NPP refers Adwoa Safo to disciplinary committee over recent media engagement.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has referred former Dome-Kwabenya Lawmaker Sarah Adwoa Safo to its disciplinary committee for violating a recent directive barring members from discussing matters that create disaffection within the party in the media.

A statement issued by General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong said that following the directives issued to all members of the New Patriotic Party to cease discussions on matters that create disaffection within the party in the media, Sarah Adwoa Sarfo’s comments in the media, particularly on the Pulse Show of Joy News, are clear contravention of the directive issued to all NPP members.

“As she is aware, the directive explicitly states that all party members must cease discussing party issues that create unrest, negativism and disaffection in the media and other related platforms. Her actions are not only in disregard of this directive but also undermines the Party’s efforts to rebuild and move forward.

READ ALSO: NPP directs members to cease media discussions that create disaffection publicly

“As a former Member of Parliament, Former Deputy Majority Leader and Former Minister of State under the erstwhile NPP government, she was expected to set a good example and adhere to the principles of discipline, loyalty and unity that have always defined our great party. Her failure to do so, not only reflects poorly on her but also in contravention of Article 3(5) of the Party’s constitution, which, amongst others enjoins us to promote and defend the good name of the Party.

Source 3news

No one will get away with corruption under NDC govt – Asiedu Nketiah

The National Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to holding officials of the previous administration accountable for alleged corruption.

His remarks emphasize the NDC government’s unwavering stance on accountability, a key campaign promise in the lead-up to the 2024 elections.

His remarks emphasize the NDC government’s unwavering stance on accountability, a key campaign promise in the lead-up to the 2024 elections.

In a video circulating on social media and sighted by Citinewsroom on Sunday, February 16, Mr. Asiedu Nketiah declared that former officials of the Akufo-Addo administration, including ex-Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, will not evade scrutiny.Business networking events

“Wherever Ken Ofori-Atta is hiding, we will find him by all means. He must avail himself for questioning on multiple cases. All former officials implicated in corruption will be compelled to face the law,” he asserted.

He further emphasized that the government will enforce strict accountability measures, even within its own ranks, ensuring that no official—past or present—escapes justice if found guilty of corruption.

“We will tighten the noose on accountability, and even elements within this government who engage in corrupt activities will not go scot-free,” he added.

Critics watch closely to see how these promises of accountability and anti-corruption enforcement unfolds under the NDC government as already 2,417 complaints of suspected corruption have been submitted to the Attorney General for investigations.

The complaints, which were gathered from the public in response to the Operation Recover All Loot(ORAL) call for the public to report suspected corruption cases, were officially handed over to the president at the Jubilee House.

Tags: Asiedu NketiaCorruptionGhana Newsheadline

Credit @citinewsroom

Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee has finally submitted its report to President John Dramani Mahama.

After 53 days of extensive work, the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee has finally submitted its report to President John Dramani Mahama. The report details cases of corruption involving public officials, particularly under the former government, as part of efforts to combat the menace.

The five-member committee, chaired by North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, presented the findings to the President on Monday, 10th February 2025, at the Jubilee House.

In his speech, Mr Ablakwa revealed that the committee received a total of 2,417 cases, with 1,493 reported via phone calls and 924 via emails. He emphasised that the establishment of the committee was both timely and essential in the fight against corruption.

It was the right decision for our country, and it has deepened transparency and accountable governance. Over the last 53 days, we have reviewed these petitions. 44 were received directly from civil society organisations and other public-spirited citizens. 59 out of the 230 cases we reviewed, along with the documents we are submitting today, were cases that had surfaced while the NDC was in opposition.

He further noted that the ORAL Committee successfully prevented the demolition of 50 bungalows, including those belonging to the National Development Authority, by private individuals, with the assistance of National Security.

$21 Billion in Potential Recoveries

Mr Ablakwa disclosed that 36 cases reviewed in detail could lead to the recovery of over $20 billion.

The 36 cases we have reviewed in detail, if successfully pursued, could result in the recovery of $20.49 billion. These include cases such as the National Cathedral, PDS, SML, and GNPC Saltpond decommissioning.

Additionally, he highlighted that cases involving state lands could also lead to significant financial recovery.

