Author: Phoebe Martekie Doku

The National Democratic Congress (NDC), has stated that its abundant human resources and technical prowess to implement a robust IT system aimed at improving its prospects of winning the 2024 general elections.

Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the newly-appointed Director of Elections in charge of IT for the party, affirms that the NDC is well-prepared for electoral success and has already tested its IT system during the party’s presidential primary and the Assin North by-election.

In an interview with the media, Dr. Omane Boamah dismisses claims by the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) that they possess an insurmountable electoral strategy.

He asserts that the NDC can match the NPP’s IT capabilities, citing their successful handling of the Assin North by-election results in contrast to the NPP’s delayed collation efforts.

He said, “As we speak, their collated results for Assin North by-election is not ready although Joe Anokye was there. For instance, as I sit here, with my Smartphone, I know all that is happening in the 268 centers as far as the ongoing limited voter registration exercise is concerned.”

“But we don’t shout or talk about what we are doing. We did it seamlessly in our presidential primaries without noise. From there, we moved to Assin North, we’ve done it. Not that I am over-trusting the team that we have worked with, but as we speak, we’ve worked together for at least two years.”

He disclosed that, prior to his recent appointment as the Director of Elections in charge of IT, the team that deployed the NDC’s IT system for its presidential primary and the Assin North by-election, was chaired by the former Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, an indication that they have adequate human resource to deliver.

“Let me assure our people, that just as we didn’t make noise about the presidential primaries and the collation in Assin North, we’ll deliver.”

Dr. Omane Boamah emphasizes that the NDC’s IT system is both robust and redundant, drawing attention to the significant data center infrastructure established during his tenure as Communication Minister. He underscores the importance of maintaining secrecy concerning certain state capabilities even after leaving government.

Addressing concerns about the NDC’s capacity for national elections, Dr. Omane Boamah expresses confidence in the party’s readiness and emphasizes their commitment to achieving their goals, with his appointment to lead the Election IT directorate as evidence of their dedication.

He also remarks on the NPP’s success in previous elections, crediting their effective collation of results. However, he reiterates that the NDC’s comprehensive election strategy will present formidable challenges to the NPP in the upcoming polls.

Dr. Omane Boamah concludes by confidently stating that the NDC will emerge victorious in the 2024 elections, citing internal polls and their commitment to countering perceived efforts to limit their chances, such as the Electoral Commission’s decision to reduce the number of voter registration centers.

The president and founder of IMANI Africa, has criticized the Electoral Commission (EC) for limiting the voter registration exercise to its district offices.

Cudjoe voiced his apprehensions about the EC’s conduct, stating that it has been operating without accountability for a considerable period and has been unresponsive to advice and recommendations.

He lamented that the EC seemed to have been allowed to act lawlessly and show disregard for established procedures.

“The EC has been allowed to become lawless for some time…it is impervious to whatever advice is given them.”

One specific example he highlighted was the EC’s decision to confine the registration centres to its district offices, a choice that has been met with disapproval from a segment of the public due to the inconvenience of these locations for many eligible voters.

Notably, both the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and various civil society organizations have urged the EC to broaden the registration exercise to more accessible locations. Despite these calls, the EC has maintained its stance and continued registration exclusively at its district offices.

Cudjoe argued that the EC’s unwillingness to listen to the concerns of stakeholders and expand the registration process has led to long queues and delays at the registration centres.

He further called on the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to assert their concerns about the ongoing voter registration process, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that the EC adheres to the nation’s electoral laws.

Allegations of favoritism have surfaced as legal practitioner Martin Kpebu criticizes the Electoral Commissioner (EC) of Ghana, Jean Mensa.

He condemned her purported failure to extend the voter registration exercise and questions what he perceives as dubious decisions made by the Electoral Commission.

Kpebu minced no words when he harshly rebuked Mensa, asserting that her appointment seemed to be based not on her competence but on her association with the First Lady.

“What the EC is saying is totally wrong. What they are doing defies logic. If the EC eats humble pie and decides to extend registration to all the areas, it will be perfect for our democracy. It has always been clear that the EC is engaged in voter suppression. We cannot countenance this because this country does not belong to the EC. So Ghanaians have to get up.”

Furthermore, Mr Kpebu raised concerns about whether the Electoral Commission was treating the institution as if it were a private enterprise or their personal property.

“Is the EC your personal property? Is the EC a private company that you are running?” he asked.

Kpebu continued to express doubt about Jean Mensa’s qualifications for the role of Electoral Commissioner, alleging that her appointment was influenced by her close relationship with the First Lady.

“I’m not surprised because when Madam Mensa was being appointed, I said that she was not competent. I said it because I asked around everywhere and I never heard anything positive anywhere. I raised it those days she’s not competent. It’s just the cronyism. She’s related a bit to the First Lady, so that’s the connection.”

