Author: Phoebe Martekie Doku

The Convention People’s Party (CPP) has pledged to build state-of-the-art hospitals in every district nationwide should it emerge victorious in the 2024 general elections.

Speaking during an event commemorating Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day on September 21, the General Secretary of the CPP, Nana Yaa Gyantuah, asserted that the establishment of hospitals in all districts would alleviate the challenge of limited healthcare access in remote areas, ultimately enhancing the nation’s healthcare system.

Gyantuah also affirmed the CPP’s commitment to transforming the country’s prospects and urged Ghanaians to cast their votes in favor of the party during the 2024 elections.

“We are going to make sure that Ghana changes and rises on the world map. We are going to make sure Ghana rises again. When we take power, every Ghanaian will be well-resourced, we will make sure every Ghanaian has shelter, and we will make sure that you don’t go home hungry. We are going to harness our resources so that Ghanaians will benefit from the gold, bauxite, manganese, cocoa and timber,” Gyantuah said.

“We will make sure that no pregnant woman sleeps on the floor when she visits the hospital. We will make sure to resource every hospital. We will construct ultra-modern hospitals in every district so that healthcare will be improved. Use today as the landmark to vote for CPP in 2024,” she added.

The CPP has been out of power since the passing of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

The Ghana Police Service has undertaken a comprehensive reorganization of its Cybercrime Unit (CU) as part of its transformation agenda.

This reorganization includes decentralizing the unit to all 25 police regional commands across the country to enhance accessibility to its services for the public.

The strategic restructuring has transformed the CU into an expert unit specializing in supporting criminal investigations, offering services such as cyber forensic analysis, digital device forensic analysis, mobile and network forensic analysis, and digital content forensic analysis. This shift represents a departure from its previous focus on general criminal investigations, such as assembling case files and direct handling of suspects.

In the initial phase of decentralization, the Police Service has conducted specialized training for 151 personnel who have been deployed to the 25 police regions nationwide.

These personnel will work alongside regional law enforcement agencies to bolster criminal investigations within their respective regions.

The training encompassed a wide range of critical areas, including digital wallet (mobile money) fraud, Social Engineering, Insider Threats, Online Scams, bank card fraud, File System Forensics, Artifact Analysis, Network, and Memory Forensics.

This decentralization of the CU aligns with the broader goals of modernizing the Police Service and ensuring its readiness to address emerging digital-age threats effectively.

Pharmacist, Dr. Kwame Sarpong Asiedu has advised Ghanaian leaders and government officials against deceiving themselves into thinking they are unaffected by the poor state of the country’s healthcare system.

He highlighted that leaders often make uninformed decisions regarding healthcare because they receive regular check-ups in other countries with well-designed and effective healthcare systems.

Dr. Asiedu emphasized that leaders should remember that they are still subject to Ghana’s healthcare system in times of emergency.

“I struggle when people tell me that our leaders are not subject to our health system, the truth is they are subject to our health system, but they don’t know. The truth of the matter is this, for management of their chronic ailment, they can go abroad and do it, we hear it every time, the Speaker is going here, the President is going there, and we hear it,” he said.

He cited cases where prominent leaders had to rely on the local healthcare system due to vulnerability, and some unfortunate incidents resulted in the loss of lives.

He urged government officials and leaders to address and improve the country’s healthcare system, emphasizing that emergency situations are more likely to be life-threatening than routine check-ups abroad.

“But that’s the reality, we were here when the President in an emergency like that was subject to the health system, we’ve seen a number of prominent statesmen not being able to be flown out, we’ve seen the Vice President, it is very naive if they think they are not subject to the health system,” he said.

Dr. Asiedu made these remarks during an interview with the media, where he discussed the need for leaders to acknowledge the vulnerabilities of the local healthcare system.

The Minority Chief Whip, Govins Kwame Agbodza, has condemned the Electoral Commission (EC) and its Chair, Mrs. Jean Adukwei Mensa, in response to her recent press conference.

Agbodza criticized the EC’s attempt to use Parliament as a justification for what he sees as an unfair strategy to suppress first-time voter numbers.

Agbodza vehemently challenged the validity of the EC boss’s claims that the Commission did not have a budget to decentralize the registration process to the electoral area level, stating that Parliament’s approval of the EC’s budget for 2023 did not involve any reductions.

“One of the false, weak, and wishy-washy excuses the EC Chair, Madam Jean Adukwei Mensa, sought to canvass at her press conference to justify the EC’s dogged determination to suppress first-time voters is her claim that the Commission is acting within the constraints of its work-plan and budget as approved by Parliament,”

He warned the EC and its Commissioners that they would not be allowed to use Parliament as a convenient excuse for what he considers to be their disregard for the law, and he vowed that as representatives of the people, they would demand accountability from them.

