Author: Phoebe Martekie Doku

Traders in Kumasi have expressed their displeasure over the stalled phase two of the Kejetia Central Market redevelopment project.

They have issued a warning of a forthcoming demonstration to pressure authorities into resuming work on the project and have requested the government to provide clear timelines for its completion.

Several crucial projects in Kumasi, including the second phase of the Kejetia Central Market redevelopment, the Mother and Baby Unit at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), phases two and three of the Kumasi International Airport expansion, and various Sinohydro projects, have been halted since December of the previous year due to funding shortages.

The traders, who intend to utilize these spaces once the projects are finished, have repeatedly emphasized the urgent need for construction to recommence, as they are becoming increasingly frustrated by the delays.

Emilia Kwofie, the secretary of the combined Kumasi Central Market Traders Union, stated in an interview with the media that they are demanding that authorities prioritize the project and that they will proceed with the demonstration after completing the necessary procedures with the police.

“We have been to the mayor’s office a couple of times to inquire, because you just can’t demonstrate when you don’t have any concrete information. We were assured that if the IMF money comes, work will commence. Unfortunately, we have realized that even though the IMF money is in, no work is done. There are quite a number of us who were evacuated from the place.

So our people keep pushing that if we want to go diplomatically and the government is not listening to us, then we will have to take it to the streets. So that somebody sees us and nobody hears us. As we talk to you now, we are still talking with the police to give us a date when we can demonstrate. All we want is for work to resume so that we can start our businesses; we can’t stay in the house forever.”

In response to the traders’ concerns, Kumasi Mayor Samuel Pyne did not specify a precise date for the resumption of work on the projects. However, he noted that discussions are currently underway with the Finance Ministry and the Ministry of Local Government. He expressed optimism that construction on these projects would recommence in the near future.

“As part of the government’s debt restructuring programme, certain projects and funding have been put on hold. Kejetia-Central Market redevelopment, the Mother and Baby block at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH). Phases two and three of the Kumasi International Airport expansion and Sinohydro projects with the region, were all affected. The contract, project consultant, and officials of the local government ministry and finance ministry, were on site two weeks ago to do a comprehensive study. I know pretty soon they will come back to the site to continue work,” Sam Pyne assured.

A lead convenor of the #FixtheCountry# movement, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has announced his intention to file a formal complaint against the Minister for National Security, Albert Kan-Dapaah.

This decision stems from corruption allegations made against him by the minister.

Barker-Vormawor revealed this plan in a post shared on Twitter on September 25, 2023, and stated that the complaint would be submitted to the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

Background:

Advocates of the #FixTheCountry movement alleged that they were offered a substantial one million dollars to halt the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest.

This revelation, conveyed through the official FixTheCountry Twitter account, shed light on efforts to disrupt the #OccupyJulorBiHouse protest.

Despite facing police arrests and a secured injunction, the protest, organized by Democracy Hub, initially began, with the organizers citing a lack of formal notification of the court order.

Responding to this situation, the FixTheCountry group expressed their stance through a tweet from their official Twitter account. They stated, “Since they want it this way, we will talk. The cabinet promised us $1 million if only we can stop the demonstration. We rejected! We want a better Ghana.”

After being released from police custody on September 22, 2023, along with other participants in the #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstration, Oliver Barker-Vormawor informed journalists that they possess secret recordings of their meetings with Mr. Kan Dapaah, unbeknownst to the government.

He said: “While I was in the UK, the National Security Minister called and invited me for a sit-down. The government offered to pay for my flight, in order to meet here in Ghana”.

“This was something that was never disclosed to the public”, he said, “but we met at a safe house for us to stop our activism,” Mr Barker-Vormawor narrated.

“This was way before we started the first #FixTheCountry demonstration,” he noted.

“We were offered not only money but appointments; and if we agreed to stop this, we were going to be free, but the most important thing was not to bring citizens onto the streets,” he claimed.

He said: “When we rejected that, Kan Dapaah, the National Security Minister, said to my face that if we decide to continue on this course of action, we will be arrested.”

“We will be dealt with and that it will be over his dead body any demonstrations will happen. At the time we were even in Supreme Court at the time,” he said.

“So, I was not surprised that I was ultimately arrested by the government and continue being charged for treason,” he said, adding: “For over two years now, the government has tried to prevent us from mobilising people.”