The legal expert concluded his critique by urging the Electoral Commission to reevaluate its decisions and extend the voter registration exercise to ensure broader citizen participation.

He also hinted at potential advocacy for changing Ghana’s name, underscoring the importance of understanding the nation’s history and identity.

The families of three individuals who were shot by the police in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba district of the Savannah Region are seeking justice from the police.

Jimah Kocho, Habibu Abudi, and Haadi Salifu were apprehended by the police in 2022 from their respective homes in three different communities, suspected of involvement in a robbery incident within the area.

Relatives state that the trio was traced to Accra and only learned about their deaths through a court case they had to initiate, discovering that they were killed during an alleged exchange of gunfire with the police.

Chief Inspector Adams Yahaya, a retired officer and uncle 4to two of the deceased, emphasizes the importance of investigating and penalizing those responsible for this incident.

“We made some enquiries, and they told us the operation was not sanctioned by police headquarters or the National Operations in Accra. There’s no amount of money that can compensate human lives. So those who sanctioned the operation, we want the law to take its course, they should be investigated by a committee. If they are found culpable, they should be put before the court.

“All the deceased had children and wives, we need something [money] that can cater for their children from now to the tertiary level. We also need an apology from the policy administration. They have tainted the image of the family, those boys were not armed robbers,” he said.

There is a growing call for the government to invest in and partner with the local garments and textile industry to incorporate sustainability principles into fashion design.

This comes in response to concerns about the detrimental effects of importing used clothing on the country’s economy.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sleek Garments Export Limited, Dr. Nora Bannerman, emphasized the need for this collaboration.

She believes that such an initiative would not only reduce the adverse impact of fast fashion on the environment but also generate significant profits for domestic manufacturers.

“So, this is where the government will come in and can support businesses to upgrade their equipment to produce fabrics that are quality but affordable and meet the standards of consumers,” she said.

Dr. Bannerman stated, “This is where the government can step in and support businesses in upgrading their equipment to produce high-quality yet affordable fabrics that meet consumer standards.”

She encouraged traders to engage in discussions and negotiations with local clothing manufacturers to produce clothing that promotes sustainability in fashion.

These remarks were made during the unveiling of Sleek Garments Export Limited’s Brand Ambassador for its latest product range, “Cuddles,” in Accra.

Nana Kwame Ankumah, also known as Niashun, a rising music artist, has signed a one-year contract to help promote the company’s new product and connect with potential customers.

At the product launch, Mrs. Bannerman highlighted that the introduction of “Cuddles” was the result of extensive research and customer feedback.

Natasha Bannerman-Kudjaw, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Sleek Garments Export Limited, explained that Niashun was chosen as the brand ambassador due to his unique blend of talent and style. She described “Cuddles” as a product that delivers a quality experience to customers, hence the name.

Mrs. Bannerman-Kudjaw expressed confidence that Niashun would effectively align the company’s values with customer needs and desires. She also hoped that the brand could leverage his influence to increase awareness, expand its customer base, and cultivate lasting relationships.

In his role as a brand ambassador for one year, Niashun is expected to utilize his influence to raise awareness, represent the brand at key events, support promotional campaigns aligned with the brand’s values, and collaborate on various initiatives aimed at strengthening the brand’s identity.

Niashun expressed his gratitude to Sleek Garments for giving him the opportunity to represent the brand.

He pledged to work diligently and effectively in his role as a brand ambassador and acknowledged the company’s outstanding contribution to the country’s development.

He hoped to secure beneficial deals for the company through his efforts.

Traders at the new Kejetia Market in Kumasi have decided to call off their planned protest against the facility’s management following a successful meeting with officials from the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

Over the past few days, traders at Kejetia Market had been raising concerns within the facility by displaying warning signals aimed at the management.

Their primary demands were the resolution of recurring issues related to individual meters within the facility and the delayed construction of a borehole for their use.

To ensure their concerns were taken seriously, the traders had stressed that if their issues were not addressed by Tuesday, September 12, they would escalate their actions to ensure their grievances were heard.

Fortunately, significant progress was achieved after a meeting involving Samuel Pyne, the Kumasi Mayor who also serves as the board chairman of the facility, representatives from ECG, and the market’s management.

ECG has committed to providing the traders with the requested individual meters and has detailed payment terms to expedite the process.

Additionally, the traders reported that the borehole issue has been partially resolved, prompting them to suspend all planned actions in light of these recent developments.

Nana Akwasi Prempeh, the President of the Federation of Kumasi Traders, informed the media that they have temporarily halted their planned protest while awaiting the installation of meters in the Market.

“We held a meeting with the management and board of the Kumasi City Market and we resolved that going forward, all planned activities of the traders against the management have been put on hold. This came as a result of the meeting. Officials of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Market’s management came and made a presentation to us and proposed four scenarios for bringing individual meters to the Market.