The ongoing voter registration exercise in the EC’s district offices has faced criticism from political parties and civil society organizations, who argue that the EC has not adequately justified the decision to limit the exercise to district offices.

“There can be no justification on the part of an Electoral Commission that is hell-bent on disenfranchising voters by placing strictures and fetters on the inalienable rights of Ghanaians to register to vote in public elections and referenda, instead of implementing programmes to expand that right as it is enjoined by law to do”, the Adaklu MP stated.

Absa Bank Ghana Limited has announced that its Managing Director, Abena Osei-Poku, will be leaving the bank to pursue a career opportunity outside of Absa Group.

She will step down on December 18, 2023, after more than 14 years within Absa Group, including five years as Managing Director of Absa Bank Ghana.

The bank’s Board is currently in the process of appointing an interim Managing Director and is also identifying a suitable successor. The appointment of a new Managing Director will be announced once the process is completed, pending regulatory approval.

Frances Adu-Mante, Chairperson of the Board, Absa Bank Ghana, praised Abena Osei-Poku’s leadership, highlighting her role in successfully navigating the bank through significant changes and challenges, including the brand change to Absa and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Abena Osei-Poku expressed her pride in her career with Absa Group and her confidence in the future success of Absa Bank Ghana. She acknowledged her decision to pursue a new opportunity outside of the group after considering her rewarding 14-year career with Absa Group.

She extended her gratitude to the Absa Bank Ghana Board, colleagues, and customers for their support throughout her tenure.

“We should be able to expand it so that people can have access. We are winning in 2024 anyway; we are winning positively,” he confidently asserted.

The former Kumasi Metropolitan Chief Executive, Kojo Bonsu, is confident that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will emerge victorious in the 2024 election, regardless of the Electoral Commission’s decision not to expand the current limited voter registration exercise.

During his tour of various EC registration centers in the Ashanti region, Mr. Bonsu noted that many potential voters are facing challenges in participating in the registration process.

“I have traveled across the country. Situations have been calm, but the distance has been a problem. The EC should address the concerns of the people who continue to plead for an expansion. Many more people would have come if it were expanded,” he remarked.

While urging the Electoral Commission to broaden the registration’s coverage, he emphasized that the NDC is fully committed to winning the 2024 election through its own efforts.

“We should be able to expand it so that people can have access. We are winning 2024 anyway; we are wining positively,” he boasted.

The Ghana National Fire Service is actively educating citizens throughout the nation to decrease the recurring incidents of fire outbreaks that happen year after year.

One such educational session took place on Friday, September 15, 2023, where staff members of Advertiser & Publisher Solutions Ghana Ltd. (ADPU) underwent training with the Fire Service.

During this session, DO III Genevieve Nana Derby, Officer in Charge of the Safety Department at Accra Metro Fire Station, provided insights into the various causes of fires, preventive measures, and the correct usage of fire extinguishers.

In an interview conducted during the training, DO III Genevieve Nana appealed to the public to prioritize fire safety measures, emphasizing the importance of turning off vehicle engines while refueling at filling stations as a safety precaution.

She highlighted the consistent training provided to filling station attendants to ensure customers are informed about safety procedures. Despite this, incidents of customers not turning off their engines persist, whether due to ignorance or lack of concentration.

DO III Genevieve Nana also noted the collaboration between the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) in combating illegal electrical connections, a significant contributor to fire outbreaks in the country.

The recurring issue of extensive fire outbreaks, especially in central markets, remains a concern in Ghana. Despite efforts by successive governments to address these challenges, there has been little progress.

One of the most recent incidents occurred on Sunday, September 17, 2023, when a fire engulfed the CMB market, further highlighting the need for continued fire safety education and preventive measures.

The Ghana Police Service has submitted an application to the court seeking to halt a planned demonstration by a group called Democracy Hub scheduled to take place near the Jubilee House from September 21st to September 23rd, 2023.

In an official statement, the police revealed that they are awaiting the court’s decision on the matter before taking any further actions.

In the meantime, they have urged the public to disregard any calls from individuals or groups encouraging them to gather for a demonstration at the Jubilee House.

Furthermore, the police have called upon the organizers of the protest to adhere to the proper legal procedures in the interest of public order and safety.

Democracy Hub, the organizing group, has accused the government of mishandling the economy and is demanding improved relief measures for the suffering citizens.

It’s noteworthy that the demonstration coincides with Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day, which is observed throughout the country.

On Tuesday, September 19th, the protest organizers conducted a press conference to inform their members of the arrangements in place to ensure a smooth and successful protest over the three-day period.

They assured protesters that necessary logistical arrangements, including mattresses, tents, and mosquito nets, have been made for those wishing to stay overnight at the Jubilee House.

As the celebration of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s birthday approaches on September 21, Member of Parliament (MP) for Ellembelle, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has called upon Ghanaians to honor and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Nkrumah not just on his birthday, but continuously.

