A Nasa spacecraft is attempting to make history with the closest ever approach to the Sun.

The Parker Solar Probe is plunging into our star’s outer atmosphere, enduring brutal temperatures and extreme radiation.

It’s out of communication for several days during this burning hot fly-by and scientists will be waiting for a signal, expected on 27 December, to see if it has survived.

The hope is the probe could help us to better understand how the Sun works.

NASA

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NASA

Music enthusiasts of Highlife music gathered to honour the musician, whose career has been defined by timeless hits and an enduring legacy.

The night began with a grand entrance of KK Fosu led onto the stage by Reggie Rockstone, the “Godfather of Hiplife.”

The two legends reminisced about their collaboration on the award-winning song “Fa Me Bone Kye Me,” sharing stories of how they created the hit that still resonates with fans.

KK Fosu, dressed in an elegant blend of traditional and modern Ghanaian attire, performed some of his hits such as “Anadwo Yede,” “Odo Nti,” and “6 O’clock.” The crowd sang along, reliving the magic of his music yesteryears.

Midway through his performance, KK Fosu invited legendary Highlife artiste Pat Thomas to join him on stage.

Together, they delivered a breathtaking rendition of their hit song “Odo De Da Me.” Pat Thomas, known as the “Golden Voice of Africa,” mesmerised the audience with his impeccable vocals, creating a memorable moment for patrons.

The event was graced by several notable personalities, including Pappy Kojo, who joined the celebration and shared in the joy of the evening. Other celebrities such as legendary musician Bessa Simons, Abeiku Santana, and Deloris Frimpong Manso, popularly known as Delay, also attended, adding star power to the night.

KK Fosu expressed heartfelt gratitude to his fans, dedicating special performances to key supporters, including business mogul Dr. Manfred Takyi, CEO of Joy Daddy Industries for honouring his contribution to Ghana’s music industry with a concert.

Honda and Nissan plan to merge as the two Japanese firms seek to fight back against competition from the Chinese car industry.

Joining forces would create one of the world’s biggest car producers alongside Toyota, Volkswagen, General Motors and Ford.

The potential multibillion dollar deal to combat “the rise of Chinese power” was a key driver behind the plan, said Honda’s chief executive Toshihiro Mibe.

Mr Mibe said a plan to “fight back” needs to be in place by 2030, or they risk being “beaten” by rivals.

A man has been charged with murder in connection with the death of a woman who was set on fire on a subway train in New York.

Sebastian Zapeta, 33, was charged with first and second degree murder as well as arson on Monday over the attack.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch described Sunday’s incident as “one of the most depraved crimes one person could possibly commit against another human being”.

She said the woman was on a stationary F train in Brooklyn when she was approached by a man who used a lighter to ignite her clothing – which became “fully engulfed in a matter of seconds”. Although officers extinguished the flames, the victim died at the scene.

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Held on December 1, 2024, in Kasseh, Ada, the prestigious award scheme celebrates talent in the Dangme community, focusing on music and arts across Ada, Ningo, Prampram, Shai Hills, Osudoku, Dodowa, and Somanya.

This marks a significant milestone for DJ Promise, who first won the award in 2021, placed as the second runner-up in 2022, and now returns to the top spot.

His consistent recognition underscores his unwavering dedication to his craft as a radio DJ on Adom 106.3 FM.

Speaking after his win, DJ Promise expressed gratitude and a renewed commitment to his audience. “The Dangme Music Awards Scheme recognized my untiring work. This honour is a great task for me to make an even greater impact in the coming years, and I promise to deliver.”

Known for his unique moniker, “Aww Promise,” the DJ explained the inspiration behind it: “Music carries power; it’s the food for the soul. When certain lyrics move you deeply, you instinctively chant ‘Aww.’ That’s how I got my name.”

DJ Promise’s win reflects his passion for music and his role in promoting the Dangme culture through his talent and dedication.

Russian scientists have unveiled the remains of a 50,000-year-old baby mammoth found in thawing permafrost in the remote Yakutia region of Siberia during the summer.

They say “Yana” – who has been named after the river basin where she was discovered – is the world’s best-preserved mammoth carcass.

Weighing in at over 100kg (15st 10lb), and measuring 120cm (4ft) tall and 200cm long, Yana is estimated to have been only about one-year-old when she died.

Before this, there were only six similar discoveries in the world – five in Russia and one in Canada.

One of the sureties, the court directed, must be a public servant earning at least ₵2,500 monthly.

Meanwhile, Osei has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is set to appear before the court on January 8, 2025, for cross-examination.

According to Police Chief Inspector Ebenezer Teye-Okuffo, Eugene Twumasi, the complainant and general manager of Clemonic Company Limited, reported the case after discovering irregularities in Osei’s financial dealings as a marketing officer.

Osei’s role involved sourcing customers for the company, coordinating cement deliveries, collecting payments from customers, and depositing these funds into the company’s bank accounts. However, in January 2022, the complainant noticed a discrepancy.

Twumasi found that nearly all customers Osei brought to the company owed a combined amount of ₵176,693.50. Suspicious of this claim, the complainant visited the customers alongside Osei, only to learn that the customers had already paid the owed amounts.

Investigations revealed that Osei had collected the funds but failed to deposit them into the company’s accounts. Instead, he allegedly kept the money and misled the complainant by claiming customers were in debt.

During the investigation, Osei admitted to dishonestly appropriating the funds. A partial recovery of ₵50,000 was made, which was handed over to the complainant.

Additionally, Osei was subsequently charged and brought before the court. He has denied the allegations, maintaining his innocence.

The court presided over by Mrs. Susanna Eduful granted bail and imposed strict conditions to ensure compliance. The case has been adjourned for further proceedings.

The convict, Kwadwo Mumuni, who was charged with one count of defilement, pleaded guilty to the offence.

Prosecuting Detective Sergeant Dominic Appiah Kusi told the court presided over by Mrs Hathia Ama Manu that the complainant, a 29-year-old woman is the mother of the victim, who had stopped schooling.

He said Mumuni had no permanent place of abode but was often seen roaming at the Tarkwa Railway station.

The Prosecution said on November 9, 2024, around 4:30 pm, the complainant sent the victim to go and buy her charcoal from the Tarkwa Railway station.

He said after the victim had collected the money under the pretext of going to buy the charcoal, left to the market, and failed to return home, but was spotted loitering around the Tarkwa Railway station.

Detective Sergeant Kusi said the complainant searched for the victim for hours, but she could not find him.

On November 10, the next day, at 1:30 am, a witness in the case who had closed from work and was on his way home saw Mumuni having anal sex with the victim while he was asleep on the corridor of a Storey building located at the Tarkwa Railway station.

Prosecution said Mumuni on seeing the witness approaching him took to his heels, but he was chased, arrested, and handed over to the police.

The witness then called the complainant on the phone and informed her of what had happened to her son, and she quickly came to the Railway police station, where she was given a police medical form to seek treatment for the victim.

Detective Sergeant Kusi said the complainant later returned the form endorsed by a medical officer at the Apinto Government hospital in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality.

This follows the successful repair of some critical scanning machines earlier today after the government released GH¢25 million as part of the debt owed.

In an interview on Joy FM‘s Newsnight on Monday, December 23, Mr Kapi noted that the technicians managed to restore functionality to three of the machines needed for the task, enabling the council to begin the process, albeit at a slower pace.

“Some of the machines are not fully operational, but we’ve managed to tweak a few of them, and work will start tonight with the scanning of the objective answer cards. And we have to run slowly because they are not, you know, fully fit as it were,” he disclosed.

“The council is working tirelessly to meet its timelines, even though staff were initially on their Christmas break. The urgency to complete the scanning and ensure results are released has led WAEC to recall some personnel to assist with the process,” he added.

In addition to scanning, he stated that the exam council has engaged examiners to scrutinise scripts of candidates flagged for possible examination malpractice.

While some funds have been received to facilitate ongoing activities, WAEC has emphasised the need for additional financial support to complete all aspects of the results processing.

