With the clock ticking toward John Dramani Mahama’s assumption of office on January 7, prominent financial analyst and CEO of Dalex Finance and Leasing Company Limited, Joe Jackson, has sparked a conversation with his advice to the incoming administration.

Jackson’s message, shared on social media, called for a pragmatic approach to governance by refining, rather than discarding, key policies initiated by the outgoing New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.

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The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has clarified its response to the devastating fire that engulfed the Kantamanto market, destroying over 100 shops.

According to the GNFS, the close proximity of the shops made it easier for the fire to spread rapidly, resulting in extensive damage.

This explanation comes in response to accusations from some vendors, who claimed that firefighters prioritized dousing the flames in surrounding structures that had not yet been affected, instead of focusing on the burning market.

Addressing these concerns, ADO1 Alex King Nartey of the GNFS explained that the decision was strategic, aimed at preventing the fire from spreading to nearby buildings, as much of the market had already been consumed by the flames.

“Per our evaluation, the fire has destroyed over a hundred stores because many of them were closely situated by each other. So, once the fire catches one, the spread becomes easier. But the good thing is that the salvage is much more than the damage. Because, looking at the other buildings, we have been able to salvage them from the fire.

“It has been a daunting task, especially considering the fact that there isn’t any working fire hydrant here, it was a big problem for us. We had to travel to Frisco or GRA to go and replenish. In the early hours, it was so much of a problem, but when it was morning and the whole place became congested; it became a bigger problem,” he stared.

Traders count their losses after fire ravaged Kantamanto market

The Minister of Finance, , is expected to present a mini-budget for the 2025 Fiscal Year, which would cover three months: January, February, and March 2025 on the Floor of Parliament on Thursday, January 2, 2024 This is after President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in a formal communication to the House, submitted budget estimates for the first quarter of 2025 for the Judiciary and Judicial Service, Audit Service, and Parliament and Parliamentary Service.

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The Deputy Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr Christian Tettey Yohunu has filed a defamation suit at the Accra High Court against broadcaster Blessed Godsbrain Smart, popularly known as Captain Smart, and Media General Limited.

In the suit filed on Thursday, January 2, 2025, the Deputy IGP stated that Captain Smart during a radio and TV programme on December 27, 2024 had alleged that “some elements within the Ghana Armed Forces and some officials of the Ghana Police Service had intended to destabilize Ghana’s constitutional order by causing a coup d’état.”

According to the court document, Smart had alleged that Mr Christian Tettey Yohunu’s appointment as Deputy IGP was politically motivated and that he participated in meetings aimed at securing the position.

The broadcaster also claimed Yohunu had been visiting the homes of National Democratic Congress (NDC) officials while allegedly holding membership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and paying them monies as a lobby to be appointed as IGP.
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It is based on these statements by Captain Smart that the Deputy IGP is seeking general damages for defamation and an injunction to restrain the defendants from making further defamatory statements.

He is also requesting a court order directing the defendants to retract the statements and render unqualified apologies through three publications on both Onua TV and three radio announcements on Onua FM.

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Rodri, midfielder for Manchester City

Manchester City midfielder and 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri has responded to Cristiano Ronaldo’s controversial remarks about the Ballon d’Or.

Ronaldo, who was named the Best Middle East Player of the Year at the 2024 Globe Soccer Awards on Friday, December 27, 2024, sparked debate among football fans with his comments.

The Portuguese captain claimed that Vinícius Júnior, who won both the Best Player and Best Striker awards on the same night, deserved the Ballon d’Or.

He also described the prestigious award as deceptive.

In response, Rodri expressed his surprise and disappointment over Ronaldo’s remarks.

The midfielder reminded the five-time Ballon d’Or winner that he, too, had benefited from the same voting process.

“Ronaldo saying Vinícius deserved the Ballon d’Or? Well, it was a surprise because he knows better than anyone how this award works and how the winner is chosen,” Rodri said.

“This year, the journalists who vote decided that I should win it. Probably, these same journalists were the ones who, at some point, voted for him to win it. I imagine that back then, he would have agreed,” he added.

This isn’t the first time Rodri has spoken out on the ongoing debate months after receiving the Ballon d’Or.

He had previously addressed Real Madrid’s decision not to attend the award ceremony in November 2024.

Rodri claimed his first Ballon d’Or in December 2024, beating competition from Real Madrid trio Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and Dani Carvajal.

However, he has been sidelined since suffering a knee injury during Manchester City’s game against Arsenal in September 2024.

FKA/MA

A significant shortage of beverages has hit the Oti Region as some spots and bars keep reporting shortages to the disappointment of celebrants of the festive season.

The largest wholesale depot in the regional capital, Abeg God Enterprise site at Dambai, has also recorded shortage of most beverage brands. 

This year’s Christmas and New Year celebrations have brought an unprecedented level of activity to the region, with people transporting crates of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, livestock such as goats, fowls, and pigs, across towns.  

Drinks, an indispensable commodity for the festivities, have been in high demand, making the shortage more noticeable. 

