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Oti NPP Secretary calls for unity and renewal after 2024 election loss

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By Nastain Ibn Saliu

Kete-Krachi (O/R), Jan 2, GNA – Mr Jonathan Akpabe, the Oti Regional Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has urged members of the party to remain united and focused following the party’s defeat in the 2024 general elections.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Mr. Akpabe acknowledged the disappointment felt by many NPP supporters but stressed the importance of resilience and a renewed commitment to the party’s future.

“This year didn’t turn out as we had hoped. We aimed to break the ‘8,’ but the Ghanaian people have made their choice, and we must respect it. However, this is not the end of the journey for the NPP or for Ghana,” he stated.

He called on party members to avoid despair, emphasising that setbacks in politics are common.

“In every election, there’s a possibility of winning or losing. This time, we lost. But it is important to remember that we have not lost our vision for Ghana. We remain committed to building a better future,” he said.

Mr. Akpabe revealed that the party would undertake a thorough review of its strategies to address weaknesses and come back stronger.

“We will regroup, re-strategize, and plan effectively to reclaim our position. Our focus is on working harder and smarter to earn the trust of Ghanaians once again,” he assured.

He also expressed hope that the incoming government will continue policies initiated by the NPP, including the Free Senior High School programme and allowances for teachers and nurses.

“These initiatives have had a significant impact on the lives of Ghanaians, and we hope they are sustained,” he noted.

Despite the pain of the loss, Mr. Akpabe urged members to see this moment as an opportunity for growth and renewal. “This is a time for reflection and unity. Let us rebuild together and emerge stronger as a party,” he emphasised.

In a message of goodwill, he wished all NPP members and the people of the Oti Region a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year, expressing optimism for the party’s future.

GNA

Singer Armaan Malik ties the knot with girlfriend Aashna Shroff

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Singer Armaan Malik ties knot with Aashna Shroff: Check Out their Dreamy Wedding Pics

After dating for a couple of years, singer Armaan Malik and his girlfriend Aashna Shroff have now solemnized their relationship in a traditional wedding ceremony.

For their special day, Aashna opted for a radiant orange-coloured lehenga designed by Manish Malhotra.

Edudzi Tameklo warns against ‘slippery path’ in Tema Central mandamus case

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Godwin Tameklo, legal counsel for NDC Godwin Tameklo, legal counsel for NDC

In the latest legal tussle surrounding the contentious Tema Central parliamentary election, Godwin Tameklo, legal counsel for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has strongly criticized the arguments made by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in court.

The NPP contends that Ebi Bright, the declared winner of the December 7, 2024 election, was not properly certified by an Electoral Commission (EC) official.

During a heated session, Tameklo urged the court to focus on its role within the scope of the mandamus application and not veer into uncharted territory.

“It is not the duty of this court to determine who won an election,” Tameklo argued.

“They are inviting you onto a very slippery path. If, in a mandamus application, it is within the remit of this court to make findings on alleged thuggery, intimidation, duress, and breaches of the law, what then will we do in an election petition?”

The case stems from disputes over the legitimacy of the declaration process in Tema Central.

Meanwhile, Tameklo presented to the court a letter authored by Charles Forson, one of the NPP applicants, in which he urged the Electoral Commission to instruct the returning officer to accurately compile and announce the results in compliance with legal standards.

Tongu Chiefs Union hails President-Elect Mahama, assures of full support

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By Kekeli K. Blamey

Sogakope (V/R), Jan. 2, GNA – The Tongu Chiefs’ Union in the Volta Region has extended its warmest congratulations to President-Elect John Dramani Mahama on his victory in the 2024 general election.

A press release issued by the Union and signed by its President, Togbega Kadzi Zogah II, said the President-Elect’s tireless efforts, dedication, and vision for Ghana resonated with Ghanaians, leading to his massive win.

It also congratulated Vice President-Elect, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, and all the elected Members of Parliament for their well-fought victory.

The release acknowledged Mr Mahama’s commitment to Ghana’s welfare and his leadership qualities, which inspired many to buy into his vision for the country.

It expressed the anticipation that Mr Mahama’s leadership would bring positive change and progress to all parts of the country, including the three Tongu districts; North, Central, and South.

It hoped for improvements in education, healthcare, and socio-economic development in the various communities.

The release assured the president-elect of the chiefs’ cooperation and collaboration to address pressing issues affecting the people.

It commended the citizens of the three Tongu districts for their peaceful conduct during the elections, demonstrating their unity and ability to speak with one voice.

“There is the need for unity among the chiefs, queenmothers, and citizens of Tongu to achieve accelerated and peaceful transformation and development of the area,” it said.

GNA

School Feeding Caterers begin receiving outstanding salaries

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Caterers under the Ghana School Feeding Programme have started receiving their overdue payments for the third term, according to the National President of the School Feeding Caterers Association, Nana Amoh Otu Sekyi.

This progress follows a promise made by the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dakoa Newman, to settle the arrears.

