Two out of the sixteen people injured during a premix fuel explosion at Ngyirasia, a community in the Essikadu Ketan Constituency, have died.

According to the Assembly Member for Ngyirasia-Mpasem, Gabriel Ato Mensah, the two deceased victims, Joseph Adom, 15 years, and Justice Dadzie, 7 years were receiving treatment at Effia-Nkwanta Hospital in Sekondi when they succumbed to their injuries.

“We recorded 16 victims with 11 being males and five females. We brought 13 of them to Effia-Nkwanta where treatment started, and we took the three to Saint Benedict Hospital at Inchaban. I personally took them to the hospital and later had to join the chief.

“When I came back, two of the victims had been taken to the theatre, thus Joseph Adom, 15 years and Isaac Blankson, 55 years. The other 11 were also receiving treatment at the emergency ward.”

“This morning when we came, we realized that Joseph Adom had passed on. So we went to the morgue to see the lifeless body. Since morning, I’ve been here with the chief and around 3 pm, we lost another one by the name Justice Dadzie, a seven-year-old,” he said.

The Assembly Member added that two more injured persons are being transferred to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital for further treatment.

“Currently the ambulance has taken one patient, Isaac Blankson who was at the theatre [on Saturday] to Korle Bu and we are preparing another ambulance for one patient to Korle Bu for further treatment.”

The explosion is said to have occurred around 4:00 pm on Saturday, May 18, 2024, when some fishermen were transporting premix fuel in gallons to their canoes along the beach.

It is suspected that the fuel may have caught fire from a nearby fish oven.

The incident also affected two stationary vehicles; a Land Rover and an Opel Astra, as well as some wooden structures close by.

Meanwhile, police are currently investigating the explosion.

Infinix Ghana has been honored as the Smartphone Brand of the Year at the Ghana-West Africa Business Excellence Awards 2024.

This event, held on May 10, 2024, at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra, celebrated the best businesses in the region.

The Ghana-West Africa Business Excellence Awards is an annual event celebrating top businesses and individuals in West Africa. Supported by the Ghana Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), the awards recognize excellence, innovation, and sustainable business practices.

Infinix Ghana’s journey to this award is marked by its dedication to providing high-quality, innovative smartphones at affordable prices. The brand has quickly gained popularity in Ghana due to its customer-focused approach and reliable products.

The awards ceremony was a grand event with industry leaders, dignitaries, and stakeholders in attendance. The Movenpick Ambassador Hotel provided a luxurious setting for the night, filled with celebrations, speeches, and the presentation of various awards.

Winners of the Night

A total of 60 business entities and individuals were honored at the event. Some of the notable winners included Emirates Airline Ghana, Bui Power Authority, Accra City Hotel, AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine Tarkwa, and Euracare Hospital.

Each winner demonstrated exceptional performance and made significant contributions to their industries.

A helicopter in a convoy carrying the Iranian president has been involved in an accident, state media is reporting.

State media says President Ebrahim Raisi was on board a helicopter that experienced a hard landing on Sunday.

The Interior Minister said rescuers were still trying to reach the site due to the difficult weather conditions.

According to local media, President Raisi was heading to the city of Tabriz, in the north west of Iran, after returning the border with Azerbaijan, where he opened the Qiz Qalasi and Khodaafarin dams.

Heavy fog is making the search difficult at the site where it is thought that the helicopter may have landed, according to a reporter with Fars news agency.

He said the visibility in the mountainous and wooded area was down to only about five meters.

The area is about 50km to the north of Tabriz.

Ahmad Alirezabeigi, Iranian MP for the city of Tabriz, has told reporters in Tehran that rescue workers have yet to find the location of the helicopter carrying the president.

The MP said the helicopter was also carrying Iran’s Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian.

He added that the other two helicopters in the convoy landed safely.

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly. Please refresh the page for the fullest version.

Ghanaian rapper, Medikal has disclosed that his former wife, Fella Makafui, had undergone a tummy tuck surgery to promote her business.

Medikal revealed that her flat stomach resulted from the surgery, not from her slim tea product.

According to him, although he initially disapproved of the idea, he ultimately paid for her surgeries in Nigeria and Turkey to ensure her happiness and spent over €25,000 on the procedures and related expenses.

“After she gave birth, she told me promoting her business will be slow so she wanted to do surgery. It’s normal to give birth and gain some weight. I told her she can use ambassadors or influencers for the slim tea, so there was no need. But she disagreed and said she wanted to be the influencer of the products. We didn’t talk for about three to four months because I disagreed.”

“As stupid as I am and because I want to make the woman in my life happy. Why not? I ended up paying an amount of money for your surgery in turkey. Paying your hotel, everything. Almost 25,000 euros or more than. I don’t even remember,“ he said.

Medikal, who is currently at loggerheads with Fella, further revealed that he discouraged her from going ahead with the surgery because he valued her well-being and was content with her appearance.

Despite his concerns, Fella went ahead with the procedure.

“What if something happens to you? You have a husband. You have family back home. You have a daughter. Who are you trying to please? I am content with how you look. So what is the point? What is the purpose? What is the goal?”

He also added that, he spent over $300,000 into Fella’s import and flat tummy business.

Dr Paulina Agyekum, Managing Consultant, Ablin Consult Limited, has advised road users to take “personal precaution” and observe traffic regulations to help reduce road crashes in the country. 

She observed that some pedestrians and drivers “rush when they are not supposed to” while others exert their “ego” on the road, leading to fatal crashes on many occasions. 

“Everybody is responsible for their safety. There is a lot of ego on the road, everybody wants to have their own way…be wise for yourself. If someone is racing you on the road, let them go; if someone is doing the wrong thing, don’t imitate them.  

“We are very egocentric on the road, and these are some of the little things that cause accident on the road…Caution counts, don’t be in a hurry to go and die,” she stated. 

Dr Agyemkum was speaking at the launch of her book titled: “The Right Turn: Challenges, Opportunities and an Urgent Call to Road Safety in Ghana.” 

The 10-chapter publication provides insight into road safety challenges and some practical experiences on the road and is recommended for industry professionals and readers of diverse backgrounds. 

It covers topics including: “trends and progress in road safety, road safety management in Ghana, vehicular safety, post-crash care in road safety, road safety education, and road traffic law enforcement. 

Dr Agyemkum said road safety was crucial as more people continue to lose their lives or suffer permanent disability because of road crashes. 

She said the country was making progress in various aspects of road safety management and education but there were more gaps to be filled. 

Dr Agyekum urged the National Road Safety Authority (NSRA) and other stakeholders to find ways of testing drivers for drug use just as they were tested for alcohol intake. 

The author described her work as “an essential for professional development in road safety” and would, among other things, serve as “a foundation” for the development of a degree course in road safety. 

David Osafo Adonteng, Acting Director-General, National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) commended the author and tagged the book as “a guide and bible” to road safety management. 

Urging the public to patronise the book, he said it would augment the limited publications on the subject matter and help readers understand “the realities of road safety management.” 

He added that the NSRA’s target to reduce road crashes by 50 percent would require a collective effort, therefore, the publication will “awaken the public to get to the field and help battle road crashes.” 

In a speech read on his behalf, Dr Abass Awolu, Chief Director, Ministry of Roads and Highways mentioned on-going projects meant to introduce road safety features across major roads in the country. 

He urged other professionals to be inspired by Dr Agyekum’s work and produce similar in-depth publications for public education. 

Mr Emmanuel Cherry, Chief Executive Officer, Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry, urged the Ministry of Roads and Highways to restore malfunctioning traffic lights and other essential road features to ensure the safety of road users. 

He also praised the author, indicating that the Chamber will collaborate with stakeholders to develop “holistic road safety solutions.” 

Crystal Palace forward, Jordan Ayew, has lauded new boss Oliver Glasner for the progress the club has made since his appointment. 

Glasner’s Palace are unbeaten in their last six Premier League outings, with wins against Liverpool and Manchester United among their five wins during that run. 

The Austrian replaced veteran manager, Roy Hodgson midway through September with the club 15th on the league table.

The Eagles could finish as high as 10th on the table if they win their final game against Aston Villa and results elsewhere go their way. 

“The manager [Oliver Glasner] has come in and he has done brilliantly well. Obviously, Roy [Hodgson] has done so much for the club and not only for the club, for me personally. He has been instrumental for me and my career. Thank you is not enough. I always say it,” Ayew said.

“Now, obviously, there’s a new manager who has come in and he’s brought in his style, his winning mentality, his desire every day in training and on matchdays. A lot of things have changed and we’re on the right direction.”

Ayew has enjoyed a strong campaign for Palace this season, being voted the club’s Player of the Month in August and February and scoring four goals, assisting eight more, in 36 appearances in all competitions.

Some sixteen people have been seriously injured in a premix fuel explosion at Ngyirasia, a community in the Essikadu Ketan Constituency of the Western Region on Saturday, May 18.

According to available information, three of the victims are currently at the St. Benedict Hospital, whilst thirteen, including children are at the Effiankwanta Regional Hospital receiving treatment.

The explosion is said to have occurred after the leaked premix fuel came into contact with fire from the fishmongers in a nearby smoking facility.

The incident, which occurred at about 4:00pm, also affected two stationary vehicles.

Meanwhile, police are currently investigating the explosion.

Fire erupted in a moving private car in the middle of the road along the Adum STC stretch in the Ashanti Region.

The unregistered SUV, suspected to have overheated, started burning from the front.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke and flames emanating from the SUV, prompting immediate calls to emergency services.

The prompt arrival of the KMA Fire Service personnel was crucial in managing the situation.

Despite their efforts, the front of the vehicle was completely burnt, rendering the SUV severely damaged.

The personnel advised vehicle owners to ensure their vehicles are regularly checked and maintained to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Actress and entrepreneur, Fella Makafui has formally petitioned the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service to investigate her estranged husband, Samuel Adu Frimpong, popularly known as Medikal.

The petition is for allegedly publishing false news which she claims have endangered her life.

In her petition, she asserts that Medikal’s actions violate Section 208 of the Criminal Code of 1960, Act 29, which addresses the publication of false news.

She said his actions contravene the Electronic Communications Act 2008 (Act 775), specifically Sections 76 (1) and 76 (2), which prohibit the transmission of false or misleading information likely to endanger the safety of any person.

The petition highlights Medikal’s recent social media posts, where he exposed some ill treatments he endured in the hands of Fella Makafui including physical and verbal abuse.

These posts, according to Makafui, have incited threats against her and caused significant distress.

Fella Makafui and Medikal decided to divorce in January 2024.

Despite their agreement to co-parent their daughter, Fella claims Medikal has continued to make baseless accusations on social media.

She emphasizes that they have not communicated since their decision to divorce, and Medikal’s false claims have put her life at risk.

In her petition, Makafui includes exhibits of the alleged false news publications and urged the CID to take immediate action to address the situation.

She requests the Police to intervene and invite Medikal to assist in the investigation of these false publications.

The Ghana Police Service is yet to respond to Makafui’s petition.

The Achimota District Court has denied a bail application for Benlord Ababio, also known as Nana Barima Ababio, a self-proclaimed security operative accused of shooting Lance Corporal Michael Danso over a land dispute. 

The court also denied bail to his accomplice, Nana Amo Kofi Kwakye, who was recently arrested by the police and arraigned. 

Benlord, the self-proclaimed traditional ruler in Kasoa, is reported to have colluded with Kwakye to kill the soldier. 

The two have been jointly charged with conspiracy while Benlord has been charged with murder. 

The court rejected their pleas, and they were remanded. They are scheduled to appear before the court on May 30, 2024. 

At the district court hearing, Benlord’s attorney, Mr Nashiru Yussif, reiterated his application for bail until trial. 

According to defence counsel, his client was not a flight risk, and he had persons of substance to stand as sureties when granted bail. 

Mr Yussif told the court that Benlord had done nothing that suggests that he would jump bail or interfere with police investigations. 

He argued that the award of bail was based on the constitution, not the facts, and on whether the accused would appear for trial when granted bail. 

Assistant Commissioner of Police (Retired) Baffour Appenteng Nyamekye, who represented Kwakye, also supported Benlord’s counsel. 

He said that Kwakye was simply a victim of circumstance and should be granted bail by the court. 

The prosecution, led by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Lawrence Anane, was adamantly opposed to the accused receiving bail. 

According to ASP Anane, under the law, the court could deny bail if it felt that the accused could interfere with police investigations. 

The prosecution brought up the fact that the case at hand was murder, which is a first-degree felony with serious penalties if convicted. 

It contended that granting bail would endanger the lives of the accused. 