We have also estimated the value of state lands captured by individuals. If these individuals are made to pay the conservative market value for the lands they have taken, we could recover approximately $702.8 million for the Ghanaian people.

North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and President Akufo-Addo

North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and President Akufo-Addo

Maxwell Nyagamago

Maxwell Nyagamago

After 53 days of extensive work, the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee has finally submitted its report to President John Dramani Mahama. The report details cases of corruption involving public officials, particularly under the former government, as part of efforts to combat the menace.

The five-member committee, chaired by North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, presented the findings to the President on Monday, 10th February 2025, at the Jubilee House.

In his speech, Mr Ablakwa revealed that the committee received a total of 2,417 cases, with 1,493 reported via phone calls and 924 via emails. He emphasised that the establishment of the committee was both timely and essential in the fight against corruption.

It was the right decision for our country, and it has deepened transparency and accountable governance. Over the last 53 days, we have reviewed these petitions. 44 were received directly from civil society organisations and other public-spirited citizens. 59 out of the 230 cases we reviewed, along with the documents we are submitting today, were cases that had surfaced while the NDC was in opposition.

He further noted that the ORAL Committee successfully prevented the demolition of 50 bungalows, including those belonging to the National Development Authority, by private individuals, with the assistance of National Security.

$21 Billion in Potential Recoveries

Mr Ablakwa disclosed that 36 cases reviewed in detail could lead to the recovery of over $20 billion.

The 36 cases we have reviewed in detail, if successfully pursued, could result in the recovery of $20.49 billion. These include cases such as the National Cathedral, PDS, SML, and GNPC Saltpond decommissioning.

Additionally, he highlighted that cases involving state lands could also lead to significant financial recovery.

We have also estimated the value of state lands captured by individuals. If these individuals are made to pay the conservative market value for the lands they have taken, we could recover approximately $702.8 million for the Ghanaian people.

President Mahama Pledges Action

Receiving the report, President Mahama reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to recovering misappropriated state funds. He announced that the report had been handed over to the Attorney-General, Dr Dominic Ayine, for further action, assuring that all recovered monies would be returned to state coffers.

The committee, chaired by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, MP for North Tongu, includes former Auditor-General Daniel Domelevo, retired Commissioner of Police Nathaniel Kofi Boakye, private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu, and investigative journalist Raymond Archer.

The nation now awaits decisive action as the government moves to hold corrupt officials accountable and recover the nation’s lost resources.

Source @pulseghana.

“Defend yourselves” – AMOS BLESSING -NDC Youth Organizer tells party supporters

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Greater Accra Regional Youth Organizer, Amos Blessing, has urged party supporters in the Ablekuma North Constituency to view members of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) not as friends but as political adversaries.

He emphasized the need for vigilance and self-defense in safeguarding their votes for the Ablekuma North parliamentary election.

According to him, the party and its members will not tolerate intimidation from the New Patriotic Party or any attempt to manipulate the election results in a manner that does not reflect the true will of the people.

His remarks come in response to a one-week ultimatum issued by the Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri and Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, to the Electoral Commission (EC) to declare the parliamentary election results for the constituency.

Annoh-Dompreh also warned that the NPP would disrupt parliamentary proceedings until the results are announced.

Speaking at the NDC’s vigil in Ablekuma North, on February 9, Greater Accra Regional Youth Organizer, Amos Blessing, said, “The police are quiet about Annoh-Dompreh’s outburst, it won’t be an offence if you also defend yourselves.

“The IGP would come to his senses if things go haywire that the law is there to deal with people who misconduct themselves no matter their political affiliations or status in society. We will do everything possible to protect Ablekuma seat.

“So far as Annoh-Dompreh has charged NPP supporters to assault NDC members, you should know that the law allows you to defend yourselves. If you go home and you see any NPP member tag him as an enemy and defend yourselves.”

On his part, the Deputy Greater Accra Regional Youth Organizer, Eugene Aronld, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to using every available means to resist any attempts to alter the election outcome in the constituency.

“Annoh-Dompreh, this is a warning to him, the next time he steps foot in Greater Accra to make those unwarranted statements, he will meet us boot for boot. We will not allow this seat to go unattended to, this seat will join our seats in parliament and Ewurabena Aubynn will be an MP for Ablekuma North.

