The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has expressed concern over the failure of many local assemblies to implement fire prevention recommendations provided by the service.
According to the fire service, despite issuing numerous guidelines and suggestions aimed at reducing fire risks in communities, many assemblies have not taken the necessary steps to ensure these measures are put into practice.
In the early hours of January 2, 2025, a devastating fire swept through the Kantamanto Market in Accra, leaving traders in despair as they counted their losses. The market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of goods, was reduced to ashes in a matter of hours.
ADO1 Alex King Nartey, in an interview on the Eyewitness News on Thursday, January 2, 2025, stated that even though as a service, they do well to present recommendations to prevent the instances of annual fire outbreaks, especially in the Kantamanto area, many district assemblies do not implement their recommendations.
“Anytime we do our investigations, we top it up with recommendations and if these recommendations are followed religiously, will help reduce the instances of fire outbreaks. Unfortunately, when we make such recommendations, it becomes a problem when dealing with some of the assembles.
“You will agree with me that looking at a market like Kaneshie, you don’t remember the last time there was a fire incident there. Because as of the last time it got burnt, recommendations were made by the GNFS and they were implemented and we have not heard of any free outbreak in the area. A place like Kantamanto would have been best served if we had a fire post.
“They should create a space for that so that the officers who will be stationed at the post will carry out inspections in these areas and if they anticipate risks, they will make sure that any fire that comes is tackled so that it doesn’t spread,” he stated.
Traders count their losses after fire ravaged Kantamanto market
At first glance, the Pokémon world appears to be a joyful place without the idea of despair even existing. For the most part, it can be a peaceful existence; unfortunately, in a world with incredibly powerful monsters and untold legends beyond even these creatures. The Pokémon world itself is not afraid to showcase that although there are indeed people who treat Pokémon well, there are still human beings who mistreat these creatures or wish to use their powers for their own selfish deeds.
The Committee for Public Accountability (CPA) has issued a strong warning against the misuse of the Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) platform, urging members not to use it for personal vendettas.
The committee expressed concern that the platform, designed to promote transparency and accountability, could be exploited to settle personal grievances, which goes against its intended purpose.
Collins Owusu Amankwaah, the leader of the CPA, emphasized that the committee would resist any attempts to use ORAL for individual scores. He pointed out that the integrity of the platform must be preserved, and it should remain focused on its mission of fighting corruption and promoting justice.
CPA’s concerns were triggered by the actions of Raymond Archer, a member of the president-elect’s five-member anti-corruption team.
CPA condemned Mr. Archer’s comments about Dr. Daniel McKorley, a successful entrepreneur and the CEO of McDan Group.
Raymond Archer had allegedly suggested that McKorley, should hope the NPP government stays in power forever.
CPA says it rejects such statements, clarifying that McKorley, like any Ghanaian citizen, has the right to conduct legitimate business and contribute to the economy without being subjected to political interference.
Collins Owusu Amankwaah reaffirmed the committee’s stance, emphasizing that Dr. McKorley’s business success was the result of his hard work and perseverance, not political allegiance. The committee warned that any attempts to politicize legitimate business practices would not be tolerated, as it could damage the business community and hinder economic growth.
It stressed the importance of protecting the rights of entrepreneurs and ensuring a fair and transparent business environment for all.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is scheduled to present his final State of the Nation Address to Parliament on Friday, January 3, 2025, prior to the dissolution of the 8th Parliament.
This address, as stipulated by Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, serves as the President’s concluding report on the nation’s status before he vacates office.
The 8th Parliament of the 4th Republic will officially be dissolved on Monday, January 6, 2025. On that same day, the 9th Parliament will convene at 11:00 PM to elect a Speaker and two Deputy Speakers.
A statement issued by the Parliamentary Service indicated that the Speaker-elect and the newly elected Members of Parliament will take their oaths at midnight, marking the transition to the next legislative term.
To facilitate comprehensive coverage of these events, Parliament has urged media personnel to obtain accreditation in advance.
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The Koforidua High Court has issued an interim injunction preventing Ernest Kumi from being sworn in as the Member of Parliament-elect for the Akwatia constituency.
The injunction follows a lawsuit filed by lawyers for Henry Boakye-Yiadom, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate, against the Electoral Commission (EC), Ernest Kumi, and the Clerk to Parliament.
The legal action seeks to halt Mr. Kumi’s swearing-in pending the resolution of the case.
The Akwatia constituency was among the contested seats re-collated and declared by the EC at the National Police Training School in Tesano, Accra.
According to the EC’s final collation, Ernest Kumi of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was declared the winner with 19,269 votes, while Henry Boakye-Yiadom of the NDC polled 17,206 votes.
After hearing arguments in the case, the court ruled in favor of issuing the interim injunction, effectively barring Mr. Kumi from being recognized as the MP-elect for the Akwatia constituency until further notice.
EC declares NPP’s Ernest Kumi winner of disputed Akwatia parliamentary race
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has established an 11-member committee, chaired by former Speaker of Parliament, Prof. Mike Oquaye, to investigate the party’s loss in the 2024 elections.
The committee has been given a three-month period to conduct its work and report back to the National Council.
According to the party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, the committee’s terms of reference include reviewing the internal elections and campaign strategy, as well as identifying the challenges that led to the electoral defeat and proposing solutions.
Former President John Dramani Mahama was declared the winner of the 2024 presidential election, marking a remarkable return to office after a contentious race. The Electoral Commission (EC) announced on December 9 that Mahama secured 6,328,397 votes, representing 56.55% of the valid votes cast.
He defeated Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, his main rival from the NPP, who garnered 4,657,304 votes, or 41.61%.
Mahama’s victory also delivered a major win for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), which clinched a majority in Parliament.
Over 180 seats have already been confirmed for the NDC, including key constituencies previously held by the NPP, strengthening Mahama’s mandate as he prepares to resume the presidency.
NPP to form committee to investigate 2024 election defeat
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Pushpa 2: The Rule starring Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna and others has performed exceptionally well at the box office. But now the film is witnessing a gradual decline in numbers after four successful weeks. Check the latest box office report.
Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna and Fahad Faasil are currently on cloud nine thanks to the stupendous success of Pushpa 2: The Rule. The movie directed by Sukumar has broken almost all the box office records. It made it to the theatres on December 5 and since then, all
Dr. Ernest Addison, the governor of the Bank of Ghana, has insisted that the economy and certain monetary policy initiatives being carried out by the Central Bank will have a major impact on the stability of the Ghana cedi in 2025.
Speaking on Joy News PM Express Business show on Thursday, January 2, 202, Dr. Addison, mentioned the Domestic Gold Programme as one initiative that have ensured the Cedi’s recent stability.
“The Domestic Gold Purchase Programme has been one of the major factors that has contributed to cedis’ recent recovery and we expect that going forward that will be maintained to support the cedi’s performance,” Dr. Governor said.
Dr. Addison stated in an interview with Joy Business that the first half of 2024 saw the cedi’s performance primarily due to an ambitious International Monetary Fund program “that made it difficult to maneuver and support the cedi.”
The cedi lost about 22.7% of its value versus the US dollar as of November 2024, according to the Bank of Ghana’s Economic and Financial Data, compared to 26.2% over the same month in 2023.
But Dr. Ernest Addison noted that if there hadn’t been unpredictability surrounding the general elections on December 7, 2024, which affected market confidence and demand for the local currency, it might have finished the year in a better market.
The governor was upbeat about the cedi’s prospects for this year, although he acknowledged that they will depend on specific fiscal and monetary front actions.
After the country’s economy rebounded in the second half of 2024 and it met the IMF program’s reserves requirement, the governor said, “we had the space to support the local currency, resulting in some appreciation.”
Dr. Addison added: “we cannot rule out the impact of the incoming administration budget and how that will contribute to the cedis’ performance in 2025.
Warning: Contains SPOILERS for The Irrational season 2, episode 7.
After taking a brief hiatus for the holidays, The Irrational returns to NBC on Tuesday, January 7 at 10 p.m. ET. Season 2, episode 8 is titled “Lost Souls,” and will see Alec battling the clock.
Former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Freddie Blay, has expressed surprise at the party’s loss in the 2024 elections, despite what he described as significant economic recovery under the NPP government.
Blay’s comments come in the wake of the NPP’s massive defeat, which saw the National Democratic Congress (NDC) secure a landslide victory in both the presidential and parliamentary races.
Many within the NPP, including key party figures, have attributed the loss to poor governance and negligence by the Akufo-Addo-led administration.
However, in an interview on GHOne TV’s Hard Talk with Lily Mohammed, Mr. Blay said he found the outcome unexpected.
According to him, the Akufo-Addo administration did well to warrant the NPP maintaining power, making the loss even more surprising to him.