Armah-Kofi Buah also expressed concern about the deteriorating condition of Dr. Nkrumah’s Museum at Nkroful, his birthplace and initial burial site.

To contribute to the restoration efforts, he donated GH¢10,000 to the Planning Committee for Nkrumah’s Birthday celebrations.

Recognizing the urgent need for renovation, he emphasized the importance of regular maintenance and stressed that efforts should not be confined to anniversary celebrations alone.

Mr Buah acknowledged the significance of Dr. Nkrumah’s contributions to Ghana and Africa, and emphasized the importance of preserving and celebrating his legacy.

Buah invited the public to join him in celebrating Dr. Nkrumah’s birthday and expressed his commitment to transform Nkroful into a central hub for commemorating Dr. Nkrumah’s life and achievements.

He also addressed attempts to diminish Dr. Nkrumah’s legacy, emphasizing that it remains strong and enduring in the hearts of many Ghanaians and Africans.

Nana Sanzah Erzah, a member of the Dr. Nkrumah Memorial Day celebration and Ebusuapanyin of Nkroful, commended Buah for his leadership role in upholding Dr. Nkrumah’s place in Ghana’s history.

He pledged to utilize the donation to renovate the museum, replace damaged furniture, and beautify the surroundings before September 21.

The Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah Museum at Nkroful holds great historical significance, as it recounts the story of Dr. Nkrumah’s birth and his initial burial place upon his return to Ghana after his passing. Despite its importance, the museum has suffered neglect and deterioration over the years, warranting efforts to restore and preserve it as part of the national celebration of Dr. Nkrumah’s legacy.

The Minority in Parliament has issued an urgent plea to halt the government’s intention to use proceeds from the TEN oil field as collateral for a $431 million loan facility from LITASCO.

They argue that this arrangement is unlawful and express concerns that the TEN oil field would be obligated to produce a minimum of 3.8 million barrels of crude oil annually for LITASCO as part of the loan agreement.

During a press conference held on Wednesday, September 20, John Jinapor, the Ranking Member on the Mines and Energy Committee, highlighted that despite Parliament’s rejection of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation’s (GNPC) request to secure the loan until the terms and conditions of the agreement were disclosed, the presidency has instructed GNPC to seek board approval for the loan without the required parliamentary consent.

“To our utmost shock, the minority side has become aware that the presidency is using coercive force to compel the GNPC to proceed and execute this loan agreement without parliamentary approval,” Jinapor said, adding “This is unconstitutional, this is unlawful and this is a blatant disregard to the directive and resolution of Parliament.”

The Minority also praised the GNPC board members who have voiced their opposition to the loan agreement. Jinapor emphasized that the courageous stance taken by the GNPC board should be encouraged.

He cautioned that moving forward with the loan agreement without parliamentary approval would constitute a breach of the constitution.

The Member of Parliament representing Ningo-Prampram, Sam George, has urged the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) Council of Elders to reject a petition opposing the appointment of Dr. Edward Omane Boamah as the Director of Elections and ICT.

In a statement dated September 18, Sam George asserted that Dr. Edward Omane Boamah is the most qualified individual within the party to assume responsibility for election-related matters in preparation for the 2024 general elections.

“Dr. Omane Boamah is a valuable asset to our esteemed party,” remarked George, further noting, “He has held various key positions, including the Minister of Communications and Minister of Youth and Sports. His exceptional intellect and extensive experience have consistently yielded successful outcomes.”

Sam George’s remarks were prompted by concerns raised by a concerned NDC supporter and social activist, Delanyo Agbe, regarding Dr. Omane Boamah’s appointment.

In a petition addressed to the party’s leadership, Agbe argued that Dr. Omane Boamah lacks the requisite expertise to effectively carry out his responsibilities.

However, Sam George dismissed Agbe’s apprehensions, alleging that Agbe’s intentions were to sow discord within the party.

The Global Peace Christian Centre (GPCC) has made generous contributions of food items and essential supplies to both the Pantang Hospital and the Forever True Friends Foundation, a shelter home for underprivileged children.

This philanthropic effort was a part of GPCC’s 10th-anniversary celebration and included donations of rice, gari, cooking oil, toiletries, bottled water, tomato paste, and detergents.

In addition to these provisions, the Pantang Hospital also received valuable medical equipment in the form of blood pressure machines and weighing scales.

Furthermore, an anonymous GPCC member made a substantial donation of GHc10,000 to the Forever True Friends Foundation, aimed at supporting the well-being of the children under its care.

Apostle Henry Ampomah-Boateng, the Founder and General Overseer of GPCC, emphasized that the church regularly engages in charitable endeavors, extending its benevolence to healthcare facilities, orphanages, and various institutions.

“We are grateful to God for bringing us this far as a church so we decided not to celebrate this milestone alone, but to share with those who truly need help in society.

This reflects the church’s commitment to sharing love and promoting the message of faith and compassion.

