The Greens Ghana has officially been awarded the prestigious EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certification by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group.

This recognition positions The Greens as one of the first fully EDGE-certified residential communities in Ghana and a frontrunner in environmentally conscious real estate development across West Africa.

EDGE is a globally recognised green building standard that quantifies resource efficiency in energy, water, and materials.

The certification validates The Greens Ghana’s commitment to sustainable design, construction, and long-term value creation.

“This certification is a major milestone not just for The Greens, but for Ghana’s real estate sector,” said Kiran Daswani, CEO of The Greens Ghana. “We’re proud to offer future-ready homes that prove sustainability and affordability can coexist—and that responsible building is good business.”

The Greens Ghana incorporates 20% energy savings through passive solar architecture and energy-efficient appliances, 30–40% water savings using low-flow plumbing fixtures and drought-tolerant landscaping and reduced carbon footprint by prioritising locally sourced, low-impact construction materials

As ESG investing and climate-conscious development become priorities for global and diaspora investors alike, The Greens is meeting the demand for quality housing that is both future-proof and finance-friendly.

This certification also aligns with Ghana’s broader climate resilience goals and the global push toward net-zero development practices.

The project’s next phase, already underway, will continue to follow EDGE standards as The Greens scales its model to meet rising housing demand.

By championing sustainable innovation in residential real estate, The Greens is creating long-term value for homeowners, institutional investors, and the environment.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

By the time Liverpool unveiled the news with a cheeky tweet, the drama had long reached fever pitch behind closed doors.

At 8 a.m. last Friday, Liverpool’s social media blared the words: “More in than out”. A light-hearted jab at Mohamed Salah’s own confession months earlier when, amid swirling uncertainty over his future, he admitted feeling “more out than in” at Anfield.

Fast forward to April 2025, the Egyptian superstar has now committed to two more years on Merseyside — a deal that keeps him at Liverpool well into his 34th year, with no release clauses or break options.

But this wasn’t just another contract extension — it was a masterclass in negotiation, risk management and strategic vision. In a story blending legal acumen, executive diplomacy and high-stakes brinkmanship, Salah’s team outmanoeuvred aggressive Saudi interest, while Liverpool’s leadership played a long game that preserved financial discipline and retained a global brand ambassador.

For business leaders watching from the sidelines, this saga offers rich insights into corporate negotiations and talent retention strategies under pressure.

Tempting Saudi offer

At the heart of the saga was growing interest from Saudi Arabian clubs, eager to make Salah the poster boy of their football revolution. Lucrative offers were whispered across corridors of power, reportedly dwarfing the Premier League’s top wages. With the Public Investment Fund-backed league flexing its financial muscle, many believed Salah might follow the path of global stars to Riyadh or Jeddah.

But Salah’s decision not to jump ship wasn’t based solely on money. His inner circle, led by the sharp-witted lawyer and long-time advisor Ramy Abbas, played a pivotal role. They were open to listening — but not easily swayed. The message from Abbas was clear: Salah still had goals to chase, records to break and a Ballon d’Or to win. At 32, he wasn’t ready to fade into semi-retirement.

What clinched the decision to stay at Liverpool? Respect, legacy and an organisation willing to match ambition with substance.

Legal precision and loyalty

Colombian-born Abbas, Salah’s formidable lawyer and trusted confidant, is known in elite football circles for being efficient, direct and fiercely protective of his client. He doesn’t entertain lengthy phone calls — especially not in the UAE, where WhatsApp calls are blocked. Messages go unanswered unless it’s serious. 

His WhatsApp profile even reads: “Voice notes ignored. If you’re late, I will leave.”

It was Abbas who shaped the contours of the new deal, negotiating not just from a place of loyalty, but from calculated leverage.

When Liverpool’s new sporting director, Richard Hughes, initiated talks last July, Abbas was cautious. The personal touch — a rare commodity in elite football negotiations — was revived when Hughes travelled to Dubai not once but twice before the end of 2024.

Their first face-to-face meeting was over drinks at a quiet bar — a casual setting for a crucial conversation. But Abbas left with doubts. Was Liverpool still serious about Salah? Would they recognise his sustained excellence and reward him accordingly?

Abbas knew his client’s worth. More importantly, he knew Liverpool couldn’t replace what Salah offers — not just on the pitch, but commercially. 

A global Muslim icon, Salah is a brand unto himself. That level of influence doesn’t come cheaply.

Liverpool’s strategic patience  

Back in Liverpool, Hughes faced pressure. The club was navigating a transition after the departure of Jurgen Klopp and the appointment of Feyenoord’s Arne Slot. Salah wasn’t the only player with a contract running down — club captain Virgil van Dijk and deputy Trent Alexander-Arnold were in the same boat. Yet, Hughes knew Salah was the linchpin.

Guided by Fenway Sports Group’s (FSG) mantra — “Don’t ask what looks right today; ask what will look right in three years” — Hughes trod carefully. FSG didn’t want to disrupt their sustainable financial model, but they were also aware that Salah was not just a player — he was Liverpool’s most valuable asset.

Even with Salah’s previous contract already placing him among the Premier League’s highest earners (reportedly worth up to £1 million per week, including bonuses and commercial income), FSG remained open to matching that structure again — provided the deal made financial sense.

