Radiologist granted GH¢500,000 bail as police awaits report on gender

The Police have stated that they are awaiting a report to confirm the gender of an accused person in a fraud case.

Meanwhile, Christabel Suphar Sarkodie Tuffour, the accused, has been granted bail in the sum of GH¢500,000 with three sureties, one of whom must be justified.

The Ghana News Agency (GNA) reports that the Police still require the gender report of the accused to proceed with her other cases. This is because, in some instances, the accused has posed as a man, while in others, she has presented herself as a woman.

Due to the uncertainty regarding the accused’s gender, the court ordered the Police to send her to the hospital for her gender to be verified. Christabel had previously declined to undergo a physical examination by the Police.

Christabel is facing five counts of defrauding by false pretenses, to which she has pleaded not guilty.

She is alleged to have collected a total of 42,889 pounds, 8,500 euros, $5,000, and GH¢230,000 from 15 individuals, promising to assist them in obtaining visas to Germany and Canada.

The Police have stated that Christabel, a radiologist, claimed to have handed over the money to one Ebenezer, but he denied receiving any funds.

Chief Inspector Ramatu Asumah, leading the prosecution, revealed that the complainants were young individuals seeking to travel abroad for better opportunities.

While studying in Europe, Christabel falsely claimed to have worked with the German Immigration Service in Frankfurt. She and her accomplice, Ebenezer—who had no experience in travel and tourism—deceived the complainants into believing they could help secure visas for them.

The prosecution stated that Ebenezer introduced the complainants to Christabel, further enhancing the illusion of legitimacy.

The court heard that Christabel provided her bank account details to some of the victims, while others made payments directly to her during meetings at Osu and Lancaster Hotel.

The accused allegedly arranged a fake marriage to Kwasi Gyimah at La Nkwantang District Court, claiming it would help secure a spousal visa upon her return to Germany.

Through these tactics, Christabel successfully obtained large sums of money from 15 complainants.

After her arrest, she admitted in her caution statement to handing over the funds to Ebenezer, although he denied receiving them.

President-elect John Dramani Mahama has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to God for granting him and his party a resounding victory in the recent general elections, surpassing even their most optimistic projections.

Speaking during the 31st All Night Service at the Sanctuary of Wind and Fire Assemblies of God Church in Tamale, Mr. Mahama reflected on the journey to victory, attributing the success entirely to divine intervention.

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Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has shared an uplifting New Year message, expressing his faith in God’s plans for a brighter future.

Speaking during the 31st Watch Night service at the Lighthouse Chapel International, Dr Bawumia encouraged Ghanaians to embrace hope and gratitude as they step into 2025.

The Vice President, who is also the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer for the 2024 elections, attended the service with his wife, Samira Bawumia, NPP National Chairman Stephen Ntim, and other senior party members.

In his speech, Dr Bawumia expressed his gratitude to God for the peaceful conduct of the 2024 December elections and urged all Ghanaians to adopt a spirit of thanksgiving.

“The book of Thessalonians 5:18 tells us that in all things, give thanks to God. I have an abiding faith in the Lord, and for what He has done for us, we give Him thanks,” he said.

He also took the opportunity to thank the host of the service, Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, describing him as “an amazing man of God” and acknowledging his contributions to the church and the nation.

“Bishop Dag is truly blessed, and we thank God for his life,” Dr Bawumia remarked.

Reflecting on his personal journey and the year ahead, the Vice President expressed confidence in God’s purpose for his life.

“I know and believe that God has a plan for me for greater and better things in the future,” he stated.

Dr Bawumia concluded his message by wishing the congregation and all Ghanaians a prosperous New Year.

“From my wife and me, we wish you a Happy New Year. God bless Lighthouse Chapel, and God bless Bishop Dag,” he said.

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Abena Moet has clarified that she meant no harm when she previously questioned Nana Ama McBrown’s credibility as a television presenter.

