The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has issued a warning, declaring the Accra-Tema Motorway tollbooth a “deathtrap.”
Concerns about the safety of this critical roadway infrastructure have escalated in recent months, prompting the GNFS to address the alarming situation.
The tollbooth, which has seen a disturbing increase in accidents, is now under the spotlight due to a series of tragic incidents.
The GNFS points to a combination of factors contributing to this hazardous condition, including inadequate visibility, poorly marked lanes leading to the toll booth, and a lack of sufficient warning signals.
These issues have created a perilous environment for motorists and tollbooth personnel alike.
In a statement issued by the GNFS, they emphasize the urgent need for immediate action to rectify the safety concerns surrounding the Accra-Tema Motorway tollbooth.
They are calling upon relevant authorities to implement comprehensive safety measures, such as improved lighting, clearer road markings, and enhanced warning systems.
The GNFS is determined to prevent further loss of life and injuries at this critical transportation junction.
They stress that the tollbooth should not be a deathtrap for anyone passing through it, and the responsibility for ensuring safety rests with those in charge of maintaining and operating this vital part of the country’s infrastructure.
The declaration by the GNFS serves as a wake-up call for authorities and the public alike, highlighting the need for immediate action to make the Accra-Tema Motorway tollbooth a safer place for all road users.
Local politicians from Loudoun County in the American state of Virginia have been criticised for their trip to Ghana in mid-June this year.
On Tuesday, September 5, residents in the area attended a Board of Supervisors meeting to express their concerns regarding the use of taxpayer dollars by local leaders to finance an extravagant journey to Ghana, as reported by Fox News.
According to the report, these taxpayer funds were utilized for purposes such as first-class flights, luxurious accommodations at five-star hotels, and extravagant meals, among other expenses.
The three officials in question, Phyllis Randall, Koran Saines, and Sylvia Glass, reportedly spent over $60,000 in funds during their visit to Ghana, primarily to establish a sister city agreement with the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA).
Phyllis Randall serves as the Chair of the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, with Koran Saines as her vice-chair, and Sylvia Glass as a Supervisor of the Board.
In response to the allegations, Randall denied using taxpayer dollars to finance the trips and stated to Fox 5, “I don’t travel on county taxpayer revenue and never have. It’s a policy I put in place when I came to office in 2016.”
The funds, as reported by the outlet, did not originate from Randall’s personal finances but instead were sourced from the economic development authority transient occupancy tax, typically paid by visitors to Loudoun County rather than residents.
During Tuesday’s meeting, Randall expressed frustration with individuals who, she claimed, were disregarding the truth and rebelling in ignorance because they preferred to focus on the issue rather than seeking answers.
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.”
Vice president, Mahamudu Bawumia has highlighted the significant potential for Ghana following its decision to join the Pacific Alliance as an observer.
He emphasized that this move offers promising opportunities in the areas of culture and tourism, as well as the chance to establish a strategic alliance with the Caribbean.
Dr. Bawumia noted that the decision to become an observer has already received approval and is now awaiting ratification by Parliament. He made these remarks during the visit of Vice President Francia Elena Marquez Mina of Colombia, who is on a two-day trip to Ghana.
Dr. Bawumia also mentioned that Ghana and Colombia have initiated numerous Memoranda of Understanding over the years, and Ghana is committed to ensuring their full implementation.
The visit by Vice President Francia Elena Marquez Mina is part of efforts to strengthen the ties between Colombia and the African continent. It aims to enhance diplomatic relations, particularly focusing on themes such as peace, reconciliation, gender equality, racial equality, and environmental protection.
During their discussions, the leaders from Ghana and Colombia will address issues related to racial and climate justice, historic reparations, and explore opportunities for mutual cooperation. Vice President Bawumia emphasized that Ghana and Colombia have a history of mutual understanding and have signed various MoUs over the years, which now need to be fully realized.
Furthermore, Ghana is actively working on the necessary procedures to become an observer member of the Pacific Alliance, particularly considering its role as the host to diplomatic missions in Africa.
Vice President Marquez Mina commended Ghana for initiatives like the Year of Return, which attracted many from the diaspora back to their ancestral roots. She stressed the importance of breaking free from colonialism, racism, and slavery.
Vice President Marquez Mina’s visit includes trips to the Cape Coast and Elmina Castles, meetings with the Colombian community in Ghana, businessmen, and investors, as well as the signing of bilateral agreements at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration. She will also pay a courtesy call on Asantehene Otumfuor Osei Tutu.
The 2021 Auditor General’s Report has disclosed that Kumasi Technical University (KsTU) is offering 32 unaccredited programs, including three new ones.
These programs encompass five Master of Technology, nine Bachelor of Technology, 17 Higher National Diploma (HND), and one Diploma program. Additionally, the report identified 29 of the university’s programs that expired between 2009 and 2018.
This revelation came to light during a meeting of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament, held in Sunyani, Bono Region, to discuss the 2021 Auditor General’s Report. The PAC expressed concerns about the adverse impact of unaccredited programs on students who may later seek admission to other universities.
The committee called on the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to explore automatic program renewals and expedite their processes. They also urged GTEC to regularly monitor accreditation processes in universities to prevent setbacks for students.
A committee member, Akwasi Konadu, emphasized that running programs without accreditation is unacceptable and could damage the reputation and credibility of the universities and their awarded certificates.
KsTU’s management responded by stating that they were working diligently to obtain accreditation for the 32 programs. Sixteen of them had already received accreditation, and the remaining 16 were in various stages of the accreditation process. They explained that the accreditation process typically takes between six months and one year, and accredited programs remain valid for three to five years, depending on the program type.
The PAC, chaired by Dr. James Klutse Avedzi, announced plans to invite GTEC and universities to address issues related to accreditation delays. Dr. Avedzi acknowledged that the problem of running unaccredited programs was not unique to KsTU and extended to many traditional universities in Ghana.
He attributed the delays to both the universities and GTEC and stressed the need for a solution.
Furthermore, the PAC referred the Sefwi Wiawso College of Education in the Western North Region to the Attorney-General for investigation and possible prosecution. The college, led by its Principal, Dr. Emmanuel Cersamar, was found to have breached procurement laws by spending GH¢276,807.22 on goods and services without adhering to procurement processes or seeking alternative quotations, as recommended by the auditors.
The PAC session in Sunyani, covering technical universities, colleges of education, second cycle institutions, and assemblies in the Bono, Bono East, Ahafo, Ashanti, and Western North regions, is set to conclude on Friday, September 8, 2023.
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.
In accordance with Article 7(31) of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) constitution, the Extraordinary Constituency Delegates Conference of the party has officially been announced by the National Council.
The primary objective of this conference is to select the party’s Parliamentary Candidates in specific constituencies.
On that note, the parliamentary aspirants’ vetting is slated for Friday, September 8, 2023, at the Regional Party Offices.
The Extraordinary Constituency Delegates Conference on the other hand, is scheduled for Sunday, September 10, 2023.
The constituencies involved are Suaman, Anlo, North Dayi, Nadowli/Kaleo, Sagnarigu, Kumbungu, Builsa North, Pusiga, Ada, Bolgatanga East, Tema East, La Dadekotopon, Buem, Biakoye, Amenfi West, New Edubiase, and Upper Manya Krobo.
The General Secretary’s statement also instructs the Regional Executive Committees to take necessary actions to ensure successful aspirant vetting and the smooth execution of the Delegates’ Conference in the mentioned constituencies.
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.
One of the founding fathers of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, has expressed deep concern about the future of the party.
He warned that the NPP could face total destruction if it doesn’t handle its internal issues carefully.
In response to the news of Alan Kyerematen’s withdrawal from the NPP’s flagbearer race, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe noted that such developments signal a weakening of the party’s democratic foundations.
In an interview with the media on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, he emphasized that how the NPP manages the Alan case will determine whether the party avoids returning to a period of political instability, reminiscent of the years 1978 and 1979.
Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe also expressed concern about a concerning trend within the NPP, where some party members are constantly defending positions that are indefensible.
“I would say that Alan leaving the group at this time has weakened the democratic pillars of the party, and if we’re not careful, the party will be totally destroyed and we shall find ourselves in 1978 and 1979.
