TIG Post

Author: Phoebe Martekie Doku

  • No political power is worth shedding your blood for – Mahama

    No political power is worth shedding your blood for – Mahama

    The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has pledged his steadfast commitment to ensuring peace as Ghana prepares for the 2024 general elections.

    Addressing attendees at the 31st Biennial General Council meeting of the Assemblies of God Church at the CK Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences (CKT-UTAS) in Navrongo, Upper East Region, Mr. Mahama reiterated his dedication to upholding a peaceful electoral process.

    “As we go into another election, there is often a general sense of apprehension that something will go wrong. As a member of your church, I can assure you and pledge that I am a person of peace, and if there is any violence, it won’t come from me. I will do everything to ensure that Ghana remains peaceful,” he pledged.

    Mahama stressed that political power should never come at the expense of Ghanaian lives or their safety.

    “If you resort to violence, it is the same people you are coming to govern. And so, I don’t think that even a single drop of any Ghanaian blood is worth political power or coming into office,” he stated.

    His remarks were met with applause from the over 2,500 pastors and delegates, both local and international, who appreciated his pledge to a peaceful election.

  • Unauthorized structures in Dodowa Forest pulled down by REGSEC

    Unauthorized structures in Dodowa Forest pulled down by REGSEC

    The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has dismantled unauthorized structures on parts of the Dodowa forest, which has been designated a security zone.

    This action follows concerns from the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs about increasing encroachment by private developers.

    In collaboration with the Forestry Commission, REGSEC also conducted a tree-planting initiative to rehabilitate the affected forest areas post-demolition.

    Daniel Titus Glover, the Regional Minister and Chairman of REGSEC, explained the initiative to the press.

    The local youth of Dodowa have shown enthusiasm and support for the government’s efforts to restore the forest.

  • We owe our survival to our wives – PBC workers

    We owe our survival to our wives – PBC workers

    A distressed employee of the Produce Buying Company Limited (PBC), Frederick Kwame Boachie, has revealed that he and his colleagues now rely on their spouses for survival due to the company’s failure to pay their salaries for the past twelve months.

    In an interview with adomonline.com on August 8, 2024, Boachie shared that PBC workers are barely managing to support their families.

    He emphasized that without their spouses’ financial support, life would have been unbearable, given the prolonged salary delays.

    “There are about 750 permanent workers, but almost 30,000, including cocoa clerks. Our wives are the ones taking care of us with the little money from their businesses.

    “Some wives who can no longer handle the situation have left their husbands to their fate,” he lamented.

    On August 7, 2024, PBC workers demanded the immediate dismissal of the company’s management after staging a protest at the company’s headquarters to demand one year of unpaid salaries.

    The Vice Chairman of the PBC Workers Union, Seth Adusei, called on state agencies to investigate the company’s financial troubles and urged the government to dissolve the management board and expedite the payment of the outstanding salaries.

    “From the year 2023 to the year 2024, we realised that funding was not coming. First and foremost, it started with our management. We were not getting answers. Then we called on our union leaders, but they were also not coming forward.

    “That was why we decided to let us do something about this issue. Not knowing that they were hiding something from us. The chief executive officer, the MD, the deputy chief executive officer in charge of operations, and the deputy chief executive in charge of finance and administration are the executive management; we don’t need them; they can’t help us,” he stated.

  • I don’t have hope in both NPP and NDC – Manasseh Azure

    I don’t have hope in both NPP and NDC – Manasseh Azure

    An investigative journalist known for his candid commentary on Ghanaian politics, Manasseh Azure Awuni, has expressed his deep disappointment in the country’s two leading political parties, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    In a recent statement, Manasseh revealed that his faith in the ability of either party to bring about meaningful change in Ghana has diminished significantly.

    He reflected on the optimism he once had, particularly during the 2016 election when Akufo-Addo was vying for the presidency.

    “The last I had so much hope that politics could change Ghana was in 2016 when Akufo-Addo was campaigning to be president after almost 8 years under Akufo-Addo. I am sad to say that I don’t have hope in the NPP and NDC,” he stated.

    He pointed out that while corruption and other issues were rampant during the tenure of former President John Mahama, the current administration has done little to instill confidence that things would be different.

    “Corruption was bad during John Mahama’s time, there was dumsor and all of that and then Akufo-Addo comes Mahama is beginning to look like an angel,” he added.

  • I dress to glorify God, makeup is not evil – Piesie Esther

    I dress to glorify God, makeup is not evil – Piesie Esther

    Piesie Esther has affirmed that enhancing one’s appearance is not unchristian, as long as it is done with modesty and style.

    Speaking on Accra 100.5 FM’s Ayekoo Ayekoo with Nana Romeo on Thursday, August 8, 2024, the Gospel singer shared her thoughts on beauty and fashion.

    She pointed out that a recently discovered old photo of herself, found by her child, shows that she has always had a sense of style.

    “I understand fashion,” she added, asserting: “My God loves beautiful things.”

    However, she advised women to dress elegantly without unnecessary exposure, stressing that “exposing themselves unnecessarily, the bible teaches we should dress modestly.”

    She clarified that modesty does not mean avoiding fashionable clothing, and cautioned against dressing poorly under the guise of modesty or religious piety.

    “Does not mean shun trendy clothing, for me, I dress so when someone sees me, they would be moved to glorify God.”

    Regarding wardrobe malfunctions, Piesie Esther acknowledged that sometimes women unintentionally dress provocatively.

    She added that in such situations, her conscience bothers her, and she becomes aware that her outfit might provoke others or cause concern.

    “There are times, without properly assessing my clothes, I rush out of the house, only to realise I’m looking unseemly. At that moment, I don’t have any choice but to keep the clothing on. I may honestly want to take it off but, in that case, I’d have nothing else to wear,” she said.

    However, she added, “In those instances, my conscience bothers me and I can clearly see I’m not comfortable in the outfit. I notice it can provoke someone or cause concern”.

    On the topic of cosmetic products, the “W’aye Me Yie” singer made it clear that she has no issue with women using makeup, lashes, wigs, or other fashion items.

    “Look at me, am I not looking beautiful?” she rhetorically asked. “God wants beautiful and neat things.”

    She recalled “a time past when we believed, as we were told, makeup products were from [the demonic entity] maame water but now we know it isn’t the case – human beings make it – for beautifying oneself”.

    Recalling a time when people believed that makeup products were from a demonic source, Piesie Esther noted that “Today, God has increased our knowledge and brought about advanced makeup kits.”

    She mentioned how people in the past used powder to enhance their appearance, and today, advanced makeup kits are available thanks to increased knowledge.

    She also referenced the biblical character Queen Esther, who won the favor of King Xerxes through her tasteful use of cosmetics and participation in a beauty pageant, to support her view that beauty is good as long as it is not overdone.

    “Queen Esther who won the favour of King Xerxes” as a woman who tastefully “used cosmetics and fashion articles and even partook in a beauty pageant”.

    “Beauty is good. It is only when beauty products are used excessively that it becomes bad,” she asserted. “Everybody knows I don’t like heavy and flamboyant makeup.”

    “Even the Bible describes God in beautiful clothing,” Piesie Esther added. “There’s nothing wrong with being Christian and fashionable. Just don’t abuse makeup.”

    When asked about cosmetic surgery, Piesie Esther, whose real name is Mrs. Esther Asiedu, was hesitant to say whether it is sanctioned by God.

    “I’m a woman but there are times you’d see another woman and be struck instantly and undoubtedly that she is so gorgeous,” she said.

    “Perhaps, women who do cosmetic surgery are taking inspiration from those who naturally have the looks they desire. As to whether it is good or not, I don’t know.”

  • Stammering made me a good writer – Minister OJ

    Stammering made me a good writer – Minister OJ

    Minister OJ has noted that many strong communicators struggle with stammering.

    Reflecting on his personal experience, the acclaimed singer-songwriter explained that his speech disorder pushed him toward extensive reading and writing, which in turn sharpened his thinking and writing skills.

    “You end up reading widely and writing more, and soon you become a very good writer and sharp at thinking”. My difficulty with speaking made me focus more on reading and writing.”

    Addressing the potential for improvement, the “Obi Nya Wo Aye” hitmaker remarked that stammering can lessen with time, and he suggested looking to YouTube for practical techniques to manage it, such as “relaxing and taking slow breaths.”

    OJ also offered advice, saying, “With the small amount of air you can gather, try to speak more quickly, as dragging out words can cause the air to get stuck.” He emphasized that impatience can aggravate stammering, sometimes leading to frustrated hand gestures.

    He encouraged those who interact with people who stammer to be patient and let them finish their sentences without interruption, as cutting them off can further frustrate them.

    OJ also offered a hopeful perspective, suggesting that stammering might be a way for God to slow individuals down and encourage them to focus on reading and gaining knowledge. He mentioned that once stammering diminishes, these individuals might find themselves stronger mentally.

    He pointed to former President John Agyekum Kufuor as an example, noting that despite his stammer, Kufuor became widely read and knowledgeable.

  • My sister was CPP Chairperson due to NPP’s manipulation – Sekou Nkrumah claims

    My sister was CPP Chairperson due to NPP’s manipulation – Sekou Nkrumah claims

    Dr. Sekou Nkrumah the son of Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, has accused his sister, Samia Yaba Christina Nkrumah, of being manipulated by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) during her time as Chairperson of the Convention People’s Party (CPP).

    In a recent interview on JoyNews’s PM Express, Dr. Sekou Nkrumah criticized Samia’s leadership, asserting that her lack of knowledge about the CPP’s history led to her ineffective tenure. He claimed that she was misled into taking on the role without a proper understanding of the party.

    “That’s the problem I had with my sister when she came back to Ghana because I realised that she didn’t know much. She was being manipulated by people to come into the country when she had no idea about her leadership of the CPP and so on.

    “That’s a fact. I speak my mind and I want to believe that I speak the truth. The fact of the matter is that was what happened and she made a decision on leaving the CPP when the CPP did not change. It was the same because she didn’t have an understanding of our political history,” he told JoyNews’ George Wiafe.

    “You remember I asked you the question, who was in power when she was brought to Ghana? Who was leading the CPP when she was brought to Ghana? Those should answer your questions.”

    Additionally, Dr. Nkrumah expressed frustration with the political environment, arguing that smaller parties like the CPP are often overshadowed and controlled by the major parties, the NPP and NDC.

    “Are you not aware that all these smaller parties are manipulated by either NDC or NPP? That has been the issue since the 1992 Election?” he quizzed.

