Madam Perpetual Ofori Ampofo, leader of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has said her husband’s NPP affiliation does not influence her. Madam Perpetual has come under attack after she said nurses will initiate a series of industrial actions in solidarity with nurses who will be affected by a directive to lay off staff recruited during the transition period.
Obiba Sly Collins Advises Young Artistes
Obiba Sly Collins
Renowned Ghanaian highlife musician and songwriter Obiba Sly Collins, has advised young and upcoming artistes in the country to focus on building their craft rather than channeling efforts to secure recording deals.
According to him, it is important for upcoming artistes to focus on their talents rather than relying on a record label to promote their craft.
He suggested that they embrace technology in their daily musical endeavours and seek expert guidance from industry veterans.
He counseled aspiring musicians to follow their own rhythms and find strategies for remaining current in the field.
Sly Collins also urged young talents to create music that will inform listeners about societal challenges.
He clarified that funding is essential to the industry’s expansion, adding that it’s critical for aspiring musicians to understand the financial side of the music industry.
The Ghanaian music industry has a promising future, according to Sly Collins, stressing that the sector would advance if effectively promoted on the global music platform.
Obiba Sly Collins, who talked about his struggle to release his debut album, ‘Yen Boa Ghana’ in the 1990s, told BEATWAVES in an interview that he believed that the music industry had a bright future, and called for collaboration between music stakeholders to create a thriving Ghanaian music scene.
He asserts that Ghanaian musicians are sufficiently skilled to have their compositions performed on major international music stages to a global audience.
He, therefore, called on music industry players to preserve, develop, promote and protect highlife as a genre that represents the national identity, adding that highlife is a part of Ghanaian music and it is important to ensure it stays alive for long.
He pointed out that there is nothing wrong with trying to explore other genres, but would stay true to his originality as a highlife musician.
He, however, revealed that Nigeria has one of the biggest music markets in the world, so Ghanaian musicians trying to do something new to penetrate their market is a plus.
Sly Collins indicated that one of the reasons highlife’s appeal is dwindling is the lack of a concerted effort by Ghanaian music industry leaders to promote the genre.
By George Clifford Owusu & Florence Asamoah Adom
President Mahama appoints Amoah as GNPC CEO following reassignment of Bawa
By Iddi Yire
Accra, Feb. 17, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Mr Kwame Ntow Amoah the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC).
A statement issued by GNPC, copied to the Ghana News Agency said Mr Amoah takes over from Mr Edward Abambire Bawa, who has been reassigned to GOIL as Managing Director and Group CEO.
Throughout his career, Mr Amoah had held key leadership roles, including Deputy Chief Executive at GNPC and Advisor to the Minister of Energy/Director of Petroleum at the Ministry of Energy.
He has also served as Chairman and Member of various national, international, and industry boards and committees.
Mr Amoah has played a pivotal role in international arbitration cases involving Ghana.
His contributions include serving as Technical Advisor for Ghana in the Maritime Boundary Case, which the country won on September 23, 2017.
His efforts have led to securing significant investments, savings, and financing for both GNPC and the country.
He played a key role in attracting investments leading to the exploration successes that established Ghana as a commercial oil production province.
He was also instrumental in securing approximately $7 billion in investment for the Sankofa Oil and Gas Development Project, backed by $700 million in partial risk guarantees from the World Bank.
He holds an MBA from IMD, Switzerland, and a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) degree in Economics and Statistics from the University of Ghana.
Additionally, he has participated in various international leadership and management training programmes, as well as in courses in energy and petroleum management.
The statement said GNPC extends its heartfelt congratulations to Mr Amoah on his appointment and looks forward to his leadership in advancing the Corporation’s strategic vision.
“We are confident his expertise and dedication will drive GNPC’s continued growth and success,” it stated.
GNA
Finance Minister Presents 2025 Budget March 11
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson
The Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson is set to present the Government’s 2025 Budget and Economic Policy to Parliament on March 11, 2025.
This date replaces the initially proposed March 10, 2025 as Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga explained that Parliament does not sit on Mondays, making March 11 a more suitable option for the presentation.
Mr. Ayariga also shared that the Office of the President has communicated a provisional date for the State of the Nation Address to be presented on February 27, 2025.
However, this is contingent upon the availability of Parliament, according to the Majority Leader.
He explained that the address, which will be delivered by President John Dramani Mahama, will outline the government’s priorities for the upcoming year.
The Budget presentation will be a key moment for lawmakers to review the government’s fiscal policies, revenue plans, and economic projections for 2025.
This will set the stage for debates and discussions on the country’s financial future, as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government promises to scrap betting tax and E-Levy.
By Ernest Kofi Adu, Parliament House
There’s massive rot at ECG – John Jinapor blows alarms
John Jinapor, energy minister
John Abdulai Jinapor, the Energy Minister has revealed a there is massive rot at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
The minister noted that about 3,000 containers belonging to ECG are stuck at the port, incurring 1.5 billion in demurrage fees.
According to John Abdulai Jinapor, a container worth about $500,000 was also imported by the ECG but could not clear it and somehow the container was auctioned for 100,000 cedis.
He further revealed that the container sold for 100,000
Kow E. Sam takes over as Bui Power Authority CEO
Mr Samuel Kofi Ahiave Dzamesi, has officially handed over to the newly appointed acting CEO of Bui Power Authority, Mr Kow Eduakwa Sam, in accordance with a directive from the President.
In his address, Mr Dzamesi expressed his gratitude to the Management and Staff of BPA for their support during his tenure.
He recounted his journey as CEO, which began on September 3, 2021, and highlighted the challenges and achievements of his leadership.
Ing. Dzamesi emphasised the importance of teamwork and professionalism, noting that the Authority’s success was a collective one.
He expressed his confidence in the incoming CEO, Mr Sam, describing him as a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the Energy Sector.
He urged Management and Staff to extend their full support to the new CEO to ensure a smooth transition and continued progress for the Authority.
“I am delighted to hand over to Mr Sam, who comes with a wealth of experience from the energy sector. I am confident that he will build on the foundation we have laid and take BPA to even greater heights,” Mr Dzamesi stated.
Following his remarks, Mr Dzamesi formally presented his handover notes to Ing. Sam, symbolising the transfer of leadership responsibilities.
In his response, Mr Sam expressed his gratitude to His Excellency, John Dramani Mahama, and Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, Minster for Energy and Green Transition for the trust and confidence reposed in him.
He acknowledged the contributions of previous CEOs and commended their achievements in advancing the Authority’s mandate.
“I bring to BPA a wealth of experience and a commitment to firm, fair, and proactive leadership. The power sector is one that requires a high level of stakeholder consciousness, and I am determined to ensure that BPA remains responsive to the needs of all stakeholders,” Mr Sam indicated.
He also highlighted the importance of innovation and urged the young professionals within the Authority to harness their creativity to drive the organisation forward.
Mr Sam is a seasoned electrical engineer with over 25 years of experience in Strategic Leadership, Project and Contract Management, Protection and Control Engineering, Control and Instrumentation Engineering, as well as Technical and Energy Auditing.
He holds an MBA in Management Information Systems from the University of Ghana (2004) and a BSc in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (1998).
Additionally, he has earned postgraduate certificates in Project/Investment Appraisal and Risk Management from Duke University (2012) and Power System Analysis from the University of Pennsylvania (2011).
BY TIMES REPORTER
Watch as Ken Agyapong, Adutwum storm Ashanti Region Council of State election
Scene from the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council on Monday, February 17, 2025
The Council of State election for the Ashanti Region is being re-held on Monday, February 17, 2025, after the election was marred by violence on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
A video shared b Citi FM on X from the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council where the exercise is being held, showed leading figures of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), including former Minister of Education, Dr. Osei Yaw Adutwum, and former Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong being present.
Ken Agyapong and Dr. Adutwum were captured at the entrance of the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, which had been blocked by personnel of the Ghana Police Service.
The two men appeared not happy about being prevented from entering the venue for the election.
The former Assin Central legislator could be seen muttering some words as he was pointing fingers at some person behind the gate of the building that houses the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council.
He subsequently left the entrance of the building after pointing out his displeasure.
The former education minister, on the other hand, could be seen engaging the police officers who had blocked the entrance.
As Ken Agyapong was leaving, Dr. Adutwum was still engaging the police officers.
The chaos at the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council on February 11, 2025, began right after the voting had ended.
A gang of unknown thugs broke into the polling centre and disrupted the sorting and counting of ballots.
Witnesses said the attackers stormed the venue, knocked over tables, destroyed ballot boxes, and scattered voting papers, forcing EC officials to halt the exercise.
Supporters who were upset with the results allegedly started the violence and demanded a review of the outcome.
Although there was a sizeable number of police personnel at the venue, they struggled to contain the situation as tensions flared, prompting a temporary suspension of the election proceedings.
The violent altercation left several media personnel, including GhanaWeb’s Ashanti Regional Correspondent, Gideon Nana Peprah, injured.
Sharing his ordeal with Etsey Atisu, Peprah said that about seven well-built men stormed the venue without provocation and began assaulting electoral officers.
“Built men from nowhere just stormed the place. They stormed the grounds where the electoral officers were doing the sorting and counting. Suddenly, they started scattering everything — the ballots, the prepared ballot papers, and the tally sheets. Then, at some point, they even started attacking themselves, which left us confused as to what was happening,” he narrated.
According to him, while trying to leave the chaotic scene, the men approached and accused him of filming the incident on his phone and demanded that he delete the footage.
“I was attacked by about seven or eight of them. They claimed they saw me taking videos and ordered me to delete them. Before I could react, they seized my phone and overpowered me,” he added.
BAI/EK
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest Twi news on GhanaWeb TV here:
You can also watch as John Jinapor narrates how National Security took his phone and laptop to the UK in 2017
I’m committed to stabilising Ghana’s economy
President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his government’s commitment to stabilizing Ghana’s economy as a foundation for sustainable development.
Speaking at the Africa Business Forum 2025 on Monday, February 17, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Mahama outlined strategic efforts to address key economic challenges, including the depreciation of the cedi, high inflation, soaring interest rates, and the growing debt burden.