“Why do I say the party has been destroyed? We have a lot of new faces in the party who daily come on the airwaves to defend the indefensible. It is very disheartening. This party has always got a succession plan and that brings the point to Alan being stabbed in the back.
“And it’s unfortunate that that’s being done by my friend, Nana Akufo-Addo. Now, when we came out of the wilderness, during the era of Jerry John Rawlings, one thing was quite clear, that we had to get somebody who was that popular at that time, so that we can have a strong political force against Rawlings’ party,” he added.
He found it particularly disheartening that these actions are occurring during Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s presidency, as he serves as both the leader of the country and the NPP.
He further explained that the party’s succession plan had always been a key factor, and Alan Kyerematen’s withdrawal from the race, in his view, represented a betrayal within the party.
He mentioned that during the party’s early years, they needed a popular figure to create a strong political force against the ruling party of that time, and this decision to backstab Alan was unfortunate.
Alan Kyerematen withdrew from the flagbearer race on September 5, 2023, citing reasons such as intimidation of delegates during the Super Delegates Conference as contributing to his decision.
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.
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.
Chaos erupted at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos today, Wednesday, September 6, after a broke out, leaving passengers and airline personnel to run for safety.
According to information gathered by Vanguard, at approximately 0750 hours this morning, a smoke incident was reported at Terminal 1 of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, situated in Ikeja, Lagos.
The source of the smoke was traced to the basement of the Terminal building.
Abdullahi Yakubu-Funtua, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the FAAN, stated, “In response to the situation, the dedicated firefighters from the Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting Services (ARFFS) of Murtala Muhammed International Airport swiftly initiated action. Their quick response and professional efforts effectively brought the situation under control.
“To ensure the safety and well-being of passengers, staff, and all airport users, the Terminal building was promptly evacuated due to the smoke that had permeated some areas of the facility.
“We are pleased to announce that the situation is now under control.
“FAAN remains steadfast in its commitment to its core values of safety, security, and passenger comfort.”
A Political Scientist and International Security Analyst at Leeds Beckett University, Olayinka Ajala, has proposed a new approach for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to address the situation in Niger following the recent coup.
He emphasized that ECOWAS can effectively resolve the crisis without resorting to the use of force, thereby preserving its credibility as an organization.
In an interview with the media on Tuesday, Ajala pointed out that ECOWAS made a mistake by imposing sanctions simultaneously.
He recommended that the regional bloc should reconsider its strategy and engage in negotiations for a shorter transition period instead.
Ajala expressed the need for a recalibration of the sanctions, acknowledging that the current measures have not significantly impacted the coup leaders.
He suggested that while certain sanctions, particularly those targeting the junta and their leaders, should be retained, others, such as the closure of borders and the restoration of electricity supply to Niger, should be lifted.
“There needs to be a realignment of sanctions. ECOWAS needs to take a step back and restrategize. The sanctions are not obviously affecting the juntas as much as we would have liked,” he said.
“Traditionally, sanctions don’t affect people at the top. So I think that ECOWAS needs to still keep some elements of the sanctions, especially on the junta and their leaders, but they need to release the sanctions affecting people, especially the closure of borders and Nigeria needs to restore electricity,” he stated.
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.”
Eleven dedicated members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) have officially taken their oaths as National Executives Committee members during a ceremony held at the party’s headquarters on September 6, 2023.
The newly inaugurated executives include Professor Joshua Alabi as Vice Chairman, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah as Director of Elections for the Party, and Edudzi Tamakloe, who assumes the position of Director of Legal Affairs.
Addressing the party members in attendance, the NDC’s National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, not only charged the new executives to meet their responsibilities but also stressed that any attempts to oppose the will of the citizens for a change in government would not be tolerated.
“Comrades, you are taking on important roles today, and the tasks ahead may be formidable. However, we have faith that you will rise to the challenge. We understand that no governing team can fully represent everyone, and there may be shortcomings in this composition. Nevertheless, we appeal to our party’s rank and file to view this as a call to duty, not an honor. Wherever you are, you can contribute to achieving our common goal, whether you are officially sworn in today or not.”
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.”
President of UTAG-UG, Professor Ransford Gyampo, has predicted that more candidates will soon exit the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries due to concerns over inadequately managed processes that could jeopardize the party’s unity in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, September 5, Prof Gyampo urged the party to promptly address the issues surrounding the elections to prevent potential disunity.
Alan Kyerematen’s recent withdrawal from the NPP’s flagbearer race, citing reasons such as intimidation, violence against his campaign team member, and strategic manipulation of the super delegates conference, has raised concerns within the party.
Gyampo cautioned about the consequences of unfair practices, highlighting the need for neutrality among those overseeing the process. He warned of more withdrawals, underscoring the importance of preserving the NPP’s unity.
“I warned that if things aren’t done fairly, there could be a breakup. I also warned about the public comments of those expected to be seen as neutral arbiters. There will be more pull-outs. This isn’t the NPP BJ da Rocha and others led.”
Alan Kyerematen’s decision to withdraw was influenced by his analysis of the election results and allegations of favoritism during the Special Delegates Conference.
He expressed concern over intimidation of delegates and the conference’s strategic bias, leading to his withdrawal.
“After having carefully analysed the results of the said elections, it is absolutely clear to me from events leading to, during and after the elections, that the Special Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favour of one particular aspirant.”
“The level of intimidation of varying intensity, directly and indirectly, unleashed on a significant number of Delegates at various Voting Centers across the sixteen regions, is unprecedented in the history of our Party,” parts of the statement read.
Given these developments, the UTAG-UG President emphasized the urgency of addressing these concerns to prevent potential disunity within the party.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has called upon African governments to prioritize innovation and technology in agriculture to unlock Africa’s potential as the world’s food hub.
He made this statement during his address at the Convention and 30th anniversary of the Council of Ewe Associations of North America (CEANA) in Atlanta, Georgia, under the theme “Empowering our Youth towards Innovative Entrepreneurship in Transformational Agriculture.”
Speaker Bagbin emphasized the importance of deploying modern technologies such as GPS, sensors, drones, and data analytics in agriculture to optimize resource utilization, monitor crop health, and enhance yields.
He highlighted that these technologies would empower young people in agriculture to make informed decisions based on reliable data, reduce waste, and increase overall efficiency.
Bagbin noted that today’s youth are tech-savvy and urged governments to invest in modernizing agriculture by infusing technology into farming practices.
He stressed that this approach would not only attract more youth to the sector but also address the global challenge of sustainable food production, create economic opportunities in rural areas, and revolutionize food production, distribution, and consumption.
Innovation in agriculture, according to Speaker Bagbin, should focus on reducing waste, addressing the recurring surplus and low prices during glut periods, and the subsequent scarcity season.
He called for innovative approaches to managing post-harvest losses and supporting agro-businesses to mitigate such losses.
The Speaker suggested that agricultural marketing should also undergo innovation to support local economies in Africa, reduce food transportation distances, and enhance the efficiency of the food supply chain.
He believed that this approach would enable young farmers to generate higher returns on their investments and reinvest in their farms.
To attract youth to agriculture, Bagbin urged governments to implement policies that promote secure land tenure and access for young people. He mentioned land redistribution, leasing programs, and support for communal land ownership as necessary initiatives, along with active involvement of women, indigenous communities, and rural youth in agriculture.
Bagbin also called on financial institutions in Africa to provide young farmers with access to financing, low-interest loans, grants, and subsidies to help them invest in equipment and seeds.
The Speaker stressed that empowering youth in agriculture requires a holistic approach, encompassing modernization of agriculture, education, resource access, policy support, and cultural shifts.
Finally, Bagbin congratulated CEANA on its 30th anniversary, commending the association’s dedication to improving farming practices and developing Ewe communities in Ghana, Togo, and Niger. He praised CEANA’s commitment to making a positive impact on current and future generations and noted the significance of their collective efforts over three decades.
The Deputy Ranking Member on the Food and Agriculture Committee in Parliament, Dr. Godfred Seidu Jasaw, has emphasized the need for African governments to collaborate in shaping more cohesive agricultural policies to address food insecurity challenges on the continent.
During his address at the 2023 Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Dr. Jasaw highlighted the prevalent incoherence in agricultural policies across Africa, as indicated in the biennial review report of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development program. He underscored the necessity for immediate corrective measures.