Hughes’ discreet collaboration with former sporting director Michael Edwards, now operating within FSG’s broader structure, helped keep the process on track. Edwards, known for his shrewdness, had orchestrated Salah’s last renewal in 2022. His fingerprints were likely on this one too — if not officially, then certainly in the strategy.

Final deal

The result? A two-year extension, with no release clause, that sees Salah remain the second-highest-paid player in the league behind Erling Haaland. The exact financials remain confidential, but insiders say the package aligns closely with his previous terms, including rich commercial opportunities and performance-linked incentives.

Perhaps, more importantly, it restores clarity and calm for Liverpool. With Salah’s future secured, the club can now focus on rebuilding under Slot, knowing that their biggest icon — a man with 243 goals in 394 appearances — remains at the helm.

For Salah, the twilight of his career isn’t a slow descent. It’s a reinvention.

Boardroom lessons

This deal wasn’t just about football. It was a strategic chess match with lessons for corporate leaders across sectors:

Know your asset: Liverpool recognised Salah’s unique value — commercially, culturally and competitively. They didn’t let age dictate worth.

Negotiate with respect: Abbas valued face-to-face engagement. Personal touches still matter in high-stakes deals.

Patience pays off: Saudi Arabia’s interest was real. But Salah’s team didn’t let the numbers alone dictate the narrative. Legacy won the day.

Sustainable vision matters: FSG’s insistence on long-term thinking ensured that emotion didn’t override financial strategy.

In the end, Egyptian icon Salah stays — not just as a footballer, but as a case study in leadership, loyalty and the power of smart negotiation.

For Liverpool, it’s not just “more in than out” — it’s a decisive win in a high-stakes business play.  (Adapted from The Athletic)

Budapest, Apr. 14, (dpa/GNA) – The Hungarian parliament has enshrined in the country’s constitution that a person can only be defined as either a man or a woman.

A total of 140 members of parliament voted in favour of the amendment brought forward by the government led by right-wing populist Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. There were 21 votes against. As expected, the two-thirds majority necessary for a constitutional amendment was achieved.

During the vote, trumpets sounded in the plenary hall in a protest by opponents of the constitutional amendment. Numerous supporters of the opposition demonstrated in front of the parliament building.

The Momentum opposition party had called for the protests.

On March 18, Hungary’s parliament banned the annual Pride parades, which advocate for trans and sexual minority rights, among other things.

The government had justified the ban on pride parades, above all, with the aim of “protecting” children from contact with the topic of homosexuality.

The amendment adopted on Monday states that the protection of the “mental and moral development” of children has the status of a fundamental right that takes precedence over all other fundamental rights, with the exception of the right to life.

It is the 15th amendment to the Hungarian constitution, based on the ideas of Orbán and his political friends introduced in 2011, the preamble of which is titled “National Creed.”

Critics of the measure agreed on Monday argue that the right to freedom of assembly has been downgraded. Demonstrators outside the parliament building chanted: “Freedom of assembly is a fundamental right.”

Since December 2020, Hungary’s constitution has also stated that a mother can only be a woman and a father can only be a man.

Since 2020, a law has also been in force in Hungary that makes it impossible for transgender people to officially change their gender.

GNA

PDC

Nelson Kofi Djabab, the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Krachi East Constituency, has commended the government for addressing the premix fuel supply challenges in the country.

The lawmaker alleged that the failure of the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration to ensure that Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) paid the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) for premix fuel led to shortages and erratic supply.

Djabab claimed that during the NPP administration, OMCs failed to pay the Tema Oil Refinery, resulting in premix fuel shortages.

He said the NDC government had engaged with OMCs and ensured they started paying the incurred costs, which has led to the stabilization of premix fuel supply across the country, including in the Krachi East constituency.

Djabab made these remarks during his thank-you tour of the constituency to express gratitude to residents who voted for him and President Mahama in the 2024 Election.

The legislator said the NDC government would prioritize the construction of a Municipal Hospital for the constituency, citing the current lack of healthcare facilities as a major concern. He revealed that the NDC government, led by President John Dramani Mahama, would work to address this issue.

Safo Nketia, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), expressed his gratitude to community members for the warm reception they received during their engagement.

He highlighted the collaborative efforts between himself and the MP to drive development in Krachi East.

Residents of Kpogede, a fishing community in Krachi East, appealed to the MP to renovate their school and upgrade the Cement-Kpogede-Asizakpe road. The appeal was made by Ever Jepeh, Madam Mary Tepeakor, and other community members after engaging with the MP.

Some players within the extractive sector are expressing optimism that the government’s decision not to renew Gold Fields’ Damang Mining Lease is ultimately in the best interest of the state.

Although the move has raised concerns among some market watchers about its potential impact on investor confidence—especially coming on the heels of a recent hike in the Growth and Sustainability Levy from 1 percent to 3 percent—others believe it signals a stronger stance on maximizing national benefit from mineral resources.

Speaking to Citi Business News, Chairman of the Ghana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GHEITI), Dr. Steve Manteaw, welcomed the decision, noting that the country must prioritize value for money in lease agreements.