“Of the four scenarios, we opted for one pending the contractual agreement that the management and the supposed contractor are going to sign but before the signing, ECG will implement a flat rate regime within the market during the period of the pre-installation and installation of the meters and so for now, all the activities we have planned have been put on hold.”

The CEO of Ghana’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Henry Kwabena Kokofu, is collaborating with other ministries to develop a Lead Prevention Policy to address lead exposure.

The EPA is also intensifying educational efforts to raise awareness about the risks associated with lead.

Speaking at a press conference in Accra, Dr. Kokofu stated, “the EPA will then move ahead and recommend that a high-level multi-sector ministerial committee, including the Ministry of Science, Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, may consider establishing a lead prevention and reduction policy for Ghana with the support of Pure Earth and UNICEF.”

These actions have become imperative following a recent study that revealed elevated levels of lead contamination in popular metal cookware known as ‘dades3n’ across four regions in Ghana. The Global Rapid Market screening study, conducted by the environmental NGO Pure Earth’s Blacksmith Initiative, identified concerning levels of lead in consumer products and food items produced in low and middle-income countries, including Ghana.

The study found high levels of lead contamination in various items, with metal cookware (‘dades3n’) at 55%, ceramic cookware at 18%, children’s toys at 14%, and local mascara cosmetics at 7%.

A World Bank report also highlighted the severe impact of lead exposure on cognitive development, indicating that children under 5 years old worldwide lost a significant amount of IQ points due to lead exposure, particularly in low and middle-income countries.

Country Director for Pure Earth, Esmond Wisdom Quansah, emphasized the risks of lead poisoning associated with using metallic cookware.

He mentioned that the study results were consistent across multiple experiments, urging public awareness and consideration of alternatives to mitigate further damage.

“Children under 5 years old worldwide lost 765 million IQ points, those living in low and middle-income countries lost 729 million IQ points.”

“There is an average loss of 5.9 IQ points per child and this IQ points loss is 80% greater than the previous estimate,” the report stated.

Quansah revealed that leach tests conducted on the metallic or aluminum cooking pots showed that 52% of the pots tested had lead leaching in concentrations greater than the reference level of 10 ug/L. Although repeated leaching reduced lead levels, it remained above the 10 ug/L reference level in most cases, raising concerns about the safety of such cookware.

“What this points to is that we are not safe, if you happen to be eating from any of these metallic or ‘dades3n’ cookware we are at risk of lead poisoning.”

“We’ve grown a step further, our scientists have conducted what we call the leach test to determine the percentage of leach of this lead concentration in this metallic or aluminum cooking pot into the food and we were surprised by the findings of the scientists.”

“52% of the pots tested leached lead in concentrations greater than our reference level of 10 ug/L. The repeated leaching “boils” in pots in general resulted in lower lead in leachate, although lead remained above the 10 ug/L reference level in most cases, so that is a cause for concern for everyone and that is why we are putting this information in the public,” he explained.

Lawyer Martin Kpebu has announced his intention to take legal action against President Akufo-Addo for alleged corruption, stating that not even immunity granted to a former President will deter him from pursuing this course of action.

Mr Kpebu clarified that presidential immunity is intended to protect individuals for their official actions and not for acts of corruption. He made these remarks in an interview with the media on Saturday, September 16.

His statement was made in the context of discussing the recent apology issued by Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo.

“The immunity is for the things that he has done and not for acts like corruption,” he stated.

Mr Kpebu expressed concern that it took President Akufo-Addo a considerable amount of time to remove Safo from her position as Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, implying that such delays might indicate corruption.

Kpebu asserted his intention to take legal action against President Akufo-Addo as soon as the President leaves office, based on his allegations of corruption.

However, Richard Ahiagbah, the Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), criticized Kpebu’s frequent criticism of the President, describing it as “unexemplary” and highlighting Kpebu’s propensity to insult the President at will.

The Mortuaries and Funeral Facilities Agency (MoFFA) has declared its intent to ban the importation of metal caskets into the nation as a measure to better control burial space.

MoFFA has stated that the use of metal caskets for burial purposes is considered a violation of the law.

The agency has explained that the law disapproves of the use of metal caskets because they do not decompose like wooden coffins.

This decision has been prompted by concerns that Ghana is facing a shortage of burial space. Dr. Yaw Twerefour, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MoFFA, made this announcement during an interview with the media.

Dr. Yaw Twerefour further clarified that MoFFA’s responsibilities encompass the control, licensing, and regulation of all aspects related to the handling of the deceased, including storage, burial, transportation, and disposal within the country.

He emphasized that MoFFA is currently engaged in discussions with various stakeholders to arrive at a final decision regarding the importation of metal caskets into the country.

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He stressed that while the use of metal caskets may be fashionable, it contradicts the law, as these caskets were originally designed for transporting deceased bodies to contain droplets from the deceased body.