The event, titled “Parliamentary and Policymakers Forum: Enabling the Trade Environment for Business,” examined the pivotal role of fostering a conducive environment for businesses in the food systems sector to flourish.
Moderated by Dr. Apollos Nwafor, Vice President of Policy and State Capability at AGRA, the session delved into policies, legislation, and regulations that can attract investments and support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the agriculture and food sectors.
Dr. Jasaw called upon African nations to ensure alignment between the executive and legislative branches in formulating and enforcing agricultural policies, emphasizing the importance of involving legislators in policy development and implementation.
He also advocated for increased and timely funding of agricultural initiatives in Africa, recognizing the critical role of budget allocation in achieving agricultural targets, especially in rainfed regions. Dr. Jasaw stressed the necessity for collaboration between the executive and legislators to hold the government accountable in this regard.
Rose Kayi Mivedor, Togo’s Minister of Investment, echoed Dr. Jasaw’s sentiments, highlighting her country’s commitment to prioritizing agricultural investments to enhance the well-being of its rural population. She detailed Togo’s policies aimed at improving access to land, seeds, and fertilizer, as well as efforts to reduce prices and implement irrigation and training programs to boost agricultural productivity.
Former Tanzanian President Dr. Jakaya Kikwete, delivering the keynote address, urged African nations to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to advance agriculture.
He lamented that some African countries had yet to ratify AfCFTA, emphasizing its potential to unify the continent economically.
Dr. Kikwete highlighted AfCFTA as a unique opportunity to transform the food system, create wealth, and ensure food security, emphasizing the need for a transformation of smallholder farmers, who constitute a significant portion of African agriculture.
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.
A member of the ‘Bawumia for President Campaign team, Sammi Awuku, has issued a unifying appeal to the Alan Kyerematen Campaign Team, urging them to rally behind vice president, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s vision to ‘break the 8’ in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
In a statement released on Wednesday, September 6, following Alan Kyerematen’s withdrawal from the NPP flagbearer race, Mr. Awuku stressed the importance of avoiding division within the party and refraining from negative comments that could worsen internal divisions.
Awuku stated, “Instead, this is a time to reach out to each and everyone to make the 2024 campaign and election victory a possibility.”
Recognizing the diverse support within the party, Awuku called upon supporters of all candidates, including those who did not make it to the top 5, to come together.
He echoed Dr. Bawumia’s call for a harmonious approach, emphasizing that the campaign should prioritize the broader goal of securing victory for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) rather than internal conflicts.
“To all the supporters of the candidates who couldn’t make it to the top 5 and supporters of aspirants who made it to the top 5, please let’s come together. Let’s solve our problems together and once again position the NPP still as the party of choice ahead of the 2024 General Elections to deliver economic prosperity for our nation, Ghana.
“The challenges we face today as a party and country may be fearsome, but so are our strengths. Dr. Bawumia and his team will work hand in hand with each and everyone within the NPP and outside the party to once again deliver victory in 2024.”
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 government has reaffirmed its commitment to assisting Ghanaians in securing affordable housing options, the Ministry of Works and Housing has announced.
According to the ministry, it has partnered with private estate developers to provide support for individuals struggling to afford homes.
At the inauguration of a state-funded, modern 40-unit housing estate in Amrahia, Accra, spearheaded by the State Housing Company Limited (SHC), the Minister of Works and Housing, Francis Asenso-Boakye, unveiled the government’s revised housing program designed to aid low- and middle-income earners.
The Minister highlighted the transformation of the previously abandoned site, now offering three- and four-bedroom townhomes and single-family homes with varying levels of finishing.
The estate also includes a sports facility for residents. Asenso-Boakye explained the estate’s purpose, stating, “We built this to target middle-income earners, applying a slight premium to the pricing.
The revenue generated from this estate will support our affordable housing initiative.”
Kwabena Ampofo Appiah, Managing Director of SHC, emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the private sector through subsidies to achieve the goal of providing affordable housing to Ghanaians.
“This estate used to be an abandoned site. We reclaimed it some years ago and construction began about 18 to 24 months ago. It is made up of three- and four-bedroom townhomes and also single-family homes. It has various levels of finishing. We also have a sports facility here that residents can use. The concept of this estate was to serve as a support system for our affordable housing project.”
“The government’s interest is to offer support to the private sector so that the private sector can take the lead in housing construction. What the private sector lacks is the support from government, and that is what this government seeks to do by providing that support in the form of subsidies on incumbent land. But government is also leveraging on public lands to do that.”
“We built this to target middle-income earners, put a bit of a premium on the pricing so that the revenue we generate from this estate can be used to support our affordable housing initiative.”
Additionally, he mentioned that the government is leveraging public lands and infrastructure provision to reduce housing costs, including horizontal infrastructure such as roads, drains, sewage, electricity, and water.
“And one big important component of housing infrastructure is horizontal infrastructure, which is the roads, the drains, sewage, electricity, and water. Government is also leveraging on its traditional responsibility of infrastructural provision to make sure that the cost of pricing reduces.”
Former President, John Dramani Mahama has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to decentralize the upcoming limited voter registration exercise to make it easier for more Ghanaians to register.
Mahama, who is also the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), said that the limited voter registration exercise should be conducted without any bias or interference to guarantee free and fair elections.
He emphasized that it is the responsibility of the EC to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure that the electoral process remains transparent and credible.
“Access to a voter ID card should be easy and not limited by location,” Mahama said in a Facebook Live session on Wednesday, September 6. “Every Ghanaian deserves a chance to exercise his democratic right. I strongly urge the Electoral Commission to facilitate the registration exercise in all its electoral areas to allow for easy access, and reduce the burden on the citizenry in their quest to register.”
Mahama also demanded that the EC disclose when the names and pictures of personnel recruited for the registration exercise will be made public as stipulated by the regulations of the electoral management body.
“I challenge the EC to be more transparent in the processes preceding the limited voter registration exercise, the replacement of Voter ID cards and the transfer of votes,” he said. “As has been made in a formal letter to the EC by the general secretary of the NDC, we want to know when the names and photos of the registration supervisors, registration officers, registration assistant and other officials for the registration exercise will be published at the district level as stipulated by the EC regulations.”
In addition to his call for decentralization and transparency, Mahama also underscored the importance of the upcoming 2024 elections, suggesting that it is an opportunity for Ghanaians to vote for change.
He expressed the need to vote out the incumbent President Nana Akufo-Addo’s government, arguing that a change in leadership is necessary to address the economic challenges the country faces.
New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Deputy General Secretary, Haruna Mohammed, has clarified that the party has not received official communication regarding Alan Kyerematen’s withdrawal from the presidential race.
Speaking to the media on September 5, 2023, he emphasized that, as per the NPP’s perspective, Alan has not formally withdrawn from the flagbearer contest.
Mohammed mentioned that Alan, along with the other four contenders, is expected to participate in the ballot position selection for the November 4 primaries at the NPP headquarters.
He stated, “We have learned of this news through the media, but we have not officially received communication from a senior party member, Alan Kojo Kyerematen; the party has not yet officially received any communication (regarding his withdrawal).”
“The proper procedure would involve drafting a statement or a letter to the presidential elections committee… The elections committee will be prepared to receive him, his representatives, or his agents tomorrow (Wednesday) for the balloting,” he added.
Background:
A prominent figure in the NPP flagbearer race, Alan Kyerematen, withdrew on September 5, 2023, just one day before the party’s balloting for November’s Congress, which will determine the successor to Nana Akufo Addo as the party’s flagbearer.
Alan cited reasons such as the intimidation of delegates during the recent Super Delegates conference for his decision to exit the race.
This announcement confirmed earlier reports that the former Trade Minister intended to withdraw, as he had scheduled a press conference for Tuesday afternoon, which was later postponed until an official press statement was issued to confirm his decision.
It remains uncertain what Alan’s future plans entail, with unverified reports suggesting he may explore the possibility of running as an independent candidate in the 2024 General Elections.
During the Super Delegates Congress, Alan came in third place, behind Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong.
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.
Akwasi Agyeman, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), has revealed that Ghana’s domestic tourism sector has experienced remarkable growth, with a substantial increase of 47% in the last two to three years.
He expressed optimism that the numbers would continue to rise with concerted efforts, partnerships, and initiatives.
Agyeman emphasized the importance of encouraging people to travel within Ghana, as it has a significant impact on the tourism sector.