“There have been instances where certain expired leases were renewed for the holders to only flip, sell the mine and make huge profits which should have come to the state. I am not saying that is the reason for the decision of the Minerals Commission in this particular instance but I won’t be surprised but let’s believe that the regulator is working in the best interest of the state I don’t believe there’s any course for worry,” he explained.

“All you need to do is monitor the space and see that going beyond the refusal what the regulator will do with this particular mine,” he added.

Meanwhile,the Minerals Commission has framed the move not as a setback but as a turning point for Ghana’s natural resource management.

According to Isaac Andrews Tandoh, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, said this decision offers Ghana a rare opportunity to redefine the trajectory of its extractive industry and assert greater national control over its mineral wealth.

The Sultanate of Oman has commended the ongoing efforts of King Mohammed VI, in his capacity as Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, for his steadfast commitment to defending the Holy City and preserving its historical and civilisational identity.

This recognition of His Majesty’s pivotal role in supporting the Palestinian cause, particularly in relation to Al-Quds Asharif, was expressed in a joint communiqué issued during the 7th session of the Moroccan-Omani Joint Commission.

The session was co-chaired on Sunday in Muscat by Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, and Oman’s Foreign Minister, Badr Bin Hamad Bin Hamoud Al Busaidi.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Minister of Finance, Dr. Ato Forson

Ghana’s Minister of Finance, Cassiel Ato Forson, PhD, has been elected Chairman of the Board of Governors of ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) during the Bank’s 23rd Annual General Meeting held in Banjul, Gambia.

Announcing the appointment in a social media post, Dr Forson outlined four key pillars that will guide his leadership:

Strengthening Resource Mobilization – To ensure that EBID is adequately financed to meet the development aspirations of member states.

Improving Capital Recovery – By enhancing asset management and operational efficiency.

Facilitating Non-Regional Membership – To diversify partnerships and broaden the investment base.

Positioning EBID as West Africa’s Premier Development Finance Institution – One that is capable of driving transformative impact across the region and beyond.

“These priorities reflect our collective ambition to build a more integrated and prosperous West Africa,” he stated.

“While our region faces complex challenges, these challenges also present opportunities to think boldly and act decisively.”

Read His Full Post Below:

I am deeply honoured to have been elected Chairman of the Board of Governors of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) during its 23rd Annual General Meeting held in Banjul, Gambia.

Although I was unable to attend the meeting in person, I was ably represented by the Deputy Minister for Finance, Hon. Thomas Nyarko Ampem, who conveyed my sincere gratitude and strategic vision on my behalf.

I express my heartfelt appreciation to my esteemed colleagues on the Board for the confidence reposed in me. This appointment is not only a personal honour but also a significant responsibility—one I embrace with humility and determination.

As Chairman, I look forward to working closely with all stakeholders to chart a path of resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth for our sub-region.

My vision for EBID rests on four key pillars:

Strengthening Resource Mobilization – to ensure that EBID is adequately financed to meet the development aspirations of our member states;

Improving Capital Recovery – by enhancing asset management and operational efficiency;

Facilitating Non-Regional Membership – to diversify our partnerships and investment base;

Positioning EBID as West Africa’s Premier Development Finance Institution – capable of driving transformative impact across the region and beyond.

These priorities reflect our collective ambition to build a more integrated and prosperous West Africa. While our region faces complex challenges, these challenges present us with the opportunity to think boldly and act decisively.

I wish to commend Dr. George Agyekum Donkor, President of EBID, and his capable team for their tireless efforts in advancing regional integration and economic development. Their work continues to lay a strong foundation for the future of our institution.

I also thank my predecessor, Hon. Seedy Keita, for his exemplary leadership and contributions to the Bank. I am grateful for his support and the legacy he leaves behind, which I intend to build upon.

I assure all member states of Ghana’s unwavering commitment to EBID’s mission and mandate. Together, we can realize the vision of a self-reliant, integrated, and economically empowered West Africa.

Let us move forward with shared purpose and renewed dedication.

The  no-retirement con­tract directive issued by the government does not apply to academia, the Minister of Education, Mr Haruna Iddri­su, has clarified.

He explained that the special­ised nature of tertiary education made it peculiar as such its hu­man resource requirement would be determined by their respective councils.

Government took a major decision on post retirement con­tract of appointment to public service.

For a public servant who had attained the age of 60, the new government’s strong position is not to grant post retirement contract to such individuals.   

At a press conference to announce the position of the government on this in Accra on Friday, Mr Iddrisu, however, clarified that those in the aca­demia and other places of higher learning would not be affected by the directive

“The essence of this briefing is to assure that the men and women in the academia are not affected by this decision,” he added.

He also assured that faculty and faculty members were ex­empted from the directive and as such must remain calm.

Mr Iddrisu said that for their purposes, they would go through their Councils, and the public service where necessary for those approvals to be granted.

“So the essence of this press briefing is just to assure aca­demia, lecturers, and students that the academic community, lecturers in universities and other institutions of higher learning in the tertiary institutions are exempted,” the Minister further gave the assurance

Canada-born TJ Tahid has been named in Ghana’s squad for this month’s CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The Vancouver FC striker impressed during his maiden call-up last month when he featured for the Black Satellites in the training tour of Morocco.

