Nigerian Police Officer, Cosmos Ugwu met a tragic fate as a 23-year-old woman reportedly entered an Imo State police station and, according to reports, shot him fatally.
On Tuesday, December 26, Ugwu was allegedly shot by his supposed girlfriend, identified as Amanda Uchechi Ugo, a native of Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area in Imo State.
The incident occurred around 6:30 pm on Boxing Day at the Ezinihitte Area Command, causing officers on duty to seek cover upon hearing three gunshots from Ugwu’s room.
According to sources, officers later discovered Corporal Ugwu lying in a pool of blood with three gunshot wounds to his chest and left hand. He was swiftly taken to Evergreen Hospital in Ezinihitte, where he was pronounced dead by the attending doctor.
“When police officers ran into the room later to see what was going on, they found Corporal Ugwu lying in a pool of his blood. The girl shot him three times in his chest and his left hand. He was rushed immediately to Evergreen Hospital in Ezinihitte, where he was pronounced dead by the doctor on duty.”
The reports suggest a serious altercation between the deceased and his girlfriend in their police station room.
During the confrontation, the girl reportedly seized Ugwu’s rifle, pulled the trigger, and shot him three times.
“It was like a movie,” the source added.
“Nobody knows what went wrong between the two, but how the girl was able to use a police rifle successfully is still a surprise to many. Maybe, Ugwu was the one who taught her.”
Described as a scene from a movie, the source expressed surprise at how the girl successfully used a police rifle, speculating that Ugwu might have taught her.
The deceased officer’s remains were taken to the Obizi mortuary, and an ongoing investigation is in progress.
The suspect is currently in police custody, undergoing interrogation, and may face prosecution, according to gathered information.
Police Public Relations Officer in Imo State, Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident, assuring that investigations are underway to determine the facts and potentially bring the suspect to court.
“Yes, the incident happened. We are doing everything to ensure we investigate the matter, to ascertain the fact and possibly arraign the suspect in court,” Okoye said.
A 27-year-old man, Kwaku Agyei, has been apprehended for reportedly fatally stabbing his friend’s father at New Sekyire, near Kronom-Cement in the Ashanti Region.
The victim, a 47-year-old man identified as Efo, was allegedly stabbed with a knife by the suspect, leading to his death.
According to an eyewitness, the incident occurred on Sunday, December 24, 2023, following a previous altercation that had been separated.
The suspect allegedly attacked the deceased after an initial fight was diffused, resulting in the tragic event.
Hon Joyce Osei Assibey, Assembly Member for New Sekyire Electoral Area, provided details about the incident, stating that the suspect had confronted his friend at the deceased’s house.
Despite efforts to mediate and end the dispute, the suspect reportedly stabbed the victim with a concealed knife during his departure.
The family discovered the attack only when one of the victim’s daughters observed him in a pool of blood outside the house.
The injured man was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead.
The police have arrested the suspect, Kwaku Agyei, who is currently cooperating with ongoing investigations.
On the onset of December, during the renewed hostilities in Gaza, the family of five-month-old Palestinian infant Muhammad Hani al-Zahar experienced a tragic loss.
In the wake of this heartbreaking event, images circulated online showing Muhammad’s mother and grandfather cradling his lifeless body outside a hospital.
These poignant scenes, however, were met with skepticism on social media, where numerous users incorrectly asserted that Muhammad was not a real child but a doll.
This misinformation gained further traction when the Jerusalem Post, a prominent Israeli newspaper, published an article featuring an image of Muhammad in a post-mortem state, erroneously claiming it as evidence of him being a doll.
Following significant criticism, the Jerusalem Post retracted the article and acknowledged the mistake on X (formerly Twitter), citing unreliable sources for the report.
In a separate incident, a video of Israeli siblings Rotem Mathias, 16, and his sisters, Shakked and Shir, became widely shared.
The video emerged after the tragic death of their parents, who were killed by Hamas gunmen on October 7th while seeking shelter in their home near the Gaza border.
The footage, which included edited excerpts from the siblings’ interviews with American media outlets ABC and CNN, was misleadingly used to promote the false narrative that they were “crisis actors” pretending to grieve and struggling to suppress laughter during the interviews.
In the digital landscape of the Israel-Gaza conflict, the proliferation of social media has become a battleground for divergent perspectives, with denial of atrocities and human suffering taking center stage in the online discourse.
One prominent term contributing to this phenomenon is “Pallywood,” a portmanteau of “Palestine” and “Hollywood.” Proponents of this term allege that staged or fake footage, featuring Palestinian “crisis actors” posing as genuine civilian casualties, is regularly disseminated online to shape public opinion and mislead global media. According to a BBC Verify analysis, the term “Pallywood” has experienced a significant surge in mentions on X over the past decade.
During previous escalations of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in 2014, 2018, and 2021, “Pallywood” consistently peaked at either 9,500 or 13,000 mentions in a single month on X. However, after the Hamas attack on October 7, the term reached a peak of 220,000 mentions in November.
The analysis also revealed that among those sharing the term “Pallywood” on social media platforms, including X, Facebook, and Instagram, were Israeli officials, celebrities, and popular bloggers from Israel and the United States.
Conversely, supporters of the Palestinian cause lack a singular term to deny atrocities committed by Hamas on October 7 in Israel. However, posts making such claims routinely garner millions of views on social media, falsely asserting that Hamas did not kill civilians on that day or exaggerating the scale of civilian casualties. Some go as far as making unfounded claims that most victims were actually killed by the Israel Defense Forces, not Hamas.
Experts specializing in reconciliation efforts express concern that the viral dissemination of disinformation, which denies the suffering of the other side, can be dehumanizing. They fear that this may have lasting impacts on the prospects of rebuilding relations between the affected communities in the long term.
“The biggest risks, I think, are the erosion of trust and the erosion of empathy,” said Harriet Vickers, programme lead at the Tim Parry and Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace, a charity that supports victims of conflict, political violence and acts of terror.
“It undermines the ability to even begin approaching reconciliation efforts.”
She added that false narratives and dehumanising rhetoric can also “have a profound effect beyond those that are directly impacted by violence, and can actually further the hurt that is being done to those individuals”.
False narratives about “crisis actors” or atrocity denial are not new to those who study disinformation.
The concept of “crisis actors” in particular – that is people who pretend or are paid to act out some particular tragedy or disaster – has been popular among promoters of conspiracy theories for years.
But the volume of dehumanising rhetoric posted during this war has surprised even those who deal with such content on a daily basis.
Eliot Higgins, the founder of the investigative website Bellingcat that has covered the wars in Syria and Ukraine in recent years, says the volume of disinformation in the current Israeli-Gaza war is “unique to this conflict”.
“I’ve seen the kind of same intensity of toxicity and vile responses and disinformation, the way they treat women and children and that kind of stuff, with Syria, with Ukraine and so many different topics – just there are more people doing it,” he told the BBC.
Image caption,Images of a child actor in behind-the-scenes footage of a Lebanese video were used to discredit claims of Palestinian suffering
Mr Higgins added that because many people have had very strong opinions about either side of the conflict for years, “there are more people who are sharing stuff because it is resonating with them emotionally”.
“They don’t really care if it’s true or not, it just feels true to them.”
Back in November, a video showing makeup and fake blood being applied to a child actor’s face was posted on X by Ofir Gendelman, the Israeli prime minister’s spokesperson to the Arab world.
“See for yourselves how they fake injuries and evacuating ‘injured’ civilians, all in front of the cameras. Pallywood gets busted again,” Mr Gendelman said in a post that was viewed millions of times before being deleted.
The video was, in fact, behind-the-scenes footage from a 45-second Lebanese film made in tribute to Gazans and posted online in October.
Director Mahmoud Ramzi, who took to Instagram to personally debunk the false claim made about his film, told the BBC that in the end, the misinformation might have backfired, with the controversy helping his film reach a much bigger audience.
The BBC approached Mr Gendelman for comment but he has not responded.
Image caption,Israeli spokesman Ofir Gendelman initially shared footage of a Lebanese film claiming it showed Palestinian injuries were faked
Others have expressed concern for the real people who find themselves in the middle of online disinformation wars. James Longman, the ABC correspondent who interviewed Rotem and his sisters, says watching Rotem recount the death of his parents brought him and his cameraman to tears.
“He was in tears, his sister was in tears, their grandfather, who was with us. Our cameraman, the hospital porters, the nurses, the doctors, and I was in tears. I mean all of us sitting there listening to what he had to say,” he told the BBC.
“It was extraordinary to hear him say it, to watch his reactions as he explained what had happened.”
Mr Longman said he was shocked when he saw false claims about the siblings being shared online and took to X to debunk it. His post was shared widely, and led to at least one of the viral messages about the siblings being subsequently deleted by the person who posted it.
“But it doesn’t make it any less horrible for Rotem’s family,” Mr Longman said
In response to the tragic demise of a 22-year-old man in Yorogo, a suburb of Bolga Central in the Upper East Region, the Ghana Police Service has taken one person into custody.
Preliminary reports indicate that the suspect, identified as Abotiyareba Aduko, allegedly stabbed the victim, Asobire Akuta, during a confrontation on the evening of December 19, 2023, around 6:30 pm.
Following the incident, immediate action was taken, and the injured Asobire Akuta was swiftly transported to the hospital for urgent medical attention. Regrettably, despite the tireless efforts of medical authorities, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The suspect, Abotiyareba Aduko, is currently in Police custody, actively cooperating with law enforcement as they diligently investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal altercation.