A taxi driver has faced a perilous situation after his vehicle unexpectedly veered off its intended path and ended up in the Odaw River at Alajo on Friday September 15.

According to an eyewitness, the taxi driver was attempting to navigate a curve toward a nearby car wash.

“The driver was trying to turn at the washing bay; unfortunately, he ended up in the Odaw River at Alajo,” the witness explained.

Fortunately, quick action was taken, and the driver was safely rescued from the accident site. “So far, the driver has been successfully removed,” the witness added.

The Odaw River, initially channelized into a canal to mitigate recurring floods in parts of Accra, has struggled to contain even minor showers in recent times.

The river’s course stretches from the Abokobi and Adjankote hills through various areas like Ashongman, Atomic Energy area, West Legon, Achimota, Alajo, Avenor, and Agbogbloshie before reaching the Atlantic Ocean through the Korle Lagoon, draining the Accra metropolis.

However, this essential service is hindered due to the excessive accumulation of garbage within the river.

Despite government efforts to address this issue through costly dredging, the problem persists. Scrap dealers, traders, mechanics, and squatters residing along the riverbanks worsen the situation by indiscriminately dumping various forms of waste into the river.

The Odaw River has sadly turned into not only a dumping site for solid waste but also a receptacle for human waste, as some individuals openly defecate along its banks, even during daylight hours.

A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has criticized the Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, for her recent apology to her constituents.

This criticism comes in the wake of her recent apology to her constituents for her absence last year.

The NDC representative contended that Adwoa Safo’s actions appear to underestimate the intelligence of her constituents.

According to him, this assessment is rooted in the fact that she departed the country for nearly a year, citing health reasons, but still found time to maintain her TikTok presence.

Godwin Mahama, asserted that Adwoa Safo’s plea for a second term in office amounts to a display of disrespect towards the residents of Dome Kwabenya.

“She left the country close to one year in the name of she wasn’t well but she kept recording herself on TikTok and there was nothing showing that she wasn’t well.

“It is all because the NPP thinks whatever attitude they show to the people of Dome Kwabenya, because it is their stronghold, they will still vote for them. Since 2004 that the constituency was created, it has always been the NPP and I think they are taking the people of Dome Kwabenya for granted,” he said.

Godwin Mahama further argued that Adwoa Safo’s apology, given as she seeks re-election for a second term, was a sign of disrespect toward the people of Dome Kwabenya.

He criticized her for neglecting her parliamentary duties when her constituents were facing various challenges, such as inadequate roads and markets.

He emphasized that the people of Dome Kwabenya expected their representative in parliament to be actively engaged in addressing their issues.

“When you go to Dome Kwabenya, they have a lot of issues including a lack of roads, market. Yesterday I listened to them and they were complaining bitterly. So they were expecting her to be on the floor of parliament,” he added.

In response to the criticism, Sarah Adwoa Safo, the incumbent MP for Dome Kwabenya, issued a heartfelt apology to her constituents and the leadership of the NPP for her misconduct.

She acknowledged neglecting her duties and violating parliamentary and party rules during her absence.

Member of Parliament representing Korle Klottey, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has voiced her concerns regarding the ongoing limited voter registration initiative conducted by the Electoral Commission (EC), highlighting its adverse financial implications for Members of Parliament (MPs).

She also characterized the procedure as disorderly due to its attempt to serve a multitude of districts from a single location.

Agyeman-Rawlings expressed these sentiments while visiting the EC’s headquarters alongside former president, John Mahama to evaluate the registration process.

The parliamentarian also noted that the current arrangement places a financial burden on MPs, who are responsible for providing transportation and other forms of support to constituents in need of registration services.

“Lots of people, who are here, live from hand to mouth. Any moment they sit here is money potentially they can make in a day. We need to make the process a little smoother. I’m not quite sure what the EC is going to do about this situation. We have too many districts and one location, which is making it very stressful for lots of those who are here,” she remarked.

When questioned about whether the registration exercise was straining MPs financially, she replied, “It’s the case across the board and it’s one of the things why we were not in favour of the limited registration exercise being done in this form.”

Agyeman-Rawlings urged the EC to decentralize the registration process and allocate additional resources to ensure a seamless and efficient operation.

The EC initiated the voter registration process on Tuesday at its district offices across the nation, allowing individuals who have reached the age of 18 to obtain voter identity cards for the upcoming elections.

Three mobile phone operators stand accused in an Accra Circuit Court for purportedly vending pre-registered diverse SIM cards to the public at Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Accra.

The police assert that all these SIM cards were registered with different Ghana cards without the knowledge of the cardholders.

Lydia Serwaa Akoto, 36, was reportedly found offering for sale two registered Vodafone SIM cards and 13 pre-registered MTN SIM cards.