The prosecution told the court that on April 30, 2024, at around 1600 hours, Lance Corporal Michael Danso and two colleagues, Lance Corporals Abdul Omar Rahman and Ametus Matthew, drove to Millennium City police station in a Toyota RAV4 to report a trespass.  

They were informed that some encroachers were developing a parcel of land belonging to Lance Corporal Abdul Omar Rahman. 

The accused appeared at the police station, and Benlord attacked and opened fire on Lance Corporal Michael Danso who was driving the vehicle, killing him instantly. 

Benlord was disarmed by the police and arrested for investigations. 

Professor Godfred Bokpin, an economist and finance expert, has attributed part of the Cedi’s depreciation to the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) programme with Ghana. 

He said that under the IMF programme, the Central Bank was barred from intervening in the currency exchange market when the Cedi fell against major trading currencies. 

That situation prevented the Bank of Ghana (BoG) from entering the foreign currency market to stabilise the Cedi. 

Prof. Bokpin made the comment on a local radio station that was monitored by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) over the weekend. 

“Part of the reason why the cedi is depreciating is also consistent with the latest IMF-supported program. Under the IMF-supported programme, they favour a stable exchange rate.  

“This limits the ability of the central bank to be in the market and fight off the depreciation through our reserves.  

“Part of the IMF programme is to build our reserve of three months of import cover for 2026…What that means is that it ties the hands of the central bank to intervene in the market to sell dollars to stabilise the cedi.  

“Now they cannot do that under an IMF programme,” he said.  

In May 2023, the IMF Executive Board approved a US$3 billion External Credit Facility (ECF) with Ghana for 36 months. 

Prof. Bokpin also identified other factors that have influenced the cedi’s recent depreciation. 

He said that the cedi’s depreciation was also triggered by the delayed foreign debt restructuring, which affected the receipt of the third tranche of the ECF under the IMF programme. 

The IMF has indicated that it would transfer the third tranche of $360 million, notwithstanding Ghana’s inability to negotiate a final debt agreement with its official bilateral creditors. 

Mr. Charles Kusi Appiah Kubi, a representative of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) and a panellist on the discussion, suggested the prioritisation of retention policies to stabilise the cedi since multinational companies would be barred from repatriating profits. 

Dr. Kwabena Nyarko Otoo, Director of Research for the Trade Union Congress, also encouraged the Central Bank to address the “open” trade of foreign exchange in Ghana, particularly the black market, to relieve pressure on the cedi. 

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) says it has no intention of deliberately keeping policy rate high to profit from it. 

The statement follows reports that the central bank has been increasing the rate to gain from the policy.

The BoG said it remains committed to pursuing sound monetary policies aimed at achieving a stable level inflation in line with its medium-term target. 

Speaking to Joy Business, Director of Communications Bernard Otabil said the bank is poised to achieve a stable inflation.

“Achieving low and stable inflation helps to promote exchange rate stability under a floating currency regime is key”

“The BoG is committed to pursuing sound monetary policies aimed at achieving a stable level inflation in line with its medium term target”, he said.

Mr. Otabil added that the bank is working hard to achieve economic prosperity in Ghana and improving the welfare of the Ghanaian population.

He refuted the arguments that central banks all over the world use policy rate hikes to induce profit.

“Anyone who would make such a claim, perhaps, does not understand central banking fully because high interest rate is rather inimical to the operations of central banks. High interest rates rather raises the cost of our open market operations, and leads to large losses.”

He pointed out that central banks are always faced with the challenge of increasing policy rates to achieve price stability.

“Central banks are not commercial banks and do not seek profits, nor do they face the same financial constraints as private institutions. Central banks, by the nature of their work, are supposed to provide a public good and that public good is low and stable inflation which comes at a cost”, he said

Ghanaian rapper, Medikal has made serious allegations against his wife, actress Fella Makafui, accusing her of physical assault and destruction of property.

The artiste, who shares a child with Makafui, expressed his reluctance to go public due to their family ties but stated that the situation has escalated beyond his control.

Medikal detailed a series of troubling incidents, highlighting a recent episode where Fella Makafui suspected him of being with another woman.

“She jumped the wall and stormed inside the room where I was, in fact, with some male friends playing video games,” Medikal recounted.

He described how Fella Makafui threw tea on him, slammed a coffee cup over his head, and subsequently destroyed their PlayStation and television.

In another instance, Medikal claimed Fella Makafui went into his recording studio and destroyed the laptops he uses for his music.

She then allegedly entered his closet, destroying everything inside, and hit him multiple times with hangers, all in the presence of his friends.

Medikal emphasized that despite the abuse, he has never retaliated physically.

“I restrained myself and I never hit her,” he said.

He said Fella Makafui often travels without informing him and has threatened to throw her wedding ring into a river in Dubai.

The rapper cited verbal abuse as another issue in his marriage.

“Her excuse is that she hears rumours of me doing shady things; rumours she is not willing to open up so we discuss as married couples,” Medikal added.

The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) will on Tuesday, May 21, resume Conditions of Service negotiations with the Medical Laboratory Professional Workers’ Union (MELPWU) in adherence to a directive by the National Labour Commission.

This follows an invitation from the Commission to the leadership of MELPWU, the Ministries of Health and Finance, to resume their negotiations at the Ministry of Labour and Employment Relations on May 21, 2024.

The Labour Commission last Thursday ordered the FWSC to resume and conclude negotiations with the union, in a bid to avert a nationwide industrial action by the union.

The invitation letter, signed by Professor Charles A. Oppong, Director of Grievance and Negotiations at the FWSC, has slated the negotiation meeting for Tuesday, May 21, 2024.

It will be the first meeting after negotiations stalled for months due to outstanding issues, including the absence of financial clearance from the Ministry of Finance.

The long delay for the resumption of the negotiations triggered a reaction by the union which planned to embark on an industrial action on Monday, after giving the government a 20-day ultimatum on May Day, to address the outstanding issues.

But the Labour Commission intervened, and after a couple of meetings with both sides, directed the FWSC on Thursday, to resume and possibly conclude negotiations with the union by May 30^th.

In that regard, the Labour Commission impressed upon the union to hold on with their planned industrial action to enable negotiations to proceed. The Commission also urged the Ministry of Finance to give mandate to FWSC for the negotiations to continue.

MELPWU, in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Dr. Cephas Kofi Akortor, described the directive by the Labour Commission as a “positive step” towards addressing the grievances of the union.

Following the invitation by the FWSC, Dr Akortor indicates that the union will, in respect of the advice by the NLC, put on hold the planned industrial action, and await the outcome of Tuesday’s negotiation meeting.

He assured medical laboratory professionals of the commitment of the leadership of the union in ensuring the protection and promoting of their rights as workers.

“Members are urged to continue keeping the faith in leadership as we cooperate with the relevant authorities to do what is expected of them,” he stressed.

According to the union, the absence of a Condition of Service is adversely affecting the welfare of thousands of medical science laboratory professionals across the country, which jeopardizes the quality of healthcare services provided to the public.

Buem Member of Parliament, Kofi Adams, has revealed a concerning lack of transparency regarding the utilization of a $200 million loan allocated for the Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID) project. 

According to Mr Adams, the government could only provide an account for $42 million of the total loan amount.

This revelation prompted the Minority to stage a walkout during the approval of an additional $150 million for the GARID project. 

Mr Adams emphasised that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) MPs cannot condone what they perceive as state plunder by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.

In an interview with Citi FM on Saturday, May 18, Mr. Adams reiterated the Minority’s stance, stating that without proper accountability from the government regarding the GARID project funds, they would not support any further loan approvals for the project.

“We thought you had taken $200 million but nothing has come out of it and you took a portion of it, claiming that per the arrangements that you had with the World Bank, you could use some part of that facility to support COVID-19 and COVID-19 funds too, but you have not accounted for them.

“We don’t even know how the $65 million of the original GARID funding of $200 million was spent, whether it was spent properly or not. For the remaining $135 million, they could only account for about $42 million and so the rest of the money is unaccounted for.”

Kofi Adams further alleged instances of irregularities in the GARID project, claiming that some contractors were paid despite no work being done. 

Additionally, he asserted that in certain cases, only between 18 percent and 20 percent of the contracted work was partially executed.

“Contractors who have been given mobilization—some $2 million—you call them, and they say they don’t even know the site but took the money. The government gave them the money. Others who took the money have also done some 18 percent or 20 percent of the work.”

“Three out of the nine contractors have done lower percentages, and no proper work has been done as far as the $200 million is concerned, and then you are asking for more.”

Budding Ghanaian actress and activist, Akosua Asieduaa Asare Brewu, took centre stage at the recently concluded USAID Youth Conference in Washington, USA, where she passionately voiced her commitment to addressing the challenges facing the most vulnerable demographic in society – the youth.

As a fervent advocate for youth empowerment and gender equality, Asieduaa highlighted the urgent need for concerted efforts in empowering the girl child and tackling period poverty, particularly prevalent in Ghana.

Drawing from her experiences and observations, she underscored the importance of prioritising these issues to ensure a brighter and more equitable future for all.

Discovered and signed in 2019 to Pave; a prominent hub dedicated to discovering and nurturing creative talents in Ghana, Asieduaa has garnered widespread acclaim for her role as “Tilly”, a high school senior who battles the turbulence of adolescence in the popular YOLO TV Series. Leveraging her platform as an actress and activist, she continues to inspire change and drive meaningful dialogue on pressing social issues.

Her impassioned address at the USAID Youth Conference resonated deeply with attendees, igniting discussions and catalysing action towards building a more inclusive and prosperous society. Asieduaa’s dedication to advocacy serves as a beacon of hope for youth empowerment and gender.

Asieduaa holds a degree in Earth Sciences from the University of Ghana and is currently pursuing her postgraduate degree in Environmental Resources Management at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, KNUST.

Asieduaa identifies as a #Paver; a term which is synonymous to an individual who uses their influence to promote positive change in society.

Road users on the Kasoa Toll Booth stretch are voicing concerns about the alternative route to Accra, citing its deplorable condition and the fear of being cut off from the capital city in the event of heavy flooding.

As the rainy season intensifies, fears of potential flooding and damage to the Kasoa Toll Booth stretch have heightened among commuters.

The alternative route, which passes through Akosua Agyapong and Old Barrier, is riddled with huge potholes and gullies, making it challenging for commuters and drivers to navigate, especially during rainfall. Residents living beyond Kasoa are particularly worried that if the Kasoa Toll Booth stretch is damaged, the alternative routes will be unable to handle the increased traffic, effectively isolating them from Accra.

Commuters and drivers expressed their frustrations to Citi News, describing the alternative route as “deplorable”. 

According to them, the poor condition of the road not only hampers daily travel but also raises safety concerns, especially during the rainy season.

One said, “The condition of our road is deplorable. When it rains, navigating becomes a formidable challenge. There’s a particular stretch called Akosua Agyapong, which becomes virtually impassable during heavy rains. Our vehicles always get stuck, leading to significant damage. The situation at Old Barrier is even direr, exacerbating our daily struggles.”

“When it rained on Monday, the area became severely problematic. We were forced to take an alternative route from Tuba to Old Barrier to avoid the main Kasoa Toll booth stretch. The route, however, is plagued with potholes and clogged gutters. Navigating it was a struggle, especially while transporting passengers,” another commuter added.

Last Sunday’s Mother’s Day was enjoyed by many who had cause to celebrate with the motherly figures in their lives, whether biological or not. Those of us who have lost our mothers even think deeply about them on such a day remembering the good days we had together.

As usual, it is one occasion that has been highly commercialised. Remembrance gifts from natural flowers, gift cards, lunch, brunch or dinner out do feature prominently on the day. 

The occasion has typically been hyped in the media; hospitality businesses, for example, give it a colourful attraction to sell their products and services with well-captured advertising. 

Judging from the busyness around town, the euphoria so created that even some churches find space on their programmes of the day to honour the women in their congregation makes one believe that motherly figures are loved unconditionally.

But as such cherished persons, dead or alive, be celebrated thus publicly, only on Mother’s Day or is it symbolic of everyday celebration? 

Varied views

While unconditional love is a true description of a mother’s love, some sincerely believe that mothers and all those celebrated widely on the day would prefer to enjoy some quietness in their lives on such a day. That is the view of some I spoke or texted to. Given the choice, they indicated that they would want to be left alone to enjoy a quiet time at home while they reflect.

As I bounced this off a few motherly figures for their views, I got varied views. Not surprisingly though, the relatively younger mothers spoken to preferred to enjoy the attention and love showered on that specific day. On the other hand, the much older ones believe a quiet time substitution would be a better idea.