The Police are committed to conducting a thorough and comprehensive inquiry to bring clarity to this tragic incident and ensure that justice is served.
Community members and the public are urged to remain vigilant and provide any relevant information that may aid the ongoing investigation.
The Ghana Police Service is determined to uphold the rule of law and safeguard the well-being of citizens, ensuring that such incidents are thoroughly addressed and the perpetrators held accountable for their actions.
In a harrowing incident in Thailand, a dispute over a parking space took a fatal turn, leading to the brutal murder of a couple by their frustrated neighbor.
The victims, Michael Nixon and his partner Anurak, had just wrapped up a gathering with friends at their home when the horrifying events unfolded on Thursday, December 14.
The alleged assailant, Kachornsak Panyadee, reportedly became increasingly agitated with the couple’s guests obstructing the entrance to his house. Seizing an opportunity, Panyadee patiently waited until the visitors departed before entering the victims’ residence armed with a knife.
According to a Mail Online report, the assailant first attacked Anurak as she answered the door and then directed his violence towards Michael, who rushed to assist his terrified partner. Local Police Lieutenant Colonel Chaiwanich Khamlamool reported receiving a distressing call about the stabbing and promptly responded to the scene, where Panyadee surrendered.
Details from the police investigation revealed that Michael suffered two stab wounds to the chest and another to his torso, while Anurak was stabbed in the abdomen.
Anurak’s 18-year-old daughter, Parichat Longsokchueak, shared that her mother had frequently quarreled with the neighbor, particularly over parking issues.
“I don’t live with my parents, but I know my mom often argued with the neighbor regarding the parking. The perpetrator may have been dissatisfied with my family for blocking the parking space. My mother also tends to speak loudly, so that may also be a reason for his actions,” Parichat revealed.
Police Panyadee and the couple had regular arguments about the parking area, according to preliminary investigations conducted by Colonel Preecha Kengsarikij, deputy commander of the Khon Kaen Provincial Police.
In relation to this tragic incident, Panyadee is scheduled to face murder charges after she admitted to stabbing the husband and wife.
Celebrated investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas has publicly articulated his unwavering commitment to fearlessly pursue truth.
Speaking at the Disrupt Lab event in Germany, Anas declared that he is not afraid to die.
“Fear, I was purged of fear long ago and I am a Muslim. I believe that if you die, you are dead and gone and that it is Allah’s will that you should die,” he noted.
He also stated that one thing he fears is to die without making any impact.
“And if there is anything I hate, it is that I don’t want to die a coward. I want to die fighting for the right things in society,” he stressed.
The style of journalism practiced by Anas has frequently resulted in threats on his life and on individuals close to him.
His investigative team, Tiger Eye PI, has not yet received conclusive answers regarding the death of one of its crucial members, Ahmed Hussein Suale, who was fatally shot in 2019.
The demise occurred several months following the release of the ‘Number 13’ documentary, which uncovered corruption in football politics at the local, national, and continental levels.
Anas has traditionally focused his work on anti-corruption, as well as human rights and social justice issues.
He recently suggested that he would unveil a startling documentary in January 2024, but has maintained silence regarding the specific subject matter of the film.
His most recent release was the second installment of a documentary on illegal small-scale mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.
A 32-year-old man has been detained by police in Agago District on suspicion of fatally stabbing a 53-year-old peasant after they got into a fight over a Shs1,000 debt.
Aldo Okello Akech, a resident of Ocoyo Lamero village, Kaket parish, Lapono Sub County, was taken into custody after Tarasisto Okwera was attacked on October 23 and left critically injured.
Okware lived in the village of Nyer Ikan South.
“The suspect repaired the Padlock of the victim for Shs2000, which he demanded from the victim. The victim gave him Shs1,000 and asked him to return for the balance of Shs1,000 later but the suspect turned violent while demanding for the full amount.”
“He then grabbed a knife from the victim, chased and stabbed him at the left side of the rib,” police spokesperson, Fred Enanga said Wednesday. According to police, several members of the community responded, arrested the suspect and took him to the LC1 Chairperson following the 2pm attack.
“They also tried to rush the victim to hospital but he unfortunately died on the way to Kalongo hospital and the body returned home. An angry mob attacked the suspect but he was rescued by the police from Lapono police post. The exhibit of a knife was recovered.”
“We strongly condemn such acts of elderly abuse and impunity within the community where perpetrators of violence, transfer their anger on innocent elderly persons. We are going to fast track this violent murder through the courts of law and ensure the suspect is punished,” Mr Enanga added.
A deadly clash in the Ashanti Region involving groups from the Pankrono and Adabraka communities resulted in the tragic killing of a 27-year-old man in Tafo-Pankrono.
The victim, Owusu Banahene, passed away on October 18, shortly after he was discovered near a public toilet in the area and rushed to the hospital.
Although the police are presently investigating the exact cause of his death, the deceased’s family suspects it may be related to an ongoing conflict between rival youth from Adabraka and Pankrono.
Owusu Banahene’s untimely demise, particularly since he had plans to return abroad on Friday, has stirred strong emotions within the Pankrono community.
His family is demanding the apprehension and prosecution of all individuals involved in the incident that led to his tragic death.
Insiders from these communities have cited increasing drug abuse among the youth as a contributing factor to the recurring conflicts.
They express frustration with the continuous clashes and the apparent absence of resolution, noting that these issues have persisted for generations.
The residents being furious and disheartened by the incident,stated “we will not let it slide unless one of them dies too. The deceased was set to travel to Canada today, and all the necessary preparations were in place. The next day, he was fatally stabbed over a neighborhood dispute.”
Despite their attempts to engage the police, they believe that those accountable for the disruptions frequently manage to evade appropriate repercussions.
For the time being, the police have taken charge of the Pankrono and Adabraka communities to prevent potential retaliatory actions.
Online users on Twitter have responded to a young woman who is celebrating her mother’s death at 130 years old.
When her mother passed away at the age of 130, the X user @talllizzy_girl shared her happiness on her profile.
The woman published pictures of her mother’s funeral arrangements because she was so happy.
According to the celebration of life photos, the mother, also known as Mama Paulina Oma Ekum, passed away after 130 years of life and will be buried in Cross Crivate State.
The woman bids her mother farewell and tells everyone that although they have been praying for her to pass away, God is greater than her since their family’s will has now been fulfilled.
The lady commented on social media, “Rip mama, you no gree commot this world but God pass you.”
A tribal king in Uganda has received a warm and celebratory welcome upon returning home, marking his return seven years after a police raid on his palace resulted in the deaths of numerous individuals.
The streets of Kasese were filled with joyful crowds as Charles Wesley Mumbere, the King of Rwenzururu, arrived.
In 2016, he faced accusations of leading a militia from his palace with the intention of establishing an independent state.
The Ugandan government reported that just over 100 individuals were killed during the police operation, but human rights organizations claim that the actual number of casualties was much higher.
King Mumbere and many others were charged with various offenses, including treason, murder, and terrorism. However, the case was dropped by prosecutors after they applied for amnesty.
The Rwenzururu kingdom, comprised of ethnic Bakonzo people, has a history of separatist aspirations and long-standing tensions with the Ugandan government.
Tragedy struck as an electric bus crashed off a flyover near Venice, claiming the lives of at least 21 individuals, including several children, according to officials.
The bus, which broke through a barrier, plummeted nearly 15 meters (50 feet) close to railway tracks in Mestre, a district linked to Venice by a bridge.
Among the deceased were five Ukrainians, one German, and the Italian bus driver, as confirmed by city prefect Michele Di Bari.
Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said a “huge tragedy” had taken place.
“An apocalyptic scene, there are no words,” he said on social media.
On Tuesday night, CCTV footage from the flyover showed the vehicle travelling past another bus before collapsing off the carriageway.
One rescuer spoke of a “tragedy of young people, if not very young people, except for a few adults”.
Three children, including an infant, were among the casualties, according to reports from emergency services and the interior Minister, Matteo Piantedosi expressed concern that the death toll could potentially increase.
Fifteen individuals have suffered injuries, with five of them in critical condition, according to reports.
Authorities in Venice indicated that the injured parties included tourists from various countries, including Ukrainians, Austrians, Spaniards, and others.
Among the wounded, there were two 16-year-olds and two younger children, as stated by the local governor. In addition, two German siblings, aged seven and 13, were undergoing treatment for broken bones at a hospital in nearby Treviso.
Tragically, their parents lost their lives in the accident, and the boys were receiving counseling.
The ill-fated bus, carrying a total of 39 passengers, was involved in the crash at approximately 19:45 (17:45 GMT) on Tuesday.
It had been rented by a local company, seemingly to transport tourists from Venice’s historic center to a campsite located in the nearby Marghera district.
The bus company underscored that the 13-ton vehicle operated solely on electricity, refuting prior claims that it was powered by methane gas as well.
Mauro Longo, the fire brigade commander, informed Il Gazzettino’s website that the bus’s batteries ignited, complicating the process of clearing the bus.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing people’s screams, but the flames were too intense for them to offer assistance.
A mine shaft collapse in Zimbabwe has resulted in six fatalities and the entrapment of 15 others, according to state media reports.
The incident occurred at the Bay Horse gold mine in Chegutu, located 100km (62 miles) west of the capital Harare on Friday morning, leaving over 30 individuals trapped.
Thirteen miners have reportedly escaped or been rescued, while efforts to reach those still underground are ongoing, as reported by the television channel ZBC.
The cause of the collapse remains unknown. The Zimbabwe Miners Federation has announced that its secretary general and the chairman of the Chegutu Miners Association will visit the site to investigate the incident.