Tahid confirmed his invitation to the club’s website: “They called my dad. He’s from Ghana, so they called him directly, and he told me while I was getting ready to come to training that I gotta start learning the national anthem. It was a very proud moment for the two of us for sure.

“There’s a lot of excitement, but at the same time, I know I have to work. I have to earn my spot on the team, of course. It’s different from being at the club. I think the biggest thing for me is the preparation. Knowing I had that experience from the World Cup and taking that into the AFCON.”

In 2023, the 17-year-old played for Canada at the FIFA U17 World Cup in Indonesia, where he featured in all three Group matches.

He remains eligible to represent Canada at the senior level, as youth-level appearances do not count toward being cap-tied.

The Black Satellites have drawn D.R. Congo, The Central African Republic and Senegal in Group C.

A semi-final berth will secure qualification to the prestigious 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile from 27 September to 19 October.

Policy analyst Dr Steve Manteaw

Policy analyst Dr Steve Manteaw sees nothing wrong with the government’s refusal to renew the Damang mining lease for Goldfields.

An internal memo announcing the decision by the government to workers of Goldfields indicated that they will ensure their workers are protected as a result of the refusal.

Goldfields indicated that they are working with the government to ensure that they get the approval but until then, they are preparing to leave the lease on April 18, 2025 when it expires.

In a Facebook post, Dr Steve Manteaw indicated that what’s imperative is not the decision not to renew the lease for Goldfields.

Rather, the people of Ghana must be concerned about who will be given the lease after Goldfields have been refused.

He said “I see no issue with the refusal to renew the Goldfields Damang lease, since the company itself started deinvesting in the project two years ago, and proceeded to direct all subs and suppliers to demobilise. The sudden interest in the mine, expressed by Goldfields is strange and serves as a caution to the regulator to avoid a repetition of past mistakes.

For us as citizens, our interest at this moment lies in what happens to Damang, and that decision ought to be taken transparently and in our collective national interest.

Shalom”.

Investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas has secured a legal victory against former Ghanaian Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong, after a jury in the Essex County Superior Court in New Jersey found Agyapong liable for defamation. According to multiple media reports, the court awarded Anas a multi-million dollar settlement.

In a statement posted on Facebook, Anas described the ruling as more than just a personal victory, calling it a decisive message to Ghanaian politicians that the media cannot be taken for granted. 

“This decision is not merely a legal triumph—it is a resounding affirmation that falsehood and character assassination have no place in our society,” he wrote. He emphasised that the verdict reinforced a commitment to building a robust democracy that serves all Ghanaians.

Reflecting on the legal battle, Anas noted the stark difference between the judicial systems of the United States and Ghana. 

He explained that proving defamation in the U.S. requires clear and convincing evidence of malice, making the jury’s unanimous ruling in his favour even more significant. “That the jury ruled unanimously in my favour underscores that Mr Agyapong acted both maliciously and recklessly in his attacks against me,” he stated.

However, he lamented that justice had eluded him in Ghana when he pursued a similar lawsuit in 2018. He recalled that despite Agyapong’s own admission of lacking evidence, the Accra High Court dismissed his case. 

The ruling by Justice Eric Baah not only denied him justice but also portrayed him as a criminal. He cited Supreme Court Justice Kulendi’s later condemnation of the ruling as a “violent abuse of judicial authority,” calling it a stark reminder of systemic flaws within Ghana’s judicial system that demand urgent reform.

Anas further used the ruling to caution politicians against attempting to undermine the press. “Today’s outcome sends a powerful message, particularly to Ghanaian politicians: you cannot take the media for granted,” he warned. He stressed the importance of press freedom and accountability, highlighting the role of journalists in scrutinising power and holding leaders responsible.

Expressing gratitude to his legal team—Andrew Deheer, Esq., Arthur Wemegah, Esq., Evans Selasi Adika, Esq., and Odei Krow, Esq.—as well as supporters who stood by him in his pursuit of justice, Anas reaffirmed his commitment to fearless journalism. The verdict, he asserted, was not just about him, but about upholding truth and ensuring that justice prevails over misinformation.

The Ranking Member of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has made a passionate call for an immediate depoliticisation of the conflict and a nationalistic approach to resolving the crisis.

“The death toll is rising. People are living in fear. Children can’t go to school,” he told Joy News’ PM Express on Monday night.

“No essential services are thriving at the moment. Teachers, doctors and nurses are refusing posting to Bawku. Essential services are crippling, and this is really dire for our humanitarian efforts.”

His comments come amid escalating violence that has reportedly resulted in the deaths of both civilians and security personnel.

According to Rev. Fordjour, the conflict has taken on a new and dangerous dimension, with attacks on the very security forces deployed to restore peace.

“We’ve seen a worrying trend. The new dimension of the conflict seems to be between one of the feuding factions and the security services,” he said.

“It seems like some reprisals between the youth on one side and the police, and that is very dangerous. The security is there to ensure the protection of our citizens.

“If this conflict begins to stretch into open clashes between armed youth and security agencies, it’s going to be catastrophic.”

The Minority, he said, is urging calm, restraint, and responsible action by all parties.

“We are first and foremost extending our condolences to the bereaved families and sympathies to those injured in the escalation.