A few more also believed that Mother’s Day celebration has become too commercialised and unduly expensive. They do not think it should be celebrated as it is being done now since not everybody can afford it.

Though they appreciate the recognition given to motherly figures on such a day, they also believe the money spent could be used for more meaningful expenses in the family or given to orphanages. In their minds, they believe the expenses connected with the day should be channelled towards highlighting the contributions of women to the growth and prosperity of families, children and communities in need.

To all of this, a social media post which asked the question, “So it’s all over?” puts the discussion on leaving mothers alone on Mother’s Day in a better perspective. The social media question was referring to the day after the Mother’s Day euphoria which seemed to have afforded many families the photo opportunities and selfies with the mother or grandmother at the centre of the celebration on the day. 

The fun of Mother’s Day is all over in a day, parked and picked up one year after. Unfortunately, that is the reality of today’s life where work and other exigencies seem to have taken away the joy of family closeness. 

Mobile phones, social media, zooms, facetime and the like have taken a chunk of all that closeness away. One seems to be living remotely from one’s parents.

Other days

Interestingly, the next step of the social media post gave a picture of “Other days”, capturing a more vivid picture of the reality of loneliness.  In the picture is a miserable lonely-looking mother sitting on her cough, alone, with nobody around her just the day after all that celebration. All the fun had vanished into thin air.     

The void created in the Mother’s life would be taken over by live-in helpers and caregivers. They take complete charge and decide what to cook and serve at meal times. They decide when to switch the television and lights off and send everyone to bed and they are in control as to when to wake you up. 

They are not substitutes for real love due to a mother figure and can hardly fill the void.

The reality of what happens on other days after Mother’s Day could be a sad one for some mothers and grandmothers. The world of loneliness especially where they probably have lost a husband, siblings and close friends, dawns on them daily.

So dressing them up one day and saying we are celebrating you because it is Mother’s Day may not mean much to them. They want to be alone in their thoughts.

Mother’s Day ideally, should be an everyday event, celebrated 365 days of the year. The photo opportunities and the selfies should be captured all year round. 

A meaningful Mother’s Day should, in reality, be a modest celebration all year round for Mothers even if it means coming home to cook their favourite meals for them or schedule regular meaningful times together. 

One is beginning to understand why some people leave instructions of no wreaths, no tributes, no funeral celebrations, no donations and the like when they die.  

Writer’s email: vickywirekoandoh@yahoo.com

Yara Ghana Limited has unveiled its newest foliar fertilizer called YaraVita CropLift Bio, as part of its commitment to broadening its suite of crop nutrition solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of local farmers.

With a focus on continuously boosting agricultural productivity and sustainability in Ghana, Yara remains committed to providing innovative solutions to enhance the prosperity of Ghanaian farmers.

Speaking at the mini-launch last  Monday in Ejura in the Ashanti Region, Mr Theophilus Djorbuah, the Commercial Manager for South Ghana, reaffirmed Yara Ghana’s steadfast commitment to enhancing the productivity and profitability of farmers, while championing the production of high-quality food for a nature-positive food future.

He emphasised Yara’s dedication to sustainable agriculture and food security, especially in the face of challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity.

Mr Djorbuah elaborated on the YaraVita CropLift Bio, describing it as a foliar fertilizer enriched with vital nutrients such as NPK, secondary elements, and trace elements like Zinc, Boron, and Magnesium.

Engineered to optimise fruit quality and boost crop yields, this innovative product he said offers farmers a versatile solution suitable for a wide range of crops, including maize, rice, sorghum, millet, fruits, vegetables, and tree crops like cocoa.

Underlining the rigorous research and development process behind YaraVita CropLift Bio, the Commercial Manager revealed that the product underwent extensive testing, including collaborative trials with the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG). These trials resulted in certifications endorsing the use of YaraVita CropLift Bio on cocoa, with the aim of enhancing foliage, flowering, and cocoa bean production.

“The demonstration field works conducted in Ghana confirm high-quality yield for various crops when YaraVita CropLift Bio is applied,” stated Mr Djorbuah, reflecting on the product’s proven efficacy in local agricultural conditions. The product’s compatibility with agrochemicals further enhances its ease of use, offering farmers a seamless integration into their existing agricultural practices.

Speaking in an interview with some farmers at the launch, they expressed heartfelt appreciation to Yara Ghana Limited for consistently delivering high-quality products for them which have over the years increased their yields, productivity and income. They also expressed  their optimism that the YaraVita Croplift Bio will also help increase their yield.

Yara Ghana is committed to expanding the accessibility of YaraVita CropLift Bio and advancing efforts to equip farmers with sustainable agricultural solutions. The company remains steadfast in its mission to drive innovation in agriculture and support the nation’s journey towards food security and environmental stewardship.

As Yara Ghana sets its sights on a future of sustainable agriculture, the introduction of YaraVita CropLift Bio stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to empowering farmers and fostering a nature-positive food future for generations to come.

A tragic incident unfolded at the Kumasi Abrepo Junction traffic light on Friday, May 17, claiming the life of a community police officer in her mid-20s who was on duty at the time.

According to eyewitness reports, the victim, known only as Tina, was with another police officer, directing traffic due to a malfunction of the traffic lights.

At approximately 10:00 a.m., a private car experienced brake failure, causing it to lose control and collide with five individuals in the vicinity.

“The officer was the first to be struck. She got trapped under a bus but was declared dead after a rescue mission”, an eyewitness recounted.

Among the injured was a medicine seller, who is currently in critical condition, along with three others who sustained injuries during the collision.

Upon investigation, police discovered bloodstains at various locations within the scene, prompting the marking of key areas and the capturing of photographs to aid in the ongoing inquiry.

The vehicle involved in the accident, bearing registration number GS 9494-21, has been seized by authorities, with the driver detained for questioning as part of the investigative process.

Private legal practitioner, Justice Srem Sai has expressed disappointment in President Nana Akufo-Addo’s approach to petitions calling for the removal of high-ranking state officials.

His remarks follow the President’s submission of a petition to the Chief Justice seeking the dismissal of Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng.

The petition, initiated by former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu, implored President Akufo-Addo to terminate Mr. Agyebeng’s appointment, alleging his failure to comply with several Right to Information requests made by him.

Mr. Amidu asserted that his efforts to obtain appointment letters and salary details of all OSP staff on a pen drive yielded no favourable response from the OSP.

On April 30, 2024, Mr. Amidu, also a former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, formally petitioned President Akufo-Addo for the impeachment of Mr. Agyebeng as the head of the anti-corruption agency.

The move has prompted speculation about the President’s involvement in the matter.

In an interview with Citi FM on Saturday, May 18, Justice Srem Sai expressed his deep concern with the President’s conduct, characterizing it as “seriously disappointing”.

According to Justice Srem Sai, petitions have often been ignored, delayed, or faced obstacles from the Presidency, raising concerns about the President’s prompt action on the petition against Mr. Agyebeng.

“I think the President’s conduct when it comes to petitions for the removal of such high officers of the state has been disappointing. It has been seriously disappointing over the years. There’ve been petitions which have been sent, and some of them have not been even acknowledged in certain situations.”

“Some of the petitions will be ignored, some of them even take too long to be sent and so many impediments have been put in the way of these petitions right from the office of the president. That’s why it seems to be a legitimate concern when he speedily and efficiently submitted this one and everybody gets the impression that he has a personal interest in this one.”

Mr. Churchill Otieno, the Chairperson of the African Media Convention (AMC), has said that 14 journalists were killed in Africa between January 2023 and May 2024.  

Mr. Otieno, who is also the President of the African Editors Forum (Taef), added that as of December 1, 2023, 67 journalists have been jailed for doing their work and charged journalists not to be silent about these issues but rather engage and collaborate to champion positive change. 

He made this known during the Third African Media Convention held at the International Conference Centre, Accra. 

He noted that those who died were from Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Somalia, Sudan, Nigeria, Mali, Rwanda, and Cameroon. 

He further called for fair remuneration for journalists and media professionals for their invaluable work, adding that “we must take a stand, and we must advocate for fair composition mechanisms, including equitable revenue sharing models and copyright reforms, to ensure that journalists are adequately rewarded for their contributions.”

Mr. Otieno explained that championing fair propositions would not only uphold the dignity and livelihood of journalists but also fortify the foundation of a sustainable and driving media ecosystem so that Africa could indeed tell its own story.  

He said restricted access to data hindered journalists who relied on data for in-depth reporting and for investigating journalism in this digital age when social networks had become crucial sources of information. 

He advocated greater transparency and  accountability to ensure journalists have access to the data they need to tell the African story and to hold those in power accountable and serve the public interests. 

“By advocating for access to social media data, we empower journalists to fulfil their vital role as watchdogs of society and strengthen the foundations of media, freedom, and the foundations of our democracies,” he stated. 

He said artificial intelligence technologies had the capacity to enhance the journalistic workforce, automate repetitive tasks, and personalise content delivery to diverse audiences, noting that the challenges and risks associated with them, including job displacement, cannot be ignored. 

He said African media professionals must engage critically with AI, ensuring that its development and employment are guided by ethical principles, transparency, and accountability. 

Mr. Otieno stated that by harnessing the power of AI responsibly, the opportunities of innovation could be unlocked to improve the quality of journalism and advance media freedom across the continent. 

He called for knowledge sharing and the exchange of ideas to strengthen and collectively resolve, safeguard media freedom, and promote excellence in journalism. 

He stressed the need to leverage new technologies, explore innovative storytelling methods, and form partnerships that amplify the voices of the voiceless. 

Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, the Minority Leader and National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam, has explained why his side of the House decided to stage a walkout during the approval of the 24 Ministerial Nominees of the President. 

Speaking on the floor of Parliament prior to the Minority’s boycott of the approval of the President’s Nominees for Ministerial and Deputy Ministerial positions, Dr Forson informed the House that the Committee’s report was a majority decision and that this was because they could not approve the Nominees by consensus.  

“All Members of the Minority Group voted en bloc against the Nominees,” he stated. 

He reiterated that the Minority voted against the Nominees not because they held anything against them; saying “No, we hold nothing against the nominees. In fact, a good number of them are our colleagues and friends. But (the) decision to vote against them was motivated by Ghana first.” 

Dr Forson said the Minority voted against the nominees because the country had gone through (and continues to go through) very difficult periods, including crippling economic crisis, food insecurity, debt overhang as a result of excessive borrowing, and wasteful and reckless expenditure. 

“Ordinary Ghanaians continue to bite the bullet and businesses are struggling under high tax regime to contribute to the development of country. What is expected on the part of (the) Government would have been prudent management of these contributions from the people of Ghana,” Dr Forson said. 

“But hardly a day passes without one reckless and wasteful expenditure or the other by this government being uncovered. 

“Mr Speaker, while (we) are happy for the nominees because we know that it is just a matter of time and colleagues from our side will begin appearing before the Appointments Committee, we cannot pretend that things are still the same. Indeed, we cannot do things the same old way.”  

He underscored that Ghana’s present unfortunate situation occasioned by the Government did not only call for new, creative and radical ways of confronting challenges but also modesty and sacrifice by the political class. 

He said in times like this, the Government side, especially, must signal to the people of Ghana and the investor community that they were ready and willing to walk the talk to restore the needed confidence in the economy. 

He said the Government, in times like this, must show its real commitment and determination to improve the quality of life of Ghanaians. 

He reiterated that it could not be the case that while the Government asked the people to tighten their belt, those in Government would have no belt at all.  

Dr Forson said it also could not be right that while the Government urged the people to bite the bullet, those in Government and their family and friends chew chocolate. 

“Our side is deeply convinced that at this point in time, this Government must seize the opportunity to be creative, dynamic and think out of the box,” he said. 

“Merely piling on numbers by way of appointment of ministers and deputy ministers does not signal to the people of Ghana that the President understands the seriousness of the mess that his government has created.” 

The Minority Leader said the least that President Akufo-Addo could do was to down-size the Government.  

He said adding more ministerial appointments, which only balloons the expenditure of the executive, does not sound like a very bright idea at a time when the Government had clearly lost a grip on the economy, and unemployment, hardships and shrinkflation had become the order of the day. 

“Mr Speaker, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo must down-size his Government to signal to the people of Ghana that, at the very least, he is in tune with feedback and the challenges triggered by his government as a result of their bad economic policies.” 

At the very least, the two top political parties, the NDC and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), agree that down-sizing (or right-sizing) the Government was the way to go.  

Pep Guardiola says his Manchester City team will get the respect they deserve within the game globally if they win a fourth consecutive Premier League title on Sunday.

City go into their final-day meeting with West Ham at Etihad Stadium two points clear of second-placed Arsenal, who host Everton.