“Critical expenses include the repair of additional machines, payment of invigilators and supervisors, and procurement of a larger bandwidth for uploading the results online.

“We’ve received assurances from the government that more funds will be released soon. However, if this doesn’t happen, we may face delays,” he cautioned.

At a meeting held at his residence in Accra on Monday, attended by chairpersons, vice-chairpersons, and members of the various committees, Dr Bawumia commended them for putting together a comprehensive policy document that was presented to Ghanaians for the election.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to all of you for your dedication and hard work towards putting together such a comprehensive document, which we presented to Ghanaians,” Dr Bawumia said.

Despite the outcome of the election, Dr Bawumia told the committee members that he was proud of their work and the transformational policies in the manifesto, which were presented to the people of Ghana for consideration.

Commenting further on the surprising outcome of the election, Dr Bawumia noted that despite various individuals working to present such a comprehensive policy to Ghanaians, the party’s fortunes were affected by voter apathy among over two million of its core voters across the country.

“It was as if our people held a meeting across the country and decided they wouldn’t go out to vote,” Dr Bawumia said.

The Vice President called for a comprehensive post-mortem to understand why such a significant number of party members refused to vote, assuring that extensive research would be conducted by the party as part of the reorganisation process to chart the way forward.

Regarding the 2024 NPP Manifesto, Dr Bawumia urged members of the various manifesto committees not to feel that their efforts were wasted.

“God willing, we will all benefit from this document in the future,” he assured.

Also present at the meeting was Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, who chaired the Manifesto Committee for the 2024 Bawumia Campaign.

Various party groups have called on Dr Bawumia at his residence, where he has been expressing gratitude and encouraging them to focus on reorganising and rebuilding the NPP to come back stronger.

His comments come amid delays in releasing critical funding to WAEC, which has hindered the processing and release of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Newsnight on Monday, December 23, Mr. Nortsu-Kotoe expressed concern over the recurring delays in providing financial support to WAEC.

He noted that WAEC often struggles to secure funding until public outcry forces action.

“This has happened in the last three, four years, and I think it’s unfortunate. We have to condemn it,” he added.

Referring to past incidents, he highlighted the challenges faced during the release of the BECE results, which were resolved only after months of persistent advocacy.

“My appeal to the Ministry of Education is that they should, as a matter of urgency, release the necessary funds to WAEC. The Education Minister has not prioritised why in any form, they receive money, either monthly and orderly.

“Why has the Minister not made provisions for WAEC in the regular budget allocations? Instead, we have to wait until the Committee on Education begins to make noise before funds are released,” he lamented.

According to Mr. Nortsu-Kotoe, WAEC currently requires at least 60 million Ghana cedis to continue its work, with a promised 20 million yet to be disbursed.

He further accused the Ministry of Education of holding candidates and Ghanaians “to ransom” by neglecting WAEC’s financial needs.

“It is not WAEC holding anyone to ransom; it is the Ministry of Education that is holding Ghanaians and candidates to ransom,” he asserted.

Mr. Nortsu-Kotoe also suggested that the lack of urgency in addressing WAEC’s funding issues could be due to the government’s focus shifting as it nears the end of its term.

He made these remarks during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme following the establishment of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) team, chaired by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

“If they invite me, I will go. If EOCO or any state agency invites me, who is Freddie Blay to say he won’t go? I have no choice. If, for whatever reason, I am invited, who am I to refuse? Even if I’m in Afghanistan and they call me, I will gladly come.”

He stressed his respect for the law, adding, “I will not sit here and say I won’t travel. This country is not mine or anyone’s personal property. Refusing to go would even put me in contempt of the law. I’ve been to prison 15 times and come back, so why would I run away because of ORAL or anything else?”

Mr. Blay further expressed confidence that no member of the Akufo-Addo administration would evade investigations if summoned.

“No one in the Akufo-Addo government would refuse to go if invited by any investigative body. They won’t run,” he declared.

On the appointment of Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa as the chairman of the ORAL committee, the former NPP chair admitted surprise but commended the initiative.

“I didn’t expect Okudzeto Ablakwa to be appointed chairman of the ORAL committee, but be it as it may, it is good. If ORAL brings out information and retrieves stolen money, so be it,” he remarked.

He acknowledged concerns about the credibility of some members on the committee but maintained that the initiative could be beneficial.

“Irrespective of the personalities, if they stick to their mandate and go through the process to retrieve stolen resources, then they should go ahead. It will be good for us,” he added.

The ORAL team has been tasked with investigating fraudulent activities that have resulted in significant financial losses for the country.

Supported by both local and international experts, the team aims to enhance transparency, restore trust in government institutions, and ensure the effective use of public resources for the benefit of all Ghanaians.

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The Public Health Act 2012 (Act 851) and Tobacco Regulations 2016 (L.I. 2247), prohibit smoking in public places to protect public health.

However, a significant number of smokers continue to defy the orders to enjoy their spliff.

Speaking on Luv FM, Dr. Abigail Arthur of the FDA noted that while the law permits individuals to smoke, it strictly discourages smoking in public spaces.

She highlighted the risks associated with smoking, recognizing the dangers to both smokers and second-hand smokers.

“Second-hand smokers and main smokers are equally at risk when smoking takes place in public,” she noted.

Dr. Arthur explains public facilities like restaurants and pubs are mandated by law to display a ‘No Smoking’ signage at their premises to caution patrons against smoking publicly.

The FDA urges a designated abode for such activities which is out of reach to both children under the age of 18 and expectant mothers.

“Places like that can be provided for smokers but should be far from where non-smokers gather so the smoke does not seep into where non-smokers are. Such places should also be free of any other activities except smoking,” she explained.

According to Dr. Arthur, failure to comply with these regulations attracts administrative charges, imprisonment, or prosecution as the authority deploys enforcement teams to routinely monitor public spaces to ensure compliance.

She also urged citizens to be vigilant during the festive season, a period when unregulated products, including tobacco, often flood the market.

“We’re intensifying surveillance to ensure illegal products do not enter the market,” she said while courting support from public facility operators and the general public in enforcing tobacco regulations. 

She is optimistic restricting smoking to controlled areas and safeguarding vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women would minimize the health risks associated with smoking in Ghana.

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The facility stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s defense infrastructure and protecting its economic assets.

During the ceremony, President Akufo-Addo reflected on a promise made in 2018 to equip the Ghana Armed Forces to tackle modern security challenges.

“Today’s commissioning marks the realization of that pledge,” he said, lauding the unwavering dedication of the Defence Ministry under Hon. Dominic Nitiwul and his deputy, Hon. Kofi Amankwa Manu, in bringing the vision to life.

The FOB at Ezinlibo joins a growing network of bases across the country, including those at Tilli, Bui, Sankore, and Kenyase, with additional facilities planned for Keta, Ada, Winneba, and Elmina. Strategically positioned, the Ezinlibo base enhances Ghana’s naval capacity to combat piracy, illegal fishing, and transnational crimes within the Gulf of Guinea.

The new base is seen as a critical response to the complex security threats plaguing the Gulf of Guinea. It provides the Navy with the tools to monitor and safeguard Ghana’s offshore oil and gas resources while enhancing regional security cooperation.

President Akufo-Addo underscored its importance, stating, “This facility symbolizes progress, security, and national resolve. It enables the Navy to act swiftly and precisely in protecting our maritime interests.”

The base will also serve as a logistics hub, enhancing operational readiness and facilitating training. This investment aligns with Ghana’s broader aim to maintain peace and stability in West Africa, fostering economic growth and regional cooperation.

President Akufo-Addo expressed gratitude to the Western Nzema Traditional Council, led by Paramount Chief Awulae Annor Adjaye III, for their instrumental role in providing land for the project. Their generosity was described as a selfless commitment to national development.

He also commended the Ghana Armed Forces for their dedication and sacrifice, reaffirming his pride in their efforts to maintain peace and stability. To the contractors and consultants who brought the project to fruition, the President offered his congratulations: “Ayekoo! Your commitment to excellence has ensured this project was delivered on time and to the highest standards.”