“We are also conveying our sympathies to individuals and organisations who have lost property,” he said. “But more importantly, what we are saying is that Bawku deserves peace.”

Rev. Fordjour stressed that a major obstacle to sustainable peace is the politicisation of the conflict by some political actors.

“One of the first things government has to do is to view this conflict as one whose solution cannot be politicized,” he stated.

“Every politician is urged to depoliticize. If we remove every tendency, undertone, and underpinning of politics from this conflict, what we are left with is a chiefly and traditional matter—something the Otumfuo-led mediation is addressing and will address.”

Rev. Fordjour criticised recent political rhetoric, suggesting that the escalation of the Bawku conflict correlates with the party in power.

“We’ve heard some pronouncements suggesting that when a certain party is in power, Bawku conflicts escalate, and when another is in power, it subsides,” he said. “This is not the time for that. Every politicization must be withdrawn.”

In addition to political restraint, Rev. Fordjour called on government to take urgent action to halt the influx of dangerous weapons into the conflict zone.

“The challenge of sophisticated weaponry in this conflict is extremely troubling. The kind of weapons our brothers and sisters have access to is part of the reason there’s this confidence to confront security agencies,” he said.

“Wherever that source of weaponry is coming from, government must take urgent action.”

He reaffirmed the Minority’s readiness to support the government in any genuine, depoliticised peace efforts.

“We are saying we will support the government. Let this be a nationalistic approach,” he said. “We must act now before more lives are lost.”

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The government is making a significant investment in local enterprise growth through the newly launched Kwahu Business Forum, with the goal of supporting over 600 businesses by the end of President John Mahama’s current term.

Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, speaking to the media at Jubilee House on Monday, April 14, 2025, emphasized the administration’s strong support for the initiative.

“We are discussing it at the presidency because of the importance the President attaches to it. This is a project he wants to see succeed,” Debrah affirmed.

The forum, which debuted in Kwahu, is already attracting interest from financial institutions. According to Debrah, participating banks are expected to select five promising, bankable projects this year.

“The first strategy the bankers themselves suggested is that each bank that participates will choose five bankable projects for this year. And they expect that next year, when we return to Kwahu, they will invite those five beneficiaries to come and share their experiences,” he explained.

This model, if sustained, could significantly transform Ghana’s entrepreneurial landscape. “If this continues for the next five years, with each bank selecting a minimum of five enterprises, I’m confident that by the end of the President’s four-year term, we’ll have over 600 enterprises to highlight as successes that President Mahama initiated,” Debrah noted.

While the forum is currently branded as the Kwahu Business Forum, there are aspirations for broader expansion.

“Even though the name is Kwahu Business Forum, I believe that in the future, it could become a national event, where business people from all over the country travel to Kwahu to interact with bankers and public institutions,” he said.

Debrah also hinted at expanding the forum’s scope to include agencies like the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

“For example, it might be possible that next year, the Commissioner General of GRA could be present to explain to businesses the benefits and opportunities available to them,” he added.

Listowell Nana Kusi-Poku, at a High Court in Accra for defamation.

The Acting Executive Secretary of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Dr Adam Bonaa, has sued social commentator and Executive Director of Good Governance Advocacy Group, Listowell Nana Kusi-Poku, at a High Court in Accra for defamation.

According to court documents sighted by GhanaWeb, Dr Bonaa avers that Listowell, during a panel discussion on CTV in February 2025, veered off from the topic of discussion—the National Service Scandal—and made comments that attacked and impugned his character and reputation.

Among other claims, the plaintiff accused the defendant of making false and malicious statements, which, in their ordinary meaning, were understood by right-thinking persons to mean that his doctorate degree obtained from the Swiss Business School was fake, that he was a fugitive from justice and wanted in the United Kingdom, that he misconducted himself during his time at Wa Secondary School, and that he has no expertise whatsoever in security matters.

Dr Bonaa further alleged that Listowell’s comments were interpreted by right-thinking persons to mean that he was engaged in illegally supplying firearms to unknown persons to fight in the Bawku conflict, that he is irresponsible and does not provide for his retired father, and that he is unfit to occupy the role of Acting Executive Secretary for NCSALWS.

The plaintiff notes that attempts through a personal phone call with the defendant and a letter from his lawyers to get the defendant to apologize and retract his claims failed.

“The Plaintiff avers that the Defendant’s refusal to retract and apologize to him puts the Defendant’s malice beyond dispute, the obvious intent of the defamatory comments being to excite hatred, create public dislike, and expose the Plaintiff to public ridicule, contempt, and indeed to injure his reputation as a consummate security professional, a hardworking, responsible father, and a law-abiding citizen,” portions of the court documents stated.

While denying the claims by the defendant, Dr Bonaa averred that he has been greatly injured, as the allegations have brought his reputation into public scandal, odium, and contempt.

Dr Bonaa has thus asked the High Court to grant against the defendant a declaration that the claims by the defendant are defamatory, an order for the payment of five million cedis as general damages for defaming him, an order directing the defendant to retract and apologize for the allegations within seven days, a perpetual injunction against the defendant, aggravated or exemplary damages, as well as an award of costs, among other reliefs.

GA/KA

The Trump administration has said it is freezing more than $2bn (£1.5bn) in federal funds for Harvard University, hours after the elite college rejected a list of demands from the White House.