“We will not give up on this seat. Whatever it will take to get this seat we will do it. Even if it takes the last blood in us.”

Source @citinewsroom

ORAL is better than Commission of Inquiry – Godwin Edudzi Tamekloe-Director of Legal Affairs for the National Democratic Congress (NDC)

The Director of Legal Affairs for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Godwin Edudzi Tamekloe, has strongly defended President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to set up the Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) committee rather than a Commission of Inquiry.

Speaking on the issue on The Key Points on TV3 on Saturday, February 8, Tamakloe emphasized that Article 41(f) of the 1992 Constitution places a duty on all Ghanaians to prevent the misuse and abuse of public property, making it clear that such responsibilities extend to members of any committee set up to investigate governance matters.

He explained that legal advice and past experiences—particularly the Ghana@50 Commission of Inquiry case—played a crucial role in the President’s decision.

According to Tamekloe, the ruling by the late Justice Samuel Marful-Sau in the Ghana@50 case demonstrated that establishing a Commission of Inquiry would have created legal limitations on any further actions, including prosecutions.

“Had the President chosen the Commission of Inquiry route, as seen in the Ghana@50 case, legal limits would have been placed on the outcome, potentially providing immunity to individuals whose conduct may be in question. That is why, based on sound legal reasoning, this approach was not taken,” he stated on February 8.

Tamekloe also highlighted that the current committee, which includes a prominent legal mind such as Martin Kpebu and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, is primarily gathering information for the President.

“This is not an investigative body capable of taking caution statements. It is an information-gathering process, which will guide the President’s next steps,” he explained.

He dismissed calls for the matter to be classified as a whistleblower case, arguing that the Whistleblower Act has clear statutory limits that do not necessarily align with the President’s current approach.

“The President made a campaign promise to implement ORAL, and this committee is part of the preparatory steps. On Monday, when the final report is submitted, the President will decide the next course of action, which could include forwarding the findings to the Attorney General,” he noted.

Tamekloe further pointed out that if the Commission of Inquiry approach had been used, President Mahama would have been legally bound to issue a white paper on the findings within a specific time frame.

However, under the current arrangement, he retains the flexibility to determine how best to act on the committee’s recommendations.

“The President can choose to forward the report to the Attorney-General without making any public statements. This strategy allows for a more effective and legally sound approach,” he added.

The final report from the ORAL Committee is expected to be submitted on Monday, after which President Mahama will communicate the next steps.

Source @3news.com

List of 17 Ministers sworn-in by President Mahama.

President John Dramani Mahama has sworn in the fourth batch of ministers of state in accordance with Article 78(1) of the 1992 Constitution.

The ceremony, held at Jubilee House on Friday, February 7, 2025, followed their approval by Parliament after a rigorous vetting process and extensive debates by the Appointments Committee.

In his address, President Mahama charged the newly appointed ministers to serve with diligence and integrity, urging them to prioritise national development and policy implementation in their respective roles.

Newly Sworn-in ministers

Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo – Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment

Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed – Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology

Samuel Nartey George – Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations

Kofi Iddie Adams – Minister for Sports and Recreation

Joseph Bukari Nikpe – Minister for Transport

Kwabena Mintah Akandoh – Minister for Health

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa – Minister for Foreign Affairs

Felix Kwakye Ofosu – Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications

Seidu Issifu – Minister of State in Charge of Climate Change and Sustainability

Charity Gardiner – Regional Minister for Ahafo

Salisu Be-Awuribe Issifu – Regional Minister for Savannah

Wilbert Petty Brentum – Regional Minister for Western North

Joseph Nelson – Regional Minister for Western

Joseph Addae Akwaboa – Regional Minister for Bono

Francis Owusu Antwi – Regional Minister for Bono East

Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere – Regional Minister for Central

Puozuing Charles Lwanga – Regional Minister for Upper West

With their official induction, President Mahama tasked the ministers to provide leadership and expertise in their respective portfolios, contributing to the government’s efforts to enhance governance and drive national development.