Speaking on GHOne’s Toast show, Abena Moet revisited the issue, expressing her reservations about the veteran actress’s transition to hosting, a role she feels does not align with McBrown’s otherwise illustrious career.

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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, on December 31, 2024, delivered his final New Year message to Ghanaians as he prepares to hand over power to the President-elect, John Dramani Mahama.

In his speech, Akufo-Addo expressed his gratitude and excitement about the privilege of serving as the President of Ghana.

He said, “It has been an honour serving you as President.”

Read the full text below:

Fellow Ghanaians,

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, I come to you with a heart filled with gratitude and optimism.

Tonight, families across the nation are united in celebration, looking forward with hope and faith to the promise of 2025.

It is a moment to give thanks to Almighty God for the journey we have travelled together and to renew our collective commitment to the brighter future we all seek for Ghana.

This New Year’s message is deeply personal to me, as it is my last as your President. Serving you has been the greatest honour of my life. I stand before you not just as a leader, but as a fellow Ghanaian.

I am humbled by the trust you have placed in me and inspired by the resilience and fortitude I have seen in each of you. Together, we have walked a journey of transformation, and it is a journey I will always cherish.

In the years I have been privileged to lead, we have worked tirelessly to lay a foundation for a Ghana that is strong, united, and free.

The Free Senior High School Policy has given hope to millions of young Ghanaians and their families. We have seen our healthcare systems strengthened, our roads expanded, our industries fortified, our agriculture revitalized, and our digital landscape transformed.

Additionally, our economy is rebounding impressively, as demonstrated by the remarkable 7.2% growth achieved in the third quarter of 2024, with the year’s growth rate projected at 6.8%.

These achievements are not just numbers or statistics; they are stories of lives changed and futures made brighter.

But I also acknowledge the challenges we have faced. The road has not always been smooth, and there have been times of difficulty and sacrifice. Yet through it all, the indomitable Ghanaian spirit has prevailed.

The post-COVID-19 years have tested us to our limit, but they’ve also reminded us of who we are—a people who rise together, no matter the odds.

As we step into 2025, I encourage us all to hold on to the hope that has carried us this far. This is a time for new dreams and renewed commitment.

Let us embrace the opportunities that lie before us, driven by the belief that our best days are still ahead. Ghana’s story is not about our leaders; it’s about our people. Each of us has a role to play in building the nation we envision.

To the youth of Ghana, you are the heartbeat of our future. Your energy, creativity, and dreams are what will drive this nation forward. Do not let fear hold you back. Dream big. Work hard. And know that the future is yours to shape.

To our farmers, teachers, health workers, traders, businesspersons, and public officers who keep our nation moving, I say thank you. You are the backbone of our society, and your contributions make Ghana what she is.

Let us continue to support one another and build a country that works for everyone.

Some three weeks ago, our nation once again stood tall in Africa and the world with the peaceful election of a new president and new members of parliament, reaffirming our status as a beacon of democracy and manifesting the enduring will of our people.

I have congratulated them and wished them well and God’s blessings in the discharge of the mandate of their high offices. Nonetheless, let us vow never to revisit the history of the unprovoked post-electoral violence that nearly marred this election.

The pursuit of power should never be synonymous with violence. It must always reflect a solemn commitment to serve the people.

As it is often said, true power lies not in the capacity to dominate, but in the ability to uplift and unite. Let this be our guiding principle as we move forward, ensuring that peace and democracy remain the bedrock of our nation.

As I prepare to pass on the baton of leadership, I do so hopeful in what lies ahead. Ghana is destined for greatness, and I believe in the strength of her people to achieve it.

The foundation we have built together over the last eight years is one that will continue to grow, and I look forward to watching our beloved nation reach new heights.

So, may 2025 bring our families joy, peace, and abundant blessings. May our homes be filled with laughter, our communities with unity, and our nation with prosperity. Let us step into the new year with hope in our hearts and determination in our steps.