He noted that by December of the current year, the GTA plans to host more events outside of Accra to attract travelers from around the country. These travelers contribute to the local economy by staying in hotels, consuming local foods, and purchasing various items.
He shared statistics indicating that domestic tourism has been steadily increasing, with approximately 600,000 people traveling within Ghana in 2018 and around 937,000 in the following year, representing a 47% growth.
Agyeman stressed that despite the focus often being on international arrivals, domestic tourism is a critical component of the industry, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic when international travel was restricted.
Regarding events in December, Agyeman mentioned the GTA’s plans to extend many of them to the Northern region, where various cultural activities and festivals are scheduled.
The Authority also aims to improve events and festivals in Takoradi and Ashanti, engaging with local authorities to enhance their appeal and attract more visitors.
While the first half of the year recorded around 500,000 visitors, which is below the target, Agyeman expressed confidence that the numbers would pick up in the last quarter, as it is a peak travel period for many people coming to Ghana.
The GTA has set a goal of two million visitors for the year.
A member of the Alan Kyerematen Campaign team, Yaw Buaben Asamoa, has criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP), for actions he perceives as being carried out with impunity and a disregard for established rules.
He also emphasized that the party is not adhering to democratic principles in its conduct.
Asamoa’s comments come in the wake of Alan Kyerematen’s decision to withdraw from the NPP’s flagbearership race.
Kyerematen, who had placed third in the party’s special delegates’ conference on August 26, cited concerns that the race appeared to be deliberately skewed in favor of one candidate and pointed out instances of intimidation against his agents during the election process.
In an interview with the media, Buaben Asamoa expressed his support for Kyerematen’s decision to withdraw from the race.
He reiterated Kyerematen’s worries regarding bias towards a particular candidate and the utilization of methods like intimidation, impunity, and incentives to gain votes.
“He is announcing to the Ghanaian population that he has withdrawn from this process which is in favour of one person, and it’s stopping at nothing, not stopping at intimidation, impunity, and inducements in order to secure a vote for one person, and that process is what he has withdrawn from.”
“Fortunately, he recognises the people who believe in him and he has acknowledged that belief. He goes on to say that this ongoing process will not deliver their expectations, the expectations of him being selected to become the leader of the party and the realisation of his vision. Rightfully so, he’s convinced and has had the courage to withdraw.”
“As for politics, you can’t stop people from speculating and putting their lenses on whatever happens. But the truth of the process that we are going through in the NPP is not NPP-like, it’s not a democratic process. The party is acting with impunity, it is making rules and changing rules at will, and everybody can see what is going on.”
“The last Special Delegates’ Conference was full of intimidation, You have all the stories, and it’s not important to tell the stories as new. The courage of one conviction is more important, and I think Alan should be commended for having the courage of his conviction to withdraw”.
The NPP’s flagbearership race currently has four remaining candidates, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, former Agric Minister Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and former MP for Mampong Francis Addai-Nimoh.
The balloting is expected to take place on September 6, with the final race set for November 4.
Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has called on the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to publicly reveal the exact amount of money confiscated from former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah.
Mr Kpebu, an anti-corruption advocate, believes that disclosing the total sum to the public will aid in the fight against corruption, given the conflicting reports regarding the funds discovered in the former minister’s accounts.
On August 9, the Cedi and Dollar bank accounts belonging to Cecilia Dapaah were frozen by the OSP, but on August 31, the High Court in Accra overturned this decision.
The court ordered the seized funds to be returned to her within seven days and directed the OSP to unfreeze her accounts.
However, the OSP invoked its powers on Monday to reclaim custody of the money, despite the High Court’s order to return it to the former minister.
Speaking to the media, Martin Kpebu emphasized that such disclosure would encourage the public to actively participate in the anti-corruption effort.
“When Kissi Agyebeng did not give us the full amount involved, it emboldened Madam Dapaah and her lawyers who then went and attacked a media house about a $5 million figure given out there and so Mr. Agyebeng should disclose the total amount involved, and it is the least he can do and that will help push the fight against corruption.”
“He [Kissi Agyebeng] has to put the figures out to ginger the fight and create excitement about the fight against corruption.”
Kpebu also criticized Cecilia Dapaah for failing to clarify the source of her wealth, emphasizing the legal implications of unexplained wealth as outlined in the OSP Act and the constitution.
“So far, she [Cecilia Dapaah] has not been able to give credible answers as to the source of the money, and let us not forget that the OSP Act and also under the constitution in Article 286 (4), if they find you with money and that money cannot reasonably be attributed to inheritance, income, gift or loan, then it is unexplained wealth and that is illegal. And so all these things should be dealt with because the OSP stated that she is not able to account for the money,” he added.
The Convener of the Media Coalition against illegal mining, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, has expressed disagreement with President Akufo-Addo’s claim that the ban on illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, is effectively reducing carbon emissions.
During the 2023 Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, President Akufo-Addo asserted that the ban on galamsey had contributed to a reduction in Ghana’s carbon emissions, citing it as a positive outcome.
However, in an interview with the media, Dr. Ashigbey contested this assertion, pointing to empirical evidence that suggests otherwise.
He argued that the adverse effects of galamsey are evident in various aspects, including rising water tariffs, increased cases of stillbirths and child deformities in mining areas due to water pollution.
Dr. Ashigbey further highlighted issues such as the escalating cost of water treatment, the ineffectiveness of chemicals used by the Ghana Water Company, destoolment of chiefs involved in galamsey, destruction of forests, threats to the Bui Dam from galamsey activities, and the dismissal of local government officials for their involvement in illegal mining.
In essence, he presented a counterargument to the President’s claim, citing numerous negative consequences associated with galamsey as evidence that the ban’s impact on reducing carbon emissions may not be as straightforward as suggested.
“The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) imposed an increase in water tariffs, and the reason is the cost of water treatment. The chemicals that the Ghana Water Company is using are no longer effective, and we also see situations where there are a lot of stillbirths and child deformities as a result of the polluted waters. In the recent past, Otumfuo has had to destool some chiefs because of their involvement in galamsey, and we have seen a lot of destruction to a lot of our forests.”
“We have heard that the Bui Dam is under threat from galamsey. We recently saw the Minister for Roads and Highways cause the arrest of some excavators that were going into the forest. He said that these are people who are not patriotic citizens. We also had the situation where the president had to dismiss the Bosome Freho MCE for confessing to an illegality.”
The former Member of Parliament for the Buem Constituency, Daniel Kwasi Ashiamah, has criticized Commissioner of Police (COP) Alex Mensah for his involvement in an alleged leaked tape discussing the ousting of the current Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akufo Dampare.
The tape, which featured COP Mensah and other high-ranking police officers, also included the former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alhaji Bugri Naabu.Ashiamah accused COP Mensah of having ulterior motives aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the police service before his retirement.
He based his criticism on Mensah’s public allegation that IGP Dampare had political ties to former President John Dramani Mahama and maintained regular communication with him.
During an interview with the media on September 5, 2023, Ashiamah insisted that COP Mensah should be compelled to provide concrete evidence to support his claims.
He went further, characterizing COP Mensah as an individual with malevolent intentions toward the police service.
Ashiamah stated, “They have to force him to bring the conversation between Mahama and Dampare. Those are the things. You see because he is going home, he is destroying everything. He is like a witch. When there is a witch in the family, before he/she dies, then the person has killed all the children in the household. That is what he is trying to do, telling us that because he heard Mahama and Dampare talking, he is thinking Dampare and Mahama are close. He is a devil, but he will not succeed. We must tell him in the face.”
He added, “If you want to lobby to become an IGP, you must bring the record of your performance so that Ghanaians and President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo can assess and give you the IGP position. Don’t go and tell somebody that Dampare is not doing his work so we should take you.”
A prominent contender in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearership race, Alan Kyerematen, officially announced his withdrawal from the race just before the final round scheduled for November 4, 2023.
His decision was communicated through a statement released on September 5, 2023, following the cancellation of an earlier press conference.
In his statement, which consists of ten paragraphs, Kyerematen highlighted several key reasons for his withdrawal.
Below are the main reasons, presented in his own words as per the statement he personally signed:
August 26 vote was skewed to favour unnamed candidate
During the August 26 Super Delegates Conference, Alan Kyerematen placed third in the election, with Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia and Assin North Member of Parliament, Kennedy Agyapong, ahead of him in the rankings.