Apostle Ampomah-Boateng called upon corporate entities and religious organizations, particularly churches, to extend a helping hand to those individuals and institutions facing dire circumstances.

He stressed the importance of supporting hospitals, orphanages, schools, and other organizations providing essential social services for the betterment of society.

Regarding churches, he highlighted the dual role of preaching the gospel and providing relief to the less fortunate. He underscored the need for collective efforts to alleviate the suffering of those in need.

Apostle Ampomah-Boateng urged everyone to become humanitarian ambassadors and assist those who require support, emphasizing that true gospel preaching should be accompanied by actions that address hunger and the basic needs of people.

The Founder of the Forever True Friends Foundation, Jane Gerbs, expressed gratitude to GPCC for their timely assistance to the shelter home.

She called upon other organizations and institutions to follow GPCC’s example and support the foundation in its mission to care for destitute children and nurture the future leaders of the country, providing hope and opportunities for them.

The government has been urged to effectively address the fundamental needs of its citizens, such as food, housing, and employment, in response to the ongoing economic crisis.

Michael Bozumbil, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the oil marketing company Petrosol, made this plea recently.

He emphasized that by establishing robust social safety nets, the government could alleviate the burden on individuals and businesses, sparing them from having to allocate significant resources to assist those affected by economic crises.

Bozumbil challenged the government to develop a parallel microeconomic framework dedicated to assessing the human development index of its citizens.

To ensure the effectiveness of such a framework, he called on political appointees and policymakers to step out of their comfort zones and engage directly with individuals in the micro sector, including small and medium enterprise (SME) owners, to gain firsthand insights into their challenges and propose practical solutions.

He argued that if the government is implementing initiatives like the Ghana CARES strategy, it should have a microeconomic policy that specifically targets the impoverished and vulnerable populations, with a budget allocated for microeconomic issues before addressing macroeconomic concerns.

Speaking as one of the main speakers at the third quarter Graphic Business/Stanbic Bank Breakfast Meeting in Accra, Bozumbil stressed that the microeconomy directly affects people, including their incomes, poverty levels, and living standards. He urged the government to prioritize revitalizing the economy at this level.

Bozumbil also suggested that understanding the spending habits and living standards of people in various sectors, such as Abossey Okai Spare Parts and Makola, could assist the government in advising them on managing non-essential expenses and prioritizing actions to navigate the current economic challenges successfully.

The meeting, themed “Thriving During Economic Turbulence,” explored different perspectives for local businesses and citizens to overcome the prevailing economic difficulties in their respective pursuits.

Additionally, Bozumbil called on the government to review the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, suggesting that it should be more targeted to reduce unnecessary expenditure and focus on those who genuinely require it. He acknowledged the policy’s merits but emphasized the need for sustainability in its implementation.

Bozumbil underscored the importance of the private sector as the engine of growth for the country and urged the government to support it in bearing some of the current economic burdens. He also emphasized the private sector’s responsibility to collaborate with the government and fulfill their tax obligations to support the government’s tasks and commitments to its citizens.

In turbulent economic times, Professor John Gatsi, a Business Advisory Expert, advised individuals to review their personal budgets and lifestyles, including reducing non-essential expenses such as daily commuting by personal vehicles.

Furthermore, economist Agyapomaa Gyeke-Dako stressed the importance of adequately resourcing the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) to implement long-term strategies, ensuring that political changes do not lead to the abandonment of crucial projects and fostering sustainable development collectively.

The USAID Advancing Nutrition initiative has played a pivotal role in combating the pervasive issue of malnutrition, particularly prevalent in the northern regions of the country.

This project has diligently worked alongside diverse stakeholders, including civil society organizations, academic institutions, and Municipal/District Assemblies (MDAs).

Over the course of a concluded three-year project, USAID Advancing Nutrition facilitated collaboration between formal and informal sectors to celebrate significant strides in enhancing multi-sectoral nutrition planning, coordination, and services in the Upper West Region.

Post-project evaluation revealed notable progress in the battle against malnutrition, albeit challenges persist due to deeply ingrained taboos, cultural beliefs, and practices affecting women and children under the age of five.

The project encompassed all 11 MDAs within the region and underscored that child malnutrition, particularly among those under five, has transcended mere health concerns and has transformed into a broader developmental issue.

During the project’s closing ceremony, Maureen Malaye, the Nutrition and Social Protection Team Lead, emphasized that the initiative represented the United States’ support for Ghana’s quest to tackle malnutrition effectively.

The event centered on the theme: “Deepening the Multi-Sectoral Nutrition Agenda: The USAID Advancing Nutrition Story.”

In terms of achievements, Ms. Malaye highlighted various successes achieved under the project, such as ensuring nutrition security for 250,000 children under five, benefiting over 120,000 pregnant women, and training 5,700 healthcare professionals nationwide to enhance household nutrition.