  • Video: Over 240 packs of marijuana, cocaine set on fire

    Video: Over 240 packs of marijuana, cocaine set on fire

    In a coordinated effort overseen by the Accra Circuit Court and the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), armed officers from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service have destroyed a large quantity of illicit drugs.

    The seized items included 242 sacks of marijuana, 16 kilograms of cocaine, and several buckets of heroin, marking a significant action against drug trafficking and usage in Ghana.

    This destruction forms part of a broader strategy by law enforcement to disrupt the networks involved in the illegal drug trade across the country.

    A Joy News reporter, Latif Iddrisu, who covered the event at Osu Beach in Accra, reported that the incineration followed a court order.

    The narcotics had been confiscated from high-seas operations and comprised not only the marijuana but also various packages of cocaine.

  • Ongoing maintenance works on Ghana Gas processing plant have reached 60% – GNGC

    Ongoing maintenance works on Ghana Gas processing plant have reached 60% – GNGC

    The Assets Integrity and Maintenance Manager at Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC), Richmond Alamu, has reported that the ongoing maintenance work on the Company’s Gas Processing Plant (GPP) and offshore Gas Export Facilities is approximately 60 percent complete.

    The facilities were taken offline for the planned maintenance on August 1, with work expected to conclude by August 17.

    In a briefing to journalists following an inspection tour at Atuabo in the Ellembelle District of the Western Region, Mr. Alamu noted that the routine maintenance aims to improve the plant’s efficiency and ensure a continuous gas supply.

    He explained, “The maintenance team has a lot of equipment which we do regular maintenance on them, but there are some that require that we shut down the plant, and that is what we are doing within this period.”

    Operations Manager at GNGC, Dr. Robert Kofi Lartey, confirmed that the engineers are diligently working to complete the maintenance as scheduled.

    He mentioned that the shutdown was planned in 2023 in line with the manufacturer’s specifications and was coordinated with the activities of other stakeholders in the gas value chain.


    “This is a national asset and so, we work with international safety and health protocols, and also the integrity of the plant, and we do so by working with all agencies in the oil and gas value chain,” Dr Lartey added. 

    Head of Corporate Communications at GNGC, Ernest Kofi Owusu-Bempah, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to maintaining high standards of safety and operational effectiveness.

    He also noted that during the shutdown, the company and its partners have arranged for lean gas to be supplied from the Sankofa-OCTP field to the Takoradi Distribution Station (TDS).

  • OSP’s Airbus scandal investigations were poorly executed – NPP

    OSP’s Airbus scandal investigations were poorly executed – NPP

    Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Haruna Mohammed, has criticized the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for what he describes as inadequate handling of the Airbus bribery scandal investigation.

    Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse on August 8, 2024, Mohammed accused the OSP of not making a diligent effort to obtain the UK court ruling that referred to former President John Mahama as “Government Official 1.”

    He emphasized that leveraging this ruling, given the shared legal principles between the UK and Ghana, could have strengthened their case.

    “The OSP has done a lazy job because you can’t conclude by saying that you don’t have all the facts at hand; hence you cannot prosecute the case. Did he go to ask for the judgement? What was the material used in the judgement in the UK? Has he been denied the judgement?” Mohammed questioned.

    Mohammed expressed frustration with the OSP’s conclusion that they lacked sufficient evidence to prosecute.

    He questioned whether the OSP had sought the UK judgment or explored the materials used in the court’s decision.

    This criticism comes in response to the OSP’s recent announcement clearing former President Mahama of corruption allegations linked to the Airbus scandal.

    Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng declared on August 8 that the investigation uncovered “no evidence” of bribery involving Mahama or his brother, Adam Mahama.

    The OSP also confirmed that the military aircraft procurement adhered to all required standards.

    Despite the OSP’s findings, Mohammed accused the Office of performing “shoddy work” and suggested that additional evidence could have been pursued.

    He underscored that identifying Mahama as “Government Official 1” reinforces the NPP’s position and argued that “crime has no expiration date,” allowing for continued scrutiny.

    The NPP plans to review the OSP’s report, with Mr Mohammed expressing satisfaction that John Mahama has been identified as “Government Official 1.”

    “The NPP will state our position but we are very happy that the government official one is clearly John Mahama,” he added.

    For context, Ghana was among five nations where Airbus admitted to bribery, leading to a £5 billion fine for the company.

    The country acquired three C295 military aircraft from Airbus between 2011 and 2015.

    UK court documents revealed Airbus’s use of secret agents for bribery, including in Ghana, involving various intermediaries and companies.

  • Attorney General challenges court’s decision to acquit Ato Forson in ambulance case

    Attorney General challenges court’s decision to acquit Ato Forson in ambulance case

    The Office of the Attorney General has challenged the Court of Appeal’s decision to acquit and discharge Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and Richard Jakpa in the ambulance case.

    In its Notice of Appeal filed on August 8, 2024, the Attorney General’s office argues that the Court of Appeal misapplied the standard of proof needed to determine whether the accused should stand trial.

    The appeal further claims that the Court’s conclusion—that the letters of credit did not amount to a payment under the contract—contradicts the evidence and is unjustifiable.

    It also criticizes the Court’s finding that the Ministry of Health was responsible for the financial loss, asserting that this decision contained significant errors and caused a serious miscarriage of justice.

    The prosecution asserts that the Court of Appeal failed to properly understand and apply the key elements of the charges.

    The Attorney General’s office is requesting the Supreme Court to overturn the acquittal and discharge, and to direct that the accused continue their defense.

  • Anum Traditional Council suspends Adontehene for impeding development

    Anum Traditional Council suspends Adontehene for impeding development

    The Anum Traditional Council, headed by Okusiako Brempong Kumi Sasraku VIII, the chief of Anum in the Asuogyaman District of the Eastern Region, has suspended the Adontenhene of the area, Okogyeaman Akwasi Anyane.

    This action follows accusations that he has been obstructing development efforts.

    The suspension was decided during an emergency meeting held at the Ahui-Kpoomo Palace in Anum, where all divisional and sub-chiefs were present.

    The ritual to formalize the suspension included the slaughtering of a sheep and the pouring of libation.

    Okusiako Brempong Kumi Sasraku VIII criticized the Adontenhene’s behavior as being out of line with traditional practices.

    Despite numerous warnings from the Council, Okogyeaman Akwasi Anyane allegedly failed to comply, leading to his removal from office.

    Several sub-chiefs and divisional chiefs condemned the Adontenhene’s actions and called for a cessation of resistance to local development.

    In defense, Okogyeaman Akwasi Anyane refuted the allegations and cited his involvement in various development projects as evidence of his commitment to progress.

  • NAPO is not arrogant but brave – Denkyirahemaa

    NAPO is not arrogant but brave – Denkyirahemaa

    The queen mother of Denkyira, Nana Ama Ayensua Saara III, has strongly denied allegations that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) running mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) is arrogant.

    During Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s visit to the Boa-Amponsem Palace in Dunkwa-On-Offin as part of his campaign tour in the Central and Ashanti regions, the queen mother addressed the issue, explaining that his courage is often mistaken for arrogance.

    She noted that Dr. Opoku Prempeh, an Ashanti royal with ties to Denkyira, reflects the bravery for which Denkyira people are known.

    His boldness in tackling challenges has led some to wrongly perceive him as arrogant.

    In his remarks, Dr. Opoku Prempeh shared that his royal upbringing has taught him to uphold the truth, which might sometimes be interpreted as arrogance.

    He reassured that he remains committed to serving with humility and focusing on the nation’s development.

  • Bawumia proposes 1% mining export tax to check gold smuggling

    Bawumia proposes 1% mining export tax to check gold smuggling

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has pledged to slash the mining export tax to 1% if he secures victory in the 2024 general elections.

    Speaking at a campaign rally on August 8, 2024, Dr. Bawumia presented this proposal as a key tactic to address the pervasive issue of gold smuggling, which he identified as a critical problem in Ghana’s mining sector.

    He argued that reducing the export tax would make gold smuggling less attractive financially, thereby promoting legal and transparent trade. This move is anticipated to increase domestic gold production, enabling more refining to be done within the country.

    Dr. Bawumia also linked this tax cut to his broader economic vision, which includes the “gold for oil” and “gold for reserves” initiatives. These programs aim to leverage gold exports to stabilize the national currency and strengthen Ghana’s foreign reserves, which he considers essential for the country’s economic stability and resilience.

    He highlighted the success of a previous reduction in the gold export levy from 3% to 1.5% in 2021, noting that it had led to a significant decline in gold smuggling. Dr. Bawumia credited this outcome to the creation of a more favorable tax environment that encouraged miners to adhere to legal export practices, resulting in a more regulated and transparent gold market.

    “A few years ago, I pushed for the reduction of the gold export levy (withholding tax) from 3% to 1.5%. The result of this is that after a sharp decline in 2021, the gold export volumes have been steadily recovering, with 2024 showing promising signs. In the first half of 2024, the small-scale mining sector alone produced a total export volume of 821.97 troy ounces.”

    “This is more than double that of Jan-Jun 2023 (404.06 troy ounces) and 2022 (262.05 troy ounces). Also, in value terms, 2024 recorded $1.77 billion higher than 2023 and 2022 just from the small-scale sector.”

    “Given our strategic intention to realize higher production volumes to refine locally and support the gold for oil and gold for reserves programmes for a stable currency, I will further reduce the withholding tax from 1.5% to 1%, in the next government under my presidency.”

  • Akufo-Addo yet to receive approved Affirmative Action Bill – Gender Minister

    Akufo-Addo yet to receive approved Affirmative Action Bill – Gender Minister

    Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Darkoa Newman, has clarified that the recently passed Affirmative Action Gender Equity Bill 2024 has not yet been presented to President Akufo-Addo for his signature.

    The bill, passed by Parliament on Tuesday, July 30, is designed to address gender imbalances in the country’s social, cultural, economic, and political spheres, which have been perpetuated by historical discrimination and entrenched patriarchal systems.

    It also seeks to enhance gender equity in both public and private sectors.

    Following the bill’s passage, various gender advocates and civil society organizations have urged the President to quickly sign it into law.

    However, at a press briefing held at the Ministry of Information on Thursday, August 8, the Okaikwei South MP indicated that there are still a few outstanding tasks to be completed before the bill can be submitted to the President for his assent.

    “I have heard many people asking ‘has the president signed it?’ I would like to inform everyone here that it hasn’t reached the president yet,” the Minister said.

    “I met with the Head of Legislation and he is still tidying up a few things in the Act. Once he is done, then it can be sent to the President for his assent,” the Minister added.

    The minister emphasized that the version of the Bill circulating on social media is not the final draft, noting that the initial version was withdrawn for revisions.