Appiah Danquah Ampofo, 46, was also found offering 19 pre-registered MTN and nine Vodafone SIM cards without authorization.

In the case of Kwadwo Kyei, 53, three pre-registered Vodafone SIM cards were found to be offered for sale.

The three accused individuals have been charged with “knowingly dealing in pre-registered subscriber identity modules or user identity modules.”

All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges. The court, presided over by Evelyn Asamoah, has granted bail to the accused persons in the sum of GH¢80,000 each, with three sureties required for each defendant, two of whom must be gainfully employed.

Their next court appearance is scheduled for October 19, 2023.

The prosecution, led by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Emmanuel Haligah, stated that the Police Intelligence Directorate (PID) of the Ghana Police Service received information that mobile money vendors in the Accra metropolis were selling pre-registered SIM cards from various networks to the public. Acting on this information, a police team arrested Lydia Serwaa Akoto, Appiah Danquah Ampofo, and Kwadwo Kyei on May 4, 2023.

Upon searching the accused persons, police discovered various suspected pre-registered SIM cards, as well as cash.

When questioned about the source of their supply, they claimed to have obtained the SIM cards from agents of various network service providers at their shops but had limited information about these suppliers, including their addresses. Nevertheless, they could identify them when in contact.

On May 30, 2023, all the suspected pre-registered SIM cards were sent to the respective telecommunications companies for verification. Reports received on July 3, 2023, confirmed the pre-registration status of the SIM cards, with some linked to different individuals’ Ghana cards without their knowledge.

The accused persons allegedly admitted to the offense in their investigation caution statement, according to the Prosecutor.

Jim Orleans Brown, who had faced accusations of defrauding parents and guardians over the Senior High School (SHS) placement in 2022, has been discharged by a Kaneshie District Court.

The case was dismissed by Magistrate Her Worship Ama Adomako Kwakye on Wednesday, November 2, 2022, due to a lack of prosecution.

Background

Mr. Brown was apprehended on Tuesday, April 19, 2022, at the Accra Resolution Centre, where he was alleged to have committed the aforementioned offense.

He stood accused of engaging with parents and their children before the actual staff resumed work at the center, soliciting various sums of money from unsuspecting victims with promises of securing their preferred schools.

He was taken into custody by Adabraka Police and subsequently brought to court for legal proceedings.

However, after a year of court proceedings, he was discharged because the prosecution failed to submit a witness statement, compelling the presiding judge to release the suspect.

Former Chief Justice, Sophia Akuffo has rebuked ex-president John Dramani Mahama’s recent allegations, wherein he accused President Akufo-Addo of stacking the judiciary with judges aligned with the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Sophia Akuffo criticized Mahama’s comments, deeming them unnecessary and potentially damaging to the judiciary’s reputation.

During the NDC’s third annual lawyers’ conference in Akosombo, the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) flagbearer asserted that the NPP had populated the courts with judges supportive of their party.

He suggested that NDC lawyers should prepare to serve on the bench to restore balance if the NDC wins the 2024 elections.

“We know they [NPP] have packed the courts because they fear accountability when they leave office. We must be prepared as NDC lawyers to go to the bench to balance the current situation,” Mahama said.

In response, the former Chief Justice, during an interview with Asaase Radio, expressed concern that such comments unfairly tarnish the judiciary’s reputation. She questioned whether Mahama’s own appointments during his tenure were influenced by political affiliation and emphasized the need to avoid such labels, which could create unnecessary pressure within the judiciary.

“He has been through the process of appointing other people before, so was it that because they were NDC?…it always upsets me when you get comments like oh this one is NPP judge, oh this one is NDC and yet you have never seen the person on any party’s rally or platforms.”

She added, “These are some of the unnecessary pressures imposed on the judiciary. What difference does that label make to me, my career, and my work?… Sometimes it affects you.”

President Akufo-Addo also criticized Mahama for his remarks, describing them as “very dangerous” and a “brazen attack on the independence of the judiciary” during a speech at the Bar Conference in Cape Coast on Monday, September 11.

The GBA shared Akufo-Addo’s concerns about the judiciary’s independence but disagreed with his approach.

The GBA believed that safeguarding the judiciary’s independence required all politicians, regardless of party affiliation, to uphold the rule of law and the separation of powers.

“The GBA believes that the best way to protect the independence of the judiciary is to ensure that all politicians, regardless of their party affiliation, respect the rule of law and the separation of powers.”

The National Youth Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Salam Mustapha, has expressed astonishment at the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) pledge to raise the cocoa price to GHC2,800.

The NDC downplayed President Akufo-Addo‘s commitment to increase the cocoa producer price per bag to GHC1,308 for the upcoming cocoa season, marking a substantial 63.6% increase in the farm gate price of cocoa beans.