In a speech delivered on his behalf, Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih, the Upper West Regional Minister, expressed gratitude for the intervention’s significant impact in the area. He noted that the project had catalyzed the formation of multi-sectoral nutrition planning and coordination groups. As a result, malnutrition was incorporated into district medium development plans, allocating funds to address this critical issue. Dr. Bin Salih emphasized the importance of sustaining the project’s accomplishments.

Dr. Damien Punguyire, the Regional Director of Health Services (GHS), acknowledged that the project had improved the capacity of healthcare workers and provided them with valuable resources. Consequently, there had been notable improvements in malnutrition counseling and a reduction in anemia among pregnant women.

Naa Pwowele Karbo III, the Paramount Chief of Lawra Traditional Area, encouraged project beneficiaries to apply the knowledge they gained to eliminate malnutrition from society.

He also invited other participants to explore the region’s numerous tourist attractions, taking advantage of the local hospitality.

The Lands Commission is set to initiate an $85-million project in partnership with a local private company, PBD Ltd, starting next year.

This five-year project aims to revolutionize land administration in the country.

PBD Ltd, the local investor, will provide both the capital and technical expertise required for the project.

The comprehensive initiative will involve the development of digital maps of the country, the enhancement of the Lands Commission’s human resource capacity through training and retraining, the provision of new tools for the commission, and the consolidation of land records digitization.

The acting Executive Secretary of the Lands Commission, Benjamin Arthur, disclosed these plans, emphasizing that the objective is for the investor to contribute the necessary resources for the project’s implementation.

The Lands Commission will then repay the investment over an extended period using internally generated funds.

“We have reached an advanced stage with the processes for the investor to come on board,” Arthur stated.

This announcement follows a directive from the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources regarding the need to address the root causes of corruption at the Lands Commission. A 2021 study by the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) ranked the Lands Commission as the most corrupt institution in Ghana.

The study revealed that officials at the commission received the largest cash bribes among public officials, with an average bribe size of GH₵1,669.

In response to the minister’s directive, the client service unit of the Lands Commission has replaced all front desk officers with technical staff. This partnership with a private investor is envisioned as a comprehensive approach to create a robust system that combats corruption, and it includes the vital step of digitally mapping the country.

Mr. Arthur stressed the importance of digital mapping, as it would eliminate the need for various agencies to develop their maps independently. Instead, it would establish a national spatial data infrastructure that allows all agencies to access standardized data for their respective needs.

Deputy Minister Benito Owusu-Bio emphasized the need for the Lands Commission to expedite reforms in areas such as human resources, structure, and processes to improve its image and eliminate corruption.

He hailed the public-private partnership as a positive and revolutionary step that would empower the commission to fulfill its mandate while ensuring the removal of illegal actors from service provision.

A food security project to enhance food availability and access for the northern region has been initiated in Accra .

The project also aims to increase maize yields to 18,000 metric tonnes, millet to 5,184 metric tonnes, and sorghum to 8,517 metric tonnes.

It will involve capacity-building for beneficiary farmers, including women and other value chain actors, to assist them in their agricultural activities.

Additionally, the project will focus on improving farmers’ capacity in climate change adaptation, market access, financial services, and pest and disease management for both animals and crops.

Funded by the EU, the project was launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). The three entities signed an agreement to mark the commencement of the project.

Dr. Bryan Acheampong, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, emphasized the strong partnership between the government, the EU, and the FAO.

“The COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, climate change and other factors have compounded the situation of many households who struggle to access adequate and nutritious food.

“For example, we used to import fertiliser from Ukraine and Russia at $500 a metric ton, but it has moved up to over a $1,000 since the crisis began,” he said.

He highlighted challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, and climate change, which have affected food security.

The FAO Representative to Ghana, Yurdi Yasmi, noted that the project aligns with the government’s Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) initiative and the EU’s “Farm to Fork Strategy,” which aims to ensure food supply and security. He emphasized the need for agrifood systems to become more resilient and provide affordable and sustainable food.

EU Ambassador to Ghana, Irchad Razaaly, highlighted the rapid mobilization of funding for the project as a symbol of the EU’s commitment and solidarity in addressing rising food costs and supporting vulnerable areas to alleviate poverty and malnutrition.

The government has provided assurance that it will complete repairs on the damaged Doli bridge for temporary use within the next week.

The Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwesi Amoako-Attah, conveyed this assurance during his inspection of the bridge on September 19, 2023.

The bridge, which serves as a vital link between the Upper West Region and the southern part of Ghana, was washed away after heavy rainfall on September 17, 2023.

Amoako-Attah stated that the contractor, who is already on site, has been instructed to work around the clock to ensure the temporary solution is completed within a week.

“I have instructed the contractor to work day and night and you know that work has started. There are as many as 20 trucks coming so work has started in earnest,” he said.