“Harvard’s statement today reinforces the troubling entitlement mindset that is endemic in our nation’s most prestigious universities and colleges,” the Department of Education said in a statement.

The White House sent a list of demands to Harvard last week which it said were designed to fight antisemitism on campus. They included changes to its governance, hiring practices and admissions procedures.

Harvard rejected the demands on Monday and said the White House was trying to “control” its community.

It is the first major US university to defy pressure from the Trump administration to change its policies. The sweeping changes demanded by the White House would have transformed its operations and ceded a large amount of control to the government.

President Trump has accused leading universities of failing to protect Jewish students when college campuses around the country were roiled by protests against the war in Gaza and US support for Israel last year.

In a letter to the Harvard community on Monday, its President Alan Garber said the White House had sent an “updated and expanded list of demands” on Friday alongside a warning that the university “must comply” in order to maintain its “financial relationship” with the government.

“We have informed the administration through our legal counsel that we will not accept their proposed agreement,” he wrote. “The university will not surrender its independence or relinquish its constitutional rights.”

Mr Garber added that the university did not “take lightly” its obligation to fight antisemitism, but said the government was overreaching.

“Although some of the demands outlined by the government are aimed at combating antisemitism, the majority represent direct governmental regulation of the ‘intellectual conditions’ at Harvard,” he said.

Shortly after his letter was sent, the education department said it was freezing $2.2bn in grants and $60m in contracts to Harvard immediately.

“The disruption of learning that has plagued campuses in recent years is unacceptable,” it said.

“The harassment of Jewish students is intolerable. It is time for elite universities to take the problem seriously and commit to meaningful change if they wish to continue receiving taxpayer support,” the statement added.

The White House said in its own letter on Friday that Harvard had “in recent years failed to live up to both the intellectual and civil rights conditions that justify federal investment”.

The letter included 10 categories for proposed changes that the White House said were needed in order for Harvard to maintain its “financial relationship with the federal government”.

Some of the changes included: reporting students to the federal government who are “hostile” to American values; ensuring each academic department is “viewpoint diverse”; and hiring an external government-approved party to audit programs and departments “that most fuel antisemitic harassment”.

The letter orders the university to take disciplinary action for “violations” that happened during protests on campus over the past two years. It also demands an end the university’s diversity, equity and inclusion policies and programmes.

Since taking office, President Trump has put pressure on universities to tackle antisemitism and end diversity practices.

In December 2023, the president’s of top US universities were questioned in a tense congressional hearing in which they were accused of failing to protect Jewish students following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war two months earlier.

Claudine Gay, who was then president of Harvard, later apologised after telling the hearing that calls for the killing of Jews were abhorrent, but it would depend on the context whether such comments would constitute a violation of Harvard’s code of conduct.

That comment, as well as allegations of plagiarism, led her to resign from the post a month later.

In March, the Trump administration said it was reviewing roughly $256m in federal contracts and grants at Harvard, and an additional $8.7bn in multi-year grant commitments.

Harvard professors filed a lawsuit in response, alleging the government was unlawfully attacking freedom of speech and academic freedom.

The White House had previously pulled $400m in federal funding from Columbia University and accused it of failing to fight antisemitism and protect Jewish students on its campus.

When the $400m was pulled, Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said: “Universities must comply with all federal antidiscrimination laws if they are going to receive federal funding”.

Shortly after, Columbia agreed to several of the administration’s demands, drawing criticism from some students and faculty.

Earlier on Monday, a lawyer for an organiser of pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University said her client had been arrested by immigration officials as he attended an interview as part of his application for US citizenship.

Mohsen Mahdawi, a green card holder who is due to graduate next month, was detained on Monday in Colchester, Vermont.

Others who took part in campus protests against the war, including Columbia University’s Mahmoud Khalil and Tufts University’s Rumeysa Ozturk, have been detained in recent weeks.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Four men have pleaded guilty in Kenya to trying to smuggle hundreds of highly sought-after ants out of the country.

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), which is more used to protecting larger creatures, such as lions and elephants, has described this as a “landmark case”.

The contraband included giant African harvester ants, which are valued by some UK dealers at up to £170 ($220) each.

The case showed a “disturbing shift in trafficking patterns – from iconic mammals to lesser-known species that are vital to ecological balance”, the KWS said.

The suspects had concealed the creatures in “specially modified test tubes and syringes” which would have enabled the insects to survive for two months, the KWS said.

There was also a “calculated attempt to bypass security systems” by obscuring the contents of the tubes.

Photographs of the illegal haul shared by the KWS show hundreds of these containers packed with cotton wool, each with two or three ants.

The exact number of insects involved is still being evaluated but KWS spokesperson Paul Udoto told the BBC this was the country’s first case of “bio-piracy” on this scale.

The four suspects – two Belgians, a Vietnamese and a Kenyan – were arrested after what the KWS has described as “a coordinated, intelligence-led operation”.

It is believed that the intended destinations were the exotic pet markets in Europe and Asia.

The KWS said the demand for rare insect species is growing. Collectors keep them in special habitats, known as formicariums, and watch them build their colonies.

The giant African harvester ant – or Messor cephalotes – is the largest of its species and can grow to around 20mm, with the queen growing up to 25mm.