As Ghana moves forward with plans for additional FOBs, the Ezinlibo facility represents a step towards modernizing the nation’s defense capabilities.

President Akufo-Addo called on all Ghanaians to unite in the spirit of patriotism and hard work, emphasizing the collective effort required to secure a safe and prosperous future.

The commissioning of the Ezinlibo FOB not only strengthens Ghana’s maritime defenses but also reaffirms the government’s commitment to the Armed Forces and the country’s security. As President Akufo-Addo declared the facility officially commissioned, he closed with a prayer for Ghana’s continued growth and strength, echoing the hopes of a nation poised to meet its challenges head-on.

The Ezinlibo Forward Operating Base stands as a beacon of progress, symbolizing Ghana’s readiness to tackle the evolving security threats of today. As the nation fortifies its maritime domain, the commissioning of this strategic facility underscores the essential role of collective effort, investment in modern infrastructure, and unwavering commitment to national security.

In an interview on Oyerepa TV, Mr. Owusu-Bempah predicted that Mahama’s government would lead the country into severe economic hardships.

He further claimed that Ghana would soon experience a return to the days of intermittent power supply, known as dumsor, under Mahama’s leadership.

“John Mahama will soon show Ghanaians the harsh reality. Expect dumsor to return, and prepare for serious economic struggles,” he warned. “Listen to me, I’m prophesying. The educational sector will also suffer, and they may struggle to fund the Free SHS program.”

Having worked with prominent leaders, Owusu-Bempah emphasized that there would be nothing new under Mahama’s presidency, expressing confidence in his prediction.

There will be ‘Dumsor’ under John Mahama; I am in the energy sector, and I know this. There will also be serious economic hardships, and Ghanaians will regret their decision to vote for the NDC. – Head of Corporate communication at Ghana Gas and NPP’s deputy national… pic.twitter.com/U16WpZrt6T

— EDHUB (@eddie_wrt) December 23, 2024

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The ceremony, held at the Sekondi Naval Base, signifies a major milestone in the modernization and operational enhancement of the Ghana Navy.

Addressing a gathering of naval officers, government officials, and international partners, President Akufo-Addo celebrated the Navy’s progress since he assumed office in January 2017.

“Today is not just a celebration but also a moment of reflection and renewal,” he remarked. “It is gratifying to witness the realization of our vision for a Navy that symbolizes strength, resilience, and innovation.”

The President outlined his administration’s efforts to upgrade the Navy’s capabilities, citing the acquisition of over 20 modern platforms, including Offshore Security Vessels, Boundary Class Ships, and the iconic Ghana Navy Ship Achimota.

These acquisitions form part of a broader initiative to secure Ghana’s maritime resources and sovereignty in the Gulf of Guinea.

Central to the ceremony was the Fleet Review, a time-honored tradition demonstrating the Navy’s operational readiness.

President Akufo-Addo commended the Navy’s advancements, describing the fleet as “proof of our shared vision and tireless commitment to strengthening this vital institution.”

A standout achievement of the modernization efforts is the Forward Operating Base at Ezinlibo, the largest naval base in Ghana’s history.

Strategically located, the base is equipped with cutting-edge facilities designed to protect critical oil and gas installations. President Akufo-Addo noted that nearly all naval formations nationwide have seen improvements, including new accommodation blocks, administrative buildings, and recreational facilities.

The Ghana Navy has also embraced advanced technologies, such as drone systems and state-of-the-art radar, to enhance maritime surveillance.

These innovations have bolstered its capacity to safeguard Ghana’s Exclusive Economic Zone, ensuring safer waters for seafarers and maritime trade.

Another milestone is the establishment of the Navy Training Command, featuring advanced facilities like the Full Mission Bridge Simulator.

This center of excellence reflects the Navy’s commitment to developing its human resources and meeting the challenges of a dynamic maritime environment.

President Akufo-Addo praised the collaboration between the Navy and stakeholders, including the development of Ghana’s National Integrated Maritime Strategy.

He acknowledged the Chief of the Naval Staff’s role in fostering partnerships that promote maritime security and sustainable development of the blue economy.

Looking ahead, the President called on Parliament to expedite approval for the acquisition of two 72-metre Offshore Patrol Vessels, critical for enhancing the Navy’s operational capabilities.

He highlighted that this initiative, supported by the International Monetary Fund, reaffirms the government’s dedication to robust maritime security.

As his tenure draws to a close, President Akufo-Addo expressed gratitude to the Navy for their dedication and excellence. “I take great pride in knowing that the Navy stands stronger, more capable, and more respected than ever before,” he stated.

He concluded by emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in nation-building. “The work of nation-building is a collective, continuous effort,” he said. “The foundation we have laid will endure for generations to come.”

The commissioning ceremony underscores Ghana’s strides in maritime security, positioning the Ghana Navy as a formidable force in the region and a key player in the global maritime domain.

This achievement reflects the nation’s commitment to a secure and prosperous blue economy as a cornerstone of its development agenda.

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The Chief Fire Officer (CFO) of the GNFS, Mr Julius Kuunuor said, “As we embrace the Christmas festivities, it is important to remember the essence of the season: spreading joy, love, and goodwill.

“However, this period is also marked by a rise in fire incidents due to increased activities such as cooking, electrical decorations, and fireworks. The dry weather conditions further exacerbate the risk of fires,” the CFO gave the advice when the GNFS held its nine lessons and carols and thanksgiving service in Accra.

He said it is important for Ghanaians to avoid the use of fireworks and ensure candles and decorative lights are used safely.

People need to switch off electrical appliances when not in use, refrain from leaving cooking unattended, and report a fire and related emergencies promptly by calling 112 or 192 or 0299340383/03022772446, he added.

The CFO also urged personnel to show loyalty, dedication, and commitment to building a service characterised by job satisfaction, respect, and dynamism.

The event, on the theme; “Be an Agent of Peace” aligns with the GNFS core mandate of protecting lives and property.

“Peace fosters an environment in which we can effectively carry out our duties without distractions or conflict.

It is through peace that we can build trust with the public, collaborate with stakeholders, and work seamlessly to prevent and manage emergencies,” he added.

Mr Kuunuor, despite the challenges and triumphs, the Service has seen an improvement in human resource development through training and specialised courses.

He said the Service had also seen massive government support with the procurement of various equipment to improve their efficiency.

The CFO thus expressed gratitude to the government for its continued support in ensuring a vibrant fire service.

Mr Dominic Afriyie Agyemang, the Director of Migration Unit, Ministry for the Interior, representing the Minister, commended officers and staff for their unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety of lives and property across the country.

Speaking on the significance of nine lessons and carols, he said the surge in fire incidents earlier in the year served as a stark reminder of the importance of continuous public education, vigilance, and proactive measures.

Mr. Agyemang called on Ghanaians to take fire safety seriously, adding that fire prevention was a collective responsibility, but with continued education efforts, “I am confident that we can reduce fire incidents significantly.”

The Deputy Operations Commander for the NDC, Nana Amankwah Prempeh, confirmed the incident to Adom News correspondent Isaac K. Normanyo,

He explained, “We received information that the DCE had stored fertilizers in his house, and that is why we came here to investigate and take action.”

In response, Eric Kusi Junior, the DCE for Adansi North, admitted that the fertilizers were indeed stored at his house but clarified the ownership.

“It is true that there are 1,015 bags of fertilizer in my house, but they belong to the Member of Parliament for Fomena Constituency, Lawyer Andrew Amoako Asiamah, the Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament,” he stated.

The development has raised questions among local residents and political observers, with some wondering about the intended use of the fertilizers and why they were stored at a private residence.

Further investigations are expected as both parties defend their actions and intentions regarding the seized fertilizers.

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Financial constraints hindered infrastructure development in Sekondi – Egyapa Mercer

He said the reasons the party has been ascribing to their massive loss in the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections are farfetched.

In an interview at Sunyani, he stated that it would be prudent for the NPP to acknowledge that its performance in government was subpar rather than deceive itself and its members.

“Since the governing NPP lost the December 7 election to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), I have been listening to Dr Bawumia and the NPP claiming that over a million voters, being their members, did not vote, resulting in their loss.