He cited the Akufo-Addo administration’s efforts in handling the economy, ensuring good governance, and establishing peace in the country.
He said, “Of course, it [the NPP defeat] is surprising,” he stated. “I would say the NPP, under Nana Akufo-Addo, did very well in handling the economy, good governance, and establishing peace in the country despite severe challenges.”
“We were coming out of a difficult economic period with a low GDP. In spite of all these challenges, Akufo-Addo’s government, and therefore the NPP, was doing well for this country. We were convinced that the election would turn out in our favor. It was tough, but we believed we could still come out on top. Unfortunately, what we did not expect happened.”
Animal Control Season 3 focuses on messy relationships among human team members intertwined with their animal wrangling jobs.
In an exclusive interview with Collider, Joel McHale, Vella Lovell, and Grace Palmer talk about the shenanigans their characters get into, including the personal growth challenges each of them faces.
An 11-member committee led by former Speaker of Parliament Prof. Mike Oquaye has been formed by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to look into the party’s 2024 election defeat.
The committee has three months to complete its job and submit a report to the National Council.
The committee’s mandate, according to the party’s general secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, includes examining the internal elections and campaign plan, determining the issues that caused the electoral loss, and suggesting remedies.
Following a fierce contest, former President John Dramani Mahama made a stunning comeback to government when he was proclaimed the victor of the 2024 presidential election. On December 9, the Electoral Commission (EC) declared that Mahama had received 6,328,397 votes, or 56.55% of the total votes cast.
His primary NPP opponent, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, received 4,657,304 votes, or 41.61% of the total, however he lost.
In addition, Mahama’s victory gave the National Democratic Congress (NDC) a significant triumph by securing a majority in Parliament.
As he gets ready to return to the presidency, Mahama’s mandate is strengthened by the fact that the NDC has already secured over 180 seats, including important constituencies that the NPP had previously held.
Kojo Yankah has called on Ghanaians to embrace working anywhere in the country as a matter of pride and national responsibility.
The former Member of Parliament for Agona East highlighted how such an attitude could contribute significantly to nation-building, fostering unity and development across the country in an interview with the Asaase Breakfast Show (ABS),
“I think it should be the pride of every Ghanaian to want to work anywhere in the country,” Yankah said passionately.
“All the big nations we admire today started as small clusters of tribes, and their growth came from citizens working together across regions.
“If we want to build a strong nation, we must be proud to serve wherever duty calls.”
Yankah’s remarks come at a time when many Ghanaians tend to prefer working in their home regions, where they feel a sense of familiarity and comfort.
However, he emphasized that overcoming this inclination is vital for the nation’s progress.
Reflecting on his personal experiences, Yankah shared the challenges he faced while working in his own region.
“When you work in your own district or region, sometimes you get a lot of pressure,” he explained.
“You know the region; you probably also don’t know the region, but you pretend you know because you come from the region.”
Channelling the spirit of royalty with a touch of ancestral pride, Rotimi and Vanessa usher in the new year clad in stunning pieces from celebrated Nigerian fashion houses. Their family portrait, bathed in the warm glow of new beginnings, is a testament to their enduring love story and deep appreciation for heritage.
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Rocky55 Blog of Friday, 3 January 2025
Source: Isaac Appiah
The streets of Accra were seen changing on camera prior to President John Mahama’s inauguration. Beginning at Ridge and the surrounding area, the cleaning and decorating projects were progressively moved to Independence Square, the ceremony’s location. The Ghanaian flag is being flown on trees around the streets, enhancing the celebratory mood and sense of pride in the country.
A few sections are being emphasized in the national colors of green, yellow, and red, while the majority of the pavements are being freshly painted in a mixture of red and white as part of the preparations. Because of the careful work being done, the route to Independence Square will be both aesthetically pleasing and clean for the event.
As Ghanaians get ready for this momentous day, their joy and expectation are reflected in this colorful change. As the city prepares to welcome the new administration, the streets are decked to represent the pride and unity of the country. Independence Square will host the swearing-in ceremony, a historic occasion for Ghana, and the well-planned decorations provide a fitting preamble to this important turning point in the nation’s political history.
In an interview on GHOne TV’s Hard Talk, Freddie Blay, the former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), weighed in on the controversial LGBTQ+ bill currently making waves in Ghana.
Blay firmly expressed his stance, dismissing the bill as unnecessary and not a significant issue facing the nation.
“I don’t agree that the bill needs to be assented to. To me, my position on the bill is that it was unnecessary. It has not been a big problem in this country,” Blay stated, addressing the growing debate around the bill.
According to him, Ghana’s culture and its existing laws already provide adequate coverage for issues related to individuals who step outside societal norms.
Blay, who has been an influential figure in Ghanaian politics for decades, noted that the LGBTQ+ discussion was largely being pushed by individuals who, in the past, had dismissed the very same issues.
He remarked, “So this LGBTQ issue has been championed by people who had previously dismissed it themselves and now they are now championing it, and it has come to this far.”
Drawing attention to the political dimension of the matter, Blay further commented, “It makes no difference. If they who championed it, many of them have come to Parliament. Let them push it.”
Se7en’s cult following had a pretty good idea of what Detective David Mills saw in that box toward the ending. Director David Fincher revealed what they really put in that box before filming.
Se7en director David Fincher dismissed reports that the film’s mystery box contained a prosthetic replica of Gwyneth Paltrow’s head.
Kojo Yankah, founder and president of the African University College of Communications, has urged Ghanaians to reconsider their views on regionalism and embrace the idea of serving and working anywhere in the country as part of nation-building.
In an interview on the Asaase Breakfast Show (ABS), Yankah stressed that the success of Ghana hinges on citizens’ willingness to contribute to the development of any region, not just their own.
“The point is that every Ghanaian should want to be part of any part of Ghana, basically,” he said. “That is what we call nation-building.”
Yankah’s comments were particularly aimed at addressing the prevalent regional divide that influences many Ghanaians’ decision to remain in their home regions, even when it comes to national service.
“I know of people in Ghana who do not even want their children to go and do national service in any other region except their own region,” he revealed. “That is negative.”
The former editor of the Daily Graphic believes that such attitudes prevent the country from fostering unity and shared growth.
Herbert Mensah receiving the National Honours and Awards 2024, from President Akufo-Addo
Renowned sports administrator and humanitarian Herbert Mensah says the prestigious Order of the Volta honour bestowed on him by President Akufo-Addo bears profound emotional significance.
While reflecting on the national award, his contributions to sports, philanthropy, and national development, and the collaborative spirit behind his success, Herbert Mensah rated the honour as a clarion call on all for greater inclusivity in recognising contributions to society.
“For me, it is a clarion call to the rest of society that we need to get greater inputs, we have great people in Ghana who are often being suppressed by those with less talent; are better connected. If we can get them on board to change every aspect of our life, and then it is that they then get rewarded so other people can see that you don’t need to have money or be a big name or be involved with a political party in order to be recognized, then that will serve as greater inspiration,” he told Myjoyonline.com in an exclusive interview.
A personal and emotional honour
“The Order of the Volta is something that I have an emotional attachment to,” Mr Mensah revealed. “It’s not something I ever thought I would receive, and over the years, I’ve never really followed awards ceremonies. I am one who reads about them in the news and then moves on.”
He acknowledged the scepticism that often surrounds national honours, particularly those influenced by political considerations, saying, “In every political dispensation, there are awardees who have served the government of the day, and therefore, people may doubt whether the recognition is truly merit-based. However, for me, this award has a deeper meaning.”
Mr Mensah spoke of his philosophy of effecting change as the driving force behind his achievements. “I’ve always looked at myself as a changemaker—someone who bucks the status quo to bring about transformation. This means that you often face conflict and criticism. But over time, people begin to see the value in what you’ve done.”
Speaking on his transformative tenure at Kumasi Asante Kotoko, he noted, “There were people who didn’t think the changes I introduced at Kotoko were necessary at the time. But years later, some of those same voices now say, ‘It was the right way.’ Change is about structure and vision, not personal recognition.”
Collaborative success
Herbert Mensah was quick to share the credit for his accomplishments, emphasising the collective efforts of those who worked with him. “This award is not just for me—it’s for everyone who has joined me on this journey. From the May 9 Disaster team to those involved in the development of rugby and football in Ghana and beyond, this recognition belongs to all of us.”
Under his leadership, Ghana Rugby evolved from modest beginnings to become a significant player on the continent, a fact duly acknowledged in the citation accompanying his award, a journey he says has seen many, many collaborators.
“The journey has taken us from being overlooked to now holding positions like President of Rugby Africa and serving on the Executive Board of World Rugby. It’s not about me; it’s about everyone who contributed to that progress.”
