remitted to the NHIS Fund. I believe that is something we also have a look at. We have never remitted 100% to the Fund since its introduction by former President Kufuor. I don’t think it’s honestly proper for us to collect monies in the name of the Fund and not remit those monies to the Fund. And it’s something both the National Democratic Congress and New Patriotic Party have been doing since the days of former President Kufuor. We need to bring some automaticity to the amount of monies we collect on behalf of the Fund. If you do it this way, we can have money from the Fund that can take care of these costs,” he opined.
The Renal Patients Association has reported that 14 outpatients of the renal unit at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital passed away after the unit was closed to them in May 2023.
According to the Association’s spokesperson, Michael Asante, these deaths resulted from the patients’ inability to access dialysis treatment at private dialysis centers, which are more expensive than the hospital’s services.
Patients suffering from kidney failure, who regularly visited the Renal Unit at the hospital for dialysis sessions, were faced with a new fee of GH¢765, a significant increase from the initial fee of GH¢385.
In response to public outcry, the Ministry of Health summoned the management of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital to explain the introduction of the new fee without following the due process.
The hospital has faced strong criticism following reports of the revision of its dialysis charges, raising concerns about the accessibility of essential healthcare services for kidney patients.
The Abossey Okai Spare Part Dealers Association has issued a two-week ultimatum to the government, urging it to reconsider its approach to the VAT compliance policy as announced by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
This ultimatum follows the recent release of a statement by the GRA detailing its intentions to intensify compliance and monitoring activities, including deploying additional staff to markets and business centers.
Expressing their concerns and frustrations with the GRA’s compliance policy, the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association has called on the government to take immediate action.
In an interview with the media, Samuel Omari, the financial secretary of the association, stated that if the government does not revise its decision within the specified two-week period, they will initiate a nationwide protest.
“We had an engagement with the GRA at the AMA hall two weeks ago, and we were thinking they would give us the opportunity to tell them that their compliance policy was not going to help us, but they didn’t give us the opportunity. They only told us that they were implementers of the law and that if we had any grievances, we should channel them to Parliament,” Omari said.
“It is disrespectful to have GRA officials come to our shops after our engagement with them, and so we are going to stage a huge demonstration to send a strong signal to the government and the GRA commissioner-general that that compliance approach is neither here nor there.”
The Member of Parliament for Ketu South, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has expressed her frustration with the ongoing challenges faced by her constituents due to climate change, floods, and related disasters.
In an interview with the media on Monday, October 2, 2023, she lamented her inability to secure sustained help for her people.
Since assuming office as MP in 2019, Dzifa Gomashie has been restless, continuously grappling with the unending difficulties in her constituency. She described these challenges as suffocating and drowning her, leaving her without respite.
“I do not know what I’m going to do. I’m here biting my fingers and praying and asking God why? 3 years going on – 3 years! I have not breathed since 2019. I’m suffocating. I’m drowning,” she lamented.
Furthermore, she directed criticism at President Akufo-Addo and his government for what she perceives as their failure to support local government assemblies effectively.
She pointed out the ineffectiveness of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) in addressing the plights of her constituents affected by climate change and floods in the past three years.
Dzifa Gomashie expressed frustration with the collapse of NADMO and the local government structure, emphasizing the dire situation her constituents are facing. She highlighted the inability of the local assembly to provide even a bag of rice or corn throughout the ongoing challenges.
The Ketu South area has been particularly vulnerable to floods, with communities suffering from destruction, yet little to no assistance has been provided. Dzifa Gomashie reiterated her plea for the government to prioritize completing the sea defense wall in the area and other vulnerable communities like Keta to offer a lasting solution.
Additionally, she mentioned that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia had recently visited the constituency to campaign for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), but had not taken the time to visit the affected people in the constituency, which further added to her concerns.
The Ghana Police Service has granted permission for the Minority Caucus in Parliament to carry out their planned demonstration against the Governor of the Bank of Ghana and his deputies on Tuesday, October 3, 2023.
The police have also provided details regarding the designated routes for the protesters.
