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Thank You For What You Did For Women In Ghana- Dr. Zanetor Pays Emotional Tribute To Her Mother

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Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey constituency, Dr. Zanetor Agyemang Rawlings, has paid a heartfelt tribute to her mother, Her Excellency Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings, for her dedication to empowering Queen Mothers amd and women across Ghana. Speaking at this year’s edition of the Gathering of the Royals, she described the event as a profound experience, emphasising her mother’s lifelong efforts in fostering leadership among women.

The gathering of the Royals brought together traditional leaders, government officials, and stakeholders to discuss the critical role of agriculture in Ghana’s future. Dr. Zanetor Agyemang Rawlings highlighted the importance of Queen Mothers in this national conversation, noting that their ability to inspire the next generation to embrace sustainable farming practices.

Reflecting on her mother’s legacy, she stated that “Attending this year’s edition of the Gathering of the Royals was a profound experience, as we gathered to honour H.E. Nana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings, my mother, for her contributions to empowering our Queen mothers and all women in our beloved nation to become the best version of themselves. The event emphasised the critical role of agriculture in our nation’s future and the importance of involving our youth in sustainable farming practices.”

She further stressed that queen mothersz with their leadership and influence, can champion agricultural development by guiding young people towards farming as a viable profession. According to her, this will help preserve Ghana’s cultural heritage while ensuring food security for future generations.

“Queenmothers, with their influence and leadership in their communities, can play a vital role in championing this cause by empowering the next generation to embrace agriculture, ensuring our rich heritage is preserved and nurtured for future generations.” She added.

Dr. Zanetor’s tribute to her mother underscores Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings’ longstanding commitment to women’s empowerment, particularly in leadership and economic sustainability.

https://www.facebook.com/100044294683245/posts/1216866316466513/

A Bold and Stylish Revolution

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Modern African print clothing has undergone a vibrant transformation, merging traditional designs with contemporary trends to create a truly unique fashion experience. The new arrivals in African print fashion are a testament to the creativity and innovation that designers are infusing into traditional fabrics like Ankara, kente, and batik. These new collections embrace bold prints, striking colors, and modern cuts, making African print clothing not only a symbol of cultural pride but also a global fashion phenomenon.

The latest African print clothing collections feature a diverse range of styles that cater to every occasion. From chic dresses and tailored suits to casual tops and skirts, modern African prints are being reinvented in ways that make them suitable for both everyday wear and formal events. One of the most exciting trends is the fusion of African prints with contemporary silhouettes. Designers are experimenting with asymmetrical cuts, high-low hems, and oversized sleeves, creating pieces that are fresh and forward-thinking while still paying homage to the rich heritage of African textiles.

For women, new arrivals often include form-flattering dresses with fitted bodices and voluminous skirts, giving a modern twist to classic designs. Jumpsuits, tailored blazers, and crop tops are also making waves, offering a stylish and trendy approach to African prints. For men, the latest designs feature sleek suits, casual shirts, and comfortable trousers made from African-inspired fabrics, adding a fashionable and cultural flair to everyday wardrobes.

In addition to the clothing itself, the use of accessories is becoming a key aspect of modern African fashion. Designers are incorporating African print scarves, bags, headwraps, and jewelry into their collections, allowing individuals to complete their looks with cohesive and culturally rich accents.

These new arrivals also highlight the growing influence of African fashion on global runways and street style. What was once considered niche has now evolved into a mainstream trend, with celebrities and fashion influencers embracing African prints as a symbol of diversity, creativity, and individuality.

In conclusion, the new arrivals of modern African print clothing are not just about fashion—they are about celebrating heritage, creativity, and self-expression. With their bold designs and innovative cuts, these garments allow individuals to showcase their unique style while honoring the cultural significance of African textiles. Whether you are looking for something casual or sophisticated, the latest African print clothing offers an exciting array of options for every fashion-conscious individual.

Sammi Awuku appointed Vice President, SME Global for Africa

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Former National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Member of Parliament (MP) for Akuapem North Constituency in the Eastern Region of Ghana, Sammi Awuku, has been appointed as the Vice President of SME Global in Charge of Africa.

In his appointment letter dated March 10, 2025 and signed by Lilia Heitz, Secretary General of the SME Global of the International Democracy Union, it reads in part “On behalf of the Executive Office of SME Global, I am pleased to formally confirm your appointment as Vice-President of SME Global of the IDU.