In a statement, the ministry acknowledged that in 2021, the Ministers of National Security and Finance, along with other relevant stakeholders, engaged with the conveners of the Fix the Country Movement to listen to their concerns. However, the statement emphasized that no offer of money or appointment was made to persuade the group to end its “activism.”

“The allegations made by Oliver Barker-Vormawor are, thus, false, unfounded, and a calculated attempt to hoodwink Ghanaians”, the statement noted.

“This Ministry, therefore, challenges him to produce the alleged recording of the said inducement. Meanwhile, the general public is urged to ignore the allegations and treat them with the utmost contempt they deserve”, the statement added.

Former trade minister, Alan Kyerematen has unveiled a four-point agenda for his independent candidacy in the 2024 polls.

Mr Kyerematen cited long-standing divisiveness within the NPP and alleged hostile attacks on himself and his supporters spanning over a decade.

In his announcement to run as an independent presidential candidate on the same day, Kyerematen introduced his proposed “movement for change,” emphasizing that he would champion this paradigm shift if entrusted with leading Ghana.

“I have endured all this resentment, and maintained my integrity within the party throughout the past fifteen years.”

On Monday, September 25, 2023, while announcing his candidacy as an independent presidential candidate, Mr. Kyerematen unveiled his vision for Ghana, known as the “movement for change.” He expressed his commitment to championing this paradigm shift if entrusted with the leadership of the country.

1. Change the political status quo by moving Ghana beyond the duopoly of the two main political parties in Ghana; the NPP and NDC. This will break divisive partisanship in governance in Ghana, and bring an end to the “winner takes all” political syndrome. In addition, there is the need to promote reforms in the internal democratic processes and procedures of all political parties, such as introducing ‘One Man One Vote’ (OMOV) to ensure inclusiveness, and reduce the effect of monetization in politics. The principles underpinning national elections must be reflected in the electoral process of political parties in Ghana.
2. Promote the establishment of a Government of National Unity, which will include people from all walks of life, irrespective of their political, religious, and ethnic affiliations: rich or poor, abled-bodied or physically challenged, young or old, women and men. This will allow for effective and inclusive participatory governance. The MOVEMENT will lead to the formation of a Government of the people, by the people, and for the people.
3. Build consensus on a National Development Agenda which will introduce a new paradigm shift that moves Ghana from growth and stability to economic transformation. This paradigm shift will be driven by my Great Transformational Plan (GTP) for Ghana, which puts the private sector and the business community at the center of our national development efforts.

4. Inspire behavioural and attitudinal change in the people of Ghana. This will include but not be limited to the following.

a. Enforcement of Discipline: We as a people should appreciate the need for maintaining discipline in all spheres of our national lives, including changing our attitude to work.

b. A War against Corruption: Corruption, particularly from the public purse, denies our country the benefit of utilizing its tax revenue and other resources for the development of our country. All sections of Ghanaian society should wage a vigorous war on corruption, through a combination of legal and institutional reforms, the application of technology including artificial intelligence, blockchain technology and data analytics, as well as maintaining societal pressure against corruption, and leading by example. If elected as the President of the Republic, I will sign a “Citizens Contract” with the people of Ghana, committing to wage a relentless war against corruption.

c. Arrogance of Power: As I have stated on previous occasions, the arrogance of power has been a major obstruction to progress in our country. People in positions of authority must understand that leadership is an opportunity to serve the people, and not to lord over them. In servant leadership, humility is an asset and not a weakness.

d. Passion for Excellence: As a country, we must celebrate competence and excellence and not mediocrity. Advancement in the public sector in particular, must be based on meritocracy and not patronage and protocol. Putting square pegs in round holes has been the biggest challenge for service delivery at every level in our governance structure. A significant shift in this regard, will allow the best talents in our country, particularly the youth, to be deployed to achieve optimum performance in various institutions and organizations.

e. Solution Based Thinking and a Focus on Execution: As a people, we must focus more on ‘getting things done’ and finding solutions to problems, rather than spending time on excessive and needles debates.

f. Making Laws Work in Ghana: The lack of compliance and disrespect for laws, rules, and regulations in Ghana, is a major stumbling block for national development. As a people, we must commit ourselves to the sanctity and rule of law, to ensure peace, law, and order in our society.

g. Patriotism: The pride of being Ghanaian and promoting good citizenship, as well as patronizing goods made in Ghana, is a development imperative.