Contrary to the President’s stated amount, the NDC claimed they would have elevated the price to GHC2,800. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader, conveyed this perspective during a conference with cocoa farmers in Dadiesoaba, Ahafo Region.

He emphasized that under an NDC government, the cocoa bag price would be GH¢2,500 with an additional GH¢300 premium, totaling GH¢2,800 per bag.

“As we speak now, cocoa prices have seen the biggest increment since 1977, so it is your season to make a profit. If NDC were to be in government, we would have a bag of cocoa at GH¢2,500 and add a premium of GH¢300. So you would have received GH¢2,800 per bag,” Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson said at a conference with cocoa farmers at Dadiesoaba in the Ahafo Region.

“The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government has once again shortchanged Ghanaian cocoa farmers. The announced increment in the farmgate price of cocoa to GH₵1,308 is a total rip-off as cocoa farmers will continue to remain worse off than they were seven (7) years ago under the NDC/Mahama government. The Spot Price of cocoa on the international market has surged to a record high of about $3,600 per metric ton as of 31st August 2023. This price is the highest since 1977- that is, in the last 46 years,” former President John Mahama also made these remarks at Tepa in the Ashanti Region during the opening of the 2023/2024 cocoa season.

In response, Salam Mustapha, during an interview with the media, he expressed his amazement at the criticisms from the NDC.

He criticized the NDC’s actions and statements, suggesting that even the devil would find their conduct surprising and questionable.

Mustapha commended President Akufo-Addo for his efforts in providing relief to cocoa farmers and hoped that history would recognize and appreciate the President, COCOBOD, leadership, and cocoa farmers for their contributions.

“Some of the things that the NDC does in this country, I think even the devil gets surprised…When you look at what they are capable of saying and doing, even the devil will not try it. May history remember him kindly together with the COCOBOD, the leadership and the cocoa farmers,” he added..

The National Youth Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), known as George Opare Addo or Pablo, has expressed concerns about three key institutions in Ghana.

According to him the Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC), the judiciary, and the clergy should be held accountable if Ghana faces adverse consequences.

During an interview with the media on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, Pablo accused the EC of intentionally attempting to disenfranchise Ghanaians in the ongoing limited voter’s registration exercise.

He also criticized the judiciary for not intervening when called upon to address the EC’s alleged wrongdoing.

Pablo, reacting to the Supreme Court’s decision not to set a date for an injunction against the EC’s limited voter’s registration exercise, emphasized that when the system fails to deliver justice, people may resort to taking matters into their own hands.

He stated, “There are three organizations in Ghana that should bear responsibility if any unfortunate events occur. First, we must hold the judiciary accountable because when people are denied access to justice, they may decide to enforce the law themselves.”

Pablo went on to express his concerns about the Electoral Commission, alleging that state institutions had been compromised, and said, “Akufo-Addo has undermined our state institutions. For the first time, all three leaders of the EC are members of the same political party.”

“There are three organisations in Ghana that have to be blamed if any bad thing happens in Ghana. The first group we must blame is the judiciary because when people cannot access justice, they decide to take the laws into their own hands.

“The second organisation is the Electoral Commission. Akufo-Addo has destroyed our state institutions. For the first time, the three people leading the EC are members,” he said.

He added, “The 3rd group of people who are to blame if things go haywire in Ghana is the clergy, our pastors and our Imams.”

The Member of Parliament representing Bawku Central Constituency, Mahama Ayariga, has stated that all available evidence suggests that the issues plaguing the Bank of Ghana (BoG) are primarily the result of actions taken by the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta.

Consequently, he affirmed that both the Minority and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have adopted a fresh stance, demanding the resignation of Ken Ofori-Atta as well.

“We demand that the Governor should resign, he and his two deputies and, in fact, given the posture and attitude of the Finance Minister, we now take a position that the Finance Minister himself should go because even if we bring a new Governor, every indication is that this Finance Minister is going to collude and collaborate and put pressure on them to do the very things that this Governor and his teams are doing,” he stated.

This development arises in response to an article written by Mr. Ofori-Atta in defense of Governor Dr. Ernest Yedu Addison.

Entitled ‘Standing Strong with the Bank of Ghana,’ the article was published earlier on the same Thursday. In the article, Mr. Ofori-Atta praised the Governor as “a capable professional known for his quiet resolve.”

The article also highlighted their collaborative achievements over nearly seven years, including preserving the stability of the banking system, establishing the Consolidated Bank of Ghana (CBG) and the Development Bank of Ghana, raising over $10 billion in the Eurobond market and AfriExim bank, reducing inflation to single digits (7.9%), and maintaining a stable currency, which included implementing the Gold-for-Oil program.

Mr. Ayariga countered this praise by emphasizing that Governor Addison “should not be lauded” because, according to him, although the Governor achieved single-digit inflation in the past, he has overseen an increase in inflation to over 40 percent due to incompetence.

