Author: Phoebe Martekie Doku

The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has opposed the recent attacks on its field operatives in the Eastern Region unacceptable.

According GWCL, these attacks, including threats and assaults by customers’ dogs, are negatively impacting GWCL’s operations.

The water company reports that its staff members, who are tasked with reading meters or disconnecting services in accordance with the law, frequently encounter threatening messages and, in some instances, physical attacks by customers’ unrestrained dogs. This disturbing situation is disrupting GWCL’s daily activities.

Earlier this week, a video emerged showing a woman in Koforidua assaulting a GWCL staff member who had disconnected her meter due to unpaid debts.

Kwadwo Daase, the Eastern Regional Public Relations Officer for GWCL, called upon the Ghana Police Service to treat the matter with utmost seriousness.

He urged them to apprehend the responsible individuals as a deterrent to others.

He said, “We have received reports from some of our customers and on our staff platforms that our field workers have been chased with machetes while disconnecting services. They have also been sent threatening messages, such as ‘Prepare for your dead body’ or ‘Prepare for your coffin.’ These workers have to visit the same areas repeatedly, so it is worrying that they are being threatened. In some cases, wild dogs have been unleashed on our workers.”

Daase added, “There have been several cases where our workers have been bitten by dogs and suffered injuries. This is a serious issue that should be condemned by all stakeholders. The security agencies should take these reports seriously and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. We do not want a situation where a staff member is attacked and the company is forced to stop providing water to the community. We urge everyone to treat this matter with the urgency it deserves.”

The Ghana Soyabean Farmers and Aggregators Association has stated that the primary concern for local processors lies in the exorbitant electricity costs.

This revelation came to light as the group submitted a petition to Parliament, urging the revision or removal of regulations governing the import and export of grains to exempt soybean imports.

Abdul Hakeem Issah, the Director of Administration for the Association, conveyed in an interview in Accra on Wednesday that some processing companies confide privately that their foremost challenge is the high electricity expenses, rather than the cost of soybeans.

He emphasized that soybeans are an internationally traded commodity, with their prices fluctuating in tandem with various external factors.

Issah elaborated, stating that these companies extract oil from soybeans and either export it or sell it within Ghana at international prices. Consequently, as soybean prices rise globally, the cost of the oil also increases.

In the midst of these concerns, the Ghana Soya Bean Farmers and Aggregators Association has urged the government to address the obstacles encountered during the initial phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) initiative, with the aim of ensuring the success of the upcoming phase.

Emmanuel Kotin, a security analyst, has described the suspension of the three police officers allegedly involved in a plot to remove Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, as prematurely executed.

The Ghana Police Service took swift action by suspending three senior officers – COP Alex Mensah, Superintendent George Asare, and Superintendent Emmanuel Eric Gyebi, following their appearance before a parliamentary ad-hoc committee tasked with investigating a leaked recording.

Kotin contends that the officers were suspended primarily on the grounds of allegedly damaging the reputation of the Inspector General of Police.

He called for a fair and balanced approach to the situation, suggesting that if these officers are to be suspended, it would be fair for the Inspector General of Police to also step aside temporarily.

This, he argues, would facilitate an impartial investigation into the matter.

“Why suspend these officers now? Why weren’t they suspended when the tape initially surfaced, to instill confidence in the system’s commitment to uncovering the truth?” Kotin questioned.

Furthermore, Emmanuel Kotin urged President Akufo-Addo to establish an independent committee to thoroughly investigate the allegations, as he believes the parliamentary ad-hoc committee lacks prosecutorial powers and a broader mandate to fully address the issues at hand.

“I think the decision is premature because if you look at the people involved in the leaked tape, it involves directly the personality of the IGP so if these police officers are to be interdicted, then it is fair that the IGP equally part ways so that we can have a very independent investigation into this matter.”

“Why will these officers be interdicted at this time? Why were they not interdicted at the time the tape came out such that we have confidence in the system that indeed, they were keen to get to the bottom of the matter?”

“I will call on the president to intervene and widen the scope of the ad-hoc committee of Parliament [probing the matter] because their terms of reference do not go far because they don’t have prosecutorial powers and the president should form an independent commission to probe all the allegations that have been raised.”

The Member of Parliament representing Mpraeso, Davis Ansah Opoku, has revealed that Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen extensively consulted with various stakeholders before making the decision to withdraw from the flagbearership race of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Mr. Kyerematen, who had secured the third position in the NPP’s Special Delegates’ Conference, was initially expected to be one of the five candidates vying in the upcoming presidential primaries scheduled for November 4.

However, on Tuesday, September 5, he chose to withdraw from the race, citing alleged intimidation of his supporters and claims of election manipulation in favor of another candidate.

In an interview with the media, the MP expressed his disappointment with Mr. Kyerematen’s decision, emphasizing that there were high expectations for him as the presidential candidate of the NPP.

“I will not say I was surprised, but I was disappointed. We all had high hopes. He’s the candidate, he’s the leader, he’s the one presenting himself to be president of the Republic to lead the NPP as a presidential candidate. So if at a point he decides that this is the path that he wants to take, you can advise, but for me, the backstops with him. I will say that in the decision that he took, he really consulted widely. He engaged virtually everybody who supported his campaign,” he stated.

Additionally, Davis Ansah Opoku acknowledged the approach taken by vice president, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s team during the Special Delegates’ Conference.

He pointed out that Mr. Kyerematen was not expected to win the election and congratulated Dr. Bawumia on his victory.

Opoku further commented on the strategies employed by the candidates, highlighting the successful personal campaign carried out by Dr. Bawumia and the strong performance of Kennedy Agyapong, who unexpectedly secured the second position.

Mr Opoku concluded that effective campaign strategies played a significant role in the outcome of the Super Delegates’ Conference.