Police in the North East region have began a probe into the murder of a 60-year-old woman who had been accused of witchcraft in Janga, West Mamprusi district.

The victim was allegedly shot by a young man who is related to her. Her lifeless body has been transported to WaleWale Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

Zakari Iddi, the deceased woman’s brother-in-law, reported that the woman was inside her residence when the attacker approached and fired the fatal shot.

He stated, “she was in her room and they pulled out to the entrance and they shot her. All that I know is that she is suspected of witchcraft.”

It’s worth noting that Ghana’s parliament passed legislation in 2020 to safeguard individuals accused of witchcraft, making it illegal to mistreat or exile them from their communities.

This law was enacted following the lynching of a 90-year-old woman in Kafaba, East Gonja Municipality of the Savannah Region in July 2020. The incident had garnered widespread condemnation from both local and international human rights organizations.

The government has initiated a training program for approximately 2,000 hospitality staff members in French as part of an extensive language training initiative aimed at enhancing the overall tourism experience for international visitors, further solidifying Ghana’s reputation as a welcoming destination in the sub-region.

This effort, a component of the government’s Ghana Cares Economic Transformation program, aims to facilitate effective communication and provide exceptional, personalized services to Francophone guests, demonstrating Ghana’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and culturally sensitive tourism industry.

The Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Awal, stated during a press briefing in Accra on Sunday, September 24, 2023, that a significant proportion of tourists visiting Ghana’s attractions come from French-speaking nations.

Consequently, the language training program has been strategically developed to equip frontline personnel across the tourism sector with bilingual proficiency. This will enable them to engage effectively and cater to the specific needs of visitors, particularly those from French-speaking countries.

Dr. Awal emphasized the importance of expanding tourism to Francophone countries, given Ghana’s geographical proximity to several French-speaking West African nations.

He highlighted the potential for repeat tourism and economic growth by attracting visitors from these regions.

The training program is being carried out in phases, with an initial pilot phase involving 100 staff members from upscale hotels in Accra. This phase, which started in September and runs until December 2023, serves as a test run to ensure thorough training and evaluation before expanding the initiative on a larger scale.

Dr. Awal emphasized that the government’s vision extends beyond this pilot phase, with the ultimate goal being to train a total of 2,000 hospitality staff members. This aligns with the broader government objective of making Ghana a more appealing destination for a diverse range of tourists.

The Minister highlighted that such investments in skill development are crucial for the long-term growth and success of the tourism sector, reaffirming the government’s commitment to enhancing service quality and improving tourist destinations in the country.

A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Emmanuel Anyimah has expressed concern over the silence of certain religious leaders in relation to the ongoing Limited Registration Exercise organized by the Electoral Commission (EC).

Speaking to the media, Mr Anyimah, pointed out that influential figures like founder of the Action Chapel International ministry, Archbishop Duncan Williams, founder of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), Pastor Mensa Otabil, and the Peace Council should lend their voices to important matters like this to prevent future conflicts.

“You see what is more annoying is the people who are quiet in this country and I will mention some of them, Duncan Williams, pastor Mensa Otabil, peace council is quiet all these men are quiet. They all know what this woman is doing is not right,” he stated.

He emphasized that it is high time these religious leaders openly addressed the issues and that doing so could help rectify the actions of the EC.

Mr Anyimah also suggested that the controversies surrounding the EC’s actions could potentially escalate and lead to a coup, similar to how coups have started in other countries.

He emphasized that the NDC, prioritizes the nation’s welfare, as a result, members of the party are refraining from actions that could potentially destabilize the country.

Instead, they have chosen to exercise patience and explore alternative approaches to address the perceived inefficiencies in how the Electoral Commission is conducting the registration exercise.

“We need peace in this country, the NDC has protected 1992 constitution and the reason is because we have tolerated each political party. It’s not that a coups in Gabon and the likes cannot happen in Ghana. Because all these instigate a coup,” he added.

The NDC National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah during a media briefing on the voter registration exercise, accused the Commission of intentionally creating obstacles in the voter registration process in its strongholds.

He alleged that the EC had deliberately supplied malfunctioning machines to some district offices in regions where the NDC holds significant support in order to disrupt and discourage eligible voters.