Pat Stanchev, the general manager of insect-dealing website Best Ants UK, said that it is their “big and beautiful size” that makes them attractive for those who want to keep them as pets.

He does not sell the giant African harvester ant but told the BBC that he is aware of people who try to pass on illegally imported insects.

In Kenya, the ants are protected by international biodiversity treaties and their trade is highly regulated.

“This prosecution sends a strong message that Kenya will enforce compliance… and marks a significant step forward in Kenya’s fight against unconventional wildlife crimes,” the KWS said.

The four men are due to be sentenced on Tuesday.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Public whistleblowing by Members of Parliament (MPs) in Ghana has emerged as a critical yet contentious aspect of governance.

While whistleblowing is often celebrated as a mechanism for transparency and accountability, its practice among MPs raises questions about motivations, credibility, and the broader implications for democratic governance.

Whistleblowing, the act of exposing wrongdoing within an organization or institution is often to promote accountability and prevent harm. Ghana’s Whistleblower Act, 2006 (Act 720), provides a legal framework for whistleblowing, emphasizing protection for whistleblowers and the promotion of probity in governance.

However, studies have highlighted weaknesses in the Act, including limited scope, inadequate protections, and challenges in implementation. Such issues include potential violations of the secrecy restrictions, a lack of specialized supervisory institutions to coordinate its execution, and insufficient instruction on the complexity of the law for the average Ghanaian of the Act, the inefficiency of the compensation or reward given to the informant, and the absence of precautions.

In the context of MPs, whistleblowing intersects with their oversight role, which involves scrutinizing government actions and advocating for transparency. According to research on parliamentary transparency, MPs’ actions can improve accountability when supported by reliable data and evidence. Nevertheless, the risk of opportunistic behaviour—where whistleblowing is used for political gains— and for fueling public distrust in state institutions and generally misinforming the public remain a concern.

In 2018, Hon. Kennedy Agyepong, former MP of Assin Central in the Central Region of Ghana, in his will and power to unveil investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas and expose his alleged unscrupulous modus operandi aired his “Who watches the watchman” series. While this purportedly gave eager audience a glimpse into the operations of Anas, the serial rants of the MP led to the public unveiling and bastardisation of Anas’ Associate, Ahmed Hussein Suale, who was tragically murdered in 2019.

Between 2021 and 2024, the MP for North Tongu, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa held the public on edge with his exposes on former President Akufo Addo’s extravagant private jet travels, and financial malfeasance in the National Cathedral building project. Both instances revealed wasteful expenditure of taxpayers’ monies by the Akufo Addo led government without cognisance of the country’s post Covid-19 economic crisis.

Two air ambulance operated by AirMed which landed in Ghana in March 2025 became the centre of a multifaceted controversy, reflecting the intricate challenges of misinformation and opacity. Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, the MP for Assin South, alleged that the aircraft’s arrival was tied to drug trafficking, particularly in the light of recent cocaine seizures. These claims rapidly escalated into a fervent public banter between the minority caucus in Parliament and the government. Subsequently, an attempt was made by the NIB to arrest the MP in his residence to assist in investigation which was foiled due to resistance by members of the minority.

Consequentially, the case of Hon. Kennedy Agyepong blowing the cover of Anas to expose his alleged shady dealings present ethical dilemmas in whistleblowing especially when it involves sensitive information and personal safety of journalists—whether they are corrupt or not. Likewise, Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa’s revelations of reckless expenditure of taxpayers’ monies by the erstwhile government presents a dual nature of public whistleblowing used as a tool for accountability and potential strategy for political leverage by discrediting the very principle—protecting the public purse—upon which the Akufo Addo government won power in 2016.

And Hon. Rev. Ntim Fordjour’s recent remarks on the suspicious landings of the air ambulance flights demonstrates the risk of misinformation—unsubstantiated claims—in the name of exacting transparency through investigation, while evading invitations to assist in investigations.

By bringing corruption and poor management to light, whistleblowing can improve democratic governance. However, the veracity of claims and their underlying motivations determines the effectiveness. Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa’s expose on financial recklessness and Hon. Rev. Ntim Fordjour’s collocation of suspicion demonstrate how whistleblowing can be influenced by political considerations, although the former’s claims were verily validated.

Public whistleblowing by MPs is a powerful tool for promoting transparency and accountability. MPs resort to public whistleblowing through the media because it could gather clout for their story and portray their essence of parliamentary work to their constituents and the public, but it must be exercised responsibly to avoid ethical pitfalls and political opportunism. The legal framework for whistleblowing must be strengthened to foster a culture of accountability.

Source: IMANI’s weekly Criticality Analysis of Governance Issues (CAGI

Antoine Semenyo’s goal after just 53 seconds was enough for Bournemouth to beat Fulham and claim their first Premier League victory in almost two months.

The Cherries enjoyed a lightning-fast start at Vitality Stadium as Semenyo bent a cool finish past Bernd Leno after snatching possession from Antonee Robinson.

Evanilson should have doubled the hosts’ lead 15 minutes later, but the Brazilian smacked Alex Scott’s cutback off the crossbar from close range.