Regarding Mr. Kyerematen’s future actions, Opoku strongly advised against the formation of a new party or pursuing an independent candidacy. He expressed the need for party unity and cooperation to secure victory in the upcoming election.

Finally, Opoku stressed the importance of holding those responsible for any acts of violence during the election accountable, regardless of their affiliations, and called for appropriate legal consequences for such individuals.

The National Service Scheme (NSS) has announced its readiness to distribute 600 bags of maize to Senior High Schools (SHSs) nationwide.

This maize harvest is a part of the Economic Enclave Project initiated under GhanaCARES’ “Obaatan Pa” program.

The scheme has successfully collected over 600 bags of maize and has handed them over to the Ministry of Education for distribution to schools across the country, specifically for the school feeding program.

“We have actually so far prepared and bagged 600 bags to be sent to some of the Free SHSs to augment their feeding stock for the students… We still have some of the maize on the farm yet to be harvested.”

“So when we are able to do that then we will be able to tell the number of bags that will come out of the next harvesting which will be done very soon. But that will be dependent on the fact that the Ministry will have to take a decision on which of the schools will benefit.”

Ambrose Entsiwah, the Acting Head of Corporate Affairs at NSS, shared this information during an interview with the media on Wednesday.

He mentioned, “We have already prepared and bagged 600 bags for delivery to select Free SHSs to bolster their food supplies for students. Additionally, there is more maize awaiting harvesting on our farms.”

He added, “The exact number of bags from our next harvest, which will take place soon, will depend on the Ministry’s decision regarding which schools will benefit from this initiative.”

Mr. Entsiwah also noted that 50 NSS personnel from various agricultural institutions across the country are managing farm activities, and they are assured of employment opportunities after completing their service.

Furthermore, he stated that the first harvest from NSS-operated farms is expected to yield around 1000 bags of rice, which will further support food supplies to schools participating in the Free Senior High School program.

The Sunyani West Municipality, located in the Bono Region, has achieved a remarkable milestone of zero maternal mortality cases in the past five years.

This accomplishment aligns perfectly with one of the core objectives of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.

The Sunyani West Municipal Director of the Ghana Health Service, Daniel Konka, shared in an interview with the media that this significant achievement was made possible through a series of strategic measures implemented by the directorate.

“Maternal mortality holds a high priority within the UN’s SDGs, and the Bono Region has also grappled with maternal deaths. However, within my municipality, Sunyani West, we have consistently managed to prevent maternal deaths for a considerable period due to specific strategies devised by our management. One of these strategies involved recognizing the greater number of healthcare facilities in rural areas and advocating for the regional health directorate to assign staff to these facilities, thus enabling them to offer antenatal, maternal, and child health services.”

He further explained, “We also acknowledged that simply deploying staff was insufficient; we needed to provide them with essential training so they could identify warning signs during antenatal care and promptly refer patients for further attention.”

Mr. Konka also highlighted their commitment to bridging the gap by conducting home visits for patients residing in remote areas. “Our nurses intensified home visits, enabling them to identify pregnant mothers and guide them through the antenatal care process.

For those displaying danger signs, immediate referrals were made for advanced care. Additionally, our management recognized the value of this approach, providing support through targeted training in areas where we identified weaknesses,” he added.

The Director-General of Services at the Police Head Office, COP Enoch Adutwum Bediako, has emphasized that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) is not obligated to promote any police officer within the force.

During a session with students of the Police Basic School as part of the Snatch Them Young Police Initiative, COP Bediako advised future police recruits not to assume that their tenure in the service automatically entitles them to promotions.

He explained, “You cannot go and tell the IGP that I have worked, so I need promotion, as if he is obliged to promote you, whether you work or you don’t work. No. The answer is, it depends on how you have worked within the period, and then the IGP will promote you. So, in the future, if you become police officers, put that in your mind.”

COP Bediako’s remarks follow claims made by COP Alex Mensah during his testimony before a parliamentary commission investigating a leaked tape that allegedly discussed plotting the removal of IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare from his position.

COP Mensah asserted that morale within the Police Service had declined due to the IGP’s failure to promote officers who were eligible for promotion. He also alleged that Dr. Dampare was mismanaging the Ghana Police Service and that many officers were unhappy with his leadership.

A former Director General in charge of Technical Affairs within the Ghana Police Service, COP Mensah, made these allegations during his appearance before the seven-member bi-partisan Committee investigating the secret recording of the alleged plot against Dr. Dampare, ahead of the 2024 general elections.

An unidentified middle-aged man has shared startling revelations about the unfair treatment given to individuals by some forestry officers at the galamsey site in the Ashanti Region of Kumasi, particularly in the Atwima Mponua area.

According to him, the lives of his son and nephew’s were cut short in the hands of a forestry officer who allegedly stoned them to death.

Speaking to the media, he disclosed that the incident took place approximately six months ago when the 17-year-old and 18-year-old together with several others decided to partake in galamsey activities.

According to his account, on that fateful day, his family members and several others embarked on a journey to the site.

Shockingly, they were forcibly expelled from the forest while others who were operating excavators for the illegal mining operation remained untouched.

“Six months ago, my son and nephew were involved galamsey. One fateful day, they, along with around 50 other individuals, decided to venture into the forest, their usual site for galamsey activities. Shockingly, they were forcibly expelled from the forest, while others engaged in the same activity were neither driven out nor subjected to harm.

“Unfortunately, my son and nephew were arrested during this incident, and tragically, they were subjected to a horrific act of violence – they were stoned to death. Even more distressing, their lifeless bodies were left exposed on the streets, bearing witness to the brutal consequences of their involvement in galamsey,” he added.

The man revealed that some individuals, including those who managed to escape the scene before his children’s arrest, sought refuge in the forest and managed to capture what unfolded after the apprehension of the duo.

Subsequently, the duo was released, but they found themselves unable to escape the area as it was surrounded by Forestry Commission officers.