“There is not more than two centres where these breakdowns are happening which are in the stronghold of the NPP. All the rest are in the stronghold of the NDC…It is like his excellency when he was complaining about politicking within the bar association which turns to campaign at the bar conference,” he said.

The 21-day limited voter registration exercise commenced on Tuesday, September 12.

So far, 182,831 persons had been registered as of Saturday, September 16 (six days into the exercise). Out of the total persons registered, 53.9 per cent are males, while females constitute 46.1 per cent. The Ashanti Region has the highest number of registrants with 29,255.

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMeT) has issued a warning stating that Accra, the capital of the country, is prone to flooding when rainfall exceeds 50 millimetres.

This caution follows a recent heavy downpour last Friday, which resulted in extensive flooding in various parts of Accra.

Locations such as the Tema Motorway, Kwame Nkrumah Interchange, Kaneshie, North Kaneshie, Alajo, Adabraka, Accra Central, Tema, Tema station-Accra, Osu, and others were severely affected after nearly an hour of rainfall.

The floodwaters submerged homes and vehicles, causing drainage systems to overflow, and exacerbating road potholes.

Joseph Portuphy, the Head of Forecasting at the GMeT, an interview with the media he stated that the recorded rainfall was 78 millimetres, which explained the widespread flooding in the city.

“If we have a rain above 50 millimetres within two to three hours Accra will be flooded and that was what happened,” he stated.

He emphasized that Accra would face significant problems whenever rainfall exceeded 50 millimetres within a two to three-hour period.

Mr. Portuphy acknowledged that while Accra is currently experiencing the minor rainy season, heavy rainfall is expected. Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has also issued a cautionary advisory to the public regarding the anticipated heavy rains.

George Ayisi, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of NADMO, conveyed that the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has predicted more rainfall, urging the public to prepare for these forthcoming downpours.

Ayisi emphasized the importance of staying informed and vigilant, especially for those traveling or residing in areas prone to flooding or stormy conditions.

He advised individuals to identify safe locations within the city and consider relocating to safer areas when necessary, for the safety of themselves and their families.

“We are in constant touch with GMeT and they keep updating us every time. They say the rains are going to be severe, they are going to be heavy so we should be careful.

“Those who are travelling in some cases it will be stormy, windy. If you are travelling to places where there are trees and co just be careful. If you are in areas where the roofing of houses or homes areas not too good, let’s be careful in those areas.

“If we are in areas where we are not sure and they are flood prone let’s try and identify safe havens in the city and then let’s try and move to safer grounds for ourselves and our relatives,” he stated.

The Youth Wing of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has issued a challenge to Oliver Barker-Vormawor, the convener of the #FixTheCountry movement, calling upon him to provide substantial evidence to support his recent allegations.

Barker-Vormawor had claimed that the government had made financial offers and job appointments in an attempt to persuade him to cease his activism.

In response to these allegations, Barker-Vormawor and his fellow activists stated that they had declined the government’s offers during a meeting with the National Security Minister. However, the Ministry of National Security strongly denied these accusations.

Salam Mustapha, the National Youth Organiser of the NPP, expressed his skepticism regarding Barker-Vormawor’s claims, labeling him as a “chronic liar.”

Mustapha challenged him to furnish any evidence, such as recordings, to substantiate his assertions. He emphasized that without such evidence, Barker-Vormawor’s credibility should be seriously questioned.

“I think he is a chronic liar and he should produce evidence that he says he has a recording. I have also done a little bit of a crosscheck with the National Security people and they also demand and have challenged Vormawor to produce any evidence, even if it is a second of recording that he has, he should bring it and prove a point,” he stated.

Furthermore, Mustapha accused the convener of the #FixTheCountry movement of using activism as a cover to advance his political ambitions. He cautioned against permitting individuals to exploit public sentiment for personal gain, as it could potentially undermine the integrity of the nation’s democracy.

“We should not allow people to perfect their political interest behind the smoke screen. We do that at the risk of a buoyant democracy being turned into a sham. Exactly what he is doing. From his antics of calling for a coup when he was living in the comfort of a civilised society in London coming down here and all his antics shows someone with a certain perversion clearly woven in such uncanny politics,” he stated.

A prominent figure in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Kwame Addo-Kufuor, has refuted allegations of being the third wealthiest person in Ghana.