Mr Mensah also touched on his philanthropic work, including initiatives such as the Hole in Heart Foundation, through which he said over 100 life-changing heart surgeries for children have been done in just two years.
This award is also for those who made that possible, from administrators like Erica Amoako to doctors like Etsuah Mensah and his team, he said.
He expressed gratitude to long-time collaborators, including King Edward, Sakut, and others who have championed the May 9 Disaster efforts. “This recognition extends to charities like Aunty Mavis’ work with the disabled and all those who have joined us in changing lives.”
“In Ghana, we have incredible people who often go unrecognised because they lack connections or resources. This needs to change. Abroad, we see ordinary citizens—nurses, teachers, firemen—celebrated for their transformative impact on communities. Ghana can adopt this approach to inspire more people to make a difference.”
Reflecting on the familial significance of the award, Mr Mensah noted, “Many years ago, I accepted a similar honour on behalf of my late father. To now receive the Order of the Volta myself, with my family present, including my sister Barbara Mensah, a trailblazing judge, and my cousin, Professor Nyarko, is deeply meaningful.”
Mr Mensah expressed his gratitude to the Ghanaian state and the President for recognising his efforts. “I am honoured and grateful, but this is not about me—it’s about the lives we’ve changed together. This award is a testament to what we can achieve collectively when we strive for excellence and transformation.”
Below is the citation that came with his award.
You are an exceptional leader whose illustrious career has spanned over three decades, marked by extraordinary dedication, vision, and service with unparalleled contributions to national development as a trailblazer in sports administration, business innovation, and humanitarian service. Your impact has been profoundly felt, with lives touched and generations inspired.
Your tenure as Chairman of Asante Kotoko Sporting Club was transformative. Through your visionary leadership, you redefined sports administration in Ghana, introducing modern management systems, instilling discipline, and fostering a winning mentality. Your efforts not only elevated the club’s stature but also laid a foundation for professionalism in Ghanaian sports. A legacy that continues to inspire excellence.
You have significantly transformed Ghana Rugby since your appointment as President of the Ghana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) in 2014. You prioritised building a robust infrastructure for the sport, beginning with a comprehensive assessment of the state of rugby in Ghana and consultations with global stakeholders, including World Rugby and Rugby Africa. Your leadership saw the establishment of the first professionally run Ghana Rugby Club Championship (GRCC), which became a cornerstone for achieving full membership in World Rugby in 2017.
Under your visionary leadership, Ghana Rugby has achieved remarkable milestones, including the Ghana Eagles’ victory in the Africa Men’s 7S Championship and accolades in the Africa Rugby “Africa Cup West” tournament. Your dedication to advancing the sport has seen the introduction of training programs, high-level competitions, corporate sponsorships, and initiatives like “get into rugby” to promote women’s participation. Recognised for your innovative approach, Ghana Rugby won Rugby Africa’s “Best Communication Strategy” award in 2019, and you earned positions on the Africa Rugby Executive Committee and as President of Rugby Africa in 2023, Championing rugby as a tool for development and excellence across the continent.
Beyond sports, economic empowerment and innovation have been significantly advanced by your entrepreneurial pursuits leading the cellular phone industry in Africa, Ghana Gateway Project and other media channels. Opportunities for countless individuals were created through your ventures, while a notable contribution to Ghana’s economic landscape was made. A seamless integration of business and social responsibility has been consistently demonstrated, reflecting a commitment to a holistic approach to development
In moments of national crises, hope and relief have been provided through your humanitarian interventions. Support for disaster relief and the underprivileged has been rendered with deep compassion and unwavering resolve. These efforts have alleviated suffering and inspired a culture of giving and shared responsibility.
Mr. Herbert Amponsah Mensah, you are celebrated as a Leader, Mentor, and patriot whose example of excellence, resilience, and selfless service remains enduring. Your remarkable achievements and legacy are recognised as a source of pride and inspiration for the people of Ghana.
On this occasion, under the distinguished leadership of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana, profound gratitude and admiration are extended to you. Your contributions are acknowledged as an enduring testament to the transformative power of vision and dedication.
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Home » International » Fire engulfs market in Ghana’s capital, no casualties reported
Accra, Jan 3 (SocialNews.XYZ) A fire broke out at a big market located in the central business district of Accra, Ghana’s capital.
The fire, which broke out in the early hours of Thursday and erupted overnight, left widespread destruction, with traders scrambling to salvage their goods as the flames rapidly spread.
Eyewitnesses told local media that the fire broke out suddenly, with voices of people who first saw it screaming to draw attention to the inferno that ravaged numerous shops within the market, Xinhua news agency reported.
The fire destroyed large portions of the Kantamanto Market, home to secondhand clothing, building materials, chemicals, paint, and furniture, among other things. Desperate traders were seen wailing at the loss of their wares while the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) tried to douse the flames.
Despite deploying at least 13 fire tenders, the GNFS still had difficulty dealing with the fast-spreading blaze with its intense ferocity, which consumed many structures within hours.
At a stage, residents joined in the fight with buckets and gallons of water and basic tools to augment the efforts by the GNFS in slowing down the spread of the fire.
“Per our evaluation, the fire has destroyed over 100 stores because many of them were closely situated by each other. So, once the fire catches one, the spread becomes easier,” Alex King Nartey, a GNFS spokesperson, said.
Nartey explained that the proximity of the shops made it easier for the fire to spread faster, adding that the fire personnel had to make a quick decision to separate nearby structures from those already consumed by the fire to prevent the fire from spreading further.
He said the task became more daunting since there was no working fire hydrant in the market area, compelling the firefighters to leave the scene intermittently to replenish.
“But it is good that we have salvaged more shops than those the fire destroyed. Looking at the other buildings, we have been able to salvage them from the fire,” the GNFS spokesman said, adding that investigations have been launched into the cause of the fire.
The Kantamanto Market, one of the largest in the country, serves as the source of livelihood for thousands of families and the source of wealth for parts of the business community.
Source: IANS
About Gopi
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Freddie Blay has expressed his strong concerns about the potential global backlash Ghana could face if the controversial LGBTQ+ bill is passed.
During an interview on GHOne TV’s Hard Talk, the former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) shared that international development partners have already made it clear that Ghana’s move to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities could lead to serious consequences, including sanctions and the withdrawal of financial assistance.
He told the host, “Our development partners and co have indicated clearly that they think it is an abuse of human rights, and for that reason, if you go ahead and assent to it, they may apply certain sanctions and withdraw some assistance.”
Blay didn’t shy away from acknowledging the gravity of these concerns, adding, “I take it very seriously.”
The LGBTQ+ bill has become one of the most debated topics in Ghanaian politics, with supporters emphasizing the importance of preserving the country’s cultural and moral values.
On the other hand, critics of the bill argue that it could undermine Ghana’s international relationships and lead to significant diplomatic and economic setbacks.
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Rocky55 Blog of Friday, 3 January 2025
Source: Isaac Appiah
In order to demonstrate its preparedness to properly oversee legislative activities during the next session, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has formally declared its leadership team for the 9th Parliament. The party’s National Council made the declaration in order to guarantee a coordinated approach to legislative duties, according to a report published by CitiNewsRoom on Thursday, January 2, 2025. In order to guide the party’s program in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin has been appointed as the Minority Leader. Patricia Apiagyei, the Deputy Minority Leader, is standing by him. Frank Annoh-Dompreh has been appointed Chief Whip, and David Opoku and Habib Iddrisu will be the First and Second Deputy Minority Whips, respectively.
The NPP intends to meet with its Members of Parliament-elect to discuss their tasks and responsibilities before to the start of the 9th Parliament. The party’s dedication to promoting unity and successfully tackling legislative issues in the upcoming parliamentary session is reflected in this leadership lineup. In order to ensure that the party’s voice is adequately represented in parliamentary discussions and decisions, the recently constituted team is expected to demonstrate strong leadership in navigating the legislative environment.
Accra, Jan 3 A fire broke out at a big market located in the central business district of Accra, Ghana’s capital.
The fire, which broke out in the early hours of Thursday and erupted overnight, left widespread destruction, with traders scrambling to salvage their goods as the flames rapidly spread.
Eyewitnesses told local media that the fire broke out suddenly, with voices of people who first saw it screaming to draw attention to the inferno that ravaged numerous shops within the market, Xinhua news agency reported.
The fire destroyed large portions of the Kantamanto Market, home to secondhand clothing, building materials, chemicals, paint, and furniture, among other things. Desperate traders were seen wailing at the loss of their wares while the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) tried to douse the flames.
Despite deploying at least 13 fire tenders, the GNFS still had difficulty dealing with the fast-spreading blaze with its intense ferocity, which consumed many structures within hours.
At a stage, residents joined in the fight with buckets and gallons of water and basic tools to augment the efforts by the GNFS in slowing down the spread of the fire.