In his statement, Alan Kyerematen asserted that the election process had been manipulated to favor an unnamed candidate.
“The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations,” it stressed.
One of the most disturbing incidents during the August 26 process was a violent assault on one of Alan Kyerematen’s polling agents in the North East Region. In his statement, Alan Kyerematen dedicated a significant portion to address this issue, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. The most striking paragraph on this matter reads as follows:
“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.”
Process still skewed ahead of November 4
Today (September 6) is slated for final balloting for the five – now four – aspirants ahead of November 4. But it is Alan’s considered view that the procedural challenges and lack of trust has not and will likely not be fixed by the time of the vote.
“Regrettably, I am not convinced that the circumstances I have referred to earlier, will not persist or even be escalated in the next round of elections, for which balloting is scheduled for Wednesday, 6th of September 2023.”
PRESS STATEMENT BY HON. ALAN KYEREMATEN
On Sunday, the 27th of August 2023, I issued a public statement which made reference to the selection and shortlisting of Presidential Aspirants by the Special Electoral College convened by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on the 26th of August 2023.
After having carefully analysed the results of the said elections, it is absolutely clear to me from events leading to, during and after the elections, that the Special Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favour of one particular Aspirant.
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, directly and indirectly unleashed on a significant number of Delegates at various Voting Centers across the sixteen regions, is unprecedented in the history of our Party. In addition, the fact that my Polling Agent in the North East region has suffered severe damage to his eye sight, arising from his bold and courageous effort to ensure compliance with the very rules and regulations for the conduct of the elections as approved by the Presidential Elections Committee, will forever remain a dark spot in the history of internal elections within the Party. This incident and various acts of violence and collusion, reported in other Voting Centers, are appalling, unconscionable, and despicable.
I am committed to, and value the safety of those who work with me and for me, and I will always fight for their interest.
The question I keep asking myself is, “How did we get here as a Party in the first place, and how far are we prepared to tread on this dangerous path to self-destruction?”
Regrettably, I am not convinced that the circumstances I have referred to earlier, will not persist or even be escalated in the next round of elections, for which balloting is scheduled for Wednesday, 6th of September 2023.
In light of the foregoing, I wish to confirm that I am honourably withdrawing from the process that will lead to the Presidential Primaries to be held on the 4% of November 2023. In the next upcoming weeks, I will provide an indication of the role that I will play in politics in Ghana, after consultations with my family and other well-wishers, various stakeholders and interest groups.
I wish all the other Aspirants well as they continue on their journey. I also wish to use this opportunity to express my profound gratitude once again to my family, the Alan 4 President (A4P) Campaign Team, and all my teeming supporters in Ghana and from around the world, who have supported me in diverse ways over the years. Please be assured that the battle is still the Lord’s, and that those who wait upon the Lord shall have their strength renewed.
God bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong!
An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff team is scheduled to visit Ghana from September 25 through to the first week of October to assess the progress of Ghana’s Economic Recovery Programme.
This visit marks the second assessment by the IMF since its board approved Ghana’s bailout on May 17 and reviewed the targets outlined in the $3 billion three-year extended credit facility.
The Ghanaian government is optimistic about receiving the second tranche of the IMF bailout funds in December, which will provide support for the government’s balance of payments.
Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta revealed this information during the 3rd GIPC CEO’s Breakfast Meeting in Accra. He stated, “The fund will be here on September 25th through the beginning of October.
“The fund will be here on September 25th through the beginning of October. Hopefully, we will get the staff level agreement then, and then we will go to the board in November of this year.”
“I believe that by going through the mission in September, we should be able to reach a successful staff-level agreement, and that will help us in our negotiating position,” he said.
Additionally, Ofori-Atta mentioned that Ghana is on track to receive the second tranche of the IMF bailout funds in December, which will support the government’s balance of payments for the years 2023 and 2024.
As of June 2023, the Bank of Ghana’s summary of the Economic and Financial Stability Report showed a deficit of $107.8 million in the balance of payments, which is approximately 0.1% of GDP. This deficit is notably lower than the deficit recorded during the same period in 2022.
President Akufo-Addo has emphasized the importance of developed countries fulfilling their financial commitments to assist Africa in combating climate change.
He pointed out that despite Africa’s minimal contribution to global warming, it bears a disproportionate burden of blame for it.
Speaking at the 2023 Africa Climate Summit held in Kenya, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the proactive steps taken by African nations to enhance climate resilience and stressed the need for international financial support to complement these efforts.
“Once we strive to do our bit to haul climate change at the national level, we expect also a lot to be done at the international level. One major issue of concern to us is the need to streamline access to international climate finance to complement national funding.”
“I believe this forum will shed more light on practical ways to mobilize financial resources to support the implementation of national climate actions. Especially how we can guarantee a different future from the past and ensure that the commitments of the developed world towards climate finance, which have not been met in the past, will be met in the future,” he stated.
He expressed hope that the summit would provide insights into practical methods for mobilizing financial resources to facilitate the implementation of national climate initiatives. Additionally, he underscored the importance of ensuring that developed countries fulfill their past commitments to climate finance and pledged support for future obligations.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted the positive impact of the ban on illegal mining, known as “galamsey,” in reducing carbon emissions. This policy intervention, aimed at preventing the destruction of water bodies and forest reserves, has played a significant role in decreasing the country’s carbon footprint.
Furthermore, he pointed out that several flagship policy initiatives, including “Planting for Food and Jobs,” “One Village, One Dam,” and the ban on illegal mining, have contributed to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing the nation’s resilience against the adverse effects of climate change. Notably, the government’s efforts have resulted in positive outcomes aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly the objective of reducing carbon emissions. The authors: Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu is a full professor of Naturopathy and a recognized prolific writer and Martina Akusika Mensah is a Ghanaian Lawyer and a Gender Activist.
This article aims to create awareness of bedroom nuisance only.
The Gbi Traditional Council has urged President Akufo-Addo to initiate an unbiased investigation into the recent unrest in Gordenu, Volta Region.
The unrest erupted following a confrontation between the police and Gordenu residents, ultimately resulting in the burning of a police patrol vehicle.
During a press conference held in Hohoe, Togbega Gabusu VII, the Paramount Chief of the Gbi Traditional Area, stressed the necessity for an independent investigation.
“In light of the recurring events in the Gbi Traditional Area in recent years, on behalf of the district, we appeal to the President of the Republic of Ghana to promptly establish an independent committee to scrutinize all instances of police brutality and the unfortunate loss of innocent lives in the district,” he declared.
Meanwhile, Member of Parliament (MP) for Hohoe, John Peter Amewu, has appealed to the police to refrain from re-entering Gordenu, fearing that such a move could rekindle disturbances and escalate violence.
During an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM in Accra, Mr. Amewu expressed his concerns, saying, “I attempted to mediate between the IGP and the local chief to calm the situation, but the community’s youth remain deeply aggrieved. I received a call indicating that the police were preparing to return to the community.”
He continued, “I appeal, through this platform, to the police commander and anyone else who may be listening, to cease such actions immediately, as it could exacerbate tensions and chaos if they attempt to re-enter the community.
The chief still holds sway, and I anticipate that the police will apply the training they have received from the IGP in their operations. Therefore, I implore them not to venture back into the community.”
Scanning through Kofi Kumado’s book “Introduction to The Law of Torts in Ghana” (2nd Edition) Page 95 on Private Nuisance, we chanced on an interesting question he asked on excessive noise during sexual intercourse and the legal implications.
This question stems from the definition of private nuisance. Indeed, a private nuisance is defined in Bamford v Turnley 1860 as “any continuous activity or state of affairs causing a substantial and unreasonable interference with a [claimant’s] land or his use or enjoyment of that land.”
Kofi Kumado held the view that the crux of a nuisance then is the unreasonableness of conduct. Consequently, he said, the problems in nuisance turn on reasonableness. For instance, in determining the reasonableness, the Courts look at both the defendant’s conduct and its effect on the plaintiff.
He further explained that when interference as alleged has to do with a plaintiff’s enjoyment, the surrounding circumstances are relevant, but not so relevant when the alleged interference is with material injury to property. Some common forms of private nuisance are:
noise-excessive tolling of church bells;
Vibrations;
Pestilential smells and
Escaping fumes from factories.