The forum, organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, focused on the theme: “Moving from Potential to Prosperity: Activating Africa’s Regional Value Chain.”
During the discussions, President Mahama stressed the importance of analyzing the root causes of Ghana’s economic crisis while implementing decisive measures, including a comprehensive debt management plan.
“In a crisis, the first thing that you do is to focus on stabilising, and that is what we are focused on—bringing interest rates and inflation down, stabilising the currency, and dealing with debt overhang. That is where our focus is for now,” he said.
He further emphasized the need to understand the factors that led to the crisis and to take steps to ensure it does not recur.
“At the same time, we must analyse the factors that brought Ghana to this point and implement steps to ensure we do not end up in this situation again. That will entail strengthening the Fiscal Responsibility Act and the Public Financial Management Act.
“We need to cut out waste and reduce corruption. These are some of the critical issues that must be addressed,” he assured.
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‘He sounds better when he is quiet, made zero impact as deputy minister’ – Nana Aba ‘attacks’ Okraku-Mantey
Nana Aba Anamoah is a popular media personality
During the United Showbiz discussion, Mark Okraku-Mantey’s reluctance to appear on the show, based on his belief that it no longer focuses on pertinent entertainment issues but instead resorts to politics and other issues, came up.
This sparked varied reactions from the panellists, including Nana Aba Anamoah, who severely lashed out at the former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, describing him as someone who had failed to address key issues in the entertainment industry while in a position of influence.
Earlier, on Peace FM’s Entertainment Review, Mark Okraku-Mantey suggested changing the name of ‘United Showbiz’ because the show no longer focuses on showbiz topics.
Peace FM’s Kwasi Abogye asked when Mark Okraku-Mantey would appear on the show, to which Mark responded, “When we have proper conversations. Do you know that show is no longer showbiz? You need to change its name. I don’t have a problem with the show. When the ethics work over there, I’ll come. Now, I don’t know where I will fit in.”
When this issue was raised for discussion, Nana Aba Anamoah immediately jumped in, asserting that Okraku-Mantey had no right to criticise the show for discussing pertinent issues when he had failed to contribute to resolving them during his time in office.
“He said there are issues in the entertainment industry. How did he deal with that when he was a radio presenter for a very long time? How did he use his space? How did he use his space to deal with all those issues?
“He was given a position that could have allowed him to make the space he is complaining about better. What was his impact? It was zero. You know what? He sounds better when he is quiet. He shouldn’t talk about what people are doing in his space because he has not been impactful,” she stated, visibly upset.
While introducing his topic, the United Showbiz host Empress Gifty addressed him as “honourable,” but Nana Aba Anamoah felt he didn’t deserve that title.
“He is not an honourable. Don’t give people titles when they don’t own them. He is not a member of parliament. He has never been,” she fumed.
This development, captured in a video making the rounds online, has drawn mixed reactions.
Many have criticised Nana Aba for her harsh statements, with some even questioning if she has a personal vendetta against Mark Okraku-Mantey.
On the other hand, others sided with her sentiments.
You can also watch the latest episode of Moans and Cuddles on GhanaWeb TV below:
EB
Rawlings’s deputy finance minister who spent his days in jail on a pacemaker and oxygen tank
The late Victor Selorney was a former Deputy Minister of Finance
The name Francis Yao Selormey has resurfaced amidst discussions around the declaration of former Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, as a wanted fugitive by the Office of the Special Prosecutor.
Born Victor Lawrence Kwashie Selormey, the economist who served as Deputy Minister of Finance under Jerry John Rawlings’s government, was convicted by a court on charges related to financial impropriety.
He was sentenced to 8 years imprisonment in 2001 for defrauding by false pretenses and causing financial loss to the state.
To some advocates of accountability, the case of Victor Selormey underscores the duty of public officers to manage public resources judiciously.
For others, including his family, his case represents pure political persecution, which ultimately cost him his life.
In a recent Facebook post, a relative of the late former Deputy Minister of Finance, Francis Yao Selormey, recounted how his relative willingly returned to Ghana to defend himself while under investigation for corruption while receiving medical treatment abroad.
According to Francis, upon arriving in Ghana, his relative was arrested at Kotoka International Airport in a manner reminiscent of an American movie.
“When the late Victor Selormey was accused of corruption while seeking medical attention abroad, he willingly returned to defend himself. He was arrested at the airport in a ‘Rambo’ style, detained, and eventually jailed, all for political vindictiveness,” he wrote.
As widely reported, Francis Selormey affirmed that his relative, who was battling cardiac issues and had a pacemaker, was incarcerated at Nsawam Prison and was only taken to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital for medical treatment when his condition deteriorated, despite his family’s continuous pleas for him to receive treatment abroad.
“This was a man who had a pacemaker and was suffering from cardiac issues. He was held in Nsawam with an oxygen tank. His family pleaded for him to receive medical attention abroad. It was only when his condition worsened that he was rushed to Korle Bu, where he later died. The family, including myself, endured a lot of stigmatization during this period,” Francis added.
The prosecution of the late former deputy minister centered around the sale of 60% of GNPC’s 40% shareholding in LEEBDA Corporation to an American company, Amromco Energy LLC, for $20 million in 1998.
The core of the allegations was that LEEBDA Corporation did not exist at the time of the supposed sale, and thus, no shares could legally be sold.
The prosecution argued that Selormey and others conspired to defraud the state by selling shares of a non-existent company, claiming that no such company was registered in Delaware, USA, where LEEBDA was supposedly incorporated.
The defense contended that LEEBDA did exist but had been dissolved before the transaction was completed. They argued that Selormey was unaware of LEEBDA’s dissolution at the time of the deal. Furthermore, they claimed that crucial evidence was withheld by the prosecution, which would have shown that LEEBDA indeed existed at one point.
The trial and conviction of Victor Selormey remain controversial due to claims that the prosecution withheld evidence like documents from Delaware confirming LEEBDA’s existence, potentially exonerating Selormey or at least providing a different perspective on his actions.
Francis Yao Selormey’s post comes after the OSP declared former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, a wanted fugitive in connection with four high-profile corruption investigations.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, February 12, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng stated that Ofori-Atta, who is reported to be receiving medical treatment in America, must return to Ghana immediately to face questioning, warning that failure to comply would lead to steps to compel his return.
The Minority Leader of Parliament, Afenyo-Markin, commented that Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta, willing to return at an appropriate time, has been left traumatized by the OSP’s declaration.
However, according to Francis Selormey, Mr. Ofori-Atta could return and defend himself while receiving medical attention in Ghana.
“Today, Ken Ofori-Atta is said to be traumatized and seeking medical attention so can’t avail himself. Well, thankfully UGMC and Agenda 111 can manage his health while he proves himself innocent,” he added.
GA/KE
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest Twi news on GhanaWeb TV here:
Remove excise taxes on fruit juices – FABAG appeals to government
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How a love for the Olympics kickstarted Marie Agbah-Hughes’ weightlifting dream
For many athletes, the journey to greatness begins with a spark of inspiration. For Ghana’s Marie Agbah-Hughes, it was the thrill of the Olympic Games that ignited her passion for sports, setting her on a path to pursue her dreams and lift her way to success.
Speaking in an interview on GhanaWeb TV’s Sports Check, Agbah-Hughes shared how she initially aspired to be a runner but soon realized it wasn’t the right fit for her.
“It’s really hard to be a runner, but I kept trying. Two days later, I’d get sick. I just wanted to do what the boys were doing, but I knew it wasn’t for me,” she recalled.
However, growing up, she found herself captivated by gymnastics whenever the Olympics were on.
“Every time the Summer Olympics were on, I’d be in front of the TV, watching everything,” she said.
Though life took her down a different path, her love for gymnastics never faded. Moving to the U.S. reignited her enthusiasm as she saw firsthand how deeply embedded gymnastics was in American sports culture.
This experience left her wishing Ghana had similar opportunities for young athletes.
“I used to love gymnastics, and I still do. I wish Ghana had gymnastics gyms because when I got to the U.S., I had friends who were taking their kids to gymnastics after school. In high school, I knew people who trained regularly, and it was very likely that any of them could reach the Olympic level because it was such a big part of the culture,” she added.
Watch the full interview below:
FKA/EK
Second DR Congo city falls to Rwanda-backed rebels
Some people came out to cheer the M23 fighters as they entered Bukavu without resistance on Sunday
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have entered Bukavu, the second-largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, seizing the regional governor’s office.
Some people lined the streets to clap and cheer the fighters as they marched and drove into the city centre without resistance. It is the second city after Goma to fall to the rebels in the mineral-rich region in the past few weeks.
The Congolese government has acknowledged its fall and urged residents to stay at home “to avoid being targeted by the occupying forces”.
The UN and European countries have warned that the latest offensive, which has seen hundreds of thousands of people forced from their homes, could spark a wider regional war.
A resident in Bukavu, who asked to remain anonymous because of concerns for her safety, told the BBC on Sunday that most people were still afraid to leave their homes.
“Since yesterday, the children and the youth took the weapons. They are shooting everywhere in all directions; they are looting,” she said.
“This morning, the M23 entered, and they were acclaimed by the people, very happy to see them. We don’t know if it’s because they are afraid or because they found that there were no authorities in the city.
“The place where I live, the crackling [gunfire] can still be heard.”
On Friday, the M23 captured Bukavu’s main airport, which is about 30km (18 miles) north of the city – and then began advancing slowly towards the city, which is the capital of South-Kivu province.
The provincial governor, Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki, confirmed to the Reuters news agency the fighters were in Bukavu city centre by Sunday morning, adding that Congolese troops had withdrawn to avoid urban fighting.
This left a security vacuum in the city on Saturday, with chaotic scenes playing out, including a reported prison break from the central prison.
The UN World Food Programme (WFP) said a warehouse with nearly 7,000 tonnes of food was looted.
The city of around two million people on the southern tip of Lake Kivu borders Rwanda and is an important transit point for the local mineral trade.
Its fall represents an unprecedented expansion of territory for the M23 since their latest insurgency started in late 2021 – and is a blow to the government of President Félix Tshisekedi.
Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya said Rwanda was violating DR Congo’s territorial integrity through expansionist ambitions and human rights abuses.
The Congolese government accuses Rwanda of sowing chaos in the region – as well as having troops on the ground – so it can benefit from its natural resources, something Kigali denies.
President Tshisekedi wants his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame, to face sanctions over the latest unrest.
But President Kagame has dismissed such threats – and has repeatedly pointed out that Rwanda’s main priority is its security.
He has long been angered by what he sees as the failure of the Congolese authorities to deal with the DR Congo-based FLDR rebel group, which he sees as a danger to Rwanda.
The group is made up of some members of the ethnic Hutu militia accused of involvement in the 1994 genocide in Rwanda when, over 100 days, around 800,000 people, mainly from the Tutsi ethnic group, were killed.
Troops from the Tusti-led M23 gathered at the Place de l’Indépendance in central Bukavu on Sunday, where one of its commanders, Bernard Byamungu, was filmed chatting to locals and answering their questions in Swahili.
He urged government forces “hiding in houses” to surrender – and accused the withdrawing military of spreading terror by arming local youths who had gone on a looting rampage.
The African Union (AU)—which is holding a heads of state summit in Ethiopia this weekend—again urged the M23 to disarm.
“We are all very, very concerned about an open regional war,” Reuters quotes the AU’s peace and security commissioner Bankole Adeo as saying.
Fabricating Lies That I Am A Lesbian Will Not Stop Me From Preaching The Gospel And Speaking The Truth – Diana Asamoah To Critics
Controversial Ghanaian gospel musician, Diana Asamoah, has hit back at critics spreading false rumours about her sexuality, stating that their accusations will not deter her from preaching the gospel and speaking the truth.
Speaking on Angel FM, the outspoken singer made it clear that she has no intention of stopping her ministry due to baseless allegations. She described claims labelling her a lesbian as absurd, reiterating that she remains steadfast in her faith.
Diana Asamoah, who revealed some years ago that she is a virgin and waiting on God’s timing for the right man, dismissed the accusations as mere attempts to tarnish her image.
The rumours surfaced amid her recent feud with fellow gospel musician Cecelia Marfo. During their altercation, Diana Asamoah called out Cecelia Marfo for sacking her husband with her terrible attitude. She asked Cecelia Marfo to channel her energy into restoring her marriage instead of lambasting her for condemning Prophet Ogyaba for fornicating.
Reacting to this a TikTok user alleged that Asamoah was involved in a same-sex relationship, sparking widespread debate. She claimed that because of her bad attitude, she can’t get married and has resorted to dating her fellow women.
However, Diana Asamoah has categorically denied these claims, insisting that no amount of falsehood will shake her commitment to spreading God’s word.
See the video below;
Source:Ghanaceleberities.com
OSP charges six over payroll fraud and corruption
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has brought charges against six individuals at the High Court in Tamale, Northern Region, for offences relating to payroll fraud and corruption.
The accused—Yakubu Tahidu, Abdulai Abukari Sadic, Sammy Suuk, Mohammed Yusif Jay, Stafford Korletey Azudey-Barres, and Osman Issahaku—face 17 counts of corruption, alleged to have caused financial loss to the state.
This case arose from a referral by National Security, which alleged that Yakubu Tahidu, though no longer a teacher, continued to receive salaries while employed at another government agency.
The remaining accused are alleged to have knowingly facilitated or failed to prevent the fraudulent payments.
Yakubu Tahidu, formerly a teacher at Balogu M/A JHS, is accused of illegally receiving salaries after vacating his post to join the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC).
Abdulai Abukari Sadic, the Yendi Municipal IPPD Coordinator, and Sammy Suuk, a Schools Improvement Support Officer, are accused of facilitating salary validations for the first accused.
Mohammed Yusif Jay, the former headteacher of Balogu M/A JHS, allegedly validated the salaries despite being reassigned to another school.
Stafford Korletey Azudey-Barres, an Assistant Chief Accounts Technician at the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department, is alleged to have aided the processing of fraudulent payments.
Osman Issahaku, the current headteacher of Balogu M/A JHS, is accused of continuing to validate the irregular payments.
The OSP continues to investigate and prosecute cases to safeguard public funds and uphold accountability.
Miss P Jay Releases ‘Odo Ne Han’
Miss P Jay
Gospel sensation, Miss P Jay, who is credited with a number of songs, has officially released her new single titled ‘Odo Ne Han’.
Produced by Qoff, the jama gospel song with easy lyrics begins with a powerful instrumentation followed by a strong vocal delivery.
This highly-anticipated release has already started making waves in the music industry, with fans and critics alike praising its fusion of jama and highlife rhythms and rich instrumentation.
The song, BEATWAVES gathered, offers great inspiration to all Christians, and educates them about the fact that their help will come from God only if they look up to Him.
The well-arranged mid-tempo song with beautiful highlife rhythm and beat to match was written and produced by the gospel artiste herself.
The song, which is available on various online digital platforms including YouTube for download, was recorded to encourage people to draw closer to God.
The music video, shot at some selected locations across the capital, complements the song’s message of triumph and perseverance, using vibrant visuals and captivating storytelling to bring the lyrics to life.
Miss P Jay is hopeful that her new single would touch the hearts of many music lovers, including Christians, and help them to have breakthroughs in their lives.
She remains passionate, driven by the hope to touch lives across the globe and win as many souls as possible for Christ.
Miss P Jay, who joined the gospel music industry 15 years ago, has been very active, producing inspirational songs to win souls for Christ.
A source close to Miss P Jay told BEATWAVES that she is ready to transform the gospel music industry in Ghana with her style of music fused with traditional rhythms and beats.
The source added that the gospel songbird is working tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure her presence is felt in the Ghanaian gospel music industry.
By George Clifford Owusu
The Police arrest supporters at Ashanti Council of State election re-run
Kumasi, Feb 17, GNA – The Police have arrested some youth suspected to be NDC supporters for their alleged attempt to disrupt the ongoing council of state elections at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi.
More soon.
The Council of State election in Ashanti is being re-run Monday, February 17, 2025 after the process was disrupted last week.
Unidentified thugs invaded the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, where the election was taking place and destroyed ballot papers.
They attacked any person on sight, destroyed the ballot boxes, tables, chairs and ballot papers.
Scores of people, including journalists, have been injured in the disturbances.
GNA
Nolle Prosequi Filed By AG Undermines Mahama’s Corruption Fight
Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah being interviewed by the press
KUMASI MEMBERS of Parliament (MPs) Bloc, a group of parliamentarians from the Ashanti Region, has raised concerns about nolle prosequi filed by the Attorney General (AG), Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, to free some former appointees of the previous National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, indicating it undermines President John Dramani Mahama’s fight against corruption.
“The various nolle prosequi that have been filed by the Attorney General, raises serious issues about the government’s fight against corruption. It raises issues about its sincerity, it raises issues about its good faith, it raises issues about whether or not the Attorney General we have is not going to be a partisan Attorney General, who is going to pursue just members who are not members of the NDC,” Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, secretary of the bloc said.
According to the MPs, Dr. Asiama was involved in the supervision of banks that collapsed, hence he does not merit the position as Governor of the Bank of Ghana.
“We all know when the banking sector collapsed, he was involved to the extent that following investigation, he was accused in two different cases of complicity and culpability in those cases. One of them was the trial in the UT Bank case. He was an accused there. The other one is a trial of the uniBank cases – he was also an accused there.”
Mr. Baffour Awuah made these assertions at the Suame Magazine Hub in the Suame Municipality when the Kumasi MPs bloc paid a visit to the Suame Auto Mechanic Hub to commiserate with artisans who were affected in the recent fire outbreak which gutted the area and destroyed properties, running into millions of cedis.
Chaired by Mr. Francis Assenso Boakye, the MP for Bantama Constituency, the bloc is made of ten MPs from different constituencies in Kumasi.
Speaking to the media, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, the MP for Manhyia South Constituency, challenged the nolle prosequi filed by the AG recently to discharge people standing trials in court, asking “are we saying that now, being a card-bearing member of the NDC is going to make you immune to criminal prosecution in this country? Is that what the Attorney General is saying?”
He observed that this is the major decision Dr. Ayine has made since taking office as Attorney General, adding that the decision by the AG indicates how important it was to him and the NDC government.
“It indicates how important it meant to the government, right? To the extent that one of them has even been made the Governor of the Bank of Ghana. What message are we sending to Ghanaians, that the whole resetting agenda was making sure we are going to launder our people and then pursue others,” the Manhyia South MP asked.
“And more importantly, it raises another question: Is President Mahama more sincere about his fight against corruption after all? Is it the case that he is taking his people and he is not going to pursue anybody?” he quizzed.
Mr. Awuah added that the withdrawal of the cases raises fundamental questions, and the AG has to take a second look at what he has done “because it is a major political risk for all of us as elite politicians.”
FROM David Afum, Kumasi
Six charged for payroll fraud and corruption
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has 8 brought charges against six (6) persons at the Tamale High Court.
The six accused — Yakubu Tahidu, Abdulai Abukari Sadic, Sammy Suuk, Mohammed Yusif Jay, Stafford Korletey Azudey-Barres, and Osman Issahaku — face 17 counts of corruption, which are alleged to have caused significant financial loss to the state.
Tema Metropolitan Waste Management begins work on overflowing sewers
By Elizabeth Larkwor Baah
Tema, Feb. 17, GNA – The Waste Management Department of the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) has commenced work to address overflowing sewers in Tema Community One.
The overflowing sewer has left liquid waste flowing in major parts of the business area in Tema Community One, causing inconvenience to residents and businesses.
A team of sanitation workers from the TMA, equipped with cleaning equipment, began desilting the affected areas over the weekend.
The spillage, which affected many areas, including a sewer chamber located a few meters near the assembly’s entrance, caused insanitary conditions, forcing some sellers of boiled eggs and fruits to vacate the place.
Madam Bertha Essel, Head of Waste Management, TMA, said they identified a major blockage in the sewer system at Tema Community One, at the Casino area, as the primary cause of the sanitation challenges in the vicinity.