ACP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, the Director of Public Affairs of the Ghana Police Service, addressed the media on October 2, ahead of the scheduled protest.
She outlined the specified routes for the demonstrators, which include gathering at the Obra Spot at Kwame Nkrumah Circle and proceeding through Adabraka, Ridge Roundabout, National Theatre Traffic Light, High Court Complex Traffic Light, Attah Mills Highway, making a U-Turn at the National Lottery Authority, and concluding the march at Independence Square.
The police service assured the public of their commitment to deploying an adequate number of officers to ensure peace and security throughout the demonstration.Certain roads will be temporarily blocked during the protest.
The road leading from Independence Square in front of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) to the Old Parliament Traffic Light will be closed to vehicular traffic for the duration of the exercise.
Alternative routes will be provided, diverting traffic through the Starlet Traffic Light, Ministries Traffic Light, in front of the Office of the Department of Urban Roads, the National Lottery Authority, linking up with the AMA office Road to EOCO, and eventually returning to the John Evans Atta Mills Highway at the Old Parliament Traffic Light intersection.
Additionally, the Ghana Police Service urged journalists covering the protest to carry identification to facilitate their movements.The demonstration had been postponed several times due to disagreements between the police and the Minority over the proposed routes.
The Minority is organizing the protest to demand the resignation of the Governor of the Bank of Ghana and his deputies in response to the Bank’s reported GH¢60.81 billion loss in the 2022 fiscal year and the allocation of over $250 million for the construction of a new headquarters for the central bank.
On Monday afternoon, October 3, a tragic accident occurred on the God Dey-Access Bank stretch in Ho Bankoe, where a tipper truck lost its brakes and collided with multiple cars.
This has left at least five people are in critical condition at the Ho Hospital.
The collision had devastating consequences, causing extensive damage to approximately eight vehicles, including two taxis, to the point where they became unidentifiable.
Gideon Agbesi, a taxi driver from Ho, was among the victims of this horrifying incident.
He recounted how he had to hastily flee for his life upon hearing the deafening noise of the approaching tipper truck.
Both the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana National Fire Service promptly responded to the scene.
Their efforts were focused on clearing the wreckage of the damaged vehicles and ensuring the smooth flow of traffic in the area.
A hopeful candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer position, Kennedy Agyapong, has emphasized the importance of unity within the party, suggesting that the NPP could lose support in the Ashanti region if he loses in the upcoming November 4 primaries.
Agyapong expressed his belief that some NPP members underestimate the significance of Alan Kyerematen to the party.
Contrary to this perception, Agyapong argued that Mr Kyerematen is not only important to the party but also to the entire country.
He further asserted that if he were to lose in the primaries, strong NPP supporters in the Ashanti region would likely vote for Alan Kyerematen.
During his Showdown walk in the Ashanti Region, Mr Agyapong appealed to NPP delegates to vote for him as the party’s flagbearer, with the aim of leading the party to victory in the 2024 elections.
He stated, “whether you like it or not, if you don’t vote for Ken Agyapong, all the traditional Ashantis will vote for Alan. All of them will vote for Alan. Those who are insulting Alan, those who think Alan is not relevant. Think Alan is not relevant in Ashanti Region. If Alan is not relevant in NPP, Alan is relevant in Ghana here”.
Alan Kyerematen had previously withdrawn from the NPP flagbearer race and resigned from the party to run as an independent candidate.
This decision left four contenders in the NPP presidential race: Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Kennedy Agyapong, Owusu Akoto Afriyie, and Francis Addai-Nimoh. The NPP presidential primaries are scheduled for November 4, 2023.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has expressed its heartfelt tribute to the late Mrs. Theresa Kufuor, former First Lady, who passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023.
In a statement issued on Monday by its General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, the party celebrated Mrs. Kufuor’s remarkable contributions and directed that its flags be flown at half-mast nationwide to mourn her passing.
Mrs. Kufuor, the spouse of former President John Agyekum Kufuor, peacefully departed at her residence in Peduase at the age of 87.