Source @graphiconline.com

“Ghana needs to move away from dependence to self-reliance and self-investment,” HANNA TETTEH Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL),

The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Hanna Tetteh is asking Ghana to move beyond over-reliance on external aid to self-reliance.

She says that the country will need to focus on self-investment in order to wean itself off aid.

“Ghana needs to move away from dependence to self-reliance and self-investment,” the former Minister of Foreign Affairs said Speaking in an exclusive interview with Johnnie Hughes on the Sunrise show on 3FM on Friday, February 7.

Recently, the World Bank in a report titled “Ghana – Towards efficient self-reliance: the role of manufacturing,” called for policy measures to focus on investment as part of efforts to ensure self-sufficiency.

The report noted that manufacturing appeared to have been one of the most healthy and dynamic sectors in Ghana. However, under close scrutiny, several deficiencies emerged in the sector.

The deficiencies include low value added at international prices; small foreign exchange savings; few domestic linkage; few jobs created; unbalanced regional development; negligible export promotion; low levels of efficiency in the public sector; inadequate repair and maintenance capacity; and small-scale industry neglect.

The Bretton Wood Institution said that some measures to rectify this situation have been taken, but they should be complemented by further policy measures if the role of the industrial sector within the broad strategy chosen by Ghana, efficient self-reliance, is to be enhanced.

Specific policy recommendations are made in the areas of natural resources and material supplies to industry, foreign exchange, capital constraints, and manpower. Several institutional proposals are also made.

The most promising investment opportunities seem to be in rice cultivation and processing, livestock production, sugar growing and refining, palm oil cultivation and milling, pulp and paper, conversion of bauxite into aluminium, clay bricks, and engineering workshops for machinery repair.

Source @3news.com

‘Help your NPP colleagues beat NDC members’ in Ablekuma North and stand by them – Annoh-Dompreh to supporters

Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has called on supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Ablekuma North to stand by their fellow party members in confrontations with members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Addressing a gathering of party supporters during a visit by the NPP caucus leadership to the party’s parliamentary candidate for Ablekuma North, Akua Afriyie, Annoh-Dompreh stated: “If indeed you are a member of the NPP and you go to meet your fellow party member fighting a member of the NDC, join your party member to beat the NDC member,” he declared.

The Nsawam-Adoagyiri MP accused the NDC of deliberately obstructing the Electoral Commission (EC) from completing the collation process and warned that the NPP would not tolerate further delays.

“We are giving the EC one week—seven days. The EC must come and declare our candidate as the winner of the Ablekuma North election,” he insisted.

Citinewsroom - Comprehensive News in Ghana

‘Help your NPP colleagues beat NDC members’ – Annoh-Dompreh to supporters

William NarhbyWilliam Narh February 6, 2025Reading Time: 1 min read

Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has called on supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Ablekuma North to stand by their fellow party members in confrontations with members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Addressing a gathering of party supporters during a visit by the NPP caucus leadership to the party’s parliamentary candidate for Ablekuma North, Akua Afriyie, Annoh-Dompreh stated: “If indeed you are a member of the NPP and you go to meet your fellow party member fighting a member of the NDC, join your party member to beat the NDC member,” he declared.

The Nsawam-Adoagyiri MP accused the NDC of deliberately obstructing the Electoral Commission (EC) from completing the collation process and warned that the NPP would not tolerate further delays.

“We are giving the EC one week—seven days. The EC must come and declare our candidate as the winner of the Ablekuma North election,” he insisted.

He cautioned that any further delay in announcing Akua Afriyie as the MP-elect for the constituency would result in continuous disruptions in Parliament.

“If the NDC, led by Mahama Ayariga, does not act reasonably and continues to prevent the EC from completing the collation, they will never know peace in Parliament.”

Annoh-Dompreh also called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo-Dampare, to intervene decisively against what he described as the NDC’s disruptive tactics.

“If the IGP also decides to look on unconcerned and allow these people to continue like this, we will continue to demonstrate,” he warned.

The NPP minority caucus remains adamant that the electoral process in Ablekuma North must be concluded promptly to reflect what they believe is the rightful outcome of the polls.

Source @citinewsroom

Mr.Ohene Kwame Frimpong (MP) for Asante Akyem North delivers Parliamentary contribution in Asante Twi.