Zimbabwe, rich in gold, platinum, and diamond reserves, frequently experiences mining accidents due to rudimentary mining methods and lax safety standards.
In 2019, heavy rain led to the drowning of numerous miners in the Silver Moon and Cricket mines near the town of Kadoma in the country’s center.
A video circulating on social media depicts an unconscious man aboard a public transport vehicle commonly referred to as a “trotro.”
The specific destination of the bus is not clear from the video.
But according to reports, the man tragically passed away while seated in the moving vehicle.
The bus conductor (mate), initially tried to wake the man up, thinking he might be asleep, but received no response.
It was at that point that both the bus conductor and the passengers came to the unsettling realization that they were traveling alongside a deceased individual.
The cause of death is unknown but some social media users are asserting that the man gave up due to the current hardship in the economy while others are just speechless over the shock of event.
In a tragic incident on Wellesley Road in Croydon, a sizable town in South London, a 15-year-old girl lost her life in a daylight stabbing.
The victim, Elianne Andam, whose parents are of Ghanaian descent, has garnered significant international media attention following the incident.
According to reports, the tragic event occurred on the morning of Wednesday, September 27, 2023, as Elianne was en route to school with a friend. They had just disembarked from a bus when her friend was approached by a former romantic partner bearing flowers.
Elianne, a student at the Old Palace of John Whitgift School, valiantly shielded her friend from the assailant, a young man known to both of them, and was fatally stabbed in the neck with a knife measuring approximately one foot in length.
A Metropolitan Police stetment said of the incident: “Elianne Andam was on her way to school when she was attacked in Wellesley Road at approximately 08:30hrs on Wednesday, 27 September.
“Officers were at the scene within two minutes of the call being received. They worked with emergency service colleagues to provide first aid. Despite their efforts, the 15-year-old sadly died at the scene.”
On her Ghanaian parentge, the UK Guardian wrote: Elianne’s father is a writer of Christian teachings, while her mother works as an NHS specialist nurse safeguarding children. Both are of Ghanaian heritage and are active in the Christian community.
Further investigation by GhanaWeb revealed that her mother’s name is Dorcas and her father’s name is Michael.
The UK Mirror stated in their reprt: “Her mum Dorcas broke down in tears as she visited the scene this evening, supported by approximately 30 family members. Elianne’s father Michael was also present.”
Family spokespersonn speaks:
A spokesperson for Elianne’s family said: “Our hearts are broken by the senseless death of our daughter. Elianne was the light of our lives. She was bright and funny, with many friends who all adored her.
“She was only 15 and had her whole life ahead of her, with hopes and dreams for the future.
“All those dreams have now been shattered. Our lives have fallen apart, along with that of our wider family. We ask the media to please respect our privacy as we try to grieve the short life of our beautiful child.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and London Mayor Sadiq Khan have all lamented the murder.
Police announce arrest:
Within 75 minutes of the incident, a 17-year-old boy was arrested in New Addington on suspicion of murder.
A 12-hour extension to his custody time limit was granted by a senior officer this morning and he remains in custody at a South London police station.
Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Woodsford, who is leading the investigation, said: “My thoughts and the thoughts of my team are with the Elianne’s family. This is a deeply upsetting time for them and we will do everything we can to support them.
“Our investigation continues and we are making good progress. We have recovered CCTV from the area and have spoken to a number of witnesses. Forensic scientists have also examined the scene.
“From these enquiries we are now confident Elianne was attacked outside in Wellesley Road near to the bus stop rather than onboard the bus.
“We know many people were in the area at the time and would have witnessed the attack. This would have been distressing and traumatic and I would encourage anyone who needs support to contact us and we will help to arrange this.
“I know that Elianne’s death has left many people feeling upset and I would like to thank the people of Croydon for the support they have shown us as we have carried out our enquiries in the town centre. I know this work has been disruptive, however, it has been vital and your patience is appreciated.”
According to reports, a post-mortem examination was performed on Thursday, September 28th, in the afternoon.
The suspect was acquainted with the victim. More research is being conducted to determine their exact relationship.
Independent presidential candidate, Alan Kyerematen, has indicated that then-chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), late B.J. da Rocha, prior to his death, rendered an apology for describing him as “disruptive factor a stumbling block, and a loose canon if accepted back into the fold of the NPP.”
He claimed that the apology came after he approached and rebuked Rocha over the statement.
“I had just met Da Rocha in Accra on my way to Kumasi and when I arrived, he had already an granted an interview, calling me a disruptive factor. I asked him if he was serious at all because I felt as an elderly person, he should know better. I told him he acted in bad faith. Later on, he called consistently to apologise before his death,” he disclosed on Accra-based UTV.
His comments come after his second resignation from the NPP on Monday, reigniting a statement made about him by Mr. Rocha 15 years ago.
In April 2008, when Mr. Kyerematen resigned from the NPP and there were attempts to persuade him to return, Mr. Rocha stated that it would not be in the best interest of the party to welcome him back. His rationale was that Alan could potentially become a ‘disruptive factor in the party, a stumbling block, and a loose cannon.’
Mr. da Rocha was quoted by the Ghana News Agency in 2008 as saying, “the party has an election to win. We should concentrate our efforts on the task ahead and let him go his way in peace.”
Some individuals believe that Alan Kyerematen’s second resignation, stemming from the fallout of the August 26 Super Delegates Conference, validates the late NPP stalwart’s earlier statement.
However, Mr. Kyerematen has expressed frustration over how his sacrifices for the party have been used against him.
Throwbackto the incidence between Alan Kyeremanten and BJ da Rocha in 2008
When Alan Kyerematen resigned from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in April 2008, and attempts were made to bring him back into the fold, a former Chairman and elder of the NPP, Mr. B. J. da Rocha, made a prediction.
Mr. B. J. da Rocha stated that admitting Mr. Alan Kyeremanten back into the NPP would not be in the best interests of the party.
His reason was that he could become a “disruptive factor in the party, a stumbling block and loose cannon”.
“The party has an election to win. We should concentrate our efforts on the task ahead and let him go his way in peace,” Mr da Rocha said in a report filed by the Ghana News Agency in 2008.
It is now official, following the personal confirmation by Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen that he was going to contest the 2024 presidential election as an independent candidate.
Alan officially submitted his resignation letter indicating he was no longer interested in being a member of the NPP on Monday [September 25, 2023].
Immediately after that, he addressed a press conference and announced his decision to contest 2024 as an independent candidate.
He is now forming a movement, called “Movement for Change” with a Monarch Butterfly as the symbol.
This is a big blow to the governing New Patriotic Party as the move would greatly affect the unity of the party going into Election 2024.
The NPP has been at the helm of affairs in governance since January 7, 2017, and hoping to break the eight-year cycle of change of government which usually alternates between the NPP and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The speculations about Alan Kyerematen’s resignation and independent presidential ambition intensified over the weekend and got NPP members jittery after a poster announcing his planned press conference at the Movenpick Hotel on Monday afternoon was released by his aides and supporters.
In fact, the speculations had actually started earlier, before September 5, 2023, the day he announced his withdrawal from the current NPP presidential race.
Alan was shortlisted as part of the top five candidates who were going into the final selection on November 4, 2023, but some people believed that he would have lost the November 4 election, considering the popularity gained by Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia and Kennedy Ohene Agyapong as the leading candidates in the Special Super Delegates conference.
Alan placed third in the August 2023 Special Delegates conference having garnered less than 100 votes out of the over 900 votes.
Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, considered by some as a “non-presidential” material who entered the NPP presidential race just recently beat Alan, who had been in the race for more than 16 years.
Alan’s name first came up in 2005 as the replacement for the then President John Agyekum Kufuor who was retiring on January 6, 2009, as the leader of the NPP.
In 2007, Alan contested with 16 other candidates and came second, as Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo [now President of Ghana] beat him and became the leading candidate. Akufo-Addo has led the party since 2007 as the first presidential choice and has subsequently beaten Alan Kyerematen in other NPP presidential primaries.
President Akufo-Addo is retiring on January 6, 2025, hence the NPP is looking for a replacement.
President Akufo-Addo’s vice, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has shot up as the next preferable choice, with many party members throwing their support behind him. He garnered a convincing endorsement of over 50 percent votes at the special delegates conference held in August 2023.
The larger Electoral College of the NPP will on November 4, 2023, select the next leader.
However, Alan Kyerematen expressed his unhappiness with the process that led to Dr. Bawumia’s convincing victory in the Super Delegates Conference.
Some of Alan’s aides alleged that the presidency was supporting Dr. Bawumia behind the scenes and also influencing delegates clandestinely.
To Alan, his spokespersons and supporters, it was Alan’s time to lead the NPP, having waited for over 16 years for his turn and that it is not time yet for Dr. Bawumia whom they claim only joined the race recently. They wanted Alan to lead after which Dr. Bawumia could have also taken the baton.
Supporters of Bawumia however think otherwise, and argue that since it was a contest, they should allow the delegates to decide who leads the party.
Second time Alan is quitting NPP
Feeling bitter about the loss in the 2007 presidential primary and what he described subsequently as being sidelined, Alan, in 2008 resigned from the NPP in a similar move but was politically coerced and later rejoined the party.
But while those discussions were underway to bring Alan back to the NPP, former Chairman and elder of the NPP, Mr. B. J. da Rocha [deceased] sounded this caution.
A 13-person special investigation team has been established by the Lagos State Police Command to look into the untimely passing of Nigerian artist Ilerioluwa Aloba, well known as Mohbad.