The NPP’s statement lauded her as a trailblazer for women’s advancement, fostering initiatives that inspired and empowered females of all ages in various spheres of life.
The party extended its deepest condolences to former President John Agyekum Kufuor, their children, and the entire family.
“We stand united with you in this time of sorrow, praying that the Almighty God grants all of us the fortitude to bear this great loss. In tribute to the memory of the late Mrs Kufuor, the NPP directs that all Party flags across the country be flown at half-mast for the next seven days. May her gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace until we meet again on the resurrection morning. Damirifa Due!”!”
Meanwhile, Dr. Kwabena Osei-Adubofour, a special aide and spokesperson for former President John Agyekum Kufuor, revealed that the octogenarian is showing signs of a hopeful recovery following the passing of his wife, Theresa Kufuor.
In an interview with the media, Dr. Osei-Adubofour mentioned that the former president is gradually regaining his composure and requested the public to keep the family in their thoughts and prayers.
“It was very sad and shocking, and it happened yesterday late in the afternoon and the old man [former president Kufuor] did not take it kindly at all because it was a shock to him but this morning, I’ve seen that he has recovered to some extent from the shock.
“You know, he is old enough to understand death and normally when people come to inform us about the bereavement of other people, he kept on saying death is a journey everyone will embark on, and so he understands and had tuned his mind to it despite that the initial occurrence was very serious and shocking.
“We welcome people coming to show their love and condolences, but I will plead with them to start it tomorrow because it happened less than 24 hours ago and we need to do some logistical work like putting up some canopies and all that so let them give us free time today, and then they can start coming tomorrow,”he sated.
“Being of advanced age, he comprehends the inevitability of death, and though the initial shock was severe, he had mentally prepared himself for it. We welcome individuals who wish to offer their condolences, but we kindly request that they begin their visits from tomorrow to allow the family time to make the necessary arrangements, including setting up canopies, to receive them.”
The Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has declared his intention to lodge a formal complaint against the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Ernest Addison, and his deputies with the Office of the Special Prosecutor.
The action is in response to concerns over contracts awarded for the construction of a new central bank headquarters.
In a letter dated October 2, 2023, addressed to the Governor, Ayariga conveyed his intention to take this step due to the lack of transparency regarding the awarded contracts.
“I write to inform you that I will refer you and your deputies to the Office of the Special Prosecutor for investigation and possible prosecution. This is in relation to the matter of the award of a contract for the construction of a new head office building for the Bank of Ghana. I suspect that your team, in collusion with the contractors, overpriced the project with a possible view to obtaining personal gain. I reject your use of “national security considerations” as a reason to refuse to answer my questions properly. My decision to report you is in view of your refusal to provide a proper response to my request for information pursuant to the Right to Information Request,” Mahama said in the letter.
He expressed suspicions of overpricing the project, possibly for personal gain, and rejected the use of “national security considerations” as a reason for withholding information.
Mr Ayariga warned that he would pursue the BoG Governor until he provides clarity on the contract awards to Messrs. Goldkey Properties Limited.
He specifically questioned how a project originally priced at USD 100,857,924.48 for 73,000 sq. m. escalated to USD 121,807,851.94 in the same year and further expanded by approximately 36.9% in scope of works, resulting in a project cost increase of 84%, ultimately costing USD 222,799,760.55.
He emphasized that this inquiry was motivated by a commitment to the nation and the pursuit of a better Ghana.
“Let me assure you that we will pursue you until you come clean on how a project which you yourself had originally priced at USD100,857,924.48 for 73,000sq.m got awarded to Messrs. Goldkey Properties Limited, in the same year, at USD121,807,8517.94 and how a variation in scope of works of about 36.9% increase has led to a project cost escalation of 84% increase which has resulted in the 107,737sq.m now costing USD 222,799,760.55. This is a project priced in United States Dollars. This we do for the love of country and in pursuit of A Better Ghana,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the Minority in Parliament plans to stage a demonstration on Tuesday, October 3, against the Governor. They allege that mismanagement of the central bank under his leadership has resulted in a loss of GH¢60 billion.