    However, she assured that the key provisions have remained largely unchanged.

  • Per all indications, Bawumia is winning the upcoming elections – Group of Alan supporters return to NPP

    Per all indications, Bawumia is winning the upcoming elections – Group of Alan supporters return to NPP

    A faction of supporters who had previously backed the flagbearer for the Movement for Change, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, have now pledged their support to the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    A leader of the Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen Youth Focus for Alan movement, accompanied by colleagues from various districts, announced their renewed commitment to the vice president, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and the NPP.

    “I was the leader of Alan Kwadwo Kyeremanten youth focus for Alan movement with my colleagues from other districts here. This afternoon we have one purpose to call upon our people around the region both Alan supporters, Kennedy Agyapong supporters and party faithfuls who due to one or three reasons are peeved and are in the house not campaigning to support our flagbearer and his vice.

    The group expressed strong confidence in Dr Bawumia’s victory in the upcoming December polls.

    The group also urged discontented members to join forces and contribute to securing victory for the NPP.

    “We are calling on each every person to come out and campaign massively to support Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and all our parliamentary candidates across the region. Per all indications, after the 7th December elections, NPP with our flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is going to be the president of Ghana in 2025. We are therefore calling on all supporters of the NPP to come on board for us to push our campaign forward to win the elections. We are with this medium, pleading to the national headquarters, regional, the constituency to make sure that all aggrieved members are brought on board,” he added.

  • Recent progress made at SSNIT is encouraging – Osafo-Maafo

    Recent progress made at SSNIT is encouraging – Osafo-Maafo

    Director-General of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), Kofi Bosompem Osafo-Maafo, has highlighted the progress made in enhancing the trust’s operations.

    During the 2024 annual operations and benefits conference in Elmina, Central Region, Osafo-Maafo outlined the management’s strategic focus on three main pillars to ensure the trust’s continued success.

    Osafo-Maafo emphasized that the key strategies involve focusing on the scheme’s sustainability, integrating advanced technology, and ensuring that benefits are adequate.

    He expressed that these measures are essential for maintaining and improving the scheme’s effectiveness.

    The Director-General noted that the conference aims to devise strategies for expanding the scheme’s coverage and leveraging the latest technologies.

    Despite steady improvements in contributions from both private and public sectors, Osafo-Maafo voiced concerns about the significant arrears owed by public sector institutions to the trust.

    “From management’s perspective, the strategic direction of this institution is based on three pillars. The sustainability of the scheme and its improvement. Indeed, we have made significant strides in improving the sustainability of the scheme. This is going to be done through the expansion of coverage, enforcement of compliance, prudent investment of funds and responsible governance of the Trust and its investments.”

    “Secondly, the adoption of state-of-the-art technology for the management and maintenance of accurate and complete data, reliable financial data on members and also for improving our efficiency. And indeed, for those who have been here long enough, I think that there is good evidence that technology has definitely improved.

    “I think if you were to look ten years ago, if you were going out you needed a pickup truck and four or five people or more to carry the various boxes across.”

    “Today, that task is not as arduous and in fact, I believe that our MIS team are going to ensure that all you will require in the future, you could probably put in your pocket or put in a very small bag and you could get going. his year’s conference discussions.”

    “The third pillar is to ensure benefits are adequate. We’ve taken significant strides to ensure that this aspect has improved significantly. And indeed, if we look at the data that we have for the private sector, the public sector, and also total contributions, there have been marked improvements. But as I always say, we can always do better and each year, we must strive to do better.”

  • Vehicle plunges into river, injuring 5 and leaving one missing at Fetteh Kakraba

    Vehicle plunges into river, injuring 5 and leaving one missing at Fetteh Kakraba

    An accident on the Kasoa-Cape Coast Highway has left one person missing and five others injured.

    The crash happened early Thursday morning when a Sprinter Bus, with registration GG 5639-19, skidded off the road and fell into a river at Fetteh Kakraba.

    Reports from Adom News indicate that the incident was partly due to the negligence of Nag Fairmont Company, the contractor responsible for the bridge construction at Fetteh Kakraba.

    The company had not covered the bridge or installed necessary safety signs, posing a significant danger to motorists.

    Local residents and eyewitnesses have expressed frustration over the lack of safety measures and are urging Minister of Roads and Highways, Francis Asenso-Boakye, to take action against the contractor and ensure the implementation of safety protocols.

    The injured individuals are receiving medical care at the Awutu Bereku Health Center.

  • Akufo-Addo thinks I’m mean – Manasseh Azure

    Akufo-Addo thinks I’m mean – Manasseh Azure

    Ace investigative journalist, Manasseh Azure Awuni, has revealed that President Akufo-Addo considers him as a “mean” individual.

    In an interview with JoyNews, Manasseh Azure described his determined efforts to interview the president regarding a comprehensive 400-page account on him.

    He explained that his attempts included reaching out to key figures close to the president.

    According to him, he first contacted the president’s cousin, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, who informed him that Akufo-Addo was unlikely to participate due to his dissatisfaction with Manasseh’s critical journalism.

    “I initially wanted to speak to President Akufo-Addo when writing this book. I remember speaking to his cousin, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko.

    “… people had told me that he [the President] wasn’t happy with the work I was doing. So I asked Gabby if there was a possibility of speaking to him, and he said, ‘I don’t think he will speak to you.’ I asked why, and he said, ‘The President thinks you’ve been mean to him.’

    “And I said, ‘But I even spoke to former President Mahama [despite criticising him],’ and Gabby said, ‘People are different and how they process things differs,’” he added.

    Manasseh noted that despite his willingness to engage with former President Mahama under similar circumstances, Otchere-Darko suggested that the president’s reaction was unique to his personal feelings.

    Undeterred, Manasseh approached the president’s legal counsel, Mr Kow Essuman, who referred him back to Mr Otchere-Darko.

    Mr Otchere-Darko then advised Manasseh to submit a formal request for an interview.

    Despite the challenges, Manasseh concluded that his book, which covers Akufo-Addo’s presidency, remains comprehensive and insightful, even without the president’s input.

    “I spoke to a number of people within his government who confirmed a lot of things, and I had an extensive interview with Gabby for about two hours, where I asked questions about some of the decisions, the family, among other things,” he said.

    “So I don’t think I missed anything significant from not speaking to the president for this book. I would have loved to, but the circumstances didn’t permit,” he stressed.

  • We hope that you participate in the presidential debate – IEA to NDC

    We hope that you participate in the presidential debate – IEA to NDC

    Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), Dr. John Kwakye, has expressed hope that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will join the upcoming presidential debate set for October and November this year.

    This follows sharp criticism from the Mahama 2024 Campaign, which rebuked the IEA for announcing the debate without first extending a formal invitation to the NDC.

    Joyce Bawah Mogtari, the spokesperson for the Mahama 2024 Campaign, criticized the IEA, arguing that the organization does not have the legal mandate to organize election-related events.

    She stressed that the IEA’s decision to proceed without consulting the NDC casts doubt on its motives.

    “The Mahama 2024 Campaign strongly condemns the recent announcement by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) Ghana regarding a presidential debate for the 2024 elections. It is completely unacceptable that the IEA would make such an announcement without engaging or informing the National Democratic Congress, one of the major political parties in Ghana.

    “The Constitution of Ghana does not grant the IEA any authority to organize election-related activities. The fact that the IEA has not shown the decency or respect to at least inform the NDC of its plans raises serious questions about its motives,” she said in a statement.

    In response, Dr. Kwakye clarified that the IEA is currently in talks with the NDC following the debate announcement.

    “Because our announcement of the presidential debate came after the NPP presidential candidate had made a similar request, the NDC accused us of doing the bidding of the NPP, but it was just a mere coincidence. We have issued a rejoinder to that effect, denying the same,” Dr. Kwakye said in an interview with TV3.

    He explained that the timing of the announcement, which followed a similar request by the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate, led to accusations from the NDC that the IEA was biased towards the NPP.

    “We can’t say everything in the media, but we hope that the NDC will participate in the debate,” he concluded.

  • The new Finance Minister lied – Fourth Estate exposes

    The new Finance Minister lied – Fourth Estate exposes


    A report by an investigative media house, Fourth Estate, has rubbished the Finance Minister’s claim that government has made significant progress in some water projects initiated in 2020 in the Northern parts of Ghana.

    The Finance Minister, Dr. Amin Adam, while reading the 2024 budget in Parliament, indicated that Water Supply Projects in Wenchi, Sekondi-Takoradi, Keta, Yendi, Tamale, Damongo, Sunyani, and Techiman are at various stages of completion.

    “The following are at various stages of completion: Wenchi Water Supply Project, Sekondi-Takoradi Water Supply Project, Keta Water Supply project, Yendi Water Supply Project, Tamale Water Supply, Damango Water Supply, Sunyani Water Supply and Techiman Water Supply Project,” he added.

    However in its later expose, Fourth Estate has revealed that residents in these areas are still grappling with severe water shortages despite the launch of the water supply project.

    A mother of four from Tamale, Ayisha Danlaadi, shared with The Fourth Estate how the persistent water crisis has affected her family. She often has to travel four kilometers to a neighboring village just to collect water.

    This daily struggle has forced her children to either arrive late to school or miss classes entirely.

    Ayisha who reflected on the unfulfilled promises that once brought hope stated that “the situation became critical and we travelled to the next village which is about four kilometres away for water”.

    “If anyone had told them in 2020 that four years down the line, they’d be so desperate for water to have to dig deep into the earth for it, the people of Changnaayili would have laughed it off: 2020 was a year of hope, optimism and a lot of promises.”

    Accessing water; a basic necessity remains a daunting task in these areas, comparable to the difficulty of mining rare minerals. Despite promises of new water infrastructure, the situation on the ground has barely improved.

    The little water they manage to gather after long journeys is usually dirty and muddy, requiring them to resort to makeshift purification methods.

    Another resident of Tamale, Hamza Mohammed, explained that he uses potassium alum to treat the water he collects from a nearby village.

    Facing unrelenting water scarcity, the residents of Changnaayili, near Tamale, decided to take matters into their own hands.

    They dug a massive pit, the size of a football field and around 10 meters deep, until they reached the water table. Although the water they extracted is still muddy, it’s better than having none at all.

    This water now serves as their main source for drinking, cooking, and bathing.

    In 2020, President Akufo-Addo visited these areas to launch water projects, promising significant benefits for the local communities.

    The $223 million Tamale water project was expected to produce 29.7 million gallons per day, effectively tripling the city’s current water supply. Yet, four years later, the project has yet to deliver any water.