At a press conference on Monday, Lagos Police Commissioner Idowu Owohunwa announced this and promised to utilize all of his authority to track down the murderers.
“Do not forget, we have unique access with INTERPOL. Everybody linked to it (the death of Mohbad) will be identified and they will be brought to establish their level of involvement,” Owohunwa said.
Mohbad, formerly signed to Marlian Records under the ownership of Azeez Faashola, widely known as Naira Marley, tragically passed away last Tuesday at the age of 27.
His burial took place on Wednesday in the Ikorodu region of Lagos, and questions and concerns surrounding his untimely death have arisen.
The Moshie Zongo Community in Kumasi, Ashanti region, is in shock due to the tragic death of a young girl, approximately 5 years old.
The girl was carried away by rushing water while attempting to cross a damaged bridge in Moshie Zongo on her way home from school.
The identity of the girl’s family remains unknown, as her lifeless body has been discovered in the community.
Mumuni Musah, speaking to GHOne News Ashanti regional Correspondent Isaac Justice Bediako, stated, “I’m standing behind the body, and we don’t know her family. We also don’t know the school she attends as well. But when we saw the body we suspected she was crossing the broken bridge.”
Everytime it rains this road and the road closer to the Kasoa Toll booth dey flood but the Government nor dey do anything about am. Bibinii aww pic.twitter.com/zF58Xgd4Q3
In the aftermath of battling liver and colon cancer, Heath Streak, a former Zimbabwe cricket captain and the country’s all-time leading wicket-taker, passed away at the age of 49.
“In the early hours of this morning, Sunday, 3 September, the greatest love of my life and the father of my beautiful children, was carried to be with the angels from his home where he wished to spend his last days surrounded by his family and closest loved ones,” his wife, Nadine Streak, wrote on social media.
As reported by ESPN, Heath Streak had been undergoing specialized treatment at a hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa, on a biweekly basis since May.
Heath Streak, renowned for his remarkable fast bowling skills and batting prowess, played a pivotal role in Zimbabwean cricket teams that competed competitively against the sport’s larger nations in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Unfortunately, his cricketing career came to an ignominious end in 2021 when he was banned for eight years for violating the International Cricket Council (ICC) Anti-Corruption Code.
In May of this year, it was announced that Streak was seriously ill, and in August, reports of his demise circulated following a social media post by former teammate Henry Olonga. Streak swiftly clarified that he was still alive, but not before numerous former teammates and opponents paid tribute to him.
Streak, one of Zimbabwe’s cricketing greats, was a robust fast bowler capable of extracting movement from challenging pitches. He amassed 236 wickets at an average of 28.14 in 65 Test matches, a record unmatched by any other Zimbabwean cricketer who took more than 80 Test wickets. He also contributed 1,990 runs with an average of 22.35 in Tests, including his highest score of 127 (not out) against the West Indies in Harare in 2003.
In One-Day Internationals (ODIs), Streak claimed 237 wickets, surpassing his closest competitor by 104 wickets. He also scored 2,901 runs in 187 ODIs.
Among his memorable Test performances, his six for 73 against India, even as they posted a formidable total of 366, stands out. This performance led Zimbabwe to a 10-wicket victory in Harare in 2005.
Streak served two terms as Zimbabwe’s captain, with a brief interruption due to a dispute with Zimbabwe Cricket in 2001 regarding pay and racial quota issues. One of his notable captaincy achievements was Zimbabwe’s first Test victory against India in Harare in 2001. He took seven wickets in the match, including dismissing Sachin Tendulkar in both innings and contributing 40 runs in the first innings.
Streak led Zimbabwe in 68 ODIs, including the 2003 World Cup in Southern Africa, where Zimbabwe advanced to the Super Six stage. His tenure as captain ended in 2004 during a period of upheaval in Zimbabwe Cricket when 15 leading players rebelled against the administration, leading to a temporary loss of Test-playing status for the weakened team.
He retired from international cricket in 2005. Subsequently, after his final stint as a player with the English county Warwickshire, he embarked on a coaching career. His coaching journey included roles in Bangladesh, India, England, and Scotland.
Streak served as Zimbabwe’s head coach from 2016 to 2018, but he was dismissed from the position when the team failed to qualify for the 2019 World Cup.
In a significant setback to his career, Streak received an eight-year ban from the ICC for sharing information and player contact details with an undisclosed individual in India. He accepted responsibility for his actions but maintained that he had never been involved in match-fixing.
A singer and songwriter from Los Angeles, California, August 08, has unfortunately passed away at the age of 31 on Monday.
The family of August 08 expressed their tribute on Instagram to commemorate the singer, who was under the Def Jam Recordings label and unveiled his final album, Seasick, in August 2022.
“As we all try to press through, understand that we all come here to serve a soul purpose. I find comfort in knowing that my brother lived a full life of abundance,” read the statement, courtesy of August’s sister Blackie. “He was able to travel the world, and touch millions of people while fulfilling his soul purpose as a musician.”
She continued, “I am proud to have a brother who lives on through music, and I encourage you all to keep streaming his records and telling everyone how great he is. 08/08 = infinity I give thanks to you all for the calls, text, and prayers. Please keep us uplifted.”
August 08’s mother added a quote on the post announcing her son’s death that read, “It is with our deepest sorrow that we announce the death of our beloved son, brother, uncle, singer, songwriter, musician and mentor Ray Davon Jacobs, also [known] as August 08. He will continue to blossom and spread his love through music.”
In August 08’s last Instagram post, where he thanked Jhené Aiko for having him open one of her most recent shows, several of the singer’s peers and fans turned the comment section into a memorial full of messages honoring him.
“Rest in paradise brother,” Jeleel wrote while Big Sean left three heart emojis. Reason also posted a trio of dove emojis, and BiBi Bourelly wrote, “rest in peace. heartbreaking news. extending love and prayers.”
Def Jam provided a statement on August 08’s passing to Complex.
“The entire Def Jam family mourns the tragic loss of Ray ‘August 08’ Jacobs. A brilliant songwriter, an accomplished musician and a singular artist, August will remain in our memory as a beloved colleague and friend. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones.”
The multi-hyphenate also co-wrote hits such as DJ Khaled’s “I’m the One” and Wale’s “Fashion Week” featuring G Eazy. His most recent album was Seasick, which arrived last August and featured appearances from ScHoolboy Q, Jhené Aiko, and Joji.
His discography includes 2018’s Father and 2020’s Emotional CUH.
Notably, August 08 was featured on songs such as “Tequila Sunrise” with GoldLink, Jackson Wang, and Higher Brothers. He was also highlighted on “Midsummer Madness” featuring Higher Brothers, Rich Brian, and Joji.
Two alleged robbers, identified by Mamponteng Police in the Ashanti Region as 28-year-old Philip Awuah, also known as ‘Opanka,’ and 23-year-old Kwaku Yeboah Stephen, are currently in critical condition after being apprehended during a theft attempt.
As reported by the Daily Guide Newspaper, police sources indicate that the suspects entered the Tewobaabi community near Mamponteng early in the morning with the intent to commit theft and were caught in the act.
The incident transpired on August 13, 2023, when a mob reportedly subjected the suspects to severe beatings, with some employing sharp machetes to publicly assault them.
This ordeal resulted in the two thieves sustaining significant injuries, leaving them weak shortly after the mob dispersed.
Moments later, the Mamponteng Day police patrol team discovered Yeboah Stephen and Philip Awuah lying in a bush, covered in blood, and bearing multiple cutlass wounds.
Subsequently, the police swiftly transported both suspects to the Methodist Healing Faith Hospital in Ankaase, where they were admitted and treated, according to the Daily Guide newspaper.
Preliminary investigations by the police unveiled that the suspects had ventured into Madina, a neighborhood within Tewobaabi, Ashanti Region, with the intention to commit theft. Their plans were thwarted as they were chased down.
In the meantime, the Mamponteng Police are actively investigating the case, aiming to establish the accurate sequence of events and address the situation appropriately, including potential charges against the two suspects if proven to be involved in robbery.
Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, professionally known as Wizkid, has reportedly lost his mother.
The sad news has left his admirers in a state of mourning, profoundly affected by the unexpected announcement.
Although the Nigerian singer-songwriter has not officially confirmed the heartbreaking incident or issued a formal statement, a report from @gistloversblog1 indicates that the esteemed Grammy award-winning artist endured the loss of his mother during the early hours of Friday, August 18, 2023.
Wizkid’s profound connection with his mother has been palpable throughout his journey in the music industry, as he consistently conveyed his profound affection for her.
The emotional turmoil he must be grappling with at this very moment, upon learning of his mother’s passing, is difficult to fathom.
Mrs. Dalopo Jane Balogun, who initially had reservations about Wizkid’s chosen path and was understandably disheartened when he left school, underwent a remarkable transformation as she watched her son’s success blossom into reality.
She evolved into a steadfast pillar of support, frequently observed expressing her pride from the sidelines at concerts and events. Her role transcended that of a mother; she was also an avid fan.
Ghanaian veteran actress and editor at Graphic Showbiz, Jayne Buckman-Owoo, has been confirmed dead following a brief illness.
Madam Jayne’s demise occurred on Friday morning, August 18, 2023.
Although the exact cause of her passing has not been disclosed, it is known that Jayne, aged 49, had been grappling with a short-term ailment.
Throughout her remarkable career spanning over two decades, she made significant contributions to the creative landscape.
She was associated with Graphic Showbiz, where she served as a staff writer. Her coverage extended to significant events both within Ghana and on the international stage.