Madam Essel said to address the situation, there was the need to temporarily block other sewer lines in the area for sanitation workers and engineers to carry out the required maintenance and unclogging operations.
She assured residents that the necessary interventions were being implemented, and the issue would be fully resolved.
Mr. Ofori Laryea, the Sewer Manager at Tema Metro, attributed the blockage in the sewer system to the accumulation of solid waste and debris in the drainage network.
He said the buildup had significantly hindered the proper flow of wastewater, leading to sanitation challenges in the affected areas.
Mr. Laryea said the department was intensifying efforts to clear clogged drains and implement preventive strategies to reduce the recurrence of such blockages.
He emphasised the critical role of proper waste disposal in maintaining a functional drainage system and urged the residents to refrain from dumping solid waste into gutters and sewers, as such actions contribute to severe blockages, particularly during the rainy seasons.
He said some sewers and drainages remained uncovered due to their locations, making them more susceptible to accumulating debris and other materials.
Meanwhile, some residents, while welcoming the cleanup efforts, expressed frustration over the recurring nature of such incidents, which they say has become a long-standing health hazard.
Some passengers also expressed concern over the presence of swarms of flies around the exposed sewer waste, particularly during spillage.
They described the situation as both insanitary and unpleasant, noting that the back of the TMA had unfortunately become a gathering spot for smokers, junkies, and other individuals who frequently urinated in the area, contributing to the persistent foul odour.
The resident said they feared the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to the waste, including the spread of diseases like cholera, typhoid, and other waterborne infections.
“We have lost count of the number of times the sewer has spilt; they need to find a permanent solution to this problem. How can the sewer be getting spoilt a few meters from the Assembly, and it’ll take days before they work on it?” Mr. Kwabena Owusu, a resident, said.
“It is sad how this place becomes a breeding ground for flies and faeces anytime there’s a spill, and I have lost count of the number of times this sewer spills, and if care is not taken, Tema will be one of the cholera-prone areas,” Ms. Celestine Tetteh, a fruit seller, said.
GNA
Dating is not for sex; it’s for gathering data – Bishop Agyinasare warns
Founder and leader of Perez Chapel International, Bishop Charles Agyinasare
Founder and leader of Perez Chapel International, Bishop Charles Agyinasare, has cautioned individuals in relationships against prioritising sexual intimacy during the dating phase.
In a video shared online on February 17, 2025, the renowned Ghanaian pastor, while addressing the congregation, emphasised that dating should be a time for gathering information and understanding one’s partner, rather than a period focused on physical intimacy.
“Remember that dating is not for mating or for coupling. When you start going out with somebody, it’s not for you to have sex together. Because mating will cloud your judgment. Your period of meeting is the period of gathering data,” Archbishop Agyinasare stated.
He further warned that failing to thoroughly understand a partner before marriage could lead to significant problems afterward.
“The truth of the matter is, if you don’t do more work on the person you are going to marry before you marry, you will do more work after the marriage,” he added.
ID/EB
See the post below:
Dating isn’t for mating or cuddling but for gathering information. pic.twitter.com/jFAkGDn7lS
— Archbishop Charles Agyinasare (@Cagyinasare) February 17, 2025
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OliveTheBoy Hits 100m Streams On Audiomack
OliveTheBoy
Ghanaian Afrobeats singer, Olivetheboy, has received a plaque from Audiomack after surpassing 100 million streams on the streaming platform.
This accomplishment underscores his rapid ascent in the music industry and the widespread appeal of his sound.
Born Joel Ofori Bonsu on October 19, 2002, in Konongo, Ghana, Olivetheboy embarked on his musical journey in 2020 after completing his education at Opoku Ware Senior High School.
His debut EP, ‘AVANA,’ released in May 2023, features the standout track ‘GOODSIN’, which played a pivotal role in propelling him to prominence. The song became the most streamed in Ghana in the first half of 2023.
In recognition of his burgeoning talent and growing influence, Olivetheboy secured a deal with Sony ’s Columbia Records through its subsidiary Bu Vision Entertainment in August 2023. This partnership aims to amplify his presence on the global stage.
As Olivetheboy continues to break barriers and set new records, the global music community keenly anticipates his future projects and contributions to the Afrobeats genre.
BY Prince Fiifi Yorke
Fast-Track African financial institutions to boost integration – Mahama
President John Mahama is advocating for the swift establishment of key financial institutions to drive Africa’s economic integration and reduce reliance on foreign aid.
Delivering his keynote address as Champion of African Union Financial Institutions at the Heads of State and Government breakfast dialogue at the AU Commission headquarters in Addis Ababa, President Mahama called for accelerated efforts to establish an African Central Bank, an African Investment Bank, an African Monetary Fund, and a Pan-African Stock Exchange.
He emphasized that the African Central Bank would play a crucial role in deepening economic cooperation by creating a common monetary policy and a single African currency.
“By mobilizing resources, facilitating trade, and financing infrastructure projects, these can reduce dependence on external aid and create a self-sustaining economic ecosystem for Africa. The African Central Bank is aimed at establishing a single African currency, which will help to reduce exchange rate risks and enhance investment flows across the continent.”
President Mahama further revealed progress in establishing the African Monetary Institute (AMI), a precursor to the African Central Bank.
“I am pleased to inform you that the ministers of finance and the central bank governors have endorsed the draft statute of the Africa Monetary Institute (AMI) through the specialized technical committee on finance, monetary affairs, economic planning, and integration. The AMI will serve as a precursor to the African Central Bank and will carry out essential preparatory work, including technical and legal assessments, as well as ensuring the implementation of macro-economic convergence criteria.”
The Role of Key Financial Institutions
The African Investment Bank (AIB) is expected to foster economic growth and accelerate integration by mobilizing resources from both African and global capital markets to finance investment projects across the continent.
The African Monetary Fund (AMF) will work to eliminate trade restrictions, enhance monetary integration, and provide financial assistance to AU member states.
“The Fund will prioritize regional macro-economic objectives in its lending policies. It will also be providing financial assistance to AU member states as part of its objectives.”
President Mahama also highlighted progress toward establishing a Pan-African Stock Exchange, which aims to integrate capital markets and enhance investment flows within Africa.
“The Pan-African Stock Exchange is envisaged to integrate capital markets, making it easier for businesses to raise capital and thereby enhancing liquidity, promoting intra-African investments, and providing alternative financing mechanisms for governments and the private sector.
“Progress is being made towards the establishment of this exchange, with the Commission and the African Security Exchanges Association working on the Exchange’s linkages project. This initiative also aims to enhance liquidity and facilitate capital mobilization across African nations. We encourage more African Stock Exchanges to join this important project.”
President Mahama’s call for urgent action underscores the need for Africa to build its own financial infrastructure, ensuring long-term economic sustainability and reduced dependency on external aid.
Ashanti Regional Minister Arrives at Prempeh Assembly Hall Ahead of Council of State Re-Election
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has arrived at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi ahead of today’s crucial Council of State re-election. This highly anticipated poll will determine the region’s representative in the Council of State, following a directive from the Electoral Commission (EC) to conduct a fresh election after the previous attempt was marred by disruptions.
Dr. Amoakohene, who took office after the 2024 general elections, was seen engaging with key stakeholders, including Electoral Commission officials, traditional leaders, and some delegates before the official commencement of the voting process. His presence underscores the importance of the election, as the chosen representative will serve as a key advisor to President John Dramani Mahama, ensuring that the interests of the Ashanti Region are well represented at the national level.
Security has been significantly bolstered around the venue, with heavily armed police officers and other security personnel deployed to maintain order. The presence of political party representatives and election observers further highlights the significance of today’s re-election. Delegates and stakeholders are hopeful for a smooth and fair process, unlike the previous election, which was marred by violence.
The initial Council of State election in the Ashanti Region, held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, was abruptly disrupted when a group of unidentified heavily built men, commonly referred to as ‘machomen,’ stormed the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council. Their presence caused chaos and prevented the Electoral Commission from concluding the voting process or announcing a winner. The violent invasion prompted the EC to reschedule the election, citing the need for transparency, security, and fairness.
Political analysts believe this re-election holds substantial implications for governance in the Ashanti Region. The elected representative will have direct access to the presidency, offering counsel on critical policies and development projects that impact the region. Given the Ashanti Region’s economic and political influence, this election is viewed as a key event in shaping its future trajectory under the Mahama-led administration.
As the voting process gets underway, all eyes are on the Prempeh Assembly Hall, where the fate of the Ashanti Region’s Council of State representative will soon be decided. The outcome of this election is expected to have far-reaching effects on the region’s political landscape and its engagement with the national government.
https://x.com/i/status/1891430469293457542
Ofori-Atta will face justice, even in death
Deputy Director of Operations at the Presidency, Mustapha Gbande, has issued a strong warning that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta will face justice, even in death, if he refuses to return to Ghana.
Gbande emphasised that all necessary measures would be taken to bring Ofori-Atta back to the country and recover any stolen public funds.
His comments follow the official declaration of Ofori-Atta as a suspect in four high-profile corruption investigations by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) on February 12, 2025.
These investigations include allegations related to the National Cathedral project, Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML), and two other ongoing cases.
At a press briefing on February 12, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng declared Ken Ofori-Atta a wanted person, urging him to return to Ghana immediately to face questioning. Agyebeng warned that failure to comply would result in legal measures to enforce his return.
“If Ken Ofori-Atta should refuse to come, every measure will be deployed to bring him down to this country. If for any reason he passes on, his dead body will be prosecuted and jailed, and every stolen money belonging to the people of Ghana will be retrieved. It is not just an agenda of government but a mandate,” Agyebeng said.
Meanwhile, in an interview with Joy News on Monday, February 17, Mustapha Gbande reaffirmed his commitment to integrity.
“I fear to steal what is for the public, I will never steal what is for the public. If for any reason I come into contact with a decision to harm the people of this country, I will rather be poor, so that Ghanaians will respect me for it,” he stated.