“We are confident that your contributions will be instrumental in driving our mission forward and fostering impactful initiatives. We appreciate your willingness to take on this responsibility and look forward to working together to strengthen the SME landscape globally. Once again, congratulations, and welcome to SME Global.”

Randy Hoback, MP, Vice-President, SME Global Member of Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development, Canada.

SME Global is the Trade and Economic arm of the IDU and an influential, center-right network dedicated to the advancement of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups worldwide.

The organization brings together policymakers from the International Democracy Union (IDU) member parties, along with business leaders from across the globe. It provides a platform for networking, collaboration, and policy advocacy, championing low taxation, economic responsibility, and individual liberty within a socially-oriented market economy.

With a strong commitment to empowering SMEs and entrepreneurs, SME Global facilitates practical solutions to modern business challenges while ensuring that SME concerns remain central to global policy discussions. The organization plays a key role in shaping SME-friendly policies, addressing bureaucratic barriers, and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and economic growth.

Jörgen Warborn, MEP, President, SME Global Coordinator of the International Trade Committee for European People’s Party (EPP) Group, Sweden

As Vice President for SME Global in charge of Africa, Mr Awuku will be instrumental in driving initiatives that support SMEs across the continent, advocating for regulatory reforms, and amplifying the role of small businesses in political and economic transformation.

His appointment signals a strengthened commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and ensuring that SMEs continue to thrive in an ever-evolving global business landscape.

Sammi Awuku will work closely with Board Members of SME Global including; Jörgen Warborn, MEP, President, SME Global Coordinator of the International Trade Committee for European People’s Party (EPP) Group, Sweden, Randy Hoback, MP, Vice-President, SME Global Member of Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development, Canada, Hon. Todd McClay, MP Vice-President, SME Global, Minister for Trade and Agriculture, New Zealand, Kevin Hollinrake, MP Vice-President, SME Global Shadow Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, United Kingdom and Germana Figueroa Casas, MP, Vice-President, SME Global Member of the Chamber of Deputies, Argentina

Asake’s father reveals plans singer has for ‘abandoned’ daughter, Zeenat

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The ailing father of singer, Asake, Fatai Odunsi has disclosed the plans his son now has for his daughter, Zeenat, whom he allegedly abandoned.

Recall that Asake’s father Mr Fatai Odunsi, who allegedly abandoned him as a child, made headlines after he came out crying out for financial help after suffering a stroke.

Martin Ayisi, political dribbler still surviving at Minerals Commission

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Martin Kwaku Ayisi, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Minerals Commission, could easily pass as a political dribbler, who had played the two leading political parties to remain in office.

Many continue to question his prolonged tenure in office, particularly given that his role at the Minerals Commission was a recurring topic during the last general election.

Mahama is setting dangerous precedent with mass dismissals – Centre for Democratic Movement

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The Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) has called on President John Dramani Mahama to halt his government’s “reckless” mass dismissal of public workers.

Since his return as President, the government of President Mahama has launched a mass dismissal of workers employed by the previous government, following a directive by the Chief of Staff.

Addressing the widespread dismissals in a statement, the CDM, said the government has been “reckless”, and urged President Mahama to reverse the dismissals, which the CDM also described as a “dangerous precedent” and a “blatant disregard for due process.”

“The recent wave of mass terminations of public and civil servants by President John Dramani Mahama is a dangerous precedent that undermines Ghana’s democracy, constitutional order, and labour rights,” the statement said.

“The termination letters issued to affected officials such as the one from the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations to its Senior Managers at Regional Offices, as well as other institutions such as the Ghana Education Service, Ghana Health Service, National Health Insurance Authority, and many others; show a blatant disregard for due process, job security, and fairness in governance.”

“This reckless exercise of executive power is not only legally questionable but also socially and economically disastrous.”

The CDM urged fellow civil society organisations, as well as Labour unions, to rise up and resist the “unconstitutional” mass dismissals and protect the rights of those affected.

“At this critical juncture, labour unions, civil society organizations, and all well-meaning stakeholders must rise against this unconstitutional mass termination.”

“The Trades Union Congress (TUC), Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG), Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), and other workers’ unions cannot remain silent while public servants are subjected to unjust dismissals.”

“These organizations have a duty to protect their members from political victimization and must use all legal and advocacy means to challenge this blatant abuse of power. Ghanaians must collectively resist this injustice to safeguard job security, professionalism, and stability within the public sector.”