Member of Parliament for Tema West, Carlos Ahenkorah, has called upon the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to initiate peace talks with Kennedy Agyapong and Chairman Wontumi in the interest of party unity.
Ahenkorah expressed concern that without proper control over these two influential figures in the party, their ongoing verbal attacks on each other could undermine the party’s internal peace and its pursuit of a third consecutive term in government.
The appeal from Ahenkorah follows recent remarks made by Kennedy Agyapong, a potential NPP presidential candidate, in which he leveled allegations against the party’s leadership. Agyapong accused the NPP of engaging in activities that he found deeply troubling, suggesting that they were “looting” the country without regard for its future.
In response to these allegations, Carlos Ahenkorah emphasized the need for measured and responsible responses from prominent party figures, such as Agyapong and Chairman Wontumi, as their statements have the potential to significantly impact party cohesion.
He stressed the urgency of addressing this issue, stating, “as a matter of urgency, if the leaders of the party do not speak with Ken and Wuntumi, the outcome will not be to the benefit of the party. If you want the party to enjoy some peace and break the eight, then both Ken and Wuntumi must be called and spoken to”.
Ahenkorah acknowledged that Agyapong’s recent comments were not drastically different from his past statements but highlighted the increased scrutiny associated with his presidential aspirations, calling for a more cautious approach to sensitive issues.
“What he said is not very different from what he has been saying all these while, except that some of the things he said in Kumasi carry some weight. I want to use this opportunity to plead with Kennedy Agyapong, whether he accepts it or not, he is a forerunner of the party. Now, he wants to run as a flagbearer of the party.
“His reaction to certain situations and his delivery to same situations should inform him that people are watching and based on that, they will decide whether to share thoughts with you or not. Many people are expecting that all the things he used to say when he was just a member of parliament, he will relax on some of them particularly because he is a presidential aspirant,” he stated.
He continued “You cannot change Ken because he has his own personality and he is a self-made person but if he should continue on this tangent, those who feel victimised by this approach are likely going to confront him on that.”
Ahenkorah also expressed concern about Chairman Wontumi’s recent remarks, in which he hinted at disclosing secrets about Kennedy Agyapong if the latter misbehaved. He questioned the need for such statements and urged the party to avoid division.
In conclusion, Carlos Ahenkorah emphasized the importance of maintaining party unity and addressing internal disputes through dialogue and constructive engagement rather than public confrontations and disclosures.
“Apart from his comments as well, I saw a publication that was attributed to Wontumi. He was also quoted saying that if Ken should misbehave, he would also reveal some secrets of his, I mean why should we get to this? Why must we sell ourselves to the NDC for them to get us on that pedestal?
“I know Ken and I know Wontumi, they are very good friends and so, if comments such as these are made by Wuntumi then it is concerning. Why will he come out to make such statements, why must we get ourselves to that point,” he questioned.
The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has disclosed that it lacks information regarding the revenue generated by Frontiers Healthcare Service through the COVID-19 testing conducted at the airports.
This information was revealed by JoyNews’ Raymond Acquah, who engaged the authority in a letter over the matter.
The contract between GACL and Frontiers Health Services has been under intense scrutiny, including allegations of corruption from civil society organizations and opposition Members of Parliament (MPs).
During a discussion on the Super Morning Show, Mr. Acquah mentioned that the JoyNews team wrote to the GACL to request information on the total revenue generated from the COVID-19 testing operation conducted by the Ghana Airport Company Limited.
However, the GACL informed them that they could not disclose that information, citing Section 10 of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2019, Act 989, as the legal basis for non-disclosure.
“Because of Section 10 of the RTI Act, that’s the exemption regime, of course they explained that the exemption regime has so many provisions. After saying section 10 disallows them from giving us the contract they moved on. They said they were not privy to the procedure and that they do not know how much has actually been generated in the entire exercise,” he added.
In addition to revenue details, the JoyNews team also sought a copy of the agreement between the government and the healthcare service provider. Unfortunately, the authority declined to provide that information as well.