An anonymous TikTok user claimed that Dr. Addo-Kufuor possesses a net worth of US$1.2 billion, ranking him as the third richest individual in Ghana.

In response to these accusations, legal representatives from Zoe, Akyea & Co. Legal Practitioners & Notaries Public issued a statement describing the claims as baseless and aimed at tarnishing Dr. Kufuor’s hard-earned reputation.

“We have received explicit instructions from our client to categorically state that he does not possess such a substantial amount of wealth and will demand the utmost proof of this groundless allegation from the anonymous accuser.”

Dr. Addo-Kufuor’s lawyers asserted that his wealth was acquired through legitimate means, notably during his tenure as the Board Chairman of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT).

They further warned that a defamation lawsuit may be pursued once the identity of the individuals behind these allegations is revealed.

“We have further instructions to fish out those behind this disdainful practice of character assassination with the view to taking them on in a defamatory suit in a court of competent jurisdiction”.

ZOE, AKYEA & CO.

22 September 2023

10 RICHEST MEN IN GHANA AS BROADCASTED ON TIKTOK-THE VILE AND FOUL MISINFORMATION CALCULATED TO DENT THE IMAGE OF HONOURABLE DR KWAME ADDO-KUFUOR

We act as lawyers for Honourable Dr. Kwame Addo-Kufuor who has instructed us to respond to the rather vile and foul misinformation currently trending on TikTok calculated to dent our client’s hard-earned integrity

The coward behind this shameful act of sleazy propaganda has not been bold enough to furnish his name nor is there a scintilla of evidence to back these watery effusions about our client.

The unknown voice painfully alleges that our client is the third-richest man in Ghana with a net worth of US$1.2 billion. He insinuates that our client’s level of money are invested in banking, farming, media and mining.

We have the firm and unqualified instructions of our client to state in no uncertain terms that he has no such levels of money and will exact the strictest proof of this vain allegation from the individual who is conveniently enjoying anonymity.

The record of our client is well-known. He has been a successful physician who even lectured medicine in the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.

His political life has been exemplary, He was a Member of Parliament for Manhyia from 1997 to 2009. In President Kufuor’s government, he was the Defence Minister and for some time was burdened with the additional responsibility of the Ministry of Interior. During the first term of President Akufo-Addo, our client was made the Board Chairman of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT).

His assets declaration is not a fetish but duly lodged with the Auditor-General

We have further instructions to fish out those behind this disdainful practice of character assassination with the view to taking them on in a defamatory suit in a court of competent jurisdiction.

Yours faithfully,

Samuel Atta Akyea

Zoe, Akyea Co

The Minority in Parliament has stated that they intend to summon the Administrator of the Scholarship Secretariat before Parliament in the upcoming days.

Their concern revolves around the outstanding bursaries owed to the Graduate Students Association of Ghana (GRASAG) for the past two years.

The caucus firmly asserts that despite the government’s allocation of a budget amounting to GH¢223 million for the scholarship secretariat, funds have not been disbursed for the payment of GRASAG bursaries.

During the handover ceremony at the University of Ghana, Legon, the Minority Chief Whip, Governs Agbodza, articulated their commitment to utilizing all available avenues to ensure government compliance in disbursing the funds.

Agbodza emphasized, “The Minority will, in the coming days, employ the appropriate legal procedures to compel the administrator of the Scholarship Secretariat to account for the two-year arrears in GRASAG bursaries.

These funds have already been allocated, and we can only pursue this course of action within the bounds of the law.”

Meanwhile, the Minority in Parliament has sounded a cautionary note regarding Ghana’s substantial indebtedness to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), highlighting its potential impact on the country’s attractiveness as an investment destination.

Ghana currently holds the unenviable position of being the most indebted nation to the IMF under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust, with an outstanding loan of 1,689 billion Special Drawing Rights (SDRs). This amounts to nearly 10% of the total outstanding loans within the Trust.

Isaac Adongo, the Ranking Member on the Finance Committee of Parliament, expressed concerns over Ghana’s elevated debt levels and inadequate foreign reserves, stating that these factors are impeding the country’s ability to attract foreign investment.

He noted, “When you assess our creditworthiness in terms of our net international reserves for covering these portfolios, Ghana presents a risky proposition, a fact even the IMF acknowledges.”