Even if this claim is true, it raises the question of why the over 12 million who did vote also did not vote for the NPP,” Mr Ahenu quizzed.

He said the selection of Dr Bawumia as the presidential candidate and Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh as the running mate raises concerns about the party’s decision-making process.

“I must state that it was political suicide for the NPP to pair Dr Bawumia and Dr Opoku Prempeh.

Similarly, the appointment of Abronye and Wontumi as regional Chairmen, who criticised based on party lines and not on policies, questions the credibility of the NPP executives at the regional level,” he added.

Mr Ahenu said the NPP must know the Jubilee House is not an entertainment centre because Dr Bawumia was seen dancing on campaign platforms and busy attacking John Mahama’s policies instead of selling his policies.

He noted that the NPP never took the time to interrogate why President Akuffo Addo, Dr Opoku Prempeh, Vice President Dr Bawumia, and Chairman Wontumi on all campaign platforms campaign for John Mahama.

He further said the NPP’s loss has more reasons than mere claims that their supporters did not come out to vote.

“My advice to the NPP is to do a total overhauling of its leadership right from the national level to the constituency level and conduct a thorough research on what led to this shameful defeat,” he stated.

According to Mr Ahenu, this will help the Great Elephant family reorganise and restructure to identify the real factors for the loss while initiating pragmatic measures to address the issues as quickly as possible.

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The station master, however, has assured that all passengers will be served.

As Christmas approaches, many people are traveling to and from various places to celebrate the season.

At the Nkawkaw new station and old Kumasi station, long queues of passengers waiting for buses have formed.

Speaking to Kofi Asante, the station master for Nkawkaw-Kasoa emphasized that, despite the large number of stranded passengers, efforts are underway to ensure that everyone reaches their destination.

“We are looking forward to taking every passenger to his or her destination. I appeal to everyone to exercise patience” he assured.

He further described this year’s Christmas as particularly eventful due to the high volume of travelers heading to their hometowns.

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In a statement issued on December 9, 2024, the West African Examination Council (WAEC) explained that the delay was caused by a malfunction in the scanners used to process objective cards.

The situation has been further complicated by an outstanding debt of GH₵118,000,000 owed by the Ministry of Education, which WAEC says is urgently needed to resolve the issue.

CHOPSS has criticized the government for its failure to address the matter in a timely manner, especially since private school students—who have fully paid their WASSCE registration fees—are being unfairly impacted by the delay.

The timing of the delay is particularly concerning, as universities in Ghana have set January 2025 admission deadlines, putting the future of many students who rely on their results for university entry in jeopardy.

CHOPSS further pointed out that if the scanner breakdown had not occurred, private schools would have requested an independent release of their results, as they have no outstanding debts with WAEC.

The Council has called on the government to act swiftly to prevent further disruptions and ease the growing concerns among private school administrators, parents, and students.

“This situation is simply unacceptable. For eight years, we have been excluded from the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, leaving our classrooms nearly empty as parents face difficult economic decisions when selecting schools for their children,” the statement read.

Given the ongoing challenges, CHOPSS is urging the government to urgently release the funds owed to WAEC to ensure the prompt release of the examination results.

The statement also warned that if the government fails to respond positively in the coming days, private schools, along with parents and students, will be forced to take further action to address the situation.

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The announcement, made on Monday, recognises his exceptional contributions to academia and legal practice.

Ali-Nakyea, PhD joins Ama Hammond, PhD who was also promoted to Associate Professor in a series of appointments that highlight the university’s commitment to academic excellence.

Distinguished Academic and Professional Career

Prof. Ali-Nakyea’s teaching career spans over two decades, during which he has cultivated expertise in diverse areas of law and economics.

At the University of Ghana School of Law, he teaches courses such as Law of Taxation, Commercial Law, and Administrative Law within the school’s LLB program.

For postgraduate students, his lectures extend to Fiscal Dimensions of Oil & Gas Law, Tax Policy, Accounting and Public Finance, and Comparative Institutions of Government.

Beyond the law school, he contributes significantly to the University of Ghana Business School, offering courses in Taxation and Business Strategy, Hospitality Law, and Ethics.

Internationally, Ali-Nakyea serves as an Extraordinary Lecturer at the African Tax Institute, University of Pretoria, South Africa. His influence extends to institutions like GIMPA and the Ghana School of Law, where he has provided specialized training in public sector management, economic policy, and taxation.

Broad Professional Experience in Taxation

Dr. Ali-Nakyea brings over 31 years of professional experience in taxation, financial management, and legal practice. Before joining academia full-time, he worked with global firms such as PwC and KPMG, where he managed complex financial reviews and tax affairs.

His expertise has also been sought by governmental bodies and international organizations, including ECOWAS, the African Union, and the Liberia Revenue Authority.

In addition to his professional roles, the new Associate Professor is the Director of Ali-Nakyea & Associates, a firm specialising in tax law, consultancy, and notary services.

Recognised Author and Expert

Dr. Ali-Nakyea holds a PhD in Tax Policy from the University of Pretoria, along with degrees in Economics and Law from the University of Ghana. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Taxation (Ghana) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants (Ghana). An accomplished author, he has written widely acclaimed books, including Taxation in Ghana: Principles, Practice & Planning and An Examination of Oil and Gas Taxation in Ghana.

This financial injection is aimed at addressing the challenges WAEC has been facing and expediting the release of the WASSCE results.

Kwasi Kwarteng, the Ministry of Education’s spokesperson, confirmed the release of the funds in a statement issued on Monday, December 23, 2024.

He assured the public that WAEC is committed to releasing the results soon.

The additional funding is expected to ease the financial pressure on WAEC and help accelerate the completion of the marking process, offering relief to students, parents, and educational institutions who have been anxiously awaiting the results.

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He stated that, the loss has left the party struggling to recover.

“We were beaten by the rain, and it’s not easy to recover fully from such a knockout defeat,” Mr. Blay said in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Monday.

He admitted that, the outcome came as a surprise, particularly given the challenges and opposition the government faced during the campaign.

“I never believed we would lose, especially with the difficulties and the challenges the government was facing. I thought Ghanaians would understand, but the defeat came unexpectedly,” he added.

He described the result as a “big mind-boggling” moment, but added that in politics, such outcomes are part of the game and offer valuable lessons.

“We’ve learned a hard lesson, and while it’s a tough blow, we’ll pick up the pieces and regroup. It could happen to any politician. No one is immune to defeat” he noted.

The former NPP chair reflected on the party’s performance, noting that despite the economic hardships, the NPP’s campaign had been strong, especially with improvements in the economy by the third quarter of the year.

However, he acknowledged that the party had taken certain things for granted, which ultimately contributed to their loss.

“We did a lot during the campaign and believed we were on the right track, but unfortunately, the results didn’t reflect that. We will focus on the things we took for granted and come back stronger” he stated.

Despite the defeat, Mr. Blay remains hopeful, stating that the NPP will bounce back and continue to fight for its place in Ghana’s political landscape.

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According to Mr. Blay, such demands are impractical and lack legal basis.

“Those calling for their removal are just blowing hot air. I don’t believe John will do that. They are just talking. They don’t take the time to know the law. How do you remove the Chief Justice or the EC Chairperson? Unless there’s a petition against them with evidence of wrongdoing that leads to impeachment. If she has done something bad and you can prove it, then fine—but how do you just remove her?”

He made these remarks during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Senprogramme Monday.

He added: “Go ahead and try. Unless you walk into their offices and force them out—which is not how it works. But knowing John for who he is, I don’t believe he will go to that extent to sack them.”

Ahead of John Mahama’s inauguration on January 7, 2024, some critics, primarily from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), have called for the removal of Madam Jean Mensa and Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

They accuse the EC Chairperson of partisanship and incompetence, and the Chief Justice of bias.

Joyce Bawah Mogtari, a spokesperson for former President Mahama, recently added her voice to the criticism. She called for Jean Mensa’s resignation, citing “partisanship, lack of credibility, and a lack of integrity.”