Gbande added that he holds the respect of the people in higher regard than personal wealth and would never compromise his values for personal gain.
……
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I didn’t attend a ‘big school’ but I made it – Jospeh Osei-Owusu
Former First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and MP for Bekwai, Joseph Osei-Owusu
Former First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Member of Parliament for Bekwai, Joseph Osei-Owusu, has challenged the perception that only graduates of elite schools can achieve great success.
Speaking on Akoto Mansa’s Asetena Pa show, monitored by MyNewsGH, he revealed that he did not attend a prestigious institution but still worked his way to prominence through determination and perseverance.
“I was born in Bekwai and attended Juabeng Senior High School, which many consider a grade-three school,” he said.
When Akoto Mansa pointed out that many were curious about how he attended such a school yet rose to a high-ranking political position, Osei-Owusu dismissed the notion that some schools are inherently superior.
“The idea of ‘big schools’ is misleading,” he explained.
“What makes a school great is the achievements of the individuals who pass through it, not necessarily the institution itself,” he added.
The seasoned politician also shared his deep passion for law, revealing that his childhood admiration for lawyers played a key role in shaping his career path.
“As a young boy, I used to visit courthouses just to watch lawyers in action. I was fascinated by how they spoke English so fluently and eloquently,” he recalled.
They should take responsibility- Elmina Sharks owner Paa Kwesi Nduom blasts GFA over chaos at Ndoum park
The owner of Elmina Sharks, Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom, has strongly criticized the Ghana Football Association (GFA) over its handling of football management in the country.
Speaking with GTV Sports Plus, Nduom expressed frustration over the state of officiating, security, and financial management within the Ghanaian football system.
In his statement, he called for better officiating, improved payment structures for referees, and a stronger commitment to making the league safer and more entertaining.
“Don’t take a clip and say shouldn’t someone take responsibility. It is the GFA. They take responsibility. They must make everybody safe. They must make the games entertaining, they must pay the refs appropriately and pay everybody well, not just take FIFA money and go and rest somewhere,” he stated.
His comments come in reaction to the chaos that erupted at the Nduom Sports Complex during Elmina Shark’s 1-0 defeat to Swedru All Blacks.
In a viral video, Sharks players were spotted attacking one referee after awarding an alleged controversial penalty to All Black Stars, which turned out to be the match-winner.
Bishop Salifu Amoako and wife re-arrested
The Founder and General Overseer of Alive Chapel International, Bishop Salifu Amoako, and his wife, Mouha Amoako, have been re-arrested after being discharged from a legal case involving their son.
According to a report by GHOne TV, the Attorney General, on Monday, February 17, 2025, withdrew the charges against Bishop Amoako, his wife, and another individual who were being prosecuted for allowing their son to drive without a license.
However, the GHOne report stated that the couple were re-arrested immediately after exiting the court on Monday.
The 16-year-old son of Bishop Elisha Salifu Amoako was sentenced on December 19, 2024, to serve six months at a senior correctional center.
This followed his guilty plea to eight charges, including two counts of manslaughter, for a tragic road crash in East Legon that claimed the lives of two preteens.
Before his sentencing, Salifu Amoako’s son was remanded by the Family and Juvenile Court and held at the Osu Correctional Centre while he was being prosecuted for causing the crash.
According to police prosecutors, he had been showing off the speed of the Jaguar F-Pace Sport, which belonged to his parents, when it collided with a black Acura in which the victims were traveling.
The report indicated that Salifu Amoako’s son drove the white Jaguar with a friend to A&C Mall, where they met additional friends waiting in two SUVs.
The three vehicles formed a convoy, with the accused leading in his mother’s car—the Jaguar—as they drove through the East Legon area.
During proceedings at the Family and Juvenile Court, the 16-year-old initially pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The court remanded him into custody, addressing the conditions of his remand and outlining specific directives for his care.
Salifu Amoako, his wife, Mouha Amoako, and Linda Bonsu Prempeh, a sales assistant, were also arrested following the accident.
The Accra Circuit Court granted bail to Salifu Amoako and Mouha Amoako at GH¢50,000 each, with two sureties.
Linda Bonsu Prempeh, who allegedly provided the key to the vehicle involved in the accident, was also granted bail under the same conditions, with two sureties, without justification.
The three individuals had been charged with “permitting an unlicensed person to drive,” and all pleaded not guilty during their court appearance on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.
Attorney-General withdraws charges against Bishop Salifu Amoako, his wife, and another; re-arrested moments after being discharged…#GHOneNews #EIBNetwork #GHOneTV #NewsAlert pic.twitter.com/kxABvOGTH3
— GHOne TV (@ghonetv) February 17, 2025
GA/MA
COCOBOD denies increase in cocoa price
The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has refuted claims that Ghana is set to increase cocoa farmers’ earnings to 70% of the global price.
According to COCOBOD, the report circulating on social media is false and misleading.
In a Facebook post, it stated, “Our attention has been drawn to a false flyer circulating on social media claiming that the Minister for Food and Agriculture has announced an increase in cocoa prices. This information is completely untrue.”
“We urge our cherished stakeholders and the public to disregard this fake news and rely only on official communication from COCOBOD and the ministry,” it added.
The clarification comes at a critical time when cocoa farmers and industry players are closely monitoring potential price adjustments amid global market fluctuations.
Earlier, it was reported that the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring competitive prices for cocoa farmers.
The minister announced that the government would introduce an initiative aimed at incentivizing increased cocoa production amid declining output at the Cocoa Processing Company (CPC).
According to reports, the minister made this announcement while speaking on the floor of Parliament on Friday, February 14, 2025.
Cocoa farmers have long called for an increase in the price of the commodity.
Apart from pricing issues, high production costs and climate-related risks are some of the challenges faced by cocoa farmers.
The call for an increase in cocoa prices is aimed at encouraging farmers to boost production.
SA/MA
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Key takeaways from Otumfuo’s meeting with Kofi Adams
Kofi Adams (left) visited Otumfuo (right) to discuss issues about Ghana sports
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed his concerns about the state of sports in Ghana during his meeting with the Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, on February 14, 2024.
During the meeting at Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, the Asantehene condemned the death of Francis Yaw Frimpong, also known as Pooley, a staunch Asante Kotoko fan who was stabbed during Kotoko’s game against Nsoatreman on February 2, 2025.
Otumfuo called on the various security agencies to put in their best efforts to bring the perpetrators to book and serve as a deterrent.
He also bemoaned the abysmal performances of the Black Stars recently and called on Kofi Adams to take decisive measures to resolve the team’s struggles.
Here are some key things Otumfuo tasked Kofi Adams to do as sports minister
Investigation into Pooley’s Death
Otumfuo stated that he was saddened by Pooley’s demise and wants authorities to thoroughly investigate the case to ensure justice is served.
“The Kotoko incident is very sad. How can anyone benefit from intentionally stabbing someone during a game? I call for necessary investigations to ensure no one takes the law into their own hands. We must deal ruthlessly with the perpetrators to uphold the rule of law,” he said.
Deal with the Perpetrators
The Asantehene expressed worry over how the investigations into Pooley’s death have been handled, with the culprit still unidentified.
He noted that the exact location of the incident is irrelevant, emphasizing the need to identify and deal with the perpetrator.
“Since the incident, we haven’t identified the killer. We must find out as soon as possible. Regardless of whether it happened inside or outside the stadium, the perpetrator must be arrested and held accountable,” the Asantehene noted.
Black Stars Player Selection Interference
Otumfuo said that the Black Stars’ disastrous performances are disappointing and urged Kofi Adams to ensure that player selection is merit-based.
“Sports bring unity, transcending politics and focusing on results. As you work to help the Black Stars thrive, ensure that player selection is merit-based, without external interference, and get the right technical personnel to choose the best players for us,” he indicated.
Revive Black Stars
The Asantehene charged Kofi Adams to do his best to ensure the Black Stars excel during his tenure and promised to offer his prayers for success.
“We’re all saddened by the team’s losses and lack of progress. Kofi, please take these issues seriously and get the best players for us. I believe you can do it, and I’ll pray for your success,” Otumfuo added.
Watch Otumfuo’s remarks in the videos below:
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Life Patron of Asante Kotoko, has spoken on the death of Francis Yaw Frimpong.#3Sports pic.twitter.com/9EmR2ydrYo
— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) February 14, 2025
VIDEO: The Asantehene didn’t hold back on the Black Stars in his interaction with new Sports Minister Kofi Adams. #BlackStars #3Sports pic.twitter.com/lBVM8rQQJ3
— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) February 15, 2025
Meanwhile, catch up on the latest Sports Check with weightlifter Marie Agbah-Hughes on GhanaWeb TV below:
SB/EK
The last time we enjoyed in bed was seven years ago – Charlotte Oduro
Counsellor Charlotte Oduro has opened up about her sexual life with her now-former husband Apostle Solomon Oduro saying the last time they slept was seven years ago.
Last week we reported that one of the reasons that led to the divorce of the two was the lack of sex between the two with Apostle Solomon Oduro disclosing that they have had sex 12 times in their 16 years of marriage.
Deputy Health Minister-Designate Calls for Diaspora Medical Support
Deputy Minister-designate for Health, and Member of Parliament (MP) for the Essikado-Ketan constituency, Professor Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has called for a structured approach to integrating Ghanaian and “African diaspora medical specialists” into the country’s healthcare system.
She made this statement in Parliament while addressing the challenges of medical expertise shortages in Ghana, linking her advocacy to the broader significance of Black History Month.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s Stylish Statement Shines at Keynote
In a moment that blends fashion and forward-thinking discourse, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Ghana’s Vice President, has taken both the political and fashion world by storm. His recent keynote speech on shaping the future of Africa has not only sparked significant dialogue about the continent’s development but has also left social media buzzing over his impeccable sartorial choices. Dressed in a sharp, tailored navy suit and a sleek, matching trench coat, Bawumia’s appearance became the talk of the town, with social media platforms like Instagram flooded with praise for his elegant ensemble.