Adongo also cautioned that Ghana might not qualify for another IMF program unless it improves its fiscal position, remarking, “Given Ghana’s historical track record of fulfilling its obligations to the IMF, these statistics alone indicate that Ghana may not meet the criteria for another IMF program.”

Ghana’s escalating debt levels have raised significant apprehension among investors. The nation’s public debt-to-GDP ratio presently surpasses 80%, and the government is grappling with a substantial budget deficit. Consequently, the government must borrow extensively to sustain its expenditure, making it challenging to alleviate the debt burden.

Furthermore, Ghana’s foreign reserves are currently at a precarious level, covering less than one month of imports. This vulnerability exposes the country to external shocks, such as surges in commodity prices or depreciation of the cedi’s value.

The government is presently engaged in negotiations for a new program with the IMF, which is anticipated to include measures aimed at curbing the budget deficit, stabilizing the economy, and fostering growth.

Nevertheless, it remains uncertain whether the government will succeed in implementing the requisite reforms to meet the qualifications for the program.

Former Trade Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen is set to reveal the next step of his political ambitions during a scheduled press conference on Monday, September 25, 2023.

Despite finishing third in the initial round of the NPP’s flagbearer selection, which reduced the candidate pool from ten to five contenders, Mr. Kyerematen opted to withdraw from the November 4 congress.

He alleged bias on the part of the party’s leadership in favor of a specific candidate.

Amidst widespread speculation, there is an expectation that Mr. Kyerematen might choose to sever ties with the party and pursue the presidency as an independent candidate.

However, the veil of uncertainty surrounding his next move will be lifted later today when he reveals his future intentions.

The possibility also exists that he may opt to continue his political journey within the party, potentially endorsing one of the remaining four candidates vying for the coveted flagbearer position, or venture forth independently in pursuit of his political ambitions.

Superintendent George Asare has provided three names to the parliamentary committee investigating a leaked tape in which some police officers are allegedly planning to remove Inspector-General of Police (IGP) George Akuffo Dampare.

In a letter from his legal representatives to the committee’s chairman, Supt. Asare has asked the three individuals to give testimony regarding five allegations he previously made against the IGP during the previous hearings.

The three individuals are Ishaw Yakubu (a.k.a Boyo), Samuel Ofori, and ASP Bawah Abdul Jalil.

“In our quest to provide evidence to substantiate some of the claims made on the audio tape, we wish to call the following persons to assist the committee on some matters,” the letter pointed read in part.

The letter further mentioned that Ishaw Yakubu (a.k.a Boyo) and Samuel Ofori would be testifying on the following:

a. The contract awarded to Bugri Naabu and the alleged kickbacks paid by Dr. Akuffo Dampare.

b. The role played by Bugri Naabu in the period leading to Dr. Akuffo Dampare’s appointment as IGP.

c. Unauthorized monthly payments made by the Pay Master, COP Nketiah Frimpong, on behalf of Dr. Akuffo Dampare to Bugri Naabu, Samuel Ofori, and Boyoo.

ASP Abdul Jalil, on the other hand, will testify on:

a. The transformation of the Police Intelligence Directorate into a personal unit of Dr Akuffo Dampare.

b. Allegations of extrajudicial killings committed by the PID under the orders of Dr Akuffo Dampare.

The three individuals will participate in the closed-door hearing scheduled for October 2, should the committee extend invitations to them.

During his response to the allegations made by Asare and retired COP George Alex Mensah, the IGP denied all their claims.

Read letter below

Protestors participating in the #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstration have been prevented by the police from advancing towards the Jubilee House.

Consequently, the protestors have chosen to sit down on the road, singing the national anthem to express their dissent.

Notably, several Ghanaian celebrities, including Efia Odo, EL, Kelvyn Boy, John Dumelo, and comedian Warris, aligned themselves with the Democracy Hub group for Day 2 of the #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstration.

These celebrities were seen seated on the ground as a symbolic gesture of their discontent.

Earlier on Friday morning, these celebrities, along with other demonstrators, gathered at the 37 lorry park with the intention of marching to the Jubilee House.

The group has been critical of the government on multiple occasions and has been actively organizing a series of protests to urge the government to implement measures aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by Ghanaians.