“Per our evaluation, the fire has destroyed over 100 stores because many of them were closely situated by each other. So, once the fire catches one, the spread becomes easier,” Alex King Nartey, a GNFS spokesperson, said.
Nartey explained that the proximity of the shops made it easier for the fire to spread faster, adding that the fire personnel had to make a quick decision to separate nearby structures from those already consumed by the fire to prevent the fire from spreading further.
He said the task became more daunting since there was no working fire hydrant in the market area, compelling the firefighters to leave the scene intermittently to replenish.
“But it is good that we have salvaged more shops than those the fire destroyed. Looking at the other buildings, we have been able to salvage them from the fire,” the GNFS spokesman said, adding that investigations have been launched into the cause of the fire.
The Kantamanto Market, one of the largest in the country, serves as the source of livelihood for thousands of families and the source of wealth for parts of the business community.
Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
Charlotte Osei is a trisector expert bringing high expertise and accomplishments from the public, private and not-for-profit sectors in Ghana and beyond.
She is a Ghanaian lawyer with 30 years’ experience, which has been deployed in the business law space, on the boards of international not-for-profits and in the elections sphere. Charlotte has shattered many glass ceilings in her professional life.
She was the first female Chair of Ghana’s National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), an independent constitutional commission in Ghana charged to promote active citizenship, civic education and sustain Ghana’s democracy. Under her leadership, the NCCE witnessed its most significant transformations in its history.
Again, she was the first female Chair of Ghana’s Electoral Commission and within three years, presided over a national local government election, parliamentary by-elections and Ghana’s globally acclaimed 2016 presidential and parliamentary elections.
She was also the first woman to assume the role of the President of the African Association of Election Authorities, the first woman to be appointed as the Vice Chairperson of the Executive Board of the African Capacity Building Foundation headquartered in Zimbabwe.
Charlotte was the first Ghanaian and first African female to be appointed by the United Nations and the President of Afghanistan in 2019 as an International Elections Commissioner to the Electoral Complaints Commission of Afghanistan and mandated to build the capacity of the country’s electoral body to manage and resolve its elections related disputes.
In 2020, Charlotte was appointed as the leader of the ECOWAS technical mission to Liberia to clean up the country’s voters’ roll ahead of December 2020 senatorial elections. She was also the Deputy Head of the ECOWAS fact finding mission to Nigeria ahead of the 2019 general elections, and later as the Technical Expert (Legal) to the ECOWAS Long Term Observer Mission to the 2019 Nigerian general elections.
Charlotte is the Founder and Managing Consultant of Cyrus Law, a boutique business law firm focused on family wealth and legacy management, family business advisory, personal and business succession as well as corporate and commercial transactions. She is also currently a non-executive director of the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA).
Charlotte is a graduate of Queen’s University, Ontario Canada with a Master of Laws degree (LLM). She holds a second Master’s degree in Business Leadership (MBL) from the University of South Africa, Pretoria, a Bachelor of Laws degree (LLB) from the University of Ghana Legon, and a Qualifying Certificate of Law (QCL) from the Ghana School of Law. She has been enrolled in Ghana as a Barrister & Solicitor of the Supreme Court since 1994.
Can you share your journey to becoming a trisector expert? What motivated you to transition between the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors?
I actually did not set out specifically to become an expert in the three sectors. Like most new lawyers, I started practice as a young lawyer at a private law firm in Accra that was focused on corporate and commercial law. This was where I got my grounding in corporate and transactional law practice. Then I moved into banking and regulatory work, then left to set up and manage my own law firm and eventually over time, got invited to serve on the boards of international not-for-profit institutions. The call to public service came in October 2011 when I was appointed by President John Mills to chair Ghana’s National Commission for Civic Education and then I was appointed to Ghana’s Electoral Commission in 2015 by President John Mahama. So, none of my journey was by design or planning, the journey was God-led.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as the first female Chair of both the National Commission for Civic Education and the Electoral Commission of Ghana, and how did you overcome them?
Let me first start by saying that both institutions are a lot similar. They are both
independent constitutional bodies with staff and offices in all the administrative districts of the country. Since their creation, they were always led and run by men. So, the first challenge I faced at both institutions was being a woman. Women, in my view, usually lead differently and it was a bit of a challenge getting staff and senior management (most of them older than me at the time) to understand and appreciate how women lead.
The transition from the seemingly entrenched culture of male leadership to acceptance of female leadership was not an easy task. As you may be well aware, that is not only a Ghanaian or African thing. Breaking the glass ceiling does not happen easily. When you break glass, you’re likely to come away with some cuts. There were many cuts, but we persisted. So, I was prepared to embrace the challenge, and focused exclusively on getting the job done without paying attention to the distractions that came from male and older colleagues.
Another challenge I faced was being seen as an “outsider” coming in from the private sector. Some of my colleagues who had been with the respective institutions for much longer struggled to come to terms with my appointment as the head of the respective institutions. I was considered an ‘outsider’ and ‘too young’ to be the leader.
A third challenge was the deep mistrust of some of the political stakeholders in the institution and this specifically refers to the electoral commission. Many political stakeholders felt it was not a job for a woman. My appointment also came on the heels of a very hotly contested presidential election in 2012, which led to an election petition at the Supreme Court that held the nation to ransom for eight months until a Supreme Court decision later in 2013. So, the 2016 election was a tense election even before it started and my appointment in 2015 was within this context with a high level of mistrust for the commission in the public space.
So, I faced two distinct challenges, quickly rebuilding public trust in the electoral commission and proving my mettle as a woman. For me, the best defence to mistrust, cyinicism and unbridalled criticism is performance. Just deliver on your mandate, and that was my focus. I was guided by the principles stated by one of my favourite authors, Don Miguel Ruiz in his book “The Four Agreements.” I never took anything personal. I never operated based on assumptions. I always tried to be impeccable with my words, and I made sure I always did my best, on a daily basis.
My first opportunity to deliver on my mandate was the 2015 district assembly election which was a few weeks after my appointment and was like a dress rehearsal for the 2016 presidential and parliamentary elections. That election was near flawless and praised by all. When 2016 came, we replicated the 2015 success by delivering what was described by many international observers as “one of the world’s best elections ever.”
During your tenure with the electoral commission, what specific changes or innovations did you implement that you believe had the most significant impact on Ghana’s electoral process?
The first focus was reforming the institution itself. Soon after taking over, I realised the need for a new strategic direction. So, with support from partners like the UNDP, we put together a five year strategic plan that aimed at transforming the commission into a world class election management body which is trusted by all of its key stakeholders. We also developed and rolled out a new corporate identity for the institution and we repositioned the commission’s brand. We implemented 27 electoral reforms that had been agreed with the political parties and were geared towards increasing the levels of transparency in the electoral process. We also acquired a new multi-storey corporate headquarters and strengthened the commission’s base by building 100 modern district offices across the country. More importantly, we also opened up the commission to become more transparent and accessible to the public with a new communications policy, a well-trained communications team, increased engagements with different key stakeholders, a weekly TV show titled “Ask The EC” for public education on the electoral process, and for the first time, live television access to the “Strongroom” i.e. the national collation centre for presidential election results reception, verification and collation from the 275 constituencies. The outcome of these initiatives was increase in public confidence from 37% in 2015 (Afro barometer survey) to 83% of Ghanaians believing that the 2016 polls would be “completely free and fair or “free and fair with minor problems” and 77 % confident that the “Electoral Commission would perform its duties as a neutral body guided by the Law” (CDD survey). The outcome of all the initiatives was the very successful 2016 presidential and parliamentary elections in Ghana. We had no technological failures and no deaths or violence, these were my two key prayers. The elections led to a peaceful transition of power from the sitting president to the opposition party.
How did your role as an International Elections Commissioner in Afghanistan differ from your experiences in Ghana? What were the key lessons you learnt from that experience?
While my role in Ghana was to superintend over all functions of the election management body, in Afghanistan, I was more like a consulting commissioner to guide and support my Afghan colleagues. So, I could advise and guide them, but the ultimate decisions and responsibilities rested on the Afghan commissioners.
My key lessons were the need to appreciate cultural differences and respect for the way other cultures and systems operate. You cannot guide or lead a people until you respect their cultural practices and get to understand their ways. That way, your advice and guidance is well grounded within the context you’re operating in. Secondly, there is usually more than one way. The way you know or assume to be right, may not always work or be the right way depending on the context. So, the appreciation of and respect for cultural differences is key to succeeding in a different environment.
In your opinion, what are the most important aspects of civic education that are often overlooked in democratic societies?