In a rare moment in Ghana’s Parliament, Mr Ohene Kwame Frimpong, the Independent Member of Parliament (MP) for Asante Akyem North, delivered his entire contribution to proceedings in Asante Twi on Wednesday, February 5, 2025.

Mr Frimpong, who now aligns with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Majority Caucus, spoke in support of a statement on tourism, highlighting the urgent need for improved road infrastructure to enhance local tourism.

He further raised concerns about non-functional streetlights on major roads and alleged incidents of prostitution in his constituency, urging authorities to address these issues.

However, during his address, the Second Deputy Speaker, Mr Andrew Asiamah Amoako, who was presiding over proceedings, directed Mr Frimpong to translate his comments into English for the benefit of all members.

According to Order 63 of the new Standing Orders of Parliament, MPs are permitted to use local languages, provided that interpretation and translation services are available to ensure comprehension among all members.

The implementation of this provision was initially scheduled to take effect during the Second Meeting of the Fourth Session of the Eighth Parliament. In 2024, Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin announced that necessary facilities, including translators and technical equipment, were being put in place to support the use of local languages in parliamentary debates.

“...So, barring any hitches, the new measure will take off after the Easter break,” Mr Bagbin had stated.

Mr Frimpong’s decision to use Asante Twi in Parliament has sparked renewed discussions on linguistic diversity and inclusivity in Ghana’s legislative processes, potentially paving the way for broader representation of local languages in national discourse.

Source @graphiconline

Anlo chiefs demand MP’s identity and answers over Zanetor Rawlings insult in Parliament.

The Anlo Dukor Council has petitioned the Speaker of Parliament to identify the Member of Parliament (MP) who allegedly made a disparaging remark against Hon. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings during the ministerial approval session on February 4, 2025. 

In a statement signed by Togbi Agbesi Awusu III, Awadada of Anlo Dukor, the council expressed outrage over the comment, reportedly directed at Dr Agyeman-Rawlings, referring to her as the “daughter of a murderer.” The alleged outburst occurred amid heated exchanges in Parliament during the approval of Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

The statement noted that earlier speculation pointed to Hon. Abu Jinapor, MP for Damango, and Hon. Nana Kwame Asafo-Adjei, MP for Bosome Freho. However, both lawmakers have denied making the remark.

Source @3fm

President Emmerson Mnangagwa welcomes Donald Trump’s decision to deport hundreds of Zimbabweans from the US

President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe has expressed support for the United States' decision to deport Zimbabwean citizens residing illegally in the country. 

 

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mnangagwa stated that his government backs the repatriation efforts, aligning with the US policy under President Donald Trump’s intensified immigration crackdown.

The announcement follows the US government's plans to deport 545 Zimbabweans as part of a broader operation targeting over 1.4 million noncitizens flagged for removal by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Under Trump’s administration, immigration enforcement has escalated, with daily detentions exceeding 500 undocumented individuals. The crackdown has included measures such as cutting aid to developing countries and enforcing mass deportations.

 

The deportation wave impacts not only Zimbabweans but also nationals from other African countries, including 379 South Africans, 174 Zambians, 15 Mozambicans, and 12 Batswana, who face imminent removal. ICE has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the timely deportation of individuals with final removal orders while urging foreign governments to cooperate in accepting their deported nationals.

 

Zimbabwe’s endorsement of the deportation policy comes amid ongoing discussions about reintegrating returnees into their home country. With Zimbabwe grappling with economic challenges, the influx of deportees may place additional strain on national resources.

 

 

Member of Parliament for Damongo, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, has strongly denied responsibility for making an unsavoury comment referring to Dr Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings, Klottey Korle MP and eldest daughter of the late former President Jerry Rawlings, as a “daughter of a murderer” during parliamentary proceedings

Member of Parliament for Damongo, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, has strongly denied responsibility for making an unsavoury comment referring to Dr Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings, Klottey Korle MP and eldest daughter of the late former President Jerry Rawlings, as a “daughter of a murderer” during parliamentary proceedings.

This disclaimer comes after a section of the public attributed the comment to the lawmaker and strongly criticised him.

The incident occurred in the House on Tuesday, 4th February, when members from both the Minority and Majority sides were contributing to a statement commemorating the 60th anniversary of the passing of Dr Joseph Boakye (J.B.) Danquah.