“So within a week this road will be established temporarily for vehicles to pass and then the next few weeks, permanent works will be done and the roads will be reinstated in its position with a strong bridge,” he stated.

Amoako-Attah also appealed to drivers who have reportedly increased fares by 40% due to detours on the Sawla-Fufulso and Buipe-Techiman highways to consider reducing fares.

“I want to appeal to our drivers and transport unions. I am also told that transport fares have gone up by 40% because of the long routes that they have to use but I want to make an appeal to them on behalf of the government that this is a disastrous situation and nobody has control over it,” he said.

“It had been occasioned by an act of God but we must deal with it. The people are already suffering, going through difficulty, going through inconvenience so they should be a bit considerate. We must be each other’s keeper,” he said.

The Ministry of Education has issued a call to all prospective first-year Senior High School (SHS) students, as well as parents or guardians, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the selection of science courses as the 2023 school selection and placement process gets underway.

This call aligns with the Ministry’s strategic plan for 2018-2030, which aims to achieve a balanced enrollment ratio of 60% for science and 40% for humanities at the tertiary level.

Currently, the ratio of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields stands at 40% while humanities make up 60% of enrollments.

A statement from the Ministry highlighted that they have made significant investments in infrastructure, including the construction and refurbishment of over 300 state-of-the-art laboratories in secondary institutions across the country.

These improvements in infrastructure are seen as crucial enhancements to the quality of science education.

The statement also assured prospective students, guardians, and the public that additional vacancies have been created specifically for science courses to accommodate students interested in pursuing a science-based education.

The Executive Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has reaffirmed her organization’s commitment to collaborating with other entities to ensure strict compliance with tobacco trade regulations.

She emphasized that the illicit tobacco trade presents a significant challenge, as it can facilitate various criminal economic activities.

COP Addo-Danquah made these remarks during a meeting on September 18, 2023, when a delegation comprising officials from the World Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Secretariat (FCTC) in Geneva, Switzerland, and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) engaged with EOCO officials.

The discussion primarily focused on adopting law enforcement strategies in Ghana’s efforts to combat illicit tobacco trade and addressing other related challenges.

Mrs. Olivia Agyekumwaa Boateng, Head of the Tobacco and Substance Abuse Department at the FDA, who was part of the delegation, revealed that the FDA is currently conducting a needs assessment to gauge the extent of the illicit trade and develop effective strategies within its regulatory framework to combat it.

Throughout the meeting, various speakers underscored the dangers associated with illicit tobacco trade and emphasized the necessity of addressing this menace through collaborative efforts among all stakeholders.

Andrew Black, the Coordinator and Development Assistant of FCTC, highlighted the substantial global problem posed by the illicit tobacco trade, despite its profitability, and stressed its significant risks. Dr. William Maina, the Technical Coordinator for Tobacco Control at WHO, reiterated the dangers of tobacco use, emphasizing its addictive nature and its role in causing various non-communicable diseases like cancer.

Dr. Joana Ansong, WHO country representative for Non-Communicable Diseases, and other officials from the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Secretariat, the UNDP, and several Unit Heads of EOCO were present at the meeting.

A tragic incident has unfolded in Wurumrumso, a farming community in the Asutifi South district of the Ahafo region, where a 29-year-old man named Kwame Boateng is alleged to have brutally murdered his mother, Leticia Dufie.

The eighth child of the deceased, Mary Melebora, revealed in an interview with Adom News’ Sammy Asare that her brother used a machete to fatally attack their mother. The motive behind this horrific act remains a mystery.

Reports suggest that the suspect made an attempt on his own life after committing the gruesome crime. However, he was apprehended by the police and promptly taken to the Goaso Government Hospital for medical treatment.

As of now, Kwame Boateng is still receiving medical care while under the supervision of law enforcement.

Two persons have been arrested in relation to the killing of Odehye Kwame Sarkodie in Adoagyiri, Eastern Region.

The primary suspect, Daniel Osei Yaw Boateng, aged 55, was apprehended at his concealed location in Sefwi Akontombra, Western North Region, based on intelligence collected by the Kyebi Regional Police Command.

The second suspect, Kwame Anim, aged 57, was later detained after the primary suspect implicated him as an accomplice in the crime.

A third suspect, identified as Kofi Kurankye and alleged to be the personal driver of the rival chief of Adoagyiri, Okoanadwo Afutu Dompreh, is currently evading arrest.

Reliable intelligence suggests that the two detainees have been transferred to police headquarters per the directive of the police administration.

According to reports, the primary suspect, Daniel Osei Yaw Boateng, confessed to the police that he was responsible for shooting and killing Odehye Kwame Sarkodie.

He further claimed that Kofi Kurankye provided him with the firearm from Okoanadwo Afutu Dompreh’s Palace and instructed him to carry out the shooting. Kwame Anim allegedly assisted Yaw Boateng in leaving the crime scene after the incident.