Furthermore, the JoyNews team sought information regarding the selection process that led to Frontiers Health Services being awarded the contract for COVID-19 testing at the airport.
However, the GACL stated that they did not possess the necessary information about the specific steps and processes involved in selecting and awarding the contract to Frontiers Health Services.
“We wrote to ask for a copy of the RTI request to the Ghana Airport Company, then secondly processes and procedures they used in contracting frontiers, the reasons why they settled on frontiers. How much money they much has actually been generated in the entire exercise. How much money is going to the state and frontiers,”he added.
Meanwhile, Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, alleged that Ghana’s procurement laws were grossly disregarded in the Frontiers COVID-19 Airport Testing deal.
He highlighted a significant revelation related to the offer letter from the Ghana Airport Company Limited to Frontiers Healthcare Services Limited, signed by the former Managing Director, Mr. Yaw Kwakwa, and dated August 31, 2020.
According to him, the letter exposes how “Frontiers was handpicked in an opaque sweetheart deal after a hush-hush discussion; Ghana’s procurement laws were blatantly and violently flouted. In fact, Ghana’s procurement laws were suspended.
“This was not a competitive exercise as credible institutions such as Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Korle Bu Central Laboratory and others who were at the forefront of the COVID containment were sidelined as government opted for the overnight incorporated dubious Frontiers.”
This revelation has raised concerns about the transparency and legality of the contract.
Ghanaian gospel artist, Diana Asamoah, has indicated that even the divine intervention of Jesus would not be sufficient to improve the state of Ghanaian economy.
Speaking to the media, she attributed the challenges faced by the country to the presence of individuals who lack honesty and integrity.
While acknowledging the significant impact of political leadership on people’s everyday lives, the gospel musician added that leaders should not bear sole responsibility for the actions of the populace, emphasizing the pivotal role of individual attitudes.
In her view, the world at large is grappling with adversity, and she attributed a substantial portion of these challenges to human actions, highlighting the need for collective responsibility.
“The whole world is in a crisis, and a significant portion of the hardships is also a consequence of our actions. I have always said that even if Jesus were to become President of Ghana and we don’t change our attitudes, we will not thrive” she stated.
She placed strong emphasis on the virtues of honesty and patience, drawing from biblical principles that highlight blessings for those who uphold truthfulness.
The state of the economy has become a central topic of discussion in recent months, marked by soaring inflation rates, currency devaluation, a decline in overall living standards, and an increasing cost of living.
Government attributes these challenges to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
To address these economic issues, the country has secured a substantial US$3 billion IMF loan, with US$600 million of this amount already credited to the government’s account.
In the meantime, the musician’s remarks have sparked intense debates on social media. Some are questioning the rationale behind her assertions, while others are firmly supporting her perspective.
The Eastern Region branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has requested that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) enhance security at the district office of the Electoral Commission (EC) in Upper West Akyem.
They have accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Constituency Chairman, Nana Adei Obuobi, of causing disruptions and intimidating EC officials by leading a group of individuals to fire gunshots.
According to the NDC, the individuals disrupting the registration process are allegedly members of the Okyenhene taskforce.
In a press release issued by the Eastern Region Secretary, Jamal Konneh, the NDC demanded increased security at Adeiso to prevent any unforeseen incidents and called on Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panyin, to intervene and restrain his associates.
“Per our intel, the thugs he brought to disrupt the registration process are members of the Okyenhene taskforce,” the NDC alleged in a press release issued by Eastern Region Secretary Jamal Konneh on Sunday, October 1.
“We call on the IGP and the Regional Commander to beef up security at Adeiso to help avert any unforeseen circumstances,” the press release demanded.
“We are also calling on Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panyin, to call his men to order.”
The NDC emphasized that while they believe in democratic processes, they will not be intimidated by the NPP or its affiliates in the region, warning against employing violence as a strategy in the 2024 elections.
The limited voter registration exercise was scheduled to end on Monday, October 2.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Simon Osei-Mensah, has offered advice to a flagbearer aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Agyapong, cautioning him against assuming that his wealth alone qualifies him to become the President of Ghana.