No English club has won four league titles in a row but City’s run comes amid their investigation over 115 charges by the Premier League for financial irregularities.

“I think so. In world football, for sure,” said manager Guardiola, when asked if City would get respect.

If City win on Sunday it would be Guardiola’s sixth Premier League title and the club’s eighth since their first in 2012.

In 2022 they went into the final day in a similar position, one point clear of rivals Liverpool, and went 2-0 down against Aston Villa before coming back to win.

In 2012 they needed Sergio Aguero’s 94th-minute winner to pip Manchester United to the title, having trailed Queens Park Rangers 2-1 in injury time.

Guardiola said he is expecting another tense day on Sunday against a West Ham side already guaranteed to finish the campaign in ninth.

“I have the feeling it will be an Aston Villa game,” Guardiola said. “We would love to be 3-0 up but it isn’t going to happen.

“I’m ready to be a tough, tough game. I want to put [that] in the minds of the players.

“It’s going to happen the same. Ourselves and our people have to be ready to support from the first minute and be with us.”

Former President John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), recently paid a courtesy call on the Khalifa of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Mirza Masroor Ahmad, during his visit to London.

In a statement on his Facebook page, the former President said, “We had a wonderful conversation, and he fondly reminisced on his time living in Ghana.” 

He added that Khalifa Ahmad also offered prayers for peaceful and successful elections in December.

Mr. Mahama’s visit highlights the continues bond between the NDC leader and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, emphasising the importance of unity and peace ahead of the upcoming elections.

“I am grateful for his kind words and blessings. Let’s all work towards a peaceful and united Ghana,” Mr Mahama stated. 

Franklin Cudjoe, President of IMANI Africa, has argued that the fight against corruption in Ghana should begin at the Presidency, which he believes is the origin of many corrupt and dishonest dealings.

In his remarks, Mr Cudjoe criticised the establishment of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), describing it as a defeatist approach to combating corruption. 

Speaking in an interview with Citi FM on Saturday, May 18, he stressed that focusing efforts at the highest level of government would be more effective.

By addressing corruption at the Presidency, Mr. Cudjoe believes Ghana will be taking a more proactive and comprehensive approach to tackling the issue, rather than relying on additional bureaucratic institutions.

IMANI Africa’s President, highlighted several instances of corruption that have occurred within the confines of the Presidency, underscoring the difficulty and complexity of addressing the issue.

“Charity begins at home, and so fighting corruption should start at the Presidency because that is where all the crooked things are cooked. Look at the Scholarship Secretariat scandal; is it not from there? This Ministry of Special Initiatives, was it not harboured at the Presidency, which led to all these dams that were constructed like dugouts and wasted money all over the place. Just take a cursory look at that office,” he said.

Mr Cudjoe pointed out these examples to illustrate how entrenched corruption is at the highest levels of government, making the fight against it particularly challenging.

He emphasised that these high-profile cases of corruption within the Presidency demonstrate the need for a more focused and determined approach to tackle the canker.

“So, even creating the Office of the Special Prosecutor was like battling after the facts were established, and people with deep pockets will fight you because they have made enough money to fight you. We at IMANI say that fighting corruption and waste begins at the Presidency.”

Private legal practitioner, Justice Srem Sai says he is not surprised by the petition filed by former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu to remove the current Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, from office. 

According to Mr. Sai, any office established to fight corruption must anticipate pushback, hence the recent development.

In an interview with Citi FM on Saturday, May 18, Mr. Sai highlighted that all institutions designed to combat corruption are experiencing similar levels of resistance.

• Read also: Martin Amidu can’t judge Kissi Agyebeng by his ‘low standards’ – Suhuyini

He emphasised that this trend is not unique to the Office of the Special Prosecutor but affects all anti-corruption bodies.

Mr. Sai described this situation as concerning and urged all well-meaning Ghanaians to be vigilant about the direction the country is heading. 

He stressed that the persistent pushback against anti-corruption efforts poses a significant threat to good governance and accountability in Ghana.

“It did not come to me as a surprise that someone is seeking to remove the OSP from the office and that is from the background that any office which is set up to fight corruption, as we have casually put it on the street, corruption will fight back.”

• Read also: Kissi Agyabeng’s impeachment: Martin Amidu fears his successor outshining him – Edem Senanu

” I don’t think this is peculiar to the Special Prosecutor’s office but any other office that is set up to fight corruption should be ready to face some of these instances. So I’m not surprised that there’s a petition,” he said.

This follows the revelation that Martin Amidu had petitioned President Akufo-Addo to remove the current Special Prosecutor.

Mr Amidu’s petition, dated April 30, 2024, was swiftly forwarded to Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo on May 6, 2024, indicating the seriousness with which the matter was regarded.

In his petition, Mr Amidu cited procurement irregularities in the acquisition of vehicles for the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and alleged misconduct involving judges and the administration of justice. 

Moreover, he raised concerns about infringements on citizens’ rights through arrests and detentions, violations of the right to information, and questionable appointments within the OSP.

Chief Justice asks Kissi Agyebeng to respond to impeachment allegations

Meanwhile, the Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, has instructed the Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng to provide his comments on the matters raised in a petition seeking his impeachment. According to her, this step is crucial in determining the appropriate course of action to be taken regarding the impeachment process.

Per the directive, the Chief Justice underscored the judiciary’s commitment to upholding due process and fairness in handling the matters.

“This is to forward to you a copy of the petition dated 30th April 2024 sent to the Office of the President which was forwarded to the Office of the Honourable Lady Chief Justice on 6 May 2024.

“Kindly provide your comments to the matters raised to enable the Honourable Chief Justice to determine if a prima facie case has been made,” portions of the letter said.

Professor Mark Mawutor Tettey, the Head of the Department of Surgery, University of Ghana Medical School (UG), says most throat injuries in children occur in homes where soap is made. 

He said such children accidentally consummed caustic soda, an active ingredient in soap making, leading to caustic injury, which “damages structures in the oral cavity, pharynx, and oesophagus.” 

The Professor was delivering an inaugural lecture at Great Hall of the University of Ghana on the topic, “The Scourge of Caustic Burns to the Throat: Challenges of Restoring a Normal Swallowing Mechanism.” 

“When these women are making the soap at home, at the end of the day, they end up keeping some of the dangerous substances in the containers like bowls, water bottles, and cups.  

Children, after playing for a while, reach out for cups to drink water, while caustic soda is tasteless, odourless, and colourless. They drink the caustic soda in the water before they realize that they have taken poison. This can potentially cause a caustic injury that will need urgent medical surgery,“ he said. 

Prof. Tettey said patients who survived the initial treatment of caustic ingestion were presented with a long-term complication of severe damage to their upper tract. 

He said about 80 per cent of caustic injuries in Ghana were limited to the oesophagus, and 90 per cent of the patients were children. 

Caustic injuries to the aerodigestive tract occur when individuals accidently or intentionally ingest strong acid alkali. 

Caustic soda is a strong alkali and has devastating consequences when it encounters tissues. 

The chemical reaction that ensues leaves behind chemical burns with necrosis that can penetrate very deeply into tissues and organs,” he said. 

Prof. Tettey said the Ghana Cardiothoracic Centre was motivated to work on a procedure that would eliminate the use of tracheostomies in patients. 

The search for a solution, he said, led to the development of a procedure called Colon-Flap Augmentation Pharyngoesophagoplasty. 

He said more than 20 patients had benefitted from the Colon-Flap-Augmentation Pharyngoesophagoplasty procedure and the outcomes were excellent. 

Prof. Tettey advised stakeholders to work assiduously to prevent the exposure of the vulnerable to the accidental ingestion of caustic soda. 

He urged the Government to formulate policies and laws to regulate the import, packaging, and sale of “this dangerous substance and educate the end users, especially the illiterate and semi-literate mothers.” 

Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, the Vice Chancellor of the University, said the medical discovery by the National Cardiothoracic Centre was a testament to good leadership, teamwork, and mentorship. 

She called for effective regulation and education on the protocols for making soap at home. 

Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz has threatened to resign unless Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sets out a post-war plan for the Gaza Strip.

Mr Gantz set an 8 June deadline for a plan to achieve six “strategic goals”, including the end of Hamas rule in Gaza and the establishment of a multinational civilian administration for the territory.

“If you put the national over personal, you will find in us partners in the struggle,” he said. “But if you choose the path of fanatics and lead the entire nation to the abyss, we will be forced to quit the government.”

Mr Netanyahu dismissed the comments as “washed-up words” that would mean “defeat for Israel”.

The growing rift comes as fighting rages at both ends of the Gaza Strip, with Israeli forces operating in the southern city of Rafah and the northern town of Jabalia, one of Gaza’s historic refugee camps and an area the Israeli military previously said it had clear of Hamas fighters.

Mr Gantz was speaking just days after another war cabinet member, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, urged Mr Netanyahu to state publicly that Israel had no plans to take over civilian and military rule in Gaza.

Mr Gallant said he had raised the issue repeatedly for months but had received no response.

He and Mr Gantz say that maintaining military control in Gaza would increase Israel’s security risks, while others, including far-right members of Mr Netanyahu’s ruling coalition in the government, believe continued control is necessary in order to defeat Hamas.

In a televised address on Saturday, Mr Gantz told Mr Netanyahu that the “people of Israel are watching you”.

“You must choose between Zionism and cynicism, between unity and factions, between responsibility and lawlessness, between victory and disaster,” he said.

Also among the six strategic goals he set out were the return of all Israeli and foreign hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza and the return of displaced Palestinian civilians to northern Gaza by 1 September.

He also said Israel should continue to seek the normalisation of relations with Saudi Arabia as part of a “comprehensive process to create an alliance with the free world and the West against Iran and its allies”.

Responding to the speech, Mr Netanyahu said that to meet Mr Gantz’s demands would lead to “the end of the war and a defeat for Israel, the abandoning of most of the hostages, leaving Hamas intact and the establishment of a Palestinian state”.

Israel’s war cabinet was established after Hamas attacked Israeli communities near Gaza on 7 October, killing around 1,200 people and taking hostages.

Israel’s military campaign against Hamas in Gaza has killed 35,386 people, the Hamas-run health ministry says.

The chief of staff of the country’s army, Herzi Halevi, has also privately pressed on Mr Netanyahu the need for a “day after” strategy, according to reports in Israeli media.

The return of the Israeli military to parts of northern Gaza, like Jabalia, that were previously declared clear of Hamas has raised doubts about the government’s strategy for eliminating the group.

Mr Halevi is said to have argued that, absent a diplomatic process to establish a governing body other than Hamas, the military will be forced to launch repeated campaigns to keep the group at bay.

Mr Gantz proposed an American, European, Arab, and Palestinian administration that could manage civilian affairs in Gaza while the foundations are laid for a future alternative government.

He added that Israel could maintain a degree of “security control” in the meantime.

In Jabalia the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said they fought battles with Palestinian armed groups. Palestinian medics said one of the Israeli strikes had killed 15 people.

Hamas said Israel’s “brutal raids” on Jabalia had killed dozens of civilians and wounded hundreds more.

Late on Saturday Israel also issued new evacuation orders for parts of northern Gaza, saying armed groups had fired rockets towards its territory.

Last week, Israel began operations in the southern city of Rafah – to which civilians from elsewhere in Gaza had previously been told to evacuate – saying it needed to enter the city in order to target Hamas’ last remaining strongholds.

On Saturday, it launched air strikes and raids on targets in the east of the city.

Philippe Lazzarini, the head of United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), said some 800,000 Palestinians had now left Rafah, seeking shelter in the shattered city of Khan Younis or along the coast.

“Since the war in Gaza began, Palestinians have been forced to flee multiple times in search of safety that they have never found,” he said.

“When people move, they are exposed, without safe passage or protection. Every time, they are forced to leave behind the few belongings they have:  mattresses, tents, cooking utensils and basic supplies that they cannot carry or pay to transport.

“The claim that people in Gaza can move to ‘safe’ or ‘humanitarian’ zones is false. Each time, it puts the lives of civilians at serious risk.”

President Biden’s national security adviser Jake Sullivan is due in Israel on Sunday for talks with Mr Netanyahu and is expected to repeat the Biden administration’s opposition to any full-scale Israeli assault on Rafah in the absence of plan to protect civilians.

Mr Sullivan has been holding talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Saudi state media said they discussed ways to boost aid supplies to Gaza and how to achieve Palestinian statehood.

The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has announced that the Ministry of Finance is preparing a new bailout package for investors of the defunct Gold Coast Fund. 

Dr. Bawumia made this statement during his tour of the Northern Region, where he encountered a group of investors who have been seeking redress for their losses.