A video shows Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin addressing the floor when he was interrupted by the voice of a yet-to-be-identified NPP MP shouting, “Daughter of a murderer, sit down!”—directed at Dr Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings.

In response, Mr Jinapor has clarified that he was not responsible for the comment, stating his utmost respect for his colleague, Dr Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings.

He clarified:

For the record, the said allegation is absolutely false. I have the utmost respect for Former President Jerry John Rawlings, his family, and Dr Zanetor Rawlings in particular.

He also reaffirmed his respect for the late former president:

While he was alive, President Rawlings was someone who took a great liking and interest in me as a young politician, and I had great respect for him as a Ghanaian statesman. I have and will not denigrate the Rawlings family in any form or shape, or any Ghanaian for that matter. That is not in my nature.

The Damango MP emphasised his belief in decent debates and intellectual discourse in devoid of insults and character assassination.

Source @Pulseghana

John Dumelo has been named the Deputy Minister-designate for Agriculture.

President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Justice Srem-Sai as the Deputy Minister-designate for Attorney General and Justice.

Additionally, John Dumelo has been named the Deputy Minister-designate for Agriculture. These appointments were announced by Felix Ofosu Kwakye, the Spokesperson for President Mahama.

The Deputy Ministers-designate include:

1. Ministry of Finance – Thomas Nyarko Ampem

2. Ministry of the Interior – Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi

3. Ministry of Defence -Ernest Brogya Gyenfi

4. Ministry of Education -Clement Abas Apaak

5 Ministry of Energy & Green Transition -Richard Gyan-Mensah

6. Ministry of Roads & Highways -Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini

7. Ministry of Justice & Attorney General- Justice Srem-Sai

8 Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources -Yusif Sulemana

9. Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs -Rita Naa Odoley Sowah

10. Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources -Gizella Tettey-Agbotui

I I. Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts -Yussif Issaka Jajah

12. Ministry of Food and Agriculture -John Kofi Setor Dumelo

13. Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry -Samson Ahi

Source @citinewsroom

Social media influencers pose key questions to Mahama at Townhall Meeting

 

Ghanaian social media influencers took centre stage at a town hall hosted by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Mahama at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.

The August 12 event, which drew a crowd of residents, youth, and party sympathisers, provided a platform for discussions on pressing national issues ahead of the 2024 election.

The town hall also saw notable participation from various social media influencers who posed pertinent questions to Mr. Mahama.

Their inquiries covered a wide range of topics, reflecting the diverse concerns of the Ghanaian public.

Among the key issues raised were the state of the economy, internet infrastructure, and youth employment.

Influencers such as KalyJay, SDK, veteran boxers Bukom Banku and Ayittey Powers questioned Mr. Mahama on his plans to address the high cost of living and improve economic conditions for ordinary Ghanaians and sports.

There was another interesting moment where the NDC flagbearer retold a joke by comedian DKB to the resounding cheers of the gathering.They also sought clarity on his vision for advancing technology and internet accessibility, which are crucial for the country’s development and digital economy.

In response, John Mahama outlined his commitment to addressing these challenges through targeted policies and reforms.

He emphasised the need for a more robust economic strategy to alleviate the financial strain on citizens and pledged to enhance internet infrastructure to support digital growth and innovation in all spheres including the creative arts industry.

Pius Hadzide fires NDC for protesting 10% betting tax

 The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Pius Enam Hadzide, has berated the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for protesting the recently imposed 10% betting tax.

He said the NDC’s conduct means they support activities that will affect the value systems of the country. 

The former Deputy Information Minister speaking in an interview with Citi FM on Wednesday, August 16, urged Ghanaians to call out the NDC. 

According to him, the NDC is just being populist for election purposes. 

“I’m pretty much scandalised listening to NDC, with the impression they are creating. If there is a problem with employment, in NDC’s view, young people should resort to betting, as a means of resolving whatever challenges young people are confronted with. I’m scandalised.”

“Let me just place it on record that, it is not just the Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, who has issues with betting and what betting can do to the value system of any country, even the Minority Leader, Ato Forson has called on the state to ban all forms of betting,” he said. 