The importance of educating people on values. If we do not inculcate the right values, and do that early in life in our societies, we are doomed to fail. So, we must start early and we must define our national values and live up to those values and national decisions must reflect the national values. Without the ‘compass’ and defined values that we all agree on and live by, we are doomed to stray and fail as a society. That in my view, is a key challenge facing Africa.
So, for instance, we preach democracy and rule of law, yet in our everyday lives, we see different standards of justice for the poor and the rich, and between those in government and those in opposition. That’s not how a democracy functions. Civil and human rights must be upheld for both poor and rich, and for those in power and those not in power.
Given your experience in organising elections, what do you think are the biggest threats to the integrity of elections today, both in Ghana and globally?
I think the first threat is politics without principles. There is such a high mistrust of politicians because we see clearly that they are willing and able to do anything to win elections, and most of them seem unable to take a principled position. Also, their supporters and paid crowd will support and justify anything they do and say. The rest of us just watch them, silent but not believing most of what they say. We are unable to trust our leaders. That is a big problem.
Second, the unbridled monetisation of our politics and electoral campaigns is a huge problem. In most of Africa, vote buying and sharing of goodies to the electorate has come to be accepted as a part of our politics. This is dangerous to the sustainability of our democracies and is also fuelled by illicit financial inflows into Africa. It also creates a vicious and unending cycle of corruption in our politics.
Politicisation of the election management body by the recruitment and appointment of political party activists and sympathisers into key positions is also a threat to democracy. This breeds mistrust, exposes the institution to political bias in favour of one political party over the other, and creates the risk of manipulation of election results.
Finally, lack of transparency and inclusiveness on the part of the election management body is also a threat to the integrity of the electoral process. An electoral management body must open its doors to the public, engage frequently and purposefully, and as much as possible, involve all stakeholders in its decision-making. These actions work to ensure a high level of public trust and confidence in its activities and a stronger electoral process.
As a pioneer in various leadership positions, what advice would you give to women aspiring to enter leadership roles in sectors where they have been historically underrepresented?
Women need to focus on building capacity. We need to prepare for the opportunities that will come by increasing your skills and knowledge base. This gives us the confidence to take on the opportunities when they come. We need to be courageous. We need to learn to ignore the distractions and the labels of society. So, capacity, confidence and courage. And to these three, add prayer. If there is a woman to pray, there is a God to answer.
As the Founder and Lead Consultant at Cyrus Law, what are your primary focus areas, and what trends do you see shaping family wealth and legacy management in Africa?
We started as a boutique corporate and commercial law focused firm. We have recently decided to pivot into advising and supporting family-owned businesses and wealth and legacy management. We believe that the future of Africa lies in growing and scaling up our small businesses which are typically family owned. Family businesses need specialised skills to survive and thrive beyond the generation of founders and to protect and preserve wealth and family businesses over many generations. Our work typically involves the deployment of tools and strategies to set-up, structure, secure and sustain the family wealth, business and legacy.
African family businesses are no different from family businesses the world over. They must manage transitions from the founder generation to the inheritors, they must manage difficult and uncertain economic climes and the complex family dynamics within each of our families. These issues will continue to challenge the sustainability of family businesses across Africa.
From your legal background, what are the key elements of effective corporate governance that businesses should prioritise?
I think the key issue is the effective separation of the owner/founder of a business from the business itself. When the business is structured in a way that ensures that the owner is unable to dip her hands into the company kitty as and when she pleases and decisions are not all taken by one person, the business has a higher chance of surviving. This is the essence of corporate governance and the key elements would be:
i. Truly independent and experienced board of directors appointed in a transparent manner.
ii. Truly independent auditor.
iii. A system of accountability of officers for their stewardship.
iv. Ethics training for directors.
v. An effective system of conflict of interest disclosures.
Who or what has been your greatest source of inspiration throughout your career, and how has that influenced the way you lead?
I would not say I have one person who has been a source of inspiration throughout my career. I have learnt many lessons from the successes of others and even more lessons from their failures. I firmly believe that there is so much to learn and lots of guidance we can get from the failures of others. The key thing for me is to remain curious and always learning. No one is too big to learn and no one is too small to teach. We must keep learning and preserve our sense of awe. Just knowing that, influences how I lead. I remain teachable and I always try to listen and learn.
How have you managed to balance your demanding professional life with personal commitments, especially given your extensive roles in various organisations?
It requires the ability to plan daily and keep track of time and manage competing demands effectively. Apart from that, it requires a team of very competent, loyal and reliable people to delegate tasks to without worrying about their ability to perform. And I am very blessed to have such people around me. But above all, I try to be a hands-on person. So I provide speedy feedback to my team on tasks they perform for me. I rely heavily on God and my family. I try to seek God’s direction in every step I take (sometimes I forget, for shame) But my family deserves commendation. They have been my strongest pillar of support. And by family, I don’t mean just blood family. I have phenomenal friends who have become family after 30, 40, 50 years of friendship.
What are your aspirations for the future, both in terms of your legal practice and your contributions to democracy and governance in Africa?
I expect my firm to become the go-to-firm for family-owned businesses in Africa for protecting and preserving their wealth, without getting worried about the survival of their legacy beyond their generation. In terms of democracy, I believe there is still a lot of work to be done to ensure elections deliver development to the citizenry. So, I will spend more time providing technical support to election management bodies on the continent to deliver on their mandate, and training of electoral commissioners across Africa, to the best of my ability.
How do you see your role in mentoring the next generation of leaders and legal professionals?
I guide and support many young professionals, younger women and business owners in Ghana through several mentoring platforms which I manage. I intend to continue this. I may also return to lecturing at the university on a part time basis- something I did over 20 years ago. I am seriously considering returning to the lecture room.
How has your traditional title as Safohen of the Nkum Asafo company of Cape Coast, Ghana influenced your perspective as a leader in the modern professional world?
That is still a learning curve for me but I am quickly appreciating the influence of traditional leadership on our values as a people and how that, again, influences how we engage with each other and shapes our world view. It’s been a very, very interesting experience for me so far and I am enjoying being deeply embedded in my culture and identity. I am also getting a lot of fulfillment from being able to work with my chiefs and my Nkum Asafo company to develop Cape Coast and see how I can support the improvement of the lives of my people and preserve the rich cultural and historical legacy of Cape Coast.
How do you think traditional values and modern governance can coexist and strengthen each other in African societies?
My view is that modern governance must be guided by traditional values otherwise it creates a disconnect. You cannot effectively govern a group of people if you do not understand, appreciate and ensure that your governance respects and accommodates their deeply held beliefs and values. Consequently, modern governance must coexist with our traditional African values or it becomes ineffective.
What did it mean for you to be nominated as one of the three finalists for the Chatham House Award in 2017, and how has it shaped your approach to leadership since then?
It was absolutely unexpected and humbling. Bearing in mind I was in the job for less than two years and I had delivered only one district level election and one general elections for president and members of parliament. I never expected that at all. But it taught me that we must approach our work with diligence and excellence. Someone is always watching. That has stayed with until this day.
How do awards like the ‘Woman of Courage Award from the US government’ impact your view of your work and your contributions to society?
I have learnt that one should never let the negativity thrown at you impact the quality of the work you do. Do your work to the best of your ability and do what is right no matter how difficult it is.
What is your take on the recently concluded elections in Ghana?
After 32 years of Ghana’s fourth republic, and eight different presidential and parliamentary elections, we should be a model for the world when it comes to elections in Africa. Unfortunately, developments in the last two major elections seem to suggest that we have drifted downhill rather than continuing our climb upwards. Eight Ghanaians were killed in electoral violence in 2020. And in 2024, reports are that six Ghanaians were killed in the recent election. That for me is worrying. There is no reason for a single Ghanaian’s life to be lost in the course of an election. The high level of mistrust of our election management body and state institutions also requires careful consideration and serious work towards fixing that. It is not healthy for our democracy. These are my top of mind concerns. But resilient as we are, I am hopeful that Ghana will rise above this and continue once again on the path of progress in future elections. We have witnessed another peaceful transition from one party to another with a graceful concession, same as we witnessed in 2016. That is remarkable and our political leaders and the Ghanaian electorate deserve commendation.
Breaking the glass ceiling does not happen easily. When you break glass, you’re likely to come away with some cuts
Civil and human rights must be upheld for both poor and rich, and for those in power and those not in power
Lack of transparency and inclusiveness on the part of the election management body is also a threat to the integrity of the electoral process
No one is too big to learn and no one is too small to teach
Ghana Premier League giants Asante Kotoko are ramping up preparations for their crucial Week 16 fixture against Medeama Sporting Club in the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season.
The Porcupine Warriors are set to face a stern test this Sunday, January 5, as they take on the defending CAF Champions League winners, Medeama SC.
Currently one of the league’s most in-form teams, Asante Kotoko have won four of their last five matches, losing only once. This impressive run has reignited their title ambitions as they aim to close the gap on league leaders Heart of Lions.