Jayne’s impact on the creative industry was substantial, and her dedication was acknowledged at the Golden Age Creative Arts Awards (GACAA) held at the Alisa Hotel in Accra in 2021.
It was during this event that she received long-overdue recognition for her Excellence in Leadership within the Creative Arts sector. A well-deserved citation was presented to honor her remarkable contributions.
Few hours after news broke out about the death of Ghanaian musician and actor, OJ Blaq, a section of Ghanaians have taken to social media to express their consolation to his family and friends.
While the cause of his death is uncertain, many are relying on the information that he has been battling kidney related diseases for years.
His death has rendered many in shock as others are trying to fathom with the reality.
Some fans are acknowledging him as the first musician to walk into Lynx studio to record his music while others eulogises him for the memories he imprinted during his days as an actor.
R.I.P. to the first musician to ever walk into the Lynx Studio to record his music. U will always be remembered for ur kind heart and ur ability to put a smile on so many faces.
OJ Blaq inspired a generation of Fat boys in Ghana and I was one of them. It was OJ photos on my phone and social media DP all through my High school days. He took body positivity to a whole new level. Rest well biggie boy lover. Nipa b3y3 bi nanso wamb3y3 nenyinaa. My… pic.twitter.com/uuyimQKF00
BREAKING: Ghanaian rapper OJ Blaq just passed Away at the age of 40, The cause of death has not yet been confirmed, but the rapper had been battling kidney disease for For years….
Reports from Libyan medical authorities, says confrontations between two influential armed factions in Tripoli have resulted in the loss of 27 lives and injuries to over 100 individuals.
The outbreak of violence occurred on the late hours of Monday following the apprehension of a commander from the 444 Brigade by the Special Deterrence Force (SDF).
The situation de-escalated after the release of the commander on Tuesday evening.
These clashes have disrupted a period of comparative tranquility in Tripoli that lasted for several months.
While a ceasefire established in 2020 had brought a certain degree of calm to Libya, the deeply ingrained factional divisions consistently pose a threat to its stability.
Ethiopian doctors based in the capital, Bahir Dar, in the Amhara region, have reported that a significant number of civilians have lost their lives in recent clashes between local militias and government forces, as conveyed to the BBC.
A physician at the primary hospital in the city reported that the casualties encompassed not only adults but also included elderly individuals and a five-month-old infant.
Local residents recounted that a militia had seized control of a prison facility, resulting in the release of inmates.
Tensions have escalated since April, following the government’s announcement of dismantling regional forces throughout Ethiopia. This move sparked protests among Amhara nationalists, who argued that it would weaken their region.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the government noted relative tranquility in certain parts of the region, while actions were being taken to disband militias in the two largest cities, Bahir Dar and Gondar.
As a response to the situation, Ethiopian Airlines has declared the suspension of flights to four airports in the region, including Bahirdar and Gondar, for a duration of three days.
Head of Public Relations at the Controller and Accountant General’s Department (CAGD), Cephas Dodoo has indicated that the department did not make payments to 59 deceased pensioners, contrary to what was reported in the Auditor-General’s Report.
Dodoo explained that at the time of the audit, the pension payments to the deceased pensioners had already been halted by CAGD upon receiving notification of their passing.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Dodoo clarified the Department’s response to the Auditor-General’s Report, which implicated CAGD in making illicit payments to deceased pensioners. He clarified that the mentioned report referred to a section of management’s letter regarding military pensioners who had passed away, but the information about their demise was not promptly communicated to the Department for their names to be removed from the payment list.
He emphasized that the widows of the deceased military personnel were entitled to widows’ pensions. After removing the names of the deceased military personnel from the payment list, the Department initiated a process to recover the overpaid amounts from the widows’ monthly benefits.
“The process of recovery from the widows was in progress,” Mr Dodoo added.
According to Mr. Dodoo, CAP 30 institutions were expected to supply inputs to CAGD for the payment of benefits to pensioners as part of the business process for pension payroll management.
“When a pensioner dies the institution or families of the deceased equally have the responsibility of informing CAGD, unfortunately, information about the death of the 59 pensioners were delayed,” he added.
Mr. Dodoo pointed out that the management letter addressing the issue recognized the challenges faced by CAGD in halting benefit payments due to delays in reporting the deceased. Unfortunately, the publication failed to highlight this crucial information along with CAGD’s responses to the observation.
He expressed hope that the Birth and Death Registry’s ongoing digitalization process would soon be integrated with the Pension Payroll System. This integration would enable prompt deletion of pensioners from the system as soon as death certificates are issued.
Mr. Dodoo emphasized that CAGD initiated the CAP 30 Pensioners Biometric Data verification exercise in July 2023. This exercise is aimed at linking National Identification Authority (NIA) numbers to the pension database as part of various internal control measures to enhance payroll integrity.
The Ashanti Regional police are currently conducting an investigation into the death of a 38-year-old headteacher, Ernest Attah Kyei, whose lifeless body was found hanging in his room at the Apaaso M/A Basic School in Skyedumase, Ejura-Sekyedumase Municipality.
The tragic discovery was made on July 31, 2023, around 4:30 pm when concerned relatives inquired about his whereabouts.
In the room, a note and some bottles suspected to contain harmful substances were found alongside the deceased.
The incident occurred just weeks before Ernest Attah Kyei’s scheduled wedding, which was supposed to take place on August 20th.
Although the exact cause of death is yet to be determined, some relatives believe it may be linked to a recent traumatic experience the deceased endured, as he was allegedly defrauded of GH¢7,000.
A friend of the deceased, James Owusu Ansah, confirmed that the body has been taken to the morgue, and the police have initiated their investigations.
While there were speculations about possible family issues, the deceased’s family stated that everything was fine.
However, it was also reported that fraudsters might have taken GH¢7,000 from him, but his father mentioned that he received GH¢20,000 from his stepfather and brother, which might not be the reason for the tragedy.
As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of the headteacher and awaits further information from the police.
“I went to the place to see for myself and found him hanging in his room with a sponge. In his room, we discovered some medicines he had taken before hanging himself. There was also a note with his father’s number on it,” Ansah recounted.
He continued, “There were speculations that there might have been a family issue, but upon contacting the family, they stated that everything was fine. I also heard that some fraudsters had taken about GH¢7,000 from him, and that could be the cause. However, when I spoke to his father, he said the stepfather and brother had given him GH¢20,000, so that might not be the reason. The body is now at the morgue as investigations continue.”
A distressing and tragic incident occurred near Soja Bar in Teshie, within the Ledzokuku Municipal Municipality of the Greater Accra Region, where the lifeless body of a young man in his mid-twenties was found lying by the roadside.
The discovery has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving residents in a state of grief and distress. Locals who woke up to the unfortunate sight stumbled upon the grim scene.
Speculations have arisen regarding the circumstances of the young man’s death, with suggestions that he might have been involved in robbery attempts within the community. Unfortunately, this led to a brutal lynching, though the exact details surrounding the incident are yet to be fully ascertained.
The situation has instilled fear and unease among the residents, and they are anxious for answers and action. The police were informed early in the morning, but there has been a delay in their response, prompting concerns within the community.
The tragic loss of a young life has deeply shaken the community, prompting calls for a thorough investigation into the events that led to this untimely death. The authorities are urged to act swiftly to apprehend those responsible and ensure justice prevails to prevent any further escalation of violence.
In the wake of this heartbreaking event, the community is pleading for enhanced security measures to be put in place to safeguard against similar incidents in the future.
This tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the importance of collaboration between residents and law enforcement to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in the area.
The interior ministry of Senegal has reported that two individuals lost their lives in Ziguinchor during protests opposing the detention of the prominent opposition leader, Ousmane Sonko.
Although the ministry did not disclose the identities of the deceased, it called for calm and assured that measures were being implemented to uphold stability in the nation.
In a prior move, the government dissolved Mr. Sonko’s party, alleging that it had incited its supporters towards an insurrection.
On Monday, Mr. Sonko made an appearance in court and was ordered to remain in custody. He faces charges of plotting an insurrection, criminal conspiracy, and other related offenses.
The opposition leader vehemently refutes these charges, asserting that they are driven by political motives.
Tragedy struck on Thursday, July 27, 2023, during a Homowo ritual fishing expedition, as two fishermen lost their lives. The fishing activity had been authorized by the Tema Traditional Council, but the early morning outing took a devastating turn, leaving the community in grief and mourning.
According to a report from graphic.com.gh, the incident occurred at the anchorage of the Tema Port when a patrol speed boat purportedly collided with the fishermen’s canoe, leading to the tragic loss of lives.
The identity of the patrol boat remains undisclosed, but certain members of the fishing community have directed suspicion towards the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), suggesting that the boat might be under their ownership.
However, in a press statement, the GPHA denied any connection with the boat in question.
The canoe, named “Adesa Na Ohetsui” (Man, have patience), was carrying 12 fishermen when the tragedy struck.
The ritual fishing expedition was part of the preparations for the upcoming Homowo festival.
Nevertheless, conflicting reports surfaced, suggesting that the fishermen might have defied the closed fishing season, scheduled to end on July 31, 2023
According to the report, the incident occurred around 1:30 am when the fishermen were in the process of hauling their nets within the anchorage.
The patrol boat, reportedly deployed by port control following reports of alleged illegal activities, approached the scene.
To escape, the fishermen’s canoe was tragically hit, causing it to capsize with the nets entangling the deceased.
The victims were identified as Francis Tetteh Larbi, aged 27, and Samuel Acquaye Allotey, aged 45, both residents of Tema New Town.