The defunct Gold Coast Fund investors have been actively seeking compensation for their losses following the closure of the banks. 

Despite their continuous efforts, they have faced significant challenges in recovering their investments. 

Dr. Bawumia’s announcement offers hope for these investors, who have been striving for a resolution to their situation.

During his address, Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the difficulties faced by the investors. He emphasised the government’s commitment to addressing their grievances, highlighting that the Ministry of Finance had previously provided a bailout of 50,000 Ghana cedis per investor.

Dr. Bawumia assured the investors that the Ministry of Finance is now preparing another package aimed at alleviating their hardships. 

This forthcoming bailout is expected to provide much-needed relief to those who have suffered financial losses due to the collapse of the Gold Coast Fund.

“We would have lost so many jobs and for some of the securities like Gold Coast securities, these were investments that were made by people and not the banking sector. These are not banking deposits, these are investments made by people. And people basically make their own evaluations of the risks in investing in certain institutions.

“Sometimes when they make a lot of money, we don’t hear any complaints but when they lose monies, then we may hear some complaints. And I know that it’s not easy for a lot of people who have put provident funds and so on into these institutions.

“The Ministry of Finance came out with a bailout, and I think each repository that they gave was about 50 thousand Ghana cedis and I think that the ministry is preparing another bailout for them because we believe that they are going through a lot of hard times,“ he stated.

The Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST) of the University of Ghana (UG), is seeking partnership to scale up the production of high-value fuels made from plastic waste.

The IAST, with the support of the French government, has developed a plant that converts plastic waste into high-value fuels and chemicals for households, outboard motors, and small running engines.

The project, which is the first to be piloted in Ghana, is aimed at addressing the plastic waste menace sustainably and creating employment opportunities for the youth.

Speaking to journalists at the 7^th IAST Industry-Academia Interaction Series at the UG in Accra, Professor David Dodoo-Arhin, Director, IAST, said a conversion plant had been installed at Osu in Accra to collect and process plastic waste that hitherto would have entered the sea directly.

He said the project targets producing fuel on an industrial scale, adding that efforts are underway to train the youth in the area on the value chain and the process of conversion as part of its community impact project.

He said the target of the project is to produce affordable fuels while protecting the environment.

“The idea is to incentivise our fisher folks that when they go to sea and they are catching plastics instead of fish, this is not waste. We are providing other alternatives that we can convert it into high-value fuel that can be used,” Prof. Dodoo-Arhin said.

“We are looking for partners to scale it up. We cannot do it alone going into large scale commercialisation,” he added.

The 7^th IAST Industry-Academia Interaction Series was on theme: “Sustainable energy transitions and climate change: The role of partnerships.”

Speakers at the event emphasised the need for academia, industry, and experts to work closely to develop innovative products to support the realisation of Ghana’s energy transition agenda.

In keeping with global climate commitments, Ghana has developed a comprehensive framework, seeking to transition from fossil fuel to green energy by 2070.

Prof. Chris Gordon, Chairman, the Institute for Environment and Sanitation Studies, said Africa must fully participate in the global energy transition discourse and utilise its resources to make a meaningful impact in creating opportunities within that sphere.

“We need to think about the African voice in the energy transition discourse so we are not always recipients of information but also providers of information,” he said.

Nana Osei-Bonsu, Chief Executive Officer of the Private Enterprise Federation, said the private sector must be incentivised to stabilise their operations and create solutions to support the national transition agenda.

He encouraged the IAST to develop policy briefs from the dialogue series and share them with relevant stakeholders to support policy decisions.

Dr Joseph Essandoh-Yeddu, former Director, Strategic Planning and Policy at the Energy Commission, said affordability and reliable energy should be a key component of the energy transition agenda.

“We must not just complain about climate change, but we must adapt through technology and innovation,” he said.

The Dean of the University of Professional Studies Accra (UPSA) Law School, Professor Ernest Kofi Abotsi, says the mandate of the Office of Special Prosecutor (OSP) includes public engagement, saying that the question of whether he has done his work with what the law expects is a highly debatable issue.

According to him, that public engagement component of his work invariably involves him doing things that may ordinarily be out of convention, and that it is not conventional by way of standard practice to have a lawyer go to court and thereafter have complaints about how justice has been administered, especially when he is not just a lawyer but a public officer lawyer.

His comments follow allegations of misbehaviour and other sins made by former Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu, against his successor Kissi Agyebeng, for which he has petitioned President Akufo-Addo to remove Agyebeng from office.

Mr. Abotsi says the law establishing the OSP is framed around the 1992 Constitution, particularly in terms of the similarity of offences or the circumstances under which the Special Prosecutor could be impeached.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, May 18, Prof Abotsi clarified that the terms used, such as “misbehaviour” or “incompetence,” are repeated in the law establishing the OSP, which allows for the removal of the Special Prosecutor on these grounds.

“However, both the Constitution and the OSP Act do not define what constitutes stated misbehaviour. Incompetence – we can assume that we probably will recognise what incompetence is but stated misbehaviour presupposes that there are constituent aspects of what can be considered a misbehaviour.

“However, because the two laws do not define it, the Constitution doesn’t define it so we can’t make reference and the Act also doesn’t define it – it means the one making a determination by way of impeachment – the panel making the determination would have to decide the particular Act meet that threshold of stated misbehaviour,” he said.

Martin Amidu’s petition, issued on April 30, 2024, has since been conveyed to Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo on May 6, 2024. The CJ has in turn asked Kissi Agyebeng to provide comments to the allegations to determine whether there is a prima facie case to to be established.

Read also: Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng facing impeachment

Martin Amidu also alleged procurement breaches in the purchase of vehicles for the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and abuses involving judges and the administration of justice. Other allegations include violations of citizens’ rights through arrests and detentions, violations of the right to information, and improper appointments of personnel to the office.

On the back of this, Prof Abotsi argued that the law has not been tested regarding what constitutes stated misbehaviour, raising the question of whether acts considered merely professionally objectionable meet the threshold or if they need to go beyond professional misbehaviour to be considered stated misbehaviour.

Prominent businessman and the Vice Chancellor of Cape Coast University, Sir Sam Jonah, has emphasised the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Delivering a speech in Baltimore on Saturday, May 18, at Morgan State University, he urged the Class of 2024 to adapt and thrive in an evolving technological landscape.

His speech, under the headline “Curating a Brighter Future: Humanity & Artificial Intelligence,” highlighted both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with technological progress.

The graduates listened as Sam Jonah began with a quote from the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus: “Change is the only constant.”

He linked this timeless wisdom to the rapid technological advancements of today, particularly in the realm of AI.

“Your journey ahead is one of great promise with more technological help than any generation has ever received,” Jonah told the graduates.

He noted that AI presents exciting opportunities but also significant responsibilities. Automation and robotization, he explained, will handle routine tasks and replace human labour in many fields, leading to disruptions in traditional industries.

To mitigate the risks of joblessness due to these disruptions, Jonah emphasized the need for upskilling and reskilling.

“Bright and industrious graduates and the workforce must commit to relearning to embrace new job opportunities and create new ones,” he advised.

Sam Jonah also urged the graduates to participate actively in advocating for policies and regulations that benefit humanity, stressing that inaction would not address the challenges posed by AI.

He pointed out that counterparts in Asia and Africa have fully embraced the opportunities presented by AI, increasing global competition for jobs.

However, Sam Jonah also highlighted the potential for meaningful collaboration across the planet, thanks to AI.

“I strongly urge you to have a global and collaborative mindset in your quest for advancement,” Jonah said, connecting this approach to the motto of Morgan State University: “Growing the Future, Leading the World.”

In closing, Jonah reinforced the importance of adapting to technological changes and harnessing AI’s potential for global collaboration and innovation.

Oleksandr Usyk defeated Tyson Fury on Saturday night to become first undisputed heavyweight fight in nearly 25 years.

Ukraine’s Usyk won via split decision after incredible fight in front of a packed Kingdom  Arena in Saudi Arabia. 

Two judges scored in his favour – 115-113 and 114-113 with the other giving it Fury at 114-113.

The stats backed Usyk, who landed 170 of 407 punches, while Fury landed 157 of 496 punches.

The closely contested bout took a big turn in the ninth round when Usyk completely dominated and scored a knockdown. 

The Ukrainian went on to assert his dominance in the closing rounds and did enough on the scorecard to claim the win. 

Usyk dedicated the win to his country after the bout.

“I feel good. A lot of people prayed for me, I love you. 

“I’m very happy. My people will be very happy I think, it’s a big win, not only for me, it’s a big win for my country, for soldiers who now defend my country,” he said. 

Tyson Fury on the other hand felt he won the fight and says he is ready for a rematch in October.

“We’ll go back, have some time with our families and we’ll run it back in October.”

The rematch clause in the fight contract makes way for an immediate rematch, which suggests a high possibility these two heavyweights could square off again this year.

Prominent businessman and Chancellor of Cape Coast University, Sir Sam Jonah, says it is high time women are given the recognition they deserve in a so-called man’s world.

At the Morgan State University graduation ceremony on Saturday, May 18, he delivered a moving speech under the headline “Championing Women for Progress and Parity,” urging the new graduates to actively support and elevate women in every sphere of life.

Sam Jonah began by sharing the attributes of his greatest hero, his mother, Beatrice Jonah, who exemplified integrity, generosity, and compassion.

“Despite modest means, this person’s efforts to feed the poor and needy in our community underscored a profound lesson: We thrive by supporting one another,” he said.

He highlighted how his mother’s life in a mining town taught him the values of kindness, moderation, selflessness, and honest labour.

Sam Jonah emphasised that heroism is not exclusive to men and praised the crucial roles women have played in his life and society.

“It seems to me that our mothers, wives, and sisters, also real heroes, do not get the recognition they deserve,” he noted.

Highlighting historical and contemporary female figures, Sam Jonah revered the Asante Queen mother Yaa Asantewaa, Winnie Mandela, and modern leaders such as Vice President Kamala Harris, Prime Minister Mia Mottley, and corporate leaders like Indra Nooyi and Mary Barra.

These women, he noted, have demonstrated exceptional leadership and have made significant contributions to their nations and industries.

“Women have proven their mettle in the corporate world as well, with leaders like your own highly-respected Morgan State University alumna, Valerie Thomas the NASA Scientist,” Jonah stated, adding that despite their achievements, only a handful of nations in 2024 are led by women.

This disparity, he argued, underscores the continued need for gender parity in corporate and political leadership.

Sam Jonah stressed that the accomplishments of industrious and courageous women are not just victories for the female gender but for the organisations and nations they lead.

“The journey is far from complete. Women, especially those from minority backgrounds, still face significant barriers in higher education and industry that must be dismantled to benefit all humanity,” he said.

Sam Jonah quoted the famous Dr Kwegyir Aggrey, saying that, “If you educate a man, you educate an individual; if you educate a woman, you educate a whole nation.”

He urged the dismantling of systemic and institutional barriers to create environments where women’s contributions are recognized and celebrated.

In his call to action, Sam Jonah inspired the Class of 2024 to be agents of change.

“Let the story of every woman who has led, from the humblest villages to the grandest nations, inspire you to be agents of change in an evolving world where you actively support and elevate women in every sphere, from the grassroots to global leadership,” he concluded.

Prominent businessman and the Chancellor of Cape Coast University, Sir Sam Jonah, has presented a candid assessment of the world’s current state while urging the new graduates to engage actively in creating a better future.

In a stirring speech delivered at Morgan State University’s graduation ceremony on Saturday, May 18, he spoke on the theme “Global Challenges, & The Way Forward.”

“Through no fault of yours, a different world with various, and evolving, challenges awaits you,” Sam Jonah began, acknowledging the complex global landscape awaiting the graduates.

He expressed regret for the myriad problems left by previous generations, including wars, famine, disease, and discrimination.

“I am not afraid to say in candour and humility that my generation has not been kind to you,” he admitted.

Jonah highlighted the ongoing conflict in Gaza as a stark illustration of the dire consequences of prolonged hostilities and the urgent need for decisive leadership.

“We pray that there will be a redoubling of efforts to resolve the present conflict in Gaza and to find a long-term solution to the Israel-Palestinian problem,” he stated, emphasising the global implications of such conflicts.

Drawing on historical parallels, Jonah noted the significant role of student activism in shaping history.

He referenced the contributions of student activists in the emancipation of women and African Americans and their impact on ending the Vietnam War.

“What we are, therefore, witnessing today is not unusual in the context of the historical role students have played in the quest for a just and fairer world,” he remarked, encouraging students to continue this legacy.

Despite the challenges, Jonah expressed confidence in the graduates’ ability to overcome obstacles.