    In Yendi, the water supply project, funded by a $30 million loan from the India Exim Bank, was meant to provide 15,000 cubic meters of water daily.

    The President assured the people of Yendi that this would mark the beginning of extensive infrastructure development. However, the project has not commenced.

    “This will be, by far, the biggest water project in the five northern regions, and the second biggest in the history of our country,” he announced during the sod-cutting ceremony on July 29, 2020, in Tamale.

    Similarly, in Damongo, a $49 million water project was promised, with the President stating it would serve 68,000 residents.

    Spokesperson for the Chief of Damongo, Alhaji Abu Mahama Salange, voiced his frustration, noting that despite repeated promises, the project remains unstarted.

    Yendi residents continue to rely on boreholes for drinking water, but seasonal changes and the effects of climate change—such as droughts and unpredictable rainfall—have worsened the water situation, threatening the community’s access to safe water.

    This delay in progress also jeopardizes Ghana’s efforts to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of providing universal access to safe and affordable drinking water by 2030.

    Secretary to the Overlord of Dagbon, Alhaji Abdul-Raman Mohammed, disclosed that numerous follow-ups with the government have yielded no results, leaving Yendi’s water needs unmet.

    In the meantime, Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in October 2023, launched a World Bank-funded initiative aimed at providing essential infrastructure, including water, to northern regions. Despite these announcements, tangible progress on water projects remains elusive.

    The Managing Director of the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), Dr. Clifford Braimah, attributed the delays to debt restructuring, which discouraged banks from releasing funds for the water projects in Tamale, Yendi, and Damongo.

    As a result, these projects were stalled, as banks hesitated to provide loans under uncertain financial conditions.

    In July 2024, Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam inaccurately reported to Parliament that these water projects were at various stages of completion, sparking widespread frustration and demands for greater transparency from the government.

    While the GWCL is working on temporary solutions, such as borehole construction and treatment plants, residents of Changnaayili and other northern communities are still waiting for the clean water government promised.

  • Schools will remain opened despite CETAG strike – GTEC

    Schools will remain opened despite CETAG strike – GTEC

    The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has dismissed calls from some Ghanaians to close down all Teacher Trainee Colleges in response to the ongoing strike by the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG).

    CETAG initiated a nationwide strike on June 14, protesting the government’s failure to implement agreed-upon arbitral awards and other conditions of service.

    The nearly two-week strike has disrupted academic activities, leaving most campuses empty.

    In an interview with Citi News, GTEC’s Deputy Director General, Professor Francis K. E. Nunoo, emphasized that closing the schools is not an option due to the significant financial impact it would have on the institutions.

    “Closing the school has financial implications, as well as their staying in school, as you have said. But we were hoping that we have done quite a lot of work, and quite a lot of all their demands are virtually almost addressed.

    “So we were hoping that in the next few days, we will bring to a finality to the issues so that they can go back to school. Students are meanwhile doing their practical work so the practical work needs to be supervised. At least they are getting busy with their practical work.

    “We are hopeful that in the next few days, CETAG will see a reason to call off the strike. It is when all these do not yield fruit, and then we will consider it.”

  • Meat is cheap in our markets due to PFJ initiative – Wontumi

    Meat is cheap in our markets due to PFJ initiative – Wontumi

    Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, (Chairman Wontumi) has stated that, the price of meat is now affordable in the market.

    He attributed the fall to the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) initiative by government.

    In an interview with Abusua Nkommo at Abusua FM, he added that these initiatives have resulted in reduced food prices, with tomatoes now priced at Ghc5.

    Wontumi confidently argued, “I always say Ghana is better than London. If I say so, am I a joker, or is this a joking platform that I would say such things?”

    He contended, “Ghana is better than London. My children are in Ghana here because Ghana is more enjoyable than London.”

    He insisted, “Because of the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative, foodstuffs are now cheap. Tomatoes are now GH¢5. Pepper, plantains, and meat are cheap in our markets.”

    Despite the market prices presented by host Kojo Marfo, Chairman Wontumi remained detached from the public’s concerns about economic hardship.

    Instead, he accused Marfo of promoting an agenda aligned with the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), claiming that Marfo’s decision to become a vegetarian was part of this effort.

    “If you have now adopted a vegetarian diet, then you’re not spending a lot. As a vegetarian, you can eat pawpaw leaves, kontomire, and cassava leaves; it’s okay for you.”

    “You are spreading NDC propaganda. If not for that, you wouldn’t say you can’t even buy meat,” Chairman Wontumi responded.

  • Expanding road toll system is necessary to ensure equity among road users – Bawumia

    Expanding road toll system is necessary to ensure equity among road users – Bawumia

    Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has proposed implementing a comprehensive road-tolling system that encompasses all socioeconomic groups, including the wealthier segments of Ghanaian society.

    Dr. Bawumia’s proposal aims to address the current tolling system, which he argues unfairly impacts less affluent areas while exempting wealthier neighborhoods.

    His comments followed Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam’s announcement that the government plans to reintroduce road and bridge tolls in 2025, as part of the 2024 mid-year fiscal policy review presented in Parliament.

    Speaking during the 50th Anniversary celebration of the Ghana Highways Authority, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the need for a more inclusive tolling approach.

    “I’d like to make a suggestion that you could consider. Some may say it is provocative. If we are going into our road tolling, we need to think about broad-base tolling. The current architecture that we have in tolling tends to exclude the wealthy parts of the population.

    “So if I live in Cantonments, East Legon, Ridge, among others which are the high-earning neighborhoods, I will not see a toll. But if I live in Kasoa or somewhere else, I am likely to meet a toll on the way,” he said on Wednesday.

    He noted that the existing system tends to exclude affluent areas such as Cantonments, East Legon, and Ridge, where residents do not encounter tolls, while tolls are more common in less wealthy areas like Kasoa.

    He argued that such a system would ensure a more equitable distribution of tolls and suggested that it’s time to re-evaluate how tolling is applied across different regions.

    “There seems to be an inequity in tolling and I believe that we should look at broad-base tolling because why shouldn’t everybody pay?” he quizzed.

    In 2021, the government suspended road toll collections following the introduction of the e-levy, which has not met expectations.

  • Authors of ‘Agyapadie’ document must be arrested – Owusu Bempah

    Authors of ‘Agyapadie’ document must be arrested – Owusu Bempah

    Deputy Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Ernest Kofi Owusu-Bempah, has called for a thorough investigation into the release of the contentious ‘Agyapadie’ document.

    On August 6, 2024, Owusu-Bempah urged Inspector General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare to apprehend those responsible for the document’s publication.

    He referenced legal frameworks to back his request, highlighting that while Chapter 5, Article 21 of the 1992 Constitution ensures freedom of speech and press, the 1960 Criminal Offenses Act (Act 29) and the Electronic Communications Act 2008 (Act 775) impose penalties for false publications that incite public disorder or pose safety risks.

    “I, therefore, call for an investigation into the entire Agyapadie publication and those believed to have orchestrated the publication to be fished out and followed up with a view to punish them in accordance with the relevant sections of the Criminal Offences Act.

    “The publishers of Awake news and their collaborators have developed a penchant for the publication of fake news because they always get away with it regardless of the magnitude of such evil lies they peddle.

    “As a country, we cannot look on for the NDC to always peddle brazen and wicked falsehoods and later turn around to say this is politics. On this current issue, the publishers of Awake news must be subjected to the full rigors of the law to deter them from hiding behind social media to create confusion in the system.

    “The Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, as a matter of urgency, must arrest the people behind the publication of this fictional document and bring them to face the full rigors of the law,” he said.

    He criticized the publishers of Awake News for repeatedly disseminating false information and evading consequences, asserting that such actions undermine national integrity.

    Owusu-Bempah stressed that Inspector General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare must urgently arrest the individuals behind the publication and ensure they are prosecuted.

    The 38-page Agyapadie document, which features prominent figures like Okyenhene Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, President Nana Akufo-Addo, and his late father, lacks an identified author. President Akufo-Addo addressed the rumors surrounding the document on August 1, 2024, dismissing its content as entirely fictitious.

  • Mahama should not be given another chance to govern Ghana – Sir John to Ghanaians

    Mahama should not be given another chance to govern Ghana – Sir John to Ghanaians

    The First Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for Atwima Nwabiagya, John Kwame Duodu, (Sir John), has voiced strong objections against the re-election of former President John Dramani Mahama.

    Mr Duodu, who also serves as the Ashanti Regional TESCON Patron and Deputy National Organizer for the Friends of Bawumia, 2008 Foundation (FoB-’08), argues that Mahama’s return to power would hinder Ghana’s development.

    Duodu criticized Mahama’s tenure, asserting that his administration’s economic management was poor, leaving Ghana in a worse state.

    “I can confidently tell you that the John Mahama administration would receive an F9 on any academic grading system for his performance as the president of Ghana”, Sir John argued.

    He expressed concern that if Mahama were re-elected, the progress achieved under the NPP’s Akufo-Addo and Bawumia leadership would be undone.

    Sir John emphasized that Mahama should acknowledge his past mistakes and apologize to Ghanaians for his previous economic mismanagement.

    Furthermore, Mr Duodu accused Mahama of opportunism and inconsistency, citing Mahama’s 2016 statement that “four years is not enough for any president”.

    Mr Duodu also suggested that Mahama’s re-election campaign is motivated by personal ambition rather than a genuine desire to serve the nation.

    He highlighted various scandals during Mahama’s presidency, arguing that they continue to negatively impact Ghanaians.

    To safeguard Ghana’s future, Sir John urged voters to support Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming December elections.

    He praised Dr. Bawumia as the ideal candidate to build on the NPP government’s successes and lead Ghana towards prosperity.

    Sir John further defended Dr. Bawumia’s integrity, stating that he has no history of corruption, unlike Mahama.

    He challenged anyone with evidence of corruption against Dr. Bawumia to come forward, noting that the NDC cannot make a similar challenge for Mahama due to his own corruption issues.

    “The NDC cannot throw a similar challenge on President Mahama’s behalf because he has a history of corruption tag, he added.

  • Akufo-Addo tainted EC by appointing NPP member as commissioner – Group

    Akufo-Addo tainted EC by appointing NPP member as commissioner – Group

    Election Watch Ghana has voiced worries that the Electoral Commission (EC) might be at risk of compromise before the 2024 elections.

    According to the Civil Society Organisation, the EC has been influenced by the Executive, benefiting both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    Mark Ewusi Arkoh, a prominent member of Election Watch Ghana, questioned why Ghana cannot have a truly independent EC capable of conducting free, fair, and transparent elections without executive interference.