The only apparent escape route was through a pit, but this option became impossible due to other officers who had gathered around the pit’s exit, pelting anyone attempting to emerge with stones.

Tragically, his 17-year-old son and 18-year-old nephew succumbed to the relentless barrage of stones, resulting in their untimely deaths.

“The other children were hit with sticks which made them fall in a pit. Fortunately for them they were able to swim their way through the pit but hurlded by the other officers were at the exist of the pit because threw stones at anybody who tries to come out of the pit.
Unfortunately for my son 17, and nephew 18 years they gave up the ghost due to the numerous stones thrown at them” he added.

He further alleged that the Forestry Commission had engaged a local resident in the area to act as an informant, providing them with information about individuals venturing into the prohibited galamsey area.

In another starling event n illegal miner has made a chilling confession regarding the shocking practice of sacrificing newborn babies on galamsey sites in exchange for gold.

In his explanation, delivered in Twi, a local dialect, he reveals that some illegal miners collaborate with certain nurses working in hospitals to secretly procure newborn babies. These infants are then purchased and transported to galamsey sites.

Once on the site, a gruesome ritual unfolds as the baby’s head is tragically opened over the galamsey pit. It is alleged that this ritualistic act is believed to generate more gold, which the miners subsequently extract and sell for financial gain. This revelation paints a chilling picture of the extent to which illegal mining operations can go, exposing the depths of desperation and cruelty associated with these activities.

“When we buy the fresh babies from the nurses, they are taken to the underground, killed, by cracking them hard on the walls of the pit and the blood is used for rituals. The death of the human being is necessary to make the land act on their demands for more gold,” he said in an interview on Angel FM.

He further added that when these sacrificial acts occur, no one else can seem to extract more gold from the area compared to those directly involved in the gruesome ritual.

This suggests that while one miner may find it relatively easier to unearth gold, another person might struggle to even find a small speck of the precious metal.

The narrator went on to disclose another horrifying aspect of illegal mining, indicating that some miners go as far as killing their fellow miners as part of these ritualistic practices during the course of their work.

They attribute the cause of these deaths to the belief that “Asaase akasa,” which translates to “the earth has spoken.”

This belief underscores the disturbing extent to which superstition and desperation have become entwined with illegal mining activities, painting a harrowing portrait of the industry’s dark side.

“Your own fellow miner can pick a rod while you are in the pit. He will deliberately use the rod to release huge already loose stones on you and say it is a natural act by the earth,” he expressed.

A senior lecturer in political science at the University of Ghana, Professor Ransford Gyampo, has underscored the challenges that Alan Kyerematen may face in considering an offer to become the running mate of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia should Dr. Bawumia emerge victorious in the November 4 election.

His comment is based on rumors suggesting that Alan Kyerematen could be chosen as Dr. Bawumia’s running mate.

In an interview with the media, Professor Gyampo mentioned that Mr. Kyerematen might invoke the principle of “y3nim wo fri tete,” indicating a desire for fresh leadership, and consequently decline the offer.

“It depends on him, but I think that it may be quite difficult for Alan to accept to be Dr Bawumia’s running mate, having been there from 2007 till now. I’m sure that he would want to subscribe to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) cliché of y3nim wo fri tete. And that may not, in my view, allow him to want to be a running mate to Dr Bawumia,” Professor Gyampo pointed out.

Professor Gyampo also expressed the view that Alan Kyerematen has the option to either depart from the party or forge alliances with fellow aspirants to create a strong and competitive candidate.

“He can also decide to team up with other aspirants to present a certain formidable candidate, either led by himself or by other people. Or he can decide to go as an independent candidate, or he can decide to form his own political party and see if he can be a force to reckon with. If he also decides to form his own party, then he will still be a force to reckon with,” he opined.

Mr. Kyerematen, who had previously secured the third position in the Special Delegates’ Conference, was anticipated to be among the five candidates participating in the forthcoming November 4 presidential primaries.

Nevertheless, he decided to withdraw from the polls on Tuesday, September 5, citing alleged intimidation of his supporters and claims of election manipulation in favor of a particular candidate.

Despite these assertions, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) dismissed Alan Kyerematen’s claims as they pertained to his withdrawal from the race for the party’s flagbearer position.

A parliamentary candidate representing the New Patriotic Party (NPP), in Ketu North Constituency, Dr. Samuel Kofi Ahiave Dzamesi, has officially withdrawn from the race.

In a letter addressed to the party’s election committee, Dr. Dzamesi expressed his optimism that the NPP could greatly benefit from the introduction of new faces and fresh perspectives.

In a letter addressed to the party’s election committee, Dr. Dzamesi expressed his strong belief that the NPP could experience significant advantages through the introduction of new individuals with fresh perspectives. He detailed how, after careful personal reflection and extensive consultations, he had arrived at the decision not to vie for the party’s Parliamentary Candidature in the constituency.

His letter stated, “I therefore write to officially inform you that I have withdrawn from the Parliamentary Candidacy race for the NPP in the Ketu North Constituency. I hereby call for a united front to support the candidate whom we believe can best represent our interests and work tirelessly for the progress of our party in the constituency”.

Please find the full text of his letter below:

The former Chairman of the National Democratic Congress in the Central Region, Bernard Jacobs Allotey, has stated that Vice President Bawumia’s quest to secure victory in the New Patriotic Party‘s (NPP) presidential race is determinant on his ability to form alliances with specific individuals.

Speaking to the media, Mr Allotey mentioned that the Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, holds the key to garnering support for Dr. Bawumia among Ghanaians.

According to him, Dr. Opoku wields considerable influence in regions like Ashanti, Brong, and Bono, making it relatively uncomplicated to rally people behind Dr. Bawumia.

Mr Allotey also pointed out the Member of Parliament for the Abetifi constituency, Bryan Acheampong, as a dependable ally for Dr. Bawumia, especially within that particular region.