The event, focused on exploring key strategies for Africa’s development, attracted a diverse group of political figures, academics, and business leaders from across the continent. Yet, despite the weight of the discussions and the importance of the topics addressed, it was Bawumia’s appearance that stole the spotlight. His fashion choices sent a powerful message about the role of leadership in the modern era, blending style with substance in a way that speaks to the aspirations of a new generation of African leaders.
The meticulously tailored suit and trench coat combination has captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts and critics alike. The suit, perfectly cut to highlight his stature, alongside the trench coat—an item recently revived in the fashion world—has sparked widespread conversation. The ensemble effortlessly blends contemporary elegance with a timeless aesthetic, resonating with a younger, style-conscious audience that sees Bawumia as a symbol of progressive leadership.
Not just a fashion statement, the trench coat itself carries deeper meaning. Its sleek silhouette symbolizes resilience and adaptability, two traits essential for overcoming the challenges Africa faces as it charts its own path toward sustainable development. The combination of the coat with a crisp white shirt and a tastefully selected tie projects an image of professionalism, while signaling a forward-thinking approach to leadership.
Bawumia’s choice of attire is more than just personal style—it is a reflection of a broader narrative about the future of African leadership. In a global landscape where the visual image of a leader matters as much as their words, Bawumia’s ensemble serves as a reminder that African leaders are not just innovators in policy but also in presentation. His appearance suggests that leadership in Africa is not defined by the past but rather by a blend of tradition and modernity, offering a fresh and bold vision for the continent.
Beyond the fashion buzz, Bawumia’s keynote address itself focused on crucial topics such as sustainable development, the integration of technology, and fostering innovation across Africa. The Vice President outlined a vision for a continent that is not only growing but is also embracing the potential of digital transformation to drive economic and social progress. However, even before his speech began, his entrance in that stylish ensemble had already captured the attention and imaginations of those in attendance.
The reaction on social media was immediate and overwhelming, with countless Instagram users sharing images of Bawumia’s outfit and applauding his leadership both in fashion and politics. The hashtag #BawumiaStyle trended, with many praising his bold fashion choices as a sign of a new kind of leadership—one that is both confident and progressive.
In a time when public figures are often scrutinized for their appearance, Dr. Bawumia has proven that style and substance can coexist seamlessly. His appearance not only made a bold statement about leadership but also set the tone for the kind of future he envisions for Africa—one where innovation, resilience, and modernity are at the forefront of the continent’s growth.
As Africa looks to the future, Dr. Bawumia’s address and his impeccable sense of style continue to spark conversations about the intersection of leadership, fashion, and the evolution of the continent. His influence is now being felt not just in the halls of power but also across the digital landscape, where young Africans are finding inspiration in both his words and his wardrobe.
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Ghana Is A Sick Country – Berla Mundi
Berla Mundi
Media personality, Berla Mundi, has described Ghana as a sick country because of her frustration with noise pollution.
In a post on X, Berla Mundi fumed at how a truck selling “nkura duro” (rat medicine) blasts loud music and makes announcements as early as 6 a.m., disturbing people who are either still asleep or preparing for work.
“Ghana is a sick country, honestly! Explain to me why there’s a truck selling ‘nkura duro’ with loud music and announcements as early as 6 am on the streets,” she wrote.
Berla criticised this behaviour and urged those responsible to stop disturbing others.
“When people are sleeping or getting ready for work, that’s noise pollution,” she added.
has since sparked mixed reactions on social media.
Mahama applauds AU Commission | Ghana News Agency
By Iddi Yire
Accra, Feb 17, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama has applauded the African Union (AU) Commission for its proactive role in providing capacity-building to Member States at the continental level.
He also lauded the Commission for advocating fair and equitable international tax rules at a global level.
President Mahama, who is the Champion on African Union (AU) Financial Institutions, gave the commendation in his keynote address at the Heads of State and Government breakfast dialogue held at the AU Commission headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The event on the theme “Africa at the forefront: Mobilizing African Investment and Financing for Implementing Agenda 2063”, was held on the sidelines of the AU Summit, under the auspices of the Alliance of African Multilateral Financing Institutions, also called the African Club.
President Mahama said the USAID withdrawal for example should be a wake-up call to all Africa that they should look more inward and raise domestic financing.
He said addressing the financing gap requires a multifaceted approach, and that domestic resource mobilization was crucial.
The President said by improving tax administration and combating illicit financial flows and encouraging a culture of tax compliance, African countries could significantly increase their revenues.
He said the ongoing work on the United Nations Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation was a critical step towards eliminating base erosion and profit-shifting, thus protecting our national revenues.
“It is projected that African countries need to increase their median tax-to-GDP ratios by about 13.2 percentage points to 27.2 percent of GDP to be able to close the financing gap by 2030,” he said.
The President said there was the need for additional innovative financial resources and reform of the global financial architecture to ensure equitable and inclusive distribution of resources.
He said the role of African multilateral financial institutions in financing sustainable development could not be overemphasized.
He said the institutions were uniquely positioned to address trade, investment, and development gaps across the continent.
“It is our responsibility to strengthen them to effectively contribute to the continent’s transformation and the realization of the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
He said the establishment of the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AMFI), also known as the Africa Club, exemplified their commitment to collaboration to achieve this objective.
President Mahama said the initiative strengthened the ability of the capable institutions to advance the interests of member states in global finance and to advocate homegrown solutions to the continent’s development challenges.
He said the support of AMFI should also be complemented by innovative initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development.
President Mahama reiterated that innovation was key to the continent’s progress and the launch of the African Virtual Investment Programme (AVIP) by the African Union Commission was a testament to this.
He said by aggregating comprehensive data on investments and related policies, the platform would provide the evidence necessary for informed policy discussions and decision-making.
He said the platform was designed to attract investment and ensure that it was deployed in a way that promoted sustainable development and inclusive growth.
The President said accelerating the implementation of the African Union Financial Institutions, namely the African Central Bank, the African Investment Bank, the African Monetary Fund, and the Pan-African Stock Exchange was instrumental in fostering investments and financing to achieve their objectives.
GNA
Heavy Police presence at Ashanti Regional Council of State election re-run
A heavy security presence and stringent checks have been deployed by the police at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi, which has been designated as the new venue for the Council of State election in the Ashanti Region.
This move comes in response to disturbances that marred the electoral process, prompting authorities to take precautionary measures to ensure a smooth and secure voting environment.
The need for heightened security became apparent after a group of thugs disrupted the election process on Tuesday, February 11, causing confusion and halting proceedings.
The incident led to widespread concern among stakeholders, prompting immediate intervention by security forces to restore order and prevent further escalation of tensions.
The Ashanti Regional Caucus in Parliament strongly condemned the acts of violence and called on the government to take swift action against those responsible for the disruptions.
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Professor Kwame Osei Kwarteng Challenges Mahama On Independence Day Celebration Changes
Professor Kwame Osei Kwarteng has criticized President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to cancel the rotational hosting of Ghana’s Independence Day celebrations across the 16 regions, arguing that financial concerns should not be the sole reason for the decision.
Speaking on Bryt Adekye Mu Nsem with Kwamina Sam Biney on Monday, February 17, 2025, Professor Kwarteng challenged the rationale behind Mahama’s move.
World’s ‘first openly gay imam’ shot dead in South Africa
Muhsin Hendricks, who came out as gay in 1996, once said that his need to be authentic “was greater than the fear to die”.
Muhsin Hendricks, a pioneering figure dubbed the world’s first openly gay imam, has been shot dead in South Africa.
The 57-year-old cleric ran a mosque in Cape Town intended as a safe haven for gay and other marginalised Muslims. He was killed on Saturday morning after the car in which he was travelling near the southern city of Gqeberha was ambushed.
“Two unknown suspects with covered faces got out of the vehicle and started firing multiple shots at the vehicle,” police said in a statement.
News of Hendricks’ death has sent shockwaves through the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across the globe.
Julia Ehrt, executive director at the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (Ilga), called on the authorities to thoroughly investigate “what we fear may be a hate crime”.
“He supported and mentored so many people in South Africa and around the world in their journey to reconcile with their faith, and his life has been a testament to the healing that solidarity across communities can bring in everyone’s lives,” she said.
Hendricks was killed after he had reportedly officiated at a lesbian wedding, though this has not been officially confirmed.
The details of the attack emerged through security footage that was shared on social media.
It shows a car pulling up and blocking the vehicle in which Hendricks was travelling as it was pulling away from the curb. According to police, the imam was in the back seat.
The angle of CCTV footage reveals what happened from one side of the road – an assailant jumps out of a car, runs to the ambushed vehicle and shoots repeatedly through the back passenger window.
Hendricks’ Al-Ghurbaah Foundation, which runs the Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque in the Wynberg suburb of Cape Town, confirmed he had died in a targeted attack on Saturday morning.
But Abdulmugheeth Petersen, chair of the foundation’s board, appealed via a WhatsApp group for their followers to be patient, stressing the importance of protecting Hendricks’ family.
Hendricks’ work challenged traditional interpretations of Islam and championed a compassionate, inclusive faith.
South Africa’s post-apartheid constitution was the first in the world to protect people from discrimination because of their sexual orientation and in 2006, became the first country in Africa to legalise same-sex marriage.
But despite a thriving LGBT community, gay people still face discrimination and violence. The country also has one of the highest murder rates in the world.
Hendricks came out as gay in 1996, which shocked the wider Muslim community in Cape Town and elsewhere.
That same year, he founded The Inner Circle, an organisation providing support and a safe space for queer Muslims seeking to reconcile their faith and sexuality before going on to establish the inclusive Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque.
He was the subject of a documentary in 2022 called The Radical, in which he said about the threats he faced: “The need to be authentic was greater than the fear to die.”
Hendricks often spoke about the importance of interfaith dialogue and the need to address the mental health issues and trauma faced by LGBTQ+ individuals within religious communities.
He told the Ilga World Conference in Cape Town last year: “It is important that we stop to look at religion as the enemy.”
Reverend Jide Macaulay, an openly gay Anglican minister, described Hendricks’ death as “truly heartbreaking”.
The British-Nigerian LGBTQ rights activist runs House of Rainbow, an organisation that provides support for gay people in Nigeria where same-sex relationships or public displays of affection are illegal, and paid tribute to Hendricks’ bravery.