Kotoko head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum oversaw an intense training session on Thursday, January 2, with further drills planned for Friday and Saturday to fine-tune tactics and ensure the players are fully prepared for the challenge ahead.
Medeama, known for their disciplined approach and strong defense, pose a formidable threat. However, Kotoko will be looking to capitalize on their momentum to secure a vital win and strengthen their push for the title.
The highly anticipated encounter will take place at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, where fans are expected to turn out in numbers to rally behind the Porcupine Warriors.
Pelu Awofeso, a renowned Nigerian travel journalist, is set to unveil a documentary showcasing the remarkable life and achievements of Samuel Ajayi Crowther, a pioneering bishop and Yoruba linguist.
The first episode titled ‘Mission to Osoogun’ will be previewed on January 17, 2025.
Old Mawuli Students Union (OMSU 2004) at the donation event
In a heartwarming display of compassion and generosity, the 2004 year group of the Old Mawuli Students Union (OMSU 2004) has donated essential food items and clothing to the Ho Leprosarium, a rehabilitation center for persons affected by leprosy.
The donation, which included bags of maize, rice, beans, gari, sugar as well as clothing and toiletries, aims to alleviate the daily challenges faced by the residents of the leprosarium.
This charitable act is part of the group’s 20th-anniversary celebrations, demonstrating their commitment to giving back to society.
According to the President of the OMSU 2004 year group, Eli Ampim, “As we mark this significant milestone, we wanted to share our blessings with those in need.
The Ho Leprosarium is a symbol of hope and resilience, and we are honored to be able to contribute to the well-being of its residents.”
The donation was received by the Administrator of the Ho Leprosarium, Mr. Nelson Atito who expressed deep gratitude to the OMSU 2004 year group.
“We are thankful for this generous donation, which will go a long way in supporting the daily needs of our residents. Your kindness is a testament to the impact that individuals and groups can have on their communities.”
He also acknowledged that this is the second visit by the year group in a decade as a similar gesture was received in October 2014.
The OMSU 2004 year group’s visit to the Ho Leprosarium was marked by a sense of camaraderie and shared humanity. Members of the group interacted with the residents, listening to their stories and experiences, and offering words of encouragement and support.
This charitable gesture by the OMSU 2004 year group serves as a shining example of the positive impact that alumni can have on their communities.
As they celebrate their 20th anniversary, their selfless act will have a lasting impact on the lives of the residents of the Ho Leprosarium.
“We are delighted with the outcome and decision of the tribunal, which affirms our assessment and removes a material overhang from our business,” said Tullow Chief Executive Officer, Rahul Dhir.
“We have continuously had confidence in the sanctity of our petroleum agreements and the dispute resolution process, which has now brought certainty to all parties.
“I look forward to constructive discussions with the Government of Ghana to resolve the remaining claims so that our collective focus remains on maximising value from the Jubilee and TEN fields.”
Ghana Premier League giants Accra Hearts of Oak are reportedly nearing the signing of former Ghana international Mubarak Wakaso on a short-term deal, according to GHANAsoccernet.com.
The 34-year-old midfielder is expected to join the Phobians as they strengthen their squad for the second half of the ongoing season.
Renowned for his tenacity and exceptional passing range, Wakaso has been a free agent since leaving Chinese Super League side Shenzhen FC in January 2024.
He briefly returned to Shenzhen in mid-2023 after a loan stint with Belgian side KAS Eupen, where he made 10 appearances in all competitions.
Wakaso boasts an impressive résumé, having played for several top European clubs, including Villarreal, Espanyol, Celtic FC, and Deportivo Alaves.
His wealth of experience is anticipated to bring both quality and leadership to Hearts of Oak as they push for league success.
Internationally, Wakaso has been a key figure for the Black Stars, earning 70 caps and scoring 13 goals since his debut on October 13, 2012.
He has represented Ghana in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and the 2014 FIFA World Cup, further underscoring his pedigree.
Should the deal be finalized, Wakaso’s addition could prove pivotal for Hearts as they aim to compete for the league title and secure a strong finish this season.
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Zeqblog Blog of Thursday, 2 January 2025
Source: Okine Isaac
Wesley Girls’ High School’s first Ghanaian non-missionary headmistress, Dr. Rosina Acheampong, passed away. On January 1, 2025, she passed away at the age of 85. In her 30 years of service to the esteemed institution, Dr. Acheampong served as headmistress for 16 of those years, upholding the rigorous academic and disciplinary standards for which the school is renowned.
Former student Dr. Esi Ansah conveyed the tragic news of Dr. Acheampong’s death on social media in a memorial, lovingly mentioning that her loved ones called her “Archie.” After serving as assistant headmistress for three years, Dr. Acheampong’s legacy at Wesley Girls began. After the former headmistress, Mrs. Howarth, retired in 1981, she became the first Ghanaian headmistress. Up until her retirement, her leadership played a crucial role in upholding the school’s esteemed reputation.
As the Ghana Education Service’s first female deputy director-general, Dr. Acheampong also created history during her tenure. Many alumni have positive memories of her discipline and leadership, and her contributions to education have had a long-lasting effect.
The government has earmarked GHS 2.34 billion for arrears clearance in the 2025 mini-budget.
The allocation is to address outstanding financial obligations and restore confidence among contractors, suppliers, trainees and other stakeholder groups owed by the state.
In addition, GHS 20.69 billion has been budgeted as expenditure on interest payments for the first quarter of 2025.
The amount includes payments to the Energy Sector Levy Account (ESLA) and Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
The substantial interest payment highlights the current debt structure and underscores the government’s obligation to meet commitments to both domestic and external creditors during the period under review.
Ghana’s Parliament has given its approval to the 2025 Mini-Budget, amounting to GHS 68.13 billion, following extensive discussions between the Finance Committee and the Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam.
The approved budget is intended to fund government activities for the first quarter of 2025, ahead of a comprehensive budget to be presented by the incoming Mahama administration.
Projected total revenue and grants for the three-month period are set at GHS 42.54 billion, representing 3.5% of GDP.
The expenditure plan was presented by the Finance Minister on January 2, 2025, as part of the Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation measure.
In adherence to constitutional requirements, the proposal was reviewed by the Joint Committee on Budget and Finance before receiving parliamentary endorsement.
The approval process was not without controversy, as minority members accused the Finance Minister of deliberately delaying the budget presentation.
However, the majority dismissed these claims, stressing the importance of the mini-budget in ensuring uninterrupted government operations during the transition period.
With the passage of this budget, attention now shifts to its implementation as the Mahama administration prepares to take office.
Stakeholders are eager to see how the allocated funds will be managed to address national priorities and ensure a seamless transition in governance.
Expenditure Highlights
Compensation of Employees –GHS 16,462,828,490
Use of Goods and Services – GHS 3,123,221,785
Interest Payment – GHS, 20,691,523,500
Subsidies – GHS 45,507,080
Grants to Other Government Units – GHS 9,193,773,211
Social Benefits – GHS 234,703,983
Other Expenditure GHS 9,463,817,451
Capital Expenditure – GHS 5,293,248,499
TOTAL EXPENDITURE – GHS 64,508,623,999
Arrears Clearance – GHS 2,345,505,925
Amortisation – GHS 1,280,544,603
EXPENDITURE IN ADVANCE OF APPROPRIATION – GHS 68,134,674,527
Bole, a bustling town in the Savannah Region, is grappling with a severe fuel shortage, leaving residents frustrated and seeking urgent intervention.
The crisis, which has been brewing for weeks, has reached a boiling point, with over five filling stations in the area shut down due to lack of fuel.
The fuel shortage has disrupted transportation and daily activities, affecting the livelihoods of residents who rely heavily on motorcycles for transportation.
The Amdaway Filling Station, located on the Bole-Wa highway, is currently the only operational station in the area, and it’s struggling to meet the overwhelming demand.
Long queues of over 50 riders and drivers waiting for hours to refuel have become a common sight at the Amdaway Filling Station.
Motorcycles, the primary mode of transport in Bole, have been particularly affected, with many residents forced to purchase petrol in gallons for storage or travel over 18 kilometers to fill their tanks elsewhere.
The fuel crisis in Bole is not an isolated incident.
The town has experienced frequent fuel shortages in recent years, which have been attributed to a combination of factors, including inadequate fuel supply, poor road networks, and the lack of functional filling stations in the area.
In 2022, the Ghanaian government announced plans to construct a new fuel depot in the Northern Region to address the fuel supply challenges in the area.
However, the project has yet to be completed, leaving residents of Bole and surrounding communities to bear the brunt of the fuel shortage.
The manager of Amdaway Filling Station, O. Kasher, revealed that the station has been operating for over 12 hours daily to meet the overwhelming demand.