Furthermore, Allotey expressed confidence in Ursula Owusu, the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West Constituency, stating that she possesses the qualities necessary to secure support from residents in her area for Bawumia’s candidacy.

“Now Alan has backed out of the race, I think the next person who can help Bawumia very well is Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, he can organise the Ashanti, Brong and Bono and Bryan Acheampong can organise Eastern and Oti regions,” he added.

His comments come in the wake of former NPP presidential aspirant, Alan Kyerematen’s withdrawal from the race.

Mr Kyerematen cited subpar performance at the party’s Super Delegates Conference and alleged interference by certain party leaders as his reasons for stepping aside. He expressed concern over what he perceived as a strategic bias in favor of a particular aspirant during the conference and cited statements from prominent party members as supporting evidence.

At the Super Delegates Conference held on Saturday, August 26, Dr. Bawumia emerged victorious with 629 votes, representing 68.15% of the total valid votes. Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong secured second place with 132 votes (14.30%), while former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen came in third with 95 votes (10.29%).

With Kyerematen no longer in the race, Kennedy Agyapong, Dr. Afriyie Akoto, and Francis Addai-Nimo are set to compete against Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who is widely regarded as the frontrunner in the NPP’s presidential elections.

The final contest is scheduled for November 4, which will ultimately determine the NPP’s presidential candidate for the 2024 general elections.

A former Executive Vice President of Unilever, Yaw Nsarkoh, has indicated that coups should not be seen as a viable solution to address developmental challenges within a country.

In an interview with the media, he elaborated on his stance, emphasizing that coups, despite being labeled as military takeovers, do not necessarily stem from a collective decision made by an entire nation’s armed forces with the aim of fostering development.

Instead, they are orchestrated by a select few individuals who lack a legitimate mandate and seek to seize power for personal gain, often neglecting accountability to the people once in control.

“The happenings in the sub-region are not pleasant. Our perception is that opposition groups will always collaborate with military adventurists to stage coup d’état. But in Ghana, the story is different.”

“We in the opposition pride ourselves as the architects of this democratic consolidation, as the architects of the stability we are enjoying. We in the opposition are the architects. And so, we are ready to protect it and to protect the constitution we have signed into action,” he stated.

He urged the public to scrutinize coups more closely, emphasizing that they typically involve a clandestine group within the military rather than the entire armed forces acting as a unified establishment.

He challenged the notion that coups should be considered a solution to problems when civilian governance faces difficulties.

“Comrades, you are rising up today as patrons and the work you are going to do is daunting, but we trust that you will be able to live up to the challenge. There is no way you can constitute a governing team that will represent everybody, and we know there are shortcomings in this composition.

“But we are appealing to our party’s rank and file that this is a call to duty and not an honour. Wherever you are, you can find a way to help achieve the same purpose whether you are sworn in today or not.”

Over the past three years, Africa has witnessed a series of coup-related events, resulting in political upheaval in several countries:

Mali (August 2020 and May 2021): In August 2020, a coup occurred in Mali, leading to the temporary disruption of constitutional rule. Although order was restored, the military regained control in May 2021, extending their rule. The military leadership has pledged to return the country to constitutional governance following elections scheduled for February 2024.

Guinea (September 2021): President Alpha Condé was overthrown in September 2021, resulting in Guinea being placed under military rule. As of now, the country remains under military control two years later.

Sudan (October 2021): General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan ousted transitional civilian leaders who were meant to guide Sudan towards democracy following 30 years of Omar al-Bashir’s dictatorship.

Burkina Faso (January 2022): Burkina Faso experienced a military coup in January 2022, leading to the overthrow of President Roch Marc Christian Kaboré. The military continues to govern, with a presidential election scheduled for July 2024.

Niger (July 2023): On July 26, 2023, the military announced the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum in Niger. General Abdourahamane Tiani assumed leadership. ECOWAS imposed sanctions on the country and threatened military action if diplomatic negotiations fail. The junta is advocating for a three-year transition plan, while ECOWAS insists on a swift return to constitutional rule.

Gabon (August 2023): In August 2023, President Ali Bongo was overthrown shortly after being declared the winner of a disputed election. General Brice Oligui Nguema was sworn in as the interim president.

These events highlight a concerning trend of political instability and military interventions in various African countries over the past few years, challenging the principles of democratic governance and the peaceful transfer of power. The international community and regional organizations like ECOWAS are actively involved in efforts to restore constitutional order and stability in these nations.

This statement comes in the context of a series of recorded coup attempts in Africa over the past three years.

A Senior Lecturer in Political Science at Kwame University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Dr. Kwasi Amakye Boateng, has asserted that Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen would have faced a resounding defeat in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primaries on November 4 had he not voluntarily withdrawn from the race.

In an interview with media on September 6, Dr. Boateng expressed his view that the former Trade and Industry Minister had already lost his standing and influence within the NPP well before the election.

Dr. Boateng expressed his surprise at Mr. Kyerematen’s belief that he could pursue a presidential ambition within the party, considering the circumstances.

He cited Alan’s performance in the Super Delegates’ Conference, where he finished third and far behind his closest competitor, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, as a clear indicator of failure and the conclusion of his political career.

Regarding Alan’s withdrawal from the race on September 5, citing electoral irregularities, unfair treatment, and bias during the super delegates’ conference, Dr. Boateng remarked that it did not catch him off guard.

He had previously observed that Alan’s poor performance at the conference hinted at failure and signaled the end of his political aspirations, given his prominent status in both politics and the party.

Dr. Boateng mentioned that while he disagreed with Alan’s claims of violence during the super delegates‘ conference, he concurred with the idea that holding the election at various locations instead of a central venue allowed for the manipulation of influence, potentially granting some candidates an advantage.

He likened the election to an elite contest, with a select group of influential party members participating, which he believed was even more detrimental than physical violence.