Their untimely demise sparked anger and outrage among the fishing community, who demanded an independent investigation into the incident and accountability from the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority.
As the police attempted to retrieve the bodies, a tense situation arose when the crowd at the Canoe Landing Basin refused to allow the police to convey the deceased in a police pick-up truck, insisting that their kinsmen were not criminals.
Eventually, a hearse was summoned to convey the bodies to the International Maritime Hospital mortuary for autopsy and preservation.
Superintendent Charles Osei, Commander of the Marine Police Unit in Tema, confirmed the incident and revealed that investigations were underway to establish the identity of the boat and the cause of the collision.
While the GPHA refuted any involvement in the collision, it expressed regret for the loss of lives and extended its condolences to the families of the deceased. The GPHA emphasized its commitment to search and rescue missions, regardless of the circumstances.
In response to the tragic event, the Tema Metropolitan Security Committee (MESEC) has established a five-member committee to investigate the incident and submit its report within five days. The fishing community, still mourning the loss of their fellow fishermen, awaits answers and reassurance that such accidents will be prevented in the future.
Ghana’s Parliament has struck out “dormant” death penalty from it laws after the house sat on July 25, 2023.
Parliament passed the Criminal Offences Amendment Act, 2022 which seeks to replace the death penalty with a life sentence.
In Ghana, the death penalty is imposed after a conviction for murder, attempt to commit murder, genocide, or piracy and smuggling of gold or diamond.
However, some human rights activists have argued that the death penalty is too final and irreversible, thereby demanding a replacement with a life sentence.
Passing the bill, Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, said, “The Criminal Offences Amendment Act, 2022 is duly read the third time and duly passed.”
The Deputy Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo Markin says the passage of the bill calls for celebration as a country.
Although the death penalty was inherited from the colonial administration as a punishment for murder, attempted murder, genocide, piracy, and smuggling of gold or diamonds, successive presidents of Ghana have not signed a death warrant for the execution of offenders since 1993.
On April 15, a power struggle between Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the head of the army, and Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo, the commander of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), descended into all-out war, killing thousands of people, uprooting millions of people, and escalating an already dire humanitarian situation.
The major war developments to date are listed here.
April 15: Fighting erupts
On April 15, Khartoum’s capital was rocked by intense gunfire and explosions, which causes terror both within the city and outside.
Each side accuses the other of striking first: the army and the RSF.
Conflicts have broken out following years of unrest and several coup attempts.
Fighting also breaks out in Darfur, an area in western Sudan that is still suffering from a terrible conflict that began there in 2003 under the authority of longstanding leader Omar al-Bashir.
April 22: Evacuations begin
Many nations hurry to airlift or evacuate their citizens.
In the evacuation, thousands of people evacuate, and numerous embassies are looted.
April 25: Failed truce
A 72-hour cease-fire was agreed upon by the US and Saudi Arabia, but it was swiftly broken. Then, a slew of more truce agreements fell through.
Ahmed Harun, a key member of al-Bashir’s administration who was overthrown by the army following months of widespread protests, claimed to have escaped from prison.
The army claims that al-Bashir was taken to a hospital prior to the start of the battle. Al-Bashir is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on genocide accusations related to the war in Darfur.
April 26: Aid agencies struggle
As humanitarian activities are disrupted across the nation, aid organizations raise the alarm. Businesses struggle to get back to work while maintaining employee safety.
April 27: Ceasefire violated
The RSF and the Sudanese army agree to extend the shaky truce for “an additional 72 hours” despite the ongoing bloodshed in Khartoum and the western Darfur area.
According to witnesses, however, battle is still going on as jets patrol above the northern districts of the capital and fighters on the ground trade heavy machine gun and artillery fire.
10 minutes and 9 seconds of the video
What has changed in Sudan since the war began three months ago?
May 6: Jeddah talks start
US and Saudi-backed talks between army and RSF envoys begin in Saudi Arabia’s city of Jeddah.
May 11: Humanitarian aid needed
Both sides agree to allow urgently needed humanitarian aid to reach affected areas, committing “to ensuring the protection of civilians” but, once again, the fighting never stops.
May 22: Ceasefire violated again
A new one-week ceasefire comes into effect but is also repeatedly violated.
May 31: Army walks out
On May 31, the army says it has suspended its participation in the ceasefire talks, accusing the RSF of failing to respect its commitments.
June 1: US imposes sanctions
The US imposes the first sanctions related to the conflict, targeting two firms associated with the army and two others linked to the RSF.
It warns that it will “hold accountable” all those undermining peace in the country and says will impose visa restrictions “against actors who are perpetuating the violence”.
June 3: Army brings reinforcements
The Sudanese army calls in reinforcements, sparking fear among Khartoum residents that the conflict will worsen.
The army tries to take control of a military base in the capital that belongs to the RSF.
June 6: Shortages of supplies
Intensifying attacks add to the misery of civilians already struggling with limited water, food and medicine, while looters rob neighbourhoods across Khartoum, stealing cars, breaking open safes and occupying people’s homes.
June 7: Fuel fire erupts
A major blaze engulfs a fuel facility in Khartoum as fighting rages for a crucial weapons depot. Smoke billows from the fuel-storage site that is close to an army base and the weapons manufacturing company.
Video Duration 01 minutes 31 seconds
Sudan fighting pushes refugee camps to the limit
June 8: Orphans evacuated
At least 280 children and 70 of their carers are taken from the Al-Mayqoma orphanage in Khartoum to a new facility in Madani, about 135km (85 miles) southeast of the capital. That the transfer takes finally place eight weeks into the conflict highlights the difficulty in obtaining security guarantees from warring parties.
June 9: UN envoy declared ‘persona non grata’
Sudanese authorities declare the UN envoy to the country, Volker Perthes, “persona non grata” two weeks after the army chief accused him of inflaming the conflict.
June 10: Ceasefire announced
Warring sides agree to a 24-hour ceasefire and agree to allow the unimpeded movement and delivery of humanitarian assistance throughout the country.
June 11: Fighting resumes
Within 30 minutes of the ceasefire ending, fighting resumes with renewed intensity. Air raids, artillery shelling and machine guns could be heard pounding several parts of the country, killing seven civilians.
June 14: More than two million people flee
UN says more than two million people have been forced to flee their homes across Sudan, with more than 1.6 million leaving for safer areas inside the country, and about 530,000 others leaving to neighbouring countries.
June 15: West Darfur governor killed
West Darfur state Governor Khamis Abakar is abducted and killed after publicly blaming the deaths of civilians on the RSF. The incident marks a new escalation in the conflict.
June 17: Ceasefire announced
Rival sides agree to a 72-hour ceasefire and to allow the unimpeded movement and delivery of humanitarian aid.
June 19: Donors pledge nearly $1.5bn
After urging nations to boost up relief efforts, the UN reports that approximately $1.5 billion in international donations had been made for the humanitarian response to Sudan and the area.
The group claims that $2.57 billion in funding is needed for its emergency help program.
June 20: Darfur governor calls for probe
Darfur Governor Mini Arko Minawi calls for an international investigation into violence against residents of the region and urges the UN Security Council to allow the ICC to probe “crimes and assassinations”.
Video Duration 02 minutes 41 seconds
What’s happening in Darfur in Sudan?
June 21: Fighting resumes
Intense battles break out after a 72-hour ceasefire expires, with fierce fighting reported in parts of the capital including around the intelligence agency’s headquarters near Khartoum International Airport.
June 27: Army declares ‘unilateral’ truce
Al-Burhan announces a “unilateral” ceasefire on the first day of the Muslim Eid al-Adha holiday. His announcement comes after Hemedti declared a two-day “unilateral” ceasefire.
June 28: Air raids reported
Residents say air raids and anti-aircraft fire strike Khartoum as fighting between the warring sides intensifies.
July 2: Fighting continues
Fighting continues as air raids are launched in northern parts of Khartoum and heavy artillery is used in the city’s east.
July 5: UN decries ‘sexual violence’
UN expresses shock at increasing sexual violence against women and girls in Sudan and calls for thorough and independent investigations into all alleged violations and abuses to hold perpetrators to account.
July 10: Regional bloc calls for summit
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), made up of eight states in and around the Horn of Africa, meets in Addis Ababa to kick-start a peace process.
But the initiative faces a setback as a delegation from Sudan’s army fails to attend the first day of meetings.
July 11: Sudan rejects peace efforts
The army rejects a proposed regional summit to consider deploying peacekeeping forces for the protection of civilians.
The mediation offer by IGAD was the first in weeks after talks in Jeddah were suspended following several ceasefire violations.
July 12: UK imposes sanctions
The United Kingdom imposes sanctions on three businesses linked with the army and three with the RSF.
The Defence Industries Systems and two other entities are blacklisted for bankrolling and providing support to the army. For financing and arming the RSF, the UK sanctioned Al-Junaid.
July 13: ICC probing Darfur violence
The ICC launches an investigation into a surge of hostilities in the country’s Darfur region. These include reported killings, rapes, arson, displacement and crimes affecting children.
July 15: Jeddah talks revived
Army representatives return to Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah for talks with the RSF, according to reports.
A rainfall, thunder and lightning strike which occurred in Kowie, a community located in the Sissala East Municipality has claimed the lives of 21 cows, leaving residents in shock and devastation.
The thunderstorms took place at about 0020hrs where the kraal of cattle gathered under a tree in the community.
When the Ghana News Agency (GNA) got to the community after the incident, the cows were found dead and uniquely arranged around a tree except for two of them that survived the thunderstorm.