“I am of the firm belief that the education you have received on this campus has equipped you to surmount any obstacles,” he assured them.

Jonah urged the graduates to participate actively in political processes, quoting Plato: “The price of apathy in public affairs is to be ruled by evil men.”

He called on them to become the ethical and visionary leaders the world desperately needs.

“Your education and the values you have learned here at Morgan State University make you ideal candidates to be the ethical and visionary leaders the world so desperately needs,” he asserted.

Referencing President Barack Obama’s words, “We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change we seek,” Sam Jonah inspired the graduates to be the changemakers the world needs.

He envisioned a future marked by justice, fairness, and integrity, and urged them to strive for a more humane and equitable world.

Sam Jonah also touched on the enduring impact of racial discrimination and colonialism, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.

He invoked the wisdom of Dr Kwegyir Aggrey and Reverend Dr Martin Luther King Jr., calling for a society where individuals are judged by their character, not their skin colour.

“Class of 2024, the world is looking up to you to change the narrative,” Sam Jonah proclaimed, encouraging the graduates to continue the progress made by their forebears.

He concluded with a call for solidarity and mutual support, emphasising the importance of helping one another.

In closing, he cited Thurgood Marshall and the Zulu concept of Ubuntu, reminding the graduates that they do not journey alone: “A person is a person because of other people.”

Sam Jonah reminded the graduates that their collective effort is required to navigate and improve the complex world they are inheriting.

Prominent businessman and Chancellor of Cape Coast University Sir Sam Jonah is proud that Ghana has become a leading destination for African Americans seeking to reconnect with their ancestral roots.

In a speech filled with historical significance and future aspirations, he shared a message of hope from Ghana with the Morgan State University graduating class of 2024 on Saturday, May 18.

“I bring you greetings from Africa, and a message of hope from Ghana, my beloved motherland,” the speaker began, highlighting Ghana’s transformative journey, a nation that has transitioned from colonial oppression to a beacon of decolonisation and reconciliation in Africa.

Sam Jonah emphasised Ghana’s historical and contemporary connections with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), underscoring a shared legacy of struggle and triumph.

“Ghana and HBCUs share a deep bond, woven through shared struggles and triumphs,” he noted.

He mentioned how Ghana’s first president, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, an alumnus of Lincoln University, became a global icon of freedom and visionary leadership.

The poignant history of W.E.B. Du Bois, a Fisk University alumnus who spent his final years in Ghana, was also celebrated.

Du Bois’ legacy lives on at the W.E.B. Du Bois Memorial Center for Pan-African Culture in Accra, a testament to his enduring impact on Ghana and the Pan-African movement, Sam Jonah said.

Ghana’s historical role in the transatlantic slave trade, marked by the infamous “Door of No Return” at Cape Coast Castle, he stated has now been reimagined as a symbol of return and reconciliation for the African diaspora.

“Ghana, once entwined in the dark history of the transatlantic slave trade, has transformed into a beacon of return and reconciliation for the African diaspora,” the speaker affirmed.

In 2019, Ghana launched the “Year of Return,” commemorating 400 years since the first enslaved Africans arrived in Virginia, USA.

Sam Jonah said this landmark initiative invited the diaspora to return “home,” fostering a profound reconnection with their ancestral roots.

He said the initiative has positioned Ghana as a leading destination for African Americans seeking to heal and reconnect with their heritage.

Further strengthening these ties, he said Ghana has granted citizenship to numerous African Americans, including Global Music Icon and Social Justice Activist Stevie Wonder.

“Ghana has further cemented this connection by offering citizenship to numerous African Americans, fostering a renewed sense of belonging and healing from the scars of history,” Sam Jonah said.

He said this initiative not only acknowledges the painful past but also celebrates the resilience, culture, and profound longing of Africans and their descendants worldwide.

Sam Jonah honoured luminaries such as Maya Angelou, Dr Martin Luther King Jr., and Kim Godwin, emphasising the importance of meeting one’s moment in history.

Quoting Kim Godwin’s inspiring words to Morgan State University graduates, he urged the audience to rise to their challenges: “We stand on the shoulders of many who have already met their moments, and now is the time for you to meet yours.”

Concluding, acknowledged the harsh realities of today’s world but remained hopeful about the future, inspired by Ghana’s journey and the enduring spirit of its people and their descendants.

Ghanaian youngster Raymond Anokye Asante scored once again for Udinese U19s in their playoff game against Napoli on Saturday.

Asante netted twice in the game to take the fixture to extra time with his side claiming the victory.

Napoli scored the opening goal of the game in the 19th minute through Gianluca Vigliotti giving the home side the lead at the break.

However, the Ghanaian scored twice to put the game in the favour of Udinese. The 19-year-old first stepped up from the penalty spot in the 62nd minute before his second came four minutes later.

Their celebrations were shortlived as Francesco Gioielli grabbed the equaliser in the 74th minute to take the game into penalties.

At the end of the shootout, Udinese emerged winners in the quarterfinal of the Primavara 2 Promotion Playoff.

With his two goals on Saturday, Asante has now netted 21 goals in 30 games while also notching nine assists in that period.

Berekum Chelsea came from a goal down to end Asante Kotoko’s unbeaten run in the Ghana Premier League on Saturday, May 18.

Mezack Afriyie scored a late winner to put a halt to the Porcupine Warriors’ three-game unbeaten run.

Kotoko took the lead in the game through Ugandan forward Steven Mukwala after 21 minutes played at the Golden City Park.

There were opportunities for both teams after the opener but none of them could take their chances.

However, Stephen Amankona drew the Birebes level four minutes away from the halftime whistle.

The two teams headed into the break with the score at 1-1.

With just seconds until the end of the game, Mezack Afriyie headed home Lord Amoah’s delivery from a corner to hand Chelsea all three points.

At the Theatre of Dreams in Dawu, Legon Cities kept Great Olympics’ winless run going as they beat them 2-1.

Level at the break, Kwabena Boateng scored in the 72nd minute to give Paa Kwesi Fabin’s side the win.

The Ghana Premier League continues on Sunday, May 19.

The 2024 CAF African Schools Football Championship Finals will be hosted in Zanzibar, the intriguing tourism destination situated in Tanzania.

Taking place at the recently renovated Amaan Stadium from May 21st to May 24th, 2024, this marks the second season of Africa’s premier youth football competition finals.

CAF President, Dr Motsepe, alongside numerous African football icons, will grace the Finals of the 2024 edition, featuring winners from Regional/Zonal Qualifiers.

The tournament, designed for Boys and Girls under the age of 15, is a pioneering initiative in world football, conceived by Dr Motsepe in alignment with his vision of investing in the youth of Africa.

Building on the success of its debut edition, participation has surged by 40% this season, with 804,480 young African boys and girls from 28,862 schools across 44 countries engaging in the championship’s second season.

In addition to providing a platform for international competition, the championship includes a concurrent capacity-building program, offering scholars, coaches, and educators unique skill-building opportunities.

CAF has implemented various capacity-building initiatives throughout the Zonal Qualifiers, encompassing the Young Reporters Program, Young Referee Program, Young Medical Officers Program, CAF D License Coaching Course, and CAF Safeguarding workshops.

Echoing the previous season, the Finals of the CAF African Schools Football Championship are anticipated to welcome CAF’s Legends, imparting inspiration and encouragement to the budding football talents.

Emmanuel Adebayor, Daniel Amokachi and Amanda Dlamini are some of the top names that have been confirmed for the Continental Finals of this year’s Championship.

Also on the list are local stars Abdi Kassim Sadalla, former Tanzanian National Team Captain, and Hilda Masanche, Head coach of the Tanzania U17 Women’s National Team.

Each winner in both the Boys’ and Girls’ categories will be awarded $300,000 in prize money, with runners-up receiving $200,000 each, and bronze medalists taking home $150,000 each, courtesy of CAF’s collaboration with the Motsepe Foundation, dedicated to school development projects.

The esteemed founder and Managing Editor of Ghana Business News, Emmanuel K. Dogbevi, has been recognised with the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) Award at the 2024 AllAfrica Media Leaders’ Summit.

The event, held in Nairobi, Kenya, celebrated excellence in journalism and media leadership across the continent.

Dogbevi stood out among 24 other distinguished awardees at the Media Excellence Awards and Gala Dinner, a highlight of the Summit organised by AllAfrica Global Media.

Clad in a resplendent ‘fugu,’ a beautifully hand-woven Ghanaian garment, Dogbevi accepted the award with his characteristic confidence, humility, and a palpable aura of eminence.

The ACBF Award honoured Dogbevi for his exceptional coverage of capacity building in Africa, aligning with ACBF’s mission under the African Union Commission. This accolade marks his second significant recognition in two years.

In 2022, Dogbevi received the Christopher J. Welles Prize for excellence in business reporting from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, where he was a Knight-Bagehot Fellow.

With over three decades of experience in journalism, Dogbevi specialises in business and investigative reporting. His work spans diverse sectors, including environment, trade, e-waste dumping, illicit financial flows, ICT, agriculture, and development. His relentless pursuit of truth and accuracy has significantly impacted public awareness and policy, particularly in Ghana.

Dogbevi’s extensive coverage of institutions like the Economic Commission for Africa, the African Development Bank, ACBF, and the World Bank, underscores his commitment to high journalistic standards.

As Executive Director of NewsBridge Africa, a non-profit dedicated to journalistic excellence, Dogbevi trains journalists across the continent, further testifying to his dedication to the profession.

His impactful reporting on issues such as anti-corruption, e-waste dumping, and natural resource exploitation has not only informed the public but also sparked crucial conversations about sustainable development and governance, leading to legislative changes in Ghana.

This award is a testament to Dogbevi’s substantial contributions to journalism and capacity building in Africa. His work continues to inspire a new generation of journalists, setting a high bar for journalistic integrity and excellence. He remains a key partner in the largest journalism collaboration in West Africa’s history, the ICIJ’s West Africa Leaks.

Maxime Domegni, Francophone Africa Editor of the Global Investigative Journalism Network, praised Dogbevi, saying, “This award recognises the outstanding journalism Emmanuel produces in Ghana and Africa. Despite challenging conditions, he has maintained an unwavering commitment to his craft.”

Kevin Brosnahan, Press Attaché at the US Embassy in Accra, echoed these sentiments: “Dogbevi is a professional dedicated to the pursuit of truth. His commitment to sharing his skills with others to improve the journalism profession is exemplary.”

As a media trainer, Dogbevi has imparted investigative journalism skills to over 400 individuals across Africa. His academic credentials include a Master’s degree in journalism from the Columbia University and a Bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Ghana.

Recently elected Deputy Chair of The African Editors Forum (TAEF), Dogbevi has also held significant roles at Joy FM, Citi FM, and The Independent newspaper.

Ruona Meyer, a fellow investigative journalist, remarked: “Emmanuel deserves this honour. His contributions to journalism are clear, and his recognition at home is well-deserved. He is an outstanding colleague with a keen eye for news and investigations.”

The AllAfrica Media Leaders’ Summit, themed “Re-engineering African Media in Times of Critical Transformation,” brought together media leaders, policymakers, and champions of African development, underscoring the critical role of media in the continent’s growth.

Chelsea wrapped up a sensational fifth successive Women’s Super League title by thrashing Manchester United at Old Trafford in Emma Hayes’ final game in charge.

The Blues, who led rivals Manchester City by goal difference at the top of the table heading into the final day, knew a big scoreline was potentially needed to win the title.

And with so much at stake Chelsea’s players delivered with a ruthlessness that United could never match at Old Trafford.

British record signing Mayra Ramirez produced an outstanding individual display, scoring twice and assisting the other two as Hayes’ side went in at the break with a 4-0 lead.

Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, Sjoeke Nusken, Melanie Leupolz and Fran Kirby added to Ramirez’s dazzling double as Chelsea romped to victory.

It was the perfect farewell for Hayes, who was full of emotion on a remarkable afternoon in Manchester, capping off a 12-year career at the Blues in style.

United legend Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Dave Brailsford, the representative of new minority owners Ineos, were in the director’s box watching on as United barely laid a glove on the champions.

Aside from Maya Le Tissier’s header which bounced off the crossbar with United already trailing 2-0, and a terrible miss from close range by Lucia Garcia late on, Marc Skinner’s side failed to create much to trouble Chelsea.

Hayes, who leaves to manage the United States women’s national team, bowed out to the familiar sound of 3,000 travelling fans chanting “Chelsea, champions” and with a 14th major trophy at the club.

The Black Challenge has left Ghana for Egypt ahead of the 2024 Africa Amputee Cup of Nations (AAFCON).