He described it as a situation where one person carried charcoal while another carried raw meat, and despite expectations, only the person with raw meat attracted flies. This, he argued, was influenced by the coercive environment created by holding the election at multiple centers.

Dr. Boateng also considered the lack of job opportunities in the country, suggesting that many of the voters were government employees seeking to retain their positions and enjoy the benefits of being in government.

All these factors, in his opinion, contributed to Alan’s poor performance.

He concluded by asserting that the outcome of the election appeared to have been strategized well in advance, starting in Kumasi when Chairman Wontumi was given a free pass due to Nana Addo’s intervention.

Dr. Boateng believed that elections should not be predictable and should uphold the principles of electoral governance and fairness, which, in this case, seemed to have been compromised.

Today, Thursday, September 7, 2023, the Interbank forex rates from the Bank of Ghana(BoG) reveal that the Ghana Cedi is presently trading against the US Dollar at a buying rate of 11.0276 and a selling rate of 11.0386..

Meanwhile, at a foreign exchange bureau located in Accra, the US Dollar is available for purchase at a rate of 11.40 and can be sold at a rate of 11.65.

In addition, when measured against the Pound Sterling, the Ghana Cedi is trading at a buy rate of 13.7834 and a sell rate of 13.7983.

Furthermore, at a currency exchange bureau in Accra, the Pound Sterling is purchasable at a rate of 14.40 and can be sold at a rate of 14.90.

The Euro is currently trading in the broader market at a buying price of 11.8180 and a selling price of 11.8298. However, at a specific forex bureau in Accra, you can obtain Euros at a slightly different rate, with a buying rate of 12.10 and a selling rate of 12.60.

Similarly, the South African Rand has a general market rate of a buying price of 0.5734 and a selling price of 0.5738.

At the mentioned forex bureau in Accra, you can purchase South African Rand at a rate of 0.35 and sell it at a rate of 0.95.

Please note that forex rates can vary slightly between different bureaus and may change throughout the day.

The Nigerian Naira is currently trading in the general market at a buying price of 69.2688 and a selling price of 70.4036.

However, at the specific forex bureau in Accra, you can exchange Nigerian Naira at a rate of 11.00 Naira for every 1 Cedi when buying and sell it at a rate of 16.00 Naira for every 1 Cedi.

As for the CFA (XOF), it has a general market rate of a buying price of 55.4495 and a selling price of 55.5049. At the mentioned forex bureau in Accra, you can obtain CFA at a rate of 16.50 CFA for every 1 Cedi when buying and sell it at a rate of 20.50 CFA for every 1 Cedi.

Please keep in mind that foreign exchange rates can fluctuate and may differ slightly between different bureaus and regions.

The rates you provided are specific to Afriswap Bureau De Change in Osu, Accra.

Media personality, Samuel Attah-Mensah has indicated that former presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen lost his presidential ambitions the day he accepted to serve under president Akufo-Addo.

During a media statement, Mr Attah-Mensah clarified that president Akufo-Addo is highly unlikely to select Alan over vice president, Bawumia as the preferred leader of their political party.

According to him president Akufo-Addo has consistently supported Bawumia, who has been his loyal deputy for an extended period.

Mr Attah-Mensah emphasized that President Akufo-Addo would not, under any circumstances, back Alan when Bawumia has been and continues to be of service to him.

“The moment Alan Kyerematen accepted the appointment as the trade minister under the Akufo-Addo in 2017 is where he left the race.

“Akufo-Addo will not against all odds propose Bawumia to be running mates against the stance of the party, work with him for 7 years and not stand with him at a point like this.

Following Alan Kyerematen’s withdrawal from the race, the former Trade Minister cited his subpar performance at the party’s Super Delegates Conference and alleged interference by certain party leaders as the reasons behind his decision.

He expressed concern that the conference had been strategically tilted in favor of a particular aspirant and pointed to statements made by prominent party members before and after the elections as supporting evidence.

“The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations.

“The level of intimidation of varying intensity, both direct and indirect, unleashed upon a significant number of Delegates at various Voting Centers across all sixteen regions is unprecedented in the history of our Party. Furthermore, the fact that my Polling Agent in the North East region suffered severe damage to his eyesight as a result of his brave and unwavering efforts to ensure strict compliance with the rules and regulations for the conduct of the elections, as approved by the Presidential Elections Committee, will forever remain a dark stain in the annals of our Party’s internal elections. These incidents, along with various reports of violence and collusion in other Voting Centers, are not only shocking but also reprehensible and inexcusable,” he added.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has affirmed its commitment to safeguarding Ghana against the possibility of a coup d’état, citing concerns over recent military takeovers in neighboring countries.

The chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, expressed these sentiments during a ceremony in Accra on Thursday, where eleven newly appointed members of the NDC’s National Executive Committee were sworn in.

Mr. Nketiah emphasized that opposition parties in Ghana are dedicated to preserving the nation’s stability.

“The happenings in the sub-region are not pleasant. Our perception is that opposition groups will always collaborate with military adventurists to stage coup d’état. But in Ghana, the story is different.”

“We in the opposition pride ourselves as the architects of this democratic consolidation, as the architects of the stability we are enjoying. We in the opposition are the architects. And so, we are ready to protect it and to protect the constitution we have signed into action,” he stated.

Additionally, Mr. Nketiah encouraged the newly appointed executives to rise to the challenge, acknowledging that their roles would be demanding.

He stated, “Comrades, you are assuming your positions today as custodians of our party’s ideals, and the tasks ahead are formidable. While there may be some limitations in the composition of this governing team, we appeal to our party’s members to view this as a call to duty rather than an honor. Regardless of your official roles, each of you can contribute to our shared goals, whether sworn in today or at a later time.”

The Deputy Director of Communications for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Malik Basintale, has called for treason charges against COP George Alex Mensah.