    “Why can’t we get an EC that is so independent to organize its activities without any interference from the Executive? Why should we have a situation where the Executive has to control the EC before they conduct their work?” he asked.

    Mr Arkoh criticized the current NPP administration, citing examples that suggest the EC has been compromised. He pointed to President Akufo-Addo’s appointments of Dr. Peter Appiahene and Francis Bossman to the EC as politically motivated.

    “There are clear examples of these genuine concerns we have raised.

    “When the President has appointed party members to work at the EC, do you expect the opposition political parties to be happy with that or accept what they (EC) do?”

    He emphasized that appointments to the EC should be free from political affiliations to ensure the body’s independence.

    “There are laws about how these appointments ought to be done. To appoint people to work at the EC, those appointed should have no affiliation with any political party. But in our case, Francis Bossman and Dr. Appiahene are known NPP members. That is what we are talking about.

    In an interview on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Mr Arkoh stressed that regardless of the ruling party, the EC must maintain its independence to ensure credibility. He called for the enforcement of constitutional provisions to secure a trustworthy and transparent EC.

    “Do you think when the President is appointing his party members to the EC, the opposition parties will keep quiet? Irrespective of the political party in power, the EC should have the independence to work and that is what Election Ghana is seeking to achieve.”

    Mark Ewusi Arkoh remarked, “We cannot do that. So, let us ensure that we enforce the provisions stated in the 1992 constitution.

    “Only then can we proudly proclaim that the EC is currently an independent body or trustworthy institution capable of working transparently. If not, we’ll continue to question their credibility.”

  • We can’t probe 2020 electoral violence due to 1992 constitution – CHRAJ

    We can’t probe 2020 electoral violence due to 1992 constitution – CHRAJ

    The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has clarified that it cannot investigate the 2020 electoral violence that led to the deaths of eight people, as similar cases are already being handled by the courts.

    In a report dated June 13, 2023, CHRAJ referenced Article 219 of the 1992 Constitution, which bars the commission from probing issues that are currently before the judiciary.

    Additionally, the CHRAJ Act of 1993 (Act 456) does not provide it with the authority to undertake such investigations, as reported by graphic.com.gh.

    This decision followed a preliminary review to assess whether CHRAJ could address a complaint filed by MPs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah on August 26, 2021.

    “The commission is of the considered view that its mandate to conduct any investigations into this complaint is clearly ousted by Article 219 (2) (a) of the 1992 Constitution, and Section 8(2) of Act 456,” CHRAJ stated in the report.

    While acknowledging that the violence in Techiman South, Odododiodio, Ablekuma Central, and Savelugu has harmed Ghana’s democratic image, CHRAJ has advised that state institutions tasked with prosecution and adjudication should fast-track the resolution of these electoral violence cases to provide justice for the victims.

    “There is the urgent need for all public officials and institutions charged with the responsibility of prosecuting and adjudicating on these matters that have been found by the commission to be pending before the courts to expedite action on bringing the trial of these cases to an end as soon as possible, especially as the next presidential and parliamentary elections are just a year and half away,” the report stated.

    CHRAJ Commissioner Joseph Akanjolenur Whittal stressed that the commission is restricted by the authority conferred upon it by the constitution and the Parliament of Ghana.

    “It is the considered view of the commission as a creature of the Constitution and statute that it can only exercise the mandate clearly and expressly conferred on it,” he explained.

    He further highlighted that certain laws are designed to safeguard the integrity of other constitutional institutions.

    “Ultimately, this commission must go to a court to enforce its decision. Now, if the matter is already pending before a court, and CHRAJ goes ahead to investigate, how will it be enforced if the outcome is different from the court’s decision?” he added.

    Whittal explained that the report was first shared with the complainants and respondents last year. The subsequent public release aimed to address concerns that CHRAJ had overlooked the complaint.

    The initial complaint from Ablakwa and Buah requested an investigation into alleged unlawful actions by Ghana Police Service and Ghana Armed Forces officers, which reportedly resulted in deaths and injuries in the four constituencies.

    CHRAJ’s report indicated that the reliefs sought were the subject of three separate civil suits concerning the Techiman South violence, currently pending before the Wenchi High Court.

    The Attorney-General is prosecuting the violence in the Odododiodio and Ablekuma Central constituencies.

    Furthermore, cases related to the violence in Savelugu are at various stages of criminal proceedings, with some trials scheduled to start in the High Court and others under review by the Attorney-General’s office.

  • My administration will focus on revitalizing all Developmental Authorities – Mahama

    My administration will focus on revitalizing all Developmental Authorities – Mahama

    The NDC’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has unveiled plans to reassess all development authorities if he wins the election.

    In a media interaction in Bolgatanga, concluding his tour of the Upper East Region, Mahama stressed the importance of a thorough review of the Coastal, Middle Belt, and Northern Development Authorities.

    These agencies were created to spur development across Ghana’s 275 constituencies.

    Mahama raised concerns about their performance and effectiveness in meeting their objectives.

    He vowed to implement more focused and strategic development programs aimed at tackling poverty more efficiently.

    Criticizing the current administration’s management of the $1 billion Pwalugu Dam project, Mahama revealed that $12 million had been disbursed without any corresponding progress, leading to a significant financial setback.

    He assured that, if elected, he would oversee the project’s completion and hold those responsible accountable for the financial mismanagement.

  • Mahama revisits famous ‘Guinea Fowl scandal’

    Mahama revisits famous ‘Guinea Fowl scandal’

    The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has refuted claims that guinea fowls from the Savannah Accelerated Development Authority (SADA) flew to Burkina Faso during his presidency in 2014.

    In 2014, SADA made headlines when it was reported that some guinea fowls under the initiative had supposedly migrated to Burkina Faso. Addressing the issue during a media event in Bolgatanga, as he concluded his tour of the Upper East Region, Mahama dismissed these allegations as false.

    Mahama clarified that the guinea fowl project was misunderstood. Contrary to the belief that the project aimed to keep the birds in one location, the actual plan involved incubating the eggs and distributing the day-old chicks to local farmers for further rearing.

    He criticized the media for spreading misinformation without verifying the details of the project.

    “No guinea fowl flew to Burkina Faso. Guinea fowls are not migratory birds and the project was not for you to come and see thousands of guinea fowls in one place. It was supposed to incubate the eggs and give the guinea fowls’ day-old chicks to farmers.

    “And so somebody came and asked the watchman, ‘where are the guinea fowls? And the watchman said, they go Burkina Faso, they go come back in the rainy season.’ The media went and published it. And after that, there are people who believe that there were some guinea fowls that flew to Burkina Faso. So that project died. But I think it is a project we can look at again.”

    He attributed the confusion to a miscommunication with a security guard, whose comment about the birds supposedly going to Burkina Faso for the rainy season was inaccurately reported.

    The former president also mentioned that the project included plans for a processing plant where mature guinea fowls would be processed and transported to market centers.

    “There was supposed to be a processing plant so that the guinea fowls would be bought off the households and processed. And they would put them in frozen trucks to send them down to the south to the market. Unfortunately, the project ran into issues. The media criticised it, and they came and said the guinea fowls had flown to Burkina Faso.”

  • Okudzeto Lists: Top 10 exposés that saved Ghana GHC20bn

    Okudzeto Lists: Top 10 exposés that saved Ghana GHC20bn

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has provided a list of 10 parliamentary oversight exposés which have cumulatively saved Ghana a colossal US$1.3 billion (GHS20.2 billion).

    From halting dubious transactions to revealing questionable deals, these actions highlight the critical importance of oversight in maintaining transparency and accountability in governance.

    Key achievements include preventing excessive spending on the National Cathedral project, saving approximately $400 million, and blocking the sale of SSNIT hotels, which safeguarded $121 million.

    Moreover, the exposure of President Akufo-Addo’s luxury jet travels is estimated to have saved around $90 million. This list of financial safeguards demonstrates the vital role of parliamentary scrutiny in protecting public resources and fostering good governance.

    National Cathedral: Oversight ensured that despite initial costs exceeding $58 million, no further expenses were incurred, saving roughly $400 million.

    SSNIT Hotels: The prevention of the sale of 60% shares in SSNIT hotels to Bryan Acheampong saved Ghana at least $121 million.

    Akufo-Addo’s Luxury Jet: Stopping the €20,000-per-hour chartered jet trips potentially saved about $90 million.

    Ambulance Spare Parts Scandal: Exposing corruption involving the President’s daughters’ business associates saved $34.9 million.

    Transaction Levy Services: Blocking the questionable allocation of e-Transaction Levy services in the 2022 Budget saved Ghana GHS 241.9 million.

    Oslo Chancery Scandal: Effective oversight saved Ghana $12.2 million.

    West Blue Contract: Uncovering unreasonable demands by Gabby Asare Okyere-Darko resulted in savings of GHS 187.3 million.

    Heaven Builders Scandal: Preventing the transfer of valuable airport lands to a private company saved over $250 million.

    Apex Pollution Judgment Debt: Identifying a potential financial loss saved Ghana $88 million.

    Bulgarian Embassy Demolition: Stopping the loss of prime land valued at $5 million due to unscrupulous political actions.

  • Nkrumah was more than a man; he was the voice of many – Son to Akufo-Addo

    Nkrumah was more than a man; he was the voice of many – Son to Akufo-Addo

    Dr. Sekou Nkrumah, the son of Ghana’s first president, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, has strongly challenged President Akufo-Addo’s assertion that his father was not the founder of Ghana.

    Dr. Sekou Nkrumah argues that President Akufo-Addo overlooks the crucial point that Kwame Nkrumah, despite being a single individual, embodied the hopes and support of countless Ghanaians, reflecting his strong grassroots connections.

    “The point that the president is missing is that Nkrumah is not one man but represents millions,” he added.

    He further highlighted that when Nkrumah parted ways with the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), the majority followed him, resulting in his decisive victories in the 1951 and 1956 elections.

    During an interview on Tuesday, he elaborated that the UGCC had enlisted Nkrumah’s help because of their limited reach nationwide.

    “UGCC was the biggest political movement, but its presence across the country was not big enough. They were just active in six constituencies or so across the country. Nkrumah came, did the legwork, went across the country, mobilised people, energised the whole struggle for independence, and kind of took over leadership after breaking away and forming the Convention People’s Party (CPP). He created a mass movement,” Dr. Sekuo said, as reported by myjoyonline.com.

  • Watch Wontumi’s damning allegations against Prof Naana Opoku-Agyemang

    Watch Wontumi’s damning allegations against Prof Naana Opoku-Agyemang

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Wontumi), has accused Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the running mate of NDC’s flagbearer John Dramani Mahama, of authoring the controversial book Agyapadie.