Despite the strain on staff, he assured residents of their commitment to ensuring fuel availability and providing much-needed relief to the community.
ENGLAND star Kieran Trippier is locked in a feud with his estranged wife Charlotte over their three kids.
The 34-year-old footballer broke one of their key parenting rules following their split – leaving his former missus raging.
The Newcastle player – who earns £130,000-a-week – was slapped down by his interior designer ex for sharing snaps of their three children’s faces on social media.
The Governor of Bank of Ghana, Dr Ernest Addison, has debunked claims of government interference in the Bank’s operations in the last eight years.
According to him, the calls for a reform to a more independent Bank of Ghana is a non-starter.
He therefore pointed out the Central Bank has been operating independently in the last eight years.
Speaking to George Wiafe on PM Express Business Edition, he attributed the recent losses made by the Central Bank to accumulation of debt from successive governments in the last 20 years
“I had a very big discussion with the fund on this because I think the Bank of Ghana has operated very independently. Those who do not think so do not understand because we have done that in the last eight years.”
“First, people don’t believe there was zero financing in 2017, 2018, 2019. In 2020 there was Covid, the government went to parliament, got approval to get GH10 billion cedis from the Central Bank. 2021 we were back to zero from a lot of effort from the Central Bank and then 2022 we went into a crisis”, he mentioned.
“So, people who don’t believe the Central Bank is independent do not understand the issues. So, I do not buy into the argument of the Bank of Ghana needs to be more independent. I think the Bank can operate effectively as it is now”, he added.
There had been calls for a review of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) Act by some civil society organisations and individuals in recent times to safeguard the Central Bank’s independence, while ensuring its accountability.
The Minister of Finance Dr Mohammed Amin Adam in July 2024 announced that cabinet had approved the proposed amendment of the BoG Act as part of efforts to boost the independence of the central bank.
The amendment is also aimed at addressing the recommendations by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) safeguard assessment to strengthen BoG’s autonomy.
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The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has declared an indefinite strike, effective January 2, 2025, in a bold move to pressure the government to address their long-standing grievances.
This drastic step comes after repeated attempts at dialogue and arbitration awards, which have been ignored or delayed by the government.
At the heart of the strike are several key issues, including the government’s failure to comply with a compulsory arbitration award issued by the National Labour Commission (NLC) on May 2, 2023.
This award mandated the migration of teaching staff in colleges of education onto the pay structure of their affiliate universities, a process that remains incomplete after 20 months.
Additionally, CETAG is demanding payment of a one-month basic salary as compensation for all-year-round work performed by staff in 2022, which is yet to be made to 42 colleges of education.
The union is also seeking the issuance of new appointment letters based on staff audits and the affiliate universities’ schemes of service, which were expected to be issued by October 2024 but remain outstanding.
The strike is expected to disrupt academic activities at colleges of education nationwide, significantly affecting teacher training programs. CETAG’s leadership has stressed that their members will not return to work until all outstanding issues are resolved, citing section 159 of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).
This indefinite strike is a clear indication of the frustration and desperation felt by CETAG members, who have been patiently waiting for the government to address their concerns.
The government’s failure to comply with arbitration awards and signed agreements has led to this drastic measure, which will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences for the education sector.
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Zeqblog Blog of Thursday, 2 January 2025
Source: Okine Isaac
Prophet Francis Amoako Atta has offered his opinions on Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s presidency, commenting on his eight-year term and what lies ahead for Ghana in 2025. The prophet addressed critical concerns that he believes weakened Akufo-Addo’s administration and urged lessons to be learned for future governance.
According to Prophet Amoako Atta, one key problem in Akufo-Addo’s leadership was his failure to pick the proper people to the suitable positions. He claimed that several of the president’s appointees and ministers lacked the knowledge required to execute effectively in their respective posts.
He questioned the frequency of ministry replacements under Akufo-Addo’s term, highlighting the significance of strategic nominations for a successful administration. “In eight years, how many ministries and appointees has the President replaced? This shouldn’t happen. We must ensure that the appropriate individuals are in the proper positions. Prophet Amoako Atta remarked, “2025 is a new year and a new administration, and we must avoid making the same mistakes.”
Prophet Francis Amoako Atta, widely regarded as one of Ghana’s most notable prophets, is noted for his precise election predictions. He founded and leads The Lord’s Parliament Chapel International, and many of his prophesies have come true over time.
In politics, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo lost the 2012 presidential election to John Dramani Mahama but defeated him in the 2016 and 2020 elections. As Akufo-Addo’s administration comes to an end, attempts are apparently underway to rally support for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the chosen candidate in the upcoming election. Prophet Amoako Atta’s statements serve as a call to introspection and reform as the country prepares for a new chapter in its government. View the complete video below.
In a devastating turn of events, a police officer’s wedding day turned into a tragic nightmare when he suddenly collapsed and died, leaving his bride-to-be and family in shock and grief.
Chief Inspector Godwin Benibah, 46, was set to tie the knot with his fiancée, Florence Debrah, 29, on December 26, 2024, in Akyem Anamase, Eastern Region.
However, fate had other plans, and the groom’s sudden demise has left everyone reeling.
According to Florence, the day began like any other wedding day, with her preparing for the ceremony at an Anamase Hotel.
However, the joy and excitement were short-lived, as she soon heard cries and was informed that her husband to be had collapsed.
Despite being rushed to Anamase Clinic, Chief Inspector Benibah was pronounced dead, leaving Florence and her family in a state of shock and despair.
The events leading up to the groom’s death are still unclear, but Florence revealed that Chief Inspector Benibah had left her the previous day to remind wedding guests and visit the Police Headquarters in Accra to collect a special outfit.
He had been in high spirits, and there was no indication that anything was amiss.
Florence remembered her fiancé as a caring and generous partner who had been a pillar of support not only for her but also for her family, including her single mother, Madam Afia Buruwaa, 46. Madam Buruwaa described the deceased as the family’s breadwinner and pillar of support, highlighting the significant impact his loss will have on their lives.
The police have since transferred Chief Inspector Benibah’s body for further procedures, including an autopsy, which will hopefully shed more light on the circumstances surrounding his death.
As the family and friends of the deceased struggle to come to terms with their loss, they are left to pick up the pieces and wonder what could have been.
The sudden and unexpected death of Chief Inspector Benibah on his wedding day has sent shockwaves throughout the community.
For several years, Netflix has welcomed the new year with a propulsive thriller courtesy of bestselling author Harlan Coben. After last year’s offering, Fool Me Once, became one of Netflix’s most-watched shows of 2024, the streaming giant is back with Missing You, a gripping crime series about a detective whose world is shifted when she finds her ex-fiancé on a dating app. Based on Coben’s 2014 novel of the same name, the mystery thriller follows DI Kat Donovan (Rosalind Eleazar) as she investigates both the re-appearance of her ex and the truth behind her father’s mysterious death 11 years ago.
The new series features a talented cast of familiar faces, including Eleazar, Jessica Plummer, Richard Armitage, and Ashley Walters. In the days since Missing You‘s premiere, viewers have been particularly raving about rising actress Mary Malone for her heartbreaking performance as Aqua, one of Kat’s best friends with a devastating secret. Read on to learn more about the breakout star.
Mary Malone is a trans actress who hails from Suffolk, England.
Mary Malone is a television and theater actress in her mid-20s, who has mostly appeared in plays and musicals in the U.K. Per her Spotlight profile, she graduated from the University of Essex in 2020 and began acting in short films that year, making her TV debut in an episode of STARZ’s The Girlfriend Experience. Some of her standout theater productions include a 2022 West End production of As You Like It, the award-winning play The Prince, and the cult-favorite musical Fangirls.
Before Missing You, Malone appeared in Doctor Who‘s 2023 Christmas special as Trudy, a friend and bandmate of Ruby Sunday (Millie Gibson). Missing You is Malone’s first major TV role.
Mary Malone at the Missing You premiere.
Her artistic background includes singing, dancing, piano, and painting.
In addition to acting, Malone mentions several performing arts among her skills, from singing and dancing (per her musical theater background) to piano and puppetry. She has also shared her affinity for fine art on Instagram, including some images of her previous work.
She describes her character Aqua as an integral part of the mystery of ‘Missing You.’
Speaking to PinkNews, Malone described her Missing You character Aqua as a “Gemini witchy queen” who has always been there for her best friend Kat, and vice versa. She added that Aqua is an integral part of the season’s mystery.
“She is intertwined in the complex spider web that is Missing You,” Malone said of Aqua. “She’s woven in. She’s not this trans side character. She’s an essential part of the narrative. I got to do some stunts, which is really exciting, really fun, something I’ve not done before, and I really enjoyed it.”