Odehye Kwame Sarkodie was allegedly murdered by assailants believed to be linked to the rival claimant of the Adoagyiri stool, Okoanadwo Afutu Dompreh, on July 15, 2023, following numerous threats on his life that had been reported to the Nsawam Police station.

This murder case marked the first recorded incident related to the Adoagyiri chieftaincy dispute in July 2023, following a violent clash that resulted in the death of two individuals and injuries to many.

Residents are urging the Ghana Police Service to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and bring the culprits to justice to restore order and peace in the area.

A private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has stated that the scandal involving former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, demonstrates that President Akufo-Addo has forfeited his moral stance on corruption.

Kpebu made this declaration during an interview with the media on Tuesday, in response to revelations by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

The OSP disclosed that the former Sanitation Minister used aliases to hide transactions related to her undisclosed real estate business and that her deceased brother’s bank account was still active, sending funds to her.

“President Akufo-Addo has lost the moral stand, he is no longer on a moral high horse. He couldn’t fire the minister. The minister left by herself and that showed Akufo-Addo is weak, he couldn’t fire her. Meanwhile, in opposition, he said, ‘I will not support corruption, I will not do family and friends.’ He was using family and friends in this instance, he couldn’t sack her. It took public opinion, public pressure and then madam Dapaah went.”

“The other side that comes in is that he didn’t select well. So once he didn’t select a good minister and the minister is embroiled in all of this embarrassing thing, it also touches on the president. Don’t forget they say show me your friend and I will show you my character. So sometimes there is that collective punishment,” he stated.

According to court documents filed by the OSP, Cecilia Dapaah used aliases to conceal transactions related to her undisclosed real estate business.

The documents also revealed the existence of unexplained large sums of cash at her residence, significantly surpassing her income as a Minister of State, with allegations of theft by her house-helps.

Additionally, the OSP disclosed that a bank account belonging to Cecilia Dapaah’s deceased brother remained active and continued to transfer funds to the former Sanitation Minister.

“Analysis of the statements in the first respondent’s Prudential Bank account number 0090924640014 highly suspicious transactions involving the name of the first respondent’s deceased brother – Nana Akwasi Essan. The said Nana Akwasi Essan died in January 2022 and there is no record domiciled at the financial institutions of probate or letters of administration granted to personal representatives). Strangely, there are active transfers from the deceased person’s bank account to that of the first respondent’s Prudential Bank account number 0090924640014.

“As recently as 19 September 2022 and 23 May 2023, amounts of Ten Thousand Four Hundred and Fifty cedis (GH¢10,450.00) and Eleven Thousand Two Hundred and Eighty Thousand cedis (GH¢11,280.00) respectively were transferred, supposedly by the deceased brother to the first respondent,” the OSP noted.

A former presidential aspirant from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, has expressed uncertainty regarding his choice of party for the 2024 presidential elections.

In an interview with the media on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 he indicated that he is hesitant to vote for the NPP in the upcoming polls due to the current government’s poor performance.

Frimpong-Boateng, who formerly served as the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation under President Akufo-Addo, also noted that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has not demonstrated any signs of offering a better alternative.

“I have not decided (on who to vote for) yet. Because it is fluid now. What I don’t like is an attempt to buy votes, force people in a certain direction. If you do that it is a testimony to the weakness of the candidate that you are supporting.

“It will be difficult for the NPP to win the 2024 elections. It is a fact that they [the NPP] have over-promised and under-delivered but everything is possible but the NDC is also not giving me any hope,” he said.

He went on to suggest that it would be challenging for the NPP to secure victory in the 2024 elections, citing their tendency to make lofty promises without delivering on them.

However, he acknowledged that while the NPP faces difficulties, the NDC has not provided him with much hope either.

Prof. Frimpong-Boateng also shared his previous vision of the NPP remaining in power for more than 40 years, but he lamented the current state of affairs, which he believes places the NPP at risk of losing the 2024 elections.

“When I was in government, I said the way the NDC had mismanaged the country, we were going to help the president and work so that the NPP would still be there even after forty years and there would be no romantic ideas about the NDC again and now look at where we are. I thought we were going to work and there would be no romantic ideas about Mahama and the NDC ever coming back,” he said.

The National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Stephen Ntim, has voiced his endorsement of Adwoa Safo’s recent apology, underscoring its significance in her political journey.

Ntim emphasized that Adwoa Safo, as a party member, is taking the appropriate step by issuing an apology.

“Adwoa Safo’s apology is in order; I really support her objective because she knows the NPP is the only party she belongs to. So, she is doing what is expected of her, I mean the apology and all that,” Chairman Ntim stated.

However, he made it clear that the final decision regarding Adwoa Safo’s candidacy for the parliamentary seat and her potential return as a Member of Parliament rests in the hands of the party’s delegates and the constituents of Dome-Kwabenya.