Basintale argued that given COP Mensah’s professional stature, his statements in the leaked IGP audio should be taken seriously.

Speaking to the media, he emphasized that someone of COP Mensah’s caliber could potentially act on the remarks made in the leaked recording.

“The COP is not an ordinary individual and if we do not know who we are speaking about, we are speaking about someone who has risen to the apex of the Ghana Police Service. In fact, from the COP, he could only become IGP and deputy IGP. Aside from that, he’s ended.

“And you think that we should take his comments lightly? Look, I think that he should have been charged with treason by now. Because you don’t sit down and swear everything, stating emphatically that a multi-party state like Ghana should have only one political party all because he sat there and said his family belongs to the Danquah-Busia tradition, he is a known NPP member, all his life he’s been an NPP member; and so, what?

He expressed concern over COP Mensah’s comments in the leaked audio, where he allegedly advocated for a one-party state in Ghana based on his political affiliation and family ties.

Background:

A leaked audio recording involving a Police Commissioner and a politician discussing plans to remove the Inspector General of Police (IGP), George Akuffo Dampare, has sparked public outrage.

In the audio, a retiring Police Commissioner identified as Alex Mensah is heard discussing with the politician, Bugri Naabu, about removing the IGP due to concerns that he would be too strict during the 2024 elections. COP Mensah expressed worries that the IGP would not tolerate electoral manipulation, citing the security measures during the Assin North by-election as evidence of his commitment to fair elections.

The government has launched automated premix fuel dispensers in Elmina, Central Region.

Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, at the commissioning, emphasized that this automation will eliminate corruption and favoritism in premix fuel distribution nationwide.

It’s also expected to reduce hoarding in the fishing sector, a crucial source of employment for coastal residents.

Dr. Bawumia highlighted the importance of streamlining activities in the fishing industry, promoting consistency in the fish value chain, and addressing challenges in the premix sector.

“Our critics have nothing to do with the economy. It will take them some time to understand it. But today they have seen the positive impact of digitization which cuts across all sectors, especially on the lives of our fisherfolk We’re increasing revenues in all sectors. The Ghanaian fishing industry is an essential sector of the economy, and it employs thousands of people. The fishing sector has seen a lot of challenges over the years.”

“Access to premix, hoarding, and protocol distribution among other things have been the challenges confronting the premix sector, but with the introduction of the automated system, we have curtailed that practice. The automated premix dispensing system will address the challenges confronting the sector and increase its yield. All canoes are registered and fishermen are given cards to use for the premix,” Dr Mahamudu Bawumia noted.

He credited Ghana’s digitization efforts for positively impacting the lives of fisherfolk, emphasizing increased accessibility and reduced corruption.

The Vice President assured critics that the digitization agenda benefits all sectors, boosting revenue and alleviating challenges in the fishing industry.

He explained that the automated premix dispensing system would enhance transparency, with registered canoes and fishermen using cards for premix access.

Fisheries Minister Mavis Hawa Koomson supported the initiative, expecting it to reduce government subsidies and ensure fair fuel distribution while eliminating intermediaries.

However, some fisherfolk expressed concerns about the automation’s ability to prevent diversion and hoarding.

A journalist affiliated with the Multimedia Group, Winston Amoah, has voiced his apprehensions regarding the potential outcomes should former presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, opt to establish a new political party.

Addressing the media, Mr. Amoah underscored the difficulties associated with running as an independent candidate, emphasizing the substantial effort and resources such a venture will entail.

Mr. Amoah’s remarks comes in the aftermath of Mr Kyerematen’s withdrawal from the NPP presidential race.

He expressed his view that advocating for Mr. Kyerematen to run as an independent candidate is unwarranted, as it would likely take a toll on him.

“It’s not always the case that when the people who support you are going to win, that doesn’t mean that  when the people at the top don’t support you won’t win. At this stage the Alan Kyerematen team and many watchers have indicated… It’s not because I have placed third so I am walking away. But you ask yourself most important questions is  this going to be fair.

“If you look at this particular election where you see people indicating this is what we want to do. If you were Alan Kyerematen you should ask yourself a simple question. Is it going to be fair? Am I able to compete on all fronts?,” he quizzed.

Following Alan Kyerematen’s withdrawal from the race, the former Trade Minister cited his subpar performance at the party’s Super Delegates Conference and alleged interference by certain party leaders as the reasons behind his decision.

He expressed concern that the conference had been strategically tilted in favor of a particular aspirant and pointed to statements made by prominent party members before and after the elections as supporting evidence.

“The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations.

“The level of intimidation of varying intensity, both direct and indirect, unleashed upon a significant number of Delegates at various Voting Centers across all sixteen regions is unprecedented in the history of our Party. Furthermore, the fact that my Polling Agent in the North East region suffered severe damage to his eyesight as a result of his brave and unwavering efforts to ensure strict compliance with the rules and regulations for the conduct of the elections, as approved by the Presidential Elections Committee, will forever remain a dark stain in the annals of our Party’s internal elections. These incidents, along with various reports of violence and collusion in other Voting Centers, are not only shocking but also reprehensible and inexcusable,” he added.

With Alan Kyerematen out of the race, Kennedy Agyapong, Dr. Afriyie Akoto, and Francis Addai-Nimo will now compete against Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who is considered the frontrunner in the party’s presidential elections.

The Volta River Authority (VRA) has issued a warning regarding the potential for flooding in certain regions of Ghana, particularly in the northern areas of the country.

According to the VRA, communities situated along the White Volta River face a significant flood risk due to the planned release of water from the Bagre Dam by Burkinabe authorities.

The VRA is urging local authorities and residents in proximity to the White Volta River to take necessary precautions to prevent the loss of lives and property.