    Wontumi didn’t mince words, calling Prof. Opoku-Agyemang a “wicked old woman” for writing a book he claims is targeted against the NPP.

    “Naana Opoku-Agyeman wrote the Agyapadie book. Compare her book and what Mahama is saying. This is what they did during Kufuor’s time. How can an old woman be this wicked to write something like this,” he added.

    There has been a hullabaloo evolving around the Agyapadie book in both traditional and social media spaces in Ghana.

    It first garnered attention during the time of one of Ghana’s statesmen, Joseph Kwame Kyeretwie Boakye Danquah (J.B Danquah).

    The document is alleged to outline a comprehensive strategy by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) designed to elevate and sustain the influence of the Akyem people across all sectors of Ghana’s economy.

    A section of the populace have claimed that certain ideas and systems implemented by the Akufo-Addo-led government are in line with the book.

    However, the NPP has on several occasions refuted these assertions, labeling them as diabolic plans by certain individuals who are against the Akyem people.

    Speaking at the Akyem Abuakwa State Council meeting, Okyenhene Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin stated that the Ofori Panin Fie was more prominent before Akufo-Addo’s tenure and has not accomplished anything exceptional in the past 25 years to set themselves above others.

    “We saw this during the period of J.B Danquah and we’re seeing this now. In and around October 2016, about a few months before the election, the same document known as the ‘Akyem Project’ was in circulation. The focus of that was to fan hatred between Okyeman and Asanteman to undermine the electoral efforts of Nana Akufo-Addo. Unfortunately for them, it came too late to the election.”

    “This diabolic plan was revised in 2019. In the year 2020 when the Agyapa business became a political issue, the book suddenly metamorphosed into ‘Agyapadie’”.

  • 12 small credit and debt recovery courts inaugurated by Chief Justice

    12 small credit and debt recovery courts inaugurated by Chief Justice

    Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkonoo, has inaugurated 12 specialized courts aimed at handling small claims and debt recovery cases.

    Of these new courts, eight are located in the Greater Accra Region and four in the Ashanti Region.

    The establishment of these courts follows a notable increase in small claims filed at district courts in Ghana, largely due to the volume of cases from Bills MicroCredit.

    Justice Torkonoo revealed that over 70% of the cases filed by Bills MicroCredit involved claims under GHC 5,000.

    This surge has significantly increased the workload of district courts, which were already facing challenges with the court shift system implemented by the Judicial Service.

    To address this issue, the Judicial Service, with support from Bills MicroCredit, has set up these small claims and debt recovery courts. These courts will operate every weekday afternoon and on Saturdays.

    “For the Greater Accra Region, District Court, Ashaiman, District Court, Teshie, District Court, Kasoa and District Court, La, will operate as the Saturday courts while District Court, Weija, District Court, Sowutuom, District Court ‘2’, Adenta and District Court, Gbese will operate as the weekday afternoon courts,” Chief Justice Torkonoo noted during the opening of the courts.


    At the La District Court’s opening, Chief Justice Torkonoo thanked Bills MicroCredit for their support in establishing the new courts.

    CEO of Bills MicroCredit, Richard Quaye, emphasized the benefits of these courts for their business.

    He noted that his company has filed 30,000 cases nationwide and highlighted the challenges of managing the large volume of defaulters.

    ‘One significant challenge we have faced is the sheer volume of defaulters resulting in our need to resort to the courts for recovery — over 30,000 — filed by our company seeking expedited hearings.

    “The establishment of the new Small Claims Court will greatly alleviate the burden on our judicial system, ensuring that cases are resolved more quickly and efficiently,” Richard Quaye said at the opening of the courts.

  • Stop fighting Special Prosecutor, allow him to work freely – Mahama to govt

    Stop fighting Special Prosecutor, allow him to work freely – Mahama to govt

    The NDC’s presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama, has urged the current government to ensure that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) can operate independently.

    In a media briefing in Bolgatanga, Mahama raised concerns about possible government interference in the OSP’s activities.

    He underscored the importance of the OSP in combating corruption and other criminal acts.

    Mahama vowed that, if elected, he would guarantee the OSP’s autonomy.

    “To be able to deal with corruption, I think that we should take away political interference.  We should leave the anti-corruption institutions to do their work. This government is fighting the OSP. Indeed they’ve made attempts to, they hounded the first one so much – Martin Amidu – that he had to resign.

    The OSP should be permitted to operate without constraints. I promise that, if elected, I will ensure the Special Prosecutor has complete autonomy to carry out any investigations required.

    “What we do is it’s easy when you come into office to investigate your predecessor government. They are your political opponents so investigating them and prosecuting them indeed you will enjoy doing it but the real test of the fight against corruption is when it happens in your regime that you are able to investigate and deal with it,” he stated.

  • Captain Smart alleges “artificial” coup by govt to cover up rot

    Captain Smart alleges “artificial” coup by govt to cover up rot

    The host of Onua TV’s morning show, Maakye, Blessed Godsbrain Smart (Captain Smart), has alleged that the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), is employing tactics to initiate an “artificial coup” in the country.

    According to him, the ruling party will orchestrate a fake military coup in October 2024, to destabilize the country’s political stability.

    “Who said Agyapedie document is fake? I played the video for J.A Kuffuor. He knew about it. The NPP has a grand agenda, what they are planning is an artificial coup d’état. I have said it. They want to use this to destabilize the system so that it will use that as a cover-up for their rots. That won’t happen. Ghanaians will make sure any soldier who will participate in this will not go scot-free,” he added.

    He stated that the revelation is a wake-up call to Ghanaians to prevent the intentions of the ruling party.

    Meanwhile, the former host of “The Seat Show” on Net2 TV and now with CTV, Justice Kwaku Annan, has also made similar accusations against the NPP.

    According to him, this information is not only known to him but also to other journalists, whose identities he chose not to disclose.

    “Any form of fake subversion that some people are trying to orchestrate just to affect the electoral process or prevent the election from happening – I want to draw your attention to it so when it happens, you are aware. I hope and pray that they don’t even venture there.

    “Any fake military coup to topple this government so you use the backdoor to start the whole process, stop it.,” he said.

    Fitch Solutions, a research and data firm, forecasts that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) will win the upcoming December 7 general elections against the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    The London-based firm has been predicting this outcome since last year, citing a recent survey where 54 percent of respondents preferred the NDC’s candidate, John Mahama, for the presidency.

    Mike Kruiniger, Associate Director of Country Risk at Fitch Solutions, discussed this during the Mid-Year Review for Sub-Saharan Africa, noting that current economic conditions will significantly impact voter preferences on December 7.

    He pointed out that economic management and job creation are crucial issues for voters, which could disadvantage the NPP due to recent economic difficulties.

  • Ghana emerges winner of 2024 Pan-African Robotics Competition in Dakar

    Ghana emerges winner of 2024 Pan-African Robotics Competition in Dakar

    The robotics team from Vine Christian High School (VCHS) in Accra has triumphed at the Pan-African Robotics Competition held on July 28, 2024, in Dakar, Senegal.

    Bra Perucci shared the news on LinkedIn, highlighting the Ghanaian team members: Alexine Seiba Amoako, Zachary Opoku, Joshua Sunkwa-Mills, and Joshua-Caleb Dadzie.

    “The Pan African Robotics Competition challenges teams to design, build, and program robots to complete complex tasks and compete in a series of trials. VCHS, who are also the Ghana Robotics Competition 2023 Champions, demonstrated extraordinary skill, creativity, and teamwork, earning the top spot among a field of highly competitive teams.

    “The competition featured about 400 top young minds from across 14 African countries including Mali, Uganda, Lesotho, Madagascar, Nigeria, and Cote d’Ivoire,” he stated.

    He praised the team for their strategic approach and diverse skills, which contributed to their success.

    “The team used their diverse skills and a strategic approach to achieve their success. This prestigious competition, which draws top high school robotics teams from across the continent, witnessed the VCHS team securing first place with their innovative design and exceptional performance,” the post said.

    Organizers reported that the Pan-African Robotics Competition featured remarkable feats, inspiring collaborations, and a spectacular display of talent from 94 teams across 25 African countries, with 33 top teams advancing to the finals.

  • Kwabena Owusu Aduomi rejoins NPP

    Kwabena Owusu Aduomi rejoins NPP

    A former Independent Parliamentary candidate, Kwabena Owusu Aduomi, has decided to rejoin the New Patriotic Party (NPP) after reconciling with the NPP’s Ashanti Regional Council of Elders on Monday, August 5, 2024.

    Mr Aduomi had previously lost the Ejisu by-election to Francis Kwabena Boateng, a private legal practitioner, on Tuesday, April 30. This by-election was held following the passing of the former MP, Mr. John Kumah.

    Mr Aduomi, who served as an NPP Member of Parliament for Ejisu for three terms, ran as an Independent Candidate due to his dissatisfaction with the NPP’s handling of concerns regarding the delegates’ list, which he believed compromised the party’s integrity and fairness.

    Some NPP members accused Aduomi of betrayal, alleging he had defected to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    In a statement issued by the Ashanti Regional Council of Elders on Tuesday, August 6, Mr Aduomi committed to bringing his supporters back to the party.

    “Engineer Owusu Aduomi respectfully responded to overtures made by the Council of Elders and honoured an invitation by the Council aimed at getting him back into the fold. In a meeting characterised by frank and open discussions of issues that have happened in the past.

    “Owusu Aduomi announced to the delight of the members of the Council of Elders that, he had put everything behind him and went on to announce his return to the party unconditionally. He emphasised that his umbilical cord is planted in NPP and that the NPP runs through the veins of his blood. Furthermore. Engineer Owusu Aduomi pledged to talk to his supporters and bring them back to the party.”

    Following the by-election, the National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Stephen Ntim, pledged to reconcile Mr. Kwabena Owusu Aduomi with the party.

  • Land dispute in Zogbei leaves four dead, several injured

    Land dispute in Zogbei leaves four dead, several injured

    Four people lost their lives on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, following an outbreak of violence in Zogbei, Mion district.

    The conflict was stemmed from a protracted land dispute between the Dagombas and Konkombas.

    The escalation led to gunfire, casualties, and fatalities.

    According to reports, the violence resulted in four deaths and the burning of several motorbikes.

    The conflict has severely disrupted transportation, with travelers from Tamale to Yendi and nearby areas unable to pass through Zogbei, which is a key point on the main Yendi-Tamale Road.

    Although security forces have been dispatched to the area, the situation remains unstable. Residents are gripped by fear, and the tension persists.