Mr Osei-Mensah used the examples of Bill Gates and Aliko Dangote to illustrate his point, emphasizing that Kennedy Agyapong’s wealth is not comparable to that of these two global billionaires.
Speaking to the media he sated that “he should remember that Bill Gate has money but is not the President of USA. Dangote is a rich man but he is not the President of Nigeria.”
Instead, he urged Kennedy Agyapong to utilize his resources to help the NPP win seats in the Central region, specifically Assin North, after the November 4th elections.
“After November 4th go and win the Assin North and Central region seats for the NPP so that we can see what he is capable of doing”, the Ashanti regional minister said.
President Akufo-Addo has expressed deep sorrow at the passing of Mrs. Theresa Kufuor, former First Lady and wife of the 2nd President of the 4th Republic, John Agyekum Kufuor.
In his tribute, he described her as a warm, kind, and resilient woman who confronted life’s challenges with unwavering faith in Almighty God.
Acknowledging her pivotal role as President Kufuor’s devoted companion for 61 years, President Akufo-Addo praised her constant support, guidance, and prayers.
He commended her political acumen and contribution to her husband’s success, highlighting her dignity and eloquence as a polyglot First Lady fluent in languages like Ewe.
President Akufo-Addo conveyed his condolences to President Kufuor, their children, grandchildren, and the entire family, expressing profound sadness.
He wished her eternal peace and expressed his and First Lady Rebecca’s deep sense of loss. He concluded with a prayer for Mrs. Theresa Kufuor to find serenity in the Almighty’s care until the Last Day of the Resurrection.
“Mama Theresa, as she was affectionately called, was a devoted companion of President Kufuor throughout their sixty-one (61) years of marriage. She was an invaluable and constant source of advice, encouragement and prayers for him.
“Member of a well-known family from Odumase, in the Bono Region, sister of the renowned statesman, the late J.H Mensah, and aunt of President Kufuor’s Secretary, the brilliant diplomat, Ambassador D.K Osei, she was politically astute and was a major contributor to her husband’s political success. She was a composed and articulate First Lady, a polyglot, fluent in several languages including Ewe, who brought great dignity to the position.
He continued “I knew several members of her family, especially her celebrated brother, and I am grateful that I had the opportunity to know her too.
Her warmth, kindness and grace were exceptional. She bore the vicissitudes of life with great stoicism and an unshakable belief in the sovereignty of Almighty God” .
A flagbearer aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former Minister for Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, has postponed his planned campaign tour of the Ashanti Region due to the demise of former First Lady Theresa Kufuor, the spouse of former President John Agyekum Kufuor.
Dr. Akoto expressed his condolences to the Kufuor family and announced that a new date for his Ashanti regional campaign tour will be announced before the NPP’s November 4 election.
Speaking during a news conference at his residence in Kumasi, Dr. Akoto urged NPP delegates to vote for him as the flagbearer in the upcoming 2024 general elections. He emphasized the importance of the delegates’ decision on November 4.
“We have suspended our Ashanti regional campaign tour as a sign of respect for the loss of the first lady Theresa Kufuor. We will come back at the appropriate time, and we will be informed. But I want to take this opportunity to convey my deepest respect to the delegates of NPP who have been called upon to make a decision for the party. The real contest is on November 4. I’m calling on the delegates to vote for me,” he said.
Mrs. Kufuor, aged 87, passed away at her home in Peduase while surrounded by her family on Sunday, October 1.
The Member of Parliament for Zebilla, Cletus Apul Avoka, has emphasized that finding a replacement for ET Mensah would be challenging due to his dedication and effectiveness in public service.
Mr. Mensah, a former Ningo-Prampram MP, had been battling ill-health for some time and passed away in South Africa on October 1.
Paying tribute to his former colleague, Mr Avoka praised ET Mensah as a politician of high integrity and noted that his boldness and confidence made a significant impact on Ghana’s political landscape.
He expressed his condolences to Mr. Mensah’s family and all those who admired him.
Mr Avoka also shared memories of their time together in Parliament, highlighting their close working relationship during various government roles.