Private nuisance represents a balancing of conflicting interests (eg. Radio music, taxi horns), and the courts are principally concerned with the mutual adjustment of rights. The challenge we face today is that we are living in close communities where one has to put up with a reasonable degree of nuisance.
The Courts and Loud Sex Noise
The courts have rarely been asked to rule in a case where the sound of female sexual rapture is a legal issue, but it has happened in some jurisdictions. In the Ghanaian and the Gambian Courts, we are yet to witness any such case. We, however, explore some cases in other jurisdictions which could have persuasive effects.
In October 2007, at the magistrates’ court in Ipswich, Queensland, Australia, the humdrum proceedings were interrupted at one point by the sound of a gasping female voice in an advanced state of excitement.
The voice was the hi-fi ringtone on the phone of a man in the public gallery. As the sounds of ecstasy became progressively louder the court proceedings froze. The man with the extraordinary ringtone fumbled desperately to turn off his phone. He was identified and told he could be held in contempt of court and imprisoned, although the magistrate ultimately exercised mercy. One missed call, one missed cell.
Cases
In Uganda, there is a report by the LuciPost(2019) of a couple in Meru, arrested and charged for noisy sex. According to a court hearing, three people, 24-year-old Chacha Mwiti and 31-year-old Joan Makokha were having loud sex claiming they were stuck while Magoola Twaha, a 27-year-old Ugandan man who posed as a witch doctor, pretended to be helping them out.
In Australia, another first case is reported by The Advertiser (2012) of Colin and Jessie who will have to give quiet sex a go or perhaps issue headphones to their neighbors. They were charged after repeated complaints about their passionate but noisy love-making, which prompted police to force them to step in to give their neighbors some peace. The couple became the first to be charged with offenses under the Environmental Protection Act – as a direct result of their noisy sex.
In the Cartwright bedroom case(2009), Caroline Cartwright, 48, was remanded in custody and later charged with three breaches of her Asbo( anti-social behavior order)in just 10 days. The four-year order was imposed by magistrates in Sunderland on April 17 and prevented Cartwright from “making excessive noise” anywhere in England.
However, Houghton le Spring Magistrates Court heard police arrested her on April 18, on April 22, and again on April 26 after reports from neighbors she was flouting the ban with her husband Steve. She was subsequently charged with three counts of breaching her Asbo by making excessive noise that could be heard by neighbors.
The court heard that her neighbor Rachel O’Connor called the police after hearing Cartwright shouting and screaming for 10 minutes during lovemaking on the morning of March 14.
The next day O’Connor’s partner Vince Wilson also called the police after the defendant could be heard singing at the top of her voice to dance music blasting out from her terraced house.
The court was told police officers, who attended the neighbours’ flat, heard 20 minutes of loud music and singing before arresting Cartwright. Prosecutor Claire Ward said neighbours had complained to police on three occasions about early morning noises of shouting, moaning, groaning, and a bed banging against the wall coming from the Cartwrights’ home.
Cartwright was convicted for five breaches of an abatement notice and fined a total of £515, and magistrates also imposed the Asbo.
Another case was reported by Gena Kaufman(2014) of Romeo Artemio Lori, a 42-year-old man in Italy who was also jailed after his neighbours filed a civil lawsuit over the loud noises of his lover’s screaming, which disturbed the peace and “the building’s decorum.” The charge against him was actually for stalking, but he argues that he was punished for being too good at sex. He was found guilty and jailed for six months.
They were further ordered to have sex only in the daytime after the man’s wails of ecstasy provoked complaints from neighbours. Retirees next door, who claimed the grunts equalled decibel levels of a jackhammer, will now be able to sleep soundly after a Rome judge imposed a sex ban from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. on a married couple. This is the third case of roof-raising sex to hit Italian courts in a year; all three judges have imposed a blackout on sonorous lovemaking at night.
In Birmingham City Council v Gemma Wale(12 May 2015), the respondent, Wale was given a two-week prison sentence after a civil court judge concluded that she had breached the order by screaming and shouting while having sex at a level of noise that annoyed a neighbour.
Judge Kelly concluded that Wale had breached an antisocial behaviour order. She said Birmingham city council took legal action after a neighbour complained. Kelly said the antisocial behaviour order had barred Wale from making loud sex noises and from causing a nuisance by playing loud music, shouting, swearing, making banging noises, stamping, and slamming doors.
The judge concluded that she had also breached the order by arguing with her boyfriend, swearing at a neighbour, “banging around the house” and “running around in the property”. She imposed separate two-week jail terms on Wale for each breach but said all terms would run concurrently.
The judge indicated that Wale lived on a property owned by the Birmingham council and said she had heard evidence from a council housing officer and one of Wale’s neighbours. Kelly said a neighbour had complained that at about 5 am on 29 January paragraph 3 of the order had been breached. “Gemma started screaming and shouting while having sex, which woke us up,” said the neighbour. “This lasted 10 minutes.”
The judge concluded: “I am satisfied that during the early hours of 29 January 2015, at around 5 am, the defendant was guilty of screaming and shouting whilst having sex at a level of noise which caused nuisance or annoyance to (a neighbour).”
Unreasonableness
The question is how much is unreasonable in nuisance in bedroom sound? In Cartwrights’ case, the local council recorded the noise at 47 decibels which is more than the 45 decibels.
The EPA states:
Noise levels for various areas are identified according to the use of the area. Levels of 45 decibels are associated with indoor residential areas, hospitals, and schools, whereas 55 decibels are identified for certain outdoor areas where human activity takes place. A level of 70 decibels is identified for all areas to prevent hearing loss.
We state that it’s not illegal to have consensual sex, but it can also be heard of as a nuisance by a neutral bystander(s). In Cartwrights’ case, she appealed claiming that she is unable to stop the loud shouting and screaming she makes during lovemaking with her husband Steve. However, she lost the appeal against an order banning her from making loud noises during sexual activity.
The British Court said she can’t have loud sex. Hence, we urged everyone to keep it safe and keep it down, as there are possible legal implications of loud noise during sex. It will be interesting to explore the law on this in Ghana, the Gambia, and others.
The authors: Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu is a full professor of Naturopathy and a recognized prolific writer and Martina Akusika Mensah is a Ghanaian Lawyer and a Gender Activist.
This article aims to create awareness of bedroom nuisance only.
On Monday, September 4, Ghana formally presented its ratified instrument of the African Union (AU) Convention on Cross-Border Cooperation to the African Union Commission.
This significant event took place at the African Union Commission Headquarters in Addis Ababa.
Ghana has now become the eighth country to ratify this Convention, marking a milestone in its commitment to cross-border cooperation. The initial agreement to the Convention was signed by Ghana on July 4, 2017, and subsequently ratified by the Parliament of Ghana on February 9, 2023.
Major General Emmanuel Kotia, the National Coordinator of Ghana Boundary Commission, represented Ghana during the presentation at the African Union Commission.
He emphasized that Ghana had fulfilled its obligations by depositing the ratified instrument, which was signed by the President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, on April 25, 2023.
The instrument was officially received by Dr. Guy Fleury-Ntawari, the Director of Legal Counsel at the African Union Commission, in the presence of officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ghana Embassy in Ethiopia.
The President of the Institute for Security and Disaster Management Studies, Dr. Ishmael Norman, has called upon the ad hoc committee tasked with investigating the leaked tape related to the removal of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to conduct all sessions in public.
In his view, holding closed-door, in-camera sessions would not serve the interests of transparency and accountability.
Instead, he emphasized that such sessions could foster mistrust in the entire investigative process.
Dr. Norman stressed that the public has a fundamental right to be informed about the issues afflicting the police force and the steps being taken to address them, as the police service is ultimately established to serve the people.
“Look, everybody in Ghana knows the police system has a problem, and the people complaining are people who should know or should have known. Therefore if you go behind the camera we will already now suppose that this is what is happening there, this is what is happening there, and it’s going to create conspiracy theories about what is happening.
“It is not good. Let the people know what is happening because it is the people’s service, not the government’s service. We pay for Dampare’s salary; we pay for the police officer’s salary.”
Dr. Norman expressed concerns that conducting proceedings behind closed doors might encourage speculation and fuel conspiracy theories, which could be detrimental to the reputation of the police force.