Let us be bold in our steps, knowing that together there is nothing we cannot achieve.

Happy New Year, my fellow Ghanaians. May God bless us all and our homeland Ghana, and make her great and strong.

RAD/MA

The Mobile Money Agents Association of Ghana (MMAAG) has extended its heartfelt congratulations to H.E. John Dramani Mahama on his election as the President of the Republic of Ghana.

In a statement signed by the General Secretary of MMAAG, Mr. Evans Otumfuo, the Association commended the President-elect for his perseverance, determination, and the comprehensive policies outlined during his campaign, which they believe have earned him the trust of the Ghanaian people.

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By Hafsa Obeng

Accra, Jan. 1, GNA, – The Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture has announced the temporary closure of the Independence Square and its environs.  

The closure is in preparation towards the swearing in ceremony of the President elect Mr John Dramani Mahama, of the forth Republic.  

It is to take effect from the midnight of December 31, 2024 to January 8, 2025.  

In a release, signed by Mr Mark Okraku Mantey, Deputy Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture and issued to the Ghana News Agency, on Tuesday, in Accra, it said the facility would be cordoned off by the National Security.  

It urged the public and tourists to take note and comply with the directive.  

GNA  

The Ghana Police Service has cautioned prophets and religious leaders ahead of the highly anticipated 31st Night services, urging them to avoid making fear-inducing prophecies that could cause public panic and insecurity.

In a statement, the police warned against the use of alarming predictions, particularly those that lack evidence or are aimed at stirring fear and anxiety among the public.

This advisory comes as thousands of Ghanaians prepare to gather in churches and religious venues nationwide to usher in the New Year, a tradition often accompanied by prophetic declarations.

The police emphasized that while the constitutional right to freedom of religion and expression is respected, it must be exercised responsibly and within the confines of the law. They reminded the public that any statements or prophecies likely to endanger public safety, create panic, or disturb the peace will not be tolerated.

“The Ghana Police Service would like to take this opportunity to caution the public, especially faith-based organisations and individuals against the publication of misinformation and disinformation, including prophecies likely to cause fear and panic or endanger lives,” part of the statement read.

The service assured citizens of adequate security measures during the celebrations and called on all stakeholders to collaborate in maintaining a peaceful and incident-free transition into the New Year.

In a heartfelt message to Ghanaians, former President John Dramani Mahama emphasized that the real work towards national progress begins now, urging the public to stay focused and committed to the collective goal of building a prosperous Ghana. Mahama’s remarks came during the 31st All-Night Service, where he joined hundreds of believers to mark the event with prayer and reflection.

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Residents of Dome Kwabenya are expressing optimism and outlining their expectations following the declaration of Faustina Elikplim Akurugu of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the Member of Parliament-elect for the constituency.

Madam Elikplim secured victory over the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Mike Oquaye Junior by polling 50,967 votes, a significant achievement that makes her the first NDC MP to represent Dome Kwabenya since its creation.

The announcement, made yesterday at the Electoral Commission (EC) headquarters, has been met with a mix of jubilation and high hopes from constituents.

Speaking to some residents, many praised the EC for the successful management of the process, particularly in a constituency as large as Dome Kwabenya.

Read also: EC declares NDC’s Elikplim Akurugu winner of Dome-Kwabenya election

One resident noted, “We commend the EC for their massive work. It’s not easy managing elections in one of the largest constituencies in the country.”

With Elikplim’s victory, the residents are now focused on the promises she made during her campaign. They hope her tenure will bring much-needed development to the area.

“We expect a lot from Elikplim because this is the first time we have an NDC representative here. We want her to work very hard so we can maintain the seat. Our priorities include better roads, jobs, and a women’s development bank,” another resident shared.

The lack of essential services was also a recurring concern.

“We need a fire service station in Dome Kwabenya. It’s very bad that we don’t have one,” one constituent lamented. Others called for the completion of the Dome Market Phase Two and the Abokobi Market.