“SONABEL, the power utility of Burkina Faso, has advised the Volta River Authority (VRA) that due to high inflows into the Bagre Dam, high reservoir elevations have been recorded which has necessitated spillage of water from the Bagre Dam.

“Consequently, the water levels of the White Volta River and its tributaries are expected to rise with the spill discharge from the Bagre Dam coupled with high rainfall in the northern parts of the country. This means that areas along the White Volta River, especially, are at a high risk of flooding,” parts of the statement issued by VRA, reads.

It added that “all stakeholders, residents, Chiefs, opinion leaders, security agencies, as well as the general public are to take note of this flood alert and take the necessary precautionary measures to avoid being adversely affected by the spillage from the Bagre Dam”.

The VRA also emphasizes that all stakeholders, including residents, community leaders, security agencies, and the general public, should heed this flood warning and take necessary precautionary measures to mitigate potential impacts resulting from the Bagre Dam’s discharge.

Furthermore, the VRA pledges to continue monitoring the situation and provide ongoing guidance to the public accordingly.

Aggrieved Menzgold customers have appealed to President Akufo-Addo for assistance in recovering their frozen funds amidst ongoing legal proceedings against Nana Appiah Mensah, the former CEO of the now-defunct company.

These distressed customers have issued this plea following the recent filing of additional charges against Nana Appiah Mensah by the government.

Popularly known as NAM1, he stands accused of defrauding thousands of Ghanaians who invested in his gold trading enterprise, facing a total of 39 charges, including false pretense, conducting unlicensed gold trading, and money laundering.

Fred Forson, the spokesperson for Menzgold Customers, expressed confidence in resolving the issue and urged President Akufo-Addo to consider granting financial relief to affected customers while legal proceedings continue.

“For humanitarian reasons, we implore His Excellency, the President, to take action on the petition we submitted. We request that he initiate a financial support plan for the affected customers during the ongoing legal proceedings,” Forson stated. “We want to reassure our fellow customers that our leadership is tirelessly working to recover our principal investments from Menzgold. We ask them to remain patient and hopeful.”

Meanwhile, Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame has assured the victims of Menzgold Ghana Limited, describing the defunct company as a Ponzi scheme that has caused homelessness, broken marriages, and even loss of life among its victims.

Addressing an international symposium on international crime, Dame noted, “It initially operated as Menzbank and underwent various name changes before adopting the Menzgold identity. Without the necessary licenses, it engaged in purchasing gold collectibles from the public and offered contracts with guaranteed returns. I am pleased to report that after thorough investigations, criminal prosecutions have begun against those responsible.”

“His Excellency, the President, on compassionate grounds, should also give action to the petition that we submitted to him. That he should order a bailout for affected customers while the criminal proceedings run in court,” he said.

“We want to say that customers should be rest assured that leadership is doing everything possible to ensure that we retrieve the very principle that we invested in Menzgold. We want them to keep heart,” he stated.

“It called itself Menzbank and metamorphosed into a number of names before eventually taking up the name Menzgold. It dealt with the purchase of gold collectables from the public and issued contracts with guaranteed returns to the public without a license from the relevant authorities. I am happy to state that after painstaking investigations, criminal prosecutions have commenced into the perpetrators,” he stated.

Three schoolchildren lost their lives within a week due to drowning while attempting to cross the Mankra River in Mankranso, situated in the Ahafo Ano South West District of the Ashanti Region.

The unfortunate victims had fallen into the Mankra River while using a makeshift log that had been placed to assist commuters, including schoolchildren, in crossing the river safely.

Tragedy struck twice, with two pupils drowning in the river on Monday, September 4, 2023, followed by the unfortunate loss of a junior high school student in a similar incident on August 31, 2023.

After traditional authorities in the area conducted certain rituals, the bodies were recovered and subsequently taken to the morgue.

Joseph Frimpong Bonsu, the District Chief Executive for Ahafo Ano South West, confirmed the incident and conveyed that immediate measures were being implemented to construct a footbridge to avert such tragic incidents in the future.

He stated, “We had a makeshift log that we used to cross the river, but the children lived in a certain village and they were coming to school. When they got to the river, they fell from the log into the water. The bodies are at the mortuary, and we have made contact with the families. We are having a meeting today, and we have taken measures to ensure that this incident does not happen again.”

The lifeless body of a 29-year-old DJ, Kwame Egyama with Coastal FM, has been discovered in a police cell in the Central Region.

The deceased who is also a taxi driver, had been apprehended by the Jedu Police after he declined to stop during a routine police checkpoint.

Following his detention, he was tragically found deceased in the cell the following day.

The community is in uproar over Egyama’s demise, demanding justice.

Calls have been made for a comprehensive investigation by the police to identify and prosecute those responsible for the incident.

The family of the deceased expressed shock at the tragedy and is calling for a thorough inquiry into the circumstances surrounding his death.

“There was a window at the cell and it would have been difficult for someone to commit a crime. What I heard was that after he committed the act the policemen on duty heard loud noise. They quickly rushed him to the hospital.

“He was not dead at the time but died while at the hospital. I want to know why no family member was present when they took him to the hospital.”

Former president, John Dramani Mahama accused the Akufo-Addo government of perpetuating corruption within the nation.

In a Facebook Live address on September 6, 2023, he urged fellow Ghanaians not to accept corruption as a societal norm, emphasizing how it obstructed progress on multiple fronts and deprived young individuals of opportunities.

He asserted that President Akufo-Addo’s government had failed to address critical challenges facing the nation, misappropriating limited resources and overspending instead of investing in essential infrastructure for job creation and overall development.

According to Mahama, the unfulfilled campaign promises of the NPP left ordinary Ghanaians burdened by the consequences of what he described as incompetence, cluelessness, and brazen arrogance.