Furthermore, he voiced support for the investigation of the IGP, George Akuffo Dampare, but disagreed with the committee’s decision to hold in-camera sessions.
He argued that the pervasive issues within the Ghanaian police system are well-known to the public, and conducting secretive sessions could lead people to make assumptions about what transpires during the investigation.
Dr. Norman dismissed the notion that national security concerns justified the closed-door approach.
In his perspective, the real national security challenge lies in the identity politics at play within the police system, which is a more significant issue than any revelations that might emerge from the hearings.
He pointed out that identity politics permeates many institutions in Ghana, representing a systemic problem that poses a destabilizing influence on the country.
“What national security problem could that be? Already the police service is compromised in a deep systemic way, NPP, NDC and it’s just not the police service. It is almost every institution in Ghana.
“So this is a tip of the iceberg of all that is wrong with Ghana because of identity politics…and it is a very systemic and destabilizing effect in Ghana,” he said.
The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has stated that Ghana and other African countries’ headline inflation will remain high in 2023 and 2024, fueling public discontent.
In its 2023 report on Africa’s Operational Risk Outlook, the UK-based firm stated that the anticipated rise in headline inflation would be attributable to factors such as soaring global commodity and food prices, as well as local currency depreciation against the US dollar, among other influences.
“Regional headline inflation will remain high, driven by still-high global commodity prices, lingering supply-chain tightness, high regional food prices and local-currency weakness against the US dollar for most countries, fuelling discontent in 2023-24—as already seen in Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Tunisia and Madagascar”.
‘Inflation also continues to run high as subsidy regimes buckle under the fiscal strain—including in Angola, Malawi, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Sudan and Madagascar”, it pointed out.
The report highlights that inflation remains elevated due to fiscal pressures on subsidy programs in Angola, Malawi, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Madagascar.
Moreover, the report issued a cautionary note regarding the potential consequences of growing public discontent due to deteriorating living conditions.
This discontent could manifest itself in hostility toward affluent foreigners and instances of property damage, potentially leading to an upswing in both violent criminal activity and protests.
Furthermore, if the sharp inflationary trend continues unchecked, it may result in a decline in living standards, exacerbating public frustration, especially as wages struggle to keep pace with rising prices across the region.
This predicament poses significant challenges for economically disadvantaged households, making it increasingly difficult for them to afford essential daily necessities.
The EIU underscored the gravity of this situation, particularly in the context of widespread poverty and high unemployment prevalent in many African regions. It also highlighted the potential for labor unrest, as large-scale protests might prompt employees of major manufacturing firms to organize strikes in a bid to secure better wages.
The administration of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) has refuted the claim that the fake doctor apprehended at the hospital on Monday, September 4, 2023, and subsequently turned over to the police, had any involvement in patient care at the referral center.
In an official statement released by the hospital, the Director of Public Relations, clarified that the individual in question was intercepted by the Director of Nursing Services while on the walkway behind the A&E Centre.
“The suspect was not found in any of the service points at the hospital but accosted at an open space and could therefore, not be said to have attended to patients as being circulated”, the statement explained.
It added that the Director of Nursing Services’ suspicion was triggered by the young man’s responses to inquiries regarding his identity and purpose within the hospital premises.
Further elucidating the incident, the statement disclosed that the Director of Nursing Services encountered the individual, who was carrying a backpack and wearing attire bearing the name ‘Dr. Williams Cyril Cohen,’ behind the A&E Centre during her routine rounds.
When queried about his identity and the reason for his presence at the hospital, the suspect asserted that he had simply passed through the facility to deliver an item to someone before attempting to depart hastily.
The statement went on to describe how the Director of Nursing Services, harboring suspicions, raised the alarm, leading to the apprehension of the young man as he attempted to flee. He was subsequently transferred into police custody.
Additionally, the statement clarified the hospital’s operational structure, emphasizing the existence of a team-based system responsible for both inpatient care and outpatient services.
Individuals not affiliated with these closely integrated teams do not have access to patient care facilities within the hospital.
The statement also highlighted the hospital’s recent implementation of computerized clinical operations through the Electronic Medical Records System, which is exclusively accessible to accredited staff members utilizing unique passwords.
Consequently, it was underscored that non-staff members are unable to perform diagnoses, reviews, or prescribe medications for patients. Thus, the assertion that the suspect had treated patients and administered medications prior to his arrest was deemed untrue.
In conclusion, the statement assured the public that the hospital maintains stringent protocols to safeguard patient care and privacy, and any claims to the contrary are without merit.
“Again the hospital has for some time now computerized its clinical operations and all patient care services are done through the Electronic Medical Records System accessible to only accredited members of staff using their unique passwords”, some parts of the statement read.
Old students of O’Reilly Senior High School (SHS), Mr. Samuel Quansah Quarcoo and his friends in the United States have generously donated a new state-of-the-art visual art classroom block to the school.
The dedication ceremony, graced by students, parents, community members, and alumni, took place on August 15, 2023. Mr. Quarcoo and his associates, present at the event, shared their motivations for this remarkable contribution.
“We firmly believe in equal access to quality education for every child, regardless of their background. This new classroom block will offer our students the ideal space and resources to pursue their visual arts aspirations,” expressed Mr. Quarcoo.
The new facility boasts state-of-the-art technology and flexible learning environments adaptable to diverse instructional needs. Additionally, it includes a designated area for art supplies and equipment storage.
Mrs. Comfort Adu-Boakye, the Headmistress of O’Reilly SHS, conveyed her heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Quarcoo and his associates for their benevolent gift. “This classroom block is a game-changer for our school, enabling us to provide our students with a world-class visual arts education,” she remarked.
Beyond the classroom block, Mr. Quarcoo and his associates also donated 22 brand-new laptops, solar lighting systems, 200 desks, school bags, and a significant amount of stationery, collectively valued at thousands of dollars.
The Mampong Akuapem Traditional Council has implemented a strict noise ban in line with the 2023 Ohum Odwira festival, which begun on Monday, September 4, 2023.
The ban, which will be in effect for a duration of two weeks, encompasses all activities associated with noise-making, including events such as funerals within the area.
During a media briefing, Nana Yirenkyi I, the Mampong Akuapem Apesemakehene, announced this measure and underscored its significance. He also cautioned that those who disregard the directive would face consequences.
To ensure the peaceful observance of the festival, the traditional council will collaborate closely with the Mampong police to rigorously enforce this noise ban.
The Ohum Odwira festival holds great cultural and historical significance for the Akuapem people of Ghana, particularly in the Akuapem Traditional Area, which includes towns and villages like Mampong Akuapem, Akropong, and Aburi.
This annual celebration serves as a tribute to the rich history, traditions, and heritage of the Akuapem community.
Addressing the 2023 Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, President Akufo-Addo underscored the effectiveness of the ban on illegal mining, known as galamsey, in reducing carbon emissions.
The President emphasized that the galamsey ban, which had been causing damage to water bodies and forest reserves, has contributed significantly to curbing carbon emissions in the country.
President Akufo-Addo also attributed the reduction in carbon emissions to various flagship policy initiatives, including “Planting for Food and Jobs,” “One Village, One Dam,” and the ban on illegal mining.
These initiatives have collectively contributed to mitigating carbon emissions and enhancing Ghana’s resilience in the face of climate change impacts.
“We placed a ban on illegal mining the phenomenon we call galamsey which was destroying our water bodies, vegetation and our forest. Some 20, 000 young people have been engaged to plant more than 30 million trees in two years to create jobs and restore degraded lands.
“These policy initiatives are already yielding positive results in the attainment of SDG Goals, particularly the goal of reducing our carbon emissions,” President Akufo-Addo said.
He further called on fellow African nations to take similar actions to reduce carbon emissions and strengthen their resilience against the adverse effects of climate change.
Meanwhile, in a related development, the community of Akyem Hemang, located in the Fanteakwa South District of the Eastern Region, has issued a 10-day ultimatum to the Ghana Police Service, Eastern Regional Coordinating Council, and the local assembly. They demand that these authorities either expel or apprehend illegal miners responsible for polluting water bodies and damaging farmlands in the area.
The Chiefs and residents warned that if these agencies fail to halt the activities of the miners within the stipulated 10-day period, the community will take matters into their own hands to protect and preserve their water bodies and agricultural lands.