Confidence in Elikplim’s ability to deliver on her promises remains strong.

“We trust her and believe she will fulfill the pledges she made during her campaign,” a resident stated, reflecting the general sentiment of hope.

While many are celebrating the milestone victory, they acknowledge the challenges ahead and expect Elikplim to work diligently to meet the expectations of the community. “After all that happened during the campaign, she emerged victorious. Now, we expect her to work even harder,” another resident remarked.

Elikplim Akurugu’s win has not only broken a political barrier but also kindled a sense of renewed hope among Dome Kwabenya residents, who are eager to see tangible development in the constituency under her leadership.

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.

Ghanaian socialite and media personality, Adu Safowaa was shockingly snubbed by a cameraman at a recent event.

In a video shared on X, Adu Safowaa can be seen walking out of the gates of a venue where an event had just ended.

While walking out on the red carpet, Adu Safowaa who was majestically walking towards the cameras was quickly told “madam kindly hurry up and leave the red carpet.”

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The High Court in Accra has overruled the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) preliminary legal objection to the mandamus application seeking to compel the EC to collate the parliamentary results of four constituencies in the December 7 2024 elections.

In a ruling today, Justice Forson Baah Agyapong was of the opinion that the jurisdiction of the court had been properly invoked since the mandamus application was not a challenge to the validity of any declared parliamentary result. 

He added that the court could entertain the judicial review seeking to compel the EC to undertake its constitutional duty of collating the results since the said results had not been gazetted by the EC. 

Flowing the ruling, the court will now proceed to go into the merit of the mandamus application after hearing arguments from lawyers of the various parties. 

Preliminary legal objection 

Counsel for the interested parties, Godwin E. Tameklo had yesterday (Dec 31) raised the legal objection to the mandamus application and questioned the jurisdiction of the High Court to hear same. 

The crux of his argument was that the mandamus application in respect of Okaikwei Central, Tema Central, Techiman South and Ablekuma North was an election petition in disguise and same should not be entertained. 

According to him, where the election and the candidate had been declared in the various constituencies even before the mandamus application was filed, the right thing for the New Patriotic Party to do was to file an election petition and not a mandamus application. 

Grounding his arguments on  sections 16 (1) of the Representation of the People’s Law 1992 (PNDC Law 284) which states that, “the validity of an election to Parliament may be questioned only by a petition brought under this Part”. 

He added section 20 of the same law states that the election of a candidate shall be declared void on an election petition if the High Court is satisfied that general bribery, general treating, general intimidation or other misconduct or circumstances, whether similar to those specified in this Law or not, have so extensively prevailed that they may be reasonably supposed to have affected the result of the election. 

Mr Tameklo said all the issues raised in the various affidavits filed was to the effective that the election and the declaration that had been made was outwitted by general intimidation. 

“Whether it is right or wrong that is for the judge in an election petition to make a deee the determination and not a mandamus application. 

“This mandamus application is a clever way to circumvent the proper hearing to be done by evidence in an election petition

“It is only sections 16 and 20 that the applicant herein can invoke if he has any question as to the appropriateness or otherwise of the said declaration,” he said. 

Applicant

Counsel for the applicant, Gary Nimako Marfo, who opposed the objection, Mr Tameklo’s arguments were  misconceived. 

He said the provisions in the PNDC law quoted by counsel had no effect on the mandamus application since the results of the affected constituencies had not been gazetted. 

“We submit that section 16 of PNDC law 284 can only be invoked when a condition precedent under section 18 of the same law has been fulfilled. 

“That is to say there ought to be gazette notification of the results within 21 days by the respondent. As we speak there are no results of Tema Central Constituency, and there is none gazette.

“In conclusion, our prayer is that the respondent (EC) should perform its constitutional and statutory function under C.I 127 to comply collate and declare the winner of the parliamentary elections held on Dec 7, 2024,” he said. 