“If the constituents accept her to be an MP once again despite all that has gone on, I as Chairman and the rest of the party leadership will back her with our spirits to become an MP. So, her fate rests in the hands of Dome-Kwabenya delegates, from polling station to the constituency level,” Chairman Ntim affirmed.

Adwoa Safo, the incumbent Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, publicly apologized on Thursday, September 14, to the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), particularly President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and other party officials.

She explained that her extended absence from Parliament was due to personal and family issues she was grappling with during that period.

Adwoa Safo had been absent from her parliamentary duties for over a year after her trip to the United States. Consequently, her seat became vacant, prompting some MPs to call for its declaration as such.

In 2022, she was summoned to appear before the Privileges Committee of Parliament multiple times but failed to do so.

The Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Stephen Ntim, has clarified that his role does not involve endorsing any potential flagbearer within the party until an official candidate is chosen through the party’s democratic procedures.

During an interview with the media on September 19, 2023, Chairman Stephen Ntim emphasized the significance of allowing the party’s delegates to determine the flagbearer.

He stated, “Before the chairman decides to make a president from the party, he has to leave the selection of the candidate to polling agents, constituencies, and the regional offices for them to vote and elect a candidate they believe in to be the president.”

Chairman Ntim further elucidated that only after this electoral process would he, as the party chairman, step in to provide support and advocate for the selected presidential candidate.

This support would encompass activities such as fundraising, logistical assistance, and other essential preparations essential for a presidential campaign.

He underscored his unwavering commitment to maintaining impartiality throughout the selection process, reaffirming that “prior to the election, the chairman has no involvement. He remains impartial until the flagbearer is chosen.”

Residents and motorists in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region have issued a stern ultimatum to the government.

They’ve issued a warning that if the abysmal road conditions in their locality remain unattended, they will continue their protests and disrupt political parties’ campaign efforts in the area.

On Tuesday, a coalition of driver unions, in conjunction with local residents and road users, took to the streets to protest the deteriorating road infrastructure in several Amansie localities, including Manso Nkwanta in the Amansie West District, Jacobu in the Amansie Central District, and Manso Adubia in the Amansie South Municipality.

Despite government assurances regarding road repairs, interviewed road users stated that progress in addressing these concerns has been painfully slow. Additionally, some individuals expressed concerns about criminals exploiting the poor road network to carry out attacks.

During the protest, participants burned lorry tires and brandished placards to voice their grievances.

They subsequently submitted a petition to the Amansie West District Assembly, even though the District Chief Executive was unavailable to receive it in person. However, a representative accepted the petition on his behalf.

“The roads are in a bad state,” one driver said, adding “as members of the driver unions, we are appealing to the government to fix the roads. If we don’t see any construction on the road, we will not entertain any political activities in the area, and we are very determined to carry that plan out. This caution goes for both the National Democratic Congress and the New Patriotic Party.”

At the age of 47, Akraba Nana, defying both adversity and societal norms, has embarked on an extraordinary journey to pursue his education, years after dropping out following the tragic loss of his parents.

Sharing his life story and motivation, Akraba Nana, also known as “Schoolboy,” recounted how his dreams were shattered when he lost both his parents while he was in class three.

“I was in class three when I lost both parents [then] my future ambition crashed,” he recounted.

After grappling with adversity and seeking employment in various places, Akraba eventually settled in Cape Coast, Central Region, where he became a well-known head porter at the Kotokoraba Market.

Simultaneously, he discovered a passion for music but faced a significant obstacle – he couldn’t write his own songs.

“All those who wrote my songs for me did not write it exactly the way I wanted to bring out the lyrics.

“The motivation to write my songs forced me to go back to school. After consultation with my wife, I decided to go back to school to be able to read and write,” he noted.

The desire to write his songs compelled him to make the life-changing decision to return to school and learn how to read and write.

Every day, Akraba embarks on a journey of almost a kilometer to attend St. Paul Catholic School.

Here, he not only studies but also shares his school life with his seven children, four of whom are ahead of him in the same school, while two are his classmates.

“The headmistress was admitting nursery students as at the time I was also seeking admission. Per the school rules, the window was opened for nursery students, [but] the headmistress allowed me to start in class three,” he recalled.

This decision to return to school was the result of discussions with his supportive wife, who encouraged him to pursue education. Akraba’s determination and persistence have led to him paying not only his own school fees but also those of his seven children. Currently in class six, he has remained in this grade for four years because he has not yet met the prerequisite grades to advance to Junior High School.

Despite his age, Akraba eagerly participates in all school activities. He plays football, is a member of the school choir, engages in volleyball, and willingly accepts any disciplinary measures.

“I remember how I was caned by a teacher I am older than. Interestingly, my kids and I had to go through that ordeal together,” he said.go through that experience together,” he remarked, illustrating his unwavering commitment to his education and personal growth.