Below is the full statement:

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Cedi trading at GH¢16.10 against dollar at forex bureaus

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Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, has recorded marginal gains against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar, at some forex bureaus.

In its daily update, the Central Bank noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢15.52 and a selling price of GH¢15.53 to a dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢20.04 and sold at GH¢20.06, while the euro trades at a buying price of GH¢16.87 and a selling price of GH¢16.89.

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on March 17, 2025, at 08:00 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢16.10 to the dollar, while the pound is trading at GH¢20.80 at some major forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢17.60 on the retail market.

To curb the depreciation of the cedi, the Bank of Ghana sold over $200 million in the last quarter of 2024.

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Terkper defends 2025 budget, urges alternative debt solutions

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Presidential Advisor on the economy, Seth Terkper has defended the government’s 2025 budget, calling it a necessary step to implement austerity measures aimed at addressing the country’s external debt.

Terkper highlighted the evolution of Ghana’s debt portfolio over the years and stressed that alternative solutions will be crucial to prevent defaulting on external debt payments between 2026 and 2028.

Terkper made these remarks at a farewell ceremony honouring Simon Madjie, the former Executive Secretary of the American Chamber of Commerce-Ghana, who now serves as the CEO of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC).

“As we speak, we’ve just cleared the first and suspended budget, and three more major ones are ahead. For instance, one of them is an outlier, but the years 2026, 2027, and 2028 will be crucial. We must find a solution—whether through paying down the debt or refinancing.

“Otherwise, there is a rare possibility of defaulting for a third time. That’s the reality, and this is the concern driving the tough austerity measures in the current budget,” Terkper stated.

Meanwhile, the CEO of GIPC, Simon Madjie, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the success of both local and foreign businesses in Ghana.

“I believe our country is truly open for business. The government is committed to reviewing the GIPC law to reflect the AfCFTA centre for investment. There will also be efforts to boost investment in sectors such as agribusiness, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and the 24-hour economy, as promised by His Excellency, President John Mahama,” Madjie said.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson expressed concerns about the country’s external debt service obligations. Over the next four years, Ghana is expected to pay a total of US$8.7 billion in debt servicing, which represents 10.9% of the country’s GDP. The largest payments are expected to be concentrated in 2027 and 2028.

Group petitions President Mahama to sack Jean Mensa and two deputies

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A group calling itself the Positive Transparency and Accountability Movement – Ghana (PTAAM-GH) has petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to dismiss Mrs Jean Adukwei Mensa from her position as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Ghana, along with her two deputies.

The petition, dated 8 January 2025, notes that the commission caused severe financial loss to the state by compiling a new voter register and procuring new biometric devices ahead of the 2020 general election.

T-bills over-subscription continues as yields fall to 17.2% on average

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Treasury bills oversubscription yields continue to fall Treasury bills oversubscription yields continue to fall

Investor demand for Ghana’s short-term government securities remained resilient in the latest Treasury bill auction on March 14, 2025, with bids totaling GH¢9.26 billion, exceeding the government’s GH¢8.26 billion target by 10.7%.

Despite the oversubscription, yields continued to decline across all maturities.

The government accepted GH¢8.77 billion in bids, surpassing its target by GH¢512 million while rejecting GH¢490 million worth of offers.

The 91-day bill saw the strongest demand, attracting bids of GH¢6.22 billion, all of which were accepted.

The 182-day and 364-day bills recorded bids of GH¢1.83 billion and GH¢1.20 billion, with accepted amounts of GH¢1.80 billion and GH¢746 million, respectively.

Yields on the 91-day and 182-day instruments fell to 15.86% and 16.92%, down 185 and 204 basis points from the previous auction.

The 364-day bill also declined, settling at 18.96%, a 102-basis-point drop.

The auction results come as the government plans to raise an additional GH¢6.14 billion in short-term debt at its next sale on March 21, 2025.

SP/MA

Meet the 14 NPP gurus in verbal clash over election defeat

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Barely five months after the New Patriotic Party (NPP) lost the 2024 elections, a fierce blame game has taken centre stage, with party leaders pointing fingers at each other over the cause of the defeat.

While several party members and supporters have blamed former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for the loss, others have turned on each other, engaging in heated arguments and accusations over behaviours that might have contributed to the party’s downfall.

Key figures within the party have publicly exchanged accusations, each suggesting that certain actions or inactions led to the NPP’s electoral defeat.