However, Freddie Blay believes these demands are unrealistic and politically charged.

“If the NDC wants to push for that, they can go ahead. But John Mahama won’t go to that extent,” he reiterated.

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Speaking on Joy FM after losing his parliamentary seat, he admitted that several projects were delayed or abandoned due to the government’s constrained finances, largely tied to Ghana’s debt challenges.

“Our finances do not allow us to borrow. Almost 90% of government-funded projects in this country are through debt. If you are unable to go to the market to raise funding, you can’t implement these projects,” Mercer said.

He pointed to the deteriorating state of the Sekondi Market, which he acknowledged was a significant concern for constituents.

Although the project was included in the government’s Medium-Term Framework from 2022 to 2024, financial limitations prevented its execution.

“You’ll explain, you’ll show them the document, but all they want is the market,” Mercer lamented.

The stalled PTC Interchange and the Market Circle redevelopment were also cited as examples of the government’s struggles to execute planned projects.

Mr Mercer noted that the financial challenges were compounded by ongoing debt restructuring efforts, which further limited access to funding.

“They see Market Circle being reconstructed, which has stopped because of the problems with the debt situation. The same applies to the PTC Interchange,” he said.

Despite these setbacks, Mr Mercer defended the government’s efforts, highlighting ongoing projects like the redevelopment of Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital and the construction of a new teaching hospital.

“The Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital is being redeveloped. Many roads have been done. Many projects have been undertaken in the constituency,” Mr Mercer stated, though he acknowledged that these achievements were insufficient to counter voter frustrations.

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Speaking on Joy FM after his loss, Mercer lamented that the NDC successfully propagated a narrative that undermined the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) achievements in Sekondi, painting a picture of 28 years of stagnation under NPP MPs.

“The NDC propaganda was very strong, and people are not sufficiently savvy to distinguish between the term when you’ve always had an NPP MP and an NDC president, and the term when you had an NPP MP and an NDC president,” Mr Mercer explained.

He stated that during the years when Sekondi had an NPP MP, the presidency was often under NDC control, making it challenging for MPs to implement projects.

“During those 28 years, Jerry Rawlings was president, Prof Mills became president, and Mister Mahama became president. And they did nothing in Sekondi.

“Of course, during that time, Papa Owusu Ankomah was MP,” Mercer argued, noting that voters failed to distinguish the limited powers of MPs and the executive authority of the presidency.

Despite efforts to counter this narrative, Mercer admitted it was difficult to undo the damage. “You push back, but then it’s already stuck in people’s minds. They keep saying, ‘You’ve been MP for so many years; what have you done?”.

He cited ongoing projects like the redevelopment of the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital and road construction in the constituency as evidence of the NPP’s commitment.

However, these achievements were overshadowed by the NDC’s messaging, Mercer said.

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The CEO, Mrs. Josephine Koduah-Bediako, and the COO, Mr. Anthony Koduah-Bediako, led their team in delivering essential items and cash support to the home.

The donation, valued at GHC 25,000, included medical supplies, sanitary pads, bags of rice and sugar, frozen meat, detergents, cooking oil, along with festive treats like assorted soft drinks, biscuits, and stationeries for the children.

Additionally, the organization gifted GHC 5,000 in cash to support the orphanage’s operations.

Motherly Love Orphanage stood out as Slim and Fit’s beneficiary for its exceptional commitment to embracing children from diverse backgrounds with love and care, for which they deserve due appreciation.

Speaking at the event, the COO, Mr Koduah-Bediako explained that the donation aligns with Slim and Fit’s commitment to giving back to society, which they have been undertaking since the inception of the business.

Looking ahead, Slim and Fit Ghana plans to continue its mission of making the world a better place through philanthropy.

The organization also expressed gratitude to its loyal clients, whose unwavering patronage makes such act of kindness possible.

The visit left an indelible mark and restored hope for the children and staff, reminding them they are cherished and valued.

Organizers of the event announced the decision in a press statement, citing critical challenges including insufficient funding, lack of sponsorship, and limited government support.

The event, originally scheduled for December 26, 2024, was aimed at showcasing Ms Fiador’s determination to set a new record and inspiring educational excellence.

According to the event’s Team Secretary, Edward Nketiah, the postponement resulted from multiple obstacles.

These include the diversion of corporate attention and resources due to the recent elections, unmet financial requirements for event setup and publicity, and a lack of essential support from government agencies.

“After careful observation, consultations, and further considerations, we would like to inform you that the Morkporkpor Read-A-Thon has been postponed to a future date, yet to be determined. Key challenges have hindered our progress, but we remain committed to achieving this milestone,” the statement read.

Organizers assured stakeholders and supporters that a new date would be communicated after thorough consultations.

They expressed gratitude for the dedication and contributions of all involved, emphasizing that these efforts have laid a solid foundation for eventual success.

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The first leg played at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, ended in a goalless draw, leaving both sides with everything to play for in the return fixture.

Speaking after the match, coach Dramani assured fans that the team would rise to the occasion in Nigeria.

“As much as possible, we will try to keep a clean sheet but I want to believe that we will surely score,” he said.

“We will score, we will open up something. I control the energy, the effort, I control the performance (of my boys) but the results, we don’t control it,” he added.

The decisive encounter is set to take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Nigeria on Saturday, December 28.

The winner will secure a spot in the 2024 CHAN tournament, set to be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

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“Our members told us they wouldn’t vote. They’ve been angry for a long time, and in our instance, it happened. I could see it firsthand. We had to persuade them, but unfortunately, they didn’t come out to vote” Mr. Blay said in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Monday.

Mr. Blay explained that, the NPP faced significant challenges in mobilizing its own supporters to vote.

“We had to persuade some of them to come, but they didn’t show up. That’s why there was such a low turnout, which contributed to our loss,” he added.

The former NPP Chairman also acknowledged that the difficult economic situation played a role in the party’s defeat.

“The economy struggled, and many people, especially the youth, were unemployed. Business people were also feeling the pinch and blaming the government. People expected the government to improve the economy, but the reality was different” he said.

He further noted that, while some critics claimed the NPP’s arrogance led to its defeat, he disagreed.

“It wasn’t about arrogance. People were angry, but President Nana Addo had no choice but to introduce certain taxes because of the economic conditions. Our own people were frustrated, and it affected voter turnout.”

Mr. Blay also suggested that the NPP should take time to evaluate the performance of the incoming National Democratic Congress (NDC) government.

“We need to give ourselves some time and see how the NDC government performs. If things improve, it will show that the NPP government didn’t do a good job. If not, we’ll see what we can do next.”

Mr. Blay also acknowledged that the NDC was effective in its campaign, especially in terms of ground-level propaganda.

“The NDC did a great job in distracting our members and promoting their own agenda,” he said.

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The unfortunate incident occurred on Sunday, December 22, 2024, after a tipper truck crashed into the motorbike, leading to the serious injury of another.

While rescue efforts were underway, a young man stole the motorbike of the victims but was apprehended due to the swift intervention by a policeman.

Adom News’ Kofi Adjei reported that, the Policeman who was in mufti chased and accosted the suspect after some eyewitnesses raised an alarm.

Due to his outfit, the suspect is said to have engaged him in a heated exchange, demanding proof that he was indeed a Policeman.

The suspect was subsequently handed over to a uniformed Policeman and upon interrogation, he claimed he had no intention of stealing.

Instead, he wanted to move the motorbike to safety and return it when it was sought after.

He was however taking into custody at the Kasoa Police station for further questioning while the suspects were also sent to the hospital.

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Addressing the press on the party’s electoral outcome at the NPP Headquarters in Asylum Down on Monday, 23 December 2024, Mr. Ntim described the period as challenging but reaffirmed the NPP’s resilience and readiness to bounce back stronger.

“Indeed, this is a difficult time for us as a party, but we are a resilient people. We must, and we will rise again from this defeat. We are reorganizing ourselves for the battles of tomorrow,” Mr. Ntim said.