Counsel for the EC, Justin Amenuvor who took his turn to argue only asked, “How does the person who has raised the preliminary objection expect this court to say whether or not there has been a validly concluded election without going into the affidavit”. 

However Mr Tameklo replied saying the question was meant for a petition and not a mandamus adding, “The affidavit is what is required for a trial in an election petition”.

The Vice President and Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2024 elections, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has once again expressed his gratitude to the Almighty God for recent events in his life and the nation.  

Addressing the congregation of the Lighthouse Chapel at East Legon in Accra as the special guest of the church’s 31st Watch Night Service, Dr Bawumia reflected on the just-ended elections and expressed his appreciation to God.  

“Let me wish everybody a Happy New Year. Let’s wish for greater and better tidings this New Year,” Dr Bawumia remarked, as the congregation erupted in excitement.  

“We have gone through an election, and I want to thank God for His blessings upon myself and the country, Ghana,” he added.  

Citing the Bible, Dr Bawumia underscored the importance of showing gratitude to God in all circumstances.  

“The book of Thessalonians, Chapter 5, Verse 18, tells us that in all things, give thanks to God. For me, I have abiding faith in the Lord. And so, for what He has done for us, we are giving thanks to Him. I know and believe that God has a plan for me for greater and better days in the future,” he said.  

Dr Bawumia, accompanied by his wife, Samira, also conveyed his appreciation to the founder of the church, Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, and the congregation for their warm reception.  

“I want to thank all of you for giving us the opportunity to wish you a Happy New Year. God bless you, and God bless Ghana,” he concluded.

The study however revealed significant disparities in digital access

A study by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has underscored the growing adoption of digital technologies among Ghanaian farmers.

The study however revealed significant disparities in access, particularly for women farmers who often rely on basic phones with limited internet connectivity.

These findings were presented at a workshop in Accra on the topic: “Enhancing farmers’ uptake of digital technologies in Ghana: overcoming barriers and leveraging enablers.”

The workshop was aimed at fostering collaboration between policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to address the challenges and accelerate the digital transformation of Ghana’s agricultural sector.

The project informing the policy on the use of digital technologies by farmers was conducted through a national survey in nine regions in Ghana.

A total of thousand farmers, comprising small (865) medium (171) and large scale (4) famers were interviewed using a structured questionnaire

Key recommendations that emerged from the project included expanding offline and low-bandwidth services for farmers using digital devices such as mobile phones.

The research noted that recognising the limitations of basic phones, the need for services that function with minimal internet connectivity must be considered and prioritised by policy makers.

The researchers proposed the inclusion of offline data storage, voice-based interfaces, and mobile applications designed for low-bandwidth environments.

The researchers also urged policy makers to reduce the cost of technology, stressing that the high cost of smartphones and mobile data significantly hindered digital adoption among farmers.

They called for policy interventions aimed at reducing device costs and increasing data affordability to ensure equitable access to digital services by farmers.

Dr. Rose Omari, Principal Research Scientist at CSIR, said farmers were eager to embrace digital technologies but stressed the need for the right tools and support.

The researcher said by working together with policymakers and stakeholders, the CISR and the policy makers could create an enabling environment for digital agriculture to flourish and improve the livelihoods of all farmers in Ghana.

She highlighted the workshop’s aim to develop actionable plans to address those challenges and create an enabling environment for digital agriculture to flourish and improve the livelihoods of Ghanaian farmers.

Dr Omari urged policy makers to invest in digital literacy and training for farmers to equip them with essential skills to effectively utilise digital tools.

“This includes training on navigating agricultural applications, accessing relevant information, and understanding data security,” she said.

Accra, Jan. 01, GNA – Engineer Dr. Dzabaku Kudiabor Ocansey, Executive Director, Center for National Interest and Research (CNIR-GH), has urged the citizenry to support the country’s development goals in 2025 and beyond.