Mr Hadzide also lambasted the largest opposition party for instigating the youth against the government.

“The young people are being prepared for the future and if you want to lead the country, you should be discussing policies and not that there are hardships, young people should resort to betting, a game of luck, a game of chance.

“And that we are not going to encourage the Ghanaian youth who is hardworking, entrepreneur, by the way, to continue to work hard.”

The Youth Wing of the NDC has asked the government to immediately abolish the recently imposed 10% withholding tax on all gross gaming winnings. 

According to them, the “insensitive policy” will worsen the plight of the already impoverished youths. 

In a press statement issued by the National Youth Organiser of the party, George Opare Addo, the NDC Youth Wing threatened series of protests should the government fail to abolish the tax.

These actions include picketing at the Ministry of Finance and other government offices across the country. 

“In the face of the unjust ten (10%) taxation on bet wins, we, the young people of Ghana and the NDC Youth, declare a resolute series of actions to resist the burdensome and insensitive policy.”

“Our unity is unwavering and our determination to protect the funds of the young people secured through betting is unyielding.”

“Through agitations, protects, agitations and advocacy and civic engagements, we will ensure our voices are heard and demand that this corrupt Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government rescind its decision,” excerpts of the release said. 

But Mr Hadzide says the NDC is just playing on the emotions of the Ghanaian youth. 

Background 

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) on Tuesday, August 15, commenced the implementation of a 10% withholding tax on all gross gaming winnings.

According to the GRA, the withholding tax will be charged on profits accrued after each win and that the existing 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) rate on each stake will no longer be charged.

The GRA said that the new policy is in line with an amendment to the Income Tax Act 2023 (No.2), Act 1094.

Niger crisis could plunge West Africa serious security situation

 The security situation in wider West Africa could worsen if the crisis in Niger is not resolved, the top UN envoy for the region said on Tuesday.

“The unfolding crisis, if not addressed, will exacerbate the deteriorating security situation in the region,” Leonardo Santos Simão, the UN secretary-general’s special representative for West Africa and the Sahel, told reporters at the UN headquarters in New York via video teleconference from Accra, Ghana.

It will also negatively impact the development and lives of the population in a country where 4.3 million people need humanitarian assistance, added the envoy, who also heads the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel.

Simão underscored support for efforts by the Economic Community of West African States to restore democratic order in Niger, and warned that if measures are not taken, or the situation is not reversed, “it is very likely the spread of terrorism in the region can increase.”

Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday expressed deep concern over reports of the arrest of several members of Niger’s government.

Guterres urgently called for the strict adherence to Niger’s international human rights obligations and the prompt restoration of constitutional order, his deputy spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters.

Haq also said that the United Nations and humanitarian partners are committed to staying and continuing to provide vital aid to the most vulnerable segments of the population in Niger.

“To ensure the continuation of this crucial assistance, it is imperative that all parties foster a conducive operating environment,” he said.

I’ll vote for an aspirant who can inflict a third successive defeat on Mahama – Akufo-Addo

President Nana Akufo-Addo says he will support any New Patriotic Party flagbearer aspirant who can unite and win next year’s presidential election for the party.

According to him, he has been given the opportunity to vote for just one aspirant as all polling station executives across the country are entitled to.

He made this known in a tweet on Wednesday, August 2, when he met NPP communicators who called on him at the Jubilee House.

President Akufo-Addo asserted that he will cast his vote for an aspirant who he believes can “inflict a third successive defeat on the perennial NDC Presidential Candidate, John Dramani Mahama.”

Also read: No president can foist a candidate on NPP – Akufo-Addo

He also noted that the history of the governing NPP shows that no president can impose a candidate on the party, saying that party has never subscribed to a cult of personality.

“The history of the NPP tells us that no President can foist a candidate on the party against its wishes. The NPP is not that kind of party. We have never subscribed to a cult of personality,” he said on Wednesday, August 2, when he met NPP communicators who called on him at Jubilee House.

“Indeed, our highly-respected former President, the first NPP President, John Agyekum Kufuor, in the aftermath of my election as NPP Presidential Candidate, by the 2007 National Congress, told the Congress that ‘the party has its spirit’, a spirit that cannot be ignored.”