“Your leadership, courage, and unwavering dedication to inclusive faith communities have left an indelible mark,” he said.
Sadiq Lawal, a gay Muslim man living in Nigeria, told the BBC that Hendricks, had made such an impact as he had made “the impossible possible” by saying the words: “I’m a queer imam.”
“He’s a mentor to many queer Muslims in Africa, especially in Nigeria, because of religious extremism,” he said.
“I’m still in shock and devastated.”
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Charlotte Oduro might have experienced a troubled upbringing – Ola Michael
Media personality and entertainment pundit Ola Michael
Media personality and entertainment pundit Ola Michael has observed that the way Counsellor Charlotte Oduro handled situations in her marriage suggests the possibility of unresolved childhood trauma.
In a discussion on United Showbiz on February 15, 2025, Ola Michael emphasised that Charlotte Oduro was unable to address the trauma she experienced in her childhood and questioned whether her husband was aware of these issues but believed he could change her.
“I am one of the few who never paid attention to what she was saying until the issue came up. From all that I have gathered, it seems she had a troubled beginning at home. Maybe she started with a very difficult upbringing. Also, I want to find out if the man knew the kind of woman he was marrying and decided to change her.
“You can’t change someone who has not unveiled themselves to be changed. The counsellor couldn’t deal with some things she went through during her childhood, and that has affected her marriage,” he said.
Ola Michael further stated that the couple could have ended the marriage after Counsellor Oduro’s repeated instances of packing out whenever issues came up.
He said, at that point, they could have just sat down and ended things amicably, rather than allowing the situation to escalate.
“If you watch some of her videos, you will notice she mostly leaves the home when there is an issue. She shouldn’t have returned after that. We don’t do that… When they noticed the marriage wasn’t working, she could have sat the man down and talked about how the two couldn’t stay together. From there, they could have dissolved the marriage amicably,” he added.
Watch the video below:
Counselor Charlotte Oduro’s videos suggest she had a troubled beginning at home. – Ola Michael#UnitedShowbiz pic.twitter.com/7wdKtLYKXW
— UTV Ghana (@utvghana) February 16, 2025
You can also watch the latest episode of Moans and Cuddles on GhanaWeb TV below:
JHM/EB
Elizabeth Ohene details how Ofori-Atta’s home was ransacked by Jakpa-led security officials
Veteran journalist Elizabeth Akua Ohene has given details of how the security officials who raided the home of former Minister of Finance Ken Ofori-Atta supposedly ransacked the former minister’s home.
According to Elizabeth Ohene, a former chairperson of the board of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) and former Minister of State, the security officials, led by NDC security operative Richard Jakpa, left nothing untouched at Ofori-Atta’s home.
She indicated that the security officials, without a warrant, turned the former minister’s home upside down, searching every corner of his house.
“In the year of our Lord 2025, 33 years into the longest stretch of constitutional rule we have ever had, armed soldiers are led by a man of no publicly determined official status into the home of a former finance minister.
“They rudely brush aside the staff, enter the house, and proceed to conduct a hostile and illegal search,” the former Minister of State wrote in an editorial published on thebftonline.com.
She added, “They go through kitchen and cutlery drawers, fridges, freezers, cupboards, closets, underneath beds, books, documents, plates, pots and pans, clothes, and linen. They take the car keys, thoroughly ransack the cars, and leave the people in the house thoroughly shaken and traumatised.”
She drew comparisons between the raid on Ofori-Atta’s home and the search of the home of the late former President, Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, after his failed military takeover on May 15, 1979.
Elizabeth Ohene, who indicated she was at the home of the Rawlingses with former First Lady Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, who was there alone with her newborn baby, narrated how she was able to stop military officers from searching the home without a warrant.
“I took a deep breath, took in the situation, and came outside wholly, closing the door behind me instead of standing in the halfway-open door. I asked the officer if he had a search warrant and if I could see it before I let him into the house. The officer looked a bit startled, started to say something, changed his mind, turned his face to look at his two colleagues, and then said to me he didn’t have a search warrant. I told him he couldn’t come in to search the place without a warrant.
“He took a deep breath and asked me if I knew what had been happening in the country that day. I said yes, I knew. ‘And you know that the person responsible lives here,’ he said. I nodded and said to him: ‘Please, officer, don’t let us use illegal means to fight illegal activities. You must be on the straight and narrow if you represent the law.’ He stared at me silently, turned around, walked to his colleagues, and they went into their car and drove off,” she said.
She wondered how security officials could raid the home of a person in this day and age without any warrant when, in the days of a military regime, officers acted professionally.
“Back in 1979, I said on a GTV programme to Mike Eghan that where we were as a country at that time, there was nowhere else to go but up; we couldn’t sink any lower.
“I wonder where we are today,” she concluded her piece.
Background:
On Wednesday, February 12, 2025, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), while updating the public on its ongoing investigations at a press conference in Accra, declared Ken Ofori-Atta wanted.
The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, declared Ofori-Atta a fugitive wanted for corruption and corruption-related offences in a number of cases his office was investigating, including the reduction contract between ECG and Beijing Jao, procurement over the National Cathedral, contracts awarded by the Health Ministry to Service Ghana Auto Limited/Ambulances, and the SML-GRA deal.
He accused the former minister of orchestrating a recently reported raid on his residence by alleged military personnel to discredit the OSP.
The raid and the wanted notice against Ofori-Atta were heavily debated in Ghana’s Parliament.
Members of the Minority Caucus—New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs—slammed the use of the military to raid Ofori-Atta’s home, while their colleagues in the Majority Caucus argued that the previous NPP government did worse.
The leader of the Minority Caucus, Mahama Ayariga, confirmed that the raid did happen.
The leader of the Majority Caucus subsequently apologised to Ofori-Atta and the public over the raid.
BAI/EK
You can also watch as John Jinapor narrates how National Security took his phone and laptop to the UK in 2017
Adam Sulley appointed Deputy Director-General of SSNIT
Deputy Director-General in charge of Operations and Benefits at SSNIT, Adam Sulley
President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Adam Sulley as the Deputy Director-General in charge of Operations and Benefits at the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT).
Adam Sulley, an astute business strategist and marketing practitioner, has over three decades of professional experience across multiple industries, including banking, insurance, pensions, and education.
He initially joined SSNIT in 1998 and was later seconded to the Ghana Healthcare Company, a subsidiary of SSNIT.
From July 2003 to November 2015, he held senior management positions at the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB), including Executive Head of Retail Banking.
After a successful tenure at ADB, he returned to SSNIT in July 2016 as the Deputy Director-General in charge of Operations and Benefits.
He is a Fellow (FCIM) of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (UK), a Certified International Retail Banker (CIRB), and a Fellow of the International Academy of Retail Banking in the United Kingdom.
Additionally, he is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, Ghana (CIMG), and was awarded the CIMG Marketing Practitioner of the Year in 2010.
He previously served as the Board Chairman of the then Savannah Accelerated Development Authority (SADA), now the Northern Development Authority (NDA), where he played a key role in supporting master planning efforts to accelerate development in the Savannah zone.
Adam Sulley has also been a board member of Fidelity Bank, past President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Institute of Loan and Risk Management, Ghana, and a former Governing Council Member of the CIMG.
For nearly two decades, he served as a Panel Member of the National Accreditation Board (NAB), now the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC).
Currently, he is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) and the Consulting Director for the CIMG Localisation Programme.
Adam Sulley is the inaugural Board Chairman of the Ghana School of Marketing, a Global Professional Mentor, and a widely recognized expert in marketing education, business coaching, and training.
He is also the Board Chairman of Sissala Rural Bank, a member of the National Council of the Association of Rural Banks, and the President of its Upper West Chapter.
He holds a BSc in Industrial Management from the University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia; an MSc in International Business from London South Bank University; and a Diploma in Social Health Insurance from the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Italy.
SA/MA
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Watch as GFA, GPL clubs join Asante Kotoko to mourn Pooley at one-week observation
L-R: Kotoko IMC members James Kwasi Appiah and Nana Apinkra
The one-week observation for the late Asante Kotoko fan, Francis Yaw Frimpong, affectionately known as Pooley, took place on Sunday, February 16, 2025.
Representatives from the Ghana Football Association, some Ghana Premier League clubs as well as Ghana Police Service were all present at the event.
Hearts of Oak, Bechem United, Nations FC, and Bibiani Gold Stars were the GPL clubs that showed up to mourn with Kotoko at Heroes Park in Kumasi.
Asante Kotoko players and fans led by the popular fan group Porcupine Tertiary attended the event as they mourned their beloved.
Following the one-week observation, the Reds expressed their gratitude to all institutions and individuals who attended the event.
“Asante Kotoko SC, through this note, expresses our sincerest appreciation for your exceptional efforts and support during the one-week observation of our departed supporter, Francis Yaw Frimpong, also known as Nana Pooley. Though grieving, the club is overwhelmed by your massive show of love, unity, and the preservation of culture.
We assure you that, with your support, we can make a difference in the sport we all love. Special mentions go to the Ghana Police Service, the GFA, GHALCA, Hearts of Oak, Bechem United, Bibiani Gold Stars, Ashanti Gold, Nations FC, and the entire football community,” the club wrote.
Pooley was stabbed to death during a league game between Nsoatreman and Kotoko on Sunday, February 2, 2025, in Nsoatre.
Watch excerpts from Nana Pooley’s one-week observation below
EE/EK
— Asante Kotoko SC – 2X CAF CL Winners🥇 (@AsanteKotoko_SC) February 17, 2025
Watch the latest edition of Sports Check below:
Terry Bonchaka once refused to ride with Kwadee over smoking habit
In light of the ongoing discussions surrounding Okomfo Kwadee’s mental health struggles, individuals and key showbiz stakeholders have been trying to uncover the true cause of the highlife musician’s plight and searching for potential solutions.
However, veteran Ghanaian music producer Fred Kyei Mensah, also known as Fredyma, believes to a larger extent that Kwadee brought this situation upon himself.