Fulham lacked a clinical edge, with Rodrigo Muniz, Ryan Sessegnon and Joachim Andersen all missing solid chances to grab a leveller before the break.

Despite charging forward and carving better opportunities in the second half, the visitors could not find a way past Kepa Arrizabalaga, who made two strong saves to deny Alex Iwobi and Sasa Lukic.

Bournemouth felt they should have been awarded a penalty with 10 minutes of normal time remaining when Leno appeared to bring down Evanilson.

However, referee Michael Oliver judged the German keeper to have got a hand to the ball and the video assistant referee backed up the decision.

The victory – Bournemouth’s first in the Premier League since 15 February – moves them level on points with Fulham, although Andoni Iraola’s side leapfrog the Cottagers into eighth thanks to a better goal difference.

Both sides remain in a congested battle for European football next season, with Chelsea and Aston Villa placed sixth and seventh, respectively, six points ahead with six games remaining.

Eighth place is likely to be enough for a Europa Conference League qualification spot, as long as League Cup champions Newcastle and the winners of the FA Cup finish in the top seven.

After enjoying an impressive first half of the season, Bournemouth seemed to have suffered a drop in both confidence and momentum in recent months.

The Cherries were winless in their previous six league matches, while their one chance of a trophy was ended by Manchester City in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.

Having scored the first goal in three of their past four games and come away winless, Bournemouth’s fans knew all to well that Semenyo’s early opener was not a guarantee of all three points.

But, despite having just 31% possession after half-time and facing a barrage of Fulham attacks, Iraola’s men stood firm – much to the delight of the home crowd.

Arrizabalaga, who has previously faced criticism for mistakes, was called into action with a brilliant diving save to stop Iwobi’s curling effort.

Meanwhile, Dean Huijsen – playing on his 20th birthday – shrugged off Raul Jimenez with a strong challenge in front of Bournemouth’s goal in the dying minutes.

With Fulham their closest rivals in the table, and tough fixtures against Arsenal, Aston Villa and Manchester City on the horizon, these three points were crucial to keep Bournemouth’s European dreams alive.

Fulham falter in race for Europe

After the highs of beating runaway leaders Liverpool in their last outing, Fulham looked stunned as they found themselves a goal down after less than a minute.

Marco Silva’s side slowly settled into the game, but they were ultimately punished for not putting away the few chances they had.

Weak headed efforts from Sessegnon and Andersen were saved comfortably by Arrizabalaga, while Muniz let Marcos Senesi and Huijsen off the hook when he failed to capitalise on miscommunication between the pair.

Muniz – looking to score in a fourth successive Premier League game – snatched the ball as the centre-backs deliberated over a simple pass before darting into the box and sweeping his strike wide.

Fulham felt Senesi should have been shown a red card when he caught Anderson with a studs-up challenge just before the break, but a quick VAR review backed up Oliver’s on-field decision to brandish only a yellow.

While the visitors improved after half-time, their chances were largely limited to edge-of-the-box strikes – and Leno was needed to stop Bournemouth from pulling out of reach with two fine saves to deny Alex Scott and Tyler Adams.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Popular Ghanaian media personality and activist, Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah

Popular Ghanaian media personality and activist, Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah, has announced a three-day demonstration scheduled for April 28th to 30th, 2025, to protest the Mahama-led government’s alleged failure to combat the illegal mining menace known as galamsey.

Under the rallying cry “Ghana’s Future Is Worth Fighting For,” Afrifa called on citizens from all walks to rise and speak out against what he described as a national crisis threatening the country’s environment, natural resources, and future prosperity.

The protest, which is being widely circulated on social media under hashtags like #GalamseyMustFall, #SaveOurGhana, and #GhanaDeservesBetter, aims to put pressure on government authorities to take decisive action against illegal mining operations that continue to destroy water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves across the country.

“Our water, our air, our land, our future! Let’s come together to protect Ghana’s environment from the devastating effects of galamsey,” Afrifa urged in a public message.

The activist emphasized that the movement is not only about protest but also about proposing practical solutions.

“We’re not just protesting, we’re proposing solutions. Join the conversation on sustainable development and environmental protection,” he said.

AM/KA

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:

Washington, Apr. 14, (dpa/GNA) – US President Donald Trump has offered car manufacturers temporary exemptions from his extensive tariffs, stating that they need more time to adjust their supply chains to produce parts in the United States.

Trump is currently considering how to assist some manufacturers but did not provide details on Monday on the specific measures or their duration.

Trump imposed tariffs of 25% on vehicles imported into the US, and at the beginning of May, tariffs on imported parts are also expected to follow.

Some vehicles from Mexico and Canada are already exempt under a North American trade agreement.

Shares of US automotive giants General Motors and Ford rose following Trump’s announcement.

Over the weekend, the Trump administration had already exempted electronic products like smartphones and laptops from China from its additional tariffs of 125%.

A major beneficiary of this move is Apple: The vast majority of iPhones are still built in China even though the company has expanded production in India and Vietnam. However, the White House emphasizes that the exemptions are temporary and that electronics are intended to fall under planned chip tariffs.

Trump was asked about Apple on Monday and said he is speaking with the company’s chief executive, Tim Cook, and will be flexible: “I don’t want to hurt anybody.” He said he recently helped Cook.

GNA

PDC