He described ET Mensah as results-oriented and someone who served the country without any stain on his record.
Additionally, he mentioned that Mr. Mensah was closely associated with former President Rawlings and excelled in challenging assignments.
“He [ET Mensah] joined us in the second Parliament and the time I got to know him more was in 2009 when he was Chief Whip, and I was Interior Minister. During that time, I called him every morning to find out what was happening in Parliament and when I needed to be in Parliament. I later went to the House as Majority Leader and ET became Minister for Labour Relations, and we became very close when we were brought together to help Mahama on special initiatives as members of the presidential special drive that eventually became the Three Wise Men.”
“He is bold, confident, and results-oriented, and he was very close to Rawlings and one could only be too close to Rawlings when he was good and if there was any difficult job, and you gave it to ET, he would do it well.”
“He spent much of his adult life serving the country and he did so without blemish. He was also abrasive if you were standing in the way of success and so it will be very difficult to find his replacement.”
The Renal Patients Association has disclosed that 14 individuals who were receiving outpatient care at the renal unit of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital lost their lives after the unit was shut down in May 2023.
According to the association, the closure had serious consequences, preventing these patients from accessing the necessary medical treatment.
Again, these patients were forced to seek more expensive dialysis treatment at private centers, hence leading to their unfortunate deaths.
Speaking to the media, spokesperson for the association, Michael Asante, expressed deep concern over the situation and called on the government to waive the costs of dialysis treatment for renal patients and incorporate such cases into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
“As we speak, the renal unit has been closed since 22 May 2023 up to date to outpatients,” Asante said. “Patients have gone through turbulent times as we struggle to finance our dialysis treatment at private dialysis centres across the centres. Unfortunately, during this shutdown period, we have lost about 14 of our friends…This has left the rest of us living in constant fear for our tomorrow. This is because we do not know who amongst us will be next to lose their lives needlessly.”
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has criticized the management of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital for increasing dialysis fees without the required parliamentary or ministerial approval.
Patients at the Renal Unit faced a significant fee hike, leading to a summons from the ministry to the hospital’s management to explain the decision.
The Ministry of Health’s Public Relations Officer, Isaac Offei Baah, on the other hand has described the fee increase without proper approval as “illegal.”
Six Divisional Chiefs and their elders, representing the Dormaa Traditional Council, signed an agreement on Friday, September 29, to safeguard Dormaa land from illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
These chiefs and elders hail from the Ankobia, Nifa, Benkum, Aduana, Kyidom, and Gyaase divisions, covering six traditional areas, including Bomaa, Chiraa, Abesim Dormaa Municipality, Dormaa, and part of Sunyani.
The resolution stated that any chief who allows illegal mining to persist in their communities would face destoolment by the Omanhene, aligning with Act 995, the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act 2019.
During a special meeting organized by the Dormaa Traditional Council, Dormaahene Osagyefo Oseadeyor Agyemang Badu highlighted the necessity of this decision due to the adverse impact of galamsey on Dormaa communities.
He cited examples like Dormaa Akwamu, Subrikrom, Kyeremasu, and Kosani, where galamsey had caused significant damage, including school dropouts, environmental degradation, and destruction of cocoa farms.
The Dormaahene emphasized that chiefs in the area must take responsibility for addressing galamsey activities rather than turning a blind eye to them. He instructed residents to form community taskforces to apprehend illegal miners and hand them over to law enforcement agencies for prosecution.
He expressed a commitment to responsible mining that benefits the people, aiming to prevent Dormaa from suffering the same negative consequences as other mining towns in Ghana.
Before signing the resolution, the Adontenhene of the Dormaa Traditional Council, Barima Okogyetuo Agyemang, suggested considering the factors that drive youth into galamsey and the possibility of chiefs engaging in such activities.
However, this proposal was rejected by the Council, as it could provide an avenue for some chiefs to become involved in illegal mining.
Images of vice president, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, have captivated many hearts.
The two gentlemen came together at the private residence of Kwabena Agyepong in Kumasi to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the passing of his mother, Margaret Agyepong, who died on August 27, 2013.