Speaking to Citi News, Nana Amoh Otu Sekyi explained that while some caterers have successfully accessed their funds, others face delays due to bank holidays and limited banking facilities in rural areas.

“Thankfully, they kept their word and made the payment on 31st December around 6 p.m. Some caterers were able to access the money on 1st January because certain banks have e-zwich machines outside.

“However, others have reported difficulties in accessing the funds. Hopefully, by 2nd January, everyone will receive their alerts. The delay is largely due to today being a holiday, and caterers in rural areas without easy access to banks may need to wait until regular working days to confirm receipt,” she explained.

Nana Amoh Otu Sekyi also expressed hope that the arrears owed to caterers since 2019 would soon be addressed.

“The chief accountant contacted me on 31st December regarding the 2019 arrears. I will meet with them on 2nd January to discuss this further. We are optimistic about receiving positive news next week,” she added.

Background

The recent payments to caterers under the Ghana School Feeding Programme follow months of frustration and protest.

On December 30, scores of caterers staged a demonstration at the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, demanding payment for arrears covering two academic terms for 2023 and 2024.

The caterers, who had traveled from various parts of the country, expressed their disappointment with the government’s repeated delays.

Despite assurances from the Controller and Accountant General’s Department that funds had been released to the Ministry, the caterers claimed they had yet to receive any payments.

President of the School Feeding Caterers Association, described the situation as dire, highlighting the financial strain on members who pre-financed meals with the expectation of timely reimbursement.

She noted that the government had promised on multiple occasions to settle their debts, but deadlines in August, September, and November all passed without payment.

The caterers’ decision to protest was a last resort, as many faced mounting pressure from creditors. Their demands for transparency and accountability came after the government issued a statement lacking an official signature promising payment by December 31. Skeptical of the promise, the caterers voiced their frustrations, citing years of unmet commitments.

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Koku Anyidoho backs Mahama’s plan to rebuild Ghana with prayer and hard work

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Former Deputy General Secretary of NDC Samuel Koku Anyidoho Former Deputy General Secretary of NDC Samuel Koku Anyidoho

Former Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Koku Anyidoho, has expressed support for the Mahama-led administration’s vision of resetting Ghana through a foundation of hard work and fervent prayer.

President-elect John Mahama has consistently emphasized that both prayer and hard work will be the backbone of the country’s governance when he assumes office.

Siding with this approach in a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on January 1, 2024, Koku Anyidoho outlined his belief in the power of prayer, referencing the late President John Atta Mills’ style of leadership, which was deeply rooted in hard work and prayer.

“I saw President Mills work hard and also depend on his belief in God through fervent prayers. He personally prayed before and after every Cabinet meeting. I personally believe in prayers. If we are resetting to the days of fervent prayer and hard work, great yes. Ghana 🇬🇭 First praying,” he stated.

It would be recalled that during Mahama’s 2024 election campaign, he pledged to declare a ‘National Day of Prayer’ if elected, stating his commitment to seeking God’s guidance in governance.

Since his victory, Mahama has reiterated his commitment to embarking on prayers.

In his New Year message, Mahama pledged, “This is the time we need to engage in fervent prayers more than we did during the campaign, for God to grant us the strength and wisdom to implement measures that will make Ghana a better place to live. All I will say is that it is finished; God has already done it.

“We will work tirelessly to correct the outgoing administration’s many wrongs, tackle corruption with dogged determination, and reduce excessive government expenditures.”

RAD/EB

Watch as Antoine Semenyo ‘schools’ Mohammed Kudus with an insane dribble

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Antoine Semenyo, forward for Bournemouth Antoine Semenyo, forward for Bournemouth

In a thrilling Round 16 Premier League clash between Bournemouth and West Ham, Ghanaian teammates Antoine Semenyo and Mohammed Kudus went head-to-head.

With both teams desperate for points, it seemed like West Ham would secure all three when Lucas Paquetá struck late to give the Hammers a 1-0 lead.

However, a stunning free-kick from substitute Enes Ünal salvaged a point for Bournemouth, ending the match in a 1-1 draw.

Earlier in the game, Semenyo had come close to scoring when his shot hit the post.

But the 24-year-old forward wasn’t done showcasing his skills. In a jaw-dropping moment, Semenyo faced off with Kudus in a one-on-one situation.

As Kudus closed in on him, Semenyo pulled off a brilliant sequence of two stepovers to glide past the West Ham midfielder with ease.

Despite the intense competition on the field, there was no animosity between the two players.

After the final whistle, Semenyo and Kudus shared a moment together, showing their camaraderie as national teammates.

FKA/EB

President-elect Calls For Prayers And Unity To Help Address Ghana’s Challenges

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President-elect Calls For Prayers And Unity To Help Address Ghana’s Challenges

President-elect Calls For Prayers And Unity To Help Address Ghana’s Challenges

Ghana’s President-elect, John Dramani Mahama, has urged Ghanaians to intensify prayers and fasting as the nation prepares to confront pressing challenges in the aftermath of the December 7 elections.