The team embarked on their journey to Egypt in the early hours of Saturday morning, May 18, 2024.

All 25 players and the technical team wore the official Accra 2023 African Games attire for their departure via Africa World Airlines, with a layover in Lagos, Nigeria.

The Accra 2023 1st African Para Games champions left with great confidence in their ability to defend the trophy and qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Coach Stephen Richard Obeng’s team wrapped up their pre-tournament camp in Accra on Friday, May 17, 2024.

Ghana is drawn in Group C alongside Kenya, Gambia, and Algeria. The Black Challenge will face Gambia in their opener on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at 21:30 hours.

MTN Ghana has observed this year’s World Telecommunication and Information Society Day by celebrating the transformative power of communication technology.

On this significant occasion, MTN Ghana reaffirms its dedication to connecting people, enabling progress, and fostering digital inclusion across the nation.

This year’s theme, “Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development,” aligns seamlessly with MTN’s Ambition 2025 strategy, which aims to lead digital solutions for Ghana and Africa’s advancement with a focus on Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.

This theme highlights the critical role of technology and innovation in achieving long-term socio-economic growth and prosperity in Africa.

It emphasises the importance of leveraging digital innovation in the telecommunications industry to provide innovative products and services, address global challenges, drive socio-economic empowerment, and enhance digital and financial inclusion.

Over the past 30 years, MTN has been a pivotal player in driving digital innovation across Ghana and Africa.

MTN’s contributions span various sectors, including enhancing access to education and healthcare, boosting economic growth through digital skills and support programmes, innovating within the fintech and digital economy sectors, fostering strategic collaborations, and investing significantly in infrastructure. These efforts have been far-reaching and invaluable.

As a company deeply rooted in Africa, MTN’s journey has been one of innovation, resilience, and collaboration. Through its innovative products, corporate social investments, and substantial infrastructure investments, MTN has set the pace for a brighter digital future.

Strategic partnerships with governments, businesses, and other stakeholders have been central to MTN’s success, particularly in areas such as financial inclusion. Reflecting on these achievements, MTN extends its gratitude to all stakeholders who have been part of this remarkable journey.

On this occasion, MTN Ghana’s CEO, Stephen Blewett, highlighted the critical role of the fintech ecosystem in Africa’s digital revolution and economic development.

Speaking at the recent 3i Summit, he stated, “Africa’s fintech ecosystem is the engine that will drive its digital revolution and economic development in the coming years. Fintech can stimulate local economies and drive progress across the continent in several ways – financial inclusion, innovation and entrepreneurship, job creation, cross-border transactions and payments, digital identity and security, agriculture and rural development, government services, investment, and funding, as well as digital and financial literacy.”

Blewett also called for robust policy and legal frameworks to foster the establishment of innovation hubs and digital sandboxes. These platforms are essential for incubating, testing, and rolling out new products, and they underscore the need for deliberate collaboration between governments and businesses to achieve sustainable development.

Such hubs will nurture the next generation of African entrepreneurs by providing the necessary resources, environment, and training in the digital space.

As the world celebrates the Telecommunication Day 2024, MTN Ghana reaffirms its commitment to harnessing digital innovation for sustainable development. By embracing technology as a force for good and leveraging its transformative potential, we can collectively shape Africa’s progress.

Today, we celebrate the power of connectivity, the promise of technology, and our unity of purpose. Together, we shape a future where every Ghanaian can thrive in the digital world, affirming our belief that “everyone deserves the benefit of a modern connected life.” MTN Ghana thanks all its customers for their continued support and wishes everyone a Happy World Telecommunication and Information Society Day.

Bayer Leverkusen became the first Bundesliga team to finish a league season unbeaten as their dream of an ‘invincible treble’ remained alive.

Xabi Alonso’s side had already secured their first league title but made more history as Saturday’s 2-1 win at home against Augsburg ensured they finished the domestic campaign undefeated.

Leverkusen season-long unbeaten run is now at 51 games in all competitions – already breaking a 59-year-old Uefa record – and two more wins will secure a remarkable treble.

They face Atalanta in the Europa League final in Dublin on Wednesday, followed by the German Cup final against second-tier Kaiserslautern three days later.

In a party-style atmosphere, Leverkusen were rarely troubled by Augsburg as Victor Boniface opened the scoring after 12 minutes, converting Amine Adli’s pass from inside the penalty area.

The lead was doubled soon after from a close-range effort by Robert Andrich and, despite Mert Komur’s second-half strike in reply, Leverkusen were able to finish a memorable league campaign in winning ways.

Leverkusen have surpassed the 49-game unbeaten run Portuguese giants Benfica enjoyed between 1963 and 1965.

This season they won 28 of their 34 games in the Bundesliga, scoring 89 goals and conceding just 24.

Their last league defeat was at the end of last season, when they lost 3-0 at Bochum.

Should they finish the season unbeaten in all competitions then it will be 53 games they have gone without experiencing defeat.

In a landmark move to protect the rights of African journalists, the Pan African Media Lawyers Union (PAMLU), was officially launched during the 3rd African Media Convention held in Accra.
The union aims to provide legal support and advocacy for journalists facing increasing threats, intimidation, and violence across the continent.

Journalists in Africa have long been the targets of harassment, physical attacks, and legal intimidation, often resulting in self-censorship and an erosion of press freedom.

Recognising the critical need for robust legal protection and support, PAMLU has been established to address these challenges head-on, offering a unified platform for media lawyers across Africa to collaborate and defend the rights of journalists.

The launch event, held at the Convention’s Gala Dinner, was graced by prominent figures in the media and legal communities.

Dr Rita Bissoonauth, Director of the UNESCO Addis Ababa Liaison Office to the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, delivered a keynote address emphasising the urgent need for such an initiative.

“Journalists are the cornerstone of democratic societies, and their safety and freedom to report without fear of reprisal is paramount,” Dr Bissoonauth stated. “The Pan African Media Lawyers Union represents a significant step towards ensuring that journalists can perform their essential roles without intimidation or violence. UNESCO is proud to support this cause on both regional and national levels.”

Dr Bissoonauth highlighted that PAMLU’s formation aligns with UNESCO’s broader efforts to promote press freedom and protect journalists worldwide. She noted that the organisation will work closely with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and international bodies, to create a safer environment for journalists.

PAMLU will provide legal assistance, conduct advocacy campaigns, and offer training programmes for journalists and media lawyers.

The union also aims to establish a rapid response mechanism to address urgent threats and attacks on journalists. By leveraging a network of legal professionals across Africa, PAMLU seeks to ensure that journalists have the necessary legal backing to challenge injustices and uphold their rights.

The establishment of PAMLU comes at a time when press freedom in Africa is under significant pressure.

According to recent reports, journalists in several African countries have faced arbitrary arrests, censorship, and violent attacks. These challenges have underscored the need for coordinated legal support and advocacy to protect journalists and promote free and independent media.

“The creation of PAMLU is a testament to our commitment to standing with journalists,” Dr Bissoonauth concluded. “We call upon all stakeholders to join us in this vital mission to safeguard press freedom and support the courageous individuals who bring us the news.”

The 3rd African Media Convention, a gathering of media professionals, legal experts, and advocates, provided a fitting backdrop for the launch of PAMLU. The event highlighted the critical issues facing the media industry in Africa and showcased innovative solutions to promote and protect press freedom.

With PAMLU now established, African journalists have a new ally in their fight for justice and freedom, ensuring that the vital role of the press in democratic societies is upheld and protected.

What is in the 14-track album of Ghanaian gospel choir, Team Eternity, which has taken over the music charts since it was released?

*****

I loved “Defe Defe” the first time I heard it. As a matter of fact, 30 seconds into my first listen, I sent the song to my colleague at the BBC, Daniel Dadzie. Daniel and I had been talking the night before about Ghanaian gospel collective, Joyful Way Incorporated and their incredible legacy on the local Christian music scene since their formation in 1972.

We both agreed — he more strongly than I — that JWI had such an influence, it would be difficult for any Ghanaian choir to surpass their achievements. Of course, as producers of popular songs like Barima Yesu, Guanhwɛfo, Nyame Ye, and so many other hit songs, JWI is arguably the greatest gospel choir to ever come out of the country. You do not need to take my word for it — check their discography.

Daniel didn’t understand why even though I agreed JWI was the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) of contemporary gospel choirs in Ghana, I had other personal favourites currently. He asked me, “so which choir is your current favourite?” My answer? Team Eternity! Do not get me wrong. I love JWI to bits. And over the years, I have loved others too. Soul Winners, E’mpraise Incorporated, Harvest Gospel Choir, Bethel Revival Choir, LIC Choir, and all the other collectives. But for the past two years, it’s been Team Eternity.

Daniel didn’t know much about them, even though they have been around for 10 years straight. In fact his most vivid recollection of Team Eternity was from “Yes Sir” — an incredible gospel Amapiano number which we’ll soon come to learn was a part of the latest album from Team Eternity called “Testimony.”

The album is heavy on talents within the choir as majority of the tracks are led by Team Eternity singers. It however features Eben from Nigeria on Jehovah Over Do, Ps Isaiah Fosu-Kwakye on You Are, Lordina the Soprano on Love Story, and Aduberks on Yes Sir. The 14-track album is a delectable cocktail of different genres, from Highlife to Bongo Reggae, to Amapiano and sentimental ballads. There is ‘Jama’ and appellation music too. In short, it’s a full package.

My personal favourite is Track 1 — Ghana Chants — which takes the traditional form of Ghanaian gospel music. It is 13 plus minutes of appellation music with the first 4-and-half minutes being pure chants of the names of God in a local Ghanaian language, Twi. But Track 12, “Defe Defe”, has become the unintended poster boy of the album — and for good reasons.

The title of the song — ‘Defe Defe’ — is an Akan onomatopoeia which translates in English as ‘shattered’ or ‘crushed’. The writers of the song are literally asking to be given space to thank God but for whom their lives would have been shattered or crushed. When you learn of the multiple failed attempts to abort one of the writers, Patrick Adu-Gyamfi, the lyrics make even more sense.

Vessel Chordrick, as he is popularly known, tells the story of how he was nearly aborted by his parents because he was conceived out of wedlock. They tried, thinking they were unprepared for a child, to get rid of him. But by the grace of God, he made it out safely. And so decades later when he writes ‘Defe Defe,’ he writes it from a place of true conviction. And even better, it is unconventional.

The 6mins46secs song sits on a traditional UK drill beat, away from anything known to be normal on the Ghanaian gospel scene. The lyrics are carefully curated to masterfully combine regular English, Pidgin English and Twi (a local Ghanaian language). The experience of this introduction is further enhanced on the performance video as the rest of the choir joins in with dance moves popularized in Ghana by the Asakaa Boys from Kumerica.

It starts with the lead singer, Naana Asiedu (more on her shortly), vocalizing and adlibbing a few notes to the thumping and clean strokes of the bass and snare drums respectively. Naana solos the English-laden double stanzaed verse for two bars, before cuing in the backup choir. The repeated chordal patterns in the verse get you hooked even before the pre-chorus.

‘Defe Defe’ employs code-switching to journey the entire course of the song which includes a verse, pre-chorus, chorus and a rap, before reprising the chorus as a pay-off. This code-switching style is most popular among young people in Ghana, and it no doubt contributes massively to the song’s relatability — even outside the Christian community. For a choir with a mission to capture and influence young people with the gospel, Team Eternity’s Testimony Album and its unconventional elements show just how much they mean business.

It is not surprising that the album has taken over the Apple Music Charts, with Defe Defe peaking at №1 for 10 straight days.

As of the time of publishing this review, two weeks after the album release, Defe Defe is still sitting pretty at №1 on the Top 100 Chart in Ghana. It is exciting to see a gospel album take over the charts as Testimony has. But it must be said that Team Eternity Ghana did not just burst onto the scene. They have been around for 10 years and Testimony is only its third album. It’s fair to say the latest album is a culmination of experiences and competencies built over the past decade.

The uniqueness of the album, and ‘Defe Defe’ in particular is not limited to any one part of the music, say arrangements or lyrics or genre. It is found in the intentionality behind the entire body of work. It is peerless outing on both vocals and instrumentation. For example, every element on ‘Defe Defe’ adds to the incredible essence of the song. Whether it is as prominent as the drum strokes, heavy as the bass groove, or nearly as imperceptible as the bell chimes which usher in various parts of the song.

There are all of these and then there is Naana Asiedu — the lead singer. Naana is the spice that brings every other ingredient of ‘Defe Defe’ together. Her ad libs and emotive exclamations, brilliantly punctuate the song, leaving an impression on the listener at every turn. She solos, she ad libs, she dances and she raps — a typical example of big things come in small packages. Naana does all these while jumping around on the stage and without losing track of her primary responsibility — hitting her notes!