“President Akufo-Addo and his administration have failed to address the pressing challenges they have exerted on the people of our country. Misapplying our precious scarce resources and overspending instead of building the critical infrastructure this country needs for job creation and development. Their promises during their campaigns have not been fulfilled leaving the ordinary Ghanaian burdened with the consequences of their incompetence, cluelessness and shameless arrogance.”

“Today, some Ghanaians glorify and make excuses for corruption because the NPP government has allowed it to permeate every aspect of our society. This must not be accepted as the norm. It hinders progress on many fronts, denying our youth many opportunities that could come their way if state resources were meaningfully applied. We cannot allow this dire state of affairs to continue.

“We must all join the fight against corruption, and demand accountability from our leaders. We must not allow corruption to continue to hold our country back,” he said.

Mahama emphasized that the acceptance of corruption as a norm must be rejected, as it hampers progress and denies the youth valuable opportunities that could arise if state resources were used more effectively.

He called upon Ghanaians to unite in the fight against corruption and demand accountability from their leaders, stressing the importance of not allowing corruption to hinder the nation’s advancement.

Additionally, Mahama encouraged eligible Ghanaians aged 18 and above without voter ID cards to participate in the upcoming limited registration exercise organized by the Electoral Commission (EC).

He also advocated for the extension of the exercise to electoral areas, rather than restricting it to EC district offices, to ensure easier access to voter ID cards.

These remarks from Mahama come at a time when the former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources is under investigation for allegedly possessing a substantial sum of money believed by the Office of the Special Prosecutor to be of dubious origin.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has urged Ghanaians aged 18 and above without voter ID cards to participate in the Electoral Commission’s limited voter registration exercise.

The Commission recently announced the launch of a limited voter registration process for eligible Ghanaians who reached the voting age after the 2020 registration exercise and other eligible voters.

This exercise will run from September 12, 2023, to October 2, 2023.

During a Facebook live video on Wednesday, Mahama stated, “I am here to encourage you, wherever you are in Ghana or beyond, that if you don’t have a voter ID card, especially if you have just turned 18, please take advantage of this exercise which starts on September 12, 2023. Start making the necessary arrangements to register and get your voter’s ID card.”

Mahama also joined the chorus of voices calling for the expansion of the exercise beyond the district offices of the Electoral Commission to electoral areas, stating, “the EC should reconsider its decision to confine the exercise solely to its district offices. Access to a voter ID should be convenient and not restricted by location.”

The primary suspect in the theft case that occurred in the former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources’ residence, Patience Botwe, has submitted a bail application at the Circuit Court in Accra.

This request for bail comes after her legal representatives had previously made several unsuccessful verbal appeals for her release.

During yesterday’s court proceedings, 18-year-old ‘s attorney, Nana Addo Asrifi, formally presented the bail application to the court.

On the other side, the prosecution, led by Assistant State Attorney Akosua Agyeman, submitted a detailed response outlining the reasons why they believe the accused should not be granted bail.

As a result, Botwe’s legal team has requested a brief adjournment to allow them time to prepare a response to the prosecution’s arguments against bail.

In a separate application, Botwe’s boyfriend, Benjamin Sowah, also sought bail from the court, but this request was denied by the presiding judge, Afia Owusuaa Appiah.

The judge cited Sowah’s role in the alleged theft and the circumstances of his arrest in Tamale as reasons for refusing bail at this stage of the case.

However, another individual involved in the case, Yahaya Sumaila, who is an excavator operator and the seventh accused person, was granted bail.

He was released on bail with a bond of GH¢300,000 and two sureties who must reside within the jurisdiction. Sumaila is required to surrender his passport to the court registry and report to the police every two weeks.

This brings the total number of suspects granted bail in the case to four, including Job Pomary, Sarah Agyei, Christiana Achab, and Sumaila.

Regarding the trial’s progress, the Assistant State Attorney requested a two-week adjournment to provide more time for the case investigators to complete their work. She explained that the delay was due to specific directives given to the investigators based on the Attorney General’s advice concerning the case docket.

The court urged the prosecution to expedite the investigation process to ensure that the trial could commence promptly. The court also directed the prosecution to file their disclosures before the next court date, although the defense lawyers requested that the disclosures be filed even earlier.

The case is scheduled to continue on September 19, 2023.

Prosecution’s Account of the Case:

According to the prosecution’s account, in June 2023, the complainants, Ms. Dapaah and her husband, reported the theft of cash and personal belongings from their residence.

Following this report, the police initiated an investigation, leading to the arrest of Botwe and Sowah in Tamale, in the Northern Region, where they were hiding. A search of their room uncovered $40,000 and GH¢72,619.70 in cash.

Police findings revealed that in October 2022, the complainant, Daniel Osei Kufour (the minister’s husband), returned home to find his locked bedroom had been opened, and he heard suspicious sounds. Upon entering the room, he discovered Botwe hiding behind his storeroom door with duplicate keys to his master bedroom. As a result, the minister and her husband noticed the theft of various items.

During interrogation, Botwe admitted to giving $70,000 of the stolen money to an individual referred to as “A5” to purchase a three-bedroom house in Amrahia.

Additionally, newly purchased items, including a double-decker refrigerator, a television, a washing machine, a chest freezer, a gas cooker, a water dispenser, and related items, were found in the said house, purchased with some of the stolen funds.

Further investigation revealed that Botwe and Sowah used stolen money to buy a Hyundai Elantra sedan worth GH¢80,000, and Botwe provided GH¢180,000 to Sowah, who used it to purchase an unregistered Honda Civic sedan.

Botwe and Sowah also rented a three-bedroom apartment in Tamale for GH¢105,600 for two years, along with a storage room worth GH¢120,000.

Botwe implicated Sarah Agyei as her accomplice, stating that Agyei used to keep watch at the main gate while she and Agyei entered the complainants’ room to steal their money, which they later divided between them.

Agyei was subsequently arrested in Budumburam, a Kasoa suburb, for investigation purposes.