The police is actively pursuing a young man who duped officials at the Takoradi Government Hospital by falsely claiming to be a doctor.

The imposter, identified as Jude, exploited his position within the hospital, also known as The European Hospital, to deceive unsuspecting patients and steal their belongings.

According to a reports, Jude initially gained access to the hospital by presenting a counterfeit internship letter from the University of Ghana Medical School, which allowed him to work as a junior doctor.

After a few days on the job, he devised a cunning scheme to rob patients.

Jude convinced patients to hand over their phones, assuring them that it was for their safety as he claimed there were thieves targeting the hospital.

He even persuaded them to unlock their phones, citing potential urgent calls. A source informed the news website about Jude’s actions.

The report further disclosed that Jude exploited his access to the unlocked phones to communicate with the patients’ close contacts. Under the pretense that the situation was dire, he began demanding money from them.

“He posed as the patients while using their phones and requested money for medical care from their contacts. These contacts believed they were speaking with the actual phone owners and, as a result, some of them sent undisclosed amounts of money to him,” the sources added.

Notably, a Nigerian woman fell victim to Jude’s scam and lost a significant amount of money through her contacts. He collaborated with another Nigerian woman in Takoradi, whom he secretly employed to further his malicious plans.

To gain credibility with the Nigerian patient’s contacts, Jude engaged the services of a Nigerian prostitute in Vienna City, Takoradi. After their encounter, he convinced the sex worker (referred to as Bella) to aid him in his nefarious agenda.

Bella recounted her experience, stating that Jude initially inquired about her services, negotiated the price, and took her to her place. Afterward, he requested her mobile money details, explaining that someone would send money to him. Jude was in possession of four phones, and calls began coming in from Nigeria. Bella complied with his requests at first but eventually grew suspicious.

She confronted Jude and threatened to report him to the police, but he fled before she could take action. Bella returned the money to the victims and handed over Jude’s belongings to the hospital authorities.

Furthermore, Jude managed to deceive a pastor from the Assemblies of God Church he attended in Takoradi. He was even accommodated at the mission house of the Holy Hill Assemblies of God Church, where he had presented himself as a devout member. The church leader, Apostle Jerry, expressed shock upon learning about Jude’s true identity and actions.

The police in Takoradi are currently conducting an investigation into the matter, while Jude remains a fugitive.

An Accra Circuit Court has acquitted and discharged Lawrence Nii Narku Odonkor, also known as Larry, the former head pastor of the Akyem Oda branch of Lighthouse Chapel International (LCI), who was accused of stealing over GH¢7,000 belonging to the church.

Odonkor had pleaded not guilty to two counts of stealing and dishonestly appropriating the church’s GH¢7,054, which was intended for the payment of his SSNIT contributions and taxes.

In a judgment rendered on September 15, 2023, the Court, presided over by Ellen Ofei-Ayeh, concluded that while there was an appropriation of the funds by Odonkor, it was not done dishonestly.

The Court determined that Odonkor, in his role as the administrative head of the Oda Branch of the church, had appropriately recorded and signed in the church’s accounts books the monies designated for the payment of his SSNIT contributions and GAR taxes on behalf of the church.

Although the money was deposited into his personal account, the Court noted that when Odonkor resigned from the Church, he had asked a senior bishop if he had any outstanding financial obligations, and the response was negative.

Following a full trial lasting one year and seven months, the Court acquitted and discharged Odonkor.

Odonkor is one of six pastors who have filed lawsuits against Lighthouse Chapel International over their Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) contributions.

The criminal case was initiated by police prosecutors based on a complaint from the church.

Prosecution’s account of the case:
According to the prosecution, Odonkor, as a Bishop of Lighthouse Chapel International, served as the head pastor and administrative head of the Akyem Oda branch of the church between January and April 2020. As part of his responsibilities, he was responsible for ensuring the payment of SSNIT contributions and taxes for both himself and the employees under his supervision.

The prosecution alleged that in March 2020, Odonkor wrote a cheque for GH¢8,527, which included GH¢5,000 for his February salary, GH¢1,667 for his SSNIT contributions for January, and GH¢1,850 for his taxes for February. However, he deposited all the funds into his personal account, utilized them, and failed to remit the SSNIT contributions and taxes to the relevant authorities.