Stacey (Jessica Plummer) and Aqua (Mary Malone) in Missing You.
Malone also told PinkNews that she was able to flesh out her character for the show and add a “rich complexity,” after Aqua received less nuanced treatment in the source novel.
“I think I’ve added myself to it, and been able to really ground her in a real-life trans human,” she said. “[Aqua’s] not all good, and she’s not all bad, and I think she’s a real human with a lot going on, which is really a joy to play…The narrative really does not surround her gender identity, so I think that’s great representation, and accurate representation that we actually are just living our lives.”
Her dream role is a bit surprising.
In an interview with Country & Town House, Malone opened up about the roles she’s wishing for most in the future. She revealed that she’d most love to work with her idol, filmmaker/author Miranda July, and that her ultimate dream role is surprisingly aquatic.
“I know it’s mad but I always dreamed of playing a mermaid,” she told the outlet. “I love films like Splash, Lady in the Water, The Lure. I’ve been drawn to mermaids and the ocean since I was little. So I’m waiting to be AV-checked for a badass queer mermaid film…anytime now.”
A devastating fire, believed to be the work of unidentified arsonists, has ravaged the maize farm of Savannah Regional Minister, Saeed Muhazu Jibril, in the Damongo municipality of the Region.
The blaze, which occurred despite efforts to safeguard the farm with fire belts, has not only destroyed the minister’s harvest but also disrupted the local food supply, leaving the community reeling in shock.
The farm, which was expected to play a crucial role in the area’s food supply, was left in ruins after the fire rapidly consumed the harvest. Farm workers, who had toiled tirelessly to bring in the crop, were overcome with emotion as they watched their labour go up in smoke.
The minister and his farm manager were equally devastated, struggling to come to terms with the extent of the damage.
However, authorities have launched an investigation into the suspected arson attack, but so far, the culprits remain at large.
The police have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward, as they work to determine the cause of the blaze and bring those responsible to justice.
Parliament has approved the 2025 Mini-Budget, totalling GHC68.13 billion, after thorough deliberation at the Finance Committee level with the Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam.
The budget will fund government operations for the first quarter of the year, pending the substantive budget presentation by the incoming Mahama administration.
The approval follows the Finance Minister’s presentation of the Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation for January to March 2025 on January 2, 2025.
The proposal was subsequently referred to the Joint Committee on Budget and Finance for review and recommendation, in line with Article 180 of the 1992 Constitution and the Standing Orders of Parliament.
Budget Highlights: Total Revenue and Grants: Projected at GHC42.54 billion (3.5% of GDP), including: GHC40.67 billion in Domestic Revenue. GHC1.87 billion in Tax Revenue. GHC68.65 million in Grants. GHC1.04 billion from Social Security Contributions and other revenue sources. Expenditure Provisions: Allocations focus on critical government functions, including tax refunds (GHC2.37 billion), healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
The approval process, marked by intense debate, underscores the contrasting views of the majority and minority parties.
Key points of contention included spending priorities in healthcare, education, and infrastructure, as well as revenue mobilisation strategies.
The Mini-Budget aims to address Ghana’s pressing fiscal needs while promoting economic stability. It also reflects Parliament’s commitment to averting a government shutdown amid concerns over delays in its presentation.
Despite earlier accusations by the minority that the Finance Minister deliberately postponed the presentation, the majority dismissed these claims, emphasing the budget’s critical role in maintaining government operations.
Tullow Oil PLC has announced a significant legal victory in its tax dispute with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Tribunal has ruled that the Branch Profit Remittance Tax (BPRT) does not apply to Tullow Ghana’s operations under the Deepwater Tano and West Cape Three Points Petroleum Agreements which cover the Jubilee and TEN offshore oil fields.
The decision by the Tribunal exempts Tullow Ghana from the $320 million BPRT assessment issued by the GRA and ensures the company will not face future BPRT liabilities for its operations under these agreements.
This ruling solidifies the tax framework outlined in the Petroleum Agreements which Tullow argued was the governing regime for its operations.
“As a result of the Tribunal’s award, Tullow Ghana is not liable to pay the $320 million BPRT assessment issued by the Ghana Revenue Authority and will have no future exposure to BPRT in respect of its operations under the Petroleum Agreements. Tullow continues to engage with the Government of Ghana on two further disputed tax claims, which were referred to the ICC in February 2023, with the aim of resolving these disputes on a mutually acceptable basis”, the company said in a press release.
Tullow CEO Rahul Dhir expressed satisfaction with the decision, stating, “we are delighted with the outcome and decision of the Tribunal, which affirms our assessment and removes a material overhang from our business. We have continuously had confidence in the sanctity of our Petroleum Agreements and the dispute resolution process, which has now brought certainty to all parties.”
Despite this resolution, Tullow remains engaged in discussions with the Government of Ghana over two additional tax disputes, which were referred to the ICC in early 2023.
The company has expressed its commitment to resolving these issues amicably and shifting focus to maximizing value from the Jubilee and TEN fields – critical assets in Ghana’s oil and gas sector.
Minister for Finance, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, has presented a proposed mini-budget of GH¢68.1 billion to Parliament, outlining the government’s plans to cover essential expenses from January to March 2025.
This move is a constitutional requirement during transition years to prevent fiscal disruptions.
The mini-budget is designed to ensure the smooth functioning of the state until the incoming administration presents its full-year budget for the remainder of 2025.
Key allocations in the proposal include funding for public sector salaries, statutory obligations, critical infrastructure maintenance, and social intervention programs.
This development comes after the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, warned against any further delays in presenting the Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation for January to March 2025.
The Minority had raised concerns, alleging a deliberate delay by the government in laying the document.
The proposed mini-budget has been referred to the Budget and Finance Committees for a detailed review.
The committees will analyze the figures and accompanying policies before reporting back to the House for debate and approval.
The presentation of the mini-budget sets the stage for deliberations and decisions on the proposed expenditure.
In recent years, Ghana has faced challenges in managing its finances, and the presentation of this mini-budget is a critical step towards addressing these challenges.
The proposed allocations will help to maintain essential government services, including the payment of public sector salaries and the maintenance of critical infrastructure.
The High Court in Koforidua has issued an interim injunction against the swearing-in of Ernest Kumi, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament-elect for Akwatia.
On December 12, 2024, the Electoral Commission officially declared Ernest Kumi the winner of the Akwatia parliamentary seat after a protracted and contentious electoral process.
Nkwanta (O/R), Jan.2, GNA – Deputy Superintendent of Prison (DSP), Mr Daniel Machator (Rtd), Oti Regional Minister, has feted more than 400 senior citizens in the Nkwanta South Municipality on New Year’s Day.
The event celebrated the invaluable contribution of the elderly, while promoting peace and togetherness in the area.
DSP Machator used the occasion to address the need for harmony and coexistence in the Municipality, especially in light of the recent tribal conflict that has hindered the area’s development.
He emphasised that peace was the cornerstone of progress and urged residents to work together to create a secure and prosperous environment.
The Minister honoured some deserving individuals, who have had great impact in his life, including his class 3 teacher, Madam Cecilia Addae Mensah.
The items awarded to the deserving individuals, including 32-inch televisions and hampers, as a token of appreciation for their contributions to education and community development.
The people present expressed gratitude to the Minister for such an initiative, which they believe is a step towards fostering unity in the area.
They also expressed concern about rising crime and violence in the area, urging leaders to prioritise security to restore the town to its once vibrant and peaceful atmosphere.
The Ministry of National Security has announced a directive prohibiting the operation of drones at the presidential inaugural ceremony on January 7, 2025.
This move is aimed at ensuring the safety and security of visiting guests, dignitaries, and the public at the Black Star Square and its surrounding areas.
This is not the first time drone operations have been restricted in Ghana. In recent years, the government has implemented various measures to regulate the use of drones, particularly in sensitive areas.
The directive issued by the Ministry of National Security is a continuation of these efforts to maintain national security and public safety.
According to the press release, the restriction applies to all types of drones, including recreational and commercial ones.
The Ministry of National Security has entreated all drone operators to cooperate with this directive and respect the security measures put in place.
The decision to ban drone operations on presidential inauguration day is likely a response to the growing concern about the potential use of drones for malicious purposes.
In recent years, there have been several incidents around the world where drones have been used to disrupt public events or compromise national security.
In Ghana, the use of drones has become increasingly popular, with many individuals and organizations using them for various purposes, including aerial photography and surveillance.
However, the government’s decision to restrict drone operations on presidential inauguration day highlights the need for responsible drone usage and the importance of prioritizing national security and public safety.
The Greater Accra branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is sending 60 of its most dedicated members on an exclusive trip to Dubai on January 4, fulfilling a key promise made by the party ahead of the elections.