Here are some prominent NPP leaders engaged in this post-election blame game.

1. Adomako Baafi vs Miracles Aboagye

The Director of Communications for the Bawumia Campaign Team, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, has been in banter with the former Communications Director of the NPP, Yaw Adomako Baafi, over accusations of Miracles hoarding party funds meant for certain individuals, particularly the media.

According to Miracles Aboagye, Adomako Baafi’s claims stem from personal resentment, as he was never the Director of Finance and had no control over party funds.

In an interview on Asempa FM on March 10, 2025, Aboagye stated, “I was not the party’s Director of Finance, and I did not handle campaign funds. If campaign money was to be disbursed, it had to go through the Director of Finance.”

He further suggested that Baafi’s grievances were fueled by his dissatisfaction with his appointment as the Director of Communications.

“If someone dislikes you, no matter what you do, you can never impress them. Adomako Baafi was not happy with my appointment as Communications Director, so this reaction is expected,” he said.

Yaw Adomako Baafi lamented the neglect of party communicators in the lead-up to the general elections.

He said party communicators were sidelined, and their allowances were withheld.

Speaking in an interview on Okay FM on December 23, 2024, Adomako Baafi referenced Dr. Bawumia’s post-election statement that some media houses did not support the party, contributing to their defeat.

He argued that the blame should also be directed at some party leaders responsible for managing the media and the communication team.

Adomako Baafi alleged that while the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, was paying his media team as much as GH¢1,000, the NPP’s communication budget was mismanaged.

He specifically mentioned Miracles Aboagye, accusing him of failing to address the concerns of party communicators or provide their due allowances.

2.Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu vs John Boadu

Former Majority Leader of Parliament Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu has criticised the former General Secretary of the opposition NPP, John Boadu, for contributing to the party’s internal conflicts, which he believes played a key role in its significant loss in the 2024 elections.

Speaking in an interview on Okay FM, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu took issue with Boadu’s inconsistent stance on the legitimacy of a commission set up to investigate the party’s electoral defeat.

He noted that Boadu initially dismissed the need for an investigation, only to later contradict himself by admitting that such a probe was necessary.

“At first, he said the investigation was unnecessary, but later, he turned around and said it was essential. How do you take such a person seriously when he keeps contradicting himself?” he questioned.

Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu also recalled Boadu’s remarks regarding the investigation’s findings, particularly his concern that the former President might mishandle the report and allow it to end up in the wrong hands.

“He said the former President might mishandle the document and that it could even end up in the wrong hands within his own household. What kind of statement is that?” he asked.

According to him, Boadu’s repeated blunders are a testament to his unsuitability for his position in the party.

“He has made numerous statements that clearly show he lacks the competence for his role,” he emphasised.

3.Adomako Baafi vs Eugene Arhin

Yaw Adomako Baafi blamed the appointment of Eugene Arhin, former communications director at the Jubilee House, as a major reason for the party’s weakening relationship with the media ahead of the 2024 general elections.

According to Adomako Baafi, the party’s downfall can also be attributed to Eugene Arhin, whom he claims mismanaged communication during the presidency of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

In an interview on Movement TV, he cautioned the party to learn from its mistakes and take corrective measures in future endeavours.

“One of the biggest problems the NPP faced was the appointment of Eugene Arhin as the government spokesperson at the Jubilee House. I am telling you.

“Nana could travel, and nobody would have any idea. The party lost touch with the media because of him. For certain reasons, I don’t like Felix Kwakye, but he is better than Eugene Arhin.

“And after our loss, I haven’t heard of him coming to defend us again. We had capable people who could have done the job, but just look at what happened,” he said.

4. Abronye vs Henry Quartey

The Bono Regional Chairman of the NPP, Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, has alleged that former Minister of Interior, Henry Quartey, played a key role in the party’s defeat in the 2024 elections.

In an interview on Wontumi TV on March 14, 2025, Abronye DC stated, “NPP people shouldn’t blame Dampare for the party’s loss in the 2024 elections. Instead, they should direct their anger at Henry Quartey, the former Interior minister.

“He was the one who woke Akufo-Addo from his sleep and told him that Dampare was an NDC man. Therefore, he advised that Yohuno Tetteh, an NPP man, should be appointed Deputy IGP and placed in charge of operations to assist in the elections.”

He also said that he warned Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia that Henry Quartey’s decisions would lead the party into opposition.