These images have garnered attention, especially in the context of recent political developments within the NPP. John Alan Kwadwo Kyeremanten, one of the flagbearer aspirants of the party, recently resigned from the NPP, adding intrigue to the political landscape.
Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, another flagbearer aspirant who did not make it into the top five at the Super Delegates Conference, reaffirmed his commitment to the party despite expressing disappointment in the outcome. He emphasized that the voting pattern was the choice of the delegates.
In an interview with the media, Mr Agyepong expressed pride in the NPP for hosting such an event and sending a strong signal to the country.
He respected the verdict of the special delegates and highlighted their significance within the party, as they included executive heads of constituencies, regional executives, and MPs.
The images of the Vice President and Agyepong have generated various interpretations and discussions within the political sphere.
Stephen Ntim, the national chair of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), has highlighted the importance of collaboration between Nigeria’s All Progressives Congress(APC) and NPP.
Acording ti him, collaborative endeavors could strengthen the enduring presence of both parties in government for the years ahead.
Mr Ntim stressed that there are valuable lessons the NPP can glean from Mr. Ganduje and the APC.
During his visit to Abdullahi Ganduje, the national chair of APC, Mr Ntim expressed his delight and pride in sharing in the momentous occasion of Mr. Ganduje’s recent appointment and also celebrated Nigeria’s 63rd independence anniversary.
“As a party, we have a lot to learn from Ganduje as an individual and from the APC as a political party,” stated Mr. Ntim, acknowledging the wealth of experience and insights that the APC brings to the table,” he remarked.
Ntim’s visit aimed to initiate a path of cooperation between the APC and NPP, with a shared focus on establishing good governance for the betterment of their respective citizens.
He underscored the significant and enduring relationship between Nigeria and Ghana, highlighting that since 2017, Ghanaian presidents have visited Nigeria an impressive 45 times.
Founder and general overseer of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), Rev Dr. Mensah Otabil, has advised Christians against the practice of paying others to pray and fast on their behalf.
He emphasized that it is incorrect for Christians to attempt to purchase the power of God, exchanging money for spiritual influence, access, and opportunities for personal gain.
Drawing from the New Testament account in Acts of the Apostles 8:9–24, Dr. Otabil referenced the story of Simon, the sorcerer, who sought to buy supernatural power from the Apostles Peter and John even after becoming a Christian.
Simon’s motives were driven by personal and financial gain, leading to his condemnation by the Apostles.
Dr. Otabil delivered this message during a sermon to kick off the 2023 Experience Conference of The Maker’s House Chapel International (TMHCI) in Accra, Ghana.
The theme of the conference was “Jesus the Miracle Worker,” and his sermon addressed the topic, “How Do You Work the Works of God?”
“Some of you men, who are very well positioned in life, sometimes you feel you can buy your way to God’s glory and grace,” he explained.
“Some of you have got all kinds of boys and girls who we call prophets and prophetesses, and they are yours.
“You purchase them, you pay them, you feed them, they pray in your house. Once you are working, they pray all day and night for you,” he added.
Dr. Otabil emphasized that true godly success and miracles come from believing in Jesus as the Son of God. He cautioned against the practice of some individuals who believe they can buy their way to God’s favor by employing prophets and prophetesses to pray on their behalf.
“It does not work that way. So, if you think somebody you pay can pray for you for God to hear, you need to check your whole thinking process,” he advised.
He stressed that outsourcing one’s spiritual life in this manner is not effective and urged Christians to have personal encounters with God through Christ.
Dr. Otabil also encouraged Christians to operate in their unique gifts of the Holy Spirit and not attempt to mimic other men of God. He emphasized the importance of excellence in ministry, professions, and all aspects of life.
The conference, which resumed after a break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, featured leading charismatic ministers from Ghana and beyond who ministered through preaching, prayer, healing, and impartation of spiritual gifts.
Prominent figures included Archbishop Nicholas Duncan Williams, Archbishop Charles Agyinasare, and others, along with leading gospel artists. The conference aimed to be an impactful and life-transforming event for participants.