John MahamaPresident Akufo-Addo

 

I’m not sure Aisha Huang was deported from Ghana – Akufo-Addo

 

With growing concerns about the activities of Aisha Huang, a notorious galamsey kingpin in Ghana, President Akufo-Addo says he is not sure about her earlier deportation from the country.

According to him, her re-emergence raises concerns about whether she left Ghana in the first place.

Speaking on a Ho-based radio station, as part of his tour of the Volta Region, he expressed reservation about the nefarious activities of Aisha Huang and affirmed his support for her prosecution.

“I’m not still sure whether she was in fact deported. Or whether she fled the country the first time and has now come back. There still seems to be some uncertainty about it.

“But whichever way it is, she’s become the sort of nickname for all that galamsey represents”, he said.

“We have concerted to work at it. We need to have the cooperation of the courts. Until recently when I came, the punishment for people caught was relatively light. [But] we’ve changed the law to stiffen the punishment for people caught,” he added.

Commenting on the fight against galamsey, he also stated that compared to the past, the fight has become more popular in his regime.

In his view, efforts to clamp down on illegal mining have seen a massive improvement under his watch as President.

The President, therefore, urged Ghanaians to sustain the momentum in dealing with the menace.“We have concerted to work at it. We need to have the cooperation of the courts. Until recently when I came, the punishment for people caught was relatively light. [But] we’ve changed the law to stiffen the punishment for people caught,” he added.

“The efforts have brought a lot of fruits first of all. Galamsey is now a subject of national discussion. Everywhere you go, there’s this matter of galamsey. We’ve at least achieved this purpose of heightening consciousness about it as an evil.

“When I came, nobody was talking about galamsey. Since we came and focused on it, it is now the subject of discussions in homes, in offices, in meetings and all across Ghana. So that’s one positive development”, stressed

Meanwhile, the Attorney General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has expressed his resolve to prosecute notorious ‘galamsey’ poster girl, Aisha Huang for her past and recent crimes.

Aisha, whose nefarious activities came to light again was recently arrested and arraigned before court.

Ghana’s actual inflation in July 2022 was 77% – Hanke’s Inflation Dashboard

 A Professor of Applied Economics at the Johns Hopkins University, Professor Steve H. Hanke, has questioned the country’s inflation rate of 31.7% recorded in July 2022.

 In ‘Hanke’s Inflation Dashboard’ analysing the inflation rate of 18 countries, Professor Hanke said Ghana’s real inflation rate in July was 77%.

This is 45.3% more than the data released by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS).

According to Hanke’s Inflation Dashboard, Ghana is ranked 6th in the world in terms of the Consumer Pricing Index (CPI).

Zimbabwe is number one in the world with an inflation rate of 479%, whilst Cuba (135%), Turkey (132%), Sri Lanka (104%) and Lebanon (89%) are 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th respectively.

According to the GSS, the increase in inflation in July 2022 was triggered by Transport (44.6%); Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels (43.0%); Furnishings, Household Equipment and Routine Household Maintenance (42.0%); Recreation, Sport and Culture (33.8%); Personal Care, Social Protection and Miscellaneous Goods and Services (33.7%) and Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages (32.3%).

Indeed, six divisions recorded inflation rates higher than the national average.

For the month-on-month, the inflation rate between June 2022 and July 2022 was 3.1%.

Is Akufo-Addo sacking Ofori-Atta through the Council of State?

 Blessed Godsbrain Smart, host of Onua TV/FM morning show has alleged President Akufo-Addo has delegated the Council of State to initiate the sacking of the Finance Minister.

He says the Council has been directed to invite the Governor of Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Ernest Addison and the Finance Minister, Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta, to explain to them why the cedi is performing abysmally against other foreign currencies, especially the US dollar.

During his rants Wednesday, August 24, 2022, Captain Smart averred Dr. Addison pumps about $27 million daily into the economy to curb the free fall of the cedi to the dollar but to no avail.

He says the plan is for the Council to ask the minister to step aside since the financial outlook of the economy is the worst Ghana has had in the Fourth Republic after the meeting.

Captain Smart has added the President has taken this approach because he can’t sack the minister, who is his cousin, by himself.