Mr Thomas Tipuri, a community member, said 16 of the cattle belonged to a herdsman whom he did not name and had been settled in the community whilst five belonged to him.
He said some traditional priests were immediately called in to perform some rituals before the carcasses were taken away.
He said the families of the owners of the cattle were sad and pained over the loss.
Mr Yakubu Abu, who also hailed from the community, expressed shock at the calamity saying, “This has never happened in the community.”
He said lightning is known to strike tall objects such as trees or poles, but it is possible that the lightning struck a nearby object and then travelled through the ground and affected the cows.
“If you are caught outside during a storm, it is important to avoid sheltering under trees or other tall objects and to seek shelter in a low-lying area if possible”, Madam Francesca Martey of the Ghana Meteorological Authority advised.
Apostle-General of the Royalhouse Chapel International (RCI), Rev Sam Korankye-Ankrah, is mourning the loss of his mother-in-law, Theresa Owusu.
On Wednesday, July 12, 2023, the mother of Rev Mrs Rita Korankye Ankrah, the Premier Lady of the Royalhouse Chapel International (RCI), passed away.
A statement from the church said that she died at the SSNIT hospital.
“With gratitude to God who comforts us in times of mourning, this announcement is made of the demise of Mrs. Theresa Owusu, mother of Rev. Mrs. Rita Korankye-Ankrah, wife of the Apostle General Sam Korankye Ankrah.
“The said event occurred on Wednesday the 12th of July 2023 at 8am at the SSNIT Hospital in Accra, after a short illness,” the statement said.
The late Theresa Owusu was 88-years-old.
The statement also stated that there would be announcements on the funeral arrangements made public at a later date.
“Funeral arrangements will be announced later,” the statement added.
A scuffle that ensued between a 16-year-old boy, Alhassan Sulemana, and a set of twins at a pub in Berekum has led to the tragic death of the former.
As reported by myjoyonline.com, the incident took place on Saturday night and originated from a disagreement between Alhassan and the twin brothers, Farouk and Harus.
After the confrontation, it is reported that the twin brothers fled the scene, leaving Alhassan with severe injuries that ultimately proved fatal.
Mohammed Sofian, a witness to the incident, recounted that upon hearing loud shouts, he quickly intervened and approached the scene.
Upon arrival, he found Alhassan and the twins engaged in a heated exchange.
Mohammed attempted to defuse the situation and left momentarily.
However, the situation escalated, and Mohammed returned to find Alhassan stabbed, allegedly by the twins using a pair of scissors.
The severity of the injuries led to Alhassan’s untimely death upon his arrival at Berekum Holy Family Hospital.
As the community mourns the loss, the twins, Farouk and Harus, remain at large.
The grieving mother of the deceased, Safia Sulemana, expresses her disbelief and anguish over her son’s tragic death. She cannot comprehend why the boys would perpetrate such a violent act against her son, as they were close friends.
In response to the incident, the deceased’s brother has filed a report with the local police, for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Alhassan’s death.
A herdsman and a trader have connived to steal 114 bags of maize from a farmer‘s storehouse. The herdsman is said to have been working for the farmer.
The farmer whose name is given as Mohammed Latif Michael indicated that each bag of maize weighed 50 kilogrammes, and the estimated value of the total 114 bags is about GHC37,050.00.
According to a newspaper report by the Chronicle dated July 13, 2023, the herdsman, whose name is given as Richmond Anan and the trader who is also referred to as Sarah Mensah, were dragged before an Accra Circuit Court on Monday, July 10, 2023, for stealing and abetment respectively.
Both pleaded not guilty before the court, presided over by Isaac Oheneba Kuffour and were granted bail in the sum of GHC50,000.00 each with sureties each.
The prosecuting officer, Chief Inspector Michael Vuvor, who represented the fact brief to the court named the farmer, Mohammed Latif Michael as the complainant and Richmond, one of the accused was taking care of his livestock and living in the house with him.
According to the prosecutor, on February 7, 2023, the complainant asked Richmond to assist him in finding customers to buy his maize.
He promised to do so and asked to inspect the maize’s quality and storage location.
On February 25, 2023, the complainant travelled, and Richmond secretly opened the storeroom, allowing Sarah to steal 114 bags of maize worth GH¢ 37.050.00.
The prosecution added that Sarah sold all 114 bags of maize to unknown customers. When the complainant returned from his trip and discovered the maize had been stolen, he suspected Richmond.
The complainant on realizing the crime committed, reported the case to the Baatsonaa Divisional Police command.
The court was not told how Sarah was arrested in connection with the theft case at this time, but it was learned that during investigations, the accused admitted to the crime but failed to assist the police in tracing the alleged customers who purchased the stolen maize.
The prosecution went on to say that all efforts by the police to recover the money from the accused had also failed. Following an investigation, the accused were charged with the offences and brought before the court.
Veteran Nollywood actress, Cynthia Okereke has been confirmed dead, today,Tuesday July 12.
The actress was set to travel to America before her sudden demise on July 11.
Joseph Okechukwu, a popular actor and filmmaker, took to Instagram to announce the unfortunate incident of Cynthia Okereke’s passing.
In his post, shared on Wednesday, Okechukwu revealed that Okereke had passed away on Tuesday evening.
He expressed his sadness, mentioning that he had intended to purchase her flight ticket to America before her untimely demise.
Along with the announcement, he shared a picture of the late actress as a tribute.
He wrote: “REST IN PEACE, Nwanyi oma. I’m shattered beyond words.
“The fact that I was about to pay for your flight ticket to come and finish what we started only to hear you went to be with Lord just last night is one of the toughest things I’ve had to deal with in recent times.
“I pray I’m able to recover from the shock. Life is really just a mist. One minute you have it, the next you don’t.
“For the more than 20 years that I’ve known you, you’ve been such an amazing, decent and lovely soul to be around. Words fail me. May your gentle soul rest on till we meet again in glory. #CynthiaOkereke.”
Today marks one year after the late actress was held captive by kidnappers.
In July 2022, Cynthia and fellow actor Clemson Cornel were kidnapped while on their way to a film location in Enugu State.
Monalisa Chinda, Director of Communications for the Actors Guild of Nigeria, confirmed their disappearance.
The actors were eventually freed after a few days. The Nollywood community mourns the loss of Cynthia, known for her memorable motherly roles in Nigerian films.
A man whose identity is immediately unknown has tragically lost his life at Wirenkyiren Amanfrom, a town in the Eastern Region of Ghana in an attempt to steal high tension cables.
Eyewitness accounts indicates that the incident happened late in the evening when the suspected thief attempted to climb a transformer to steal high tension cables.
However, the suspect reportedly touched a naked wire which electrocuted him, leading him to fall off the transformer.
He was discovered by some residents plying the bushy road around 1:00 am battling for his life.
The residents immediately alerted the authorities and paramedics, but due to the delays in arrival, the suspected thief could not be saved and was pronounced dead at the scene around 6:00 am.
The police have launched an investigation to identify the suspect and determine the circumstances surrounding the failed theft operation.
The body has been retrieved by the Kyebi police command and deposited at the mortuary for preservation.
Some residents who spoke to the media remarked that Wirenkyiren Amanfrom is a theft prone area and they are constantly harassed by thieves.
Pharmacy Council Ghana is warning the public to desist from taking injections at pharmacies.
According to the Director at the Pharmacy Council in the Ashanti Region, Benjamin Kwarteng Frimpong, it is illegal.
He made the comment while reacting to the death of a five-year-old who was given wrong injection after he was bitten by a rabid dog in August 2022.
Mr Frimpong said preliminary investigations revealed that Life Dream Pharmacy did not meet the laid down standards and regulations set by the Council, hence the decision to shut it down.
Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem Tuesday, he said the death of the child could have been avoided if the person at the pharmacy had done a follow up.
He explained that though the child was given wrong injection, asking the parents to send him to the hospital could have avoided the death.
To prevent such avoidable deaths, Mr Frimpong said they have asked pharmacies, drugs stores and licensed chemical sellers not to give injections.
He added that the Pharmacy Council is committed to ensuring competent pharmaceutical care providers who practice with agreed standards with dedication, integrity and professionalism.
Kumawood actor, Oboy Siki has restated his claim that he has made an agreement with God to pass away in 2024.
Oboy Siki asserts that he made this decision because he believes the movie industry holds no further prospects for him, and he desires to prevent anyone from taking credit or attributing his demise to external influences.
Hence, he has chosen to openly discuss this arrangement.
During a recent interview with the media, Oboy Siki shared his thoughts. He mentioned that after expressing dissatisfaction with the movie industry, he witnessed the struggles faced by fellow actors who struggled to sustain themselves in the field.
This realization prompted him to approach God and establish an agreement that when he reaches a certain age, he would pass away.
“When I started speaking ill about the movie industry, I can mention about 20 people’s names who couldn’t make a living in the movie industry. So, I asked God that He should grant me this age to die. I had a dream that God agreed for me to die. So, the thought of death has been hanging around my neck.
“If I am not careful and I die, the pastors and Ghanaians will take the credit for it and accuse me of being cursed or murdered. However, that is not true. It is only God who has the power to take a life.
“I didn’t want them to take the spotlight, which is why I mentioned it, but I am not receiving the response I hoped for.”That’s why I feel I have to die. If I make it to 2024, I will make arrangements for those who will take care of the funeral and other necessary arrangements. So, I will organize everything that needs to be taken care of before I pass away.”
Management of St. Monica Senior High School (SHS) has begun an investigation into the death of one of its students.