In April 2020, Odonkor reportedly repeated this conduct, writing a GH¢8,527 cheque, with GH¢5,000 for his March salary, GH¢1,667 for his SSNIT contributions for March, and GH¢1,850 for his taxes for April.

Once again, he deposited the entire sum into his personal account, utilized it, and failed to pay the SSNIT contributions and taxes to the appropriate authorities.

The prosecution further claimed that in September 2020, Odonkor complained to SSNIT that the church had neglected to pay his SSNIT contributions.

The church was subsequently alerted to Odonkor’s failure to make the payments, and he was required to settle the outstanding amount along with penalties totaling GH¢10,963.91.

The case was subsequently lodged with the CID Headquarters of the Ghana Police Service, leading to Odonkor’s arrest. However, the prosecution failed to substantiate these claims during the trial, resulting in Odonkor’s acquittal and discharge.

The Head of Legal Affairs for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Abraham Amaliba, has argued that the individuals who should be brought to court in connection with the #OccupyJulorBiHouse protest are the police officers who mistreated the protestors.

In response to reports of some protestors facing legal action after being unlawfully arrested by the police on the first day of the three-day civic action, the NDC lawyer asserted that instead of innocent citizens who were merely exercising their constitutional rights, it should be the police officers who are prosecuted.

Speaking to the media on September 22, 2023, he stated “today, I’m being told that some of the demonstrators will be sent to court. Those who should be in court this morning are the policemen who attacked innocent Ghanaians, who attacked lawyers, and not the demonstrators who were simply out there to do what the constitution allows them to do.”

Amaliba also questioned why the Ghana Police Service sought legal action when it believed it had the authority to prevent the demonstration in the first place.

He pointed out that going to court signifies that a dispute has been submitted to the court for resolution, and the police’s actions have contradicted this.

“If the police knew that they could stop this demonstration anyway, why did they head to court? If you go to court, what it means is that you have submitted the dispute to court and the court must settle that dispute.

“And so, you don’t go to turn, and turn around and use brute force as if we are in the colonial period,” he added.

After a tense first day of the planned three-day protest against the government by the #OccupyJulorBiHouse demonstrators, the group has proceeded with their second day.

In a statement signed by the organizers of #FixTheCountry, a significant component of the protest’s leadership, they called on people to join and support them despite the events of the first day.

They expressed gratitude to all the professionals who came out to support them, including lawyers and journalists, while condemning the police’s assaults on the peaceful protestors during the first day.

The Democracy Hub, led by a group of young activists, initiated the protest, which aims to picket the government’s headquarters from Thursday, September 21, to Saturday, September 23, 2023. They are demanding action from the President and the Economic Management Team to address economic mismanagement and corruption allegations within the government.

The National Peace Council (NPC) has called for concerted efforts to address emerging threats, exemplified by the recent apprehension of individuals suspected of links to Russia’s Wagner mercenary group.

The NPC views these arrests as a wake-up call for both security agencies and the general populace. The Western Regional Police Command is currently prosecuting three youths from Diabene in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, who were allegedly involved in a public gathering while displaying flags and symbols associated with Wagner and Russia.

As Ghana joins the global observance of International Peace Day, George Amoh, the Executive Secretary of the NPC, emphasized the need for collaborative measures to counteract such burgeoning threats.

Dr. S.K.B Asante, the Omanhene of Asante Asokore and a board member of the NPC, expressed concern over Ghana’s declining position on the Global Peace Index. This decline suggests that the country is allocating resources to conflict management rather than developmental initiatives. Dr. Asante called for a united effort among stakeholders to address long-standing conflicts and reverse this trend.

In the meantime, the Russian Embassy in Ghana has denied any association with the leadership of the alleged pro-Russia Wagner mercenary group apprehended by the police in Takoradi, Western Region.

The suspects, identified as Evans (25), Michael Asiedu (23), and Ernest Asiedu (26), purportedly mobilized around 20 youths to form a military group in the Diabene community park, with alleged support from a sponsor in Australia. However, following a tip-off, the police arrested them.

In a statement posted on its social media page, the Russian Embassy, formerly on Twitter, refuted claims of involvement in the distribution of Russian flags, attire, and placards among the protestors. It further clarified that it has no links to potential sponsors of the group.

“The Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Ghana, as well as other government agencies, have no connections to the aforementioned unauthorized gathering,” the embassy asserted.