    Alhassan Abubakari, the District Chief Executive Officer for Mion Constituency, confirmed on Eyewitness News on Citi FM that while calm has been restored, the situation was dire earlier in the day.

    “Calm is currently restored at our place but in the morning, it was very difficult for you to even pass from Tamale to Yendi because of the land dispute between the Konkombas and the Nanumbas.”

  • We need a place to sleep, sea defense wall – Residents of Anlo beach

    We need a place to sleep, sea defense wall – Residents of Anlo beach

    Residents of Anlo Beach Community in the Shama District of the Western Region are urgently calling for government assistance as tidal waves continue to erode their homes and livelihoods into the ocean.

    Over 500 houses have been swept away, leaving many residents displaced and homeless.

    One resident shared his family’s plight with Channel One News, “My family and I are staying with my brother because our home was destroyed. My wife has even relocated to Kumasi due to the situation. We urgently need the government to provide us with shelter and possibly construct a sea defence to protect our community.”

    Samuel Borlu, the Assembly member for Anlo Beach, highlighted the severity of the situation:

    “The tidal waves started affecting our community in 1995-1996, but it intensified in 2017-2018, destroying around 500 houses within a year.

    “The impact is enormous, as our community relies heavily on fishing, and the erosion of our fishing shoreline is now making it difficult for residents to cast their nets and pull them ashore. The livelihoods of our people are under serious threat.”

    The residents are urging the government to take swift action to address their predicament and protect their homes and livelihoods from the relentless tidal waves.

  • You have one week to engage us on Komenda Sugar Factory lease – Farmers to govt

    You have one week to engage us on Komenda Sugar Factory lease – Farmers to govt

    The Komenda Sugar Factory, which has been inactive and deteriorating for six years, has not produced any sugar since its launch.

    Sugar cane out-growers have given the government a one-week deadline to discuss plans for buying their sugar cane for the Komenda factory.

    In a recent emergency press conference, National Chairman Samuel Mensah and other executives expressed their strong objections to the government’s decision to import semi-refined sugar for the factory without prior consultation.

    They are demanding that the Minister for Trade and Industry provide details on how the government plans to purchase local sugar cane and integrate it with the imported sugar.

    This comes after Minister K.T. Hammond revealed that the government intends to lease the Komenda Sugar Factory to West African Agro Limited, an Indian company, for a renewable term of 15 to 20 years.

    The out-growers have warned that if their concerns are not addressed, they will organize their members to campaign against the current administration.

    Nana Andoh VI, the group’s Secretary, criticized the government for not supporting the purchase of existing sugar cane and for failing to promote large-scale sugar cane plantations under the Planting for Food policy.

    He stated that the government’s actions represent a significant failure for the country.

  • NPP is the best choice for Ghana’s future – Kennedy Agyapong

    NPP is the best choice for Ghana’s future – Kennedy Agyapong

    Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong has firmly asserted that Ghana prospers under the NPP’s leadership.

    In a video posted on UTV’s Facebook page, he called on Ghanaians to support the NPP and ensure it remains in power.

    Despite losing the party’s flagbearer race to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Agyapong reaffirmed his commitment to the NPP and its presidential candidate.

    “Ghana is better off when we still have the NPP in power. I am not selfish; if I lose and don’t care about NPP and Dr. Bawumia, then I am not a patriotic citizen.”

    He urged voters to back the NPP’s parliamentary candidates and Bawumia in the upcoming elections.

    “That is why I am here to speak to you and plead with you to vote for our parliamentary candidate, and Bawumia,” Agyapong added.

  • Let your campaign messages preach peace – Peace Council to politicians

    Let your campaign messages preach peace – Peace Council to politicians

    The National Peace Council has pledged to ensure that Ghana remains peaceful before, during, and after the general elections.

    In an interview with Joy News, Chairman Dr. Ernest Adu Gyamfi emphasized the need for political campaigns to focus on preserving national peace.

    “Everyone is campaigning to win the attention of Ghanaians. Let’s campaign with the intention to maintain the peace in the country.

    “It will be a disaster to win elections only to realize that the country is in chaos. How can you govern if the country is in chaos? The most important thing is to campaign and maintain our peace,” he noted.

    He revealed that the council has identified electoral hotspots and will monitor these areas closely to mitigate political tensions.

    “The peace council has a map of all the hotspots of election violence in the country. We know where the hotspots are. We are given attention to these places all these are meant to minimise political tensions in the country,” he explained.

    Dr. Adu Gyamfi also expressed concern about political actors who incite violence through vigilante groups.

    “The challenge is that there is a disconnect between the grass roots and the political actors, some of the political actors hide behind vigilante groups to cause violence.

    “We need to get to the grass roots . The major problem is how to get to the grassroots for them to understand what misinformation and disinformation can lead to,” he noted.

    He stressed the importance of public awareness regarding electoral violence.

    “It is important for the public to understand the concept of electoral violence, it is intended to manipulate the outcome of the electoral process.

    “It runs through the whole electoral process, it is done to manipulate the process, if we allow these things will continue, it will continue it is likely to lead to a more serious thing,” the report indicated.

  • One dead in Bawjiase over chieftaincy clash

    One dead in Bawjiase over chieftaincy clash

    A violent incident in Awutu Bawjiase, within the Awutu Senya West District of the Central Region, has led to one death.

    The confrontation took place around 10:45 PM when armed individuals, suspected to be land guards, attacked the chief’s palace.

    The assault occurred just before the outdooring ceremony of the new chief, Nai Nana Kwaku Osardu (III), scheduled for the following day.

    According to police reports, family members were at the palace making preparations for the event when the attackers arrived. In the ensuing violence, a man in his 30s was shot and killed.

    This attack is particularly shocking given that the Awutu Bawjiase community, which has been embroiled in a chieftaincy dispute for 25 years, had recently received a resolution from the National House of Chiefs.

    The community had hoped this resolution would bring peace, making the recent violence all the more unsettling.

    The Bawjiase District Police Command is currently working to restore peace and stability in the area. The deceased’s body has been taken to the Police Hospital for further examination.

  • Let’s minimize criticism, pressure on EC and State institutions – Presby Clerk

    Let’s minimize criticism, pressure on EC and State institutions – Presby Clerk

    Clerk of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG), Rev. Dr. Godwin Nii Noi Odonkor, has called on both politicians and the general public to avoid placing undue pressure on the Electoral Commission and other state bodies as Ghana approaches its December 7, 2024, elections.

    Rev. Dr. Odonkor cautioned that excessive and unconstructive criticism could destabilize Ghana’s democracy and lead to heightened political tension, fear, and anxiety.

    He also highlighted that such criticisms could negatively affect the individuals working within these institutions.

    In an interview with Graphic Online’s Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson, Rev. Dr. Odonkor expressed concern over the undue strain being placed on these institutions and their staff.

    “I think we are putting unnecessary burden and pressure on some of the institutions. Not just the institutions, but the persons who run those institutions. We should allow them to do their work.”

    He criticized the ongoing unjust accusations against the Electoral Commission and other state institutions, arguing that these actions hinder the country’s democratic progress. Despite Ghana’s history of democratic success, he emphasized the importance of reducing pressure on these institutions.

    Rev. Dr. Odonkor also commended the Electoral Commission’s decision to maintain the results in Accra and encouraged Ghanaians to be vigilant during the upcoming elections.

    “I like it when the EC said that it can never change the results in Accra and that everybody should be so vigilant at the polling stations. We should drive this seriously into all the political parties and the public”.

  • Ferry Crew at Oti River resumes operations

    Ferry Crew at Oti River resumes operations

    Work has resumed on the Oti River ferry following its repair, despite the unfortunate death of a staff member involved in the process.

    The team is calling on authorities to implement regular maintenance to avoid future issues.

    Kofi Twee, who was working on the ferry’s malfunction on Friday, August 2, tragically died after becoming trapped by the ferry’s propeller while attempting repairs underneath.

    Although the ferry is now operational for passenger and cargo transport, local residents are concerned about potential delays and are urging for a permanent solution.

    Charles Awuranyi, Assembly member for the Dambai Central Electoral Area, told Citi News, “The ferry was fixed on Monday, August 5, so work is smoothly ongoing, we’re at post.

    “The maintenance is temporary, it will develop faults in no time. Authorities should ensure proper maintenance of the ferry to avoid future occurrences.”

  • Govt overpriced purchase of 307 ambulances by $29M – Minority claims

    Govt overpriced purchase of 307 ambulances by $29M – Minority claims

    The Minority in Parliament has accused the government of inflating the cost of 307 ambulances purchased in 2019, claiming that the total expenditure should not have exceeded $25 million, based on a unit price of $80,000.

    Chairman of the Government Assurances Committee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has demanded a thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible for the alleged overpricing.

    He cited findings from the Auditor General’s 2022 performance audit, which flagged the procurement as problematic.

    “The procurement of the 307 ambulances cost this country $54.3 million. The Auditor General has revealed if you go through the 2022 performance audit that that procurement itself is problematic. When you do the analysis, it was an inflated procurement because page 24 of the audit reveals that the unit price of the ambulance is $80,000 and yet we paid $54.3 million.

    “$80,000 multiplied by 307, we should not have paid more than $25 million for this ambulance. And yet Ghana was made to pay a colossal, whopping $54.3 million as discovered on page two of the Auditor General’s report.”

    Ablakwa also alleged that between 2020 and 2023, Service Ghana Auto Group Limited received 115 million Ghana Cedis for ambulance maintenance under dubious circumstances.

    He pointed out that Stephen Okoro, a key director at the company and an in-law of President Akufo-Addo, is also linked to the President’s daughters through a long-standing business relationship.

    “Then you need to also consider the fact that between 2020 and 2023, this company, Service Ghana Auto Group Limited, has been paid 115 million Ghana cedis in addition to the $54.3 million then the latest scandal, the intercepted letters of the Hon.

    “Ken Ofori Atta on the 9th February 2024, a few days before he left office on the 14 February, he instructed that this $34.9 million should be approved and that his ministry would take care of $10 million and the National Health Insurance Authority should take care of the outstanding $24.9 million.

    “A key director of Service, Ghana Auto Group Limited, is named, Stephen Okoro.  We have discovered through our parliamentary oversight, diligent parliamentary oversight, that Stephen Okoro is not just any Ghanaian or Nigerian for that matter. He is an in-law to President Akufo-Addo. Stephen Okoro has given President Akufo-Addo a grandchild.”

    “This is a fact. And now in the corruption literature, politically exposed persons come under greater scrutiny. That is why when we were formulating the Office of Special Prosecutor Act, we included politically exposed persons.