In a new year message, the Organisation encouraged the populace to prioritise national interest over personal and political party affiliations to help build a “prosperous, inclusive, and resilient Ghana”.

“Ghana needs professionals from all fields who will stand their ground for fairness and progress of the national interest…We can’t succeed as a country if we continue to have heads or institutions that are more loyal to political parties and governments than the State.

“As we embark on this new year, let us endeavour to build a society full of opportunities for everyone to succeed.

“A new Ghana where everyone feels a sense of belonging, irrespective of their political affiliations or tribes…A society where you don’t need to only occupy political office to be rich,” he stated.

Dr. Ocansey emphasised a shift from “extreme partisan politics” and “divisiveness” to a paradigm “where everyone has access to equal opportunities”.

“It is time for us to come together and strive for a first-world status on or before 2057…Let us work together to make this vision a reality,” he noted.

He called on the youth to use their energy, creativity, and innovation to drive economic and social progress.

CNIR-GH said it would continue to conduct evidence-based research, provide education and training programmes, and advocate good governance and accountability.

It also intends to pursue an initiative dubbed the “Centenary Agenda” and the “New Ghana Project”, which aims to “transform the nation into a developed country by 2057”.

He congratulated President-elect, Mr John Dramani Mahama, and praised all political parties for their active participation in Ghana’s democratic process.
GNA

The Majority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has rejected the National Democratic Congress (NDC) challenge to a mandamus application submitted by four parliamentary candidates from the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

He underscored that the Electoral Commission (EC) is currently resolving the contested results in four constituencies through its administrative procedures.

In remarks made following the High Court’s decision to schedule a ruling on the NDC’s objection for January 1, 2025, Afenyo-Markin pointed out that the EC had previously indicated that irregularities in the collation process contributed to the results announced for Okaikwei Central, Ablekuma North, Tema Central, and Dome Kwabenya.

“The EC itself has stated emphatically that there was no earlier valid declaration of results in these constituencies. The argument that results were declared is neither here nor there.”

Afenyo-Markin emphasized the importance of the current legal proceedings, drawing a distinction between this and what he characterized as the NDC’s initial reaction to the contested results.

“At least, we’ve managed to bring them to civility in the courtroom. We believe in the rule of law and are confident in the outcome.”

The mandamus application submitted by the NPP candidates aims to compel the Electoral Commission (EC) to finalize its collation and announcement of results, a procedure that the EC had already intended to undertake again through administrative means.

The High Court’s decision on January 1 will determine whether it can advance to consider the mandamus application or reject it in light of the NDC’s objection.

Senior aides to South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol offered to resign en masse on Wednesday, a day after his office expressed regret over acting President Choi Sang-mok’s approved of two new judges to a court set to decide Yoon’s fate.
Yoon’s chief of staff, policy chief, national security advisor and special advisor on foreign affairs and security, as well as all other senior secretaries, tendered their resignation, his office said in a statement, without elaborating.

The aides had repeatedly expressed their intent to step down in the wake of Yoon’s botched attempt to declare martial law on Dec. 3, but their resignations have not been accepted, said a presidential official, who declined to be identified owing to political sensitivities.
The official said the senior secretaries have been assisting Choi since he took over as acting president. Two other officials said the aides do not participate in day-to-day government operations, but are required to report to Choi and attend meetings when necessary.

The aides’ latest offer came a day after Choi’s surprise approval to fill two vacancies on the Constitutional Court handling the impeachment trial against Yoon.
It brought the total number of justices to eight on the nine-member court. Any decision in the Yoon case will require the agreement of at least six judges.
Yoon’s ruling People Power Party criticised Choi’s decision as “dogmatic” and lacking sufficient consultations.

Finance Minister Choi assumed the role of acting president on Friday after the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who had been acting president since Dec. 14 when Yoon was suspended from power.
Yoon faces investigations on allegations that he led an insurrection, and a Seoul district court on Tuesday granted approval for his arrest, the first for a sitting president.

Source: Reuters