“In one of our discussions, I told them, Akufo-Addo and Bawumia were present, that because of the problems Henry Quartey had created within the Ghana Police Service, he was leading us into opposition. Almost all the allegations against Dampare at the Jubilee House were orchestrated by Henry Quartey,” Abronye DC stated.

5. Appiah Kubi vs Ken Ofori-Atta

A prominent member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Andy Kwame Appiah-Kubi, has partly blamed former finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta for the party’s significant loss in the December 7 elections.

Speaking on The Key Points on TV3 on Saturday, December 14, 2024, Appiah-Kubi, the former Member of Parliament for Asante Akim North, said the former finance minister became too powerful, making it difficult for NPP MPs to seek assistance from him.

“Ken Ofori-Atta grew too pompous. He was more powerful than the President and Vice President, and that was why we wanted him out,” Mr. Appiah-Kubi said.

6. Eugene Boakye vs Akufo-Addo

The Member of Parliament for Subin, Eugene Boakye Antwi, has asserted that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and his family members bear significant responsibility for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) electoral defeat.

Speaking during an interview on Good Morning Ghana on December 11, 2024, Boakye Antwi cited arrogance and internal discord as key factors contributing to the party’s poor performance.

He expressed concern over how some Members of Parliament and party leaders conducted themselves during their tenure, noting that their perceived arrogance alienated supporters and created a disconnect with the grassroots.

“The NPP’s defeat cannot be discussed without mentioning Akufo-Addo,” Mr. Boakye Antwi remarked. He accused the President and certain members of his family of mistreating loyal party members, which he believes deepened divisions within the party and eroded its support base.

“Akufo-Addo has been the leader of our party since December 2000. I was once his polling agent. How can we avoid holding him accountable for what has happened?

7. Stephen Amoah vs Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

Stephen Amoah, popularly known as Sticka, the Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso in the Ashanti Region, has warned the party to reveal the real truth behind its loss in the 2024 elections in the region, or he will expose it himself.

According to Sticka, the party’s executive caucus led by Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, in their recent report on the election loss, has filed a report to tarnish his image and that of his constituency, and he demands an apology.

He asserted that the said report had accused him of having an alternative campaign team for the election despite the one inaugurated by the party, an allegation he denied.

Speaking in an interview on Hello FM on March 3, 2025, he added that he was accused of not doing posters and billboards, which he also denied.

Sticka said he cannot fathom why a report about an election loss would not capture certain MPs or categories of people, but others are rather affected.

He then cautioned that should the party fail to retract and apologise, he would spill it all.

“How can they file a report about how we lost an election in the region, and some people’s names won’t be featured? Is that what they want to do here? In this region, I don’t fear anybody, but I respect everybody.

“Ask them if they have asked me anything before, my constituency chairwoman, first vice, or second vice, or even secretary, youth organiser up to Nasara. Who told them that we had an alternative campaign?

“I have seen that in Nhyiaso, they have schemed to destroy me and my constituency. So, if they don’t come out and speak the truth and retract, I will also come out and tell the public about how we lost the election in the Ashanti region,” he said.

Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, on the other hand, has stated that he will never be part of any scheme to tarnish the image of Stephen Amoah.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu stated,” “Some of those we spoke to from Sticka’s constituency did not speak well about him. In fact, some of their comments were so harsh that I had to ask that certain parts to be edited to use more appropriate language…

“When Sticka told me he had heard what was said about him in the report, I assured him that I would never preside over anything that would deliberately destroy him.”

AM/SEA

Meanwhile, catch the first in the series of our special episodes on Forgotten Forts on People and Places on GhanaWeb TV below. This episode focuses on Fort Amsterdam at Abandze:

UNESCO and Ghana Forge AI-Powered Future in Digital Innovation

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UNESCO and Ghana collaborate to enhance AI-driven digital education, healthcare, agribusiness, and culture while advancing centralized data system initiatives.

A courtesy call by UNESCO on the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP) marks the beginning of a promising collaboration between Ghana and UNESCO.

The meeting aims to discuss how Ghana could re-enforce its effort in the AI and innovation space.

The main areas of discussion spun across digital education, digital health access and and digitizing the agribusiness space.

Hon. Sam Nartey George further admonished the support of UNESCO in innovating Ghana’s cultural space with AI based technology to increase cultural activity and revenue.