    “The other thing that makes Stephen Okoro so politically exposed is that we have discovered that he is a longstanding business partner of the Akufo-Addo daughters.”

  • Trainees at School of Hygiene to protest over unpaid arrears

    Trainees at School of Hygiene to protest over unpaid arrears

    The Coalition of Students from the Schools of Hygiene is calling for the immediate payment of their unpaid trainee allowances, which have been outstanding since January 2023.

    This also includes a full year’s allowance for the 2021 Ho School of Hygiene certificate cohort.

    The students, worried about the possibility of prolonged unemployment, have been informed by the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources that the delays stem from a lack of financial clearance from the Ministry of Finance.

    According to Emmanuel Awuku, the Coalition’s General Secretary, the students are facing significant challenges and are pressing for immediate postings for those still awaiting deployment.

    The Coalition has warned that if their demands are not met, they will proceed with a major demonstration.

    “Tempers are rising among School of Hygiene trainees across the country and the urge to resort to a massive demonstration at the presidency and the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources is getting to its peak by the day.

    “School of Hygiene trainees are also health trainees and remain constitutionally eligible to receive our trainee allowances but it seems stakeholders are using technicalities to push our people off the scheme of trainee allowance and we haven’t received an allowance for two years now and some have even completed without receiving a Cedi as trainee allowances.”

  • I have saved Ghana $1.3bn through my exposés against corruption – Ablakwa

    I have saved Ghana $1.3bn through my exposés against corruption – Ablakwa

    The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that his recent investigations have saved Ghana US$1.3 billion (GH¢20.2 billion).

    In a post on X dated August 6, 2024, Ablakwa highlighted 10 issues he uncovered that had previously been overlooked by Parliament.

    Ablakwa noted that the National Cathedral project alone saved US$400 million, while the SSNIT hotels saga saved an additional US$121 million.

    Other notable exposures include questionable deals involving ambulance spare parts, transaction levies, and the West Blue contract.

    “A breakdown of my Top 10 Parliamentary Oversight Exposés which have cumulatively saved Ghana a colossal US$ 1.3 billion (GH¢20.2billion).

    “We shall keep fighting to defeat State Capture and blatant corruption,” his post read.

    Background

    In recent times, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has focused on uncovering dubious deals and projects under the current government.

    One of his significant exposes involved the ambulance spare parts deal, where he raised alarms about potential corruption and requested an investigation by the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

    Ablakwa claimed the deal was rushed through by the finance minister just five days before his removal, with $10 million already disbursed to the company.

    The Ministry of Health later clarified that the contract was originally signed by the now-defunct Ministry of Special Development Initiatives with Service Auto Group Ghana Limited, covering after-sales service and maintenance for 307 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 315 CDI ambulances procured by the government in 2019.

  • List of professional bodies meeting standards

    List of professional bodies meeting standards

    The Office of the Registrar-General of Companies has reported that, as of July 31, 2024, 40 professional bodies are in compliance with their tax filings.

    However, 43 professional bodies are not in good standing, 11 have been newly registered, and 73 have not provided contact numbers, making it difficult for the ORC to update their records.

    Additionally, four professional bodies have requested removal from the register after achieving Chartered status through an Act of Parliament.

    The ORC has urged all professional bodies in default to rectify their status by December 30, 2024. This requires submitting their filings along with a copy of their audited accounts, an updated membership list, and any amendments to their constitution.

    Professional bodies that include “CHARTERED” in their names must also provide copies of their Charter granted by Parliament when submitting their annual returns and updating member certificates.

    Those without a Charter should either obtain one promptly or change their names accordingly.

    The ORC has provided a list of the companies involved:

    PROFESSIONAL BODIES THAT ARE IN GOOD STANDING AS AT 31/07/2024

    1. GHANA INSTITUTE OF PLANNERS

    2. GHANA ASSOCIATION OF MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENTISTS

    3. PHARMACEUTICAL SOCIETY OF GHANA

    4. GHANA INSTITUTE OF SURVEYORS

    5. GHANA INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERING

    6. GHANA VERTINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION

    7. THE GHANA INSTITUTE OF PROCUREMENT AND SUPPLY

    8. CHARTERED INSURANCE INSTITUTE OF GHANA

    9. THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF LOGISTICS AND TRANSPORT

    10. GHANA GEOSPATIAL SOCIETY

    11. INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, GHANA

    12. INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS (GHANA)

    13. CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF ADMINISTRATORS AND MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS- GHANA

    14. GHANA INSTITUTE OF FREIGHT FORWARDERS

    15. PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENTISTS, TECHNOLOGISTS AND TECHNICIAN ASSOCIATION OF GHANA

    16. CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF FINANCIAL AND INVESTMENT ANALYSTS GHANA

    17. GHANA INSTITUTE OF MARINE SURVEYORS

    18. THE INSTITUTE OF CHARTERED ECONOMISTS OF GHANA

    19. CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT

    20. INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED BUSINESS ANALYSTS & CONSULTANTS

    21. GHANA NUCLEAR SOCIETY

    22. INSTITUTE OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONALS

    23. CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF PROCUREMENT & SUPPLY – UK- GHANA BRANCH

    24. GHANA ASSOCIATION OF RESTRUCTURING AND INSOLVENCY ADVISORS

    25. INSTITUTE OF DIRECTORS, GHANA

    26. GHANA ACADEMY OF NUTRITION AND DIETETICS

    27. INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED FORENSIC ACCOUNTANTS

    28. RESEARCH SCIENTIST ASSOCIATION-GHANA ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSION

    29. PROJECT MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE, GHANA

    30. GHANA INSTITUTE OF GEOSCIENTISTS

    31. OFFICIAL REPORTERS AND EDITORS’ SOCIETY OF GHANA

    32. GHANA NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF ADR PRACTITIONERS

    33. GHANA SOCIETY OF RADIOGRAPHERS AND RADIOLOGICAL TECHNICIANS

    34. CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF TAX LAW AND FORENSIC ACCOUNTANTS, GHANA

    35. GHANA GEOSPATIAL SOCIETY

    36. ADVERTISING ASSOCIATION OF GHANA

    37. GHANA INSTITUTE OF SAFETY & ENVIRONMENTAL PROFESSIONALS

    38. CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF CREDIT MANAGEMENT (GHANA)

    39. GHANA INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS

    40. GHANA LIBRARY ASSOCIATION

    PROFESSIONAL BODIES THAT ARE NOT IN GOOD STANDING AS AT 31/07/2024

    1. GEOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF GHANA

    2. GHANA REGISTERED NURSES AND MIDWIVES’ ASSOCIATION

    3. THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF BANKERS (GHANA)

    4. INSTITUTE OF HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PRACTITIONERS

    5. MINING METALLURGICAL AND PETROLEUM SOCIETY

    6. GHANA ASSOCIATION OF SOCIAL WORKERS

    7. GHANA CHEMICAL SOCIETY

    8. COMPUTING ASSOCIATION OF GHANA

    9. ASSOCIATION OF HEALTH SERVICE ADMINISTRATORS (GHANA)

    10. GHANA REGISTERED MIDWIVES ASSOCIATION

    11. ASSOCIATION OF RATING VALUERS (GHANA)

    12. GHANA SOCIETY OF ANIMAL PRODUCTION

    13. GHANA HOME ECONOMICS ASSOCIATION

    14. GHANA INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY

    15. GHANA ASSOCIATION OF TRANSLATORS & INTERPRETERS

    16. GHANA INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT

    17. ASSOCIATION OF BUILDING TECHNICIANS

    18. GHANA INSTITUTE OF PROFESSIONAL FORESTERS

    19. THE GHANA INSTITUTE OF TAXATION

    20. GHANA INSTITUTE OF CONSTRUCTION

    21. GHANA ASSOCIATION OF THE INSTITUTE OF CHARTERED AND SECRETARIES & ADMINISTRATORS

    22. GHANA INSTITUTE OF HORTICULTURISTS

    23. GHANA INSTITUTE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

    24. DISPENSING TECHNOLOGISTS’ SOCIETY OF GHANA

    25. INSTITUTE OF INTERNAL AUDITORS (GHANA)

    26. GHANA OPTOMETRIC ASSOCIATION

    27. GHANA ACADEMY OF CHRISTIAN COUNSELLORS

    28. INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CONSULTANTS, VALUERS & ANALYSTS

    29. GHANA QUALITY INSTITUTE

    30. CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED TAX ACCOUNTANTS

    31. ASSOCIATION OF QUALITY ASSURANCE

    32. AVIATION SAFETY INSPECTORS ASSOCIATION OF GHANA

    33. GHANA ASSOCIATION OF CERTIFIED CONSULTANTS

    34. INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS GHANA

    35. INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED FORENSIC INVESTIGATION

    36. PROFESSIONAL AGILE CERTIFICATION AFRICA

    37. GHANA ACADEMY OF FORENSIC SCIENCES

    38. GHANA COLLEGE OF SCIENTISTS

    39. GLOBAL ACADEMY OF FINANCE AND MANAGEMENT

    40. CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED TAX ACCOUNTANTS AND AUDITORS

    41. CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF AGRICULTURE GHANA (CIA-GH)

    42. CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF LOCAL GOVERNANCE & DEVELOPMENT

    43. GHANA BAR ASSOCIATION

    NEWLY REGISTERED BODIES THAT ARE NOT DUE FOR RENEWAL

    1. CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS

    2. AFRICAN MOBILITY SCHOLARS ASSOCIATION

    3. INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

    4. INSTITUTE OF FINANCIAL ACCOUNTANTS

    5. CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF COMPUTERISED ACCOUNTING PROFESSIONALS

    6. INSTITUTE OF STATISTICIANS AND DATA SCIENTISTS

    7. INSTITUTE OF ICT PROFESSIONALS GHANA

    8. GHANA METEOROLOGICAL SOCIETY

    9. SPEECH THERAPISTS’ AND AUDIOLOGISTS’ ASSOCIATION OF GHANA

    10. GHANA INSTITUTION OF REAL ESTATE BROKERS

    11. GHANA ASSOCIATION OF PRIVACY PROFESSIONALS

    PROFESSIONAL BODIES THAT HAVE REQUESTED TO BE TAKEN OUT OF THE LIST

    1. THE INSTITUTE OF CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS (GHANA)

    2. CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF MARKETING GHANA

    3. GHANA MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (YET TO SUBMIT A LETTER FOR DISSOLUTION)

    4. GHANA INSTITUTE FOR PURE AND APPLIED CHEMISTRY