Her energy is contagious and her presence, even more mesmerizing. Her delivery on the song almost makes you forget about the oldtime classic from the Hallelujah Voices, also titled ‘Defe Defe’. While you should not forget about the ‘Defe Defe’ of old, the ‘Defe Defe’ of 2024 highlights just how far Ghanaian gospel music has come and why it can actually compete to the highest levels in the commercial music space.

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Written by Manuel Koranteng. International Journalist – Politics | Human Rights | Public Policy | Travel Journaling

As required by Article 146 of the Constitution, the Chief Justice is determining whether there is a prima facie case to form a committee to impeach Mr. Agyabeng.

Kissi Agyabeng is the nation’s second-ever special prosecutor. He is facing the possibility of impeachment, which is a charge of wrongdoing brought against the holder of a public office in which his integrity is called into doubt over the validity of something.

His predecessor, Martin Amidu, wrote the petition to remove Agyabeng from office, which the President of the Republic forwarded to the Chief Justice. Amidu resigned from the same position due to “the lack of respect for the independence of his office.” Amidu noted that the president’s reaction to the examination of the danger of corruption and anti-corruption assessment of the Agyapa Royalties limited transaction was the final push that prompted him to leave. However, Amidu has petitioned the President to remove Agyabeng as Special Prosecutor.

Grounds for removing a Special Prosecutor

According to the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act of 2017, the grounds for removing the Special Prosecutor in this case include misbehavior/incompetence (section 15(1)(a)) or conduct that brings or is likely to bring the special prosecutor’s office into disrepute/ridicule or contempt of office (section 15(1)(d)).

Amidu’s petition for the SP’s removal

Amidu’s petition focuses on allegations of procurement breaches and abuse of office. The appeal concerns Agyabeng’s press conference at the OSP in November 2023, during which he expressed concerns about the judiciary, which Amidu believes could lead to misuse and bring the judiciary into disrepute. Amidu’s appeal alleges that the Special Prosecutor violated the rights of Cecilia Dapaah and Prof Frimpong Boateng through their arrests. Amidu also claimed a violation of his right to information when Mr. G requested that appointment letters and salary details for all OSP employees be placed on a pen drive for him, as well as concerns with personnel appointments to the office.

A slippery slope with the potential removal of only the second Special Prosecutor in our country’s history.

If the special prosecutor is removed from office based on his forceful yet well-argued commentary on how the judiciary, in his opinion, frustrates his office, it will be a slippery slope that does not promote justice, transparency, accountability, or the independence of the arms of justice. Aside from the procurement accusation, the other grounds cited in Amidu’s petition do not, in my opinion, demonstrate misbehaviour/incompetence or conduct that brings or is likely to bring the office of the special prosecutor into disrepute/ridicule or contempt of office, as defined by the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act of 2017.

The independence of the Office of the Special Prosecutor will be jeopardized if all future Special Prosecutors can be removed for commenting on how active case law does not benefit their office because people appear to receive immunity from investigation for suspected corruption and corruption-related offenses, and thus immunity from prosecution.

My only suggestion is that if a committee is formed to remove the Special Prosecutor, they should pay close attention to the written transcript and accompanying video of the Special Prosecutor dated November 2023 and see that with the rule of law, his commentary on the judiciary is not a ground to remove a Special Prosecutor, and if they do, this will open the door for the role itself to be politicised and for other special prosecutors to be so easily removed.

Is there a prima facie case for removing the Special Prosecutor from office?
Overall, a prima facie case must be proved at this point, and the Chief Justice has written to the Special Prosecutor for his response before determining whether a prima facie case exists and whether to convene a committee to decide his dismissal.

Prima facie means that the petition is viewed as correct unless proven differently.

Should the procurement allegations be substantiated, this for me is the only ground to remove the Special Prosecutor, because the function of the Office of the Special Prosecutor is in part to investigate and prosecute cases of alleged or suspected corruption and corruption-related offences under the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (section 3, 1), therefore the person mandated to run such an office cannot be found to have committed procurement offences, if that.

All other grounds on Amidu’s Petition, in my opinion, do not go far enough to demonstrate absolute misbehavior or incompetence (section 15(1)(a) Office of the Special Prosecution Act 2017, or conduct that brings or is likely to bring the office of the special prosecutor into disrepute/ridicule or contempt of office (section 15(1)(d) Office of the Special Prosecution Act 2017).

Overall, I believe the Special Prosecutor’s strong views on the judiciary should not result in his impeachment because they do not constitute misbehavior/incompetence or conduct that brings or is likely to bring the office of the Special Prosecutor into disrepute/ridicule or contempt of office, as defined by the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act of 2017.

Watching a tape of the Special Prosecutor’s video from November 2023, in which he made the statements regarding the judiciary, and reading the transcript of the same video, he presents a case for why his office, in his opinion, isn’t getting as much aid from judicial rulings.

• The Special Prosecutor provides four examples of cases when individuals were granted immunity from criminal inquiry and prosecution.
• He cautioned against anyone gaining immunity from investigation for suspected corruption and associated offenses, which could lead to prosecution.
• The OSP, established by law to combat corruption, should be treated with respect and consideration by courts, rather than dismissing it and creating unnecessary barriers to its work and operations.
• The OSP prioritizes transparency in anti-corruption efforts by issuing media releases after major judicial pronouncements or decisions. These releases inform the public about the OSP’s position on whether the opinion advances the fight against corruption or not.
• I agree with the SP that our judges do not consider themselves above criticism. The Special Prosecutor in the video also mentioned an example of how a Supreme Court justice gently chided him in open court for not publishing enough articles criticizing their work.
• The arrests of Cecilia Dapaah and Prof Frimpong Boateng were justified by section 3 of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017, which includes investigating and prosecuting cases of alleged or suspected corruption. Amidu further claims in his appeal that Mr. Agyabeng violated his right to information by requesting that appointment letters and salary details for every OSP staff be placed on a pen drive for him, as well as difficulties with personnel appointments to the office. This does not, in my opinion, reflect misbehaviour/incompetence or behavior that brings or is likely to bring the office of the special prosecutor into disrepute/ridicule or contempt of office, as defined under the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act of 2017. As a result, an impeachment should not be based on this grounds.

A slippery slope with the potential removal of only the second Special Prosecutor in our country’s history.

If the special prosecutor is removed from office based on his forceful yet well-argued commentary on how the judiciary, in his opinion, frustrates his office, it will be a slippery slope that does not promote justice, transparency, accountability, or the independence of the arms of justice.

Aside from the procurement accusation, the other grounds cited in Amidu’s petition do not, in my opinion, demonstrate misbehaviour/incompetence or conduct that brings or is likely to bring the office of the special prosecutor into disrepute/ridicule or contempt of office as defined by the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act 2017.

The independence of the Office of the Special Prosecutor will be jeopardized if all future Special Prosecutors can be removed for commenting on how active case law does not benefit their office because it protects people from investigation for suspected corruption and corruption-related offenses, and thus immunity from prosecution.

My only suggestion is that if a committee is formed to remove the Special Prosecutor, they should pay close attention to the written transcript and accompanying video of the Special Prosecutor dated November 2023 and see that, under the rule of law, this is not a reason to remove a Special Prosecutor, and if they do, it will open the door for the role to be politicized and other special prosecutors to be removed so easily.

Procedure for removal

• Within 30 days after receiving the president’s petition, the Chief Justice will decide if there is a prima facie case (section 15(3)).
• If a prima facie case is established, a committee consisting of a Supreme Court justice, a lawyer with at least 15 years of experience, and an expert in inquiry must be formed within 14 days (section 15 (4)).
• The committee will investigate and provide recommendations to the President within 90 days of its formation [section 15(5)].
• Section 15(6) requires the president to follow the committee’s recommendations.

Currently, the Chief Justice is supposedly writing to the Special Prosecutor for response before making her final decision on whether a prima facie case exists, and if so, she would form a committee to study the petition and decide whether the Special Prosecutor should be removed.

The Vatican has tightened up its guidance on recognizing supernatural phenomena such as apparitions of the Virgin Mary and seemingly blood-soaked crucifixes.

The new guidelines replace rules drawn up in 1978 and say that bishops should no longer act independently over such sightings but instead consult the Vatican.

The changes made by the Vatican’s doctrinal office (DDF) aim to to bring the church up to date in responding to the swift spread of claims of apparitions online.

According to the document released by the Vatican Friday, the new procedure will allow for “faster decisions while respecting popular devotion” when it comes to assessing claims of supernatural phenomena, which could include the appearance of stigmata and other purported miracles.

Under the previous guidelines, a local bishop could rapidly declare a phenomenon’s supernatural nature, the Vatican said, “only for the Holy Office to express a different decision later.” In other instances a bishop might decide whether or not an occurrence was supernatural only for his successor to conclude the opposite, the statement continued.

The new Vatican guidelines say “as a rule” bishops and church officials will not declare whether alleged phenomena are supernatural or not, leaving this decision to the Pope.

The head of the DDF, Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, told reporters that often these events “have led to a great richness of spiritual fruits, growth in faith, devotion, fraternity, and service. In some cases, they have given rise to shrines throughout the world that are at the heart of many people’s popular piety today.”

Speaking at a Vatican press conference, the cardinal cited Lourdes, the Marian shrine in the southwest of France visited by those with physical and spiritual ailments, as a positive example.

However, he went on to add that some alleged events which derive from the pursuit of “profit, power, fame, social recognition, or other personal interest” may harm the faithful, potentially even to the extent of “exerting control over people or carrying out abuses.”

Bishops will now generally be expected to issue a “nihil obstat” which will allow for worship but will leave open the issue of formal recognition of “supernatural” activity to the Vatican. However, Fernandez said that this recognition would be “very exceptional”.

Other options available to the bishops include the option to formally reject an experience as supernatural, as well as steps to ban or limit worship of phenomena regarded with suspicion. The guidelines state that those spreading false claims can face sanctions, including formal church penalties.

Positive criteria that will be considered by the Church when making a conclusion include the credibility and reputation of those reporting the occurrence, while negative criteria include possible errors, overt pursuit of personal interest, and “any psychosis (or) collective hysteria.”

Today, My Take is brief in simply stating the correct position of a gravely misunderstood law causing fear and panic especially among citizens labouring abroad to buy land and own real property in Ghana. It is a matter that strangely gains traction ever so often. Caretakers of land – and land, in law, includes any building on it – these caretakers get wrongly emboldened to make misguided demands of their landlords.

In some instances, the wrong notions about their rights move them to hatch wicked plans including harming and even killing. Yes, they, rather strangely, feel cheated by those who put them in their property. It does not matter that they may have begged to be allowed temporary shelter for themselves and their families.

In fact, sometimes, the fact that their benefactors may be their source of livelihood is forgotten in their wicked and false sense of entitlement pursuit to dispossess the kindest people of their sweat and toil.

The law, indeed, is not an ass. Here is the clarity; the twelve-year rule in section 10(1) and (6) of the Limitation Decree, 1972 does not say a landlord loses hold of it because they put a caretaker in their property for that long.

What it says, rather loudly, is that if someone put you on the land or in the house, they never lose it as the true owners because it is they who put you on or in it. In other words, you are on the land or in that house with their consent and at their pleasure.

The statement that the law is commonsense is often true. If they put you there, and you turn around to attempt to dispute their ownership, they have every right to evict you – throw you out! Go nurse your greed elsewhere! The twelve-year rule or the law of adverse possession is intended, mainly, to remove the injustice of you acquiring a land, and may be making expense to develop it, only to be dispossessed even after a long period of twelve years of acts of open, visible and unchallenged possession.

That law is simply that if you slept on your right for that long, you may not be entertained in court to recover it. But take note that by section 236 of our new Land Act, sitting on or developing government land for a hundred years in whatever circumstances, will never make you the owner. It does not matter whether you entered onto it as a squatter or you bought it.

In fact, you will be committing the crime of trespass and whoever sold that public land to you is also looking to be slapped with a fine of sixty to one hundred and twenty thousand Ghana cedis and/or seven to fifteen years in jail. Justice Alexander Osei Tutu treats this subject beautifully in his book – Essential Themes in Land Law and Customary Law.

Don’t thank me yet. Join me on my weekly legal clinic THE LAW show tomorrow @ 2pm as I host two great legal minds, Emmanuel Bright Atokoh and Veronica Frimpong to give education on whether courts make orders for demolition of property when is such exercise legal. And that’s My Take.

May 18, 2024

Samson Lardy ANYENINI