He encouraged members not to lose hope, saying, “Fellow Party Members, this means we cannot give up. We must engage in the restructuring process with all the energy we can muster to get the elephant trumpeting again. Kukrudu!!! Kukrudu!!! Kukruuuuduuu!!!”

Appreciation

Reflecting on the party’s efforts leading up to the 2024 polls, the NPP Chair highlighted the dedication of the NPP leadership, campaign teams, and the broader membership.

He noted that the party entered the elections with immense hope and positivity, aiming for a decisive victory at the polls.

“Our aim was to secure an emphatic victory, and we worked very hard at it,” he said. “As a party, we put in our best efforts during the campaign.”

He commended the various campaign teams, from the polling station level to the national level, for their dedication and relentless work. He also expressed gratitude to all members and sympathizers of the NPP for their tireless commitment to the campaign, emphasizing their indispensable role in the party’s efforts.

Outcome

Despite the hard work, Mr. Ntim admitted that the election results were not what the party had hoped for. “There is no doubt that the outcome of the elections was not what we hoped for. We may not have won the battle, but we haven’t lost the war on our quest for a better Ghana, shaped by the ideals and philosophies of the NPP,” he stated.

He acknowledged the pain and disappointment experienced by party members and supporters, stating that the leadership shared in their anguish. “We understand your disappointments because we feel it too, just as the hundreds of thousands of Ghanaians who invested their hopes and dreams in this campaign do,” he noted.

Unity, Restructuring

Mr. Ntim called on members to stay united and channel their energies into the party’s restructuring efforts. He emphasized that the setbacks faced should be seen as an opportunity to rebuild, refocus, and prepare for future battles.

“We must not let this defeat discourage us. Instead, it should galvanize us to work harder, correct our mistakes, and ensure that the NPP regains its footing as the party of choice for Ghanaians,” he added.

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According to the Diplomatic Corps, Dr Bawumia’s early concession underscores the maturity of Ghana’s democracy and the shared responsibility of all leaders to uphold the ideals of peace, unity, and progress for the nation.

“Your actions reaffirm the confidence and trust the international community has in Ghana as a model for democratic governance,” the Corps noted in a statement.

The Corps added, “Your unwavering commitment to the values of democracy, especially through your honourable concession in the recent elections, stands as a testament to your statesmanship and love for this nation.

“In moments of political transition, it is the strength of character and respect for the democratic process that defines a leader.”

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Below is statement:

His Excellency Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia
Vice President of the Republic of Ghana.

On behalf of the Diplomatic Corps in Ghana, it is my great honour to commend a man whose actions continue to highlight the strength of Ghana’s democratic principles.

Your unwavering commitment to the values of democracy, especially through your honorable concession in the recent elections, stands as a testament to your statesmanship and love for this nation. In moments of political transition, it is the strength of character and respect for the democratic process that defines a leader.

Your grace in accepting the outcome is not only a reflection of your integrity but also a profound contribution to Ghana’s enviable democratic credentials, which serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration across the continent.

The peaceful and dignified manner in which you have conducted yourself underscores the maturity of Ghana’s democracy and the shared responsibility of all leaders to uphold the ideals of peace, unity, and progress for the nation. Your actions reaffirm the confidence and trust the international community has in Ghana as a model for democratic governance.

As the Diplomatic Corps, we applaud your example and encourage all stakeholders to continue strengthening this legacy, Let us celebrate Ghana’s democracy not just as a system but as a shared commitment to values that uplift its people and inspire others.

We thank you for your exemplary leadership and wish you continued success as you contribute to the development of this great nation.

Maher Kheir, Ambassador of Lebanon, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps

Addressing a press conference at the party’s headquarters, National Chairman, Stephen Ayesu Ntim stated that the committee would invite candid feedback from party members to shape its reorganization strategy for future electoral contests.

Acknowledging the widespread disappointment among supporters, Mr Ntim expressed solidarity with their concerns and emphasized the importance of reflection and reform.

He underscored the need to review the party’s constitution, including processes for electing national executives and flag bearers, as part of broader efforts to revitalize the party.

“We were very hopeful and worked hard with the aim of securing an emphatic victory at the polls. As a party, we gave our best during the campaign. While the election outcome was not what we hoped for, this is not the end of our journey. We remain committed to the ideals and philosophies of the New Patriotic Party and our vision for a better Ghana,” he said.

The election review committee, set to be formed in January 2025, will conduct a comprehensive post-mortem analysis of the election.

It will engage party stakeholders and the general public to identify the factors and circumstances leading to the defeat.

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Our checks with the National Film Authority (NFA) alone indicates that, thirty-eight (38) Ghanaian films released in 2024 were submitted to the regulatory body for classification.

Further checks by our research team revealed some more movies that were not listed by the NFA, were released onto the film market in 2024.

Below are just forty-two (42) of the movies captured by our radar.

The three excluded from the measure include the Boston Marathon bomber and the man who killed Jewish worshippers in 2018.

In a statement, Biden said he was “more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level”. His measure does not include more than 2,000 people convicted to death by State authorities.

Biden’s decision comes before the return of President-elect Donald Trump in January, who resumed federal executions when he was in office.

Among those reprieved by Biden are nine people convicted of murdering fellow prisoners, four for murders committed during bank robberies and one who killed a prison guard.

“Make no mistake: I condemn these murderers, grieve for the victims of their despicable acts, and ache for all the families who have suffered unimaginable and irreparable loss,” Biden added.

Disgraced former New Orleans police officer Len Davis, who operated a drug ring involving other officers and arranged a woman’s murder, is among those who have been shown clemency.

The three remaining on death row include Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, who helped carry out the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, and avowed white supremacist Dylann Roof who shot and killed nine Black churchgoers in Charleston, South Carolina in 2015.

Robert Bowers, who killed 11 Jewish worshippers during a mass shooting in 2018 at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, will also remain on death row.

Biden has campaigned as an opponent of the death penalty, and the Justice Department issued a moratorium on its use at the federal level after he became president.

During his first term in office, Trump oversaw 13 deaths by lethal injection during his final six months in power.

There had been no federal inmates put to death in the US since 2003 until Trump resumed federal executions in July 2020.

During his re-election campaign, Trump indicated he would expand the use of capital punishment to include human and drug traffickers, as well as migrants who kill American citizens.

Biden appeared to refer to Trump’s intentions in his statement by saying he could not “in good conscience – stand back and let a new administration resume executions that I halted”.

In US law, these clemency decisions cannot be reversed by a president’s successor.

Biden’s decision will not impact people sentenced to death in state courts, which is around around 2,250 inmates according to the Death Penalty Information Centre. More than 70 state executions have been carried out during Biden’s presidency.

The death penalty has been abolished in 23 of the 50 US states. Six other states, including Arizona, California, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Tennessee, have moratoriums in place.

Earlier this month, Biden commuted the sentences of nearly 1,500 people and pardoned 39 more convicted of nonviolent crimes.

He also pardoned his son, Hunter Biden, who was facing sentencing for two criminal cases. He had pleaded guilty to tax charges earlier in September and was found guilty of being an illegal drug user in possession of a gun in June – becoming the first child of a sitting president to be convicted of a crime.

The US Constitution decrees that a president has the broad “power to grant reprieves and pardons for offences against the United States, except in cases of impeachment”.

Source: BBC

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This has been described by creative industry stakeholders as an unprecedented achievement in Ghana’s comedy space because it is the first time a Ghanaian comedian has been able to fill a bigger venue for a comedy show.

According to OB Amponsah, after filling smaller spaces over the years, he was convinced that taking up the challenge of holding his 10th anniversary at much bigger place would elevate the Ghanaian comedy narrative they have been championing for the past years.

OB Amponsah had the audience in stitches with hilarious jokes. His themes ranged from politics, relationship, sex, to some outlandish subjects that cannot broach in ordinary discussions. What sets OB apart from a number of contemporaries is his boldness to traverse slippery areas of themes – and he brought that to bear in his presentation on the night.

The event also saw a number of Ghanaian comedians on stage, performing to the admiration of patrons. A lot of their comedy materials were based on the December 7 election, giving the people something they can easily relate to.