Abeg God Enterprise, known as the biggest beverage supplier in the region, has struggled to meet the demands of customers. Patrons were seen rushing to purchase drinks but left disappointed as shelves ran empty. 

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), some customers expressed their frustration at the situation. 

“We traveled all the way from Sene East, which is a far distance, only to find out that the drinks we wanted were not available. It’s very disappointing. However, the shop operators assured us that more stock is on the way, so we have no choice but to wait,” one customer said. 

The festive season has also brought a significant influx of visitors to the region, with many long-distance travelers returning home for the holidays, which had added to the bustling atmosphere, as drivers transport people across various towns. 

A source at the depot, who begged for anonymity disclosed that  stock was being replenished as trucks were in transit to refill the void. 

Despite the challenges, the Oti region is enjoying a vibrant and smooth celebration filled with activities such as conventions, musical concerts, football matches, beach outings, pontoon cruises, and street jams. 

The shortage, though inconveniencing had not dampened the festive spirit as residents and visitors alike find alternative ways to atone and celebrate the season. 

Meanwhile, in a related development, the Krachi West Municipality in the Oti region has also faced a significant egg shortage during the 31st December crossover night, leaving many food vendors, especially, indomie sellers, frustrated. 

Speaking to the GNA on New Year’s Eve, several vendors in Kete-Krachi lamented their inability to find eggs for their businesses despite visiting numerous shops in the area. 

“We have roamed every corner of the municipality, going from shop to shop, but couldn’t find any eggs due to the shortage,” one indomie seller expressed in frustration. 

Some of the eggs sellers, in an interview with the GNA attributed the sudden scarcity, to the high demand for eggs during the celebrations, as residents prepared to mark the occasion with various festivities. 

Hajia Raabi, one of the egg sellers, assured vendors that the commodity would be available the next day.

A devastating fire at Kantamanto Market has caused significant damage to numerous stores and houses, but fortunately, no casualties have been reported.Footage from the scene shows thick smoke covering the market, illustrating the chaos caused by the fire.
Despite the destructive nature of the incident, Ghana National Fire Service Public Relations Officer, Alex King Nartey, provided reassurance in live coverage, stating that no casualties have been recorded.“We’re still managing the situation and doing everything

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By Muyid Deen Suleman

Kumasi Jan. 02, GNA – The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has commended Ms Afua Asantewaa Aduonum, a Ghanaian World Guinness Record hopeful, for her exceptional courage and perseverance in pushing the boundaries of Ghana’s musical influence on the global map.

He said Asantewaa’s perseverance to gain world recognition with Ghanaian music had received admiration from all people and needed to be acknowledged.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu gave the recommendation when Ms Asantewaa paid a courtesy call on him at the Manhyia palace in Kumasi.

The visit, which coincided with the first Awukudae celebration of Asanteman, was for the marathon singer to showcase her remarkable dedication, talent and appreciation to the Asantehene, for his gracious reception during her ambitious second attempt to set a Guinness World Record through music, in Kumasi.

Asantewaa’s unwavering determination was evident during her second Guinness World Record attempt held at the Heroes’ Park Annex of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, from December 21 to 26, 2024.

The stadium’s vibrant atmosphere served as a backdrop to her extraordinary musical performance that captivated audiences both locally and internationally.

Her resilience and passion for music not only impressed the Asantehene but also garnered admiration from all who witnessed her groundbreaking efforts.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu praised her for the effort to elevate Ghana’s cultural heritage and urged her not to relent but continue to work hard.

Awaiting confirmation from Guinness World Records on her second attempt, Asantewaa remains a symbol of inspiration to all aspiring musicians and performers across the nation.

She was accompanied to the Manhyia palace by Mr. Kwame Adinkra, a respected radio show host in the Ashanti Region, as well as her supportive husband, Mr. Kofi Owusu Aduonum.

GNA

Banking Consultant Dr. Richmond Atuahene has ranked General Ignatius Kutu Acheampong as the second most impactful leader in Ghana’s history in terms of productive investments, following Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

Speaking in an interview with GHone General Acheampong’s legacy, Dr. Atuahene praised his foresight in infrastructure and resource management.

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Accra, Jan. 2, GNA- Cradle Care, a non-profit organisation devoted to improving the lives of mothers and children, celebrated its seventh annual Christmas party at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital’s Children’s Block, bringing joy to over 700 children and their families.   

The celebration featured an array of activities, including the sharing of food and drinks, face painting, and the distribution of gifts to children in the wards.   

Maame Akosua Serwaa Gyening, CEO of Cradle Care, underscored the organisation’s commitment to supporting those in need during the Christmas period.   

“This season is about love, compassion, and sharing smiles,” she stated. “We understand that many families would prefer to be home with their loved ones, but circumstances have brought them here. Our goal is to bring a sense of warmth, home, and happiness to them during this time.”  