Osabarima Mmirrikkissi Okasum Apori Atta, the Chief of Akyem Hemang, expressed his people’s growing frustration, stating that, “we know you have done your best, but it is not good enough, if you can’t do it, give us about 10 policemen to accompany us. Who has authorised them to come and mine our waterbodies in the first place? We cannot build Ghana in this way…I cannot hold back the anger of my people again.
“Within 10 days, if we don’t hear anything we will apply officially, to follow due process to go on demonstration and we will need police guard to drive them away. If there are no laws in this land, let us know so we take the laws into our own hands.”
Two individuals are receiving medical care at Tetteh Quashie Memorial Hospital as a result of an accident that occurred on Tuesday morning, September 5, at Mamfe along the main Accra-Koforidua highway.
According to eyewitnesses, the accident transpired when a tanker truck, descending the Mamfe Hill, reportedly experienced brake failure and subsequently collided with six vehicles traveling in the opposite direction, resulting in damage to all six vehicles.
Emergency personnel from the Ghana Police Service, National Fire Service, and the Ambulance Service were swiftly dispatched to the scene to facilitate rescue operations and manage traffic.
They promptly transported four individuals to Tetteh Quashie Hospital, where two of them are reported to be in critical condition.
Describing the incident to Citi News, eyewitness Samuel Kofi Karikari stated, “There was this fuel tanker that was coming from, I think, possibly Accra heading towards Koforidua. Upon descending the Mamfe mountain, his brakes developed a fault and he started colliding with oncoming cars. The total number of vehicles involved in the incident, including the tanker, is seven.”
“We have five private cars, one commercial car which is a trotro, and the tanker itself. There were around four casualties, with two in critical condition. One had a broken arm, and another sustained a head injury. We promptly called in the media, police, and fire service as well.”
The Koforidua police have initiated an inquiry into the unfortunate demise of two women who tragically passed away separately on Monday morning, September 4.
The initial incident involved an elderly woman who was fatally struck by a speeding taxi at the Koforidua Old Estate Junction.
An eyewitness account revealed that the victim was attempting to cross the road when the speeding taxi collided with her, resulting in her immediate demise. In a panic, the taxi driver fled the scene, abandoning the vehicle.
In a parallel incident, residents of Gyamfikrom near Dabi Asem in the New Juaben North Municipality awoke to a grim discovery—a lifeless middle-aged market woman. She is suspected to have fallen victim to an attack by unidentified assailants.
The motive behind this tragic event remains unclear. Nevertheless, the police have responded swiftly, arriving at the scene to transport the deceased to St. Joseph Hospital.
They have initiated an inquiry and are urging both residents and the general public to come forward with any information that may aid in their investigation.
The inhabitants and leaders of Akyem Hemang, an agricultural community situated in the Fanteakwa South District of the Eastern Region, are demanding swift action from the Ghana Police Service, Eastern Regional Coordinating Council, and the local assembly.
They have given a strict ultimatum of 10 days to either expel or apprehend illegal miners who are causing severe pollution of water sources and devastating farmlands in their vicinity.
Should these governmental entities fail to put a stop to the illicit mining activities within the specified timeframe, the community asserts its intention to take matters into their own hands, resorting to self-preservation to safeguard their water resources and agricultural lands.
The Chief of Akyem Hemang, Osabarima Mmirrikkissi Okasum Apori Atta, conveyed his people’s growing frustration during a press conference, emphasizing their determination to act if necessary.
“We know you have done your best, but it is not good enough, if you can’t do it, give us about 10 policemen to accompany us. Who has authorised them to come and mine our waterbodies in the first place? We cannot build Ghana in this way…I cannot hold back the anger of my people again.
“Within 10 days, if we don’t hear anything we will apply officially, to follow due process to go on demonstration and we will need police guard to drive them away. If there are no laws in this land, let us know so we take the laws into our own hands.”
In the midst of this turmoil, some irate members of the community voiced their frustrations to the media, placing blame on the government for its perceived ineffectiveness in combating illegal mining in the country.
Meanwhile, Ernest Ofosu, the District Chief Executive for Fanteakwa South and Chairman of the District Security Council (DISEC), has provided reassurance that an emergency DISEC meeting will be promptly convened to address the concerns raised by the community.
On Monday, September 4, the International Vaccine Institute (IVI Korea) and EuBiologics signed a significant Technology Transfer Agreement with DEK Vaccines Limited, paving the way for the transfer of technology to manufacture oral cholera vaccine (OCV) in Ghana starting in 2024.
This agreement facilitates EuBiologics in extending technical support, capacity enhancement, and innovative solutions to DEK Vaccines Ltd, ultimately enhancing the production and availability of life-saving OCVs within Ghana.
The core objective behind this technology transfer to DEK is to bolster global vaccine production capabilities, thus narrowing the gap in vaccine accessibility for African children. This initiative is an integral component of Ghana’s Vaccine Manufacturing project.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of DEK Vaccines Ltd, Dr. Kofi Nsiah-Poku, expressed optimism about the commencement of a promising journey towards technological advancement and collaborative vaccine manufacturing in Ghana, West Africa, and the entire African continent.
He emphasized that this technology transfer acts as a bridge connecting Asia and Africa, underscoring the power of collaboration where individuals and organizations unite to share their expertise, knowledge, and resources for the greater good. Dr. Nsiah-Poku also urged all stakeholders to employ vaccine manufacturing technology transfer in an ethical manner to meet the standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Rachel Park, Director of the International Marketing Team at EuBiologics, conveyed the company’s anticipation of a successful commercialization of the oral cholera vaccine and the expansion of partnerships for other vaccines.
Beyond OCV, EuBiologics is considering the development of combination vaccines for typhoid and meningitis, diseases that have imposed a significant burden on Africa. She added that this collaboration with DEK for the oral cholera vaccine is just the beginning of their efforts.
Cholera, caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacterium, is an acute diarrheal infection transmitted through contaminated food or water. It remains a global public health threat and an indicator of social inequality and underdevelopment. Cholera symptoms include severe diarrhea, vomiting, thirst, leg cramps, and restlessness. Although cholera is treatable with immediate oral rehydration solution (ORS) for most patients and intravenous fluids with suitable antibiotics for severe cases, oral cholera vaccines play a crucial role in disease prevention and building immunity.
Seongmin Andrea Kim, representing the International Vaccine Institute, emphasized that the DEK & EuBiologics technology transfer for OCV holds immense potential to significantly impact the global vaccination landscape, particularly in the African region. She characterized this initiative as a substantial stride forward in Africa’s battle against infectious diseases.
Delese Darko, CEO of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), provided assurance that the FDA would ensure that all parties adhere to good manufacturing practices and regulatory standards.
The Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), James Klutse-Avedzi, has suggested that the committee is considering the possibility of inviting the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to address the issue of significant delays in accrediting new academic programs or renewing existing ones.
Mr. Klutse-Avedzi disclosed this during the commencement of the Second Zone Public Hearing in Sunyani.
The primary purpose of this hearing was to review the Auditor-General’s reports on the public accounts of Ghana, specifically focusing on Technical Universities and Second Cycle Institutions for the fiscal year ending on December 31, 2021.
During the proceedings, Tamale Central MP, Murtala Mohammed, and Builsa South MP, Dr. Clement Apaak, both members of the Committee, expressed their deep concerns regarding the prolonged accreditation process for university programs.
They emphasized that these delays negatively impact students who have already completed their studies and are eager to utilize their certificates for further education or job applications.
These concerns were raised while representatives from Kumasi Technical University, including the Director of Finance, Registrar, Vice-Chancellor, and other university managers, were presenting their responses to various infractions identified in the Auditor-General’s Report.
Currently, approximately 16 programs at the university are awaiting accreditation at different stages.
The Committee Chairman used the opportunity to advise universities to apply for accreditation renewal for existing courses at least one year in advance.
He also emphasized the importance of institutions adhering to the country’s financial regulations to prevent their inclusion in future Auditor-General’s Reports.
Additionally, several other institutions, including Sunyani Technical University, Al-Faruq College of Education, Enchi College of Education, and Sefwi Wiawso College of Education, appeared before the Committee.
It’s worth noting that GTEC is the result of the merger between the former National Council for Tertiary Education (NCTE) and the National Accreditation Board (NAB).