There were amazing acts by DKB, Jacinta, Ebenezer Dwomoh, Ranzy Ray, Smile, Kwaku40, Kojo Pjay, Oojoo, Papa Yaw, Putogo, Foster Romanus, Jerry Ashinyo, Kwame Obed, Canadian comedian Emerson, Miriam Kirk from the USA and Johnny Pula from Botswana.

Ghanaian comedian Lekzy DeComic put up an outstanding performance as MC of the show.

The stand-up comedian did an excellent job by keeping the audience engaged and enthralled throughout the show. His ability to handle some challenges that occurred at the beginning of the show, has earned him a resounding applause from patrons of the event.

Also in attendance were dignitaries such as David Dontoh, Ama K Abebrese, Timothy Bentum and Ken Fiati.

See some photos below:

The library, which had also been used to store ballot boxes from the Ablekuma North constituency parliamentary election, was engulfed in flames on Tuesday, December 17.

The Director-General of GES, Dr. Eric Nkansah, expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing that the perpetrators would face the full force of the law.

“This is an unfortunate event and one of the saddest moments in my tenure as Director-General of the Ghana Education Service.

“The school recently received a state-of-the-art library project, among the best in basic schools nationwide. Additionally, it benefited from recent support from the ministry. The last thing anyone would expect is the devastation we now face,” he stated.

Dr Nkansah noted that, the fire has disrupted learning and displaced numerous pupils.

However, he assured the public that the GES has activated its education and emergency contingency plan to minimize the impact, with measures being implemented at both the district and regional levels.

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The Agency has also cautioned susceptible persons to limit outdoor activities, noting that the pollution levels could trigger allergic reactions and worsen conditions, including asthma.

The main constituent of the dust is Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 – fine (smaller) particles that can penetrate deep into the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, impairing the normal function of organs, which is hazardous to health.

PMs are seen and unseen tiny pieces of solids or liquids in the air. The particles include dust, dirt, soot, and smoke.

A source at the EPA told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that the Agency’s air quality monitoring stations at the University of Ghana and Adabraka showed increased levels of dust due to the onset of the harmattan season.

The observation, which began on December 13, 2024, has an Air Quality Index ranging from unhealthy for sensitive groups to very unhealthy from December 13 to date.

The EPA’s observation aligns with information from the Ghana Meteorological Agency’s daily forecast of significant dust in the air originating from the Sahel region, resulting in poor visibility.

Predictions are that the weather conditions can be experienced until the latter part of December.

In Accra, analysis of data collected in early December 2024 on the Breathe Accra Project websites showed high levels of pollution at all monitoring locations in the country.

Dr. Allison Felix Hughes, the Facility Manager of Afri-SET, a sensor evaluation center, who confirmed elevated levels of dust making the air unhealthy, appealed to the public not to spend much time outdoors as a first defense mechanism.

“If by any way you have to be out, then try to protect yourself by either wearing a face mask or limiting the number of hours outdoors to reduce exposure. This is a natural phenomenon. We have no control over it,” he said.

“It is during this period that you see hospital admissions growing with cases of asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory diseases.”

He advised the public to stay safe by using pollution masks where necessary and to desist from open burning of waste and other materials. The public is also urged to sprinkle water on dusty surfaces before sweeping to reduce dust emissions. Vehicle users are also advised to reduce speeding on untarred roads to reduce dust emissions.

“Vehicles and other fuel-burning installations/machines, including generator sets, should be serviced regularly to optimize their functioning. Idling of their engines should be avoided,” he urged.

The crux of her claim was that Nguvu Mining owned 90% of the shares of Adamus Ghana; this acquisition was done by virtue of a share transfer dated 7 November 2022.

As a result, the only party that could act with respect to Adamus Ghana was Nguvu Mining and, to some extent, the management set up by Angela List to manage the affairs of Adamus Ghana and its Nzema Mine.

Allan Roy Morrison and Adamus Australia counterclaimed in respect of this suit. In their defence and counterclaim, they contended that Nguvu Mining’s acquisition of the shares of Adamus Ghana was fraudulent as the alleged share transfer agreement was signed by a person who had no authority to act on behalf of Adamus Australia.

They stated that the only director and secretary of Adamus Australia was Allan Roy Morrison.

They contended that the share transfer was signed by one Moses Kobena Bosompem, a person who had not been appointed to the Board of Adamus Australia and whose very appointment had been successfully challenged in the courts of Western Australia.

They said Moses Bosompem they continued was an agent of Angela List and was only doing her bidding in helping her illegally take control of Adamus Ghana.

In the course of the proceedings, an interlocutory injunction was granted restraining Angela List and her appointees from acting as Directors of the company.

In its place, an Interim Management Committee (IMC) was formed to manage the affairs of Adamus Ghana. The IMC was to be made up of representatives of Angela List, representatives of Allan Morrison and Adamus Australia and a representative of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.

Angela List used every possible means to prevent the IMC from operating. This included filing various applications aimed at staying the execution of the order and numerous appeals. She later withdrew these court processes after she had stultified this order of the court.

Her coup de grace came when an interlocutory injunction was filed by Allan Morrison and Adamus Australia seeking to injunct Adamus Ghana from exporting gold while the IMC had not been able to perform its function of managing the affairs of the company.

This application was properly served on Nguvu Mining and Adamus Ghana. In brazen disrespect for the rules of procedure, Adamus Ghana continued to export gold out of the country all though they had notice of the application. When an attempt to export gold was foiled at the airports, Adamus Australia took it as a sign that the justice system was at work.

However, in a sudden turn of events Adamus Ghana was allowed by the authorities to export gold, which they have continued to do with impunity despite the existence of the injunction application.

It has come to light that Angela List was emboldened to take this stance because of an opinion delivered by Diana Asonaba Dapaah, the Deputy Attorney General on behalf of the Attorney- General.

The opinion, dated 22^nd January 2024, advised Angela List to continue with the export of gold despite the service of the application for injunction and the creation of the IMC. The last paragraph of the opinion stated that it was the Attorney-General’s view that the service of the application for injunction was not in itself injunctive and should not restrain the company from acting.

The position by the Attorney-General in this instance is directly opposite to the position of the law, it is well known that the service of an application for injunction provisionally injuncts a party till the determination of the application. Where a person after service of an injunction application continues to operate, the party become liable to committal for contempt.

These are well-established principles of law and have been applied in a plethora of cases within the Ghanaian jurisprudence. This principle of law is so well known that the same Attorney-General in a letter dated 18^th March 2024 addressed to the President of the Republic advised the President not to take any further actions in respect of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, once it had been served with an application for interlocutory injunction. The Attorney-General injuncted the President from acting because of the pendency of the injunction application.

The question to be asked about this situation is what could have motivated Attorney-General to move from the accepted legal position when it came to the private matters of Angela List and Nguvu Mining. Why did the Attorney-General not deviate again when it came to the grander constitutional matter of signing a bill.

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This call follows the disappointing failure of the current technical team, led by Otto Addo and supported by John Paintsil, Joseph Laumann, and goalkeeper trainer Fatau Dauda, to secure qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The team finished bottom of Group F after six matches.

With the 2026 World Cup qualifiers set to resume next month, Lamine has emphasized the need for change in the Black Stars’ support structure.

He believes Akonnor and Tanko, who are both based in Ghana and have continued to develop their coaching skills, should be brought into the fold.

“The time is limited. You cannot dack Otto Addo at this moment and bring in a new coach for crucial games in March next year but I believe that we can improve the backroom staff,” he told Asempa FM‘s Ultimate Sports show.

“We have CK Akonnor and Ibrahim Tanko all in this country. They have upgraded themselves and I believe we must consider them for the backroom staff. What we have at the moment, they are not good enough,” he added.

The Black Stars are set to face Chad and Madagascar in their Matchday five and six qualifiers in March 2025.

CK Akonnor and Ibrahim Tanko have both served as Black Stars assistant coaches under Kwesi Appiah.

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The senior national team has faced severe criticism after failing to secure a place in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Ghana finished at the bottom of Group F in the qualifiers, with three draws and three losses, earning just three points.