Fredyma partly attributes Kwadee’s deteriorating mental health to his excessive smoking habits.
He recalled an instance where Kwadee’s colleague, the late Terry Bonchaka, even refused to ride in the same car with him due to the overwhelming smoke.
According to Fredyma, this is a clear example of how the musician’s lifestyle may have contributed to his current state.
During a discussion with Power FM, Fredyma stated, “Kwadee smokes weed, and his condition today is as a result of the weed he smokes. In life, everyone needs help, but if you keep helping someone who doesn’t want to be helped, what can you do?”
He continued, “In 2003, Terry Bonchaka told me and Regan backstage that he would never sit in any car with Kwadee again. He said his experience with sharing a car with him was really bad because of the weed. And you know, Terry was also a Jehovah’s Witness. He told me all this backstage in 2003, 23 years ago. I remember vividly, he didn’t like it. He was raised in Santase where his dad was a security guard, and he used to smoke weed there. They know.”
Fredyma, however, pointed out Kwadee’s remarkable feat in the music industry, stating, “Kwadee has a problem, and that problem needs to be solved. He came out in the year 2000, and by God’s grace, he became this great. If someone is not Akan and yet they can sing this beautifully in the Akan language, it’s highly commendable.”
The conversations surrounding Kwadee’s condition have intensified in recent times, particularly after he was captured in an unkempt and deteriorated state.
Although there have been discussions on how to assist him, some stakeholders remain skeptical, as Kwadee has repeatedly relapsed into a bad state after receiving treatment and support.
You can also watch the latest episode of Moans and Cuddles on GhanaWeb TV below:
EB
Bono Reg’l Minister assures youth of employment and development
The Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa, has assured the youth of employment opportunities and regional development.
The Minister highlighted the region’s vast employment potential but also raised concerns about chieftaincy disputes, illegal mining, and the state of roads.
During a recent maiden media interaction, the Bono Regional Minister, Honorable Joseph Addae Akwaboa, outlined his vision for the region, emphasizing youth employment and development as key priorities.
From Kumawood Star to Style Icon
Nana Ama McBrown is a talented actress and media personality. She is also a fashion icon. Her style has changed a lot over the years, showing her growth, confidence, and influence in Ghana’s entertainment industry.
Early Days: The Simple & Casual Look
In the early 2000s, when McBrown began her career in the Kumawood movie industry, her fashion was simple and practical. She usually wore casual jeans, t-shirts, and African print dresses, prioritizing comfort over high-end style. Her hairstyles were also natural, featuring short haircuts and simple braids.
Glamorous Transition: Red Carpet Elegance
The Modern McBrown: Class, Luxury & Versatility
Nana Ama McBrown’s current style mixes elegance, luxury, and creativity. She impresses in unique outfits, whether she is hosting a TV show, going to events, or posting on social media. Her wardrobe features designer brands as well as specially made African clothing. She sets trends with power suits, fashionable jumpsuits, and glamorous gowns that showcase her confidence and grace.
Conclusion
Nana Ama McBrown’s fashion journey shows that style reflects personal growth. She started modestly and has now become a fashion leader. Her impressive style and bold choices inspire many fans. Kindly follow and Like to get new updates
I Never Experienced Sex For Job – Nana Aba
Nana Aba Anamoah
Media personality Nana Aba Anamoah has stated that throughout her career, she has never encountered demands for sexual favours in exchange for job opportunities.
Speaking on United on UTV on Saturday night, she explained that her professional advancement has been solely based on merit.
“A lot of the time, women looking for jobs are asked to exchange positions for sex. I have never experienced that in my life,” she disclosed.
She further explained that when other women seek her advice on such matters, she finds it challenging to guide them due to her lack of personal experience with such situations.
“Ever since I began to work, no man can say for a fact that they want to give me a job in exchange for sex. So when it happens to another woman and they come looking for advice, I struggle to give advice,” she indicated.
Energy Minister uncovers alleged $500k fraud in ECG equipment auction
Energy Minister John Abdulai Jinapor has exposed what he describes as fraudulent dealings within the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), particularly in the handling of essential equipment.
According to Jinapor, ECG has repeatedly failed to clear critical electrical supplies from the port, leading to unnecessary financial losses. He highlighted a particularly troubling incident where expensive equipment was left unclaimed and later auctioned at a fraction of its value.
“I checked with the port, and the security report I received shows that a container worth about $500,000 was imported. ECG couldn’t clear it, and somehow, someone was able to buy it at auction for 100,000 cedis, then resell it to ECG for $300,000,” he revealed during an interview on TV3.
Expressing his outrage, the minister vowed to put an end to such practices, regardless of any resistance.
“It will stop. And I mean it will stop. Whatever it takes to stop that, no matter how unpopular that may be, we must take action,” he declared.
The revelation has raised serious concerns about accountability within ECG, with calls for urgent reforms to prevent further financial mismanagement.
Meanwhile, John Abdulai Jinapor, has established a committee to investigate procurement activities carried out by the state-power distributor, ECG during the Akufo-Addo administration.
“So we’ve commissioned a committee to investigate ECG’s procurements and the cost of these containers stuck at the ports. The committee is doing a very good job,” he added.
Jinapor further disclosed that, based on the preliminary findings, former ECG managers failed to adhere to proper procurement processes and guidelines.
“So far, the preliminary reports I have gotten indicate that there’s massive rot at ECG.”
In response to these findings, the Minister announced plans for a broader audit of the energy sector, including a human resource and technical review.
“But beyond that, there will be another technical report. What the PwC has done is a financial audit. We want to do a human resource audit, a deeper audit of the entire energy sector, which will then give us a clear picture of the inefficiencies so that we can tailor that in terms of our policy objective and policy directive to address this.” Jinapor disclosed.
AG drops charges against Bishop Salifu Amoako and wife
The Attorney-General has unexpectedly withdrawn charges against renowned clergyman Bishop Salifu Amoako, his wife Mouha Amoako and one other, leading to their discharge by the court.
However, unconfirmed reports suggest that just as they stepped out of court, they were re-arrested under fresh legal circumstances.
Details surrounding the reason for the sudden withdrawal of charges remain unclear, as does the basis for their immediate re-arrest.
Background
Bishop Elijah Salifu Amoako, his wife Mouha, and Linda Bonsu Bempah, a sales assistant, were arrested following a tragic incident involving their 16-year-old son, who allegedly caused a fatal accident in East Legon on October 12, 2024.
The incident occurred when the minor driving a white Jaguar F-Space Sports without a valid license, collided with an Acura utility vehicle that subsequently caught fire, leading to the deaths of two young girls.
In December 2024, the teenage son of Salifu Amoako was sentenced to six months at the Senior Correctional Center for the manslaughter of two people in a tragic accident in East Legon.
Initially, the teen had pleaded not guilty to charges of manslaughter, negligently causing harm, dangerous driving, and driving without a license.
However, he later changed his plea to guilty, leading to his conviction.
As part of the sentence, the court ordered the teenager to report to probation officers every two weeks. He has also been directed to sign an undertaking to refrain from driving until he turns 18.
In a separate ruling, the teen’s parents were fined 500 penalty units each (equivalent to GHc 6,000) for their failure to properly supervise their son.
They were also instructed to pay for the damages caused in the accident, including a light pole valued at GHc 8,000.
If we are serious about cutting costs, appointees must use premium economy – Nana Aba
Television personality Nana Aba Anamoah
Television personality Nana Aba Anamoah has stated that the directive preventing government officials from traveling first class is not a genuine cost-cutting measure.
She argues that in Ghana, only Emirates offers first-class services, meaning appointees will continue to travel in business class, which remains expensive and has always been their preferred option.
According to her, if President John Dramani Mahama is serious about reducing costs, appointees should instead travel in premium economy.
“The truth of the matter is that only Emirates offers first-class services in Ghana. British Airways does not have first class; they offer business, premium economy, and economy. KLM has business and economy; Brussels Airlines does the same. It is only Emirates that provides first class.”
“While I think it is a great idea to deter our appointees from traveling first class, we must be sincere—most of them already travel business class unless they are flying Emirates, in which case they might opt for first class,” she said.
“So if the directive allows them to travel business class, that is what they have been doing anyway, meaning no real cost is being cut. Unless they are flying Emirates, where first class is an option, they will still choose business class. But for airlines like British Airways, appointees always fly business class. To truly cut costs, they should travel in premium economy,” she added.
She continued, “The head of every diplomatic mission in Ghana represents their country’s president. The majority of them travel economy and are not allowed to fly business class. So if the heads of mission from Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the UK travel in economy, who are we, mere mortals?”
Meanwhile, watch as Asiedu Nketiah breaks silence on the ‘uneasiness’ within the NDC and his ‘fight’ with Mahama
Chairman Wontumi receives report on NPP’s ‘abysmal’ performance in 2024 elections
The Ashanti Regional branch of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has received a report from a committee set up to investigate the party’s defeat in the 2024 elections.
The committee, led by Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, engaged with grassroots members, markets, churches, mosques, and communities to hear directly from the people.
In a social media post, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, stated, “Now, with these findings, we will work closely with the larger party structure to correct our mistakes and reposition ourselves for victory.”
Read his statement below:
Following our painful defeat in the 2024 General Elections, I, through the Regional Executive Council, constituted a committee led by the respected Hon. Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu to investigate the reasons behind our loss. Today, the committee submitted its report to the Regional Executive Council after an extensive probe.
This committee was formed even before the National Council constituted a National Committee, demonstrating our commitment to understanding the root causes of our challenges. In a united effort, we reached beyond party executives and engaged the grassroots—markets, churches, mosques, and communities—to hear directly from the people. This approach ensured that every voice was heard and every concern noted.
Now, with these findings, we will work closely with the larger party structure to correct our mistakes and reposition ourselves for victory.
Like David in 1 Samuel 30:8, we shall “pursue, overtake, and recover all.” The 2028 election is ours to win, and the journey starts now—with you and me, united in one accord.
Let’s come together, rebuild, and secure victory for our party and Ghana!
#UniteForVictory
#NPP2028#PursueOvertakeRecover
#RebuildRecapture