Lawrencia Turkson, Principal Nursing Officer of Child Health at Korle Bu, praised Cradle Care’s steadfast dedication. “For seven years, Cradle Care has been a consistent source of joy and support for our children and their families. This celebration is more than an event, it’s a symbol of their unwavering commitment to improving lives,” she said.  

Cradle Care’s work is deeply rooted in its mission to provide a nurturing environment for mothers and children. The organisation offers healthcare, counselling, and community outreach initiatives designed to empower mothers and support the healthy growth and development of their children.  

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Unilever Ghana for their soap donations, Promasidor for their Yumvita, Olam Ghana for their Tasty Tom, and Vitamilk Ghana for their products,” said Kweku Eshun, a member of the organising team. “Their support was instrumental in making this celebration truly special for the children and mothers at Korle Bu.”  

The Christmas party is one of Cradle Care’s flagship programs, reflecting the organisation’s dedication to bringing light and hope to those in need. As Cradle Care closes another year of impactful initiatives, it remains steadfast in its mission to create a brighter future for families through love, support, and empowerment.  

GNA  

Founder and leader of Reign House Chapel International, says numerous Members of the 9th Parliament will die.

According to him, these parliamentarians will not even complete their first year in Parliament.

He made this revelation during an interview with Fifi Pratt on Kingdom FM.

The man of God however indicated that only fervent prayers could avert these deaths.

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The Tema Region of ECG has suffered from a fire incident that has gutted parts of its major cables running behind the Lube Oil Company in Tema.

The fire, which was reportedly seen around 5pm on Tuesday, 31st December 2024, has ravaged the cables, which will need to be replaced as they can not be salvaged. This incident caused temporary power cut to customers in areas such as Adjetey Ansah, the Naval Quarters, Aunty Kate, Leonardo, and Bankuman, some of whom unfortunately had their power cut unresolved till the following day.

However, as at the morning of Wednesday, 1st January 2025, all affected customers had their power supply restored.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown. The Public Relations Officer of the Tema Region of the power distributor, Ms. Sakyiwaa Mensah appreciated the Ghana National Fire Service for their timely intervention in curtailling the fire.

Ms. Mensah was asked about the cost of the damaged cables, to which she said that “the extent of damage is still being assessed. Until this assessment is done, it will be difficult for us to ascertain the cost associated. ” She, however, added that “it will definitely be an appreciable cost as the damage is major.” She also apologised to the affected customers who had no power to usher in the new year due to this fire incident.

The PRO further cautioned the public generally to be careful of how open fire is handled in such times of dry weather and bushes as the bushes can easily catch fire and end up causing massive damage to property, amd affect businesses.

By Evans Worlanyo Ameamu

Ayitikope (VR), Jan 2, GNA – The residents of Ayitikope community in the Gefia electoral area in the Akatsi South Municipality of the Volta Region have appealed for social amenities to enhance living conditions in the area.

The social amenities would further increase productivity and improve the progress of businesses, among others, for the success of the community.

Mr Timothy Nyakpo, Secretary, 2025 Ayitikope Denyaza Central Planning Committee, in an address delivered on behalf of chiefs and people of the community during the 47th annual festival celebration, said that the area was faced with numerous challenges that needed urgent attention.

“We faced developmental challenges in the area of road network, mechanisation of borehole water among others and we plead with all meaningful citizens to help solve these pressing challenges,” he stated.

He appealed to the government to provide a motorable road from Akatsi through Zuta, Bata, Kpohega and Ayitikope to Ohawu in the Ketu North Municipal for easy access.

He appealed for the extension of electrification projects to the areas it had not reached and also appealed to the government to provide a school feeding programme to mitigate some other pressing challenges.

“The only basic school we have here needs teacher’s bungalow to serve as a place of accommodation for the teachers who are from long distances to stay here to prevent the danger of traveling with motorcycle every day.”

He said that with the challenges, the community had some achievement through the celebration of Ayitikope Denyaza festival, which include electrification project, functioning borehole, ten and two-seaters toilet facilities for both Primary and Junior high school, respectively.

Mr Nyakpo commended the government for the construction of an irrigation dam and six-unit classroom block with office and store with tables and chairs for both teachers and students to improve teaching and learning for better results in the area.

He said the community would be ever ready to support any government for the development of many communities.

Meanwhile, Mr Daniel Dagba, the Akatsi South constituency National Democratic Congress (NDC) Secretary, who also witnessed the festival and spoke on behalf of the party, pledged that the incoming NDC government would prioritise all challenges for the betterment of the area.

Togbi Korbadzi III, “Dufia of Gefia” who chaired the programme also appealed to all citizens, including political parties to be united for the progress and development of the nation.

The colourful festival, which was highly attended by some dignitaries including Togbi Katsekpor IV, Dufia of Ayitikope, Togbi Akoto VII of Akatsi-Tatorme, Mr Famous Sefenu, former Assembly member, Assembly members, religious leaders and others amidst drumming and dancing.

The 2025 Ayitikope Denyaza festival was celebrated on the theme: “Community Development, everyone’s responsibility for Progress.”

GNA