This marks the first time in two decades that the Black Stars will miss out on the AFCON, which is set to be held in Morocco.

Reflecting on the team’s underwhelming results, Dr Nsenkyire expressed his concern about their inconsistent performances.

“Black Stars’ performances have been inconsistent. I have watched these players, and I sometimes wonder,” he told Asempa FM‘s Ultimate Sports Show.

“Most of them play in Europe and we can all agree that the players they play with are the same when they join the national team but you watch their body language and we can conclude that some of them are not committed”.

He also mentioned that some players have expressed concerns about the pitches, citing injuries as a result.

However, he believes the team can be motivated to perform at their best.

“Some of them have complained about the pitches because some of them leave with injuries, but I believe we can psych them up so they can give their best,” he added.

Despite failing to qualify for AFCON, the Black Stars will aim to keep their World Cup hopes alive when they face Chad and Madagascar in the final two qualifiers in March 2025.

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The event showcased a vibrant display of culture and tradition, drawing dignitaries and spectators from across and beyond Dormaa.

Osagyefo Ɔseadeɛyɔ Dr. Fredua Agyemang Badu II ascended the Aduana throne on July 25, 1999, succeeding his late uncle, Nana Agyemang Badu I.

Now marking 25 years of leadership, the Dormaahene also serves as the President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs.

The celebration, held at the Agyemang Badu I Sports Stadium, coincided with the Kwafie Festival under the theme: “Our Environment, Our Future.”

It attracted hundreds of chiefs, political leaders, and thousands of attendees, reflecting the significance of the occasion.

In his address, the Dormaahene expressed gratitude to successive governments, religious bodies, and the people of Dormaaman for their unwavering support throughout his reign.

He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the development of the Dormaa Traditional Area through projects such as factories and other resource-based initiatives. He promised even greater progress for Dormaaman in the years ahead.

The Chairman of the event, Ohenpon Yeboah Asiamah I, urged traditional leaders to actively engage in national issues, particularly those impacting land and environmental preservation.

He stressed the need to address the consequences of environmental degradation and prioritize the welfare of their people.

Additionally, Ohenpon Yeboah Asiamah I called for unity among traditional leaders in Bono to strengthen the development of Bonoman.

He emphasized that a united front would pave the way for sustained progress in the region.

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The foundation also donated school bags and books to benefit the schoolchildren.

The beneficiary schools include:

• Klo Agogo M/A Basic School
• Klo Agogo Anglican School
• Klo Agogo Presby School
• Klo Agogo R/C School
• Trawa R/C Primary School

These projects, situated in one of Ghana’s rural communities, aim to improve students’ reading skills and overall academic performance.

The area has been grappling with low student performance, which poses significant challenges for both teaching and learning.

Speaking at the commissioning, Nana Konadu Boakye, CEO of Kick2Build Foundation, emphasized the foundation’s mission to foster a culture of reading and support academic excellence in underserved communities.

“We came here last year to donate some books, and we realized that these schools lack libraries. After school, the kids just go home. We decided to build these libraries so they can stay after school for teachers to guide them with their homework. They will also have access to books to improve their reading and writing skills,” he explained.

Nana Konadu Boakye further highlighted that the initiative was a collaborative effort between two schools in the United States—Mesa Elementary School and Bear Creek Elementary School in Boulder, Colorado.

“Our long-term goal is to establish a partnership between schools in Ghana and the USA, offering students the opportunity to participate in exchange programs and pen pal initiatives. This affiliation will expose them to diverse educational practices, and teachers will also gain insights from the American education system through cultural exchanges,” he added.

Frank Narh, the Ghana Education Service (GES) Circuit Supervisor for the area, described the intervention as a significant milestone for the community.

“Children in these rural areas now have a place to come and read, as schools here have never had libraries. This is the first of its kind, and I believe it will greatly enhance their learning skills,” he remarked.

The Kick2Build Foundation’s initiative is expected to create a lasting impact by addressing the educational needs of children in Klo Agogo and bridging the gap between rural and urban schools.

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The Ghana Water Limited in the region has revealed that, the river which is already heavily polluted by illegal mining activities, has rather turned more turbid in the last two months.

This is reportedly reducing pressure to the water treatment plant in the area with an imminent decrease in water distribution to various homes across the municipality.

The Oda River flowing to Obuasi and its environs has also seen astronomical increases in turbidity.

Ashanti Regional Manager of the Ghana Water Limited, Dr. Hanson Mensah-Akutteh is distraught over the recent development.

“Galamsey I don’t know if it has come to stay. For the past two months, it has even worsened. The Odaso river flowing to Obuasi is registering 18,000 NTU of turbidity from an initial 8,000 NTU within the last two months. The Owerri River in Konongo has also moved from 5,000 NTU to 12,000 NTU. As we speak the river has stopped flowing,” he said.

He continued: “That river is no more functional. If it continues for the long time, the people of Konongo may not even have water at all. Because there’s not even a single drop of water in the river to extract for treatment”.

The situation continues to impact the cost of production.

The water company is adopting what managers describe as post-predictive measures to sustain high cost of production.

Increasing foreign exchange rates, customer indebtedness and the devastating effects of illegal mining are driving the high cost of water production in the region.

But to survive the situation, the water distribution company says it has adopted purchasing strategies that help them procure materials like water-treating chemicals to beat down the high exchange rates.

“The power cost has risen from 0.8 million cedis, in June to December, to about 1.5 million cedis per metre cube. The chemical cost has also increased from 0.2 million to about 1.3 million cedis within the same period,” he said.

Meanwhile, the water distribution company is servicing its lines to ensure adequate water flow during the festive season.

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In an interview on Puretvonline, Alhaji Osman accused Mahama of using the anti-gay bill as a campaign tool during the 2024 elections to gain political leverage.

He alleged that, Mahama accused the NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and President Akufo-Addo of conspiring to legalize same-sex marriage in Ghana, a claim that reportedly bolstered the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Northern Region, particularly among Muslim communities.

“This deceitful strategy by the president-elect during the campaign helped the NDC win more votes in the Northern Region, especially within Muslim communities,” Osman remarked, dismissing the accusations against Bawumia and Akufo-Addo as baseless.

Osman expressed hope that Mahama would act swiftly to fulfill his campaign promise by signing the bill into law.

He criticized the NDC for employing what he described as dishonest tactics to secure electoral victory. “I expect Mahama to sign the bill immediately upon assuming office, but Ghanaians will not forgive the NDC for the lies they propagated,” he stated.

He further revealed that the NPP plans to advise President Akufo-Addo against signing the bill before leaving office, emphasizing that it is now Mahama’s responsibility to deliver on his promises.

“The NDC has no excuse not to pass the anti-gay bill into law, especially with their two-thirds majority in Parliament. We are waiting for them to act,” Osman declared.

When asked if the NPP’s position was intended to pressure the president-elect, Osman defended their stance.

“Mahama used falsehoods to win votes, so it’s only fair he fulfills his promises to Ghanaians,” he said.

Despite calls from various stakeholders for immediate action on the bill, Osman maintained that the NDC must take accountability, given their significant presence in Parliament.

The anti-gay bill, formerly known as the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, remains a divisive issue in Ghana’s political discourse. While it has received strong backing from citizens and religious groups, critics argue that it violates human rights principles.

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The Black Stars’ performance during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier raised concerns, as they finished bottom of Group F with three points after securing just three draws and three defeats in six matches.

With the 2026 World Cup qualifiers approaching in 2025, Dr Nsenkyire stressed the importance of strengthening the technical team.

He suggested that, if the appointment of a technical director could benefit the team, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) should seriously consider it.

“If the Black Stars technical team can improve, we have to do that,” he said on Asempa FM‘s Ultimate Sports Show.

“We have used the same people throughout the AFCON qualifiers and they have failed, so I believe that they must be improved and during the World Cup qualifiers, if the service of a technical director is needed to help the technical team, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) should do it,” he added.

Ghana is set to face Chad and Madagascar in the upcoming Matchday five and six fixtures in March 2025.

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