Consequently, Mr. Ayariga argued that this inflation surge provides a legitimate basis for demanding the Governor’s resignation.

“In these nearly seven years, we have worked together to ensure: the inviolability of the banking system; the establishment of the Consolidated Bank of Ghana (CBG) and the Development Bank of Ghana; the raising of over $10 billion in the Eurobond market and AfriExim bank.

“He brought inflation down to single digits of 7.9% for the first time; and managed an impressive period of currency stability in our country including the implementation of the Gold-for-Oil programme.

“It is either simply the height of irony or a sad reflection of the state of public discourse in our country that this man, steps up in a period of unprecedented global economic meltdown and domestic economic crises, and he is being pilloried for his good work.”

Previously, the Minority had given the Governor a 21-day ultimatum to resign, with the threat of organizing marches to demand his removal if he did not comply. However, the Minority’s two attempts to organize these marches were thwarted.

The first attempt, scheduled for Tuesday, September 5, was halted by an injunction secured by the Accra Regional Police Command, which is still pending in an Accra High Court.

The second attempt, planned for Tuesday, September 12, was canceled due to ongoing negotiations with the police. A new date, Tuesday, October 3, has been agreed upon for the rescheduled march.

The Ahafo regional chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party, has stated that the performance of Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, is patently evident to Ghanaians who evaluate his tenure objectively.

In his view, the operations of the Police and the level of public trust in the institution have markedly improved since Dr. Dampare assumed leadership.

“Let’s stop stabbing hardworking people in the back. What this man is doing is obvious for every Ghanaian to see. Even if you don’t like him, you can tell that the police service is much better under him. Because we are so used to doing wrong, we can’t accept people who are transformational.

“All other IGPs in the past did their part and have left, but if you look at the changes, the visibility, the public confidence in the service, and all that, you can tell that he’s the best Ghana has had in many years, and we must protect and defend people like that. In my region, I see police people on motorbikes everywhere you pass, and we are allowing a few jealous individuals to destroy such a person. That is not right, and we must speak up,” he told Kumasi-based Angel FM on Friday, September 15, 2023.

Sekyere passionately advocates for refraining from undermining diligent individuals. He emphasizes that Dr. Dampare’s contributions are conspicuous to all Ghanaians, regardless of personal preferences.

He noted the positive transformation in the police service under Dr. Dampare’s leadership, citing enhanced visibility, heightened public confidence, and overall improvements.

He contends that Dr. Dampare is arguably the most effective Inspector General of Police in recent memory and calls for his protection and support. In his region, he observes a significant increase in police presence, evident by the proliferation of officers on motorcycles. He condemns any attempts by envious individuals to tarnish Dr. Dampare’s reputation and implores others to voice their support.

These sentiments were expressed during an interview with the media on Friday, September 15, 2023.

Earlier in the week, Inspector General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare appeared before a parliamentary ad hoc committee investigating a leaked tape in which some police officers discussed his removal. Those making the allegations had previously testified before the committee.

The committee is currently in recess and is scheduled to reconvene on October 2, 2023.

Founder of Valley View University, Pastor Prof. Jacob Jonas Nii Klu Nortey, will be laid to rest on September 15, 2023, at 8 am, on the university campus in Oyibi. Pastor Nortey passed away at 84.

As a Christian educationist, he rose to become Vice President of the Seventh Day Adventist Church worldwide. Born in Abokobi to a father from Osu and a mother from the Abokobi royal family, he began his education at the Abokobi Presbyterian school and eventually became a Reverend Professor of the SDA Church.

Pastor Nortey was known for his inspiring energy and dedication to helping others achieve their goals, guiding them toward the path of Jesus Christ.

His spiritual journey began in 1959 when he joined the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Accra.

This marked the start of his commitment to spiritual growth and academic excellence in Christian education, both in Africa and the United States.

One of his significant achievements was founding Valley View University in Oyibi, Accra, during his term as the first black President of the SDA Church for Africa/India Ocean.

This prestigious institution stands near the University of Ghana, Legon.

Even after retiring from Church Finance and Administration, he continued to inspire future generations, serving as an adjunct lecturer at Valley View University and other universities worldwide.

He also held the position of ex-President at Datalink University in Tema.

Pastor Nortey’s influence extended beyond academia and the church, as he served as the godparent to notable individuals like Dr. Alfred Nii Oko Vanderpuije, former Accra Mayor and MP of Ablekuma South, Professor Seth Nii Aban Laryea, former Vice Chancellor of Valley View University, and Dr. Moses Tawiah Adoko, Chief Knowledge Officer of the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and a Professor of Aerospace Complex Systems.

His legacy lives on through the J.J Nortey Education Trust Funds, which support countless individuals pursuing tertiary and Christian education in Ghana and abroad.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry has enacted a suspension on the issuance of permits for the establishment of new manufacturing and packaging facilities for Portland cement.