The Minister further stressed on plans to galvanize Ghana’s data into a central data system.

Dr. Kwaku Oteng condemns attack on DJ Ohemaa Woyeje

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Dr. Kwaku Oteng, the renowned businessman and founder of Angel Broadcasting Network (ABN), has strongly condemned the attack on popular radio presenter DJ Ohemaa Woyeje, following her allegations that the incident was orchestrated by the CEO of Angel FM Accra, Vincent Opare-Larbi.

The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, has sparked widespread concern within the media industry and beyond.

According to reports, a group of unidentified men attempted to prevent DJ Ohemaa Woyeje, known in private life as Harey Adjoa Owusu Kusi (Mrs), from accessing the Angel FM studio.

A viral video from the scene shows one of the masked attackers engaged in what appears to be a deliberate act of intimidation.

The radio host has since claimed that the move was carried out under the instructions of Vincent Opare-Larbi, further intensifying calls for accountability.

Reacting to the disturbing incident, Dr. Kwaku Oteng has distanced himself from any wrongdoing and expressed his deep regret over the attack on one of ABN’s most respected female broadcasters.

The business mogul, who owns the Angel Group of Companies, assured the public that the matter was being taken seriously and that the necessary investigations were already underway.

Dr. Oteng reaffirmed his commitment to professionalism and the safety of all workers within the Angel Broadcasting Network. He stressed that such acts of aggression have no place within the media fraternity and pledged to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies to ensure that justice prevails.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service has launched investigations into the matter, with many calling for immediate action against those responsible. Despite the trauma, DJ Ohemaa Woyeje remains resolute, with supporters rallying behind her in solidarity.

You will be declared wanted again if you fail to appear on June 2

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Kissi Agyebeng (L) and Ken Ofori-Atta (R) Kissi Agyebeng (L) and Ken Ofori-Atta (R)

The Office of the Special Prosecutor has stated that any failure by former Minister of Finance Ken Ofori-Atta to comply with the agreed deadline to appear before the OSP will result in consequences.

In a statement issued on March 17, 2025, the OSP stated that one of the consequences Ken Ofori-Atta will face is having his name re-entered on the list of wanted persons and being declared a fugitive from justice.

“Mr. Ofori-Atta is mandatorily required to appear in person before the OSP on 2 June 2025. If Mr. Ofori-Atta fails to attend the OSP on the scheduled date, he shall be re-entered on the OSP’s list of wanted persons and the OSP shall consider him a fugitive from justice,” portions of the statement read.

The OSP further stated that it will take additional severe measures to apprehend the former minister, including requesting the issuance of an Interpol Red Notice, which calls on law enforcement agencies worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest individuals declared wanted.

“Whereupon the OSP will cause the issuance of an Interpol Red Notice in his regard and also cause the initiation of extradition proceedings in any jurisdiction in which he may be found,” it added.

In relation to the lawsuit filed against the OSP, the office acknowledged the legal proceedings initiated by Ken Ofori-Atta, challenging its earlier declaration of him as a wanted fugitive.

The statement clarified, however, that the OSP complied with a formal request made by the former minister to have his name removed from the list of wanted persons, as he had expressed a willingness to avail himself for investigations into the charges against him.

“The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) acknowledges a lawsuit filed by Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta contesting the OSP’s prior declaration that he was a wanted person and a fugitive from justice.

“Mr. Ofori-Atta formally requested the OSP to remove his name from the OSP’s list of wanted persons with the assurance to the OSP that he would make himself available for questioning on a definite date. The OSP, in good faith and on the basis of Mr. Ofori-Atta’s assurance, granted his request and removed his name from the OSP’s list of wanted persons pending his personal attendance at the OSP on the definite date,” it indicated.

It added, “The OSP remains unwavering in its commitment to enforcing the law and ensuring that Mr. Ofori- Atta answers for his role as the prime suspect in five ongoing corruption and corruption- related investigations.”

Background

Ofori-Atta filed a lawsuit at the Accra High Court, accusing the Special Prosecutor of illegally declaring him wanted and violating his human rights.

The report indicated that the former minister is seeking, among other things, compensation for the violation of his rights and damages caused by the announcement.

Ken Ofori-Atta’s lawyers have argued that the wanted declaration has caused him irreparable reputational harm and distress. They have asked the court to rule that the Special Prosecutor’s actions breached his rights to dignity, fair treatment, and administrative justice.