In a report by The Chronicle Newspaper on May 29, 2023, it was revealed that a student, Patience Amaning, who was studying General Art at the school, had been unwell for a period of time.
Despite her attempts to obtain permission to seek medical attention outside of the school, her request was reportedly denied, leading to her unfortunate demise.
In response to this tragic incident, the school authorities have established a committee of inquiry to investigate the cause of the student’s death.
This is after the Chronicle Newspaper on May, 29, 2023, reported that a 17-year-old student of the school had died.
The deceased student identified as Patience Amaning and a General Art student of the school is said to have been unwell for some time.
According to the newspaper, despite her attempts to secure permission to seek medical attention outside of the school, her request was reportedly denied leading to her demise.
It is on the back of this that the school’s authority has set up a committee of enquiry to delve into the cause of the student’s death.
According to a reporter with UTV Ghana, the school set up the committee in order to refute claims that the school denied Patience of seeking medical attention.
“The school’s authority said they want to refute claims that they caused the student’s death. As I speak to you, some parts of the school’s authority have laid down their tools that they’re not going to work until the enquiry is finally done and act upon whoever is responsible,” UTV’s reporter noted.
The death toll from floods in South Africa’s Kwazulu-Natal province has reached at least seven, and it is anticipated to increase further.
Several regions in the southeastern parts of the province are currently undergoing recovery efforts following severe rains and storms earlier this week.
The bodies of a woman in her 20s and a teenage girl were recently recovered from a canal in the city of Durban.
According to provincial authorities, at least 70 homes have been destroyed, leaving over 150 individuals without shelter.
Disaster management teams are continuing to assess the extent of the damage caused by the floods.
Authorities have reported on Thursday that four persons had perished in the southeast province of KwaZulu-Natal of South Africa after it was struck by a tornado and torrential rain.
Powerful winds and rainfall damaged roads and flooded houses and sewer systems, followed by a tornado that struck north of the port city of Durban on Tuesday.
“Regrettably, so far four people have been confirmed to have lost their lives,” the province’s disaster management department said in a statement.
Three people died in Durban and a fourth in wider KwaZulu-Natal, it said, adding that a fifth person was missing and more than 150 were homeless.
Local daily News 24 reported Nonala Ndlovu, a spokesperson for the provincial department of cooperative governance, as saying that public infrastructure, including sewage systems, has also been damaged.
The rainy season in KwaZulu-Natal usually runs from November to March, and exceptional rainfall at this time of year is unusual, it said.
“We are experiencing firsthand the true effects of climate change during the winter season,” the department said.
In April 2022, the province was hit by the worst floods in living memory, suffering the loss of more than 400 lives in Durban and surrounding areas.
Experts have warned that floods and other extreme weather events are becoming more powerful and frequent as the world gets warmer, due to climate change.
The contractor whose name has not been revealed was working on the renovation and upgrade of the Stadium in Tarkwa, a project funded by Gold Fields Ghana.
A statement signed by the CEO of Gold Fields, Martin Preece said “We regret to report a fatal incident after an employee of a Gold Fields Ghana Foundation succumbed to his injuries following a fall from heights incident.
“The contractor was working on the renovation and upgrade of the T&A Stadium in Tarkwa, a project funded by the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation for the benefit of our Tarkwa host communities”
“We extend our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the family, loved ones, and colleagues of the deceased. Members of our Gold Fields team in Ghana are on site to assist people on site in dealing with the impact of the incident. All work at the T&A Stadium has been put on hold pending the completion of investigations.
“Counseling is being offered to the family and colleagues of the deceased. I ask you to keep the family and friends of our colleague who passed away in your thoughts and prayers”, the statement said.
At least two individuals have lost their lives in the Ashanti Regionas a result of Wednesday’s downpour.
All the victims are male who attempted to cross the flood water flowing with strong current in the evening to their destinations.
At Afoah on the Barekese road, a victim who was sitting on a bicycle wanted to save his bicycle when the violent flooding water overpowered both in the Bantama constituency. The lifeless body is yet to be located as of Thursday morning.
In the Atwima Nwabiagya North district, a father of two was also washed away at Abuakwa Besiase while crossing a river on motorcycle.
Traditional authority in the communities where the people were washed away by the flood waters have been informed while preparations for traditional rite are underway.
Several communities in Ashanti region including Kejetia, Adum, Breman, Aboabo, Oforikrom were all flooded during and after the evening rains.
Tragically, two Ghanaian female students pursuing their studies at Clemson University in the United States of America (USA) were involved in a devastating car accident on June 18, 2023, resulting in the loss of their lives, as reported by various media outlets. The individuals who lost their lives in this unfortunate incident have been identified as Abena Gyamfua Ofori, a 31-year-old graduate student specializing in English, and Alberta Oduraa Quartey, a 23-year-old graduate student.
Per a report filed by fskhub.com, the news of their untimely demise has left the entire university community in a state of mourning.
The report explained that the unfortunate accident occurred on Highway 11 near Elizabeth Drive, South Carolina USA. The incident took place when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collided head-on, claiming the lives of Alberta Quartey and Abena Ofori.
In a press release, the Graduate Students Association of Ghana USA branch (GRASAG-USA) expressed its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the deceased.
“Deepest Condolences on the Tragic Loss of Alberta Oduraa Quartey and Abena Gyamfua Ofori.
“Dear everyone, it is with immense sorrow and a profound sense of grief that we, the entire GRASAG-USA organization, express our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of two of our graduate students who tragically lost their lives in a devastating crash in South Carolina. We mourn the untimely passing of Alberta Oduraa Quartey and Abena Gyamfua Ofori, both Ghanaian graduate students who were an integral part of the Clemson University community,” part of the statement said.
The statement added “As an organization, we stand in solidarity with you, offering our unwavering support and condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones.
“May the memories of Alberta Oduraa Quartey and Abena Gyamfua Ofori serve as a beacon of light and inspiration for all who knew them. May their souls find eternal peace and rest.”
A witness of the boat tragedy in the River Niger has said that killed 106 people and many ladies lost their life trying to save their children.
The boat capsized after part of the vessel collapsed, causing water to flood the boat, police said.
Figures provided by local rescuers indicate that 144 people survived the boat accident.
One village in the Patigi local government area of Kwara state, where the incident occurred, had the highest number of casualties. Locals there say 61 died, mostly women and children.
Mohammed Alhassan, a survivor, said the women would not leave their children and so they drowned together.
“My sister was with us on the boat,” he told the BBC. “She survived but her seven-year-old son died”.
Aisha Mohammed, another woman who lost her three grown daughters in the accident said the girls were soon to be married.
Other survivors also described how many fathers hung on to some of their children while those they could not bring to shore died.
Some young men were however able to swim to safety after the boat broke in half.
Safety is one of the major concerns raised as many people did not have life jackets. Overloaded boats are common and travellers often don’t take safety precautions.
Cameroonians are reacting to the passing of John Fru Ndi, a legendary rival of President Paul Biya, with sadness and grief. After a protracted illness, the founder and head of the Social Democratic Front (SDF), the major opposition party in parliament, passed away on Monday at the age of 81. In the presidential contests of 1992, 2004 and 2011, Fru Ndi ran against Biya and finished second each time.
“Ni John Fru Ndi for the SDF (Social Democratic Front, editor’s note) was the guide, that is to say, the man who traced the furrow along which we walk, the man who against all odds imposed the return to a multi-party system in Cameroon on 26 May 1990 and with it a set of individual and collective freedoms granted to the entire Cameroonian people” Marcel Tadjeu , Chairman of the Douala 5 SDF electoral constituency told our correspondent.
Fru Ndi began his political career in the 1980s as a member of Biya’s RDPC. He founded the SDF in 1990 when Cameroon officially ended one-party rule. Today his SDF has only five seats in the current parliament. It held 18 in the previous legislature but lost influence to the all-powerful Cameroonian People’s Democratic Movement (RDPC) led by 90-year-old Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982.
Fru Ndi was born in 1941 in Baba Il, near Bamenda in the northwest, then under British mandate. The primarily English-speaking Northwest and Southwest regions became part of Cameroon in 1961, a year after the French-speaking regions gained independence from Paris. They have been plagued by conflict between the army and separatists since the latter declared independence in 2017, after decades of grievances over perceived discrimination by the country’s French-speaking majority.
Biya has resisted calls for wider autonomy and responded with a brutal crackdown while Fru Ndi advocated a federal solution, rather than out-and-out independence for the Anglophone regions. This earned Fru Ndi the wrath of most radical separatists and perhaps brought to more scrutiny the positions he has held as an opposition leader over the decades.
“A lot of Cameroonians died when I was still very young. But today, we understand that he was corrupt. He was persuaded perhaps by the powers that be, because in reality, you really have to be strong” says Mathieu Epoune, a computer scientist in Yaounde. “Yet he really should be a great role model. But what I remember about him, it’s true, we don’t talk much about the dead, but what I remember about him is that he did aspire to change, but in the end he was still corrupted.” Epoune added.
Nicknamed “the Chairman”, Fru Ndi’s SDF is periodically plagued by internal crises and in recent years had his position contested by a faction of senior party officials.
His house was torched and he was kidnapped briefly in 2019 by an armed group, which demanded he pull his MPs out of parliament. Both the army and armed groups are regularly accused by the United Nations and international NGOs of crimes against civilians in the Anglophone regions.
“We lost our father, our grandfather” says one member of the SDF, before adding that he was the person who taught Cameroonians “what is democracy”.