This directive, effective as of September 13, 2023, was communicated through a statement signed by the Minister of Trade and Industry, KT Hammond. The statement emphasizes that all procedures leading to the approval of such permits are on hold until further notice.

The ministry also instructed regulatory bodies to ensure strict compliance with this directive. However, the statement did not provide specific reasons for this decision.

“The Ministry of Trade and Industry hereby directs that effective 13th September 2023, No permits shall be granted or issued for the construction of new factories for the manufacture and bagging of cement.

“All processes leading to the granting of such permits are hereby suspended until further notice. Regulatory institutions are to take note for immediate release and compliance,” the Ministry said in its statement.

For additional information, you can access the full statement from the Ministry of Trade and Industry through the provided link.

About Ghana’s cement industry:

Cement is a fundamental component in civil engineering projects, and various grades of cement, such as 32.5R, 42.5R, and 52.5R, denote its strength.

Some of the prominent cement brands in the Ghanaian market include Ghana Cement (GHACEM), Western DIAMOND Cement (DIAMOND), CIMAF Cement, DANGOTE Cement, SUPACEM Cement, Dzata Cement, Savanna Cement, CBI Ghana Ltd, Xin An Safe Cement, and Wan Heng Ghana Ltd.

Due to the significant infrastructural development in Ghana, there has been a surge in cement demand, leading to the introduction of new cement products in the market. Some companies import cement products and package them in Ghana.

Notably, the Ghanaian government reportedly spends around $350 million annually to import approximately 85 percent of the raw materials required for cement production, with clinker and gypsum being the primary imports.

Research indicates that Portland cement is the most widely used type of cement globally.

President Akufo-Addo has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in the country, recognizing its potential to drive socioeconomic transformation and expedite national development.

He emphasized that recent years have seen significant progress in making TVET more responsive to the evolving demands of the workforce.

The President highlighted various policy initiatives aimed at strengthening TVET, including curriculum revisions, the provision of modern infrastructure and facilities, fostering collaboration with industries, ensuring quality assurance, and reshaping public perception and attitudes towards TVET.

As a result of these efforts, the longstanding challenges facing TVET are gradually being addressed, with a greater focus on emerging technologies, contemporary industry practices, and market requirements.

President Akufo-Addo’s remarks were delivered by the Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, Ignatius Baffour Awuah, at the centenary celebration of the Mampong Technical College of Education (MAMTECH) in the Ashanti Region, under the theme “The role of technical and vocational education and training in the national development agenda.”

The event was attended by the Chief of Mampong, Daasebre Osei Bonsu, the Member of Parliament (MP) of Mampong, Kwaku Ampratwum Sarpong, and former students of the college.

The President cited global examples such as Germany, Singapore, and the Asian Tigers to emphasize that TVET equips trainees with practical, hands-on skills that empower them to establish their own businesses, thereby creating employment opportunities.

Doris Boakye Ansah, the principal of the school, expressed pride in the college’s 100-year history of producing exceptional teachers and making significant contributions to Ghana’s development.

However, she also highlighted some challenges, including the need for an ultra-modern auditorium, financial clearance for critical staff recruitment, and the shortage of accommodation for teachers.

In honor of their centenary anniversary, the college aims to construct a 3,500-seat auditorium and called upon alumni and philanthropic individuals and organizations to support this initiative.

Several executives from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Dome-Kwabenya constituency have expressed doubts regarding the sincerity of Member of Parliament Sarah Adwoa Safo’s recent public apology.

Adwoa Safo, the former deputy Majority Leader, had faced criticism for her prolonged absence from parliament and chose to address the public through a video message, apologizing for her actions.

The General Secretary of the NPP in Dome-Kwabenya, Theophilus Larbi, has raised questions about the authenticity of her apology and has voiced concerns about her potential candidacy as the party’s parliamentary representative in the upcoming general elections.

Speaking on behalf of the constituency’s party leadership during an interview with the media, Mr Larbi stated, “If she has rendered an unqualified apology, who are we as humans to say we are not taking it, we have accepted her apology, but what does she want us to do for her after the apology? If she is interested in the seat again, then what I will say as a Constituency Secretary is that we are sorry.”

Mr Larbi further elaborated on the rationale behind their reservations, explaining, “The reason being that, we are the representation of the people in this constituency. The majority of the people say if we bring Hon Adwoa Safo back again, they will not vote for the party, and as a person and officer who means well for this party, I have to listen.”

Mr Larbi emphasized the discontent among residents regarding Adwoa Safo’s repeated absenteeism from parliament and her failure to maintain open lines of communication with her constituents.

He concluded, “The majority of people are not happy about what happened. She has apologized, severally, but I’m sorry, we have the men and women. As far as I’m concerned, it can no longer be Adwoa Safo. Dome Kwabenya cannot be represented by her”.