MAG/EK

You can also catch the latest episode of #Trending GH, showcasing Ghanaians’ reactions to the government’s decision to abolish the E-Levy and COVID-19 Levy>/b>

BOST launches investigation into delayed US$23m depot upgrade

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The Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company Limited (BOST) has initiated a formal investigation into its long-delayed depot upgrade project, which has caused significant operational disruptions and drawn industry scrutiny.

The project, initially contracted to Automation Services Limited (ASL) for US$23 million, remains incomplete despite substantial payments and repeated timeline extensions.

BOST management has consequently interdicted its General Manager for Assets and Infrastructure, Nicholas Samari, citing poor oversight of the project.

The company says it is now reviewing procurement decisions, contractor performance, and financial disbursements to determine accountability for the prolonged delays.

The depot upgrade, which was expected to modernise BOST’s storage and distribution infrastructure, was awarded to ASL in May 2022 through a competitive tender.

The contract commenced in August 2023 with an initial 12-month completion timeline. However, more than two years later, key components of the project remain unfinished.

According to internal reports, BOST has already disbursed US$16 million to the contractor, representing nearly 70 percent of the total contract sum. Yet, the anticipated operational improvements have not materialised, leading to logistical bottlenecks in the petroleum supply chain.

The delays have forced the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) to suspend its zonalisation policy multiple times, allowing petroleum marketers to transport products across zones to mitigate supply shortages.

Industry players argue that these disruptions have resulted in increased transportation costs, inefficiencies in product allocation, and reputational damage to BOST.

Reacting to the ongoing challenges, Dr. Riverson Oppong, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), underscored the logistical and economic impact of the disruptions, warning that continued inefficiencies in the petroleum distribution network could have far-reaching consequences.

Citing the Kumasi Depot, which serves the Ashanti Region and surrounding areas, Dr. Oppong highlighted how fuel supply disruptions at the facility have forced oil marketing companies (OMCs) to source fuel from Tema, leading to increased transport costs and delivery delays.

“The impact is immediate and severe. Only last week, several of our members struggled to secure adequate fuel by Friday, creating shortages that affected businesses and consumers alike. This is a double jeopardy for consumers—first, they face supply disruptions, and second, where fuel is available, OMCs are under immense pressure to absorb additional costs rather than pass them on,” he explained.

Dr. Oppong stressed that while OMCs are making efforts to mitigate cost implications for consumers, sustained inefficiencies could force adjustments in pricing structures. The longer the BOST depot upgrade remains incomplete, the greater the strain on the industry, potentially disrupting fuel security and economic stability.

Calling for urgent intervention, he urged BOST and other stakeholders to expedite infrastructure repairs and modernisation efforts, stating that a revamped and fully functional downstream sector is critical for efficient energy distribution, price stability, and overall economic resilience.

“The situation calls for immediate resolution. A robust and well-maintained infrastructure is not just an industry requirement but a national priority,” he said.

Market observers warn that prolonged instability could undermine investor confidence in Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector. A senior industry analyst noted, “The fact that US$16 million has already been paid without visible progress suggests weaknesses in contract enforcement and monitoring. This raises broader concerns about how state-owned enterprises manage capital-intensive projects.”

BOST’s management has not yet indicated whether it will pursue legal or financial recourse against ASL for the delays. The original contract terms remain undisclosed, making it unclear whether penalties for non-performance were included.

However, sources familiar with the matter suggest that the company is considering a forensic audit of the project’s finances. Such a review would examine whether the contractor met its obligations and whether BOST’s internal controls were sufficient to prevent cost overruns.

“The priority now should be a full financial and technical audit to determine whether the contractor can deliver or if a new procurement process is required. There also needs to be transparency about the lessons learned to prevent similar setbacks in future projects,” the analyst added.

The ongoing investigation is expected to inform BOST’s next course of action, including whether ASL will be allowed to continue the project or if alternative contractors will be engaged. BOST’s management has indicated that all procurement decisions related to the upgrade will be scrutinized to identify any lapses.

AI video of late South Korean actress Kim Sae-ron sparks debate

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SEOUL – An AI-generated video featuring late actress Kim Sae-ron was released online on March 14, with the uploader claiming her family was behind it.

Titled ‘A memorial AI video created by Kim Sae-ron’s family’, the video was uploaded on March 14 to the YouTube channel of Kwon Young-chan, head of the Korea Celebrity Suicide Prevention Association.